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Unaccompanied minors

Children traveling alone.

We want your child to have a safe and positive trip. For safety, we require children age 5 – 14 traveling alone to use our unaccompanied minor service. This service is optional for children age 15 – 17, but if requested, then the fee applies.

The unaccompanied minor fee is $150* each way, plus applicable taxes † , in addition to the ticket price. This fee covers additional siblings on the same flight.

* Amount quoted in U.S. dollar (USD)

† Flights within the U.S. are subject to a 7% tax, and flights originating in Canada are charged a 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST).

Unaccompanied minor service

Our service includes:

  • Early boarding to allow extra time to get settled and meet the flight attendants
  • Kids-only lounges in our hub cities for flight connections
  • Complimentary Kids' Kits from Quaker with snacks and activities (for ages 5 – 10, in hub cities)
  • An airport escort to help your child to the gate for flight connections
  • Escorting the child to the authorized adult picking them up when they land

Keep in mind, our flight attendants will be busy with onboard duties and can’t continuously monitor your child during their flight. Let your child know to ring the call button if they need anything.

Age and flight restrictions for children traveling alone:

We don’t allow children to travel alone when their trips include:

  • Flights on another airline including codeshare and one world® partners
  • Ground or co-terminal connections where the child must transfer from one local airport to another
  • The last flight of the day from the final connection city (unless it’s the only flight)
  • Overnight connecting flights

Note: Children ages 2 – 14 can travel as an 'accompanied minor' with someone 16 or older.

Complimentary Kids' Kits by Quaker

Children between 5-10 years old can stay entertained during their journey with our complimentary Kids’ Kits* presented by Quaker. Included are puzzles, activities and 2 complimentary snacks to enjoy at the airport or in flight. Kits are available for children departing from:

  • Charlotte, NC (CLT)
  • Washington Reagan, D.C. (DCA)
  • Dallas-Fort Worth, TX (DFW)
  • New York, NY (JFK and LGA)
  • Los Angeles, CA (LAX)
  • Miami, FL (MIA)
  • Chicago, IL (ORD)
  • Philadelphia, PA (PHL)
  • Phoenix, AZ (PHX)

*Subject to availability

Booking your child's trip

Unaccompanied minors need to be booked by phone.

Contact Reservations

Preparing for travel

Whether your child has traveled alone or this is their first time, we recommend talking with them about the trip and what to expect. Assure them our team is there to help keep them safe.

Some helpful tips to prepare:

  • Point out our team uniforms at the airport. Remind your child to ask for help only from a uniformed team member.
  • Write down phone numbers for your child.
  • Pack games, books and money in one small carry-on.
  • Food and drink service is limited, so we recommend packing snacks for your child to enjoy during their flight.
  • Attach an ID card and contact information to your child’s carry-on bag or jacket.
  • Fully charge any electronic devices, and don’t forget to pack chargers and headphones.
  • Be sure your child knows to wait for a team member to walk them off the plane when they land (this includes older children using our service).

Note: We don’t hold or give personal medication to an unaccompanied child.

At the airport

Check-in and required documents.

Arrive at least 2 hours before the scheduled departure time of your child’s flight and speak with a ticket counter agent. Children traveling alone can’t check in online or at the kiosk.

You’ll need to fill out an unaccompanied minor form and any necessary Customs and Immigration documents for the day of departure. This form must remain with your child during their journey. At check-in, parents / guardians will also need to provide:

  • A birth certificate or passport as proof of the child’s age
  • The adult’s government-issued photo ID with their current address
  • Your phone number so we can contact you
  • The name, address and phone number of the adult meeting your child at their destination

Once your child is checked in, the ticket agent will give you a security pass from the airport ticket counter so you can take your child to the gate.

Boarding and takeoff

For a smooth departure:

  • An adult must take the child to the departure gate and stay until the flight is airborne.
  • When you get to the gate, tell the gate agent you have an unaccompanied minor traveling on the flight.
  • We’ll board your child early so they can meet the flight crew and learn about the plane’s safety features.
  • The gate agent will let you know when the flight is airborne and you can leave the airport.
  • Please contact the adult picking up your child to let them know they’re on their way.

During the flight

Our flight attendants will check on your child as duties allow, but they can’t continuously monitor your child throughout the flight.

Please remind your child to:

  • Tell a flight attendant if he or she needs assistance or feels discomfort.
  • Follow plane safety instructions, like wearing their seatbelt.
  • Wait for a uniformed team member to escort them off the airplane once it arrives at the gate.

Unaccompanied minor lounges

If your child has a connection, we have lounges for unaccompanied minors in these airports:

  • Dallas Fort Worth, TX (DFW)

While there, your child can wait for their connection and play games while supervised by American business partner personnel. These staff members will take your child outside the lounge to buy food and drinks, but they won’t be allowed to walk around outside alone.

Arrival and pick-up

For a seamless pick-up, don’t forget your government-issued photo ID. You’ll need to show it to get a security pass and meet the child at the gate (in the U.S.). You’ll also need to show it before we release the child to you.

We suggest arriving at least 2 hours before the child’s scheduled arrival so you have enough time.

Flight status and notifications

Stay connected with your child’s journey with flight notifications and remind the adult picking up your child from the airport to do the same. Be sure to get alerts for all flights in their trip.

Flight status

Flight delays and cancellations

We’ll call the contacts on the unaccompanied minor form and arrange an alternate flight if your child is unable to make a connecting flight due to delays or cancellations.

In the rare case that your child needs to stay overnight because of a missed connection, we’ll arrange for overnight accommodations, meals and supervision. We’ll call if this occurs.

Young adults (15 – 17 years of age)

If your young adult isn’t using the unaccompanied minor service and their flight is delayed or canceled, they will be accommodated as an adult customer. Keep in mind, many hotels won’t allow young people to check-in unless they are accompanied by an adult. Please remind them not to leave the airport for any reason unless they:

  • Are accompanied by a uniformed team member or police officer
  • Have spoken with a parent or designated adult

Please tell your young adult to speak to a team member if they have questions or need help.

Children traveling outside the U.S.

You may not be able to escort your child through security in some airports. If this is the case, a team member will take your child to the gate and stay with them until the flight departs.

Children under 18 may need a Letter of Consent to travel internationally without both parents.

Country-specific regulations

Some countries have additional restrictions for children traveling with guardians or as an unaccompanied minor.

If your child is traveling unaccompanied or with only one parent, you’ll need:

  • The child's birth certificate
  • Notarized travel authorization from both parents

The Brazilian Embassy or Consulate must issue, authenticate or legalize this travel authorization.

Contact the consulate in the child’s country of residence or check the National Council of Justice site for more information.

Brazilian National Council of Justice (CNJ) guidelines Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

Italian citizens younger than 14 traveling internationally must have their Individual Passport and Dichiarazione di Accompagno (Declaration of Temporary Guardianship for Travel Abroad). The document must include:

  • The signature of a parent or legal guardian
  • Authentication by local Police Headquarters
  • The name of the airline the child will use

For children with a document proving another nationality (not Italian), check with the local Italian embassy or consulate in their residence country or the embassy or consulate of their destination country for requirements.

Children younger than 18 (at time of travel) and traveling alone to or from Mexico must have a travel authorization letter. This letter must be:

  • Signed by at least one parent or legal guardian

All children should present their own passport and meet the requirements of their destination.

Spanish authorities require that all Spanish children traveling alone, with only one parent or with a third party have a travel permit requested by the parents or legal guardians. This permit must be issued by one of these: Police, Civil Guard, Notary’s Office or Town Hall.

For children with a document proving another nationality (not Spanish) and living in Spain, go to the consulate to complete the necessary paperwork.

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How Old Do You Have to Be to Fly Alone?

Lee Huffman

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Parents typically want to travel with their children, but that isn't always possible. Your children may have to travel by themselves for a variety of reasons.

So, that leads parents to ask, "Can minors fly alone?" And, "How old do you have to be?"

The answer depends on the airline and the type of flight you want to purchase. Learn about the rules for each airline, how much they charge and what restrictions govern unaccompanied minor flights.

Why do children fly by themselves?

Here are a few of the reasons why your child may need to fly alone.

Financial . Plane tickets can be expensive, and some families may not be able to afford enough tickets for parents and children.

Divorced parents

Time off work . Parents may have difficulty getting time off work to travel with their children. Whether the child is off to camp, going to see family or other reasons, they may need to travel alone.

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Which airlines allow unaccompanied minors to fly?

Flying as an unaccompanied minor is available on major carriers Alaska, American, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, Spirit and United Airlines.

At what age can you fly alone?

The minimum age to travel alone varies among airlines. While there are no specific federal laws on how old a child must be to fly alone, no major U.S. airline allows children under the age of 5 to fly by themselves.

Unaccompanied minors may also travel internationally if they have a passport and meet the airline's requirements.

Depending on which airline your child is flying and their age, the airline may require them to fly nonstop or on a direct flight that doesn't require a plane change. As they get older, some airlines allow them to take connecting flights.

Once a child turns 15, most airlines allow them to fly alone without unaccompanied minor rules and fees. Some airlines allow children as young as 12 to travel without these procedures.

Child travel policies by airline

The travel policies for unaccompanied minors vary significantly by airline. Depending on your child's age and circumstances, your child may not be able to fly on your preferred airline.

» Learn more: How to navigate the airport

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines' Junior Jetsetters program is an unaccompanied minor service for young fliers aged 5 to 17 on domestic and international flights. It costs $150 each way per flight.

The service is optional for young adults ages 13 through 17 years old.

American Airlines

American Airlines’ unaccompanied minor service is required for children ages 5 to 14 traveling alone. Children ages 2 to 14 can travel as unaccompanied minors with someone who is 16 years and older.

The American Airlines unaccompanied minor fee is $150 each way (plus taxes) and must be booked over the phone. The fee also covers additional siblings on the same flight. It includes early boarding, kids-only lounges in hub cities, an airport escort and more.

There are different levels of restrictions based on your child's age:

0 to 4 years: Cannot travel alone.

5 to 7 years : Nonstop flights only.

8 to 14 years : Nonstop flights and connecting flights through select hub cities.

15 to 17 years : Unaccompanied minor service is optional.

You cannot use this service on code-share or partner-operated flights, the last flight of the day or overnight connecting flights.

Delta Air Lines

For a Delta unaccompanied minor fee of $150 each way, up to four children ages 5 to 14 can travel together as unaccompanied minors. Minors between the ages of 15 and 17 can also use this service, but it is not required. With this service, Delta provides an employee escort and special amenities for children during their trip.

At select airports, children also have access to the Delta Sky Zone. This kids-only lounge featuring video games and snacks is a secure area for children to relax between flights.

Unaccompanied minors receive a bar-coded wristband that tracks their journey. Parents are allowed to accompany their children through airport security to the gate area until their departure.

Frontier Airlines

Frontier Airlines eliminated unaccompanied minor travel for children under the age of 15 in 2018. All children under 15 must travel with an accompanying adult to fly with Frontier Airlines.

Children ages 15 and older are treated as adults when flying Frontier. They do not receive special accommodations or airline escorts like those available with other airlines.

JetBlue Airways

Travelers between the ages of 5 and 13 are considered unaccompanied minors with JetBlue. Under the JetBlue unaccompanied minor rules, they can take only nonstop flights.

Additionally, there can be a maximum of three unaccompanied minors on each flight. So, you may not be able to pick certain flights if there are already too many unaccompanied minors on that flight. There is a fee of $150 each way for each child for this service.

Once children reach their 14th birthday, JetBlue allows them to travel alone without restrictions.

Southwest Airlines

Children ages 5 to 11 are required to book an unaccompanied minor ticket on Southwest. Parents can book these tickets online, over the phone or at the airport ticket counter.

The Southwest unaccompanied minor fee is $100 each way per child and due at booking. These fees are refundable if the minor does not travel or if they're later joined by an accompanying passenger age 12 or older.

Parents can get a gate pass from the Southwest ticket counter to bring their children through security and deliver them to their departure gate. At the gate, the child receives an unaccompanied minor lanyard that holds their paperwork and must be worn throughout the duration of their flight.

Unaccompanied minors cannot travel on connecting flights. They must fly nonstop or on a flight that does not require a change of planes. These travelers also cannot travel on flights that require an overnight connection.

Passengers 12 and older are able to travel as "Young Travelers" on Southwest. While Southwest allows these younger passengers to travel alone, parents should consider whether their child is capable of navigating the airport by themselves, dealing with flight disruptions and other scenarios they may face.

Spirit Airlines

The Spirit unaccompanied minor fee is $150 and its policy is as follows:

4 Years and Younger Children must travel with another guest at least 15 years of age.

5-14 Years children can fly on direct flights only and require booking the unaccompanied minor service.

15 Years and older guests are not required to have Unaccompanied Minor service, but it is an option.

Young fliers are offered a snack and drink as part of the service.

