Another Flying Question

So I was reading the posts about checking the carseats, etc... We're taking a trip in May. Thinking about all we have to bring, I'm wondering HOW?? I don't want to get charged extra for more checked bags... How do you guys do it??

Here's what I think we *Have* to bring:

DH: 1 large checked suitcase with our clothes
ME: 1 large checked suitcase with kids' clothes/supplies (diapers, etc.)
Kid #1: Carseat
Kid #2: Carseat
Kid #3: Carseat

We also have to check 1 stroller for the baby. Each person/Kid will have a carryon with their own respective snacks/enertainment for the flight.


If we check it as we're getting on the flight (not the c/i counter) does it still count as checked baggage? I do not want to be charged for extra baggage....

 

I have heard that car seats don't count as checked baggage. Neither do strollers. So it sounds like for five of you, you only have two bags. That's good! Did you buy five seats? If yes, you're allowed more baggage than that probably.

Also, some airlines do charge you for checking a piece of luggage if you check it at the plane. Others don't. So call your airline and find out.

 

Car seats and stroller don't count as checked baggage, but they are changing rules daily now so definitely check with your airline. As for getting it all in we only have two kids, but we have 2 checked bags with our clothes and supplies (and by supplies I mean very few diapers, some toys, books, toiletries, shoes, etc). I always go to the store the first or second day and get all the diapers, wipes, and food we'll need for our trip. This saves a lot of room in the bags! Then -we gate check the stroller, and take on two carry-ons. Thankfully we've never had to bring car seats yet because we are always able to borrow some at our destination. GL with your trip!

 

We always have two suitcases, stroller and 2 carseats. But we also buy 4 seats, so that is really 4 suitcases allowed and 4 carryon's allowed. They have never charged us for our gate check stroller.

 

Each paying passenger is USUALLY allowed a bag, but check with your airline. Also, the carseats are "freebies" so, if the airline allows it then each seat holder would get a bag.....

 

This doesn't change the amount you're packing, but a good packing strategy someone told me is to cross-pack so that if a suitcase is misplaced, you haven't lost all the kids' clothes & supplies or all your clothes. If everyone has something in each suitcase, you're in better shape if a bag goes missing.

Also - I can stuff a ton of diapers in the outer pockets of my suitcases, which gives me more room inside and the diapers are something that won't get damaged in those outer pockets.

Best,
Mia

 

I also use those vacuum bags for our clothes--especially if you are travelling to a place where you will need winter clothes. I was able to get almost double into my big suitcase my using vacuum bags for sweaters and coats.