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The 7 Best Travel Car Seats of 2024

These top picks combine convenience and peace of mind

Jordi is a freelance contributor to TripSavvy. Her personal passions gravitate toward wellness and adventure, leading her to frequently plan trips that blend zen relaxation with urban and rugged exploration.

travel toddler car seat

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

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Traveling with small children is a great way to make memories. You expose little ones to new experiences and see the world through their eyes. But there are still everyday tasks to worry about on the road, from meal times to naps. Safety is the top priority, of course, and this means ensuring your kids have a good car seat.

If you're flying with small children or frequently switching cars, the thought of lugging around the car seat you have perfectly installed in your vehicle can seem daunting. Luckily, many companies make travel car seats lighter and easier to install on the go. These models also emphasize portability and legroom for your child to grow into.

To find the best choice for you, we looked closely at the installation process, weight ratings, and certification status of some of the most popular options on the market today.

Final Verdict

  • What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, cosco scenera next convertible car seat.

 Amazon

Easy to carry

Budget friendly

Sizing issues for older childen

The Cosco Scenera Next Convertible Car Seat receives excellent marks for lightness and simplicity. This affordable car seat is a great choice for those who already have a regular car seat but need a second option for traveling. Safety features include side-impact protection built into the headrest and a five-point harness that adjusts to accommodate your growing child. The car seat can be used rear-facing for kiddos 5 to 40 pounds and 19 to 40 inches tall or front-facing for those 22 to 40 pounds or 29 to 43 inches tall. The car seat will last from infancy through toddlerhood.

Use the LATCH connectors or a seat belt to secure the car seat in any rental car or taxi. It's also designed with air travel in mind: It's FAA-approved and lightweight at just 7 pounds. Additionally, its 17.5-inch width makes it a good fit for most airline seats. Other highlights include a removable, machine-washable, and dryer-safe car seat pad and a dishwasher-safe cup holder. Colors range from Moon Mist Grey to Ocean Breeze.

Dimensions: 17.6 x 15.8 x 30.3 inches | Weight Rating: Up to 40 pounds | Installation Type: LATCH

Best Lightweight

Wayb pico travel car seat.

Very compact

Includes a travel bag

Only for toddlers and older

Car seats are a hassle to travel with because they're bulky, heavy, and unwieldy. Luckily, this travel car seat by Wayb won't add much extra weight to your suitcase. Weighing under 8 pounds, the FAA-approved Pico Travel Car Seat is easy to transport everywhere you go. It's front-facing and can hold kids between 22 to 55 pounds or measuring 30 to 45 inches tall. It has an AeroWing aluminum frame that is durable yet lightweight, and the AstroKnit performance mesh lining will keep your kids comfortable throughout their journey. Best of all, this car seat folds into a small enough package to store in overhead bins and comes with a carrying bag that can slip onto your suitcase.

Dimensions: 15 x 11 x 20 inches | Weight Rating: Up to 50 pounds | Installation Type: LATCH or car/airplane seat belt

Most Compact

Safety 1st guide 65 convertible car seat.

Supports a variety of sizes and ages

Sleek design

Machine-washable cover

Complaints about installation

Safety 1st's Guide 65 Convertible Car Seat weighs 14 pounds; it's sturdy enough for everyday use yet light enough for travel. This car seat's frame is so compact that you could place three in the back of your car, making it an excellent option for larger families or smaller European rental cars. Plus, it can accommodate a wide range of weights, making it a budget-friendly pick that can last for years. It's for children who weigh between 5 and 40 pounds to use in a rear-facing position and children 22 to 65 pounds to use in a front-facing position.

Side-impact protection and five harnesses that adjust in the center ensure your child stays secure throughout their ride and help deflect impact away from their head, neck, and spine in the event of an accident. Other safety features include three buckle locations and an adjustable headrest. This car seat also has a LATCH connector system, making it easy to take the seat in and out of the car quickly. Both the cushion and cup holder are removable for easy cleanup. It's available in multiple colors.

Dimensions: 27.3 x 18.5 x 20.3 inches | Weight Rating: Up to 65 pounds | Installation Type: LATCH

Best for Bigger Kids

Graco extend2fit convertible car seat.

Harness storage makes loading and unloading easy

Rigorously crash tested

Several customizable features

Most of the car seats on this list are appropriate for children up to 40 pounds, but the Graco Extend2Fit is rated for up to 65 pounds. It also allows children up to 50 pounds to ride rear-facing and provides an extra 5 inches of legroom. This, plus a headrest that can also be adjusted to 10 different positions, ensures the child is comfortable and secure as they grow.

Two integrated cup holders keep juice bottles within easy reach and help to prevent spills. While there are multiple ways to install this model, it is easy to remember after the first time. Although this seat is designed with car travel in mind , it is FAA-approved. If you're flying economy class, consider calling ahead to check that the restraint is compatible with the airline seat.

Dimensions: 21.5 x 19.5 x 23.5 inches | Weight Rating: Up to 65 pounds | Installation Type: InRight LATCH

Best Booster Combo

Cosco finale dx 2-in-1 booster car seat.

Can fit three across

Easy to clean

Accommodates older children

Durability complaints

If you're shopping for a child aged 12 months or older, the Cosco Finale DX 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat will last from toddlerhood until after they start school. It has a 10-year lifespan and can be used as a forward-facing car seat or as a high-back booster seat. As a car seat, it's appropriate for kids between 30 to 65 pounds and 32 to 49 inches in height. The five-point harness has three different height settings, and the LATCH connectors can be used until your child reaches 50 pounds. In addition, the FAA approves the Cosco Finale for aircraft use in its car seat capacity.

It suits kids between 40 to 100 pounds and 43 to 52 inches in height as a booster seat. Its 17-inch width and 9-pound weight make it ideal for quick transfers between rental cars, taxis, and family cars back home. Other useful features include a removable cup holder and a machine-washable cover in colors that range from gray to pale pink. Lastly, thrifty families will appreciate this seat's affordable price tag.

Dimensions: 18.3 x 19 x 29.8 inches | Weight Rating: Up to 100 pounds | Installation Type: LATCH or seat belt

Most Innovative

Maxi-cosi pria max 3-in-1 convertible car seat.

Easy to buckle

Not the lightest pick

If you don't want to invest in multiple car seats, the Pria Max 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat is your best bet. It can handle children from birth to 10 years old, making it one of the most versatile options on the market. Plus, the high-end brand makes each stage supremely comfortable for your child and easy for adults to use. It has a spring-assist harness system, so the straps don't get tangled; a one-hand magnetic chest clip; a simple integrated headrest and harness system, so you don't have to rethread as your tot grows; and machine-washable fabric. Keep in mind it comes with a hefty price tag and heavier weight.

Dimensions: 25.3 x 24 x 19.9 inches | Weight Rating: Up to 100 pounds | Installation Type: LATCH or seat belt

Best For Road Trips

Chicco keyfit 35 cleartex infant car seat.

FAA-approved

Eco-friendly textiles

UPF 50+ canopy

Rear-facing only

This car seat is a great option for road trips —or as your primary car seat that occasionally travels—as the stay-in-car base is a breeze to install correctly and the carrier itself clicks into place in one motion. When it's time to stretch your legs and explore simply detach the seat and click it into any Chicco stroller base for a lightning-fast travel combo. The base has an anti-rebound bar for added stability and extra legroom for a rider up to 32 inches tall, and the headrest has five different positions to accommodate an infant's growth.

If your plans include air travel, this is still a solid pick. The best thing about this carrier is that it can be installed in an aircraft or rental vehicle without the base, using the European or American routing method. The base and carrier together weigh 18 pounds but you'll only have to manage 10 pounds if you go baseless. It comes with removable newborn positioners so little ones from 4 pounds are ready to roll.

Dimensions: 28 x 16.5 x 24 inches | Weight Rating: 4 to 35 pounds | Installation Type: LATCH or seat belt

The Cosco Scenera Next Convertible Car Seat is light, FAA-approved, and supports young travelers up to 40 pounds. We love the accessible price point and easy-to-clean cover. If you're shopping for a toddler or older but still want to prioritize portability, go for the Wayb Pico Travel Car Seat .

What to Look For in Travel Car Seats

Installation.

All models on our list use LATCH systems and some can also be installed using the vehicle's seat belt, but you should never use both anchoring methods together. LATCH, also known as Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children, is an alternative way of securing the car seat to the vehicle without using the seat belt. Both the vehicle and the car seat must have LATCH parts to install the seat properly, but most car seats (and vehicles manufactured after 2002) will do so. The car seat has straps that come from the bottom and a tether at the top. These attach to the lower anchors in the car, found in the space between the rear back seat and seat cushion, and to the top anchor, which could be near the rear window or on the car ceiling. When in doubt, check the vehicle manual and seat instructions.

Weight Rating

Like their everyday counterparts, travel car seats include maximum weight ratings that must be adhered to. Additionally, your decision to install the car seat front- or rear-facing is based on the weight and height of your child. Most models can transition from rear- to front-facing as your tot grows, or even from front-facing to a booster seat like the Cosco Finale DX . Consider the kid's age, weight, height, and the manufacturer's notes to choose a travel seat that will give you the longest practical use.

Certification Status

Most importantly, the car seat you buy should meet all safety standards. If you're flying, look for an FAA-approved or similarly aircraft-approved seat.

"All legal car seats must meet the same crash test criteria, or safety standards, and be properly labeled," said Amie Durocher, a CPS Tech at SafeRide4Kids.com. "If you are worried about counterfeit car seats, check the label. Certified seats in the U.S. are required to have very specific language on the labels. Beware if it doesn't mention federal motor vehicle safety standards or FMVSS213 or if it lacks a model name or number or manufacture date."

Yes, you can travel with a car seat on the plane —and it's actually recommended. "We recommend that parents purchase a seat even for children under 2 who could be 'lap babies' and use the FAA-approved child restraint on the airplane," said Durocher. "This makes it safer for the child—and the parent—in case of an incident during takeoff or landing and in case of turbulence during the flight."

The hardest part of traveling with a car seat is figuring out the logistics through the airport. “Infant car seats that click onto a compatible stroller are easy, but travelers might need a car seat cart, luggage strap, or bungee cords to lug a convertible car seat through the airport,” said Michelle Pratt, founder and owner of Safe in the Seat. “Some people prefer to check their stroller with their luggage and use a car seat cart to get their child and seat through the airport easily. Others babywear or let their toddler walk and load up their stroller with all their gear, then gate check the stroller planeside.”

“Rear-facing is the safest way for kids to ride in the car, but it’s not always possible on planes due to the tighter space,” added Pratt. “If the car seat fits rear-facing on the plane, that’s best. But kids who rear-face in the car can forward-face on the plane if they are at least 1 year old and meet their car seat’s forward-facing requirements. Then they seamlessly go back to rear-facing in the car at the destination.”

Author Jordi Lippe-McGraw has researched and written about travel and lifestyle products for nearly a decade. She is also the mom of a 3-year-old. When making this list, she researched dozens of products, looking at key specs like dimensions and weight rating and the number of positive and negative reviews. While researching the best travel car seats, we spoke with Amie Durocher , a CPS Tech at SafeRide4Kids.com, and Michelle Pratt , founder and owner of Safe in the Seat.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. " Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) Restraint System ." Accessed Feb 6th, 2023.

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7 Best Portable Car Seats for Babies, Toddlers and Big Kids

We prioritized lightweight car seats for travel by plane, rental car and rideshare.

7 best portable car seats for traveling with the whole family

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Our top picks:

Car Seat Stroller

Best Overall Portable Infant Car Seat

Doona car seat stroller.

TurboBooster 2.0

Best Value Portable Booster Seat

Graco turbobooster 2.0.

Scenera NEXT

Best Portable Convertible Car Seat

Cosco scenera next.

Viaggio Flex 120

Best Portable Foldable Booster Seat

Peg perego viaggio flex 120.

4Ever DLX

Best Portable All-in-One Car Seat

Graco 4ever dlx.

Pico Travel Car Seat

Best Lightweight Portable Car Seat

Wayb pico travel car seat.

PIPA urbn + TRVL Stroller

Best Portable Travel System for Babies

Nuna pipa urbn + trvl stroller.

Aside from requiring a lot more gear, traveling with kids can be quite stressful, and in between packing your luggage and investing in a travel stroller , there's little mental energy for anything else. Fortunately our experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute Parenting Lab have been testing car seats for decades, including the best convertible car seats and the best booster seats . We test based on safety features, functionality, ease of use and value. Our picks are based on tests done in-Lab by our experts, evaluations from our consumer testers and extensive research.

Head to the end of this guide to find more information on how we test, whether or not you should use a car seat on a plane, what to look for when shopping for the best portable car seats and more. Looking for more to make traveling with kids as easy as possible? Check out our favorite outdoor-ready stroller wagons , good diaper bags and the winners of our Family Travel Awards .

The Doona car seat is our pick for the best overall car seat and stroller combo and it's one of our past Parenting Award winners. A dedicated fan following backs it up; see its more than 12,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. The Doona makes it easy to switch between car seat and stroller mode in seconds even with your baby strapped inside. In short, you don't need a separate infant car seat and a stroller, because this is both.

"It's the easiest stroller to maneuver through airport security and around an airport terminal," says one tester who's a mom of two young kids. It goes into a rideshare vehicle using the seat belt (no stroller to put in the trunk!). It's also FAA-approved for use in an airplane cabin and fits on most economy airplane seats, which are often about 17 inches wide.

Rachel Rothman , the Good Housekeeping Institute's former Chief Technologist and a mom of three, is a fan of this for travel. But it's important to note that, as well as being pricey, the Doona is only for rear-facing use and for toddlers up to 35 pounds. Toddlers outgrow it typically at age 2. But if you'll travel a lot in those first two years — even if it's just catching Ubers around town — you'll be grateful for the Doona.

Big kids need a bit of help ensuring that the seatbelt is hitting their body just right, so this backless booster gives them that extra height. It's also exceptionally small, lightweight and easy to travel with; you might even keep several in your car's trunk for when you're carpooling other kids.

Because it's backless, it doesn't offer as much support as a highback booster (for that, see the Peg Perego on this list). It is okayed for ages 4 and up as long as they weigh at least 40 pounds and could be great for a quick trip when you don't want to lug something large. This fits into a tote bag!

With its two hideaway cupholders, machine-washable seat cushions and padded armrests, this tucks a lot of features into a (really!) affordable seat. It's no surprise that it has more than 59,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. While it isn't airline approved — all booster seats require a shoulder belt, which you won't find on an airplane — its compact size makes it incredibly simple to slide into your overhead bin to later use in taxis, Ubers or other vehicles once you get to your destination.

For a little more money there's a TurboBooster LX version that works with LATCH; nice if you'll be keeping this in one car for a length of time.

Got enough to carry already? At 10 pounds, this is the best lightweight convertible car seat for traveling and it won't break the bank. Five harness heights and three buckle locations help customize the seat to your baby or toddler's size, though it's the kind of harness you have to rethread each time you need to change it.

The Scenera can be installed rear-facing for babies and toddlers and forward-facing for preschoolers up to 40 pounds but lacks the cushioning and other comforts, like a recline mechanism, we've come to enjoy in an everyday toddler car seat . Still, with its deep bucket seat, this will keep your tiny passenger comfy enough and car seat compliant when you're traveling and in and out of other people's vehicles. It's especially great as a rear-facing travel option for 2- and 3-year-olds who have outgrown an infant car seat.

You can remove both the cupholder and seat pad for washing. The seat pad can even go in the dryer. The brand claims that three of these seats fit across a back seat and our tests were able to validate that in certain vehicles. It can be installed with the LATCH system or a seatbelt. It's approved for airplane seats and like our best overall pick it fits on most economy seats.

Kids who are at least age 4 and who weigh 40 pounds or more will appreciate the comfort of this belt-positioning booster seat just as much as parents will appreciate its ability to fold down to a fraction of its size.

The Flex 120 has an exceptionally large weight range, functioning for kids up to — you guessed it — 120 pounds. While it's a bit pricier than some other booster options, its ability to compact down makes it perfect for folding up and storing in a bag that you can then gate-check, or even fit into the overhead bin while in-flight. Note that no belt-positioning booster is certified for use in an airplane cabin because they're meant to be used with a car's shoulder belt, not an airplane lap belt. The big kids who fit this are good to use the airplane belt anyway! This is perfect for use in a rideshare, taxi or a far-off relative's vehicle when you land.

Customize this booster to your child by adjusting the headrest, upper backrest, side wings and seat. In addition to being an easy portable car seat, this is another great choice for grandparents or other caregivers who only occasionally drive big kids around because it so easily fits into a car's trunk when not in use.

This is larger and heavier than any of our other choices. However, this is the most portable all-in-one car seat that grows with your little one from a rear-facing infant car seat to a backless booster, from 4 to 120 pounds .

Its versatility means that it may be the only car seat you ever have to buy, and if you travel infrequently, you could manage to tote this on a few trips and avoid buying something separate just for travel. It is certified to work on an airplane seat with the harness (so, up to 65 pounds), but it's about 3 inches wider than many economy airplane seats so the fit isn't great; one Reddit user said they put it in the window seat and then just accepted squeezing themselves into the middle-seat position.

While testing, we appreciated how easy this car seat was to install and use, making it pretty difficult to mess up due to user error. We also love how highly adjustable it is, with a six-position recline and a no-rethread harness with 10 possible heights. The easy-to-remove washable seat pads make it simple to clean up after your little one. If you're taking it with you into a rideshare and can't use the LATCH installation system, there's an integrated belt lock off on the back of the seat that helps make seat belt installation as simple as possible.

This is a pricey option that has a fan following with frequent travelers who travel with a preschooler. It folds down into its own carrying case, which can be worn as a backpack, so you can easily get it through the airport and store it in a hotel. It's got a five-point harness and is meant for kids up to 50 pounds. The brand says it's for kids as young as 2 but because rear-facing is safest and this only faces forward, we would not recommend using it for a child until they are at least age 3, preferably 4.

The Pico does not have side-impact protection and other safety features we want on an everyday car seat, but for travel we agree that this has portability appeal. It also gets knocked in reviews for not being comfortable for long car rides if your child likes to nap, but again, we're putting it on this list for on-the-go families who are in "something is better than nothing" mode, even for short train, bus or van rides.

Our experts appreciate how lightweight this seat is (8 pounds), and that it easily fits even on the smallest economy airplane seat (it's FAA-approved). The seat can either be installed using the LATCH system or the seatbelt in a car or airplane.

If you're a city family that doesn't even own a car, there's a big reason to love the PIPA portable infant car seat: It's built to be installed without a base and is exceptionally easy to move between vehicles, including rideshares like Uber.

It's got a built-in rigid LATCH system or alternatively you can use the back seat seatbelt. Plus, the PIPA urbn only weighs 7 pounds, making it one of the lightest infant car seats we know of and an easy one to carry from place to place. The stroller, too, is lightweight at just under 14 pounds and can be folded down using just one hand. The car seat is built to ride on top of the stroller, for instance to get them both through an airport, and we named it our favorite lightweight travel system .

The infant car seat does not have a high weight limit, however. Your baby will outgrow it when they hit 22 pounds or are 29 inches tall, whichever comes first. For some that can mean by their first birthday. But the stroller will stay useful through the preschool years since it has a weight limit of 50 pounds. The car seat is airline-approved and will fit on most economy cabin seats.

How we test the best portable car seats

"

The Good Housekeeping Institute's engineering and parenting pros have reviewed dozens of car seats over the past five years, including portable car seats . Our Lab experts work with parents to test these car seats on a variety of vehicles of different brands and sizes to ensure that you can find the right car seat for your family.

Each car seat we consider has passed Federal Safety Standards. We perform tests both in the Lab and at home to evaluate each product's safety, ease of installation, stability, ease of adjustments, stroller compatibility and portability. To accomplish this, we set up each car seat in a variety of vehicles and strollers. We evaluate how easy it is to secure the harness as well as how difficult it is to install the car seats. For portable car seats we pay special attention to whether they can be installed without a LATCH system and to whether they are approved for use in an airplane cabin.

What to look for when shopping for a portable car seat

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Whether you're going on a trip or often take your child places in a rideshare vehicle, if you need a portable car seat you should consider these things:

✔️ Height and weight limits : All car seats come with minimum and maximum height and weight specifications. To ensure proper seatbelt placement and optimal security, make sure your child fits within those ranges. Once they meet the maximum in either height or weight, it's time to switch. If you have an adjustable car seat that transitions to a booster look at the labels on the car seat, check the user manual or contact the manufacturer so you know when it's time to switch modes.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) can help you determine the right kind of car seat for your child based on their age, weight and height. That will help you figure out if you can use an infant car seat or if you need a convertible car seat and if you're ready to move on to a booster car seat for travel.

✔️ Weight : The lightest car seats are often the most portable. We get especially excited when we find any that are less than 15 pounds, though a few on our list are heavier than that.

✔️ Easy cleaning : Regardless of age, spills happen. Luckily, like many other car seats, most portable seats offer removable machine-washable seat covers and padding.

✔️ Design : Traditional car seats have a ton of padding, robust side-impact protection and extra features that are important for everyday but might be overkill for short trips. The best design for a portable car seat is a slim, streamlined one.

✔️ Ease of installation : Since you will be re-installing the car seat each time you put it in a new car or aircraft, it's important to find a car seat that is so easy to install it won't take more than a few minutes. The easiest car seats for traveling can be installed without a car seat base.

✔️ State laws : Before you bring your car seat across state lines, check state laws to be sure you'll be compliant. Often children through age 7 must be in a child-restraint seat. But if you're heading to Florida for Disney World, the laws there only apply to children through age 5.

Should you bring a car seat on the plane?

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While it is not mandatory to strap your little one into a car seat on an airplane, many parents opt to do so since it can be both a safer and more comfortable for everyone . It's recommended to do so for children under age 2 by the FAA and AAP. Note: For your child to ride in a car seat, you'll need to buy them their own plane ticket so they're guaranteed to have the space. If your baby under age 2 is flying as a free "lap baby" you are not guaranteed space for your car seat.

Before you bring a car seat onboard, check that it has an FAA-approved sticker. It's also a good idea to bring along your car seat manual to help ensure that you're properly installing the seat on the aircraft. There are helpful videos on YouTube, too, that show how to buckle a car seat in with a lap belt. (This one from the FAA shows how to install a forward-facing car seat on a plane .) Watch some before your trip!

The average airline seat is about 17 inches wide and measures 30 inches from the back of the seat to the seat in front of you — but size can vary depending on which airline you are flying. Because of this, it's best to pick a narrow, compact car seat. Infant car seats fit better than most convertible car seats, though we find that the Cosco choice on our list generally fits well.

For those who are traveling with a car seat who don't plan to use it while on the plane, many airlines will check the car seat or booster seat for free at the check-in desk or at the gate. It might be a good idea to purchase a travel bag to fit it in, to help avoid damage.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Lab pros and journalists at the Good Housekeeping Institute provide expert reviews and advice on everything a parent needs, including portable car seats.

This article was overseen by Rachel Rothman , former Chief Technologist & Director of Engineering at the Institute, who was trained in mechanical engineering and applied mathematics. As a mom to three kids, she personally used many of the products we recommend.

In her former role as Parenting & Pets Reviews Analyst, Jamie Spain brought years of experience to the Institute and wrote the first iteration of this story. It has since been updated by contributing writer Jessica Hartshorn who has followed the car-seat market for 25 years, previously for Parents magazine and American Baby magazine. She's also a mom of two.

Headshot of Jamie Spain

Jamie (she/her) is a parenting and pets reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute , where she spends her time testing, researching and writing about pet and family products. Prior to starting at GH in 2021, she worked at BuzzFeed and People , covering a combination of product reviews and lifestyle content. She's a graduate of Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and psychology and a master’s degree in journalism.

Headshot of Jessica Hartshorn

Jessica (she/her) is a freelance writer with several decades of experience writing lifestyle content and evaluating home and parenting products. A mom of two teens and two cats, her previous work can be seen in American Baby and Parents .

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The Best Car Seats for Traveling With Babies, Toddlers, and Kids

By Stirling Kelso

Pico

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Talk to parents about traveling with young kids and one topic dominates the conversation. Is it which hotel in Santorini has the best Mediterranean views? Not quite. Where you can get the freshest lobster rolls in Maine ? Unfortunately, no.

