Reddit mentions: The best child safety booster car seats
We found 54 Reddit comments discussing the best child safety booster car seats. We ran sentiment analysis on each of these comments to determine how redditors feel about different products. We found 21 products and ranked them based on the amount of positive reactions they received. Here are the top 20.
1. Child Airplane Travel Harness - Cares Safety Restraint System - The Only FAA Approved Child Flying Safety Device
- Super easy to install.
- CARES is the first and only harness type Aviation Child Safety Device to be certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as an alternative to a car seat.
- CARES is an elegantly designed device that works in conjunction with the regular airplane harness and provides young travelers the same level of safety as a car seat.
- CARES weighs just one pound and fits into a 6″ stuff sack! It is easily portable, simple to install, adjustable to every size airplane seat, and usable on any window or center seat in the airplane, except in the emergency exit rows.
- For all kids 22-44 lbs (9-18kg)
Features:
Specs:
Color | Black |
Height | 6 inches |
Length | 9 inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | 1 Count (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 1 Pounds |
Width | 2 inches |
2. mifold grab-and-go Car Booster Seat, Slate Grey – Compact and Portable Booster for Travel, Carpooling and More – Foldable Child Booster Seat Fits into Glove Box and Backpack
- COMPACT AND NARROW BOOSTER SEAT - the world’s most compact and narrow, backless booster. Designed for kids, aged 4 and up, 40 to 100 lbs, and 40 to 57 inches tall, mifold is more than 10x smaller than a traditional booster, and just as safe
- PORTABLE BOOSTER SEAT IDEAL FOR TRAVEL – mifold foldable booster fits into a child’s backpack, glove box or parent’s handbag, making it perfect for carpooling, as a travel booster, for ride sharing and much more.
- KEEPS CHILD SECURE – mifold ensures optimal seatbelt fit. Instead of lifting the child up, the grab-and-go car seat adjusts the adult seatbelt by pulling it down to fit the child safely and securely. Fabric Care Instructions: Surface wash with mild solution of soap and water. No bleach. Wipe with clean water to remove soap. Air dry
- SAFETY TESTED – This kids booster seat meets or exceeds NHTSA standard FMVSS 213 in the USA.(THIS PRODUCT IS ONLY FOR USE IN THE USA and is not the International version, regulated under ECE R44/04)
- CONVENIENT– This travel car seat is easy to use and has won many awards, including a Mom’s Choice and Parents’ Picks Awards. It’s a great choice for older kids, grandparents or for fitting three children in a row.
- The dimensions for the open mifold are 8.4"x9.3"x14.75". The dimensions mifold when it is closed/ folded for the purpose of portability or storage is 2"x10"x5".
Features:
Specs:
Color | Slate Grey |
Height | 5 Inches |
Length | 2 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | August 2016 |
Size | 1 Count (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 1.7 Pounds |
Width | 10 Inches |
3. BubbleBum Inflatable Backless Booster Car Seat, Black
- The Ultimate Travel Booster Seat - Unlock the convenience of the USA’s first backless inflatable booster seat. BubbleBum is the only inflatable booster seat with a patented system to guarantee stability and comfort on every journey.
- Safety You Can Count On - BubbleBum exceeds all US federal car safety standards & European regulations (FMVSS213 & R44/04). Your new car booster seat comes with a seat belt positioning clip for optimal seat belt fit and comfort. Ideal booster seat for car 40-100 lbs children.
- Take Anywhere Travel Booster Seat - The BubbleBum inflatable car seat is perfect for car rentals, taxis, vacations, and carpooling. Take your new backless booster seat on all your adventures. Perfect for kids 4 - 11yrs.
- Fits With A Car Load Of Kids - Narrow & compact BubbleBum is perfect for the middle seat, including small cars. Our compact booster seat fits between 2 full-size car seats, allowing 3 kids across the back of almost any car.
- Global Award Winner - In 2021 BubbleBum won a ‘Mom's Best Award’ and is the recipient of a ‘Parent Tested Parent Approved’ award, plus dozens more. Ask our 1 million+ happy customers how much they trust the BubbleBum name. Your booster comes with a lifetime guarantee.
Features:
Specs:
Color | Black |
Height | 4.5 Inches |
Length | 11 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | January 2015 |
Size | 1 Count (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 0.9375 Pounds |
Width | 11 Inches |
4. Cosco Topside Booster Car Seat - Easy to Move, Lightweight Design (Turquoise)
Secure fit: The Cosco topside booster car seat gives your little one the extra height they need so that your car’s seat belt will fit safely and securely on themSuitable for 40 100 pounds: The seat is designed to hold children weighing between 40 and 100 pounds and from 43″ to 57″ in heightExt...
