Rules / Docs
By Arlene Fleming, About.com Guides to Air Travel
Air travel is replete with rules and requirements. From passport and visa requirements, to what you can bring on board and luggage allowances, flying can sometimes seem extremely confusing. Plus, it is always changing - one week you are allowed to bring water on board, the next you're not; some airlines allow pre-boarding for travel with young children, others don't. Given an industry that is constantly in flux and subject to rules, you too will be subjected to the rules of air travel.
- Passports and Visas - Official Documentation Required
- Family Travel Rules and Policies
- Luggage Rules - Checked In or Carried On
- Customer Service Issues - Cancelations and Delays
Passports and Visas - Official Documentation Required
Passports are becoming increasingly essential, even in jurisdictions where you once just needed proof of residence. Visas too, are often extra requirements to enter a country - some you can purchase online or upon arrival, others are...shall we say...a little more complicated. Regardless, it is important to have your documents in order.
- Obtain or Renew Your Passport, and Visas
- Passport Rules for U.S. Citizens
- My Passport Was Stolen - What You Can Do if it Happens to You
Family Travel Rules and Policies
There is a huge variation in the policies set by airlines when it comes to nearly every type of family air travel. A few airlines will even require you to have an attendant during the later stages of pregnancy. Can you bring a stroller to the gate? How do you prepare for travel with an infant? What provisions are there if you must travel for a family funeral, or by contrast for a wedding? Very few airlines would answer these questions exactly the same, which makes it even more important to help try and find their answers to ease your air travels. The link for family travel covers topics from pregnancy and beyond.
Luggage Rules - Checked In or Carried On
Like many things in the air travel industry, regulations for luggage are constantly changing - there is more flexibility in items that may be toted in your carry-ons. By contrast, over the years the checked luggage allowance has been shrinking, with a few airlines now charging you for checking in your suitcases.
- What You Can Pack - Checked in and Carry On Luggage
- Carry-on Packing List for Warmer Destinations
- Packing Your Own Airplane Food - Snack Ideas
- Top 10 Luggage and Carry-on Baggage Myths
- Get Your Luggage to Your Destination with You
- Strollers as Luggage
Customer Service Issues - Cancelations and Delays
Your flight has been canceled. You are stranded at the airport. You are wondering if there is anything you can do about it. Or the airline has oversold your flight, you are about to be bumped and would like to know what you are entitled to, and how you will be compensated. These not so happy scenarios equal articles geared towards canceled, delayed, or oversold flights.
