Checking in- do we all need to be present?

[SprinklesandIcecream]

We live a 15 mins drive from airport and flying out this weekend with toddler and 3 month old. Spoke to airline who said in order to get bassinet seat, need to check in at airport and its first come first serve.

Just toying with the idea of sending husband early to check in and possibly come back after so kids don't tire out too early but not sure if we all need to be physically present in order to check in? Does anybody know. Would save us 3 hours and that's quite a bit with the toddler!

As far as I know and any flights I've ever been on(quite a few)unfortunately yeah ye do all need to be there for check in.

Depends who you're flying with but some airlines let you check in online but that only knocks an hour or so off.
You most definitely need to be physically present to check in at the airport though.

We flew long haul a few times while the kids were young. To be honest, I find getting to the airport nice and early, checking in as soon as you can to offload your luggage makes for a less stressful time. Be prepared to do a bit aimless walking around with toddler though

Yes you do and I don't think you are supposed to leave the airport once you have checked in.

They like to see your passport pic & your face somewhat match.

If you have an early flight (before 8am usually) then many airlines allow twilight check in where you check in and drop bags the day before. We do this a lot. You all have to be there but then that bit is out of the way, you have your seat, then the next morning you go straight to security.

Im not sure youd get the bassinet seat without the baby there.....

Kids straight out of bed and into the car, check-in, security, then get them dressed and breakfasted at the airport?

I think only the airline can tell you their check-in policy. First come first served seems harsh. Do you have to hold your baby for several hours if there are no bassinet seats left? Which airline is that? Sound like a great way to have upset babies dotted around the cabin. Is there no option to book a seat? Even if it's a few quid extra it might be money well spent.

Can't you check in online? I can't remember the last time I needed to physically check in at the airport.

Called Etihad yesterday, absolutely useless who said we'd have to check in at the airport but checked in online today (no face matched to passport...) and was automatically allocated bassinet seats! Saves us a precious hour. I will also check for twilight check in so we can drop off bags night before. Thanks for the pp who also suggested twilight check in to see whether that is possible.