Do Children Need to Wear an Airplane Face Mask?

Travelers have often asked me “Do children need to wear an airplane face mask”? Also, is it applicable if I’m traveling with a baby?
Well the short answer is Yes and the long answer is depends on the age. Read on to know more.

Do children need to wear an airplane face mask?
Usually, all airlines suggest that kids above 2yrs have to wear a face mask in the airplane. So if you’re traveling with a baby, you need not have to make them wear a mask. One of the tips for flying with infant is, carry more than one mask in case they get it dirty. You even get the adjustable kinds, which the kids can adjust as per their convenience.

I am on a long haul flight. Do the children need to wear an airplane face mask for the entire duration of the flight?
In a long haul flight, the flight attendants may ask you to have your mask on for the entire duration except when you’re snacking or sleeping. You can also take that call depending on how full the flight it. One of the emirates flight I flew from Chicago to Dubai, the flight was practically empty – one person per row kind of empty, so while the flight attendant would remind about the mask every once in a while, it was not extremely critical.

Do airlines provide a mask?
The full service airlines will mostly provide a set of mask and gloves but the low cost ones will not. I flew internally within the US with American Airlines and they did not give any wipes, gloves, sanitizer or masks while Emirates from Chicago to Dubai, gave a full safety kit with all the above.

Are they allowed to eat snacks in the flight?
When traveling with a baby on a full service airline, you will mostly carry your own baby food or sometimes you may have to pre-book it with the airline. Carrying your own food is what I recommend and follow in COVID Times and is one of the important tips for flying with an infant or toddler. Kids are bound to feel hungry based on their body cycle and its better to have something with you. Check out these travel food tips for babies and toddlers. If you are wondering what to pack with kids when traveling during Coronavirus times, you can check out this list too.

What kind of face mask to carry with children?
Cloth masks are the best, especially if made with 100% cotton as they will ensure limited or no dryness and rashes on the kids’ sensitive skin.

How many face masks should I carry?
When traveling with a baby or flying with an infant, its ideal to carry more than one face mask. Plan to carry atleast 2 cloth masks and 3 disposable masks for a long haul (10-15hrs) flight and 2 cloth masks for shorter flights (4-7 hrs).