Traveling with babies and toddlers makes me feel super adventurous. I have flown to Europe, USA, and across Canada and always with my beloved hiking carrier and kids in tow. Sometimes we have brought both hiking carriers with us as our kids are close in age. We always hike on our trips and family vacations so I have never not brought the hiking carriers along. For a hiking mom exploring the Canadian Rockies and beyond, a hiking carrier is not just a convenience—it's a necessity. Here’s how to make the most of your hiking carrier when flying, keeping both you and your kids content along your travels.
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You being here and reading this means that we have a lot in common as you too find enjoyment in hiking and travelling with kids. I am excited for all of you adventures! I am forver grateful for the moments in transit with my kids to our destinations. Remember to just slow down and enjoy the process of travelling with kids. We make a big deal out of snacks, getting a steamed milk, airport activities, and getting excited for our trip.
You have a couple options when flying with your hiking carrier:
Option 1: Check the Bag and Pay
Pros:
No Carrying Hassles: Checking the carrier at the counter means you won’t have to carry it through the airport, which can be a relief if you’re managing multiple kids and luggage.
Streamlined Boarding: Without the carrier, you can move more freely through security and boarding processes.
Cons:
Additional Fees: Many airlines charge for checked bags, so anticipate an extra cost for this convenience.
Delayed Access: You’ll only regain access to your carrier at the baggage claim after landing, which may delay your exit from the airport.
Damage Risk: This always concerns me as a damaged carrier would not be safe for my baby and it would ruin my hiking plans at the destination.
Option 2: Gate Check with Strollers
Pros:
Accessibility: You can use the carrier right up until you board the plane, which is great for transporting your baby through the airport.
No Extra Fees: Most airlines allow gate-checked items without any additional charge, saving you money.
Cons:
Limited Carry-Ons: You might end up juggling the carrier with other carry-on items through the airport. It can be a lot to juggle all the items and you cannot easily go into a regular washroom stall with all your items and kids either.
Potential for Damage: Although less common at the gate, mishandling can still occur. Using a protective cover is advisable. So far, no damages have occured for me with the stroller check method!
Understand and Utilize Airline Policies
Every airline has different rules and you will want to read online prior to your trip. As mentioned earlier, I have experience with flying to a few countries but not all so what works for me, may not work for you in different parts of the world. To ensure a smooth journey, familiarize yourself with your airline’s specific policies regarding hiking carriers. Many airlines offer the ability to gate check your carrier, allowing you to use it right up until you board the plane. This is particularly helpful for managing busy airports with kids in tow. When you use terminology like 'stroller check' at the front desk, that helps as I did have a lot of confused employees wondering what my hiking carrier even was. Keep your hiking carrier out of the duffel bag and on your back ideally until you get through security and up to the gate.
Efficient Packing and Use of the Carrier
Choosing and Packing Your Carrier:
Lightweight and Portable: Opt for a carrier that is both lightweight and easily collapsible, like the Osprey hiking carriers. The entire fleet of these carriers pack down really well for travel. Some of the LT carriers are meant for travel but I always travelled the Osprey Poco.
Smart Packing: Utilize the carrier’s compartments to store extra diapers, wipes, and other essentials. Secure any loose straps to prevent snags during handling.
Carrier Duffel Bag: I didn't think I needed to buy a cover for my carrier but it so handy for extra layers and items that the kids and I are always juggling. I have two of the Osprey poco duffels. There are times on trips when I needed to use the duffel to store the kids diapers, supplies, snacks, and toys.
Flying with a Baby Hiking Carrier as a Multi-Tool:
Highchair on the Go: Transform your carrier into a highchair during layovers, making it easier to feed your baby in airport lounges. This hack has been super helpful with both of my kids. Plus if I needed to pee it was much easier to go to the family washroom and lower the carrier to the ground.
Navigating Airports: Use the carrier to safely transport your baby through the terminal while keeping one hand free for your toddler. This setup is perfect for juggling multiple children efficiently. I find it a little annoying to go through security just in general with kids. Be mindful of not having water or food pouches in the hiking carrier. You will always need to be checked at security because the carrier will not fit through the machines there.
The perfect highchair at a busy airport
Gate Checking Tips
Tagging and Protection: Obtain a gate check tag early at the gate or ideally as you go up to the airline counter when you arrive to the airport. As mentioned above, I always bring my duffel cover for my hiking pack. Just make sure you switch the tag to the duffel once you get to the gate. Watch out for baby trying to rip off the tags too as you need the tag on so that the flight crews know where to take your hiking carrier.
Convenience of Gate Check: Enjoy the flexibility of using your carrier all the way to the aircraft, simplifying the transition from airport to plane. A lot of families prefer strollers at the airport but as I always have hikes planned for the destination, I find it easier to just not bring my stroller along.
Traveling with Kids
Sure it can be a lot of work and planning but the magic of having your kids get to experience new places with you is incredible. A hiking carrier is more than a tool for remote trails; it’s a versatile travel companion that eases the challenges of flying with children. By planning ahead and using your carrier effectively, you can transform your travel experience into an enjoyable adventure for the whole family. Safe travels, and happy hiking!
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