Best Convertible Car Seat For Travel

Buyers Guide, Car Seat

best convertible car seat for travel
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Well, in this post, we would be talking about some of the best lightweight convertible car seats available on the market.

Moreover, I would also be throwing light on important buying parameters that you need to look for while making a purchase.

Lastly, I would be responding to the queries related to travel car seats in order to help you clear your doubts before you make a buying decision.

So, without any further ado, let’s begin…

Frankly speaking, at izzysmarthomeguide.com we’ve been confronted with queries like which is the best travel car seat, should I buy a travel car seat, and many more.

So, we decided to answer all the queries related to a convertible car seat for travel on our blog rather than responding one-to-one.

It will not only save our client’s precious time but ours as well.

Correct me, if I’m wrong.

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Which is the best lightweight convertible car seat for travel?

Frankly speaking, giving the tag “best” lightweight convertible car seat for travel to one particular brand or model would simply mean doing injustice to the rest of the brands.

To be honest, the term “best” is relative and NOT absolute.

In other words, the lightweight convertible car seat that may be BEST for you might not even cater to my requirements and vice-versa.

So, what we’ll do is, present to you some of the best-performing convertible car seats, and you can choose the one that not only caters to your needs but also falls well within your budget.

Does it make sense?

However, if you don’t have sufficient time to go through this comprehensive buying guide on travel car seats, then you can have a quick look at our top picks.

IzzySmartHomeGuide.Com Top Picks
  • Clek Foonf Convertible Car Seat
    • 9-year expiration
    • Made in Canada
    • Environment friendly and recyclable through Clek’s Car Seat Recycling Program
    • FAA certified
    • Equipped with advanced side-impact protection
    • Comes with a steel anti-rebound bar
    • Possesses REACT safety system
    • Ease of use including quick and newly-friendly installation process
    • Smooth recline

(Check Current Price On Amazon)

  • Peg Perego USA Primo Viaggio Convertible Car Seat
    • Made in Italy
    • Equipped with EPS side foam
    •  Includes a specially shaped removable cushion for newborns
    • Comprises a uniquely shaped base with non-friction pads for extra stability
    • Equipped with an idiosyncratic energy management system
    • Fresco Jersey performance fabric
    • A quick-release five-point safety harness with shoulder pads and chest clip
    • Harness webbing made with cobblestone extra-strong polyester thread

(Check Current Price On Amazon)

  • Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat
    • Protect Plus engineered
    • 10-position headrest
    • InRight LATCH
    • Fuss-free harness storage
    • America’s #1 Car Seat Brand (Based on units sold according to 2019 market data by the NPD group)
    • Allows your child to ride rear-facing longer duration
  • Britax Boulevard ClickTight Convertible Car Seat
    • Equipped with patented click-tight feature
    • Provides an extra layer of side-protection
    • FAA approved
    • Features patented Britax safe cell impact protection system
    • Plush foam padding and fabric
    • Comes with a snug harness indicator
    • Possesses two strong layers of side energy absorption

(Check Current Price On Amazon)

  • Cosco Mighty Fit 65 DX Convertible Car Seat
    • Backed by a 1-year limited warranty
    • Fabric is machine washable and dryer safe
    • Provides side-impact protection
    • 5-point harness with easy upfront adjustment
    • Meets federal, ASTM, and JPMA safety standards (Check Current Price On Amazon)

Before we dive deep into reviewing some of the best convertible car seats for travel, it’s my humble request to have a look at some of the most popular posts on our blog.

It would be great if you could share this piece of information with like-minded people as well as the ones who are in need of it.

After all, sharing is caring, isn’t it?

Lightweight Travel Convertible Car Seats Review

Please allow us to explain the shortlisting process that we follow on our blog before we discuss the nuts and bolts of lightweight travel convertible car seats.

First and foremost, our core team does the brainstorming and comes up with a set of evaluation parameters.

Each evaluation parameter is assigned a certain weightage depending upon its ability to influence a buyer’s decision.

During our evaluation, we assign certain scores to each product across the evaluation parameters depending on its performance.

Finally, we sum up the score and shortlist the top performer for the review purpose.

I hope you’re clear with our reviewing process.

Nonetheless, if you STILL have any doubts or queries then reach out to us, and we would be more than happy to assist you.

Evenflo Sonus Convertible Car Seat

The Evenflo Sonus convertible car seat could be a great fit if you’re a travel freak.

In simple words, the convertible car seat is loaded with almost all the necessary features that you might be looking for in your favorite travel car seat.

Not only is it safe and comfortable but also highly affordable.

When it comes to buying a convertible car seat for travel, FAA approval is a must, right?

