A couple years ago we flew with thirteen month old twins as lap babies. We gate checked a double stroller (City Mini) and two car seats with bases (in nylon bags) in addition to all our checked bags, with no problems. The twins had been great travelers the couple times we flew when they were infants, and we didn't want to pay for two extra round trip tickets unnecessarily, since we already had to pay full price for them on the cruise we were taking. Just a word of warning based on that experience: Ours was not an especially long flight (Baltimore to Ft. Lauderdale), but felt endless as we struggled to keep them quiet and keep them from encroaching on anyone else's space, while One week vacation with two babiesthey clamored to see more of their surroundings and fellow passengers. We took snacks, books, toys, movies, but nothing enticed them to be still for long. By the time we arrived, we were all four worn out and unhappy. Fortunately, the return flight was not full, so we were allowed to bring the car seats on. In the familiar restraints, the kiddos settled right down and slept all the way. We didn't fly with them again until they were two and had to have their own tickets; now they always have car seats and are great travelers (with Leap Pads and snacks). I strongly recommend asking when you arrive at the airport how full the flight is, and keeping the car seats with you if there is a chance you can take them on the plane. Good luck!
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