Strollers and Airplanes

[Cinderellagrl]

We are flying Southeast airlines in November. Does anyone know if you can check an umbrella stroller and a booster seat? Dollar rental only has car seats available. They do not have booster seats. My child is too old for a car seat, but, by law needs to be in a booster seat.

 

[Lisa loves Pooh]

Not sure specifically to southwest, but on northwest and delta--checked car seats/booster seats are not considered as part of your luggage count...and I would believe the same applies to strollers since you can gate check them and not have them part of your count--don't see why you wouldn't be able to check them at the ticket counter.

 

[striker3636]

We have flown a few times on different airlines and have always been able to check the stroller at the gate and had it available to us again as soon as we leave the plane. This was not part of our luggage count. As well, we were also able to check 2 car seats and they still did not count. I know that the airlines recommend you actually use the car seats, but we did not want to be bothered with more stuff to try to get on board along with a then 18month old and 3 year old and the related other gear. We took our play pen once and had to count it with the luggage, I think (this trip was through Air Canada and United Airlines). Just make a call to your airline company to be sure before you leave so there are no surprises.

 

[striker3636]

One more thought...we had great service from the chaps at the bulky items check in and they wrapped up our car seats in a large clear bag and sealed them etc. We had buckled in all the harnesses etc, but had to use some wire ties to keep all the loose parts and the tether strap from flapping around at the airport once we took them out of our car. Might be worth asking if your airline will provide the same service at check in to save any effort or concern over the condition of the seats at the end of the trip.

 

[lemondog]

We fly Southwest a lot. Yes, you can check a carseat. And you check the stroller right at the door to the airplane. They pack it into luggage last, and bring it back out first. You pick it up as you exit the plane. Have fun!

AP

 

[behappy]

Cinderellagrl,

Though strollers/booster seats aren't explicitly called out on their website, their luggage policy is pretty much the same as all other airlines. I don't expect there would be any problem 'gate-checking' those items. Have fun.