Important tips for children’s trips

With summer approaching fast, we’re nearing the year’s busiest travel time. Some of that travel is by children going on their own to visit relatives or to enjoy summer activities elsewhere.

If you’re planning a plane trip for a child, here are some tips to consider:

•An unaccompanied minor is defined differently by each airline, but usually is a child ages 5 through 11 (in some cases up to 14) traveling alone. Children 5 through 7 must travel on nonstop flights or one not involving a change of plane. •Airlines have different procedures and fees for unaccompanied minors. Most airlines charge from $50 to $90 each way, in addition to the airfare. All airlines require check-in in person at the ticket counter.

•Your child will be issued a badge showing his or her name, destination, flight numbers and contact information. •Some airlines restrict the time of day your child may travel and may prohibit the last flight of the day. •Airline personnel will escort your child through security to the boarding gate. Some airlines don’t allow you to accompany the children to the gates, and all prohibit friends or family members from escorting your child at connecting points.

•Upon arrival, children are released only to the authorized person. Advise those meeting your child to have photo identification and to arrive early, as they will be required to fill out forms in the arrival city.

•Although the airlines do their best to make your youngster comfortable, they don’t entertain your child. To make the flight enjoyable, children should be given money to buy snacks, treats or headsets, and allowed to take something to entertain themselves, such as books, magazines or a CD/DVD player with headset.

•If your child has special dietary needs, pack snacks or meals so he or she gets proper nutrition during travel, including any delays that might arise. Be sure to advise the airline of any medical needs your child has.

Check with each airline (details are available online) about policies regarding unaccompanied minors. The time and energy required will be worth it.