Imagine this: You’re finally boarding your family vacation flight, but you’re wrestling with a bulky, awkward car seat. Does that sound familiar? Traveling with little ones brings joy, but managing their safety gear can feel like a second job. Choosing the perfect travelling car seat adds another layer of worry. You want something safe, light enough to carry, and easy to install in taxis, rental cars, or even on the plane.
The market offers a dizzying array of choices, leaving parents confused about what truly meets safety standards while easing travel stress. It is frustrating when a seat promises portability but ends up weighing you down! This guide cuts through the noise. We will break down what makes a car seat truly travel-friendly.
Keep reading to discover the top features to look for, understand the must-know safety certifications, and finally select the best lightweight companion for your next adventure. Let’s make your next journey smoother, safer, and less of a workout!
Top Travelling Car Seat Recommendations
No. 1
RideSafer - Small Black, Lightweight, Compact, Portable Car Seat - Perfect for Travel and Everyday Child Safety
- IT IS UNCONVENTIONAL and INNOVATIVE. This is a vest type Child Restraint System and uses a revolutionary technology to increase safety for the little traveler by optimizing the adult seat belt fit for their body.
- IT IS SAFE AND LEGAL. This is certified for use in motor vehicles, meets or exceeds all applicable FMVSS 213 requirements so is legal to use in all US states.
- IT IS COMPACT, ULTRA-LIGHTWEIGHT, AND PORTABLE. This is perfect for a family travel, fits 3-children in the same row of a vehicle with comfort and ease; ridesharing, taxi, or rental car. Great for grandparents and caregivers because it’s lightweight and easy to install and use.
- IT CAN BE USED WITH OR WITHOUT TETHER. This is to use with a vehicle lap belt and top tether by securing the vest with a top tether anchor in the vehicle. Also, this can be used with a lap and shoulder belt only without a tether strap.
- WHO CAN USE IT? The small size is recommended to use 3 years and above and a weight between 30 lbs. and 60 lbs.
No. 2
WAYB Pico Travel Car Seat with Premium Carrying Bag- Lightweight, Portable, Foldable - Perfect for Airplanes, Rideshares, and Road Trips - Forward Facing for Kids 22-50 lbs. and 30-45"
- To keep little ones safe, returned car seats with open boxes must be destroyed (per industry standards). So, before you unbox your Pico, please make sure it's the exact item you intended to purchase and wanted for your on-the-go needs. Thanks for doing your part to keep car seats out of landfills and on to new adventures with your family!
- ANYWHERE YOU GO: Pico travel car seat is ideal for kids ages 2+ and within the range of 22-50 lbs. and 30-45 inches. Whether you’re ridesharing or road-tripping, Pico’s 5-point safety harness has you and your little ones covered. Each bundle comes with a Carry Bag where Pico can be stored and carried as a backpack, with the carrying handle, or slipped on the handle of rolling luggage.
- DESIGNED FOR SAFETY: Pico meets all U.S. safety standards regulated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Federal Aviation Administration, so it’s ready for road or air travel. FAA approved sticker is located on the bottom of the seat (see image for detail).
- LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN: Weighing just 8 pounds, the Pico travel car seat makes it easy to travel light. Our AeroWing aerospace-grade aluminum frame offers lightweight strength, and the AstroKnit performance wool/polyester mesh fabric cover keeps kids cool and comfortable. The Pico Carry Bag is responsibly made with 100% bluesign certified recycled polyester; no PU, EVA, or EPS foams
- FOLD & GO: Pico is easy to carry and stow! Folding down to a compact 11.6" L x 14.5" W x 18.9" H, the Pico car seat can fit into overhead bins and is easily carried while walking through the airport or to-and-from the car
No. 3
BubbleBum Inflatable Booster Car Seat – Foldable, Lightweight, Backless Travel Booster Seat for Kids, Portable Carseat for Toddler, Fits 3 Across, Compact for Uber - Ages 4-11 Year Old, - Black
- Ultimate Portability for Traveling Families: This inflatable booster seat packs down smaller than any rigid booster, fitting easily into a backpack, suitcase, diaper bag, or even your glove box. Whether you're catching a rideshare to the airport, hopping into a rental car at your destination, or managing last-minute carpooling for school pickup, you'll always have certified safety on hand without lugging around heavy, bulky equipment that limits your freedom to move spontaneously with your children
- Independently Crash Tested for Enhanced Safety: BubbleBum goes beyond the basics with independent crash testing, exceeding standard federal requirements to provide extra protection for children weighing 40-100 lbs. It meets all US federal and state safety standards and is certified, so you can trust that this portable booster delivers the same rigorous safety compliance as traditional rigid seats. Parents worldwide rely on BubbleBum because it proves that travel-sized doesn't mean compromising on the protection your child deserves
- Eliminates hard plastic edges that cause discomfort during extended car rides, highway trips, or cross-country vacations. Children stay happy and relaxed on long drives, reducing complaints and fidgeting that distract you from the road. The gentle, cushioned support is especially ideal for sensitive kids who struggle with rigid boosters, making every journey—from quick errands to multi-hour adventures —a more pleasant experience for the whole familyComfortable Ride for Long Journeys: The soft, inflatable cushion
- BubbleBum has earned prestigious awards including the NAPPA Award, JPMA Innovation Award, and recognition for its groundbreaking design. This booster seat is backed by a lifetime support commitment, giving you peace of mind that your investment is protected for years to come. When you choose BubbleBum, you're choosing a proven solution that empowers your family to travel anywhere, anytime, without sacrificing safety or convenience
- Fits 3 Across for Carpooling Made Easy: Slim, backless profile maximizes seating capacity in small cars and SUVs alike, making this compact car seat perfect for school runs, carpool pickups, and families with multiple children who need a narrow car seat that saves precious space without compromising comfort, safety, or convenience for everyday kids car seat needs
No. 4
RideSafer - Large Black, Lightweight, Compact, Portable Car Seat - Perfect for Travel and Everyday Child Safety
- IT IS UNCONVENTIONAL and INNOVATIVE. This is a vest type Child Restraint System and uses a revolutionary technology to increase safety for the little traveler by optimizing the adult seat belt fit for their body.
- IT IS SAFE AND LEGAL. This is certified for use in motor vehicles, meets or exceeds all applicable FMVSS 213 requirements so is legal to use in all US states.
- IT IS COMPACT, ULTRA-LIGHTWEIGHT, AND PORTABLE. This is perfect for a family travel, fits 3-children in the same row of a vehicle with comfort and ease; ridesharing, taxi, or rental car. Great for grandparents and caregivers because it’s lightweight and easy to install and use.
- IT CAN BE USED WITH OR WITHOUT TETHER. This is to use with a vehicle lap belt and top tether by securing the vest with a top tether anchor in the vehicle. Also, this can be used with a lap and shoulder belt only without a tether strap.
- WHO CAN USE IT? The Large size is recommended to use 3 years and above and a weight between 50 lbs. and 80 lbs.
No. 5
Mifold Hifold Adjustable Kids High Back Booster Car Seat with Strap – Slate Grey
- ADJUSTABLE BOOSTER – The hifold booster seat is the world’s most adjustable booster, with unique “multi-fit” technology that can be adjusted to 243 individual settings. This car seat is designed for kids aged 4 and up, 40-100 lbs., and 43.5 to 59 inches tall.
- PORTABLE BOOSTER FOR TRAVEL AND MORE –The world’s most portable booster. The “multi-fold” system quickly folds down to a compact and convenient size for storage, travel, carpooling, and more. It is lightweight and includes a convenient carry strap.
- KEEPS CHILD SECURE – hifold kids booster seat not only grows with your child but ensures optimal seatbelt fit and comfort while they grow. It can be adjusted in 4 areas: the seat, body, head width and height. Ultra-lightweight EPE (Expanded Polyethylene) foam for superior impact resistance.
- SAFETY TESTED – This portable car seat meets or exceeds NHTSA standard FMVSS 213 and is regulated for global use, so it can be taken and used everywhere in the world except Australia and Taiwan.
- CONVENIENT AND NARROW BOOSTER SEAT – This travel booster seat is easy to use and has won many awards, including the 2019 Creative Child Product of the Year Award. Use this car booster seat for older kids, grandparents' cars or for fitting three children in a row.
No. 6
Dreambaby Grab ‘N Go Travel Booster Seat – Portable Toddler High Chair for Dining (6M-3Y) with Storage & Shoulder Strap
- 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐥 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐞𝐚𝐭: An essential piece of baby travel gear. Perfect for family outings, visits to friends' homes, or dining out at a restaurant. Our Dreambaby Grab ‘N Go Booster Buddy is a fabulous high chair travel booster that provides a secure spot for your child to enjoy their meal.
