Tobago is a popular family destination, and the airport is small enough to be manageable with children. But getting from TAB to your resort requires a bit of thought, especially if you are heading beyond Crown Point.
The Airport with Children
After landing, you walk to immigration and then baggage claim. The airport is compact, so there is not much distance to cover. However, immigration queues can be long when international flights arrive together, and there is limited space. Keeping young children entertained during a 30-minute queue in a warm terminal is a challenge. Bring a snack and a drink in your carry-on.
Once through customs, the arrivals area is small. You are outside quickly.
Child Seats
This is the main concern for families. Taxis at Tobago Airport do not carry child seats as standard. Trinidad and Tobago's road safety laws are less stringent than what many international visitors are used to. If you require a child seat, a pre-booked transfer is the way to get one.
When booking, specify each child's age so the correct seat type is provided. For infants, a rear-facing seat. For toddlers, a forward-facing seat. For older children, a booster. Not all providers offer all types, so confirm availability when you book.
If you are bringing your own car seat, that works too, and it gives you flexibility for the duration of your stay. Just be aware that taxi vehicles vary in size and not all seats fit easily.
Vehicle Size and Luggage
A family of four with suitcases, a stroller, and a car seat needs more than a standard sedan. Many taxis at TAB are regular-sized cars. Before loading up, check that everything actually fits. If it does not, you may need to negotiate a second taxi, which doubles the cost.
A pre-booked van or larger vehicle avoids this problem. You declare your luggage at booking, and the vehicle matches your needs.
Long Rides to Remote Resorts
Some of Tobago's best family resorts are on the north or east coast, 45-75 minutes from the airport on winding roads. For children prone to car sickness, this is worth considering. Mountain roads with sharp curves and elevation changes can be uncomfortable. Bring motion sickness remedies if your children are sensitive.
The roads are scenic but narrow in places, with occasional potholes. A driver who knows the route is safer and faster than navigating it yourself for the first time.
Practical Tips
Bring cash in TTD for small purchases at the airport. Pack water and snacks for the transfer, especially for longer journeys. Sun protection is important even for the walk from the terminal to the car. And give yourselves plenty of time -- between immigration queues, luggage collection, and getting everyone into the vehicle, the airport-to-hotel process takes longer with kids than you might expect.