And, the best part is, this little beast meets the FAA inversion requirements for airplanes.

Moreover, in order to make the harness easily accessible, the Evenflo Sonus comes with up-front adjustment.

Don’t worry about the proper fitting as the 5 shoulder strap positions will do the trick for you.

If you’re a working and busy MOM like me then I’ve got a piece of good news for you, the pads are easily removable and machine washable so cleaning would be a breeze for you.

It is also equipped with 2 cup holders so that you can keep snacks and drinks for your child while you’re traveling or otherwise.

And, not to forget, a head pillow is right there for support.

Many first-time buyers wouldn’t be aware of the fact that Evenflo Sonus is equipped with an airflow ventilation system that enhances your child’s traveling experience multifold by regulating the temperature.

On top of it, the product not only passes Evenflo’s comprehensive Side Impact test but also industry-leading Rollover Test Standards.

In layman’s terms, the Evenflo Sonus convertible car seat is a unique blend of safety and comfort.

So, you don’t have to worry at all about your child’s safety.

Any infant can reap the benefits of this idiosyncratic car seat in the rear-facing mode if her weight falls in the range of 5-40 pounds and height 19-40 inches.

On the other hand, 22-50 pounds and 28-50 inches are respectively the weight and height limits in case you want to use it for your child in the forward-facing mode.

What We Like:

  • Great for airline travel
  • Good quality fabric and plush padding
  • Affordable convertible car seat for travel
  • Airflow vent for proper air circulation
  • Adjustable straps to ensure proper fitting
  • Buckle pockets to protect your kid from hot buckle burns
  • Easily removable and machine washable dual cup holders for snacks and drinks

What We Don’t Like:

  • Some of our clients felt that the installation process could have a little easy, smooth, and less time-consuming
  • A couple of clients complained that straps weren’t compatible with their vehicles

Cosco Mighty Fit 65 DX Convertible Car Seat

So, here comes yet another top-rated travel convertible car seat that might blow up your mind with the kind of features that it comes with, and of course, it’s affordable even for the ones who are on a shoestring budget.

Not only does it features five height and 3 buckle locations but also makes it possible for you to easily adjust the five-point harness from the front of your car seat.

You guessed it, right- the car seat cover is easily removable and machine washable.

The uniquely designed Cosco Mighty Fit 65 DX is compact, lightweight, and easier to manage through airport security checks.

It is suitable for both infants as well as toddlers.

(Check Current Price On Amazon)

In fact, any kid whose weight falls in the range of 5-40 pounds can reap the benefits of this superlative convertible car seat in the rear-facing mode.

And, to use it in forward-facing mode, your kid shouldn’t weigh more than 65 pounds.

Don’t worry, Cosco Mighty will allow you to enjoy the extra legroom because of its compact shape.

And, if you’ve got a growing family, then I’ve got a piece of good news for you.

This little beast can fit three in a row side by side in most cars, interesting, isn’t it?

In order to provide additional safety to your little ones, built-in side impact protection is right in place.

On the safety front, the Cosco Mighty meets or exceeds federal, ASTM, and JPMA safety standards.

Not to forget, the product is backed by a year-limited warranty which clearly depicts the trust and confidence of the manufacturer in its offering.

What We Like:

  • Fabrics are machine washable and dryer safe
  • Equipped with side impact protection
  • Fit 3 across in the back seat in most of the vehicles
  • 5-point harness with easy upfront adjustment
  • Lightweight, compact, and easy to carry
  • Newbie-friendly installation process
  • Reasonably priced

What We Don’t Like:

  • Some of our clients found buckles to be stiff and faced difficulty to get them undone at times

Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat

The Graco Extend2Fit is definitely one of the best and most lightweight convertible car seats for travel that we’ve on our list.

We proudly acknowledge its superlative performance in our evaluation process.

Unlike other travel convertible car seats that have performed extremely well on certain evaluation parameters, it has performed well on almost all the evaluation parameters.

Not only is it equipped with idiosyncratic superlative features but also reasonably priced.

Just for your information, the Graco Extend2Fit is quite popular among our clientele.

And, the best part is that it allows your child to ride rear-facing for a longer duration.

It grows along with the different phases of your child’s growth.

Your kid can reap its benefits in rear-facing mode if her weight falls in the range of 4-50 lbs.

On the other hand, the weight limit for the forward-facing mode is 22-65 pounds.

Since it is made of steel-reinforced so you don’t have to worry about durability and longevity.

Also, it is equipped with an adjustable extension panel that will provide up to 5″ additional legroom.

Of course, it is ProtectPlus Engineered so that you can rest assured that your kid is in the right hands.