United Airlines

On United Airlines, unaccompanied minor service is required for children ages 5 to 14 and is optional for passengers ages 15 to 17. These tickets can be purchased online, over the phone or at the airport.

At the airport, you'll check your child in at the airport ticket counter, where they'll receive a special wristband and envelope for their travel documents. Parents can get a gate pass at U.S. airports to walk their children to the gate.

To use the unaccompanied minor service, children must be booked on a nonstop United or United Express flight. The fee is $150 each way for up to two kids, $300 for up to four kids and $450 for up to six kids.

Comparison of unaccompanied minor fees by airline

This chart summarizes the ages and fees for unaccompanied minor travelers.

The bottom line

Even if you cannot travel with your child, it is still possible for them to travel alone. If you're considering allowing your child to travel without you, you may wonder, "How old do you have to be to fly alone?"

While no major U.S. airline allows children under the age of 5 to travel solo, the rules and fees vary considerably for children ages 5 to 17. In some cases, children as young as 12 years can fly without any restrictions.

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can you travel at 16 alone

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Unaccompanied Minor Program

Program details, unaccompanied minor travel journey.

If your child is traveling alone as an unaccompanied minor, an adult (18 years old or older) must accompany the minor through the check-in process and pick up the child at their destination. Review the process to help your unaccompanied minor prepare for their flight.

How to Book

To determine eligibility and book a reservation for an unaccompanied minor, you must contact Reservations at 800-325-8847 to ensure that the travel is permitted and correctly documented. When you book, the adult making the reservation will provide a 4-digit PIN configuration that will be required to make any changes to the itinerary.

Getting Ready to Fly

When it’s time to travel, we recommend talking with your child about the journey, reminding them only to speak to Delta Air Lines representatives if they need anything. Remind them not to leave the gate area at any time and notify Delta if your child has any special needs. When packing, we recommend bringing:

  • Snacks, games, books or other entertainment
  • A single, small carry-on like a backpack, so nothing’s left behind
  • A checked suitcase for larger items, which your child and accompanying adult can pick up after their flight
  • An ID card contact information attached to your child’s carry-on bag or jacket

Required Check-In Documents

When you arrive at the airport, please see a Delta Airport Customer Service Agent for information regarding drop-off and pick-up for unaccompanied minor travel. You will receive a  wristband for your child to wear in-flight and create a package of boarding documents and ID for your child to use as they travel. At check-in, the accompanying adult must provide the following:

  • Photo ID (license, passport, etc.)
  • Address (as shown on ID)
  • Contact phone number
  • Name, address and phone number of the adult meeting the unaccompanied minor at their destination

Unaccompanied Minor Boarding & Takeoff

A parent or designated accompanying adult must take the unaccompanied minor to the departure gate and remain until the flight has left the ground. 

If the minor is connecting though another city, the child will be assisted by a Delta or business partner employee.

  • Delta recommends that children be seated in the rear of the aircraft to be near a flight attendant for safety
  • For questions or concerns, please contact Delta Air Lines at 800-325-8847 (U.S./Canada/Guam/Puerto Rico/U.S. Virgin Islands) or find numbers for all other locations

Delta Sky Zone

If your child has a connecting flight through Atlanta, Cincinnati, Detroit, New York (JFK), Los Angeles, Memphis, Minneapolis, Salt Lake City or Seattle, we offer Delta Sky Zones for their entertainment. In these children-only areas, children flying alone can wait for connections, use complimentary phones to call parents/guardians and take advantage of activities like books, toys and video games. Staffed by Delta representatives, your child will find staff members always there to help them feel secure and comfortable.

Unaccompanied Minor Pick-Up

A valid ID must be presented and signature captured of the person meeting the child. Delta will not release to anyone other than the person named. A parent or accompanying adult should report to the destination airport two hours before scheduled arrival to obtain a gate pass. Please note:

  • If the pickup person at the destination changes, the accompanying adult must call Delta at 800-325-8847 to provide the new information.
  • Upon arrival, if someone other than the person named at check-in is at the destination to pick up the child, a Delta representative will contact the original accompanying adult to verify the identification of the pickup person at the destination.
  • The pickup person at the destination will typically be issued a gate pass to pick up the unaccompanied minor at the gate. In some locations, the pickup person will be directed to the local Delta Baggage Service Office for pickup.
  • At the point of departure, the accompanying adult must remain at the gate until the flight is off the ground.

Unaccompanied Minor Program Fees & Rules

The Unaccompanied Minor Program requires a fee of $150 USD/CAD/EUR each way, with CAD and EUR used when departing Canada or Europe. This fee applies to travel within the United States and International on both nonstop and connecting flights, in addition to the ticketed adult fare.

  • The $150 fee is mandatory for children ages 5-14, and for 15-17-year-olds if a parent chooses to enroll in the unaccompanied minor program
  • The fee covers up to 4 children if multiple children, such as siblings, are traveling together
  • The fee can be paid one-way or round-trip at the time of check in or in advance by calling
  • Unaccompanied Minors must be ticketed on an adult fare
  • Travel is permitted on Delta and Delta Connection
  • Travel is permitted on Domestic and International itineraries
  • Unaccompanied Minors can only connect to other Delta, Delta Connection, Air France, KLM and Aeromexico flights
  • Travel is not permitted on the last connecting flight of the day, except in markets with only one flight per day.
  • International flights
  • Connecting to/from international flights
  • Connecting to markets with only one flight per day

Unaccompanied Minor Frequently Asked Questions

A Delta Air Lines employee will take your child on board before general boarding begins. This allows time to:

  • Introduce your child to the flight attendants
  • Introduce your child to the cockpit crew, time permitting
  • Take your child to his or her seat and assist with carry-on items
  • Familiarize your child with the safety features of the aircraft
  • Advise your child of lavatory locations
  • Inform your child if assistance is required to contact a flight attendant and to remain in their seat upon landing as a flight attendant will get them when it is time to deplane

No. You will be asked to say goodbye in the terminal area because access is restricted to ticketed passengers only. We do ask, however, that you stay in the gate area until the child's plane takes off in the event the flight returns to the gate.

A badged employee will meet your child's arriving flight. If your child's connection time is short, the unaccompanied minor escort will take your child directly to the connecting departure and will escort him or her on board.

If your child's layover is longer, the employee will take him or her to the Delta Sky Zone or other secure location, and turn the ticket and the Unaccompanied Minor over to the next Delta Air Lines representatives in the room (the employee keeps your child's documentation until it is time to go to the connecting flight). Another representative will escort your child onto the connecting flight at the appropriate time and introduce him or her to the flight attendants.

If we have any indication that your child’s flight may not operate as scheduled, we'll advise you and suggest that you book travel for another day. If the delay or cancellation occurs en route, Delta employees will:

  • Rebook your child on the next available departure to their destination
  • Stay with your child until they can be boarded on an alternate flight
  • Contact the person at the destination who is designated to pick up the child and/or the person listed as the emergency contact. We will continue to attempt contact until contact is made

Under very rare circumstances, an overnight may be required (e.g. a major snowstorm). In these situations, we will provide overnight and meal accommodations for your child. And a Delta employee(s) will provide supervision to ensure your child's safety during an overnight stay. You will be contacted with pertinent information if this unusual circumstance occurs.

Enrollment in the Delta Air Lines Unaccompanied Minor program is mandatory for children 5 to 14. If you prefer that your 15 to 17-year-old travel without supervision, please advise the agent at the time of the reservation and it will be noted. Your child will be expected to handle boarding and deplaning as well as transfers to connecting gates on their own.

  • Remind your teenager never to leave the airport for any reason unless accompanied by a badged Delta employee or uniformed police officer until they have reached their destination city
  • She or he should never seek help from or leave the airport with strangers
  • Provide your teenager with instructions, phone contacts and a small amount of money for food in the unlikely event their flight is missed, delayed, canceled or rerouted
  • Remind your teenager that they can seek the assistance of any Delta employee if they have questions, concerns or need reassurance
  • Remember most hotels will not accept young people who are not accompanied by an adult

Yes. If you are dropping off or picking up your minor but opted out of the Unaccompanied Minor program, we will issue you a pass to accompany your child to the gate. Please check with an airport agent at the time of check-in to have the gate pass issued.

Due to safety concerns, gate passes are not issued for the person picking up the minor (15-17) unless they are enrolled in the Unaccompanied Minor program.

Yes. International UMNR travel resumed April 1, 2021. However, there are some restrictions on travel based on individual country requirements or travel on other airlines. Contact Reservations at 800-325-8847 for more detail related to international travel for UMNRs.

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  • Solo Travel

How to Travel Abroad Alone As a Teenager

Last Updated: January 20, 2022

This article was co-authored by Archana Ramamoorthy, MS . Archana Ramamoorthy is the Chief Technology Officer, North America at Workday. In 2019, she went on a three-month sabbatical from her work and solo traveled throughout Southeast Asia. She is a product ninja, security advocate, and on a quest to enable more inclusion in the tech industry. Archana received her BS from SRM University and MS from Duke University and has been working in product management for over 8 years. This article has been viewed 38,600 times.

You’re ready to see the world and experience the thrill of adventuring out on your own, but how do you do that when you’re a teenager? The good news is that traveling abroad alone as a teen is definitely possible. There are just some extra logistics you’ll need to keep in mind and plan for. This article will walk you through your different options and everything you’ll need to do to prepare so you can start planning the solo trip of your dreams!

Traveling Solo

Step 1 Make sure you understand the challenges and risks of traveling entirely alone as a teenager.

  • Some countries will require a consent letter signed by your parents or guardians and some may refuse your entry all together.
  • Most hotels will make you jump through extra hoops as a minor or may not let you stay there at all.
  • Some tourist attractions won't let minors in without an adult accompanying you.
  • You'll be all alone. If you're have a medical emergency, are arrested, or experience any other kind of pitfall, you may not be able to reach anyone back home.

Archana Ramamoorthy, MS

Archana Ramamoorthy, MS

Community Experience: Before I left for my travels, I visited my doctor to get caught up on all of my vaccines. It's something a lot of people take for granted, but the vaccines helped me not worry so much about rabies and other viruses. It's especially important if you'll be somewhere that you'll be petting animals along the road or eating local food.

Step 2 Learn the laws and regulations regarding teenage travel in the country you plan to visit.

  • In some countries, like Portugal, minors must have a letter signed by both of their parents, and must authenticate that letter at an embassy prior to travelling.
  • In other countries, like Spain, minors can generally travel alone, but if they are arrested, end up in the hospital, or otherwise run into problems, they may be held by authorities until their situation can be resolved.

Step 3 Purchase travel insurance.

  • If the city you plan to visit has a youth hostel, try calling them. Many youth hostels will allow minors to stay, although most are restricted to those 16 and older.

Step 6 Book flights.

Traveling with a Tour Group

Step 1 Consider traveling as part of a tour.

Expert Q&A

Archana Ramamoorthy, MS

  • Finding a friend and traveling with them can be a good idea. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 1
  • Make new friends on your trip, and ask if you can come with them to tour the city. Meeting new people is a big part of traveling, and it can open you up to new experiences you wouldn't have otherwise experienced. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1
  • Send someone back home your full itinerary, and keep them up to date on any changes. In an emergency, it will be easier for them to find you even if you can't contact them. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1

can you travel at 16 alone

  • Don't book any flights, activities, or hotels without being sure they accept minors traveling alone. You may be refused entry when you arrive! Thanks Helpful 6 Not Helpful 0
  • Be especially cautious when traveling alone as a teenager. You may be an easier target for crime. Thanks Helpful 7 Not Helpful 1

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Drive Long Distances Alone

  • ↑ https://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/travel/entry-exit/travel-documents-minors/index_en.htm
  • ↑ https://www.huffpost.com/entry/21-tips-to-staying-safe-abroad_b_4725192
  • ↑ https://www.thisbatteredsuitcase.com/tips-for-teenagers-who-want-to-travel-the-world/
  • ↑ http://thatbackpacker.com/2014/08/06/travel-for-teenagers/

About This Article

Archana Ramamoorthy, MS

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Go Backpacking

Solo Travel for Teens: The Ultimate Safety Guide

By: Author Cedric Jackson

Posted on Last updated: October 18, 2022

Solo travel as a teenager can be a wonderful experience, but it's essential to be safe while on the road. This guide will highlight solo travel tips for teens to ensure you're staying safe while traveling alone.

We'll cover everything from choosing your destination to staying connected with loved ones back home.

So whether you're planning your first solo trip or want to brush up on your safety skills, read on for our top tips!

Table of Contents

Staying Safe in Unfamiliar Places

Planning your trip, what to do if something goes wrong, how to make new friends while traveling solo, teen travel safety tips.

Travelers on a beach in Morocco (photo: Louis Hansel)

There's no doubt that solo travel can be an amazing experience. However, it's important to remember that you are responsible for your safety. Here are a few tips to help you stay safe in unfamiliar places.

