when flying with babies and toddlers
Unfortunately, every airport and TSA agent seems to be different in their requests regarding airport security screening with babies and toddlers, but thankfully the TSA website is pretty clear.
Here are some common things TSA may ask parents or those traveling with children to do, that their website clearly states is not required.
You DO NOT have to take your baby out of the carrier to go through the metal detector.
I am talking about a baby-wearing carrier or sling. As long as it doesn’t have metal, your baby can stay put! This is how I recommend parents go through security with any pre-walking child! It allows parents to be hands-free while keeping their baby close and safe.
But often, TSA agents ask parents to remove their baby from the carrier for screening. This is unnecessary. There are alternative options for screening, like quick pat downs or hand swabs for explosives. Baby can remain in the carrier or sling, the TSA website states it HERE.
One of my Instagram followers commented their experience pushing back during their recent travels!
You DO NOT have to throw away liquids for babies & toddlers that are in excess of 3.4 ounces.
Formula, breast milk, whole milk, water, and baby purées are all allowed in any quantity through TSA security.
Check out these Instagram reels to see some of these TSA tips in action!
TSA with babies
come through TSA with us
You DO NOT have to put your breast milk, formula, or toddler drinks through the X-ray machine.
I personally don’t mind putting these items through the belt scanner, but if it makes you uncomfortable, ask for another screening option.
You DO NOT have to open liquids for babies and toddlers if it is not feasible.
An example would be if you don’t want to open a formula bottle because then the clock starts for expiration.
This exception is listed in the screenshot above, but also re-iterated HERE.
I do want to note, that while not required, TSA prefers these medically necessary liquids to be in clear bottles to expedite screening. I try to comply with this whenever possible to set myself, my liquids, and the TSA agent up for ease and success.
However, there are things you DO have to do at TSA security.
You DO have to take your baby out of the stroller. This is why I recommend wearing babies through security!
Read my post HERE about TSA screening your stroller.
I also recommend being cooperative yet INFORMED. The TSA agents are not bad guys, they are just doing their jobs. And just like in any job, employees aren’t perfect and they forget things. So, if an agent asks you to do something that is different from the protocol posted online, kindly share your knowledge and source, and ask for another screening option.