The answer is car seats. Heavy, unwieldy car seats. They’re impossible to pack and even worse to wrestle onto an airplane. They’re big, they’re bulky, and they have irritating names that are hard to Google when you’re searching for, say, “how to install a massive American car seat in a tiny Italian Fiat.”

Not every country or city requires car seats, but you’ll probably still want to pack one for your family trip to Mexico or Thailand—or from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan in a yellow cab. Why? As exasperating as car seats are, they save lives. A lot of lives. In fact, they’ve helped bring down motor vehicle-related deaths in the U.S. by 58 percent since 1975.

Most car rental agencies offer child seats, but this option is often fraught with problems. To start, they cost a chunk of change. “Major car rental companies charge between $10 to $14 per day to rent a child seat,” says Jonathan Weinberg, CEO of car rental savings site AutoSlash . “These fees add up quickly, especially if you have more than one kid.” The quality of the car seat can also be questionable. Personally, I’ve been dealt dirty seats, incorrect models, and, in one case, a seat with a safety strap that looked like it had been slashed by a machete. And while every major American car rental’s child seat policy notes that they take car seats out of circulation after an accident, this practice is not federally enforced . Finally, and perhaps most vexing after a long flight with kids, agency staff members aren’t authorized to install the seats, leaving you to the task. “After navigating an enormous car rental garage with toddlers and luggage for four—looking at you, Orlando International—it’s no fun to install unfamiliar car seats,” says Lexington-based attorney (and dad of twins) Lucas Braun.

Here’s the good news: Car seats have also annoyed a slew of smart, savvy travelers, so much so that they’ve decided to do something about it. Now a handful of light and portable child seats make it easier to keep your kiddos safe on the go. Read on for our road-tested recs of the best car seats for travel right now. Skipping the flight and just traveling by car these days? We’ve included our favorites for highway long-hauls as well.

This article was originally published in April 2019. It has been updated with new information.

Infant Car Seats

For babies and infants Talk to a mom who has lost circulation in her arm after swinging a bucket seat around the airport, or a dad who has woken a sleeping baby from a car seat at the check-in counter, and you’ll see why we seriously love the options below.

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It took car seat creator Yoav Mazar close to a decade to design the Doona and bring it to market. It was worth the wait. This genius car seat, developed for babies from birth up to 35 pounds, is essentially a transformer, shape shifting from a car seat to a stroller and back again with a few button clicks. This means you always have your car seat with you, whether you need to jump into a cab in London or a Lyft in San Francisco. And when it’s in stroller mode, it beautifully navigates sidewalks and park paths. This just in: The Doona now comes in a sleek midnight black model as well as its first edition green.

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Trusted car seat brand Chicco has a new car seat for babies that’s lighter than previous versions (about nine pounds without the base) and puts a premium on comfort. An extended headrest means the car seat lasts you longer, and a genius rebound bar, which pushes against the back seat, provides extra foot room for leggy littles. And while you can swing it through the airport as easily as a canvas tote through a farmers’ market, it’s also a choice option for road trips thanks to its cocoon-like coziness and large sunshade.

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If you’re not up for a $500 investment, opt for an infant seat that clicks easily into a lightweight stroller base. The latest snap-and-go option from Chicco is the Shuttle, which pairs with all Chicco Fit2 and KeyFit car seats. It’s an improvement on previous stroller base models thanks to its quick fold handle, sleek black frame, and a console for essentials (your phone, a large coffee, and likely some sort of wipe). It also has one advantage on its competitors: under-carriage storage, ideal for all that stuff you can't believe you’re schlepping through the airport.

Rear-Facing Car Seats

For toddlers under two and under 35 pounds The trickiest age when it comes to traveling with car seats is when your child has transitioned from an infant seat—like the Doona—to an upright car seat, but still needs to face backwards (typically kids under two and under 35 pounds). For this short time period, we recommend doing as the car rental agencies do: Go light and go cheap if you’re flying, but invest if you’re sticking to the road.

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This is a popular brand among car rental companies (and if you think about it, they make up the cost of a purchase in one four-day rental). The seat is ten pounds, easy to install, and FAA compliant, should you want to strap your kid in during the flight. And while it's bulky, you can secure this seat to rolling luggage with a strap like this one .

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While this car seat model is somewhat bulky, it’s also lightweight at just over nine pounds. At under $100, it’s an absolute steal. It’s slimmer than most car seat models, a plus when you’re traveling to places like Europe where rentals are petite in comparison to your suburban SUV.

Image may contain: Cushion, Car Seat, Backpack, and Bag

Did you know that some car seats are built with flame-retardant chemicals that are harmful to inhale? That’s not the case with Nuna, which has committed to engineering its seats without said compounds from foam to fabric. The Exec car seat might as well be a first-class ticket to comfort—even in the less popular back-facing position—thanks to adjustable leg rests, merino wool head cushions, and ventilation panels that maintain a comfortable climate.

Front-Facing Convertible Car Seats

For kids ages two to five Once children have graduated from a rear-facing car seat, they still have several years in a chair. At this stage, we see parents start to forgo car seats when they shouldn’t. These exciting innovations will inspire you to stay safe.

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This road trip favorite is slimmer than most—you can fit three across a back seat if you’re hauling a litter—but it also puts a premium on well-being and safety thanks to a steel core topped with interlocking layers of foam and plastic, padded with seat, side, and belt cushions. We also love this Seattle-based company’s seats for their pop colors: cherry red, plum purple, and yellow mineral, among others. Be sure to add the waterproof seat protector —it’s a life saver when kids are snacking on the go.

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This, family travelers, is a game changing car seat. Co-developed by a former Patagonia exec and his engineering-savvy team at WayB—a new company that aims to introduce innovative products to the family travel space—the Pico is safe, sleek, and a cinch to install. Its solid frame is made of aluminum, which is not only strong, but also sustainable. And the Pico’s seat folds up on-the-go, making it compact and easy to carry or stow in an overhead bin.

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If you’ve requested an Uber equipped with a car seat in a city like Los Angeles, chances are the driver has pulled out this soft-backed and collapsible harness. The chair folds up into an attached bag that’s about half the size of a carry-on suitcase, so you can stow it on the plane or throw it into a duffle with the rest of your things.

For kids five and up Once your half pints have graduated out of convertible car seats, you can move onto a booster, which feels like holding a hamster after years of wrestling an elephant. Still, some boosters are large and inflexible, so opt for one of our picks below. Tend to travel by car? Choose something more substantial, like the Alta.

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If you’re skipping the airport and hitting the highway, consider UppaBaby’s model for its additional safety features and headrest that will—if you’re lucky—inspire a long snooze. Unlike the MiFold and Bubble Bum, the Alta clips into a car’s anchor system, better securing it to the vehicle. It also ensures older kiddos (approximately six to ten years old) are comfortable for long stretches thanks to arm rests, a cup holder, and plenty of padding. The rear seat cushion also zips off, making it easy to clean.

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Boosters, as you might guess, boost children up so seatbelts strap them in effectively. The MiFold takes the opposite approach, lowering the seatbelt via a series of lap belt clips. It then folds up on-the-go to the size of a large wallet, and can be stashed in a purse, backpack, or glove compartment.

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This inflatable booster seat can be easily blown up and deflated on the go. It’s lightweight and fits into a compact travel bag when not in use. Aside from its brilliant name, it also does its part to make boosters fun, with kid-friendly colors like shamrock green and bubble gum pink.

Packing List

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Best Travel Car Seats of 2024

Traveling with kids? Whether an extended road trip or airplane ride is on the agenda, your little one needs a travel car seat to stay safe on the journey. Travel car seats are a bit different from everyday ones, as they’re typically lighter in weight, easier to move and set up from car to car, and approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to take in the air.

A travel car seat also comes in handy if you find yourself in ride-shares or taxis regularly. Many models don’t require a base, so it’s simple to strap the unit in without spending half the afternoon figuring out which piece goes where. The best travel car seats are so convenient, in fact, that you might stick to them altogether.

Table of Contents

  • Best Travel Car Seats
  • Things To Consider When Buying
  • How We Chose

Chicco KeyFit 35 ClearTex Infant Car Seat  »

Chicco KeyFit 35 ClearTex Infant Car Seat

Various features for correct installation

Can be installed without a base via European belt routing

Five height positions and six recline positions

Includes base and newborn positioner

Extendable canopy with UPF 50+ sun protection

JPMA certified and GreenGuard Gold Certified

Not super light

Travel bag sold separately

There’s no need to worry about properly installing the Chicco KeyFit 35 ClearTex Infant Car Seat. It comes with multiple features to ensure you do it correctly, including LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) connectors, a SuperCinch force-multiplying tightener, and RideRight bubble level indicators to make sure it’s at the right angle.

This best travel car seat comes with ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) 50+ sun protection. It also comes with a base, but doesn’t require one in order to use. That means you can keep the base in your car for regular use and still be able to install it in other vehicles, thanks to its European belt routing system. It only weighs 10 pounds and is FAA approved, so it’s ready to bring on an aircraft. The Chicco Car Seat Travel Bag , however, is sold separately. But with the five height positions and six recline positions, your baby is bound to be comfortable no matter how you choose to travel. And once you reach your destination, keep the car seat looking fresh by tossing the fabrics in the washing machine.

They KeyFit 35 is certified by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA), meaning it meets minimum government requirements based on safety and use, and GreenGuard Gold Certified, meaning it’s built to contribute to safer, healthier air and has been screened for more than 15,000 volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Cosco Kids Scenera Next Convertible Car Seat  »

Cosco Kids Scenera Next Convertible Car Seat

Affordable price point

Aircraft certified and TSA-friendly designed

No additional base needed

Side Impact Protection

Machine-washable and dryer-safe seat pad

Installation may be tricky with some seat belts

May fit snugly on older babies

If you’re looking for a secondary car seat, chances are that you’re hoping to keep the cost low. With the Cosco Kids Scenera Next Convertible Car Seat, you’ll save money without losing the factors that make a travel car seat desirable. At just 6.8 pounds, this is one unit you won’t struggle to carry through the airport. Plus, you’ll have peace of mind knowing it has built-in Side Impact Protection.

This model can carry a child up to 40 pounds and 43 inches tall. It has five harness heights and three buckle locations, so it’ll grow with your baby from infancy to toddlerhood. This affordable car seat comes in seven designs with black details. And Cosco Kids makes it easy to clean with its machine-washable and dryer-safe seat pad and dishwasher-safe removable cup holder.

While this may not be the ideal pick for everyday use, the no-base, lightweight design makes it a smart pick for upcoming vacations or times when you need to move it between cars often. Just use the LATCH connectors to safely secure it in place.

Diono Radian 3RXT SafePlus  »

Diono Radian 3RXT SafePlus

Only 17 inches wide

Seats folds up

FAA approved

Supports kids up to 120 pounds

12 headrest positions

Available in five colors

Heavy at 30.6 pounds

Booster mode can’t be used on a plane

LATCH connectors not available for all weights

At just 17 inches wide, the Diono Radian 3RXT SafePlus comfortably fits in even the most compact cars. If you have a full backseat, three of these models can fit across the backseat. Don’t let its compact size fool you, though. This travel car seat was designed to grow with your child from 4 to 120 pounds, in rear-facing position, forward-facing position, and booster mode.

This unit comes with a detachable rear-facing base, which Diono recommends using, but it can be used without it. The base shouldn’t be used in the forward-facing position or in booster mode. To make sure your little one is happy, the Radian boasts a 12-position headrest that you can adjust with just one hand. The covers are machine washable, and the shell and components on the rest of the car seat can be spot cleaned.

This convertible car seat folds to make travel easier, and its FAA-approved status means it’ll be your airplane companion. Just keep in mind that it can only be taken on a plane in rear-facing and forward-facing positions, not booster mode.

Doona + Car Seat & Stroller  »

Doona + Car Seat & Stroller

Converts from car seat to stroller in seconds

Comes fully assembled

FAA approved and can be pushed down airplane aisle

Available in seven colors

UPF 50+ sun protection and water-repellant canopy

Includes LATCH base, infant insert, head support, and vehicle seat protector

Can only be used up to 35 pounds

The Doona + Car Seat & Stroller can be used with or without the included base, but the real magic comes in when you’re using it in between car and airplane rides. Within a matter of seconds, this innovative model goes from car seat to stroller with the push of a button. Plus, it comes fully assembled, so you can use it the moment it arrives.

The water-repellent canopy provides UPF 50+ sun protection, and comes in seven bold colors, including Racing Green, Flame Red, and Blush Pink. The adjustable handle is a nice touch, too, for a more comfortable gliding experience for adults.

Not only is the Doona approved by the FAA, but at just 17.4 inches wide, it can easily be pushed down an airplane aisle so you can get in your seat easily. Although it’s pricey, the fact that it acts as both a travel car seat and stroller means that it’s a great value. Consider this the all-in-one travel system that makes navigating the world with a baby so much simpler. Megan Wood, Senior Editor at U.S. News 360 Reviews, uses the Doona as her family’s main car seat and loves how easy it makes running errands and travel without having to pack a separate stroller.

Wayb Pico Portable Car Seat  »

Wayb Pico Portable Car Seat

Fits in most airplane overheads bins

Only weighs 8 pounds

Installs via LATCH or car or plane seat belt

Folds down to 11.6 inches long by 14.5 inches wide by 18.9 inches tall

Made with space-grade aluminum alloy and Responsible Wool Standard (RWS)-certified wool

On the pricier side

Can’t be used until child is 22 pounds

Make your next flight with your child as easy as possible with the Wayb Pico Portable Car Seat. With a compact design that folds up—so much so that it fits in most airplane overhead bins—this FAA-approved model goes wherever you do. Weighing just 8 pounds, this travel car seat is installed via LATCH connectors or using the car or airplane seat belt.

Unlike the other best travel car seats on our list, the Pico is a forward-facing option that’s designed for children 22 to 50 pounds and 30 to 45 inches tall. Wayb recommends it for ages 2 years old and up. While you can’t use it for a newborn, it’ll be your little one’s travel companion once they grow a bit.

The Pico is available in five colors, and an optional carry bag, vehicle seat protector, and cup holder are sold separately. If you have multiple children, you can snag a few of these and three can fit in a row in the backseat of most vehicles.

Nuna Pipa RX x Pipa Relx Base  »

Nuna Pipa RX x Pipa Relx Base

Five-second installation

Can be used with or without the included base

Removable UPF 50+ canopy

GreenGuard Gold Certified and fire retardant-free materials

Connects with all Nuna strollers

Doesn’t fold

If installing a car seat isn’t something you’re looking forward to, make it easy on yourself with the Nuna Pipa RX. It comes with Pipa Relx Base, but you don’t need it in order to put it to use in a car or on an airplane. If you do decide to use it, however, the base features a stability leg that absorbs impact to prevent motion from transferring to your baby. Plus, installation takes just five seconds.

At 7.6 pounds (not including the canopy or infant insert), it’s one of the lightest options on our list. This travel car seat has a four-position recline, and you don’t have to reinstall it to change the position. It features an infant insert that can be removed when your little one grows. But no matter what age they are, you’ll want to take advantage of the removable, full-coverage UPF 50+ canopy.

This unit has the green light to be part of air travel, and you can feel good knowing that it’s GreenGuard Gold Certified and made with fire retardant-free materials.

Britax Emblem 3-Stage Convertible Car Seat  »

Britax Emblem 3-Stage Convertible Car Seat

High-strength steel frame and SafeCell technology to absorb crash energy

Accommodates children up to 65 pounds

Aircraft approved

10-position harness and headrest adjust together

Machine-washable and dryer-friendly fabrics

On the heavier side

Any piece of baby gear you put your child in needs to be sturdy and durable. The Britax Emblem 3-Stage Convertible Car Seat was built to last. Its frame is made of high-strength steel, and it features SafeCell technology to absorb crash energy, so you can feel confident that your little one is protected. Its fabric is tough and can be tossed in the washing machine and dryer to refresh it after a spill or accident.

This best travel model is designed to grow with your child, as it accommodates them from 5 pounds all the way up to 65 pounds. As they get bigger, you can adjust the harness and headrest, which move together in 10 different positions.

The Emblem is on the heavier side at just under 20 pounds, but it’s still reasonable enough to bring with you in a ride-share or carry it on for aircraft use. Just utilize its installation features, including LATCH connectors and level indicators, to ensure that it’s correctly set up.

Graco Century Carry On 35 Lightweight Infant Car Seat  »

Graco Century Carry On 35 Lightweight Infant Car Seat

Only weighs 6.8 pounds

Four-position carry handle

Machine-washable seat pad and canopy

Doesn’t convert to front facing

Graco refers to its Century Carry On 35 Lightweight Infant Car Seat as “The Weightless Wonder,” and it’s clear why. This lightweight car seat only weighs 6.8 pounds. If you count the base, it only goes up to 10.4 pounds. It’s the lightest carrier on our list, so it’ll truly become a travel must-have when vacation is calling.

Approved to take on an airplane, the Graco Century has a carry handle with four adjustable positions, so both you and your baby will be comfortable. It comes with a base that can be installed via LATCH connectors. However, it can be used without one for even quicker installation with a vehicle or airplane seat belt. And if an in-flight spill dirties the seat pad or canopy, both are machine washable.

The Century is designed for babies up to 35 pounds. Even though it won’t go the long haul, it’s a budget-friendly option that does its job well while it can. Plus, it’s compatible with all Century strollers and car seat bases from Graco that can be purchased separately.

The Bottom Line

The market is far from short on car seat options, and that rings true for travel car seats, too. To choose the best one for your child, consider how often you plan to use it. If it’s a secondary car seat that you’re planning to only break out a couple times of year for vacation, then you may want to keep your budget low. But if you’re looking forward to road trips and airplane rides on the regular, better quality and durability may be more important. Once you see how much use you’ll get out of it, you can focus on what features are necessities in your book. Does it need to fold? Does its weight need to stay super low? But if you’re not totally sure what you need in a travel car seat, the Chicco KeyFit 35 ClearTex Infant Car Seat, our Best Overall pick, is FAA approved, weighs just 10 pounds, comes with a UPF 50+ canopy, and comes with a base but doesn’t need it in order to install.

Things To Consider When Buying Travel Car Seats

Safety Certification and Compliance

The good news is that if you’re buying a new travel car seat from a reputable retailer in the United States, you’re probably in good shape.

“All car seats sold in the U.S. must meet stringent safety regulations, following the requirements set by the NHTSA,” says Joe Colella, JPMA director of Child Passenger Safety and 2020 Child Passenger Safety Hall of Fame Inductee. “A car seat that meets these standards is required to be labeled with, ‘This child restraint system conforms to all applicable Federal motor vehicle safety standards.’”

Don’t forget that car seats also have expiration dates, and when they hit it, toss them, reminds Samora Coles, founder and executive director of The Alex House Project , an organization that supports low-income families and young mothers with their transition to parenthood. While this is one piece of baby gear you’re likely to want to buy new, if you’re using a secondhand model, it’s even more imperative that you check its expiration date and look up if any recalls or malfunctions have been reported.

Size and Weight Suitability

Most—but not all—travel car seats can be used right from birth, so keep in mind when you plan on using it and if your little one is big enough to be safely strapped in. Some options have one mode while others convert to various positions, including rear facing, forward facing, and booster to grow with your child. Each mode has its own weight and height limits, and those numbers vary depending on the brand and model. It’s important to read through and follow those instructions for safety.

“Car seats, when not used according to the manufacturer’s instructions, could be less likely to protect a child from injury,” says Colella. “Car seats are safety devices that are designed and tested to protect children when used as directed by the manufacturer.”

Many travel car seats have an adjustable headrest that you can raise as your child grows. If longevity is important to your buying decision, check to make sure it has this capability so you’re not stuck getting a new one in a year’s time.

Ease of Installation and Compatibility

The first time you put a typical car seat in your vehicle may have taken a while. That kind of time isn’t provided when you’re on the tarmac, so the best travel car seats need to be easy to install. It’s a smart idea to do a test run in a car so you can feel confident in its setup.

Even though many travel car seats come with a base, they’re typically not a must-use on the road. Some models just need a vehicle’s or airplane’s seat belt to safely strap in. Others also offer LATCH connectors that provide a super-secure installation.

“Most travel car seats are compatible with any vehicle, but parents want to research car seat company manuals and reviews from other parents,” says Coles. To assure parents that they did it correctly, some units have colored indicators that give the thumbs up when it’s ready to use or level indicators that confirm it’s not tilted. If you’re concerned about always setting it up and taking it out, look for a model that eases your worries.

Portability for Frequent Travel

Whether you’re hurrying to your gate or rushing to the taxi stand, the last thing you want is a bulky, heavy travel car seat weighing you down. Even if you don’t plan to carry it around while your baby is in it most of the time, you want the unit to be built for portability. That starts with looking at the car seat’s weight. The lowest on this list is 6.8 pounds, and it goes up quite a bit from there. It’s also helpful if the travel car seat folds down — not only so that it fits in the overhead bin on an airplane, but so it’s convenient to carry along with your weekender bag.

“When considering portability factors, parents should consider dual abilities in a travel car seat,” explains Coles. “Seats that can act as strollers can help parents limit necessary items they must carry while traveling.”

Don’t forget to check out the handle, too. Even if it’s lightweight, if the handle doesn’t boast an ergonomic design, parents can feel quite uncomfortable.

Convertibility as the Child Grows

Some travel car seats grow with your child, so they’ll go from rear facing to forward facing to even booster. Each of these stages have their own weight and height limits. However, things can get tricky depending on where you’re traveling to.

“Every U.S. state and territory has a law that defines how a child must be restrained in a vehicle and also requires car seat compliance with the aforementioned safety regulations. State laws vary significantly, and travelers must follow the law for the state in which they are traveling,” says Colella. “For example, 19 states and the District of Columbia require that children ride in rear-facing car seats until at least age 2, while other states use age 1 or do not specify a rear-facing age requirement. Most states also require the use of car booster seats, though the maximum age for those requirements varies from 5 to 10 years old.

How We Chose the Best Travel Car Seats

Nothing is more important than safety when we’re talking about baby gear. U.S. News 360 Reviews kept it at the top of mind when hunting down the best travel car seats, but we also considered price, weight of the carrier, weight and height limits, and installation. To ensure we had the must-know information, we consulted the director of Child Passenger Safety at JPMA and the founder and executive director of an organization that helps young mothers with their transition to parenthood. They provided insight on which key components to understand before landing on the travel car seat for your personal lifestyle. Before adding to cart, think about when and where you’ll use it and what features truly matter to you.

WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?

Caitlyn Fitzpatrick , the author of this piece, has been researching, testing, and reviewing products since 2017. This means she has years of experience honing in on what’s important when shopping for a product, including baby gear. Fitzpatrick is a mom herself and has done her own personal deep dive on what makes one car seat better than another. That’s why she concentrated on safety as the top priority when choosing the best travel car seats. Megan Wood , Senior Editor at U.S. News 360 Reviews, focuses on baby gear and recommends the Doona Car Seat + Stroller for traveling families.

“While the FAA does not require the use of car seats on airplanes for children, and those under the age of 2 are allowed to ride on their parents’ lap, this is not considered best practice,” says Colella. “Turbulence can happen with little or no warning, and appropriate car seats provide the safest way for children to travel on airplanes.”

Most travel car seats are certified to use on aircrafts, but be sure to check that it’s the case with your specific model. It can also make a difference which airline you fly and if you’re traveling domestically or internationally. Booster car seats and child restraint harnesses are generally not supposed to be used on an airplane. All of the recommendations on this list are approved for airplane use.

As far as adjustability, many models feature adjustable straps, height/headrest positions, and recline positions.

The best travel car seats are typically easy to install. After all, they’re expected to be moved between vehicles or on and off airplanes regularly. Some of these models come with a base, but don’t necessarily require it for the unit to be secured. Many travel car seats come with LATCH connectors. “This system is compatible with vehicles with anchors located at the lower and upper tether of their seats where the car seat can be secured,” explains Coles. “Since all vehicles must have seat belts, all car seats have a space to secure car seats using the seat belt.”

Two of the most important factors when shopping for the best travel car seat are installation and portability. You want it to be easy to secure on an airplane and in a ride-share, and simple to carry it with you wherever your adventures lead.

