WASHINGTON - The presidential inauguration is just around the corner, and if you are planning on taking in the festivities there are some things you need to leave behind.

Officials say it is going to be standing room only for up-wards of four hours in the cold-- and when it comes to banned items there will be no exceptions-- so parents should especially think long and hard about bringing children.

Nine-year-old Anna Knudson says being little will come in handy when it comes to navigating through the millions of people expected to crowd the National Mall on inauguration day, but her father sees it as a hazard.

"My sense is it's going to be pretty stressful for a lot of people that need special stuff; old people, kids, things like that," said Mark Sugg, Anna's father.

Those planning to attend the inaugural festivities face a long list of prohibited items, including things that make a day in D.C. possible for parents, such as a stroller.

"The stroller has been indispensable really. I don't think he would have enjoyed a minute of the day without it," said Lynne Jacoby, a mother.

But on January 20th officials say backpacks, duffel bags, coolers, thermoses, umbrellas, lawn chairs and the all-important stroller must be left at home.

» Link: Complete list of Prohibited Items

"This is ridiculous; being able to bring a backpack would be a necessity," said Kristine Bogensperger, Alexandria (web | news) Resident. "

But what is a necessity for most is also a security risk. Officials say searching backpacks would slow things down, plus other items banned could hold or become weapons.

As a result, most who live in the area, children or not, say the record attendance is enough to keep them home.

"No I wouldn't; it would be too much chaos, too many people and what not," said a Springfield resident.

Others say that no matter what they will take the chance to see President-elect Barack Obama (web | news | bio) take office.

"I don't know if I would keep the prohibitions on backpacks and stuff keep me from seeing something as historic as this inauguration, but I imagine for a lot of people it's going to be pretty stressful," added Sugg.

Also on the banned list, of course, are weapons or firearms and posters or signs. Security screeners will also have the right to turn away any other items they deem hazardous.

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