Well, in this post, I would be walking you through some of the best travel car seats available on the market, right now.

Moreover, I would also be throwing light on various aspects of a travel car seat in order to help you make an informed buying decision.

Lastly, I would be responding to the queries related to travel car seat review in order to help you clear your doubts before you make a purchase.

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

What is the best travel car seat for the money?

Frankly speaking, tagging any particular travel car seat brand or model as “best” would simply mean doing injustice to the rest of the travel car seats.

The term “best” is relative and NOT absolute so what may be the best travel car seat for you might not even cater to my needs and vice-versa.

So, always look for a travel car seat that NOT only caters to your needs but also falls well within your budget.

We found BubbleBum Inflatable Backless Booster Car Seat as the “best” considering the features that it offers at an affordable price.

Before we dive deep into discussing the nuts and bolts of this inflatable backless booster seat, let me tell you, there are travel car seats that are more luxurious and packed with idiosyncratic features.

However, at izzysmarthomeguide.com, our intention is to recommend the best “value for money” product.

BubbleBum Inflatable Backless Booster Car Seat | Best Travel Car Seat For The Money

So, the best “value for money” travel car seat that we’ve for you is none other than the BubbleBum Inflatable Backless Booster Car Seat.

In simple words, it comprises almost all the essential features that you might be looking for in your favorite travel car seat.

And, you know what, the BubbleBum is one of the most popular and affordable travel car seats that we’ve on our list.

Let’s dive deep to find out what makes it so popular, unique, and affordable.

But, before that, let’s figure out who can use this compact travel car seat.

Any child whose age falls in the range of 4-11 years, and weight in the range of 40-100 lbs can use this inflatable booster car seat effortlessly.

Not only is it easy to carry but also simple to sanitize.

It’s always advisable to use a non-bleach anti-bacterial spray for sanitizing.

On top of it, the brand claims to be the USA’s lightest backless booster seat which is definitely something to brag about.

The ultra-portable travel car seat could be a great choice if you do carpool on a frequent basis.

Your kid can easily carry it with him wherever he goes without any hassle, thanks to the fold-away design.

In layman’s terms, the best portable travel car seat is a unique blend of comfort, safety, and durability – a complete package, indeed.

It is equipped with advanced and innovative technologies including patented memory foam technology.

When it comes to safety, the BubbleBum meets and exceeds all US and EU safety standards so you don’t have to worry about your kids’ safety – they are in safe hands, indeed.

Well, if I’ve to define this travel booster seat for cars in one line, then all I’ll say is that it provides extreme comfort and convenience without compromising on safety.

In fact, you can fold it to get fit even in a purse, backpack, and cabin bag.

Furthermore, in order to keep your kid safe and secured during the journey, an optimum seatbelt is right in place.

The BubbleBum inflatable travel booster is so slimline that you can fit three kids across in almost any car, interesting, isn’t it?

Frankly speaking, we feel very strongly that the best position for installing this travel infant car seat is the middle seat in the second row.

Not only does it saves you a ton of space but precious time as well.

Needless to say, the installation process is easy, quick, hassle-free, and newbie-friendly.

And, the best part is, all these idiosyncratic features you get at an affordable price.

So, what are you waiting for?

What We Liked:

• Affordable, budget-friendly travel car seat
• Lightweight, compact, and portable travel car seat
• Easy, quick, and newbie-friendly installation process
• Uniquely designed and can be folded down to fit easily in a purse, backpack, cabin bag, etc
• Simple to sanitize, and equipped with advanced and innovative technologies

What We Don’t Like:

• Some of our clients felt that it’s only suitable for short-term rides

The Best Travel Car Seat You Can Buy Today

Best Travel Car Seats Review

Before we dive deep into the best travel car seat review, please allow us to explain the process that we follow on our blog for shortlisting the products for review.

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

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

During the evaluation process, a score is assigned to every product across the evaluation parameters depending upon its ability to influence a buyer’s decision.

Finally, we sum up the scores and shortlist the “top performer” for the evaluation process.

Just for your information, scores are relative and NOT absolute.

In case, you still have a query or doubt related to our evaluation process, then please do reach out to us via the contact form, and our team would be more than happy to assist you in the best possible manner that we could.

