Help From the TSA for Special Needs (PTSD, Autism, Anxiety, Mobility)

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

TSA Cares Form: www.tsa.gov/contact-center/form/cares Thank you: use same link: www.tsa.gov/contact-center/form/cares Video for kids by Grover: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kIiWhJecjqeFnq8 Behavior information form: www.tsa.gov/contact-center/form/cares Do not miss the tips about this free program throughout my video. These videos may be helpful: bit.ly/OutfitsForAirplane bit.ly/PackingStrategies bit.ly/UpdatesTravel2024 Seen in This Video: Sweater: bit.ly/3FMswjV (over-sized) 3/4 sleeve shirt: bit.ly/3WTuMeV Watch band: bit.ly/3sYuTqv Green striped sweater: bit.ly/3UucAH7 (size 10 fits Medium) Travel Tips by Laurie Shirts: bit.ly/MyTravelShirts Amazon page: www.amazon.com/shop/traveltipsbylaurie

[@kenbrown2808]

I've been through awareness level classes for dealing with autism, and I recommend it for anyone who works with the public. it gives an understanding how things that are innocuous to us can be overwhelming to them, and really, it makes them less scary to us.

[@threadedpieces4517]

My husband uses a wheelchair and we have used this twice recently. It makes the TSA process so much less stressful and is much appreciated.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

That is great!

[@calvinj5639]

Do they let you through to a separate line? Or is it still through the general security line?

[@threadedpieces4517]

@@calvinj5639 I'm not sure. We have Global Entry so we were taken through the TSA pre-check line. Not sure if that is the case for everyone or not

[@calvinj5639]

@@threadedpieces4517 Asking because we usually call for wheelchair assistance and the attendant just waves his badge and brings us to the front of the line. Does having a TSA escort ward off all of the mean ones to take a chill pill? :)

[@kimberly8858]

@@calvinj5639ignore them if they can they will do it themselves and there are those without problem doing it they should ask for doctor letters

[@chocolatecookieboi8611]

I’ve used tsa cares once at a small airport because I’m autistic with ADHD and PTSD. The agent met me at the airport entrance, and helped me get my bags inside the airport! It made everything so much less stressful especially because I was flying with my pet! I’ll be using it again when I fly this December!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Wow, so glad it helped and was available. The officer I interviewed was SO sweet!

[@danam.5127]

I'm Autistic, and I have a complete breakdown every time I have to go to the airport. The TSA line is something I dread! I've had really negative experiences on international flights (not from TSA or other passengers, but being overwhelmed by everything happening). I'm going to be flying out of state 1 week from day, and I'm going to see if my dad would be okay with us using this service. I also appreciate your traveling with medicine videos since I need multiple prescription medications! I've just discovered your channel, and watching your videos has helped put my mind at ease.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hi, just know that you may make a mistake. Even if they need to see something in your bag like they do with my coffee, you will not be in trouble. It will take 3-5 minutes. And have fun!

[@liss2503]

I learned about this traveling with my daughter with autism and my younger son. She had a meltdown because the kiosk was closed and couldn’t buy candy. I had to walk from the rental car drop off to the other side of the airport with her screaming. Airport workers came over and asked what they could do to help and opened up a line to security just for us after she calmed down. I was so grateful I was crying. I was traveling with my kids alone because of a family emergency. (My husband was over seas due to work.) It was an incredibly stressful trip for many reasons. I will be forever grateful for the airport employees that offered help and gave me a hug when I really needed one. I was a mess.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I bet! When it’s good, it’s so good.

[@violinzeta]

I can’t express how comforting this information is! I have an invisible disability and have had a couple very embarrassing and scary experiences, the latest one being this past Fall at JFK. I’ve been dreading going back to the airport for our upcoming trip ever since. Thanks to this video, I called TSA cares today to make arrangements and have since watched your video a few more times just to hear the reassurance. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! 💖

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I hope it works out so smoothly for you!

[@paulines8337]

I can relate to you well as I have several invisible disabilities too. I've been a little anxious about my upcoming trip. What if my body isn't doing well that day? I'm glad to know this program exists.

[@samanthahicks901]

Laurie this is brilliant! There should be way more awareness of these needs and a big shout out to TSA for providing such a wonderful service. Travel should be for everyone!!!! Thanks so much for doing this video!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yes it is so helpful. I just do not know what words they would type into the search bar to make this video pop up.

[@HuskyLabMama]

@@TravelTipsbyLaurie I would use 'TSA with diagnose', Airport secirity with Diagnose' or so on

[@MarvinLikoPuha]

Love and appreciate this topic. Thank you for your thoughtfullness and care Laurie! ❤

[@television4994]

I'll believe it when I see it. I'm a burn survivor, double amputee. I have a prostethtic leg. I can only stand for a couple minutes. I have avoided getting on a plane since 2016 (and even then only because my last grandparent died) because of how AWFUL the TSA treats me. I've been separated from my people. Made to stand for 10 minutes or more, and denied a chair when I said I couldn't stand any longer. Ordered not to speak. Physically assaulted (my lady area was literally cupped and groped.) Been loudly asked intimate questions about my burn scars. Been swiped EVERY TRIP for bomb residue. Had my leg TAKEN AWAY FROM ME for nearly 20 minutes so it could be scanned from multiple angles (they damaged it, too, yanking the socket liner out too hard.) I have NEVER been offered a private screening area or any extra assistance. And sadly, my avoiding TSA altogether by driving wherever is come to an end. I can't drive from Arizona to Italy. So, yeah. I'll fill out the forms for the domestic legs of the trip. Thanks for letting us all know about the service. But... I'll believe it when I see it. I don't truly despise much in this world... and then there's the TSA.

[@janissarywalker6312]

Our last vacation I signed up for TSA Care. The TSA agent contacted me before our flight and we arranged to meet at the ticketing counter. She went above and beyond by meeting us on the curb and helping us get into the airport and walked us through both the check-in and TSA security process. She communicated with the other agents to make our screening thorough, quick and easy. Normally its a stressful experience juggling all our carry-ons, wallets, tickets, phones and shoes while they swab my daughter and her wheelchair and also making sure our Autistic son follows directions and doesn't wander away or get detained. From now on I will always secure this service to eliminate the stress and confusion that our family has experienced at the airport. Thank you for making this video and helping families like mine with their traveling needs.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

It can be so helpful to family members who need it in the airport. Thanks for sharing!

