Piarco International Airport is a relatively modern terminal that handles family arrivals reasonably well. The main challenge is the 27 km distance to Port of Spain, which means your transport choice matters more than at airports closer to the city.
The terminal experience for families
The arrivals hall is air-conditioned, which is a relief after stepping off a Caribbean flight. Luggage trolleys are available at baggage claim. There are restrooms in the arrivals area, though no dedicated family or baby-changing facilities beyond standard restroom amenities. A few shops and a food counter are accessible before you exit, useful if children need a snack before the drive.
Free Wi-Fi is available in the terminal, which helps if you need to contact your transfer provider or hotel.
Vehicle size matters
The 27 km ride to Port of Spain is long enough that comfort matters. Standard airport taxis are sedans — a Toyota Corolla or similar. A family of four with two checked bags, carry-ons, and a stroller will find this tight. The boot space in Caribbean taxis is modest.
For families, an SUV or minivan through a pre-booked transfer is the better option. You specify your luggage count and passenger number when booking, and the vehicle matches your needs.
Car seats in Trinidad
Child car seat laws in Trinidad exist but enforcement is inconsistent. More importantly, airport taxis do not carry car seats and cannot provide them. If your child needs a car seat or booster, you must bring your own from home.
Some private transfer companies can arrange a car seat if you request it at the time of booking. Confirm this explicitly — do not assume it will be there.
The drive with children
The route from Piarco to Port of Spain follows the Churchill-Roosevelt Highway and then the Priority Bus Route or Beetham Highway. The road is well-paved and generally straightforward. During off-peak hours, the drive takes about 30 minutes. During rush hour, it can stretch to an hour or more.
Trinidadian driving is spirited — overtaking, horn use, and assertive lane changes are normal. This is not dangerous, but it can be unsettling for young children (or parents) who are not used to it. A calm, professional driver makes the ride noticeably more pleasant.
If you are heading to Tobago
Tobago is a separate island. You cannot drive there from Piarco. You need either a domestic flight (Caribbean Airlines operates the POS-TAB route frequently) or the ferry from the Port of Spain ferry terminal. If you are a family connecting to Tobago, factor in the time to get from Piarco to the domestic terminal (same airport, short walk) or to the ferry port downtown.
Tips for families
- Book a larger vehicle. The price difference between a sedan and an SUV transfer is modest compared to the comfort gain.
- Bring your own car seat. Do not rely on the transfer company unless you have written confirmation.
- Exchange money or use the ATM before exiting the terminal. Having TTD cash avoids issues with taxi drivers.
- The drive is 30–60 minutes — pack entertainment for children, especially during rush hour.
- If arriving on a late flight, children will be tired. A pre-booked transfer means no standing in a taxi queue.