It’s always good to be safe than sorry, isn’t it?

Integrated cup holders are right in place for storing drinks and snacks.

What We Like:

  • Equipped with integrated dual cup holders for storing snacks and drinks
  • Includes InRight LATCH for easy one-second attachment
  • Comes with a 6-position incline that provides your child more comfort during both short and long rides
  • Includes storage pockets for the harness
  • Reasonably priced
  • ProtectPlus is Engineered for the ultimate safety and security
  • Allows your child to ride rear-facing for a longer duration

What We Don’t Like:

  • Some of our clients faced difficulty in tightening the belt

Diono Radian 3RXT

The Diono Radian 3RXT is yet another top-rated convertible car seat for travel that you wouldn’t regret investing in.

In fact, the Diono Radian 3RXT was the winner with a huge margin on certain parameters in our evaluation process.

(Check Current Price On Amazon)

And, the best part is that it has performed fairly well on the rest of the parameters as well.

It allows you to keep your kid rear-facing for a longer duration as the weight limit set by the manufacturer for the mode is up to 50 lbs.

Well, it is one of the best and lightest travel car seats for newborns as it features a newborn travel high wedge to create a safe and secure lie-flat travel position.

The Diono Radian travel car seat is equipped with innovative and advanced technology that pushes the baby up to reduce head slumps while helping to keep airways open.

On top of it, the mechanically engineered, reinforced steel core, made from automotive-grade high-density plastic and steel provides your child a high level of safety even during unprecedented events.

All in all, one of my personal favorites on the lightest convertible car seat for travel list.

What We Like:

  • Uniquely designed, narrow, and compact
  • Diono Radian can easily accommodate bigger kids, thanks to the hip flaps expanding feature
  • Head side cushions are super sturdy
  • Reasonably priced
  • Newbie-friendly installation process

What We Don’t Like:

  • Some of our clients complained that 3RXT leans sideways because of its slimness

Britax Boulevard ClickTight Convertible Car Seat

If you’ve been an avid reader of izzysmarthomeguide.com, then definitely, you would be aware of the fact that the brand Britax doesn’t need any introduction.

Trust me, it is one of the most popular car seat brands today, and of course, for all the good reasons.

First thing first, the installation process is a breeze, thanks to the patented click-tight feature.

On top of it, the Britax Boulevard is also equipped with a harness indicator that will give an audible click when you’ve pulled to the proper tightness.

Furthermore, on the safety front, the Britax Boulevard has done a tremendous job, thanks to the 2 layers of side impact protection, steel frame, and impact-absorbing base features.

Especially, first-time buyers find a sug indicator of utter importance as it gives a click sound when the harness is tight.

I’m personally a big fan of the SafeCell technology that Britax Boulevard is equipped with.

Advanced technology plays a crucial role in absorbing crash energy.

Another feature that is worth talking about is the V-Shaped Tether.

Its primary function is to help slow and reduce movement during a crash.

When it comes to durability and robust construction, a high-strength steel frame plays a crucial role in reinforcing the seat structure to help keep stabilized.

It is really important that the lightweight convertible car seat that you’re planning to buy for travel creates a perfect fit for your child during different stages of her growth.

The Britax does it perfectly, thanks to the 14-position, quick-adjust headrest & harness.

On top of it, the 7-position recline creates the perfect fit as your child grows.

In order to manage crash energy perfectly, a 5-point safety harness is right in place.

Of course, the cleaning process is quick, easy, and hassle-free, thanks to the removable cover.

What We Like:

  • Reasonably priced
  • Quick, easy, and less time-consuming installation process
  • 2-layer of side impact protection
  • Equipped with advanced and innovative technologies including SafeCell technology
  • Comprises of high-strength steel frame

What We Don’t Like:

  • Some of our clients complained that there isn’t much legroom in the rear-facing mode

Graco Tranzitions 3 In 1 Harness Booster Seat

The Graco Tranzitions is a 3-in-1 harness booster seat that grows along with your child’s growth phase.

We at izzysmarthomeguide.com recommend this portable and lightweight car seat, especially for busy and working parents.

It comprises two easy-to-clean cup holders for keeping snacks and drinks.

(Check Current Price On Amazon)

In order to properly place your vehicle’s seat belt, open-loop belt guides are right in place.

The Graco Tranzitions can be used in three different modes, that is, forward-facing harness, highback & backless booster.

The weight limit for a forward-facing harness is 22-65 pounds.

And, for high-back & backless boosters, it is 40-100 pounds.

Not only is it slimmer and fits properly but also allows for more legroom.