Specs:
Color | Turquoise |
Height | 6.5 inches |
Length | 14 inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | February 2016 |
Size | 1 Count (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 2 Pounds |
Width | 15.5 inches |
5. Graco TurboBooster Highback Booster Seat, Spitfire
- Helps safely transport your big kid from 4-10 years old, from 40-100 lb* and up to 57 inches tall *To continue to meet industry standards, we have increased the weight minimum from 30 to 40 lb
- 2-in-1 seat easily converts from a highback booster to backless booster for years of use
- Full coverage back support even as your child grows
- Multi-layer headrest for your child's comfort
- Padded, height-adjustable armrests and hide-away cup holders will help keep your child content on the road
Features:
Specs:
Color | Spitfire |
Height | 26.5 inches |
Length | 15 inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | March 2015 |
Weight | 8.1 pounds |
Width | 16.5 inches |
6. Big Kid Amp High Back 2-in-1 Belt-Positioning Booster, Sprocket
2 Seats In 1 Removable back for easy transition to a no back boosterOne hand, 6 position height adjustment to accommodate growing children longer. Seat belt booster fit-Top of the child's ears are at or below the top of the child restraintThe child should be at least 4 years of ageEnergy absorbing f...
Specs:
Color | Sprocket |
Height | 33 Inches |
Length | 16.5 Inches |
Release date | January 2013 |
Size | 16x28x18 Inch (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 8.1 Pounds |
Width | 19 Inches |
7. Chicco KidFit 2-in-1 Belt Positioning Booster Car Seat - Atmosphere
DuoZone combined head and shoulder side-impact protection with 10 positions for growing childrenSuperCinch LATCH attachment and one-pull tightener helps keep KidFit in place and kid-ready for easy in/outErgoBoost double foam padding and contoured seat design provide support in all the right places. ...
Specs:
Color | Atmosphere |
Height | 8.5 Inches |
Length | 28 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | April 2016 |
Size | 28x19x8.5 Inch (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 10.2 Pounds |
Width | 19 Inches |
8. The Car Seat Key - Easy CAR SEAT UNBUCKLE by NAMRA Made in USA (Teal)
- Perfect solution for people that struggle with releasing the red car seat button
- Helps people with Arthritis, Long Nails, Carpal Tunnel, & Many More
- Child Safety Tested & Approved
- Patented & Made In The USA
- Easy Press & Release
Features:
Specs:
Color | Teal |
Height | 17.716535415 Inches |
Length | 3.149606296 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | 1 Count (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 0.05625 Pounds |
Width | 0.5905511805 Inches |
9. Evenflo Maestro Booster Car Seat, Wesley
This 2-in-1 Combination Booster Car Seat fitting children from 22-110 lbs. converts from a 5-point harnessed car seat to belt-positioning booster allowing for extended use as your child growsThe Maestro Harness Booster Car seat helps protect harnessed children from 22-65pounds and belt-positioned ch...
Specs:
Color | Taylor |
Height | 27 Inches |
Length | 20.5 Inches |
Release date | March 2014 |
Weight | 14.2 Pounds |
Width | 19 Inches |
10. Cosco - Highback 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat - 5-Point Harness or Belt-positioning - Machine Washable Fabric, Windmill
- KEEP KIDS SAFE THROUGH TWO STAGES - The Cosco Highback Booster car seat takes your child from 22 lbs. to 80 lbs. with its two different modes. Use the 5-point harness for smaller children and convert it to a belt-positioning booster seat as they grow.
- 2-IN-1 SAFETY SEAT - The Highback Booster is LATCH equipped and features a 5-point harness that can be adjusted from the front. As the child grows, simply remove the harness to use it as a belt-positioning booster car seat.
- SHOULDER BELT GUIDES - While in belt-positioning booster seat mode, the shoulder belt guides provide parents with two options for threading the vehicle seat belt to give children of different heights a better fit.
- MACHINE WASHABLE SEAT FABRIC -Messes happen. When they do, you can easily remove the seat pad and clean it in a washing machine and dryer.
- REMOVABLE AND DISHWASHER-SAFE CUP HOLDER - The removable and dishwasher-safe cup holder allows for easy cleanup of spills.
Features:
Specs:
Color | Windmill |
Height | 27.2 Inches |
Length | 21.5 Inches |
Size | ONE SIZE |
Weight | 10.1 Pounds |
Width | 19 Inches |
11. Mamas & Papas Baby Bud Booster Seat (Putty)
Easily fits most chairs securely, so you can boost your little one up to almost any table.4 independently adjustable non-slip feet and 2 chair harnesses for extra safety and stability.Provides added comfort and support for baby with removable soft seat insert and 3-position removable tray.Easy to wi...
