Traveling With Kids? Be Prepared.

The federal government is advising parents about some of the potential pitfalls of travelling with children.

With the spring school break in progress or imminent in many provinces, the opportunity to visit relatives outside Canada or escape the cold means many children will be travelling alone or with one parent.

Having the proper documents is key. With some specific exceptions, that means each child should have a valid passport and a supporting document, such as a birth certificate or citizenship card.

A parent travelling alone needs a letter from the other parent approving the trip. A notarized letter is recommended.

In the case of a divorced or separated parent, even if he or she has custody, a letter is advisable. And travel officials might require a copy of the separation, divorce or custody decree.

And if the travelling parent fears there might be custody issues that arise while the child is out of the country, the government advises talking to a lawyer.
"Custody arrangements in Canada may not be recognized in some countries," the department said.

Foreign Affairs also said parents who are single because their partners died are advised to carry a certified copy of the death certificates.

Some of the government's other recommendations are common sense.

For example, it says, young children should never be left unattended. But it goes on to suggest that they should carry a piece of ID in case they wander. And parents should carry a recent photo of their children in case they get lost.

For children travelling alone, parents should arrange with the airline to supervise their youngsters. The adult meeting the child at the destination must have proper identification and authorization.

Travelling with infants requires special preparations. The department says the parent should use an approved safety seat, and bring a supply of baby products, including a bottle or pacifier for the child to suck on, to equalize the air pressure when the plane is landing or taking off.