“Additionally, factors such as the age, weight, height, and overall condition of the seat should be considered as they can help determine the overall value of the car seat, especially for those with limited resources and busy lifestyles,” says Coles.

About Our Team

Caitlyn Fitzpatrick

Caitlyn Fitzpatrick

Contributor

Megan Wood

Senior Editor

U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.

  • Car Seats /

Best Car Seats for Travel

Our favorite travel-friendly infant, convertible & booster seats for the baby days through the big-kid years., by jen labracio.

Pinterest logo.

Ever try to lug a 20-pound car seat through an airport while thinking to yourself, “There has to be a better way?”

Traveling with babies and young children can be a great adventure, but it can also be a bit of a logistical nightmare. Where will they sleep? (A travel crib or a travel bed usually do the trick.) Can you fly with breastmilk ? (Yes.) How do you keep a toddler entertained on a long flight? (Thoughts and prayers.)

Car seats can be especially confusing when you’re away from home. Most present a bit of a conundrum: you want your to keep your little one safe and secure, but you don’t want to throw out your back lugging a big, bulky car seat around with you wherever you go. The good news is there are plenty of travel-friendly car seat options on the market—you just need to know what features to look for.

Babylist’s Top Picks for the Best Travel Car Seats

Best infant car seats.

  • Lightest Infant Car Seat: UPPAbaby Aria Car Seat
  • Best Affordable Infant Car Seat: Evenflo Litemax 35 Infant Car Seat
  • Best Luxury Infant Car Seat: Nuna Pipa Rx Infant Car Seat with Relx Base
  • Best Infant Car Seat + Stroller: Doona Infant Car Seat & Stroller

Best convertible car seats

  • Best Convertible: Cosco Scenera NEXT Convertible Car Seat
  • Longer Lasting Convertible: Evenflo Sonus 65 Convertible Car Seat
  • Most Compact Convertible: WAYB Pico Travel Car Seat

Best booster seats

  • Best High-back: Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Highback Booster Car Seat
  • Best Backless: Cosco Rise Backless Booster Car Seat

In This Article

  • How We Chose the Best Travel Car Seats
  • Our Top Picks

What Is a Travel Car Seat?

Do you need a travel car seat, features to look for in a travel car seat, babylist’s picks for the best car seats for travel, infant car seats, lightest infant car seat for travel.

UPPAbaby Aria Infant Car Seat - Jake - $349.99.

UPPAbaby Aria Infant Car Seat - Jake

The UPPAbaby Aria hit the market in early 2024 and we couldn’t be more excited about it. The brand’s OG car seat, the Mesa , is a popular choice for expecting parents but is a few pounds heavier than many comparable seats. The Aria comes in much lighter, weighing just under six pounds without the canopy and inserts, making it the lightest infant seat currently on the market. This is great if you’re using the seat daily, but even better if you’re using it for travel.

The Aria is GREENGUARD Gold Certified and can be installed with or without its base, another travel plus. (It features something called a European belt path , a routing system that makes installing the seat without its base safer and more secure.) A no-rethread harness makes fit adjustments easy and there’s a load leg and an anti-rebound bar for safety and stability. We also love the XL canopy for shade and darkness and that you won’t need adapters if you’re connecting the seat directly to a Vista or Cruz stroller.

Additional Specs

Best affordable infant car seat for travel.

Evenflo Litemax 35 Infant Car Seat - Knowville Gray - $125.49.

Evenflo Litemax 35 Infant Car Seat - Knowville Gray

You don’t have to spend hundreds and hundreds of dollars on a travel-friendly infant car seat. Evenflo’s LiteMax costs a bit over $100 and weighs only eight pounds, making it affordable and travel-ready. You can install it without its base—it even has a European belt path. There’s a full-coverage canopy and an ergonomically designed handle for easier carrying.

If you don’t mind spending a bit more and are looking for some extra safety features, check out the LiteMax DLX , which features a load leg. (Just remember that the load led extends from the base, so if you’re using just the seat you won’t have that benefit.) And for another affordable infant car seat for travel, check out Graco’s SnugRide 35 Lite LX Infant Car Seat . It weighs just over seven pounds and can be installed without the base when you don’t feel like bringing it along.

Best Luxury Infant Car Seat for Travel

Nuna Pipa Rx Infant Car Seat with Relx Base - Granite - $450.00.

Nuna Pipa Rx Infant Car Seat with Relx Base - Granite

The Pipa Rx is a stellar combination of safety + convenience and works just as well as an everyday car seat as it does for travel. It’s pricey, but it’s also a sleek, modern seat with two key features that make it ideal for travel: weight and ease of installation. The Pipa weighs just over seven pounds, making it one of the lightest infant car seats on the market—a huge plus when you’re carrying it through the airport or taking it in and out of your car. And like other seats on our list, you can install it without the base using your vehicle’s seat belt and the European belt path.

It’s also packed with high-end features that you’d expect in a higher-priced seat. It’s GREENGUARD Gold Certified and doesn’t contain any added fire-retardant chemicals, and there’s an oversized canopy for shade. Safety-wise, it excels, featuring both a load leg and an anti-rebound panel (both extra safety features that help absorb impact and rebound in the event of a crash).

For another high-end, travel-friendly seat, check out the Clek Liingo . It’s a bit heavier, but it features LATCH anchors built right into the car seat itself, meaning you can skip the base and the seat belt and install it securely in seconds.

Best Infant Car Seat Stroller Hybrid for Travel

Doona Infant Car Seat & Stroller - Nitro Black - $550.00.

Doona Infant Car Seat & Stroller - Nitro Black

There’s nothing quite like the Doona. This one-of-a-kind hybrid stroller + car seat is a favorite of on-the-go parents and is a great item of baby gear to own if you’ll be traveling frequently with your little one during their first year or so.

The Doona transforms from an infant car seat into a stroller with the click of a button. When it’s time to get in the car, the stroller legs and wheels pull up and fold under the car seat. It’s a dream if you’re looking to cut down on the amount of gear you’re lugging around when you’re away from home and if you’re looking for a seat that’s easy to get in and out of ride shares or rental cars. (It’s a great seat for city dwellers too.)

Convertible Car Seats

Best convertible car seat for travel.

Cosco Scenera NEXT Convertible Car Seat - $59.00.

Cosco Scenera NEXT Convertible Car Seat

Most convertible seats aren’t designed for travel. Weighing in at an average of about 20 pounds, convertibles don’t snap into strollers and are heavy, bulky and meant to be installed in your car and stay there. For parents who travel frequently or don’t own a car, getting around with a convertible seat poses quite the challenge.

The Next solves for this dilemma. It weighs about 10 pounds—light for any car seat but especially so for a convertible. It’s easy to sling over your shoulder while you’re walking through the airport or install in an airplane seat or a ride share. (It’s FAA-approved for plane travel.) It’s totally no-frills and can be a bit tricky to get a secure install, but it’s slim, safe and affordable and can be used both rear- and forward-facing.

A Longer Lasting Travel-Friendly Convertible Pick

Evenflo Sonus 65 Convertible Car Seat - Rocco Red - $119.99.

Evenflo Sonus 65 Convertible Car Seat - Rocco Red

The Sonus 65 is a travel-friendly convertible car seat and a good choice if you’re looking for a seat with a higher height and weight maximum than the Cosco Scenera Next. It weighs a bit more, but only by about a pound, and you’ll be able to use it until your little one reaches 65 pounds or 50 inches as opposed to the Next which maxes out at 40 pounds and 43 inches.

In addition to its extended use capabilities, the Sonos is an affordable seat with a few noteworthy features. It’s a fairly narrow seat, so it won’t take up much room across your back seat and can be used three across. There’s also a built-in ventilation system, a reinforced frame, five shoulder strap positions and two integrated cup holders for drinks and snacks.

Most Compact Convertible Car Seat for Travel

WAYB Pico Travel Car Seat - $380.00.

WAYB Pico Travel Car Seat

The WAYB Pico is like no other convertible car seat on the market. Designed specifically for families who travel or are frequently on the go, it’s one of the pricer options on our list but is a worthwhile investment if you’re looking for an innovative, safe and incredibly compact convertible car seat option.

The creators of the Pico were inspired to create a completely unique convertible-style seat after watching parents struggle trying to lug car seats through airports and in and out of taxis and ride shares. There’s no feature here that hasn’t been completely (and ingeniously) thought through. The Pico’s frame is made from lightweight, aerospace-grade aluminum; there’s a five-point harness and seat fabric made from a cool, breathable mesh; and the seat installs either via a seat belt or LATCH system. The Pico weighs just eight pounds and folds up for easy transport either by hand or in the brand’s carry bag .

One thing to keep in mind: the seat is forward-facing only, so if you’re looking for a rear-facing convertible for travel, this isn’t a good fit for you.

Booster Seats

Best booster seat for travel.

Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Highback Booster Car Seat - $44.99.

Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Highback Booster Car Seat

Booster seats use a vehicle’s seat belt as a restraint and were developed to help elevate children in a car’s seat, making adult seat belts fit better on smaller bodies. You’ll have to wait quite a while until you transition your little one from a convertible car seat into a booster; most experts recommend waiting to make the leap until your child maxes out their forward-facing car seat, meets the height and weight requirements of the booster and is mature enough to sit properly upright (no leaning, twisting, moving around etc.).

There are two types of boosters: high-back and backless. Graco’s TurboBooster falls into the first category, with a high back and a seat belt guide to thread your vehicle’s shoulder belt for a proper fit. Due to their height, no high-backs are particularly great for travel, but this one is one of the best you’ll find in terms of price (affordable) and weight (just over eight pounds). It’s also easy to install and fits a wide variety of children well, and transitions to a backless booster for years of use.

Best Backless Booster Seat for Travel

Cosco Rise Backless Booster Car Seat - $13.98.

Cosco Rise Backless Booster Car Seat

Most experts recommend using a high-back booster for as long as possible , but once you’re ready to make the switch to a backless model, your life is going to get a whole lot easier (and a lot lighter!). Cosco’s Rise is a no-frills seat that’s affordable, lightweight and compact, making it ideal to toss into a bag or even a tote for travel. The wide base and high armrests make it easy for your child to buckle in themselves and there’s a shoulder belt positioning clip to ensure you’ll get the proper fit.

How We Chose Our Best Car Seats for Travel

  • We analyzed results from Babylist’s Best Baby Products survey , which polled 6,000 Babylist users and asked them to share the baby products they love the most and why.
  • We utilized insight from the Babylist editorial team, including Gear Editor Jen LaBracio, an expert in the baby space for over six years and a mom of two who has written hundreds of baby gear guides and personally researched and tested hundreds of baby products, including many travel car seats.
  • We reviewed customer reviews from hundreds of real Babylist parents.

There’s no specific category or true definition for a “travel” car seat; instead, what defines a travel-friendly car seat is more about its features. Things like a light weight, compact design and ease of portability are all factors to consider when you’re shopping for this type of seat.

Determining if it’s worthwhile to invest in a car seat just for travel depends on your family’s lifestyle. If you’re a family who tends to stay close to home or use your own car when you’re traveling, you can likely skip a travel-friendly seat. But if you’re planning on hitting the road (or the skies) frequently with your little one in tow, then purchasing a car seat specifically for travel can make your life on the go a whole lot easier.

Also keep in mind that you don’t have to use a travel-friendly car seat just for travel. A compact, lightweight car seat is a great choice if you’re an urban family that doesn’t own a car, for example, if you need a seat for a grandparent or other caregiver or if plan to switch your seat frequently between cars.

There are some specific features to keep in mind when you’re shopping for a car seat that’s well-suited for travel.

  • Weight. This is a biggie. Lugging around a heavy car seat isn’t a fun way to spend any part of your vacation. Choose the lightest seat you can within your budget—your lower back can thank us later.
  • Design. A slim, compact seat is easier to transport than a big, bulky one. Keep this in mind when choosing what type of seat you’ll purchase for traveling.
  • Ease of installation. Does spending 40 minutes trying to install a car seat in your rental car sound like fun? Make sure the car seat you choose for travel can be installed quickly and easily in the widest range of car makes and models.
  • FAA-approved. This one’s important if you plan on doing a lot of travel via plane. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that kids ride in child safety seats on airplanes —but you’ll need to make sure your seat is approved for airplane use . Look for a label on the seat that reads “certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft” to be sure. This includes infant seats, convertibles, forward-facing seats and some harnessed boosters.

travel toddler car seat

Asher & Lyric Travel & Family Journalism

7 Best Travel Car Seats for Toddlers (2024 Reviews)

Kingsley and Aurora playing

Whether you’re traveling by plane, car, or bus, car seats are a must for safety. Exploring the world with young kids is rewarding, yet challenging. Take some of the load off of yourself (literally) by taking along a travel car seat, instead of the one you’re most likely using now. You’ll be moving around a lot on your travels, and you’ll want to make sure you’re comfortable installing it, transporting it, and securing your toddler in the seat. Weight is one of the biggest differences between the standard car seat and a more portable one, as well as a slim design. Parents tend to over pack gear when they’re prepping for their next adventure. Streamline what you’re bringing, lighten the load by choosing lighter strollers and car seats, and you’ll thank yourself later! The trip will be so much more enjoyable when you don’t have as much hassle. Below are our top 7 recommendations for Travel Car Seats for Toddlers. Find one that works for your type of travel (length of stay, mode of transport, size of child) and then let the travels begin!

Best Travel Car Seats for Toddlers

1. graco 4 ever 4 in 1 car seat, (most comfy — $$$).

Why it’s great: It’s quite appealing when you don’t have to buy something new every few years…. So this Graco car seat is amazing since it transports your little one all the way from 4 pounds up to 100 pounds! For traveling, the InRight Latch system makes it easy to click in and out of modern cars. One of my favorite features is the headrest that can be positioned in multiple ways, to accommodate sleeping toddlers or lively ones alike. Save time as well, since you can adjust the harness and headrest together, without rethreading. The padding and soft cover make this car seat super comfortable and easy to sleep in. Your toddler won’t wake up grouchy from sleeping funny on the airplane, but you might! This seat does weigh a little more than other travel seats, but all the benefits make it hard to resist considering for your upcoming trip.

Keep in mind: This car seat not have a detachable base, because it isn’t meant for carrying use. This also means it cannot be used with a stroller.

Good for: Long trips, when you know your little one will need to take extended naps or sleep overnight in their seat.

Graco 4 Ever 4 in 1 Car seat

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Britax One4Life

(longest use — $$$).

Why it’s great: If you thought convertible car seats that accommodate children up to 100 pounds are useful, this one tops the cake! The Britax One4Life actually grows with your child from as low as 5 pounds, all the way up to 120 pounds. That’s about 10 years of use! Even if your child is now a toddler, there are many years of possible transport ahead. Other great things about this car seat include the ClickTIght installation that is so easy to do, as well as the full-body protection it offers with two layers of side impact protection. Of course, all that extra protection does come at a price; this Britax seat is a bit heavy as a travel car seat. The quality of safety definitely makes up for that, though. On a lighter note, the seat cover comes in 7 different colors, which can be fun if your toddler is starting to have opinions about such things–strong opinions in my household! If you have multiple children, that can be nice for color-coding whose seat is whose. Lastly, I really like the built-in cooling channels, because the seat temperature stays cooler in the hot summer months.

Keep in mind: This one is a little more difficult to clean than the rest but does have removable padding and pieces that can be washed separately if you don’t need to wash the entire seat. Generally, whenever I travel with my little guy, I put a small blanket with a waterproof backing under his bum no matter which seat he’s in….it saves me time and hassle.

Good for: Families who are doing long road trips.

Britax One4Life

3. Cosco APT 50 Convertible Car Seat

(most simplistic design — $).

Why it’s great: The simplicity and lightweight design make this car seat a traveler’s dream. Children up to 50 pounds can enjoy a ride in this seat, and bring along a sippy cup in the cup holder that is attached. You can easily remove the machine-washable and dryer-safe car seat pad to clean. Of course, it’s a must that the seat is certified for use on aircraft, and gives your toddler a familiar seat during a lengthy flight. The straps are a cinch to adjust if your little one grows a little taller (like a weed, I know). I think the best feature of all is how simply lightweight it is; only 11 pounds! I can strap it to my suitcase and easily wheel it around the airport until we get to the gate. Not all seats are like that, and it’s nice to have one that I can grab-and-go easily when in a hurry to grab an Uber or taxi. A must-have for active traveling!

Keep in mind: The center strap runs a little tight, so children 45-50 pounds will most likely be a little uncomfortable.

Good for: Busy families that will be carrying around the car seat from place to place on their adventures.

Cosco APT 50 Convertible Car Seat

4. KidsEmbrace 2-in-1 Harness Car Seat

(most fun for kids — $$).

Why it’s great: Spider-Man is along for the ride, so your little one will love hopping into the car! The KidsEmbrace Marvel Spider-Man 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat is great for toddlers and older kids alike, approved for forward-facing use with the five-point harness for children between 29 to 49 inches in height, and it can be converted into a belt-positioning booster car seat for children between 38 to 57 inches in height. One of my favorite things about it is that I can adjust the booster seat harness straps with one hand (name a parent that ever has two hands available!). The cushioned seat cover is easy to clean, and you’ve got two cup holders that provide a useful place for drinks and snacks. The whimsical nature of this seat will have passers-by smiling in the airport as they see you taking good ol’ Spider-Man on a family trip. He’ll probably even make it into some family photos!

Keep in mind: The padding for your toddler’s bum is on the light side; if your travels will involve very long car rides, this may get uncomfortable. Although, the spider man appeal does keep them entertained! If you’ll be up and about frequently during the ride, it shouldn’t be an issue.

Good for: Spider Man fans, either in toddler form or adult form!

KidsEmbrace 2-in-1 Harness Car Seat

5. Evenflo Chase Harnessed Booster

(most portable — $).

Why it’s great: For being so low in weight and price, this seat actually packs quite a punch. It’s got the usual things you look for in a great booster/car seat, such as built-in cup holders, adjustable harnesses, washable fabric, and a LATCH system for easy installation. All weighing in at only 11 pounds, making it super easy to cart around on your travels. Especially if you’ll be in and out of taxis, buses, or multiple flights, you’ll be glad you chose such a lightweight option. Just hook it onto your suitcase and wheel it around with you in the airport, hotel, bus station, or just about anywhere! I especially like the padding around the sides and headrest for my toddler’s comfort. That’s not something you see in the more basic, money-saving models. Car seats like this are sure to please your toddler, as well as your checkbook!

Keep in mind: As your child grows older, you can convert from using the 5 point harness to the regular seatbelt with this seat. However, it is only FAA-approved if you are using the harness, so for plane flights, make sure you do that.

Good for: Adults who are traveling solo with a toddler (and thus responsible for carrying everything), and are looking for something very lightweight.

Evenflo Chase Harnessed Booster

Get a quote in less than 30 seconds at LadderLife.com ➜

6. Graco SlimFit

(most space-saving design — $$).

Why it’s great: When you’re traveling, it’s imperative to keep everything quick and simple. What I love about this car seat is not only how easy it is to install, but how quickly I can adjust the headrest and harness, since they adjust together with the same movement. Also, with multiple kids in the car, space can be limited. This Graco seat actually has cup holders that swivel inwards, so that when more space is needed, they basically fold right up. For long car rides, your toddler might want to take a nap….or maybe YOU just want him/her to take a nap! Either way, you can make the ride comfier with the 4 reclining positions the seat offers. The Graco SlimFit makes traveling in small cars or in tight spaces much less of a hassle and is comfortable at the same time.

Keep in mind: The padding and cover can come off to be washed, as usual. However, the harness straps cannot be removed and must be washed by hand while still connected to the frame.

Good for: Families who want a slimmer car seat that saves space in the backseat. If you’re traveling with multiple children, this one frees up more space than others.

Graco SlimFit

7. Cosco DX 2 in 1

(best for older kiddos — $).

Why it’s great: The Cosco Finale is easy to take on trips with you, as it’s only 12 pounds! It’s a simplistic design but has some great features that come in handy, too. It can be adjusted between two modes depending on height and weight and fits children from 30 to 100 pounds. Luckily it’s also lightweight and easy to move from car to car which is excellent for families who are always on the move; especially during a trip! It also easily fits 3 across in the back seat of most vehicles (standard-sized rental cars, not economy or compact) making it a smart choice for growing families with multiple kids in car seats at once. A unique feature for this seat is that the cup holders detach and can be washed in the dishwasher. Besides that, there is a removable and washable car seat pad just in case messes occur. Cosco has thought this one through and made this truly the last car seat you’ll need to buy for family vacations!

Keep in mind: This is meant for little ones that are OVER 40 pounds! Luckily, even though the kid who uses it is getting heavier, the seat itself is only 12 pounds, making it easy to travel with!

Good for: Traveling families who have larger toddlers or older kiddos.

Cosco DX 2 in 1

Graco 4 Ever 4 in 1 Car seat

The Graco 4 Ever 4 in 1 Car seat is our overall top recommendation. It's the highest quality product we have found with the most affordable price making it the best value on our list..

Graco 4 Ever 4 in 1 Car seat

FAQs about Travel Car Seats for Toddlers

1. can you bring a car seat on an airplane.

FAA-approved car seats are allowed to be in the cabin and used by your child IF your child has a paid seat. If the plane isn’t full and you have a lap-child, they can still try to accommodate you and allow the car seat on. You can ask at the gate if they can block out an extra seat for your little one. You can always check it at the gate if the plane ends up being full, so I usually bring it along through security, just in case.

2. Do airlines charge extra to check a car seat?

Thankfully, car seats can be brought on all major airlines for free as checked baggage. However, if you’re traveling on a budget airline, double check first. Most will still accept them without a charge (knock on wood), but with all the changes happening with airline fees, it’s best to double-check, especially on a budget airline that likes to charge for everything under the sun!

3. Can I just rent a car seat when I get a rental car?

Yes, you certainly can. However, there is generally an added cost, and they are only available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Because of this, make sure you reserve the car seat ahead of time. You are at the mercy of whatever type of car seat they provide, and it may not be up to your personal standards or what your toddler is used to. It will also be a car seat that has been used by others. So, while you CAN rent from popular rental car agencies when you’re reserving a car, I highly suggest bringing your own along with you, instead.

4. Is a convertible car seat compatible with strollers?

Unfortunately, no. At this time, there aren’t any convertible car seats that are compatible with strollers. That is more of an infant feature. You can use a nice umbrella stroller with a shade cover, if you’re looking for something easy to transport that doesn’t take up much space.

5. How can I wash the car seat cushion when we are out of town?

It’s never easy to clean up when you don’t have your regular routine. Bring along some baby wipes (you probably are, anyway!) so that you can clean up the car seat from spills and accidents on the go, and later you can remove the padding and properly wash it when you have a chance. Another great thing to have on hand is Shout wipes , for added cleaning and stain removing power.

6. What are the car seat rules if we are traveling to another country?

Countries outside of the United States vary widely as far as car seat regulations go. Decisions on which type of seat you’ll need (if any at all) can depend on height, weight, or age. Double-check the laws of the specific country (or countries) you’re traveling to ahead of time, to make sure you have a compliant seat.

Finding the right travel car seat can be tricky. You’re looking for the perfect mix of comfort, portability, affordability, and safety. For flights that you want to use the seat on, it must be approved by the FAA for use in the cabin. So many things to consider! However, the list above has it narrowed down so that you can easily see the great features of seven top-rated travel car seats. At my house, we have the regular car seat installed in our car, with a travel seat in the garage that will go on one of our many adventures. Once you find the perfect one for your little guy or gal, you’ll never go on another trip without it!

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The 8 Best Travel Car Seats of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We rounded up the best travel-friendly car seats to keep your kids safe wherever you go.

travel toddler car seat

In This Article

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  • Our top picks
  • Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

  • Tips for Buying
  • Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Cassie Aulie

Traveling with children can be a gratifying and enriching experience, but family vacations are also challenging because of the extra items you need to pack (and carry), including a car seat, which adds quite a lot of bulk to your luggage. That's why we set out to find the most compact, travel-friendly, lightweight, and easy-to-install car seats on the market right now.

We combed through results and feedback from three different real-world car seat tests in which we tested a total of 57 car seats, looking specifically for portable, travel-friendly options. We rating each of our picks on several factors like design, features, ease of cleaning, value, and — most importantly — safety. Below, we rounded up eight of the best travel car seats to consider for your next family getaway.