12. Graco Tranzitions 3 in 1 Harness Booster Seat, Kyte
- 3-in-1 harness booster helps protect your child, from toddler to youth
- Grows with your child from forward-facing harness (22-65 pounds) to highback booster (40-100 pounds) to backless booster (40-100 pounds) to continue to meet industry standards, we have increased the weight minimum from 30 to 40 pounds
- No-rethread simply safe adjust harness system allows the headrest and harness to adjust together in one motion
- Lightweight, portable seat is ideal for busy, active parents
- One-hand, 8-position adjustable headrest grows with your child
- 2 easy-to-clean cup holders keep your child's drinks and snacks close at hand. Care & Cleaning: Spot or Wipe Clean
- Open-loop belt guides help properly position your vehicle’s seat belt
- Seat pad, body support, and harness covers are comfortable and machine washable
- Graco ProtectPlus Engineered: A combination of the most rigorous crash tests that helps to protect your little one in frontal, side, rear & rollover crashes
- Meets or exceeds the child restraint criteria for a frontal crash test under the US FMVSS 213
Features:
Specs:
Color | Kyte |
Height | 33.5 Inches |
Length | 18.9 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | April 2017 |
Size | 1 Count (Pack of 1) |
Width | 10.47 Inches |
13. mifold Grab-and-go car Booster seat, Lime Green
- mifold is the most compact and portable booster seat ever invented and this car seat is designed for kids aged 4 and up, 40-100 lbs., and 40 to 59 inches tall
- Keeps your child secure by optimally adjusting the adult seat belt to fit the child
- mifold folds down to fit into a child’s backpack, glove box or bag
- Safety tested and meets or exceeds NHTSA standard FMVSS 213 in the USA (THIS PRODUCT IS PRODUCED ONLY FOR USE IN THE USA and is not the International version, regulated under ECE R44/04)
- mifold is perfect for carpooling, travelling, taxis, car sharing, rentals, older kids and for fitting 3 in a row
Features:
Specs:
Color | lime green |
Height | 11 Inches |
Length | 16 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | August 2016 |
Size | Pack of 1 |
Weight | 1.7 Pounds |
Width | 15 Inches |
14. Chicco MyFit Harness + Booster Car Seat, Canyon
Duo Guard 2-layers Rigid Shell with energy absorbing steel reinforcement PLUS 2 Zones Side Impact protection for Head & TorsoRest assured with 4-Position true recline and 9-Position headrest to support proper posture for every car rideLock Sure belt-tightening system helps achieve a secure installat...
Specs:
Color | Canyon |
Height | 27 Inches |
Length | 21 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | January 2018 |
Weight | 25 Pounds |
Width | 18 Inches |
15. Britax Frontier ClickTight Harness-2-Booster Car Seat - 2 Layer Impact Protection - 25 to 120 Pounds, Vibe
Toddler to Big Kid: Easily transition from harness to belt positioning booster as your child growsEasy installation: Patented ClickTight makes car seat installation as simple as buckling a seat beltNo rethreading, ever: Quick adjust 9 position harness with headrest for a comfortable, secure fitSurro...
Specs:
Color | Vibe |
Height | 28 Inches |
Length | 21 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | December 2014 |
Weight | 24.9 Pounds |
Width | 19 Inches |
16. mifold Grab-and-go Car Booster Seat, Perfect Pink – Compact and Portable Booster for Travel, Carpooling and More – Foldable Child Booster Seat Fits into Glove Box and Backpack
- COMPACT BOOSTER SEAT – the world’s most compact, backless booster. Designed for kids, aged 4 and up, 40 to 100 lbs, and 40 to 57 inches tall, mifold is more than 10x smaller than a traditional booster, and just as safe.
- PORTABLE BOOSTER SEAT IDEAL FOR TRAVEL – mifold foldable booster fits into a child’s backpack, glove box or parent’s handbag, making it perfect for carpooling, as a travel booster, for ride sharing and much more.
- KEEPS CHILD SECURE – mifold ensures optimal seatbelt fit. Instead of lifting the child up, the grab-and-go car seat adjusts the adult seatbelt by pulling it down to fit the child safely and securely. Easy to clean by washing the surfaces with a mild solution of soap and water, rinsing, and then air dry.
- SAFETY TESTED – This kids booster seat meets or exceeds NHTSA standard FMVSS 213 in the USA.(THIS PRODUCT IS ONLY FOR USE IN THE USA and is not the International version, regulated under ECE R44/04)
- CONVENIENT– This travel car seat is easy to use and has won many awards, including a Mom’s Choice and Parents’ Picks Awards. It’s a great choice for older kids, grandparents or for fitting three children in a row.
Features:
Specs:
Color | Perfect Pink |
Height | 5 Inches |
Length | 10 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | August 2016 |
Size | Pack of 1 |
Weight | 1.7 Pounds |
Width | 2 Inches |
17. Graco Turbo GO Folding Backless Booster Car Seat
Booster folds compactly making it easy to carry, store or keep an extra on hand.Helps safely transport your big kid from 40-100 lbSeat pad is comfortable and machine-washableIntegrated, steel-reinforced belt guides help properly position vehicle seat belt across childLightweight booster is easy to c...