Clek Liingo Infant Car Seat | Best Infant Travel Car Seat

No doubt, the CLEK LIINGO is the best infant travel car seat that we’ve got on our list, and trust me, it’s for numerous reasons including quality, compatibility, ease of use, and most importantly, safety.

First thing first, since you’re looking for a travel infant car seat so portability, compatibility with a wide range of stroller brands, and convenience do matter a lot, isn’t it?

And, the good news is that the Clek Liingo satisfies all these parameters very well.

In fact, during our evaluation process, we found its convenient one-hand release feature very helpful for travelers.

Any child can reap the benefits of this idiosyncratically designed travel car seat if her weight falls in the range of 4-35 lbs and her height doesn’t exceed 32 inches.

Needless to say, the Clek Liingo travel car seat is highly flexible, and keeping in mind the prerequisites of a newly born baby, the manufacturer has inculcated a newborn body support system that provides an excellent fit with low-birth-weight children, interesting, isn’t it?

It is also equipped with features such as Spf 100+ adjustable canopy with a mesh peekaboo window that plays a crucial role in protecting your infant against harmful UV rays.

The window allows you to keep track of what your infant is up to and also, helps in maintaining the airflow.

Not only is the fabric soft, cozy, and comfortable but also free of brominated and chlorinated flame retardants.

And, you know what, the Clek Liingo is also compatible with the Liing infant seat base and so could be of great help in case you would be needing a car seat base in the near future or otherwise.

What We Liked:

• Using LATCH you can install it baseless
• Compact, lightweight, and portable
• One of the best travel car seats for infants
• With the help of Maxi-Cosi, you can connect it to a wide range of strollers
• High-quality fabric

What We Don’t Like:

• The base is sold separately
• Not the best choice for individuals on a shoestring budget

Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35 Elite | Best Compact Infant Car Seat For Travel

The Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35 Elite is definitely one of the best compact travel car seats that we’ve got on our list.

As we’ll dive deep, you would be able to understand the reasons behind my strong claim.

First things first, the installation process is quick, easy, and newbie-friendly, and can be expedited in an epigrammatic span of time.

In fact, Snug Lock Technology allows you to install the car seat in three simple and easy steps.

Your kid shouldn’t be taller than 32 inches and her weight should fall in the range of 4-35 pounds to reap the benefits of this super compact infant travel car seat.

Also, it comprises an adjustable base that comes with 4 recline positions so that your infant can remain comfortable even during long road trips or otherwise.

Latch attachment can be done very quickly, thanks to the bubble level indicator.

In order to protect your infant from harmful UV rays, a rotating canopy along with the window is right in place.

When it comes to safety, the Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35 Elite is crash tested to meet or exceed US Standard FMVSS 213.

And, if you’re a working MOM like me, then I’ve got a piece of good news for you, both the seat cushion and canopy are machine washable so definitely, cleaning is a breeze.

In fact, you can easily clean the harness straps with the help of a damp cloth.

However, cleaning of both plastic and metal parts could be done using mild soap and cool water.

What We Liked:

• Fits perfectly small and compact cars
• Budget-friendly travel car seat
• Suitable for newly born babies
• Comes with a bubble-level indicator
• Machine-washable seat cushion and canopy

What We Don’t Like:

• Basic features
• Limited stroller compatibility

Cosco Mighty Fit 65 DX | Best Travel Car Seat For 1-Year-Old Child

The Cosco Mighty Fit 65 DX could be a great travel car seat if your kid is a year old or so.

Trust me, it comprises almost all the essential features that you might be looking for in your favorite travel car seat for a year-old child.

I personally liked the fact that this travel car seat can be used by both infants and toddlers.

On top of it, you can use this infant travel car seat in both rear-facing and forward-facing modes.

In fact, your kid’s weight should fall in the range of 5-40 pounds in order to reap the benefits of Cosco Mighty Fit 65 Dlx in rear-facing mode, and 65 pounds in forward-facing mode.

I’ve been personally using it for quite some time for my two adorable kids, and you know what, its compact nature makes the airport security check a breeze.

If you’ve ever tried it for your kids and agree with my statement then do let me know in the comment section.

Another good thing about this compact seat is that the 5-point harness is easily adjustable from the front of the seat.

It features 5 heights and 3 buckle locations and is uniquely designed to take less space, and thus, provide more legroom to other passengers in the car.

