18
July
2019
|
13:21
Europe/Amsterdam

Practical tips for travelling with children

Summary

When travelling with children you often have your hands full, so it helps if you don’t have to think about your travel documents and baggage. In this article, we explain which documents you need and answer the most frequently asked questions about taking buggies, pushchairs and baby food on board.

Permission to travel
Are you travelling abroad with someone who is under 18 years of age? Not only do you need to bring their passport, but you also need written permission from their other parent(s) or guardian, if they are not travelling with you. The Royal Netherlands Marechaussee checks these documents to prevent child abduction. You can download the consent form from the Ministry of Defence website. Do you want to know which other documents you are advised to take with you? Use our step-by-step plan to quickly find out what applies to your situation.

Chaperones for children travelling alone
Is your child travelling alone? Children under 18 must always be accompanied by an adult chaperone when travelling. Most airlines offer a chaperone service for a fee. Your child is met by airline staff at check-in and accompanied personally throughout their stay at Schiphol, on the flight, and at the destination airport. That gives you peace of mind. Contact your airline for more information on the conditions and charges.

Are we allowed to keep the buggy or pushchair with us until we get to the gate?
It depends which airline you are travelling with. In most cases you are allowed to keep foldable buggies with you. A member of staff at the gate will put a label on the buggy and ensure it is placed in the cargo hold. Non-folding pushchairs and buggies usually have to be handed in at check-in. Consult your airline for more details.

Can I take baby food in my hand baggage?
There are special regulations regarding liquids in your hand baggage. However, you are allowed to carry baby food for the journey in your hand baggage if you are travelling with a baby under 18 months. It’s a good idea to take liquid food or ready-made baby food, as there are restrictions on taking boiled water for formula on board.

Where can I feed or change my baby?
There are a number of places where you can feed and change your baby at Schiphol. If you need to change your baby's nappy, you can do so at one of the many Baby Care facilities, located next to the other sanitary facilities. There is also space if you wish to express milk.

If you are travelling on an intercontinental flight, you may use our Baby Care Lounge free of charge. This is a peaceful area to change, feed and bathe your baby, and your baby can even sleep in one of the special bed cabins. The Babycare Lounge is located on Holland Boulevard (between Departure Lounges 2 and 3) and is open daily from 06:00 until 22:00.

Now you’ve sorted out the practical side of things, your holiday can really begin! Our Travelling with kids page contains detailed information on fun things to do at Schiphol. You can also download our free holiday activity book there.