Child Traveling Alone

Q: What are some tips if my child has to fly alone to go on a vacation with his grandparents?

A:  Every airline has its own rules and regulations for unaccompanied minors and the airlines charge different fees.  Fees are for each way so if they are flying round trip, double the fee.  Please check with the airline your child is traveling with for their specific requirements.  With that said; here are some general guidelines, for most airlines, when you need for your child to travel alone. 

1   Children must be at least 5 years old to fly alone

2  Children ages 5-7 can only fly on non-stop  or direct flights

3  Children ages 8-14 can fly on connecting flights if needed, but try to have direct flights.

4  Older kids up to age 17 do not need the unaccompanied service, but most airlines will provide this for a fee, if requested.

5  Your child will need a passport for international travel; possibly a visa or shots, also, depending on country traveling to.  Check with government official

6  Some airlines require that you provide name, address, and phone number of person bringing the child to airport and picking them up at the destination before the travel date.  So contact your airline.

7  A notarized letter stating that your child has permission to travel alone is required by some airlines.

8  One parent (or guardian) is required to accompany the child to the departure gate and must obtain proper documentation at the ticket counter to pass through airport security.  They must stay with child until take-off.

9  Have the child wear a wallet around their neck to keep a copy of their itinerary, identification, and name, phone number and address of parent dropping them off and the person picking them up.

10  Person picking the child up will need to have a photo ID and get documentation to get through security to meet the child at the gate. They will probably have to sign something when they pick the child up.

11  Talk with your child in detail about what to expect and who to talk to during the flight. Tell your child to never leave the plane or gate without an attendant. If they have to change planes, have them show the attendant their itinerary during the change.  This helps keep them from getting on the wrong flight.

12  Keep carry-on light, but make sure child has snacks and activities to enjoy during the flight.

13  Send a notarized medical release form for the grandparents and health insurance information.

14  You may think about sending your child’s belongings to the grandparents by mail or UPS ahead of time to have one less thing to worry about the day of the trip.

I know your child will have a great grandchild – grandparent vacation.