Traveling with a baby can feel like a big challenge, especially when you want to make sure they’re comfy and safe. For many parents, a pack-and-play is a must-have, but can you actually take it on a flight? And if so, what do you need to know?
In this article, we’re diving into all the stuff you should know about bringing a pack-and-play on a flight. We’ll cover airline rules and share some tips on how to pack and use it while you’re traveling. Our goal is to give you all the info you need to have a smooth and stress-free journey with your little one.
Can You Check A Pack And Play?
Yes, you can check a Pack and Play for your flight, and it’s not as tricky as it may seem. Treating it like any other piece of luggage is the way to go. The trick is to take it apart and place each part in its own bag, if you can manage it.
This method makes life easier for the folks at the airport. It ensures your Pack and Play is transported and checked without any bumps or bruises. To be extra safe, it’s a smart move to label the parts clearly and mention that the bag contains a Pack and Play.
Tip: If you don’t have separate bags for the components, you can wrap them up in bubble wrap or something soft. This protective layer will keep your Pack and Play safe from any rough handling.
Lastly, remember to check with your airline about their specific rules for checking a Pack and Play. Some airlines might have their own requirements or restrictions, so it’s always a good idea to double-check.
Can You Check A Pack ‘N Play At The Airport?
You’ve got it right! Wagons, cribs, and Pack ‘N Plays can all be treated like regular baggage when you’re at the airport. As long as they don’t tip the scales over the carry-on weight limit, you’re good to go. But, if they do go over, be prepared to pay some extra fees.
Note: When you’re checking your Pack ‘N Play, be sure to secure it properly and slap on a label with your name and contact info. If you’re traveling with more than one little one, make it clear on the bag.
Tip: It’s always a wise move to check with your airline before you jet off. They might have their own special requirements for traveling with a Pack ‘N Play, so it’s best to get the scoop in advance.
Do Airlines Charge For Pack N Play?
Whether you have to pay to check a Pack ‘N Play depends on the airline you’re flying with. Each airline has its own rules. Some won’t charge you a dime for checking it, while others might ask for a fee.
On average, if you do need to pay, you’re looking at around $35 to $50 on most airlines.
Remember, though, it’s smart to double-check with the airline you’re traveling on. Their policies and fees can vary, so it’s always a good idea to get the most accurate info from them.
Does A Pack-N-Play Count As A Checked Bag [Southwest]?
No, if you’re flying with Southwest Airlines, your pack-n-play won’t be counted as a checked bag. Southwest is pretty family-friendly—they let you check a car seat and a stroller for free, on top of your first two checked bags. Your pack-n-play can be checked as one of these two free bags.
Just remember, it shouldn’t weigh more than 50 pounds or be larger than 62 inches when you add up the length, width, and height. This cool policy means families can bring all the necessary stuff for their little ones without worrying about extra baggage fees.
How To Travel With a Pack ‘N Play?
To begin, take your pack ‘n play apart and fold it up neatly. It’s a good idea to stow it in a carrying case or a spacious bag. Don’t forget to bring along any extras you need, like a mattress or sheets.
Once you get to your destination, follow the instructions from the manufacturer to set it up. It’s like putting together a puzzle, just with clear steps to guide you.
Here is a step-by-step guide for you to travel with Pack and Play:
Make Sure You Have the Right Accessories
Before you leave, double-check that you have all of the necessary accessories for your Pack ‘N Play. This includes everything from the mattress to the sheets, and even toys or other items you may need.
Measure Your Pack ‘N Play
Measure your Pack ‘N Play and make sure it meets the carry-on requirements of your airline. If it does not, then you will need to check it in with your luggage.
Pack It Properly
When you’re ready to travel, make sure you pack your Pack ‘N Play properly so that it doesn’t get damaged during the flight.
Place the mattress in a bag and then wrap the entire Pack ‘N Play in bubble wrap or something similar for extra protection.
Check It At The Ticket Counter
If your Pack ‘N Play does not meet the carry-on requirements, then you can always check it at the ticket counter with your luggage.
Make sure to label it properly and make sure that the airline knows that it contains a Pack ‘N Play.
