Lois Larson
Travelling with family can be stressful, especially when it comes to navigating airport security. While requirements vary across countries and airports, most countries allow families to go through passport control together. Some airports also offer special passes for non-travelling family members to accompany their travelling loved ones beyond security gates. These passes are typically issued for minors, the elderly, or those requiring medical assistance. To speed through security, it is advisable to prepare electronic devices, liquids, and other restricted items separately, and ensure that all necessary documents are easily accessible.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Age limit for TSA PreCheck | Children aged 12 and under can use the TSA PreCheck lane without their own membership, when travelling with an eligible adult. Children aged 13-17 may need their own membership. |
| Benefits of TSA PreCheck | Expedited security lanes, no need to remove shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, or jackets. |
| Cost of TSA PreCheck | $78 for five years, $70 to renew online, $78 in person. |
| Other options | Some airlines offer priority security access for a fee. CLEAR can be used in conjunction with TSA PreCheck for faster security access. |
| Preparing children | Explain the process to children in advance. Dress children in security-friendly clothing without metal buttons or large jewelry. |
| Preparing items | Keep all necessary documents together. Place tablets and laptops in a separate bin. Keep liquids and medicines in a separate bin and declare them. Keep snacks and drinks separate. Learn how to fold your stroller. |
| Additional items | Strollers, car seats, backpacks, and children's toys must be screened by X-ray. |
| Disabilities | Contact TSA Cares 72 hours before travelling for assistance with screening policies and procedures. |
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What You'll Learn
TSA PreCheck
With TSA PreCheck, shoes, belts, and light jackets can remain on, and electronics and liquids can stay in your bag. Children 12 and under travelling with an eligible adult with TSA PreCheck do not need their own membership and can use the expedited security lanes. Children 13 to 17 may be randomly excluded from their adult companion's benefits, so it is recommended that they obtain their own membership. Infants do not need their own TSA PreCheck membership and can be brought through the TSA PreCheck lanes by their guardian.
To enrol in TSA PreCheck, you can start the application online or walk into any enrolment location. You will need to bring certain documents to complete your in-person enrolment. You can enrol with Telos and look for travel deals, and some travel cards reimburse TSA PreCheck application fees as part of their benefits.
TSA Cares provides information to passengers with disabilities, medical conditions, or those who need additional assistance to prepare for the security screening process. Passengers can request assistance by contacting TSA Cares 72 hours before travelling or by calling (855) 787-2227.
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Preparing children for security
Preparing children for airport security checks can make the process smoother and less intimidating for them. Here are some tips to prepare your child for security:
Explain Airport Security and the Process
Before arriving at the airport, explain to your child why airport security is important and what will happen during the security checks. Tell them that security checks are in place to keep everyone safe while travelling. Agents will check people and their belongings to ensure that no dangerous items are brought onto the plane. Explain that everyone has to go through security checks, and it is nothing to be scared of. You can also read children's books or show them videos that explain airport security in a fun and engaging way.
Dress Them in Comfortable and Easy-to-Remove Clothing
Dress your child in comfortable clothing that is easy to remove. This will make it more convenient for them to go through the metal detectors, and for you to help them if needed.
Keep Them Occupied
Waiting in line at security can be boring for children, so pack some snacks and activities to keep them occupied. This will help distract them from any potential anxiety.
Stay Calm and Patient
Children can pick up on their parents' emotions, so it is important to stay calm and patient. This will help your child feel more at ease and make the experience less stressful for everyone.
Inform the TSA Officers of Any Special Circumstances
If your child has a disability, medical condition, or medical device, inform the TSA officers at the beginning of the screening process. Also, let them know if your child can walk through the metal detector or needs to be carried through.
Prepare Your Child's Belongings
Place all your child's carry-on baggage, such as toys, bags, and blankets, on the X-ray belt for screening. Strollers, car seats, and backpacks must also be screened by X-ray. If you are travelling with a car seat or stroller, be aware that it may not fit inside the X-ray machine and will need to be hand-checked, adding some time to your security process.
Keep Important Documents Handy
Have your child's boarding pass and ID ready to show the security officer. This will help speed up the process and avoid delays.
TSA PreCheck
If you have TSA PreCheck, your child can accompany you through the expedited security lanes. Children 12 and under do not need their own membership, and infants do not need a TSA PreCheck membership even when travelling with a non-member adult. However, minors 13 to 17 may need their own membership to ensure access to expedited lanes.
Special Items
If you are carrying formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, baby/toddler food, or medicines, inform the TSA officers. These items can be screened separately, and it is recommended to pack them together in one area of your carry-on bag for easy access.
Keep Children Close and Supervised
Children should not be separated from their parents or guardians during security checks. Parents can carry their children through the metal detectors, and infants can be carried in a sling or carrier. Ensure that your child knows to stay close to you at all times and is aware of general travel safety tips.
Practice the Process
If you have some time before your flight, take your child to a security checkpoint and let them observe other people going through. This will help them understand the process better and reduce any anxiety.
Remember to stay calm and patient, and try to make the security process a fun and educational experience for your child.
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Screening children under 12
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has developed modified screening procedures for children 12 years old and younger. TSA officers will consult parents or guardians about the child's screening. Here are some key points to note:
- Children able to walk through the metal detector without assistance may do so separately from their parents or guardians.
- If a child alarms the metal detector, they are allowed multiple passes through screening technologies and may undergo other procedures to resolve the alarm, reducing the need for a pat-down.
