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Traveling by air is probably the most convenient and fastest way to travel. Below you will find some helpful tips when taking to the skies.
Luggage: Most airlines now a days have a weight and quantity restriction on luggage. The standard is 50 lbs or a maximum of two pieces of luggage for check-in and one carry-on. Restrictions vary per airline so check in advance for specifications. If you go above the restrictions you may be required to pay extra depending on the weight and the amount of luggage. Many discount airlines now charge a set fee per bag.
Strollers: Strollers can almost always fit through the security belt so make sure you take them to the gate. This will save you time and energy when traveling with small children. You can always check your stroller in at the gate. However, make sure that the stroller is tagged and placed in the appropriate area to be stowed in the luggage compartment. A stroller left behind or lost is not uncommon.
Car Seats: Car seats are very important whether you are using them on the plane or checking them in. If you are using a car seat on the plane, make sure you understand the airline’s policies on car seats. Most airlines post this information on their website. When traveling to Europe we carried with us a copy of the airlines policies in welcoming the use of car seats on board their aircrafts. However, when we were in Poland we were told we were not allowed on board with our car seat and the discussion became very heated. Managers got involved and the situation escalated. We pulled out the copy of their own policies and they had no choice but to let us on with the car seat. *Please be advised when traveling abroad, some smaller airports contract out ticket agents who do not necessarily work for the airline (as in our situation) and may not know the policies and procedures of that particular airline.
Liquids: Liquids are limited to 3 ounce size containers and they must all be in a quart-size zip-top bag. Baby bottles with milk or formula are not subject to these restrictions, however they do ask you carry on only enough to get you to your destination. They will also allow baby food in glass or plastic containers and small juices in original containers. For liquid medications please review the TSA website below.
Socks: Be sure to bring a pair of socks for your child. Everyone will need to take their shoes off when going through security. Socks are useful on the plane as well, especially if your child likes to get comfortable and take off their shoes. The airplane floors can be pretty filthy so wearing socks helps.
Meals: It is very common for most airlines to not even offer a snack on most flights. However, if you will be traveling a long distance or overseas you do get a meal or two. Many airlines do offer a childs meal which might be a sandwich, fruit and snack. Call your airlines in advance to request a special meal if you have a picky eater or to find out more about your meal options.
Electronics: Cameras and laptops need to be taken out when going through security so be sure you have them readily available. Digging through your carry-ons can be aggrevating so be prepared when approaching the security area.
Rules and Policies: Airports can differ on their enforcement of rules for security, so what may stop you in one city may not stop you in another. Check out the complete TSA rules and regulations at http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/index.shtm
Be sure to also review Universal Tips for more travel information.
Last update : 07-10-2008 18:38
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(0 vote)
carrying car seat to gate
By: kdanil (Registered) on 10-02-2008 17:19