When it comes to safety and security, the manufacturer has done a tremendous job, and in our evaluation, the results were up to the expectation of the core team of izzysmarthomeguide.com.

Moreover, the built-in side impact protection would provide your kid with an extra level of security during a side collision or any other unprecedented event.

Don’t worry at all about the comfort of your child, the travel car seat comes with plush padding and premium fabric.

On top of it, the seat cover is easily removable, machine washable, and dryer safe, so cleaning and drying wouldn’t consume much of your time.

Not only does it meets and exceeds federal, ASTM, and JPMA safety standards but also comes with a year-limited warranty which clearly depicts the trust and confidence of the manufacturer in its offering.

What We Liked:

• 5-point harness with easy upfront adjustment
• Side impact protection
• Comprise of deluxe fabric that is machine washable and dryer safe
• Can be used in both rear-facing and forward-facing modes
• Equipped with plush padding and premium fabric
• 1-year limited warranty

What We Don’t Like:

• Some of our clients have complained about having difficulty tightening the anchor straps
• Quite a few weren’t satisfied using it in the rear-facing mode

Evenflo Sonus 65 | Best Travel Car Seat For A 2-Year-Old

So, here I am with my favorite travel car seat for a 2-year-old.

Like the aforementioned seat, it also comes with all the necessary features, safety, and comfort.

Not only did we find great results in our evaluation but also, we received rave feedback and reviews about Evenflo Sonus 65 from our clientele which proves that it’s worth investing in this travel car seat, isn’t it?

Cutting long-story-short, the unique thing about this little beast is that it provides your kid with extended use, that is, till she reaches 65 lbs.

The Sonus 65 provides a perfect fitting, thanks to the 6 shoulder harness positions.

Also, it is equipped with two built-in cup holders in order to carry snacks and drinks for your child during long road rides or otherwise.

Of course, the fabric is durable, comfortable, long-lasting, and machine washable.

So, neither cleaning would be an issue for your nor the installation.

Moreover, a built-in ventilation system is right in place in order to maintain proper air circulation.

Not only does it passes the side impact test successfully but also the rollover, so you can trust this little beast when it comes to the safety and security of your child.

And, the best part is, Evenflo Sonus 65 is designed, tested, engineered, and assembled in the United States so quality wouldn’t be a question mark, right?

In order to make the installation process newbie-friendly, the manufacturer provides live video installation support allowing you to connect to a car seat technician.

Do I need to still convince you?

What We Liked:

• Equipped with more comfortability features as compared to its close competitors
• Robust, and long-lasting
• Good size limit
• 6 shoulder harness positions
• Dual-cup holders
• Removable and machine-washable fabric

What We Don’t Like:

• Heavier than Cosco Scenera Next and Cosco Apt 50
• More expensive than Cosco car seats
• 6-year expiration

Graco Tranzitions SnugLock | Best Travel Car Seat For A 3-Year-Old

The Graco Tranzitions SnugLock could be a great fit in case your kid has reached the age of 3.

Frankly speaking, this is one of the most popular traveler car seats on our list, and of course, for all the good reasons.

The installation process is a breeze and anyone can expedite the process in less than 60 seconds, thanks to the SnugLock technology.

Moreover, you can expedite the installation using any of the two methods, that is vehicle seatbelt or LATCH.

I personally like the fact that Graco Tranzitions SnugLock can be used in three different modes, that is harness, highback, and backless booster mode.

In layman’s terms, it grows along with the different phases of your kid’s growth.

The weight range for harness, highback, and backless are (22-65 lb), (40-100 lb), and (40-100 lb) respectively.

In simple words, once your kid has achieved the age of 3, all you need would be this travel car seat.

And, seeing the weight range and modes of this idiosyncratically designed seat, I can affirm that you wouldn’t have to buy any other seat in the future for your child.

Breathable mesh airflow channels are right in place to provide improved ventilation and proper air circulation.

By the way, you don’t have to deal with time-consuming and tedious rethreading procedures.

In fact, the travel car seat is equipped with Simply Safe Adjust Harness System that allows the headrest and harness to adjust together.

While you’re on a tour you can easily transfer Graco Tranzitions from one car to another, thanks to the lightweight and portable nature of this car seat.

