Air Canada is one of Canada’s most popular airlines that flies both within the country and internationally. They are happy to accommodate passengers with unique needs on their flights, like small children who require mobility devices such as car seats or strollers. Learn everything you need to know about Air Canada’s stroller policy and if it’s worth bringing yours on your next vacation!
Air Canada allows passengers to bring one stroller per child in addition to their regular baggage allowance. Small collapsable strollers, sometimes referred to as umbrella strollers, are recommended. Larger strollers can be checked at the baggage counter.
This article will explain what baby equipment you need and can bring on your next flight. Also, find out the ins and outs of traveling with a stroller so you’re free to make memories on your next vacation instead of worrying.
Stroller Policy Details
On an Air Canada flight, you can bring one stroller per child with you. Air Canada doesn’t state that you can bring the stroller in the cabin with you, but it will be gate checked and returned to you at the gate at your destination. Strollers under 92 cm (36 in) and have a collapsible length of 25.5 cm (10 in) can be gate checked for free. Larger strollers need to be checked at the baggage counter for free.
Air Canada states that no passenger can be responsible for more than 1 infant under 2 years old, so the policy on double strollers is unclear. If you would like to use a double stroller, it’s best to call Air Canada customer service to be sure.
You can bring your stroller and a car seat free of charge if you’ve paid for a seat for your child. If your child is sitting in your lap, the car seat and stroller will be gate checked for you when you arrive at your gate. Learn everything you need to know about traveling with a car seat on Air Canada before you arrive at the airport.
Should You Bring Your Stroller?
A stroller is a helpful tool for families who are traveling with small children, and depending on your destination can be required for daily activities. Most families own either an umbrella stroller or a large stroller, not both. Depending on the airline, it can also be risky to check your expensive stroller in the baggage hold.
It’s worth it to purchase a less expensive umbrella stroller for travel and protect it at every stage of the journey. If it comes with a bag, fold and place the stroller in the bag before gate-checking it to ensure its safety on the journey. Flying with children can be daunting and stressful, but it doesn’t need to be, find out key tips for flying with kids before you jet set to your next destination.
Checking a Stroller at Baggage
Large strollers have the benefit of carrying many items in addition to your child. They are the preferred stroller for most parents. If you think bringing a large stroller to your destination is worth it, you’ll need to check it at the check in counter.
Since you are only allowed to travel with one stroller, your child will have to walk or be carried to the plane for the rest of the way. Place your large stroller in its carry bag and check at the check in counter with the rest of your luggage when you get your tickets.
For more details about luggage allowance and baggage fees, check out our Air Canada baggage policy article.
Strollers in Security
To take a stroller through security, you’ll need to take your child out of the stroller and walk through the scanner with them. Take all the items out of your stroller and place them in a tray, then fold up your stroller and place it on the conveyer to be scanned.
Some smaller strollers can be hand checked. The agent can give further details at the time of boarding. Children who can walk independently can walk through the scanner alone, or they can be carried by a parent. The scanning is voluntary, so you can also opt for a pat down if that’s easier for your family.
Gate Checking a Stroller
When you’ve made it to your gate and are ready to board, the flight attendant will call passengers with small children to board first. At the gate, you can remove your child and items from the stroller, fold it down, and put it in a carrying bag.
A travel case is highly recommended for your stroller to avoid damage. Our handy article teaches you all the best tips about gate-checking your stroller to keep air travel safe and simple. The flight attendant will keep your stroller aside to be put in the baggage hold underneath the plane.
What Size Stroller Can I Take on a Plane?
Some airlines allow you to take a small collapsible stroller on the plane to be placed in the overhead bins. The stroller must fold in on itself and be able to fit in the bis. Air Canada is unclear whether it allows strollers in the overhead bin, so it’s best to contact them before you purchase a ticket to be sure.
A travel stroller has more chances to be accepted in the cabin than a regular one. Check out our top recommendations here: the best 9 travel strollers for different needs.
What Happens if a Stroller Doesn’t Fit Through Security?
If your stroller is too bulky or awkward to fit through the X-ray machine, it will be inspected manually by a TSA agent.
