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17...Can I travel alone?
Wed, 05/09/2007 - 17:07
Hi everyone,
I am currently a grade 12 student in Canada, aged 17. I want to travel Europe in September, following graduation, and have planned some accomodations and such…however, am I legally allowed to travel in Europe alone? I have both parents permission, so it’s not like I“m running from home or anything. What sort of special documentation do I need? (I am not younger then the rest of my grad class by much, it’s only because my birthday is Dec. 31st, and am planning to go to University in 2 years (following a year off), so I do not want to wait till i’m 18 to go)
THANK YOU
Travis

I don’t think there’d be any problem.
Several years ago our older son took a solo trip to Europe and turned 18 in Paris right before Bastille Day. He had a really good time. He’d been to Europe with us once before, but for this trip he saved his own money and did his own research.
I think you’ll be fine; just save your money and do some planning.
Some clubs might check your age but I don’t think being 17 is legally that big of a deal.
You should be all right. If you look young, and you probably do, be prepared to be asked “where are your parents” once in a while. (They were constantly asking my wife that question until she turned 25. [
]) Once you turn 14, you may travel by yourself all you want, especially with written permission from your parents. You should not worry much about being taken advantage of because of your age in stores or restaurants, but if you feel they try stand your ground. If you feel ready for solo travel then go for it!
Check the Canadian requirements about minors leaving the country. In the US, you need the permission of both parents — technically, a signed and notarized letter — although you might never be asked to show it.
i’m canadian and i went to europe (britain) when i was 17 and never had any problems, never needed any signatures or anything.
Same for me. My very 1st trip to Europe was only a couple months after I had turned 17. I travelled without my parnets and had permission from both, but never got anything in writing, and was never asked to show proof of anything either. You should be fine
I flew 40k miles around the U.S when I was 17 so yes you can certainly do. Just act mature and you will be fine.
cheers
howie
London, Leeds, Manchester
There are no legal requirements. My kids started inter-railing alone at 15-16. Oh, did they have fun.
don’t most hostels require you to be 18 if you want to book a night?
all anyone cares about is that you have a passport
run away, be free.
Remember, debt & routine rot the human soul