If you’re searching the web trying to figure out how to book a flight for a minor, you’re not alone. The good news is that it’s simple; all you need are the right tools and some time on your hands. Booking a Flight for a Minor: Tips and Tricks!
To get you started, here are some tips and tricks to help you book an affordable flight for your child or teenager without too much fuss and without going over your budget.
How to Book a Flight in 7 Easy Steps
How Old is Old Enough?
How old does my child have to be to fly alone? If you’re traveling with a minor (anyone under 18) on a domestic flight, he or she must either hold their own ticket or be listed as an informal traveler on someone else’s ticket. This means that they are traveling with someone who has purchased them a ticket.
Even if you’re just flying one segment and your child will continue on another flight, you need to buy him or her a full-fare ticket.
What are the rules in regards to booking a ticket for someone else?
Every airline has slightly different rules in regards to ticketing, but most will let you book an unaccompanied minor if that child’s parent or guardian signs off on it.
The easiest way to go about booking a flight for someone else is to give that person your own personal information—your name, address, phone number, etc.—but if your legal guardian has asked you to book flights on their behalf, be sure to fill out all of their personal information as well.
Additionally, some airlines will request proof of consent from both parties. If possible (and without violating any confidentiality), print out a copy of that signed letter and bring it with you when you head over to buy your tickets.
Can I change the name on my child’s ticket?
The name on your child’s ticket should match their name as it appears on their government-issued identification. For example, if your child has a passport with their full name, both first and last names, then that should be used.
If they do not have such documentation, or you need to change either part of their name to match what is on their ticket (as in your son’s middle name is wrong; please fix it), then you will have to rebook.
Are there limits on who can fly with me on an itinerary?
Airlines have different policies on who can be listed as an unaccompanied minor. For example, JetBlue says customers under 14 years old must fly with someone 16 or older. While Spirit Airlines requires that minors be at least five years old to qualify.
Each airline also has different rules when it comes to connecting flights—be sure to check your carrier’s policy before booking your itinerary.
Will my child get their own seat?
In most cases, children under two will not need to purchase their own seat. If you need to book a flight for your toddler, make sure you select an option that says unaccompanied minor as opposed to lap child.
Under no circumstances should you ever allow your child to sit in your lap during takeoff or landing—the force exerted on your body by these movements can break internal organs, causing severe injury or death.
Does my child need ID when flying internationally?
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires all passengers to present identification to travel by air. The minimum age requirement differs based on whether you are traveling within or outside of North America.
For those who are younger than 18 years old, TSA requires that they have either a valid U.S. passport, U.S. passport card, permanent resident card, enhanced driver’s license, or government-issued ID in order to fly.
Monitoring Your Child’s Trip
One of your major responsibilities as a parent is to supervise your child’s travels. You can do so by constantly monitoring his or her location using one of many available apps, such as Life360, or by having the child check in with you at predetermined points along their trip.
Most airlines will let you add an additional passenger onto your ticket at no cost, so long as that person is under 18 years old.