[@ladyj6641]

Thank you so much for this, Laurie! My mom is mobility limited, and my daughter has autism, so travel is always stressful for us. This could make a huge difference for us. I consider myself a savvy traveler, and had no idea about this program before now. Some airports are providing special lanyards to those with sensory issues- see what SEA is doing in this area. So much more considerate and helpful across the board! Thanks again!

[@MM-yh2mi]

We have used a PSS with TSA Cares and the sunflower lanyard. Both have been helpful. We also notify the airline so they can add a special code so the flight attendants, etc know about our needs. It has been such a huge help.

[@nicolecaddick6240]

I have autism and I’m living proof that not only is TSA cares available but it works because I had to use it for my trip to Disney World with my family in 2021 my cousin is a TSA officer at TF green airport which is where I was going to fly out of so she was able to help us out with setting up TSA cares and I . would be glad to share my experience with any of your viewers who are nervous because they are going to have to use the system for the first time it’s not scary it’s actually really easy and wonderful

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Thanks so much for sharing!!

[@kendracarsonstewart5594]

I wish Canada had something like this for travellers. I find that even though I have travelled a fair bit going through security causes me THE most anxiety simply because it's so busy and so loud and confusing with all the voices talking all at once. With my hearing issues it makes my brain and aids hard to process the information so that it's not just a wall of noise. Thanks for talking about something that alot of people don't address with travelling.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I bet so! You may want to contact their security office to see if there are options.

[@lisablanchard2052]

Thank you for bringing this to my attention. My Mom is hearing impaired and struggles with TSA lines and the chaos. This will make her travel experience much more enjoyable.

[@lakb45]

I have a blood disorder that makes it impossible to walk any distance. I thought I would be mortified using a wheelchair in the aitport, but the wheelchair operators couldn’t have been nicer. They made me feel so comfortable. Just a note, we tipped them well each time. I’m sure they aren’t paid enough. I was so grateful for those women who helped me.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yes they are not paid enough. That is a great service too. Good for you for traveling!

[@amywilloughby8019]

Omgoodness thank toy for this video. Brittney is so sweet. I have to call TSA cares for my 19 yr old son who has Muscular Dystrophy and spinal Fusion.

[@TB-zs5vr]

I just want to thank you so much for sharing this video. My husband has very limited vision and it has been so stressful going through the security process. I had never heard of this service and just happened to watch your video prior to a trip we were taking. After watching your video, I contacted TSA cares and completed the online form. Unfortunately, the TSA rep in Oakland contacted us after we were through security. However, Portland contacted us several days before our trip, gave us the number to call after we were checked in and helped us through the security screening. They were great!!! I just can’t thank you enough!!! 💐 We have another trip coming up next month and I’ve already contacted TSA Cares. Thank you again, you’ve changed our lives.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Okay I am so glad you had one good experience. Glad to know.

[@livelongandprospermary8796]

I was looking into this because I have ADHD but sadly it doesn’t apply (despite ADHD being a disability). It’s really challenging to focus and not get overwhelmed and melt down with all the noise and people in the airport. I’m so glad this exists for people who can use it though!!!! Also, I have seen someone get wheeled (in a chair)to their gate an hour or more before their flight. No one was there to help them (they were a clearly older, maybe 75+ year old person). I ended up getting myself some water and some for them too just because I felt so bad. No one was caring for this poor person, making sure they were okay. Just abandoned at the gate. I don’t think this program existed back then but I would hope it offers better assistance than this person had.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I think you do not have to fit into the list I showed. It is for anyone who would benefit from having extra time.

[@donkiml5805]

Thank you Laurie for this video, I’m so glad that TSA has more programs to help people with special needs. As a pediatric occupational therapist, for 41 years, I frequently would be consulting with families to travel with their child with sensory processing needs. It’s important to remember that this is great help for only one process of the travel plan. There may be additional plans needed for being on the airplane, staying in a hotel and eating out at restaurants. People with autism frequently respond well to pictures and a picture schedule. Watching a movie beforehand where people go through TSA line and fly can be very helpful. Also creating a picture storyline that can be presented. Many children with autism have special objects that they like to hold especially when they’re stressed. It be good to practice before hand putting that object in a plastic bag and then in a box. This would simulate what they need to do in the TSA line. There are many suggestions on the Internet for tips and tricks for traveling with special needs, also remember to ask your therapist. Happy travels!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yes! Here is a video for kids to help prepare them, and I know the PHX airport has a room for sensory-sensitive passengers: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kIiWhJecjqeFnq8

[@trangdo7331]

Thank you so much Laurie! So grateful for you! Youve made traveling so less stressful

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Happy to help!

[@JulesA9909]

Thank you for this- my son is an adult but high functioning autistic and really had a rough time going thru TSA last time he traveled with all the instructions and being touched (he got the random screening and it was traumatic for him since he didn’t expect it). Might help him to use this service next time to get comfortable with the process

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Oh I hope so!!!

[@sylly654]

Thanks so much, Laurie! What an important and very helpful video. My oldest son and I have traveled to France a couple of years ago, and are looking forward to going again this summer. This info is so welcomed! He is fairly high functioning on the autism spectrum, but he is incredibly concerned with following rules, doing the right thing, etc. One thing he does is to ask “why?” If someone tells him to do something that doesn’t make sense. To an overworked TSA agent, that might come off as non-compliant, but that isn’t the case at all. He just needs to make sense of it. Once he hears why, he will definitely do as asked. But it makes me nervous that there could be a misinterpretation of his behavior. A more understanding TSA situation would be wonderful. We had no problems on our last trip, but this info takes a load of stress off of my mind. One thing I did on our last trip was to go to the TSA site and print out the disability card and write that he had autism. I also brought a note from his doctor. Neither were needed and everything went smoothly, but it is great to know a separate line may be available to us this time.

