Do I Need a Carseat for a Just Turned 4 Year Old?

Updated on August 05, 2009
L.W. asks from Lombard, IL
4 answers

We will be traveling in a couple of weeks to Disney World on Southwest Airlines and I wasn't sure if my youngest, who just turned 4 a few weeks ago, needs a carseat. I know I can call Southwest myself and ask, but I figured it would be much easier to ask you ladies, especially those of you who have flown. I did check online but didn't see anything about what age they need to be to require a carseat. I also have a six year old, but I'm pretty sure he doesn't need anything. Also, I would love any good advice you may have for a first timer like me, especially the stuff I would never have thought of, for flying as well as Disney World. I have been to Disney, but it's been at least 20 years and I'm pretty sure things have changed since then! Thanks so much for your thoughts!

What can I do next?

  • Add yourAnswer own comment
  • Ask your own question Add Question
  • Join the Mamapedia community Mamapedia
  • as inappropriate
  • this with your friends

More Answers

Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

C.H.

answers from Chicago on

for the airplane or car? If it's for the car, you can rent one when you get there (it will not be as clean or as good as the one you have).

Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

D.B.

answers from Chicago on

My husband and I flew Southwest last year to Arizona with our 2 daughters. At the time they were 2 & 5. No car seat was needed for either of them. We rented a car when we got there and ordered (when we booked the car ahead of time) a car seat and a booster with the car. The car was ready with the seats inside. Disney has awesome strollers when you are pushing two kids. They do cost, I think, 20 for the day but if you stay at the park all day it's totally worth it! Even the nicest of regular strollers can't compare to theirs & when you have to push more than one (and one is six)you will notice the ease in pushing. Trust me after walking for a while, your six year old will be in the stroller too. lol Color Wonder Markers and Paper are awesome for flying. They don't make a mess and they can use them on the plane & on the white bed sheets at the hotel and you don't have to worry. If you don't have a portable DVD player try to borrow one. It's nice to have in case they get bored. They also have some great travel games out (magnetic) they you can use/ bring with. I have seen them at Target & Toys R US. Nothing worse than bored kids on a plane. You can't really play I SPY on an airplane. lol. Each of my girls bring a backpack with snacks, books and their color wonder markers & paper. Have them pick their things for their own bags. Since you pay for a ticket for them they can each have their own carry-on bags. This is nice not just for the plane but for the hotel room and waiting in the airport. Then in your carry-on pack couple of treat type snacks that they might not normally get all of the time like M&M's, Oreo's thing like that. This way if there is a melt down you have a little treat to bring back the smile. Don't forget the flight home. That always seems longer so make sure you refill your bags for the flight home. Have Fun!

Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

J.G.

answers from Chicago on

Nope! There are not carseat requirements on airlines for any age. The only thing is if you are renting a car and planning to rent carseats make sure you are guaranteed a car seat. Some are first come first serve.

Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

M.U.

answers from Chicago on

Hi L.,

My daughter has been flying since she was 4 months old and has not used a carseat ever! You do not NEED a carseat, it is your preference if you feel more secure and comfortable i would suggest bringing one but if you dont you dont have to.

For Updates and Special Promotions
Follow Us

Related Questions