Heathrow with family
Traveling through Heathrow with Family
My family and I are visiting from the US, and it’s our first time at Heathrow, so we’re a bit unsure about the procedures. I understand that families need to go through the manual entry together, but I believe travelers aged 14 and over can use the e-gates, right? With a lot of luggage and a tight schedule, I was considering sending my husband with our oldest through the e-gate to get our bags and other things sorted while I take the younger kids through the manual process. Is that allowed? We want to make sure we’re following the rules; we just thought it might make things quicker. Thanks for your help!
It’s great that you’re planning your family trip to Heathrow! Your approach sounds reasonable, but it’s important to follow the airport’s procedures to ensure a smooth experience.
You’re correct that children aged 14 and over can typically use the e-gates, while younger children need to go through the manual passport control with an adult. However, it’s best if the whole family goes through together due to regulations stating that minors must be accompanied by an adult.
If you want to split up, it might be helpful for your husband to wait until you and the younger kids clear the manual entry, and then one adult can handle the baggage together. That way, you can all remain compliant with the rules and avoid any complications.
Make sure to check for any updates or specific policies on the Heathrow website before your trip, as procedures can change. Have a wonderful journey!