Car Hire in Madeira With Children: Car Seats, Boosters and Practical Tips
You can request a baby seat, child seat or booster when booking your car in Madeira. The cost is €3-8 per day depending on type and company. Most companies at Funchal Airport have these seats available, but they sell out in August. Book it at the same time as the car. For families with children, a compact or small SUV like the Seat Arona is more comfortable than an economy car. Book at Discover Cars with the seat option from the first step.
Types of car seat available for car hire in Madeira
| Type | Child weight | Approx. price |
|---|---|---|
| Baby seat (group 0+) | Up to 13 kg (0-18 months) | €3 – €6/day |
| Child seat (group 1) | 9-18 kg (9 months - 4 years) | €4 – €7/day |
| Combination seat (group 1-2-3) | 9-36 kg (9 months - 12 years) | €5 – €8/day |
| Booster (group 2-3) | 15-36 kg (4-12 years) | €3 – €5/day |
In Portugal (including Madeira), the law requires an approved seat or restraint system for all children under 12 or under 135 cm tall. Not using one is a serious offence.
How to book the car seat correctly
Book the seat at the same time as the car, don't leave it for the counter. In high season, seats sell out just like cars.
When booking on Discover Cars, there's an extras section where you select the seat type and the system assigns it automatically. At the counter you confirm the model and they'll install it or explain how to.
Can I bring my own seat? Yes, and it's the safest option if you have an approved seat your child is already used to. Most companies don't charge anything to install your own seat.
Which car to choose for travelling with children in Madeira
For 2 adults and 1-2 young children: a compact like the VW Polo or Renault Clio has enough space. If you're carrying lots of luggage plus a pushchair, the boot may be tight.
For 2 adults and 2-3 children or a large pushchair: a small SUV like the Seat Arona or Nissan Juke has more boot space and more height to fit seats comfortably.
Avoid: mini economy cars like the Fiat Panda are too small to fit two seats comfortably in the back.
Driving with children in Madeira: what you should know
Madeira's mountain roads have lots of bends. Children prone to car sickness may struggle more than on flat roads.
Practical tips:
- ✓Plan stops every 45-60 minutes on mountain routes
- ✓Viewpoints have areas where children can get out and move around
- ✓Avoid the most extreme levada roads if travelling with babies or very young children
- ✓The Porto Moniz natural pools are ideal for families with children
Frequently asked questions about car hire with children in Madeira
Are children required to use a car seat in Madeira?
Yes. Portuguese law requires an approved seat or restraint for children under 12 or under 135 cm. The fine for non-compliance is €120-600.
Does the company install the seat?
The counter agent can help, but correct installation is the driver's responsibility. If unsure, ask them to explain it step by step before leaving the car park.
Can I book the seat and cancel it if my plans change?
Yes, under the same cancellation policy as the car. If you cancel the booking, extras are also cancelled at no cost within the free cancellation window.
Is there a car delivery service to the hotel to avoid transfers with a baby?
Some local operators offer hotel delivery in Funchal for a €10-20 supplement. With babies and lots of luggage it can be worth it.
What happens if the booked seat isn't available on arrival?
The company is required to provide the booked seat. If they don't have it, they must offer an equivalent substitute or a discount. Don't leave without the seat or an approved alternative.