The following post is by a special guest blogger: Sharlene Earnshaw, Trekaroo’s Blog Editor.

I remember the first time I ever flew without my mom and dad like it was yesterday. I was 12 years old and my little brother and I were flying up to Seattle to stay with my aunt for a couple weeks. I felt a mingling of excitement and nervousness at the prospect of doing something without my parents.

On that first flight, I had no idea that my nerves were probably outmatched by those of my mom and dad. After all, they were sending their babies up into the sky alone. It turns out our experience was a great one and led to many more journeys up north sans parents.

This past summer, I had a chance to experience the other side of the coin. My 11-year old niece and 13-year-old nephew flew from Texas to California, and I suddenly became the aunt on the receiving end. We live in a post-9/11 world and it was not as simple as just walking up to the gate and picking up the kids anymore.

Luckily, as long as you know what to expect and follow a few simple rules, things can still be easy. Here are my tips on how to make that first flight a great experience for both parents and children.

1. Find out the unaccompanied minor policy: Call the airline to inquire. Airlines treat children differently based on their age and each one has its own set of rules. (A 13 year old may not get the same unaccompanied child service that a 10 year old would get.) Younger children are usually assigned an escort while teenagers may have to navigate things a bit more on their own. Typical airline-imposed regulations include only allowing solo minors to fly on direct flights, no unaccompanied minors on the last flight of the day, and extra fees. Also be aware that a copy of the child’s birth certificate will most likely be needed for age verification.

2. Ask for an escort pass: Most airlines will allow you to escort a minor (especially one under the age of 12) to the gate. They will also make exceptions for whoever is picking up the minor and let them wait at the gate for the plane’s arrival. Usually a copy of the minor’s itinerary and confirmation is required, as well a government issued ID. Once at the gate, remind an airline official that there will be an unaccompanied minor on the flight so they can convey this information to the in-flight staff. Don’t forget to call ahead to check the flight’s status to avoid delays or even cancellations.

3. Pack your child’s carry-on well: I recommend having the child take a backpack because it is familiar and easy to manage. Include an envelope with important information for the receiving adult to have, such as a copy of the child’s birth certificate (for the return flight), a letter granting them the ability to approve emergency medical procedures on behalf of your child, a copy of the child’s insurance card and airline confirmation information for the return flight. If your child has a cell phone, pre-program it with all the important contact numbers he/she will need while traveling. Pack plenty of snacks, money for an in-flight movie or meal, and entertainment, such as books, an iPod, a portable gaming device or portable DVD player. Don’t forget to pack something that may comfort the child, such as a special stuffed animal, picture of the family or blankie.

4. Make sure your child knows what to expect: Go over the entire experience with your child, reassuring them that as long as they follow instructions, they will be safe and have fun. Ensure that they understand every step of the journey, and remind them to be aware of who they should turn to for help should any problems occur. TSA badge-wearing folks, airport personnel and moms with other kids are often good people to ask for help.

Flying alone for the first time is a big deal, but the more prepared you are, the more likely both kids and their parents will be able to relax and enjoy the experience.

Sharlene Earnshaw is a lifelong California girl who loves nothing more than to hike, travel, write, and then travel some more. Her 3-year old boy/girl twins and loving husband provide all the inspiration she needs to plan one new adventure after another. She is a self proclaimed National Parks nerd and has made it her goal to see every single National Park with her children. She is a dedicated road tripper and spent last summer on a 24 day road trip across the Western US and Canada. Her favorite travel memory is being greeted by cheers at the top of Inspiration Point in Grand Teton after being told that her toddlers wouldn’t be able to do it. She graduated from University of California at Davis with a degree in Communications.