When you’re traveling with a young child, a stroller is an essential piece of equipment. If you’re like many parents, you’ll be hitting the skies with your little one this summer.
Whether it’s a cross-country flight or a short trip to visit family, flying with a stroller can make life much easier. When flying with a stroller, there are a few things you can do to keep it safe. However, strollers can also be airline safety hazards if not properly packed. Here are a few tips on how to protect stroller when flying.
How Do I Keep My Stroller Upright?
When preparing your stroller for a flight, it’s important to keep it upright and secure. This will ensure that all of the parts remain in place and won’t be damaged.
To do this, use a stretch wrap or large rubber bands to secure the handlebars in place. Additionally, you can use a bungee cord or luggage straps around the stroller frame to keep it together and upright.
How Do I Pack My Stroller in My Checked Baggage?
If you’re planning on checking your stroller at baggage claim instead of carrying it onto the plane, make sure that it is properly packed for travel. Start by removing any accessories like rain covers, snack trays, etc, and pack them separately, so they don’t become damaged during transit.
Then cover the wheels with bubble wrap to protect them from scratches and dents, and secure the frame with zip ties or straps. Finally, wrap the entire stroller with bubble wrap or packing paper to add extra protection and secure it with tape.
10 Methods How to Protect Stroller when Flying
1. Get a Travel Bag for Your Stroller.
There are special bags designed specifically for strollers, and these can help to protect your stroller from damage when you are flying. These bags typically have padding or other features that can help to keep your stroller safe. And when you are not using the bag, it can be folded away for easy storage. You may want to buy some extra padding if you think your stroller needs additional protection.
2. Check with the Airline in Advance.
Before you fly, it is a good idea to check with the airline to find out their policies regarding strollers. Some airlines will allow you to check your stroller at the gate, while others may require that you check it at baggage claim. Knowing the policy in advance can help you to be prepared. Although it is rare, some airlines may even provide special stroller handling services that you can take advantage of.
3. Use Padding or Bubble Wrap.
If you do not have a travel bag for your stroller, you can still protect it by using padding or bubble wrap. This can help to cushion your stroller and keep it from being damaged during the flight. You may even want to consider investing in a special cover or bag specifically designed to protect strollers while they are being stored. Nowadays, there is a variety of different bags and covers that are designed to keep your stroller safe.
4. Secure Loose Parts.
Make sure that any loose parts on your stroller are secured before you fly. This includes things like cup holders, sunshades, and toys. You don’t want anything falling off and getting lost or damaged during the flight. However, keep in mind that most airlines will not allow you to bring loose parts on board the plane, so make sure to check with them first. Try to use straps or other methods to secure any loose parts.
5. Keep it Clean.
Before you fly, make sure that your stroller is clean. This will help to prevent any dirt or grime from getting on the plane, and it will also make it easier to spot any damage that may occur during the flight. Also, make sure to remove any food or drink stains, as these can be difficult to clean off once they are on the plane. While you can use mild soap to clean the stroller, do not use any harsh chemicals that could damage the fabric or plastic.
6. Inspect ItBefore and After the Flight.
When you arrive at your destination, take a few minutes to inspect your stroller for any damage that may have occurred during the flight. If you see anything, be sure to report it to the airline so they can reimburse you for the damages. However, if the damage is minor, you can likely fix it yourself. Also, be sure to check your stroller before you even board the plane, as any pre-existing damage may not be covered by the airline.
7. Store It Properly when Not in Use.
When you are not using your stroller, be sure to store it properly to prevent any damage from occurring. If possible, keep it in its travel bag or cover it with a blanket or towel so that it is protected from dirt and debris. However, make sure that it is still easily accessible in case you need to use it quickly. And if you are storing it in a closet or other enclosed space, be sure to keep it away from any sharp objects that could damage the fabric.
8. Avoid Checking It if You Can.
If possible, try to avoid checking your stroller when you fly. This can help to reduce the chance that it will get damaged during the flight. And if you do have to check it, be sure to wrap it with padding or bubble wrap so that it is protected from any jostling during the flight. However, if you are not able to bring it on board, be sure to check with the airline regarding their stroller policies first. Knowing the policy in advance can help to ensure that your stroller is well taken care of.
9. Keep It with You Whenever Possible.
If you can, try to keep your stroller with you at all times on the plane or in the airport. This way, you can monitor it and be sure that it is not getting damaged by other people or mishandled by the airline staff. However, you should also make sure to follow the airline’s rules regarding strollers when you are on board. If you need to stow it, be sure to securely attach it so that it does not move during the flight.
10. Label It Clearly.
Make sure that your stroller has a clearly visible label so that you and others can easily identify it as yours when you are flying. This will also help to ensure that your stroller gets returned to you quickly if it does get misplaced during the flight. Although most airlines don’t have specific rules regarding stroller labeling, it is still a good idea to label yours. This way, you can be sure that your stroller is returned to you quickly and safely.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your stroller stays safe and in good condition no matter where you fly. Just remember to always check with the airline regarding their policies and guidelines first and to use straps or other methods to secure any loose parts.
Additionally, be sure to inspect your stroller before and after the flight, store it properly when not in use, avoid checking it if you can, keep it with you whenever possible, and label it clearly. Doing these things will help to ensure that your stroller is safe during your travels.
Things to Consider When Protecting Stroller When Flying:
1. Make a Plan:
Before you fly with your stroller, take the time to make a plan for how you will manage it. Consider where you will store it, how you will transport it, and if there are any extra steps that might be necessary for your specific airline.
2. Size of the Stroller:
Depending on the size of your stroller, you may need to check with the airline regarding their restrictions and regulations concerning it. Larger or bulkier strollers may not be allowed in-cabin and require extra fees upon check-in.
3. Check Baggage Policies:
Be sure to check your airline’s baggage policies before flying to make sure you understand what type of stroller can travel with you free of charge and which ones require additional fees.
4. Label Your Stroller:
Make sure that all parts of your stroller are clearly labeled with your name and contact information. This will help you to recognize your stroller if it gets lost, as well as make sure that it is returned to you promptly by airport staff.
5. Pack Extra Accessories:
If possible, separate the wheels and other components of the stroller into a smaller, lightweight bag so they can be easily carried onboard with your personal items.
Conclusion:
Although it may be daunting to fly with a stroller, following the steps above can help make the process much smoother. The most important thing is to remember that you are not alone—many parents have navigated this process before and come out successful (and sane) on the other side.
With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can do this too. By following these tips on how to protect stroller when flying, you can protect your stroller and ensure that it will be waiting for you when you arrive at your destination.
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