Travelling with children is very different than flying solo as an adult, especially if your little one is still at the age where they need a pram to get around. Today, we’re going to look at how you can pack a pram for a flight, look at size rules, the benefits of taking a pram on your vacation, and ways you can ensure a smooth ride for your family.
Key Points
- Travelling with a stroller can make flying a more enjoyable experience for both parents and children.
- You can place your stroller in a travel bag to keep it safe from damage while stored in the overhead locker or the cargo hold.
- When travelling with a pram, parents may consider gate-checking or checking in the stroller as checked baggage.
- Parents should label their strollers with names, contact information, and an easily noticeable string or ribbon.
- Whether taking domestic or international flights, a lightweight stroller may make your travel journey easier.
- Most airlines allow you to bring a stroller and car seat free of charge.
- Always check airline websites or call and speak to a staff member to get the most accurate information about travelling with strollers.
- Babywearing is a safe stroller alternative for parents who prefer to travel stroller-free.
Content in this article:
- Can You Bring A Pram On A Plane?
- What Size Pram Can You Bring On A Plane?
- Do I Need To Put My Stroller In A Bag At The Airport?
- How To Pack A Stroller For A Flight?
- What Do I Need To Consider At The Airport When Travelling With A Pram?
- How To Protect Your Stroller When Travelling Through An Airport?
- How To Travel With A Stroller Easily?
- How To Check Stroller Policies For Different Airlines?
- What Are The Benefits Of Travelling With A Stroller?
- What Are Some Safe Alternatives To A Stroller When Travelling?
Can You Bring A Pram On A Plane?
Rules tend to vary between airlines, with some allowing you to bring a pram on as a carry on, while others will require you to check in the pram along with other luggage.
Generally speaking, however, most airlines will allow you to take a pram onto a plane as long as it is compact and lightweight enough to meet their cabin baggage allowance.
It’s always best to check with your airline ahead of your flight or before you book your tickets and, if need be, invest in a travel pram that is airline-certified.
What Size Pram Can You Bring On A Plane?
This also depends entirely on the airline you’re travelling with, as each has its own size and weight restrictions for cabin luggage. Here are some of the most popular Australian airlines’ pram size allowances:
- Jetstar: 56cm x 36cm x 23cm in size and 7kg in weight
- QANTAS: 56cm x 36cm x 23cm in size and 10kg in weight
- Rex Airlines: 56cm x 36cm x 23cm in size and 7kg-15kg in weight depending on fare type
- Virgin Australia: 56cm x 36cm x 23cm in size and 7kg in weight
You should be good to take your pram onboard if it meets these size requirements and you’re travelling with one of these airlines. However, we’d still recommend checking ahead of your flight for any recently updated policies.
Do I Need To Put My Stroller In A Bag At The Airport?
You do not need to put your stroller in a bag at the airport. However, it’s usually a good idea to invest in a stroller bag as this will help to keep your pram protected from bumps and scratches caused by rubbing against other luggage or the plane itself.
It’s also highly recommended to place your pram in a stroller bag if you plan to leave it at the check in desk so it can be placed on the plane with the rest of your luggage.
Placing your stroller in a protective bag will also help make identifying it at baggage claim much easier. You’ll also have a place to store essentials such as nappies, wet wipes, blankets, and cuddly toys if you’re taking the pram on the plane.
How To Pack A Stroller For A Flight?
You should know how to pack it when it’s time to board the flight if you have decided to travel with your pram. Below we have listed a few tips you can use to get ready for your flight:
Use A Stroller Bag
Investing in a stroller bag that has wheels or a backpack-style bag will help keep your pram protected throughout the flight. The versatile mobility these items offer will also make transporting your baby’s stroller easier as you board and depart and as you make your way through airport security.
Dismantle Certain Parts
Take apart the stroller and separate it into smaller parts where possible. This may seem like a bit of an effort, but it will make it easier to fit into the bag and save space by not taking up so much room on your flight.
Utilise Your Stroller Bag’s Storage
Many stroller bags feature small pockets that can be used to store baby milk or any other items that would usually be stored in your stroller while the pram is out of action. This also gives you the opportunity to increase your luggage allowance without having to pay extra if you pack cleverly enough!
Tag Your Stroller
Whether you’re handing your pram over to baggage handlers or you are taking it onto the plane, make sure you tag the stroller and any car seats with your name, contact information, and a location tracker.
What Do I Need To Consider At The Airport When Travelling With A Pram?
Most airlines offer several options for families who are travelling with a stroller. Depending on what’s available at your airline of choice, here are some things you might want to consider doing ahead of your flight.
Request Assistance At The Check In Desk
Most airlines have policies to assist passengers with strollers, so you can ask the check-in staff for assistance. Call your airline ahead of time to see if this is a service offered at the time of checking in or if you need to book ahead of time.
Gate Check Your Stroller
Some airlines will let you check your stroller at the gate so you don’t have to worry about struggling up the steps or onto the plane with it. Instead, a member of the cabin crew will take it from you and place it on the plane before you board. It will then be then be returned to you at the departure gate.