Make sure the proper insurance covers you if something goes wrong. The best car insurance for students should include rental car insurance and traveler's insurance.

Do your research before you go. This includes familiarizing yourself with the local laws and customs and checking for travel advisories.

Be aware of your surroundings. This means being aware of who and what is around you, especially in crowded places.

Trust your gut. If something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't. Listen to your intuition, and don't be afraid to walk away from a situation that makes you feel uneasy.

Keep your valuables close. When possible, carry your valuables in a front pocket or wear them close to your body. This will discourage pickpockets and help you keep an eye on your belongings.

Related: Pick-Pocket Proof Pants Review

Solo traveler in Verenna, Italy (photo: Timo Stern)

As a teenager, the idea of solo travel can be both exhilarating and scary.

On the one hand, you're old enough to explore the world independently. On the other hand, you're still young and vulnerable. You may think you know it all, but rest assured, you don't.

However, with proper planning and a healthy dose of caution, solo travel can be a great way to see the world and gain some independence.

Before starting your journey, research and choose a safe destination for solo travelers.

Once you've picked your spot, let your family and friends know where you'll be and how to reach you in an emergency.

Always be aware of your surroundings when on the road, and trust your instincts if something doesn't feel right.

Following these simple guidelines can help ensure your solo travel adventure is enjoyable and safe.

As a teen, there's nothing quite like the feeling of independence that comes with solo travel.

However, recognize that you're not invincible — even the safest destination can present dangers if you're not careful.

So what should you do if something goes wrong while traveling alone?

First and foremost, it's crucial to have a good travel insurance policy in place. This will give you peace of mind knowing that you're covered in case of any unexpected medical or legal problems.

Next, make sure you know how to (and have) access to emergency funds.

Whether it's cash hidden away in a secret pocket of your backpack or a credit card with a high limit, having access to money can be the difference between getting home safely and being stranded in a foreign country.

Finally, familiarize yourself with the local laws and customs before you travel. If you get into trouble, you'll have a general sense of what to expect and how to best deal with the situation.

Following these simple tips can minimize the risks of solo travel and ensure that your next adventure is safe and enjoyable.

Related: 7 Steps to a Solo Road Trip

Men laughing in Belo Horizonte, Brazil (photo: Matheus Ferrero)

Traveling solo can be an extraordinary experience. It's a chance to explore new places, meet new people, and learn more about yourself.

However, it can also be a bit daunting, especially when it comes to making new friends, especially if you're traveling solo with social anxiety .

Here are a few tips to help you break the ice and make lasting connections while on the road.

1. Join a tour or group activity. This is a great way to meet like-minded people with similar interests. From cooking classes to city tours, there's sure to be something that appeals to you.

2. Strike up conversations with locals and other travelers. Don't be afraid to strike up a conversation with someone new. People are generally friendly and open to chatting, especially if they see you're traveling solo.

3. Stay in contact with your old friends. Just because you're traveling doesn't mean you have to lose touch with your old friends.

Send them postcards and photos, or even give them a call from time to time. They'll be happy to hear from you and keep you updated on what's going on back home.

4. Seek out social events at your accommodation. Many hostels offer social events like bar crawls or movie nights for guests, and this is a great way to meet other travelers in a relaxed setting.

5. Be open to meeting new people and experiences. Sometimes the best way to make friends while traveling is simply by saying yes to that invitation for dinner, yes to that activity you wouldn't normally do, and yes to striking up conversations with strangers.

The more open you are, the more likely you will have a great time and meet incredible people.

Solo travel as a teen can be a fantastic experience, but it's essential to be prepared and take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety.

By following the tips in this guide, you can minimize the risks and make the most of your next adventure. Safe travels!

This story is brought to you in partnership with Surge Marketing.

Planning a trip? Go Backpacking recommends:

  • G Adventures for small group tours.
  • Hostelworld for booking hostels.

Pine Knoll Lodge & Cabins

Pine Knoll Lodge & Cabins

Can A 16 Year Old Travel Alone Internationally

There are no definite answers when it comes to international travel, as each country has different laws and regulations. However, in most cases, a 16-year-old is allowed to travel internationally without an adult.

To be sure, it’s always a good idea to check with the embassy or consulate of the destination country before traveling. Some countries, like Cuba, have stricter regulations for those under 18, and may require that an adult accompany the minor.

There are a few things to keep in mind when traveling internationally with a 16-year-old. First, be sure to have all the necessary documents in order, including a passport, visas (if required), and proof of return or onward travel.

It’s also important to ensure that the minor has all the necessary information to stay safe while abroad. This includes contact information for the embassy or consulate of the destination country, as well as the parents or guardians back home.

Finally, be sure to pack appropriately for the child’s age and destination. A 16-year-old will likely need different items than a 12-year-old, and different items than someone going to a cold country versus a hot country.

With a little preparation, a 16-year-old can have a safe and enjoyable international travel experience.

  • 1 Can you travel alone at 16 internationally?
  • 2 What age can a child fly alone internationally?
  • 3 Can a 16 year old fly alone internationally UK?
  • 4 Can a 16 year old fly alone to Europe?
  • 5 What age can you leave the country by yourself?
  • 6 How do I book a flight for a 16 year old?
  • 7 Can a 16 year old fly alone on United airlines?

Can you travel alone at 16 internationally?

16 is the minimum age requirement to travel unaccompanied on an international flight, as set by most airlines. However, depending on your destination, some countries may allow travelers aged 16 and over to travel without an adult.

Before booking any travel, always check the specific requirements of your destination country. Some countries, such as Thailand, have stricter regulations for minors than others. In general, it is always a good idea to have a letter from your parents or guardians authorizing your travel, in case you are questioned by authorities.

If you are planning on traveling alone at 16, be sure to familiarize yourself with the local laws and customs of your destination country. Stick to busy, well-lit areas, and avoid traveling at night. Always carry a copy of your passport and visa (if required), as well as contact information for your embassy or consulate.

If you are feeling unsafe or uncomfortable while traveling alone, do not hesitate to reach out to local authorities or your embassy for help. Solo travel can be a great way to experience new cultures and meet new people, but it is important to stay safe and be aware of the risks involved. With a bit of preparation and caution, traveling alone at 16 can be a rewarding and exciting experience.

What age can a child fly alone internationally?

There is no definite answer as to what age a child can fly alone internationally. This will vary depending on the airline and the destination. In general, most airlines will not allow children younger than 12 years old to fly unaccompanied.

There are a few things parents need to consider before sending their child on a solo flight. Firstly, is the child emotionally ready for the experience? Children who are anxious or scared may not be able to handle flying alone. Secondly, is the child physically capable of handling the flight? Young children may get tired or sick during a long flight.

If parents decide their child is ready to fly alone, they will need to book the flight and fill out an unaccompanied minor form. The form will require information about the child, such as their name, age, and contact information. The form will also list the name of the adult who will be picking the child up at the airport.

Parents should be aware that there may be an additional fee for unaccompanied minors. In addition, the airline may require the child to check in and be screened at the airport earlier than other passengers.

Ultimately, it is up to the parents to decide whether their child is ready to fly alone. If they are unsure, they can always contact the airline for more information.

Can a 16 year old fly alone internationally UK?

Can a 16 year old fly alone internationally?

Yes, a 16 year old can fly alone internationally. They will need to have a valid passport and tickets, and will be responsible for their own safety and security while on the flight.

Can a 16 year old fly alone to Europe?

There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on a number of factors, such as the country you are flying to and your level of flying experience. However, in general, the answer is yes, a 16 year old can fly alone to Europe.

There are some things you will need to take into consideration before flying solo to Europe. Firstly, make sure you are familiar with the European Union’s (EU) aviation safety regulations, as these will be different to those in your home country. You will also need to be aware of the different baggage allowances and restrictions that apply in Europe.

In terms of your flying experience, it is a good idea to have some experience of flying before attempting a long-haul flight such as Europe. If you have never flown before, it might be a good idea to start with a shorter flight, such as a domestic journey within your home country.

If you are confident that you meet all the requirements and are comfortable with flying solo, then go ahead and book your flight! Just make sure to review the safety regulations and baggage allowances of your chosen destination country.

What age can you leave the country by yourself?

This is a question that does not have a definitive answer, as the age at which a person can leave a country without parental permission varies from country to country. However, there are some general rules that apply to most countries.

In most cases, minors who are under the age of 18 are not allowed to leave a country without parental permission. There may be some exceptions to this rule, such as if a minor is going to be travelling with a parent or guardian. Additionally, some countries have laws that state that all minors must have parental permission to leave the country, regardless of their age.

There are a few countries where the age at which a person can leave without parental permission is higher than 18. For example, in the United States, a person must be at least 21 years old to leave the country without parental permission.

There are also a few countries where there is no age requirement for leaving the country without parental permission. For example, in Canada, a person of any age can leave the country without parental permission.

So, what age can you leave the country by yourself? The answer to this question depends on the country you are in. In most cases, minors who are under the age of 18 must have parental permission to leave the country. However, there are a few countries where the age at which a person can leave without parental permission is higher than 18.

How do I book a flight for a 16 year old?

Booking a flight for a 16 year old can be a daunting task. There are a few things to keep in mind when booking a flight for a 16 year old.

The first thing to keep in mind is the passport requirements. A 16 year old will need a passport to fly. If the 16 year old does not have a passport, they will need to apply for one. This can be a time-consuming process, so it is best to start the process as soon as possible.

The next thing to keep in mind is the airline requirements. Each airline has different requirements for minors. It is important to research the airline’s requirements before booking a flight.

Some airlines require that a parent or guardian accompany the minor on the flight. Others require that the minor have a notarized letter from the parent or guardian authorizing the minor to travel alone. It is important to know what the airline’s requirements are before booking a flight.

The last thing to keep in mind is the cost of flying. Flights for minors can be more expensive than flights for adults. It is important to budget for the cost of flying when booking a flight for a 16 year old.

When booking a flight for a 16 year old, it is important to keep the passport requirements, airline requirements, and cost of flying in mind. By doing so, the process of booking a flight will be much easier.

Can a 16 year old fly alone on United airlines?

The answer to this question is yes, a 16 year old can fly alone on United airlines. However, there are a few things that the unaccompanied minor must do in order to fly safely.

First, the unaccompanied minor must arrive at the airport early. This is so they have time to check in and go through security.

Second, the unaccompanied minor must have all the necessary documents. They will need to show a passport or birth certificate, and they will also need to show a letter from their parent or guardian authorizing them to fly unaccompanied.

Third, the unaccompanied minor must be able to follow the rules of the airline. This means they must stay in their seat and not talk to other passengers. They must also keep track of their belongings and not leave the airplane without permission.

Fourth, the unaccompanied minor must be able to handle themselves in a crisis. This means that if something happens during the flight, they are able to stay calm and follow the instructions of the crew.

If the unaccompanied minor can do all of these things, then they are able to fly alone on United airlines.

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  • Flight + Hotel

By Carla with

Which Airlines Allow Unaccompanied Minors to Fly Alone?

Featured On Board Travel Tips

In the airline industry, any passenger under the age of 16 is considered a child. Depending on the airline, there are different rules regarding  how old your child can be to travel alone . Some airlines offer an escort or chaperone service, whilst others allow older children to fly independently. Below are some of the most popular airlines in their UK, and their policies on unaccompanied minors flying alone. 

Child travelling alone

Unaccompanied minors – rules by airline

Depending on the age of the minor, Aer lingus allows minors to travel unaccompanied, but they may require special permission.

Minimum age for flying alone: 12 years old.

  • Children between 12-15 years old can travel unaccompanied. However, an adult must sign the Form of Indemnity the day of flight departure at the airport check-in desk. If the form is not completed, the child will not be able to fly.
  • Children under the age of 12 m  ust be accompanied by an adult 16 years or older.

✗ Escort service : Not available

British Airways

Minimum age for flying alone: British Airways  permits children of  14  years of age to fly without being accompanied by an adult. Young flyers aged under 16 travelling alone must complete a parental consent form.

✗ Escort Service: Not available anymore.

More information .

Minimum age for flying alone:  easyJet does not allow children under the age of 14 to fly alone. Children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by a person 16 years or older to fly with the airline.

✗  Escort service : Not available

Girl on plane playing with ipad

Minimum age for flying alone: Flybe  allows children of 12-16 to travel unaccompanied as adults but they have to book in advance as there is limited space on-board Flybe flights for unaccompanied minors.

✗ Escort Service: Not available since 3rd May 2018.

More information.

Minimum age to fly unaccompanied:  Children aged 5 years old up to 14 years old may travel alone if the unaccompanied minor service is reserved. Children aged 15 and over can fly alone with KLM . For children between the ages of 15 and 17, an escort service is optional.