- If your child can remain standing in the required position for 5 seconds, they may be screened through advanced imaging technology. If they alarm this scanner, they can go through again, or a TSA officer may use other procedures to reduce the need for a pat-down.
- Children 12 and under can leave their shoes, light jackets, and headwear on during screening. For advanced imaging technology screening, light jackets must be removed and placed on the X-ray belt.
- Infants and children must be removed from strollers and car seats and carried through the walk-through metal detector. Infants may be carried in a sling or carrier.
- Parents or guardians should inform the TSA officer if their child has a disability, medical condition, or medical device.
- Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters are allowed in carry-on baggage and do not need to fit within a quart-sized bag. These items are considered medically necessary liquids. Parents or guardians should inform the TSA officer at the beginning of the screening process that they are carrying these liquids.
- Strollers, car seats, and other similar items must be screened by X-ray. If they do not fit through the X-ray machine, they will undergo a visual/physical inspection by TSA officers.
- All carry-on items, such as children's toys, bags, and blankets, must be placed on the X-ray belt for screening.
- Children 12 and under traveling with an eligible parent or guardian with TSA PreCheck can use the expedited security lanes. Infants do not need their own TSA PreCheck membership.
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Screening children over 12
Children over the age of 12 are considered capable of undergoing the standard TSA screening procedures at airports. This means that they will be subject to the same security measures as adults, including the removal of shoes, jackets, and other items that may trigger the metal detector.
It is important to note that while children over 12 are expected to follow the standard screening procedures, TSA officers may consult with parents or guardians about the child's screening process. This is especially important if the child has a disability, medical condition, or medical device that may affect their ability to undergo certain screening procedures.
Parents or guardians should inform the TSA officer if their child has any special needs or requirements. For example, if the child needs to be accompanied through the metal detector or requires assistance with their carry-on baggage.
Children over 12 who are travelling alone may be eligible for TSA PreCheck, which allows them to use expedited security lanes and avoid removing shoes, electronics, or liquids from their carry-on bags. However, minors between the ages of 13 and 17 may be randomly excluded from their adult companion's benefits, so it is recommended that they obtain their own membership to ensure access to the expedited lanes.
To make the screening process smoother for children over 12, it is advisable to prepare them beforehand. This includes instructing them to wear shoes that are easy to remove and put back on, as well as clothing that complies with TSA regulations. Additionally, teaching them about the security procedures and expectations can help reduce anxiety and expedite the process.
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Screening strollers and car seats
Preparation:
- Choose the right equipment: Opt for a lightweight, compact, and easy-to-manoeuvre stroller. If you're bringing a car seat, select the most compact option that suits your child's age and travel needs.
- Check airline policies: Review the specific rules and size regulations of your airline for strollers and car seats. This will ensure your items are allowed and can be accommodated.
- Clean and secure your stroller: Prior to your trip, remove any dirt, toys, or loose items from the stroller. Secure any straps and detach unnecessary accessories, such as cup holders, to prevent damage or loss.
- Prepare for security screening: Allow extra time at the airport, especially if travelling during busy seasons. Give yourself at least 30 minutes for security screening to account for stroller folding/unfolding, bag checks, and other requirements.
- Organise your belongings: Keep all boarding passes and passports together in a safe place. Place tablets, laptops, liquids, and medicines in separate, easily accessible bins for screening.
- Understand special accommodations: If you require assistance or have concerns about the screening process, contact TSA Cares before your trip. They can provide information and address any questions about screening policies and procedures.
At the Airport:
- Gate-check your stroller: Many airlines offer the option to gate-check your stroller at no additional cost. This simplifies your experience, allowing you to use the stroller until you board and then checking it at the gate.
- Collapsing and screening: Upon reaching the security checkpoint, you will need to remove your child from the stroller and collapse it for screening. If the stroller is too large for the X-ray machine, security personnel will perform a manual inspection.
- Boarding with car seats: If you plan to use a car seat on the plane, ensure it is approved by the FAA. Car seats in the US have a sticker with red lettering indicating aircraft approval. Keep this sticker visible, as flight attendants may request to see it.
- Additional screening for children: Children 12 and under can typically keep their shoes, light jackets, and headwear on during screening. If they alarm the metal detector, they may go through again or undergo other procedures to reduce the need for a pat-down.
By following these guidelines and staying prepared, you can efficiently navigate airport security with your strollers and car seats, ensuring a positive travel experience for your family.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, family members can go through airport security with you. However, they will need to obtain a pass from the airport or airline. These passes are typically called escort passes and are usually issued to those accompanying a minor, elderly, or disabled traveller.
Escort passes can be obtained from the check-in counter or a specific agent at the airport. Some airports and airlines may also allow you to apply for a pass online or in advance. It is recommended to check with the specific airport or airline beforehand.
Yes, there are a handful of airports, mostly in the US, that offer programmes allowing non-ticketed visitors to access post-security areas. Examples include the SAT Pass Program at San Antonio International Airport, the Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program at Orlando International Airport, and the Wingmate Pass at Philadelphia International Airport.
Most airports and airlines will require your family member to have a valid government-issued ID, such as a passport or driver's licence.
Travelling with young children through airport security can be stressful. It is recommended to arrive at the airport early and follow the guidelines provided by your airline. Keep liquids such as formula, breast milk, and juice separate for easy access during security checks. Ensure that all electronic devices are easily accessible and that any shoes are easy to remove.
