I'd be pissed if I paid for a first class seat, only to have to deal with a squirmy, pissed off baby.

Why wouldn't you? Your need for comfort is equal (or more important than) any one else who paid for a first class ticket. The business man or woman should be worried about how they can help you!!!

Yes, I have done this.

I did it with a 3 month old. Got nervous when I sat down next to a clear business traveler in his early 60's. He could not have been more helpful. Got my tray out when they brought drinks while I was nursing (under a cover), handed me a magazine I dropped when I was trying to read while baby slept, and reassuring me that he "remembered those days" when the baby was crying. Especially if you are flying by yourself, the extra space is totally worth it!

I always fly at least Business class when I have an infant-in-lap. If you're that uncomfortable with it, I liked PP's idea of swapping the ticket for two economy (plus) tickets. It ~is~ nice to have somewhere to set the baby if you're solo.

I did it once when flying solo. She slept the entire time.

As a single mom, you'd better believe I flew first class whenever possible when DD was that age.

When I was flying solo with DD as a lap baby, I purposefully booked First Class to get extra space and time boarding etc. I will say that DD is not much of a plane screamer...

HELL YES!!!

We had to fly cross country multiple times this year as my FIL was dying from cancer. My husband got us upgraded to first class about half the time using his miles. And it was fantastic with the little one, who was 10-19 months during those trips. The extra room for her to be able to roam a little was absolutely worth it.

Plus, you get fed. DO IT!

Hell yeah, I would bring a baby in first class. So much more comfortable than being squished in economy.

We do all the time.

We always did. A lot more comfortable.

We have taken our kids (when babies) in first class. We don't take our toddler in first class though.

I would ask they downgrade you and get two seats if it is cross country as it will be far better with a car seat.

My FIL recently passed away and his estate is flying people out to San Fran for the memorial service. My spouse is already there. They are booking me a first class seat, which is amazing. BUT, I am bringing a 9mo. He doesn't crawl or walk, so doesn't have the wiggles that a toddler would, and is an extremely easy baby generally. But I still feel like people are going to be annoyed that I even have the baby there. What do you think? Baby will be a lap child.