Do I have to pay for a booster seat?

[katie111]

I've only traveled before with car seats that we've actually used on the plane. If we're bringing a booster seat with a back on it (which I know we can't use on the plane), do I have to pay to check it in & pay for it as luggage? I know I could bring my son's toddler seat & either have him sit on it on the plane or gate check it but it is much heavier so I would prefer to just bring the booster. But of course I don't really want to pay $25 to check it in.

Thanks!

 

[malibuconlee]

What is your airline? I know American checked ours for free the one time we flew American (our car seat actually). Southwest counts a car seat as a baby item. On SW two baby items count as one piece of the two in your free luggage allowance.

 

[Jestocost]

As the PP suggests, the answer depends on the airline on which you are flying. Review that airline's checked baggage policies to see if a car seat is exempt from their checked baggage charges.

 

[lost*in*cyberspace]

I don't know of any US airline which does not allow items such as car seats, booster seats and strollers to be checked as free baggage, either at the check-in desk or the gate. They don't count against your baggage allowance. As suggested, this information can always be found on your airline's web site.

 

[jcarwash]

Are you renting a car for your trip? If you are a AAA member and rent Hertz via a AAA rate, a child seat (infant, toddler, or booster) is included in the rental price. Then you don't need to carry your own. I have enjoyed that perk and I have found the rental seats to be just fine, no issues.

 

[jlewisinsyr]

Are you renting a car for your trip? If you are a AAA member and rent Hertz via a AAA rate, a child seat (infant, toddler, or booster) is included in the rental price. Then you don't need to carry your own. I have enjoyed that perk and I have found the rental seats to be just fine, no issues.

I would not recommend someone rent a car seat/booster, etc. First, most of the seats are not in the best condition, plus as a parent, you know your seat best, how it fits in a car (is attached, etc.).

Sure, in a pinch, worst case, renting is the only option, but if you can, you're better off bringing your own.

 

[PEANUT1]

I've never had an airline charge for a carseat, booster or stroller. You should be fine. I would check it at the check in area, not the gate bc then you have to lug it through security.