Can you fly with any car seat?

Not all car seats are approved for use in airplanes. Check for a label that says, “This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft.” For a seat that can be used with or without a harness (“all-in-one” seats, for example), the label will specifically mention if the seat, in harness mode, is approved.



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If your seat has been approved for aircraft use, there will be a sticker (either on the back, bottom or side of the seat, depending on the size of the label) that says This restraint has been certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft in red lettering.

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The quick answer is: we don't recommend checking your car seat. The likelihood of damage is very high regardless of how you package it not to mention in most airline fine print, they aren't responsible for damage! Your best options for traveling with little ones is to bring the car seat with you on the plan.

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Once you've selected a car seat travel system, make sure the seat is very well padded. Additionally, take a photo of your car seat prior to your trip for proof of its condition if it does arrive damaged. Another great option is packing the car seat back in the original box with as much padding as possible!

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Which car seats can NOT be used on airplanes?
  • Belt-positioning booster seats. Boosters that use a lap and shoulder belt in a car cannot be used, since in an airplane there is no shoulder belt for upper-body restraint.*
  • Travel vests. Even if labeled as okay for aircraft, these should not be used. ...
  • Belly Belts.


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Car Seat onboard: airline-approved forward-facing car seats which have a 5-point harness fit in the 42.5cm seat width can be used on board. The car seat must have a CE sticker if European or an FAA sticker if a US seat and the car seat must have 'Certified for use on aircraft' printed on it.

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Car seats and strollers can be checked just like any other item (at no charge at most airlines). If you do check items either at the ticket counter or gate, get your luggage tag for them straight away.

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Diaper bags, soft-sided cooler bags with breast milk, child safety seats, strollers and medical or mobility devices don't count toward your personal item or carry-on.

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The FAA recommends that children under 40 pounds continue to use a car seat and that children over 40 pounds use the seat belt on the airplane seat. The AAP recommends that you continue to use a car seat on a plane for any child who uses one in a car.

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The most popular option to carry a car seat is a simple airplane car seat bag. You can get one that is on wheels or one that fits like a backpack. If you're taking the seat on the plane with you, a thin bag can easily be rolled up and stored in the overhead bin for when it's not in use.

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Standard strollers, folding wagons, and car seats can be used to get to your gate and then checked for free. They'll be returned to you on arrival. Collapsible strollers can be stored in-cabin. Car seats can be used onboard your flight too.

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