[@jenniferrushall4762]

I have always been a big traveler but with my disability progressing, I need a manual wheelchair for my adventures. It takes more planning but it is so very possible. Even traveling alone. I definitely recommend contacting your airline as soon as you make your reservations to let them know your needs (and then yes, call again a week before). There are some "if you know, you know" tips on how to make the entire airport process (from check-in, TSA, gate checking your wheelchair, etc.) more smooth for those with mobility impairments. Real life example - write your name somewhere hidden on your personal wheelchair or someone might try to claim it's theirs upon landing HAHA I'd love to help you include some of these in a video someday, maybe!! Thank you for your videos. I have learned a lot. Keep doing what you are doing, you're personality really shines through!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Thanks so much Jennifer!

[@SnowySpiritRuby]

I would love to collab on that video! So many "if you know, you know"s that I wished I had known when I first started traveling with a wheelchair.

[@tracyeshelman1796]

I second putting your name somewhere on your wheelchair!! My Mother almost had hers stolen TWICE, at two different airports! Thankfully, security was great & caught the thieves both times, once, as they were almost out the door!

[@TeacherKellyTag]

THANK YOU! You have no idea how timely this is. We need to send my MIL on a flight from our house back home. She’s severely handicapped. This was so helpful. I needed the information about a person walking to the gate and meeting too. Thanks so much!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Oh I’m so glad Kelly!!!!

[@jessicamelilli-hand6980]

Thank you! I have a complicated medical situation and will be traveling alone in 4 days (last time I tried this I ended up in an ambulance instead of the plane) and had no idea about this program. I submitted my info. Such deep gratitude to you for making this video-I think this is my first comment on a KZbin video ever! :)

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Ha! Took me 10 years to ever even subscribe to an exercise gal lol.

[@SnowySpiritRuby]

How did it go?

[@jayneestrycker8691]

Thanks to this video I used this service for my brother who uses a wheelchair and had a ton of oncology meds with him. It was a God sent as just thinking about my brother going through TSA gave me massive anxiety. I also had my autistic son with me. Thanks you so much Laurie! I highly recommend this service👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

The TSA did such a great job with this program!

[@paulines8337]

Laurie, thank you so much for this! I have several invisible disabilities and have my good and bad days. Sadly, I can be having a really rough day, and it's only evident to those closest to me. This program elevates the anxiety that was building about traveling solo in a couple of months.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I am so proud of this program!

[@denisescull4227]

I use the airline's special assistance for mobility issues and have been greatly relieved for the assistance. I'm traveling next month, so went ahead and filled out the TSA form as well. I appreciate the information, having assistance has made it possible for me to continue to travel. Thank you for all of your tips and research!

[@OntheFritz]

Thank you so much! I am visually impaired and will be flying for the first time in May 2023 and am nervous and was worried I would feel rushed and not be able to see where to put things or where to go. This is amazing and will be so helpful! New subscriber! ❤

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

You can do it! I hope it helps.

[@trekster7777]

Decided to schedule TSA Cares for my recent trip to Orlando. My experience was nothing short of zero. There was never a TSA care rep to help me to get through security and AA said they had NEVER heard of it. The contracted wheelchair riders were condescending and patronizing (DFW and MCO), treating everything like dementia patients. The TSA screener at MCO who I showed the scheduled TSA Cares brushed me off and didn't care. This was the first time I flew in 17years and was by myself.

[@trekster7777]

And on a side note the wheelchair pushers you schedule with your airline are contract workers. Same treatment as above and AA says they NEVER heard of TSA Cares and didn't want to see the papers where I had scheduled it.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yes, the wheelchair pushers are contracted by airlines not TSA. I'm so sorry you had a rude person in TSA. There are always bad eggs. Airlines probably do not know about TSA Cares either because it's only through TSA. Did you get a confirmation from your email about using it at that airport? I have heard Orlando airport is crazy chaotic.

[@trekster7777]

@@TravelTipsbyLaurie Yes, I had confirmations and printed it out. AA didn't even want to see it, saying over and over they had never heard of it. They didn't WANT to be informed or know about it, very unprofessional. I was flying alone and hadn't done so in 17 years. My experience was such that I would rather drive for hours to my destination than ever fly again as it would be more pleasant and helpful. I do have one praise and that is for all those at the Abilene Reg. Airport and AA counter there. THEY went out of their way to help me, and I knew there would not be a TSA Cares rep there because of the small size of the airport. It would be useful info on one of your videos about TSA Cares to say that the airlines are woefully uninformed about this service. And, what to do when you have reg and get to the airport, how to meet up with the TSA Cares rep etc. Nice to have this service but seems very unreliable, and in my opinion the airlines should want to and be knowledgeable about services and issues concerning/affecting travelers with special needs just for the compassion aspect of the issue.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

@@trekster7777 That is just awful that you had that experience. Yes, airlines are not familiar or associated with TSA Cares. I would be livid too.

[@choosewisely616]

Thank you Laurie, for caring to do this video! My adult daughter has autism and anxiety. The TSA flow is challenging but she manages it. So glad to know about the program if things change! ❤️

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I’m so glad! They have made it easier.

[@ckgonzales6743]

I'm so glad this program exists now. Sadly several years back we tried to fly with our "special" daughter. Very long story short, it did not go well and we will never be able to fly with her again.

[@ProudAuntieEST2016]

I have used TSA Cares almost every time I travel (didn't use it if someone else was helping me book a ticket or traveling with me,) and I love it! I have had some problems but that is par for the course when places are busy and really you just need patience. When my best friend and her other best friend (both special needs) were going to Disney I had suggested using this service and it made it so much better and easier for both of them as well as the mom that went with them. She didn't know about this program before, but it really helped! Then again, she was calling me every 3rd hour for travel tips too lol (Yes I did recommend your channel and it helped a lot as well.)

[@shortgirl346]

Laurie, I LOVE your videos! I'll be flying soon for the first time in 6 years and you have been so helpful in getting me up to date on new regulations. I'm a fan!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Thank you for watching!!

[@515aleon]

Thanks for this info. I'm on the autism spectrum and have ADHD. This would be a big help to me. My problem is just the noise and confusion aspect. Also don't like people touching me.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yes! This would be great especially for invisible issues!

