Jazmin Li
Strollers can go through airport security, but they must be screened by X-ray. If the stroller doesn't fit through the X-ray machine, it will undergo a visual/physical inspection by a TSA officer. It is recommended to use a lightweight, compact, and travel-friendly stroller to make it easier to navigate through busy terminals. Some airports have a designated line for families, which can help reduce the stress of going through security with a stroller. When passing through security, you may be required to take your child out of the stroller and fold it up before placing it on the conveyor belt for X-ray screening. It is important to plan ahead and allow extra time for checking strollers and car seats at the airport.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can strollers go through airport security? | Yes, strollers can go through airport security. |
| What to do with the baby? | Take the baby out of the stroller and carry them through the walk-through metal detector. |
| Do I need to fold the stroller? | Yes, you should fold the stroller before putting it through the X-ray machine. If it is too big to fit, it will undergo a visual/physical inspection by TSA officers. |
| What about other items? | All carry-on items, such as children's toys, bags, and blankets, must be placed on the X-ray belt for screening. |
| Are there special accommodations? | Yes, passengers requiring special accommodations or concerned about the security screening process can request assistance from TSA Cares. |
| Can I use the stroller at the airport? | Yes, gate-checking allows you to use your stroller through the airport and up to the boarding gate. |
| Can I bring the stroller on the plane? | It depends on the size of the stroller and the flight's occupancy. If it is small enough and the flight isn't full, you may be able to store it in the overhead bin. Otherwise, you may need to check it at the gate or with your other baggage. |
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What You'll Learn
Strollers must go through X-ray screening
Strollers are a convenient way to navigate the airport with your child. However, they must go through X-ray screening at the security checkpoint. Here are some tips to make the process smoother:
Collapsing the Stroller
Some airports may require you to collapse your stroller and place it on the X-ray belt. This can be challenging if you're holding a baby, so don't be afraid to ask for assistance. If your stroller is too large to fit through the X-ray machine, TSA officers will perform a visual and physical inspection.
Removing Items
Before placing the stroller on the belt, remove all items from the pockets or baskets and place them in a carry-on bag or directly onto the X-ray belt for screening. This includes children's toys, blankets, and other carry-on items.
Alternative Screening Methods
If you are travelling with a small baby or have physical limitations, you may keep your child in the stroller and request assistance from TSA Cares. They will provide guidance and help you navigate the security process. Additionally, some airports have a designated line for families or a stroller line, where agents will manually check the stroller without requiring you to collapse it.
Gate-Checking
If you prefer not to bring your stroller through security, you can usually gate-check it. This means you can use the stroller through the airport and up to the boarding gate, where you will check it before stepping onto the plane. Gate-checking can be especially useful if you have a large stroller that may not fit through the X-ray machine or in the overhead bin.
Choosing the Right Stroller
When travelling with a stroller, consider opting for a lightweight, compact model. These are easier to manoeuvre through busy terminals and can often be brought onto the plane as carry-on luggage, stored in the overhead bin. If you have a larger stroller, it may need to be checked as luggage and will likely need to be collapsed for the X-ray screening.
Remember, each airport and airline may have slightly different procedures and policies, so it's always a good idea to check with them directly if you have specific questions or concerns.
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You may not need to fold your stroller
When travelling with a stroller, you will need to remove your child and carry them through the security check. However, you may not always need to fold your stroller.
If your stroller is small enough to fit through the X-ray machine, you can simply send it through without folding it. A TSA agent will tell you if your stroller is too big. If it is too big to fit, a TSA agent will take it for a manual inspection and return it to you on the other side of security.
Some people recommend using a compact travel stroller if your baby is old enough, as it can be easier to navigate the airport without a bulky stroller. However, compact strollers may not be as durable as larger strollers.
If you want to keep your stroller with you at the airport, gate-checking can be a convenient option. Gate-checking allows you to use the stroller up until you board the plane, and you can pick it up immediately after deplaning at your destination. Gate-checked strollers also have a lower risk of being lost or damaged compared to regular checked baggage.
To protect your stroller when gate-checking, you can use a stroller bag. A stroller bag will keep your stroller clean and dry, and it can also make it easier to transport. However, keep in mind that you may need to replace the bag over time if it gets scuffed up.
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You will need to take your baby out of the stroller
When going through airport security with a stroller, you will need to take your baby out of the stroller and carry them through the walk-through metal detector. You may carry your child in a sling or carrier through the metal detector. However, you may be asked to remove the sling or carrier and undergo additional screening.
