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Uber and car seats: what you NEED to know about riding Uber with a baby or child (2023)

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This article about Uber car seat considerations is written by certified Child Passenger Safety Technician Melissa Conn and may contain affiliate links.

In the decade since its founding, Uber has revolutionized the transportation world. City dwellers no longer need to stand out in the rain to hail a taxi. Young urbanites are turning to a car-free lifestyle with ridesharing as a viable commute options. And world travelers ( like you ) don’t have to worry about language barriers and “broken” meters. With nearly a million drivers in the US and another 2 million in other countries, Uber is taking the world by storm.

But what’s the deal with Uber and car seats? Sure, Uber (and Lyft, Grab and others) are convenient for unplanned rides for adults but life gets trickier when kids are involved. In this article we’ll address some critical questions for parents who want to use Uber with kids:

• Can Uber take kids? Is Uber kid friendly?
• Can you ride Uber without a car seat? Where is Uber exempt from car seats regulations? Or do I need a child seat in Uber at my destination?
• Am I allowed to install a car seat in an Uber? Can i bring my own car seat for Uber? What’s the best car seat for Uber?
• Where is Uber Family/Uber Car Seat available? Is my child eligible? Where is the car seat service on Uber? How can I request a carseat on Uber?

Be sure to read below for the May 2023 Uber car seat update – exciting news!

Can Uber take kids?

Absolutely! In my experience Uber is very kid-friendly and we’ve used it in many countries. We generally find the drivers to be more patient than regular taxi drivers, probably because they know they’ll be receiving a review from us after the ride. Uber is perfect if you’re planning a car-free family vacation – check out our favorite ideas .

I think Uber is especially kid-friendly because you can specify the (rough) size of car that meets your needs. If you only have one child or your kids are old enough to use these or these , a regular UberX will suffice. Got a bunch of kids in car seats and lots of luggage? The Uber XL size is sure to fit everyone comfortably!

We’ve never had an issue taking our kids in Ubers and find them much more family-friendly than taxis. Some kid-friendly Uber drivers even offer to put Kidz Bop on the radio! They sometimes come with bottles of water and little candies for the kids, which I’ve never seen in a traditional taxi.

Does Uber require car seats?

Technically the Uber car seat policy itself doesn’t require kids to be in car seats; however, they do require drivers to comply with local laws. And an Uber driver can refuse to take your family if you don’t have a safe way to restrain your child (since it impacts the driver’s liability and safety). I know of families left standing on the curb because they didn’t have a car seat and the driver was within his rights to refuse to drive them based on Uber car seat rules.

Before you travel anywhere with a car seat age child, make sure to search online for the destination and “Uber car seat laws” or “Uber child seat rules”, but sometimes even that isn’t straightforward. Some states, cities and countries treat Uber like a taxi (often shockingly exempt from passenger safety rules) while others treat Uber like a private car (subject to the same rules as in your own car). And sometimes local laws haven’t yet addressed using ride sharing services with kids! Here’s a helpful breakdown of Uber laws by state , though it’s only as clear as the local laws.

Read more: Everything you need to know about taxis and car seats

Regardless of Uber car seat rules or local laws, the laws of physics don’t change when you hail a ride through the Uber app. Even if it’s a short ride, it’s important to put your kid in a car seat of some sort to keep them safe. Accidents can still happen in an Uber.

Bringing your own car seat for Uber

Fortunately there are plenty of awesome lightweight car seats for travel and even folding car seats that are easy to bring with you for flights or a day in the city. If you are riding Uber with a baby, it’s hard to beat the Doona infant car seat as the perfect Uber infant car seat!

Okay, but can I use my own car seat with Uber?

We’ve found Uber drivers to be much more patient about car seat installation and letting us take time to achieve a secure fit than traditional taxi drivers, probably because they know we’ll be rating them after the trip. Still, they may not know what car seat installation entails. One trick is to leave the car door open until you’re done installing the car seat and buckling your child in. You can be pretty sure no one is going to drive off until all of the doors are closed! Learn how to install your car seat quickly .

If you have multiple kids in car seats and the driver’s seat is all the way back, don’t be sheepish about asking him to slide forward if possible. Whether you’re installing a car seat or not, everyone deserves leg room!

Make sure you have practiced multiple ways to install your car seat. While LATCH might be most convenient, sometimes it’s not available in every seating position (or at all in some countries). Get comfortable installing your car seat with a seatbelt as well, just in case. If you’re leaving the US you may encounter seatbelts that don’t lock when you pull them all the way out, so bring a locking clip and learn how to use it (read more about seatbelt locking clips ).

What’s the best car seat for Uber?

• Doona infant car seat (birth – 1 year old, also available here )
• Cosco Scenera NEXT DLX convertible car seats (1 – 2 years old)
• Wayb Pico (2 – 4 years old)
• Ride Safer Travel Vest (4 – 6+ years old)
• Bubblebum Inflatable Booster Seat (6+ years old, in-depth review here )

DEAL ALERT! Save $11 off the Ride Safer Travel Vest with coupon ‘ VOYAGE ‘

If you need to transport a seat around the city before or after your Uber ride, check out these options to ease your load .

Uber Family & Uber Car Seat services – important details

Does Uber provide car seats?

It depends.

Over the last few years, Uber has rolled out the much-needed Uber Family/Uber Carseat service in a few major cities in the US. You can also arrange the nearly-identical Lyft car seat mode in New York City.

For cities outside of Uber/Lyft car seat areas, Welcome Pickups can generally provide a car seat on request (including cities in Europe, Asia, South America and even parts of the US). Every now and then we’ve had an Uber driver show up with a booster seat in the trunk as a courtesy option, but it’s not common.

May 2023 Uber car seat update: On May 17 2023, Uber announced a new partnership with premium car seat manufacturer Nuna to place their awesome Nuna Rava convertible car seat in Uber with Car Seat vehicles. This is a great change, as the seats will accommodate infants through average size 5 year olds in a seat that’s easy to install and adjust. Rava-equipped vehicles will be part of Uber Car Seat NYC and the soon-to-be-launched Uber Car Seat Los Angeles.

Want to know all my best secrets? Click here to learn how to travel with your car seat like a pro!

What is Uber Family? What is Uber car seat?

UberX Car Seat (also called Uber Family) provides a forward-facing car seat appropriate for ages 2 and up. The driver installs it, and you strap your kid in. Off you go!

The official Uber Car Seat program provides an IMMI Go car seat, fits kids 31-52″ and 22-48 pounds. If your child is too small, you’ll need to bring an infant car seat or one of these smaller travel car seats .

Once your child outgrows the IMMI Go Uber car seats, she should fit well in a travel booster car seat . The IMMI Go can technically become an Uber booster seat but it’s probably not worth the $10 and extra wait time for Ubers with car seats when you could just bring one of these .

Each driver has only one seat available, and not every driver has a car seat. So you may find the wait for an Uber with a car seat to be very long; if that happens, it’s worth exploring your public transportation options.

Where is UberX Car Seat available?

Officially, just New York City as of this writing. Washington DC, Philadelphia and Orlando used to be on that list as well. But the confusing part is that in some of those cities you can still book a car with a car seat and car seats are still listed as an option for those city’s informational pages (but not on the Uber Car Seat page). On the other hand, the new 2023 Uber with Car Seat service is supposed to be in Los Angeles but still isn’t showing up months after the announcement. So YMMV.

Before visiting a major city in the US, it’s worth opening your app and setting up a fake ride to see if the car seat option pops up – it may be pretty far down the list of car options!

Here are the Uber Car Seat service options in 2023 you can find when you dig around the website (click “More” in the list of ride types):

• New York : Uber Car Seat
• Washington DC : UberX Car Seat, Uber Black Car Seat, Uber Black SUV Car Seat
• Uber Car Seat Orlando : UberX Car Seat, Uber XL Car Seat, Uber Black Car Seat, Uber Black SUV Car Seat

Be warned that some of these aren’t available all the time. For instance, a quick check for Orlando showed that UberX Car seat service wasn’t available at all – just the premium rides at a $30-50 premium.

New for 2023! The Uber Reserve program allows you to schedule a ride up to 90 days in advance, and this includes Uber Car seat. That’s a huge help for families who want to book an Uber with a car seat and know their schedule in advance. For instance, if you’re arriving at JFK at 5pm Sunday and want a lift into the city you should be able to arrange that. Likewise if you’re taking your girl to her first Broadway show and don’t want to take the subway back at night, you can have a driver pick you up right after the curtain falls. Obviously it’s less useful for spur-of-the-moment situations, when Uber car seats are subject to availability.

It’s also important to remember that Uber car seat in NYC is only served by regular cars holding a maximum of four passengers. There’s no option for an SUV or minivan equipped with a car seat unfortunately.

We’ve also heard reports that in the “unofficial” Uber car Car Seat cities that there’s more variation in the car seats offered. Leaked screenshots from Uber’s info for drivers indicates that the seats have to be at least 6 months from expiration, never have been in an accident and chosen from an approved list (mostly Graco, Britax, Chicco, Maxi Cosi and other high end brands; no Cosco allowed).

Check Welcome Pickups for rides with a car seat in other cities.

How to request a car seat on Uber

Requesting a car seat on Uber isn’t so different than arranging any other ride through the app. Just open it, pop in your destination and then keep swiping through allllll the different types of cars. If there’s a car seat option, you’ll probably see it at the end (and it will be listed as I’ve shown above for each of the cities where Uber Car Seat is available).

How much does Uber Family/Uber Car seat cost?

There’s a $10 surcharge for a car seat on top of your regular fare. As you can see above, in some cities only the premium cars offer car seats. In those cases, the cost can really add up and it might be better to take public transportation or rent a car.

What does Uber do to make sure the car seats are safe?

When Uber first rolled out their Uber Family program, they ran a very tight ship. The program was created in partnership with a local expert, who oversaw training to make sure that drivers knew how to install their seats, ensured that seats were replaced after an accident and more.

That partnership no longer exists, but in New York City many of the features are still in place. In the other cities, drivers only need to submit a photo of the car seat (to prove that it’s an approved option) and a photo of the sticker (to prove that it has at least 6 months until expiration) and attest that it has never been in an accident.

Uber with Car Seat FAQs

Absolutely! Installing a car seat in an Uber is the safest way for your child to ride.

That depends on where you’ll be riding. It’s never safe, but in some jurisdictions Uber falls under taxi laws and short rides are exempt. But an Uber driver can still leave you on the curb if they see that you have a toddler without a car seat. Please do not plan to Uber with a toddler and no car seat.

