The good news is that Ottawa Airport is small and close to downtown, so the logistics of getting your family to the hotel are simpler than at many airports. The 15-25 minute drive is manageable even with tired children.
Child Seat Requirements
Ontario law requires children to use appropriate car seats or booster seats based on their age, weight, and height. Children under 8 years old or under 36 kg generally need a booster seat at minimum. Standard taxis and rideshare vehicles do not carry child seats. If your children need a seat, you have two practical options: bring your own travel car seat, or book a private transfer and request one during the booking process.
This is not a detail to figure out at the curb with cranky kids and suitcases. Sort it before you fly.
Luggage and Stroller Space
A standard sedan taxi fits 2-3 checked bags in the trunk. If you have a stroller plus luggage for a family of four, a sedan will be tight. Request a minivan at the taxi stand if available, or book a minivan transfer in advance. The OC Transpo bus can technically accommodate a stroller, but navigating bags and kids onto a city bus after a flight is rarely pleasant.
Winter Travel with Kids
If you are visiting Ottawa between November and March, the weather is a serious factor. Temperatures regularly drop below -20C, and windchill makes it feel much colder. Standing in a taxi queue outdoors with young children in these conditions is inadvisable. A pre-booked transfer where the driver meets you inside the terminal eliminates this problem entirely.
Dress children in layers and have their winter gear accessible, not buried in checked luggage. The car will be warm, but the walk from the terminal to the vehicle may be cold.
The Bus Option for Families
Route 97 costs CAD 3.75 per person (children under 5 ride free), which makes it tempting for budget-conscious families. Realistically, it only works if your children are old enough to manage themselves, you have minimal luggage, and you are arriving during the day in decent weather. Otherwise, the time and effort saved by a taxi or transfer is worth the cost.
Practical Tips
Pack snacks and a water bottle in your carry-on for the drive. The 15-25 minute trip is short, but kids who have just endured a flight may be at their limit. Have your accommodation address ready to show the driver. If you booked a transfer, confirm the child seat type matches your child's needs. For connecting to destinations outside Ottawa — like Mont-Tremblant or the Thousand Islands — a private transfer can take you directly without the stress of changing transport modes.