Practical Matters
Hacks & Apps for Your Trip
Get TSA PreCheck: It really is worth every penny. If you sign up for anything, let this be the one. Children 12 & under can accompany an enrolled parent or guardian in the TSA PreCheck lanes without restriction.
Get Global Entry: Likewise, for those flying international and with the bandwidth for some extra planning, Global Entry is worth it. Everyone must have their own application, but applicants under 18 are free if a parent or guardian is also applying or is already a member. Plus, TSA PreCheck comes included with Global Entry.
Download the Mobile Passport Control App: Get the ball rolling up to four hours ahead of time of reentry into the U. S. at select airports and seaports, and you can breeze through customs.
Streamline Security with Smart Packing: TSA will often test the milk, drinks and food you pack for babies and toddlers. Keep these items at the top of your bag so you can quickly hand them over.
Download an eSIM app: If you know you’ ll want to use your phone overseas but don’ t want to spring for international data packages, it’ s easy( and typically cheaper) to just buy an eSIM card for the country you’ re visiting.
Flank the Kids: When traveling with your partner and your family is going through security, have one parent go first, then the kids, then one parent at the end.
Baby Gear Where You’ re Going: Typically, items like cribs and highchairs are complimentary, plus most cruise lines and many resorts offer stroller rentals, freeing you from having to pack a particularly bulky item. Ask your travel advisor to check for this when booking.
Post-Trip Reset for Digital Devices: Log out of your streaming service accounts if you watched something on a hotel television or airplane seatback screen.
26 · CONNECTIONS 2026