Babies and young children can be difficult to fly with.Things can get a little tricky when there are diaper changes, missed nap times, and lots of luggage.You can make your trip easier by checking a car seat.It's a good idea to plan ahead and know where you're going.
Step 1: Do you want to bring the entire car seat?
Decide if you will bring the whole car seat or just the seat part.The bases that hold the rear-facing and infant car seats are secured in cars.The base is required for some car seats.Should you bring the base on your trip?It is an extra hassle and a large item to take care of, but can be safer if you plan on spending a long time in the car.You can't bring the whole thing for convertible car seats for older children.
Step 2: Before you leave, ask the airline about the regulations on car seats.
An airline representative should be able to answer your questions.Some airlines treat car seats like carry-on luggage, others will let you check them out for free, and some will charge a fee for it.Many airlines don't accept liability for damage to car seats.Bring a printed copy of the airline car seat policy with you to the airport to make sure there are no issues.Depending on the guidelines of the airline, you can either luggage check, gate check or bring the car seat onto the plane.
Step 3: It's a good idea to check your car seat as luggage.
If you want to check the car seat at the main reservation desk, you can take it to the baggage claim carousel at your destination.You don't have to worry about taking the car seat to the airport or putting it through a metal detector if you check it as luggage.
Step 4: There is a chance of the car seat getting damaged.
It is less safe and effective for your children to use a car seat that is oddly shaped due to the fact that it can easily be damaged.Wrap the car seat in bubble wrap or place it in a large box to protect it.It's a good idea to put it in a large plastic bag to keep it dry.
Step 5: Follow the airline regulations and check your car seat with the rest of your luggage.
It needs to be labeled with your contact information and marked as fragile.
Step 6: The seat at the gate has advantages and disadvantages.
It is possible to check your car seat at the gate before you board the plane.If you double check with your airline, baby items can be gate checked for free.Gate checking is only available for domestic flights, and is great for smaller babies who sit in their car seat clipped into a stroller.It avoids being put through baggage claim because it is the last thing on the plane and the first thing off, and it also reduces the amount of damage to the car seat.You have to bring the items through security if you check them at the gate.
Step 7: You should alert the gate agent of your flight if you want to check a car seat.
They will provide a baggage claim label and gate check ticket.You can leave the car seat at the end of the ramp if you want to get on the plane.
Step 8: The baby seat should be unloaded at the end of the ramp.
When you reach your destination, gate check items are brought to the end of the ramp.If you are quick off the plane, you may have to wait on the ramp for a few minutes.
Step 9: You will have to buy a ticket for your baby.
It is possible to bring a car seat with you on the plane.You will have to buy a ticket for a child under two to get their own seat for the car seat.If you don't buy a ticket and bring your child on the plane as a lap child, you will have to wait to see if there are empty seats before you can use the car seat.
Step 10: It's a good idea to bring a car seat on the plane.
The advantage of having a car seat on the plane is that it is safer for infants.It also frees up space and allows parents to enjoy the flight or help other children instead of having a baby on their lap.As soon as you get to the destination, you have the car seat, so you don't have to worry about damage.
Step 11: The FAA approved the car seat.
If you want to bring a car seat on the plane, make sure it is clearly marked.Most major car seats fall into this category.
Step 12: You should be able to be flexible with where you sit.
You should be aware of the rules regarding having a car seat on the plane, because some flight attendants may make you move to a different seat.Car seats aren't allowed in exit rows and are placed in window seats to avoid blocking other passengers
Step 13: It's important to collect the right car seat.
Getting your luggage and car seat when you get off the plane is your top priority.Make sure the car seat is yours before you take it away.
Step 14: Don't expect reimbursement if you report any damage to the airline.
Try to report the damage to the airline.Most of the time the airlines are not liable for damages to fragile items.