Do Booster Seats Count as Checked Baggage? A Complete Guide

Published on: September 3, 2023
Written by Evander Mac / Fact-checked by Jamal Haider

Booster seats do count as checked baggage. Airlines usually allow parents to check booster seats for free.

Traveling with children involves a lot of preparation and carrying essential items like booster seats. Booster seats are crucial for the safety of your child during car rides at your destination.

Most airlines, including American Airlines, allow parents to check in booster seats for free as it is considered a necessary child item. This is a relief for parents as they do not have to worry about additional charges. It is advisable to pack the booster seat in a booster seat bag to protect it from dirt and damage.

If you are traveling with a 4-year-old, it is recommended to bring a car seat for the plane ride as the FAA approves car seats but not booster seats for use during flight.

Remember to check the airline’s policy before you travel as it may vary from one airline to another. Also, make sure to pack the booster seat properly to ensure its safety during transit. For more detailed information on traveling with children and necessary preparations, read the detailed article below.

do booster seats count as checked baggage

Do Booster Seats Count as Checked Baggage?

Traveling with children can be a bit of a hassle, especially when it comes to carrying all their essential items. One of the most important items is the booster seat. It’s crucial for the safety of your child during car rides at your destination. But do booster seats count as checked baggage? Let’s find out.

Airline Policies on Booster Seats

Free Checking of Booster Seats

Most airlines, including American Airlines and Delta, allow parents to check in booster seats for free as it is considered a necessary child item. This is a relief for parents as they do not have to worry about additional charges. However, it is always advisable to check the airline’s policy before you travel as it may vary from one airline to another.

Airline Specific Policies (American Airlines, Delta, etc.)

Different airlines have different policies regarding the checking of booster seats. For example, American Airlines allows one car s eat or booster seat to be checked for free for each child. Similarly, Delta also allows one car seat or booster seat to be checked for free. It is recommended to check the airline’s website or contact their customer service for specific details.

FAA Approved Seats for Air Travel

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approves car seats but not booster seats for use during flight. It is recommended to bring a car seat for the plane ride if you are traveling with a 4-year-old or younger child. Make sure the car seat is labeled as certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft.

Packing Tips for Booster Seats

Using a Booster Seat Bag

It is advisable to pack the booster seat in a booster seat bag to protect it from dirt and damage during transit. These bags are specially designed to fit booster seats and often come with handles or straps for easy carrying.

Protecting the Booster Seat

Apart from using a booster seat bag, you can also wrap the booster seat in a large plastic bag or bubble wrap to protect it from scratches and dirt. Make sure to secure it properly with tape or straps.

Backless Booster Seat on Airplane

Backless booster seats are more compact and easier to carry compared to high-back booster seats. However, as mentioned earlier, the FAA does not approve booster seats for use during flight. It is recommended to use a car seat instead.

Safety Recommendations

Car Seat vs Booster Seat for Air Travel

While booster seats are essential for car rides, they are not approved for use during flight. Car seats are recommended for air travel as they provide better support and protection for your child. Make sure the car seat is FAA approved and labeled as certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft.

Does a 4-Year-Old Need a Car Seat on Plane?

Yes, it is recommended to use a car seat for children aged 4 or younger during flight. The FAA approves car seats but not booster seats for use during flight. Make sure the car seat is labeled as certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft.

FAA Approved Booster Seat

The FAA does not approve booster seats for use during flight. It is recommended to use an FAA-approved car seat instead. Make sure the car seat is labeled as certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft.

Traveling Internationally

Policies of International Airlines

International airlines may have different policies regarding the checking of booster seats. It is recommended to check the airline’s website or contact their customer service for specific details. Most international airlines allow parents to check in booster seats for free as it is considered a necessary child item.

International Travel Safety Recommendations

When traveling internationally, it is recommended to follow the same safety recommendations as domestic travel. Use an FAA-approved car seat for the flight and a booster seat for car rides at your destination.

Comparison Tables for Different Airline

Airline Policies on Checking Booster Seats

Airline	Policy
American Airlines	Allows one car seat or booster seat to be checked for free for each child.
Delta	Allows one car seat or booster seat to be checked for free.
United Airlines	Allows one car seat or booster seat to be checked for free.

FAA Approved Car and Booster Seats

Brand	Model	Type	FAA Approved
Graco	Nautilus 65 LX 3-in-1 Harness Booster	Car Seat/Booster Seat	Yes (Car Seat mode only)
Chicco	MyFit Harness + Booster Car Seat	Car Seat/Booster Seat	Yes (Car Seat mode only)

Tips for a Smooth Journey

Keeping Your Child Comfortable

Keeping your child comfortable during the flight is crucial for a smooth journey. Make sure to bring their favorite toys, snacks, and a blanket to keep them entertained and comfortable. Also, make sure to dress them in comfortable clothes and bring an extra set of clothes just in case.

tips for a smooth journey

Navigating the Airport with a Booster Seat

Navigating the airport with a booster seat can be a bit challenging. It is recommended to use a booster seat bag with handles or straps for easy carrying. Also, make sure to arrive at the airport early to have enough time to check in the booster seat and go through security.

FAQs:

Can You Check a Booster Seat on an Airplane?

Yes, you can check a booster seat on an airplane. Most airlines allow parents to check in booster seats for free as it is considered a necessary child item.

Can I Check a Booster Seat for Free?

Yes, most airlines allow parents to check in booster seats for free as it is considered a necessary child item. However, it is always advisable to check the airline’s policy before you travel as it may vary from one airline to another.

How to Pack Booster Seats for Air Travel?

It is advisable to pack the booster seat in a booster seat bag to protect it from dirt and damage during transit. These bags are specially designed to fit booster seats and often come with handles or straps for easy carrying.

Can You Gate Check a Booster Seat?

Yes, you can gate check a booster seat. Most airlines allow parents to gate check booster seats for free. However, it is always advisable to check the airline’s policy before you travel as it may vary from one airline to another.

Does a Booster Seat Count as a Carry On?

No, a booster seat does not count as a carry-on. Most airlines allow parents to check in booster seats for free as it is considered a necessary child item.

How to Check a Booster Seat at the Airport?

You can check a booster seat at the airport by packing it in a booster seat bag and then checking it in at the airline’s check-in counter. Most airlines allow parents to check in booster seats for free.

How to Fly with a Booster Seat?

When flying with a booster seat, it is recommended to pack the booster seat in a booster seat bag and check it in at the airline’s check-in counter. Most airlines allow parents to check in booster seats for free. Also, remember that the FAA does not approve booster seats for use during flight, so it is recommended to use an FAA-approved car seat instead.

Summary

Traveling with children requires a lot of preparation and carrying essential items like booster seats. Most airlines allow parents to check in booster seats for free as it is considered a necessary child item. However, it is always advisable to check the airline’s policy before you travel as it may vary from one airline to another. Also, the FAA does not approve booster seats for use during flight, so it is recommended to use an FAA-approved car seat instead. Make sure to pack the booster seat properly to ensure its safety during transit and follow the safety recommendations for a smooth journey.

Relevant Resources:

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