Traveling with young children can be an adventure, and navigating airports and airplanes with a pushchair (or stroller) adds another layer of complexity. Many parents wonder about the best ways to manage their pushchair when flying. Drawing on advice from experienced parents, this guide provides essential tips to ensure smooth airplane travel with your travel pushchair.
1. Protect Your Pushchair with a Travel Stroller Bag
Airport baggage handling can be tough on luggage, and pushchairs are no exception. Investing in a durable travel stroller bag is a smart move to shield your pushchair during flights. These bags are typically waterproof, protecting against moisture and dirt, and crucially, they help prevent scratches, scuffs, and more significant damage to the frame and fabric of your pushchair.
Image alt text: A black Diono brand stroller bag encasing a folded stroller, protecting it for airplane travel.
Mumsnet users share their experiences:
“I’ve never had a pram be damaged while flying but they do get thrown around. Some airlines (Emirates and Air Canada that I’ve used) give you big bags to put prams and car seats in. They are only plastic though so wouldn’t protect against more than scratches.” – Jestem
“We had a stroller bag from Amazon (think the brand was Diono?) and it was great. We did 5/6 overseas trips with no damage.” – Daisy2990
A quality stroller bag is your first line of defense in keeping your travel pushchair in good condition throughout your journey.
2. Consider a Cabin-Sized Travel Pushchair for Airport Ease
While checking your pushchair into the hold is common, it means you’ll be without it from check-in until baggage claim at your destination. For parents with babies or toddlers who are not yet confident walkers, this can make navigating through passport control and airport terminals challenging. Opting for a compact, cabin-sized travel pushchair that meets airline carry-on dimensions can be a game-changer. This allows you to keep your pushchair with you right up to boarding and immediately upon disembarking, making airport transits significantly less stressful.
“You can always take it to the gate when you board but I rarely get it back when we get off, it always goes to luggage collection. I ended up buying one I could take on board with me and put in the overhead bin or under the seat. Lifesaver when I travelled solo with my son.” – MissMooMoo
“I’d definitely recommend a carry-on stroller. Super easy to use and no having to carry your baby through the airport if they don’t bring it up to the aircraft door.” – TroubledLichen
Choosing a travel pushchair designed for airplane cabins offers unparalleled convenience for families on the move.
3. Maximize Protection for Hold Luggage Pushchairs
If you plan to check your pushchair into the airplane hold, taking extra steps to protect it is wise. Padding vulnerable parts like handlebars with bubble wrap or foam provides added cushioning. Cable ties can be useful for securing the folded pushchair, preventing it from unfolding during handling. Detaching accessories like cup holders or bumper bars can also prevent them from being broken or lost in transit. Some airports offer plastic wrapping services, which can provide an extra layer of protection by sealing the entire pushchair unit.
“If you have to check in a pram with your luggage there’s that plastic wrap machine you could use. Squeeze it as tightly shut as possible and wrap away – may prevent some damage.” – KathArtic
Taking these preventative measures can significantly reduce the risk of damage to your pushchair when it’s transported in the airplane hold.
4. Think About a Budget-Friendly Travel Pushchair
Unless you are a frequent flyer, investing in a premium, easily foldable travel pushchair might not be necessary, especially given the rough handling pushchairs can sometimes endure during air travel. A practical alternative is to purchase a more affordable, budget-friendly stroller specifically for travel. This option meets your immediate travel needs without the worry of significant financial loss if it gets damaged or goes missing on your return journey.
“Don’t take an expensive pram on a plane. They get chucked all over the place. It could get broken or lost. Get a cheap holiday one.” – DearMrDilkington
A less expensive travel pushchair can be a sensible choice for occasional air travel, minimizing stress about potential damage to a pricier model.
5. Utilize a Sling or Baby Carrier for Airport Mobility
When you check your pushchair, especially if it’s gate-checked and not returned until baggage claim, a sling or baby carrier becomes invaluable. Navigating from the airplane to baggage reclaim can be a considerable distance. A sling or carrier allows you to keep your baby close and secure, freeing up both hands for managing passports, boarding passes, and luggage retrieval.
Image alt text: Front-facing baby carrier in grey, showing a secure and comfortable way to carry a baby through the airport.
“I’d recommend a sling as while you drop the stroller off at the gate on departure you often don’t get it back till baggage reclaim on the other side and it’s a bit of a walk sometimes!” – Bipbipbipbip
A baby carrier or sling is an essential companion for seamless airport navigation when your travel pushchair is checked.
6. Review Your Travel Insurance Coverage
If you are traveling with a more expensive travel pushchair, it’s prudent to check your travel insurance policy before your trip. Ensure you are adequately covered for potential loss or damage to your pushchair during your travels. Some policies offer specific add-ons or waivers for valuables, which might be worth considering for peace of mind.
“Check out your insurance, I paid an excess waiver for less than £10 for a year. That way if it’s damaged I’m covered.” – wwwwwwwwwwwwww
Understanding your travel insurance coverage can provide financial protection and reassurance when flying with your travel pushchair.
By following these tips, gleaned from the experiences of other parents, you can approach airplane travel with your pushchair with greater confidence and preparedness, ensuring a smoother journey for your family.
