As your departure date approaches, careful preparation for your travel day will ensure a smooth transit for your family. Review the airline guidelines and essential hand-carry requirements below to prevent delays or lost documentation.
1. Pre-Flight Airline Coordination
Childcare Cargo Policies: Contact your commercial airline or AMC terminal agent in advance to verify baggage policies regarding large childcare items (e.g., strollers, pack-and-plays, and car seats). Confirm whether these items can be checked at the gate or if they count toward your standard checked baggage allowance.
In-Flight Subsistence: Ensure you pack sufficient snacks and infant formula in your carry-on luggage, keeping TSA guidelines for liquids in mind.
2. Mandatory Hand-Carry Document Checklist
Do not pack official records or critical family documentation in your checked household goods or unaccompanied baggage. Keep the following items in your physical possession throughout your travel:
Official Records: Hand-carry all medical, dental, and immunisation records, alongside certified school transcripts or enrollment files for your children.
Vital Documents: Original birth certificates, marriage certificates, passports, military IDs, and your official PCS orders (bring multiple physical copies).
Legal & Licensing: Valid Power of Attorney (POA) documents and your International Driving Permit (IDP).
Pet Logistics: All mandatory veterinary certifications, health certificates, rabies vaccination records, and a small supply of pet food/supplies for layovers.
Point of Contact Sheet: A written or digital list containing contact information for your gaining unit sponsor, the Camp Darby reception desk, and your temporary lodging reservations.
3. Essential Carry-On Electronics & Comfort Items
Communications: Download internet-based calling and messaging applications onto your mobile devices prior to departure to maintain connectivity during international transit.
Power Compatibility: Pack international plug adapters in your carry-on luggage to keep electronic devices charged during overseas layovers.
Family Readiness: Ensure children’s essential items — including a change of clothing, favorite pajamas, small toys, books, or compact games — are easily accessible in your carry-on baggage.