In several cities, Uber has car seats in a small number of forward-facing or convertible car seats. There are changes working their way through the program in 2023. Read this article for all the details!

No, unfortunately you can’t request an Uber with baby seat. In New York and Pennsylvania, the typical Uber car seats are only legal for children at least 2 years old. Going forward Uber will provide the Nuna Rava, which will fit infants, but that doesn’t seem to be widespread yet. If you’re trying to figure out how to Uber with a baby, just know that you are responsible for bringing a car seat .

Yes, you can Uber with a baby but you’ll need to bring your own car seat to keep your child safe. There’s no Uber baby car seat option and it would be illegal and unsafe for your child to ride unrestrained.

If you want to try out the Uber car seat service, you’ll find that as a ride type you can select when you’re booking your ride if it’s available in your area.

As of this writing, Uber car seat is available in NYC, DC and Orlando only.

Probably not. You can always try to set up a fake ride before, and read this article for a breakdown of where Uber with carseat is currently available.

Yes, kids can ride in Uber. In most places they are required to ride in an age-appropriate restraint according to local law.

It’s never safe to take your child in Uber without a car seat. In many places it’s illegal, and in any place a driver could leave you standing on the curb if they don’t feel comfortable with the risk to your child’s safety and their standing with Uber.

If you’re here wondering “can I use Uber for my child?” the answer is no. There is no option to user Uber for kids at this time, however parents can now add Uber for teens who need to ride on their own. This new service is still rolling out but allows parents to set up rides and track their progress. Notably, Uber for teens is not available in California at this time.

How to request Uber with car seat How can you request an Uber with a car seat? It’s easy if you follow the steps below!

Uber can be a great choice for traveling families, whether you need a ride from the airport or a dash around the city. If there are any questions you still have about Uber and child seats, leave them in the comments below!

You might also like…

• Best travel car seat options by age
• What’s the best travel booster car seat?
• What’s the lightest infant car seat?

Pin this for handy reference later!

24 thoughts on “Uber and car seats: what you NEED to know about riding Uber with a baby or child (2023)”

Does it take much longer to call a car seat Uber in NYC? We will be traveling with another family with older kids, so I want to make sure that our Uber would not take tons longer than theirs. I’m sure their are variations, but if there arentvthat many Uber’s with car seats available, then it will always take longer. Just trying to decide if it’s wotth buying a Ride Safe best vs Uber car seat for our upcoming trip.

Hi Dominique!

Unfortunately that can be one of the challenges with the Uber car seat service – it’s entirely subject to availability. Sometimes it’s just a few minutes extra, but I’ve heard that at times the wait can be REALLY long (and I’d imagine it’s even worse if you’re there over popular school break times).

The good news is that in NYC you can hedge your bets by also checking for Lyft drivers with car seats; the program works similarly (IMMI Go forward facing seat, extra $10 charge, subject to availability). My gut tells me that it might be the same drivers in both apps though 😉

If you’re concerned about car availability since you’re with another family, the Ride Safer travel vest is a great choice since you’ll get total flexibility. Even if you just use it once or twice in NYC, you’ll likely get several years of use out of it since it has size adjustments. How old is your child?

Another option is public transportation. Our family had a great experience using the subway in NYC. There aren’t many places where it won’t take you! Buses are also handy if you have a stroller, though sometimes they get pretty full.

In case you need suggestions for things to do, here are some of our favorite things to do in NYC with kids .

Safe travels! Melissa

Does Orlando have a car seat for a 20lbs baby or are there restrictions like in New York.

Hi Sabrina, The Orlando program isn’t uniform like the NYC program, so there’s no way to know what you’re going to get. It could very well be a forward-facing car seat, which wouldn’t be a safe or legal option at 20lbs. I strongly recommend bringing your own car seat at that age. An infant car seat is really convenient for travel!

Best, Melissa

If I bring my own car seat do I still get chargers the $10 fee. Like can I request a regular uber and install my booster seat

Thanks for stopping by! There’s no fee to bring your own car seat or booster seat 🙂 It may help to review these tips before you go to help your experience go smoothly.

Safe travels, Melissa

Child car seats? 🙁 —> “Officially, just New York City as of this writing. Washington DC, Philadelphia and Orlando used to be on that list as well.”

Hello. Do I need to let my uber driver know that I’m traveling with a child and need to install a car seat? Would they be okay with me installing a car seat in their vehicle?

Hi Yesenia,

Thanks for stopping by! You don’t need to let them know in advance. You are absolutely allowed to install in their vehicle.

It is against Uber policy to place a child (under 18) in an Uber without adult supervision. In addition, WHY would you put your child in a car with a stranger. Yes they go through a background check but parents that don’t let their kids out of their sight would take that chance. You put your child and the Uber driver at risk for all sorts of problems.

Thanks for stopping by. As you can see if you read the article, this is all about riding in an Uber WITH your young child. I’m not sure why you have the impression that I’m recommending sending a child in an Uber without an adult, but if something is unclear please let me know.

What if you have two children, didn’t bring your own carseats, and need two carseats provided by Uber??

Thanks for stopping by. Unfortunately Uber does not offer two car seats simultaneously.

Going crazy trying to choose an infant car seat for NYC, where I don’t have a car but use Ubers all the time. Not sure how to tell which seats are easy to install on the spot without the car seat base and in all kinds of cars. (Many car seats briefly mention they can be used without a base, but is this hard to do? Is it safe? Or should I carry the base around with me, too, and install that in every Uber I use?) Much appreciate any thoughts you may have!

Congratulations! Nearly every infant car seat in the US *can* be installed without the base – the exception is the Nuna Lite (including R and LX, excluding RX).

NYC parents usually go in one of two directions:

1) Buy a Doona car seat-stroller combo . The upside is that you always have both your car seat and stroller with you! The downside is that on a long walk your baby spends a lot of time in the car seat (not ideal) and you’re spending a lot of money just to turn around and replace the stroller after ~18 months.

2) Buy a different infant car seat and a stroller to make your own travel system. If you go this route, I strongly suggest taking a look at the Clek Liingo (with a nice discount!) . It’s designed for city-dwellers like you! It doesn’t come with a base, but instead has a “LATCH bin” that you can leave attached to the back or take off to save weight if you’re comfortable installing with the seatbelt. Liingo (and its cousin Liing) give a great fit for newborns and they’re compatible with tons of strollers.

If I were in your shoes, I’d get the Uppababy Cruz stroller along with the SnugSeat insert and the Clek car seat adapters . The Cruz has a big and open enough basket that if you’re going on a long walk followed by an Uber ride, you can tuck the car seat into the basket and let baby lay comfortably in the stroller. You’ll also be able to use the Cruz for many years as your primary “vehicle”. That store has a good rewards program, so you can break up your purchase and buy the big stuff first and then get a nice discount on the accessories you need!

Let me know what you think and if you need more suggestions 🙂

Car seat option is not populating populating with my car choices. I scrolled all the way down and there are none. I made the reservation for the top line suv tomorrow @ 9am from 11992 Hawthorne Dr to LAX but, unlike my Uber research on securing a car seat, there are NO CARSEAT CAR options even after scrolling allele the way down. SUMMARY: I need a car seat for 2.5yr old but have 0 guarantee in my reservation. Can you help me or schedule my same driver from the other day (same vehicle requested)- any idea how to get this clarified by Uber today?

Unfortunately there’s no Uber car seat option from LAX. As I mention in the article, it’s only an option in a few East Coast cities.

Safe travels,

Traveling to Philadelphia to celebrate my daughter’s 2nd birthday at the beginning of May. I’vebeen reading conflicting information about UberFamily(car seat provided). Does Philly still participate? I also attempted to do a “trial request” from the airport to our hotel and didn’t see an option to request a car seat.

It looks like Philadelphia no longer has that option. I recommend bringing your own car seat or researching public transportation – SEPTA has very convenient service on the Airport Regional Rail line.

Travelling to Orlando next August and will be taking a 5 and 8 year old. The local law appears to suggest that the car seat belt would be enough to secure the children in the car. Would we need a booster or would they be covered? If a booster was needed, the Bubblebum boosters appear to be a good option. Do you still need to book the Uber car seat option or would a 4 person ride be ok?

Hi Patrick,

I’m so glad you realize that Florida’s car seat law doesn’t do enough to keep your big kids safe <3 As long as they're at least 40lbs, the Bubblebum is a fine option for your trip. You can just book a regular Uber since you have your own restraints.

I’m heading to Orlando in May with my 3 kids. ages 6, 8, & 9. The older two can get away with booster seats (9- & 6-year-old are small for their age), but my 6-year-old needs a forward-facing car seat with 5-point harness. My main question is what do I do with our car seats after using an Uber? Not really wanting to carry around 3 car seats at Disney World. Any suggestions?

I’d grab a Ride Safer Travel Vest for your 6yo (use coupon VOYAGE for a discount) and Bubblebums for your older kiddos.

Have a great time and don’t miss my Disney World tips before you go!

Thanks for sharing such an informative article.The article was a delightful read, and I found it to be exceptionally well-crafted and enlightening.I think this is a fantastic article, and I really appreciate you letting me know about it.

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Both riders and drivers should comply with applicable laws when traveling with infants and young children. Per our Community Guidelines, it is a rider's responsibility to provide a car seat when riding with small children. Whether you choose to allow a child safety seat in your vehicle is completely up to, you may politely decline the ride if transporting a child without a car seat violates local laws or you are otherwise uncomfortable.

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• Driving and transport
• The Highway Code, road safety and vehicle rules

Child car seats: the law

When a child can travel without a car seat.

A child aged 3 or older can travel in a back seat without a child car seat and without a seat belt if the vehicle doesn’t have one.

In most cases, children under 3 must always be in a child car seat.

The rules are different if:

• the child is in a taxi or minicab
• the child is in a minibus, coach or van
• the child is on an unexpected journey, for example an emergency
• there’s no room for another car seat

Taxis and minicabs (private hire vehicles)

If the driver doesn’t provide the correct child car seat , children can travel without one - but only if they travel on a rear seat:

• and wear an adult seat belt if they’re 3 or older
• without a seat belt if they’re under 3

Minibuses, coaches and vans

Minibus or coach drivers and companies don’t have to provide child car seats. You must provide your own if you want to make sure a child has one.

Children can travel without a child car seat or seat belt, if they’re not available.

All children must travel in rear seats (any seats behind the driver) if a child car seat or an adult seat belt isn’t fitted.

