Are you planning on traveling through TSA airport security with a special needs child?
If you answered yes, you may be wondering things like…
- What do I need to take out of my bag when going through airport security?
- How do I go through airport security smoothly?
- What’s the protocol for mobility aids or devices?
- What are the rules for liquids, gels, and aerosols?
- How do I avoid long lines?
We will cover these commonly asked questions and more so you know what to expect when going through airport security.
More importantly, to help you avoid unnecessary hiccups along the way!
With that said, here are 8 essential TSA airport security travel tips for a smoother experience.
Why TSA Is Important and What It Means
TSA (Transportation Security Administration) is the airport security checkpoint you go through before getting to the holy grail, to board your flight.
TSA was created in the wake of 9/11 to strengthen the security of the nation’s transportation systems while ensuring the freedom of movement for people and commerce.
As you may have noticed, this checkpoint experience can be one of two things either super smooth or a complete disaster!
Let’s prep you for a ‘smooth sailing’ experience here which leads us to our next topic…
What to Expect
At the checkpoint, everyone must undergo screening either through technology or an awkward pat-down.
Usually, you are required to remove your shoes, laptop, liquids, light jackets, hats, or belts before getting screened.
So with that said, let’s cover one of the most common TSA airport security rules you need to know called the 3-1-1 Liquids Rule.
What’s the 3-1-1 Liquids Rule?
The 3-1-1 liquids rule allows each passenger to carry liquids, gels, and aerosols in travel-size containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or smaller-sized containers that fit in a 1 quart-sized resealable bag. Each passenger is limited to one quart-size bag of liquids, gels, and aerosols that may go on your carry-on and through check-point security. Common travel items that must comply with this rule include toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, mouthwash, and lotion.
But what if you wear makeup?
This rule applies only if your makeup is in a liquid, lotion, gel, paste, or creamy form, then it must be in containers that are 3.4 ounces or less.
Makeup in a solid or powder form is allowed in your carry-on and checked bags with no quantity or size limitations.
Helpful Travel Item: If you need to pack your favorite hand lotion or diaper ointment for your babe be sure it’s 3.4 ounces or less (or in a TSA-approved travel bottle like the image below).
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Important Tip: If you are TSA PreCheck you do not need to remove ANY of the items just mentioned (shoes, laptop, 3-1-1 liquids, light jackets, belts). If you are not TSA PreCheck, we will cover how to get this designation in tip #8.
Tip #1: Utilize the TSA Cares Toll-Free Hotline
If you are traveling with a child who has special needs you may utilize TSA Cares toll-free hotline three days before you travel.
TSA wants you to have an easier time while navigating with your child through airport security.
This helpline provides you with additional assistance during the security screening process. They will answer your questions so you aren’t blindsided when you get there.
Here are common questions to ask:
- If you’re traveling early, when does airport security open?
- What are the airport security procedures?
- What are the screening policies?
- What should I expect at the security checkpoint?
- What rules apply for me to take medications or liquids more than 3.4 ounces?
Their hours are from 8 am to 11 pm and on weekends and holidays from 9 am to 8 pm (Eastern).
Tip #2: Medications or Large Liquids
Any medication that is in pill or solid form must go through the security screening process.
How you may travel with larger amounts of medically-necessary liquids, gels, aerosols…
Let the TSA officer know that you have medically necessary medications or liquids more than the allowed 3.4 ounces.
3-1-1 Liquids Rule Exemption allows you larger amounts of medically necessary liquids, gels, and aerosols in reasonable quantities for your trip, but you must declare them to TSA officers at the checkpoint for inspection. Remove them from your carry-on bag to be screened separately from the rest of your belongings. You are not required to place your liquid medication in a plastic zip-top bag. If a liquid, gel, or aerosol is declared medically necessary sounds an alarm, then it may require additional screening and may not be allowed.
Keep these tips in mind when traveling with your medications…
- Make sure it’s clearly labeled and separated from other belongings for a smoother screening process
- You are the one responsible for showing, handling, and repackaging the medication when it is time to be checked
- A TSA officer checks your medication by x-ray or visually in person
To be completely prepared, call the TSA Care helpline ahead of time at (855) 787-2227 or email contactcenter@dhs.gov before your travel date.
Helpful Travel Item: If you need an easy travel bag to keep your medications or baby formula cold, here is our recommended insulated travel bag to use.
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Tip #3: Mobility Disability, Aids, or Devices
Let the TSA officer know of your ability to stand or walk before going through the security checkpoint.
Provide your TSA notification card or other medical documentation to describe your condition.
When being screened in standard lines, the TSA officer will do so through…
- Technology
- A possible pat-down
- Metal detector
They screen mobility aids and devices through x-ray screening (if it fits).
If the device does not fit the x-ray screen, then the officer will inspect the item directly.
Tip #4: Service Dog
Are you traveling with your furry friend or service dog?
If yes, let the TSA officer know.
Provide your notification card or other medical documentation to describe your condition.