Best Overall

Graco contender slim convertible car seat.

  • Design 4.7 /5
  • Ease of Installation 4.8 /5
  • Durability 5 /5
  • Safety 4.6 /5

It is an excellent fit for compact cars.

The chest buckle is large and bulky.

Lugging around a heavy car seat in addition to your luggage is not pleasant, but this car seat will make your life so much easier. Not only is it the lightest car seat on our list, but it is also the slimmest, making it an excellent choice for both compact and larger vehicles (or for larger families who need to fit more than one car seat in the backseat). Installation took us about 15 minutes, and then it was pretty intuitive to use. It has several inserts that help you customize it for your child, including an infant insert with extra padding, eight headrest heights, and two reclining positions.

It also has a removable cup for snacks and drinks that you can place on either side of the seat. And while we only had to spot-clean it, if you need to wash the entire cover, you can take it off and throw it in the washing machine. The fabric is breathable and has held up exceptionally well after over a month of use.

The Details: Weighs 16 pounds; holds 65 pounds | 24.75 x 18.9 x 21.5 inches | Rear and forward modes | Belt- and latch-compatible

Travel + Leisure

Best Rotating

Evenflo gold revolve360 convertible car seat.

  • Design 5 /5
  • Ease of Installation 5 /5
  • Safety 5 /5

It’s easy to install and rotates 360 degrees.

It would be nice if it had a built-in sunshade.

Four minutes: that's exactly how much time it took us to install this Evenflo car seat after watching the instructional video. It was an incredibly easy-to-follow process, and we found the audible click and level indicator super helpful. But the most impressive feature of this convertible car seat is its ability to rotate 360 degrees, which is a complete game-changer for parents (seriously, our team member who tested this car seat said it spoiled them into "never using a car seat that doesn't have this feature"). This means that the seat can transform into rear- or forward-facing in seconds without the need to uninstall the entire seat and base. Just pull one of the two levers on either side and start rotating it. This feature also makes it super convenient to place your child in the seat and buckle them because you no longer have to bend at an awkward angle. 

Comfort is also a standout feature, and the upholstery fabric of this car seat felt soft, breathable, and very high-quality (cleaning it is also a breeze). The overall padding of the car seat and the generous recline positions also contribute to a more comfortable trip. And finally, while this is not the lightest car seat at 40.6 pounds, its design is quite compact, and even if you install it in a smaller vehicle, you will be left with a good amount of legroom and recline space for the seat in front. 

Shoppers should also note that the Office of Vehicle Safety Compliance (OVSC) is currently evaluating this car seat .

The Details: Weighs 40.6 pounds; holds up to 120 pounds | 25.9 x 19.8 x 21 inches | Rear, forward, and booster modes | Belt- and latch-compatible

Best for Compact Cars

Diono radian 3rxt convertible car seat.

 Amazon

  • Design 4.8 /5
  • Ease of Installation 4.5 /5
  • Durability 4.9 /5

The seat folds, making it easy to carry.

The initial installation takes more time than some of the other options on this list.

When renting a large car is not always possible, this Diono car seat is the way to go. First, it's much easier to carry (and store) because of its slim, foldable design. And while the installation took us a while compared to others on this list (about 45 minutes to an hour), we found it to be a perfect match for a smaller vehicle similar to a Fiat 500. 

Second, buckling and unbuckling is super intuitive, and the straps never get tangled up. And even after a year of constant use, the fabric is in excellent condition with few signs of wear and tear other than some light fading. You can also remove the cover and machine-wash it, another very convenient feature. 

Third, we love that even though the seat is about 17 inches wide, it features additional padding and side protection without compromising comfort. Lastly, this car seat is also FAA-approved, so feel free to fly with it.

The Details: Weights 30.6 pounds; holds up to 120 pounds | 17 x 28.5 x 16 inches | Rear, forward, and booster modes | Latch

Best With Stroller

Doona car seat and stroller.

  • Assembly 4 /5
  • Portability 5 /5
  • Maneuverability 4.8 /5

The wheels fold up and attach to the seat.

There is no storage space, and you need to purchase the base separately. 

There is a reason the Doona car seat is a best-seller and an all-time parent favorite. It's all in the smart design that combines a car seat and a stroller in one compact product. Unlike other models, the wheels of this car seat collapse under it so you can latch it into its base (sold separately). Basically, you can bid adieu to lugging a stroller and a car seat. This is the ultimate travel-friendly stroller/car seat combo for infants and toddlers up to 35 pounds. We recommend you take your time to read the folding and unfolding instructions before you use it. It took us some time to figure out what each button was for and how to attach it to the base correctly, but it was smooth sailing once we got the hang of it.

The Doona is upholstered in a cooling bamboo fabric for added comfort, and it has a canopy for shade. The car seat also scored an almost perfect rating in our maneuverability category during testing — it was a breeze pushing it even with one hand. The brake was easy to engage and disengage, so this is the perfect option for a city vacation or a road trip that requires you to quickly transport your baby in and out of the car.

The Details: Weights 16.5 pounds; holds up to 35 pounds | 26 x 17.4 x 22.4 inches (folded) | Rear-facing | Latch and belt

Most Durable

Graco extend2fit 3-in-1 car seat.

  • Safety 4.8 /5

An extendable panel provides extra legroom.

The shoulder straps are difficult to adjust.

We tested this car seat for over two years, and it has held up exceptionally well against wear and tear, spills, and everything a toddler can (literally) throw at it. Graco makes some of the sturdiest, most durable car seats by focusing on quality and safety, and this is exactly why we included the Extend2Fit model in this list.

The car seat is easy to install (it took us about 20 minutes), and even if you're setting it up in a smaller vehicle, it leaves plenty of legroom and recline space. We appreciated the two deep cup holders that are perfect for holding sippy cups and snacks (and bonus points for how easy they are to clean). This car seat has a unique feature that accommodates growing kids — a retractable panel provides five extra inches of legroom, making it safer for taller infants and toddlers to ride in a rear-facing position.

The Details: Weighs 19 pounds; holds up to 65 pounds | 24.5 x 20.75 x 19 inches | Rear and forward modes | Latch

Most Comfortable

Safety 1st grow and go lx convertible car seat.

  • Ease of Installation 4 /5

You can use the footrest in both rear- and forward-facing positions.

 It is a bit tricky to install.

Looking for a car seat to keep your little one comfortable during long road trips? This one scored perfect ratings in almost all categories thanks to its easy use, design, durability, and overall value. Its size is generous (so it may not be a great fit for compact vehicles) and provides ample space for kids to grow into without compromising on padding and safety.

Safety 1st updated this model with a footrest that really impressed us because you can use it in rear-facing, forward-facing, and booster positions so your child's feet will not dangle for hours. We also love that the removable cups are dishwasher-safe and come with convenient lids to prevent messes (but in any case, the cover is removable and machine-washable). The car seat we tested still looks new, and the fabric seems spill-resistant.

The Details: Weighs 20 pounds; holds up to 100 pounds | 23.5 x 19 x 25 inches | Rear, forward, and booster modes | Latch and belt

Best for Multiple Age Groups

Graco 3-in-1 rotating car seat.

It is super easy to install and accommodates various age groups.

This rotating car seat works better in larger cars and may be a tight squeeze in smaller vehicles.

Your child should be all set for years to come with Graco's convertible car seat, which accommodates children up to 100 pounds. It rotates in a rear-facing position so you can get your baby in and out of it more easily. As for securing your child, the buckles are extremely easy to use, and the straps stay in sync — meaning that if you loosen one, the other will loosen automatically, too. And with four reclining positions, your child will be comfortable whether they are taking a nap, eating a snack, or playing.

We tested this car seat in a mid-size SUV, and it left plenty of reclining space for the seat in front. However, if you install it in a smaller vehicle, it might be a much tighter situation. And speaking of the installation, it only took us 17 minutes to read the instructions, watch the YouTube video, and install it. Finally, this seat grows with your child as it can accommodate kids weighing from four to 100 pounds. 

The Details: Weighs 30 pounds; holds up to 100 pounds | 19.1 x 24.4 x 20.8 inches | Rear, forward, and booster modes | Latch

Easiest Installation

Britax emblem 3-stage convertible car seat.

  • Design 4.5 /5
  • Safety 4 /5
  • Value 4.5 /5

This no-fuss car seat is quick to install, and it only weighs 19 pounds.

There are no extra features such as cup holders or sensors.

If you're in the market for a no-fuss, easy-to-use car seat, this is it. Installation is standard (although you will still have to read the instructions to do it), and once you've practiced a couple of times, you will be able to install it pretty fast in any vehicle. We tested it in a sedan and an SUV, and it fits well in both (although the SUV was a slightly better fit). Thanks to the excellent design, using it is a breeze. Buckling your child, adjusting the harness, and reclining is intuitive and stress-free, which is exactly what you need when you're on the road. And while it may not have many bells and whistles, it provides excellent padding, and the fabric is soft and pillowy without feeling scratchy. 

The Details: Weighs 19.5 pounds; holds up to 65 pounds | 21 x 18.3 x 26 inches | Rear and forward modes | Latch

Other Car Seats We Liked

We tested so many car seats that we think there are a few more worth mentioning, although we didn't love them quite as much as the others on our main list.

Baby Jogger City Sights Travel System: This stroller and car seat combo is a good option for parents looking for a two-in-one. The stroller is easy to maneuver and collapses into a pretty compact and travel-friendly size. The car seat has a weight capacity of 35 pounds, so it can only be used in a rear-facing position.

Nuna Rava Convertible Car Seat : This rear-facing car seat can accommodate children up to 50 pounds, which is impressive (however, keep in mind that the seat itself is almost 28 pounds). The straps and the buckles are very easy to use and don't get in the way when you place your child in and out of the seat.

We used results from three real-world tests in which we reviewed convertible car seats, rotating convertible car seats, and car seat stroller combos to find our favorite travel-friendly options. We sorted through feedback from 57 car seats we tested, looking at weight, size, and performance. Each car seat on our list was rated on a scale from one to five according to its performance in multiple categories, including ease of installation, ease of use, design, features, safety, value, and more.

We also consulted Ben Hoffman, MD, a pediatrician and nationally recognized expert in child injury prevention and education, to ensure the safety of the products we chose for real-life tests. In addition, every car seat meets the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) standards.

Tips for Buying a Travel Car Seat

Look for portability.

Portability is one of the major factors differentiating a standard car seat from one you'll mostly use while traveling. Consider its weight and size: opt for lighter and more compact car seats that you can carry without compromising safety features. Some car seats fold or feature collapsible stroller wheels — all features that come in handy when you're on the road or in transit. 

Consider ease of installation

When you're just getting off a long-haul flight and need to get in the car and drive for hours, the last thing you want is to waste time installing a car seat. That's why your travel car seat should be simple to install and use. Check if the vehicle you are setting it up in accommodates a latch or belt car seat, and make sure that yours can comfortably fit in the back seat of whatever size car you may be renting. Then, read through the installation instructions or watch the video, and make sure you don't need another adult to help you safely install it. 

Pay attention to your child's weight and height

Every car seat has strict weight and height limits to ensure your child's safety. Some might also have age restrictions, but they are not as important as children are different and grow at their own pace.Make sure you weigh and measure your child before purchasing a travel car seat. The good thing about convertible car seats is that you can use them in both rear- and forward-facing positions as your child grows so you don't have to invest in a new car seat every few years.

Some car seats come with travel bags with handles to make carrying easier. If yours doesn't have one, you can probably purchase it from the maker's website or find one that accommodates its size on Amazon. Certain bags even feature wheels to roll the car seat through the airport. If your car seat is oversized, you will be asked to check it in at the airport, so it's essential to place it in a protective bag and inspect it for damage as soon as you get it back.

Yes, but you must first ensure the car seat is FAA-approved (it will say so on the car seat). In fact, while using a car seat on a plane is not required, the FAA recommends it to ensure your little one's safety in case of turbulence, for example. If traveling on an international airline outside the U.S., check with that airline's policies, size limitations, and guidelines before your trip, as some international airlines do not allow car seats on board. Usually, using a booster seat during a flight is not an issue with airlines, and it doesn't count toward your carry-on luggage allowance.

The short answer is yes. Airlines will usually check in a car seat, stroller, or a child restraint system for free (one per child). However, the tricky part is that if you're not traveling with a child, you might have to pay to check in the car seat, so in this case, it's always best to contact the airline before your trip.

Most car rental companies offer car seats as an add-on for a fee, so if you don't want to invest in one or carry it with you, you can always rent one. U.S. car rental companies must offer car seats that comply with state and federal laws. However, if you're traveling internationally, the risk is that you don't know if the car seat has been stored and cleaned properly or if it’s ever been in an accident. It also means you have to install it yourself, which can be challenging and time-consuming if you're unfamiliar with that particular brand or car seat model. 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, Dobrina Zhekova worked with T+L editors to round up the safest and most comfortable travel car seats for kids of all ages from real-world tests. As a mother, she has also tested several car seats in the past five years and has extensive knowledge of airline policies and regulations about traveling with car seats. She also referenced customer reviews and expert recommendations in this article.

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travel toddler car seat

Travel Car Seat Mom

What’s the best travel car seat for a 2 year old? (2024 reviews)

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This article about the best travel car seat for a 2 year old is written by certified Child Passenger Safety Technician Melissa Conn and may contain affiliate links.

If you’re looking for the best travel car seat for a 2 year old, you’ve come to the right place! If you’re shopping for a child of a different age, check out the best travel car seats for all ages to get to the right list.

These days most kids ride around at home in huge convertible car seats at that age ( we’ve owned three of them! ), and they’re great for safety and comfort.

But for travel? Many families don’t want to lug a 25 pound car seat through the airport, hoist it over an entire row to get it installed in a tiny airplane window seat, navigate back through another airport and then lift it into a taxi or rental car. A better choice if you can swing it is to pick up one of the many travel car seats for 2 year olds on the market today.

Quick Picks: Best Travel Car Seat For A 2 Year Old

If you want to skip the details, here are my top picks for the best travel car seat for a 2 year old:

  • Cosco Scenera Next – best toddler car seat for families on a budget with average/shorter kids
  • Evenflo Sonus 65 – best balance of light weight, long-lasting, reasonable price and nice quality for everyday use ( also available at Albee Baby , Amazon and Target )
  • Graco Contender Slim / Graco Contender GO – somewhat lightweight car seat that allows rear facing well beyond 40″ (but only up to 40lbs) and has a closed belt path for comfortable forward facing
  • Wayb Pico – foldable forward-facing harnessed car seat perfect for long-term travel

Check out these full-featured, comfortable convertible car seats to use for long drives and at home

How to Choose the Best Travel Car Seat for a 2 Year Old

What do we look for in the best portable car seat for a 2 year old? In my experience, there are a few important priorities:

-It has to be light, ideally not more than ~10lbs

-It has to be easy to use

-Ideally it should last at least 3-4 years

Of course every family has unique needs. If your child is extremely tall for her age, you might want to choose taller car seat even at the expense of a few extra pounds. If your travels involve a long flight and a long drive, look for comfort features like padding and cup holders to keep your youngest passengers happy.

Portable Car Seat For A 2 Year Old Comparison

Remember, the best travel car seat for toddler explorers will depend on their heights and weights – there’s no “one size fits all” solution.

Still researching? Pin this for later!

Collage of 5 best travel car seat for 2 year old: blue Evenflo Sonus, gray Wayb Pico, gray Cosco Mighty Fit 65, red Cosco Scenera Next DLX. Text in center: "5 fantastic travel car seats for your 2 year old"

Want to know all my best secrets? Click here to learn how to travel with your car seat like a pro!

Best travel car seats for 2 year olds

The NHTSA recommends that children remain rear-facing until around 3, and many safety advocates urge parents to keep their kids rear-facing until closer to 4. Some of the travel convertible car seats on this list will keep every kid rear-facing until at least 4 years old, but if you have a very tall kid you may want to skip over the first few options as they’re better suited to small or average 2 year olds.

What to look for in your travel car seat

In the summaries below you’ll see that I’ve listed “shell height” and “max harness height”. What do these mean and why are they important when you’re looking at a portable car seat for a 2 year old globetrotter?

Shell height is the distance from the bottom of the seat to the top above the child’s head and it’s important for rear-facing . Most car seats require that kids have at least 1″ of shell height above the top of their heads to rear face. Harness height isn’t as much of an issue for rear-facing because the straps should always come from below your kid’s shoulders.

Max harness height comes into play for forward-facing . It’s the distance from the bottom of the seat to the highest setting for the harness. Since your child’s shoulders should always be below the harness when forward-facing, the max harness height is often the limiting factor for outgrowing a seat forward-facing. Shell height also matters in that usually the tops of the ears should be contained within the shell (it’s ok if the top of the head pokes out a bit), but that isn’t usually the limiting factor.

The other weight, height and age limits are pretty self-explanatory. Manufacturers (rightly?) assume that your kid is wearing clothes and even shoes in their car seat, so you can factor those in for weight.

Cosco Scenera Next DLX review

travel toddler car seat

Key stats: -Weight 7lbs -Shell height 23” -Max harness height 13.5” -Rear-facing size limits 5-40lbs, 19-40” -Forward-facing size limits 22-40lbs, 29-43″

Pros: ✔ Compact ✔ Lightest convertible car seat ✔ Low price

Cons: ✘ Low size limits ✘ Hard to install in some cars ✘ Limited padding for patterned covers ✘ No extra protection in headwings ✘ Requires top tether for forward-facing

The most popular convertible car seat for travel is the Cosco Scenera Next DLX . What makes it so insanely popular? It’s as easy on the scale as it is on the wallet! The Cosco Scenera Next is the lightest convertible car seat and the cheapest convertible car seat as well, making it an ideal toddler travel car seat.

Just how light is it? It would be no problem to carry on your back in a car seat backpack like this one , and some parents even use these hooks to hang it from the back of the stroller as they walk through the airport. 

It’s good to know that the top harness slots are just 13.5” high, so some kids will outgrow the Scenera Next forward-facing even while they still have another year or two rear-facing. Remember, when your kid is forward-facing the straps need to come from above their shoulders. For rear facing, short shell means that very few kids will get to 40″ with the required 1″ above their heads. This isn’t an issue when choosing a car seat for a 1 year old, but just something to keep in mind as you consider the seat’s longevity. It’s a fine travel car seat for a toddler who’s on the short side.

I do hesitate to recommend the Scenera Next as a car seat for 2.5 year old kids who are average or taller, as they will probably get just 6 months of use from it… or may have already outgrown it completely!

Our extremely petite kids were able to rear-face in the Scenera Next until almost 4yo (which is very unusual). However, it wasn’t necessarily a comfortable seat at that age. The crotch strap that comes with the seat is extremely short – like, newborn short. They will send you a longer one for free if you provide the serial number, so make sure you reach out to them the minute your seat arrives if you have a trip coming up. 

travel toddler car seat

It’s an excellent portable car seat for city trips because many parents are able to attach it to various lightweight travel strollers thanks to its compact shell and light weight. The Mountain Buggy Nano has a car seat strap built in, making the Scenera + Nano a very popular combination. Be sure to get 20% off with the monthly rotating coupon code (for example, APR20 in April).

The Cosco Scenera Next fills an important niche as an affordable seat that travels fairly well and keeps kids rear-facing until at least 2yo. Why don’t I love it? We found it very challenging to get a truly tight installation (especially on leather seats) and the patterned version of the seat that we got has absolutely no padding. Babies may not notice or complain but our preschooler was clear that it wasn’t the seat for him!

There’s now a DLX version that comes in solid colors but has more padding, so if you opt for the Cosco Scenera Next be sure to pick up that one even though it costs a few dollars more. Even better, Cosco now offers the Cosco Scenera Deluxe convertible car seat . They’ve basically taken the Cosco Scenera DLX and added a head pillow, lower back pad and strap covers. These are good changes that will appeal to many parents who don’t like the idea of their precious cargo riding in such an unpadded seat. I’m sure that my kid who complained about his original (non-DLX) Cosco Scenera Next would have been pleased!

Another version available for 2023 is the Maxi-Cosi Romi . It uses the Cosco Scenera Next shell but adds Maxi-Cosi’s flame retardant free PureCosi cover in addition to a head pillow and harness covers. Be sure to grab the monthly coupon (three letter month and 20, like APR20 for April) to save 20% . That puts the price tag around $100 for this version, plus you’ll accumulate valuable rewards towards future purchases.

Despite its short shell, the Scenera may still need to be installed more upright than technically allowed on many planes. That’s ok with older infants and toddlers, but not for very young babies without head and neck control. We always found it easier to travel with an infant car seat as long as the kids fit.

If you’re traveling internationally, make sure you bring a locking clip . Cars in many other countries may not have locking seatbelts like the ones in the US; they lock in an emergency, but you can’t manually lock them by pulling all the way out. You should be able to use LATCH in cars where available, but if the seating position you want to use doesn’t have LATCH or it’s an older car without LATCH then you will need a locking clip.  Grab a locking clip here – it’s cheap and doesn’t take up any space!

As with all of Cosco’s seats, they now require use of the top tether when forward facing in the car. It’s great for safety, but you may not find one when you’re traveling outside of the US, Canada, EU, Australia and New Zealand (or if you’re in an older car in one of those places). If you come across that situation, you’ll have to make a judgement call on whether or not to install your car seat against the manufacturer’s directions.

Cosco Onlook review/Safety 1st Getaway review

travel toddler car seat

Key stats: -Weight 8lbs -Shell height 24” -Max harness height 16” -Rear-facing size limits 5-40lbs, 19-40” -Forward-facing size limits 22-40lbs, 29-43” (the 43” limit may not be realistic depending on how long your child’s torso is)

Pros: ✔ Low price ✔ Compact front-to-back when installed more upright

Cons: ✘ Same size limits as Scenera but more expensive ✘ Extremely wide near the head ✘ Hard to install in some cars ✘ Limited padding for patterned covers ✘ No extra protection in headwings ✘ Requires top tether for forward-facing

Around the same time that Cosco ditched the old Scenera model in favor of the Cosco Scenera Next and Cosco Scenera Next DLX, they also refreshed the slightly larger Cosco Apt in favor of the Cosco Apt 50 convertible car seat. In mid-2022, they dropped the Apt 50’s weight limit back down to 40lbs and slapped two new names on it: the Cosco Onlook and the Safety 1st Getaway .

I’ll be totally honest: I don’t quite understand why Dorel is making both of those seats and the Cosco Mighty Fit 65 (which has been around for years as the Safety 1st Guide 65 – more info below) especially with the lower weight limit of the new Onlook. There’s a lot of overlap between the three Cosco convertible car seat options, so if you’re considering one of them it’s worth considering the others as well to make sure you’re choosing the one that best suits your needs.

The Cosco Onlook is much the same as its younger sibling, the Cosco Scenera Next. It’s one of the lightest weight convertible car seat options, well-priced and gets the job done with minimal frills. The shell height is similar to the Scenera Next so it won’t buy you any extra time rear-facing, but thanks to the higher harness height, skinny kids kids can comfortably forward face in the Cosco Onlook until at least 4 years old. It’s a solid choice if you want a convertible car seat for a 2 year old for travel that allows for extended rear facing but you don’t have a big budget.

travel toddler car seat

One of the biggest drawbacks of the Onlook over the Scenera Next is that it’s extremely wide near the top – several inches wider! It’s not your best choice if you’re trying to fit three-across in a tiny European rental car. It also needs to be very reclined for kids under 22lbs, so might be a tight squeeze if you’re trying to rear-face on a plane with a baby. And if you’re flying overseas, be sure to bring a locking clip just in case.

As with all Cosco carseat options, they now require use of the top tether. It’s great for safety, but you may not find one when you’re traveling outside of the US, Canada, EU, Australia and New Zealand (or if you’re in an older car in one of those places). If you come across that situation, you’ll have to make a judgement call on whether or not to install your car seat against the manufacturer’s directions.

Get a closer look at the differences between the Cosco travel car seats here .

