Flying With a Baby: Can You Bring a Car Seat on a Plane?
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What You’ll Learn
- Whether you can bring a car seat on a plane
- How to tell if your car seat is approved for aircraft use
- How to install a car seat using an airplane seat belt
- When a child needs a separate ticketed seat
- Why a window seat is usually the best place for a car seat
- What to ask your airline before your flight
- How checking a car seat works at the counter or gate
- Why can booster seats not be used on airplanes
- What major airlines generally allow for car seats
- Renting a car seat at your destination may be the easier option
TL;DR
Yes, you can bring a car seat on a plane, and for many young children, it is the safest option during a flight. Before you travel, make sure the seat is approved for aircraft use, check your airline’s rules, and plan to install it with the airplane seat belt in a window seat if your child has their own ticketed seat. If you do not want to carry your car seat through the airport, many airlines let you check it for free, or you can rent a clean, safety-checked car seat at your destination.
When it comes to airplane travel, many parents want everything they need to know in one place before leaving home. Having a new addition to the family doesn’t have to mean putting off family vacations. You can enjoy traveling even with a baby in tow. But can you bring a car seat on a plane? The answer is you absolutely can.
You Can Bring Your Car Seat on a Plane
Not only can you bring your car seat, but the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) strongly encourage travelers to bring an infant car seat while flying with a baby. These seats help to protect against turbulence. The car seat will help to keep your baby safe in their seat. For many young children, a car seat is the safest option during a flight.
How to Bring a Car Seat on an Airplane
If you plan to bring your car seat on the plane, first make sure it’s approved for use on aircraft; you can confirm this on the label. Most airline-approved car seats include wording that confirms they are certified for both motor vehicles and aircraft. It is also a good idea to check with your airline before travel, since seating rules and size restrictions can vary.
At the airport, you can carry the car seat through security and install it on board if your child has their own seat. In most cases, the car seat should be placed in a window seat so it does not block other passengers. You will use the airplane seat belt to secure the seat, and you usually do not need to bring the base.
If you do not want to carry your own car seat through the airport, you may also choose to check it at the counter or gate, depending on the airline’s policy. Another simple option is to rent a clean, safety-checked car seat at your destination so you can travel lighter while still having the gear you need.
How to Install a Car Seat on a Plane
When you choose to bring an infant car seat on plane, you should check to ensure that the seat is FAA-approved. It should be safe for flights. There should be a statement indicating that it is certified for use in motor vehicles as well as aircraft.
Installing the seat on the plane is as easy as installing it in a motor vehicle. Simply use the airplane’s seatbelts to secure it. Follow the directions on the seat for installation. However, you don’t need a seat base for the seat. You therefore don’t need to bring it with you.
Holding Your Baby on Your Lap
Airlines allow you to hold your child on your lap if they are under the age of 2. It will also make it easier to board and disembark from the plane as you won’t have to deal with a bulky car seat. However, holding your child on your lap will keep your hands full for the duration of the flight. Having a car seat will help to keep your hands free. You will be more rested when the flight comes to an end.
Tips for Bringing a Car Seat on a Plane
Check That Your Car Seat Is Approved for Air Travel
Before travelling with a car seat on an airplane, look for the label showing that your car seat is certified for use in both motor vehicles and aircraft. This is one of the first things to confirm before bringing a seat aboard.
Buy a Seat for Your Child
Before using a car seat on a plane, your child will need their own ticketed seat. Using an approved car seat during the flight can help keep your child more secure and comfortable.
Review Your Airline’s Car Seat Rules
Airlines may have different requirements for car seats, including where they can be placed and whether there are size restrictions. Checking ahead can help you avoid surprises at the airport.
Install the Seat with the Airplane Seat Belt
Car seats used on airplanes are typically installed with the aircraft’s seat belt. In most cases, you do not need to bring the base onto the plane.
Choose a Window Seat When Possible
A window seat is often the best location for a car seat because it does not block other passengers from getting in and out of the row.
Give Yourself Extra Time at the Airport
Traveling with a car seat can slow things down at check-in, security, and boarding. Arriving early gives you more time to move through the airport without added stress.
Use a Travel Bag or Cart for Easier Transport
A car seat can be awkward to carry through the airport. A travel bag, backpack-style carrier, or small cart can make it much easier to manage.
Consider Renting a Car Seat at Your Destination
If you prefer to travel lighter, renting a clean, safety-checked car seat at your destination can be a convenient alternative to bringing your own.