Here are helpful tips when going through airport security with your dog…
- To be screened, you walk through a metal detector either together or individually
- If individually, you have to accompany your dog on a leash
- If you are unable to be screened through a metal detector, then you will have a pat-down
Important Tip: Your service dog’s collar, harness, leash, backpack, vests, and other items are subject to screening. However, if you need these items to keep your dog under control or they are on duty, then these items may not need to be removed during screening.
Tip #5: Intellectual Disabilities or a Brain Injury
Let the TSA officer know your child has a brain injury, or intellectual, or developmental disability.
Provide a TSA notification card or other medical documentation to inform the TSA officer.
Your loved one can be screened with you (without being separated) when going through security.
Helpful Travel Item: If you do not have the proper carrier, traveling with medications or medical supplies may be a pain. Here is our recommended TSA-approved organizer for medications or medical supplies.
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Tip #6: Maintain a Familiar Environment
Have you ever taken your child to a grocery store or restaurant and they had a complete meltdown?
Most of the time this happens when a child is on sensory overload or in an unfamiliar environment.
It can be an overwhelming experience.
So when traveling, it’s important to keep them surrounded by familiar things they like and know.
To keep you sane and your child happy, here are a few ideas to help you keep their environment familiar:
- Download a movie or show they love
- Pack their favorite stuffed animal
- Bring a pillow or blanket that comforts them
- Pack snacks to prevent a ‘hangry’ episode
- Throw in a few small toys they enjoy
Helpful Tip: If your child’s favorite item (like their banket) is required to go through the screening process, to prevent a meltdown, let them know their ‘blanket’ is going on a quick adventure and will be back in their hands right away. A countdown is also another great way to ease any anxiety your child may experience when being departed from their favorite thing.
Tip #7: Separate Screening Process
If your child has a disability, they can be checked through security in a private room if needed.
This is rare but can happen if you ask the TSA officer or by calling the TSA Care hotline beforehand.
Important Tip: During most security checks, your child is not required to remove their shoes. Keep in mind, that their shoes will be checked visually and possibly physically.
Tip #8: TSA PreCheck
Have you ever wondered how to avoid the dreadful long lines at the airport?
If your answer is most definitely yes, here is how to avoid those long wait times…
Get TSA PreCheck.
You have to pay to play (the application fee is $85 for 5 years), but the GREAT news is that this designation allows you to experience a smoother screening process.
TSA PreCheck comes with cool perks too…
- You do not have to remove your shoes, belts, 3-1-1 liquids, laptops, light coats
- Experience shorter wait lines (on average TSA PreCheck passengers wait 5 minutes or less)
- Families with children under 12 years can join their parents in line at no additional cost
- Utilize your designation Nationwide at more than 200 airports and 80 airlines
How to receive your TSA PreCheck step-by-step…
Apply online to submit an application.
This takes roughly 5 minutes to do.
Then, you are prompted to schedule an appointment at an enrollment center. There are over 380 Nationwide locations.
Enroll in person by appointment.
Be prepared for a 10-minute appointment that includes fingerprinting for a background check.
Add your Traveler Number to your airline reservation.
Once your TSA PreCheck designation is received by applying online or in person, you get a Traveler Number.
Use this “number” for a seamless screening process.
And VOILA…
Your TSA travel experience is now easier with less wait time. 🙂
To learn more about TSA PreCheck click here.
If you’re curious about TSA Precheck versus the standard line screening process, here is a short clip to show you the difference.
How To Get A TSA Notification Card
If you are traveling with a disability…
Getting a TSA notification card is helpful because it allows you to confidentially inform the TSA officer of your disability by simply handing over your card.
This helps you keep your personal information private in front of others while letting airport security know of any medical conditions, disabilities, medical devices, or medications that may impact your screening process.
To view what a TSA notification card looks like click here.
To download a TSA notification card form click here.
Thank You!
We want to wrap up by extending our gratitude to thank you for stopping by today!
What other TSA airport security tips do you recommend?
Let us know in the comments below. ♥
Was this information helpful? If so, you’d make our day by sharing it! 🙂
About the Author
Lindsey is the co-founder of The LENN Foundation and content creator of the Intensive Therapy for Kids blog.
When she isn’t busy playing Godzilla with her son or chasing around her mischievous Rottweiler pup, she loves creating experiences and memories with her loved ones (traveling, watching a good flick, trying new n’ yummy restaurants). Speaking of restaurants, one of her favs is Taco Bell!
Most of all, she is grateful for her supportive circle of family, friends, and to live out her passion for helping kids with Cerebral Palsy (like her sweet nephew Lenny).
If you’re curious about The LENN Foundation, you may see the kids’ helped and feel-good content here. ♥

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The contents of the Intensive Therapy for Kids Site, such as text, graphics, images, and other material contained on the Intensive Therapy for Kids Site (“Content”) are for informational purposes only. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Great article with some very useful, valuable info for parents traveling with children, especially children with disabilities. I think TSA Prescreen is the way to go. It seems like less of a hassle and the less waiting around, the less chance there is for any outbursts or festering impatience. (By parents or child!) Sometimes I think it’s the parents who have a harder time dealing with the process than the children :).
