flying with 2 1/2 year old ?

[Hannathy]

I only took a car seat on a plane once for either of my kids and it was such a hassle I've never taken one again. My kids always thought it was very special to get on the airplane and sit in a seat like a big person and put their own seat belt on. It also makes it easier to use the tray table for playing. Never had a problem with over 50 flights.


If you do take the car seat PLEASE, PLEASE do not let them kick the seat in front of them. Car seats put their feet, especially with the older kids, very close to the seat in front, so either stop them or have someone you know sit in front of them.

 

[NotUrsula]

Also, the buckle of the seat belt will be a large protrusion right into your child's back, so be sure to ask for an airline pillow so you can pad it once it is buckled in place.

This is only true for SOME carseats, by no means all, or even a majority of them. This will only be a problem on seats where the car's seatbelt passes directly under the upholstery (usually seats like that let you lift the upholstery to see the belt passing over the seat shell). If the belt path is outside the part of the shell that supports the child's back, it won't be a problem. (Note that it is NOT a problem on the 5 pt. Cosco Scenera/Touriva, which is often recommended around here as a handy lightweight travel carseat.)

As to pillows, for those who are wondering, SWA still always has them, but they are stored in an open overhead bin and go fast, so ask as soon as you board if you need one.

FTR, I've taken carseats on hundreds of flights, and the only time I ever found it to be really difficult was on an Embraer commuter jet. You just need to plan ahead, buy equipment that is well-suited for travel, and keep your hands as free as possible so that you are not trying to juggle too much.