What We Like:

  • The seat pad, body support, and harness covers are easily removable and machine washable
  • Lightweight, compact, and portable convertible car seat
  • Equipped with integrated dual cup holders
  • Reasonably priced
  • Robust, sturdy, and long-lasting

What We Don’t Like:

  • Some of our clients felt difficulty in installing it on leather bucket seats

Graco SlimFit 3 in 1 Car Seat

Well, we literally love Graco car seats, and all for good reasons.

Time and again, these little beasts have proved their mettle.

In spite of being highly affordable, the Graco car seats compete quite well with some of the costliest and most premium lightweight convertible car seats available on the market, right now.

The Graco SlimFit is yet another great offering from the brand Graco.

As the name suggests, you can use it in three different modes, that is, rear-facing, forward-facing, and high-back booster mode.

The SlimFit is uniquely designed to be 10 percent slimmer to save valuable backseat space.

It is also equipped with integrated dual cup holders that rotate away so storing snacks and drinks wouldn’t be an issue for you.

In order to keep your child comfortable, a 4-position recline is right in place.

Since it is Graco ProtectPlus Engineered so you can believe that your child is in safe hands.

The weight limit for the rear-facing mode is 5-40 pounds.

And, for forward-facing mode is 22-65 pounds.

In case, you want to use the Graco SlimFit in the high back booster mode then your child’s weight should fall in the range of 40-100 pounds.

What We Like:

  • Equipped with InRight LATCH feature
  • Includes steel-reinforced frame
  • Comes with a 4-position recline
  • ProtectPlus Engineered
  • Space-saving design

What We Don’t Like:

  • As per our clients, the space behind the seat for the seat belt to pass through is way too small for an adult’s hand

mifold hifold fit-and-fold Highback Booster Seat

The mifold hifold fit-and-fold Highback Booster Seat could be a great fit if you’re looking for the world’s most adjustable booster.

What puts this little beast in a different league altogether is the “multi-fit” technology that can be adjusted to 243 individual settings.

Well, if your kid wanna reap the benefits of this idiosyncratically designed convertible car seat for travel, then her weight should fall in the range of 40-100 lbs, and her height in the range of 40 59 inches.

Mifold hifold could be a great fit for families that loves to travel on a frequent basis.

Many first-time buyers wouldn’t be aware of the fact that the brand boasts about being the world’s most portable booster.

In order to make your travel comfortable, convenient, and hassle-free, the car seat is equipped with a “multi-fold” system that quickly folds down to a compact and convenient size for storage, travel, carpooling, etc.

Not only is it lightweight but also includes a convenient carry strap.

On top of it, the hifold kid’s booster seat grows along with the different phases of your child’s growth.

It comes with superior impact resistance, thanks to ultra-lightweight EPE (Expanded Polyethylene) foam.

When it comes to safety standards, the portable car seat meets or exceeds NHTSA standard FMVSS 213.

What We Like:

  • Hifold is adjustable, safe, and comfortable
  • Meets or exceeds NHTSA FMVSS 213
  • It can be adjusted to 243 individual settings ensuring an optimal seat belt for your child, thanks to “multi-fit” technology
  • Hifold offers great portability
  • The brand claims to be the world’s most adjustable booster
  • Comes with 6 advanced impact-protection zones
  • Quickly folds down into a compact and convenient size, thanks to the advanced multifold system

What We Don’t Like:

  • Some of our clients felt that it is NOT the best choice for long road trips
  • Quite a few of our clients weren’t satisfied with the positioning of the lap belt as it keep on sliding

Graco Grows4Me 4 in-1 Car Seat

The Graco Grows4Me convertible car seat for travel is definitely one of my personal favorites.

In layman’s terms, it comprises almost everything that you might be looking for in your favorite lightweight convertible car seat for travel.

Since it is LATCH-equipped so you can expect the installation process to be quick, easy, hassle-free, and newbie-friendly.

Moreover, it is Graco ProtectPlus Engineered so you don’t have to worry at all about the safety of your kid.

(Check Current Price On Amazon)

Since it comes with 6-recline positions so your child would be comfortable even during long hours of drives.

On top of it, a 10-position adjustable headrest is easy to use and perfectly fits your growing kid.

The Graco Grows4Me grows along with your child’s growth phase and has an expiration time of 10 years.

In the rear-facing harness mode, the weight limit is 5-40 lbs.

Moreover, in the forward-facing mode, the weight limit is 22-65 lbs.

Your child can reap the benefits of Grow4Me in the high back booster mode if her weight falls in the range of 40-100 lbs.

And, for the backless booster mode, the weight limit is 40-110 lbs.

