BABY TRAVEL GUIDE

Traveling With A Baby During The Liquid Ban Security Procedures

MANY LIQUIDS OR GELS WILL NOT BE PERMITTED IN CARRY-ON BAGGAGE.

On August 10th, the Transportation Security Administration changed the security procedures banning all liquds, creams or gels of any kind. Babies Travel Lite's CEO, Natalie Pechacek, was asked to clarify the rules and gave some tips for clearing the security checkpoints when traveling with a baby or toddler. The following is an article based on what was discussed on MSNBC's "The Most" hosted by Alison Stewart.

UPDATED TUESDAY, JUNE 18, 2007

The key to surviving the enhanced airport security regulations for parents traveling with infants or small children is being prepared.  Being prepared will make everyone's journey more enjoyable.  The only thing that is certain about the specific regulations that impact the traveling family is that the regulations are subject to change without notice, that the news media is not reporting the regulations accurately and that even if you understand the regulations the enforcement is not consistent.

Travelers may now carry through security checkpoints travel-size toiletries (3 ounces or less) that fit comfortably in ONE, QUART-SIZE, clear plastic, zip-top bag.

Here are a few tips that will make it easier for traveling families to clear security with their carry-on baggage while the ban on liquids is in effect:

• Take a close look at your diaper bag.  Well in advance of your departure date inventory the contents of your diaper bag.  When it is time to travel, make sure all of the items that are prohibited are packed into your checked luggage so you don't loose them at the security check point.  Find substitutes for any essentials.  Following is a list of a few items RESTRICTED BY SIZE and some suggested substitutes.
  • Hand sanitizing gel - Substitute hand sanitizing wipes
  • Diaper ointment or cream- Substitute corn starch or baby powder
  • Baby lotion for smell problems - Substitute disposable wash cloths
  • Sunscreen lotion or spray - Substitute sunscreen wipes like ones made by Baby Blanket
• Liquid prescription medicine with a name that matches the passenger's ticket will be allowed.  The name on the medication must match the name on the boarding pass.  If your baby needs medicine like Tylenol, Motrin, or Benadryl, up to 4 oz. of essential non-prescription liquid medications will be allowed.
• Infant formula, breast milk and juice for your baby are exempted from the liquid ban.  The formula must be presented for inspection and you must be traveling with the infant.  The TSA does NOT mandate that you taste the formula to clear security; however, the news media is reporting that it is necessary and some screeners are requiring the tasting.  The problems you might encounter are twofold.  If you are forced to open containers to clear security, your formula might spoil before you need to feed it to your baby.  Also, there is always a chance that the inspection could lead to confiscation.  Travel with powdered formula.  Bring enough powder to cover you in the worst case scenario where your formula is confiscated and/or your flights are severely delayed.
• Prepare for big crowds and long waits.  Make sure you bring things for you child to play with, be prepared to amuse them while you are in line, and also, make sure you have drinks and snacks.  You could be in line for several hours without any way to obtain supplies.  Toys like the Doodle Pro are a good choice for children of all ages. 
• Use disposable beverage containers for the drinks you have while you wait to clear security.  You will have to throw it away when you reach the security check point.
• In the days before you depart for your trip prepare your toddler or small child for the beverage choices they will have on the plane.  Most of the drinks your child normally consumes will not be available.  The selection will be limited to 2% milk, orange juice, apple juice, water and soft drinks.  Remember the juice might not be the same brand or have the same taste your child is used to - airlines don't tend to have organic or fresh products.
• Bring an empty sippy cup to use on the plane.  You can also use it while you wait in the boarding area.
• As you are boarding the aircraft make sure to ask a flight attendant to bring you a beverage for your child before takeoff.  It is important for a child to drink during takeoff to avoid ear problems.

If you are traveling internationally make sure you check the regulations for the destination country to ensure you understand the rules you will need to follow to return to the United States .

Always check with your airline or check www.tsa.gov before you travel because the rules can and do change constantly. 

See also:

List of Quick Tips To Make Air Travel With Small Children Easier During The Liquid Ban

Important New Information Concerning Traveling With Children

Traveling With Formula, Breast Milk, And Baby Food

The TSA's List of Prohibited Items - August 14, 2006

Copyright © August 14, 2006 Babies Travel Lite. All rights reserved.

Babies Travel Lite does not guarantee the accuracy of the information contained herein. Please visit tsa.gov to verify that the information is still current.

Traveling with small children can be exciting and rewarding, but it is also challenging and tiring. Our goal at Babies Travel Lite is to make traveling with small children easier and more enjoyable. By delivering the changing, feeding, and bathing supplies you will need while away from home, to your travel destination, we lessen your load. However, we know that there are many other aspects of traveling that can be demanding or difficult. We maintain this travel guide as a special service to our customers with the hope that the information, tips, and suggestions that we share with you will enhance your travel experience.