checking stroller at the gate?

[lynetteSC]

Hi guys - we are flying soon and thought I would ask the experts. It is the 1st time we are flying with our ds (18 months). I was told we can "gate check" our stroller. We have two big strollers, but I assume we need a small one to gate check? We also have a combi that folds like the umbrella strollers... I would LOVE to take that, instead of buying one. Anyone gate checked them before?

 

[PatricenPete]

I gate checked my Combi back in June when I flew to Boston - now one problem. I was able to wheel DS all the way to the door of the plane and then I just left the stroller there. When the flight landed, the stroller was exactly where I left it on the jetway. It was really nice.

When we flew to Orlando in October, we gate checked out slightly larger Chicco and had zero problems with that as well. Same rules apply.

Gate checking rules!!!!

 

[rchristiansen]

You can and MUST gate check any stroller. Strollers are not small enough to fit in the overhead bins. You can bring any sized stroller - it does not have to be a small one. Also, when you go through security you need to fold it up and put it through the X-ray machine.

 

[lynetteSC]

Sooo, does the stroller go in the main part of the plane or checked with luggage? Not sure if it will be damaged in luggage compartment?!?!

 

[safetymom]

It does not go in the main part of the plane. It goes underneath where they put the gate checked luggage and strollers, etc. They will bring it to the jetway when you get to your destination. If you change planes be sure to wait at the doorway so you have your stroller for the next flight.

 

[lynetteSC]

Ok, thanks! I was just tad paranoid! I don't want to be stuck in ATL for 3 hours during our layover w/o our stroller! Thanks for all the info!

 

[doberlady]

Just to let you know. We just got back last friday. We as usual gate checked our stroller which was part of a travel system, the car seat came with us on the plane. When we arrive at MCO the stroller was broken in more then 1 place and was unusable. I spent some time in the baggage office and was told they would reimburse me up to $200 for a new one but I had to lay out the money first and spend a few hours searching the stores for a new one that I liked

We are well traveled and this was the 1st time that had happened. We saved the box and packed the stroller back in and checked it like luggage as we were told it was safer and it was brand spanking new.

 

[pyrxtc]

Just to let you know. We just got back last friday. We as usual gate checked our stroller which was part of a travel system, the car seat came with us on the plane. When we arrive at MCO the stroller was broken in more then 1 place and was unusable. I spent some time in the baggage office and was told they would reimburse me up to $200 for a new one but I had to lay out the money first and spend a few hours searching the stores for a new one that I liked

We are well traveled and this was the 1st time that had happened. We saved the box and packed the stroller back in and checked it like luggage as we were told it was safer and it was brand spanking new.

Same thing happend to me and it stunk! bring a bag or box to put it in and bring a hip carrire for Atlanta it will be much easier than a broken stroller.

 

[Breakfast@Tiffany's]

Another tip I read on this board was to use a bungee cord to keep the stroller folded up when you check it at the gate. If it opens up after you hand it over, the airport employee won't know how to close it and could end up damaging it. Also remove any parts that could come off.

 

[PrincessasMommy]

I took a double jogger, it didn't fit in the bags supplied but they took it at the gate anyhow - it's HUGE!
But.....at MCO we had to carry 2 babies and all our bags (carry-on's, diaper bag & cooler) until we could go to baggage claim (past customs & security) to pick it up. It was awful in the heat for 30 minutes (seemed longer) I was so happy that I had at least packed 1 baby sling!

Have fun!