Last minute plans to fly to USA with DS (8m) by myself - what do I NEED?

[FlingonTheValiant]

I'm getting tickets today to leave on Thursday am.

I know I need a visa waiver, does DS need one too?

Travel insurance - can I get a policy that cover me and DS, (or even the family)?

I've heard mentioned before that if only one parent is taking the child out of the country you need a letter from the other parent giving you permission, is that true?

Also, my passport is in my maiden name and DS has DH's surname - do I need to take proof that we're actually related?

I'm not taking a pushchair, I thought a sling would be easier, and friends are borrowing me a car seat, or buying a Walmart special. Is there anything else that will make my life much easier please?

Thanks very much! :)

I'm in such a flap about it.

Thanks for the lists cooketc... sadly with all the baby stuff I don't think I can fit you in my luggage :(

I'm not worried about managing the buggy at the airport, it's because I'm going to the airport on the tube, so I'm not sure I can manage buggy, carry on and suitcase on the way there. I suppose actually though it'll be a fairly minimal amount of that, it's only one change and then getting through the airport, and I'm meeting a friend on route who can help with that bit.

I'm the wrong side of London.

I think I may open negotiations with DH for a lift. He'd have to drop us off about 5hrs before the flight, but it'd only mean leaving home slightly earlier.

What about the bus? however, getting to airport 5 hours before sounds awful but you need to be there 3 hours plus getting the early may get you a better seat with baby. Would recommend taking buggy.

Bus would take hours.

Should I do online check in? I'm worried everyone else does and if I don't there'll be no good seats left.

I'd say options are carry baby and hand luggage, and pull wheely suitcase OR push baby, hang carry on off buggy & carry rest in backpack. Depends how much luggage you've got but I find that works best for my trips.

Backpack

Not sure if I'll get it all in, but I'll give it a try!

Skycot booked in both directions! Low salt meal for me as well, thanks for that tip Frisky!

APIs filled in.

The low salt thing is brilliant. I was a bit miffed once when I didn't get the teeny tiny bag of crisps or pretzels - nearly complained then remembered why sometimes they also remove chocolate so bring an extra KitKat if you'd feel deprived.

I've already packed two bars of Green and Blacks, and I'm going to take some crisps :o