Introduction
Planning a family holiday is exciting, but if you're travelling with a baby or toddler, the thought of navigating airports, boarding flights, and exploring new places with a pushchair in tow can feel a little overwhelming. The good news? It’s absolutely possible and surprisingly straightforward to take your pushchair abroad with you.
Whether you’re heading off on a sunny beach break or a city adventure, having your own stroller can make all the difference in keeping your little one comfortable and your travels hassle-free. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about flying with a pushchair, including answers to the most common questions parents ask, top tips for smooth travel, and advice on choosing the right gear for the journey.
Can You Take a Pushchair Abroad?
Absolutely - and in fact, it’s very common. Most airlines around the world allow you to bring a pushchair when travelling with a baby or toddler, and in many cases, it doesn’t cost you anything extra.
There are usually two options when it comes to flying with a pushchair:
1. Check it in with your luggage
You can hand over your pushchair at the check-in desk, where it will be tagged and sent with your checked bags. This is a good option if you won’t need it in the airport or if you're using a baby carrier instead.
2. Gate-check it just before boarding
Many parents prefer to keep the pushchair with them until the gate. You can wheel your child through the terminal as normal, then hand the stroller over to staff at the aircraft door. It’ll usually be returned to you at the aircraft door after landing, though on some occasions, you might need to collect it from the baggage carousel - it depends on the airline and destination.
What types of pushchairs can you take?
There’s no “one size fits all” rule, but most airlines accept standard single pushchairs and travel strollers. If you're flying with a particularly bulky or double pushchair, it’s worth checking in advance to avoid surprises at the airport.
Compact, foldable pushchairs that fit into overhead lockers (often labelled as "cabin-approved") are especially handy for travel, and some airlines allow these on board as hand luggage - though this isn’t always guaranteed.
Is It Free to Take a Pushchair on a Plane?
In most cases, yes, taking a pushchair on a plane is completely free of charge when you're travelling with a baby or young child. Airlines typically allow you to bring one pushchair per child, and in many cases, you’re also entitled to check in a car seat as well, at no extra cost.
That said, the exact policy can vary depending on the airline, so it’s always a good idea to check the rules before you travel.
How airline allowances usually work:
- One pushchair and one car seat per infant or child are often included for free.
- This is separate from your usual luggage allowance - so you’ll still have your full quota for suitcases or hand luggage.
- Most airlines allow gate check-in for pushchairs, but some may only accept this for lightweight or collapsible models.
What about budget airlines?
Low-cost carriers (like Ryanair or easyJet) generally have similar allowances for families, but they can have stricter rules on the size and weight of pushchairs. Always double-check what’s allowed - some may require you to pre-register baby equipment during the booking process.
Top tip:
If your stroller is particularly large or heavy, and you’re unsure whether it qualifies, you may be asked to check it in with your hold luggage rather than bringing it to the gate. Having a lightweight travel stroller can make all the difference when flying.
Is a Pushchair Included in Baggage Allowance?
One of the most reassuring things about flying with a little one is that a pushchair usually doesn’t count towards your standard baggage allowance. That means you can still bring your usual luggage – and your baby gear too.
Here’s how it typically works:
- The pushchair is classed as a child-specific item, not part of your suitcase or hand luggage allowance.
- You’ll normally be allowed one pushchair per child, plus a car seat or travel cot, depending on the airline.
- These items are checked in for free and don’t affect the amount of luggage you can bring for yourself.
Exceptions to be aware of:
While most airlines are generous when it comes to family travel, size and weight limits may apply. Larger, heavier pushchairs might still be accepted but could be handled as oversized baggage, or in rare cases, incur a charge.
Some budget airlines may also ask you to pre-book baby equipment or register it ahead of time, so it's always worth checking the small print before you travel.
How Do You Travel Internationally with a Pushchair?
Travelling abroad with a pushchair might feel like a logistical challenge, but with a bit of planning and the right gear, it can be surprisingly stress-free. Here’s how to make sure your stroller works with you - not against you - from check-in to arrival.
