Does ME require 2 year olds to have a car seat?

[3princesses4us]

We are flying down in September for the first time with our kids. Because we will have a stroller with us, we really didn't want to lug around a car seat also but just realized our 2 year old will be on the bus with us. Are there seatbelts? Is this frowned upon? Is it even legal to not bring a car seat for the 2 year old? Heck, for that matter, does the airline actually require she be in one?
We aren't as concerned about the flight because at least we know there are seatbelts. Anyone traveled with a toddler and what did you do?
No judgments please. My children are always buckled in around here. I just didn't know what the norm is getting to Disney. I know I've never seen a child in a car seat on the monorail...

 

[safetymom]

There are no seat belts on the bus. So no way to secure a car seat. Would you child be more comfortable in their car seat on the plane? That would be the safest.

 

[Horace Horsecollar]

Because we will have a stroller with us, we really didn't want to lug around a car seat also but just realized our 2 year old will be on the bus with us. Are there seatbelts? Is this frowned upon? Is it even legal to not bring a car seat for the 2 year old?

Disney's Magical Express service uses large motorcoaches which do not have seat belts. There is no way to attach a car seat. Any car seats are stored in the luggage hold of the motorcoach during the ride between the airport and WDW.

There are also no seat belts on WDW Transportation buses or monorails.

So, you can leave the car seat at home, unless you want to bring it only for the flights. If you bring it for the flights, make sure it is FAA-labeled (or similarly labeled for car seats purchased outside the United States).

 

[Anniegirl]

The Magic Express busses are not equipped with seatbelts so there would be no way to secure a carseat. In other words, no car seat is required for ME. Carseats are recommended for air travel, but not required. There are pros and cons for bringing along a carseat for the plane. The pro list includes #1 safety, of course. It also provides a familiar environment for the child who is accustomed to sitting in it for longer stretches of time. The con list included the flat out inconvenience of schlepping an awkward and usually large & heavy piece of child equipment that is used soley for the plane ride. It also elevates the child enough to allow them to kick the seat back in front of them, and usually renders the drop-down tray useless. Carseats on the airplane are a personall call,and one that has been weighed in on frequently on these boards. Do what works best for your child and family. Enjoy your trip!

 

[3princesses4us]

Thanks all- great advice!