Specs:
Color | McKenna |
Height | 8.86 Inches |
Length | 14.8 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | January 2019 |
Size | 1 Count (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 4 Pounds |
Width | 15.2 Inches |
18. Cosco Topside Booster Car Seat, Lea, Lea
- Lightweight design makes it easy to transfer from car-to-car
- Extended, 100 pound weight limit fits more children
- Special seat-safe design leaves vehicle seats unmarked
- Forward-facing: 40-100 pounds and 43"-57" in height
- Extra-plush pad delivers more comfort and is removable for easy clean-up
Features:
Specs:
Color | Lea |
Height | 6.5 Inches |
Length | 14 Inches |
Weight | 2 Pounds |
Width | 15.5 Inches |
19. Graco TurboBooster LX Backless Booster Car Seat with Latch System
- Helps safely transport your big kid from 40-100 lbs. and up to 57 inches tall
- One-hand front-adjust Latch system secures booster to vehicle seat
- Secure connection keeps booster seat properly in place while seat is unoccupied
- Be sure to check your local and state laws, as well as AAP and NHTSA recommendations, for car seat usage
- Keeps booster steady for easy self-buckling for your independent child
- Graco ProtectPlus Engineered: a combination of the most rigorous crash tests that helps protect your child in frontal, side, rear & rollover crashes; additional testing based on the New Car Assessment Program and for extreme car interior temperatures
Features:
Specs:
Color | Codey |
Height | 8.64 Inches |
Length | 15.5 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | December 2018 |
Size | 1 Count (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 5.51 Pounds |
Width | 17.5 Inches |
20. Evenflo Big Kid Sport High Back Booster Car Seat, Arcadia
2 Seats in 1: High Back Booster to No Back BoosterShoulder Belt Clip: Includes an attachable shoulder belt clip for proper positioning of vehicle belt over child's shoulderDual Cup Holders: Two built-in cup holders keep drinks and snacks within reach - allows driver to stay focused on the roadMachin...
Specs:
Color | Arcadia |
Height | 28 Inches |
Length | 17.5 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | August 2018 |
Weight | 6.2 Pounds |
Width | 20 Inches |
🎓 Reddit experts on child safety booster car seats
The comments and opinions expressed on this page are written exclusively by redditors. To provide you with the most relevant data, we sourced opinions from the most knowledgeable Reddit users based the total number of upvotes and downvotes received across comments on subreddits where child safety booster car seats are discussed. For your reference and for the sake of transparency, here are the specialists whose opinions mattered the most in our ranking.
If you want a car seat, go for this one - the Safety 1st 65. It's the one we travel with because it's very light weight and easy to carry around when on the go. I find it strange you say it's heavy, because it is about 10 pounds lighter than our regular everyday car seat and is one of the few that I found are narrow enough to fit in plane seats. So, I'd recommend sticking with the Safety 1st. And I never used a pool noodle... and honestly don't understand what you'd use it for. Anyway, we used it with great success, and no, she won't be sitting on the buckle because the belt path will be closer to under her thighs than under her butt. (Edit - if you want to be able to carry the car seat easier, get something like this.)
However, ever since my daughter hit 25 pounds (at about 18 months) we use the CARES harness instead of a car seat on the plane. It's the only FAA approved harness that isn't a car seat and it's wonderful. You can get it on Amazon.
As far as car seats go we have used a slim booster like this one. But your kids need real seats.
For babies that actually needed a seat (like your kids) we just had to lug the forward facing/rear facing child seat around. Getting the straps that can secure a forward facing seat to rolling luggage was a godsend. You can even have the kid sit in the seat while you roll the bag/seat through the airport. It makes life a lot easier if not lighter.
For rear facing seats we just had a foldable stroller where the seat clipped into the stroller.
Everywhere we have been (Mexico and Canada) the hotels had cribs. We did use a little foldable bassinet like so for some trips. Though I can't remember when the kiddo grew out of it. When the kid was older we just had her sleep in the bed with us.
Some places also have car seats you can borrow. I have friends that rented a car seat/stroller in Europe when they visited. They did infant in lap on the plane and then rented the seat/stroller when they arrived. Every car rental place I know of has car seats you can rent. So if you can avoid having to lug one around it isn't a bad idea.
Also, don't forget that the little ones need passports too.
A tablet for the 3 year old with some educational games or some movies will work wonders.
If you are still nursing I highly recommend just getting one of those nursing blanket/cover things and nursing during takeoff and landing. It helps pop their little ears and keep them calm.
