Gate checking nice Stroller-ATTN crazywig

[cinderlexa's mom]

When we've flown Airtran in the past we've gate checked our stroller. Each time, the metal got dented/bent. Does everyone else have this problem with gate checking strollers? Do we just have bad luck? Also, Airtran will not reimburse you--no matter what!

I really want to bring my Zippy for my then 5 mos. old. Any tricks that have worked for you? TIA!

Crazywig, what type of bag do you use? And where did you get it? TIA!

 

[Tara]

I've gate-checked our strollers tons -- almost 20 round trips, and almost every one with a connection, so probably 70-80 individual gate checks. Now, I'm a stroller fanatic so I pay attention to this stuff, but I've never noticed any damage to our strollers. That said, you can buy a bag to put your stroller in for gate checking -- it makes the boarding process a little tougher, I'm sure, but it might give you a little extra peace of mind. Here's one: http://www.greatbabyproducts.com/Stroller_Travel_Bag_p/alph-1025.htm but there are several different versions available.

 

[missygayle]

I used to gate my son's all the time on Southwest with no problems, however, on this last trip they brought it up with the leg that hold the wheel all bent. The guy tried to be "helpful" and step on it to straighten it out, but the plastic that holds the wheel on was broken and when he did that it fell off.

Most times I've had to sign a waiver acknowledging they are not responsible for any damage. I would be careful about gate checking a very expensive stroller that you wouldn't want to loose.

Mine was inexpensive and, after complaining, they did let me borrow a loaner for my vacation.

 

[Bird-Mom]

We have gate checked our Zooper 3 times without any problems. We are going to be gate checking our Maclaren this time. Knock wood, it comes out okay!

 

[crazywig]

i bag my strollers. i've gate checked single macs, double macs and my kiwi e3 and i bag them all.

 

[DebbieB]

Keep in mind that something could happen to the stroller when you have it parked outside rides at WDW (like someone walks off with it).

 

[Dan Murphy]

Sounds like sports cars, LOL.