Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport handles enormous passenger volumes, and navigating it with children requires planning — especially for the journey into the city.
The airport experience with kids
Terminal 2 (international) is modern and spacious with good facilities. Immigration can take 30-90 minutes depending on time and flight clusters — bring snacks and entertainment. Baby-changing facilities are available in restrooms. After baggage claim, the arrivals hall has ATMs, SIM card counters, and a pre-paid taxi booth.
Terminal 1 (domestic) is older and more crowded. If connecting between terminals, you need a shuttle or taxi — they are 5 km apart.
Transport options for families
Pre-booked SUV or minivan is the best choice. Mumbai traffic is intense, and South Mumbai can take 60-120 minutes. A larger vehicle gives kids space, and the driver handles everything.
Pre-paid taxi counter offers fixed-rate rides in standard sedans (Maruti Dzire or similar). Fits 2 adults + 2 kids with moderate luggage. No child seats.
Uber/Ola sends whatever is available. Request SUV category for more space. No child seats offered.
Child seats
India has no enforced child seat law for taxis. Almost no taxi in Mumbai carries one. Options:
- Bring a portable travel car seat
- Request through pre-booked transfer (confirm availability)
- Hold younger children on your lap (common practice locally)
Vehicle recommendations
| Family setup | Recommended vehicle |
|---|---|
| 2 adults + 1 child + 2 bags | Sedan |
| 2 adults + 2 children + 3 bags | SUV |
| 2 adults + 3+ children + 4+ bags | Minivan |
| Stroller + car seat + bags | SUV or minivan |
Fixed-price private transfer
BOM Mumbai City Center
From€41for 2 passengers
4 passengers: €53 per vehicle, about €13 per person
- Fixed price, no meter
- Flight tracked
- 60 min free waiting
- Driver meets you at arrivals
- Free cancellation up to 24 h before pickup
Other destinations
Tips for the ride
- AC is essential. Mumbai is hot and humid year-round (28-35°C).
- Traffic: Western Express Highway is heavily congested 8-11 AM and 5-9 PM. The Bandra-Worli Sea Link (tolled) helps.
- Motion sickness: Frequent stops and lane changes. Keep a bag handy.
- Water: Bring sealed bottles only.
When a private transfer from BOM is the right choice
- Travelling with small children: child seats are requested at booking for the exact ages, so you are not relying on a taxi that may have none.
- Strollers, cots and luggage: a minivan takes everything in one go, door to door, with no stairs or platform changes.
- Three or more people: a 4-seat car to Mumbai City Center is from €53, about €13 per person, usually level with or below separate public-transport tickets once you count the walk, the wait and the last mile with bags.
BOM → Mumbai City Center from €41Fixed price, flight tracked, free cancellation up to 24 h before pickup.
Fixed-price private transfer
BOM Mumbai City Center
From€41for 2 passengers
4 passengers: €53 per vehicle, about €13 per person
- Fixed price, no meter
- Flight tracked
- 60 min free waiting
- Driver meets you at arrivals
- Free cancellation up to 24 h before pickup
Other destinations