Children aged 3 or older must:

• use a child car seat if there’s one available in a minibus
• use an adult seat belt if child car seats are not fitted or are unsuitable

The rules for vans are the same as for cars.

Unexpected journeys

If the correct child car seat isn’t available, a child aged 3 or older can use an adult seat belt if the journey is all of the following:

• over a short distance

You can’t take children under 3 on an unexpected journey in a vehicle without the correct child car seat, unless both of the following apply:

• it’s a licensed taxi or minicab
• the child travels on a rear seat without a seat belt

No room for a third child car seat

Children under 3 must be in a child car seat. If there’s no room for a third child car seat in the back of the vehicle, the child must travel in the front seat with the correct child car seat.

Children aged 3 or older can sit in the back using an adult belt.

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Taking Your Baby in an Uber: A Comprehensive Guide

• July 15, 2023

If you are a parent on the go without a personal vehicle, taking your baby in an Uber can present its own unique set of challenges and questions. This article will provide a thorough guide on how to ensure the safety and comfort of your little one during an Uber ride.

Understanding Uber’s Policy on Travelling with Babies

What does uber’s policy state about babies.

Uber requires that all passengers follow the local laws regarding child safety seats in the cities where they operate. Therefore, if a car seat is legally required for your child’s age, weight, and height, you’ll need to provide one.

Bringing Car Seats for Babies in Uber

Do i need to bring a car seat for my baby in an uber.

The need for a car seat in an Uber ride depends on local laws, but it’s always the best choice for the safety of your baby. Always ensure the car seat is correctly installed.

Can Uber Drivers Provide Car Seats?

In certain cities, Uber offers Uber Car Seat or Uber Family rides, where drivers provide a car seat. However, availability is limited, and there may be additional charges.

Managing Baby Sleep in an Uber

How to make my baby comfortable for sleep in an uber ride.

Carry a familiar blanket or toy to make the car seat comforting. Keep the environment as quiet and calm as possible, and consider using a portable white noise device.

What If My Baby Falls Asleep During an Uber Ride?

If your baby falls asleep, allow them to continue sleeping. Avoid unnecessary conversation or noise that may wake them. Transfer them carefully from the car seat to a crib or bed once you reach your destination.

Tips for a Smooth Uber Ride with Your Baby

How to ensure a smooth uber ride with a baby.

• Prepare ahead of time: Have your car seat ready and ensure you know how to install it correctly.
• Communicate with the driver: Let your driver know you will be traveling with a baby and require a moment to secure the car seat.
• Keep your baby entertained: Bring quiet toys or books to distract your baby during the trip.
• Be ready for any circumstance: Carry a diaper bag with essentials for handling any situation from diaper changes to feeding.

Is Taking a Baby in Uber Allowed?

Yes, Uber allows passengers to travel with babies. However, local laws regarding child safety seats need to be followed.

How to Safely Travel with My Baby in Uber?

The best way to ensure your baby’s safety is by bringing along a car seat that complies with local laws and regulations.

Age and Uber: Guidelines and Restrictions

What is the minimum age requirement for a child to travel alone in uber.

The minimum age to use Uber varies depending on local laws. However, as a general rule, children must be at least 18 years old to have an Uber account and request rides.

At What Age Is It Safe to Travel with a Newborn in an Uber?

While there’s no specific age limitation for babies in Uber, it’s important to consult with a pediatrician to determine when it’s safe for your newborn to start traveling in cars, including rideshares.

Essentials for Uber Rides with Babies

Do ubers come with car seats.

In some cities, Uber offers the Uber Car Seat service where drivers provide a car seat. However, availability is limited and there may be additional charges.

How Do You Use a Car Seat without a Base in an Uber?

For families traveling without a base for their car seat, it’s essential to know how to safely secure it using the vehicle’s seat belt. Many modern car seats have built-in guides for belt routing.

General Tips for a Smooth Uber Ride with Your Baby

How do you manage travel with a baby.

The key to traveling with a baby is preparation. Pack all essentials such as diapers, baby food, and toys. Also, ensure that your baby is comfortable and secure in their car seat.

How Do You Share Uber Rides with Your Child?

If you wish to share an Uber ride with your child, simply add them to the ride when booking. Remember to bring a suitable car seat for your child.

Testimonials from Parents about Their Experiences Taking a Baby in Uber

“When my baby was just two months old, I had to take her to her pediatrician for a check-up. I was nervous about taking her in an Uber for the first time. However, I brought her car seat along, and the driver was patient as I secured it. The ride was smooth and my baby even fell asleep!” – Hannah, mom to 2-month-old Lily “Using Uber to run errands with my toddler in tow is a regular part of my week. I always ensure to carry his compact car seat. Once, during an unexpected traffic jam, I was thankful for the little bag of toys and snacks I had packed. It kept him entertained throughout the ride.” – Marcus, father to 3-year-old Ethan “My husband and I have used Uber to travel with our twins several times. We’ve learned to communicate with the driver ahead of time about needing space for two car seats. We also try to schedule rides around our babies’ nap times for a more peaceful journey.” – Rachel, mom to 1-year-old twins Ava and Olivia

How SleepBaby.org Can Help

Juggling baby’s sleep schedule and travel can be challenging, but with SleepBaby.org , it doesn’t have to be. At SleepBaby.org , we offer expert advice and resources on how to manage your baby’s sleep during travel, including during Uber rides. Visit us to learn more about establishing and maintaining your baby’s sleep routines even on the go!

9 thoughts on “Taking Your Baby in an Uber: A Comprehensive Guide”

MillerMommy :

You know, my little one used to have such a hard time settling down to sleep, especially at night. Then I stumbled upon this website, SleepBaby.org . It has been a game-changer for us; I’ve seen my baby fall asleep in under a minute. Life has certainly become more peaceful since then! 💤

Our daycare recommended it—they use it for nap times with the little ones there—and I thought I’d share it with you all. So, if you’re struggling with bedtime routines, it might be worth checking out SleepBaby.org . Wishing you and your family the best on this parenting journey! 🤗

MamaBear2023 : Just read about traveling with babies in Uber. Super helpful! But what about baby’s sleep schedule? I struggled with my lil’ one last time. 😓 Found some great tips on SleepBaby.org though. They even cover sleep during travel. Lifesaver! 🙌 #SleepBabySavesTheDay

FirstTimeDad : Who knew Uber rides could be so tricky with kiddos? 🚗 My son gets so fussy in the car. Checked out SleepBaby.org and they have amazing advice for keeping babies comfy and dozing off during rides. Trust me, it’s a game-changer! 😴👍

Jess_the_Jester : LOL, remember when my baby woke up and started a concert mid-Uber ride? 😂 Should’ve visited SleepBaby.org first. They have this cool white noise tip for baby sleep. Next ride will be a snooze fest for my little rockstar! 🎸😴 #SleepBabyRocks

UrbanMommy84 : Totally relate to the Uber baby travel guide. But what about ensuring they sleep through the ride? Found SleepBaby.org and it’s a treasure trove of info. From comfy car seats to sleep routines on the go. Worth checking out! 🌟👶 #BabySleepExperts

WorriedParent : Was super stressed about my baby’s sleep during our last Uber trip. 😟 Stumbled upon SleepBaby.org and it was a revelation! They’ve got amazing strategies to maintain sleep routines, even in Ubers. Feeling way more prepared now! 🙏 #SleepSaviors

ComedyDad : Anyone else playing “don’t wake the baby” in Ubers? 🤫😆 SleepBaby.org had some genius tips. Now my little one sleeps through anything – even my bad jokes! Highly recommend it for peaceful rides. #SleepingBabyWin

TravelingTots : Uber rides with babies are a whole new world! 🌍 I was clueless until I found SleepBaby.org . They offer great advice on baby sleep, especially in moving vehicles. Real stress-buster for parents on the go! 🚕💤 #TravelingBabySleep

SleeplessInSeattle : As a parent, Uber rides used to be my nightmare, especially with my baby’s erratic sleep. 😩 Big shoutout to SleepBaby.org for their tips on portable white noise and sleep-friendly toys. What a difference! Must-visit for parents! #BabySleepMagic

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• Baby & Toddler
• Baby Safety

Can You Uber With Baby? What to Know When Ridesharing With Little Ones

With all the wonder and joy they bring, babies have a way of making even the simplest of tasks a bit more—shall we say—adventurous. And often, these “adventures” can quickly upgrade to challenges. If you’re navigating travel with baby in tow, you know exactly what we’re talking about.

Whether you’re taking a trip across town or to a new city, calling a cab is often the easiest way to get around. In the modern era of ridesharing, this begs the question: Can you Uber with baby? The answer isn’t exactly straightforward and it varies based on location, availability and your personal level of comfort. But in the event you need a ride, we’ve gathered guidance from experts and industry-leading services to set you up on the road to rideshare success.

Can You Take a Rideshare With Baby?

There’s no doubt that rideshare apps and services have made traveling distances big and small easier. But can you take a rideshare with baby? In short, yes, you can—but there are some pretty big caveats.

In certain cities, the ridesharing service Uber offers Uber Car Seat rides made especially for parents on the go. Uber Car Seat is currently only available for use in New York City and Los Angeles. Lyft also offers a car seat option in New York City only. Outside of these bigger rideshare services, there are smaller niche services that are available in a larger variety of cities that cater specifically to families.

However, even in cities where Uber or Lyft car seats are available, they can be notoriously difficult to come across. Alisa Baer, MD, board-certified pediatrician, nationally certified child passenger safety instructor and co-founder of The Car Seat Lady, notes that Uber Car Seats are often unavailable or unreliable at best: “Parents should have a contingency plan for what happens if a car seat isn’t available either when they request it at the start of the trip or when they’re returning. Can someone pick you up? Can you walk home?” She tells parents to know that “you might get it, you might not.” So you need to be mentally—and physically—prepared.

Does Uber Have Car Seats?

Uber recently partnered with Nuna to outfit all of its Uber Car Seat rides with car seats from the trusted brand. The new partnership ensures that babies can safely rideshare from birth up until the time they weigh 65 pounds.

Not only are all Uber Car Seat vehicles equipped with Nuna car seats, but according to Uber, each Uber Car Seat driver is trained by SafeKids WorldWide to properly install and secure the seat.

That said, Baer recommends that parents familiarize themselves with the Nuna Rava car seat ahead of time. “Parents should be watching the videos that Nuna has put for both parents and drivers so that they’re familiar with what they’re getting and how they can install it as quickly and correctly as possible.”