Here’s a table showing different airlines and the types of strollers allowed on them:
| Airline | Types of Strollers Allowed | Maximum Size & Weight Limits |
| American Airlines | Small collapsible strollers; car seat strollers. | 45 linear inches (114 cm) and 20 lbs |
| Delta Air Lines | Small collapsible strollers; car seat strollers. | 45 linear inches (114 cm) and 20 lbs |
| United Airlines | Small collapsible strollers; car seat strollers. | 45 linear inches (114 cm) and 20 lbs |
| Southwest Airlines | Small collapsible strollers. | 10 x 16 x 24 inches (25 x 40 x 61 cm) and no weight limit |
| JetBlue Airways | Small collapsible strollers. | 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm) and no weight limit |
| Emirates | Small collapsible strollers; car seat strollers. | Varies, check with airline. |
| British Airways | Small collapsible strollers; car seat strollers. | 56 x 45 x 25 cm (22 x 18 x 10 inches) and no weight limit |
| Qantas Airways | Small collapsible strollers. | Check with airline. |
| Air Canada | Small collapsible strollers; car seat strollers. | 9 x 15.5 x 21.5 inches (23 x 39.5 x 55 cm) and 20 lbs |
| Lufthansa | Small collapsible strollers. | 15 lbs (7 kg) and no size limit |
| Singapore Airlines | Small collapsible strollers; car seat strollers. | 15 lbs (7 kg) and no size limit |
| Cathay Pacific | Small collapsible strollers; car seat strollers. | 15 lbs (7 kg) and no size limit |
| Virgin Atlantic | Small collapsible strollers; car seat strollers. | 22 x 18 x 10 inches (56 x 45 x 25 cm) and no weight limit |
| Japan Airlines | Small collapsible strollers. | Check with airline. |
| Korean Air | Small collapsible strollers. | Check with airline. |
The Best Pack ‘N Plays For Airplanes
The perfect pack ‘n play for airplane adventures is one that’s lightweight, easy to carry, and a breeze to set up and fold down. Of course, it’s got to be super safe and create a cozy, secure spot for your little one to sleep or play.
A couple of top choices that folks often go for are the Lotus Travel Crib and Portable Baby Playard and the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light.
Here is a list of some best-selling pack-n-plays for air travel:
Graco Pack ‘n Play On the Go Playard
This classic playard is an excellent choice if you need something that’s lightweight and easy to transport while traveling. It features a compact fold and wheels for effortless portability, as well as a removable bassinet and storage pouch.
Plus, it has mesh sides that make it great for air travel.
Lotus Travel Crib and Portable Baby Playard:
This Playard was designed with parents in mind, as it’s ultra-lightweight and easy to set up. It also has breathable mesh sides for optimal ventilation while your baby is sleeping.
When you’re ready to pack up, the mattress folds into the frame so that you can fit it into a carry-on bag.
BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light:
This well-known brand has created a pack ‘n-play that’s perfect for air travel. It features a lightweight design and can be easily folded and carried in its own bag. Plus, it has mesh sides that make it great for keeping your baby cool during long flights.
4moms Breeze Plus Portable Playard:
This pack ‘n-play is perfect if you need something that offers more features. It has a removable bassinet, changing station, and toy bar, as well as a mattress and integrated air pump for easy setup.
Plus, it folds into its own carry bag so you can easily take it with you on any trip.
Chicco FastAsleep Full-Size Travel Playard:
This lightweight playard was designed with air travel in mind. It can be easily folded and stored in its own carry case, and it features an integrated air pump for quick setup.
Plus, it has mesh sides that provide excellent ventilation for your baby while they sleep.
Delta Children LX Deluxe Portable Baby Play Yard:
This is another great option if you’re looking for a pack ‘n-play that’s perfect for air travel. It has mesh sides, a mattress, and an integrated air pump for easy setup.
Plus, it folds into its own carry bag so you can easily take it with you wherever you go.
Dream On Me Zodiak Portable Playard:
This is a great choice if you need something that’s lightweight and easy to transport. It features mesh sides for optimal ventilation, and it folds into its own carry bag so you can take it with you on any trip.
Plus, its integrated air pump makes setup a breeze.
Guava Family Lotus Everywhere Travel Crib:
This pack ‘n-play is perfect for air travel because of its lightweight design and breathable mesh sides. Plus, it has an integrated air pump so you can easily set it up wherever you go.
