Wow, first Rick Warren, and now no strollers, folding chairs, umbrellas, or backpacks, and no public restrooms at Metro stations: The Inaug is shaping up to be um…challenging. Some seniors are backing out because they won’t be able to use folding chairs along the parade route and are worried about navigating the event in general since rules are unclear on electric scooters and wheel chairs, while parents with kids in strollers are reconsidering their attendance.

Security rules for the inaug are kinda complicated, but basically, bring only a camera, your ID and some cash. There will be security screenings at various checkpoints, so be prepared.

The Secret Service says:

As a security precaution, the following items will be prohibited from Inaugural parade route, the White House reviewing stand or the Inaugural balls: firearms, ammunition, explosives, weapons of any kind (duh), aerosols, supports for signs and placards, packages, coolers, thermal or glass containers, backpacks, bags exceeding size restrictions (8"x6"x4") (that kinda rules out diaper bags and large purses for stashing water and snacks), laser pointers, animals other than helper/guide dogs, structures, bicycles and any other items determined to be a potential safety hazard…Surrendered items will not be returned, nor available for pick-up.

That basically means no food, strollers or folding chairs, or thankfully Silly String, along the parade route  These forbidden items, except Silly String, are seemingly allowed on the Mall where the rules are a little looser.

On the Mall, while you will be watching everything on Jumbotrons and you won’t be able to bring  alcohol, tents or glass bottles, you can have a cooler packed with treats. And if it rains you can use an umbrella. Hopefully there will be food vendors along the parade route, since bringing snacks and water there seems well nigh impossible. And no matter where you plan to stand, you may want to stash some Kleenex and hand santizers for the porta-potties.

Gee after reading all the rules, for some watching the ceremony on TV while curled up in bed wearing jammies and eating Chinese delivery is starting to look like a really good option.