Travelling with Children on Icelandic Buses: A Practical Guide
Travelling around Iceland with children is easier than many families expect, especially when planning airport transfers between Keflavík and Reykjavík. This guide explains what parents and guardians need to know when using bus services in Iceland, with a particular focus on airport transfer options.
You’ll learn about safety rules, car seat requirements, luggage allowances, and what to expect when travelling with children on Icelandic buses. We also explain how services like Flybus fit into family-friendly travel planning without the need to rent a car.
Planning Your Airport Transfer in Iceland
When planning an airport transfer in Iceland between Keflavík and Reykjavík, families benefit from understanding how scheduled bus services operate in connection with flight arrivals and departures.
Flybus runs frequent departures from Keflavík International Airport (KEF) to Reykjavík and is timed around arriving flights. Tickets from the airport are always flexible, allowing families to board the next available bus even if a flight is delayed. This flexibility is particularly helpful when travelling with children after a long journey.
Is the Flybus suitable for families?
Flybus is widely used by families travelling to and from Keflavík Airport. The service offers guaranteed seating, generous luggage allowances, and straightforward boarding procedures, all of which help reduce stress when travelling with children.
There are no seat reservations, and staff are available at the airport and main terminals to assist passengers with questions.
Safety and requirements for children on Icelandic buses
Child seats and age restrictions
Children must travel in accordance with Icelandic law:
- Children under 1 year old (under 9 kg)
Children under the age of 1 cannot travel on Flybus services. They require a car seat with a 3-point seat belt, which is not available on buses. - Children aged 1–3 years
Children in this age group must use an appropriate child car seat. Parents or guardians must contact Flybus Customer Service at least 24 hours in advance to ensure a suitable seat is available. - Children aged 4 years and older (over 18 kg)
Children may use the standard seat belts provided on the bus.
Parents and guardians are responsible for supervising children at all times and ensuring seatbelt rules are followed.
Seatbelts and onboard behaviour
Seatbelts must be worn whenever available. Standing while the bus is in motion is not permitted, and children must remain seated for the duration of the journey.
Luggage, strollers, and travelling light
Each passenger may bring:
- Two standard checked bags (up to 23 kg each)
- One small carry-on item
This allowance is usually sufficient for families travelling with children. Foldable strollers or pushchairs can be transported as part of the luggage allowance if properly packed. Passengers are responsible for loading and unloading their own luggage.
Flybus+ hotel pickup with children
Flybus+ offers hotel-area pickup and drop-off at designated locations within Reykjavík, which can simplify travel for families staying in the city.
Important points to note:
- Pickup typically occurs around 30 minutes before the main Flybus departure
- Some hotels in pedestrian zones require meeting the shuttle at a nearby pickup point
- Missing the Flybus+ pickup is treated as a no-show
Arriving early at the correct pickup location is strongly recommended when travelling with children.
Accessibility and special assistance
Passengers requiring special assistance must notify Flybus in advance.
- Non-folding wheelchairs must be booked at least 3 days ahead
- Certified service animals and guide dogs are permitted with valid documentation
- Other animals are not allowed on the Flybus
What happens if flights or schedules change?
For journeys from Keflavík Airport, Flybus tickets remain valid for the next available departure, even if a flight is delayed.
For journeys from Reykjavík to the airport, passengers must select a departure time and arrive at least 30 minutes before departure. Changes may be possible up to 2 hours before departure, subject to availability, and must be made by phone.
Operational changes may occur due to weather or road conditions, but Flybus will make reasonable efforts to transport passengers as planned.
Practical tips for travelling with children
- Contact Flybus early if a child car seat is required
- Pack essentials in a carry-on bag
- Dress children in layers suitable for Icelandic weather
- Keep personal belongings with you at all times
Frequently Asked Questions
Can infants travel on the Flybus?
Children under 1 year old cannot travel on Flybus services because suitable 3-point seat belt car seats are not available on buses.
Do I need to reserve seats when travelling with children?
No seat reservations are required. Seats are always guaranteed on the next available Flybus departure
Is Flybus flexible if flights are delayed?
Yes. Tickets from Keflavík Airport are flexible and valid for the next available departure, even if your flight arrives late.
Can I bring a stroller on the Flybus?
Foldable strollers can usually be transported as luggage, provided they are properly packed and handled by the passenger.
Related Flybus Information
Travelling to or from Keflavík Airport?
Flybus operates the official airport transfer between KEF Airport and Reykjavík, with guaranteed seats, frequent departures, and Flybus+ hotel drop-off.
