So here is a short series to help parents determine what is worth hauling through the airport and what should be checked or left at home. I call it Lug It or Leave It (check it) and today's subject is car seats.
Case #1 You are on a direct flight
Leave It. Airlines are really very good at getting luggage where it needs to be these days. On a direct flight, there is very little opportunity for a car seat to get lost or misdirected. For stress free boarding, just check the car seat.
Case #2 Your child is less than 6 months old
Leave It. At this age, a baby carrier, such as a Snugli, works much better and is a lot less bulky. Plus, it is safer than just holding a baby on your lap if you encounter turbulence.
Case #3 Your child is between the ages of 1 and 3
Lug It. Once your child is mobile, they want to be, well, mobile. It's too much to expect a two year old to stay in their seat. Their car seat provides a familiar environment and they know that car seat time is sitting still time. It makes Mom and Dad's job of keeping them in place much easier.
Case #4 Your child only needs a booster seat
Lug It. Or I should say, let them lug it. If they can carry it themselves, bring it along.
Case #5 You are renting a car in large city
Leave It. In this case, even if your car seat gets lost, you have lots of options. Car rental companies have a supply of car seats available for rent. If the airline loses your car seat, they have to cover this rental cost for you. Although rental companies in small towns may have only a limited number of car seats available, larger cities rarely run out. 4 Things Every Family Should Know About Car Seats and Airplanes:
1. Most airlines do not charge to check strollers and car seats.
2. Airlines now charge up to $25 for a car seat cover to protect your car seat. You can purchase a reusable cover for as little as $13 at stores like Walmart or Toys R Us. Or just use a thick drawstring garbage bag.
3. If you are going to use your car seat on board, it must be approved for airplanes. Look for the white label on the back or bottom and read carefully.
4. If your car seat does get lost, many airlines have "loaner" car seats available at larger airports. Inquire at the baggage claim office.
