Roberta Aguirre
Travelling with children can be a challenging experience, and a wagon can be a helpful tool for parents navigating large airports. While some parents prefer strollers, wagons can be extremely beneficial when travelling with a baby or small child, providing a comfortable resting area for the child during long layovers. However, it is important to check the policies of the specific airline, as some may require wagons to be checked at the baggage counter, while others permit gate-checking if the wagon meets their size requirements. Additionally, it is worth considering the manoeuvrability of a wagon in an airport setting, as navigating through security lines and tight spaces may be challenging. Overall, a wagon can be a convenient option for parents travelling with children, but it is essential to be aware of the relevant regulations and plan accordingly.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Convenience | A wagon can be extremely beneficial when travelling with a baby or small child, especially if the trip involves a lot of walking. |
| Speed | A wagon can help you move faster through the airport. |
| Comfort | A child can sleep in a wagon, making their journey easier. |
| Storage | A wagon can carry or replace a nappy bag. |
| Safety | A wagon does not pose the same safety issues as kids riding scooters or roller skates in an airport. |
| Maneuverability | A wagon can be difficult to navigate through security lines and tight turns. |
| Airline policies | Each airline phrases its policies on wagons differently. Some airlines allow wagons, while others may require checking them in at the baggage counter. |
| TSA rules | The TSA provides information to passengers with disabilities, medical conditions, or those needing assistance. |
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What You'll Learn
Airlines with wagon-friendly policies
When travelling with children, it is essential to plan and prepare. A stroller wagon can be a convenient option for parents and children, especially when navigating large airports. However, it is crucial to understand the policies of the specific airline you are travelling with, as well as the local laws and regulations of your destination.
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines is known to permit stroller wagons and treats them as standard strollers. They can be gate-checked for free, provided they are fully collapsed.
United Airlines
United Airlines explicitly mentions folding wagons in its contract of carriage and allows passengers to gate-check one stroller wagon per child at no additional cost.
Delta Airlines
Delta Airlines' policy on wagon strollers is ambiguous. While some travellers have reported being allowed to gate-check their foldable wagons, others have been told that it is against policy. It is best to check with the airline directly and get their response in writing if they approve.
JetBlue
JetBlue has allowed passengers to gate-check stroller wagons, but it is unclear if this is an official policy or a one-time exception.
American Airlines
American Airlines considers wagons as regular bags. If they exceed carry-on limits, they will be checked and incur regular fees. They also have a weight limit of 20 lbs for gate-checking strollers.
General Tips
- Choose an umbrella toddler wagon as they fold easily and are designed to be handled and stored by airlines.
- When checking a wagon, remove any attachments such as drink holders and bag carriers.
- Fold your wagon before reaching the security scanner and remove loose items to prevent additional inspections.
- Take a screenshot of the airline's stroller/wagon policy, as not all gate staff may be familiar with the latest regulations.
- Some airports provide push wagon strollers to make your transit experience more comfortable.
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Navigating security and tight spaces
Check Airline Policies:
Firstly, it is crucial to check the policies of the specific airline you are travelling with. Different airlines have varying policies regarding the acceptance of wagons. Some airlines, like Delta, may change their policies over time, so it is recommended to get approval in writing if they give you the go-ahead. Southwest Airlines, on the other hand, permits stroller wagons and treats them as standard strollers. Understanding these policies will prevent last-minute surprises at the gate and keep your travel plans on schedule.
Choose a Compact and Foldable Wagon:
Select a wagon that is compact and foldable. Umbrella toddler wagons are a good option as they fold easily and are designed to be handled and stored by airlines. Some airlines may require you to demonstrate that your wagon folds compactly, so practice folding it efficiently to avoid delays. Also, ensure your wagon meets the standard carry-on luggage size limits.
Navigate Security Efficiently:
When going through security, inform the TSA officer if your child has any special needs, disabilities, or medical conditions. If your child is able to walk through the metal detector, they may do so separately from you. However, if they alarm the detector, they will be allowed multiple passes and other procedures to resolve the issue and minimise the need for a pat-down. You may also carry your infant or small child through the metal detector. Additionally, if you are carrying formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, or baby/toddler food, inform the TSA officer at the beginning of the screening process. These items will be screened separately, and it is helpful to have them in clear, translucent bottles.
Manage Tight Spaces:
Wagons can be challenging to navigate in tight spaces, such as elevators or when making tight turns. Consider the manoeuvrability of your wagon and plan accordingly. If you have a stroller, it may be easier to use that instead, especially if you need to manage bathroom breaks or hold your child's hand while they walk.
Plan for Gate-Checking:
Many airlines allow gate-checking for strollers and similar items, including collapsible wagons. This means you can bring the wagon up to the gate and hand it over before boarding. However, some airlines may require you to check the wagon at the baggage counter, so it is crucial to verify their specific policy. Additionally, if you plan to gate-check, ensure any attachments, such as drink holders, are removed, and secure the wagon in its folded position.
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Wagon weight and size requirements
The weight and size requirements for wagons vary across airlines. It is recommended to check with your specific airline and get their approval in writing if they allow wagons. Some airlines, such as Delta, are changing their policies to disallow wagons, while others like United, Southwest, Alaska, and JetBlue have allowed wagons in the past.
