What Is The United Airlines Stroller Policy? Everything You Need To Know

Traveling with a stroller can be a stressful experience, especially if you’re not familiar with the airline’s policies. Are you planning to fly with United Airlines and wondering what is the United Airline’s stroller policy? Look no further, as we have all the information you need to know before your trip.

So, let’s dive in and make sure you’re well-prepared for your upcoming trip.

What Is The United Airlines Stroller Policy? Everything You Need To Know

In general, standard strollers, folding wagons, and car seats are all accepted free of charge on United Airlines. However, if you have a non-standard stroller such as a jogging stroller or oversized umbrella stroller, you may be required to pay an additional fee. 

Additionally, oversized strollers or other items that cannot fit in the overhead bin must be checked at the ticket counter before boarding your flight.

When traveling with a baby, it is also important to remember that carry-on baggage restrictions still apply. 

The United Airlines website states that parents are allowed to bring a diaper bag and one personal item in addition to the stroller. 

The diaper bag must be placed under the seat in front of you, and any other items should fit in the overhead bin.

All strollers checked at the ticket counter or gate will be returned to you on arrival. 

Check with United Airlines staff to properly mark your stroller for layovers and connecting flights.

What Are The Requirements For A Stroller On A United Plane?

Generally, strollers that can be folded and stored in the overhead compartment or under the seat are allowed on planes, including on United Airlines. However, it is important to check with the specific airline for their guidelines and restrictions. Allowance of strollers onboard depends on the airline.

Note📝: It is also recommended to inform the airline in advance if you will be traveling with a stroller to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Generally speaking, here are the general requirements for a stroller on most airlines:

• The stroller must be folded and packed entirely into a suitable carrier bag prior to boarding.
• The stroller must not be opened and used in the aircraft cabin at all times.
• Compact foldable lightweight strollers will be checked in if there is no space in the cabin.
• If you are traveling with a larger, non-foldable stroller, it is best to check it in with your other luggage.
• Strollers must be secured and stowed away in an overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
• Battery-powered strollers will not be allowed on board unless the batteries are removed before boarding.
• If you are using a gate-checked stroller, be sure to pick it up promptly after arrival.

How Much Can A Stroller Weigh At Gate Check United Airlines?

In most cases, when traveling with United Airlines, strollers that are gate-checked cannot exceed 20 pounds (9 kg) in weight. This weight restriction is in place to ensure the safety and ease of handling for both passengers and airline staff. 

It is important to note that strollers that exceed this weight limit may need to be checked in as regular luggage, which may incur additional fees. 

Therefore, it is advisable to check the weight of your stroller before traveling to ensure compliance with United Airlines’ guidelines.

How Does Gate Checking A Stroller Work?

When you arrive at the gate, present your stroller to the agent. They will give you a claim tag and explain how it works. Attach the tag to your stroller and take it to the end of the jet bridge when it’s your turn to board. 

Then fold up your stroller and leave it by the door. At this point, an agent will come and collect it and take it to the cargo hold for you.

Once you arrive at your destination, you’ll be able to reclaim your stroller at the baggage claim. Depending on the airport, some gate-checked items may arrive on the belt with other luggage, while others may arrive separately. 

Check with a staff member if you can’t find your stroller right away.

How Do You Get Your Stroller Through TSA?

First, all carry-on items, including children’s toys, bags, and blankets, need to be placed on the X-ray belt for screening. This includes strollers, umbrella strollers, baby carriers, car seats, booster seats, and backpacks. You can put items in the stroller pockets, a carry-on bag, or on the X-ray belt. 

Note📝: All items need to be removed from the stroller and placed on the belt separately for screening.

Once your items have been screened, you can take them back to your stroller and proceed through security. 

If you’re traveling with an infant who needs a car seat, you’ll need to remove the child from the seat and place it on the X-ray belt for screening. 

The same applies to booster seats and backpacks. If you’re traveling with a collapsible stroller, you may be asked to collapse and open it during the screening process.