✓  Escort Service : 

unaccompanied minor

Minimum age to fly without a parent: Children between 5 and 11 years of age are only allowed to fly by themselves if they use the Lufthansa service or travel together with a person who is at least 12 years of age. At the parents’ request, however, also children traveling alone between 12 and 17 years old can be escorted by airline staff.

✓ Escort Service :  Within Europe: € 60; Intercontinental: € 100

Norwegian Air

Minimum age for flying unaccompanied by an adult: Children between 5-15 years old can travel on Norwegian Air as an unaccompanied minor. Children under 5 must travel with an adult.

✓ Escort service : For children between 5-11 years old, the escort service is mandatory. Children between 12-15 can choose to travel independently.

Minimum age for flying alone:  Ryanair does not allow children under the age of 16 to fly alone.

✗ Escort service : Not available

Virgin Atlantic

Minimum age for flying alone:  Virgin Atlantic allows children between the ages of 5-12 years to travel alone if they fill out the  Unaccompanied minors form and have it signed by their parents or legal guardians. Children under 5 years old cannot fly alone, they must be accompanied by someone 16 years or older.

To inform Virgin Atlantic of the Unaccompanied Minor service, the adult making the booking must speak directly to the reservations team during booking. This must be done in advance and can only be booked over the telephone. The adult must complete and sign the Declaration of Indemnity form that will be provided by the airline. Part of the form must be turned in ahead of time, and the second part must be presented by the adult at airport check-in. All minors must be accompanied until check-in by the responsible adult or they will not be allowed to fly alone.

✓  Escort Service:   No extra charge but his/her flight ticket will be charged with an adult fare.

Minimum age for flying alone:  Wizz Air allows children of 14 and over to fly alone but they can’t be responsible for another child under the age of 14. Therefore, children under 14 must travel with an adult (at least 16 years old) and both should be booked under the same reservation.

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109 responses to “ Which Airlines Allow Unaccompanied Minors to Fly Alone? ”

Hi I’m 12 and I want to book a flight with the cheapest airline from Chicago to The island of Kauai to go see my friend do you know of the cheapest airline that would allow me to fly by myself?

Good afternoon, I have a daughter of 12 y.o. who wanted to go to boarding school in the UK (Manchester), we leave abroad and our only direct flight to the UK (it’s a B.A.) goes to Gatwick, it looks like there are no flights from Gatwick to Manchester (or Newcastle which is another option), therefore she would need to change airport and go to Heathrow or South London, I would be able to go with her the first time but not each time she needs to come home for the school breaks, are there any options for her to be “escorted” from a B.A. representative or else during the transfer until she gets to Gatwick onto her destination flight?

Hi….I’m 15yrs old and want to travel alone (without parents and siblings) to South Korea……. Can I travel alone….? And which flight should you prefer….?

I am 16 years old flying with Thomas Cook from Scotland to Orlando, will I need to bring a note from my parents to the airport and birth certificate, I know I have to bring my passport.

Hi, We are Canadians. My son is 16 years old and will visit alone a friend in Italy this summer.He will fly with KLN from Calgary to Rome via Amsterdam. What documents he will need aside the passaport ? Thank you.

Carla, my 16 year old son and my 13 year old son are scheduled to fly from Lisbon, where they live, to Madrid (with TAP) and on to Mexico City where I live and will receive them (with Aeromexico) There is no code share between TAP and Aeromexico. They have dual EU/Mexican nationality. Aside from the permit to leave the country, required by Portuguese immigration, will they require any other other documents? TAP have no unaccompanied minor requirements for their age group. Aeromexico do for the 13 year old , who will turn 14 before the return trip. My main concern is immigration and check in for Aeromexico in Madrid without a parent. Is that possible? Many thanks in advance for your help. Hugo vB

Hi my daughter is 16 and her friend is 15, they are traveling from Gatwick to Tenerife to visit the friends mum. Will her friend need an unaccompanied child form filled out or is it ok as my daughter is over 16. If she needs the form can I sign it at the airport or does it need to be her dad if so where can west a form as I am bringing them to the airport so would have to have it filled out before.

hi…im 16 years old and im going in india 22 from london….. i wanted to ask if i can travel alone without any problem or i need some document…my Arline is Qatar airways and British airways…thanks

Hello I am 13 and I am going to pairis but I’m bringing my cousin who lives in Tennessee and she is 11 what air line would work best for us cause we are flying alone ? I also need it to be cheap because then I could get to pairis with no issues

Hello, I am 16 years old and want to travel to korea, to meet my girlfriend. can i do that without any parental consent?

Hello, I am 17 from the UK and I am flying to Iowa to spend christmas with my girlfriend and her family. Can I do this?

Hello!! So me and my brother are flying to the UK from the US alone, but he’s 12 and im 16, were flying with Thomas Cook, without an adult, would they let us go??

Is it possible for someone age 16 to travel from UK to NY, USA alone?

I want to travel to NY from UK alone and I’m 16, is that possible ?

I want to travel with my newphew of 5 years old his mom nd dad ia not here with him from spain to italy throught easyjet is there any prblm?plz help

Hello my son is 15 flying alone on Norwegian Air, from the US to England. My husband will be dropping him off and I will be picking him up. What does my husband need to give the airline to allow him on the plane. I know there is some weird rule about two parent need to be present when a child is flying. Thank you for your help.

i am 15 years old looking to fly with virign atlantic to NY. Do i need to sign an Unaccompanied minor form? And would that require me having someone actually accompanying me or is a form sufficient? i will have someone taking and picking me up at both ends

Hello, I’m 16 years old and I want to travel from London to Greece with one of my parents.Do I need any declaration from the other parent? With Rayner or EasyJet. Thank you

Hello, My name is Marie and next week I’m travelling with my brothers to Italy by Ryanair. I’m 18 and my brothers are 6 and 15 years old. I know I need an authorisation from my dad because of my youngest brother, because a don’t have the same surname. Do I need something else? Thank you.

The senario is :

Child just under 16 to travel with friends who are 16 to Jerez Spain.

We have establish that they can travel with Ryanair because of the other 16 year olds but need to make sure they have the right documents. it is very hard to establish how the Spanish authorities view this and want to make sure there are no problems.

Trying to contact the Spanish embassy is impossible.

Can anyone give me some detailed advice please

Hi, I’m 17 travelling with my 21 year old brother to spain with easy jet. I read there rules and I’m considered an adult but I’m wondering if there will be any problems like do my parents have to sign anything ?

Hello I am 15 years old and i want to fly in Zurich, Switzerland with EasyJet by my own It will work? please help me

  • Pingback: Letter Of Consent To Travel Unaccompanied Minor | Europe Canada USA Travel

Hi, i’m 15 and i’m travelling alone from uk to italy with jet2. What documents do i need to bring with me?

Hi I am 14 almost 15 in a couple of weeks, I am just checking if it’s alright if I can travel with my 22 year old sister ? If so can I just travel with her without any documents or do I need documents ? If I need documents what documents do I need ? Thanks

Hi!, is it possible if I a 15 year old and my friend who is 16 can travel together alone to japan? Much thanks!

Hello, I’m 16 and I’m planning of traveling on my own to America(Hawaii) Possibly through the route of : UK airport —> Canada/America —> Hawaii Will I be able to do so ? Thanks for a reply in advance Xx

Hi, we are taking our son’s friend on holiday who is 15 years old to Cyprus next week, we fly with BA and return with EasyJet. I have spoken with BA 3 times and had conflicting answers, two says no letter of authorisation is needed, but one said I just need copies of the parents passports? will she be ok to travel or do I need a letter ? thanks in advance.

hi, my boyfriend is 16and he is flying alone from maryland to california, his parents cant drop him off, so hes takinig a bus to the airport. He is flying through Delta airline, do his parents need to fill out anything at the airport, for him to be able to fly alone?

Hi, I am booked on Virgin Atlantic from LHR – JFK – LHR. I am an unaccompanied minor (15). My parents will be in Honolulu whilst I depart and return is my sibling or brother in law allowed to sign the form of indeminity on their behalf? Benjamin

Hi, I am turning 15 in September, and next year, about july-september, my mother planned that I can go to the philippines, can I travel alone? Or maybe with a friend who has same age as me.? (But her birthday is in august.) Btw, travelling with qatar airways from barcelona. 🙂

Hi, I am 14 years old and I want to travel with my friend (also 14 years old) from Bristol to Amsterdam with EasyJet just for a day trip. We would catch the early morning flight at around 7:00am and then get a train into the city centre of Amsterdam and then we would get the train back to the airport for the 7:00pm flight back. Would we be allowed to do this? I have been to Amsterdam before and I know my way around Schiphol airport. We wouldn’t be picked up from the airport because we would get a train from Schiphol Station (underneath the airport) to Amsterdam Centre. We wouldn’t be carrying any luggage. Is it possible to do this with just our Passports (and NHS health cards) without having to sign any forms and what is the policy in the Netherlands for letting children in unaccompanied? Many Thanks

Hi would my 14 year old daughter be allowed to fly from Frankfurt to London with Lufthansa by herself?

Hi My Daughters friend who is over 16 will be travelling with my family to Malaysia from Birmingham with Emirates. Do we need a Notorized Travel Consent form for any of this trip ?

hi my son is 14 years old and he planned to fly from London to Hong Kong with Virgin Atlantic. If he uses the um service, is it possible to check in by himself without guardian/parent?

Hi I’m 14 and I’m thinking of travelling alone from England To America but with help like escorts and that?is that possible ?

Hi, it depends on the airline you’ll be flying with. Some allow 14 year olds to travel alone. Hope this helps! 😉

Hey, I am 16 and I was wondering if I could travel from Germany to England alone. (I would go to Germany with parents but return alone){Go + Return ticket} and if so, will I need any forms to be signed? [Ryanair]

Hi Luna, as mentioned in the blog post, if you’re 16 and over, you can fly alone without any forms.

Hi, as stated in the blog post, 16 year olds are allowed to fly alone. Thanks!

Hello, my daughter is 14 years old will be flying with Wizzair from London Luton, UK to Vilnius, Lithuania. Do I need to sign any forms what so ever so she could fly by her own or any other reasons?

Hi Lily, Passengers of 14 and 15 years of age may travel unaccompanied but cannot be responsible for any passenger under 14 years old.

My brother (18 years old) and I (15 years old) are going to make a daytrip to London from Bratislava with Ryanair, do we need any documents or just the passport? Can I travel alone just with him without our parents?

hi im stayin in france and can i book the airline tickets in the uk website because the cost is less comparing to the france website…

i am 13 and my dad lives in malaga spain and i have premition with my gaudians for me to fly alone i would be dropped at my gate and picked up from my gate what forms would my gaudians have to fill out for this to be possible with easyjet or and airline from luton london?

Hi Jb, unfortunately, children aged 13 years or younger cannot travel with easyJet unless they are accompanied by an adult who is at least 16 years old and who will take full responsibility for them. Hope this helps!

Hello, our 12 year old niece is coming to visit us in the UK and will fly in and out of Heathrow from the US. My question is when we take her to Heathrow, how far can I stay and accompany her? Can I go pass security and to the gate to see her off? Her mum is worried if I wouldn’t be able to accompany her to the gate in Heathrow.

Hi @disqus_pH64sIAcID:disqus, security most probably won’t allow you to accompany the minor to the final gate. Can you please give us the airline she’ll be flying with? Thanks!

Hi my daughter’s friend who is 15 wants to fly from alicante to UK with jet2 I know the airline allows this but is anything else needed?

Hi, I want my 14 year old daughter to fly by herself internationally with EasyJet. The problem is I dont know how to book the flight and dont know what I am supposed to do at the airport so my daughter can safely depart. Thank You

Hi @disqus_W6dz8wCZER:disqus, you can book the flight online just like any other flight ticket. easyJet allows children aged 14 to 15 to travel on their own provided that they are not travelling with children aged 13 years or younger. Unfortunately, they don’t offer any official extra assistance however their ground and cabin crew will be on hand to answer any questions you may have and will try to help make her journey as easy as possible.

Hello ! My brother is 15 and I’m thinking about book a flight from Berlin (SXF) to London Gatwick (LGW), but I can’t meet him at the airport. He’s portuguese. Does he need any document besides my mum’s authorization and his ID? Do I need to pick him up at the airport or he can take the bus by himself ? Regards

Hi @disqus_SbgzOfIlke:disqus, it depends on the airline you’re planning to book with. Can you please give us this information? Thanks!

Hello I’m travelling with a friend this month from Alicante to London. We’re both 16 (and Spanish, we’ve got a spanish passport) and we’re travelling alone, without our parents. Our airline is fine with us, we don’t have any problem but I’m concerned about if we will have any problem there in the UK because we’re travelling alone. Do our parents need to fill something? Does the british law require any document for unaccompained minors? What do we need to travel alone?