[@person3379]

Thank you so much for this video, Laurie! I have very severe anxiety and noise and crowds cause me a lot of distress. I'm traveling for the first time, traveling internationally for the first time, and traveling alone for the first time all in one. This will really help me. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hi and yay! Could you tell me what you typed into the search field to make this video pop up? Making the title is so tricky for all the different needs out there. Thx

[@person3379]

@@TravelTipsbyLaurie I was looking up advice on getting through airport security with anxiety! Hope that can help.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

@@person3379 That helps a ton. Yay, I am glad you found it.

[@marykehoe8294]

Laurie, I simply cannot thank you enough. I need a wheelchair at the airport and feel TSA Cares will be so helpful. Thanks so much for all your your travel tips. ❤

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

You are so welcome! To get a wheelchair you will need to request one when you book your ticket or when you arrive - at your airline's ticketing counter (not the TSA). I hope it goes smoothly!

[@SnowySpiritRuby]

And (if you don't already) I highly suggest doublechecking with the airline desk when you get to the airport to make sure that your request for wheelchair assistance actually made it onto your reservation - I didn't check the first few times because I just assumed, but the first time I doublechecked at the airport, it's a good thing I checked because it hadn't gotten on there, even though 1) it had for previous trips, and 2) I had selected that I was traveling with my own wheelchair (I think United used to assume that, if you were traveling with a personal chair, that you needed assistance, so they automatically set it up or something, and the first time I checked, either it got forgotten or they had just recently changed their policy of automatically setting it up). I think each airline does it slightly differently, but selecting it when booking (if it's listed as an option), and then doublechecking when you get to the airport, will make sure that it makes it onto your reservation. I traveled with my manual wheelchair for a little over 2 years and utilized the wheelchair assistance service for the 7 times I flew during that time (can't wheel myself and all my stuff through the airport, so needed someone to push me), but now that I have a chair with a motor (allows me to get through the airport independently with all my stuff), when I fly again in a few weeks, I will be checking with the person at the desk to make sure "wheelchair assistance" has been taken off my reservation - the last 3 times I flew, at least one flight each time, there was someone waiting at the gate to push me to my next gate, but I didn't need it and, because I've now been on both sides of it (needing it and not needing it), I don't want them wasting time waiting for me when they could be spending that time helping someone who does need the assistance. Oh, and if you need assistance at your second/subsequent airport(s), I suggest that, as soon as you board, that you ask the flight attendant to call ahead to the next airport to let them know you need someone to meet you at the gate when your plane gets there. Before I did that, I sometimes had to wait as much as half an hour for someone to come; after I started doing that, I only had to wait 2 minutes max, if at all, and that was at the same airport and same airline.

[@sherryhaddan-pi3xy]

Thank you SO much for this video! My 21 yr old daughter is autistic and we will be traveling to London next month out of Atlanta and I never knew this was available! We flew domestic last year and TSA was a nightmare! Thank you!!!

[@SnowySpiritRuby]

Will you be flying out of Heathrow on the way back? If so, I've got a tip to share that's specific to Heathrow.

[@patcarter4607]

this is great news, thank you so much for sharing it with us! i have a chronic pain condition and accompanying panic attacks when traveling. i'm definitely going to fill out the tsa cares form for my future flights. as a tip for others in my situation, because i am in constant pain, it is difficult to travel, but i have found that flying first class alleviates not only much of my physical pain, but also most of my panic/anxiety. first class is more comfortable, usually quieter, and less stress all around.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yes yes yes! This tsa program would help so much.

[@RebekahBorsch]

Thank you Laurie! I am so glad you made this video!!!😊 It's been 15years since the I last time I was on a plane. I have always had family members with me to help me. Well, not this time. I have fly in a couple of months and the thought of going through security by myself makes me feel anxious, because I have a pacemaker, cpap and liquid medication. I watched your video and immediately went to the TSA sent and sign up for TSA care assistance. Then now I'm coming back here to so thank you!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Oh I hope it helps. Just know you may make a mistake, and that is totally okay. My main tip is to arrive 2 hours before boarding time (30-45 mins before the time on your ticket). Then you will not be stressed.

[@RebekahBorsch]

​@@TravelTipsbyLauriethank you! I got a response from my local Airport and they said to call them when I arrive and they would have a TSA person meet me. That is so awesome! They also mentioned something about a getting a Lanyard. Have you heard about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard? It's for people to know that a person has a invisible disability and the may need help or more time communicating etc. I going to try and get one. Why not if it helps. I read from the Sunflower Lanyards website that not all airports recognize this but most do.

[@deblepley7755]

Darn, I wish I had seen this video 2 months ago. My companion is on the spectrum. I would have gotten him signed up. Alas we leave today. Love all your information Laurie. It’s helped me be prepared ❤🎉❤

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Thanks! It can be so helpful for any passenger with issues-even invisible.

[@SitStaySail]

Thank you Laurie for this important information! We do training at the airport with our future service dogs and TSA has always been terrific.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Glad it was helpful! That is such a fantastic service!!

[@deniseyoung3738]

What a great program for those who need help. Thanks Laurie for walking us through this!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I think it is so helpful to people flying with some sort of disability.

[@martha500]

Thanks Laurie. I have mobility problems just walking distances and always do wheelchair assist. It’s easy getting on the plane but never have chairs waiting no matter is I remind airline attendants and assure it’s on my ticket. Any suggestions on how to improve this, especially on international travel. Last time my Atlanta, my home airport kept me waiting an hour at gate for wheelchair after several reminders!!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

@@martha500 I do not have tips for that. Unfortunately that is a high turnover type of company that is another company. Very frustrating! Can you take your own? My mom did that.

