When planning a trip with children, one of the most critical topics is transportation and the choice of vehicle. While car rental offers freedom and flexibility, it also requires making the right choices for children’s safety and comfort. Many factors must be considered—from the vehicle’s safety features and trunk capacity to extras like child seats and long-distance comfort.
Car rental offers a major advantage for families with children, especially on holidays and long trips. Instead of the crowding, lack of comfort, and time loss of public transport, using a dedicated family car provides both freedom and safety.
For families with children, car rental:
Allows you to make your own plans freely.
Makes it easy to take breaks according to children’s needs.
Helps you carry belongings with ease.
Therefore, for families with children, renting a car means not only comfort but also practicality and safety.
For families with children, the most important criterion in a rental car is safety. Be sure to check the following safety features when choosing a vehicle:
ABS and ESP braking systems: Essential for maintaining control in sudden situations.
Airbags: Rear-seat airbags are especially critical for children’s safety.
ISOFIX mounts: Ensure that child seats are securely fastened.
Tire condition and brake checks: Should be inspected at pickup for road safety.
Vehicles with complete safety equipment minimize potential risks and provide a peaceful journey for families.
When traveling with children, suitcases, strollers, toys, and extra items take up significant space. Cars with large trunk capacity offer great convenience for families.
SUVs and station wagons provide extra storage space with their large trunks.
7-seater MPVs are advantageous in both seating layout and luggage capacity.
Mid-size sedans offer a balanced solution for smaller families.
Generous interior space helps children stay comfortable on long journeys, avoiding crowding and restlessness along the way.
In Türkiye, using a child seat is a legal requirement for families with children renting a car. Be sure to request a seat suitable for your child’s age group when booking.
Infant seats (0–2 years): Suitable for newborns and young babies.
Child seats (2–6 years): Essential for the safety of children in the middle age group.
Booster seats (6+ years): Ensure older children can use seat belts correctly.
For extras, items such as a navigation device, sunshades, or additional roof/trunk carriers can also be helpful. These additions make the trip safer and more comfortable.
On long trips with children, comfort is as important as safety. Consider air-conditioning performance, seat comfort, and multimedia systems when choosing a car.
Tips for families on long journeys:
Break the trip into segments and take frequent stops.
Prepare entertainment like a tablet, toys, or road games for children.
Use in-car storage smartly to keep essentials within easy reach.
Load snacks, drinks, and necessities into the car before departure.
Choosing a comfortable vehicle makes long journeys enjoyable for both children and parents.
The ideal car in resort areas depends on your family’s needs. Families with children usually prefer vehicles with spacious cabins and large trunk capacity. In destinations such as Antalya, Bodrum, or Fethiye, SUVs and MPVs are top choices.
SUVs offer secure driving on both coastal roads and mountain routes. MPVs (Multi-Purpose Vehicles) with 7 seats provide great comfort for large families. For smaller families, mid-size sedans can be both budget-friendly and comfortable. When choosing a segment in holiday regions, consider both road conditions and the length of your stay.
Another key point for families with children is insurance coverage. Standard rental packages usually include basic insurance, but that may not always be sufficient.
Minor Damage (Mini) Cover: Covers small scratches and dents.
TCF (Tyres, Windows, Headlights) Cover: Protects against common minor incidents on family trips.
Full Coverage (Comprehensive): Protects families from large repair costs.
Extra protection packages are especially reassuring on long trips and in resort areas—so a small mishap won’t spoil the holiday.
There are several family-specific points to watch during pickup and return.
At pickup: Inspect existing damage thoroughly; check seat cleanliness and AC performance. Ensure extras—like child seats—are installed correctly.
At return: Check the fuel policy and return the car as agreed. Double-check the trunk for forgotten toys, strollers, or personal items.
Managing these steps carefully helps families avoid extra costs.
Simple yet effective measures can increase safety when traveling with children:
Always secure the child seat using ISOFIX mounts.
Make wearing seat belts a habit for kids on long journeys.
Use child locks to prevent kids from opening windows or doors.
Keep cabin temperature comfortable to maintain children’s well-being.
Take breaks so both children and parents can rest.
These practical steps make travel safer and more enjoyable.
Families with children may fall into common pitfalls when renting a car, which can increase costs and reduce comfort:
Choosing a car with insufficient trunk space: Remember that traveling with kids means more luggage.
Forgetting to request a child seat: It’s a legal requirement and crucial for safety.
Renting with inadequate insurance: Even a minor incident can lead to high costs.
Skipping a thorough inspection at pickup: You might be held responsible later.
Picking the wrong vehicle segment: A car that doesn’t fit your comfort and safety needs makes the trip harder.
By avoiding these mistakes and planning properly, families can make their trips more peaceful and enjoyable.