Baby Trend Trooper review

travel toddler car seat

Key stats: -Weight 10lbs -Shell height 24” -Max harness height 16.5” -Rear-facing size limits 4-40lbs -Forward-facing size limits 23-65lbs, up to 50”

Pros: ✔ First from preemie to elementary school ✔ Extremely narrow convertible car seat ✔ Built in cup holder ✔ Very clear labeling on car seat and inserts

Cons: ✘ Very steep recline under 22lbs ✘ Doesn’t last as long as the Evenflo Sureride ✘ Requires top tether for forward-facing

Baby Trend has a newer offering in the compact car seat space and she’s got a lot to offer for traveling parents! The Baby Trend Trooper convertible car seat (be sure to check prices here too ) ticks many boxes for traveling families.

What’s so great? For starters, it’s very lightweight at just 10 lbs and extremely narrow. It’s even a hair narrower than the Cosco Scenera Next. But unlike the Scenera, the Baby Trend Trooper will fit most kids until until around age 6. The price tag is higher, but you’ll get about double the use from it! The Trooper also has a few different padding configurations available (some with weight limits, some totally optional) including a body pillow, a head pillow and harness pads.

I don’t really recommend the Baby Trend Trooper for families traveling with a child under 23lbs. The car seat will fit your baby well, but the steep recline required will take up a ton of space. It’s much more compact once your child reaches 23 lbs (around 18 months on average).

The Trooper won’t last quite as long as the Evenflo Sonus 65 (below) for forward-facing, but the more compact shape could make that trade off worth it for many families. This is the best travel carseat for families who need to fit 3-across on a budget, with the added benefit that they’ll only have to learn the rules for a single seat.

It may seem like a small detail, but I appreciate Baby Trend’s attention to labeling and instructions on this seat. In a world where the vast majority of car seats are misused , clear labels make such a difference. Baby Trend tells you the weight limit for the insert right there on it. The special harness routing for newborns is labeled on the seat. The harness has stripes to let you know it’s laying flat with no twists. There’s a big picture of an airplane on the side of the seat to show flight attendants, rather than searching for obscure red lettering.

The manual itself is useful. Truly! There’s a page with clear cleaning instructions for each part. There’s another page that lays out the rules for various padding that comes with the seat. There’s a quick safety checklist for parents to review. The manual is full of easy-to-digest information to help parents use their car seat correctly. Be sure to read it for the seat’s many adjustments. There’s even a QR code to scan that gives direct access to installation videos.

Safety 1st Guide 65/Cosco Mighty Fit 65 review

travel toddler car seat

Key stats: -Weight 11lbs -Shell height 24” -Max harness height 17” -Rear-facing size limits 5-40lbs, 19-40” -Forward-facing size limits 22-65lbs, 29-49”

Pros: ✔ First from infancy to elementary school ✔ Somewhat narrow convertible car seat

Cons: ✘ Tall shell won’t fit well rear-facing in compact cars and economy airplane seats ✘ Doesn’t last as long as the Evenflo Sureride ✘ Won’t fit newborns well ✘ Requires top tether for forward-facing

This portable car seat has been around for a long time but has gained in popularity thanks to fresh branding. Dorel has now added its well-respected Safety 1st Guide 65 to the popular Cosco toddler car seat lineup as a longer-lasting convertible carseat option, renaming it the Cosco Mighty Fit 65 DLX. As with other Cosco car seats, you may find the best price at Walmart . I’ve had an opportunity to work with the DLX version specifically, and it offers nice padding for kid comfort.

The Guide 65 has proven its worth as a travel carseat for many years and continues to work well for many families. It’ll last rear-facing kids until a safe age for forward-facing, and then for a few years beyond until they’re ready for our favorite travel booster seats . It’s tall enough, but not the tallest seat around. But since you’re shopping for a portable car seat for a 2 year old, this one should have plenty of longevity for your family.

One of the biggest downsides of the Cosco Mighty Fit 65 is that the steep recline needed for kids under 22lbs is tough to achieve without using a pool noodle or rolled towel – which is not the kind of gear we prefer to travel with. It sort of defeats the simplicity of bringing a compact, lightweight car seat! At age 2, this generally won’t be a concern but keep it in mind if you plan to pass it down to a younger sibling.

The other issue worth considering for international travel is that the Mighty Fit 65 requires you to use the top tether when installing forward-facing. The top tether’s job is to decrease head movement – and that’s a good thing with any travel toddler car seat. But in some countries in Asia, Africa, Central and South America and even Eastern Europe you won’t find a top tether is many cars. At that point you’d have to make a judgement call about how to install the seat when you can’t follow the manufacturer’s rules.

It’s also worth knowing that you can only use LATCH to install the Mighty Fit 65 until 40 pounds. After that, you’ll have to install with a seatbelt – both options are just as safe, but for travel overseas I recommend bringing a locking clip and knowing how to use it in case you encounter a car with seatbelts that don’t lock.

Evenflo Sonus 65 review

travel toddler car seat

Key stats: -Weight 11lbs -Shell height 25” -Max harness height 18” -Rear-facing size limits 5-40lbs, 19-40” -Forward-facing size limits 22-65lbs, 28-50”

Pros: ✔ Generous size limits ✔ More comfort features than other travel car seats ✔ Nice enough to use as an everyday car seat ✔ Somewhat narrow convertible car seat

Cons: ✘ Requires top tether , which may not be available in all countries ✘ Heavier than Cosco Scenera Next and Cosco Apt 50 ✘ More expensive than Cosco car seats ✘ Can be a tight squeeze front-to-back when rear-facing on some airlines with limited seat pitch ✘ 6 year expiration

The Evenflo Sonus 65 is a replacement for Evenflo’s older introductory-level lightweight car seat, the Evenflo Tribute LX (which won’t seem to die). We’ve had several well-loved Evenflo car seats over the years so we’re glad to see they’re offering a great option for younger travelers now!

The Evenflo Sonus 65 is a great choice for a lightweight car seat for travel thanks to its more generous size limits combined with light weight. Most kids will make it to their fourth birthday rear-facing in this traveling car seat. This is one of the best travel convertible car seat options to come on the market in the last few years.

It offers reasonable padding for kid comfort (unlike some other bargain models) and gives kids built-in cup holders to boot so many families use this as an everyday lightweight toddler car seat. The Sonus 65 not only has a higher forward-facing weight limit (65 pounds vs 50 pounds) than the regular Sonus, but it also adds a recline wedge to get the correct angle without needing a pool noodle or rolled towel.

The Evenflo Sonus has 18″ top harness slots, so it will last kids for many years. If you buy it as a 2 years old car seat, it represents great value for years of use!

The Evenflo Sonus 65 is an FAA-approved car seat (just like pretty much every American car seat out there) and can be installed either rear-facing or forward-facing on a plane. It even has a two-position recline wedge to help you get the correct angle in both planes and cars. This is one of the best travel car seats for toddlers in 2023.

travel toddler car seat

If you mostly fly on airlines with limited seat pitch (the space between the seats) it may be a tight fit to install the Sonus 65 rear facing. If your child is old enough and big enough, you can consider forward facing for your flight and then rear facing again in the car. Even better, it’s low-profile enough that your child will be able to use the tray table on many airlines!

Those beefy, extra-protective headwings make the top of the seat somewhat wide, so it may be tough to position the Sonus 3-across next to another car seat facing the same direction.

PSA: I’ve read that the seat comes with the LATCH strap set up to install forward-facing. If you want to install rear-facing, be sure to switch it. Read the manual and do it before your trip because it can be tricky!

Graco Contender Slim / Graco Contender GO review

travel toddler car seat

Key stats: -Weight 15lbs -Shell height 27” -Max harness height 18” -Rear-facing size limits 5-40lbs -Forward-facing size limits 22-65lbs, under 49″

Pros: ✔ Fits from newborn to elementary school ✔ “Closed” belt path means no buckle in the back when forward facing on a plane ✔ Easy to install with either LATCH or seatbelt ✔ Allows rear facing past 40″ (as long as there’s 1″ of head room) ✔ Newer version is narrower near the legs so it fits better on airplanes

Cons: ✘ Tall shell won’t fit well rear-facing in compact cars and economy airplane seats

What’s a 15 pound monster doing in the middle of a list of featherweights? If you want to keep rear facing a tall child or have a child who will be forward-facing on a plane now or in the near future, the Graco Contender Slim (or its twin, the Graco Contender GO ) deserves at least a moment of consideration. These are the same seat except that the GO comes with two removable cup holders to lose instead of one. I recommend buying whichever is cheaper!

Unlike nearly every lightweight car seat, the Graco Contender does not have a 40″ standing height limit for rear facing. That means you can keep your tall, lanky kid rear facing longer in the car (even if they forward face on the plane – it may be a little big to rear face on the plane due to its recline). It’s a really long-lasting option for a 2 year old car seat.

The 40lbs rear facing weight limit makes this one of the best car seats for toddlers age 2 and up, as kids will be able to rear face until age 4 on average (or longer if they’re skinny). Once forward facing it should last kids until around 6 years old.

The Contender has a really neat trick up its sleeve for flights. Unlike most other lightweight car seats, it has a “closed belt path” for forward facing. What is a closed belt path? It means there’s a panel separating your child’s back from the airplane seat belt buckle. Having flown long-haul with kids forward-facing in other car seat, I can tell you that’s a big deal for their comfort.

The other nice feature for forward facing on planes is that there’s plenty of natural recline to the seat while many others are extremely upright. Double-win for in-flight comfort! Unfortunately that reclined position means your child wouldn’t be able to use the tray table so you’ll need to evaluate how important that is for you. Like some other tall, reclined seats it’s also not ideal for flying with an infant as you may not be able to recline it as much as you need to.

It also has all the other great features of a full-sized car seat: ample padding, a cup holder, easy installation. You could certainly use this as your everyday seat for many years.

The major downside compared to other options on this list is just the size. Getting it through the airport won’t be as easy as with a lighter car seat. One of these would definitely come in handy!

Century Drive On review

travel toddler car seat

Key stats: -Weight 14lbs -Max harness height 16” -Rear-facing size limits 5-40lbs -Forward-facing size limits 22-65lbs, under 49″ -High back booster size limits 40-100lbs, 43-57″, age 4+

Pros: ✔ Fits from newborn to early booster years ✔ Good fit in all modes ✔ Light enough for travel ✔ Simple to install ✔ Works with inflatable seatbelts ✔ Fun colors

Cons: ✘ Recline line must be parallel to the ground, requiring a rolled towel in some cars ✘ 40lb rear facing limit won’t get big kids to 4 years old ✘ Low top harness slots so not ideal for tall/long torso kids

If you have an average to petite child and only want to buy one travel car seat ever , it’s time to read up on the new Century Drive On . It’s the lightest all-in-one car seat (more accurately called a “multi-mode car seat”) and offers a simple solution for both home and away. You may never have heard of the Century brand, but the name has been around for decades and was recently revived by Graco’s parent company to product a line of budget-friendly seats.

The Drive On gives plenty to love with just a few downsides. There will always be trade offs, but for some families it’ll be a wonderful choice. The first reason why I recommend the Century Drive On is that the fit has been great on every kiddo I’ve seen in it, from newborn to late preschool/early elementary school.

Second, the installation is very straight-forward with no major quirks to report. It’s simple and it works. If you’re short on storage space, it’s nice to just have one travel seat kicking around your house (or even installed in a secondary car) rather than keeping a parade of shorter-lived seats around.

Speaking of short-lived, there’s the rub with the Century Drive On… while average/petite kiddos or those with short torsos will be able to use this seat until as old as 8 years old (once in booster mode), tall kids need not apply. The rear facing mode is nice because it doesn’t have a standing height limit vs the 40″ rear facing limit for many travel car seats for 2 year olds, but the tallest harness slot for forward facing just isn’t that tall.

The earliest kids have the maturity to use a booster seat is typically 5, but some kids do best in a harness until 6 or even 7. If they happen to be tall and need more time harnessed, the Drive On may fall short.

The other annoyance with the Drive On in some vehicles is that the recline line is supposed to be parallel to the ground at all times when rear facing, no matter how old your kiddo is. This is probably a rule to save money on testing by just allowing a single recline, but the included adjustable recline foot might not be enough in cars with extremely sloped seats. Some people overcome this with an 11″ piece of pool noodle while others use a rolled towel to prop it up. This method can also be very effective.

It’s also worth noting that the Century Drive On comes in a neutral gray, a beautiful blue and a cheerful pink. Not that color should be a determining factor in a car seat it’s nice to see a little variety now and then! The covers are all made from recycled plastic but feel nice and soft.

Wayb Pico review

travel toddler car seat

Key stats: -Weight 8lbs -Max harness height 16.5″ -Forward-facing size limits: 22-50lbs, 30-45″, recommended 2+ years old minimum

Pros: ✔ Compact ✔ Easy to install ✔ Keeps kids harnessed ✔ FAA-approved to use on flights ✔ Can install without top tether ✔ Narrowest car seat on the market

Cons: ✘ High price ✘ Low height limit ✘ Crotch strap too short for some kids ✘ Top tether strap too short for some cars (can request an extension)

One of the coolest kid travel products we’ve seen in a loooong time is the new Wayb Pico and might be the ultimate portable toddler car seat. It was hard to miss as they plastered their Indiegogo campaign all over Facebook in 2018! The promise? An ultra-light, ultra-compact folding car seat with 5-point harness. Families would be able to travel with world without compromising safety.

In many ways their promise has panned out. For certain families the Pico is the perfect solution to a really tough question, while for others it isn’t the right fit. Read our in-depth expert Wayb Pico review here .

I’ll start with the advantages: the Wayb Pico is small and easy to use. The weight is about the same as the Cosco Scenera Next, but the genius is in how small it folds up (and even packs into its own backpack!) so that you can lug it around and have it when you need it for spur-of-the-moment taxi rides. It’s the only foldable car seat for 2 year old travelers today.

travel toddler car seat

The concept of a folding forward-facing harnessed car seat isn’t new. They’ve actually been made for years , including the current car seat used by Uber Family. The downside of prior seats is that they required use of a top tether. Without it, the seats don’t stay upright! If you’re traveling within the US, Canada or Western Europe that’s no problem.

But if you plan to venture outside those areas you may have an extremely hard time using those car seats. We’ve encountered so many cars in South America, Morocco, Thailand and more that don’t have top tethers – rendering seats like the IMMI Go completely useless. While you’d ideally use the top tether all the time with the Wayb Pico, at least you have the option to use it without the top tether if absolutely necessary.

Travel Car Seat Mom - A little girl sitting in a car seat holding a toy, using the best travel car seat for a 2 year old.

The major disadvantage of the Wayb Pico is that the 45″ upper height limit and 16.5″ harness slots aren’t high enough for some families. You can see that my petite 2 year old model has lots of growing room, but her 5.5 year old brother has basically outgrown it. If you’re buying it at 2 years old that’s a few years of good usage (and more if you can pass it down to a younger sibling), especially for frequent travelers.

If you’re a family that prioritizes extended rear-facing and then you want an extended forward-facing harness, this isn’t the car seat for you! But if you’ll be doing a ton of traveling with a 2 or 3 year old (like our family gap year) then the Wayb Pico is the best lightweight car seat for a 2 year old to keep your kid safe without lugging a full-size car seat. On the small end, the Pico is approved for kids at least 1 year old – but that’s not recommended, and in some places (like California and New York ) it’s not even legal.

I’d be more likely to make the shift to a product like the Pico at that young age if you’re going to be traveling long-term or doing tons of moving around with trains, taxis etc. For “normal” vacations once or twice per year, keeping your 2 year old rear-facing and then moving to the Wayb Pico at age 3 is a great choice.

Finally, the price tag of the Pico may be tough for some families to swallow.

Is the Wayb Pico right for everyone? No. But if your family is going on an extended trip or relying on lots of taxis in your daily life and a folding travel car seat is on your must-have list, you need to give the Wayb Pico a serious look!

Car seat for two year old toddlers FAQs

The right car seat for 2 years old is typically a rear-facing convertible car seat. While it’s legal in many states for kids to forward face after their first or second birthdays, kids are much safer from serious neck and spine injuries if they stay rear facing longer. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends keeping your child rear facing until he or she reaches the limits of the seat, and today many kids ride rear facing until 4 or 5 years old!

The best car seat is the one that fits your child, fits your car, fits your family’s budget and that you can use correctly 100% of the time. Choosing a convertible car seat can get tricky if you need to fit kids 3-across, have limited front-to-back space, or have very tall kids – it’s important to do your research. The best car seats for two year old toddlers will be different for every situation.

There’s no way for anyone other than manufacturers to say what is the safest car seat for a 2 year old. All car seats in the US pass the same Federal testing, but nearly all manufacturers keep the quantitative results private. There’s no Federal standard for roll over or side impact testing, so any of those claims aren’t especially meaningful. So we can’t say for sure that one seat is safer than another. When used properly to their maximum rear-facing limits , they’ll all keep your child safe in the vast majority of accidents. However, some seats offer additional safety features that probably do help including anti-rebound bars, load legs, extra side impact protection and more. If you’re interested in car seats for toddlers with those extra features, consider: – Clek Foonf – Britax One4Life – Nuna Rava – Diono Radian 3QXT

“Toddler car seat” isn’t a technical term. Car seats for toddlers can include convertible car seats and combination car seats (forward facing car seats that transition to booster). Since it’s safest to keep your child rear-facing until as close to 4 as possible or even older, you’ll want to make sure to buy a convertible car seat for a 2 year old. Most babies outgrow their infant car seats between 12 and 18 months and then transition to a convertible car seat. There are some convertible car seats that are outgrown by 3-4 years old, but most on the market today will accommodate kids until 6 years old (or even longer).

No way. A 2 year old’s body, no matter how big, has 2 year old bones inside. Those bones aren’t strong enough to withstand crash forces in a booster seat. And since a seatbelt only works (for older passengers) when it’s positioned correctly, a booster seat isn’t a safe choice until a child is mature enough to sit correctly 100% of the time. The minimum safe age for a booster seat is 5, but many kids aren’t mature enough for a booster seat until 6 or even 7 years old. (A note on terminology: some parents may search for a “booster seat for 2 year old children” when what they’re really looking for is a combination car seat – sometimes called a harnessed booster. While it’s ideal for kids to stay rear facing beyond 2, if you decide to switch at that age this harnessed booster seat is a solid choice that will see you through the years.)

What’s your favorite travel car seat for a 2 year old? Tell us in the comments below!

3 thoughts on “What’s the best travel car seat for a 2 year old? (2024 reviews)”

First off, thank you for the detailed post! I am a bit confused by one thing. Seats that require a top tether for forward facing, are those allowed/safe for airplanes? I assume there is not a tether on airplanes. Thanks!

US seats can be installed on a plane regardless of whether or not the top tether is required in a car 🙂

Safe travels,

Great post! Are any of these car seats capable of fitting in an economy seat rear facing? We purchased the COSCO scenera next and it did not fit rear facing on our recent American Airlines flight. Thank you!

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Anna Everywhere

Best Travel Car Seats for Toddlers

Best Travel Car Seats for Toddlers

If you’re like most parents, you want to keep your toddler safe during your travels. But what’s the best way to do that? A travel car seat , of course! With so many options on the market, how do you know which one is right for your child and convenient to use for travel as well? 

For parents with toddlers, choosing a car seat is all about finding the right balance of safety and convenience. You want a seat that will keep your little one safe in the event of an accident, but you also don’t want something that’s so bulky and heavy that it’s a pain to travel with.

Fortunately, there are plenty of great options out there for parents looking for the best travel car seat for their toddler. I’ll help you choose the right one for your needs as we travel with babies and toddlers all the time. We tried and used all these car seats!

travel toddler car seat

Do you actually need to bring a car seat where you’re going?

Many parents automatically assume that they need a car seat to travel, but it’s not always the case – it depends on the destination and your plans.

For example, if you’re heading to Europe you might not need a car seat because public transport is better than taxis. Or if you think you need a car seat to get from the airport to your resort in Mexico you might simply ask for pre-booked transport with a car seat already installed when you get off your flight.

We survived many trips without a car seat, because we used public transportation a lot and if needed ordered a taxi with a car seat. This saved us a LOT of hassle on various occasions.

I’m not going to lie – we also had situations in which we dragged a car seat to a destination only to discover that it won’t work because it requires a top tether and many cars abroad don’t have it.

Do I Need a Car Seat to Fly with a 2 year old?

Absolutely not! Child safety seats are not required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) .

While both the FAA and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) strongly encourage the use of a car seat or other child restraint system when flying, keep in mind that while you can install a car seat on the plane if you’re flying on US airlines (and if your child is under 2 you book a seat for them), it’s not always the case for non-US airplanes.

Many airlines prohibit the use of car seats on board at all or only allow front-facing ones , or allow them only if they’re under certain width (which often means Doona is NOT allowed).

travel toddler car seat

The Different Types of Travel Car Seats

You want to consider the type of car seat you want. There are four main types of car seats:

  • Rear-facing car seats

These are the safest option for young children, as they protect the child’s head and neck in the event of a collision. However, they can be bulky and difficult to install, so they’re not always the most convenient option for traveling.

  • Forward-facing car seats

These seats are less safe than rear-facing seats for younger children, but they’re easier to install and use. They’re a good option for older toddlers who have outgrown their rear-facing seats.

  • Booster seats

These seats are for children who have outgrown their forward-facing seats but are still too small to use a regular seat belt. Booster seats raise the child up so that the seat belt fits properly. Rules to use a booster vary per country – the age is usually 3 or 4 years.

  • Convertible car seats

A convertible car seat can be used in both rear- and forward-facing positions. This makes them a great option for parents who want to keep their child in a rear-facing position for as long as possible.

The Best Travel Car Seats for Toddlers

I didn’t include various car seats, simply because they’re either too bulky, too tall to use on airplaces, or require top teether which isn’t available in many countries.

For example, I owned or tried some popular travel car seats choices like Graco Extend 2 Fit , Safety 1st Guide 65 , and Tribute LX 5 and I would never recommend them for travel (they don’t fit many planes and cars).

Personally, I’ve also tried the most popular Doona car seat stroller and I don’t recommend it. On top of the fact that both my kids were uncomfortably too tall for it before they even became toddlers.

WayB Pico Travel Car Seat (Most Portable-$$$ )

The WayBPico is one of the lightest and smallest child car seats available, making it ideal for traveling. It fits in the overhead bin, so you don’t need to gate check it and risk damage (also a must when you’re flying on standby with multiple kids!)

Its tiny stature makes it simple to fit in a variety of automobiles. The harness system is simple to adjust, and the seat can be easily removed from the base for cleaning or storage. The design of this seat appears to provide better air circulation than other vehicle seats.

  • for kids 1+
  • front facing
  • 22-50 lbs and 30-45″
  • width of the seat is 14.75″
  • weight of the seat is only 8 lbs

travel toddler car seat

PROS: ✔ Compact to fit in an overhead bin ✔ Easy to install ✔ FAA-approved to use on flights ✔ Works without the top tether

CONS: ✘ Expensive ✘ Low height limit ✘ Crotch strap too short for some kids

travel toddler car seat

Nachfolger HY5 Foldable Car Seat (Best Travel Car Seat for Europe – $$$)

One of the best rear-facing car seats on the market. It’s not officially sold in the US, but they can ship the seat to the US. When people ask what’s the best travel car seat for small children anywhere BUT the US I’ll say Nachfolger !

This car seat is inflatable so folds super small when not in use, but yet it’s super comfortable for the child and even comes with foldable toy storage. The patented folding mechanism with a quick-release button and Highend Accu pump makes it easy to use. The intelligent two-color LED warning system indicates when the seat is ready to use. It’s a true German standard!

When you are not using it, you can easily fold it and store it in the included carrying case. The headrest is height-adjustable and has two shoulder belt positions. The easily removable seat cover can be machine-washed.

Their recent innovation allows using it with or without the top teeter, which is great for buses or bigger vehicles.

  • good from birth
  • rear facing
  • up to 39 lbs
  • width of the seat is 16″
  • weight of the seat is only 11 lbs

travel toddler car seat

Cosco Scenera Next Convertible Car Seat (Best Budget Option – $)

The Cosco Scenera Next is a great choice for parents who are looking for a budget-friendly car seat

The Cosco Scenera Next is a lightweight and portable car seat that is easy to install and store

  • can be used as a rear-facing car seat for children 5-40 lbs & forward-facing car seat for children 22-40 lbs.
  • width of the seat is 16.5″
  • weight of the seat is 8.6 lbs

travel toddler car seat

PROS: ✔ Compact & lightweight ✔ Can be used from birth ✔ Low price

CONS: ✘ Low size limits ✘ Hard to install in some cars ✘ Limited padding for patterned covers ✘ No extra side protection ✘  Requires top tether for forward-facing

BubbleBum Booster Seat (Best Booster Seat – $$)

The BubbleBum is the best and most portable booster seat on the market as it deflates and inflates easily within seconds. It’s perfect for car rentals, taxis, vacations, and carpooling.