Baer says that it can be difficult to quickly check if your car seat is installed correctly, even if you’ve familiarized yourself with the model ahead of time. The Nuna Rava, in particular, is prone to twisted straps, she notes. “Parents will want to familiarize themselves with the ‘triangle trick,’ which is a method for untwisting the straps,” she says. “So when they get to this Uber car seat that most likely has twisted straps, they can untwist them.”

Lyft Car Seat rides are outfitted with IMMI Go car seats , which are forward-facing. These car seats aren’t suitable for children under 2 years old. To ride in a Lyft car seat, your child must be between 31 and 52 inches in height, and between 22 and 48 pounds in weight.

Does Uber Require Car Seats for Babies and Toddlers?

Uber, Lyft and other rideshare service providers won’t allow you to ride in a car with baby without a car seat. Uber specifically requires that all passengers under 15 months be secured in a rear-facing car seat.

How to Request an Uber With Car Seat

Requesting an Uber or Lyft car seat is simple. Simply plug your destination into the app, and then scroll down the list of services to see if a car seat model is available. Both Uber and Lyft charge an additional $10 per ride for car seat services.

Because rideshares with car seats are still relatively uncommon, it’s a good idea to try to schedule your ride ahead of time to ensure a car seat-equipped car will be available when you’re planning to travel. To plan ahead and schedule your ride, simply follow the same instructions, and instead hit “schedule for a future time.”

Other Options for Rideshares With Kids

Uber and Lyft aren’t the only rideshare services in the game. If you want to travel without a car seat in tow, but would like to take a car service to your next destination, other niche companies are available to provide car seats and other safety items you may need.

Kid Car offers local rides, airport travel and kid carpool services in over 12 cities across the United States. Moreover, they can provide up to three convertible car seats for any ride suitable for babies and kids between 5 and 120 pounds. Kid Car car seats are New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) crash tested and are installed by drivers using either lower anchors and tethers for children (LATCH) systems or with the seatbelt.

Heading to California or Arizona? Kango is a similar service that provides car seats for babies and kids. The service is typically used for local kid pick up and drop off when parents are busy with work or other engagements. However, Kango requires parents with children under 2 years of age to ride along on trips.

Challenges of Taking a Rideshare With Baby

Ubering with baby isn’t without its challenges. Outside of limited city coverage, parents often report that Uber Car Seat drivers are sparse on the ground and difficult to book in the moment. While scheduling rides ahead of time helps, results can still be mixed with drivers occasionally showing up without car seats already installed or canceling at the last minute.

Finding a car seat for newborns or babies younger than 2 years old can be even more difficult. Lyft only offers forward-facing car seats meant for children 22 pounds and up. While Uber has transitioned over to Nuna Rava convertible car seats that are a fit for smaller children, there are still some drivers with legacy car seats who haven’t made the transition yet.

If you plan to take a rideshare with baby, it’s best to plan ahead, allotting time to find an Uber Car Seat and to communicate with your driver about your specific needs. Once your ride arrives, you also want to take time to make sure the car seat is properly installed and that baby is buckled in safely.

Tips for Taking a Rideshare With Baby

Child passenger safety instructor and Chicco car seat advocate Courtney Barry says there are several things you should keep in mind when taking a rideshare or Ubering with baby:

• Consider the big two. If you’re taking an Uber car seat or rideshare with an unfamiliar car seat for the first time, there are two important safety measures you can check on the fly. First: Is it level? Look at the indicator on the car seat, especially if it’s rear-facing. Next: Is it tight? Grasp at the belt path and check to see if the car seat moves less than an inch side to side and back and forth. Beyond “the big two” you can do a deep dive into what you need to know about car seat safety here .
• Ensure the perfect fit. Adjusting a new car seat to fit baby is important to make sure baby arrives safely. When your child is rear-facing, the harness should be at or below their shoulders, and when they’re forward-facing, the harness should be at or above their shoulders. You shouldn’t be able to pinch any material at the shoulder.
• Practice installation. Remember to take your time and practice installing a seat or adjusting it to fit baby. Make sure you install the car seat tightly, and that it’s locked in place by using the car seat lock off or the seat belt retractor. Practice this installation with and without your child in the seat, so when it comes time to get into an Uber, you are ready.
• Communicate ahead of time with your driver. Whether you’re ordering an Uber with a car seat, or plan on bringing and installing your own car seat, it helps to give your driver a heads up that loading and unloading will take a little extra time with your little one.
• Know how to properly install the car seat using all methods. Be prepared to install your car seat with either the anchors or the seatbelt! Practice installation and removal ahead of time so you aren’t struggling and stressed in the moment.

Taking a rideshare or Uber with baby is possible, and with a little bit of planning and preparation, you and your little one can get to your desired destination safely and easily.

Plus, more from The Bump:

Tips for Traveling With Baby

6 Best Travel Car Seats for Your Next Trip

The Best Infant Car Seats

Alisa Baer , MD, is a board-certified pediatrician, nationally certified child passenger safety instructor and co-founder of The Car Seat Lady. The Car Seat Lady is a pediatrician-led group of car seat safety experts empowering parents with evidence-based vehicle and car seat research and recommendations to keep their kids safe.

Courtney Barry has been a Child Passenger Safety Instructor (CPST) for almost 20 years and currently serves as a Car Seat Advocate for Chicco. She supports families every day who are using Chicco car seats and gets to enhance car seat technicians' knowledge across the country to help ensure more children are being reached and are safer on the road.

Uber, Uber Car Seat FAQ

Lyft, Car Seat Mode

Nuna, Uber Car Seat Partnership

Safe Kids Worldwide, Car Seat Safety

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Uber with baby: possible or not.

Of course, your baby is an uber baby, but is it possible to take an Uber with baby onboard? Let’s explore.

Um, what the **** is Uber?

Just in case you’ve been living under a public transport rock for the last few years (hey, you’re probably either pregnant or have just given birth – it’s fair go to be out of the loop a little), Uber is a peer-to-peer transport service that allows almost anyone to use their own car to offer ‘on demand’ rides to the paying public.

There’s an Uber app, drivers are vetted (although whether they are vetted enough will be a decision for each individual to make), and the whole process is cashless as your pre-authorised credit card is simply charged for the service. It’s more or less global, and currently, governments across the western world are either welcoming Uber (and Uber-type services), trying to stop them putting taxis out of business, or struggling with how to deal with Uber’s growing popularity and the challenges it brings.

So, Uber with baby: can I or can’t I?

Given that Uber is – at the time of writing – mostly a ‘car seat free’ setup (except in the USA – see below), it may seem likely that you’ll never use an Uber when travelling with a baby. But given the surprising number of westernised regions where babies tend to be transported in a cab without a car seat (yes, we are talking about you, Western Europe) , the option isn’t actually off the table. (We know this post opens up a bunch of safety questions – those are for you to decide as an individual and as your child’s parent.  Sue’s preference: a car seat, always. But in many places, this simply isn’t possible. Anyway, back to Uber.)

Of course, the laws differ on kids and car seats; and no doubt your opinions do too.  Some countries require car seats for babies but NOT in cabs or mini cabs.  Others don’t require them at all.  But in the former, that would technically mean that your baby who is NOT in a car seat in an Uber is breaking the law, because as it stands, Ubers aren’t taxis and aren’t regulated in the same way as taxis.

Additionally, when taking an Uber, you don’t know the driver; although in a taxi you don’t either, there are assumedly more checks on their driving skills than an Uber. Assumedly. It’s untested really as it’s all so new.

What do we really want to say about Uber and babies?

All we wanted to posit  here really is some food for thought.   Sue never thought she’d take an Uber with a baby, but ended up doing so on numerous occasions in Europe.  Often, taking an Uber was simply easier than figuring out the local cab system.  Sometimes,  there WERE no cabs so eventually she gave up and called an Uber. And each time she thought, “Hmm, it’s so handy not having to fiddle around with money when you’re already dealing with the baby getting in and out of the cab.”

On every occasion, the issue of a car seat never came up (she kept the baby in her Ergo carrier mostly). That doesn’t mean it’s the right choice for you. But on the day of an infamous Parisian taxi strike (ironically, they were protesting about the legality of Uber), Uber was the only option to get her luggage, one adult and a 10 month old baby to her Airbnb accommodation. So, jump in she did.

UberFAMILY – could this change the game?

As proof that these things change quickly, Uber has recognised the problem and come up with a solution.  For a $10 surcharge, UberFAMILY users can request a car with a car seat.  To date, the service is currently only available in certain cities in the USA, but we assume over time this will change.

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Traveling to London with a Baby

By: Author Wandermust Mummy

Are you traveling to London with a baby and looking for local insight and tips? Well in this guide I share with you everything I know about being a local in London in a baby from the best places to go with babies under 1 in London, how stroller friendly London is alongside other top tips. 

Important Note : This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click through and make a purchase I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you!

Table of Contents

Traveling to London with a baby tips

As a London I can attest that London with kids of any age is a great idea. It is absolutely brimming with things to do and things to see, but if you are traveling to London with a baby it does take a bit more planning. As while we think city breaks with babies are a great choice of vacation, there are some practical things you need to consider. That is why we will turn our attention to some of the more practical aspects about visiting London with a baby before we look at things to do. 

Is London baby friendly?

I am often asked is London baby friendly or Should I worry about travelling with babies in London?

For me as a London mum the answer is undoubtedly no! While London can be a busy place, there are lots of baby friendly transport options and places to take a baby in London. For that reason we think London is very baby friendly.

So how do you get around London with a baby?

Getting around London with a baby or toddler 

So perhaps the first thing any parent is worried about when visiting a new city is about the best way to get around with a baby and London is no different. 

There are actually a great many options for getting round the city on public transport from the famous London buses to the London Underground. 

Therefore we will look at each options and what you need to know about them for using with a baby in London. 

Using the London Underground with a baby

Using a stroller in London / London with a baby

If you are travelling to London with baby then chances are you will have to use the London Underground at some point.  

The London Underground is one of the busiest underground systems in the world and dates back over 150 years and can be a daunting prospect for parents who haven’t used the Underground before.

We often get asked by those thinking about taking babies to London is about whether the London Underground is easy with babies – and our answer is yes and no. 

The London Underground is a very efficient method of travel but given its age, it should come as no surprise that it isn’t entirely accessible or stroller friendly. 

Our first tip for using the London Underground with a baby is to pick up a London Underground map and download the TFL app with its digital map. 

