Maybe you are traveling with your infant first time, or maybe you have traveled with kids before, however being savvy security check in process tips can be handy for most parents as TSA rules have changed the traveling since 911. Many times during busy holidays, security is usually more tighten, crowds are busy and rushing and having little kid or kids can add to more stress. We want to share a few tips that has worked for us that will help you make your security check in process much easier and less stressful.
If you are traveling with baby, check out our article on 10 tips for flying with baby!
Security Check in with Infants/Babies
- If you bring a stroller use a small and sturdy one, bulky ones just add to things you have to carry. We like car seat stroller that becomes bag carry-on for ease of handling. As a parent you do not want to add so much stuff to carry as if your baby is like mine, you will need half house to hold her stuff. That is not funny on your back or sanity. So use compact things for baby or two in one thing that can be used for multiple things.
- Be ready to take your baby out of stroller or carrier as you enter through security gates. Many TSA workers now required baby to be out when going through check in. Now you do not have to take off baby’s shoes and jacket but be prepared if you are asked.
- Do not bring liquid formula or water. If you bring formula, bring powder based. If you carry baby food, bring store bought ones and ready to show it. Many airport security do not allow liquid or jell type of items. We never had problem with carrying baby food as long as we shown it to TSA workers.
- If you must bring laptop, make sure you have someone else traveling with you, as everything from laptop bags needs to be removed. Remember your shoes and jackets has be placed in conveyer belt, so plan accordingly.
- Give plenty of time when arriving at the airport, specially when traveling with little babies.
Traveling with toddlers
- Traveling with toddler can be as challenging, as toddler tend to be more mobile compared to babies. Put shoes on your toddler that is velcro based or slip on, so taking shoes out and put it on again is easier at the airport.
- Many security places want walking toddler to walk alone in security gate, so practice before hand so she does not get scared walking alone, as you will be right there behind her. (Same things for boys)
- Arrive early and get familiar with airport.
- Make sure your toddler gives up her favorite toy during security gate as no one allow to hold anything. Telling her from before makes things easy on them.
Traveling with kids (5 and older)
- Hopefully, your child is comfortable enough now and traveled at least once so she knows the process. However, there are always helpful tips that we parents can use. Give your child small carry on bag for herself so she can carry her stuff, pack light stuff. You will not need as much as you will need with babies.
- Watch a video on kid-to-kid so she will know what to expect and gets more familiar with it.
- Ask your child to use restroom before the security check or wait until the check in is done.
- Re-assure your child about the process to make her comfortable.
You can check TSA rules for traveling with kids for more information, so as a parent you are prepared. If you have plenty of time, it will give you an edge just in case of unexpected event, so go early, bring a toy or book or puzzle game to keep kids occupied and entertained. It gets easier.