What We Like:

  • Equipped with Simply Safe Adjust Harness System
  • Comprise of Integrated Harness Storage Compartment
  • It is also LATCH equipped
  • Reasonably priced
  • Compact, portable, durable, and lightweight

What We Don’t Like:

  • Some of our clients felt that it is NOT the best choice for the newborns

Maxi-Cosi Magellan Xp Max All-in-One Convertible Car Seat

Definitely, Maxi-Cosi Magellan Xp Max is the ONLY car seat that you ever need for your kid.

Of course, it grows along with different phases of your child’s growth.

It is suitable for your child from the time of birth to up to 10 years.

Any child whose weight falls in the range of 5-120 lbs can easily reap the benefits of this idiosyncratic superlative car seat.

Well, in order to provide a customized fit for all growth stages of your kid, an adjustable torso side impact protection with a 14-position headrest adjustment is right in place.

The installation process is quick, easy, and hassle-free, thanks to the integrated belt lock-offs.

For a quick and easy transformation to the booster mode, the HideAway seat belt harness is right in place.

The fabric used in the car seat is premium as well as machine washable.

What We Like:

  • Premium fabrics and soft cushions are machine washable
  • Equipped with auto-magnetic chest clip for hassle-free in and out movement of buckling
  • Seat pads come with EZ Zipper for easy, quick, and hassle-free installation
  • With Comfort-Adjust Torso Protection and Air Protect technology in the adjustable headrest, the little beast is bound to deliver high-level of protection and comfort
  • Reasonably priced

What We Don’t Like:

  • Not the best choice for escape artists

Disney Baby Jive 2-in-1 Convertible Car Seat

The Disney Baby Jive 2-in-1 Convertible Car Seat is quite popular among my clients because of the kind of comfort it provides to the little ones.

It operates in two modes, that is, rear-facing, and forward-facing.

In order to reap the benefits of Disney Baby in the rear-facing mode, your little one should weigh in the range of 5-40 pounds.

(Check Current Price On Amazon)

On the other hand, the weight limit for the forward-facing mode is 22-65 pounds.

It is also equipped with 2 dishwasher-safe cup holders that are easily removable and machine washable.

In order to provide extra head and body support, the car seat is equipped with removable insert pillows.

You don’t have to worry at all about the fitting of your growing kid as the harness features 5 heights and 3 buckle locations to do the trick for you.

Of course, you can travel with this little beast on an airplane as it is certified for use on aircraft.

What We Like:

  • Certified for use on airplane
  • 2 removable dishwasher-safe cup holders
  • Fits 3 across in the back seat of most vehicles
  • Reasonably priced
  • Equipped with removable head pillow and body pillow

What We Don’t Like:

  • Some of our clients felt that this car seat isn’t suitable for the rear-facing mode

Britax Allegiance 3 Stage Convertible Car Seat

The Britax Allegiance 3 Stage is yet another top-rated travel car seat that we’ve on our list.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced professional, the installation of Britax Allegiance 3 Stage wouldn’t consume much of your time, thanks to push-button latch connectors and built-in lock-offs.

Moreover, cleaning is a breeze as well since it gives you the facility to remove the car seat cover without removing the harness.

When it comes to safety features, the Britax Allegiance is definitely one of the best in its league, thanks to features such as Side impact protection, steel frame, impact-absorbing base, and forward movement-reducing v-shaped tether.

So, if your little one wants to reap the benefits of this idiosyncratic car seat then her weight must fall in the range of 5-40 pounds for rear-facing mode.

On the other hand, the weight limit for forward-facing mode is 20-65 pounds.

Furthermore, it comes with a 10-position harness that grows along with your child.

What We Like:

  • Reasonably priced
  • FAA approved
  • Equipped with a removable body pillow
  • Quick, easy, and hassle-free installation process
  • Includes patented Britax safe cell impact protection system

What We Don’t Like:

  • It may not be the best choice for bigger and taller kids

Graco TriRide 3 in 1 Car Seat

The Graco TriRide 3 in 1 Car Seat can operate in three different modes, that is, rear-facing, forward-facing, and highback booster.

The weight range for the rear-facing mode is 5-40 lbs.

On the other hand, 22-65 lbs are the weight range for forward-facing mode.

And, in case, your kid is grown up and wants to reap the benefits of highback booster mode then her weight should fall in the range of 40-100 lbs.

Like other Graco car seats, it is also Graco ProtectPlus Engineered so you don’t have to worry about the safety of your child.

(Check Current Price On Amazon)

In order to provide your growing little one with the best possible fitting, an adjustable headrest with a 10-position is right in place.