I am trying to think of anything else that helped. It is going to be a production either way so good luck. Have fun. The cool thing is that the 3 year old might remember the trip. My first memories are of traveling in Europe when I was 3 and I always thought that was pretty cool.
If you get the right seats you'd be fine. I had the Sunshine Kids Radian, now called Diono Radian (https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B07DWB2Q3C/ref=mp_s_a_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1539783853&sr=8-3&keywords=sunshine+kids+radian&dpPl=1&dpID=41MCC-AGriL&ref=plSrch) as it is super compact and can be both front and back facing. For the booster if you don't need a back anymore you can get a Bubble Bum for the ultimate in compactitude (https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00AQYZCXK/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1539783998&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=bubble+bum+booster+seat&psc=1). If your not buying new seats though a dealer will certainly let you test if everything fits with what you have (or what I would do is buy the new seats first, then test them).
Now, your kids will have to like each other but I think those measurements will work out (sometimes it depends on how the latch centers the seat).
As for the trunk. If you opt against the trunk false floor option you get a wonderful well that should easily fit a stroller. That's something I recommend you go to the dealer and test out.
My almost 2 yr old and I just went to Hawaii from KC and back. She did really well and I was very surprised. I did a lot of research beforehand on basic boarding ettiquite and such for the airline, as well as the various airports we were flying into. Our total one-way flight time with layovers was 18 hrs (ack). The best thing was making it fun and interactive. We constantly looked out the windows, and when the seatbelt sign was off, she was allowed to be unbuckled. She was amazed by the tray table and I brought stuff for her to color with (although she likes drawing on my phone better), snacks, drinks, baby dolls, books, etc. I also bought one of these so we didn't have to use the carseat. It's FAA approved and she actually liked it!
Hey! I had a similar dilemma and found this awesome invention. The mifold booster seat. Its a portable car seat that meets NHTSA regulations and can fit in a purse. It's obviously not as safe as a full size seat, but it's perfect for travel or if you want to drop off the kids with someone who doesn't have a spare in their car. We bought one for our last trip to Orlando and my wife just put it in the carryon. I wouldn't recommend it for any long drives, but it's fine for short trips from the airport -> hotel or from hotel -> parks. Super convenient and highly recommended. It'll be cheaper than renting a car seat and you get to keep the seat for future!
​
*P.S. I know this might sound like I'm shilling, but I have no affiliation with the company. Read the Amazon reviews as well. :)
​
https://www.amazon.com/mifold-Grab-Booster-Seat-Slate/dp/B01H5VJJTE/ref=sr_1_3?crid=2GRIMCM6JRF4N&keywords=mi+fold+car+seat&qid=1557342499&s=gateway&sprefix=mi+fold%2Caps%2C146&sr=8-3-spell
This booster carseat would prove extremely useful, as my son has outgrown his toddler one. Also, with a new baby coming it will be nice to have a carseat that is easier to work for the big brother. :) It's on my high priorities wishlist.
Either that or this coconut oil on my $10+ wishlist. I hear it does amazing things and I'd really love to have some! And I bet you could find a use or two for it, as well.
Hi! I don't know how I've missed your previous posts, I've been checking the sub daily for ones that strike a cord with me. I can relate to your story more than I care to remember. I would like to help out.
First, I see that you need a booster seat for Dylan. Any chance you can add one that amazon sells with prime shipping? (like this one: http://www.amazon.com/Evenflo-Big-Booster-Seat-Sprocket/dp/B00AJSIVWW/ref=sr_1_3?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1417884869&sr=1-3&keywords=booster+seat)
Also, Amazon has a function where you can change the priority of the wish list items, any chance you can go through your children's lists to let me know which items are "highest" priority? Like I said, I don't have much to give (I wish I could buy their whole lists) but if I know what things they're wishing for the most, I can make sure that what I do give is something that they're hoping the most for.
For a forward facing harness or high back booster, I highly recommend the Harmony Defender 360. I've got one, and it's just as narrow as my Diono Radian (actually, I think it might be a half inch narrower, but it's been a while since I've done that research), much lighter, and much cheaper. It doesn't have all the fancy gear the Dionos do, but it goes from forward facing harness to high back booster to backless booster. As for "just" a booster, I've got my 5 year old in a Chicco Kidfit that I really like and isn't very wide. I found mine on Chicco's website on clearance and only paid $60 for it, so you could keep an eye out if that's something you'd be interested in.
I am like the queen of fitting carseats lol. I had 3 across in a Ford Escape for about a year before I got my Suburban.
