Flying With Kids -- Carseat Rental???

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Discussion Overview

This thread discusses the logistics of traveling with children, specifically focusing on the use of car seats when flying. Participants share their experiences and insights regarding renting car seats, checking them at the gate, and the practicality of bringing familiar seats for children.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about renting a car seat for their trip to Florida.
  • Another participant mentions that airlines typically allow checking a stroller and car seat free of charge, depending on the child's age.
  • Several users share their experiences with gate-checking car seats and strollers, noting that policies can vary by airline.
  • One participant strongly advises against renting a car seat due to concerns about safety and cleanliness, suggesting bringing a familiar seat instead.
  • Another participant shares their positive experience of checking a car seat as baggage for free and emphasizes the importance of having a familiar seat for their child.
  • Some participants discuss the practicality of using a car seat on the plane, with differing opinions on whether all car seats are FAA approved.
  • One participant suggests purchasing an inexpensive car seat locally instead of renting, citing cost-effectiveness and familiarity.
  • Another participant mentions the option of borrowing a car seat from friends or family for the duration of the visit.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the topic of renting car seats, with some participants strongly opposing it while others explore various alternatives. There is no clear consensus on the best approach to take.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences and insights based on their travel with children, highlighting the importance of comfort and safety during flights.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for parents or caregivers planning to travel with young children, particularly those considering options for car seats during air travel.

J
janezapchef
Gold Member
Messages
1,096
So, can I rent just a carseat? I am going to Florida to see my grandma next week, and I need to get a carseat. My mom is down there already, so, I don't need a car. I am clueless here!
 
Is your child young enough to not have to buy a ticket for? If so, check with your airline but I know when we fly you are allowed to still check a stroller, carseat & carry-on a diaper bag for anysize child...free of charge.ps...we usually fly jetblue...love it :)
 
  • Thread starter
  • #3
No, she's 4. But, you are saying I should be able to check a carseat and a stroller at the gate? I just called Continental, and they said I can gate-check one item. Is that one for me AND one for her? Guess I should have asked them that!
 
I would find out for sure, but I know on jetblue we always gate check our stroller & have our 3 yo sitting in his carseat in the paid for seat. Our 9 mo sits on my lap & we check her carseat (with regular baggage check) for no charge.It should also say something on continental's website...do a search for traveling with child/toddler/infantHTH! :)
 
I would NEVER EVER EVER EVER rent a car seat. You have no idea if it's been in an accident, if it's expired, if someone has puked or peed or pooped in it, etc.

Bring the seat that you child is comfortable sitting in and that you know how to install. Airlines are not charging to check carseats.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #6
Yep, that was kind of my thought, Deb, which is why I was posting really. I didn't like that idea but didn't know my options either.
 
We are going on our incentive trip in two weeks, so I called the airline about carseats--there was no info on their website! I was pleasantly surprised to find out that I could check the seat as a piece of baggage for FREE! Now I just need to get a carseat carrying bag (only $20 at Babies R Us) and I'm set!We're leaving DS with grandma while we go down to Miami so it was important to me to have a familiar seat--my son can buckle himself in.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #8
Ok, thanks so much for your help! I called back to Continental and was told that since I purchased a ticket for my child, she gets a gate-check item also. So, I can gate-check the stroller, and she can gate-check the carseat (though, it makes me chuckle to think of HER gate-checking it) and we get our carry-ons. Phew! I sure am glad my dad asked me what I was doing about this, or I probably would be arriving in Orlando scratching my head!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #9
Good idea on the carseat bag, Deb. It probably just gets chucked in with the rest of the baggage, huh?
 
janezapchef said:
Good idea on the carseat bag, Deb. It probably just gets chucked in with the rest of the baggage, huh?
Click to expand...

yes, it does. Gate checking is a bit more gentle than regular checked baggage, but it still goes in the same cargo hold.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #11
Good to know! Glad I'm getting all these things figured out on these little trips with one child before the whole family takes two big trips next year!
 