[@SnowySpiritRuby]

Watching this one again is reminding me that I need to make sure that the automatic request for wheelchair assistance gets taken off my reservation for next week (since I don't need it and I would much rather they spent their time helping people who do need it, instead of wasting their time waiting on me only to have me tell them that I don't need help). I did find out last Tuesday when I dropped my mom off at the airport that I can park in the handicapped spots right in front of the terminal, even though they're technically part of the short term parking, not long term (let's see, how did the airport policeman put it? something like, "you can actually park anywhere you want, especially in his spot [pointing to a TSA officer standing in front of the desk whose work was done for the day]", and we all had a good laugh (me, the policeman, 2 TSA officers, and the airline desk agent) - I love living in rural WY!) - assuming one will be available, that will save me a huge amount of time, even though it's a single-gate airport, so the parking lot is still big but not huge.

[@tawnyschlienz9063]

I'd never be able to travel on a plane with my Autistic adult son. Unless he was sedated first. He's non verbal and his mood can change so fast and people need to watch out bcuz he'd lash out and hurt someone. He is a pretty good traveler if he's in a good mood. Then I'd have to make sure he's in a front seat of the section closest to the wall and I sit next to him so when he gets angry that I'd be the only one who gets hurt. If he was to sit in front of someone he can reach forward and hurt that person. He's very strong. So it looks like I'd never be able to fly anywhere with him. Just driving with him is interesting. But thank you for being there for the special needs individuals. So happy to see this is available for them. Bless your hearts. Thanks for sharing this information.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I am glad you still get to travel with him. Does he like music or scenery or gaming while road tripping?

[@tawnyschlienz9063]

@@TravelTipsbyLaurie He has a portable DVD player with a select few of movies he's watching over and over again a thousand or more times. Like Toy Story and Finding Nemo. And I'm so glad that he'll wear headphones. Lol. Even though I know every word from those movies. They keep him occupied but there are some bad days even with the movies. So it's a guessing game of what's wrong with him. He also has a GoTalk communication device but even that makes him frustrated. We live 15 miles from town and he'll get upset if we just go there and back bcuz it wasn't a long enough ride. Lol. We end up going for a longer ride. It's very seldom if he is ok with a short ride.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

@@tawnyschlienz9063 I can imagine how frustrating that is, but yes you do it! I do understand knowing every word. Where would we be as moms without headphones for our kiddo?

[@tawnyschlienz9063]

@@TravelTipsbyLaurie Thank you for sharing all of your information about what to expect, giving advice and letting the public know that there's help out there. I am so glad your channel was recommended to me. You are Beautiful inside and out. ❤🥰

[@zebralove2840]

What a great way to end the year and start a new one with this really important information thank you Laurie !

[@marygillmarten6758]

Laurie, this is so interesting -- I'm seeing this from a more recent video. My son is a neuroscience PhD who specializes in neurodiversity and inclusion in education. He was previously unaware of this program and was very interested to learn about it -- especially when I told it was from you -- I'm always sharing your tips with my family! He travels often for work, including internationally, and loves your tips for his family, now he can use this information professionally too!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

It is such a helpful program-and the officers really are trained. I hope it helps many.

[@yvettecarvajal8960]

Thank you so much for sharing this information! My children have so much anxiety and as their first flight approaches I hope this will help them feel safe and excited to travel.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I hope it helps!

[@ursulaschletter1959]

I have not flown in thirty years and since times have changed I have been. Watching and learn g different tips. I also have autism/asperger’s syndrome with a mild learning delay. I will be checking our local airport to see if they have TSA cares for whenever I do fly. Again and need support through the security check point. I keep telling myself I will be fine. Now I also understand after watching this that I will need to contact the airlines that I would be flying with to let them know that I need extra support in getting to my gate. And tell them why.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yes and you will have a great vacation. If mistakes happen, it’s okay because you will not be in a hurry.

[@fionafrazer8820]

This was great - we have an autistic child in the family, so really appreciate this.

[@akneemoose3383]

Love your glasses Happy New Year! My husband has Tourette’s…every thing drives him close to an episode. We pay full fare and won’t use employee passes. They have tried to separate us …I am his support animal! Hahaha. But very true I know how to redirect him so he won’t have a bad experience. Thank you for this…it’s fantastic information ❤

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Happy new year!! Yes, you have to be his advocate. I hope he gives you treats lol.

[@kristi1lehman30]

Thank you so much for sharing this. We flew in September with my daughter who is going through a severe time of anxiety. I wish we had known about TSA cares!!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Now you have this video as a resource. Hope the next trip and her time now is smoother!

[@stephaniefoley5569]

Thank you for sharing this information about TSA Cares ❤ My hubby and I will try this on our next fight👍 we are Pre-TSA and always tell the airline carrier when booking we need help but never thought about TSA. We never had issues in the last few years but early TSA hubby felt like he was over searched. Hubby is Vietnam vet 🇺🇸 and below knee prosthetic. Again Thank you for sharing.

[@feliciasafunnygirl2256]

I LOVE this program. I'm not frequent flyer and I get rushed by other and it causes me anxiety. The worst though is the flying...I have had several crying meltdowns and been so embarrassed. I have not had good luck getting caring flight staff to check on me.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Ooh I hope it works better the next time.

[@sandradiaz-vazquez9190]

Thank you so much for doing this video; as an autism mommy this video will definitely come in handy when I go on a trip in April.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yay so glad it will help with your trip!

[@mixedangel200]

Thank you for this, Laurie. I have a boot on my foot from a fall. We leave on Tuesday, so I'm gonna have to call. Thank you, and happy new year!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yes, try it. You can also request a private pat down and they will wand you in a little room-like thing.

[@deborahjeffries9618]

Thank you so very much for sharing about this program. It will be *so* useful if I need to travel with family members with certain medical conditions .

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I hope it helps!

[@dm3359]

Is this only for USA, I am going to travel next week from Canada with my autistic son. Please provide some information.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

@@dm3359 Hi, yes I believe so. Maybe research your airport security to see if something similar.

[@susannedoe9320]

Thanks for the video. My youngest is visually impaired but it’s not always obvious. We got up to board when they announced for those who need more time. The employee helping people board snapped at us and told us it wasn’t our turn. She could not see our daughter’s disability. She was apologetic after I explained.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Ugh! Glad you got to do that.

[@dawnsilva-hunter9489]

Thank you, I didn’t know about this program.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

It may be available in your airport.

