Flying to disney Wed ? about wheelchair/stroller and carseat

[cancer_survivor_06]

I plan on calling southwest tomorrow but I thought I would post here as well. I am flying for the first time on wed this will also be the first time my dd is flying (what an expirence this will be). I contacted SWA and they told me that we will be able to pre board but I didn't think to ask about dd's stroller. I do not use her wheelchair and primarily use her stroller basically from point a to point b. when we get on the plane what will the do w/ her stroller and when it is time to get off will I have quick access to the stroller.

ETA~ I edited the title but the carseat question is in the third post.

 

[Cheshire Figment]

You will be able to "gate check" it. You will get a special tag at the ticket counter. You will take her to the plane in the stroller. Best if you then fold the stroller, including detaching any removable parts. They will take the stroller down from the jetway and put it in the baggage compartment. When they get to the destination they will bring the stroller back up to the door of the plane.

 

[cancer_survivor_06]

Thanks for the quick reply. I figured this is what they would do but wanted to check.

I don't know if I should bring her carseat on the plane or not I have checked it to see if it approved for air travel and it is I just don't know if I will need it the way I would in a car.

 

[honugirl]

The safest place for a child on the plane is in a carseat. Please don't do a lap baby. They can easily become flying projectiles in heavy turbulence which is going to injure them and possibly other passengers. If they are too old to be a lap baby, they still may not fit the seat belt very well. Also from what I've heard, most children tend to travel better with less complaints if they are in the car seat because it's familiar to them.

 

[cancer_survivor_06]

Thanks she is too big/old to be a lap baby she is 5. I was thinking she would travel better in her seat but wanted to find out what others have done. thanks.

 

[honugirl]

You're welcome. If you want more reassurance or opinions, you might want to try the families board. There are a lot of parents with experience with those sort of things over there. Have a great time!

 

[mechurchlady]

Thanks she is too big/old to be a lap baby she is 5. I was thinking she would travel better in her seat but wanted to find out what others have done. thanks.

If allowed then do it as it would be more comfty for her probably and more secure than setting in a big old seat. Not a mom but do know what kids like and how boring planes are.

Cheshire said to gate check the stroller. yep yep, just roll up to the gate and tell them you have a disabled person. You will be first to board but usually last off the plane unless you want to carry the kid out of the plane and wait in the waiting area. All medical equipment is free of charge.

At WDW get a "stroller as a wheelchair" so you can take the stroller all the way through lines. Good luck on your trip.