Baby
How New Airport Security Rules Affect Flying with Your Baby
These days there are several restrictions as to what you can and can't bring onto an airplane. But what about breast milk and formula? Find out how the new rules affect air travel with babies and young children.
In August 2006, a foiled terror plot in London involving planes bound for the United States unleashed a whole new level of air travel restrictions. Because the terrorists planned to blow up the jets by detonating explosives made from common sport drinks, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) now restricts liquids and gels, passengers carry on the plane to only those in 3-ounce containers. That means beverages, medicines, and even baby formula could raise red flags at airport security checkpoints, making travel with little ones tricky, but not impossible.
Jane Devron was traveling from Chicago to New York with her baby boy, John Patrick, soon after the news broke and rules went into effect. She recalls, "I packed some pumped breast milk in a mini cooler and was somewhat embarrassed that they had to closely examine it. I had to tell the lady what it was. They also tried to take his Desitin, but I managed to salvage that. Other than that, it really wasn't very difficult."
Here's what parents should know before they go, according to the latest TSA alerts:
Formula, Breast Milk, and Other Beverages
- As long as you're or toddler, you're still allowed to carry baby formula and breast milk in carry-on baggage. You can bring these items through security checkpoints and aboard the plane.
- Security officers will not test or taste (or even ask you or your child to test or taste) the formula or breast milk.
- To minimize hassles, bring only as much formula or milk you need to get your baby to your final destination.
- Juice and other liquids are restricted to 3-ounce containers.
Related Links
- Article: Traveling with Baby Checklist
- Advice: Immunizations and Traveling
- Slideshow: How New Airport Security Rules Affect Flying with Your Baby
- Quiz: Do You Have the Baby Essentials?
- Poll: Do the new travel regulations make you think twice about taking Baby on a plane?
Contests & Sweepstakes
Contests & Sweepstakes
See all of our contests and sweepstakes for a chance to win great prizes!
Go Now!
