Traveling with young children can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With a little planning and preparation, you can make the experience much smoother for everyone involved. Here are a few tips to help you get through TSA with young children:
1. Arrive early. This is especially important if you’re traveling with young children. You’ll want to give yourself plenty of time to get through security and to your gate.
2. Pack light. The less you have to carry, the easier it will be to navigate through the airport. If you can, try to pack everything you need in a carry-on bag.
3. Have your documents ready. You’ll need to have your ID and boarding pass ready to show the TSA officer. It’s also a good idea to have your child’s passport and any other necessary documents handy.
4. Be prepared to remove your shoes, belt, and any jewelry. You’ll also need to remove your laptop and any other electronic devices from your bag.
5. Be patient with your child. Traveling can be stressful for children, so be patient with them if they start to get upset. Try to keep them calm and distracted by talking to them, playing games, or giving them snacks.
6. Be prepared for a pat-down. The TSA officer may need to pat you down or your child down if they have any concerns. This is a standard procedure, so there’s no need to worry.
7. Have a backup plan. If your child starts to have a meltdown, it’s important to have a backup plan. This could be something as simple as taking them to a quiet place to calm down or giving them a special treat.
By following these tips, you can make the experience of getting through TSA with young children much easier. Just remember to be patient, prepared, and understanding, and you’ll all be on your way to your destination in no time.
Here are a few more tips to make your trip through TSA I have found to make things even easier:
Dress your child in comfortable clothes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so you’ll want your child to be comfortable.
Bring along some snacks and drinks. This will help keep your child’s energy up and prevent them from getting hungry or thirsty. Parents travelling with kids 2yrs and under are allowed to bring liquids such as water, breastmilk, toddler drinks and puréed pouches through TSA. However, you need to remove them from your carryon so that it can be screened separately.
Pack some toys or games. This will help keep your child entertained while you’re waiting in line or going through security. Play eye spy or rock, paper, scissors to pass the time.
Be prepared to sing or dance Sometimes, the best way to get through a tough situation is to just have fun. If your child starts to get upset, try singing or dancing with them. It may not work every time, but it can be a great way to distract them and help them calm down.
Remember to have fun! Traveling with young children can be challenging, but it’s also a lot of fun. Try to relax and enjoy the experience. After all, you’re about to embark on an amazing adventure together.