The car seat is equipped with two cup holders for carrying snacks and drinks.

Of course, Graco TriRideis robustly constructed to last for years to come, thanks to the reinforced steel frame.

What We Like:

  • Graco® ProtectPlus Engineered™ to help protect in frontal, side, rear, and rollover crashes
  • The car seat is LATCH equipped and easy-to-read level indicator for easy installation
  • Includes easy-to-clean cup holders
  • It grows along with different phases of your child’s growth
  • Comes with a steel-reinforced frame for durability and longevity

What We Don’t Like:

  • Some of our clients felt that installation is relatively cumbersome, time-consuming, and NOT newbie-friendly

Clek Foonf Convertible Car Seat

Well, Clek Foonf is definitely one of the most expensive convertible car seats that we’ve on our list.

Before diving deep into discussing the various attributes, I’m bluntly saying this car seat isn’t for buyers who are on a shoestring budget so it’s better you SKIP the discussion.

Not only does Clek Foonf comes with a 9-year expiration but also a year of limited warranty which clearly depicts the confidence and trust of the brand in its offering.

You need to thank the Rigid-LATCH system for making the forward-facing installation process a breeze even for a first-time buyer.

It goes without saying that the top-rated convertible car seat for travel is highly safe and comfortable.

In fact, it allows your kid to remain rear-facing for a longer duration, till the time she weighs less than or equal to 50 pounds.

A steel anti-rebound is right in place for enhanced safety in the rear-facing mode.

The brand has been successful in maximizing the side impact protection, thanks to the solid metal substructure with inner and outer energy-absorbing foam layers and an adjustable headrest.

In order to deal effectively with side collisions, the Clek Foonf is equipped with aluminum honeycomb crumple technology that plays a crucial role in absorbing energy during a collision, and as a result, the force on the child decreases drastically.

The premium fabric is comfortable as well as environment-friendly.

In fact, the fabric is GREENGUARD Gold Certified fluorine-free C-Zero so you can expect it to act as a protection layer against stains, moisture, and odor-causing bacteria.

And, the best part is that the car seat is also free from halogenated flame retardants.

What We Like:

  • Free of brominated and chlorinated flame retardants
  • 9-year expiration
  • GREENGUARD Gold Certified fluorine-free C-Zero fabrics
  • Uses aluminum honeycomb crumple technology
  • Comes with a solid metal substructure with inner and outer energy-absorbing foam layers 

What We Don’t Like:

  • Expensive

Peg Perego USA Primo Viaggio Convertible Car Seat

To be honest, the Peg Perego USA Primo Viaggio is my personal favorite, and of course, for numerous reasons.

In simple words, the Peg Perego has equipped with almost all the essential as well as luxurious features that you might be looking for in your favorite travel car seat.

In order to limit forward movement as well as provide stability in the forward-facing mode, the top tether feature is right in place.

On top of it, the Peg Perego is equipped with adjustable Latch connectors that NOT only provide stability but also make installation a breeze.

I personally like the contoured base as it provides additional stability to my kid irrespective of the seating position.

Trust me, your child’s head and torso are safe and well-protected against any unprecedented event, thanks to the energy-absorbing foam in the shell and head panel.

On top of it, side-impact protection is right in place in order to protect your kid’s head, neck, and spine against any side collision.

In layman’s terms, the manufacturer has given safety as the top priority and so the premium price is well justified.

Furthermore, the little beast is also equipped with a shock-absorbing foam element device that is present below the shell.

It crumples upon impact, and as a result, reduces stress on your child’s neck and shoulder during the event of a crash.

What We Like:

  • Includes contoured Steel backplate 
  • EPS throughout Shell
  • Fresco Jersey Performance Fabric
  • Comprise of Shock Absorbing Foam Element (SAFE) device
  • Made in Italy

What We Don’t Like:

  • Expensive

Cosco Apt 50 Convertible Car Seat

The last two convertible car seats that we discussed are definitely expensive and NOT the best choice for our readers who are on a shoestring budget.

So, in order to not offend them, we’ve come up with a highly affordable convertible car seat that will not cost you a fortune.

(Check Current Price On Amazon)

The Cosco Apt 50 Convertible Car Seat is definitely one of the cheapest lightweight convertible car seats for travel that we’ve got on our list.

Like the aforementioned convertible travel car seats, it can also be operated in two different modes.

The weight range for the rear-facing mode is 5-40 pounds.

And, in order to reap the benefits in the forward-facing mode, your kid’s weight shouldn’t exceed 50 pounds.

In order to make a 5-point harness easily adjustable and convenient, it features 6 heights and 3 buckle locations.