I had not idea there was a hotline you could call ahead of time to make special arrangements. That will be very useful in the future.
Also, was not sure how it worked with getting through security with service animals. Silly question, but would wet dog food count as a liquid for my service animal?
Thanks for the help!
Thanks for your sharing what you thought Ashley! I’m not 100% sure about your dog food counting as a liquid. I think the best bet would be to call TSA Care’s helpline at (855) 787-2227. 🙂
Thank you for this great list of how to have a good trip when traveling with someone who has special needs.
I like your advice to keep the medications labeled and together. I can definitely see where this makes things easier for travelers and the TSA screeners.
It’s also a great idea to maintain a familiar environment… even if a blanket has to go on the occasional short “adventure”, it’s got to help to have that favorite object in hand!
Absolutely! Thanks for sharing your feedback Aly. 🙂
I found this whole post eye opening. It has been a million years since I have traveled on a plane so I did not know any of this information. We are finally going on a trip so I wanted to google some tips. I had no idea things had gotten so rigid. I have a young son traveling with me and the blanket story is PERFECT!
Are there long waits when you call TSA?
So glad you found the post informative and helpful Brianna! I have a 5 year old which is why the blanket story was something I had to share. 🙂 When you call TSA there shouldn’t be too long of a wait time but afternoons do get more busy. I would recommend calling first thing in the morning when they open to be able to speak with someone quickly.
This is such an insightful post. First, I understand the challenges of parents and caters of special needs children and travelling for that quality time with them requires intense planning and preparation.
Your helpful resource will help parents who feel less confident about travelling with their kids a good preparation for the airport.
Thank you for the kind words and for sharing your feedback!
I hate the security line at the airport. It got crazier and crazier ever since the terrorists and crazy people decided to ruin it all for us. Who needs that many hours to arrive at the airport for a standby and we all know that a very good 1 and a half can be spending in the line. (I know my JFK)
TSA is a life changer for me. I love the fact that I do not have to remove my shoes or belt and the line is just way shorter. Thanks for the tips on medications.
Absolutely, it can be crazy with long wait times when traveling through airport security. I’m glad you found value in the tips provided for the medications. Thanks for sharing your feedback!
Thank you Lindsey for the article.
Those tips are interesting which I rarely noticed as most of my trips were solo or light-travel. I love that one tip how to handle the devastation of the child when being separating from his toy. I have never looked at it that way. Counting down is a good way to do instead as they are reminded that just in these quick seconds, their hands can reach out to their little friend.
Regards,
Tam.
It’s great to connect with you Tam! Thank you for sharing. 🙂
Hi,
I didn’t know about this TSA until now, thanks for this post. I have a special needs niece and I have travelled with her 4 years ago but she was only 3 years old then, so we didn’t encounter any problem.
I guess TSA is more applicable for grown ups with special needs.
Calling TSA in advance would definitely ease your travel plans.
For small kids with special needs, I would recommend a lightweight stroller that parents can use in navigating the airport and wherever you’re going, for comfort both of the parent and the child.
Marita
Marita, that’s a wonderful recommendation and good to know about bringing a lightweight stroller to travel with! I have done that in the past with my son who is now 5 years old and the stroller was a such a lifesaver to bring to the airport, plus is was super simple to bring through the security and the plane. Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts and feedback.
Thanks Kovach for sharing this quality review on TSA, this tips are so helpful, informational and educative. I found this article very helpful at this time of the year considering the world coming out of covid-19, a lot of people will want to go on vacation, with Information such this they can be guided.
I definitely wanted to spread awareness about what to expect when traveling through airport security. Glad you found the information helpful! Thanks for sharing.
hello dear, thanks alot for sharing such an amazing post with us all, your website is really amzing, it really has enlightened me alot, so as i have already saved this post so as to come back for future reference, What a great site this is,I am looking forward to sharing your link with like-minded people as I know they will be interested in joining you here to interact and share stories about these unique posts for children, and I am sure you will offer some really interesting articles along the way so thank you
Thank you for sharing!
Helooo there
Thanks alot for this wonderful and insightful article…. i intend flying out of my country as soon as this lock down is over and i’m doing that with the company of family….. And I find this tips through Airport security amazing….. I’m really grateful for this….. Keep the good work and i’m looking forward to seeing more of your post.
Wonderful, thank you so much for sharing. Glad you found the information to be informative and helpful!
Thanks Lindsey!
The TSA service is indeed a highly welcomed development for airline travelers. my last experience wasn’t really smooth at all. I had my service dog with me, though i wasn’t really abreast with most of the processes. i almost missed my flight for that. but with these very insightful tips, i am sure things really are gonna be much easier for me next time.
Wonderful! Glad you found the article informative and helpful. Thank you so much for sharing!
These hints are very helpful. It can save a whole lot of hassle. Air travel is stressful on its own, let alone travelling with a person living with a disability. I have always known helplines for certain services always exist, but haven’t thought about or come across the “TSA Cares’ Helpline”. The benefits are numerous, I will explore this. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for sharing your feedback! Glad you were able to learn about the TSA Cares helpline. 🙂