Let’s be honest—flying with kids can be stressful. Between the diaper changes, snack demands, and unpredictable moods, traveling as a parent is no vacation. So when you see that Delta First Class option during booking, it’s tempting. More space. Early boarding. Better service. But is it actually worth splurging on when you’ve got your little ones in tow?
Let’s unpack the perks and pitfalls of flying Delta First Class with kids and help you decide if the upgrade is worth it.
What Makes Delta First Class Different?
Delta First Class isn’t just about a wider seat and fancier snacks. It’s a whole different vibe from Main Cabin and even Comfort+. You get:
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Larger seats
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Priority boarding
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Two free checked bags per person
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Personalized in-flight service
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Complimentary meals and drinks
For families, these extras can seriously reduce stress and make the journey smoother.
Booking Delta First Class with Children
Ticket Pricing for Kids
Delta doesn’t offer discounted First Class tickets for children. So yes, that baby in your lap may be flying for free, but once your child needs their own seat, you’re paying full fare.
Seat Selection and Configurations
First Class typically has a 2-2 layout on domestic routes. That’s perfect for a parent-child combo. Got two kids? You may need to split up if you’re a family of three or more, which can be tricky but manageable with a little planning.
Pre-Flight Perks for Parents
Early Check-In and Priority Security
Skip the long lines! First Class passengers get dedicated check-in and faster TSA security lines—total sanity savers when you’ve got toddlers melting down or babies in carriers.
Boarding Early with Kids
You board before the masses. That means time to get settled, stash your gear, and start calming the chaos before the rush.
Free Checked Baggage Benefits
Each First Class seat includes two free checked bags up to 70 lbs. That stroller, diaper bag, and toy haul? Check ’em in without worrying about extra fees.
The Airport Lounge Question
Sky Club Access Limitations
First Class does not automatically grant access to the Delta Sky Club lounge unless you’re flying Delta One or have a qualifying credit card.
Lounge Pros and Cons with Children
If you do have lounge access, it’s a nice break—snacks, clean bathrooms, and calm space. But not all lounges are kid-friendly, and some may frown upon noisy little ones.
Seating Comfort and Space
More Room to Stretch Out
The First Class seats are about 20-21 inches wide with 38 inches of pitch—plenty of space for kids to wiggle, snuggle, or even nap across your lap.
Better for Nursing Moms or Lap Infants
With more elbow room and privacy, moms who are breastfeeding or bottle-feeding have a much easier time compared to cramped economy rows.
Keeping Kids Entertained with Personal Space
The armrest tray, wide seat, and personal screen can keep kids occupied—and their stuff organized—more easily than in the Main Cabin.
Family-Friendly Meal Options
Kid-Friendly In-Flight Meals
On flights over 900 miles, First Class passengers are served complimentary meals. While there’s no special “kid meal,” you can usually find something acceptable—think pasta, chicken, fruit, and bread.
Pre-Ordering Meals for Picky Eaters
If your child has dietary needs or allergies, you can pre-select meals up to 24 hours in advance. Delta is good about honoring requests.
Entertainment on Board
Delta Studio for Children
Every seat comes with a screen offering Delta Studio, featuring kid-friendly content like Disney movies and cartoons.
Screen Time, Headphones, and Distractions
Don’t forget child-size headphones or bring your own entertainment if screen time isn’t your go-to. Coloring books, small toys, and story apps work wonders too.
In-Flight Service and Kid-Focused Help
Attentive Flight Attendants
With fewer passengers to serve, First Class flight attendants are more available—and they tend to go the extra mile for kids.
Helpful with Spills, Snacks, and Extras
Need a towel, extra snack, or help with your car seat? Ask, and you’ll likely receive.
Nap Time and Quiet Travel
Is It Easier to Sleep in First Class?
Absolutely. Bigger seats, footrests, and a quieter cabin make it easier for your child (and you!) to catch some rest.
Reduced Noise, More Comfort
Less hustle and bustle means fewer disruptions—perfect for nap schedules and peaceful playtime.
Travel Gear and Storage Perks
Overhead Bin Space
Boarding early means first dibs on overhead space—ideal for all the gear families tend to carry on.
Diaper Bags and Essentials
You’ll have room to access your diaper bag mid-flight without awkward seat gymnastics.
Delta’s Family Policies
Traveling with Infants and Toddlers
Infants under 2 can fly on your lap for free (on domestic flights). But you might still consider buying them a seat in First Class for the space and comfort.
Unaccompanied Minors Not Allowed in First Class
Important note: Delta does not allow unaccompanied minors to travel in First Class. They must fly in the Main Cabin with proper supervision.
Challenges of First Class with Kids
Managing Crying, Kicking, and Other Behaviors
Let’s face it—kids are kids. And the quiet cabin of First Class can feel more high-stakes when your toddler decides to scream or throw Goldfish crackers at your neighbor.
Worrying About Other First Class Passengers
Some passengers expect silence and serenity. That can make parents feel nervous or judged—even when doing everything right.
Tips for Making It Work
What to Pack
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Noise-canceling headphones for you
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Favorite snacks
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A comfort item (blanket, teddy)
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Extra clothes (for spills, of course)
Keeping Kids Happy Without Screens
Books, stickers, drawing pads, or even a surprise toy can do wonders.
Prepping for Nap or Feeding Schedules
Try to book flights around nap times or feeding windows. And bring everything you need to mimic your bedtime routine—even a travel pillow or blanket.
Is It Worth the Extra Cost?
That depends on your priorities. If you’re flying cross-country, juggling a baby and a toddler, and want every tool to make life easier? Yes. If it’s a short hop with calm kids and you’re budget-focused? Maybe not.
Ultimately, Delta First Class can make traveling with kids far more manageable and enjoyable—if you’re willing to invest in the experience.
Conclusion
Flying with children doesn’t have to be chaotic. When you choose Delta First Class, you’re choosing comfort, space, and service that can help ease the journey—for both you and your little ones. While it may cost more, for many families, the stress saved is worth every penny. So the next time you’re booking that family getaway, give First Class some serious thought. It might just make flying fun again.
- Flying Delta First Class with Kids: Is It Really Worth the Upgrade for Families?
- Thinking about booking Delta First Class with your children? Discover the perks, challenges, and whether the premium experience is truly worth the splurge for families traveling with kids.
- Delta First Class
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