Can you bring a travel stroller on a plane with Southwest Airlines when traveling with a baby?

 

Bringing a travel stroller on a Southwest Airlines flight

 

Short answer: Yes — you can bring a travel stroller when flying Southwest with a baby, and Southwest generally allows strollers to be gate-checked at no additional charge.

• Gate-checking: You may take the stroller to the gate and the gate agent will tag it to be returned to you either at the aircraft door/jet bridge or at baggage claim, depending on the airport and aircraft. Gate-checked strollers are typically free of charge.
• Carry-on vs. gate-check: If your travel stroller is small and folds to fit in the overhead bin and meets the airline’s carry-on size limits, you may be able to bring it on board as your carry-on item. If it’s larger, you will usually be asked to gate-check it during boarding.
• Car seats: If you also have an infant car seat, Southwest allows you to check it for free or bring it on board if you have purchased a seat for the child. To use a car seat onboard it must be approved for aircraft use (look for an FAA approval label on the seat).
• Lap infants: If your baby is traveling as a lap infant (no seat purchased), the stroller and car seat can still be checked/gate-checked at no charge, but the car seat cannot be used on board unless you have bought a paid seat for the infant.
• Protecting your stroller: Stroller returns vary by airport — some are handed back at the jet bridge, others at baggage claim. Consider using a small gate-check bag or cover to protect the stroller and remove loose items, toys, or accessories before handing it over.
• Label and valuables: Put a contact label on the stroller and remove any valuables, medications, or essential baby items. Keep essentials with you in a carry-on or diaper bag so you have them during boarding and in case the stroller is not returned immediately.
• Timing and communication: Arrive at the gate early and speak with the gate agent about where to leave the stroller and how it will be returned. For connecting flights, be prepared to gate-check again at each connection if required.
• Special assistance: If you need help folding the stroller or have mobility concerns, ask gate or ramp staff — they can often assist or advise on the best way to manage your stroller through boarding.

Practical tips: Collapse the stroller before boarding when asked, remove loose items, label it, and keep what you need for the baby in a carry-on. If you plan to use a car seat onboard, confirm it’s FAA-approved and that you have purchased a seat for the child.