Puerto Rico is a popular family destination, and SJU handles plenty of families daily. The good news for US travelers: no customs or immigration means you are out of the airport quickly. Here is what else families need to know.
Car Seat Requirements
Puerto Rico follows US federal car seat guidelines. Children under 4 must ride in an appropriate car seat. Children ages 4-8 need a booster seat. These laws apply to all vehicles, including taxis and rideshares.
The practical reality: neither taxis nor Uber/Lyft drivers provide car seats. You have two options. First, bring your own — airlines check car seats free of charge, and you can use it immediately upon arrival. Second, book a private transfer and request the appropriate car seat at the time of booking. Specify the child's age and weight.
Some families use inflatable travel car seats, which are FAA-approved and pack small. These work well for the transfer and then during any car rides during your trip.
Moving Through the Airport
For families arriving from the mainland US, there is no immigration or customs. You walk off the plane, collect luggage, and exit. With children, the whole process takes 20-30 minutes — most of that waiting for checked bags.
The airport has family restrooms in both terminals. There are also nursing rooms if you need them. The walk from gates to ground transportation is moderate — about 10 minutes — and fully accessible with strollers.
Baggage carts are available for a few dollars and can make the luggage-plus-stroller-plus-kids situation more manageable.
Vehicle and Luggage Planning
A family of four with two large suitcases, a stroller, a car seat, and carry-ons needs more than a standard sedan. This rules out basic Uber rides and standard taxis unless you are willing to squeeze.
For private transfers, book a minivan or SUV and list all your items. For Uber, you can request an XL vehicle, but availability varies. For taxis, you may need two cars — the standard airport sedans have limited trunk space.
Be honest about what you are carrying. Showing up at the taxi stand with a family's worth of beach vacation luggage and expecting it to fit in one sedan creates a stressful start to your trip.
Getting to Your Hotel
The main family-friendly hotel areas — Isla Verde, Condado, and Old San Juan — are all within 25 minutes of the airport. The drives are short and on regular city roads.
Old San Juan requires a note: the streets are narrow, some are cobblestone, and many hotels are in converted colonial buildings without front-door car access. Your driver may drop you at the nearest accessible point, which could mean walking a block with bags and children. If this is your destination, confirm the drop-off situation with your hotel before arrival.
Isla Verde is the easiest for families — wide roads, resort-style hotels with clear entrances, and the shortest drive from the airport.
Practical Family Tips
- Your US health insurance likely works in Puerto Rico — verify before travel but this is a significant comfort for families with young children.
- Sunscreen and hats for the walk from terminal to car — the San Juan sun is strong, even for a short outdoor moment.
- If renting a car for day trips, add the car seat at the rental counter rather than hauling yours on every excursion.
- Hotel pools in Puerto Rico do not always have lifeguards — supervise children closely.
- The ferry to Vieques from Fajardo is not well-suited for very young children due to potential rough seas and long wait times at the terminal.