Jun 23 2010
Kids Passports Are Necessary For Toddler Travel
A family vacation normally contains every member whether they are toddlers or teenagers. Should a trip take the family out of the country, every member will need to have their own passport. This does include the smallest of family members as security in airports has gotten much stricter in the past few years. These kids passports are not really that difficult to obtain provided all the correct paperwork is filled out well in advance of the trip.
The first order of business is getting the babies photos taken. While it is easy for adults to use computer technology to take and crop their own pictures to meet requirements, it is harder with an infant and using a professional is a good idea. The photo has to be two inches square and the babys eyes must be open with the face in full view. Two identical copies are needed.
The child must be accompanied by both parents or guardians that are named on the birth certificate when visiting the passport office. Should the parent be single and sole guardian, they must provide proof of this at the application proceeding. The application may be found online and filled out beforehand but should not be signed until in the presence of an issuing agent.
A childrens passport will cost between $80 and $85 depending on which location processes the application. There are also private service providers that can help to expedite the application process, returning the passport sooner than the government locations, for an additional fee. Should the family have the time to wait, the normal process time is anywhere between four to six weeks.
Flying alone is a chore in and of itself and the addition of a baby can make it an experience to remember. Doctors will advise against travelling by air with a child that is 2 years old or younger. The reason for this is that they are much more prone to infections and planes with their re-circulated air systems can be a breeding ground for germs and colds. Preventative measures before travel may be taken by the parent by visiting their pediatrician first.
Take advantage of the services that are offered by airlines and airports to make the trip easier. When lugging a child seat and other carry ons, ask for cart services to the gate. Allow plenty of time to get through security lines and here again, a single adult traveling with children can get assistance from airline or airport personnel. Do be certain to listen for the early boarding call; the extra time to be settled in is helpful.
The majority of airlines do not require a parent to purchase a separate seat for a child less than two years of age. They will allow the parent to hold the child in their lap to free the seat up for a paying adult and while this may save the parent money, it can make the flight a tad uncomfortable, particularly if it is a long one. Domestic flights differ in that there are rarely extra seats so finding an unused one for some relief may be an issue.
While the requirement of having passport can seem cumbersome, the process is not difficult with proper planning. There are benefits in overall security for all travelers as well as providing documented identification in the sad event that parent and child become separated. Be sure to use the valuable information online to be prepared for the passport appointment.
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