Gate checking a stroller and baggage restrictions?

Question

I know that most airlines have a "one free checked bag per person" rule, but where does a gate checked stroller fit? If we gate check a stroller does that count as the one checked item, or will we be able to check a bag for our toddler as well as the stroller with out any additional fees?

Answer 1

We actually got back 2 weeks ago from a flight to Puerto Rico for my grandpa's funeral. The stroller was checked at the gate and it did not count as "the bag" or anything. It was separate. So, you can have your bag and the stroller. On the way back, my son even "had a bag", lol. Good luck on the plane. I suggest books, books, books. I asked a question before we left and got zero responses, so I am happy to help. (I think people were mad at me or something, since sometimes I "go off", but I am weird and psycho, so whatever.) Have fun.

***EDIT*** That would explain it. I asked in 2 times, lol. Anyways, yes you can have a bag AND the stroller AND a car seat if you choose to. The stroller and/or car seat will NOT  cost more. We did American Airlines. Remember that it MAY be different with each airline. Make sure you call in advance just to make sure; better safe than sorry.

AND, lol, lift off was not bad at all for my son. It was the landing that really affected him. Someone said something about an ear infection...they don't know what they are talking about. Pressure won't cause an infection. I think you know that anyways. Just make sure you sit by the window, cause my son really calmed down seeing out it.

Answer 2

Last month, I traveled from GA to MI with my then 6 week old son. Airtran let me check in a stroller and car seat free of charge. I still had my one bag and two carry on items (purse & diaper bag)

Answer 3

we just came back from a multi-city trip: 5 planes. and, no, not once were we charged for gate checking the stroller. nor were we charged for checking the car seat. it didn't count as a bag at all. we flew american. we have flown jet blue and virgin as well and were not charged for the gate checked stroller.

Answer 4

its 2 free carry ons and the stroller can be checked at the gate and be given to you right after you get out of the plane...  its great... they are usually really good about havin kids on the plane. so have fun... o ya try to take a toy to calm him or her during lift off. have him/her suck on sumthin to avoid ear infection

Answer 5

I just recently returned from a trip via airplane.  You may want to double check with your airline about the free checked bag.  I flew on US Airways and my friend met me at our destination flying on American.  Both of us had to pay $15 for EVERY checked bag.  No free baggage check at least on those 2 airlines.  I noticed a lot of people using larger carry on bags which on the airlines we flew, you are allowed one carry on that fits the size criteria plus one personal item such as a tote bag, diaper bag, brief case or backpack.  I don't believe that items such as strollers, wheelchairs, walkers, and musical instruments (we flew with my son's cello one time so he could attend an audition for entrance to an out of state college) count towards your number of checked bags.  Your best bet is to call or e-mail the airlines you will be flying on.  I like to use e-mail personally for these types of inquiries as you can print out and bring with you the reply you receive.  As of my flight that I just took, it looked as though most airlines were charging for all checked baggage.  ADDED:  I do believe the fees for checked baggage is fairly new.  I flew out on Sat., Aug. 9 and returned Aug. 12 and had to pay $15 to check my suitcase both going out and coming back.

Answer 6

Since I know you're in Idaho I'm going to take a chance that you might be flying Horizon out of IF.  Horizon/Alaska Air lets you check a stroller in addition to the luggage you're allowed to check.  They will also let you Ala Carte it so you can put in onto the airplane on the tarmac and then get it again right away as soon as you exit the plane.  It may be the same for other airlines but Horizon is the only one I have experience with.  Whether you can check a bag for him in addition to the stroller depends on whether you bought him his own ticket.  If he's riding as a lap infant then his bag will fall under your checked bag limit.

Answer 7

I'm getting ready to fly to CO from OH in a couple weeks with United.  We have to pay $15 for one checked bag, $25 if we have two bags, and up...but the stroller and car seat are not counted as checked baggage.  This is a new baggage rule for them just starting this month.

Answer 8

You can check your regular suitcases AND take the stroller into the terminal.  When you get ready to board the plane, ask the people checking tickets for a  special tag to put on your stroller to check it at the door to the plane.  You can roll the stroller down the ramp right up to the plane.  Make your child get out, fold up the stroller and you either give it to the person right there or leave it with others you may see.  When you get off the plane you have to wait right at the entrance of the plane and they will bring it to you.  Very easy.