TSA Travel With Children

You can easily navigate TSA checkpoints with children.

Air travel with children is never easy. Children, no matter now small, come with a lot of stuff, including the stroller, the car seat, the snacks, the toys, the diapers, the formula...the list is (seemingly) never ending. Add to that list the rules set forth by the Transportation Security Administration, and you may be tempted to cancel your vacation and just stay home. Don't fear, you can navigate the waters of the airport and the TSA, and possibly have a vacation that the whole family will love.

Travel Essentials

The TSA requires that anyone over the age of 18 show photo identification issued by the state or federal government. When traveling with a minor, it is a good rule-of-thumb to bring a passport for your child, if you have one, or a copy of your child's birth certificate. Your airline may require that information should your child be riding on your lap or if you are asking for a discounted child's fare.

Carry-On Luggage

Pack as much as possible in your checked baggage. Your carry-on should contain boredom beaters (coloring book with crayons, toys, books and child's favorite stuffed animal), diapers and wipes, formula/breast milk in bottles and your essentials. Limit your amount of carry-on items because you have to carry all of it through the airport and through the security checkpoints. If you need to bring a car seat, stroller or an infant carrier, be sure that the seat, or "child restraint system," has been approved by the Federal Aviation Administration.

Prohibited Items in Your Carry-On

Be aware of what is and what is not allowed in your carry-on. Items that must be checked include "all liquids, gels and aerosols" that are in containers that weigh more "3.4 ounce[s]," according to the TSA. This would include your toothpaste, hair products, and other health and beauty items. Also, razor blades and scissors must be in your checked luggage. The same goes for sporting equipment such as ski poles and hockey sticks. Be aware that the list of prohibited items changes often and is sometimes left to the discretion of the TSA agent. When in doubt, consult the TSA website, pack the questionable item in your checked luggage or just leave it at home.

Security Checkpoints

Security checkpoints are a struggle for anyone with any baggage, but are especially awful for parents who have to control children and all of their accoutrement. Knowing what is involved can make it easier though. If you are bringing breast milk or formula for your baby, declare these items to the TSA representative when going through the security checkpoints. These items can reasonably exceed the TSA rule of "3-1-1." This rule mandates that each passenger can bring one "3.4 ounce" bottle of a "liquid, aerosol or gel" in one clear plastic bag with a zip top. Be sure to bring enough formula so that your baby doesn't go hungry during the flight. If you are traveling with older kids, purchase drinks and snacks after you pass through the security checkpoints. Kids might be better behaved during the checkpoints if they know they will be rewarded with a treat later on. Pick a checkpoint that is being used by other parents. Only they know and can empathize with your pain, and you might be able to help each other. Your carry-on bag and and other equipment will be sent through the X-ray, and you and every other family member will be required to walk through the metal detector. You may carry your child if he is not walking yet.

References

• Transportation Security Administration.gov: ID Requirements for Airport Checkpoints
• Federal Aviation Administration.gov: Child Safety on Airplanes
• Transportation Security Administration: Traveling With Kids

Resources

• Parents.com: The Ultimate Guide to Traveling with Kids