It can fit between two regular car seats in the middle seat in most cars. I recommend it for city trips where you won’t be renting a car for extended periods of time as you are not supposed to leave this seat inflated for a long period of time in a car.

Another similar seat that inflated is hiccapop and the two are fairly similar so you can pick whichever colors your child prefers.

  • for kids 4+ who are 40-100 lbs and 38-57″
  • booster only
  • weight of the seat is 1 lbs

travel toddler car seat

PROS: ✔ Compact & lightweight ✔ Affordable ✔ Legal all over the world!

CONS: ✘ Not super comfy on long rides ✘ Only for older kids ✘ Can’t be left inflated in a car

travel toddler car seat

mifold – the Grab-and-Go Car Booster Seat (Most Compact Booster- $$)

  The mifold is the most compact and portable booster seat on the market. It can easily fit in a backpack, glove compartment, or pocket.

It can be easily adjusted to fit your child’s height and weight and the seatbelt guides make it easy to correctly position the seat belt on your child.

Keep in mind that the seatbelt in mifold is only effective if your kid uses it correctly 100% of the time. You need to trust your child to comply. I personally think BubbleBum is a better option.

  • width of the seat is 11″
  • weight of the seat is 2 lbs

travel toddler car seat

PROS: ✔ Compact & lightweight ✔ Affordable ✔ Unlike any other on the list it’s legal all over the world!

CONS: ✘ Flipsy ✘ Requires trust that kids won’t get out of it ✘ No side protection

travel toddler car seat

How to Install a Travel Car Seat

Most car seats come with detailed instructions on how to install them, but you need to know how to install the car seat quickly. The last thing you want is being stuck somewhere after a long journey dealing with an instruction manual (been there, done that, unfortunately).

Different cars and countries will have different installation techniques. Some cars don’t have ISO fix, some might or might not offer a top teeter option, and others have different laws like toddlers ride in boosters earlier.

Be familiar with the local laws and regulations regarding car seats. As I explained in some other posts, for example, taxis are exempt from car seats regulations in France and many drivers might not let you install your own car seat.

FAQs about Travel Car Seats for Toddlers

Do i need a special car seat for my toddler.

No, you do not need a special car seat for your toddler. However, it is important to make sure that you are using the proper car seat for your child’s age, weight, and height.

How do I know if my child is ready to graduate to a regular seat?

A: Generally speaking, most children are ready to graduate to a regular seat when they reach the age of 4 or 5 and weigh 40 pounds or more. However, it is always best to consult with your child’s doctor before making any final decisions.

Q: What are the benefits of using a travel car seat?

A: Travel car seats offer a number of benefits, including convenience and portability. They are also typically lighter and easier to install than regular car seats.

Q: Are there any disadvantages to using a travel car seat?

A: The main disadvantage of using a travel car seat is that they are not as comfortable as regular seats. Additionally, they may not provide as much support for your child in the event of an accident.

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Tuesday 7th of March 2023

I second Wayb Pico! It is the best!

Anna Karsten

Monday 31st of October 2022

I'm afraid you're wrong, unfortunately. Just because you used Doona it doesn't mean it's officially allowed - it's allowed on some airlines but not ALL, just like I said. It's simply too wide for some airlines and various others don't allow infant seats that can't be front-facing as they limit the recline. And speaking of safety, Doona performs absolutely the worst of all infant car seats available on the market these days in crash tests due to wheels and lack of side head support (and we all know that federal standards perform crash tests at very low speed, so at higher speed it would be even worse). In regards to inflatable seats, it's also not entirely true. What you thought you read is that they removed inflatable booster seats have been removed by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety because they said they "don’t have enough information to understand how we should be rating". They're both absolutely still approved and legal - nothing has changed in this matter. It is not a recall or no one thinks they're unsafe, they're still available and approved all over the world. Also, to add, nachfolger is a European car seat and doesn't fall into this category and it's never been on any list becuase it's a European car seat all legal and approved.

Tear Free Travel

Posted on Last updated: March 14, 2024 Categories Featured , Kids Travel Gear , Travel Car Seat

By: Author Kate

The Best Portable Car Seat for Travel For Every Age! (2022)

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Are you looking for the best portable car seat for travel with your baby, toddler or child? Are you wondering about the best car seats for airplanes? One of the biggest pains of traveling with young kids is figuring out what to do about the car seats! Seriously, I have planned so much of our travel around “well, how are we going to travel with the car seats??!”  

Not only do we want to keep our kids safe on vacation, but we also want a lightweight travel car seat that isn’t going to break the bank. My car seat for my 3-year-old (although AWESOME) is super heavy and bulky – I needed a better toddler travel car seat option! In this post, we are going to teach you all the tips and tricks I’ve learned to make traveling with car seats a breeze.

The Best Travel Car Seat: Quick Comparison

Should you buy a separate portable toddler car seat.

We love the car seats we have at home and we also spent a lot of money purchasing them. We didn’t want to take the chance of having them ruined at the airport or while traveling which is why we decided to buy a separate portable carseat for travel. The portable car seats we purchased were all super affordable, which is why we weren’t too fussed if they got scuffed or damaged in our travels. We also bought the most lightweight portable child car seat we could find! It never hurts to lighten your load when you are traveling. One extra bonus to having separate travel carseat is that you don’t have to uninstall and reinstall your car seats at home! One time was hard enough to get it all perfect, I’m happy not to have to reinstall my seats every time we take a trip.

travel toddler car seat

If you are looking for some excellent basic information about car seat travel, please check out this awesome article by the American Academy of Pediatrics which is a primer on Car Seat Safety and FAQs. 

Top Choices for Portable Car Seats

We’re going to be reviewing all of these car seats in massive detail below but in case you just want to get to the good stuff, here is our list of the best portable car seats for travel:

Top Choice: Portable Car Seat for 1 Year Old

travel toddler car seat

Our top choice for a 1 year old (or less) is an bucket car seat. These seats are easy to travel with as they can be easily installed using a regular seat belt. We chose the Maxi Cosi Mico 30 for its lightweight design. This is provided that your one year old has not yet outgrown a bucket car seat. Our top choice infant car seat has a weight limit of 30lbs and a height limit of 32 inches. The reason we love bucket seats is that they usually connect to strollers really easily and that means one less piece of equipment on your trip. Read more reviews of the Maxi Cosi Mico 30 and compare prices on Amazon.

Top Choice: Portable Car Seat for 2 Year Old

travel toddler car seat

In the two-year-old category, we are LOVING the Cosco Scenera Next car seat. This convertible car seat is one of the most popular travel car seats for a reason, literally, every single friend of mine owns the same one. The Cosco Scenera Next is super lightweight and you really can’t beat the price . Read more reviews of this travel car seat for 2 year old toddlers here.

Top Choice: Portable Car Seat for 3 Year Old

travel toddler car seat

We still love the Cosco Scenera Next for most 3 year olds . The upper weight limit for this car seat is 40lbs, so most average sized 3 year olds will still fit in this seat. This seat can be used rear facing and forward facing, making it super versatile. If you are short on space or planning to travel for a long period, you may want to consider the Ride Safer Delight for this age group. This nifty ride safer travel vest is the perfect travel car seat for 3 year old and 4 year olds that are too small for travel booster seat options. Read more reviews here!

Top Choice: Portable Car Seat for 4 Year Old

travel toddler car seat

For the 4 year old and up kids, a travel booster may be appropriate. This is all depending on the size of your 4 year old – keep in mind that the majority of boosters have a minimum weight of 40lbs. We love the mifold for its compactness and portability. We have been using this car seat with our now 5 year old son and it has totally changed our lives when it comes to traveling (safely) with kids. Read more reviews and see the weight and height restrictions here.

Should I bring my travel car seat on the plane?

POrtable Car Seats

One of the questions that I am asked most by readers is whether it is worthwhile to bring a car seat on the plane. If your child is over age 2 and you are already going to be bringing the car seat along, my answer is always YES!! We were actually late to the game in bringing our car seats ON the plane. I hadn’t really considered it until my second son was almost 2. We’ve now brought our Cosco Scenera Next on the plane for multiple trips and it has been an absolute lifesaver! Not only is it safer to have kids safely strapped into a car seat in the case of turbulence , it also makes flying with kids SO much easier! With my son strapped in, we didn’t have to worry about him constantly trying to bother the people in front of us or trying to hide on the seats. Our kids also sleep super well in the car seats, so it really helped the travel go as smooth as possible. Check out the latest prices on the super affordable Costco Scenra Next here.

One important thing to note is that having a forward facing car seat on a plane puts your kids’ feet at premium seat kicking range! We solve this problem by seating our older child in front of the car seat. It’s something to consider before you book your seats!

Now if your child is less than 2 years old, the decision whether to bring the car seat is entirely personal. If you want to bring your seat, you’ll usually have to pay for the seat. It is definitely safer to have a child strapped in the case of turbulence. Commercial airplanes travel at a speed of 250mph during takeoff and landing and a sudden stop or jolt could send your child flying no matter how tightly you are holding them. That being said, the majority of individuals I know do not buy a seat for their child under age 2. Air travel is one of the safest forms of travel, and in the majority of cases, an infant in your lap will be just fine. One pro tip is to ask the flight attendants whether the flight is full before you board. I have scored a free seat for my less than 2 year old infants twice using this method and both times was able to bring on my car seat without difficulty.

travel toddler car seat

If you aren’t planning to use a travel carseat at your destination, you may consider using the CARES airplane travel harness. The CARES travel harness keeps your kids safe on the flight by strapping them in with an extra chest strap. It is rated for kids 22-44lbs and is approved by the FAA for travel. Not only does the Cares harness keep kids safe, but it also keeps kids contained in their seats. I love that my kids are happier to stay put in their seats when they are all buckled in and relaxed. One thing to note about the CARES harness is that you do need to secure it around the back of the seat behind you. I’ve never had anyone complain about it.

How do I know if my Airplane Car Seat is Approved?

FAA Aproved Car Seat

Before you fly, you’ll want to know if your carseat is FAA approved for flight.  Please note that it is important to check your local car seat regulations as these may vary from country to country. In the US,  you will need FAA approved car seats . You can look for your car seat sticker to see if yours is approved, if approved, it should say “this restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft”

Our quick list of FAA approved car seats:

  • Portable Baby Car Seat: Maxi Cosi Mico 30
  • Best travel car seat for toddler: Cosco Scenera Next

Please note that booster seats are not FAA approved and cannot be taken on flights.

To check or to gate check?

If we aren’t planning to bring our car seats ON the plane (we almost always do now), we usually gate check out seats. I personally trust the gate checkers to be more careful with the objects than the regular luggage line. I have friends who have checked theirs at the desk and have had damage to the seats which made them unusable.

Should you use a car seat bag?

travel toddler car seat

Check out the latest Car Seat Bags on Amazon here.

There are lots of travel car seat bags available to help you lug your car seats around the airport. Some even have backpack straps and some have roller wheels to make it even easier to bring them along. I have lots of friends who use (and rave!) about these accessories. Personally, I don’t use a car seat bag. For me, it’s just one more thing to bring along!

I also find that when the luggage attendant sees something in a bag they tend to be less careful about it! When they see a car seat out in the open they know they can’t just toss it around (hopefully!). Perhaps if I traveled with my more expensive car seats, I would be more inclined to use a bag, but for now, I’m not sold on the need for one.

How do you bring your car seat through the airport?

travel toddler car seat

If you gate check you can use the seat to transport your child around the airport. Check out this neat product which straps the car seat right to a piece of luggage turning it into a stroller for the airport. Or you can even buy a travel car seat cart to turn your car seat into a temporary stroller at the airport. Read more reviews and compare prices of these travel car seat accessories here.

Personally, one of the reasons that we LOVE the Cosco Scenera NEXT Car Seat is that it fits in the basket of our Uppa Baby Vista stroller. With the car seat tucked in the bottom of our stroller, we still feel like we are traveling light! Check out the Cosco Scenera next in detail here.

Portable Travel Car Seat Rundown

Ok, now it’s time for the detailed reviews! Here are the best car seats for travel that I have tried and tested. These opinions are my own, and I was not paid or sponsored by any of these companies.

Infant Portable Car Seat: Maxi Cosi Mico

travel toddler car seat

Weight and Height Restrictions:

  • Up to 32 inches

FAA Approved?

Where to buy it:.

Check out prices at the following retailers:

Why we love it

Taking a car seat with an infant is the easiest and simplest. I have always used a bucket seat with my kids and I take the same bucket seat that I use at home with me when I travel. We have the Maxi-Cosi Mico 30 , and I think this is the most lightweight car seat around!  Any bucket seat , as long as it meets safety requirements, will do!

For the best car seat stroller combo,  our car seat attaches to our UppaBaby Vista which makes it great for use in the airport and also while we are on the trip. We never bring along our actual stroller seat until our little one has outgrown the bucket seat. It is too much to carry and our little ones have always been happy in the bucket seat with a few toys to play with. I LOVE traveling with my full-size stroller. Find out more about why I always bring my full size stroller here! 

Portable Car Seat for Travel

Toddler Travel Car Seat: Cosco Scenera Next

  • 5-40lbs (rear facing 5-44lbs, forward facing 22-40lbs)
  • 19 to 40 inches

Why we love it:

For me, toddlers are the trickiest age for bringing car seats for travel. My 2-year-old certainly doesn’t fit into a bucket seat, but also is way too small for a more portable booster seat. A lot of the toddler car seats are so bulky and that makes them difficult to transport in the airport. At the advice of a friend, I purchased what I consider the ultimate portable car seat for my 2-year-old,  the   Cosco Scenera Next.   I use this car seat exclusively as my toddler travel car seat and I can not stop RAVING about it. This seat is seriously the best car seat for travel!  The car seat is SUPER lightweight, which makes it great for airplanes as it’s easy to transport and not a huge pain in the airport. It also fits perfectly in the basket of my Uppa Baby Vista Stoller (score!).

The biggest plus of this super portable car seat is the price!! It is the best value around, and with such a low price I am not afraid of it getting ruined when we travel.  We don’t use this car seat for anything but travel, and it’s also AMAZING not to have to uninstall our regular car seats from our cars because we have this one. If you are like me, installing the car seat the first time was challenging enough, I prefer to keep my regular car seats installed when I can! In the US, this portable car seat is FAA approved,  meaning that it is an airline approved car seat for travel. I prefer to take this car seat and risk it getting damaged than to take the expensive car seat that I use every day.

Best Car seat for travel

Portable Booster Seat: The MiFold

  • 40 lbs – 100lbs
  • 40 -57 inches

No! Booster seats are not permitted on airplanes.

My kids are still little but I recently learned about an amazing new product from my friend. The mifold car seat is a super thin and portable booster seat that was designed by a couple who also felt the pain of constantly traveling with their seats. The mifold is so compact, it can fit in your purse! The design is simple, yet safe, as it currently meets all of the safety requirements for booster seats in the US. The minimum weight is 40lbs (and 4 years of age).

My friends review? She loves it! The only complaint would be that she says her kids say the seat is not the most comfortable for long car rides. This usually isn’t a huge problem when we travel. Certainly, I would still be using my 5-point restraint car seat at home (as its safer until you reach the maximum weight!). Once my son is big enough I plan to just use the mifold for trips, carpooling, taxi rides etc. My son is soon to be 4, but far away from 40lbs. I can’t wait to try this for myself!

For those kids who are a bit small for their age,  another cool option is the Ride Safer Delight . Although a bit bulkier than the mifold, this safety restraint is rated for smaller children who are at least 3 years old and at least 30 lbs.  You can compare prices and read reviews of the Ride Safer Delight here . Check out my fellow blogger friend from The Family Voyage for a detailed review of The Ride Safer Delight .

*** Update *** My son is now almost 5 and we are LOVING the mifold! It is so great to have something that literally fits in my purse to take with us on our travels. We don’t typically use a car a lot when we travel so having this option is SO GREAT! It sure beats lugging a bulky car seat along for only 40 minutes of total drive time! At home, we use it for taxi rides as well, which is SUPER convenient on the go. Definitely, love having this option! You can read more reviews of the MiFold here.

Should you just rent a car seat for travel?

Sometimes even the most portable car seat is just too much of a pain to bring on your trip. On several occasions, especially when we have been renting a car, we have rented a car seat . A few times we had a car seat that was quite old and worn, and on one occasion we had a seat that wasn’t properly rated for my child’s size. These are the problems with renting travel car seats from a rental company. Renting from a car rental company is at your own risk, as they don’t reserve the seats ahead of time. We will still occasionally do this, especially if we aren’t planning on using the seats a lot during the trip.

There are also companies that rent out car seats specifically for travelers. These baby gear companies will tell you the exact model of car seat that you are renting. The main disadvantage to a company like this is that unless they deliver to the airport you will be left without the car seat for your trip to go pick it up! This is why we have never rented a car seat from a company like this in the past.

Don’t forget your car seat accessories!

This post would not be complete without a shout out to some of my favorite car seat accessories!

The Best Car Seat Fan

I love my Diono Stroller Fan that attaches easily to the handle of the bucket seat to keep my baby cool on a hot vacation. Check out my other favorite beach hacks in this post on what to pack for the beach with kids.

travel toddler car seat

Car Seat Lap Support

travel toddler car seat

If you are headed on a road trip with kids, a car seat lap organizer is a perfect accessory. This Lap Desk for kids has a spot for a drink and can easily hold a few coloring books and markers. It can be worn like a backpack which makes it easy to carry through the airport when travelling.

The Best Car Seat Head Support

If you are doing a road trip with kids, you may have concerns about ‘head slump’ in the car seat. Mostly because it was freaking me out to see my kid’s heads contorted in such ways, I bought this portable car seat head support . Now when we go on long trips my son doesn’t look so darn uncomfortable when he sleeps! And seriously, the panda face is super cute!

Best Car Seat for Travel

Best Car Seat Cover

travel toddler car seat

I love this car seat cover particularly for travel. It comes with a UPF 50+ sun shade that is perfect for hot vacations where you want to keep your little one protected. Under the sun shade is a mesh layer that is perfect to keep the Mosquitos out at night. With all of the worry about mosquito-borne illnesses like Zika, I wanted to prevent my little ones from getting bit as much as possible! Check out the pricing for this car seat cover here.

What is the best stroller for travel with car seats?

travel toddler car seat

We are huge fans of trying to bring our full size stroller whenever we can on vacation. We have an Uppa Baby Vista and absolutely love it. The only exceptions would be when we are really limited on space (e.g. cruise, small rental car etc ). I love our full-size stroller and I’ve found every travel stroller I’ve owned to be completely lacking in so many important features. The basket on our stroller is larger enough to carry our travel car seat – you would never see that on a travel stroller!

I’ve never regretted bringing my bigger stroller and I’ve also never had any damage to my full size strollers. I have, however, had a wheel break on a flimsy travel stroller during a flight! Check out prices on the Uppa Baby vista here .

travel toddler car seat

We do have a travel stroller that we use occasionally when we are really short on space. We used the Zoe XL2 travel stroller when we went on a Disney cruise and there was no room for a full size. I like that the Zoe XL has a decent recline and a really large canopy. The storage space isn’t great but it’s the best travel stroller I’ve owned yet. You can read more reviews and check out prices of the Zoe XL2 stroller here.

Have any more travel car seat questions?

Drop your questions in the comments below and I will be sure to answer them in this post.

While you’re in trip planning mode, be sure to check out my other guides to the top  baby travel gear and toddler travel gear posts for more ideas.

Pin for Later

Are you looking for the best travel car seat? Check out my ultimate car seat guide for baby travel and toddler travel. A travel car seat is a travel essential for travel with kids. I’ll review the best infant car seat fir travel, the best toddler car seat for travel, and the best booster seat for travel. Lots of car seat tips including the best car seat accessories for your next family vacation! #carseat #travelcarseat

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We asked, you answered: Parent-approved tips on traveling with kids under 2

Becky Harlan headshot

Becky Harlan

Photograph of a baby sitting next to an open carryon suitcase filled with clothing and other travel items, all against a light pink backdrop.

Last month, Life Kit asked parents to share their go-to advice for traveling with babies and toddlers under age 2 as part of an episode we did on the subject. Over 200 folks responded with tips they wish they'd known before taking a big trip with a little one.

Reading through these responses, it became clear there's no magic hack that works for every kid. Some parents swore by sticking to their kid's sleep schedule on a trip, others said their vacation was smoother when they let the usual routine go. Some sang the praises of the overnight flight (so their child would sleep on the plane), others said their child has never slept more than 10 minutes on a plane no matter the timing.

I flew to Japan with my baby. Here's the travel advice that helped me survive the trip

I flew to Japan with my baby. Here's the travel advice that helped me survive the trip

A few pieces of advice held true throughout. A hungry kid is an unpleasant kid, and children are messy. So packing lots of snacks, extra diapers and a change of clothes ranked high on the list of must-dos. Almost 40 of over 200 responses suggested packing extra outfits in your carry-on for your kid and for you. (If your charge spits up, throws up, blows out or spills it will also get on you!)

So here's a non-exhaustive, impossible-to-be-comprehensive, but-hopefully-still-helpful round-up of your top advice for traveling with little kids. These responses have been edited for length and clarity.

What to pack

A stroller that can be stored in the overhead bin. It's a game changer to not have to check clunky strollers at the gate or check-in counters. —Amy P.

A change of clothes for yourself. If the baby spits up or has a blowout, there's a high likelihood that the mess will end up on you too, especially if you're holding them. Also, be sure to bring a bag to put messy clothes in. Reusable waterproof bags are great and they keep the smell in! —Jenna Yount

Extra diapers. You think you will be fine but if something comes up it's not a good situation to be in. —Jeanna Limtiaco

Overnight diapers. Fewer diaper changes in transit makes everyone happier. —Samantha Warren

Snacks. Remember, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration allows for any size baby food [and baby or toddler beverage], so pack those pouches! —Clara W.

Meds you and your kids might need in flight. That includes chewable Tylenol, Imodium, Dramamine, Zofran, ginger chews, Band-Aids and alcohol wipes. —Paige Ellis

A dark-colored bath towel. It's a blanket, it's for tidying up, it's a tablecloth, it's a sun cover, it shields bottoms from hot slides, it dries off swings. It's a multi-tasking powerhouse. —Judith Heise

Consider what may make sense to buy, rent or borrow upon arrival. You don't need to stuff everything into your suitcase. Buy some of your diapers and snacks at your destination. See if you can borrow or rent large, bulky items like car seats or travel cribs from Facebook Marketplace or your hotel or Airbnb. —Jocelyn Newman

How to get through the flight

Get to your gate an hour before boarding. It gives you time to feed your child, change their diapers, have a cup of coffee and fill your water bottle. It can also help your kid let out their energy before they have to sit on the plane. —Shelly C.