I wouldn't say certain car seats are necessarily easier to undo than others. At least where I'm from they are pretty standard across the board. But - If you have trouble releasing the latch using the button, I definitely recommend investing in a Car Seat Key ( https://www.amazon.com/Car-Seat-Key-UNBUCKLE-NAMRA/dp/B06ZZ2733Z ). It makes it super easy to undo, and its way faster if you're in a rush
I flew with my 18-month-old for the first time this month and we used one of the CARES harnesses for him (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0012E4FV8?keywords=cares%20harness&qid=1451579406&ref_=sr_1_1&sr=8-1). It was really simple and took up a lot less room than his car seat would have, so that may be an option. It helped him to be sitting next to us, I think.
Also learned on this flight that "small" electronic devices only have to be on airplane mode during takeoff and landing, so we were able to have a few episodes of TV shows that he likes downloaded and he could watch them during takeoff and landing. That seemed to help him stay calm. Also, lots of snacks and a sippy cup with water.
We got a Maxi Cosi for when our daughter was a newborn/small. It was really good and could be clicked into our Bugaboo stroller, so very convenient (up to a certain child weight :-)). It is really nice to be able to lift the thing wholesale out of the car and into your house/apartment etc if the baby is sleeping.
For when she got bigger we got this Britax seat. Also very good, and quite easy to install when you get used to it.
Hopefully your car has the latch system/ratcheting belts in which case any seat with a latching option is a big help. For the Maxi Cosi there was just the agony of tightening the latch belts for the base, but then the seat clicks into the base.
I don't know if they offer it here but back in the US you could actually get the local police to show you how to install the seat properly. The store we bought the first at would, too. Highly recommended. Check out YouTube guides for the specific model, too. You need to get that thing really secure. Our next door neighbor's grandson was injured because of an accident and an insufficiently secured car seat :-(.
Just keep in mind that the FAA allows infants on the lap because it boosts air travel rates, not because it's safe.
The turbulence issue is rare but pretty bad and can kill children. I tend to agree with the thinking that if you wouldn't put your kid in a car without a belt you shouldn't do it in an airplane either. There's only one FAA approved harness for little ones and it's pricey but it works (other harnesses are usually not allowed to be used which is retarded).
You're not asking about this particular issue but you've got good answers for how to handle your gear and I thought I'd suggest one more piece of overpriced "stuff". Happy traveling :).
How old is your other child? (Do they need a car seat as well?) Depending on the size of your 4 year old, you could use a travel booster seat. My sister has one called BubbleBum(https://www.amazon.com/BubbleBum-Backless-Inflatable-Booster-Black/dp/B00AQYZCXK?th=1), and has used it for my nephew successfully when we've traveled. You could easily fit it in your "mommy" bag while you're out and about. The child does have to be around 40lbs to use it though.
Foldable car seat. Small enough to fit in a bag or purse. Won't work for infants but should be ok for toddlers. They do have to test car seats before selling them so I assume they're safe (enough). Whether that's correct or not, I don't know.
https://www.amazon.com/mifold-Grab-Booster-Seat-Slate/dp/B01H5VJJTE
Ooo I’m so glad you said you’ve been on mint! I have a question. We’re flying mint in December. Our toddler (he’ll be 20m) will have his own seat. Usually when we fly we sit in coach and we put him in his car seat, but this time I’m thinking it might be nice for him to have the option to lay flat. I was thinking of buying one of these cares safety harnesses instead. Any thoughts?
My kid is finally big enough for a backless booster! We got this one on Amazon and it’s been great. Color really pops on the white seats too!
Cosco Topside Booster Car Seat - Easy to Move, Lightweight Design (Turquoise) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IP8AEXC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_hGwjDbD2VCXYF
I wouldn't go that crazy, $75 for a simple graco that can sit forward and backward should be fine for anyone under 4.
Something like this, should be fine. Evenflo Maestro Booster Car Seat, Wesley https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ISS2L1W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_DKiYAbD4PSXR8
Especially as even if you did have an infant seat, you would not want to be liable for a <1yo in your seat. Parents who think they can ride without infant seats deserve to be ditched until they wise up. All the kids I've driven, it's been mostly 2-4 year old w/o seats. I've never had someone try to take an infant w/o one.
I think amazon has them and you can buy em off their site. They are amazing cause my son carries his in his backpack in case my husband ever wants to pick him up from school. Soooooo much better than a bulky booster seat.
https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;url=https://www.amazon.com/mifold-Grab-Booster-Seat-Slate/dp/B01H5VJJTE&amp;ved=2ahUKEwif-amw_-zlAhVHHzQIHaJLACkQFjAPegQIBRAB&amp;usg=AOvVaw11jv0rT_tlW1VyvnxiQ1lv
For kids that young, I think carseats are an option too, if you have a travel seat. That said, you would probably be better off going with 3 seats in coach, as it'll give her room to sit and play and stretch her legs. If you go this route, be sure to get an appropriate kid harness for the seat. This is the one I used on our trip to Florida with a 2.5yo.
