Traveling with a baby can feel overwhelming — especially if it’s your first flight as parents. Between packing essentials, adjusting sleep schedules, and worrying about how your baby will react during takeoff and landing, it’s completely normal to feel anxious. The good news is that Scandinavian Airlines has clear and well-structured infant travel policies designed to make journeys smoother, safer, and more comfortable for families.
Whether you’re planning a short domestic trip within Scandinavia or preparing for a long-haul international journey, understanding the SAS infant policy in advance can make a significant difference. When you know the rules for booking, seating, baggage, and onboard services, you reduce last-minute stress at the airport and avoid unexpected issues at check-in or boarding.
SAS allows infants to travel either on a parent’s lap or in their own purchased seat, depending on your preference and comfort needs. The airline also provides options such as bassinets on select long-haul aircraft, assistance from cabin crew when warming bottles or baby food, and family-friendly boarding procedures that help parents settle in without feeling rushed. These thoughtful details may seem small, but they can dramatically improve the overall travel experience.
Baggage policies for infants are another important area parents often worry about. Understanding what items are included — such as strollers, car seats, and diaper bags — helps you pack smartly and avoid extra fees. Seating arrangements also play a major role in comfort, particularly on longer flights where additional space can make rest easier for both parents and baby.
This updated 2026 guide explains everything you need to know about traveling with an infant on SAS, including the latest policy details and practical advice that parents are currently searching for. With proper preparation and early planning, flying with your baby becomes far more manageable and much less intimidating.
When you understand the process and know what support is available, you can focus less on logistics and more on enjoying your journey together as a family.
Flying with an Infant on SAS
Traveling with a baby can feel overwhelming — especially if it’s your first flight as a parent. The good news is that Scandinavian Airlines offers flexible options to help make the journey smoother and more comfortable for families.
If your child is under 2 years old, SAS allows two main travel options. The right choice depends on your route, flight duration, and what feels most comfortable for you and your baby.
Lap Infant (Under 2 Years)
With this option, your baby sits on your lap during the flight.
What to Expect:
- No separate seat is required.
- On many routes, infants travel free or for a small percentage of the adult fare (particularly on international flights).
- A special infant seat belt extension is provided for safety during takeoff and landing.
When It Works Best:
- Short flights within Europe
- Budget-conscious travel
- Babies who are comfortable being held for extended periods
For quick trips, many parents find this option simple and convenient. However, on longer flights, holding a baby for several hours can become physically tiring.
Infant with Their Own Seat
You can also purchase a discounted child ticket so your baby travels in their own seat.
Benefits Include:
- ✔️ More personal space for both parent and child
- ✔️ Ability to use an approved car seat onboard
- ✔️ Better sleep opportunities, especially on overnight flights
- ✔️ Easier movement and feeding during long-haul journeys
For transatlantic routes between Europe and North America, many experienced parents recommend booking a separate seat. The extra space often makes a significant difference in comfort — especially on flights lasting 7–10+ hours.
Booking an Infant on SAS
Planning ahead makes flying with a baby much smoother. When traveling with Scandinavian Airlines, it’s important to add your infant correctly to your reservation and request special equipment early.
Here’s what you should know:
Inform SAS During Booking (or Immediately After)
If you’re traveling with a child under 2 years old:
- Add the infant during the initial booking process whenever possible.
- If you already booked, contact SAS immediately to attach the infant to the reservation.
Infants cannot travel without being officially linked to an adult ticket, even if they’re sitting on your lap.
Request a Bassinet (SkyCot) Early
SAS offers onboard bassinets, often referred to as SkyCots, on long-haul aircraft.
Important things to remember:
- Availability is limited.
- They are usually assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
- They are typically available in bulkhead rows.
- Weight and size restrictions apply.
If you’re flying long-haul — especially overnight — requesting a bassinet early can make a huge difference in comfort.
Confirm Seating Arrangements
Make sure your seat assignment supports infant travel:
- Bulkhead seats may be required for bassinets.
- Not all seats allow car seat installation.
- Some rows may have restrictions for safety reasons.
Confirming this early prevents last-minute gate changes or seat adjustments.
Why Early Booking Matters
The earlier you book and notify the airline:
- The better your chances of securing a bassinet
- The easier it is to select family-friendly seating
- The smoother your airport experience will be
When traveling with a baby, preparation reduces stress — for both parents and little ones.
SAS Infant Baggage Allowance
Traveling with a baby means carrying more than usual — diapers, bottles, extra clothes, comfort items. Knowing the baggage rules in advance can help you avoid confusion at the airport and focus on what really matters: keeping your little one comfortable.
When flying with Scandinavian Airlines, infant baggage policies depend on whether your child travels as a lap infant or in their own seat.
Lap Infant Baggage
If your baby (under 2 years old) travels on your lap:
Cabin Allowance
- You may bring one small cabin bag, such as a diaper bag.