Check the airport for family friendly spaces. Use nursing spaces or pods and family restrooms to reset as needed. Check lounges for nursing and play rooms. —Sara Conger

Take an early morning flight. Those are least likely to get delayed, which is important when traveling with kids. —Carina Ochoa

Parenthood Is A Shock To The System. These Tips Can Help You With The Transition

Parenthood Is A Shock To The System. These Tips Can Help You With The Transition

Board with your partner separately. If you're traveling with two caregivers, have one go on the plane first with all the stuff and do the gate-checking of the stroller while the other hangs back with the kids until the last minute. It gives kids more time to run around! —Andrea De Francesca

Get a plane seat for your kid. Even though many airlines allow kids under 2 to fly for free as a lap baby, if you can afford to get them their own seat, it is worth it. It is recommended for safety to have them in a car seat, according to the Federal Aviation Administration, and the extra space for them to move around is nice. —Nicole Shelledy

Be ready for motion sickness. We were not prepared for how easily some little ones get motion sickness on an airplane. Have throw-up bags handy at all times. —Tiff Bankhurst

Prevent ear discomfort. Sucking during take off and landing may help relieve ear discomfort. My babies have flown with me from 4 weeks onward and never had a problem as long as they had a bottle or sippy cup or straw to suck on. —Shelly Ransom

Don't plan on them sleeping on the plane. It's great if they do, but if it doesn't happen, you'll be frustrated. —Colleen Mayerhoff

Don't worry too much about your kid "bothering" other people. The vast majority of people don't care, and many have been in the same situation you've been in and feel nothing but empathy for you. As for those who do care, they are not guaranteed a child-free existence in public. Kids are part of society too, and they are also allowed to take up space. —Jenna Yount

Make friends with the flight crew. They're going to help, they've got more experience than you, and they also want the flight to be pleasant. —April Graham

Save the screens for the flight. If you're using a screen, wait until you're on the plane. While you're waiting in the terminal, let them move as much as possible. Find an empty gate and play Simon Says, see who can jump in one place the longest, do animal charades. Let them go wild. —Paige Ellis

Download age-appropriate shows for your child on an iPad. (But know that if your kid is under age 2 they'll mostly just want to push the buttons.) —Chantel Dockstader

Travel hacks

Find a lodging close to a grocery store and a park. It makes it easy to buy last-minute things and burn off their energy easily at a park. —Gillian Molina

Dress your young kids in bright, matching shirts. I once traveled alone when my kids were 2, 4 and 6. We all wore matching yellow shirts so people could see we were together. —Emily Hernandez

If you want to let your little one crawl around , bring a pair of socks that you can put over their hands. Then you don't have to worry about dirty hands afterward. —Shannon Geraghty

Hire a photographer. You'll have photos with everyone in them, maybe get to see some scenic parts of the city you hadn't seen before. Dress up, wear matching outfits, be extra! They're only little once. —Tina Doyle

Helpful mindsets

It's not a vacation. It's a trip. You're just parenting in a new place. Set your expectations accordingly. —Laura Henriquez

The airport/train/bus/car is not the time to enforce the normal at-home rules. Do you want Doritos at 7 a.m. at the airport? OK. Do you want to watch 20 episodes of Blippi on the plane? No problem. There are no rules when traveling. This also makes traveling fun for kids because they get to do something different. —Meg Houston

Build in extra time to do things. It will decrease the chances of you and your child getting into stressful situations. —Cori DeLano

You're not going to get as much done as you think with a kiddo in tow. Think about things like nap schedule, traveling with a stroller, meltdowns, diaper changes. On my most "successful" trip with my kiddo, we planned one big activity a day and left the rest of the day open with some general ideas and left room for flexibility. —Whitney Winters

They might not remember, but you will. —Nina Hartman

The digital story was edited by Malaka Gharib. The visual editor is Beck Harlan. We'd love to hear from you. Leave us a voicemail at 202-216-9823, or email us at [email protected].

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travel toddler car seat

Get to know the Doona Car Seat & Stroller

As new parents, you have a lot on your plate and need the smoothest transitions, and the safest, most functional products to make their lives easier and allow you to spend more quality time loving your little ones. Whether you already own a Doona, are shopping for your first stroller or car seat, or are considering making the switch, we’re here to help you get to know the best stroller car seat combo on the market.

At Doona , our mission is to make parenting simple. We want to let you in on the ins and outs of using the Doona car seat and stroller, its revolutionary functionality , and the benefits it offers for you and your whole family. 

Easy to use

As a 2-in-1 stroller, Doona is a unique stroller and car seat combo that makes life easier for all caregivers. The product is designed to be easy to use and maneuver, so it's perfect for parents, and especially grandparents. It’s also the best infant car seat for moms with postpartum pain , because it’s one of the only infant car seat carriers on the market with integrated wheels. With Doona, you won’t need to load a massive stroller into the trunk of your car or have to switch between seats. All you have to do is lift the car seat out of the car, drop the wheels with the quick switch of a latch, and you’re ready to go! 

No more mistakes

Doona is a car seat that has been designed to simplify the process of installation and ensure that it’s done correctly every time. Many parents often make common car seat mistakes such as incorrect installation, fastening the straps improperly, and rushing the installation process. That’s why Doona comes with the LATCH Base , to guarantee correct installation every time. Once you have folded the wheels and snapped the car seat into place, you will see the indicator move from red to green,showing you that your Doona car seat is properly secured! Plus, Doona’s fail-safe mechanisms are there to ensure safe operation and prevent improper use. 

Highest safety standards

While proper installation is key to keeping your little one safe, that is not all that Doona has to offer in terms of safety. We are proud to have a fully automated, in-house testing facility that adheres to the most rigorous and strict testing measures. That means Doona’s safety rating proudly meets stringent US and European standards. Specifically, the 5-point harness, unique double wall structure, and anti-rebound handle are all designed to enhance the protection of your baby while in the car or in the event of an accident. When on the go, the stroller offers excellent ergonomic positioning to keep your little one snug and secure. 

Travel friendly

Whether you’re a family of homebodies or big travelers, Doona is the ideal solution for taking your infant along anytime you leave the house. From walks around the park to long trips overseas, Doona has you covered. It was designed to easily fit through tight airline aisles and is certified for air travel with an infant. Just be sure to contact your airline ahead of your flight to make sure that car seats are allowed and confirm the best seat assignment. Once you’ve arrived at your destination, the Doona allows you to stroll through the airport and then hop into your rental car or public transportation with ease, turning into a car seat with the click of a button, and easily installed without a base too.

Seasonal adaptability

No matter the weather conditions you face, Doona offers a range of accessories to keep your baby comfortable.Our fall and winter stroller accessories are designed to keep your baby warm and safe, while our spring and summer accessories like an insect net , sunshade extension , provide essential protection. No to mention, you can switch your canopy to match the colors of the season or simply your mood. It’s endlessly customizable to adapt to your needs and match your unique personality!

Want to learn more about the benefits of the best car seat stroller combo on the market? Check out our post about why Doona is the best baby stroller for travel, daily life, and everything in between . For more tips for new parents, don’t forget to visit our parenting tips blog.

travel toddler car seat

Flying With A Car Seat? Here's What You Need To Know

Y ou've probably already heard it but it bears repeating: Bringing a car seat for your baby on a flight is the safest way for your child to fly. And although it's not required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the agency strongly encourages parents to bring a car seat or other FAA-approved child restraint system or device when flying with young children. This means the car seat has the required label noting it is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft.

And, no, it's not enough to hold them in your lap, especially during turbulence, which is the leading cause of pediatric injuries on a plane, according to the FAA. As Sara Nelson, the international president of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, told The Washington Post , "We've seen airplanes go through turbulence recently and drop 4,000 feet in a split second. The G-forces are not something even the most loving mother or father can guard against and hold their child. It's just physically impossible." You'll also need your hands to put on your oxygen mask in cases of low cabin pressure.

So, yes, flying with a car seat is a good choice, especially if you're flying with a young child, i.e., under 2 years. But, if this is your first time flying with one, it's understandable that you have questions. We'll do our best to answer the most important queries you might have. So let's dive in.

Do You Have To Pay To Bring A Car Seat On The Plane?

Technically, no, but you'll have to hope and pray that there's an open seat and that the flight attendant will allow you to use it. Otherwise, you'll have to check your car seat and hold your child in your lap for the duration of the flight. In short, when you don't pay for a seat, there's no guarantee your child can sit securely in their car seat next to you during the flight.

Although paying for an extra seat can be hard on the budget, you should carefully consider it. Having peace of mind and assurance of your child's safety during the flight is priceless. Plus, if you have a toddler, a car seat can keep them behaved, and you  stress-free . As a user commented in the Toddlers Reddit forum's car seat discussion : " ... [I]t's so nice to have her contained! Someone behind me was trying to get their toddler to sit down the whole flight and it sounded exhausting."

Which Plane Seat Is The Best For A Car Seat?

When you bring a car seat on a plane, your options for seating are limited. Of course, you should book adjoining seats. The FAA says not to put car seats in exit rows, and you should avoid rows in front of or behind exit rows as well. Additionally, a lot of airlines ask that you put a car seat in the window seat. Putting children in aisle seats can be dangerous due to the possibility of falling items from overhead compartments and hot beverages spilling from carts. But, if you're flying on an aircraft with two aisles, a middle seat in the center is a good option too. Basically, book a seat for your baby's car seat that won't hinder another passenger from exiting or accessing the aisle.

And, when booking first class and business class, check that your car seat can fit in the seats you book. Sometimes, these cabin seats have angles that won't fit a car seat. In fact, double-check your car seat's weight limitations and dimensions against your plane's seat — it should be no more than 16 inches wide for most airlines. However, if you find that your car seat doesn't fit the seat, the FAA requires your airline to find another seat where it will fit.

If in doubt or you have questions, reach out to your airline for confirmation and answers. Also check with your airline if they allow car seats in the bulkhead, as many don't. If they do, book seats there for more leg room.

How Do You Install A Car Seat On The Plane?

Once on board the plane, your next agenda will be to install the car seat. While asking for the help of a flight attendant might sound like a good plan, don't rely on them. You are responsible for knowing how to install your car seat. The FAA has videos explaining the installation of forward-facing and rear-facing car seats, but it's always best to read the manual beforehand to be sure you're not going to break or damage anything.

If, after reading the manual, you have some questions, seek out the advice and expertise of a child passenger safety technician (CPST). You can search the National Child Passenger Safety Certification training program's website or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's online directory, or reach out to your local Safe Kids Coalition. Don't forget to have your child's weight and height info, your car seat's manual, and, if possible, your child, among other things during the checkup.

In general, you can install either a forward-facing or rear-facing car seat. First, locate the right belt path in your car seat, loosen the airplane seatbelt and get it through the belt path, and then buckle and tighten it. If you're using a rear-facing car seat, note that it will interfere with the recline function of the seat in front, so you might arrange for a companion to sit there, if you're traveling with one.

Should You Buy A Rear-Facing Or Front-Facing Car Seat?

There's no prohibition against any of these types of car seats. You can bring a front-facing or rear-facing car seat on a flight as long as it is installed in a forward-facing plane seat. According to BabyCenter , children below 20 pounds should be seated in a rear-facing car seat whereas children from 20 to 40 pounds should be seated in a forward-facing car seat.

With this in mind, infants and toddlers should generally use a rear-facing car seat, while children more than 3 years old and younger than 7 years old or who have reached the height and weight limits can be placed in a forward-facing car seat. Basically, your child's age, weight, and height will dictate what type of car seat they'll use.

As mentioned, the car seat you bring with you on a flight should be one that's FAA-approved, i.e., it should have the certification label required for air travel. You can find this in a sticker with red text. Make sure you know where it is before boarding the plane as flight attendants will look for this label upon boarding. If you don't know where it is and the flight attendant can't find it, you might be asked to check your car seat instead.

How Do You Check Your Car Seat?

If shelling out those extra bucks just isn't in the budget, then you can check your car seat for free with most airlines. And whether you check it at the ticket counter or at the gate, remember to get your luggage tag, fill it out, and attach it to the car seat immediately. This way, you don't have to worry about it upon boarding.

If you gate check your car seat, you can drop it at the ramp right before boarding or a flight attendant will take care of it for you. Upon arrival, your car seat should be waiting for you at the jetbridge. If not, go to the baggage claim or ask a flight attendant about it.

If you check it at the counter, you might want to invest in a car seat travel bag. While this doesn't guarantee that your car seat won't be damaged, at least it will not be dirty. After deplaning, head to the oversized luggage section at the baggage claim area. You can usually claim car seats and strollers there, but call your airline to double-check. If you have a connecting flight, ensure you have time to retrieve your luggage, get to your next flight, and install the car seat there. Also, have a plan B in case your car seat gets damaged or lost. This typically means buying a new one or renting, so research in advance to prepare for the worst-case scenario.

Read this next: Tips For Making Road Trips With Your Newborn Less Stressful

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The Very Best Booster Seats

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In this article

  • Best overall
  • Best (less expensive) overall
  • Best high back
  • Best backless

Best booster seat for older kids

  • Best adjustable
  • Best lightweight
  • Best for travel

Switching from a car seat to a booster seat is a major transition that hinges not just on the age of your child but also their weight, height, and maturity level. Booster seats are made for children who have outgrown their harnessed car seat but aren’t tall enough to safely use a regular seat belt. Seat belts and cars are designed to fit adults four feet nine inches and taller, so instead of sitting across the bony hips of an adult, the lap belt of a seat belt ends up going across the belly of a 4-year-old, explains Eli Gurock, founder and CEO of the baby-gear and toy retailer Magic Beans . Booster seats literally give your child the boost they need to ensure proper seat-belt placement. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration , most kids should use either a high-back or a backless booster seat until they are between 8 and 12 years old.

The American Academy of Pediatrics echoes this recommendation, and 48 of 50 states have laws on the books requiring kids to use boosters until they reach a certain age, height, or combination of both. All booster seats also have a minimum weight requirement (typically 40 pounds) that your child must meet before they can safely make the switch from a harnessed car seat to a booster seat.

Finally, there is the question of whether your child is ready to use a booster seat from a behavior standpoint. Alisa Baer, pediatrician and co-founder of thecarseatlady.com , says parents and caregivers must consider their child’s ability to sit in a booster without slouching, leaning, or yanking on the seat belt.

As with car seats, every booster seat on the market in the U.S. has to pass strict Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards before it can be sold. So you can trust that all booster seats will provide a baseline level of protection. That means the best one for you and your family will likely come down to additional factors like the size of your car or your kid’s particular opinions about everything from color to how cushy the seat is under their butt. To help you get a head start, I talked to parents and experts about the booster seats they like best for a range of different situations.

What we’re looking for:

Height and weight requirements.

Most booster seats have a minimum weight requirement of around 40 pounds and a maximum weight limit of around 100 pounds. It’s crucial to respect these boundaries and not transition your child too soon or keep them in a seat once they have outgrown it. This is because all seats are tested to meet certain safety standards based on their specific size constraints.

Similarly, there are minimum and maximum requirements for height. These ensure a proper fit with a harness or the car’s seat belt. If your kid is on the tall side (or you just want the seat to last as long as possible), you’ll want to look for a booster seat with higher height limits or one that is adjustable or convertible. I listed the maximum weight and height limit of each seat below. For booster seats that can be used both with a harness and without, I listed the weight limits for each mode.

There are three main types of booster seat, and all of them serve the same purpose: to boost a child’s body and ensure proper seat-belt placement.

High-back booster: High-back boosters have more structure around the head and shoulders to position the shoulder belt, give your child a place to rest their head, and minimize forward head movement , side impact, and whiplash in the event of a crash.

Backless booster: Backless boosters are much lower profile and more portable. They usually have the same weight and height restrictions as harness-free high-back boosters and often work best for older kids who still need to use a booster but don’t want to be seen as babyish, or as a space-saving option to keep in your trunk for carpooling or when traveling. They are also generally less expensive and take up less space in the back seat of a car.

Convertible booster: To get the most use out of a booster seat you can buy one that starts out as a forward-facing car seat with a five-point harness that can be removed or stowed away once your child is ready to transition to the regular seat belt. In some cases, if you are buying a high-back booster seat for an older kid and won’t need to use the seat with a younger one, it’s easier to get the one without a harness. There are also some convertible seats that are designed to go from high-back to backless boosters as children get older and bigger. These convertible seats are often marketed as “grow with you” or “3-in-1,” “4-in-1,” or “all-in-one” convertible car seats and can be a good investment for families who would like to use the same car seat for many years and multiple children.

LATCH vs. seat-belt secured

The LATCH system (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) is a standardized system that allows you to secure a car seat or booster seat to your vehicle via anchors located within the vehicle’s seats. LATCH-equipped booster seats connect directly to your car’s LATCH anchors, providing added stability and keeping a booster seat more secure, even if there isn’t a kid sitting it, so it doesn’t slide around when it’s not in use or become a projectile in the event of a crash.

LATCH-equipped booster seats come with either rigid or flexible LATCH connections. Rigid LATCH uses alligator-like clips that come directly out of the car seat or base without any straps or rotation. They provide a more secure connection. Flexible LATCH connectors are attached to a pull strap that can be tightened or loosened, either by hand or, depending on the seat, with some type of tightening mechanism. Both options are safe and meet FMVSS requirements, but rigid LATCH is easier to install and doesn’t require any manual tightening or adjusting, ensuring correct installation. Always check the LATCH weight maximums for both your vehicle and your booster seat, and ensure that the combined weight of your child and the seat falls within the published limits.

Booster seats without LATCH rely on the vehicle’s seat belt to hold the seat, and the child, in place. These types of booster seats are usually lighter and more portable. They are also less expensive and can be used in any car with a seat belt. This may be helpful for families with older cars that don’t have LATCH anchors.

Extra safety and specialty features

Every car seat and booster seat on the market in the U.S. must pass strict Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards before it can be sold. But those standards are contingent on you installing the seat in your car correctly and your child meeting the height and weight requirements for the seat. Outside of that, you might want to consider additional safety features, like side impact cushioning, and details that make a booster seat easier to use and more comfortable for your kid, like cupholders and extended footrests. I’ve highlighted the notable safety and convenience features of each of the car seats in our list.

Booster seats range from $40 to over $300 depending on the complexity of the seat and added features. I’ve sorted the seats on our list into one of four price categories listed as $, $$, $$$, and $$$$, respectively: under $100, under $200, under $300, and over $300.

Best booster seat overall

Britax Grow With You ClickTight Harness-2-Booster Car Seat

Max height and weight: Harness: 65 pounds, 49 inches; Booster: 120 pounds, 63 inches | Seat type: Convertible | LATCH type: Rigid or seat-belt installation depending on child’s weight | Extra safety and specialty features: Forward-facing harness-to-booster, ClickTight installation system, one-handed head and harness adjustment, 2 recline positions, 2 cupholders, 4 colors | Price: $$$$

This convertible booster from Britax can transition from a forward-facing car seat with a five-point harness to a high-back booster that uses the car’s seat belt. Strategist senior editor Winnie Yang has been using it for three years with her now 8-year-old daughter and bought it after using (and loving) a Britax car seat that also has the brand’s ClickTight installation system. ClickTight is a mechanical tightening system that allows you to get a very snug and secure install in your car without breaking a sweat.

Yang was looking for a booster seat that had a five-point harness option she could eventually stop using once her daughter was ready for the regular seat belt, since the harness provides more protection for smaller children in the event of a crash. She likes that the harness and headrest are easy to adjust one-handed and that the ClickTight makes it really easy to install. According to Yang, being able to remove the cover and throw it in the washing is a nice touch, and the ample cup and snack holders are a convenient feature even if they do end up mostly filled with rocks and other treasures.

Strategist senior editor Jen Trolio has also used this seat with her two kids, both in harness mode and booster mode, and along with Gurock recommends it as an easy and gradual way to transition from a bulkier harnessed car seat to a booster seat. Its combination of an easy install, streamlined design, welcome comfort and convenience features, and dual use as both a harnessed seat and a booster seat make it my pick for the best booster seat overall.

Best (less expensive) booster seat overall

Diono Radian 3R, 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat

Max height and weight: Harness: 65 pounds, 49 inches; Booster: 120 pounds, 57 inches | Seat type: Convertible | LATCH type: Flexible latch or seat-belt installation depending on child’s weight | Extra safety and specialty features: Slim enough to fit 3 across in many backseats, memory-foam cushioning, 2 cupholders, 11 colors | Price: $$$

For about $100 less, this convertible car seat from Diono also allows for use with a five-point-harness that can be removed once your child is ready to transition to the booster mode that uses the car’s seat belt. It is technically a 3-in-1 seat that can be used rear-facing from infancy, but New York deputy editor Alexis Swerdloff started using as when her son was 5 years old. She says he seems very comfortable in the seat even when sleeping and that the straps are easy to buckle and tighten. The headrest is adjustable, and the seat can be folded up so that the booster will fit in an airplane’s overhead compartment. The Diono is also one of the slimmest seats on the market and can fit three across the backseat in many cars. Because it can be used both rear-facing and front-facing, in addition to its being a high-back booster seat, it’s a fantastic value.

Best high-back booster seat

Clek Oobr High Back Booster Car Seat with Rigid Latch

Max height and weight: 100 pounds, 57 inches | Seat type: High-back convertible | LATCH type: Rigid | Extra safety and specialty features: Slim enough to fit 3 across many backseats, 12 degrees of recline, 1 cupholder, 11 colors | Price: $$$$

Tot Squad founder Jennifer Saxton , a certified CPST ( child-passenger-safety technician ), likes that this seat has a rigid latch system and that it reclines so your kid can take a nap comfortably. Clek is known for making very durable, well-thought-out products but also expensive ones. This is the most expensive seat on the list by about $90. What you get for the extra cost is a stylish, slim, and minimal-looking booster seat that can be converted from high-back booster to a backless booster as your child grows.

Best backless booster seat

Chicco GoFit Backless Booster Car Seat

Height and weight requirements: 100 pounds, 57 inches | Seat type: Backless | LATCH type: Seat-belt installation | Extra safety and specialty features: Lightweight, shoulder cincher, ClearTex material, cupholders | Price: $

This backless booster weighs just five pounds, and since it rests on the back seat of your car while your child is secured by the car’s seat belt, moving it between cars takes just a few seconds. Trolio likes it for carpools and travel and appreciates that it has a clip for cinching the seat belt at the child’s shoulder to help achieve the safest possible fit. Because it also has cupholders, cushioning, and Greenguard Gold–certified ClearTex fabric, it’s a good-value backless booster for everyday use with older kids.

Chicco KidFit ClearTex Plus 2-in-1 Belt-Positioning Booster Car Seat

Height and weight requirements: 110 pounds, 57 inches | Seat type: Convertible | LATCH type: Flexible LATCH with SuperCinch | Extra safety and specialty features: Quick release button, ClearTex fabric, 2 cupholders, 9 colors | Price: $$

This harness-free option can be used as a high-back or backless booster. It comes recommended by Trolio, who previously used three-in-one and all-in-one editions of the Graco Extend2Fit convertible car seat for her now 6- and 8-year-old daughters. Trolio ultimately replaced the Graco seats because they were still quite bulky in booster mode. Both of her daughters have used this KidFit, which is more streamlined in the back seat. It has a flexible LATCH system to secure it to your car’s anchors with Chicco’s SuperCinch feature to ensure a snug fit. (SuperCinch is similar to Britax’s popular ClickTight system.) If you’re hopping between cars, you’ll like that the seat has a quick-release button to unlatch it. Other features include cupholders and Chicco’s Greenguard Gold–certified ClearTex fabric. (For slightly younger kids who would still be safer in a harness, Trolio recommends the similar Chicco MyFit Harness Booster with ClearTex , which her 6-year-old used with a harness until she was ready to transition to a seat belt.)

Best adjustable booster seat

Peg Perego Viaggio Shuttle Plus 120 Booster Car Seat

Height and weight requirements: 120 pounds, 63 inches | Seat type: Convertible | LATCH type: Rigid | Extra safety and specialty features: Extended height limit, independently adjustable headrest and backrest, 1 cupholder, 3 colors | Price: $$$

For a booster seat to fit your child properly, it should guide the seat belt over their lap , across their chest, and between their shoulder and neck . This can be tricky for kids who are taller in their torso versus their legs. The Peg Perego Viaggio Shuttle Plus 120 is unique in that its headrest, backrest, and side wings can all be adjusted independently of one another, making it easier to get the right fit. When your child is ready for a backless booster seat, the upper portion of the seat can be removed from the base.

Best lightweight booster seat

Uppababy ALTA Booster Seat

Height and weight requirements: 100 pounds, 57 inches | Seat type: High-back | LATCH type: Rigid | Extra safety and specialty features: Extra seat-belt routing at the crotch, 1 cupholder, 4 colors | Price: $$

While most rigid LATCH booster seats are on the heavy side, the Uppababy ALTA booster seat weighs just 16.6 pounds, making it easier to move from car to car or car to house. It is the second-lightest booster seat on the list, bested only by the inflatable travel booster seat below. It’s also more ergonomic with an adjustable headrest that has seven different positions and extra seat-belt routing at the crotch, and not just at the shoulder, to further ensure correct seat-belt positioning. The included cupholder can be removed to save space.

