25 Essential Tips for Traveling with Children:
Traveling with kids? Avoid the tantrums and get yourself prepared with these 25 essential expert tips
For more information, visit our general travel tips page.
Before you leave
Preparing your child for the airport experience helps them understand what to expect. If possible, take your child to the airport on a day you're not flying to show them the airline ticket counter, and how security screening works. Austin-Bergstrom International Airport has a family viewing area where you can watch planes take off. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy!
Passport Rules
Even infants must have a valid passport if traveling to destinations that require passports for their parents. Be sure to apply well ahead of your travel date for a child’s passport. You must bring along paperwork that proves the child’s country of citizenship and birth date, such as a birth certificate.
Carry-On Items
We recommend bringing small "comfort" items, such as a security blanket, favorite pillow, and small snacks. If you have room, small toys, coloring books, and/or small electronic devices (such as portable DVD players with headphones) help keep children entertained.
Tip: Some airlines provide coloring books in their kiddy packs.
Luggage Allotment
With most airlines, infants who travel and don't occupy a seat are still given a luggage allotment. Check with your airline to see what their policy is.
In addition to a checked piece of luggage, the following items are usually accepted without charge:
- Baby/car seat
- Bassinette
- Stroller
Baby beds are not included as they will be considered excess baggage if you have already reached your checked baggage limit.
Tip: Label strollers, car seats, and other infant/child items with a name and phone number.
Screening
TSA is required to screen everyone, regardless of age. TSA's Traveling with Children guidelines.
Waiting to board your plane
Making a child sit in a stroller while waiting for your flight does not give them the chance to move around before sitting for hours on a plane. Exploring the terminal before the flight gives you something to discuss with your child. ABIA has live music and art exhibits to help make your traveling experience enjoyable.
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