A Surrey couple has sparked debate by revealing their unconventional strategy for surviving long-haul flights with their young daughter: they book one business class seat while their child stays in economy, and swap halfway through the journey.
The Strategy That Transformed Family Travel
Minna and Andy Havstad, both 34, found themselves exhausted after flights with their three-year-old daughter, Malva. The constant demands of parenting in a cramped economy cabin meant no one slept, ruining the first day of their holidays. After a gruelling trip to China and Hong Kong last year where they all sat in economy, they devised a new plan.
Now, they book one seat in business class and another in economy next to Malva. The parents switch places midway through the flight, ensuring each gets a few hours of proper rest. They have used this method four or five times, funding the upgraded seat with air miles and loyalty points.
From Brazil to Sweden: A Well-Travelled Toddler
Due to Minna's work as a travel content creator, the family are frequent flyers. In her three years, Malva has already visited 18 countries, including Brazil, Norway, Morocco, Albania, and Sweden. Some journeys, like a 17-hour flight from Sweden to Brazil, presented a significant challenge.
"The idea of being in economy for 17 hours was tough," said Minna, who runs the 'Toddler Travel Diaries' blog. "When you get to the new country, if you've not slept, it can kind of ruin the first day."
Why They Believe It Makes Them Better Parents
The couple staunchly defends their approach. They argue the guaranteed sleep allows them to arrive at their destination alert, awake, and patient, making them more engaged parents. "Having a bit of me time and a lie down in business means we can parent so much better," Minna explained.
They are careful to minimise disruption, always checking with cabin crew before swapping seats. The hardest part, they admit, is being summoned back to economy after enjoying the business class cabin.
The tactic has received mixed reactions online. While some criticise the family for not staying together, others have said they would consider it for their own trips. The Havstads plan to continue the practice as long as it's necessary for their family's comfort and well-being.