Hi, as long as the airline is fine with you flying alone, you won’t experience any problems with entering the country. Just don’t do anything that you’re not allowed to do by law! 😉

Hi, my name is Catherine, and I am wondering if I can fly alone (without parents consent) if I’m 16 years old? And even if i’m not leaving the UK?

Hi Catherine, it depends on the airline you’re flying with. With which airline are you flying? Thanks.

Hi ! I would like to know; as i actually get diffrent contradictory information; if my son, 9 years who is an SAS (ScandinavianID-passenger , can fly as an ID- passenger together with his older sister that is 17 years old with Vueling. The sister is a regular passenger. Thank you for any answer i can get

Hi Jansson, you’re son will be able to travel with his older sister. Thank you for contacting us! 😉

My 13 year old is booked with the unaccompanied minors assistance on a vueling flight from Rome to London. My sister in law will take her to check in and I, her mother will meet her at Gatwick, a part from her british passport, what documents are needed?

Hi Sal, your child needs 3 copies of the unaccompanied minor form signed you or any legal guardian. The person accompanying the child on departure (in this case, your sister in law), must be the same as stated on the form and must present the following documentation at check-in: ID(passport/DNI), Photocopy of the passport belonging to the legal guardian/your passport, passport of your daughter, and the 3 copies of the form. She will have to wait at the airport until the plane takes off.

You will have to present proof of identity (passport or ID) and sign 2 copies of the form in order to pick up your daughter.

Thanks for contacting us!

Hello, I am 15 years old and I am travelling from Hong Kong to Edinburgh through Virgin Atlantic but the connecting flight back to Edinburgh is through aer lingus am I allowed to fly alone without filling out any forms or using their special service for minors

Hi Tiffany, you’ll have to inform Virgin Atlantic that you’ll be flying alone and fill out their unaccompanied minors form. For your flight with Aer Lingus, your parent will have to sign the Form of Indemnity. Please contact Aer lingus and ask them to send you the form so you can bring it with you on the day of your flight.

Thank you for contacting us!

hi , i am Nikos and i want to ask if i can fly alone to Greece from the gatwick airport 😀

Hi Nikos, how old are you and what airline are you flying with? Thanks!

My 15 year old niece is travelling from Malaga to Spain with Easy Jet. I know the airline are fine with that but will the airport/passport control have any problems or need extra docs? I know sometimes when people take their friends kids on holiday they need a letter from the parent to say they had permission

Hi Michelle! Your niece will be able to travel alone without signing any form. Passport control doesn’t need any extra documents because the airline allows her to travel on her own. Hope this helps!

Hi, Next week me (age 17) and my little sister (age 7) will be flying to moscow on british airways, because i am over 16 years she can be accompanied by me right?? Also does my mum have to write a permission letter allowing me and my sister to travel alone (we both have different surnames) so i know i will need to bring our birth certificates but will i need this letter in moscow?

Hi Zarine, both of you will be able to fly with all the documents you’ve just mentioned. Hope this helps!

hi. I’m 16,romanian and I live in the uk. I want to go back to Romania for summer holiday and I want go on my own. Do I need any declaration from parents? I know I need some papers when I’m coming back but I don’t know if I need anything else apart of my passport?? Pls help me with an answer

Hi Andrea, it depends on the airline you’re flying with. With which airline are you flying? Thanks.

Ryanair, 16 years old, going to Romania next week by myself. There shouldn’t be any problem right? Thanks ✋

No problem at all!

I can’t do online check in for my first child, because there is a different definition of adult/children’s age between Opodo and Ryan Air. I book my tickets through Opodo website, but then I found it difficult to do online check in through Ryan Air website. Anyone can help me?

Hi! Please send us a private message on Facebook and/or Twitter with your booking number and email address. Our CS agents will look into your case. Thanks and sorry for the inconveniences!

I booked 4 tickets for a Ryan Air flight from Birmingham to Dublin. When I registered through Opodo, I put my first child (13) as an adult, because the website says that children are only 2-11. Meanwhile Ryan Air requires us to do online check in though its website/application prior to the departure. Unfortunately I can’t input my first child’s birthday due to the different definition of adult/children’s age between opted and Ryan Air. It’s locked. What should I do? This is not my fault at all.

Her airlines is malaysian airlines, she also change the date of her flight after the visa was released. She is 17 already and i was wondering if you could help us with the matter, thank you

Hi my sister is traveling to UK this july she is just 17 and her visa type is type C accompanied. Can we appeal to the uk embassy to change her visa type to unaccompied??? What are the documents needed? Thank you

My daughter is 15 years old and will be flying with cousin 16 years on Korean Airlines? I’m worried she won’t be allowed to fly. Can someone give me an idea. Thanks.

Hi! Children ages 12-17 may use the Unaccompanied Minor service on international flights but they can travel on their own. Hope this helps 🙂

Hi, I am 15. I would like to know can I flight on my own from Poland to England, by British Airways? Do I need any other documents than a passpotr? Do I need to inform the airlaines earlier, that I am not 18 yet? Or is it ok and they will let me into the plane without any troubles or problems?

Hi Shanon, You can fly alone or hire the British airways Skyflyer Solo service. You don’t need any other documents to fly. Hope that was helpful 😉

Hi! I’m a 15 year old girl. I bought my tickets from Finnair, but my flight is operated by British Airways. A 15 year old cannot fly alone to USA from Finland without an Unaccompanied Minor -reservation, but with British Airways it is possible. So, my question is, am I allowed to fly on my one, even if Finnair doesn’t allow me but British Airways does?

Hi, although your flight is operated by British Airways, your booking is with Finnair. Thus, you’ll have to follow Finnair’s rules. Therefore, you’ll have to book an unaccompanied minor reservation. Please contact our Customer Service ( Facebook / Twitter ) to book this service. Hope this was helpful! 😉

Hello, can you help, please? I’ve booked a flight to London with Lufthansa for my daughter who’s 15. I know that she’s allowed to fly unaccompanied with Lufthansa, but does she need to be picked up at Heathrow or can she simply proceed to the Underground? She’ll be staying with friends of mine who probably won’t be able to pick her up that day. Thank you so much for an answer!

Hi Diana, children aged from 12 up to a maximum of 17 years old, who are travelling alone, can be looked after by Lufthansa at the request of their parents and has an extra charge of 50-80€. Regardless, she can simply proceed to the underground. Hope this helps! 🙂

Hello, my daughter ( 14 year) is going to Istanbul on her own from Dusseldorf (germany) with Turkish Airlines and I can’y accompany her when she is checkin in, my question is does she need me to be with her during checking in, do I need to fill a form or something?

Hi, your daughter can fly on her own and you won’t have to fill in the unaccompanied minor declaration form because she’s above 12. Hope this helps 🙂

Can i travel alone on jet2 or easy jet, im 15 and will be flying to Dalaman airport in Turkey from Manchester airport. Will i need any forms or to be signed off by anyone? i will be meeting my dad there for a holiday because there is no space on his flight. i have to travel to Dalama airport alone and catch the plane alone home but he will meet me when i get off the plane at dalaman on the way there. Thanks in advance

Hi, yes, you’ll be allowed to travel alone with Jet2 and Easyjet and you won’t have to fill in any forms to do so. Hope this helps! 😉

Hello my daughter ıs,16 ıs she allowed to travel alone on turkısh airlines??

Hi, yes, she is allowed to travel alone and she doesn’t have to fill an “unaccompanied minor declaration” form. Thanks!

My Niece and her friend both 15 want to visit me on thursday. My sister must have accidentally booked the 2 as adults with RYAN AIR and only realised when checking in with the date of birth the error. Is there anyway Ryanair would allow them on the flight. I will pick them up in London.

Hi Murat. Thanks for reaching out to us. Ryanair policy states the following on their site, for unaccompanied minors: Ryanair does not carry unaccompanied minors under 16 years. Children under the age of 16 years must always be accompanied by a passenger over 16 years. We recommend contacting the airline directly for further instruction on this matter. We wish you the best of luck!

Hello, Can you help me? I have two 15 year old french girls who want to fly alone to France . I can’t accompany them to the airport the day they want to travel . This is with Flybe. Will they be ok to travel?

Hi Bill. Thank you for writing to us in regards to unaccompanied minors rule for Flybe flights. Children between the ages of 12-16 are allowed to fly without an adult. You may however, request for a child between the ages of 12 and 16 years to be carried as an Unaccompanied Minor, in which case, you would have to telephone Flybe’s Customer Call Centre to reserve. We hope that was helpful. Thanks!

But what about Turkish Airlines?? Me (12) and my big sister (will be 17 then) need to fly out together in 2 months. Is it allowed on that airline?

Hi, Ozaz. Children between 7 and 12 years old can travel alone on Turkish Airlines. They must be however, accompanied by an adult (your big sister for example) and an Unaccompanied Minor Declaration Forms is required to be filled out and signed by a parent or guardian at the time of check in, at least 2 hours prior to boarding the flight. Thanks!

My son is 17 years old travelling with British Airways to Canada from UK.Does he allow to travel on his own?

Hi, George. Thank you for reaching out. Yes, your son is allowed to fly alone on British Airways. Thanks!

My son is 13, his sister 10 and the plan is for an unaccompanied flight UK to CH – if on BA he qualifies to travel alone, does it mean the 10 year old can travel alone with him ie he qualifies as the ‘escort’?

We appreciate your reaching out to us with your question. You are right abot your son being able to fly alone, but your daughter, because she is 10, must be accompanied by someone 16 years or older in order to qualify as an escort for her. We hope that was helpful. Thanks!

i have 13 years old son is going to UK with a family friends my question is do i need easy jet form or any other document for minors . PS. flying from Morocco. USA. passport. thank you .

Hi, Hammond. Thank you for your inquiry. easyJet requires your son be accompanied by an adult, of at least 16 years of age. Your son must also have his valid passport with him prior to boarding, but no form is required beforehand. Thanks!

THIS IS WRONG – Easyjet allows children over 14 to fly alone

Thank you @Janice we will update it!

Can a child of 15 years travel ALONE and UNACCOMPANIED??

Hi, Katie. Thanks for reaching out. Depending on the airline, a 15-year-old may be able to fly alone. With British Airways, children 12-18 years old can fly either alone or with an escort service. With Aer Lingus, children 12-15 years old may travel unaccompanied, however, an adult must sign the Form of Indemnity the day of flight departure at the airport check-in desk. If flying with Flybe, children 12-16 years old may travel unaccompanied as adults, but it must be booked in advance as there is limited space on-board Flybe flights for unaccompanied minors. And lastly, Virgin Atlantic allows children between the ages of 5-15 years to travel alone. We hope that was helpful.

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Child turning 18? Here’s everything you need to know before the next time they travel

Melissa Klurman

Are you the parent of a teen about to turn 18? Congratulations!

It's an exciting time as young adults wrap up high school and start the next chapter of their lives, which will include a host of new travel considerations.

My son just hit this benchmark age, and in addition to many exciting life milestones, each travel adventure this year has unveiled a new hurdle. Some of these have been easier to anticipate and fix than others.

For example, although you may have booked travel for your teen when they were still 17, turning 18 immediately removes them from your TSA PreCheck and Clear accounts. I have to admit, I didn't think about this until I checked myself and my son in for a flight from Newark to Austin about a month after his 18th birthday. I quickly discovered he was missing the TSA PreCheck indicator on his boarding pass.

Upon further investigation, it turned out he no longer could use my Clear account to access expedited security either. Clear was a quick fix, but PreCheck, not so much.

The good news, though, is that an educated traveler can avoid the most frustrating "welcome to adulthood" travel surprises.

Here are a few benchmarks and action items to add to your calendar as the big birthday approaches.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

TSA PreCheck

TSA PreCheck officially says kids 12 and under can enter with their parents even without a PreCheck indicator on their boarding pass, and kids 13 to 17 are eligible for PreCheck indicator on their boarding passes as long as they're booked with a parent who has an active account.

This was always the case with my son, but as soon as he hit 18, the magic "check" was gone. This is a hard one to fix at the last minute, since you'll need to make an appointment for in-person registration and fingerprints. You can, however, apply for a separate account for your young adult prior to their 18th birthday.

Note that it's only a five-year validity for all accounts, so to get the most value from the $85 service, try keeping your child on your account until a few months prior to turning 18. This way, they can keep flying under your status as long as possible.

Related: 12 key things to know about TSA PreCheck

As you may have noticed at the airport, PreCheck isn't always the only way to skip the traditional security line. Another service that will expedite your airport security experience in many airports is Clear . It's a paid service that uses biometrics — scans of your eyes and fingerprints — to expedite you through the security process. Kids can come with you for free through Clear until they turn 18.

Then, the second they turn 18, they are no longer part of your paid membership. The good news is you can instantly add a new account for them either online or at the airport. One caveat: Unlike PreCheck, which offers the ability to create separate accounts for minors, you cannot create an account for anyone under 18. This means you can't move forward with this step until after their birthday has passed.

