Strollers and planes

[Megsmachine]

When taking your double stroller on the plane, what is the protocol? From what I remember you literally leave it right outside of the plane door and they put it under and it's there when you get off of the plane. You don't have to check it or anything. Is that still the case? Flying southwest

 

[goofy4tink]

It was the last time I flew SW. A ton of strollers being left at the entrance to the plane.

 

[Gracie09]

You get a gate check tag from the desk and attach it. I would highly recommend a bag. Even one of those red ones sold at Target/Babies R Us.

 

[sweetpeama]

If you are on American airlines keep this in mind

"American Airlines has imposed a strict 20lbs limit on gate-checked strollers. Heavier ones are to be checked at the counter. This has been upsetting for parents of multiples and closely spaced siblings as there is no exception. If there are two adults flying, having each push a single stroller under this limit may be one solution."

Taken from http://flyingwithchildren.blogspot.com/

I highly recommend anyone flying with children read this as the author covers 99% of anything that you could imagine both from the perspective of someone who was a flight attendant for years and as a mother.

 

[JessM]

You can do one of two things. You can leave it at the entrance to the plane and it will be outside the plane when you arrive at your destination or you can check it with the rest of your baggage at the counter or curb side check in. I personally would gate check the stroller. Less chances for damage (hopefully) and you can use while in the airport.

 

[tjmw2727]

With Southwest Yes you can "gate check" your stroller - make sure and get a gate check tag from the gate agent

I would also recommend a stroller bag if you have one, otherwise make sure it is folded tightly and consider adding a bungee cord to be sure it doesn't open inadvertently. I have seen the luggage agents try and deal with folding a stroller that had opened and it wasn't pretty! Also remove any extra toys/cup holders etc. to avoid damage/loss.

 

[china mom]

When gate checking your bag with Southwest (don't know about anyone else since I only fly SW) the gate agent will put two tags on the stroller. A regular bag claim tag and a "claim at gate" tag. Pay close attention and make sure that this tag gets put on. If they forget it, your stroller will go all the way to bag check.

I also used to write our name and phone number on the stroller with a sharpie just in case the tags come off somehow.