Travelling with children in taxis: car seat rules and tips
TRAVEL GUIDE
Heading to the airport or exploring somewhere new? A taxi can be a handy way to get around with the family. Before you book, a little planning can help you get the right car seat, find room for the pushchair and keep everyone comfortable along the way.
This guide is for parents and guardians travelling with children. We cover child car seat rules for taxis and minicabs, what to check when booking and how to prepare for journeys abroad.
Do children need a car seat in a taxi?
Children normally need a suitable car seat until their 12th birthday or until they reach 135cm tall, whichever happens first. However, taxis and minicabs have a specific exception when the driver does not provide the correct child car seat.
In that situation, a child can travel without a child car seat in a rear seat, under the following rules:
- Children under 3: Can travel in a rear seat without a seat belt.
- Children aged 3 and over: Must wear an adult seat belt when travelling in a rear seat without a child car seat.
This is a legal exception. For a planned family journey, arrange a suitable child car seat in advance and check that it can be fitted in the vehicle. You can read the full GOV.UK guidance on child car seats in taxis and minicabs.
What to check when booking a taxi with children
From a short ride to an early airport run, giving the taxi company a few details before you travel can help things go smoothly.
Ask whether the company can provide a suitable seat. Share your child's age, height and weight so they can confirm what is available.
If you're taking your own car seat, check that it is compatible with the vehicle. Allow time to fit it according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Confirm the number of passengers and car seats. Let the company know about suitcases, pushchairs and any other bulky items.
Agree where to meet your driver and keep the booking details handy. For an airport pick-up, check the meeting point and waiting arrangements.
Ask about the fare and any charges for child seats, larger vehicles, parking or waiting time before confirming your booking.
Discuss any accessibility or seating requirements in advance so the company can confirm whether the vehicle is suitable.
Taking a taxi to the airport with children
Between passports, bags and getting everyone out of the door, there's plenty to remember on departure day. Book a vehicle with enough space for your family and luggage, and leave time to fit car seats before setting off.
- Confirm your terminal: Check your airline's departure details before booking the drop-off.
- Keep essentials within reach: Put travel documents, any medication and things your child needs in an accessible bag.
- Plan for your car seat: If you're taking it on holiday, check your airline's rules for carrying it.
- Arrange the return journey: Confirm child seat requirements for your trip home too.
Travelling with children in taxis abroad
Before your holiday, check the child car seat and seat belt rules for your destination through official local guidance.
Contact your taxi or transfer provider before travelling to confirm the seat they can supply and whether it suits your child. If you plan to bring your own, check that it meets local requirements and can be fitted in the booked vehicle.
Family travel plans and insurance
Planning a holiday with the family? If your taxi journey is part of a wider trip, it's worth checking your travel insurance arrangements before you set off. You can explore Holiday Extras family travel insurance if you're travelling together, or children's travel insurance if you're looking at cover for younger travellers, and decide which is right for your trip.
Children must be travelling with a parent or guardian, and eligibility requirements, policy terms, conditions and exclusions apply. Cover levels, age limits and any medical screening requirements vary between policies, so check the policy documents for full details of what is and isn't covered before you book.
Need to discuss something?
If you have a question about Holiday Extras travel insurance for your family, visit our help and support page to find the right team.
Contact our teamYour questions, answered
Can I book a taxi with a child car seat?
Ask the taxi company before booking, as availability depends on the provider and vehicle. Give your child's age, height and weight, and confirm that the seat provided will be suitable. Check any additional charge before you book.
Can I bring my own booster seat in a taxi?
Check with the taxi company that your booster seat can be used in the booked vehicle. It must be suitable for your child's size and fitted according to the manufacturer's instructions. Allow time to fit it before the journey begins.
Can a child sit in the front seat of a taxi?
A child who still needs a child car seat must use the correct one in the front. The taxi exception only applies to rear seats. Before fitting a rear-facing child seat in the front, the front passenger airbag must be deactivated. Check the vehicle and car seat instructions.
Do airport transfers provide child car seats?
Check directly with your transfer provider before booking. Ask what type of vehicle and child seat will be supplied, whether the seat suits your child and if there is an additional charge. Confirm these details for both your outward and return journeys.
Disclaimer: This page provides general information for parents and guardians travelling with children. Check current official guidance and your transport provider's requirements before travelling. Any information about Holiday Extras travel insurance is subject to eligibility, policy terms, conditions, exclusions and limitations. Please read your policy documents for full details.
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