If you’ve ever packed for a trip with a baby, you already know the truth: babies come with a lot of stuff and a lot of bags! Between diapers, bottles, toys, snacks, baby carriers, the stroller and your own bags, it can be hard to know what airlines will actually let you bring onboard.
The good news? Most airlines do not count a stroller as a carry-on, and many allow parents to bring essential baby items at no extra charge.
In this guide, we’ll break down:
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Whether a stroller counts as a carry-on
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What baby gear you’re allowed to bring
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TSA rules for strollers, milk, formula and baby food
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Airline by airline stroller policies
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Why choosing a compact stroller like the Metro 3 makes flying dramatically easier
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Why a baby carrier is often the easiest way to get through airports with a little one
Disclaimer: Airline policies change frequently. Always check your airline’s website before you fly.
Does a Stroller Count as a Carry-On?
The short answer is: No. A stroller is usually considered a special item or mobility/assistive device, so it does not count toward your carry-on allowance.
Most airlines allow you to check a stroller for free either at the ticket counter or the gate, but policies vary, so do always confirm with your airline.
TIP: A compact, overhead bin friendly stroller like the Ergobaby’s Metro 3 Compact Stroller simplifies travel because you can take it onto the plane and avoid baggage handling. It folds easily with one hand and the optional carry bag lets you wear it like a backpack, leaving your hands free for everything else. Red Dot Design Award Winner 2025.
Airline by Airline Guide: Is a Stroller Considered a Carry-On?
There is no universal rule, every airline has its own stroller policy. Use this guide as a quick reference but always confirm with your airline before travelling.
Air Canada
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1 stroller per child is allowed in addition to regular baggage
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Prefers compact umbrella strollers (max ~9x15.5x21.5 in)
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Larger strollers must be checked at the counter; small foldable stroller's ideal for gate check
Air Canada travelling with children and stroller policy.
Alaska Airlines
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1 stroller can be checked in for free
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Smaller compact strollers that fit within the carry-on size (around 22x14x9 inches) might be able to be stowed as a carry-on
Alaska Airlines travelling with children and stroller policy.
American Airlines
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One stroller and one car seat allowed per child
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Only one item can be gate-checked
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Strollers over 20 lbs must be checked at the counter, including wagons
American Airlines travelling with children and stroller policy.
Delta
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Strollers and car seats checked for free
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Small travel strollers can sometimes fit in the overhead bin, but it is up to the staff
Delta travelling with children and stroller policy.
Frontier
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Stroller and car seat checked for free
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Strollers that meet carry-on size limits (around 10"D x 16"W x 24"H) can even be brought into the cabin if they fit in the overhead bin
Frontier Airlines travelling with children and stroller policy.
JetBlue
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Strollers and car seats excluded from baggage allowance
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JetBlue does state they are not liable for damage if checked (important!)
JetBlue Airlines travelling with children and stroller policy.
Southwest
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One stroller and one car seat checked for free per child
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Any stroller type can be gate-checked
Southwest Airlines travelling with children and stroller policy.
United Airlines
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One stroller or folding wagon can be checked in for free
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Small compact strollers may be carried on if they meet size guidelines (9x14x22’’ or 23x35x56cm)
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Large or non-collapsible strollers must be checked
United Airlines travelling with children and stroller policy.
Why Choose a Compact Stroller for Travel?
Compact or umbrella strollers are designed with travel in mind. Whether you're navigating airports, hopping in and out of taxis, or exploring a new city, a lightweight travel stroller makes the journey smoother, simpler, and far more enjoyable.
Key Benefits of a Compact Stroller
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Lightweight and easy to store, including overhead bins, small hotel rooms & restaurants
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When you're juggling luggage, snacks, passports, and a wriggly toddler, a stroller that folds in seconds with one hand is a game changer
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Perfect for taxis, rideshares and public transport
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Despite their small size, many compact strollers offer surprisingly good suspension and maneuverability. Cobblestones, curbs, and airport terminals become much easier to navigate. The Metro 3 stroller has an all wheel CushionRide™ suspension system to make strolling even smoother.
