Traveling through Islamabad International Airport with children is manageable, but the 30 km distance to the city means you want your ground transport sorted before landing.
The car seat situation
Car seats are not available in standard Careem vehicles or airport taxis. Pakistan does not enforce child car seat regulations the way European countries do, so local drivers simply do not carry them. If your child needs a car seat, a pre-booked private transfer with a car seat request is the only reliable option. Specify the child's age and weight when booking.
Vehicle size matters
A family of four with two large suitcases and a stroller will not fit comfortably in a standard Careem sedan (typically a Toyota Corolla or similar). Your options:
| Vehicle Type | Passengers + Luggage | How to Book | |-------------|---------------------|-------------| | Standard sedan | 2 adults + 1 child + 2 bags | Careem Go, airport taxi | | Careem Business | 3 adults + 2 children + 3 bags | Careem app (Business tier) | | SUV / minivan | 4-5 adults + children + 4+ bags | Careem SUV or private transfer |
Inside the airport
The arrivals hall is spacious and air-conditioned. Free luggage trolleys are available. There are baby changing facilities in the restrooms. A small food court operates on the ground floor if you need to feed the kids before heading out.
Tips for traveling with kids
- Book transport in advance — standing outside with tired children while waiting for a Careem is no fun
- Bring snacks — the drive is 35-50 minutes, longer in traffic
- Request a larger vehicle — the cost difference between a sedan and an SUV transfer is usually only EUR 5-10
- Arrivals hall has AC — wait inside until your driver confirms arrival if using Careem
Cost for families
A private transfer with an SUV or minivan to central Islamabad costs EUR 22-30 — roughly EUR 5-8 more than a standard sedan transfer. Given the comfort difference with children and luggage, this is money well spent.