Sweden is one of the most family-friendly countries in Europe, and Landvetter Airport reflects that. But getting from the airport to your hotel with children and luggage still requires some thought.
Child seat requirements in Sweden
Swedish law requires children to use appropriate restraints until they are 135 cm tall (roughly 8–10 years old). The rules are strict and enforced:
| Height / age | Requirement | |-------------|-------------| | Under 135 cm | Rear-facing or forward-facing child seat, or booster | | 135 cm and above | Seatbelt |
Sweden strongly recommends rear-facing seats for children up to age 4, which is stricter than most European countries.
Regular taxis sometimes carry booster seats but almost never have infant or toddler seats. If you have young children, you must either bring your own seat or pre-book a transfer with the specific seats requested.
Flygbussarna with a family
The airport coach is family-friendly: there is luggage space underneath, the ride is smooth, and it takes 30 minutes. Children under 3 travel free if sitting on a parent's lap. Children 3–15 pay a reduced fare.
However, the bus drops you at Nils Ericson Terminal (Central Station). If your hotel is not within walking distance, you then need a tram — which means managing children, bags, and potentially a stroller through a second connection. In winter (November–March), this outdoor transfer is cold and dark.
Why families often choose a transfer
A pre-booked transfer takes you directly from the terminal to your hotel door. For a family with young children, car seats, a stroller, and suitcases, this is worth the extra cost. The driver helps with luggage, the car is warm, and you arrive without any connections.
A minivan transfer for a family costs approximately SEK 700–800 (EUR 61–70) — split across a family, this is roughly SEK 175–200 per person, which is reasonable by Swedish standards.
Airport facilities for families
Landvetter has good family facilities: clean changing rooms, a small play area in the departures hall, and family restrooms. The arrivals area is smaller but has baby changing facilities.
Supermarket-level baby supplies are not available at the airport, but the Pressbyran kiosk sells basics. Sweden's pharmacy chain Apotek is not represented at Landvetter, so bring essential medications and supplies.
Practical tips
- Book a transfer with child seats specified. State the ages and weights of your children when booking.
- Dress for the weather. Even the short walk from terminal to car can be bitterly cold in Swedish winter. Have coats accessible, not buried in checked luggage.
- Bring your own car seat if possible. Airlines carry them free. This guarantees the right fit.
- Download the Vasttrafik app. If you do take the Flygbussarna and then a tram, this app handles tram tickets in Gothenburg.