Once they turn 18 though, if you are a Clear member, you can log in to your account on Clear's website and add up to three family members for $50 each per year. To speed things up, create their profile at home online. Then, when they arrive at the Clear entry point, a member coordinator will scan their eyes and fingerprints and immediately activate the service.

Related: Guide to using Clear

Keep an eye on your big kid's passport as they approach 18. If you applied for a passport on their behalf before they turned 16, they will have received a passport valid for just five years. U.S. citizens only receive a passport valid for 10 years if they apply at age 16 or older. If your child did receive a five-year passport the last time they applied, there's a good chance the renewal date may be approaching soon — especially since you should really start renewing your child's five-year passport at the four-year mark (another lesson I learned the hard way this year when planning a family vacation).

can you travel at 16 alone

Global Entry and Mobile Passport

Currently, minors are not allowed to use a parent's Global Entry status when they're traveling and returning to the U.S. together (although there has been chatter about the program extending free entry to minors ). So, it's possible your 18-year-old already has their own account. If your big kid doesn't have an account and you're applying for the first time concurrently with TSA PreCheck, streamline the applications into one process and one payment, since the $100 Global Entry fee automatically gives you PreCheck for no additional cost.

The free Mobile Passport app lets you add up to 12 profiles to a single account, meaning that a single household only needs to submit one transaction. However, even if your children's information is saved on your account, they can each still have their own apps with their personal information saved on their phones. This is useful if they're traveling without you, just as long as you don't both try to submit the same information at the same time when you land, which could hinder your ability to get approval.

Related: Flying internationally? Here's what you need to know about new Mobile Passport app CBP MPC

Accompanied minor policies

In the positive column, here's something cool your 18-year-old can do — accompany a minor! Actually, on American Airlines , anyone 16 and up can accompany a minor, but on United Airlines and many other carriers, only a "parent, legal guardian or someone who is at least 18 years of age or older" can escort minors on a plane. This is great news for parents who want to, for example, send both their 18-year-old and 12-year-old to grandma's house on the other side of the country.

Hotel rooms

Here's something else to keep an eye on when traveling with your older teen: a surcharge for an extra "adult" in your room. You know those pull-down menus that pop up after you check "number of children" in your reservation on a hotel booking site? Many top out at 17, with 18 as the maximum age. This won't cause much of an issue at hotels where you can have four adults in the room for the same price. However, for properties that charge per person, like all-inclusive resorts, expect to see a price bump.

Legal considerations

There's one more important category to pay attention to if your 18-year-old child is traveling independently: medical power of attorney. To be honest, I'm still figuring this one out myself, but in short, a medical power of attorney becomes necessary when your teen is considered an adult and is ever in an accident. Without it, a doctor or other medical professional might be prevented from giving you medical updates, and you may not be able to make medical decisions for your child the way you would if they were a minor. Yup, we know, it's a scary one. But a little knowledge here goes a long way to smooth planning and future journeys.

Children travelling alone

If your child is about to embark on their first adventure without you, here’s everything you need to know to help make sure it goes smoothly. 

How old does a child have to be to fly alone?

We allow children aged 14 or older to travel alone with us on domestic or international British Airways flights. 

Children under 14 years old cannot travel alone with us. They must be accompanied by someone aged 16 or over on the same or a linked booking to travel with us. 

Our partner airline SUN-AIR of Scandinavia follow different guidelines. Please see below for more information.

Booking flights for children under the age of 16

A child aged 14 or 15 years old travelling alone will be booked to travel as an adult. To book their ticket, please get in touch via our  Contact Us  page as you’re unable to book this online. 

The young traveller will be making their own way through departure and arrival airports and boarding their flight(s) without assistance or a chaperone. We’re unable to accept parental responsibility for the young person. 

Our partner airlines may have different regulations, age limits and charges, so please check with them directly.

What your child needs to travel alone

All children aged 14 or 15 travelling alone must carry with them:

  • A  British Airways consent form  (pdf, 124kb, English only), completed and signed by a parent/guardian. 
  • A copy of photographic identification of the parent/guardian who completed the form showing their signature, such as passport or driving licence. 
  • Any required travel documentation, such as valid passport(s), visas and proof of return travel.  Check what they need for their destination .

These three documents must always remain in the child’s possession while travelling. 

We also advise your child carries with them:

  • Any required medication and/or health certificates.
  • Method of payment for any expenses.
  • A way to communicate with their parent or guardian, as well as the person they are meeting at their destination. Please ensure all phones and devices are fully charged, with sufficient credit and roaming activated.

At the airport

You can accompany your young traveller up to the security gate. Anyone not flying with us is unable to go past this point, because we cannot offer gate passes at any of our airports. Airport colleagues will be able to tell you the latest time your child can stay with you before they need to go through security and onto their departure gate. 

We recommended that you wait until their flight takes off before leaving the terminal.

It can help to look at the airport terminal maps with your child before arriving at the airport so they’re familiar with their journey. Some airports do offer paid assistance to help customers to their boarding gate. Please visit the airport’s website for more information. 

Children travelling alone on SUN-AIR flights

SUN-AIR, our partner airline, allows young children between the ages of five and 11 years to travel without a parent or legal guardian provided you contact the airline in advance. Children over the age of 12 can travel unaccompanied on SUN-AIR operated flights, although young flyers between 12-16 years can use the SUN-AIR Unaccompanied Minor service on request.

You’ll need to book and pay for the SUN-AIR Unaccompanied Minor service in advance. You can’t book this service online, so please contact SUN-AIR for more information and to make your booking.

can you travel at 16 alone

Planning to travel alone? You need these tips for solo travel safety

W hether you're a solo vacationer or traveling alone for business, these tips will help you be mindful of solo travel safety without cramping your style.

There are a lot of reasons solo traveling appeals. Not consulting another person when you make plans, enjoying hotel amenities without anyone else in your space, and probably lots more reasons. 

But let's talk about safety for a minute. When you're traveling solo, the only one you have to rely on is you. This isn't about being paranoid in a way that limits your adventure. This is about being prepared to make it a really great one. Some of these solo travel safety tips are good for couples, families, or group travel. Even if you are not planning a solo trip just yet, you will be able to use some of these as you plan to travel. 

Let someone know your travel plans

Provide your schedule to someone at home and let them know if you decide to make changes. Check-in daily, even if that's just a quick text. Let your designated person know what to expect in terms of check-in frequency.

This doesn't have to mean checking in multiple times a day or being OK with someone blowing up your phone every hour. But it's helpful and safe for someone to know where you are and that you're doing fine.

Trust your gut feelings

If your Spidey senses tell you something is off then it probably is. That said, there's a balance between being paranoid and using common sense. If there are particular things about solo travel that make you nervous, think about them and address them before you go. 

Avoid situations you know will cause you stress but don't be afraid to spread your wings a little, too.  If you're nervous about traveling solo, I recommend having a fairly scripted trip for your first trip alone or doing a small practice run trip close to home. 

Travelers who pack light are more easily mobile and less distracted. Besides, unless you're ultra fancy and have a porter to attend to your bags everywhere you go, it's likely you and only you schlepping your stuff around.

Whether it's retrieving your luggage from a baggage claim or getting in and out of a taxi or Uber, make it easy on yourself and pack light. If you are comfortable handing your own luggage no matter what, that limits your reliance on other people to help you. 

Choosing accommodations

Choosing the right place to lay your head is key to solo travel safety. If you are traveling by yourself, accommodations are not what you want to skimp on. This doesn't mean you have to stay at a five-star luxury hotel to be safe but avoid making decisions based on "Hmmm...could be a little dicey but the price is great so why not?"

Look for hotels with inside corridor rooms and secure access and a 24-hour manned front desk. Avoid rooms where anyone can walk up and knock on your door, such as motel-style rooms with no gated parking lot. Also, avoid first-floor rooms. It's harder for someone to gain entry to your hotel room via window if you're on a high floor. 

Read about my favorite hotel in downtown San Antonio, the Hotel Valencia Riverwalk

Lock your door - This is probably Solo Travel Safety rule#1This sounds like a no-brainer but make sure you're using the deadbolt and any other extra latch that's available. Even if you feel perfectly safe, still utilize every barrier available when you turn in at night. 

Other Hotel Safety Tips to Consider

Consider how well-lit the parking area and exterior are. Walk does the walkway to the hotel from the street or parking area look like? Check to see what kind of door locks and peepholes are available. If they're absent or not in good repair, consider staying somewhere else. 

Read online reviews, and look at pictures of the hotel on TripAdvisor, Yelp, and Google reviews - you'll find a mix of pictures taken by the hotel and pictures taken by past guests. If you're not sure about something, call the hotel and ask. And don't feel silly about it. 

Make friends with the hotel staff

Get to know the people at the front desk, bell services, housekeeping, or anyone you're likely to encounter when you're making your way to your room. By introducing yourself and learning the names of hotel staffers, you are creating a support system for yourself. Be polite and pleasant and the people working at your hotel will probably go out of their way to look out for you.

While you might not feel like you need a babysitter, it's nice to  have someone in your corner when you're alone in a strange place. Also, hotel staff members live locally and can be a fantastic resource for things to do that you might not know about. 

Know your hotel's contact info and carry it with you

Take a picture of the front of your hotel. Grab a business card from the front desk or concierge or write down the name address and phone number of your hotel, or the address of your Airbnb or vacation rental. It's also helpful to ask for the front desk manager's name or the Airbnb host's name and contact details if you can get them. 

If there's a language barrier or other types of writing/numerals, such as Arabic or Cyrillic, ask someone who works at the hotel to write it out for you. Even though we live in a digital age, it's helpful to carry a small notepad and pen for situations like this.  

Meet people but be careful to whom you give your details to

Travel opens the doors to new friendships and people are often curious about solo travelers and not always in a weird, creepy way, although it pays to be cautious. 

Questions like "Are you by yourself?" or "Where are you staying?" might seem innocent and might  be  innocent but once you've given out info, you can't take it back. We're programmed to be cooperative and answer questions, but when traveling solo, get into the habit of not answering the question or at least questioning the question or why the asker needs to know.

White lies such as "I'm traveling with friends" or "I'm meeting someone here soon" might seem dishonest but there is truly no reason you owe a stranger personal information. 

Be cautious when using social media

One of my biggest solo travel safety trips is to be cautious with how you use social media. While social media is a great way to share your travels with friends and family, use caution when tagging your specific location or sharing the name of your hotel, especially if your profile is set to public.

And be aware of how social media works. If you tag an Instagram picture with #BostonLife then your post will show up in the newsfeeds of people you're not connected to who follow that hashtag.  Your adventures will still be share-worthy once you are home from your trip.  

Don't get drunk

This doesn't mean don't drink at all or don't have fun but alcohol lowers your inhibition and slows your reaction speed. It also impacts your judgment. Someone with nefarious intentions may see you drinking by yourself and decide you're a target because of that. 

Make friends with bartenders and servers. As with hotel employees, develop a rapport and they'll be extra likely to look out for your well-being. If you feel unsafe walking to your car or catching a cab, let the bartender or bouncer know and ask them to walk you to your car.  

You might also like: Must have travel essentials

Stay alert - Maybe the most important solo travel safety rule to remember

Pay attention to what's going on around you. If you're traveling solo you only have you to rely on. If someone stops you to chat - whether they want to ask you for directions or to sell you something - don't let your guard down. It may be totally innocent but it also may be a ploy to distract you while someone else riffles in your backpack. 

Consider using not using headphones or air pods or keeping the volume low enough to where you can hear things going on around you. Also, be wary of sleeping on public transportation like buses or trains where people get off and on regularly. Make sure your valuables and your money aren't in a bag that someone can easily snag while you're dozing or distracted. 

Solo travel safety 101 - Avoid walking by yourself after dark

Period. You might feel safe. Locals might tell you their city is 100 percent safe. And, it probably is but walking by yourself after dark is an easy thing to avoid. 

Guard your valuables

Not all destinations are as credit card/digital pay friendly as the United States so check before your trip to see if you're going to need to more heavily rely on cash. If you don't usually carry cash, plan for how you're going to get it and carry it on your person. 

Avoid wearing expensive jewelry and keep your money, identification documents, and credit cards close to your body. The fanny pack has made quite the comeback but make sure you keep the openings on your front side. 

Keep close tabs on your bag when you sit down. Don't hang your backpack or purse over the back of your chair when you sit down to eat. If you regularly pay with your phone make sure your lock screen is set to activate quickly. Make copies of your identification documents, credit card numbers, and customer service numbers. Keep those separate from the originals, ideally in your hotel's safe.  

Solo travel safety won't cramp your style

You're not going to have less fun and your trip isn't going to be less spectacular because you take safety precautions or overprepare. There's a difference between being alert and prepared and being suspicious and afraid to leave your hotel room.  Like just about everything else with traveling and living, taking safety precautions - especially as a solo traveler - is a balance.

