Stroller In Airport: Convenience Or Clutter?

Traveling with a stroller can be a daunting task, especially for new parents. However, it is possible to bring a stroller to the airport and on the plane. Here are some tips to make the process smoother:

Check with Your Airline:

Different airlines have varying policies regarding strollers. Some airlines allow you to bring a stroller and a car seat for free, in addition to your normal baggage allowance, when traveling with a baby or young child. Others may have weight and size restrictions for strollers brought onboard. It is crucial to check with your specific airline before your trip to understand their policies and any associated costs.

Gate Checking:

Gate checking your stroller is a convenient option as it allows you to use the stroller in the airport until you board the plane. Inform the check-in counter staff about your intention to use the stroller, and they will provide tags to attach to the stroller. Some airlines may require you to fold the stroller before passing through security. Make sure to remove all items from the stroller, including any attached accessories, before folding it.

Checking Stroller with Checked Baggage:

If you prefer not to gate check, you can check your stroller with your other checked baggage. This option may be preferable if you want to avoid potential damage to the stroller during the flight. However, keep in mind that you will need to carry your child or use a carrier through the airport.

Bringing Stroller Onboard:

Bringing your stroller onboard is another option, but it depends on the size and weight restrictions of the airline. Some airlines allow compact, foldable strollers to be placed in the overhead lockers or brought onboard as carry-on luggage. However, larger strollers will need to be checked.

Protecting Your Stroller:

When checking or gate-checking your stroller, consider using a stroller bag to protect it from potential damage during handling. Padded stroller bags offer more protection than non-padded ones. You can also use a travel stroller that fits in the overhead compartment to ensure it stays with you at all times.

Check it with the rest of your luggage

Checking your stroller with the rest of your luggage is a great option if you'd rather hold your baby or use a carrier through the airport. It's also a good choice if you don't need a spot to put your bags or car seat, and are okay with holding your baby the entire time in the airport.

Most major airlines allow you to check a stroller for free when flying with an infant or child, but it's always best to check beforehand to be sure. Using a stroller bag is also recommended, as this can provide additional protection for your stroller and make it easier to transport.

When you land, you may have to pick up the stroller from a specially designated area, usually a "large luggage item" pickup area that is separate from the typical baggage claim belt. It's worth noting that there is a chance your stroller won't be available right away, as it may take some time for it to be unloaded and returned to you.

Checking your stroller with the rest of your luggage can be a convenient option, but it's important to consider the potential drawbacks. For example, you may have to remove your baby from the stroller and fold it up when going through security, depending on the airport. Additionally, there is a risk of the stroller being lost or damaged during transit.

• Clean your stroller and remove any dirt or debris to avoid issues during the security screening process.
• Empty the storage basket to prevent items from getting lost or damaged.
• Secure loose items and detach any accessories, such as cup holders or hooks, storing them in your carry-on luggage or diaper bag.
• Fold and lock the stroller to prevent it from unfolding during handling.
• Consider using a stroller gate check bag for added protection.
• Arrive at the airport early to allow plenty of time for check-in, security, and reaching your gate.
• At the security checkpoint, you will need to take your child out of the stroller and collapse it for the X-ray scanner. If the stroller is too large, security personnel will perform a manual inspection.
• Inform the gate agent that you will be gate-checking your stroller, and they will provide you with a tag to affix to the stroller.
• Before boarding, collapse your stroller and leave it at the terminal entrance of the jet bridge. An airline employee will collect it and store it in the cargo hold.

Keep it with you until you board

Keeping your stroller with you until you board can be a great option for parents travelling with young children. Here are some tips and things to keep in mind if you choose to do so:

Advantages of Keeping Your Stroller

Firstly, strollers can be a great help when navigating a busy airport with kids and luggage in tow. They provide a place to store your bags and a safe space to contain your child. Additionally, at most airports, having a stroller allows you to skip the long security lines and use a priority lane, making your journey through the airport much smoother.

Preparing Your Stroller for Travel

Before your trip, it is a good idea to invest in a travel bag for your stroller. This will keep it clean and protected during handling and transportation. Many travel bags have straps, allowing you to carry your stroller as a backpack, which is especially useful if you are also carrying a child. It is also recommended to remove any unnecessary attachments, such as cup holders or hanging bags, to make folding your stroller easier and to prevent delays at security.

