As a father of four kids ranging from toddler to teen, I’ve had my fair share of airport chaos as I lugged multiple car seats and booster seats through security, gate-checked strollers, and tried to buckle a squirmy toddler into a cramped airplane seat. While it’s tricky, the fact that I can bring a car seat on a plane has helped alleviate rental car issues.
Traveling with kids is never easy, but one of the biggest puzzles for parents is figuring out what to do about car seats on a plane. Do you need to bring one? Are they even allowed? And what about booster seats?
Whether you’re a first-time flyer with a baby or a seasoned parent gearing up for a cross-country trip with preschoolers, understanding the rules and best practices for flying with car seats can make your life much easier and your flight a lot safer.
Here’s everything I’ve learned (and researched) about car seats, booster seats, and air travel.
Are Car Seats Required on Airplanes?
If you’re a first-time traveler with a baby who uses a car seat, there are a few rules and regulations you should know about at the federal and airline levels.
FAA Recommendations For Car Seats On Planes
The FAA does not require the use of car seats during flights, but it strongly recommends that children under 40 pounds use an FAA-approved car seat or child restraint system (CRS).
While it’s true that lap infants under two can fly for free, that doesn’t mean it’s the safest option. As a business executive who flies frequently, I have witnessed my fair share of moms and dads attempting to protect their children during turbulence, and a car seat or booster seat would have made their lives much easier.
Airline Policies
Most U.S. airlines allow car seats if you’ve purchased a seat for your child. United’s child travel policy and American Airlines’ guidelines for traveling with children permit FAA-approved car seats to be used on board, but not in exit rows or specific seats with inflatable seat belts.
I’ve witnessed parents complain about not being allowed to put their car seats in aisle rows, but this is a safety and accessibility situation. Car seats can block passengers in the event of a hasty exit, and they create barriers for leaving a middle or window seat.
Why You Should Bring a Car Seat On A Plane
There are two main reasons to bring your familiar car seat on an airplane during your travels.
Safety Considerations
Using a car seat on a plane protects your child during turbulence or emergency landings. It also keeps wiggly toddlers contained, reducing stress for everyone on board. If you need to run to the bathroom or you just need to keep your child secure when the seat belt sign is on, a car seat goes a long way.
Comfort and Familiarity
Bringing your car seat adds a layer of comfort and routine. Young children are often calmer in their familiar seat, making the trip easier for them and their parents. Your seat may require fewer adjustments, which also makes the boarding and deboarding situation run more smoothly.
What Kind of Car Seat Can You Use On A Plane?
Not every car seat can be used in-flight due to seat size constraints and certain required governmental approvals. Thankfully, it’s pretty easy to determine if your car seat fits well.
FAA Approval
Only car seats labeled “This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft” are permitted in-flight. Booster seats usually do not meet this requirement and are not allowed during takeoff, landing, or turbulence.
Convertible Seats vs. Infant Carriers
If you’re flying with an infant, a rear-facing infant seat works well but you’ll want to ensure it fits in the airplane seat. Convertible car seats are bulkier but often necessary for toddlers.
Here are a few popular and highly reviewed car seats that are FAA-approved for children of various ages and sizes:
Infant Car Seats (Rear-Facing)
These are good for babies under 1 year and are generally easier to carry.
Doona Infant Car Seat & Stroller
It is popular for its stroller-conversion feature, but it is bulkier than most infant seats. I actually wrote about my regret for not buying the Doona infant Car Seat and stroller.
Chicco KeyFit 30
Narrow base and easy to install. FAA-approved.
Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35 Elite
Lightweight and widely compatible with many strollers.
Convertible Car Seats (Rear- & Forward-Facing)
If you have a child older than one, these next car seats are great for toddlers and up, but they are also heavier options requiring you to carry around more weight as you attempt to reach your plane’s gate.
Cosco Scenera NEXT
This is a top choice for travel and is super light (just ~10 lbs). I actually bought two of these car seats because not only are they FAA-approved, but they are also budget-friendly. I already owned larger convertible car seats and the Cosco Scenera NEXT because my family’s go-to option for air travel.
Evenflo Sonus 65
A good option with high weight limits, narrow width, and airplane-friendly labeling.
Safety 1st Guide 65
Compact and lightweight for a convertible, fits most airplane seats.
There are many other car seats available with FAA approval, but those are some of the most commonly purchased and talked about options from traveling families.
What About Booster Seats?
Booster seats are designed for use with shoulder belts—something airplanes don’t have. That means you can bring a booster seat and check it, but you can’t use it during the flight.
High-back boosters can sometimes fit in checked luggage or be gate-checked, but they aren’t allowed to be used during the actual flight.
Tips for Traveling With a Car Seat
Check out these practical suggestions for flying with car seats. I’m sure they will help make your air travel more enjoyable and easier on you and your family.
- Use a lightweight travel car seat or a folding car seat cart.
- Get a padded travel bag to protect it during gate check.
- Board early to install the seat without rushing.
- If your child is under two and you didn’t buy a seat, ask the gate agent if there’s an empty seat you can use.
Car seats on a plane can be a hassle, but they’re often worth it. As a dad who’s juggled strollers, diaper bags, and two car seats with TSA giving me the side-eye, I’ll take the extra work for the added peace of mind. If your kid is under 40 pounds, it’s safest to strap them into a car seat, and if they’re older, consider checking your booster so it’s ready when you land.
If you’re traveling with multiple kids in car seats, I highly recommend bringing your FAA-approved car seats on the plane. The car seats at the car rental company are never guaranteed to be available, and you don’t know each seat’s history, which could cause safety issues in an accident.
On a similar note, check out our article on choosing the right car seat for your child.