Surviving Airport Security with Kids

 

We’ve all seen those parents that, after going through airport security with kids, look like they’ve walked through a hurricane.  Their hair is disheveled, belt half off, arms full of clothes, and a crying kiddo following behind them.  Ok…so most of us have BEEN those people and it’s not fun at all.  All of this craziness can usually be avoided with a bit of planning. 

Here are 10 tips for surviving airport security with kids:

 HAVE THE TALK

Um…no…not THAT talk.  Talk to your kiddos about what to expect when going through security.  Better yet…show them.  Grab a carry-on bag, pretend your kitchen table is the security area, and walk them through exactly what happens.  Show them they may need to take off their shoes (depending on where you’re traveling) and that they’ll have to let go of Teddy for a few minutes as he takes a fun ride through a magic machine.  Get them involved with the simulation so they feel prepared.

  LIQUIDS

 It floors me that people are still bringing full size bottles through airport security.  An easy way to remember the rule is 3-1-1: 3.4 oz bottles or less for all liquids, gels, and aerosols; placed in a 1-quart clear plastic bag; per 1 person.  Security could care less how much your shampoo costs.  If it is over 3.4 oz they will take it and it will hold up the line. (I learned the hard way that DRY shampoo is actually a liquid…no matter how much I begged.)

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