Choose the Right Pushchair for Travel
If you travel regularly or want to make your journey as smooth as possible, a lightweight, compact pushchair is a game-changer. Look for models that:
- Fold easily with one hand
- Weigh under 7kg
- Fit into an airline’s cabin-size allowance (some fold small enough to store in the overhead locker!)
Cabin-approved pushchairs are especially helpful for avoiding damage and waiting times at the gate or baggage reclaim. They're ideal for parents on the go, especially when dealing with short transfers or tight layovers.
Use a Pushchair Travel Bag
Once checked in, your pushchair is handled like any other piece of luggage - and baggage handling can be rough. A sturdy travel bag is your best friend here, offering:
- Protection from knocks, scuffs and dirt
- An easy way to carry or roll your stroller
- A neat way to pack any extras like rain covers or footmuffs
Some travel bags are padded or wheeled for extra convenience - well worth considering if your pushchair is a bit bulkier or more premium.
Gate-Checking Your Pushchair
Gate-checking means you can use your stroller all the way through the airport, right up to boarding. Here’s how it usually works:
- Check in as normal, but let the airline staff know you want to gate-check your pushchair.
- They’ll often tag it for you at check-in or at the gate.
- Just before boarding, fold your pushchair and hand it over to staff at the aircraft door.
- It will either be returned to you at the aircraft door when you land, or delivered to the baggage belt – this varies by airline and airport.
This option is particularly handy if your child needs naps, snacks, or a comfy ride through a busy terminal!
Pushchair & Airport Security
At airport security, expect to:
- Fold down your pushchair and place it through the X-ray scanner (where possible)
- Remove accessories like cup holders or baskets if asked
- Carry your child through the scanner, or use a baby carrier (this often makes things easier)
Security staff are usually helpful and used to assisting parents, so don’t be afraid to ask for a hand.
Bonus Tips for Stress-Free Travel with a Pushchair
Flying with little ones can feel unpredictable at the best of times, but a few smart prep steps can go a long way. These extra tips will help you keep things calm, collected and (mostly) tantrum-free on travel day.
Bring a Baby Carrier Too
Even if you're taking a pushchair, a soft baby carrier is a travel essential. It keeps your hands free for passports, bags and snacks - especially useful during:
- Security screening
- Boarding and disembarking
- Transferring between gates on a layover
Plus, if your pushchair is unexpectedly checked through to baggage claim, you'll be glad to have a backup way to carry your little one.
Think About the Weather at Your Destination
Don’t forget your pushchair accessories:
- A sunshade or parasol is a must for hot climates.
- A rain cover is equally important if you're heading somewhere damp or unpredictable.
- In chillier destinations, a footmuff or cosy liner can keep your child snug while you're sightseeing.
Consider Renting a Pushchair at Your Destination
If you’re short on luggage space or staying somewhere particularly pushchair-unfriendly (hello, cobbled streets and lots of stairs), renting a stroller locally can be a great solution. Check with your accommodation ahead of time to see if this is an option before arriving.
Many hotels, resorts and even airports now offer stroller hire services, which can save you from having to lug yours around unnecessarily.
Arrive at the Airport Early
Everything takes a bit longer with children; checking in, going through security, grabbing snacks, changing nappies… the list goes on! Arriving early:
- Reduces stress
- Gives you time to deal with any unexpected issues (like needing to check your stroller)
- Lets your child settle into the airport experience calmly
Final Thoughts
Travelling abroad with a pushchair doesn’t have to be complicated. With a bit of planning and the right travel-friendly gear, it can actually make your journey much easier - giving your little one a comfy place to rest and giving you one less thing to worry about.
The key is knowing what to expect at the airport, understanding your airline’s policy, and choosing a pushchair that suits your travel style. Whether you're zipping through terminals or strolling along foreign streets, having your own pushchair with you offers familiarity and flexibility.
When you're ready to find the perfect travel companion, be sure to explore our range of lightweight and cabin-approved pushchairs - ideal for families on the move.
