Traveling with your children and the new airline restrictions

In light of the new airline restrictions, air travel is getting that much more stressful for parents everywhere. In the middle of this busy travel season, it's important to be prepared for delays, and the new restrictions are only adding to them.

Taking a quick look at how these new restrictions can affect you is vital to being prepared for your flight:

• Staying in your seat for the last hour of the flight: It was announced today that the TSA has relaxed some of it's flight restrictions and has left the protocol for the last hour of the flight up to the crew.  For the most part, you won't be asked to remain in your seat without the necessary diapers, bottles, or books. If you find that you are on a flight where you are asked to remain without your baby's gear, be sure to have changed their diaper prior to the last hour, fed them as much as you possibly can, and attempt to occupy baby as much as possible. 
• Clearing security: For the past 9 years, security has changed to the point that you feel you must almost strip down to get through. Our belts, our shoes, and our bags are searched, and this is a good thing. However, with kids, it's stressful trying to get them through security then dressed again. Be sure to dress them in elastic clothing, with no belts, buckles, or fancy shoe straps. Slip in shoes that they can get in and out of on their own are the best option for a quick exit through security. 

As always, packing light is your best option for a stress free trip, so leave the stroller and car seat at home. Having your stroller scanned and placed through Xray is highly inconvenient, and can add just that little bit of extra burden to your trip.  Renting through Travel BaBees can lighten your load in more ways than one!