- 𝐄𝐱𝐭𝐫𝐚 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐒𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐞: This booster seat isn't just about seating. It also offers ample storage space, making it more than just a chair for toddlers and babies. Now, you can store baby essentials, toys, or even some snacks!
- 𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭:The 3 point harness booster seat design helps keep your child safer while sitting at the “big kid” table; With adjustable straps this seat can be used for babies as young as 6 months (who can sit upright) all the way to toddlers typically up to 3 years of age. *Not for use in motor vehicles.
- 𝐋𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐰𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 & 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧: The foldable design of the chair makes it compact and easy to store; Featuring a carry strap, it quickly and easily can be thrown over your shoulder for on the go adventures; This booster is lightweight and easy to grab and go!
- 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬: This isn't just a booster seat for the dining table. Featuring a carry strap, it quickly and easily can be thrown over your shoulder for on the go adventures & the built-in storage gives you plenty of space to store the necessesities. Dine with confidence knowing you have a dependable high chair solution no matter where you are.
No. 7
Mifold Hifold Adjustable Kids High Back Booster Car Seat with Strap – Racing Red
- ADJUSTABLE BOOSTER – The hifold booster seat is the world’s most adjustable booster, with unique “multi-fit” technology that can be adjusted to 243 individual settings. This car seat is designed for kids aged 4 and up, 40-100 lbs., and 43.5 to 59 inches tall.
- PORTABLE BOOSTER FOR TRAVEL AND MORE –The world’s most portable booster. The “multi-fold” system quickly folds down to a compact and convenient size for storage, travel, carpooling, and more. It is lightweight and includes a convenient carry strap.
- KEEPS CHILD SECURE – hifold kids booster seat not only grows with your child but ensures optimal seatbelt fit and comfort while they grow. It can be adjusted in 4 areas: the seat, body, head width and height. Ultra-lightweight EPE (Expanded Polyethylene) foam for superior impact resistance.
- SAFETY TESTED – This portable car seat meets or exceeds NHTSA standard FMVSS 213 and is regulated for global use, so it can be taken and used everywhere in the world except Australia and Taiwan.
- CONVENIENT AND NARROW BOOSTER SEAT – This travel booster seat is easy to use and has won many awards, including the 2019 Creative Child Product of the Year Award. Use this car booster seat for older kids, grandparents' cars or for fitting three children in a row.
No. 8
Car Seat Dolly for Airport - CarSeat Roller Cart Wheels for Airplane - Car Seat Travel Cart Carrier with Straps Foldable Luggage Trolley Folding Hand Truck (Black)
- ✈USAGE INSTRUCTIONS: In addition to the car seat cart, two straps and two ratchet straps are also included. It is recommended to use all of them to secure the car seat. Use one ratchet strap to fasten around the base, and the other to secure the backrest. If the backrest of the car seat is reclined/slanted, lift the latch, rotate the tow bar, and then fasten the strap.
- ✈ TRAVEL HELPER: When compatible, this car seat dolly allows parents to roll heavy car seats through airports instead of carrying them. Ideal for air travel, layovers, and long terminal walks.also luagge cart. Once on the plane, it is best to detach the car seat first to avoid it getting stuck in the aisle.
- ✈LIFE HELPER: This folding hand truck is not only great for travel but also helps with everyday tasks, such as carrying grocery bags, books, cardboard boxes, water bottles, musical instruments, and other parcels or household items. It’s ideal for transporting items from your car to your home after shopping. You can also use it as a car seat cart for airport or car seat carrier for airport.
- ⚠️The bottom of the car seat should be flat,Designed for car seats with a base width within 45cm and sufficient bottom clearance for straps. Car seats outside this range will NOT fit. Measuring before purchase is strongly recommended.And check if the bottom of the car seat is flat,If you are not sure whether your car seat will fit, contact us!
- ⚠️NOTE PlEASE: 1.please make sure no one is sitting on the seat When using car seat dolly to roll the car seat, 2.when using the foldable trolley, you must use the two ratchet straps. They are essential for securing the car seat. 3,If the backrest of the car seat is reclined, lift the latch, rotate the tow bar, and then fasten the straps.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Your Travelling Car Seat
Taking your little one on the road? A travelling car seat is a must-have! Finding the right one means peace of mind for every journey. This guide helps you pick the best seat for your adventures.