Once you have this open look for stations with a disability symbol on them. This shows you which stations have step free access and will be accessible even with a stroller (we will talk more about using a stroller in London later along with our recommendations for best stroller for European City breakS).

We recommend trying to pick your London accommodation near an accessible station if you plan on using a stroller. Also be sure that the line closest to you is not closed on your dates of travel as this would be very inconvenient. 

But in good news that your baby and any other children you are traveling with under the age of 11 are free on the London Underground. 

For more information on using the London Underground with kids or with toddlers check out our dedicated posts. 

And for advice on getting from the airport to London check out this post or check out our other London travel tips here. 

Buses in London with a baby

Getting Around London with a baby

Another great way to get around London with a baby is via the iconic London bus. 

Although the Underground can be quicker depending on the time of day that you are traveling, the bus is another convenient option.  

On a London bus you don’t have to contend with turnstiles and gates like you do on the London Underground and you don’t have to worry about elevators or escalators. And depending on the route you travel on there are some great sights to be seen (more on this later).

While not all London buses will have a drop step access for you to wheel directly on, the newer buses definitely will which makes it more accessible with a stroller. 

And new buses will usually have dedicated stroller parking or buggy parking on the bus which means you won’t have to remove your baby from your stroller to ride. 

Even on older buses there is usually a spot to park strollers or wheelchairs, however if the bus gets very busy you could be asked to fold down your stroller to make more space for a wheelchair. However in all my time living in London I have never had an occasion where I have had to do this. 

Also there are plenty of things to see out of the window on a bus compared to the Underground. It can also be a cheaper option. 

Therefore don’t overlook the bus when looking at traveling around London with babies.

London Hop On Hop Off Buses

We have always loved a Hop On Hop Off bus. They are a great way to see the main sights of a city but can be difficult to use especially in the summer if you are traveling with a baby as you aren’t guaranteed stroller parking on these buses.

Be sure to have a compact stroller or a carrier if you are planning on using one of these with a baby. 

Looking for things to make baby travel easier? Then check out this post!

Taxis in London with a baby

You can indeed use a taxi in London with a baby however this is a very expensive way of getting round the city. And also if you decide to use taxis with a baby in London you need to think about car seats.

UK law  states that when travelling in taxis children under three may travel without a car seat! However I personally do not feel comfortable doing this and never travel without a car seat. For this reason it is very rare that we take a taxi in London with our baby.

If you know that you can store a car seat at your destination or perhaps have a convertible car seat stroller then this may be something you decide to do but it can be an impractical option if you aren’t able to use your car seat as part of your stroller for the rest of your day in London. 

You could try booking a car in advance however with a company that provides car seats but this will obviously mean you have to keep to a tighter schedule. For this reason we always advocate using public transport in London with babies. 

If you want to use Uber, this is currently available in London however they do not provide car seats so you will need to bring your own which can be hard to store on a day out in London. 

Walking around London with toddler or baby

However my favorite way of getting around London with a baby or toddler has to be on foot.

London is a great walkable city and as far as European cities go I think London is stroller friendly, as most pavements are flat and have space for a stroller or pushchair or pram as we call them in London.

However not all London attractions for babies are stroller friendly. Keep reading for more information.

TfL Ferries

Ferries can be used with your Oyster card and are a great way to see many of the London sights in relative comfort and are easy to use even if you have a stroller. 

What to Pack for London with a baby

Traveling to London with a baby

When you are looking at what to pack for London with a baby it is really important to pack for the weather. For that reason we have monthly packing guides which you can check out here:

• What to wear to London in May
• What to wear to London in December

However some things that you should always have on your London packing list are:

• a stroller as there is lots of walking involved in any trip to London
• a carrier for those who are using lots of public transport and are visiting less stroller friendly attractions in London such as the Tower of London. 
• a good chaining bag with changing mat. While it is easy to find changing tables in London the cleanliness is debatable so having a good changing kit with you is essential. 
• Sterilising equipment 
• Pacifiers  and bottles and other feeding paraphernalia. 

If you have any other baby travel essentials you think you should take to London check out this post. 

Where to stay in London with a baby

When you are looking at where to stay in London with a baby, I would really emphasise  picking a good and central location near to an accessible tube stop. 

View of County Hall – Best Premier Inn to Stay in London – Best Premier Inn Locations London

We always prefer to stay in a hotel in London over an AirBnB or VRBO. There are some great chain hotels in London that have good family friendly locations and amenities as well as being budget friendly. We have a list of  best places to stay in London guide however if you want some more specific guidance why not check out the best premier inns to stay in in London. 

We always opt to stay in a Premier Inn in London as the price point is great for families, they have some great central locations and they always have good set ups for those traveling with children. 

For more inspiration on the best city breaks with toddlers in Europe check out this post. 

Where to Buy Baby Supplies

Whenever I travel with a baby, one of the first things I look for is where I can buy baby supplies. Now in my opinion London is actually a really easy to buy baby supplies. 

You can find diapers, baby food and formula in most supermarkets, even in the smaller Express supermarkets, as well as in pharmacies. One of the places we use to pick up baby supplies in London is Boots, which is a pharmacy style super store and you can get baby snacks for those doing baby led weaning , formula and pouches. 

Best Restaurants in London with babies

One of the great things you will find about eating out in London is that all restaurants will have baby high chairs and changing tables in the rest rooms. 

Some of our favorite places to eat with kids in London include:

• Franca Manca

However for more information  on the best places to ear in London with kids check out this post. 

Also if you are wondering if you can go to a London pub with a baby then the answer is that you usually can unless there is a specific notice outside. 

Best things to do in London with baby 

So now you know how to get around London with a baby and the best places to stay, let’s turn our attention to London’s baby friendly attractions and best things to do in London with baby. 

As any parents of babies will tell you that babies don’t need to be as catered for in terms of attractions as older kids, however having said that there are still lots of places that are great with babies in London here are our favourites.

Next read : If you would like to find a London itinerary designed specifically for babies and toddlers then check this post out!

London aquarium

Although babies don’t always need attractions specifically for them, one of the best places we have found to visit with babies is an aquarium. And the great news is that London has a fantastic one.

One of the things that we love about London is the huge multi layered shark tank. If you want to visit the London Aquarium we recommend you  book your tickets in advance here   to make sure you don’t have to queue.  

And if you are going to several of the London Merlin attractions consider buying the combo ticket   as this can be a cost saver. 

london eye with a baby or toddler

The London Eye is one of the most iconic attractions in London and is something on most peoples London bucket list . While toddlers could perhaps get bored on the rotation of the London Eye it is a great thing to do with babies. 

However if you decide to visit with babies I strongly recommend  Pre booking tickets   as the queue for the London eye gets very long. 

Top Tip:      If you are planning to visit several London attractions from Merlin Entertainments group  these include: Shrek’s Adventure! London, Madame Tussaud’s London, Sea life London Aquarium, The Coca-Cola London Eye and The London Dungeon it will save you a TON of money to buy the group ticket – you can buy the Merlin Magical London ticket here!

London Museums 

London Transport Museum, London with toddler

London has some of the best Museums is the world and there are plenty of museums that have areas designed for toddlers and babies.

Some of the best London museums for toddlers and babies are

• National Army Museum
• Natural History Museum
• Science Museum
• London Transport Museum

Another  great thing about most of the above museums (barring the London Transport Museum) is that they offer free admission and are great for people traveling to London on a budget. 

No matter what age your child is, zoos are always a popular attraction to visit. London has a great zoo in Regent’s Park which babies will love.

To save your children waiting in line be sure to grab your Skip the Line tickets in advance HERE

Best London Parks for Babies

Best London Playgrounds / Best London Parks

One of the Things I love about London is the amazing parks all over the city. Some of out favorite parks and playgrounds in London for babies are: 

Princess Diana Memorial Playground

This huge outdoor playground is one of the most popular and best things for toddlers to do in London and there are some small areas that are great for babies too.  

Some of my little ones favourite parts of the garden are the pirate ship, sensory trail and wigwams.

The only downside to this playground is how busy it can get especially at weekends and during holidays so try and go early and on a weekday. 

Please note : The park opens at 10am each day (closed on Christmas Day). The park is supervised however children must be accompanied by an adult.

A lovely park in good proximity to the museums to let children blow off steam

St James Park

A beautiful park with interesting wildlife and good play area for little ones.

It is also well located near to Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard which is totally doable with a baby in tow!

There is a children’s playground located close to Wellington Barracks and also a coffee shop for parents in need of caffeination.

Regents Park

A great park but with the added bonus as being home to the London Zoo.

Baby Activities London

If you are what to do in London with baby  then the below activities are specifically designed for littles.

Discover Children’s Story Centre

The Discover CHildren’s Story Centre is a great interactive centre for small children.

There are different exhibitions areas and events at this interactive children’s space so be sure to check what is on before going so you can plan your day.

For those looking for what to do with a baby in London you may want to check out the storytelling sessions that are aimed at the 0-3 yrs. 

Playbase at National Army Museum

This is a particularly great place in London for toddlers. It is a dedicated soft play area for under 8s with a dedicated infants section!

Online: Children aged 1-8 years old: £4.75 Children under 1 year old: FREE* Adults: FREE £1.00 booking fee applies per online transaction

In venue: Children aged 1-8 years old: £5.75 Children under 1 year old: FREE* Adults: FREE

It is one of the best baby activities in London!

The Garden at Science Museum 

A special place designed for children aged 3-6. This is actually one of my favourite London toddler activities!

Be warned though that although there are aprons available I always find children using the water play get wet so advise taking extra clothes with you just to be on the safe side!

Royal Albert Hall Story Telling and Music Sessions for 0-4 year olds

If you are looking for what to do in London with a baby then one of the best places to go for activities for babies in London is the Royal Albert Hall.

They offer London baby activities aimed at the 0-4s markets in the form of musical Sessions for the under 4s. These sessions usually last about 35 minutes.

Please note this is a ticketed events and cost 5GBP a person.

Puppet Theatre Barge

Looking for toddler shows, London has a few places that cater for the toddler age range but one of the best is the institution know as the Puppet Theatre Barge.

The Barge theatre holds around 50 people and offers some great shows. It is located in Little Venice which is also another area of London that is great to have a wander around with kids.

FAQs about visiting London with baby

Do you need a car seat in a uk taxi .

UK law  states that when travelling in taxis children under three may travel without a car seat! However I never travel without a car seat so we never take a taxi with our little one. 

If you decide to use an Uber however a car seat will be required by law. However Uber in the UK doesn’t currently provide car seats. 