Most airlines have weight restrictions for checked baggage, with the most common weight limit being 50 pounds per bag. However, this can vary by airline, and some have lower or higher limits. For example, Emirates flights originating from North or South America allow economy special fares to include one piece of luggage weighing up to 50 pounds, while other economy tickets include two bags. On the other hand, Emirates flights from the Middle East to Europe have different weight limits: 44 pounds for special fares, 55 pounds for saver fares, and 60 pounds for flex fares.
Checked baggage size restrictions are also important to consider. The most common size limit is 62 linear inches or 158 centimetres, including handles and wheels. However, this may not be an issue if you're travelling with standard luggage items like a suitcase. Size limits become more relevant when dealing with large or awkwardly shaped items, such as sports equipment or musical instruments.
When travelling with a wagon, it's essential to consider its weight and size, especially if you plan to check it in or gate-check it. Some airlines, like American Airlines, have weight restrictions for gate-checking items, only allowing strollers that weigh 20 pounds or less. Additionally, consider the manoeuvrability of your wagon within the airport, as some users have reported challenges navigating security lines and tight spaces with a wagon.
To ensure a smooth travel experience, it is recommended to contact your airline and understand their specific policies regarding wagon weight and size requirements.
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Preparing for check-in and boarding
Check Airline Policies
Firstly, it is crucial to understand the policies of the airline you are travelling with. Most U.S. airlines allow stroller wagons, but their policies differ in phrasing and specific requirements. For example, some airlines may require you to check your wagon at the baggage counter, while others permit gate-checking if it meets their size and weight requirements. To avoid any last-minute surprises, verify the airline's wagon policies and save a screenshot of the regulations on your phone. Additionally, if you are travelling with a foldable wagon, be prepared to demonstrate its compact folding capability, as some airlines may ask for this during check-in.
Plan for Security Checks
When travelling with children, it is essential to be aware of the security procedures. If your child has a disability, medical condition, or uses a mobility aid, wheelchair, or scooter, inform the TSA officer accordingly. You may carry your child through the metal detector, and they will not be removed from their mobility aid. If your child can walk unaided, they may pass through the metal detector separately. If an alarm is triggered, multiple passes and additional procedures will be conducted to reduce the need for a pat-down.
Prepare Essential Items
Keep essential items easily accessible by packing them in your carry-on luggage. This includes diapers, snacks, and comfort items. Also, any medically necessary liquids, such as formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food. These liquids are exempt from the standard liquid restrictions and can exceed 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters. However, inform the TSA officer about these liquids at the beginning of the screening process, and be prepared for additional screening procedures.
Request Planeside Delivery
When travelling with a wagon, specifically request planeside delivery, especially at connecting airports. This means your wagon will be returned to you at the gate rather than sent to baggage claim, making it more convenient for you to manage your child and belongings upon arrival.
Consider Alternative Options
While a wagon can be beneficial for long layovers and sightseeing trips, it may pose challenges in terms of manoeuvrability and navigating through security lines and tight spaces. Consider whether a stroller or a baby carrier might be a more manageable option, especially if you are travelling alone with a toddler and have to manage multiple carry-ons.
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Local laws and regulations at your destination
When travelling with a wagon, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations at your destination. While wagons can be extremely beneficial when travelling with infants or toddlers, providing a comfortable resting space and extra storage, it is critical to ensure that they are permitted in your destination country and allowed in public areas. Some countries may have specific rules or requirements for using strollers or wagons in certain areas, such as on public transportation or in specific buildings. Therefore, it is advisable to research and understand the local regulations before assuming that your wagon will be allowed everywhere.
Additionally, it is worth noting that some airlines may have specific policies or requirements for gate-checking or checking in wagons. Some airlines may require you to check your wagon at the baggage counter, while others allow gate-checking if the wagon meets their size and weight requirements. It is essential to verify each airline's policies and requirements beforehand to avoid any issues or delays during your travel.
To ensure a smooth travel experience, it is recommended to choose a lightweight and compact wagon that can easily navigate through airport security lines and tight spaces. Practicing folding your wagon efficiently beforehand can also help prevent delays at the gate, as some airlines may ask you to demonstrate its compact size.
Furthermore, when travelling with infants or toddlers, it is important to be aware of the policies and procedures related to children's items at your destination. For example, formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food are considered medically necessary liquids by the TSA and are allowed in carry-on baggage without needing to fit within a quart-sized bag. However, it is advisable to inform the TSA officer at the beginning of the screening process and to have these items in clear, translucent bottles for easier screening.
By being aware of the local laws and regulations at your destination, as well as understanding the policies of your chosen airline, you can ensure a stress-free travel experience when bringing a wagon along.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can take a wagon into the airport. However, it's important to check the policies of the specific airline you're flying with, as some may require you to check the wagon at the baggage counter, while others allow gate-checking if it meets their size requirements.
Wagons can be extremely beneficial if you're travelling with a baby or small child, as they can provide a comfortable resting area during long layovers. They also often have extra storage space for nappy bags and other essentials.
Wagons can be bulky and difficult to navigate through security lines and tight turns. They may also be heavier than strollers, which could pose an issue for gate-checking.
It's important to check the policies of the airline and airport you're travelling with beforehand, and to be prepared for security checks. You should also consider choosing a wagon that is compact and foldable, as this will make it easier to transport and store.
