Car journeys with your baby: tips for safe and comfortable travel

Planning a summer holiday or visiting friends and family who don't live nearby? A little preparation will help make a long car journey with your newborn safe, comfortable and as relaxing as possible. From how long your baby can stay in their car seat to what to bring, here are our top tips.

How long can a baby stay in a car seat?

Guidance on how long a baby should stay in a car seat varies between countries and health organisations. Some recommend a maximum of two hours at a time, while shorter periods may be advised for newborns. Young babies have limited head control, and remaining in an upright or semi-upright position for too long may affect their breathing.

As there is no single internationally agreed time limit, always follow the car seat manufacturer’s instructions and the health and safety guidance in your country. Take regular breaks during longer journeys. If your baby was born prematurely or has a medical condition, speak to a healthcare professional before travelling.

A longer road trip is still possible. Plan regular stops to take your baby out of their seat, allowing them to stretch and move while you feed or change them. It is fine for your baby to fall asleep in their car seat while travelling, but move them to a firm, flat sleep surface when you arrive.

Planning a safe and comfortable journey

Check your route before you leave so you can find suitable places to stop and avoid the busiest travel times. Many parents prefer to travel when their baby would normally sleep, but make sure the driver is well rested and continue to take regular breaks even if your baby is sleeping.

Before setting off, double-check that the car seat is suitable for your baby, correctly reclined and securely installed in a rear-facing position. Follow both the car seat and vehicle instructions.

A few essentials can also make the journey easier:

• Use a newborn insert supplied with or approved for your car seat to help provide a secure, supportive fit.
• Remove hats, coats and snowsuits in the car to help prevent overheating.
• Use a light blanket over the secured harness so you can remove it easily if the car gets warmer.
• Bring a window shade, favourite soft toy or nursery rhymes to help keep your baby settled.
• Pack nappies, a changing mat, spare clothes and a compatible spare car seat cover.

If possible, have an adult sit beside your baby or use a mirror to keep an eye on them. If they slump forward, stop safely and reposition them before continuing.

For more help, read our car seat safety tips.

Choosing the right car seat for longer journeys

For longer journeys, look for a baby car seat with a comfortable newborn position, good ventilation and straightforward installation. Features such as a full lie-flat position and a compatible ISOFIX base can help make travelling easier, but you should still follow the car seat instructions and take regular breaks.

Discover our recommended baby car seats for comfortable, convenient travel below.

Explore all our baby car seats or discover our car seat bundles, which combine compatible car seats and bases.

More advice for travelling with your child

Taking a long car journey with a toddler? Read our guide to travelling by car with a toddler for tips on keeping them comfortable and entertained.

For more family travel advice, read our guide to flying with a baby or explore all our car seat advice and travel guides.