Finally, if your stroller is too large or too heavy to carry through security, you may be required to check it at the ticket counter. 

You can typically have it returned to you as soon as you exit the security checkpoint.

Here’s a detailed video on how you can take your scroller through TSA conveniently:

Can You Gate-Check Both A Car Seat And Stroller?

The answer is yes, you can gate-check both a car seat and a stroller. Gate checking allows you to bring these items with you to the gate and then have them stowed in the cargo hold of the plane conveniently.

Gate checking allows parents to keep their car seat and stroller until boarding, then receive them upon disembarking.

Note📝: These items may be subject to additional screening and you may be asked to open them for inspection at the security checkpoint.

How Do You Protect Your Stroller When Flying?

To protect your stroller during a flight, follow these steps. First, get a strong and durable stroller that can handle rough handling. Next, buy a travel bag or cover to shield it from dirt and scratches. Take off any detachable parts and pack them separately. 

Finally, gate-check your stroller instead of checking it at the counter to reduce the risk of loss or damage.

A step-by-step guide is given below:

Choose a Travel-Friendly Stroller

When selecting a stroller for air travel it is important to find one that is lightweight and easy to fold up. Look for models with good features.

Check Airline Policies

Before departing, always investigate the airline’s policies regarding strollers. Most airlines will allow you to carry your stroller on board for free; however, they may have different requirements for how large or small it can be. 

Note📝: Be sure to find out any weight restrictions and fees that may apply.

Use a Stroller Travel Bag or Cover 

To keep your stroller from getting damaged during the flight, it is important to invest in a protective stroller bag or cover. This will not only protect the stroller from dust and dirt, but also provide an extra layer of cushioning against any knocks or bumps that may occur during handling.

Detach and Secure Parts

If your stroller has removable parts like cup holders or snack trays, make sure to remove them and store them separately. 

Fold and Lock the Stroller

Once you have detached all the parts, it is time to fold up the stroller and lock it into place. Make sure that all of the folding mechanisms are secure so that it won’t open up unexpectedly during the flight.

Add Padding and Protection

To help protect your stroller from any potential damage to the stroller, consider adding some extra padding to the outside of the bag or cover. This can be anything from bubble wrap or blankets to towels or old clothes – whatever you have available.

Label Your Stroller

Once you have packed up your stroller, make sure to clearly label it.

Gate Check

Before boarding the plane, you can ask the gate agent if they offer a gate check service for strollers. If this is available, they will take your stroller before you board and return it to you at the gate after the flight.

Inspect on Arrival

Once you have retrieved your stroller, make sure to check it for any signs of damage to strollers. If there is anything wrong, take photos and contact the airline as soon as possible.

Consider Travel Insurance

To give yourself extra peace of mind, consider purchasing travel insurance that covers lost or damaged luggage.

This will help in taking out a travel insurance policy. This will provide you with additional cover in the event of any damages or loss to your stroller while flying.

Here’s a table with stroller policies for different airlines:

What If The Stroller Is Damaged In Transit?

If your stroller is damaged in transit, you can file a claim with the airline to receive compensation for the damage. This can be time-consuming and may require providing documentation and evidence of the damage. Thus, it is always recommended that passengers take precautions and properly the stroller properly. 

This helps protect the strollers and minimizes the risk of damage during transit.

Does United Airlines Offer Discounts For Infants Or Children Traveling On Domestic Or International Flights?

Yes, United Airlines does offer discounts for infants and children traveling on both domestic and international flights. Infants under the age of 2 can travel for free on a parent’s lap but may also opt for a separate seat at a discounted fare. 

Children between the ages of 2 and 11 are eligible for discounted fares on both domestic and international flights. The specific discount amount may vary depending on the destination and fare class. 

Here, are the offers and discounts given in detail:

Discounts for Infants and Children

United Airlines offers discounts for infants (under 2 years old) and children (ages 2-11) traveling domestically or internationally. 