On the safety front, Cosco Apt 50 meets or exceeds federal and ASTM safety standards.

The APT 50 is also backed by a year-limited warranty which clearly depicts the confidence and trust of the manufacturer in its offering.

Trust me, it’s one of the most affordable travel seats for airplanes that we’ve got on our list.

You’ll not face any issues in cleaning the pad as it is easily removable and machine washable.

Furthermore, it provides side-impact protection in both modes.

What We Like:

  • Highly affordable
  • Easily adjustable 5-point harness
  • One-year limited warranty
  • Easily removable and machine washable pad
  • Certified for use on aircraft
  • Lightweight, compact, and portable convertible car seat for travel
  • One of the best and most lightweight convertible car seats for travel under $250

What We Don’t Like:

  • Some of our clients felt that the installation process was tedious, time-consuming, and NOT newbie-friendly

Baby Trend Trooper 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat

The Baby Trend Trooper is yet another lightweight convertible car seat for travel that is quite popular among our clientele, and of course, for all the good reasons.

From being affordable to comprising idiosyncratic features, it provides you with all the essential ingredients that you might be looking for in your favorite car seat.

It can be used in three different modes, and the best part is that you get separate rear-facing modes for infants and toddlers.

(Check Current Price On Amazon)

If you’re planning to use it in the infant rear-facing mode then definitely, your child should weigh in the range of 4-18 lbs.

Moreover, your little one can reap its benefits in rear-facing toddler mode if her weight falls in the range of 18-40 lbs.

On the other hand, the prerequisite of using the Baby Trend in the toddler forward-facing mode is that the child should weigh in the range of 22-65 lbs.

It comprises of bubble indicator that helps in the easy and quick installation by helping you to figure out the correct angle.

The super-deep side wings play a crucial role in providing optimum side impact protection to your little ones during a collision.

What We Like:

  • First from preemie to elementary school
  • Extremely narrow convertible car seat
  • Built-in cup holder
  • Very clear labeling on car seats and inserts

What We Don’t Like:

  • Doesn’t last as long as the Evenflo Sureride
  • Requires top tether for forward-facing

Evenflo SureRide DLX Convertible Car Seat

The Evenflo SureRide DLX convertible car seat could be great for your taller kids for sure.

Many first-time buyers wouldn’t be aware of the fact that the little beast is an inch taller in the shell making it highly suitable for the taller kids.

The increased height and space work great when your child is using this car seat in the forward-facing mode.

Of course, it is lightweight, compact, and portable.

Are you aware of the fact that it weighs as little as 10 lbs?

Fold-down cupholders are right in place to not only carry drinks and snacks but also save space when not in use.

The fabric is easily removable and machine washable so you don’t have to worry about your kid’s mess at all.

What We Like:

  • Nice padding
  • Features are favorable for taller kids
  • Easy to stack two together
  • Reasonably priced
  • Suitable for everyday use

What We Don’t Like:

  • Requires top tether, which may not be available in all countries
  • 6-year expiration
  • Heavier than Cosco Scenera Next and Cosco Apt 50
  • More expensive than Cosco car seats

Buyer’s Guide

Well, so here comes the most in-demand section which mostly talks about the things that you shouldn’t ignore at all when it comes to buying the best lightweight convertible car seat for travel.

Lightweight, Compact, And Portable

Trust me, there isn’t any guesswork involved in it.

We totally believe in working on data and logic in order to provide our customers with the best possible advice that we could when it comes to buying the lightweight convertible car seat for travel.

It goes without saying that the convertible travel car seat that you’re planning to buy for your kid should be lightweight and compact so that it can be easy to carry and doesn’t occupy much of the available space while you’re traveling, make sense?

Fortunately, almost all the travel car seats that are made to our list fall in this category so you can go ahead and choose the one that NOT only syncs well with your requirements but also falls well within your budget.

Should Sync Well With The Growing Needs Of Your Child

As we all know that a convertible car seat grows along with different phases of your child’s growth.

Most of the lightweight convertible travel car seats that are made to our list can be used in multiple modes so satisfies the growing need of your kid.

Well, if you are a first-time buyer then let me tell you when it comes to buying a lightweight convertible car seat for travel, the most vital feature is that the car seat should follow the age and development of your kids else it doesn’t make much sense in bringing it home.

In fact, you can’t place a 2-3 year child in a backless booster even though your child is comfortable with it.

Safety

In our article on the best affordable toddler car seats, we’ve heavily emphasized the importance of safety and comfort when it comes to buying a value-for-money car seat.

You can’t even imagine buying a travel convertible car seat that doesn’t match or exceeds the safety standards in your country.

