Tips for Handling Strollers During Air Travel

Photo by Biova Nakou from Pexels

 

 

Travelling on a plane with your baby or toddler can be a challenge, mainly when there are strollers involved. Packing this colossal piece of equipment can be a challenge, but once we've overcome it, you'll realize that it's not such a big deal.

 

To help you get into the proper mindset, we compiled these tips on how to handle strollers during air travel.

 

Treat your stroller as a luggage

Consider your stroller as a piece of luggage, and as a luggage, it is up to you to decide whether to check it in or carry it with you on a plane. Take note that collapsible strollers are usually only accepted as luggage. It is best to call your airline beforehand if you're unsure. If you decide to check in your stroller, put it in a plastic bag to keep it clean while it is in the cargo hold. You can also use a travel stroller cover for better protection.

 

Check your stroller at the gate

If your stroller is too big to fit in the overhead bin, then you should check it at the gate. Most airlines will offer early boarding for those who need assistance, especially when travelling with your children. So try to arrive early before your boarding time. This will give the airline enough time to load the strollers, have it tagged, and be checked on the jet bridge.

 

Prepare your stroller for security check

Expect that your stroller will be put in an x-ray machine at the airport for security checks. Remove your kid from the stroller and fold it up before it's your turn. It can save you a lot of time, and you won't get those frustrated looks from the ones before you. If you're lucky, your airport will have dedicated lines for families which you can take advantage.

 

Properly storing your stroller on the aircraft

If your stroller is small, it may fit in the cavin which means you can carry it in the plane with you. In this case, store the stroller on the overhead bin with the rest of your carry-on luggage. In this way, you'll have easy access to the stroller, and you won't have to wait for it after the plane. It also reduces the chances of it getting lost during a transfer to another flight.

 

Strollers on connecting flights

Transferring on connecting flights can be tricky when you are travelling with a stroller. The tags provided on the stroller at the gate has a space to write things down. You can write the number of your next flight to avoid the risk of it getting lost.

 

At the baggage claim

If you checked in the bag, expect to collect it at the baggage claim as per usual. But if your stroller is large, keep in mind that it will come out in the oversized luggage area.

 

Go for an umbrella stroller

If you haven't bought a stroller yet or is tired of hauling your old stroller on every flight, then you should go for an umbrella stroller. These types of strollers fold nicely, and airline employees know how to handle and stow it away.