Woman Traveling Alone and Solo.

I travel alone with my 4 kids all the time. Here are my 8 tried and true tips.

  • I'm a mom of four and have been traveling alone with my kids for 15 years now. 
  • I'm flexible with screen time and dish out all the snacks. 
  • I always carry a signed permission from my spouse to travel abroad in case we need it. 

Insider Today

Traveling with kids can be daunting, even under the best of circumstances. Many parents are more confident traveling with another adult as a backup to help manage logistics, temper tantrums, carrying luggage, and getting around in a new place.

However, some families don't have the luxury of always taking two adults along on trips, including my family. I knew if I wanted to travel with my kids, I would have to find a way to do it on my own. I've been traveling solo with my kids for more than 15 years and have a system that works.

I have no screen time rules

When I first started traveling alone with my kids I had grand visions that they would read for hours and play games . While it is possible to keep kids off of screens, it takes a lot of effort on my part and is stressful.

For my own sanity, I significantly relax screen time rules when I travel alone with them. I'm OK with that because my children often have little to no screen time once we reach our destination. Plus, rules should be relaxed on vacation and I think vacation starts as soon as you leave home.

I also give them all the snacks

Before most trips, I take my kids to choose snacks for our trip. Even if we have a long day of travel, some special treats give them something to look forward to. Having an abundance of snacks also helps my kids from getting hangry on long flights or needing to stop for food on long car rides.

I also get snacks for myself since it's easy to overlook my own needs while traveling solo with kids. Plus, it's always nice to have some American or regional snacks to share with people we meet at our destination.

I order meals ahead of time

When I need to order food when traveling, I try to order in advance on an app. At the airport, I can order from Starbucks as we are going through the TSA line. On road trips, I pass my phone to my kids to allow them to find the closest Taco Bell or Burger King and place their order.

Related stories

Cutting down on waiting for food helps travel run more smoothly. Apps are a lifesaver without a second adult along to manage orders while keeping an eye on the kids and luggage and making bathroom trips.

We travel lightly

I've always been committed to traveling carry-on-only and doubled down on this commitment when traveling solo with kids. Keeping track of kids is hard enough. I don't want to keep track of lots of stuff too.

I often find myself washing socks and undies in hotel sinks on longer trips, but it's worth the trade-off. To make travel even easier, I insist that my kids bring no more than they can carry themselves. I've invested in some gear, including packing cubes and wrinkle-resistant merino wool clothing to make this work. As a bonus, I have a great excuse for not buying souvenirs since we simply don't have room.

The older my kids get, the easier it is to travel even more lightly since I no longer need to pack strollers and car seats.

I have to be flexible to their interests

Before kids, I had very clear ideas of what I wanted to do when I traveled. When traveling with kids, I'm open to making adjustments to keep them happy and engaged.

On a road trip, we made several stops at kitschy kid-friendly roadside attractions, which wound up being a highlight of the trip. This summer, I adjusted plans for a trip to Europe to take a pizza-making class and go to Gladiator School at my son's request.

Letting my children plan some activities helps get buy-in when going to attractions they aren't as excited about seeing. When traveling solo with kids, it's not possible to hand off the kids while I explore something on my own, so this is essential.

I'm always keeping an eye out for perks

When traveling alone with kids, the small things make travel easier and less stressful. I now have a credit card that gives me access to airport lounges that are quiet, and comfortable and give us unlimited access to food. I've also joined loyalty programs that get us perks like early boarding and free breakfast at hotels.

I carry a signed and notarized letter to travel alone with them

When traveling abroad, I always bring a notarized letter stating that I have my husband's permission to travel with our children. I create a new letter for every trip stating exactly where we are going and when. I also bring my children's birth certificates to establish that I am their mother. I've been asked for all of these documents multiple times. While gathering these documents can be annoying, I remind myself that it's ultimately for my children's protection.

I always find time for myself

Traveling solo with kids is an incredible privilege, but it can be draining. I try to find time for myself on each trip.

A couple of times I booked a massage at a hotel that allowed my children to wait in the lobby for me. Other times, I am content reading a book in silence after the kids have fallen asleep.

can you travel at 16 alone

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can you travel at 16 alone

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Visit the UK as a Standard Visitor

If you're under 18.

You may visit the UK if you’re under 18 and:

  • you’ve made suitable arrangements for your travel and stay in the UK
  • you have written consent from your parent or guardian to travel to the UK (if travelling alone)
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Travelling alone

You can travel to the UK without an adult (someone over the age of 18).

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If you’re not staying with a close relative

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Travelling with an adult

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  • International

May 14, 2024 - Russia's war in Ukraine

By Ivana Kottasová, Michelle Shen, Aditi Sangal, CNN

Our live coverage of Russia's war in Ukraine has moved here .

Georgian president says protesters can use October elections to "reverse" foreign agents law

From CNN's Niamh Kennedy and the Amanpour team in London

Georgia’s president has called on protesters to use their vote in upcoming parliamentary elections to "reverse" the controversial foreign agents law passed by the country’s parliament on Tuesday.

President Salome Zourabichvili admitted to CNN's Christiane Amanpour that there are "many concerns" after the parliament voted in favor of the controversial foreign agents law.

"The way and the place where we can reverse all of this is the elections in October...And we have to use this mobilization of the society and this consolidation of the political parties to go and win those elections," Zourabichvili said.

The president, who has previously accused Russia of trying to bolster its influence over the former Soviet country, told CNN that she will symbolically veto the law.

Due to the setup of Georgia's parliamentary system, Zourabichvili holds mainly a figurehead role and her veto can be overruled by a simple parliamentary majority.

She called the law a complete "duplicate" of one passed by the Kremlin in 2012 which she said has been used to "completely oppress and repress the civil society" in Russia.

Russia is growing more and "more worried" by Georgia's rapprochement with the European Union, Zourabichvili remarked, referencing the recent decision by the bloc to grant Georgia candidate status.

Although roughly 20% of Georgian territory is currently controlled by Russia following the 2008 invasion, Georgia has not been "diverted" from "following its European path," the president added.

"It has not stopped us an inch and it will not stop us continuing," she added.

White House slams foreign agents legislation in Georgia, says if enacted the US will reevaluate ties

From CNN's Sam Fossum

Protesters during an opposition rally against the foreign agent bill outside the Georgian parliament in Tbilisi, Georgia, on Tuesday.

The White House has slammed Georgia’s controversial foreign agents legislation, warning that if enacted it would “compel” the US to reevaluate its relationship with the country.

“We're deeply troubled by Georgia’s Kremlin-style foreign agents legislation,” White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters Tuesday.

“This weekend, we saw some of the largest protests in Georgia's history, with tens of thousands of peaceful protesters, undeterred by intimidation tactics telling their government to oppose this legislation because they want a Euro-Atlantic future.

"We will see what the parliament does, but if this legislation passes, it will compel us to fundamentally reassess our relationship with Georgia.”

When pressed later on what she meant, Jean-Pierre would not elaborate. The legislation has already passed the country’s parliament, but its president has vowed to veto it. It’s unclear if that veto would then be overridden. 

Georgia’s parliament passed the controversial law by 84 votes to 30, despite widespread domestic opposition to the move, which would require any organizations receiving more than 20% of funding from abroad to register as foreign agents.

Opponents say that the legislation was modeled after similar laws in Russia that the Kremlin has used to increasingly snuff out opposition and civil society.

The bill has become a cultural flashpoint in a country which, like Ukraine, finds itself caught between Russia and Europe. Polls show that an estimated 80% of Georgians want to join the EU, but Moscow’s geopolitical orbit has proven tough to exit.

Georgia’s parliament now has 10 days to send the bill to President Salome Zourabichvili. Zourabichvili will then have two weeks to veto it, but parliament can override her objection with a simple majority.

Ukrainian foreign minister hails ties with Russia-friendly Serbia during Belgrade visit

From CNN's Benjamin Brown and Mariya Knight

Ukraine's Foreign Minister has hailed ties with Serbia, traditionally seen as one of Europe's more Russian-leaning states, on a visit to Belgrade. He was accompanied on the trip by Olena Zelenska, wife of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

In March 2022, Kyiv's Serbian embassy closed with the United States and the United Kingdom accusing Serbian businesses of assisting Russia in circumventing sanctions. 

Following Monday's meeting between Foreign Minister Kuleba and Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic the embassy is set to be reopened. 

"We are grateful to the Serbian president for agreeing to hold a Ukrainian-Serbian business forum in the near future, as well as to resume the work of the Serbian embassy in Ukraine for the first time since March 2022," Kuleba said in a post on X.

Kuleba also said he and Vucic discussed a variety of bilateral issues building on "productive dialogue" Vucic has previously had with Zelensky. 

Since the start of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Serbia has aided the war-torn country by sheltering Ukrainians and donating humanitarian aid.

In a statement during her visit to the country to participate in a mental health conference, First Lady Olena Zelenska expressed gratitude to Serbia for its contribution.

"The needs of Ukrainians for emergency medical care have increased significantly, as the Russian terror against Ukrainian settlements not only continues, but also shows an alarming tendency to intensify," Zelenska said.

"I am grateful to Serbia for understanding that people matter most," added Zelenska, who visited the country to take part in a mental health conference. 

Traditionally one of Moscow's closest allies in Europe, Belgrade has long tried to walk a tightrope between its historical ties to Russia and a potential future of closer European integration.

Serbia's contribution to Ukraine aid can be seen as part of its commitment to joining the European Union, but its relationship with the bloc is strained refusing to participate in EU sanctions rounds against Russia.  

"Serbia is deeply committed to becoming a member of the European Union and has voted for the United Nations resolution condemning Russian actions in Ukraine and has upheld its territorial integrity and sovereignty, and repeatedly sent various types of aid," Serbia's ambassador to the United States said in a statement to CNN last year. 

Blinken: US will seize Russian assets to fund the reconstruction of Ukraine

From CNN's Michael Conte and Kylie Atwood

Secretary of State Antony Blinken attends at a coffee shop in Kyiv on Tuesday.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated that the US intends to make use of seized Russian assets to provide funding for the reconstruction of Ukraine.

“Our Congress has given us the power to seize Russian assets in the United States. We intend to use it,” Blinken said during a speech at the Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute in Ukraine. 

“What Putin destroyed, Russia should and must pay to rebuild.”

Blinken said the US is working with other G7 countries to do the same with ��Russia’s immobilized sovereign assets.”

“The G7 can unlock billions of dollars and send a powerful message to Putin that time is not on his side,” Blinken said.

Blinken’s remarks come after a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky , in which Blinken reiterated the US “commitment to Ukraine’s recovery," according to a State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller.

Blinken in Ukraine: 'You are not alone.'

By CNN's Michelle Shen

During his visit to Ukraine, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken echoed the Biden administration's strong support of the beleaguered country amid Russia's recent advances in Kharkiv .

"I have come to Ukraine with a message. You are not alone," Blinken said at a briefing at the Kyiv Polytechnic Institute.

The speech comes after Congress and the White House passed a funding package that included $60-plus billion in aid to Ukraine, and the EU approved a financial package of up to $54 billion.

Blinken focused much of his speech about building security and economic infrastructure in Ukraine to pave a path to NATO acceptance.

"When we hold the Washington Summit in July, we'll take tangible steps to increase NATO's role in building a resilient, capable Ukrainian force, supporting its ongoing reforms that are integrating Ukraine into the alliance," Blinken said.

Macron says France will send more military aid to Ukraine in ‘coming days and weeks’

From CNN’s Joshua Berlinger

French President Emmanuel Macron told his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky in a phone call on Tuesday that France will send more military aid to Ukraine “in the coming days and weeks.”

During the call, Macron condemned the “intensification of Russian strikes on Ukraine, notably on its energy infrastructure” and reiterated “France’s determination to provide all the support necessary” to Kyiv in concert with its international partners.

Anger brews in Georgia as pro-Russian party pushes controversial “foreign agents” bill through parliament 

From Ekaterine Kadagishvili, Joshua Berlinger, Jessie Gretener and Amy Cassidy, CNN

Georgian demonstrators attempt to break into the parliament through a metal barrier erected in front of its main gates, during a rally against the controversial "foreign influence" bill in Tbilisi, Georgia, on Tuesday, May 14.

Georgia’s parliament has passed  a controversial “foreign agents” bill  despite  widespread domestic opposition  and warnings from the European Union that its enactment would imperil the country’s chances of joining the bloc.

The new law will require organizations receiving more than 20% of their funding from abroad to register as “agents of foreign influence” or face crippling fines. Opponents say that the legislation was modeled after similar laws in Russia that the Kremlin has used to increasingly snuff out opposition and civil society.

Protesters rally against the "foreign influence" bill in front of the parliament in Tbilisi on Tuesday.

