If you're traveling solo with your child, you'll have more to consider than where you'll stay and what you're going to do. Unfortunately, parents do occasionally abduct their own children, making it necessary for you to take some steps that will prove that you have permission to travel with your child without the other parent present.
Whether you're traveling internationally or closer to home, the best course of action is to have the child's other parent write a letter that states it's OK for you to travel with the child. The letter should address all the particulars, including the child's name, your name, the other parent's name and relationship to the child, where you'll be traveling, and the dates during which you'll travel. Then have your husband sign and date the letter and include his address and phone numbers in case border agents want to call to check on the letter's validity.
As an additional precaution, it's also best to get the letter notarized. It's not absolutely necessary, but U.S. Customs and Border Protection states that it could help. Go to the notary public with your spouse. Both of you should then sign the letter in the presence of the notary. Banks, libraries and other public offices typically have a notary on staff -- but be sure to call ahead to ensure the notary is in when you're planning to visit.
If you're still married to your husband, the only other documentation you'll need is some type of identification for your child -- as well as for yourself. For a trip inside the United States, bring along the child's birth certificate. If you're traveling outside the U.S., your child will need a passport, the same as every other international traveler. The only exception to that is if you're traveling to Canada -- though even for that, a passport is the preferred form of documentation. If you're entering Canada over land, your child's birth certificate should work -- though since the rules may change, it's always best to check with the Government of Canada or visit the U.S. Department of State website for information on entering Canada.
If you're traveling with your son and you're no longer married to your husband -- or you're a single parent who's never been married -- it's also a good idea to bring along a copy of your custody order or agreement. Put all of your child's documents in one place where you can reach them easily as you're crossing a border. If you don't have the correct documentation, the authorities you're dealing with may detain you and your child until they can verify your story.