Even though she's young, when you book, start talking about what's going to happen. Tell her all about planes and about being in the sky. Practice taking off and landing (put her in a chair and tilt it back and wiggle it around). If you have a flight museum nearby, take her out there so she can see a plane close up and get to know what it's all about. She's young, but would probably benefit from exposure to a new thing before it happens.
Here is your solution, I highly recommend it; light weight, easy to pop in and out of crew cars, etc:
https://www.amazon.com/Cosco-High-Back-Booster-Windmill/dp/B007HO4U08/ref=sr_1_3_s_it?s=baby-products&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1480972135&amp;sr=1-3&amp;keywords=cosco%2Bcar%2Bseat&amp;th=1
Personally I wouldn't want to risk them not being available. For kids that age we have been happy with inflatable boosters. They pack as tight as a pair of pants when deflated and have been useful with travel in general, especially with Uber. We have this one.
Your kid is still too small, but look into getting this in a few years. Awesome for ubering with young kids.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01H5VJJTE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_GSHqDb8XSGCZK
7-8 is really at the very end of the age recommendation for a booster seat unless maybe they are very small. Good luck getting a 7 year old who isn't used to sitting in one to use it. Anyway, there are some that are only about $13, (http://www.amazon.com/Cosco-Juvenile-Side-Booster-Turquoise/dp/B00IP8AEXC/ref=sr_1_5?s=baby-products&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1427041059&amp;sr=1-5&amp;keywords=booster+seat) I know they carry them at for around that price at Target, Walmart, etc...
We use a booster seat instead of a high chair and just pull it up to the table so he can eat with us. I love this one - no fabric, and it has a flexible insert so kiddos can grow with it. Mamas & Papas Baby Bud Booster Seat (Putty) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00RHA3PKI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_RX2dAbVRDE0VQ
Or cheaper than long term parking is this portable packable “car seat”. I’m not sure how old your kids are or if you’d even be open to something like this, but it’s helpful in a pinch:
mifold Grab-and-Go Car Booster Seat, Slate Grey https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01H5VJJTE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_.3s4BbSE6GCH6
Something like this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06Y1QQDVZ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_UJeEDb96CQAXK
He probably was in just a booster using the simple buckle (3 point buckle) before, 5 point is safer for kids. (For most people honestly).
These are great for kids 40+ lbs. We kept it in a backpack when walking around DC while we were taking multiple ubers 15miles from the convention hotel in MD to the city.
mifold Grab-and-go car Booster seat, Lime Green https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01H5VJJ12/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_WJMgDbNJXE1CC
We always purchased a seat for our kids even when they were under 2 and could fly free on a lap. It's just so much easier to give them their own space strapped in to their car seat (most are airline rated these days).
Now that they are toddlers and have to have their own seat anyway we use this:
http://www.amazon.com/Child-Airplane-Travel-Harness-Restraint/dp/B0012E4FV8
Son is 17 months old. We have -
One infant bucket seat that he used until we switched him at 10 months old (though he still fit and probably could have stayed in it another few months).
Three bucket bases (one comes with the seat, so we only had to get two extra). One in my car, one in my husband's. One in my mother's.
Three Convertible Carseats (One Chicco NextFit iZip in my car and one in my husband's, as well as a Graco Extend2Fit in my mom's car.)
We also purchased another convertible car seat for travel only for our recent out of state flight.
Eventually we'll be needing to get... probably... three high back car seats and then three booster seats - but that's way down the line. I haven't researched these because... I'm just so done dealing with car seats already, but I'm wondering if the convertibles we do have can take the place of the high back. But that's future Ernie's issue to figure out.
You probably need one. [This is a neat one that isn't too intrusive] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01H5VJJTE/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_3?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1&amp;smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER)
I got a real small one like this link
Even smaller ones exist link
So, I have flown twice with my kiddo. When he was a crawler and when he was 22 mo. When he was little I brought a carseat with us. It honestly didn't fit the right way, there was just no way. This more recent trip I bought this. Even though he was a little young for it. Mmisstrez is saying they won't let you hold infant for take off/landing, is not true in my experience if you are flying them on your lap.
I would check to make sure any seat you buy is approved by the FAA. When I brought the car seat they asked to see the tags certifying it and I had a moment of panic because I hadn't specifically looked for them. They would have made me gate check it. Another thing to think about is carrying everything through the airport. Kid's safety is important, but so is Mama sanity.