Be Sure to Check with the Airline Ahead of Time
It is important to note that different airlines have different rules when it comes to car seats. If you intend to bring a baby car seat on plane you should check with the specific airline to confirm its rules for car seats. Ask questions such as:
- Do you allow children to sit on an adult’s lap? What age range is this allowed for?
- Can I place a car seat on the plane’s seat?
- What rows am I allowed to have a car seat?
- Do I need to inform the airline if I intend to come with my car seat or if I choose to have my child sit on my lap?
This is especially helpful when you’re flying with a baby for the first time.
Checking Car Seats
Many airlines will allow you to check your car seat so that you can have it with you when you board the plane. Many of these airlines will not include the car seat as hand luggage. You therefore won’t have to pay a few dollars in order to check them.
Booster seats can’t be used on the plane. However, car booster seats are considered checked baggage at no extra fee, and you may bring them with you.
Car Seat Airline Policy
Most airlines follow the same basic rules for car seats:
- Your child usually needs their own ticketed seat to use a car seat on board.
- The car seat should be approved for aircraft use.
- Window seats are often preferred because they do not block other passengers.
- Many airlines allow car seats to be checked at no extra charge.
American Airlines
American Airlines allows most car seats that are approved for use in motor vehicles and aircraft, as long as they meet the airline’s requirements. Some premium cabin seats may not allow car seats, so it is important to review aircraft-specific restrictions before flying.
Delta Air Lines
Delta allows approved child restraint systems on board, but the seat must fit safely in the aircraft seat. Booster seats cannot be used during the flight, and some aircraft seat types may have additional limitations.
United Airlines
United accepts FAA-approved car seats in certain seats, including some basic economy bookings. A window seat is preferred, although a middle seat may work in some cases if it does not block access to the aisle.
Southwest Airlines
Southwest generally allows approved car seats on board when a child has purchased a seat. As with other airlines, placement and fit are important.
Check With Your Airline Before You Fly
Even though many airline policies are similar, details can vary by carrier and aircraft type. Before your trip, confirm whether your car seat can be used on board, where it can be installed, and whether it can be checked for free.
Renting a Car Seat Instead of Bringing Your Own
If you’re planning a trip to Oahu, don’t go through the hassle of carrying your own car seat. Rent a car seat from our website instead. We offer travelers access to a wide range of equipment to make their stay more comfortable. Visit our website to rent equipment for your trip in Oahu and we’ll have it ready and waiting for you when you arrive. There’s no better way to travel.
FAQs About Flying with a Baby
1. Can You Take Your Car Seat on a Plane?
Yes. You can bring a car seat on a plane if it is approved for aircraft use and your child has their own ticketed seat. The FAA says an approved child restraint system is the safest place for a child under age 2.
2. Can You Fly with a Stroller?
Yes, you can usually fly with a stroller. Many parents bring a stroller through the airport, use it until boarding, and then gate-check it for the flight. You may also be able to check it at the ticket counter, depending on your airline’s policy.
3. Can My Baby Sit On My Lap During the Flight?
In many cases, yes. Airlines generally allow children under age 2 to travel as lap infants, but safety experts recommend using an approved restraint system whenever possible.
4. Do I Need to Buy a Separate Seat for My Baby?
You usually only need to buy a separate seat if you want to use a car seat on board or prefer your child to have their own space during the flight. For safety, the FAA recommends a separate seat with an approved child restraint system for young children.
5. Can I Bring Formula, Breast Milk, or Baby Food Through Security?
Yes. TSA allows formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby food in quantities over the usual liquid limit. You should let the TSA officer know at the start of screening that you are carrying these items.
6. Can I Check a Car Seat and Stroller for Free?
Many airlines allow families to check a car seat and stroller at no extra cost, but the exact policy depends on the airline. It is always best to confirm with your carrier before you travel.
7. Can a Booster Seat Be Used on an Airplane?
No. Booster seats generally cannot be used on airplanes because they require a shoulder belt. They can usually be checked and used later in a car at your destination.
8. Is it Safe to Fly with a Newborn?
HealthyChildren notes that babies should not fly during the first 7 days of life, and for infection reasons it is generally preferable not to fly before 2 to 3 months of age when possible. If a newborn is unwell, a doctor should clear them before air travel.
9. What is the Easiest Way to Travel Lighter with a Baby?
Many families choose to rent larger gear, such as a car seat, stroller, crib, or high chair, at their destination instead of bringing everything from home. For travelers visiting Oahu, this can make airport arrivals and transfers much easier.