And if you decide to rent a car in the UK with babies then you will definitely need a car seat as this is a legal requirement. 

You could try booking a car in advance however with a company that provides car seats but this will obviously mean you have to keep to a tighter schedule!

Further London Reading

• 50 + things to do in London with kids 
• 4 Day London Itinerary 
• 5-7 Day London Itinerary with Kids
• London Bucket List 
• UK Bucket List
• 50 Things to do on a Rainy Day in London
• Hampton Court Day Trip 
• Guide to Visiting London with a Baby or Toddler 
• Children’s Books set in London

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Uber with kids: what you need to know about riding with children

Many families use the Uber app in their daily lives, whether it’s ferrying the kids around to after-school activities or helping an elderly parent come and meet you for dinner. We’re glad that families are using our service to make their daily lives a little less hectic.

However, there are some things to consider when it comes to using Uber for children. Here’s what you need to know about catching an Uber ride with your kids in Qatar .

Ground rules

When it comes to requesting rides, our guidelines state that children under the age of 18 are not allowed to have Uber accounts. If you’re using your Uber account or the Uber family profile for your children to request a ride, they must still be accompanied by an adult to be allowed to ride. As such, drivers may also ask for ID verification to check a rider’s age if they think it is necessary.

Uber child seats

If you are planning on riding with small children, then you should bring a child seat or some form of secure seating for them. Whilst there aren’t specific laws on securing children in vehicles, a driver may refuse a ride if they feel your child isn’t safely secured. Car seats in Uber vehicles aren’t common, so it’s always safest to assume you will need to bring one.

If you’re not sure what kind of car seat you need for your child, you can find out more about the different types of seats and how to install them here .

Tips for using Uber for children

Are the kids safe and secure? Here are some tips to make the most of taking Uber rides with kids:

The more the merrier

In Doha, you can request an UberXL with room for up to 6 passengers. That means space for you and your partner, the kids and any other family members you’ll be taking on your family outing. Or, you can use the space for extra luggage if you’re loading up the kids for your long-awaited holiday abroad.

Keep everyone connected

The Uber app has a variety of safety features to make using Uber, with kids or not, as safe as possible. One feature you can use is sharing your trip status to let your partner or anyone else know exactly where you and your child are when you’re riding with us. Tap “Send Status” during a ride to share or pre-select up to 5 Trusted Contacts to receive your trip status whenever you ride.

The Uber family profile

Make travel easier for you, your partner, your kids, grandparents and anyone else with the Uber family profile . The family profile allows you to connect up to 5 people to your Uber account, meaning they can request rides using your payment methods, with records being kept on your account. It’s a great way to manage transport for the whole family and take care of the who’s driving who conversations.

So, when are you bringing the kids? Follow our rules and tips for using Uber with kids, and you can make transport that much easier for you and the whole family.

Family time is precious, make it count with Uber.

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Travelling with a baby: everything you need to know

Manage your expectations — and take advantage of the extra hand luggage. cathy adams has the tips to make it all go smoothly.

Y oyoing European entry rules for unvaccinated children, skyrocketing airfares for summer holidays and nannies being booted out of business-class flights is enough to make any parent yearn for home turf. Apart from this one, that is.

I became a mum at the beginning of the pandemic in March 2020, and despite various lockdowns and crushing nursery fees, I’ve managed to sustain an even more punishing travel schedule with my family. I consider my desire to travel as part of Who I Am, and wasn’t ready to relinquish the frequent trips alongside the lost brain cells.

We’ve done Europe ( Greece , Portugal , Ireland , Paris , Madrid for new year), long-haul ( Dubai twice, Barbados ) as well as plenty of staycations and city breaks . I like to think I’ve earned my stripes as a travelling parent, even though I’ve lost my temper and patience in the process.

There’s a huge benefit to travelling with a little one: a plane fare for an under-two typically costs 10 per cent of the adult fare, and on Eurostar they travel free until they turn four. Plus, babies aren’t constrained by half-terms and summer holidays — when airfares spike — which has been my main motivation for getting away as much as possible.

Aside from the sort of preparation you might make for the invasion of a small country, there’s no big secret to making travel work with a baby in tow. Here are my best tips.

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Time your travel with naps

The flight (or long car journey) is often the trickiest bit, and I’ve always tried to time it with a nap — then pray it lasts as long as possible. While daytime flights are often more expensive than overnight flights, they can be far easier to deal with if you have a tricky sleeper or an older baby who may find it hard to settle down.

If you’re flying long-haul with a very young baby, taking an overnight flight can work well — you’ll typically be allocated a bulkhead seat with a bassinet (speak to the crew if not the case). This isn’t for everyone: I still haven’t recovered from the horror of a London-to-Dubai flight when my son was eight months old.

Trains can be an easier (and a more eco-friendly) way to travel. There’s more space for starters: he learnt to walk on a trip to Leeds from London, and loved dipping a croissant into chocolat chaud on a Eurostar train, where the buffet car far outstrips any British equivalent.

Get the right gear

The amount of baby guff I have to pack for a weekend away could rival a house move. Naturally you’ll want to take it all “just in case” and packing cubes are helpful. Isolate the bits the baby needs for the journey (including Calpol — there’s nothing worse than being without the purple syringe on a long journey). The 100ml limit on liquids taken through airport security is less strict for children, with exemptions for milk, baby food and medicines (though check ahead with the airline).

Next, consider the transport. Some buggies can be folded up and taken on board as cabin baggage. I have the Babyzen Yoyo pram, designed for Parisian parents to haul their offspring through the metro and up apartment steps; but it also folds up so small it can be carried on board. I’ve never had any issues taking it all the way to the plane door.

“Children get a generous allowance regardless of the ticket,” says Gilbert Ott, founder of the God Save the Points travel blog, who has flown frequently with his young daughter, Olive. “Car seats are free to check in as well as at least one or two other items. I’d be lying if I said we haven’t borrowed Olive’s extra baggage allowance before.” Buy a canvas bag to transport your car seat in and not only will it protect the car seat, it will also give you extra packing space — nappies on the way out, a bag of laundry on the way back, for example.

Even if you don’t take a carry-on buggy, airlines will typically give you two extra bits of luggage for free, meaning you check in things such as your pushchair and car seat without denting your allowance.

I’d advise taking a sling on board too. I’ve carried out many successful plane naps by bouncing up and down the aisles and standing by the door while he nods off to the roar of the engine. I flew back from Dubai last week with him strapped to my front, his head tucked into my neck: sure, he’s now so big my ability to breathe was hampered, but I got to watch Promising Young Woman uninterrupted. Don’t bother taking a travel cot with you. It’s highly likely your accommodation will provide one if you ask.

Ask for help at the airport

Airlines will usually prioritise families with young children and offer services such as check-in areas and priority boarding, so you can get settled before other passengers board. Bigger airports also have children’s facilities (Heathrow has soft play areas in all terminals) as well as spaces for breastfeeding and baby changing.

Ott, who flew to Los Angeles just before his daughter turned two, says: “BA and Virgin are the only two airlines in the world that won’t charge extra if your little one turns two during the trip. You just need to telephone to make the booking.”

Take some entertainment

For older babies, a tablet is essential, packed with freshly downloaded episodes of Peppa Pig , CoComelon and Hey Duggee . Amazon sells a robust, child-friendly Fire tablet with a brightly coloured case and a battery life that will last a long-haul flight — get a strap so you can hang it off the seat in front. Lift-the-flap books and stickers are also good distractions. I’ve been known even to write out an hour-by-hour schedule on a long flight to give my son (and his parents) some structure.

My fellow travel writer Mike MacEacheran recommends a portable white noise app.

Book a family-friendly hotel

I had a baby, but unfortunately I didn’t lose my love of sexy design hotels with facilities entirely unsuited to babies. On a recent holiday to Barbados we checked into a succession of gorgeous hotels with pretty pools and twinkly restaurants that were technically welcoming of children but not necessarily “family-friendly”. Reader, there is a difference.

While babies are too young for a kids’ club (the lower age limit tends to hover around three), a family-friendly hotel will still provide plenty of facilities and, crucially, be filled with other families too — there is nothing worse than having to wait until 7.30pm for a restaurant to open, only to find it filled with child-free couples who don’t want their dinner ruined by a baby’s overtired wails.

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The very best ones do a bit of both. I was impressed by Four Seasons Hampshire during a stay last year: we ate dinner with all the other families at 6pm, walking out satisfied and happy for a 7.30pm bedtime. I returned later for a drink at the bar (see the point about the monitor below) when the clientele (and the atmosphere) had matured by about three decades — you’d never know that a few hours’ previously it was full of squalling children drawing on tables.

I’ve stayed in both hotels and self-catering accommodation with a baby, and the jury’s still out on which one is best — what you have in space in an apartment you miss in facilities at a hotel. Make sure you have access to a washing machine, and ensure the room you book is big enough to be able to put the baby to bed and enjoy your evening without sitting in silence in the bathroom drinking wine. We’ve now done this in so many hotels that it’s become rather A Thing. Failing that, take the baby monitor and see how far the range stretches.

Manage your expectations

Travelling with a child under two is never going to be “a holiday” in the traditional sense, but after multiple attempts at all sorts of trips I think we’ve realised what works and what doesn’t. I’ve lowered my expectations significantly, vowed never to go longer than a week without childcare (or moral support), and delighted in showing my toddler what the world has to offer. Oh, and naturally, “aeroplane” was one of his first words.

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I flew to Japan with my baby. Here's the travel advice that helped me survive the trip

Emily Siner

Journalist Emily Siner went on a trip to Japan with her 8-month-old son and knew it would be daunting. What should she pack? What should she expect? Photo Illustration by Becky Harlan/NPR hide caption

Journalist Emily Siner went on a trip to Japan with her 8-month-old son and knew it would be daunting. What should she pack? What should she expect?

Last winter, my husband and I made the ambitious decision to fly 13 hours with our 8 month old for a two-week vacation around Japan.

We knew flying with a baby would be daunting. What if he has a meltdown on the airplane? What gear do we bring? How will he adjust to the 15-hour time change? And ... will we actually get to enjoy ourselves?

Siner's husband and their 8-month-old son on the 13-hour flight to Tokyo. Siner says their baby loved watching other passengers on the plane. Emily Siner hide caption

Siner's husband and their 8-month-old son on the 13-hour flight to Tokyo. Siner says their baby loved watching other passengers on the plane.

