Air travel (Midwest Connection) with infant...question about stroller/carseat?

I called the airline I'm flying with and was told I could gate check my stroller if it was an "umbrella" stroller. I don't know what she means by "umbrella." I have a Graco travel system where the carseat hooks into the stroller, and because my daughter's still very young, she requires the use of both. What is an "umbrella" stroller? Anyone have experience specifically with this...will I be able to gate check my travel system?

No, they won't let you do that. An umbrella stroller is the little one with a metal bar at the bottom of it that folds up into like a V shape. You usually see them at amusement parks and things like that. I'm sure you've seen them for sale at like wal-mart for 15 or 20 dollars. I have a 3 year old and 17 month old, so I had to buy a double-umbrella stroller, which ran me 80 bucks for the cheapest one, but that's just because it's a double.

An umbrella stroller is a light-weight, folding baby stroller that usually features upside-down-J-shaped handles similar to the handle on an umbrella. Here is a picture of what one looks like when open and folded: http://www.uptown.com.au/stroller.jpg

Since that is the only type of stroller the airline will let you use, if you have one or choose to buy one for use during travel (they are really cheap - usually less than $20), you can take it and gate check it. It will NOT count towards your checked luggage. This means that you will be able to use it all the way up until the time that you board, and one of the handlers will take it from you at your departure gate, tag it, and put it in a special compartment for you. When you exit the plane, it will be waiting for you at the door as well.



I have written an article about flying with children that gives information about airport security rules and regulations, tips and tricks to make the flight easier, and I talk a little about products designed to help parents on the journey. If you are interested in referencing it, here is the link:
http://www.angelfire.com/jamiehassen79/flying_children.html

If I can be of any more help or assistance, please feel free to contact me.