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Traveling with a stroller can be a convenient way to transport your child. Thus, if you’re planning to fly with Southwest Airlines, you may be wondering, “What is the Southwest stroller policy?” and how it may affect your travel plans.
In this article, we will explore the Southwest stroller policy in detail and provide you with all the information you need to know before your next flight.
What Is The Southwest Stroller Policy?
The Southwest stroller policy states that customers can check one stroller and one car seat for free. Any type of stroller and/or car seat is allowed, including those bought from a third-party vendor. This allowance applies in addition to the regular baggage allowance.
Hence, you don’t need to worry about running over your weight limit.
Southwest also offers a reusable bag for purchase at any ticket counter to add an extra layer of protection for your stroller and car seat.
This bag costs $17 and is designed to protect your stroller and car seat from the elements.
In addition to the free stroller and car seat allowance, Southwest Airlines also provides complimentary lap child tickets for children aged five years or younger.
This means that if you have a young child who doesn’t require their own seat, you can fly with them for free.
How Much Does It Cost To Check A Stroller On Southwest?
It does not cost anything to check a stroller on Southwest Airlines. Southwest allows passengers to check in their child’s stroller free of charge, in addition to the free checked baggage allowance. This is a convenient policy for parents traveling with young children.
Southwest Airlines understands the importance of accommodating families and strives to make their travel experience as smooth and hassle-free as possible.
What Is A Southwest Stroller Baggage Allowance?
The Southwest stroller baggage allowance allows passengers to check one stroller per child for free. Unlike other checked baggage, strollers and car seats do not count against the free bag allowance. This means that passengers can bring their stroller and car seat without incurring any additional fees.
Note📝: There are certain size and weight restrictions for strollers. The stroller must weigh less than 50 lbs (22.7kg) and be less than 62 linear inches (157.5cm) in size.
How To Add An Infant On Southwest?
To add an infant to Southwest, you will need to contact Southwest Airlines directly. You may need to provide the infant’s name, date of birth, and any necessary documentation such as a birth certificate. It is important to contact Southwest as soon as possible.
Here, are the ways in which you may add an infant on Southwest:
Add An Infant Online
If you are making an online booking with Southwest Airlines, you can book a lap child (infant) on the flight.
When you get to the Passenger Information page of the booking process, you will see a “Lap Child” option in the drop-down menu for each passenger.
Select this option and enter the infant’s name, birthdate, and gender.
You will also need to provide the adult traveler’s Rapid Rewards number if you are using points to pay for your reservation.
Add An Infant For Redemption Bookings
If you’re redeeming Southwest Airlines points for a flight and would like to add an infant to your booking, you’ll need to call the airline’s customer service line at 1-800-I-FLY-SWA.
You’ll need to provide the agent with the adult traveler’s Rapid Rewards number as well as the infant passenger’s name, birthdate, and gender.
Tips For Adding An Infant On Southwest
- Infants must be under two years old and have proof of age at check-in (birth certificate or passport).
- Southwest Airlines does not charge for lap children, so you will not be charged a fare.
- Each adult passenger is allowed to travel with up to two infants on the same reservation.
- For international flights, you may need to provide additional documents such as a visa for the infant.
How To Age-Verify Your Infant With Southwest Airlines?
When flying for the first time, you will be required to check in at the ticket counter and provide a valid ID, such as a certified birth certificate, birth record, or passport. During this process, a Southwest agent will add a “verified age” to your child’s Southwest Rapid Rewards account.
For future bookings, you’ll be able to do Southwest’s online check-in for your whole family using your Rapid Rewards accounts, even when flying with an infant fare.
This will help streamline the process and ensure that your little one is properly registered and age-verified with Southwest Airlines.
How To Get The Southwest Airlines Infant Fare For Your Baby’s Own Seat?
First, book your own ticket through the Southwest Airlines website or mobile app. Then, call Southwest Airlines’ customer service to add your infant to the reservation and request the infant fare. Be prepared to provide your baby’s age and any necessary documentation.
It’s important to note that the infant fare is not available for online booking and can only be added by calling customer service.
Here, is a detailed guide for you:
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Purchasing The Discounted Fare
In order to purchase an infant fare, you must call Southwest Airlines customer service at 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792). You will be asked for a valid proof of your child’s age (under 2 years) such as a certified birth certificate, birth record, or passport.
You will also need to create a Rapid Rewards account number for your child in order to use online check-in for his or her seat.
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Preparing Your Child For The Flight
For safety reasons, your child must fly in an FAA-approved car seat (CRS). The car seat must be used in a middle or window seat only.
It is also recommended that you bring your child’s favorite blanket, toy, or stuffed animal to help make him or her feel comfortable during the flight.
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Additional Information
Be sure to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure time in order to check in and board on time.
Note📝: It is important to check Southwest Airlines’ policies and restrictions as they may vary depending on your destination.
Can You Add An Infant To An Existing Booking [Southwest]?
Yes, you can add an infant to an existing booking. To do this, you can call the airline at 1-800-I-FLY-SWA and provide them with the necessary information. This is applicable for both redemption bookings and adding a lap child to an existing reservation.
The airline will guide you through the process and ensure that the infant is added to your booking successfully.
Moreover, the airline staff will provide you with any additional information or guidelines regarding traveling with an infant.
