Yes, you can almost always gate-check a stroller and a car seat for free on major U.S. airlines. This means you can use them right up to the airplane door, where airline staff will tag them and place them in the cargo hold for you to pick up right on the jet bridge upon landing. This service is a standard part of airline policy for families traveling with young children and is separate from your regular checked baggage allowance.
The process is straightforward. When you arrive at your gate, simply approach the counter and ask for gate-check tags for your items. You'll be given tags to attach securely. As you board the plane, you'll leave the stroller and car seat just outside the aircraft door. It's highly recommended to use a protective bag for each item to minimize dirt and damage during handling. For car seats, a sturdy, padded bag is a wise investment.
A critical point involves car seat safety. If you have purchased a seat for your child, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) strongly recommends using the car seat on the plane, as it is the safest option. Gate-checking should be reserved for situations where the child is flying as a "lap infant" or if you prefer not to use the seat in-flight. Be aware that even with careful handling, gate-checking can expose car seats to potential damage that may compromise their structural integrity. Some parents opt to travel with a lightweight, inexpensive car seat specifically for flying to avoid risking their primary seat.
The table below outlines the standard gate-check policies for several major U.S. carriers.
| Airline | Stroller Gate-Check Policy | Car Seat Gate-Check Policy | Additional Notes |
|---|
| Delta Air Lines | Free, including strollers over 20 lbs | Free | Also allows one diaper bag as a carry-on. |
| American Airlines | Free, for collapsible strollers | Free | Check-in at the gate counter is required. |
| United Airlines | Free, for standard-sized strollers | Free | Oversized strollers may need to be checked at the ticket counter. |
| Southwest Airlines | Free, no weight restrictions | Free | Known for family-friendly pre-boarding. |
| Alaska Airlines | Free | Free | Protective bags are highly recommended. |
| JetBlue | Free | Free | Tags are obtained at the gate prior to boarding. |