When we flew with my son, I used the carseat in the airline seat -- I would never travel in the car without one, why would I in the air? Sometimes the ride can be very bumpy.....Just my opinion.
 
gaddischef said:
When we flew with my son, I used the carseat in the airline seat -- I would never travel in the car without one, why would I in the air? Sometimes the ride can be very bumpy.....Just my opinion.
Click to expand...

I prefer to do this as well, but not all car seats are FAA approved. It also depends on your travel plans since you have to then carry the car seat through the airport.
 
gaddischef said:
When we flew with my son, I used the carseat in the airline seat -- I would never travel in the car without one, why would I in the air? Sometimes the ride can be very bumpy.....Just my opinion.
Click to expand...

The 2nd time we flew with my son we took his carseat with us because we were going to be in Oregon for a week and renting a car and like said above i was more comfortable taking a seat me and him were both familiar with. We switched planes 2x both ways and every plane we boarded we had to check his seat at the gate due to the plane seats were not made to accommodate carsearts.
 
janezapchef said:
So, can I rent just a carseat? I am going to Florida to see my grandma next week, and I need to get a carseat. My mom is down there already, so, I don't need a car. I am clueless here!
Click to expand...
Are they going to pick you up at the airport? I'd suggest having them go to WalMart, and picking up a Cosco Scenera seat. Runs about $40, and they can have it in the car when you get there. You know what you're getting, and it's actually way cheaper than getting a rental seat (when we last rented a car, we could have bought 3 seats for what they wanted for renting 2).OTOH, if you are looking at taking a seat with you, the same seat is pretty lightweight to carry. It's airline approved, and at 17", fits most plane seats. We've got one for use in the grandparents' car when they have the boy, and for airline trips. Our usual (daily use) carseat is a heavier-duty one :)
 
SpiritdancerIA said:
Are they going to pick you up at the airport? I'd suggest having them go to WalMart, and picking up a Cosco Scenera seat. Runs about $40, and they can have it in the car when you get there. You know what you're getting, and it's actually way cheaper than getting a rental seat (when we last rented a car, we could have bought 3 seats for what they wanted for renting 2).

OTOH, if you are looking at taking a seat with you, the same seat is pretty lightweight to carry. It's airline approved, and at 17", fits most plane seats. We've got one for use in the grandparents' car when they have the boy, and for airline trips. Our usual (daily use) carseat is a heavier-duty one :)
Click to expand...

I was going to recommend the same thing, or see if your relatives can find someone to borrow one from for the time you'll be visiting...we have an extra pair of (inexpensive) high-back boosters for our kids for the times we need to put them in someone else's car, and I know that if a friend or neighbor needed to borrow one for a week or whatever we'd be happy to help out.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #17
Wow! Thanks for all the suggestions. I haven't totally decided what we'll do, but there are lots of great ideas here! Thanks!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to rent a car seat for my child when flying?

Renting a car seat can be safe, but it's essential to ensure that the rental company follows safety standards and that the seat is appropriate for your child's age and size. Always check for recalls and inspect the seat for any damage before use.

How do I find a reliable car seat rental service at my destination?

Research local car rental companies, airports, or family-friendly services that specialize in baby gear rentals. Reading reviews and checking recommendations from other parents can help you find a reliable service.

What should I look for when renting a car seat?

When renting a car seat, check for the following: the seat's age, condition, and whether it meets safety standards. Make sure it has all necessary parts, such as the harness and base, and confirm that it fits your child properly.

Can I bring my own car seat on the plane instead of renting?

Yes, you can bring your own car seat on the plane if you have purchased a separate seat for your child. It must be FAA-approved and properly secured in the aircraft seat. Always check with your airline for specific policies regarding car seats.

What are the benefits of renting a car seat instead of bringing my own?

Renting a car seat can save you the hassle of carrying it through the airport and can lighten your luggage load. It also allows you to avoid potential damage to your own seat during travel. However, ensure that the rental seat meets safety standards and is appropriate for your child.

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