Note📝: There may be additional fees or requirements when traveling with an infant, such as providing proof of age or bringing a car seat on board.
What Parents Need To Know About Flying With Strollers And Car Seats?
When flying with strollers and car seats, parents need to be aware of the rules and regulations set by the airline. It is important to check the specific guidelines for each airline regarding the size and weight restrictions for strollers and car seats.
Some airlines may allow them to be checked in for free, while others may charge an additional fee. It is also advisable to bring a travel bag to protect the stroller or car seat from any damage during the flight.
Additionally, parents should consider the convenience and safety of using these items during the flight and at the destination.
Here’s what you need to know when flying with a child or infant:
Stroller Policy with Southwest Airlines
Southwest invites parents traveling to check one stroller per child at no additional charge. This policy extends to every type and size of stroller (umbrella, jogging, full size).
Strollers may be checked at the curb, ticket counter, or gate. All strollers must be folded and packaged in a way that does not present a safety hazard.
Car Seat Policy with Southwest Airlines
Parents are allowed to bring an approved child restraint for use on board the aircraft. All car seats must meet FAA regulations and have an approval label affixed to the seat.
The car seat may be checked at no additional cost, but parents will need to carry it on board the aircraft.
Booking a Seat for Your Child
Children two years of age and older must occupy their own seat on Southwest Airlines flights. To ensure your child has a seat, you’ll need to book them an additional ticket.
Note📝: Infants under two years of age may travel in the lap of an adult over 18 at no extra cost.
Gate Checking Strollers and Car Seats
When you arrive at the gate, you may check your stroller and car seat at no additional cost. However, please note that these items must be tagged and placed in a separate area from your checked luggage.
Security Screening
All passengers are subject to security screening before boarding the plane, including those with strollers and car seats.
To make the process easier on both you and your child, place any loose items in your checked luggage before proceeding through security.
Boarding and Early Family Boarding
Southwest Airlines offers a priority boarding system for families traveling with small children.
The A-list Priority Boarding window for families opens at the same time as general boarding, giving families more time to board the aircraft before other passengers.
What Experts Say Is The Safest Way For Small Children To Fly
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recommends that all children under the age of two be secured in a CRS or device during takeoff, landing, and any time when the seat belt sign is on. This includes lap babies, as well as those who are sitting in their own seats.
The CRS or device must meet FAA safety standards and be approved by the airline for use on their flights.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) also recommends that all children under the age of two be secured in a CRS or device while flying.
According to the AAP, this is because lap babies are at risk of serious injury during turbulence and other times when the seat belt sign is on.
They also point out that it’s difficult to hold an infant during takeoff and landing, as the forces exerted on the plane can cause them to slip out of an adult’s arms.
Financial Considerations In Addition To Safety Concerns
Most airlines offer free or discounted flights for lap babies. However, if you choose to secure your baby in a CRS or device, you will need to buy a ticket for them. This may seem like an extra expense, but it can save you money in the long term.
If there is an accident or sudden change in cabin pressure, your baby will be safer and better protected if they are strapped into a CRS or device.
How Does TSA Check A Stroller?
When going through airport security, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checks strollers by screening them through an X-ray machine. Passengers are required to remove any items from the stroller’s pockets or baskets and place them in a carry-on bag or on the X-ray belt for screening.
The stroller itself is then pushed through the X-ray machine to ensure that there are no prohibited items hidden within it.
This process helps to maintain security and ensure the safety of all passengers and their belongings during air travel.
FAQs
Does Baby Stroller Count As Luggage?
The answer is no. Most airlines have specific policies regarding traveling with a baby stroller. Generally, airlines allow passengers to bring a stroller and a car seat free of charge in addition to their normal baggage allowance when flying with a baby under two years old.
The stroller and car seat are usually placed in the aircraft hold with the rest of the luggage.
What Size Of Stroller Can You Take On A Plane?
Generally, smaller strollers can be folded and fit within the dimensions specified by the airline (usually around 15 x 30 x 100 cm / 6 x 12 x 39 inches). Additionally, the strollers may be taken into the cabin, if there is enough space available.
However, if the stroller does not fit underneath the seat or in the overhead baggage compartment, the airline crew will take it into the hold at no extra charge.
Larger strollers, on the other hand, usually need to be checked in.
How Young Is Too Young For Your Baby To Fly?
The age at which a baby is considered too young to fly depends on their immune system development. While some doctors may suggest waiting until the baby is one month old, most recommend waiting until the baby is between three to six months old.
During this time, the baby’s immune system becomes better developed, reducing the risk of catching an illness during the flight.
Does Stroller Count As Bag Southwest?
No, the stroller is separate from the baggage allowance and does not count as a bag. Passengers are also allowed to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag, onto the plane on Southwest flights.
What Type Of Strollers Can Be Brought On A Southwest Fight?
Passengers can bring a stroller that is collapsible and can be stored in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of them. If the stroller is too large, it can be checked at the gate and returned to the passenger at the gate upon arrival.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Southwest Airlines’ stroller policy is designed to accommodate the convenience and comfort of passengers traveling with young children. The policy generally permits passengers to bring strollers for their infants and children, either as checked items at the gate or ticket counter.
However, given potential policy changes, it is advisable to verify the latest information from Southwest Airlines directly before embarking on your journey.