[@Cordelia0704p]

Thank you. Just filled out the form

[@matildeloarte5069]

Thank you so much for this information I'm traveling with a family member who really needs this help your so great God bless keep them coming and enjoy your trips

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hi, I am so glad. Going through the airport with someone who needs more time or mobility issues or any disability can be so stressful for them and you. I hope your airport security has this program.

[@matildeloarte5069]

Thank you I sure hope so I live in PR I will let you know have a wonderful day

[@stephanier9820]

My son is autistic, non verbal. We have managed to find ways to travel driving, not always perfect. We're staying home when husband and daughter goes to Florida with 5 other relatives from his side to visit in laws at their rv site. Over stimulation is still quite a struggle for him. I'll save this video

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I bet so! You may also want to check out minute suites which are inside some airports.

[@triciatinker9456]

I love your channel! You give such great tips to make everyone more comfortable.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Thank you so much!

[@latoyasuperville6686]

I have been nervous to fly with my son (who has Autism). So happy to learn this exists. Thank you

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Oh yes! And here is more about flying with autism: bit.ly/TipsTravelAutism Brittanie goes into much more detail.

[@kenbrown2808]

I'd add that most airports also have a free assistance service for passengers with mobility problems. used it when my wife flew to visit her mother. they picked her up at check-in, and took her through security and to the gate; and then brought her from the gate to meet me at baggage claim. (yeah, not a chance she'll be able to fly carry-on only.)

[@SnowySpiritRuby]

Yep! And a true lifesaver!!! I used it for 4 years until I got a wheelchair that had a motor (since getting one with a motor allowed me to get through the airport on my own without help - I've always flown with my personal chair, but DEN and ORD are *_huge,_* and not the easiest carpet to wheel on, either, especially with a heavy backpack on the back and a heavy carryon suitcase on the front) - I wouldn't have been able to fly at all during that time if it weren't for their help. Just make sure it's on your reservation by checking in in person at the airport - there were times where it didn't make it onto mine, and if I hadn't checked, I would have been sunk because my flights were too close together for me to wheel myself all the way through the airport from one gate to the next (way more than enough with someone else pushing me, though).

[@jackiedent3923]

Thank you Laurie! I am forwarding this to my brother for his autistic son. Thank you for sharing this wonderful information.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

It is such a great program if needing help in the TSA line.

[@PennyLester]

Thank you for making this video. I recently learned that I would need to fly with my elderly father (mobility issues). Didn't know where to start, now I do. Thanks again.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Oh yes, this would be perfect!

[@yaowsers77]

She speaks very clearly with a mask on

[@enfieldjohn101]

I wish I had known about this long ago. Airports have always been a nightmare for me. I wonder if signing up for this service would help. Thanks for letting us know about this. I've never heard of this.

[@JanieP53]

Laurie, thanks a bunch for informing us about this new TSA service!! I recently started using a mobility aid and this is added reassurance for me as I travel thru airports.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Oh good!

[@SnowySpiritRuby]

Happy new year and merry 7th day of Christmas! Thank you for putting this information out again - great timing with the start of the new year.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I hope it helps! I debated on the title so more people can find it.

[@shelleyclarke9325]

Thanks for the info. I have MS and never know from day to day what my mobility will be, so better safe than sorry. Also I would love to know why every airports tsa screenings are different. It would surely reduce travel stress if you knew ahead of time what would be expected of you.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

It sure would help if they were consistent! That is our only complaint.

[@mariaaviles3380]

God Bless Britney! ❤️🙏

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

She was a gem!

[@BOOKKAT74]

This is great information. I’m being treated for severe flying anxiety and I will be traveling alone in January. I’ll look into this.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I hope it’s at your airport. But a tip is that you can always request a private pay down when you arrive. It’s a little room with an open top and you would have women wanding you. We did it with our cat.

[@SnowySpiritRuby]

Great idea! I highly suggest also checking out the channel 74 Gear - it's all about aviation, and he's super personable and understanding about people who have fears or anxiety about flying. He covers all sorts of different topics, some of which are all the safety features of the plane (and how insanely extremely overengineered they are so that there are backups of backups of backups to prevent a failure), as well as what turbulence is and why it doesn't affect the integrity of the plane to fly through it, among many others. I had some pretty significant fears about flying many years ago after not having flown at all for almost 10 years (granted, we were going to be flying over almost all the Great Lakes in one flight, it was the first time I had flown since 9 days before 9/11, and it was only 2 years after the emergency landing on the Hudson; btw, the Hudson landing falls into the category of extremest of extreme circumstances) - severe to the point of crying out of sheer terror (which almost never happens to me, so that tells you how scared I was) - and although I didn't discover his channel until just a few years ago, his videos answered every single one of the fears I had that day.

[@deborahconkle6822]

Laurie,it’s so great that you did this! Valuable,needed and appreciated! Happy,Happy New Year to you and your family ❗️❤️🎉🙏🏻

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I hope it helps so many travelers!

[@Princessmom9]

This is good information. We are going on a family vacation to Florida next summer and my grandson has autism and has never flown before. Since he has sensory issues be know not to get seats too close to the wings/engines on the plane, now we know what to do upon arriving at the airport.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Oh wonderful! Just do your research, and some airports may have places for autistic or sensory issues. I also love Minute Suites. They're private quiet rooms to rent with everything inside them: bit.ly/MinuteSuitesLongLayover

[@ecookie7305]

OMG this is just awesome! this made me cry! thank you!

[@manonsinclairladyofblairad9675]

Happy New Year Laurie, health, joy and travels in 2023!

[@morrisyarnell6083]

Great information, thanks.

[@jeanmunro4824]

Wow Thank you! I have been stressing! I usually drive because I am in a motorized scooter and have only flown once before due to this. I did not know this existed. My husband now has neuropathy and was recently in the hospital and had to have 2 surgeries to save his toe. He is not walking well not either. I was so worried how we were going to get through the airport being we are both in need of help. We are flying out of Newark in April. I am going to call sooner than later!

[@SnowySpiritRuby]

If you're going to call soon, I would also suggest calling again 3 days before to make sure that it did in fact get on your reservation, and that their computer system didn't mess it up, because that happens sometimes (3 days in case it didn't get on it and they need that 72-hr window).

