Passports and travel insurance are needed when traveling abroad with children.  It is most important to have your paperwork all in order.  Many countries insist that all children have their own passport.  Even if you are traveling to a country that does not require this, it is a good policy to always have your child’s passport at hand.  In these times of family cruises to the Caribbean and inexpensive family travel packages abroad, you never know what destinations you may be thinking of visiting in the future. A country that does not require separate passports for children today may decide to change it’s policy overnight  and it is best to be prepared.

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A child’s passport cost less than an adult one because they are valid for a shorter period of time.  If it has been awhile since you’ve traveled abroad with your child, be sure to check the expiration date on the passport.

It is important to read and comply with all the rules for passport photos.  Often with children it may take several tries to get an acceptable passport photo.  Be prepared to spend the time to get it right the first time as you don’t want to be held up with passport delays especially if you are applying on a tight schedule.

In addition, both parents must accompany a child under 14 when they are applying for or renewing their passport. You also need to bring proof of a child’s US citizenship, evidence of the child’s relationship to yourself, and your own ID.  These rules are in place for the protection of the child against child abduction.

Children can usually be included on your travel insurance policy.  The insurer will need their names and ages along with any pre-existing medical problems.  Usually children under 2 are in included free and over that age they can be added to your policy at a reduced rate.

Don’t assume everything will be fine when you are on a family vacation. Children still get sick and accidents do happen.  Be sure your travel insurance covers costs for an unexpected return home.  Make sure that everyone is the family is covered in this event, not only the family member who needs medical care.

This in one of the best places to compare travel insurance costs .  You can also get advice on how to buy travel insurance.  Don’t find yourself in a panic because you haven’t done your research when traveling abroad with children.