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Top tips for travelling by train with your children

Train companies do not allow young children to travel by train unaccompanied. Children under the age of 12 years old must have an adult who is at least 16 accompanying them. If they aren't accompanied, then train authorities could call the British Transport Police. Children, therefore, will need to be accompanied by their parents or a guardian.

Do you have to pay for a child on a train?

Every train company is different when it comes to child's tickets and prices. Eurostar, for example, allows children under the age of four to travel for free, as long as they can stay on your lap during the train journey. On National Rail, however, children under the age of five can travel free with your adult ticket. Check ahead of time to see if your train company offers child or youth tickets, and what their policies are for toddlers and babies.

How do you travel with a baby on a train?

The type of train will determine how you travel. On the Underground trains or those connecting to London, you can bring your baby with you in a push pram, and use the designated areas for an easier journey. If you are travelling internationally, then you will need to make sure you have all of the necessary supplies to last the journey. You'll also want to look into buying children's travel insurance and have a child's passport for your baby.

Top tips for an easier train journey with your toddler

Toddlers can be quite fussy, so to make the journey easier it's often best to book them their own child's seat on the train. You can then bring a variety of activities for them to enjoy, including:

  • A phone, tablet or handheld console
  • Drawing supplies
  • Toys

Just remember to bring a variety of snacks and drinks with you on top of the usual travel essentials. On national trains, in particular, there won't be too many opportunities to buy these items once your journey has begun.

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If you'd like some more tips and advice on travelling with the kids or inspiration for the next family holiday, check out our other pages below:

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