[@jeanmunro4824]

@@SnowySpiritRuby Thanks for the tip!

[@SnowySpiritRuby]

@@jeanmunro4824 You're welcome! Just thought of this now - are you planning to book some sort of wheelchair assistance for going through the airport itself (different from TSA Cares, which is only for security)? It sounded like you might be but I didn't want to assume. If you are, I have some additional tips to share.

[@jeanmunro4824]

Yes. I am. We are going to need help

[@SnowySpiritRuby]

@@jeanmunro4824 In that case, I would highly recommend that you: -Mark that you will need wheelchair assistance when you book your ticket (each airline does it slightly differently, but there should be an option to select it either when booking or right after, and probably the option to confirm it when you check in online); some airlines (United is one of them) even give options to select just certain sections of the travel (e.g. check-in to plane door) if you only need assistance for part of it. -(If you are able to walk/stand far enough/long enough to do it) Get to the airport early enough to check in at the airline counter - double check with the airline that the assistance request did in fact make it onto your reservation. I've had times where it didn't, even though I marked it when I booked and it had made it on in the past without me having to check, and it's a sure as heck good thing that I checked at the counter, because I would have been stuck otherwise, because MSP and DEN are huge. -(If you aren't able to walk/stand far enough/long enough to wait in line at the airline desk, or need someone to meet you curbside with the wheelchair when you get to the airport) Call the airline the day or two before to double check that your request for assistance made it onto your reservation - I wouldn't suggest calling more than a day or two ahead, or if you do, call again a day or two before you travel, because the computer systems can sometimes go wonky. I don't know whether you'll need to call the airport/airline desk at the airport when you're on your way/when you get there because I've never needed someone to meet me curbside - ask the airline when you call the day or two before. -(this one goes along with the topic of the video) Be very clear with the TSA officer(s) working the security lane (or the TSA Cares officer if that's the route you go) about what your physical limitations are with regards to going through security - e.g. I can't stand long enough in the required position to do the scanner, but I can walk through the metal detector as long as there's a chair for me to sit in on the other side until they're done checking my wheelchair, so, if they hadn't already asked (sometimes they did, sometimes they didn't), I was always very clear to them about that as I was loading my stuff onto the conveyor belt. If you bring your scooter, my guess is that the process would be the same as for a personal chair, but, again, let them know what you can and cannot physically do. Not entirely sure what the process is if using an airport wheelchair - probably the same, minus checking the chair, but that's only a guess. -As soon as you get to your gate (this applies for every flight, not just the first one of the day if you have any layovers), tell the gate agent (if present - if there isn't one there yet, do it as soon as he/she gets there) 1) that you will be on that flight, 2) whether you're going to be preboarding (since us passengers with disabilities get to preboard for free if we so choose), and 3) what assistance (if any) you will need in order to board (if he/she doesn't already ask - I always travel with my own chair, so they automatically ask me whether I need an aisle chair; not sure what the process is when not traveling with your own chair - ask the gate agent). -If you'll need assistance at your next airport, as soon as you board, ask the flight attendant to call ahead to the next airport to let them know that you need someone to meet you at the gate when you land. Before I started doing that, I sometimes had to wait up to half an hour; after I started, I only waited 2 minutes max, if at all. Hope that helps.

[@roxannae3]

Thank you so much for sharing this information, Laurie. I was not aware that this service existed. My family and I will be using this very soon. You posted this video just in the nick of time!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Roxanne that makes my day. I hope it works for your family in your airport security.

[@SnowySpiritRuby]

How did it go?

[@roxannae3]

@@SnowySpiritRuby Haven't been yet. Next month.

[@SnowySpiritRuby]

@@roxannae3 Cool! Let us know how it goes.

[@roxannae3]

@@SnowySpiritRuby The trip was very hard on all of us. When you have mobility issues, traveling is difficult. We did not need to use the TSA special service,. However, during the last leg of our flight, my sister and I both used the rickshaw-like wheel chairs at Miami International Airport. We literally had less than 20 min. to get from Gate A to Gate E to catch our connecting flight home and the wheelchair "drivers" actually raced us across four terminals, including one elevator ride, and got us to the gate just as they were finishing loading for takeoff. It was fun and a bit dangerous. We never would have made it on foot. I'm sorry I can't tell you about the TSA service.

[@dakotawiedel1583]

Hello my name is Dakota and I'm planning a trip maybe next year to Romania to live with my husband and son. I enjoy your tips. Thank you.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Best of luck! Thanks Dakota!

[@jennywhitcomb556]

Love this as always great tips!maybe now my mom will fly again!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Have fun!

[@carmenirizarry7632]

This is really awesome. Thank you so much. As always you are avant-garde!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Woohoo!

[@elizabethg5447]

Thank you for making a video on this topic!! Much appreciated!!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I was not sure how to title it since it is for any disability or need at the airport. Hope it helps

[@paisley_flamingo2]

This is great. I have mobility issues and this will be very helpful next time I fly.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Oh good! Be sure to check your airport to see if they offer that program.

[@Bonnieh1048]

What a great video! I have mobility issues and will need to take advantage of these wonderful people. Thank you!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yes! I though these tips would be helpful! So glad the tsa has this program.

[@kccruisinmillelacs4190]

We have used this when we travel with my grandson it has been great except in MSP they were the rudest people I have ever dealt with. This is not a one time thing this is every time we go through this airport. They were screaming at his siblings going through which upset him. On the other hand Miami was wonderful and we let them know.