In order to deal with any collision or unprecedented event, it provides perfect fitting to your child, thanks to the 9-position adjustable headrest.

Also, it comprises integrated dual cup holders to carry your child’s drink and snack while you’re on a long road trip or otherwise.

Don’t worry at all about the cleaning as pads, body support, and harness covers are easily removable and machine washable.

What We Liked:

• Pads and covers are easily removable and machine washable
• Sturdy, robust, durable, and long-lasting
• Reasonably priced
• Extremely narrow
• Fits from age 3 (as a harness) to ~age 12 (as a backless booster)

What We Don’t Like:

• 7-year expiration
• Relatively heavier and bulkier
• Some of our clients faced an issue with the installation process

Safe Traffic System Ride Safer Travel Vest Gen 5 | Best Travel Car Seat For A 4-Year-Old

The RideSafer could be a great fit in the case, you’re looking for a travel car seat for your 4-year-old kid.

It comprises all the essential features that you might be looking for in your favorite travel car seat.

Not only is it certified to be used in motor vehicles but also meets performance standards according to FMVSS 213.

Any child who is three years old or above and weighs in the range of 30-110 lbs can reap the benefits of this idiosyncratic superlative travel car seat.

The thing that I really like and appreciate about the RideSafer is that it can be used with a lap and shoulder belt only.

The RideSafer is lightweight, compact, and easy to carry.

In fact, you can easily carry it in a suitcase or a child’s backpack.

In simple words, it is perfect for travel, carpooling, and/or multi-child families.

What We Liked:

• Safe, convenient, easy, ultra-portable, and comfortable
• Perfect for taxi rides
• Keeps kids properly seated better than a traditional booster seat – even when sleeping
• Lowers seat belts to provide an appropriate fit for young children
• 10-year expiration

What We Don’t Like:

• No side-impact protection like a high-back booster seat
• NOT permitted for use on planes

Evenflo Maestro Sport Harness Booster Car Seat | Best Travel Car Seat For A 5-Year-Old

The Evenflo Maestro Sport Harness Booster Car Seat is yet another top-rated travel car seat that we’ve got on our list.

It is a unique blend of comfort and safety.

Moreover, the Evenflo Maestro can be used in two modes, that is, a forward-facing harness, and a belt-positioning booster.

Your child can reap the benefits of this idiosyncratic superlative car seat if her weight falls in the range of 22-110 lbs.

Our clients are in awe of the shoulder belt guide feature as it automatically positions the vehicle belt in the proper position for your child.

Furthermore, in order to keep snacks and drinks for your 5-year-old child, two built-in cup holders are right in place.

Even though your child is messy, you don’t have to worry about the cleaning as the pads are easily removable and machine washable.

When it comes to safety, the Evenflo travel car seat has successfully passed both side-impact and dynamic rollover tests.

In order to guide and help both first-time buyers and seasoned professionals, the brand provides video installation support.

What We Liked:

• 5-point harness with 50 lbs limit
• Comes with built-in dual cup holders
• Equipped with shoulder belt guide
• Reasonably priced

What We Don’t Like:

• Some of our clients felt that it is NOT comfortable enough for long trips
• Quite a few felt that the design wasn’t as per their expectations

Graco Turbo GO Folding Backless Booster Car Seat | Best Travel Car Seat For A 6-Year-Old

The Graco Turbo Go travel car seat comes with integrated steel-reinforced belt guides that does a great job when it comes to positioning the vehicle seat belt across your child.

Of course, the booster travel car seat is lightweight, compact, and easy to carry.

On top of it, the seat pad is easily removable and machine washable so cleaning wouldn’t be an issue for you.

Your kid can reap the benefits of Graco Turbo GO if her weight falls in the range of 40-100 lbs.

What We Liked:

• Narrow booster travel car seat that can fit three across a backseat
• The seat pad is easily removable and machine washable
• Safe and comfortable
• Reasonably priced

What We Don’t Like:

• Some of our clients weren’t happy with the look & feel, and design
• Quite a few felt that padding wasn’t as per their expectations

WAYB Pico Travel Car Seat | Best Travel Car Seat For Airplanes

The WAYB Pico is a great travel car seat and can be used for both road trips and air travel.

When it comes to safety, it meets all U.S. safety standards regulated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Federal Aviation Administration.

