Tips for Travelling with Children in a Taxi

By Best Times to Call a Local Taxi
Comments 35
24 Sep 2026

Tips for Travelling with Children in a Taxi

Before You Book: Choosing the Right Vehicle

When you ring a local taxi firm or book a private hire vehicle, take a moment to think about what your children need. A standard saloon may be fine for one or two children, but a larger estate, MPV, or people carrier gives you room to fit child seats and store a folding buggy. Tell the operator how many children you have, their ages, and whether you will bring your own child seats. Some firms can provide child seats if you ask in advance, but availability is never guaranteed. It is always safer to bring your own.

Do you have a vehicle with enough rear seat space for [number] child seats?
Can you provide a booster cushion or child seat? (If yes, confirm the type and size.)
Is there room in the boot for a folded buggy or pushchair?
Will the driver have child locks on the rear doors?

Child Seats and Restraints: What You Need to Know

In the UK, children under 12 years old or shorter than 135 cm must use an appropriate child car seat or booster cushion when travelling in a taxi or private hire vehicle, unless the driver has a special exemption. The law can be complex, but the safest rule is simple: bring your own restraint for every child. For babies, use an infant carrier that fits your child's weight and height. For toddlers, a forward-facing seat with a five-point harness is ideal. For older children, a booster cushion or high-backed booster ensures the seatbelt sits across their shoulder and lap, not their neck or stomach.

If you cannot bring a seat, never put a rear-facing baby seat in the front passenger seat if there is an active airbag. The safest place for any child is the rear seat. Also, make sure the seat is fitted correctly. If you are unsure, ask the driver to wait while you check. A poorly fitted seat offers little protection.

Talking to Your Driver Before You Set Off

Before the wheels move, have a quick word with your driver. This is especially important if your child has additional needs, such as autism, ADHD, or anxiety. Explain what helps them stay calm: a quiet journey, no radio, a particular route, or extra time to get settled. If your child gets car sick, mention it early so the driver can drive smoothly and you can have a bag ready.

Ask them to lock the rear doors and activate child locks if available.
Confirm that everyone is belted up before you pull away.
Let them know if you need the heating or air conditioning adjusted.
Mention if you need to stop for a toilet break on a longer trip.
Tell them if your child is likely to open the door themselves – ask for help.

Doors, Windows, and Seatbelts: Safety Checks

Children are naturally curious, and car doors are heavy. Always supervise doors. Let the driver or another adult open and close doors, or hold the door yourself while your child climbs in. Watch fingers, coats, and bag straps. Once inside, check that every child is properly restrained. Do not rely on children to buckle themselves, even if they say they can. Give the belt a firm tug to make sure it is clicked in.

Windows are another hazard. Keep them closed or only slightly open. Children can lean out, drop items, or trap fingers. If the taxi has electric windows, use the child lock switch if available. Never leave a child alone in a taxi, even for a moment. Take them with you if you need to step out.

Keeping Children Comfortable and Entertained

A calm child makes for a calm journey. Bring a small bag with snacks, a drink of water, wet wipes, and a spare nappy if needed. Avoid messy or strong-smelling food. A favourite toy, a book, or a tablet with headphones can help pass the time. If your child uses a dummy or comfort blanket, keep it handy. For longer trips, plan a break every hour or so.

Dress children in comfortable layers. Taxis can be warm or cold, and you may not be able to adjust the temperature immediately. If your child is prone to car sickness, sit them in the middle rear seat if possible, where they can see out of the front window. Keep a sick bag and a change of clothes in your bag.

Buggies, Luggage, and Paying the Fare

Folding a buggy or pushchair can be fiddly, especially with a child in your arms. Ask the driver to help or give you a moment. Most taxis have a boot, but some private hire vehicles have limited space, so check when booking. Keep your valuables with you rather than in the boot. When you arrive, pay the fare without rushing. If you are using a card machine, check the amount before tapping. If you pay cash, have the right change ready.

Getting out safely is just as important as getting in. Always exit on the pavement side, away from traffic. Supervise children as they step out, and hold their hand until you are both on the kerb. If you have a buggy, unfold it on the pavement, not in the road.

Safety

What to Do If Your Taxi Is Late

Share your route, check the vehicle details, and sit behind the driver when travelling alone after dark in an unfamiliar area.

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5 Comments

Robert Sonny says Jul 21, 2024 at 10:00am

I must explain to you how all this mistaken idea of denouncing pleasure and praising pain was born and I will give you a complete account of the system
Reply
- John Abraham says Jul 21, 2024 at 10:00am
  
  I must explain to you how all this mistaken idea of denouncing pleasure and praising pain was born and I will give you a complete account of the system
  Reply
  - Robert Sonnysays Jul 21, 2024 at 10:00am
    
    I must explain to you how all this mistaken idea of denouncing pleasure and praising pain was born and I will give you a complete account of the system
    Reply
Robert Sonny says Jul 21, 2024 at 10:00am

I must explain to you how all this mistaken idea of denouncing pleasure and praising pain was born and I will give you a complete account of the system
Reply

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