Packing for a trip is already a puzzle, but when you add a baby to the mix, it feels more like a high-stakes logistics operation. If you’re flying with Volaris, Mexico’s prominent ultra-low-cost carrier, understanding the Volaris Airlines Infant Policy is key to keeping your budget intact and your stress levels low.

Volaris is known for its "unbundled" pricing, which means you only pay for what you use. While this is great for solo travelers with a backpack, parents need to be a bit more strategic. The good news is that the airline does provide several paths to make traveling with a little one manageable, provided you know the rules before you reach the check-in counter.

Defining the "Infant" Category

On Volaris, a child is officially considered an infant if they are between 7 days and under 2 years old.

If the baby is less than 7 days old, they generally aren't allowed to fly for safety and health reasons. Once they hit that second birthday, they graduated to the "child" category, which requires a full-fare seat. It’s important to note that if your child turns two during the trip—say, on the Tuesday between your departing and returning flights—you’ll need to purchase a regular seat for the journey home.

Lap Infants: The Cost and the Logistics

The most common way to travel with a baby is the "lap infant" route. This is where the child sits on an adult’s lap for the duration of the flight rather than occupying their own seat.

Is it really free?

For domestic flights within Mexico, Volaris typically allows lap infants to fly at no extra cost in terms of the base fare. However, for international flights (such as those between the U.S. and Mexico), you might encounter taxes or small fees associated with the infant, even if they don't have a seat.

When you are booking your flight online, you must select "Infant" in the passenger search. This ensures the airline has a record of the baby for the flight manifest, which is a legal requirement for safety and weight distribution.

One Adult, One Baby

A strict rule to keep in mind is the "one-to-one" ratio. Safety regulations dictate that only one lap infant is allowed per adult passenger. If you are traveling alone with twins or two children under two, you will be required to purchase a separate seat for at least one of them, even if they are both tiny. This is because there are only a limited number of extra oxygen masks in each row.

Purchasing a Seat for Your Infant

Sometimes, the thought of holding a squirming toddler for four hours is less than appealing. You always have the option to buy a regular ticket for your infant.

If you choose this route, you’ll pay the standard adult fare. The benefit here is that you can bring an FAA-approved car seat onto the plane. This is often safer and much more comfortable for the baby (and your arms). Just make sure the car seat has the "approved for use in motor vehicles and aircraft" sticker on it, or the crew may ask you to check it at the gate.

The "Baby Combo": Volaris’s Secret Weapon

Since Volaris is a budget airline that charges for almost every bag, they created a specific package for parents called the Baby Combo. This is an add-on service you can purchase during the booking process or later through the "Manage My Trip" section.

What’s included in the Baby Combo?

• A Diaper Bag: You get to bring one diaper bag (up to 22 lbs or 10 kg) as a carry-on item.

• Documented Items: It allows you to check one large baby item, such as a full-size stroller, a travel crib (Pack ‘n’ Play), or a car seat.

• Priority Boarding: This is perhaps the best perk. It lets you get on the plane early to settle in before the rush.

Without the Baby Combo, bringing extra bags for the baby will likely trigger standard baggage fees, which can be significantly higher if paid at the airport.

Strollers and Car Seats: The Freebies

Even if you don't buy the Baby Combo, the Volaris Airlines Infant Policy offers some basic allowances that won't cost you a dime.

Gate Checking

You are allowed to take a collapsible stroller all the way to the door of the aircraft. Once you reach the jet bridge, the staff will take it from you and place it in the cargo hold. When you land, they usually bring it back out to the jet bridge so you can use it to navigate the airport. This service is generally free of charge for families traveling with infants.

Car Seats

If you aren't using the car seat in the cabin, it must be checked. If it's your only piece of checked baby gear, Volaris is often flexible, but if you have a stroller and a car seat and a crib, that's where the fees start to climb unless you have the aforementioned combo.

Essential Documents to Bring

Don't get stuck at security because of a missing piece of paper. Even though infants don't have "tickets" in the traditional sense, they still need ID.

• Domestic Flights: A birth certificate (original or a very clear copy) or a CURP (in Mexico) is usually sufficient.

• International Flights: A valid passport is mandatory for the baby, regardless of how young they are.

• Proof of Age: If your child is close to two years old, the airline might ask for proof to ensure they still qualify for lap status. It’s always better to have the birth certificate handy just in case.

In-Flight Comfort and Nutrition

Volaris is a "no-frills" carrier, so don't expect free milk or crackers on board. You'll need to come prepared.

Food and Milk

The "liquids rule" (the 3.4oz/100ml limit) is generally relaxed for baby food, formula, and breast milk. You are allowed to bring these in "reasonable quantities" through security. Just be prepared to pull them out of your bag for a separate scan.

Changing Diapers

Most Volaris planes are equipped with at least one lavatory that has a fold-down changing table (usually the one in the back). It's a tight squeeze, so having a small "diaper change kit" (one diaper, a few wipes, and a disposable bag) is easier than dragging a giant diaper bag into the tiny bathroom.

Tips for a Smooth Flight

• Arrive Early: Checking in with an infant often takes longer because a human agent usually has to verify the baby's documents.

• Feed During Takeoff: The change in cabin pressure can hurt tiny ears. Having the baby nurse or drink from a bottle during takeoff and landing helps them swallow and equalize the pressure.

• Check the Weather: If you’re gate-checking a stroller, remember it might be sitting on a luggage cart in the rain or sun for a few minutes. A stroller cover can be a lifesaver.

By understanding the Volaris Airlines Infant Policy, you can avoid the "surprise fees" that catch many travelers off guard. Whether you opt for the Baby Combo or stick to the bare essentials, a little planning ensures the only thing you have to worry about is keeping the baby entertained until you reach your destination.