It is FAA approved and the sticker could be found on the bottom of the seat.

On top of it, the Pico travel car seat just weighs 8 pounds so carrying it wouldn’t be an issue at all.

The seat comes with a carrying bag that is made up of durable blueSign-certified recycled polyester.

It can be easily stored even in small spaces including an overhead bin, thanks to the foldable nature of the Pico travel car seat.

Your child should weigh 22-50 lbs

What We Liked:

• Lightweight, portable, compact, durable, and long-lasting
• FAA-approved- suitable for both road and air travel
• Reasonably priced
• Quick, easy, and newbie-friendly installation process

What We Don’t Like:

• Some of our clients felt that the crotch buckle is way too short

Peg Perego Viaggio Flex | Best Travel Car Seat For A 7-Year-Old

The Peg Perego Viaggio Flex is a forward-facing travel car seat that is made in Italy.

Moreover, it can be independently adjusted in four different directions, that is, the headrest, upper backrest, side wings, and the seat.

The installation process is quick, easy, and hassle-free, thanks to the integrated rigid latch.

In order to provide your child with adequate comfort, the reclining seat can be set in five different positions.

When it comes to safety, the Peg Perego Viaggio Flex is equipped with an aluminum-reinforced backrest in order to provide adequate safety in case of both front-end collision as well as rear-end collision.

The Viaggio Flex 120 can be installed in small spaces, thanks to its folding feature.

In order to reap the benefits of this top-rated travel car seat, your child’s weight should fall in the range of 40-120 pounds, interesting, isn’t it?

What We Liked:

• Easy storing and transporting
• Provides extra safety and protection against any type of collision
• Easy installation and stability
• Highly flexible and adjustable in 4 different locations

What We Don’t Like:

• Some of our clients felt that cleaning is a tedious and time-consuming process

Graco TurboBooster TakeAlong Highback Booster | Best Travel Car Seat For A 8-Year-Old

The Graco TurboBooster is definitely one of the best on our list when it comes to buying a “value for money” travel car seat.

It can act in two modes, that is, high back belt-positioning, and backless belt-positioning mode.

Any kid can reap the benefit of this uniquely designed travel car seat if her weight falls in the range of 40-100 lbs and her height doesn’t exceed 57 inches.

To be honest, if you’re looking for a travel booster car seat for daily use and travel, then Graco TurboBooster could be a great fit, indeed.

Well, I personally liked the fact that it can become 50% smaller in size when folded, thanks to the fast action fold feature.

Also, it includes a carry bag for the backless booster seat for easy portability.

What We Liked:

• Cup holders and seat pads are easily removable and machine washable
• The package consists of a carry bag for the backless booster seat as well
• Comes with a 6-position adjustable headrest
• Open-loop belt guides help properly position vehicle seat belts across the child
• Perfect booster seat for daily use and travel
• Lightweight, compact, and versatile

What We Don’t Like:

• Some of our clients felt that cupholders are smaller in size

Chicco Viaro Travel System | Best Car Seat Travel System

So, here I’m with my favorite travel car seat travel system.

Trust me, Chicco Viaro is one of the best travel systems that we’ve come across in recent times, and of course, for numerous reasons.

First thing first, it includes the No.1 rated Chicco KeyFit 30 infant car seat.

Also, it comes with a large basket that accommodates diaper bags, toys, snacks, and other on-the-go essentials.

The Chicco Viaro is not only lightweight but also compact, durable, and long-lasting.

It accommodates infants from 4 to 30 lbs and up to 30″.

When it comes to installation, it is easy to install and doesn’t involve any time-consuming and tedious process.

Not only does it comes with a child tray with two cup holders but also a parent tray with two cup holders, interesting, isn’t it?

Also, it is equipped with a multi-position reclining seat and adjustable canopy.

For parking, the manufacturer has inculcated toe-tap rear brakes.

For parents’ convenience, Viaro Stroller features a padded push handle.

What We Liked:

• Not only is it lightweight but also maneuvers well
• Capable of standing on end in the folded position with the wheels locked
• Equipped with total 4 cup holders; two for parents, and two for kids
• The sunshade on the stroller overlaps with the infant carrier to create a full enclosure
• Multi-position reclining seat and adjustable canopy

What We Don’t Like:

• Some clients felt that the parent cup holders are smaller than their expectation
• Expensive

Diono Radian 3R | Best Portable Car Seat For Travel

The Diono Radian 3R is one of the most portable travel car seats that we’ve got on our list, and of course, for all the good reasons.