Checking In and Boarding

When you reach the check-in desk, inform the staff that you intend to keep your stroller with you until boarding. Most airlines will provide you with a gate-check tag to attach to your stroller, so it is ready when boarding begins. It is a good idea to get this tag as soon as you arrive at the gate, so you are prepared when boarding is announced.

When it is time to board, you will usually need to fold your stroller and leave it at the end of the tunnel or jet bridge, where flight attendants will be on hand to direct you. In some cases, you may be able to keep your stroller with you until you step onto the plane. Remember to double-check with staff where you should leave your stroller and how to retrieve it at your destination.

During Layovers

If you have a layover, you will typically be able to use your stroller during your time in the airport. It will be returned to you at the gate, allowing you to navigate the airport comfortably with your child before boarding your next flight. However, it is important to confirm that your stroller will be available during layovers, as sometimes it may be sent directly to your final destination.

Picking Up Your Stroller

Upon arrival at your destination, your stroller should be available for pick-up immediately outside the plane, either at the door as you exit or on the jet bridge. If you did not take your stroller with you through the airport, it will likely be available at baggage claim or a designated area for large or oversized items.

Bring it on the plane

Bringing a stroller on the plane is a great option if you want to have it with you at all times. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, check with your airline, as policies vary. Most airlines will allow you to bring a stroller and a car seat for free, in addition to your normal baggage allowance, when travelling with a baby under two. Some airlines will even let you take a collapsible stroller on top of your hand baggage at no extra charge.

If you want to take your stroller on board with you, it will normally need to fit within the size limit for cabin baggage. This would only be feasible with a smaller, more compact stroller. Some airlines will allow compact umbrella strollers to be placed in the overhead lockers, if space is available. If your stroller is particularly small and fits within the airline's carry-on luggage size requirements, it may be brought on board in place of your cabin baggage.

If you are travelling with an infant or child, you can usually bring a compact, folding stroller that meets the airline's size guidelines for carry-on bags. You will need to check most strollers at the gate before you depart, but you can still use them around the airport. Large, non-collapsible strollers or non-folding wagons cannot be checked at the gate, so you will need to check these items at the airport check-in counter.

Before boarding the aircraft, you will need to collapse your compact folding stroller, as you won't be able to open it while on board. Once on board, you can place the stroller in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.

Use a stroller bag

A stroller bag is a great way to protect your stroller from dirt, dust, and scratches during air travel. It also keeps your stroller clean and safe while it's being handled by airport staff and can make navigating the airport a bit easier. Many bags have straps for easy carrying, turning your stroller into a convenient backpack as you move through the airport.

It's recommended to use a bag if it's raining, as your stroller will be exposed to the elements, even if you're using a jetway. If you're flying with a foreign airline, ask at check-in if they deliver strollers at the gate or in baggage claim, as some airlines deliver strollers to baggage claim, which can be inconvenient if you need to use it before you leave the airport.

You can purchase a stroller bag from the stroller manufacturer, but less expensive generic options are also available and work just as well. Some airlines also provide large clear bags for strollers at baggage check. If you're using a clear bag, be sure to rip a hole so that the gate check tag is visible.

Make sure the gate check tag is prominently displayed on the bag, and double-check with staff where you should pick up your stroller after landing.

Check the airline's policy

Checking the airline's policy is a great idea before travelling with a stroller. Here are some tips on how to do that:

Check the airline's website

Most airlines will have their policies regarding strollers listed on their website. Search for "stroller policy" or "travelling with children" on their website to find the relevant information. Make sure to check the latest information as policies can change over time.

Contact the airline directly

If you can't find the information you need on the airline's website, you can try contacting them directly. Many airlines have customer service teams that can answer your questions about strollers and other travel policies. You can usually reach them by phone, email, or live chat.

Read reviews from other parents

Another way to learn about an airline's stroller policy is to read reviews from other parents who have travelled with strollers. Look for blogs, forums, or social media posts where parents share their experiences and tips. This can give you insights into the airline's policies and any potential challenges or benefits of travelling with a stroller on that airline.

Ask about specific details

When checking the airline's policy, make sure to ask about specific details such as:

• Are there any weight or size restrictions for strollers?
• Can I gate-check my stroller, and is there a fee for this?
• Are there any restrictions on the type of stroller (e.g. umbrella stroller, jogging stroller, etc.)?
• What is the process for checking in and collecting my stroller?
• Are there any additional services or amenities provided for families travelling with children?

By checking the airline's policy in advance, you can be better prepared for your travel with a stroller and ensure a smooth journey.

Frequently asked questions