There's nothing like getting detained at the border to put a damper on the start of your holiday. Don't get caught without the proper documentation for every member of the family. Here's what you need to know to sail through customs.

Traveling in North America

When traveling from the U.S. to Canada and Mexico, it's recommended that you provide a passport or other form of accepted secure document that establishes your identity and nationality," says Leah Yoon, spokesperson for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Other accepted secure documents include a Border Crossing Card (BCC), Nexus card, or Sentri card. While the Government of Canada recommends that all Canadians carry a passport while traveling outside the country, they're not required to have one when traveling to the U.S. and Mexico. However, each family member must have valid identification, such as a birth certificate.

Travelling Abroad

Going to Europe or elsewhere? You'll need a passport for every member of your family. Check with the U.S. Department of State  for the specific passport and visa requirements for entry to particular countries.

Going Solo with Kids

It's possible you'll breeze through the border if you're traveling alone with your child, however, if both parents are not accompanying a child under 18 outside the U.S., the traveling adult should carry a notarized note from the other parent stating: I acknowledge that my wife/husband/etc. is traveling out of the country with my son/daughter. He/she/they has (have) my permission to do so. "Many countries require this documentation, for example, Canada has very strict requirements in this regard," says Yoon. "If you can't produce it, you could be refused entry.

In the case of parents who have full custody or whose partners are deceased, they're advised to carry any other relevant paperwork, such as a court decision, birth certificate naming only one parent or a death certificate.