Like any other travel car seat, Radian 3R also has its own set of pros and cons, and we agree with it.

First thing first, it allows you to keep your child rear-facing for a longer duration, that is, till the time she touches 50 lbs.

It can keep your child safe and comfortable in the high back booster mode till the time she reaches 120 lbs.

The good thing about the highback booster mode is that it adds an extra layer of protection and comfort.

Moreover, the Radian 3R grows along with the various stages of your child’s growth.

When it comes to safety and security, this little beast has lots to offer.

In fact, it comprises of reinforced steel core, made from automotive-grade high-density plastic and steel in order to provide a high level of safety to your kid during a collision.

In the rear-facing mode, the weight limitation range is 5-50 pounds.

And, in forward-facing mode, the weight limitation range is 22-120 pounds.

What We Liked:

• Engineered to keep your child rear-facing for a longer duration
• It grows along with the different phases of your child’s growth
• Robust, durable, and comprise of reinforced steel core
• High back booster mode adds an extra layer of safety and comfort
• Its foldable nature makes transportation quick, easy, and hassle-free
• Equipped with cup holders to store drinks and snacks

What We Don’t Like:

• Some of our clients felt that the installation process is tedious and time-consuming
• Quite a few clients felt that the travel car seat isn’t suitable for extended rear-facing

Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat | Best Car Seat For Toddlers

The Graco Extend2Fit is definitely one of the best car seats for toddlers.

Not only does it grow along with your child but also provides ample safety, security, and comfort.

In layman’s terms, your child can reap the benefit of Graco Extend2Fit in both modes, that is, rear-facing, and forward-facing.

The weight limitation in the rear-facing harness is (4-50) lbs, and in the forward-facing harness, it is (22-65) lbs.

Since it is made of steel-reinforced so you can expect it to be robust, durable, and long-lasting.

Moreover, it allows your toddler to stay rear-facing for a longer duration.

I personally like the fact that it provides up to 5″ additional legroom allowing your kid to safely ride rear-facing for a longer duration.

Do I still need to convince you? :):)

What We Liked:

• The child can be rear-facing for a longer duration
• Robust, durable, and long-lasting
• Comes with a 4-position adjustable extension panel
• 10-position headrest
• 6-position recline
• Equipped with cup holders
• Fuss-Free harness storage
• Highly recommended for 8 car seats

What We Don’t Like:

• Some of our clients weren’t comfortable with tightening the belt
• Cover removal might take some time

Graco SlimFit 3 In 1 Car Seat | Best Travel Car Seat For Smaller Cars

The Graco SimFit 3 in 1 is definitely one of the best rear-facing car seats for travel.

Trust me, the brand Graco doesn’t need any introduction when it comes to choosing a budget-friendly car seat for travel.

As the name suggests, the Graco SlimFit 3-in-1 grows along with your kid.

The weight range for using SlimFit in the rear-facing harness mode is (5-40) pounds.

On the other hand, your child can reap the benefit of SlimFit in forward-facing harness mode if her weight falls in the range of (22-65) pounds.

And, in case, your child is fully grown up then she can use it in the highback booster mode if her weight falls in the range of (40-100) pounds.

The first thing that will grab your attention is the slim design and high-quality fabric.

On top of it, the dual-integrated cup holders can be easily rotated away, so they will not occupy much of your car’s space.

It has been tested on various parameters, and the results were positive.

In order to provide the safest fit for your kid, the comes with an adjustable headrest that gives you 1o positions to choose from, interesting, isn’t it?

Moreover, the 4-position recline NOT only keeps your child comfortable but also makes the installation process easier and less time-consuming.

Of course, it’s one of my favorite travel car seats, and I’ve been recommending it for quite some time now.

The feedback and rave reviews have clearly shown the potential of SlimFit.

What We Liked:

• SlimFit and unique design
• Lightweight, compact, and portable
• Comes with Push-button InRight LATCH 
• Reasonably priced
• Steel-reinforced frame
• Adjustable headrest with 10 positions to choose from
• One of the best travel car seats for smaller cars

What We Don’t Like:

• Some of our clients weren’t happy with the quality of the fabric

Buyer’s Guide

Well, in this section, I would be talking about some of the important parameters that you shouldn’t ignore when it comes to buying a portable car seat for travel.