- This is usually allowed in addition to the adult passenger’s cabin baggage.
- The bag should contain essential baby items needed during the flight.
Having a separate diaper bag makes in-flight care much easier, especially on longer routes.
Stroller & Car Seat Policy
SAS understands that strollers and car seats are essential for families.
Strollers
- One fully collapsible stroller can be checked free of charge.
- In many airports, you can use the stroller up to the boarding gate.
- It will typically be returned at the aircraft door upon arrival (airport-dependent).
Car Seats & CARES Harness
- Approved child car seats are permitted onboard if your infant has their own seat.
- CARES safety harnesses are also accepted if they meet safety standards.
Always ensure your car seat is airline-approved before travel.
Checked Baggage Rules
Lap Infants:
- Typically do not receive separate checked baggage allowance.
- Policies may vary slightly depending on route and fare type.
Infant with Own Seat:
- If you purchase a separate seat, the baggage allowance generally follows the ticket’s fare rules — similar to a child ticket.
For long-haul journeys, booking a seat for your infant may provide both comfort and additional baggage benefits.
SAS Business Class Infant Experience
Flying with a baby is never “effortless” — but the right cabin can make a huge difference. When traveling with Scandinavian Airlines in Business Class, many parents notice the experience feels calmer, more manageable, and far less exhausting.
Long-haul travel with an infant can test anyone’s patience. Extra space, quieter surroundings, and priority services aren’t just luxuries — they become practical benefits.
What Makes Business Class Easier with a Baby?
✔ Spacious Seating & Extra Legroom
Business Class provides significantly more personal space compared to Economy. This gives parents room to:
- Hold, feed, or soothe their baby comfortably
- Organize baby essentials without feeling cramped
- Move more freely during the flight
On overnight routes, the additional space reduces physical strain from holding your baby for hours.
✔ Priority Boarding for Families
Boarding early means:
- Extra time to settle in
- Space to store diaper bags properly
- Less pressure from crowded aisles
When traveling with an infant, that extra time is invaluable.
✔ Bassinets on Long-Haul Aircraft
On long-haul routes operated by the Airbus A330 and Airbus A350, bassinets are available in designated bulkhead rows.
Important to remember:
- Availability is limited
- Weight and size restrictions apply
- Requests should be made as early as possible
Securing a bassinet can dramatically improve sleep quality on overnight flights.
✔ Quiet Cabin Atmosphere
SAS Business Class is known for its calm, understated environment.
For families, this means:
- Less cabin noise
- Softer lighting
- A more relaxed overall setting
Babies often settle more easily in quieter surroundings.
✔ Enhanced Privacy & Comfort
Business Class layouts provide more personal space between passengers, offering:
- Greater privacy while feeding
- Less foot traffic nearby
- A more peaceful environment for naps
Onboard Infant Facilities & Services on SAS
Flying with a baby requires a little extra planning — and a little extra support. Thankfully, Scandinavian Airlines offers several thoughtful onboard amenities designed to make the journey easier for families.
While no flight with an infant is completely effortless, these small but meaningful services can make a real difference in comfort and stress levels.
SkyCots (Bassinets)
On select long-haul flights, SAS provides SkyCots (bassinets) for infants who meet weight and size limits.
- Typically available in bulkhead rows
- Must be requested in advance
- Limited supply (first-come, first-served)
- Weight restrictions apply
For overnight flights, a bassinet can significantly improve sleep quality — for both baby and parents.
Changing Tables
Changing tables are available in aircraft lavatories.
While space is naturally compact (as on most aircraft), having a designated changing area makes diaper changes more manageable mid-flight.
Tip: Keep a small diaper kit easily accessible in your cabin bag rather than bringing the entire diaper bag to the lavatory.
Bottle Warming Assistance
Cabin crew can assist with warming milk or baby food.
They can:
- Warm bottles using hot water
- Help prepare baby meals when needed
It’s always helpful to politely inform the crew early in the flight if you anticipate needing assistance.
Infant & Toddler Meals
Special baby or toddler meals can often be requested in advance.
Important:
- Requests usually need to be made before departure
- Availability may vary by route
- Bringing backup snacks is always recommended
Having a pre-ordered meal can simplify feeding time during longer journeys.
Early Boarding for Families
Families traveling with infants are often invited to board before general passengers.
This gives you:
- Extra time to organize your space
- Time to install a car seat if applicable
- A calmer boarding experience without crowd pressure
Tips for Parents Flying with Infants on SAS

Traveling with a baby can feel overwhelming — but with the right preparation, it can be far smoother than you expect. If you’re flying with Scandinavian Airlines, these practical tips can help reduce stress and make the journey more comfortable for both you and your little one.
Book Early
The earlier you book, the better your options.
- Request bassinets (SkyCots) as soon as your ticket is confirmed
- Secure suitable seating (especially bulkhead rows)
- Ensure your infant is properly added to the reservation
Bassinet availability is limited, particularly on long-haul routes, so early planning makes a big difference.