Infants carried on an adult’s lap during a domestic flight (within the US, Puerto Rico, and US Virgin Islands) do not require a ticket and travel free of charge (No additional charge or extra cost). 

An infant is required to have a ticket for international flights, even if no fare is paid. Taxes are the only fee charged when traveling between the US and Canada, or from Mexico to the US or Canada. 

Any infant occupying their own seat must pay taxes and fees associated with that ticket.

Ticket Prices

As per United Airlines, the price of a child’s ticket may be the same as an adult’s when a child sits alone on a seat. 

However, if you’re looking to save some money, United Airlines also offers discounted fares for children when accompanied by an adult. 

For domestic flights within the US, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands, kids pay 50% of the applicable fare amount. On select international routes, children pay 75% of the adult fare.

Tips for Savings

There are a few ways you can maximize your savings when traveling with children on United Airlines. First, be sure to book your tickets well in advance to take advantage of discounted fares. 

Additionally, United offers Family Travel Deals which allow families with up to two adults and three children all fly for the same price as an adult ticket. 

Bonus Tip📌: Take advantage of United’s MileagePlus program to earn rewards and discounts on future flights.

FAQs

Which Stroller Can You Bring On Board In United?

The stroller allowed on United Airlines must be small and collapsible, able to fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. United Airlines permits passengers to bring one stroller per child at no additional cost, along with their carry-on and personal items.

Can You Bring A Pushchair As Cabin Baggage?

Yes, you can bring a pushchair as cabin baggage, but it depends on the size and type of stroller. A small, fully collapsible stroller can typically be stored in the overhead bin, requiring minimal space, and should be within the size limits.

This is convenient for parents who want their child’s stroller easily accessible during the flight. 

However, if you have a large stroller that cannot collapse or is too bulky, it must be accepted as checked baggage. 

Can You Bring An Umbrella Stroller On The Plane?

Yes, you can bring an umbrella stroller on the plane. Mostly you can bring a collapsible stroller (compact folding strollers) as a carry-on item or check it at the gate. However, check with the specific airline you are flying with as strollers may have size and weight restrictions. 

It is also worth noting that some airlines may require you to gate-check the stroller if there is limited space in the cabin. 

What Type Of Strollers Are Not Allowed On United Airlines?

United Airlines does not allow certain types of strollers on their flights. Specifically, jogging strollers, double strollers, large, non-collapsible strollers, and strollers that do not fold are not permitted. This restriction is in place to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers onboard. 

By prohibiting these types of strollers, United Airlines aims to maintain a smooth and efficient boarding process and ensure that all passengers have sufficient space for their carry-on items. 

When Does United Airlines Require A Ticket Purchase For Your Baby?

United Airlines requires a ticket purchase for your baby in several situations. Firstly, if the child is two years or older, a ticket must be purchased. If the child turns two before or during the outbound flights, a ticket is required for the entire trip. 

Furthermore, if you are traveling alone with two babies under the age of 2 years, a ticket must be purchased for the baby who will not be sitting in your lap. 

Lastly, if you are traveling internationally, regardless of your baby’s age or whether they travel as an infant on lap, a ticket is required.

Can You Bring 4oz Of Baby Food On A Plane?

Yes, you can. You are allowed to bring formula, breast milk, breast pump, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food in addition to your maximum carry-on baggage allowance, even if they exceed the 3.4 ounces or 100-milliliter limit, as per TSA regulations.

These items do not need to fit within a quart-sized bag, so you can bring 4oz of baby food without any issues. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, United Airlines prioritizes family travel by offering a flexible stroller policy. Compact foldable strollers can be stowed conveniently in overhead bins or under seats. The gate-check option ensures seamless handling when cabin space is limited. 

With clear guidelines and thoughtful accommodations, United Airlines aims to make traveling with young children a smoother and more enjoyable experience for parents and caregivers.