Preethi Harbuck, author of the travel blog Local Passport Family and a mom of six agrees that taking a big trip with young children — that is, babies and toddlers under age 2 — isn't easy. But with the right preparation and mindset, it can also be fun for everyone. You may even be able to "connect with people and places in a new way that [you] wouldn't have been able to experience without kids," she says.

To help set parents up for success, Harbuck and Christine Sarkis, editor-in-chief of the travel website Family Vacationist , share tips on what to pack, how to overcome travel challenges and set realistic expectations.

Take a practice trip

Before you pack your passports for a big international trip, try a shorter trip that's closer to home so you can work out the kinks of traveling with a young child. Photo Illustration by Becky Harlan/NPR hide caption

Before you pack your passports for a big international trip, try a shorter trip that's closer to home so you can work out the kinks of traveling with a young child.

The first step to preparing for a big trip is to take a smaller one, like an overnight trip somewhere close by. It can give you a sense of what it's like to travel with your little one and grow your confidence, says Harbuck. "Find what feels comfortable and keep practicing. It will become easier."

Luckily, my husband and I had a chance to take some shorter trips with our baby before going to Japan. When our baby was three months old, we stayed overnight at a cabin about a half hour away by car. A month later, we took an 8-hour road trip to Chicago to see family.

How to take better (and more distinctive) photos on vacation

From these outings. I learned how important it was to pack a sound machine, which helps my baby fall asleep, and a portable diaper changing pad. I also learned that I didn't need to bring too many toys. My kid loved watching other people talk, walk and interact with each other.

So when we went to Japan, I put those lessons to use. I packed the essentials, left half the toys behind and made sure to sit in an aisle seat on the plane so that my baby, who sat on my lap, could get a good view of the passengers and stay entertained.

Make plans your future self will thank you for

When traveling with a baby or a toddler, everything becomes a little more complicated. There's a lot more to pack (more on that later) and a lot more considerations to make (like naps and kid-friendly meals, perhaps). So the key is to prioritize decisions that will simplify travel, says Sarkis. "Anything you can do to smooth your way [will make you] so happy with yourself."

Here are some planning decisions that our experts recommend.

Put your kid in their own plane seat. Many airlines allow kids under 2 to fly in your lap for a very low rate, sometimes even for free. While that can make travel more budget friendly, Harbuck says it's worth buying your child their own seat. Placing them in a car seat is the safest place for them to sit on an airplane, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. Plus, having your own seats can make long flights more comfortable for the both of you.

Consider their developmental stage. Keep in mind that your child's needs will change as they age. For example, if your kid is walking, it may be harder to "keep them busy and happy" on the airplane, says Sarkis. So you might enjoy your trip more if you choose a destination that's closer to home. Anticipate what stage they'll be in at the time of travel and plan accordingly.

Add more adults to the trip. My husband and I traveled with friends for part of our trip around Japan. They helped us carry luggage and held our baby while we ate. "If you have someone to trade off with, that's really helpful," says Sarkis.

7 tips to help you keep the peace when traveling with a group

Book a vacation rental. If you are traveling with a little one who still naps in the middle of the day or has an early bedtime, you may not want to book a single hotel room. Sarkis says she made that mistake on a trip once and had to bring pillows into the bathtub just to have a place to read after her kids went to bed. "Whereas in a vacation rental I could have sat on a couch."

Plan solo time. Carve out time for you and your travel partners to do things without the baby. On our trip to Japan, my husband and I decided we'd give each other as much time as we wanted in the guesthouse onsen , the heated communal bath, while the other watched our sleeping baby. Another night, we hired a babysitter so we could go out together and sing karaoke.

Pack well ... and lightly

It’s hard to travel light with a baby. So opt for the travel versions of strollers, cribs and car seats — they are often smaller and weigh less than the usual gear.

Credit: Becky Harlan/NPR

Portable cribs, high chairs, playpens and sleep canopies? There's no shortage of recommendations when it comes to choosing travel gear for your little one. But the No. 1 takeaway is to make sure "everything you're carrying is worth the stress of carrying it," says Sarkis.

Planning a trip? Here's how to pack like a pro

Focus on the basic gear. At the minimum, your child will likely need a stroller or baby carrier to get around, a car seat for car trips and a safe place to sleep, like a portable crib. See if you can get travel versions of that gear, which are often lighter, smaller and easier to carry. Many airlines will let you check a stroller and a car seat for free, either before you go through security or at the gate. (If you do this, get some sort of carrying case to protect them.)

Cut down the big stuff ... There may be opportunities to leave some of that gear behind, says Sarkis. Check whether you can rent a stroller at your destination. Your accommodation may offer baby cribs. And some ridesharing apps may have vehicles outfitted with infant car seats.

... and the little stuff. "Kids live all around the world so you can access most of what you really, truly need" at your destination, says Harbuck. If your luggage is getting too full, consider buying diapers, wipes, formula or baby food when you land. In Japan, we did laundry halfway through our trip to minimize the clothing we had to pack.

Set your expectations

Traveling with young children alters the nature of the experience. It's important to set realistic expectations for your trip. Photo Illustration by Becky Harlan/NPR hide caption

Traveling with young children alters the nature of the experience. It's important to set realistic expectations for your trip.

I'll be honest: There were a lot of moments on our trip when I felt overwhelmed and a bit disappointed. Like when my jet-lagged baby woke up crying at 1 a.m., 3 a.m. and somehow again at 3:30 a.m. — for two nights in a row.

Both Harbuck and Sarkis acknowledge that post-kid travel is harder in many ways. But there are a few things you can do to set yourself up for success.

Redirect your attention to the positive aspects of your journey. "If you're focused only on the challenges, you're going to miss the joys," says Sarkis. For me, it was delightful to witness my baby do new things in Japan. He ate new foods like udon, miso soup and smoked fish. He was mesmerized by the Ryoanji Temple's rock garden in Kyoto and even more mesmerized by the steady stream of tourists' faces to observe.

A flight expert's hot take on holiday travel: 'Don't do it'

See drawbacks as opportunities. If you have to go back to your hotel twice a day to let your child nap, see it as a moment to read, journal or "recharge for the next thing you do," says Sarkis.

Look out for special ways your child is helping you connect with the world. On flights, our neighbors told us about their own children or nieces and nephews. In restaurants, servers would come over to coo at him and make conversation with us in the process, despite the language barrier.

And finally, give yourself some kudos. For us parents, traveling was a big priority for us before he was born, and the experience made us proud to realize that yes — even with a small child, we can still see the world.

The audio portion of this episode was produced by Andee Tagle. The digital story was edited by Malaka Gharib. The visual editor is Beck Harlan. We'd love to hear from you. Leave us a voicemail at 202-216-9823, or email us at [email protected].

Listen to Life Kit on Apple Podcasts and Spotify , and sign up for our newsletter .

• Life Kit: Parenting

7 Tips on how to travel with a baby in a Taxi and Uber

Sometimes you may need to embark on journeys with your baby in a taxi or Uber . If you’re a new mom, you may wonder how to pull this off successfully since this is your first time traveling with your baby in a taxi or uber. But life doesn’t have to come to a standstill after having a baby.

Hey! By the way… any links on this page that lead to products on Amazon are affiliate links and I earn a commission if you make a purchase. Thanks in advance – I really appreciate it! .

You can still attend important meetings and conferences if you must. Don’t fret at the idea; there are ways to manage your baby during such trips. With the tips we will discuss in this blog post, you’ll learn how to travel with a baby in a taxi. You’ll also learn how to travel with a baby in a taxi if there’s no car seat available.

7 tips for traveling with a baby in a taxi 

How to travel with a baby without a car seat , conclusion .

1. Understand child travel regulations in your location

You should learn the state regulations on traveling with a baby in a taxi where you live and where you’re going. Find out if the taxis in your area are obligated to provide passengers with baby car seats or if you can go with yours. Find out also if there are age restrictions for children to sit in different positions in the taxi. Knowing the laws governing traveling with a baby in a taxi is essential to ensure you’re not breaking the law. 

2. Avoid rush hours

Traveling with your baby when most people are out trying to get a cab may be too hectic for you. You should avoid rush hours as much as possible to ease this stress. Mornings and evenings are usually the busiest times of the day when most people are either going to or returning from work. That causes a lot of traffic, leaving you and your baby in the taxi for extended periods. Your baby might get cranky if they stay too long in the cab due to traffic congestion. Plan your travel for middays when the rush would have significantly reduced. That way, you’ll arrive at your destination early.

3. Make reservations ahead of time

It would help if you made reservations ahead of time for your journey. Most cab companies offer booking services. You can plan your transit around your baby’s nap time, so specify when you’d like the taxi to come for you and your baby. 

4. Feed your baby before the journey

If you have to feed your baby during the journey, it may not be too comfortable for you, so limit it as much as possible. It will help if you feed your baby before setting out on the journey. That will keep them full for a while, and depending on the distance, you may only feed them again once you arrive at your destination. They’ll also sleep peacefully for part of the journey because they’re full.

5. Ensure your baby’s safety.

You must ensure your baby will be safe throughout the journey. Find out if there’s a car seat in the taxi ahead of your trip, and ensure you place your baby securely in it. If there are no provisions for a baby car seat or booster seat, you can either go along with yours or secure your baby in a seat belt next to you. Keeping your eyes on them throughout the journey is how to travel with a baby in a taxi.

6. Let the driver know you have a baby

Communicating with the taxi driver is essential to let them know you’re traveling with your baby. This way, they would be more patient with you, knowing you must be careful not to hurt your baby. They should also understand that you’ll need some time to install the car seat for your baby if you have to travel with yours.

7. Keep your baby entertained

You should only travel with your baby in a taxi with their toys and dolls. You’ll need to find ways to calm your baby if they’re awake during the journey. Hand them their toys or stuffed animals to play with when they cry. Music will also help keep your baby comfortable, so your phone playlist will be handy. How about singing some kiddie songs to your baby? They’ll be pleased to have you entertain them on the journey.

A car seat is meant to keep your baby secure when you ride with them in the car. If you, however, find yourself traveling with a baby without a car seat, you should belt them up using the seat belt. Ensure your baby’s thighs are secured with the lap portion of the seat belt. Another option is to hold your baby on your lap if they’re much smaller though some people frown at it. 

Do you have a trip to make? You no longer have to cancel your essential journeys because of your baby. With the above tips on how to travel with a baby in a taxi, you should be at every function where you’re needed without much stress. Ensure to make your baby’s safety a priority on all your trips. 

