Travelling with kids can feel like a big adventure before you even leave the house. Snacks packed, bags checked, shoes mysteriously missing. The good news is that train travel is one of the most family-friendly ways to get from A to B, giving everyone space to relax and enjoy the journey together. With a little planning, travelling by train with children can be surprisingly smooth and even fun.
Why trains are a winner for family travel
Unlike cars or planes, trains give kids the freedom to move around safely and stretch their legs. There is no seatbelt sign to worry about and no long waits stuck in traffic. Kids can look out of the window, play games at the table, or take a walk down the carriage when they need a change of scenery.
For parents, that means less stress and more chances to actually enjoy the journey. No driving, no parking and no airport queues, just hop on and let the train do the work.
Book smart for a calmer journey
When travelling with children, a little planning when you book can make a huge difference. Choosing off-peak times often means quieter trains, which is ideal if you’re juggling bags, buggies and excited little travellers. Ticketyboo helps you find the cheapest option!
If possible, get a seat reservation so everyone can sit together. Table seats are perfect for family games, colouring or sharing snacks, while pairs of airline-style seats can keep kids entertained for miles at the window as towns, tunnels and countryside roll by.
Pack a small entertainment kit
Even the most scenic journey can feel long to younger travellers, so having a few activities ready is always a good idea. Think colouring books, sticker sets, small toys, card games or a downloaded favourite film or TV show on a tablet.
Snacks are also essential. Familiar treats can be comforting for kids and help avoid hunger-related meltdowns. A mix of healthy bites and fun treats usually works best.
Make the journey part of the adventure
One of the joys of travelling by train is that the journey itself becomes part of the holiday. Encourage kids to spot landmarks, count tunnels or watch for animals along the way. Turning the trip into a game keeps them engaged and makes the time fly.
Stations can be exciting too. Arriving a little early lets kids explore, grab a drink or wave at incoming trains, which can help burn off energy before boarding.
Take advantage of family-friendly perks
It’s well worth considering a Friends & Family Railcard; it gives you 1/3 off most adult fares, 60% off child fares and covers up to 4 adults & 4 children, so you can make big savings. You can buy yours as a Digital Railcard through the Ticketyboo app!
Many train companies also offer discounts like Family Travelcards or “Kids for a Quid”, making rail travel an affordable option for days out and longer trips alike. Most trains have spaces for buggies and luggage, and on trains with toilets there’s always an accessible loo, usually with baby-changing facilities.
If you’re travelling with younger children, keeping everything within easy reach makes life simpler. You can store smaller bags in the overhead racks or between rows of seats so you’re not constantly having to walk down the aisles.
Stay flexible and relaxed
Not every journey will go perfectly, and that’s okay. Delays and changes can happen, but trains offer flexibility that makes adapting easier. If plans shift, you can often find help quickly from staff at the station or get live updates on the Ticketyboo app.
Kids pick up on stress, so staying calm and relaxed helps everyone enjoy the trip more. Sometimes the unexpected moments become the stories you laugh about later.
Train travel with kids is all about space, freedom and turning travel time into quality family time. Whether you’re heading off for a big adventure or planning a simple day out, the train makes getting there part of the fun.
Ready to plan your next family journey? All aboard with Ticketyboo!