The good news? You don’t need to do it alone. From finding the right child-friendly hotels to prepping the paperwork, we’ve pulled together some handy tips to make your next trip smoother, stress-free, and packed with amazing memories.
First things first, do I need permission to take my child abroad?
In short, yes! Whether you're co-parenting from separate households or taking a friend's child on holiday, getting permission from everyone with parental responsibility is essential. This is especially important when it involves a child travelling with one parent internationally, as border checks can be stricter and require additional documentation.
If you can’t get permission to take a child abroad, you’ll need to apply to the court first. You’ll be asked to share full details of the trip, as well as the contact information for anyone with parental responsibility staying in the UK. Skipping this step could lead to serious consequences – including legal action or child abduction charges – so it’s definitely worth getting it sorted early.
When you're travelling as a family, choosing the right place to stay can make a huge difference. Booking a child-friendly hotel in advance often means added perks – like detailed booking confirmations that are helpful for paperwork, or even on-site staff ready to help with printing last-minute travel documents.
So, can I travel with a child with a different last name?
Absolutely – you just need to be prepared. As long as you bring the right documents to show your relationship to the child, it should be smooth sailing. To help you out, we’ve put together a quick checklist of what to pack.
What documents do I need to travel with a child with a different surname?
If you're travelling with a child with a different surname, keeping these documents organised and ready can help you breeze through airport security and immigration.
Must-haves:
• Child's birth certificate
• Child's passport (and visa if needed)
• Letter of consent from the other parent or legal guardian
Extra documents that may be helpful:
• Marriage or divorce certificate
• Name change evidence (like a deed poll)
• Adoption certificate
• Death certificate
• Any court or parental responsibility orders
Bonus tip: Child-friendly hotels often have helpful extras like printers or staff trained to assist families – ideal if you need last-minute support.
3 top tips to fly through airport security with kids in tow
1. Stay calm and confident
Even if you’ve checked in online, you might still face questions at airport security – especially if your child has a different surname. Don’t worry – it’s routine and nothing to be nervous about.
Security staff might ask:
- Who packed your bags?
- Are you carrying anything for someone else?
- Do you have any medical devices or implants?
Immigration officers might want to know:
- How long you’re staying
- Where you’ll be staying
- Your occupation
- Your place of birth
You may also be selected for additional screening (SSSS), so having your documents handy can help things move along quickly.
2. Organise, don't agonise
A little organisation goes a long way. Here’s how to stay one step ahead:
- Use a travel wallet with sections labelled for each child and boarding pass
- Screenshot boarding passes in case of app issues
- Remove passport covers and open to the photo page
- Keep all documents within easy reach
- Brief older kids on what to expect at security
3. Think ahead
Queues and crowds can be tough with little ones in tow. Try these family-friendly tips:
• Weigh and tag your bags at home
• Avoid belts, tricky shoes, or metal accessories
• Arrive 2–3 hours before departure
• Pack snacks, games, and gadgets
• Look for dedicated family check-in desks
Plus, take your pick from our fantastic choice of child-friendly hotels with speedy check-ins and play areas – ideal when everyone’s tired and ready to relax.
Where’s best to go on a family holiday?
Need a bit of inspiration? If you’re flying from the UK, top family-friendly hotspots like Spain, Turkey and Greece are sunny, affordable, and packed with fun things to do.
Whether you’re travelling as a big group or it’s just a child travelling with one parent internationally, the right preparation makes all the difference. From bargain breaks to something a little more luxurious, check out our latest family holiday deals. With Thomas Cook, it’s never been easier to make unforgettable memories, even if your little travel buddy has a different surname.
About the author
Samii is an off-grid explorer who loves helping others uncover hidden, rural escapes. From remote cabins to tucked-away coastal villages, she’s all about guiding travellers toward their next unforgettable adventure.