About The Author

Hephzy Asaolu

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Travelling with baby in a taxi

Luckyelephant1 · 30/09/2021 12:25

Hi, I'm a bit confused about car seat guidance for travelling with a baby in a taxi. We need to make literally a 12 minute journey to a train station in a cab, with our baby. We are going away and don't need a car seat where we are going so we don't want to lug one with us just for that journey. I've looked up quotes for taxis with car seats online and the prices are eye-watering for such a short journey. Yet the gov website says you don't actually need a car seat in a taxi: www.gov.uk/child-car-seats-the-rules/when-a-child-can-travel-without-a-car-seat However the Uber website says they won't take babies without a car seat. Has anyone ever had a similar issue and what did you end up doing?

Legally you don’t have to have a car seat in a taxi, because as a practical matter you might need to get a taxi home and wouldn’t have one with you. In terms of safety though, obviously they’re still important. I only used taxis without a car seat when it was totally necessary. Some taxi companies will let you travel without a car seat, some won’t so you’ll need to ring around. How old is baby? Did you know there are portable car seat options, like folding or inflatable?

Legally you don’t need one in a taxi, but Uber won’t take you without one; it’s against their policy. You’ll need to phone around companies and see which ones are happy to accept you without one.

I don’t drive and I’m not lugging a car seat around everywhere when getting taxis, how old is baby? You can get blow up booster seats if baby is old enough or just hold baby

Use an actual taxi, not an Uber.

Get a black cab, have baby in a pushchair travelling backwards on the wheelchair space

I’d pay whatever it costs because its important, regardless of whatever the law may say. People are injured during 12 minute journeys.

I'd either get a black can or one of us would walk to the station with baby and the other would taxi it with the bags. I've been in enough awfully driven taxis to think it's not worth the risk.

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Take a car seat that clips on to a buggy and use that as your 'buggy' when you get there (obvs just for short trips) Or Get a black cab and use your normal buggy.

Have you looked up buses?

How old is the child is important. How long are you on the train and how are they being secured in that part of the trip ? A lot of taxis refuse a baby without a car seat due to the risk, as others have said, you will have to check your taxis policy if you deem it safe to travel.

How old is the child is important. Not really. A baby is a baby. The law regarding taxi travel changes at 3 years old when without a seat they should travel using the adult seatbelt. Under 3s should travel unrestrained:

It’s important how old the baby is so we can give the OP advice on the safest and most practical way to travel. Eg there are folding car seats suitable for some ages.

@Fredoftheforest

Are you in London or somewhere with black cabs? If yes then you can push the pram straight in, apply the break and hold the handlebar just like you would on the bus. If not then call local taxi firms- my mum lives in the burbs and all the local ones have at a minimum a basic forward facing harnessed car seat that would fit from about 10 months ish although it would not be my first choice for safety, it’s better than them being unrestrained. Alternatively if you have an infant seat for a younger baby, can you travel system your pram and just get baby out for regular stretch breaks, should be easy enough on the train. Lastly a 12 minute car is how far to walk? Legally you can of course just hold baby in a taxi but I would not do personally except in an emergency.

@Fluffypastelslippers - OP is asking whether anybody had a similar issue and if so how they resolved it. I resolved it by using portable/foldable car seats. So if OP ever returns, I can offer advice on those options but it depends how old the baby is.

Baby is 3 months. Thanks for your input everyone. We might have resolved the issue as I believe we've found somewhere 5 minutes walk from the station where we can park for free the entire time. Good to know about cab rules, black cabs and portable car seats etc for the future though.

@Fredoftheforest - are there any such seats suitable for an 18 month old? She'll be too big for the one that clips to a base but I can't transport a large car seat, pram and suitcase when I'm away. I've only seen such seats for 4+.

@TimeIhadaNameChange - you could try a doona, that converts very easily from a car seat to a stroller so would at least be 2 in 1. Depends how big she is though, I think it goes up to about 15kg. After 15kg you can get the Chicco fold and go or the mifold.

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How to Uber (or Lyft) with a Baby or Toddler

Getting around town with a baby or toddler in tow can be a challenge under normal circumstances. However, when you’re in need of a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, traveling with a baby can take on new dimensions of difficulty. 

Taking an Uber with a baby doesn’t have to be a significant challenge. Depending on where you live and what services are available in your area, you may be able to utilize one of the many child-friendly rideshare services currently available. Still, having a lightweight car seat on hand might be a good idea.

Keep reading to discover some of the most helpful tips and tricks to help you Uber with baby in ease!

Spring For the Special Services

Uber is one of the most adaptive rideshare companies, and it shows in their range of services. They now offer Uber Car Seat and Uber Family, two options that allow parents to request a ride without needing to bring a car seat along. 

When you select either Uber Car Seat or Uber Family, your driver will arrive with a forward-facing car seat already equipped and ready for use. Of course, there is an additional cost attached for this feature, and children under the age of two aren’t permitted to safely use Uber Car Seat or Uber Family.

Still, it is an option that can help lighten the load. You just may want to make sure that your child meets Uber’s safety requirements before booking your ride with them. Lyft is currently working out the kinks to a similar system, which is only available in New York City.

If your little one doesn’t meet the requirements imposed by Uber, or there aren’t any applicable child-friendly rideshare services available in your area, you may want to invest in a lightweight car seat.

Bring a Lightweight Car Seat

When all else fails, it’s almost always a good idea to bring an easy-to-tote car seat. Finding one that easily attaches to a stroller may be the best option for parents on-the-go. That way, you’ll end up carrying your car seat around as little as possible while still providing your baby or toddler with the best protection possible.

Many lightweight car seat options weigh less than 10 lbs, so there are plenty of liftable seat options to choose from. Still, there are a few crucial features and factors to keep in mind while searching for the perfect about-town Uber-friendly car seat. For example, you may want to consider:

• Affordability
• Compatibility
• Safety Features

The ideal lightweight car seat should be within budget, compatible with most vehicles and strollers, chock-full of safety features , and easy enough to carry around for several minutes without feeling tired. It’s also vital to choose a car seat that is easy to use and install. Because after all, while a baby in the driver’s seat is adorable , they don’t always know the rules of the road!

View this post on Instagram 🚗🚕🚙🚘🚖 ⠀⠀ My Uber driver was super sassy 💁🏾‍♀️ ⠀⠀ All I said was ‘are you sure you have a licence’ & she went off on me, pressed hard on the brakes & told me to get out of the 🚗 ⠀⠀ If you see her out and about please tell her to give me my £6.50 💰 can fare back!! ⠀⠀ 😂😂🤣 • • • ⠀⠀ #mumofone #mum #baby #love #mumlife #babydriver #uberbaby #makingmummymoves #igmum #babygirl #mumanddaughter #mama #mummyblogger #mummydiaries #reallifeandstyle #parenting #motherhood #kids #mummylife #mother #thatmummytribe #mumbloguk #ukbloggers #honestmum #babies #mumblogsuk #mumssupportingmums #mumanddaughter #firsttimemummy #blogger #mummyblogger via @preview.app A post shared by Toyosi and Abigail E-J (@makingmummymoves) on Nov 25, 2019 at 4:38am PST

After all, you’re going to be installing this thing into multiple cars over time. If you’re not comfortable hooking the latches and buckling it into place, you may need to choose a different car seat. And once you have found the right option, you’ll want to consider letting your driver know about it.

Alert Your Driver Before Pick-Up

Letting your driver know what to expect before they arrive can be tremendously helpful. Not only will they know who and what to look for when picking you up, but they’ll also be better prepared to exercise patience with you as you install your car seat and get comfortable. 

Some drivers may even have experience installing car seats, and they may be able to lend you a hand. Still, letting your driver know that you have a small child and a car seat with you can result in a smoother, less frantic ride. It’s also essential to note that some drivers may not want to transport an infant or toddler in their vehicle.

Alerting your driver ahead of time can ensure that you end up with the right driver for you and your little one. No one enjoys uncomfortable comments, glances, or sighs as they try to make it to their destination. By always being transparent with your driver, you can save a lot of time and frustration for everyone.

The same can be said of scheduling your ride ahead of time. If you know you’ll need to be somewhere at a specific time, on a specific day, you can always utilize this feature to keep stress levels low.

Schedule Your Ride

You can schedule an Uber ride up to thirty days in advance, allowing you plenty of time to plan and organize around any event. When you have a child or baby to care for, plans can change very quickly. Fortunately, scheduling ahead doesn’t mean that you have to fully commit to a time or date.

Here’s a short tutorial that walks you through exactly how to schedule a ride:

If your plans happen to change before you need to take that ride, you can always cancel or change your rideshare reservation. This is an exceptionally helpful feature that allows parents to make plans ahead of time and also cancel those plans at nearly the last minute, without penalty.

Scheduling a ride ahead of time can also result in just one less thing you need to do before heading out the door.

Keep Baby Occupied

Once you’ve secured the car seat and your own seat belt, you might want to take a moment to relax and interact with your tiny tot. Life can be exhausting, and it’s often the smallest moments that catch us off-guard and fill our hearts with wordless joy. It can be too easy to let these tiny, precious moments flow past us without acknowledging them.

When you’re not the one behind the wheel, you have an opportunity to practice a little mindfulness. Babies often get fussy in the car, especially when they’re hungry or overtired. While you sit and travel to your destination, you could share a snack with your toddler or tickle their toes.

Keeping your baby occupied during the trip is a fantastic way of reducing frustrations for yourself, your little one, and the driver. It’s also an excellent moment to appreciate your hard work. After all, caring for an infant is no easy task. Getting to sit back inside of a car and just be for a few moments is a delicious treat. Allow yourself to enjoy it.

Most importantly, try to enjoy the ride with your baby. Though they may be fussy, sleepy, or generally aloof, they won’t stay small forever. It’s crucial to take in all the little moments that you can, even if they are just minutes spent together in an Uber or a Lyft.

Enjoy Your Ride

Taking an Uber with a baby can be a rewarding experience that allows you to connect with your little one without having to watch out for traffic. Utilizing child-friendly services can help you get around town without lugging around a car seat. However, if your baby is too young or there are no such services available in your area, a lightweight car seat can do the trick.

It may also be helpful to alert your driver before pick-up, and scheduling your ride ahead of time puts less stress on you, the driver, and your little one. Once you’re in the car, it’s time to sit back, relax, and keep your child occupied while you comfortably travel to your destination.

Shoot, a baby has been born in an Uber, so you should be just fine pulling off a trip with your little one 🙂

About The Author

Trish Williams