Solo Kids On The Go – 7 Tips For Unaccompanied Minor Travel

I’ve put my children on a plane alone several times, starting with my oldest daughter who has flown alone as a minor more times than I can count. Despite my extensive experience in this area, it doesn’t take away the knots in my tummy every single time. It requires a ton of faith to put your babies in the air with no adult companion that loves them unconditionally. BUT, it’s also very much worth it!

As nerve wrecking as it is, I will keep doing it, because it’s worth it for all of us. They absolutely love the independence and feelings of “big kid-ness” they get from traveling to their grandparents or older sister by themselves, ready to have parent-free fun. And, honestly, my husband and I love the alone time we get at home once they’re off for a week or two. Additionally, it gives them a big opportunity to exercise their leadership and responsibility skills in a safe, controlled environment.

Before each flight, we give each of them a rule that they get to oversee for the trio.  For example, 1. No talking to strangers other than the Flight Attendants; 2. Contain your volume – use inside voices and make sure if you use your device, headphones are in; and 3. Manage the snack packs – don’t eat everything at once.  They go crazy, in the best way, for their chance to manage their own rule for the three of them. They’ve succeeded in their roles on every solo flight they’ve taken.

I also use this opportunity to help develop the kids’ executive function skills by allowing them to lead us through the entire airport process. Once we enter the airport, it’s their responsibility to read signs and determine what lines we stand in for check in. We allow them to take their passports (not a requirement) so they can give their identification to the airline associate and retrieve their own tickets. They are responsible for keeping up with their own tickets, and they present it along with their identification to get through the security checkpoint. Once we get beyond security, they have to lead us to the appropriate gate. It’s incredible to see how they work together to decipher information and find their way.

We started them flying solo when they were just 7 and 5 years old. So far they’ve done 4 solo trips, but we see many more in their future because Mommy and Daddy need at least a few weeks of break during the summer months.

If you’re considering your child’s first solo flight, here are seven tips to keep in mind for a great experience for them, and peace of mind for you.

7 Tips For Your Child’s First Unaccompanied Minor Plane Ride

1. First and foremost, know your child(ren). You know if they are mature enough for this type of undertaking. Every child is different, and while some can handle this at 7, others may be 10 before traveling solo is right for them. Don’t push them too soon.
2. Arrive at the airport early. By early, I mean at least two and half hours ahead of time. You want to be there early enough to have an opportunity to introduce them to the flight attendants before boarding. This helps put the kids at ease and allows you as the nervous parent to meet the people that will be looking out for your children in the sky.
3. Give them an electronic device that can connect to wi-fi in flight (and teach them how to connect to wi-fi…most kids don’t need a tutorial in this area in this age). This allows them to email you during the flight, so they will feel that sense of connection. And, they will think it’s super cool that you’re corresponding from the ground while they’re in the air…or is that just my babies?
4. Make sure they have their preferred modes of entertainment to keep them occupied. That includes books, tablets, journals, coloring books, etc. If electronics are a part of the entertainment, make sure it’s fully charged before takeoff.
5. Send snack packs. I personally use gallon sized Ziploc bags. I portion out fruit and snacks to last them the entire flight. They never have to wait for snack service on the plane, and they never run the risk of getting hungry.
6. Keep Carry-ons simple. Send them with one bookbag. Leave the rollaway bags for trips with accompanying adults. A bookbag is perfect for fitting under their seat, so they can always easily access what they need without having to call the flight attendant. Make sure it’s a perfect size to accommodate the snack pack, entertainment, and a light jacket in case it gets chilly on the plane.
7. Make them a part of the process. Trust them to navigate the airport while you’re there as a safety net. You’ll be surprised how capable and eager they are.

Bonus Tips For The Parents On The Ground

1. Stay at the airport until the plane is in the air. In case the flight is delayed on the tarmac, or has to return to the gate, you want to be in the airport in case anything prevents your children from taking flight.
2. Stress timeliness to the person picking your children up from their destination airport. I suggest they arrive 2 hours early because they have to go to the counter for their security pass and then go through security as if they were actually catching a flight. On top of that, some flights get in early, and the last thing you want is for your child to have to wait outside of the plane for a familiar face to show up.
3. Give them all the kisses and hugs and words of affirmation before they leave the ground. Make sure they know you’ll miss them, but that you also trust them on this journey.
4. Breathe. They are going to do great, arrive safely, and develop some great leadership skills in the process!

What Are The Best Airlines For Unaccompanied Minors

Several airlines offer the unaccompanied minor perk. Each charges a fee ranging from $50 – $150 each way. If I had to recommend my favorite airline taking into account organization, customer service, and price it would be American Airlines. A close second would be Southwest Airlines. You can’t go wrong with either one. Be sure to read the fine print. Some airlines charge the unaccompanied minor fee per child, while others charge per group. For example, if you have 4 children traveling as unaccompanied minors, American Airlines charges $150 each way for the whole group. However, Southwest charges $50 each way per child. Just make sure the airline you choose works best for your specific needs and wallet!

Remember, breathe moms and dads and let the fun of alone time begin.

Happy Travels to your Little Travelers!