1. Key Features to Look For
Good travelling car seats offer more than just safety. They need to be easy to use, too. Here are the features that matter most:
Portability and Weight
- Lightweight Design: You will carry this seat often. Look for models under 15 pounds if possible. Lighter seats mean less strain when moving through airports or hotels.
- Compact Fold: A seat that folds down small saves space in your luggage or car trunk. Check the folded dimensions against your travel bag size.
Installation Ease
- Simple Installation System: Travel should be quick. Seats with LATCH connectors or clear seatbelt paths install faster. Avoid seats with overly complicated instructions.
- No-Rethread Harness: Adjusting the harness height should be simple. A no-rethread system lets you move the straps up or down without taking the harness apart.
Safety Certifications
- Current Safety Standards: Always check that the seat meets current federal safety standards (like NHTSA in the US). This is non-negotiable for protecting your child.
2. Important Materials Used
The materials affect comfort, weight, and cleaning. Think about where you will travel most often.
Frame and Structure
- Durable Plastic and Aluminum: High-quality seats use strong, lightweight plastic for the shell. Some premium models use aluminum in the frame to reduce weight while keeping strength.
Fabric and Padding
- Breathable Fabric: Look for fabrics like mesh or moisture-wicking polyester. These keep your child cool on long, hot drives.
- Easy-to-Clean Covers: Spills happen. Removable, machine-washable covers make cleanup much easier after a messy trip.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all travel seats are created equal. A few small details really change the quality of the product.
Quality Boosters
- Extra Side Impact Protection: Good padding around the head area shows better quality construction. This extra layer offers more protection in a crash.
- Smooth Adjustments: When buckles, recline levers, and folding mechanisms work smoothly without sticking, the quality feels much higher.
Quality Reducers
- Flimsy Plastic: If the plastic parts feel thin or bend easily when you press them, the seat might not last long or offer the best protection.
- Thin Padding: Seats with very thin, sparse padding might be light, but they offer poor comfort for longer travel times.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the seat defines what “best” means for you. Consider your typical travel style.
Frequent Flyers
If you fly often, prioritize the lightest, most compact option. You might look for a seat that fits easily into a carry-on bag or comes with a dedicated travel backpack.
Road Trippers
For long drives, comfort becomes key. A slightly heavier seat with better recline options and superior cushioning might be worth the extra weight. Make sure it fits well in your car without blocking the driver’s view.
Grandparent Visits
If the seat stays mostly at one location, you might choose a slightly bulkier, but very easy-to-use, affordable model. Quick installation is still important here.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Travelling Car Seats
Q: Are travel car seats as safe as regular car seats?
A: Yes, if they meet the same government safety standards. Always check the certification labels before buying.
Q: Can I use my regular car seat for travel?
A: You can, but regular seats are often heavy and bulky. Travel seats are specifically designed to be lighter and fold smaller for easier transport.
Q: Do I have to check a car seat at the airport?
A: Often, you can gate-check them for free, just like a stroller. However, if you plan to use it on the plane, you must buy a separate seat for the child.
Q: What is the weight limit for most travel seats?
A: This varies widely. Most standard travel seats are good from 20 pounds up to 40 or 50 pounds, but always check the specific model’s limits.
Q: What is LATCH?
A: LATCH stands for Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children. It is a system that helps you securely attach the car seat to your car without using the seat belt.
Q: How do I clean a travel car seat?
A: Most good travel seats have removable fabric covers. You usually wash these in a machine on a gentle cycle. Always check the care tag first.
Q: Which is better: a travel booster or a harnessed travel seat?
A: This depends on your child’s age and size. Harnesses are safer for younger, smaller children. Boosters are for older kids who already pass the height requirements.
Q: Will a travel seat fit on an airplane seat?
A: Many narrow travel seats are FAA-approved and fit standard airplane seats. Check the seat’s width against airline guidelines before flying.
Q: What is the biggest benefit of a travel seat over a regular one?
A: The biggest benefit is portability. They are much lighter and fold down much smaller, making airports and hotels much easier to navigate.
Q: How often should I check the expiration date?
A: Car seats expire, usually after six to ten years, because the plastic degrades over time. Check the sticker on the base of the seat for the exact date.