You probably know this: The vacation begins, and everything should run as smoothly as possible. The flight is often one of the most stressful parts of traveling, especially when small children are involved. Now imagine landing at your destination, and instead of having your stroller readily available on the plane, you have to wait for it to appear as bulky luggage on the baggage carousel. Or even worse: You get it back, but it’s damaged. Unfortunately, that’s already happened to us. But there is another option: Take your stroller on the plane as hand luggage.
Why you should take your stroller as hand luggage on the plane
There are numerous reasons why it makes sense to have your stroller with you as hand luggage on the plane. Here we have summarized the most important reasons for you.
As we know from painful experience, luggage is not always handled gently. Your stroller could be damaged during transport in the luggage compartment. However, if it is with you in the cabin, you have control and can ensure that it remains in perfect condition.
Everyone knows the annoying wait at the baggage carousel. If your stroller is with you as hand luggage, you can start right after landing instead of waiting for it to come out as bulky luggage. This saves time and nerves.
Airports can be huge. Often there are long distances from the gate to the baggage carousel or to the exit. Without a stroller, this can be a challenge with a small child. Exhausted children often don’t want to walk or be carried. With the stroller as hand luggage, you are well prepared.
In short: Taking your stroller as hand luggage on the plane not only offers comfort, but also security for one of your most valuable travel companions. So, take the stroller directly into the cabin on your next flight and travel relaxed!
What is meant by "stroller as hand luggage"
When people talk about a “stroller as hand luggage”, they usually mean the possibility of stowing the stroller in the cabin of the plane instead of checking it in and having it transported in the cargo hold.
Airlines often refer to the stroller on the plane as a travel stroller or pocket stroller.
The advantages and disadvantages of a stroller in hand luggage format
When buying a stroller, you should weigh your own needs and those of the child to make the best choice. It is a good idea to try out and compare different models.
Advantages of a travel stroller
Most travel strollers are designed to be folded compactly and carried easily, making them ideal for travel.
Some travel strollers comply with the hand luggage regulations of many airlines and can therefore be carried in the cabin.
Due to their compact design, they are often more maneuverable than larger strollers, which is advantageous in busy tourist areas or narrow streets.
Many travel strollers are equipped with removable and washable covers, which can be very practical after a long day of travel.
They take up little space in the car or hotel room, which is particularly advantageous on road trips or in smaller accommodations.
Many models can be folded with just one hand, which is especially useful if you have to carry a child or other luggage at the same time.
Disadvantages of a travel stroller
Some models may be less padded than larger strollers, which may make them less comfortable for the child, especially on longer trips.
The wheels are often smaller and less robust, which makes them less suitable for rough terrain or cobblestones.
Some travel strollers may have a lower maximum weight and may therefore not be as durable as larger models.
Due to their compact size, they often have less storage space for diaper bags, shopping or other necessities.
Some travel strollers may not have all the features and adjustments that a larger stroller offers, such as adjustable seat positions or integrated cup holders.
The stroller is allowed as hand luggage on these 12 airlines
With this airline, you can take your stroller into the cabin, but only instead of a normal piece of hand luggage. This means that you have to choose between your hand luggage and the stroller.
Here you can take your stroller into the cabin without restrictions.
This airline also allows the stroller to be transported in the cabin without additional conditions.
Another plus for families: With Emirates, stroller transport in the cabin is easily possible.
Similar to Air France, with Eurowings you can only take the stroller instead of a regular piece of hand luggage.
With Iberia, you can stow the stroller in the cabin without having to do without another piece of hand luggage.
The Italian airline allows you to carry the stroller in the cabin without any problems. Depending on the dimensions, however, you may have to do without your regular hand luggage.
With the Dutch airline KLM, you can also take your stroller into the cabin.
The Polish airline allows the stroller to be transported in the cabin without restrictions.
The German airline Lufthansa allows families to take the stroller into the cabin.
With this Asian airline, you can also stow your stroller in the cabin.
With the Portuguese airline TAP, the stroller can be taken into the cabin, but only instead of a regular piece of hand luggage.
Overview: Permissible dimensions for your stroller on the plane
Up to what age can I take a stroller with me?
As a rule, you can easily take a stroller for your child up to the age of 6.
With some airlines, you can theoretically take a stroller up to the age of 11.
Tips and tricks for stress-free flying with a stroller on the plane
These tips will help you fly stress-free with your stroller and child:
Not all airlines have the same rules for strollers and sometimes the conditions change. It is therefore essential to find out about the current regulations of the respective airline in advance in order to avoid unpleasant surprises at the airport.
If you plan to travel a lot, consider purchasing a compact, travel-friendly stroller that is easy to fold and meets the requirements of most airlines.
Before you go to the airport, practice folding and reassembling your stroller quickly at home. This can be especially helpful when getting on and off the plane.
Some airlines have limited storage space in the cabin. By being among the first to board, you increase your chances of stowing your stroller near your seat.
A protective cover can protect your stroller from dirt in the luggage compartment. In addition, your stroller cannot accidentally open when it is taken out.
Model comparison: Which stroller as hand luggage on the plane?
Modell | |||
Maße zusammen-geklappt | 52 x 44 x 18 cm | 42 x 34 x 20 cm | 48 x 32 x 20 cm |
Gewicht | 6,2 kg | 5,6 kg | 6,0 kg |
Preis | €€€ | €€ | €€ |
nutzbar ab | 6 Monate [mit Neugeborenen- set ab Geburt] | 6 Monate [mit Babyschale ab Geburt] | 6 Monate [mit Babyschale ab Geburt] |
nutzbar bis | 4 Jahre / 22 kg | 4 Jahre / 22 kg | 4 Jahre / 22 kg |
Zubehör | |||