And when you’re ready to pack up, the mattress folds into the frame for easy storage in your carry-on bag.
What Is The Hawaiian Airlines Stroller Policy?
Hawaiian Airlines is pretty stroller-friendly. If your stroller can be collapsed, you can bring it along without paying extra. However, if you’ve got a non-collapsible stroller that weighs over 50 lbs, you’ll need to check it in, and regular baggage fees will apply. Just a heads-up, wagons for kids don’t count as strollers and also come with regular baggage fees.
When you’re traveling with a stroller, you’ve got options. You can check it in at the ticket counter or right at the gate when it’s time to take off. And when you land, you can collect your stroller from the baggage claim area.
Note: If you’re flying with an infant and plan to use a car seat, Hawaiian Airlines lets you bring your child restraint system (CRS) at no extra cost.
What Is The Allegiant Stroller Policy?
Good news if you’re flying with Allegiant Airlines! They’re quite stroller-friendly. You can check in one stroller per passenger without any extra charges. So, no need to stress about additional fees or leaving your stroller behind at the gate.
Note: Your stroller should be foldable and small enough to fit in the overhead compartment. If it’s a bit too big for that, then it’ll be gate-checked. They’ll safely tuck it into the cargo hold and hand it back to you when you reach your destination.
What Is The Allegiant Car Seat Policy?
When you’re flying with Allegiant, here’s the scoop on keeping your little ones safe. If your child weighs under 40 pounds, they need to be snugly secured in a government-approved child restraint device while on the plane.
These devices, like car seats, have to meet the FAA’s requirements and sport a sticker that says “Certified for Aircraft Use.” You’ll usually find this sticker on the side of the car seat.
Just so you know, Allegiant doesn’t offer loaner car seats, so it’s super important to have the right child restraint device ready before your flight.
Now, if your car seat or any FAA-approved child restraint device is wider than 17.88 inches, it might not fit on the aircraft due to size limits.
Also, just a quick heads-up, backless booster seats, vest harnesses, and safety belt extension gadgets are a no-go.
The only harness-type device that’s approved for air travel is the AmSafe Aviation CARES, but you’ll have to buy that separately.
What Is The Spirit Infant Policy?
Spirit Airlines has a policy for infants that makes it quite clear. Here’s the deal: If your little one is between 7 days old and their second birthday (23 months), they’re considered a lap child. That means you don’t have to buy them a separate seat, but you totally can if you want to.
Now, here’s a key point: For every guest who’s 15 years or older, you’re allowed just one lap child.
But, and this is important, if your infant is 7 days old or less, or they need an incubator or some other life-support system, they won’t be allowed to travel, and they’ll be denied boarding for their safety.
Your infant, if they’re under two, should also have some ID, like a birth certificate, passport, or government-issued ID card. If you’re going international, make sure you’ve got all the needed travel documents.
For safety, there are a few things you can’t bring onboard for kids under two. That includes booster seats, car seats, and strollers. Lap children should stay in their parent’s or guardian’s lap during take-off.
What Is The Jetblue Lap Infant Policy?
JetBlue’s policy for lap infants is here to make things easier for parents. If you’re flying with a child between 3 days old and 2 years, you can bring them along without paying an extra fee. However, you’ll need to show proof of your little one’s age, like a birth certificate, passport, or immunization record.
Lap infants don’t get any checked baggage allowance, but parents can bring along one diaper bag, stroller, and car seat for free.
Just remember, the car seat needs to be FAA-approved and can only be used in a regular aircraft seat with a lap belt. It can’t go in an exit row.
Also, it’s good to know that lap infants won’t earn any reward points, and they count towards the maximum number of passengers allowed on the flight.
For example, if the plane’s max capacity is 150 passengers, that includes lap infants—so it can’t go over 150 in total.
Conclusion
In conclusion, flying with a Pack ‘n Play involves careful consideration of airline policies, convenience, and your child’s comfort. While some airlines allow Pack ‘n Plays as checked items or in-flight bassinets, others require gate-checking or following carry-on size limits.
Prioritizing your child’s safety and creating a familiar sleep space can make flying with a Pack ‘n Play a convenient and reassuring experience for both parents and little travelers.