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Before Traveling...

* When traveling on an international itinerary with a lap child (infants under the age of two), contact American Airlines Reservations prior to departure at 1-800-433-7300 (en Espanol 1-800-633-3711) for information on the proper documentation required for security clearance and boarding. Infant ticket and fare rules for international destinations, including Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, vary by country, so call ahead to avoid surprises at the airport. Although there is no charge for traveling with lap children within the U.S., allow for extra time at the airport to provide proper documentation to a ticket agent.
* Consider purchasing a lightweight child-restraint system rather than lugging a bulky car seat through security. The system is easily transportable, and fits almost all American and American Eagle seats. See www.aa.com/children for more information.
* Some countries require a child traveling with only one parent to carry written, notarized consent from the absent parent. Contact the embassy or consulate of your destination country for information.

As You Pack...

* Domestic Economy Class customers can check one bag for $15; a second checked bag is $25. If you've achieved AAdvantage Gold, Platinum, or Executive Platinum status, the first two checked bags are free. See www.aa.com/baggageinfo for information, as other exceptions apply.
* Include your name, flight number, itinerary and phone contact inside each checked bag in case the bag tag becomes detached in transit.
* When traveling with an infant, be sure to bring enough food and supplies with you. American does not provide baby food, bottles or other related items. However, baby bottles can be heated on all flights operated by American Airlines. American Eagle and AmericanConnection flights are not equipped to heat baby bottles.
* Fill a backpack for young children with crayons, coloring books, inexpensive toys and snacks. Consider holding a new or special item aside until you are airborne.
* Place all prescription medicine, jewelry, documents, car keys and other valuables in a carry-on bag that will fit under the seat in front of you. That way, if overhead bin space happens to be full, you won't have to check your bag with valuables at the gate.

Before Leaving for the Airport...

* Dress yourself and your children in comfortable clothes, and wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off at the security checkpoint.
* Reduce time and stress at the airport by checking in online. Visit www.aa.com/checkin up to 24 hours prior to flight to select or change seats, and print your boarding pass.
* If you're over the age of 18, federal law requires you to show a government issued photo ID at Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints. See www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/acceptable_documents.shtm for examples of TSA acceptable IDs. If you're traveling internationally, don't forget your passport, as well as other important documents for all customers, including lap children. Make copies to carry with you (or scan and e-mail a copy to yourself) and to leave with others at home.

At the Airport...

* TSA limits the amount of liquids, gels and aerosols you may carry on board; however, medication, baby formula and food, breast milk, and juice are allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding three ounces and are not required to be in a zip-top bag. Families should declare these items for inspection at the checkpoint. For more information, including limitations on international travel, visit www.aa.com/liquids. TSA's Web site, www.tsa.gov, is also a good source of information.
* Customers may carry onboard one bag that fits in the overhead bin or under the seat, plus one personal item, such as a purse, briefcase or laptop. A diaper bag and umbrella stroller (as long as they fit in the overhead bin) for a lap or ticketed child are permitted onboard in addition to the standard carry on allowance. Additionally, an approved safety seat and collapsible stroller may be checked at no charge. Don't forget to label seats and strollers with your name and contact phone number.
* Allow extra time for traffic, parking and transportation to the terminal. Travelers should plan to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before departure for domestic flights and two to three hours prior to departure for international flights. Some cities have even earlier suggested arrival times because of lengthy TSA security checkpoint lines. See www.aa.com/airportexpectations for cities where earlier arrival is recommended.
* Instead of trying to remember your parking location or writing it down on a scrap of paper, take a picture of your location sign with a camera phone or digital camera.
* If you haven't already checked in beforehand at AA.com, try one of American's quick and easy Self-Service Check-in machines. They're a great time-saver and can be used for both domestic and international flights. You can print a boarding pass, check luggage, select or change seats, confirm flight changes and purchase upgrades.
* Curbside Check-in is another great time saver. You can check your bag with a skycap at the curb, and then it's a straight shot to the security line and your gate.