If you think he/she will be big enough for a booster seat we use this inflatable one when we travel. Rolls up really small and gets them up to the right height for the car restraints. Most shuttles I’ve run into have them and I don’t like traveling without them properly restrained.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00AQYZCXK/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1511709376&amp;sr=1-1&amp;pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&amp;keywords=bubblebum+car+booster+seat&amp;dpPl=1&amp;dpID=41DvDhLFsJL&amp;ref=plSrch
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01H5VJJAS?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Grab one of these and then Uber/Lyft. It’s cheaper than parking and small enough to fold and fit in your bag
I agree with all of this. However in response to #2 let me point to this:
https://www.amazon.com/mifold-Grab-Booster-Seat-Slate/dp/B01H5VJJTE/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1524848774&amp;sr=8-1-spons&amp;keywords=mifold&amp;psc=1
I had a pax get in with one of these and I was impressed (username is relevant).
"most portable booster seat ever invented designed for kids aged 4 and up, 40 to 100 lbs, and 40 to 57 inches tall"
This does not help with idiots who want an infant to sit on their lap, but I have had pax new to the area not prepared for Colorado laws (booster up to age 7).
Similar to the "three carseat" problem, you need to get booster seats that are narrower.
There's a whole genre of ones like this:
https://www.amazon.com/Graco-Folding-Backless-Booster-McKenna/dp/B07N3CTGLP/
These are literally nothing but pieces of foam. They elevate the child, but the car's seat belts are doing the work. They work fine.
This fits fine in S and X rear seats: https://www.amazon.com/Cosco-Topside-Booster-Car-Seat/dp/B01AOOAU74/
My kids are older than yours, so the smaller seats are an option for us.
Definitely no infants, but if they are old enough for a booster seat get one of these:
https://www.amazon.com/mifold-Grab-Booster-Seat-Slate/dp/B01H5VJJTE
It's small and won't take up any trunk space, and compliant with all regulations as far as I know.
You can use something like this for the plane depending on the size of your toddler:
http://www.amazon.com/Child-Airplane-Travel-Harness-Restraint/dp/B0012E4FV8
For riding around in taxis, my wife and I spent a year in Argentina with our toddler. We just held on tight to him while riding in a cab. In Argentina, if they see you rolling up on a cab with a car seat 1.) you're a tourist/about to get robbed and 2.) they'll keep on driving.
One of my Indian friends was traveling to India with her toddler just before we left for Argentina and we asked her the same question you're asking. She just looked at me weird like "why on earth would I bring a car seat to India?" It's not the kind of thing you ever want to tell your inlaws and it's weird as hell the first few times, but that's how it's done in the non-Western world.
This is the one we got: http://www.amazon.com/Child-Airplane-Travel-Harness-Restraint/dp/B0012E4FV8
For older children, it's a booster seat. All it does really is put the seatbelt strap against your chest as opposed to digging into your neck.
My partner used this inflatable travel car seat when his son was young
BubbleBum Inflatable Backless Booster Car Seat, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AQYZCXK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_lEAUDbG7HGE24
Car seats don't have to be expensive. These are what we've got and used for the past few years. You can upgrade down the line if you get a long term placement and discover extra features you could use.
https://www.amazon.com/Evenflo-Nurture-Infant-Seat-Confetti/dp/B06XKWHSJ1/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?keywords=infant+car+seat&amp;qid=1574645170&amp;sprefix=infant+car&amp;sr=8-1
https://www.amazon.com/Cosco-Convertible-Seat-Black-Arrows/dp/B00PNXI5PQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_14?keywords=toddler+car+seat&amp;qid=1574645241&amp;sr=8-14
https://www.amazon.com/Evenflo-Sport-High-Booster-Arcadia/dp/B07GHLCH13/ref=mp_s_a_1_9?keywords=high+back+booster+seat&amp;qid=1574645298&amp;sprefix=high+bac&amp;sr=8-9
https://www.amazon.com/Cosco-Topside-Backless-Booster-Seat/dp/B006ZISVSO/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?keywords=high+back+booster+seat&amp;qid=1574645298&amp;sprefix=high+bac&amp;sr=8-1
This what we have.. I also have a '19 prime so I don't know if the latch system is different or not.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07L49YB7S/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_T02kDbZBTQ42X
We have been using the Mifold travel booster for my daughter while traveling, and if any of your kids are old enough, they can buckle it themselves. It’s tiny.
Mifold booster seat on Amazon
> seat pictured in the Medium post; not an infant car seat for kids under two.
You are correct. I've seen pictures of the seat before but mistook it for a simple forward facing under two seat. You are correct that this looks like its this Britax model which looks to be both a front facing car seat and a booster seat. So I wonder if this is the only seat and there is no separate booster? This would make sense as I don't know where they would store it.
> The Frontier ClickTight Harness-2-Booster Seat can be used in Harness Mode for children 2 years old and 25 to 90 lbs or in Booster Mode for children 40 to 120 lbs.
I just got a Mifold and it's incredibly small, sturdy, washable and awesome. (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01H5VJJTE/) If the parent doesn't have a seat for their toddler, I'm golden. It won't work for infants or small toddlers but I doubt there will be many parents/caregivers THAT stupid or negligent.