Travel Tip - Going Through Airport Security

Airport travel with kids can be a stressful, and lets face it - exhausting, experience. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has protocols in place to help people traveling with children. 

Kids Get to Keep Their Shoes On 

TSA allows children 12 years and younger to keep their shoes on during security screening. They can also leave on their light jackets and headwear during screening.

Toys, Stuffed Animals and Blankets Go on the Belt

If your child has a favorite toy or blanket that they never let go of, explain to them in advance that it’s going to have to take a trip through the X-ray tunnel and they’ll get it right back. 

Strollers, Baby Carriers, Booster Seats Go Through X-ray 

All child related equipment that can fit through the X-ray machine should be put on the belt. Make sure your stroller folds easily so that you can collapse it before you put it on the belt and then re-open it as soon as you've completed screening. And no...

Kids Can't Go Through the Xray

As parents we all know the unwritten parenting rule of never waking a sleeping baby. But you can't put your infant in their infant carrier through the X-ray to let them continue their nap. 

Baggies Go in the Bin 

Be sure to have your zip bag with liquids, aerosols and gels handy to easily pull out of your carry-on or diaper bag and put it in one of the bins on the X-ray machine belt. 

Baby Formula, Breast Milk, Medicines & Juice 

Medications, baby formula and food, breast milk, and juice are allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding 3.4 ounces (100ml) and are not required to be in the zip bag. Declare these items for inspection at the checkpoint.

Some Snacks are Allowed

Kids love their snacks. Food items that are in the form of a liquid or gel are generally not permitted however, items such as cakes, bread, donuts, sandwiches, etc. are all permitted. Some items that are NOT permitted are creamy dips and spreads (cheeses, peanut butter, jams and salad dressings, jams, jellies, maple syrup, and soups).

Check Your Child’s Bag Before Going through Security 

Your child might want to take their toy gun or sword in their carry-on bag and think nothing of it. In the X-ray, toy hand grenades, guns and knives can look just like the real thing, and will hold you up at the checkpoint. To be safe, always check your child’s carry-on to make sure none of these items were packed.

Most Electronics Can Stay in Carry-on Bags 

If your child has a tablet or other electronic device, you can leave it in their carry-on bag when going through the X-ray.

No ID required for 18yrs and younger

If your child is younger than 18, they are not required to have ID to travel. They’ll just need their boarding pass.

Security Officers are Available to Assist You 

Never hesitate to ask for help!