Georgian Dream, the ruling party that pushed through the legislation, has hit back at criticism, saying the move will promote transparency and national sovereignty. But the party has long been suspected of harboring pro-Russian sympathies.

Georgia's opposition lawmakers hang Georgian and a European Union flags on the facade of the parliament building in Tbilisi on Tuesday.

Nightly protests have been shutting down the capital, Tbilisi, for about a month. About 50,000 people��came out Sunday evening in the city of 1 million people to speak out against what they’ve dubbed “the Russian law.”

Law enforcement officers use water cannons to disperse protesters in Tbilisi on May 1.

Georgia applied for EU membership in 2022 and was granted candidate status in December, a move seen as an effort to reverse the former Soviet republic’s drift toward Russia.

Russia invaded Georgia in 2008 and still occupies about 20% of Georgia’s internationally recognized territory.

Russia continues exploiting Ukraine’s weaknesses in a series of frontline locations

From CNN's Andrew Carey and Maria Kostenko

A Ukainian police officer walks past a destroyed residential building, following artillery and air raids in the village of Ocheretyne, in Ukraine's Donetsk region, on April 15.

While attention is focused on advances in Kharkiv , Russia’s forces continue to exploit Ukraine’s weaknesses elsewhere, in particular along a stretch of the frontline west of the Russian-occupied city of Donetsk .

Since Russia captured the industrial town of Avdiivka in February, its forces have taken advantage of Kyiv’s acute shortage in artillery ammunition, as well as manpower deficiencies, by pushing into a series of towns and villages.

Ukraine’s General Staff, in its Tuesday morning update, hinted clearly at further tactical withdrawals in the area around the village of Ocheretyne – which was captured by Russian troops earlier this month.

“In order to save the lives of our defenders, the positions of the Defense Forces were changed in some areas due to intense enemy fire,” the General Staff reported.

The DeepStateMap monitoring group shows small Russian advances most days in the area, each one moving them a little closer to the town of Pokrovsk, a key military hub for logistics and supplies along the entire eastern part of the frontline.

Further to the west, Ukrainian forces are also coming under pressure southeast of Zaporizhzhia, one of the few areas where they achieved success, albeit modest in size, in last summer’s counteroffensive.

Both Russian military bloggers and Ukraine’s DeepStateMap report small Russian advances into a pocket of re-captured Ukrainian territory between the villages of Robotyne and Verbove.

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If Trump is found guilty, will Americans still be able to vote for him? Experts weigh in

can you travel at 16 alone

According to U.S. law experts, yes, former President Donald Trump can appear on the ballot even if found guilty in the current criminal hush money trial in New York—or the other criminal cases still pending.

The latest on Trump trial: Trump trial breaking news: Trump lawyer Todd Blanche to Michael Cohen: 'That was a lie!'

USA TODAY spoke with law experts, including Professor of Law at the University of Colorado Paul Campos, Professor of Law at Sturm College of Law at the University of Denver Martin Katz, and Election Law Professor at the University of Colorado Doug Spencer. Each expert concluded that the U.S. Constitution and U.S. law do not prohibit a convicted criminal from becoming president.

Katz explained that the U.S. Constitution sets out a list of qualifications to become president: the person must be 35 years old, a natural-born citizen, and a resident of the United States for at least 14 years.

"So, a person can meet the qualifications on the Constitutional list even if they are a convicted felon.  And the Constitutional list tends to be seen as exclusive," Katz said in an email to USA TODAY.

Prep for the polls: See who is running for president and compare where they stand on key issues in our Voter Guide

Can states create requirements for presidential candidates?

Katz stated that if someone meets the qualifications on the Constitutional list, it is not likely that states could impose additional requirements to get on the ballot for President, such as not having a felony conviction, since the election is at a federal level.

In fact, the 1994 U.S. Supreme Court Case U.S. Term Limits versus Thornton decided that states cannot impose additional restrictions, such as term limits, on their representatives in the federal government beyond those provided by the Constitution.

Campos and Spencer also mentioned a specific case during World War I, in which a man named Eugene Debs ran for president despite his jail sentence.

"Socialist Eugene Debs was imprisoned at the time for publicly opposing the U.S. involvement in World War I, and he didn't win, but he got a couple million votes," Campos said. "It's one of those curious things. Can you hold office while in prison? Well, while it might pose logistical problems, there aren't any laws stopping anyone."

How will the hush money trial affect voting this year?

While, yes, there are no laws keeping someone convicted of a crime from appearing on the 2024 General Election ballot, Spencer asks voters, "Do you really want a felon running your country?"

Whether or not Trump is convicted in his current trial, he is still the presumptive Republican presidential nominee. And if the Republican National Convention chooses him as expected, voters will see his name on their Nov. 4 election ballots.

"If he's found guilty, voters in the country should take that into account when they make their vote. Voters should choose law-abiding citizens to run the country," Spencer said.

IMAGES

  1. TRAVELING ALONE AT 16

    can you travel at 16 alone

  2. Your Teen Is Traveling Alone: What You Ought to Know in Jan 2024

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  3. Solo Travel Tips

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  4. How to Travel Alone (And 27 Reasons Why You Should!)

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  5. 6 Essentials for Traveling Alone

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  6. Reasons Why You Should Travel Alone At Least Once

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COMMENTS

  1. Unaccompanied minors − Travel information − American Airlines

    For safety, we require children age 5 - 14 traveling alone to use our unaccompanied minor service. This service is optional for children age 15 - 17, but if requested, then the fee applies. The unaccompanied minor fee is $150* each way, plus applicable taxes †, in addition to the ticket price. This fee covers additional siblings on the ...

  2. How Old Do You Have to Be to Fly Alone?

    There are different levels of restrictions based on your child's age: 0 to 4 years: Cannot travel alone. 5 to 7 years: Nonstop flights only. 8 to 14 years: Nonstop flights and connecting flights ...

  3. Unaccompanied minors

    If your kids are under five, they don't qualify for this service and must fly with you or another adult who is at least 18. If your kids are 15-17, they can travel alone without using this service, but you can use it if you want to. There is a fee for our unaccompanied minor service. The fee is different depending on how many kids are flying ...

  4. Unaccompanied Minors

    The $150 fee is mandatory for children ages 5-14, and for 15-17-year-olds if a parent chooses to enroll in the unaccompanied minor program. The fee covers up to 4 children if multiple children, such as siblings, are traveling together. The fee can be paid one-way or round-trip at the time of check in or in advance by calling.

  5. How to Travel Abroad Alone As a Teenager

    If the city you plan to visit has a youth hostel, try calling them. Many youth hostels will allow minors to stay, although most are restricted to those 16 and older. 6. Book flights. Most, but not all, airlines will allow you to travel alone if you are 18.

  6. Can I send my child on a flight alone? Rules for unaccompanied minors

    Kids as young as 5 can fly unaccompanied on United flights. The airline charges $150 each way for one to two kids to use the service, $300 each way for three to four kids and $450 each way for up ...

  7. How to Travel Alone as a Teenager: 10 Solo Travel Ideas for Minors

    To Get Used to Solo Travel, Try hiking alone. Going hiking alone is a great way to begin getting your feet wet as a solo traveler. See, essentially, solo travel is all about growing the ability to explore unfamiliar places with curiosity. A natural environment like a forest can be a good way to start.

  8. Can kids fly alone? Rules, fees vary by airlines

    The big U.S. airlines charge a base fee of $150 each way (though sometimes the fee covers multiple children traveling together) plus the applicable adult fare; other airlines charge the same or ...

  9. Solo Travel for Teens: The Ultimate Safety Guide

    People are generally friendly and open to chatting, especially if they see you're traveling solo. 3. Stay in contact with your old friends. Just because you're traveling doesn't mean you have to lose touch with your old friends. Send them postcards and photos, or even give them a call from time to time.

  10. Top Tips for Teens Traveling Alone

    Most airlines will allow teens over age 12-14 to travel alone without paying an unaccompanied minor fee. (For international flights, some airlines will require an unaccompanied minor fee for travelers up to age 17.) Before you book your child's ticket, make sure to check the airline's policy on unaccompanied minors.

  11. Essential tips for kids flying as an unaccompanied minor

    Most U.S. airlines will transport your child without a parent or guardian, at least on select flights, once they turn 5 years old if you pay the unaccompanied minor fee. Each airline has specific policies and fees regarding unaccompanied-minor flights. However, while specific policies are the relatively easy part, today we're talking about the ...

  12. Young Travelers Flying Alone

    Traveling alone can be an exciting test of a minor's independence; but whether it is appropriate depends on each minor's individual maturity level. By purchasing this reservation, you acknowledge and confirm that: We consider children ages 12 through 17 traveling alone to be Young Travelers (YTs), not Unaccompanied Minors (UMs).

  13. Can A 16 Year Old Travel Alone Internationally

    The answer to this question is yes, a 16 year old can fly alone on United airlines. However, there are a few things that the unaccompanied minor must do in order to fly safely. First, the unaccompanied minor must arrive at the airport early. This is so they have time to check in and go through security.

  14. Children Travelling Alone

    For travel within Canada, children under 18 years of age must present a birth certificate, health card, passport or other government-issued identification. A passport is required for flights to and from the United-States as well as for international flights. The authorizing signature of your child's parent or guardian.

  15. Which Airlines Allow Unaccompanied Minors to Fly Alone?

    Aer Lingus. Depending on the age of the minor, Aer lingus allows minors to travel unaccompanied, but they may require special permission. Minimum age for flying alone: 12 years old. Children between 12-15 years old can travel unaccompanied. However, an adult must sign the Form of Indemnity the day of flight departure at the airport check-in desk.

  16. Child turning 18? Here's everything you need to know before the next

    Actually, on American Airlines, anyone 16 and up can accompany a minor, but on United Airlines and many other carriers, only a "parent, legal guardian or someone who is at least 18 years of age or older" can escort minors on a plane. This is great news for parents who want to, for example, send both their 18-year-old and 12-year-old to grandma ...

  17. Can you fly alone under 18 years of age?

    1. Age limits. Children travelling alone are treated differently; depending on their age. For most airlines, the minimum age for an unaccompanied child is five years while the maximum age is twelve years. If the child is younger than the minimum age, they should travel with an adult. Before you go to the airport, ensure that you carry all the ...

  18. Travelling alone at 16. : r/travel

    Yes. I traveled as a 16 year old with friends to Greece and Czech Republic. Make sure you have your paperwork in order and that your accommodation is aware and ok with you staying alone; in Greece we booked a stay through a tourist agency (a beach apartment) and in Prague we stayed at a rather far away from the center but still decent hotel, also pre-booked.

  19. Children travelling alone

    We allow children aged 14 or older to travel alone with us on domestic or international British Airways flights. Children under 14 years old cannot travel alone with us. They must be accompanied by someone aged 16 or over on the same or a linked booking to travel with us. Our partner airline SUN-AIR of Scandinavia follow different guidelines.

  20. Unaccompanied minors travelling without parents

    Australian domestic flights can be made online, or by contacting your local Qantas office or travel agent: Children aged 5-11 travelling alone: This requires you to register the child as an Unaccompanied Minor. Book online with no adults on the ticket - the Unaccompanied Minor form will be sent to your email attached with eticket receipt

  21. PDF Children Travelling Alone Factsheet

    Atlantic) can fly alone using the airline's Unaccompanied Minor Service. Usually an adult fare must be paid. In some cases a member of staff will escort your child from check in to the plane whereas for others a pass can be given to a parent so they can escort the child to security or even right through to the departure gate.

  22. Top 5 Destinations for Solo Under-18 Travellers

    Teens not only have a great time, but also get to meet new people. There's a variety of adventurous, fun and teen-friendly destinations across Europe. The following are the top 5 destinations for under 18's traveling alone: 1. Menorca. Every year, countless young people flock the great island of Menorca. It's off the Spanish coast.

  23. Planning to travel alone? You need these tips for solo travel safety

    Lock your door - This is probably Solo Travel Safety rule#1This sounds like a no-brainer but make sure you're using the deadbolt and any other extra latch that's available. Even if you feel ...

  24. I travel alone with my 4 kids all the time. Here are my 8 tried and

    When traveling abroad, I always bring a notarized letter stating that I have my husband's permission to travel with our children. I create a new letter for every trip stating exactly where we are ...

  25. Visit the UK as a Standard Visitor: If you're under 18

    You can travel to the UK without an adult (someone over the age of 18). Your parent or guardian will need to provide their: written consent for you to travel to the UK. full contact details. They ...

  26. TORAH: We can't go it alone

    Just as our Israelite ancestors needed manna from heaven and the support of one another to make it through the trials of the Sinai desert, so do we need Divine grace and human fellowship. Emor teaches us that we can't go it alone — and that we don't have to. Our true redemption is in community, in God and in the rituals that connect all ...

  27. At what age can children be left home alone in Texas?

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