Transport
Transport: how to travel with a young child
The journey is the most unpredictable part of a family trip. The right kind of transport is the one that matches your child's rhythm: one toddler sleeps soundly in the car, while another needs to walk up and down the carriage and look at everything out of the window.
A good journey with a toddler is measured not in kilometres but in the number of calm hours in a row.
How to travel with a toddler
| Type | Pros | Things to consider |
|---|---|---|
| Car | Your own schedule, stops whenever you like, everything you need to hand | A child restraint matching weight and height, rest for the driver, frequent stops |
| Train | You can walk around, eat, sleep and look out of the window; no traffic jams | Rules for children and luggage are set by the carrier; neighbours close by, so bring plenty of quiet activities |
| Plane | Fast over long distances | Security checks, waiting, take-off and landing; ask the carrier about taking a pushchair and car seat |
| Bus | Convenient for short trips between towns and to the suburbs | Little space and few stops; less suitable for long distances with a toddler |
Child car seats: what matters
- Under section 22.9 of the Russian Road Traffic Regulations, children under seven may travel in a car only in child restraint systems (devices) that match the child's weight and height; other countries have their own rules
- Children aged seven to eleven may travel in the back seat in a child restraint or wearing seat belts, and in the front seat only in a child restraint
- The same section prohibits leaving a child under seven in a car without an adult, even for a short time
- Choose a restraint for your child's current weight and height, not one they will grow into
- Before a long journey, check that the seat is securely fitted and the straps sit comfortably
- If you are taking a taxi, mention the child when booking or bring your own restraint
On trains and planes
- Find out the carrier's rules for children, pushchairs and car seats before buying a ticket
- Pack water, a snack, a change of clothes, wipes and a favourite toy in your hand luggage
- Arrive at the station or airport with time to spare, so you don't have to run with a child in your arms
- While you wait to board, let your little one move around: there will be a lot of sitting ahead
- During take-off and landing, offer water or a snack: a busy child finds that moment easier
- On a train, agree between the adults who is on duty with the toddler and who is resting
Related sections
- Packing
A step-by-step plan for a trip with a toddler: goal and pace, the journey, accommodation, daily routine, packing and a checklist.
- Routes
Three hypothetical routes: a town with a pushchair, a weekend in nature and a week by the sea with a child.
- Questions
Short answers about packing, the journey and life on the spot with a child. The article catalogue is here too.
Sources
- Russian Road Traffic Regulations, section 22.9
- Carriers' rules (in general terms)
Information is correct as of the date of preparation. Carriers' rules and requirements for travelling with children may change, so check with your carrier and official sources before each trip.