Pack Smart (And Keep Essentials Handy)
Your cabin bag should include only what you’ll realistically need during the flight:
- Diapers
- Wipes
- Extra baby clothes (and one spare top for you!)
- Pacifiers
- Bottles or formula
- Favorite comfort items (blanket, small toy)
Keep essentials easily accessible so you don’t have to search through your bag mid-flight.
Feed During Takeoff & Landing
Changes in cabin pressure can cause ear discomfort for babies.
Feeding (breastfeeding or bottle-feeding) or offering a pacifier during:
- Takeoff
- Initial descent
can help reduce ear pressure and keep your baby calmer.
Choose Seats Strategically
Seat selection matters more when flying with an infant.
- Bulkhead rows typically offer more space
- These rows are often where bassinets are installed
- Aisle access can make movement easier
Planning your seating in advance avoids last-minute adjustments at the gate.
Consider Buying a Separate Seat
For short daytime flights, a lap infant may work perfectly well.
However, for:
- Overnight flights
- Long-haul routes (8+ hours)
- Transatlantic journeys
Purchasing a separate seat can significantly improve comfort. It allows:
- Use of an approved car seat
- Better sleep for your baby
- More personal space for parents
Many experienced travelers say this is one of the best decisions for long flights.
Is SAS Good for Traveling with a Baby?
It’s one of the most common questions parents ask before booking — and understandably so. Flying with an infant changes everything. You’re not just thinking about seat comfort anymore; you’re thinking about space, support, patience, and how stressful (or smooth) the journey might feel.
Many parents who travel with Scandinavian Airlines describe the experience in similar ways:
- Calm and organized
- Family-friendly
- Efficient but not rushed
- Supportive without being intrusive
That balance matters.
SAS doesn’t focus on flashy extras or over-the-top luxury. Instead, the Scandinavian approach emphasizes simplicity, functionality, and quiet professionalism. For families, that often translates into:
- A more relaxed cabin atmosphere
- Clear procedures without chaos
- Crew members who are attentive but not overwhelming
- A structured boarding and service flow
Parents often appreciate that the environment feels composed rather than hectic. On long-haul flights especially, a calmer cabin can make it easier for babies to settle and sleep.
SAS also offers practical support such as bassinets (on eligible aircraft), early boarding for families, and assistance with warming bottles — small touches that can make a meaningful difference.
Of course, no airline can eliminate all the challenges of flying with a baby. But many families find that SAS’s understated, organized style reduces stress compared to more crowded or fast-paced travel environments.
So, Is SAS a Good Choice for Families?
For parents who value:
- Predictability
- Quiet comfort
- Efficient service
- Practical amenities
SAS is often considered a reliable and reassuring option.
If you’d like, I can also add a short comparison section (SAS vs other European airlines for traveling with infants) to strengthen your article further.
Conclusion
Flying with a baby doesn’t have to be stressful, and Scandinavian Airlines provides clear, family-friendly policies to make the journey manageable and comfortable. Whether your infant travels on your lap or in their own seat, SAS offers thoughtful services — from bassinets on long-haul flights to early boarding, cabin crew support, and practical baggage allowances — designed to ease the challenges of air travel with little ones.
Key Takeaways:
- Lap infants are ideal for short flights, while purchasing a separate seat improves comfort on long-haul or overnight journeys.
- Bassinets (SkyCots) should be requested early, as availability is limited.
- Cabin support like bottle warming, changing tables, and pre-ordered infant meals makes in-flight care easier.
- Early planning — booking in advance, confirming seats, and packing smartly — reduces stress and ensures a smoother experience.
- SAS cabins, especially Business Class, provide extra space, calm surroundings, and family-focused boarding to make traveling with infants more manageable.
By understanding the policies and preparing in advance, parents can focus on enjoying the journey, knowing that SAS offers a structured, supportive, and predictable environment for families traveling with infants. The airline’s emphasis on quiet professionalism, practical amenities, and family-friendly procedures makes it a reliable choice for parents navigating air travel with little ones.
FAQs – SAS Infant Policy
Yes, infants under two years old can fly on an adult’s lap without you having to buy an extra ticket.
Yes, you can SAS airlines add infant when you book your flight. It is good to tell the airline early. This helps them get seats and things ready for you and your infant.
f you have a baby on your lap, you can bring one small carry-on bag for the infant. This could be a diaper bag. You can also bring one stroller that you can fold up. For checked bags, you have to follow the same rules as the adult traveling with the infant.
Yes, you can buy a ticket at a lower price to get a separate seat for your infant. This can be a good choice for long trips or if you want extra comfort for you and your child.
Yes, you can get SkyCots (bassinets) on long-haul flights. There be only a few, so you need to book them before your flight.
If you use points from flying a lot, you can book an award travel infant seat SAS before you go. You can do this on the SAS website or by talking with their team.





