I was on AS about 4 years ago booked ORD --> SEA

IRROPs happened and long story short AA personal working for AS booked me
UA ORD --> YVR
QX YVR --> SEA
the next day. Shut me up and got me out of her face.

UA was REALLY unhappy to check me in as it was a violation. I had to agree that I would pay the walk up fee to fly back to ORD if Canada refused me entry. Took about 40 min to check in, actual time infront of agent. I had to enter Canada claim luggage, clear customs and re-check in with QX there.

No passports, no paperwork on the 18 month old with me & Mrs Bentruler. And I hadn't realized YVC is a pre-clearance airport. And I got a heavily French Canadian guy at immigration. Did I mention the kid was sick?

And YVC is a pre-clearance airport. Didn't see that coming.

I never fly without my passport, and certified copies of kid's birth certificates anymore.