If you’re traveling with a baby or young child, you know that bringing all the necessary gear can be a challenge. From strollers to car seats to portable cribs, it’s important to have everything you need to keep your little one safe and comfortable while on the go. But what do you do with all that gear when you get to the airport? Here’s everything you need to know about checking in baby gear at the airport.
What You Can Check In
Strollers
Most airlines will allow you to check in your stroller for free, and it will be waiting for you at your destination either at the baggage claim or at the gate. Some airlines may require you to fold up your stroller and put it in a special bag before checking it in.
Car Seats
If you’re traveling with a car seat, you can check it in for free, but it’s important to make sure it meets the airline’s requirements. Some airlines may require you to put the car seat in a special bag or box before checking it in.
Portable Cribs
If you’re traveling with a portable crib, you can usually check it in for free, but it’s a good idea to call the airline ahead of time to confirm. Some airlines may require you to put the crib in a special bag or box before checking it in.
Baby Carriers
Most airlines will allow you to bring your baby carrier on the plane with you, but you may need to take it off during takeoff and landing. If you prefer to check in your baby carrier, you can usually do so for free.
Breast Pumps
If you’re traveling with a breast pump, you can usually bring it on the plane with you as a carry-on item. However, if you prefer to check it in, you can usually do so for free.
Baby Food and Formula
You can usually bring baby food and formula on the plane with you, but it’s a good idea to check the airline’s policies ahead of time. You may need to show the TSA agent that the items are for your baby, and they may need to be screened separately.
Preparing Your Baby Gear for Check-In
Clean Your Gear
Before checking in your baby gear, make sure it’s clean and free of any food or debris. This will help prevent any damage during transport and ensure that the gear is ready to use when you arrive at your destination.
Label Your Gear
Make sure each piece of baby gear is clearly labeled with your name and contact information. This will make it easier to track down any lost or misplaced items.
Use Protective Covers
If you’re checking in a stroller or car seat, consider using a protective cover to help prevent damage during transport.
Arrive Early
Make sure you arrive at the airport early to give yourself plenty of time to check in your baby gear and get through security.
Be Prepared for Security
When going through security, you may need to take your baby out of the carrier or stroller and place it on the conveyor belt. You may also need to remove any liquids or gels from your diaper bag and place them in a separate container for screening.
Gate-Checking Your Stroller
If you’re gate-checking your stroller, make sure you get a gate-check tag from the airline agent. This will help ensure that your stroller is returned to you quickly and easily when you arrive at your destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I check in my baby gear for free?
Most airlines will allow you to check in your baby gear for free, but it’s a good idea to check the airline’s policies ahead of time.
Do I need to put my stroller in a special bag?
Some airlines may require you to put your stroller in a special bag before checking it in, so it’s a good idea to check ahead of time.
Can I bring baby food on the plane?
Yes, you can usually bring baby food and formula on the plane with you, but it’s a good idea to check the airline’s policies ahead of time.
Do I need to clean my baby gear before checking it in?
Yes, it’s a good idea to clean your baby gear before checking it in to help prevent any damage during transport.
Can I bring my breast pump on the plane?
Yes, you can usually bring your breast pump on the plane with you as a carry-on item.
Do I need to arrive early to check in my baby gear?
Yes, it’s a good idea to arrive at the airport early to give yourself plenty of time to check in your baby gear and get through security.
Do I need to label my baby gear?
Yes, it’s a good idea to label each piece of baby gear with your name and contact information to help prevent any lost or misplaced items.
Can I gate-check my stroller?
Yes, you can usually gate-check your stroller, but make sure you get a gate-check tag from the airline agent.
Can I bring my baby carrier on the plane with me?
Yes, most airlines will allow you to bring your baby carrier on the plane with you.
The Pros of Checking in Baby Gear at the Airport
Checking in your baby gear at the airport can make traveling with a baby or young child much easier. You don’t have to worry about lugging around heavy strollers or car seats, and you can rest assured that your gear will be waiting for you at your destination. Plus, most airlines will allow you to check in your baby gear for free.
Tips for Checking in Baby Gear at the Airport
Make sure you check the airline’s policies ahead of time, clean and label your gear, and arrive early to give yourself plenty of time to check in and get through security. If you’re gate-checking your stroller, make sure you get a gate-check tag from the airline agent.
In Summary
Checking in baby gear at the airport can be a breeze if you follow these tips. Make sure you check the airline’s policies ahead of time, clean and label your gear, and arrive early to give yourself plenty of time to check in and get through security. With a little preparation, you can travel with your little one stress-free.