If you’re longing to get back in the air, it’s time to rejoice. Domestic borders have reopened, and a trans-Tasman bubble is making overseas flights possible for the first time in over one year.

For families with younger children, it may be time to start looking to plan a holiday with flights.

Of course, air travel with little ones can be challenging. You’ll need to consider the facilities that are offered both on the ground and in the air. And not all airlines are created equal.

And if it’s comfort and rewards you’re after, there are many reasons to leverage the Qantas Frequent Flyer program for the family.

Here are seven reasons why.

Children of any age can join Qantas Frequent Flyer

It’s never too early to get the kids earning Qantas Points! You can sign them up to the Qantas Frequent Flyer program today. Children of any age can join the program and start racking up points on flights, hotel rooms, and more.

While you might be tempted to sign up your newborn, kids aged 3-11 who join the Frequent Flyer program receive a welcome pack, including their own Joey Club passport and other goodies.

And the best part? While Qantas Frequent Flyer membership normally costs $99.50, there are plenty of ways to join for free.

Pool your points with family transfer

Once children start earning points, you’re going to want to use them.

Fortunately, Qantas allows you to transfer points between family members, so you can reach your rewards goals sooner. It works like this: Every twelve months, you can transfer a portion of your points to an eligible family member, so long as they are also a Frequent Flyer member.

You can transfer your points to a family member online with just the click of an online button. Alternatively, contact the Frequent Flyer Service Centre to complete your points transfer (you’ll need to pay a Reward Assistance Fee for family transfers completed over the phone).

Access family-friendly facilities before you fly

Let’s face it. Travelling with kids can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to ruin your pre-flight experience. A kid-friendly airport lounge can be a great place to relax before boarding the plane!

Once you’ve packed your bags and headed to the airport, if you’re a Qantas Club member or elite Qantas Frequent Flyer, you can take the family to Joey Club zones at selected Australian Qantas lounges.

Joey Club zones are equipped with dedicated computers, kids’ furniture, toys and books allowing kids to play while mum and dad kick back before the flight. There are even dedicated fridges with water and juice. You can also get a yummy meal for your young one!

Keep kids entertained in the air with Qantas Joey Club

Qantas Joey Club can also help make flights much more bearable for the littlest travellers. Plus, there’s free stuff that will make your child’s time on the plane as fun as possible!

All passengers aged 3-6 travelling on domestic flights will be welcomed onboard with a kit. With an aircraft window shaped etch-a-sketch and activity booklet in a zip lock bag, it’s never been easier or more fun to keep children entertained in the air.

Once it’s time for international travel to re-commence, youngest travellers on long-haul flights will also get a special pair of Qantas Joey Club socks featuring Matilda the kangaroo.

Request a special meal for your child

Kids can be fussy with food, and unfortunately, flights are no exception. Qantas provides special child, toddler or baby meals, so long as you specify your requirements when you’re booking your flight.

You’ll need to tell Qantas about any allergies and special dietary requirements for everyone on board in order to prepare them appropriately before take-off!

Pre-book to take a car seat onboard

For an enjoyable flight experience, consider bringing your child’s car seat onboard. You can’t board with a baby carrier and you need approval from Qantas before bringing it on the plane, so call ahead!

To sit in a car seat, your child must have their own seat. You’ll also need to ensure your car seat meets one of the required certifications on the Qantas website.

Extend your Frequent Flyer benefits with Qantas status hold

New addition to the family on the way? Thankfully, your frequent flyer membership won’t suffer.

With Qantas Status Hold, you can put your status on hold for 18 months if you’re a Silver, Gold, Platinum or Platinum One member. In this time, you’ll still be credited with points and status credits. Plus, if you’re eligible for lounge access, you’ll keep that benefit, too.

To apply for status hold, a letter from your doctor confirming pregnancy and due date or your child’s birth certificate is needed in addition to documentation of parental leave with an employer.