Traveling with young children can be a handful, and the last thing you want to worry about is lugging around a bulky stroller.
Luckily, airlines have policies in place to make traveling with strollers and child safety seats a breeze.
But here’s the question: are strollers considered checked baggage?
Let’s dive into the details and discover the answer!
Are strollers considered checked baggage?
Yes, strollers are considered checked baggage.
They can be checked for free at the curbside, ticket counter, or gate.
Key Points:
- Strollers are classified as checked baggage.
- They can be checked for free at the curbside, ticket counter, or gate.
💡 Did You Know?
1. Strollers are generally considered gate checked items, rather than being included in regular checked baggage. This means that they can be taken with you all the way to the boarding gate, and then deposited with airline staff just before you board the plane.
2. Did you know that some airlines allow you to take your stroller on board as long as it can be collapsed and stored in the overhead compartments? This can be a convenient option if you prefer to keep your stroller close at hand during the flight.
3. If you plan to check your stroller as regular baggage, it is advisable to invest in a protective stroller bag. These durable bags can help prevent damage to your stroller during transit, keeping it in good condition for your trip.
4. While strollers are typically considered free of charge when traveling with infants or young children, some airlines might have restrictions or charges for oversized or heavier strollers. It’s always a good idea to check with your specific airline for their policy on strollers as checked baggage.
5. If you are traveling with a compatible infant car seat, some airlines allow you to use it as both a car seat and a stroller during the flight. This can be particularly helpful if you’re flying with a young baby, as it eliminates the need to bring a separate stroller. However, it is essential to confirm with your airline beforehand if this practice is permitted.
1. Stroller and Child Safety Seat Check-In Policies
When traveling with children, it is important to be aware of the policies regarding strollers and child safety seats. Fortunately, most airlines consider these items as free checked baggage, which means you can bring them along without any extra charges. By understanding the regulations, you can ensure a hassle-free travel experience.
- Strollers and child safety seats are usually allowed as free checked baggage on airlines.
- Understanding the regulations will help you avoid any additional charges or complications during your journey.
Remember to check with your specific airline for any additional requirements or restrictions.
2. Options for Checking Strollers and Child Safety Seats
Airlines offer passengers several options for checking strollers and child safety seats:
- Curbside: You can check these items right at the curb, before entering the airport. This can be a convenient option if you want to lighten your load before heading inside.
- Ticket counter: Another choice is to check strollers and child safety seats at the ticket counter. This allows you to take care of everything in one place, along with checking in your luggage.
- Gate: If you prefer to keep your stroller or child safety seat with you until the last moment, you can choose to check them at the departure gate. This provides the flexibility and peace of mind of having the items close at hand until you board the aircraft.
Regardless of which option you choose, it’s essential to ensure that your stroller and child safety seat meet the airline’s requirements and regulations.
“Passengers have the freedom to decide the most convenient location for checking their strollers and child safety seats.”
3. Onboard Accommodations for Child Safety Seats
If you have purchased a seat for your child or there is an available passenger seat in the same row, you are generally permitted to bring child safety seats on board. This ensures the utmost comfort and safety for your little one during the flight. However, if no seat is purchased or available, the child safety seat must be checked at the gate.
Airlines prioritize the safety of all passengers and have specific guidelines in place to ensure compliance with this policy.
- If you have purchased a seat or there is an available passenger seat, you can bring child safety seats on board.
- If no seat is available, you must check the child safety seat at the gate.
Airlines prioritize the safety of all passengers and have specific guidelines in place to ensure compliance with this policy.
4. Guidelines for Checking Child Safety Seats at the Gate
When checking child safety seats at the gate, it is essential to follow specific guidelines. Passengers who do not purchase a seat or cannot find an available seat are required to check the child safety seat. This process is conducted at the gate, where the seat is securely stowed with the other checked baggage.
By adhering to these guidelines, airlines can maintain a safe and organized boarding process.
- Ensure the child safety seat is checked at the gate.
- Passengers without a purchased seat or unable to find an available seat must check their child safety seat.
- The seat will be securely stowed with other checked baggage.
- Adherence to these guidelines is crucial for a safe and organized boarding process.
Following the necessary guidelines for checking child safety seats at the gate is of utmost importance.
5. Additional Items Allowed on the Plane for Free
In addition to strollers and child safety seats, airlines also allow passengers to bring other essential items on the plane for free. These include:
- Booster seats
- Infant seats
- Bassinets
- Breast pumps
- Cooler bags (associated with breast pumps)
Although subject to carry-on size restrictions, these items are considered additional free items and aim to facilitate a comfortable travel experience for both parents and children.
6. Secure Storage of Infant Seats and Bassinets Onboard
When bringing infant seats or bassinets on board, it is crucial to ensure secure storage. These items must be securely fastened with a seatbelt when stored on an aircraft seat. Airlines require this measure to prevent any potential accidents during turbulence or sudden movements. Following these guidelines guarantees that your child’s safety is prioritized throughout the duration of the flight.
Airlines do not consider strollers and child safety seats as checked baggage. Passengers can check these items for free at the curbside, ticket counter, or gate. Additionally, child safety seats may be brought on board if a seat is purchased or available in the same row. When no seat is purchased or available, child safety seats must be checked at the gate. Passengers can also bring booster seats, infant seats, bassinets, breast pumps, and associated cooler bags on the plane as additional free items, subject to carry-on size restrictions. These items must be securely fastened with a seatbelt when stored on an aircraft seat.
By understanding and following these policies and guidelines, parents can ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience with their children.
FAQ
How do you pack a stroller for checked baggage?
To pack a stroller for checked baggage, start by collapsing the stroller as compactly as possible. Utilize zip ties to ensure it remains secure during transportation. Place the zip ties around the frame of the stroller, making sure they are tightened properly. For added protection, consider wrapping the stroller in bubble wrap or placing it in a stroller bag before checking it in. This will help prevent any damage or scratches during transit.
What kind of stroller can I take on a plane?
When preparing to travel by plane with a stroller, it is advisable to opt for an umbrella-type collapsible stroller or any foldable stroller that fits within the standard cabin bag size and weight limits after folding. These types of strollers are typically allowed in the cabin if there is space for stowage. However, if you prefer not to bring the stroller onboard, you can check it in free of charge. It is always a good idea to check with the airline beforehand to confirm their specific regulations and any additional requirements for stroller transportation.
Are strollers considered checked baggage American Airlines?
American Airlines considers strollers as checked baggage, but there are certain guidelines to follow. Each ticketed customer is allowed one stroller and one car seat to be checked free of charge. However, if you have both a stroller and a car seat, only one can be checked at the gate. It is worth noting that strollers weighing over 20 lbs / 9 kgs must be checked at the ticket counter, as this is the majority of double strollers and some joggers. Therefore, it is essential to check the weight of your stroller before traveling to ensure compliance with American Airlines’ regulations.
Is a stroller considered a checked bag on Southwest?
Yes, a stroller is considered a checked bag on Southwest Airlines. Southwest allows customers traveling with children to check one stroller as well as one Child Restraint System (CRS) or car seat per child, all free of charge. This policy is an additional benefit provided on top of the regular free baggage allowance.
