Flights? Booked. Bags? Packed. Playlist? Fire. You’ve even set up your monthly car rental in Dubai because who wants to wrangle with taxis on vacation? You’re nearly in chill mode. But before you roll off the lot, there’s one last box to tick: making sure your rental car’s good to go for your kid.

Rental cars aren’t necessarily child-friendly. They’re not designed for child passengers. To visit grandma or to visit the seascape, it’s not just as simple as buckling up. It’s not rocket science, but it is important. This is how to drive safely.

Understanding the Laws: What the Rules Say About Kids in Cars

Did you know: car seat laws are not universal. They vary from state to state. In one, your four-year-old may be okay in a booster. In another, you’re breaking the law. If you’re on a cross-country road trip, do a little research in advance. That will keep you out of trouble, or jail.

The usual flow? Backwards for babies, forwards for toddlers (with a harness) and a booster until the car seatbelt fits properly. But that’s not the law. As for the nitty-gritty, check out the NHTSA website state by state.

Going abroad? Do a little digging. Some countries, such as France or Germany, are stricter about child safety than we are here in the U.S. Regardless of where you might travel, this is what’s for certain: responsibility for child safety is your’s, not the rental company’s.

Car Seat Rental Options: What to Know Before You Book

Legal stuff? Handled. Time to talk gear.

For most rental companies, car seats are available. Great in theory. In reality? Sometimes it works, but other times you arrive to discover the car seat is missing – or it hasn’t been replaced since the invention of the dial-up modem. Brittle plastic, tacky straps, no manual? Nope.

So lots of parents bring their own. It’s not fun, it’s true – bringing a car seat to the airport sucks. But most airlines will allow you to check it in free of charge, and you’ll get to the destination knowing it’s a good fit, clean and hasn’t been through any dubious circumstances.

Still want to rent? All right, but be sure to check. Ask the rental company if they have one available. Some companies, such as Faster Rent A Car, allow pre-booking, but don’t rely on it. And a travel tip: credit cards or loyalty points sometimes pay for the seat rental. Free is always better.

Safety Checklist: How to Make Sure Your Rental’s Kid-Ready

Got the keys? Take a look before you take a trip.

First the obvious: Are the seatbelts in good working order? No holes or rips where the seat belt and LATCH straps are? If you brought your own car seat, put it in yourself. If it’s a rental seat, look for wear, check for an expiry date (yes, they do), and see if you can find the manual.

Something off? Speak up. If not, request a new car or seat. You don’t want to take chances with safety.

If your child is in a booster seat, make sure the belt is in the right place (across the shoulder and chest, not neck and tummy). And if your child wants to be the front-seat passenger (and they always do), check the airbags. Even better, if kids are under 13 they should sit in the back.

And don’t forget to turn on the child safety locks. Takes two seconds. It can save a lot of stress.

Travel Tips for Families: Comfort and Safety on the Road

With safety out of the way, it comes down to comfort – and backseat harmony.

A mirror is helpful if you have a rear-facing infant. Sun glare? Window tints help. And if your child is a motion-sickness magnet, keep a stash of puke bags, cleaning wipes and a spare shirt in the glove box. You’ll thank yourself later.

And as for the vehicle? Go bigger if you can. An SUV or minivan is big enough for strollers, drinks, snacks, shoes, whatever else your offspring needs. And more room makes it easier to install a car seat (not to mention more room for everyone to breathe).

And, please, make pit stops. Go for a walk to the playground, take pics at the dino statues, or buy them chocolate milk at McDonalds. These side trips could be your favs.

Final Thoughts: Safety First, Then Let the Fun Begin

Preparing a rental car for family travel is about safety first and foremost. So, check the legalities, choose a comfy seat and make sure the car is safe to travel in.

Once that’s done? Music on, windows down, and enjoy the ride. Extra points for ice cream.

Have a friend heading out with children? Send them this article, it may save them some grief (and one bad-headed toddler).

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