Best booster seat for travel

Bubblebum Backless Inflatable Travel Booster

Height and weight requirements: 100 pounds, 57 inches | Seat type: Backless | LATCH type: Seat-belt installation | Extra safety and specialty features:  Inflatable, shoulder-cincher, 4 colors and patterns | Price: $

Trolio and Saxton, as well as Renee McCabe , injury-prevention and Safe Kids coordinator for Safe Kids Greater Augusta, and Jennifer LaBracio, gear editor at Babylist , all pointed us in the direction of this inflatable Bubblebum travel booster seat, which compresses into a stuff sack about the size of a two-liter soda bottle for easy portability. Trolio finds it especially helpful when she is going to have extra kids in her car on the way home from school or soccer practice. Like the Chicco GoFit backless booster, it also has a clip for cinching the seat belt at the child’s shoulder to help achieve the safest possible fit. Boosters are not approved to use on airplanes, but McCabe notes that the Bubblebum is ideal for hopping in cars or Ubers. While the seat requires a bit of extra belt threading at the lap, it offers peace of mind that you aren’t taking unnecessary risk, even for short trips.

Our experts:

• Alisa Baer , pediatrician and co-founder of thecarseatlady.com • Eli Gurock , founder and CEO of the baby-gear and toy retailer Magic Beans • Kecia Healy , CPST instructor and member of the New York State Child Passenger Safety Advisory Board • Jennifer LaBracio , gear editor at Babylist • Renee McCabe , injury-prevention and Safe Kids coordinator for Safe Kids Greater Augusta • Ashlee Neuman , deputy editor at the Bump • Jennifer Saxton , founder of Tot Squad and CPST • Alexis Swerdloff , New York deputy editor and parent • Jen Trolio , Strategist senior editor and parent • Winnie Yang , Strategist senior editor and parent

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , natural anxiety remedies , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

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Car seat travel system advice

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Just chiming in on the nuna (we got the mixx + pipa rx) both the carseat & stroller seat can face either direction! The stroller seat fully reclines so is safe for newborns.

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Moscow with a Baby or Toddler – Logistics

travel toddler car seat

Want to travel to Moscow but you don’t know where to start? Already have a trip planned but your concerned about getting around the city? Here’s our favorite tips in regards to visas, airports, and getting around Moscow with a baby or toddler. Looking for activities with kids instead? Click here .

Getting to Russia

travel toddler car seat

Most visitors to Russia need a visa to enter the country. You can check here to see if your exempted from needing one, but please always check with your local Russian Embassy or Consulate, as visa requirements change regularly. Since most of our readers are from the United States, this section will provide some more detail about the process for Americans applying for visas to Russia.

As of 2018, Americans generally can get either a single entry, double entry, or three year multiple entry visa for Russia. You will usually need to fill out an application form, obtain a letter of invitation (from either a travel agency, hotel, tour company, or Russian citizen), and then submit your application, passport, and letter to the nearest Russian Embassy or Consulate. We always found it easier to obtain visas with the help of a visa agency, such as ILS or other related companies.

Airports and Getting Into Moscow

Moscow is a huge city and is served by four international airports. Most likely, you will arrive at either Sheremetyevo ( SVO ) or Domodedovo ( DME ). After arrival, we have discovered several options to get into the city:

travel toddler car seat

Playroom at Domodedovo Airport

  • Taxi or Private Car (90 minutes to 3 hours): Generally it will cost between $50 and $150 for a private car transfer into the city, cheaper options may be available, but quality can vary. If you use a Taxi, some options include Uber , Yandex Taxi , or Gett Taxi . They have excellent mobile apps and are generally of good quality in our experience. We prefer to use them for intercity trips instead of airport transfers due to cost. Private Car hire is also possible, and there are several companies that offer this option. If you are booking with a travel agency, they may be able to arrange something for you. When traveling with children, we often use this option if we have a lot of luggage. If you need child car seats in your taxis, you can also look at Lingo Taxi and Detskoe Taxi .
  • Bus: There is bus service to the airports, but we do not recommend it for first time visitors to Russia, as it can be easy to get on the wrong bus. We generally use buses for inter-city transportation only.

Getting Around Moscow

Moscow is a very walkable for such a large city. The city center is full of historic sites that you will want to see and walking is the easiest way to get to them. There are some very wide roads in Moscow and you will notice that many crosswalks are actually underground. Many areas have tunnels that connect a large amount of streets and sites, particularly near the Kremlin. The only problem with walking in Moscow with a baby or toddler are the perehods if you have a stroller. If you are using a baby carrier, you will find the city is easy to walk between the major sites.

Moscow Metro Logo

The Moscow Metro is iconic. Not only is it the easiest way to get around the city, most of the stations are sites themselves. Many metro stations are heavily adorned with many types of art and chandeliers. Moscow has been adding signs with Latin characters and English translations to help tourist navigate the city. You can get to most destinations with only one transfer. The hardest part about using the metro in Moscow with a baby or toddler is that most stations require using long escalators. This can make using a stroller challenging. There are usually stairs involved when transferring stations.

travel toddler car seat

If you are riding during peak times, do not be surprised when a Muscovite steps up to help. It is expected that passengers will give up seats to the elderly, handicapped, or children. If a passenger stands up as you board and you have a baby or toddler, then that seat is for you and you will be expected to take it. Likewise if you are a healthy-looking male traveling with your family, you will be expected to give up your seat in a car without empty seats.

Buying a Ticket

You will need to get a ticket at either an automated machine or cashier. At the machines you may buy a single or double ride ticket (these tickets also cost more than higher multiple tickets). At the cashier, you can buy any number of rides or monthly, quarterly, or yearly metro passes. All tickets are usable on the metro and bus system.

travel toddler car seat

Troika Card

A Troika card has been extremely useful. This is a hard plastic card that can be used for metro and bus rides, in addition to paying for several other locations in the city. The card is cheap (approximately $1) and is simply loaded with Russian rubles either in cash or via credit card. Discounted fares are automatically taken from your card when you enter the metro, bus, etc and touch it to the ticket terminal. You may purchase these at any Metro cashier. For more details on the metro and the current prices, visit their official website (Russian) . A current map of the metro is here .

Moscow has a large bus and train system that serves the entire city and outlying regions. The buses can be very useful in Moscow with a baby or toddler because they are easy to ride with a stroller. Often, travel by bus can be quicker than travel by metro depending on the destinations involved. Many of the bus stops in the center of the city now have electronic signs indicating the next bus arriving and an estimated arrival time for the next several buses. Apps such as Yandex Maps or Google Maps are often able to provide you with the specific bus and stops that you need and have been very helpful to us.

Yandex/Uber/Gett/Taxis

Moscow has a very active taxi market. We have had great success with Uber, Yandex.Taxi, and Gett – but many other options also exist in the city. Be sure to have the apps downloaded prior to your arrival for the best experience.

Baby gear rental in Moscow? - Moscow Forum

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' class=

Yes it is possible. A few sites, but they are all in Russian.

http://allformybaby.ru/prokat_kolyasok/

http://www.prokat-detkam.ru/

https://rentmania.org/detskie_tovary/detskie_kolyaski/moskva/

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  • Visa needed if on layover at Moscow Airport??????? 15 replies

Moscow Hotels and Places to Stay

  • Where can I get initial answers to ANY question?
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  • Travel Forum

We are going back to Rome via Moscow Russia and have a 10 hour lay over in hopes that we can see Red Square and St. Basils. Any hints for getting in from the airport? Safety issues? How much currency should we get for a very short visit?

My first reaction is that Russia requires a visa for Americans - hard and expensive to come by. Then, my first question is - could you leave the airport without a visa - assuming you don't have one. I do hope that was a really cheap ticket.

Your best bet would be to contact a (recommended) tour guide, who would be able to arrange visas and take you around efficiently. He/she would also answer all your other questions. If you try to get a Russian visa on your own, I believe it costs US$180 per person, plus handling fees.

Cindy, have you considered posting your Moscow questions in the "To the East" section of the RS boards rather than the Italy section? You're probably more likely to get a helpful response. Good luck.

I'm stretching my experience here, but from what I've read you cannot get a visa in Russia without a sponsor. Most use their hotel or a tour company they contract with. For just 10 hours with no overnight, you may not get one on your own. Look into a tour company. But I'd also suggest 10 hours is not much time - figure needing to be back at the airport at last 2-3 hours before your flight, travel time to and from the airport - I assume that's at least an hour each - and getting through immigration. So at best you might only have 5 hours or less. Not an issue in Paris or Rome but probably a bigger deal in Moscow. BTW - How/why did you get a ticket to Rome via Moscow? Just curious, that's a heck of a long way out of the way if coming from the US.

I can't speak to the logistics of it, but I spent some time studying in Moscow years ago, and if you can arrange it, seeing St. Basil's is definitely worth it. Each time I approached it, I was amazed at the grandeur. That being said, I did try to go back to Moscow when studying in Rome. I purchased a non-refundable ticket, but was unable to get a visa in time (even with a sponser), so lost out the cost of the ticket (and the opportunity to see my favorite building again). Good luck.

I have been in touch with a travel company called travisa who seems to think it will not be a problem..... maybe I should check again with them. I too am concerned that I do not have a hotel but do have an airline reservation for that day. I would be happy to just be able to see Red Square and St. Basils. Any suggestions on getting from Sheremetyeo airport to Red Square. I thought there was a train?

I'm currently working on a 4 day visit to Moscow as part of a return to the USA. Let me tell you, it's EXPENSIVE and AN ENORMOUS PAIN. If I'd known how much I never would have done it. The visa (which you MUST have to enter Russia) costs $240 pp. To stay overnight we needed to get an "Invitation to Russia" which costs another $50 pp. Not sure if you'd need one of these. I am getting these documents through Travisa.com. It takes about 2-3 weeks to get the visa once they have your signed application (You can fill it out online). I just found out there are 3 airports, so you'll need to figure out the transportation from yours. My friend who was there about 6 weeks ago said the cab from his airport was $150. My cousin who travels there often said to take the train and then hire a car to go to the hotel from the train station as the only reliable method. I also found local guides at Tours by Locals online. If you can get into the city this would probably be your best bet. Good luck...maybe I'll see you in the airport!

This topic has been automatically closed due to a period of inactivity.

  • Deals and sales

The Best Cleaning and Organizing Deals From Amazon’s Big Spring Sale

Photos of a robot vacuum and a fabric shaver in an illustrated collage.

Spring has sprung—which means it’s time to crack your windows, soak up some sunshine, and maybe, just maybe, tackle a few spring-cleaning projects.

Wirecutter journalists think about cleaning and organizing year-round, recommending all the best tools and methods that leave your space feeling fresh. The only thing better than having cleaning supplies that get the job done is stocking up on them at a discount.

We’ve rounded up the best deals on some of our favorite cleaning and organizing supplies below.

A sleek shoe rack

Shoes on a Yamazaki Home Tower Shoe Rack.

Yamazaki Home Tower Shoe Rack — Upgrade Pick Amazon deal price: $94 ; street price: $115

The durable, investment-worthy Yamazaki Home Tower Shoe Rack  is stylishly sleek enough to display in your entryway and slim enough to tuck away in a closet if you’d rather keep your kicks out of sight. It can store up to 24 pairs of adult-size shoes on its five shelves (plus the space on the floor underneath). The top of the rack can also double as an entryway shelf, and the tower includes two hooks on the side for hanging keys or an umbrella. The shoe rack is currently on sale only in white.

Read our review of the best shoe racks .

A vacuum that doesn’t suck

A Roborock Q5+ Robot Vacuum.

Roborock Q5+ Robot Vacuum — Our Pick Roborock deal price: $370 ; street price: $550

A self-emptying robot vacuum allows you to tackle other chores while it goes around your house sucking up debris and dirt. Compared with other robot vacuums we tested, our top pick, the Roborock Q5+ Robot Vacuum , offers better battery life, app navigation, mapping, and voice-command response. It’s excellent at cleaning hard floors and low- to medium-pile carpet. Like nearly all of its competition, it struggled to pick up debris near thresholds and baseboards in our tests. The Roborock Q5+ comes with a charging station that empties debris into a disposable bag. Use the code ROBOROCKS for the deal price.

Read our review of the best robot vacuums .

A high-security shredder

An Amazon Basics 8-Sheet High-Security Micro-Cut Shredder with Pullout Basket.

Amazon Basics 8-Sheet High-Security Micro-Cut Shredder with Pullout Basket — Top Pick Amazon deal price: $62 ; street price: $69

Mail and documents with personal information can pile up quickly, and it can be easy to let them just lie around if you’re not sure how to securely dispose of them. Opting for a high-security shredder—such as our top pick, the Amazon Basics 8-Sheet High-Security Micro-Cut Shredder with Pullout Basket —can help you micro-cut documents with ease. It can run jam-free for nearly 10 minutes without overheating, and it includes a separate CD/DVD shredding slot. This shredder is slightly larger than other eight-sheet shredders with lift-up tops, but its functionality is worth the extra space it occupies.

Read our review of the best paper shredders .

A lopper for too-big branches

A Fiskars 28" Power-Lever Bypass Lopper.

Fiskars 28″ Power-Lever Bypass Lopper — Also Great Target deal price: $20 ; street price: $23

Spring is the perfect time to give your outdoor spaces some love. If you have branches that need pruning, the Fiskars 28″ Power-Lever Bypass Lopper may be able to help you tackle those that are too big for your average pruners. It works more quickly than a saw, and it’s long enough to prune harder-to-reach branches just as easily as the low-hanging ones.

Read our review of garden gear to clean up your lawn .

A secure lockbox

Medication inside a Barska Compact Medication Lock Box.

Barska Compact Medication Lock Box — Upcoming Pick Amazon deal price: $41 ; street price: $51

If you’re reorganizing your medicine cabinet, it might be a good time to also invest in a lockable box to keep prescriptions and other medications safe from the little ones in your home. The Barska Compact Medication Lock Box is a wall-mounted metal lockbox that we’ll be recommending in our upcoming guide to keeping your stash—whether it’s marijuana or something else—secure. This mountable lockbox can accommodate pill bottles of all sizes and heights, along with other first-aid resources. It can also sit on a countertop, though we know that its stark-white metal style isn’t for everyone. Make sure to clip the on-page coupon for the deal price.

A quick fashion fix

A Homeasy Fabric Shaver.

Homeasy Fabric Shaver — Our Pick Amazon deal price: $22 ; street price: $25

Instead of replacing your closet staples, consider investing in some laundry aids that can help your clothes last a bit longer. The Homeasy Fabric Shaver is our top-pick electric fabric shaver for big jobs, such as de-pilling and de-fuzzing sweaters in need of some TLC after a long winter. It features six sharp blades, a wide head, and intuitive controls, and it proved very effective during our testing. It’s quiet, comfortable to hold, capable of lasting up to six hours on a full charge, and USB rechargeable. The deal price is about $2 higher than the lowest sale price we’ve seen, but this deal is still a good value.

Read more about the best cheap(ish) laundry aids .

This article was edited by Elissa Sanci.

Meet your guide

travel toddler car seat

Gabriella DePinho

Gabriella DePinho is an updates writer at Wirecutter. Previously, she worked at NBC News writing about deals and product launches. She loves working in product recommendation but personally hates shopping—and she knows that doesn’t make sense.

Further reading

travel toddler car seat

The 80+ Best Deals From Amazon's Big Spring Sale (And Across the Internet) This Week

by Wirecutter Staff

Amazon’s Big Spring Sale, REI’s member sale, and other retail events are offering deals on outdoor, home, and travel gear. Here’s what’s actually worth buying.

A person using a bissell carpet cleaner on their living room carpet.

How to Tackle Intimidating Spring Cleaning Projects

by Elissa Sanci

The tasks on your spring cleaning list can be overwhelming if you don’t know where to start. We’re here to help.

A Zinus Green Tea Cooling Swirl Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress in a bedroom.

The Best Cheap Mattresses (Under $500)

by Caira Blackwell

It takes some effort, but you can find a decent, comfortable mattress that won’t break the bank. Here are five we recommend.

Collage of two Amazon Under $100 deals.

The Best Amazon Black Friday Deals Under $100

Some of the best Black Friday deals can be found on Amazon, and here we’ve collected those that can be had for under $100.

COMMENTS

  1. The 5 Best Travel Car Seats of 2024

    The best infant car seat for travel. If you're a frequent traveler, the Chicco KeyFit 35 is easier than most infant car seats to install securely without its base. $230 from Amazon. The Chicco ...

  2. 7 Best Toddler Car Seats of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

    Best Toddler Car Seat for Travel Diono Radian 3R. $170 at Amazon. $170 at Amazon. Read more. 7. Best Toddler Car Seat With Anti-Rebound Bar Peg Perego Primo Viaggio Convertible Kinetic.

  3. The 7 Best Travel Car Seats of 2024

    Higher price point. At just over 9 pounds and 18.5 inches in width, the FAA-approved Evenflo Tribute LX Convertible Car Seat is compact enough to fit in most vehicles and airplane seats. In addition, the car seat offers side impact protection and a five-point harness to give you peace of mind.

  4. 7 Best Portable Car Seats 2024

    Doona Car Seat Stroller. $550 at Amazon $550 at Nordstrom. Credit: Doona. Pros. Stroller and car seat in one with fast conversion. Slim stroller easy to push through airports. Simple to install in ...

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    Lightest Infant Car Seat: UPPAbaby Aria Car Seat. Best Affordable Infant Car Seat: Evenflo Litemax 35 Infant Car Seat. Best Luxury Infant Car Seat: Nuna Pipa Rx Infant Car Seat with Relx Base. Best Infant Car Seat + Stroller: Doona Infant Car Seat & Stroller.

  8. 7 Best Travel Car Seats for Toddlers (2024 Reviews)

    The KidsEmbrace Marvel Spider-Man 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat is great for toddlers and older kids alike, approved for forward-facing use with the five-point harness for children between 29 to 49 inches in height, and it can be converted into a belt-positioning booster car seat for children between 38 to 57 inches in height.

  9. The 8 Best Travel Car Seats of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

    Baby Jogger City Sights Travel System: This stroller and car seat combo is a good option for parents looking for a two-in-one. The stroller is easy to maneuver and collapses into a pretty compact ...

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    Best Toddler Car Seat Overall: Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat. Best Value Toddler Car Seat: Diono Radian 3R 3-In-1 Car Seat. Best Upgrade Toddler Car Seat: Nuna Exec All-In-One Car Seat ...

  11. Amazon.com: Toddler Travel Car Seat

    Lusso Gear Kids Travel Tray for Toddler Car Seat, Travel Tray for Kids Car Seat, Lap Tray for Airplane, Kids Travel Desk Accessories, Carseat Table Tray for Kids Road Trip Activities (Floral) 4.3 out of 5 stars 16,411. 200+ bought in past month. $32.95 $ 32. 95. FREE delivery Thu, Aug 10 .

  12. 12 travel car seats for families on the go

    CARES Harness. Amazon. The Cares Kids Fly Safe Airplane Harness is a compact car seat alternative for air travel. Approved for kids 12 months and older — and between 22 and 44 pounds — it acts ...

  13. What's the best toddler travel car seat? (2023 reviews)

    Cosco Scenera Next DLX or Scenera Deluxe - cheapest toddler travel car seat (also the lightest convertible car seat) and pairs perfectly with the Mountain Buggy Nano. Evenflo Sonus 65 - best balance of light weight, long-lasting, reasonable price and nice quality for everyday use ( also available at Albee Baby, Amazon and Target) Graco ...

  14. Amazon.com: Travel Toddler Car Seat

    Lusso Gear Kids Travel Tray for Toddler Car Seat, Travel Tray for Kids Car Seat, Lap Tray for Airplane, Kids Travel Desk Accessories, Carseat Table Tray for Kids Road Trip Activities (Geometric) 4.3 out of 5 stars 16,666. 100+ bought in past month. $32.95 $ 32. 95.

  15. Amazon.com: Toddler Travel Seat

    COOLBEBE Kids Travel Tray for Toddler Car Seat, Travel Tray for Airplane, Toddler Car Seat Lap Tray, Collapsible Car Seat Tray with Storage, Carseat Table Tray for Kids Travel Activities, Black. 4.4 out of 5 stars 26. 700+ bought in past month. $21.99 $ 21. 99. $2.00 coupon applied at checkout $2.00 off coupon Details.

  16. What's the best travel car seat for a 2 year old? (2024 reviews)

    The 40lbs rear facing weight limit makes this one of the best car seats for toddlers age 2 and up, as kids will be able to rear face until age 4 on average (or longer if they're skinny). Once forward facing it should last kids until around 6 years old. The Contender has a really neat trick up its sleeve for flights.

  17. Best Travel Car Seats for Toddlers

    The Cosco Scenera Next is a lightweight and portable car seat that is easy to install and store. good from birth. can be used as a rear-facing car seat for children 5-40 lbs & forward-facing car seat for children 22-40 lbs. width of the seat is 16.5″. weight of the seat is 8.6 lbs.

  18. The Best Portable Car Seat for Travel For Every Age! (2022)

    Our quick list of FAA approved car seats: Portable Baby Car Seat: Maxi Cosi Mico 30. Best travel car seat for toddler: Cosco Scenera Next. Please note that booster seats are not FAA approved and cannot be taken on flights.

  19. Traveling with Car Seats

    Preschool and toddler convertible seats for car travel are the heaviest and the most difficult to travel with. If your child meets the requirements for a travel booster seat, look into the Mifold or BubbleBum travel booster seats. Another option is the Ride Safer Travel Vest which can also be paired with a booster seat.

  20. 29 parent-approved tips on traveling with babies and toddlers : NPR

    Check the airport for family friendly spaces. Use nursing spaces or pods and family restrooms to reset as needed. Check lounges for nursing and play rooms. —Sara Conger. Take an early morning ...

  21. Get to know the Doona Car Seat & Stroller

    Easy to use. As a 2-in-1 stroller, Doona is a unique stroller and car seat combo that makes life easier for all caregivers. The product is designed to be easy to use and maneuver, so it's perfect for parents, and especially grandparents. It's also the best infant car seat for moms with postpartum pain, because it's one of the only infant ...

  22. Flying With A Car Seat? Here's What You Need To Know

    With this in mind, infants and toddlers should generally use a rear-facing car seat, while children more than 3 years old and younger than 7 years old or who have reached the height and weight ...

  23. 8 Best Booster Seats 2024

    The Diono is also one of the slimmest seats on the market and can fit three across the backseat in many cars. Because it can be used both rear-facing and front-facing, in addition to its being a ...

  24. Car seat travel system advice

    I'm a first time mom and have been researching travel systems for months. I'm torn on the chicco corso LE travel system, the maxi cosi Tayla, or doing a mockingbird stroller and uppa baby car seat combo. I was going to do the nuna pipa travel system but I don't like that the strollers don't front face or even have a bassinet option.

  25. Kids and Baby Store

    Kids and Baby Store: Free Shipping on Orders Over $49.99* at Bed Bath & Beyond - Your Online Store! Get 5% in rewards with Welcome Rewards! ... Baby Travel Car Seats and Bases Infant Car Seats Convertible Car Seats Booster Car Seats Car Seat Accessories Baby Carriers and Wraps Diaper Bags Baby Travel Cribs.

  26. Child car seat

    Answer 1 of 5: Is it compulsory to have a car seat for 4yr old in gett or yandex? Our diver refused to take us seeing v dont have!! Also are they all ac by default or needs to be told?

  27. Moscow with a Baby or Toddler

    Rail via AeroExpress (45 - 60 minutes): This is the fastest, cheapest, and easiest way to get the the city center from any of the Moscow airports. The service is a direct, comfortable train ride from the airport to one of the several Moscow rail stations. All of the rail stations are located on the brown "ring" line of the famous Moscow Metro, allowing for easy transfer to most places in ...

  28. Baby gear rental in Moscow?

    Answer 1 of 5: Hi, Does anyone know if there are any stores that rent baby gear (strollers, car seats, carriers etc.etc.) in Moscow?

  29. Moscow

    For just 10 hours with no overnight, you may not get one on your own. Look into a tour company. But I'd also suggest 10 hours is not much time - figure needing to be back at the airport at last 2-3 hours before your flight, travel time to and from the airport - I assume that's at least an hour each - and getting through immigration.

  30. The Best Cleaning Deals We've Found From Amazon's Big Spring Sale

    Fiskars 28″ Power-Lever Bypass Lopper — Also Great. Target deal price: $20; street price: $23. Spring is the perfect time to give your outdoor spaces some love. If you have branches that need ...