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There are few airports in the world where
the distance from arrival gate to baggage retrieval doesn’t call for a
stroller. BUT airlines will seldom make commitments to
allowing strollers on planes. Whilst one passenger seems to be able to
take their stroller on board, another is denied the privilege. There
seems to be no rhyme or reason for this.
The rules applying to car seats differ from airline to
airline. Many carriers now allow certain types of infant car seats
onto planes. Some even provide them for you on request – check yours
out before flying.
Strollers
FlyingwithKids suggests
you plan as follows:-
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allow your stroller to
be tagged at check in, but ask to keep it up to the departure gate
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count it a bonus if
you are allowed to hold onto your stroller beyond the departure gate
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keep calm if asked to
part with it, but stress to the assistant your need for the stroller
either at the transit lounge or at the door of the plane on arrival
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some assistants will
promise to have the stroller available to you at the plane door when
you need it. There is often a very long wait for this, or it
doesn’t happen at all – be prepared
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don’t be surprised
if there is inconsistency between your treatment and that of others,
or between your treatment on different flights with the same
airline. Whether or not the stroller makes it into an overhead
locker, business class coat store or the hold will be entirely at
the discretion of the airline staff
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get the best service
by smiling sweetly and helplessly. Don’t expect a better service
from getting abusive
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Car seats
Most US airlines allow
child restraint systems on airplanes if they are FAA approved.
Look at the label on your car seat and check that the device you have
has this approval before you fly. Seats purchased outside the USA
may not have this approval, and without it you cannot use the seat on
the plane.
In Europe and the UK a
seat must be ECE approved - but not all airlines allow them, so check
with yours before you fly.
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GLOBAL TRAVELLERS
NOTE - you may not use a Federal approved seat in the UK (or
Europe) or an ECE approved seat in the US.
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British Airways's new
toddler seat and carrycot facilities offer an alternative to using your
own restraints. Other devices are unlikely to be permitted on the
plane, but may be stowed away in the overhead locker whilst baby sits on
your knee or in a sky cot. Check with your airline before you fly,
as policy in this area is subject to change.
There are some distinct
advantages to using a car seat during flight, not least the greater
safety afforded by the restraint. Consider these:
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Baby is in a familiar
seat, where he often sits for long periods and sometimes sleeps
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You may be able to
recline baby’s seat for sleeping
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A toddler can reach
the food tray more comfortably from the car seat, for eating and
playing
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Active toddlers are
used to being restrained in their own car seat, and can be relied
upon to stay put whilst you deal with overhead lockers,
documentation, your meal etc
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On arrival at your
destination you have a car restraint with you suitable to use in
taxi’s or hire cars which you are familiar with and can easily
install (even with jet lag)
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Travel Systems which
combine a car seat, stroller and approved airplane seat in one are the
ultimate family travel accessory. The Sit n Stroll featured in the
opposite column is personally recommended to me by a three year old
friend who has been twice round the world in it as well as to the local
mall! Though they are expensive, think of the agonies you will save
yourself!
 
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Stroller Backpack
For active parents, the Stroller Backpack converts from a backpack to a stroller in just seconds.
 
Stroller Connectors
Perfect for pushing two strollers at once.
 
Caddy Stroller - Yellow
With its lightweight aluminum frame, carrying strap, rain cover and storage bag - the Caddy Umbrella Stroller is the perfect travel companion.
 
FROG Stroller w/ Maintenance Kit
 
Sit N Stroll - Midnight Blue
The Safeline Sit 'n Stroll with LATCH system is the convertible carseat that converts into a stroller and is approved for use on airlines.
 
Sit n Stroll Sunshade
Designed for the Safeline Sit N Stroll, the Sunshade effectively helps keep the sun out of your little one's eyes.
 
Sit n Stroll Travel Bag
Designed to fit the Safeline Sit N Stroll, the Travel Bag protects the Sit N Stroll during travel and storage.
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