Traveling through O.R. Tambo as a family is manageable, but the airport is large and the onward journey requires some planning, especially with young children.
Inside the terminal
The walk from the gate to baggage reclaim can be long, particularly from international gates. Luggage trolleys are free and available in the baggage hall, though they get scarce when several flights arrive at once. There are baby changing facilities in the main restrooms near arrivals. Immigration queues can take over an hour at peak times, which is exhausting with small children. There is no fast-track family lane.
Car seats
South African law requires children under 3 to be in an appropriate car seat. Metered taxis at the airport rank do not carry car seats. Uber and Bolt occasionally have drivers with seats but you cannot guarantee it. If your child needs a car seat, the only reliable option is to bring your own, rent one from a car rental desk, or pre-book a transfer and request the seat in advance. Most private transfer services will provide one if you specify the child's age and weight at the time of booking.
Vehicle size matters
A family of four with two large suitcases, a stroller, and a car seat will not fit comfortably in a standard sedan taxi. You will need a larger vehicle. At the taxi rank, you get what is next in line. With Uber, you can request XL but availability varies. With a pre-booked transfer, you choose the vehicle type beforehand, which removes the guesswork.
The Gautrain with children
It is possible but not ideal with very young kids. The station is inside the airport and clearly signed. Lifts exist but are not always conveniently located, and you will be navigating turnstiles with luggage and a stroller. If your children are old enough to walk and you are traveling light, it works fine to Sandton. For younger kids and heavy luggage, a door-to-door option is less draining.
Timing your exit
Johannesburg traffic is serious. If your flight lands during morning rush (06:30-09:00) or afternoon rush (16:00-19:00), a 25-minute drive to Sandton can stretch to over an hour. That is a long time in a car with tired children. There is no way to avoid it entirely, but knowing it helps you plan snacks, entertainment, and expectations.
Practical recommendations
Pack a change of clothes for the kids in your carry-on, not your checked bag. Have your accommodation address saved offline. Bring snacks for the car ride. If you need a car seat, confirm it is arranged before you land. Choose a vehicle with enough space rather than trying to squeeze everything into the cheapest option. After a long flight, comfort matters more than saving a small amount on transport.