Stroller on the plane, how to carry it and which one to choose

Traveling with a stroller by plane And a small child always brings a few extra worries. One of the concerns is really about the stroller. Can I carry it? Should I board it? Will I find it again?

Let's start by saying that transporting a stroller by air is allowed by all airlines and in most cases is completely free. But there are some rules to know and a few tricks to make it easier.

Carrying a stroller on an airplane is free

Virtually any airline, including low-cost airlines, offers the transport gratuito Of your child's stroller on the plane. It does not count as regular baggage and you can bring it in addition to your allowance.

Each child Can fly from a very tender age is entitled to free transportation of one or two items from a stroller, car seat, travel crib or carrycot. This applies to both infants in arms and children with a seat. Some companies allow carriage up to age 11. It is important to always mention this at check-in. They will give you a sticker with the flight details and destination.

Three ways to travel by plane with a stroller

You have three main options for carrying the stroller on the plane, and you can choose the one that is most comfortable based on the type of travel.

The first is Board it immediately in the hold at check-in, like a regular suitcase. This is the easiest option if you have a large, bulky stroller, or if your flight is short and you don't need to walk around the airport. You hand it in after tagging it and then find it at the baggage carousel upon arrival. The downside is that you'll have to use a baby carrier or hold the baby to move around, and you'll have to wait at baggage claim upon arrival instead of leaving right away.

The second option is the gate check, the one most commonly used by families. You carry the stroller to the door of the plane and hand it over to the cabin crew there. It allows you to use it throughout the airport, through security until you board. When you get to the gate you fold it and give it to the flight attendants who load it into the hold as your last piece of luggage. Upon arrival they hand it back to you as you get off the plane or at special baggage claim, depending on the airport.

The third is bring it directly to the cabin As carry-on luggage. It only works if you have an ultra-compact stroller that meets the maximum allowable size, usually around 55x40x20 inches. Very few models fit, but if you have one you can put it in the overhead rack above the seats and always have it with you. It's perfect for layover flights because it saves you from waiting for the stroller between gates.

At security checks

If you take the stroller all the way to the gate you have to let it through through security checks exactly like any other object. Compact, collapsible strollers pass safely through the scanner tunnel; larger ones may require manual inspection by security personnel.

Important: You must empty all pockets and bags hanging from the stroller before putting it in the check. And unfortunately, even if your baby has just fallen asleep in the line, you will have to wake him up or pick him up because for safety reasons he cannot sit in the stroller during the scan. Some particularly taxing airports such as Paris or Doha make you board the stroller along with your bags for security reasons, but in return they provide strollers for use inside the airport all the way to the gate. This is not the norm but it can happen, so be mentally prepared.

The ideal stroller for frequent flyers

If you travel often, a Ultra-compact stroller designed for travel Can change your life. The most famous is undoubtedly the Babyzen YOYO, now sold as the Stokke YOYO.

It was the first to comply with IATA regulations for carry-on luggage on airplanes. When closed it measures only 52x44x18 centimeters and weighs 6.2 kilograms, dimensions that make it accepted as carry-on luggage by most airlines. It fits perfectly in the overhead compartment. It will closes with one hand in two steps and has a shoulder strap for carrying it on the shoulder. It has suspension on all wheels, reclining backrest and holds children up to 22 kilograms in weight. The YOYO exists in a 6+ version for children six months and up, or with a carrycot for use from birth. You can also add car seat adapters and turn it into a travel system.

Other popular compact models include the Cybex Libelle and the Inglesina Quid2. Both are in the same ultralight weight and compact folding range, but with slightly different features.

The Cybex Libelle, available in different colors and variations, weighs about 6 kilograms and measures 32x20x48 centimeters when closed, resulting in compliance with the carry-on baggage requirements of most airlines. It closes easily and stands on its own once folded, a very convenient aspect when you are waiting in line at the gate. It has suspension on the front wheels that ensures a smooth ride even on uneven terrain, multi-position reclining backrest and adjustable leg rests. It supports children from 6 months up to 22 pounds and can be transformed into a travel system by adding Cybex car seat adapters. A practical detail: it has a system that allows the latch cord to be attached to the frame forming a loop, convenient for attaching to a bag or carrying it over the shoulder.

L'Inglesina Quid2 is slightly lighter at 5.9 kg., making it one of the lightest in its category. When closed it measures 46.5x58x19 centimeters and is also within carry-on size for many companies. It opens and closes with one hand, an advantage when you already have the child in the other. Once folded it stands on its own thanks to a support leg that sticks out of the frame, preventing the handle and fabric from touching the ground. The backrest reclines to 170 degrees, practically in a fully reclined position, ideal for naps while traveling. It has suspension on the front wheels, adjustable footrest, extendable canopy with UPF 50+ protection and comes with rain cover included. Supports children up to 22 pounds.

Prices for these models vary, but a good travel stroller will last for years and can accompany you on dozens of flights.

How to protect the stroller on the plane from damage

Although airlines try to handle special luggage with care, unfortunately damage is not uncommon. Strollers are thrown in the hold along with heavy suitcases, they can get scratched, break wheels or lose parts.

The first protection is to photograph the stroller from different angles before handing it over. If you notice damage upon arrival, you have documentation to prove it wasn't there before. Then go immediately to the claims office and fill out the PIR, the same form you use for damaged luggage. Without this immediate report it will be almost impossible to get a refund or repair.

The second protection is to use a padded travel bag specific for strollers. You can easily find it on Amazon and costs about 20 euros. It protects against scratches and small bumps, although against heavy knocks it can do little. If you have an expensive stroller it is absolutely worth it.

Third thing: if the stroller has detachable parts such as the canopy, storage basket or adapters, take them off and put them in your carry-on luggage. The fewer pieces hanging there, the less risk of anything getting lost in transit.

Practical tips for traveling with a stroller on an airplane serenely

In addition to the stroller, always carry a baby carrier or baby sling. Even if you plan to use the stroller all the way to the gate, there are times when it is more comfortable to have the baby on you, especially during security checks or if you need to keep your hands free. Coming up at the airport in advance. With babies, time is always stretched out: diaper changes, bottles, various tantrums. Better to have margin than to run stressed to the gate.

Prepare a bag with everything you need for the flight. Diapers, wipes, full change, snacks, toys, baby bottles. You can carry this bag in the cabin even if you are traveling with an infant in your arms without a seat. Airlines consider it as borsa changing table And does not count in the deductible.

If you have a flight with a stopover consider carefully whether it is worth boarding the stroller or taking it in the cabin. For long layovers, the stroller can be a lifesaver: the baby can take a nap while you walk around the airport waiting for a connecting flight. For short layovers, on the other hand, you risk wasting time waiting for delivery between flights.

Always check the specific rules of the airline with which you fly. Although the general principles are similar, there may be differences on maximum weights, number of items allowed, or delivery methods. A couple of minutes on their site will save you unpleasant surprises at the airport.

Is a travel stroller worth it?

If you travel occasionally, your regular stroller is just fine. But if you fly even just a couple of times a year, a ultra-compact model It really makes a difference. Having it in the cabin at all times, not having to wait for it, using it between stops is worth the investment. These compact strollers also serve for subway, train, bus, car. The top models, such as the ones we have reported in this article, have a very good used market, so if you keep it well you can resell it recouping some of the expense.