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Flying with an infant and going through security?

My husband and I are flying down to visit my grandparents on Wednesday and we're taking our almost 5 month old daughter. I've all of a sudden started getting nervous about this trip. We're taking our travel system, so when we get to the security gate, do I just take her out and fold up the stroller, etc? That can't obviously fit through the little belt, so how do they check that? What tips for flying do you have? Anything to help put me at ease would be great!

Public Comments

1. Check the carseat. U can take the stroller to the gate and have it folded up. Bring snacks, bottle/paci, for take off. Baby may sleep during the flight. Don't stress u will b fine.
2. Once they let me take her through the security gate with her in the stroller.... Then the next time i flew they told me to take her out. I suppose it depends on the staff at the time of your flight. I didnt really notice what they did with the stroller when she got out. lol I always worry about taking my daughter flying but seriously, its no different and no more hassle than going by yourself. All i have is try to keep her awake for a good few hours before your flight. Then she will sleep on the plane. Feed her or use a pacifier when taking off and landing. It helps so her ears wont pop. Dont be afraid to get up and walk around with her during the flight..people wont mind! You normally just give the stroller to the staff just before you board. Oh and my daughter has always had her own ticket...I guess it depends on who you fly with... Good luck and have a nice flight! :)
3. my tips? having flown with my infant daughter numerous times (mostly when she was 4 months old) I can tell you- carry her in a snuggly. it will free up your hands. they don't make you take it off, they just pull you aside quickly and scan you with those metal detector wand things. easy as pie. wear shoes that come off easily so you aren't struggling to untie laces and knee high boots while you're holding the baby. you have to check the stroller before boarding which means you don't need to bring it through security. #1 tip, make SURE that the baby is on your ticket. she won't need her own ticket (infants don't) but she needs to be noted on the parent's tickets. if she isn't on there, when you get to the security checkpoint they will make you turn all the way back around and have it put on. I almost missed my flight making this mistake once. don't worry. people are surprisingly helpful when you're traveling with an infant.
4. Depending on the Airport, whether it is an International Airport or not, the security checks will be different. Relax... The security members will check the stroller and push it through the metal detector. Your daughter will be taken through the metal detector with either you or your husband, whichever you prefer. To make getting through security easier, before you leave your car put everything in your pockets in your carry-on luggage (change, watches, belts, etc.), this way you only have to place your luggage on the belt - not worrying about switching off holding your daughter so that you can do this stuff in line. Remember shoes must come off during security, wear something easy to get in and out of (slip-ons, flip flops). Tips for the plane ride (you & hubby): Book or magazine, Rubik's Cube, Soduku Puzzles. It helps pass the time. For your daughter: NON-noisy toys. Have fun!!!!
5. You have to carry your baby through the gate in your hands (no stroller car seat, slings, etc.) All items have to go on the belt through the scanner- car seat, stroller, diaper bag, etc. Most airlines allow you to gate check your car seat and stroller (if you aren't purchasing a separate ticket for your little one). Check with your airline though. I would advise bringing a garbage bag to wrap the car seat in, so it doesn't get so germy in the cargo area. Also, bring some little bungee cords to secure your stroller closed, so that it doesn't pop open and get damaged. When you get to the jetway, you leave your stroller and car seat at the entrance to the plane, and they store it before the plane takes off. You pick it up at the same spot when you get to your destination. Bring a large bag (preferably a backpack style bag) and let that double as your diaper bag- it will make life so much easier! And don't stress. I flew when my little one was 3 months. I could see the dread in everyone's eyes- hoping i wasn't sitting next to them. He went right to sleep as soon as we sat down, and didn't make a peep the whole time! It will most likely go much smoother than you anticipate. Also, if changing planes, allow yourself extra layover time than you would traveling by yourself. Pacifiers/ bottles / nursing helps with ear popping.