Traveling with toddlers can be tough. If you’ve ever attempted to keep your child comfortable in their airplane seat for long periods, you’ll know just how uncomfortable they really are. Minimal legroom and sitting upright makes them less than ideal for sleeping.
Kids seat extenders for airplane travel exist for this reason, including options like an airplane bed for toddlers or a kids travel bed plane setup that creates a much more comfortable sleeping space.
This handy travel accessory converts your child’s airplane seat into a flat sleeping surface where they can stretch out and snooze, similar to using an inflatable airplane bed designed specifically for kids. I’ve personally tried a couple during flights in Asia and Europe over the years, and honestly, it’s life-changing.
In this post:
- I’ll share my favorite kids seat extenders for airplane travel
- Buying guides on what to look for beforehand
- Airline restrictions to consider
- Helpful tips when picking one for your family
What Is a Kids Seat Extender?
A kids seat extender allows your child to lie flat in their airplane seat. They’re a portable device that fills the gap between your seat and the seat in front of you.
Essentially, they create a flat surface for your child to sleep instead of forcing them to sit upright the entire flight, functioning like a compact kids travel bed plane solution.
These extenders come in two forms:
Inflatable travel beds (often referred to as an inflatable airplane bed)
Fabric hammock-style extenders
Both extenders serve the same purpose but differ in setup, portability, and airline allowances.
Why You Need a Seat Extender When Flying With Kids
I’ve flown multiple times with my toddler using a seat extender. Trust me when I say it’s one of the best travel products you can buy if you have kids.
Sleep
Your child can stretch out and actually sleep comfortably. Instead of a seat, they have a flat surface akin to a bed.
Entertainment
Flying with toddlers can be annoying when they get restless. A comfortable child is a quiet child who won’t bother you.
Seat Space
Kids end up taking up your seat too when they curl up or half sit in your lap. These allow them to have their own space.
Parental Sanity
When your kid sleeps comfortably, you finally get to relax too.
Best Kids Seat Extenders For Airplane Travel
The following kids seat extenders are some of the best, most popular options on Amazon.
These aren’t my personal reviews of each product but are instead curated based on overall user reviews, portability, comfort, and value.
Flyaway Kids Bed | Inflatable Travel Bed
Flyaway Kid Bed is by far one of the most popular inflatable airplane bed options on the market, especially as an airplane bed for toddlers. It easily fits within economy seats and uses a manual pump for inflation.
It’s one of my favorites because once inflated, it really fills up the legroom space with a stable surface. Ideal for toddlers who kick and roll in their sleep.
Rest assured that it’s safe for kids as it also features raised edges to prevent them from rolling out. The material also feels more durable and premium.
The only downside is that it takes a few minutes to inflate. You’ll also want to confirm with your airline if inflatable seat extenders are allowed.
Keep in mind that some airlines are stricter than others when it comes to these.
Best suited for: Long haul flights and parents who want the full “bed” experience for their child.
Plane Pal Self-Inflating Travel Pillow for Kids
Plane Pal is one of many inflatable cushions that directly compete with the Flyaway Kids Bed and works well as a kids travel bed plane solution.
From personal use, this brand is slightly more compact when packed and stored. It inflates fairly easy and fills in-between airplane seats.
I really like how the height adjusts allowing you to customize the extender based on seat pitch. Flights can vary in legroom depending on the airline so this is great!
Same goes for this product as mentioned above, airlines have strict policies on inflatable seat extensions.
Best suited for: Families looking for that perfect mix of comfort and portability.
Kooshy Kids Self-Inflating Kooshion
The Kooshy Kids Travel Bed is an easy-to-use inflatable seat extender. It’s lightweight, packs small, and inflates faster than most brands.
The reason I love this so much is how quickly you can get it setup. On one trip I actually got it setup in under 2 minutes!
Comfort is decent, although it doesn’t feel as hard as some of the higher-end versions.
Best suited for: Short to medium length flights and those who want quick assembly.
Fly Tot Inflatable Cushion
The Fly Tot Inflatable Cushion is one of the cheapest options on Amazon.
With that being said, it actually does a great job considering the price. The cushion fills up most of the legroom area allowing your child to lay flat.
Tradeoff is durability as the material doesn’t feel as thick as more expensive versions. You’ll have to be careful with this not falling apart.
Best suited for: Budget travelers.
Portable Airplane Footrest for Airplane Travel
An airplane footrest hammock for kids is probably the best option if you’re worried about airline restrictions.
Most airlines don’t ban these since they’re made of fabric material and not air. They attach onto the tray table in front of you, creating a hammock surface for your child to rest their legs, making them a popular airplane footrest hammock for kids alternative to inflatable beds.
I’ve personally used this product on airlines that banned inflatable beds and it made a huge difference. Of course, it doesn’t create a flat bed for your child but it does elevate their legs.
Lightweight and doesn’t take up much space in your luggage either.
Best suited for: Airlines with stricter policies or if you don’t have much room for your carry-on.
Are Seat Extenders Allowed on Airplanes?
Ah yes, the million-dollar question. Are kids seat extenders allowed on airplanes?
It all depends on the airline you’re flying. For example, some allow inflatable seat extenders while others don’t due to safety precautions.
Seat policies may also differ based on your seat assignment. For example, some bulkhead seats or exit rows don’t allow any type of seat extenders.
As a general rule of thumb:
- Some airlines will allow you to use certain types but with limitations
- Low-cost airlines tend to be stricter compared to luxury ones
- Ultimately, the cabin crew can deny you from using one if they don’t want you to.
My recommendation is to always check with your airline before your flight. And whenever in doubt, DO NOT inflate the cushion until the plane is sitting on the tarmac.
How To Choose the Best Kids Seat Extender
Not all seat extenders are made the same and your ideal extender depends on how you travel.
If you’re looking for the most comfort, get an inflatable airplane bed or airplane bed for toddlers.
Portability? Go for something more compact. Inflatable or hammock style
Fly with multiple airlines? Get a hammock to avoid any unforeseen restrictions.
Weight and packed size also matters if you’re traveling with a whole family.
Tips From Real World Experience
I’ve tested out a few of these extenders on actual flights. If you’re about to purchase one, here are some tips that I found helpful during my trips:
Always board early if you can. Gives you enough time to setup the seat extender.
Trust me, it helps! Adding something soft for your child to sleep on makes all the difference.
As crazy as it sounds, kids actually sleep better with a side to lean on. It also prevents strangers from disturbing them.
Inflatable beds should not be pumped up all the way. Adjust it slightly once you see how it fits in your seat gap.
A seat extender does not replace a bed. Your child will be comfortable but will still feel the bumps along turbulence.
Final Thoughts
A kids seat extender, whether it is an inflatable airplane bed or a simple airplane footrest hammock for kids, is a worthwhile purchase if you travel with children often.
It changed my flying experience with my toddler from unbearable to enjoyable. Your child will have no problem sleeping, and you’ll finally be able to relax during long-haul flights.
I would recommend starting off with a middle-of-the-road inflatable cushion. You get the best comfort for your money.
Best Kids Seat Extenders for Airplane Travel