How to add a lap infant to your business class flight

Traveling in business class is a game changer when you have a baby! Having that extra space to spread out (and a seat that turns into a bed for nap time) makes the difference between arriving exhausted and arriving ready to explore.

But booking a "lap infant" ticket on an award booking can be surprisingly tricky. Here is your step by step:

1. Book Your Own Seat First

The golden rule of award travel with a baby: Secure your seat first. Award space is limited and disappears fast. Don’t wait until you have the baby’s details sorted to book your own ticket. Head to your preferred airline or partner site and lock in that business class seat with your points.

2. Skip the "Add Infant" Button Online

Most airline websites are notoriously bad at handling infant award additions. Often, if you try to add them during the initial booking, the system will error out or try to charge you a full adult fare in points. Book yourself as a solo traveler first. Add your infant over the phone.

3. Super Long Phone Call

Once your confirmation flight email comes in, call the airline (at least 24 hours before you leave) to add your infant. Set aside at least 1 hour bc the customer service lines take forever and have this ready to go so you don't have to scramble:

• Reservation Number: Your flight conf number
• Infant’s Passport: They’ll need the full name and passport number.

• Known Traveler Number: If your baby has Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, add it to the flight.

• Credit Card: Even though your seat is "free" via points, lap infants on international flights are typically charged 10% of the current cash fare plus taxes. Since business class cash fares are high, this can be a few hundred dollars,be prepared!

💡 Other Infant Tips

While you have the agent on the phone, don't hang up until you've checked these three things:

• Request the Bassinet: Even in business class, only certain seats are compatible with a bassinet. These are usually at the "bulkhead" (the front of the cabin). Ask the agent to move you to a bassinet-compatible seat.

• Confirm the Baggage Allowance: Many airlines grant lap infants their own checked bag (up to 23kg) and a stroller/car seat gate-check for free!

• Order an Infant Meal: If your baby has started solids, some airlines offer "Post-Weaning Meals" or jars of baby food, but you usually have to request them at least 24–48 hours in advance.

One Last Hack: If the "10% of cash fare" feels too steep, look into Virgin Atlantic or Air Canada Aeroplan. They often charge a flat fee (like $25 or 2,500 points) for lap infants, which can save you hundreds compared to the 10% rule.