When traveling with a baby or young child, parents will likely want to bring a stroller to make getting around the airport and at the destination easier. However, not all strollers are allowed onboard airplanes. There are specific guidelines from the major airlines on what types of strollers can be brought onto the plane and what needs to be checked at the gate.
Airline Regulations for Strollers
Most major airlines in the U.S., including American, Delta, United, Southwest, Alaska, and JetBlue, allow small, collapsible strollers to be brought on board and stowed in the overhead bins or under the seat in front of the parents. Larger, non-collapsible strollers will need to be checked at the gate and taken at plane-side upon arrival at the destination.
The specific dimensions that classify a stroller as “small” or “collapsible” vary slightly between airlines but generally are:
- Small enough when folded to fit in an overhead bin (typically no larger than 24″ x 18″ x 10″)
- Able to fit under the seat in front when in use
- Quick and easy to fold/unfold for gate-checking as needed
Strollers that meet these requirements can be used to transport the child through the airport right up to the gate or plane door and then folded to bring on board.
Collapsible vs. Non-Collapsible
Collapsible strollers have frames that are designed to fold down into a compact size for easy transport and storage. This makes them ideal for air travel. Non-collapsible strollers do not fold down and would be difficult or impossible to fit in the small storage spaces on an aircraft.
Here are some examples of collapsible strollers that would meet the size requirements for use onboard:
- Umbrella strollers – These super lightweight strollers fold up very compactly, often resembling a folded umbrella when closed.
- Travel system strollers – Strollers designed for infant car seats usually fold compactly while allowing the car seat to snap in.
- Jogging strollers – Many higher-end joggers now have a quick one-handed fold option that collapses them down for transport.
And some typically non-collapsible strollers that would need to be checked at the gate:
- Full-size single strollers – Bulky, with fixed frames that do not fold.
- Double strollers – Too large when open and usually do not fold compactly.
- Jogging strollers – Lower-end models have fixed front wheels making them hard to collapse.
Gate Checking Your Stroller
If your stroller does not meet the size requirements to go on the plane with you, all hope is not lost. You can gate check your stroller right before boarding and pick it up again as soon as you deplane after landing.
How Gate Check Works
Gate checking a stroller allows you to use it right up until boarding time. Here’s how it works:
- Check in and get your boarding pass as normal.
- Use your stroller to get around the airport until reaching your departure gate.
- When your boarding group is called, let the gate agent know you need to check your stroller.
- Collapse the stroller and leave it right near the door to the jet bridge.
- Flight attendants will tag your stroller and place it in the cargo hold.
- Retrieve your stroller immediately after deplaning at the arrival gate.
Gate checking is free on most airlines.
Gate Check Pros and Cons
Here are some key pros and cons to weigh when deciding whether to gate check your stroller:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Use stroller until boarding | – No stroller access in flight |
| – No need to carry through airport | – Risk of stroller damage |
| – Free on most airlines | – Delay in deplaning to retrieve |
Airplane Stroller Safety
When using any stroller on an airline flight, there are some important safety guidelines to keep in mind:
Usage During Turbulence
If turbulence occurs while a child is in a stroller on the plane, the stroller should be collapsed and the child moved to an approved seat with the seatbelt fastened. Do not try to leave a child in a stroller during turbulence – this can lead to injury.
Securing the Stroller Onboard
Collapsible strollers brought onboard should stay stowed in the overhead bin or under the seat in front during take-off, landing, and any turbulence. Leaving a stroller sitting out in the aisle could cause it to tip over and pose a safety hazard.
Using Airline-Approved Models
Only strollers that meet the size and collapsibility requirements set by the FAA and individual airlines are allowed on planes. Using a non-approved stroller can be dangerous and lead to issues boarding.
Best Strollers for Air Travel
When purchasing a stroller specifically for airplane use, look for models that combine compact folding with plenty of convenience features. Here are some top options:
| Stroller | Key Features |
|---|---|
| BabyZen Yoyo+ | – Folds down small enough to be a carry-on – Lightweight at just 13 lbs – Recline and storage options |
| GB Pockit Stroller | – World’s smallest folding stroller – Fits in an overhead bin – Weighs only 9 lbs |
| J is for Jeep Brand Scout Stroller | – Lightweight frame plus compact fold – Car seat adapter included – Large storage basket |
Look for lightweight materials like aluminum frames along with easy, one-handed folding mechanisms. And steering capabilities like swivel front wheels and suspension allow easy maneuvering.
Using an Infant Car Seat on a Plane
For infants, using an infant car seat on the airplane can be easier than a stroller. Here are some tips for flying with a car seat:
Types of Car Seats Allowed
The FAA allows onboard use of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approved child restraint devices, generally infant-only car seats. Convertible and booster seats are not approved and cannot be used.
Checking your Seat
Airlines often allow infant car seats to be checked for free. Attach a luggage tag and have the airline gate-check your seat just like a stroller.
Using an FAA Vest
Parents can request an FAA-approved safety vest to secure baby to an adult lap. This allows hands-free holding during flight.
Purchasing an Airline Car Seat
Some infant travel car seats are specially designed for airplanes. These are lightweight while meeting all safety standards.
Stroller Policies by Airline
While most airlines follow the same general guidelines, always check with your specific airline for the most up to date stroller and car seat policies.
American Airlines
- Collapsible strollers up to 20 lbs may be brought onboard
- Jogging and special needs strollers must be checked at the gate
- Car seats can be checked or fit in a reserved seat if FAA approved
Delta Air Lines
- Small, collapsible strollers may be gate checked or brought onboard
- Jogging strollers must be checked at the gate
- Car seats allowed on board but subject to available space
United Airlines
- Only folding strollers under 20 pounds allowed onboard
- Non-folding strollers must be checked at the gate
- Infant car seats permitted onboard on domestic flights
Southwest Airlines
- Umbrella strollers may be used onboard aircraft
- Larger strollers must be checked at the gate
- FAA approved car seats allowed onboard
Traveling Internationally with a Stroller
When traveling overseas, stroller policies will vary by airline and destination country. In general:
- Lightweight, foldable strollers are easiest for navigating foreign airports
- Call your airline to understand size requirements for international flights
- Research public transportation options at your destination
- You may need an adapter for using car seats abroad
To avoid complications, opt for a compact, lightweight stroller with an easy one-hand fold. This will make maneuvering on and off planes, trains, buses and taxis much simpler.
Renting Strollers at Your Destination
Another option for infant and child transport at your destination is stroller rental. Some options include:
- Baby equipment rental companies
- Hotels and resorts
- Theme parks
- Airport and tourism board rentals
Research rental options in advance for the most availability. Rental strollers may not be as high quality or as accommodating to infants as your own.
Bringing Stroller Accessories
To get the most use from your stroller on an airline trip, plan to bring useful accessories including:
- Stroller organizer or bag – For storing items you need close by
- Cup holder – Allows parent and child drinks to be handy
- Travel toy leash or clips – Prevents toys from getting lost
- Rain cover – Can shield child from inclement weather
- Bug net – Keeps pesky bugs away from your child
Make sure to transport accessories in your carry-on when bringing a stroller on board.
Conclusion
Traveling with babies and toddlers requires a few special considerations, especially when it comes to transport through congested airports. With the right lightweight, collapsible stroller plus FAA-approved car seat when required, getting through the airport and onboard your flight can happen smoothly. Always check your airline’s latest rules before packing your stroller to avoid any unpleasant surprises at check-in or the departure gate.