Rent A Stroller
Most airports have a stroller rental service, where you can rent a stroller for the duration of your trip. This is a great alternative if you don’t want the stress of bringing a stroller from home.
Check In Your Stroller As Checked Baggage
You can check in a stroller as checked baggage, and it will be returned to you at the baggage carousel. This option is great for you if you don’t want the hassle of folding your baby’s stroller to pack in the overhead bin of the aircraft.
How To Protect Your Stroller When Travelling Through An Airport?
When travelling with a stroller at the airport, there are some steps you can take to ensure it remains in tip-top shape. First, use a stroller bag to protect the stroller from dirt and damage. You will also want to clearly label your baby’s pram with your name, address, and contact information. To make the stroller easier to spot, it’s a good idea to attach a brightly coloured ribbon or tag to it.
You can also inform the airline staff that you are checking a stroller ahead of time and ask for assistance. Lastly, try to gate-check the stroller and pick it up at the gate before you disembark. Following these steps can help ensure your baby’s stroller is safe and sound when travelling at the airport.
How To Travel With A Stroller Easily?
Travelling with a stroller isn’t the easiest thing in the world, but with a little forward planning, it doesn’t have to be too difficult. As with anything in life, it’s all about getting organised!
One of the best things you can do to make travelling with a stroller easier is to invest in a lightweight stroller that is easy to fold and store. There are also purpose-built travel strollers that comply with most airline requirements, and if you have the budget or travel frequently, these are definitely worth purchasing.
You can also make travelling with a stroller much easier by utilising your chosen airline’s stroller check-in service at the airport. This will allow you to get through the airport with greater ease, take off the stress when it comes to collapsing your stroller with a queue of passengers behind you, and generally make life much easier.
It’s also super important that you double-check your airline’s pram size and weight regulations before you travel and, ideally, before you even book your flight. Doing this will give you a clear idea of whether or not you’ll be able to carry your pram onto the plane or if you’ll need to hand it over with the rest of your luggage.
You may also want to consider renting a stroller from the airport or when you reach your destination if you don’t want to lug yours around. This can save space in your vehicle on the way to the airport as well, leaving more room for suitcases and anything else you need.
How To Check Stroller Policies For Different Airlines?
There are a few different things you need to check before travelling with a stroller, and each airline will have its own policies. The best thing to do is call your chosen airline’s customer service team or visit their website, which will likely have a dedicated page on their stroller policies.
When researching, the main things you need to look out for are highlighted below:
- Stroller size restrictions
- Stroller weight restrictions
- Gate check procedure
It’s also a good idea to check if the airline implements an additional fee for strollers, as this could be a hidden fee that you only discover at the check-in desk.
What Are The Benefits Of Travelling With A Stroller?
There are several benefits to travelling with a stroller, especially if you have a very young child in your family. First of all, they provide convenience and comfort for your child along with a place that offers some familiarity of home while they are in a new environment.
A stroller also helps ensure that your child is kept safe and close by in crowded areas. More so, if your stroller features a child restraint system, it will help ensure they don’t run off should something exciting catch their eye.
A stroller also provides some extra storage space while you’re out and about, giving you a place to keep your child’s essentials as you adventure around your chosen destination. This means you may not need a backpack, taking some of the pressure off your shoulders as you explore.
A pram will also allow your child to rest their legs when tired and take a nap while you explore, making travel experiences much more comfortable for the entire family.
What Are Some Safe Alternatives To A Stroller When Travelling?
Travelling with a stroller may not be appealing to everyone, and you may want to take the stroller-free route. Below we have highlighted a few stroller alternatives that may work better for you while travelling:
Babywearing
Babywearing can be a great option for on-the-go parents as it allows parents to keep their hands free and their babies close. Not to mention, many different types of carriers are lightweight, comfortable, and easy to pack, which is ideal for travelling.
Travel Bassinet
A travel bassinet can be a convenient way to offer your baby a comfortable place to rest while travelling, as they are usually lightweight, foldable, and easy to carry.
Baby Travel Bag
A baby travel bag is another good baby carrier option for parents who plan to do a lot of walking or hiking while on the go, as they provide support, comfort, and storage while keeping your hands free.
Umbrella Stroller
An umbrella stroller is a lightweight, portable, and easy-to-carry option that takes up minimal space and is particularly good if you don’t want to travel with your stroller because it’s big and bulky. These strollers can easily fit through the aircraft door and are great for short trips because they can be stored in the aircraft’s overhead locker.
Conclusion
Travelling with strollers can be a great way to explore the world with your children. It provides a convenient way to get around with your little ones, a great way to bond with your children and create memories without the stress of having back strain or a cranky baby looking for a comfortable seat. With the correct planning, you can have an enjoyable and comfortable journey. However, be sure to consider the size of the stroller, the available space, and the terrain you will be travelling on ahead of your flights.