Traveling with kids is a challenging task, so I try to provide parents with tips to avoid hassles. I can now report that the airport security officers will not confiscate Jr.'s toy gun souvenir. (Transformers were actually on the banned list because they "transform" into toy guns.)

News alert for all pretend cowboys: The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) now allows passengers to travel with toyguns - if they look fake.

I have to confess that I have, on occasion, used that as an excuse for why I would not purchase a toy gun for my sons as the souvenir shops beckoned and the kids begged.

"I am not a mean mom, really....The TSA won't let us bring the gun home.  Sorry."

Worked like a charm. Oh well, some things are too good to last.

Once I started to research on the TSA site, I found some other very helpful information.

Here's another useful family travel tool:

You can now choose whichever airport you are traveling to/from and get estimated wait times.  I highly suggest checking this out before you leave.  With kids, potty breaks, snack breaks and security checks, it's nice to be mentally prepared for the wait!

Here is the link:

http://waittime.tsa.dhs.gov/index.html

Happy Summer Travels!

Jennifer Michaels, Family Travel Expert, VISIT FLORIDA and FamilyTravelPlanet.com