Car Seat
Car seats are allowed as carry-on, checked, or free gate-checked baggage — TSA has no restriction on bringing one.
Carry-on
Allowed
Checked
Allowed
Carry-on details
Allowed. You can bring a car seat to the gate and use it on board if you've purchased a seat for your child. It goes through the X-ray machine or a visual inspection like any other item.
Checked-bag details
Allowed. Car seats can be checked at the counter, or gate-checked — most US airlines gate-check car seats and strollers free of charge, separate from your standard baggage allowance, so you can use the seat right up until boarding and get it back at the jet bridge on arrival.
Special instructions
Free gate-checking is an airline policy, not a TSA rule — confirm your specific airline's car seat and stroller allowance before you fly.
FAQ
- Do I have to pay to check a car seat?
- No — nearly all US airlines let you gate-check or check a car seat for free, separate from your regular baggage allowance. This is airline policy rather than a TSA security rule, so confirm with your carrier.
- Can I use my car seat on the plane?
- Yes, if you've purchased a seat for your child and the seat is FAA-approved for aircraft use. It goes through security screening like any other carry-on item.
Related items
Source: TSA — What Can I Bring? · Last verified: 2026-07-30
Final decision rests with the security officer at the checkpoint.