Family Travel Tips

When you’re getting ready to travel this summer with your family, make the best choices for airlines that cater to family travel and will guarantee you’re seated next to your kids. Check out these best tips for ensuring your family stays together during air travel. (See link:)

Family Air Travel Tips: Kids Sea Camp Inc.

  • Pay the higher price for assigned seats. Do not wait until airport check-in.
  • I arrive at the airport at least 2.5 hours before boarding to make time for security. For international flights, I arrive 3 hours before.
  • Get global entry for international travel.
  • Get clear for domestic travel.
  • Remember, all children need to have their passports. This process can take 3-6 weeks. If you are traveling with a child with a different last name than yours, you may be required to have travel documentation and proof of guardianship. Check with your airline to find out what you need. When traveling internationally, a passport is required, and again, if you are traveling with a child who is not your own or has a different last name than you, you will most likely be required to show legal documentation for traveling out of the US. This can also be true for single parents traveling alone with a child. Check with the immigration site of your destination and your airline carrier.
  • Bring snacks on long flights. Food is rarely provided, and when it is, it may not be suitable for your dietary needs. Pre-order meals on international flights when they are available.
  • Be vigilant in ensuring your kids, and you remain buckled up for your flights. Many adult and child passengers have recently been injured on flights due to turbulence and not having seatbelts securely fastened. I understand it cannot be easy to keep young kids strapped in, but good habits and consistency can help. Lead by example. Kids should be accustomed to this with cars, and flights are no different. Teach them the importance of safety.
  • Ensure kids and adult family members are using headphones and not playing their entertainment out loud. Remind kids that there are people seated in front and behind them, and their movements directly affect others.
  • Have fun and enjoy the journey. Be kind, patient, and courteous. Come travel with us this summer and give your family memories that will last a lifetime.

By Margo Peyton