✋ Hand luggage
FAA-approved child restraint systems allowed for use on the aircraft if you purchase a seat. Backless booster seats are not approved for in-flight use. Device must be labelled with FAA approval.
🧳 Hold luggage
No restrictions in checked baggage. Gate-check is also common.
Based on TSA guidance for United States. Official rules ↗
Child Booster Seat rules by country
How carry-on and checked-bag rules for child booster seat compare across the 14 countries we cover.
Child Booster Seat
Common questions
Not all booster seats are approved for in-flight use. The FAA (and equivalent authorities) require child restraint devices to have specific safety approvals for use during flight. Backless booster seats are not approved. Harness-equipped forward-facing seats generally are.
In the US, look for the label "This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft." CSSD approval in the UK and ECE R44/R129 approval in Europe are the relevant standards.
Most airlines allow you to gate-check a car seat or stroller free of charge. This means you use it up to the gate and it's returned at the jetbridge on arrival.
Yes. If you want to use an approved child restraint in-flight, your child must have their own purchased seat — you cannot install a car seat in a lap-child position.
Related items
Browse all Baby & Family →Based on official United States security guidelines. Rules vary by airline and route — always verify with your carrier before travel. · Rules last verified May 2026.