[@SnowySpiritRuby]

I deeply apologize for my best friend and her coworkers - MSP was my home airport growing up and my parents still live in the area, so I go through there at least once a year, and I've had my fair share of experience from totally amazing to absolutely horrible (the worst one nearly made me miss my flight (I had gotten to the airport with more than the necessary 2 hours) because the officers refused to do their jobs until they'd been nagged constantly for 30 minutes straight, no exaggeration - I reported it, got an apology from the supervisor, and I sure hope they did more training with the officers about it, because it shouldn't have happened in the first place: the next time we went through there after that, we told one of the officers about it, and she was appalled), but my best friend who's been an officer there for 5 1/2 years has told me point blank that (for some strange reason - I don't understand it *_at all)_* they will yell at people who aren't following their directions "quickly enough", especially if it's a busy time of day: I get that they have a high volume of people going through and need to get them through the checkpoint as efficiently as possible while still doing their jobs thoroughly, but many of them don't accept the fact that it takes some people longer to process/follow directions, and that if there's more than one or two people putting their stuff in the bins/through the machine at the same time at a checkpoint, it's next to impossible to hear their directions until you're right in front of the officer who's giving them, and even then it can be difficult. Apparently, those things weren't included in their training: she'd already been an officer for 4 years, and was venting to me one day last fall about the lack of passengers following directions quickly enough - I had to point out to her that some people take longer to understand/process/follow directions (I'm one of them when I'm under stress), and that there's also so much noise that you sometimes can't hear the directions they're giving even to the person immediately in front of you in line, despite you trying your best to listen. I'll strongly request that she send that feedback up the chain of command (if she won't, I'll find another way to get it to the supervisors), so that hopefully she, the rest of the leads, and the supervisors can do more/better training with their officers, because the choice of whether or not to use something like TSA Cares, or having PreCheck, or someone's special needs (whatever they might be), or anything else, should not make one iota of a difference in how polite the officers are to passengers - the officers are human, just like everyone else, but that doesn't mean they should be allowed to yell at passengers just because the officer is having a bad day, or even just because they feel like it (which are both things that she confessed that they also do, and I was like, "Um, *_EXCUSE ME?!?!"_* - I couldn't believe that they would do something so unprofessional). So yeah, general officer interaction with the public at MSP definitely needs improvement - I 100% agree, and hopefully something will be done.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

When you have a bad one, it's so bad...like a nurse. When you have a great one, you soooo appreciate her/him.

[@SnowySpiritRuby]

@@TravelTipsbyLaurie Yep, for sure - the officer at the beginning of September offering to run my backpack through the scanner again to make sure that my liquids were in fact in it, and the other one telling me that it's easier to be friendly than to yell (after I complimented them for being so cheerful and friendly despite the fact that it was 5 a.m.), come to mind, as well as the one at the end of that trip offering to help take my backpack off my chair and put it on the conveyor belt when I was having trouble doing it myself.

[@yaowsers77]

Brittanie, you're awesome!!!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I wanted to take her to lunch! So sweet and professional!

[@rachelannkrueger7638]

Im going on a flight for my first time in 20 year im a higher functioning autistic adult with social anxiety and PTSD i going by myself. I going be needing help when time comes.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I hope the interview with the officers helped-and the link to sign up for TSA Cares.

[@pamelathomas7209]

GOD BLESS YOU. I HAVE BEEN WAITING ON THIS!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I hope the tips help.

[@dianne3406]

Thank you 😊 💓

[@lydiakualapai8372]

Thank you for this video!

[@TheLauraFantoneBaca]

I’ll be requesting TSA Cares soon for an upcoming flight and this video is helpful.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I hope it helps.

[@arlenel9583]

My DH is now having leg endurance issues walking to what's usually the last gate for us at SW/Midway Airport. It's been suggested to us he request wheelchair assistance at the time we make reservations. I am clueless as to how this works, and whether this TSA info you featured coincides with wheelchair assistance passengers. Incidentally, when we last flew out of the LV Airport, the TSA wait time was crazy. For him, it was difficult standing for such a lengthy period without being able to sit for a minute or two. Thanks and Happy New Year.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hi Arlene. So when you buy a ticket, you click that he needs assistance or a wheelchair. But you can also just request one when you arrive…but no telling how long that will take. But that is handled with your airline.

[@SnowySpiritRuby]

I highly recommend selecting it when you book, but also double checking at the airline desk when you get to the airport, to make sure that it actually made it onto the reservation - the first few times I flew with my chair, I just assumed that it had made it on (thankfully it had), but the first time I doublechecked at the airline desk, it's a good thing I did, because it hadn't made it on that time, even though I hadn't done it any differently than before. If he'll need wheelchair assistance at the next airport as well, I also highly suggest that, as soon as you board, you ask the flight attendant to call ahead to the next airport to let them know that you need someone to meet you at the gate when you land. Before I started asking the flight attendant to call ahead (I've been flying with my own chair for 4 1/2 years), I sometimes had to wait almost half an hour for someone to come to push me, but after I started asking the flight attendant, I only had to wait 2 minutes max, if at all. Each airline's process for booking assistance when booking the ticket is going to differ a little bit, but there should be an option on there.

[@arlenel9583]

Thanks, Snowy and Laurie.

[@SnowySpiritRuby]

@@arlenel9583 You're welcome.

[@marthacolagiovanni5073]

Great informative video. Thank you.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Glad it was helpful!

[@renee4495]

You are the best! Thank you!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I hope the tips help!

[@LostinMayberry]

They only do it between certain hours, we did send a email but the return letter didn’t mention that. When we showed up they were t available. We flew out at 5 and the TSA agent was a roaring B. She insisted my SIL get up from the wheelchair and walk thru the scanner. I asked for a pat down for her as she’s a severe fall risk. Yes she can walk but stepping up and down is not a great idea. The agent literally hissed “ I don’t need your help”. We started to get into a “conversation” about the topic, but my sister-in-law started crying and embarrassment and decided to just go ahead and walk through. She teetered around and almost fell a couple of times. Great experience TSA. She’s afraid of flying now.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

So awful

[@Hootymae]

(Hugs) How thoughtful of you to share this info. Thank you. Have a Happy Healthy and Safe New Year!

[@lisageores2845]

Hi Laurie, this is fantastic. I have disabilities so now I feel a bit safer in terms of getting to gates on time and those kinds of things because I have mobility issues. I called Delta and have wheel chair service now. I don't know if I still need to do the TSA Cares? Delta said they will be helping me through the tsa checks and help with all this stuff. I don't have anyone going with me so this helps to put my mind at ease.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hi, yes they will do that. If you are fine being in the crowd, you'll do great. Some issues are helped by having their own lane.