If you have a stroller and a car seat, you may need to check one of them at the gate. Most US airlines allow you to check one stroller and one car seat per child. If you have a lightweight stroller, you may be able to carry it on the plane with you and store it in the overhead bin. However, large collapsible strollers and types that don't fold are typically only accepted as checked luggage, so it's best to call your airline if you're unsure.
You will need to put your stroller through the X-ray machine at the security screening checkpoint. If your stroller is too large to fit through the X-ray machine, it will undergo a visual/physical inspection by TSA officers. You should remove your child from the stroller before attempting to put it through the X-ray machine or inspection.
If you are travelling with a disability or medical condition, you can request assistance by contacting TSA Cares 72 hours before your travel. TSA Cares provides information to passengers with disabilities or medical conditions who need additional assistance with the security screening process.
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Strollers can be checked at the gate
Upon reaching the security checkpoint, you will need to remove your child from the stroller and pass them through the scanner. Most strollers will then need to be collapsed and passed through the X-ray scanner. If the stroller is too big to fit, security personnel will carry out a manual inspection. It is recommended to remove any items from the stroller's storage basket to prevent them from getting lost or damaged during transit.
Some airlines may have specific requirements for gate-checking strollers. It is important to check with your airline beforehand to ensure you are following the correct procedure. Some airlines may require strollers to be checked at the baggage counter or ticket counter if they are too large or heavy to be accommodated at the gate.
Additionally, it is a good idea to use a lightweight, compact stroller for gate checking. This makes it easier for baggage handlers to transport and load under the plane. Heavy or oversized bags attached to the stroller may need to be removed during handling.
By following these guidelines, parents can simplify the airport experience and have one less thing to worry about during their trip.
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TSA PreCheck can speed up the process
When travelling with children, speed and convenience are often top priorities. TSA PreCheck can help you achieve this by allowing you to breeze through airport security without removing your shoes, belt, laptops, or liquids bag for screening. Here are some reasons why TSA PreCheck can speed up the process when travelling with a stroller:
No Shoe Removal
With TSA PreCheck, children 12 and under can keep their shoes on during screening. This means you won't have to spend time removing and then putting their shoes back on, simplifying the process and saving time.
Accompanying Children
TSA PreCheck allows children 12 and under to accompany a parent or guardian who has TSA PreCheck on their boarding pass. This means you won't be separated from your child during the screening process, making it faster and less stressful for both you and your child.
Modified Screening Procedures
The TSA has developed modified screening procedures for children 12 and under, which can speed up the process. TSA officers will consult with parents or guardians about the child's screening, and children are allowed multiple passes through screening technologies to reduce the need for a pat-down.
Expedited Liquids Screening
Most items in your diaper bag, such as breast milk, formula, baby food, and sippy cups, are exempt from the standard TSA liquids rule. You just need to separate these items for X-ray screening, and officers will clear them with minimal handling. This can save time and reduce the hassle of complying with standard liquids restrictions.
Stroller Screening
Strollers must be screened, but the process can be streamlined. If your stroller fits through the X-ray machine, it will be screened that way. If it doesn't fit, a TSA officer will perform a visual/physical inspection. You may need to remove your child from the stroller and collapse or partially disassemble it, depending on its size and the instructions from the TSA officer.
In summary, TSA PreCheck can speed up the airport security process when travelling with a stroller by providing simplified screening procedures for both you and your child, as well as expedited screening for strollers and diaper bag items.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you will need to take your baby out of the stroller and carry them through the walk-through metal detector. You will also need to remove any items from the stroller pockets or baskets and place them on the X-ray belt for screening.
It depends on the size of your stroller and the airport's facilities. Some airports have a designated line for families, where agents will manually check the stroller without requiring you to fold it. However, in most cases, you will need to fold your stroller and place it on the X-ray belt for screening. If it doesn't fit through the X-ray machine, it will undergo a visual/physical inspection by TSA officers.
Yes, you can typically bring your stroller on the plane, either as carry-on luggage or checked luggage. If your stroller is small enough and the flight isn't full, you may be able to store it in the overhead bin with the rest of the carry-on luggage. Otherwise, you can check your stroller at the gate or with your other baggage at the ticket counter. Most airlines allow you to check one stroller per child.
