Travel with Children - Wrapped items to keep toddler occupied?

I've seen many suggestions online for wrapping up new and old toys to have your child open during the flight as this will keep them busy and not bothering other passengers. However, I was under the impression that wrapped gifts needed to be put in your checked baggage because security won't allow them through. Would someone please advise either way? I would hate to take the time to wrap lots of little items only to have to unwrap them all at security. Thank you!

Hi Aaasaunt,
I always just kept the new and old toys hidden in my carry on bag and pulled them out one at a time (dragging this process out for as long as possible). Although I never did it, I considered wrapping items in colored cellophane rather than wrapping paper. It would still give the child the fun of unwrapping something (that is slightly obscured) while also being visible enough for a security agent. Good luck !

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That makes sense. Thank you!

If you wrap them, you'd also have to deal with all that trash.

I have brought wrapped gifts though in bags through security and never had a problem.

I "wrapped" them in colorful bags. You could even add a piece of tape and some ribbon. Not as pretty as a birthday gift would be but a toddler doesn't care. It would be easy to show at security if asked (I once opened one end to show it what it was out of sight of my toddlers).

Less mess & works just as well!

I've had small wrapped toys in my carry-on several times and was never once asked to unwrap them.

I'm not sure that with my oldest the wrapping really did much. The thrill of a new toy, book, etc..was enough. So I'm thinking that on my upcoming trip with my 2 yo, I won't bother wrapping the suprises (I'll just keep them hidden in the carry-on bag).

Good points, thank you.