It’s always good to be safe than sorry.

Make sure that you jot down all the information regarding safety that the salesperson has provided so that you can go through it later and clear your doubts if any.

Also, try to get as much information as possible regarding how the car seat would behave during a collision.

Meanwhile, it’s always a good practice to check the safety standards, look for tests, and see which seats to select.

We at izzysmarthomeguide.com recommend our clients choose the convertible car seat for travel that comes with the sidewalls since it will help in keeping the head and the upper body parts safe and protected.

Convertible travel car seats that are equipped with features such as a 5-point harness system and LATCH system prevent slipping and moving around of kids to a large extent.

Moreover, for additional safety & stability measures, you can look for features such as connectors and seat belts.

Durability

Tell me, who does love to have a lightweight convertible travel car seat that is durable, robust, and long-lasting?

Moreover, during a collision, a travel car seat must be durable enough to stand tall against external forces.

Buying a car seat that comprises of reinforced steel framework could be a good choice.

Fortunately, all the car seats that were made to our review list scored really high on parameters such as durability, robustness, and longevity during our selection process.

Price

Well, it goes without saying that the price is an influencing buying parameter and in case, you’re a price-sensitive end-user like me then most of the time you would be looking for a value-for-money product.

Correct me, if I’m wrong.

Fortunately, most of the car seats that we’ve reviewed so far are reasonably priced.

However, a few outliers do exist.

From our past experience and the knowledge that we’ve accumulated over a decade, all we can say is that the cheapest products aren’t always the worst and the costliest aren’t always the best.

So, it’s always good to look for travel car seats that NOT only sync well with your needs but also fall well within your budget.

Comfort

Needless to say, the lightweight car seat that you’re planning to buy for your kid must be comfortable so that she can thoroughly enjoy the ride irrespective of it being short road trips or long air travels.

Always look for fabric that has proper air circulation and prevents heat from building up.

Ignore buying car seats that don’t come with proper padding.

Ease Of Use

Frankly speaking, ease of use is yet another important evaluation parameter that we’ve got on our list.

Always look for convertible car seats that are NOT only machine washable but also easy to clean.

It will make your work easy and hassle-free.

Secondly, make sure that the car seat doesn’t involve a tedious and time-consuming installation process.

The good news is that all the car seats that we’ve reviewed have scored really HIGH on these parameters.

So, CHEERS…

Warranty

Always, good to buy a car seat that comes with a warranty.

The longer the warranty duration the better it is.

A longer warranty duration clearly depicts the trust and confidence that the manufacturer possesses in its offering.

FAQs

Let’s have a quick look at some of the frequently asked queries related to the best lightweight convertible car seats for travel so that your doubts are cleared before making a purchase.

In case, I’ve not covered your queries then please do reach out to us via the contact form and our core team would be more than happy to assist you.

What is the best lightweight convertible car seat for travel?

  • Clek Foonf Convertible Car Seat
  • Peg Perego USA Primo Viaggio Convertible Car Seat
  • Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat

Are lightweight convertible car seats safe?

Well, if you’re a resident of the United States, then I’m sure you would be aware of the fact that all the car seats sold in the country have to pass the same minimum standards.

Rest assured, your child is in safe hands.

However, at the same time, I wouldn’t deny the fact that additional features can make some travel car seats relatively safer as compared to their close competitors.

Can I take a convertible car seat on an airplane?

When I was a first-time buyer, I was also very inquisitive about this query as I was a travel freak.

Well, US airlines are governed by FAA rules and regulations.

If you’re looking for a travel car seat for a flight then my advice would be to purchase a seat that is FAA approved in order to refrain from any last-minute misadventure.

Do I need a travel car seat?

NOT REALLY…

However, I would suggest you should buy a travel car seat as it will make travel better.

Travel car seats are meant to be lightweight, compact, and portable so that you can easily carry them in a limited amount of space.

It’s A Wrap

First and foremost, I would like to thank you for being with us till the end.

Secondly, I would like to bring to your notice that I along with my core team have put loads and loads of effort into coming up with this idiosyncratic superlative comprehensive buying guide on the best lightweight convertible car seat.

And, in case, you liked our efforts then please do share this piece of information with the ones who are in need of it.

After all, sharing is caring, isn’t it?

Cutting long-story-short, all the car seats that made our list are of high quality and worth the investment.

However, I would suggest that you should go for the car seat that NOT only caters to your needs but also falls well within your budget.

In fact, the term “best” is relative and NOT absolute so the car seat that may be the “BEST” for you might not cater to my requirements and vice-versa.

That’s all, as of now:):)

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