Trust me, each car seat is unique, and so comes with its own set of pros and cons.

In fact, there isn’t any travel car seat on our list that doesn’t have pros and cons, and the same holds true with any product on the market.

Correct me, if I’m wrong.

Age Appropriate

Yes, you guessed it, RIGHT.

The travel car seat that you’re planning to buy for your child must be age-specific in order to reap maximum benefits it.

Moreover, we highly recommend our clients follow the NHTSA guidelines for travel car seat recommendations in order to prevent any last-hour misadventure.

We suggest our clients keep their child rear-facing for as long as possible as it provides maximum safety.

Once your child has crossed the age or height limit of a rear-facing car seat then she can move to forward-facing, and finally, to booster mode.

Skipping any of the aforementioned sequences could be highly risky in terms of your child’s safety.

Lightweight, Compact, and Portable

It goes without saying that a travel car seat must be lightweight, compact, and portable.

These are certain important features that you can’t afford to ignore, right?

Obviously, it would be difficult for you to carry a bulky travel car seat from one place to another.

Most of the travel car seats that we recommend weights in the range of 2-12 pounds.

On the other hand, if you travel a lot via taxi/Uber, then look for a travel car seat that is foldable as well so that storing it wouldn’t be an issue.

Convenience, Flexibility, Ease Of Use

Needless to say, the travel car seats that made our list are convenient to use as well as flexible.

Almost, every of the aforementioned car seat models is newbie-friendly and easy to install.

Furthermore, they can be easily cleaned as the cover is easily removable and machine washable.

Warranty

Look for a travel car seat that comes with a warranty.

The longer the warranty duration the better it is.

In fact, the longer warranty period clearly depicts the trust and confidence of the manufacturer in its offering.

Price

We at izzysmarthomeguide.com recommend buying a travel car seat that syncs well with your requirement.

In simple words, always look for a travel car seat that NOT only caters to your needs but also falls well within your budget.

Trust me, the term “best” travel car seat is RELATIVE and not absolute so what may be best for you might not even suffice my requirements and vice-versa.

From our past knowledge and experience, we can affirm that the cheapest products aren’t always the worst and the costliest aren’t always the BEST, so choose wisely.

How long are you planning to use the travel car seat?

At times, finding the RIGHT answer to certain questions can help you to a large extent in choosing the best travel car seat for the money.

Not only do I suggest these simple tricks but also follow me.

If you’re a MOM like me who is very particular and concerned about your kids’ safety, then in such a scenario rear-facing travel car seat could be the BEST bet.

However, if you’ve budget constraints or even space issues, then a convertible travel car seat can do the trick for you.

Not only does it grows along with your child’s different stages of growth but also most of them offer extended rear-facing use.

How much room do you’ve in your car?

What actually I wanna know is whether you own a small & compact car or a huge & luxurious car.

The space problem mostly arises in small & compact cars so you should always opt for the travel car seats that are manufactured keeping in mind the requirement of a small car.

Nonetheless, the best thing that you can do is to measure the available space in your car and buy a travel car seat that fits well in it to avoid any last-hour misadventure.

Do you need more than one car seat?

It goes without saying that if you and your husband drive two different vehicles, then maybe you would be needing more than one travel car seat.

Or, you can buy a lightweight, compact, and highly portable travel car seat that can be easily moved between vehicles or otherwise.

Choose the option that syncs well with your requirement.

How portable does your car seat need to be?

Definitely, a portable car seat could be a better choice for travel than other models.

But, how portable should your travel car seat be?

Let’s find out.

Frankly speaking, it totally depends on your requirement.

In simple words, how mobile do you want the travel car seat to be?

If it is gonna be in one place for years to come, then portability isn’t needed at all.

However, if you want to snap into a compatible stroller or switch between the vehicle very often, then definitely, look for a portable infant travel car seat.

Is stroller compatibility important?

To be honest, if you’re the one who travels very frequently then stroller compatibility becomes an important factor.

What I would suggest is to look for a travel system that comes with an infant car seat.

Most travel systems consist of the stroller and an easily attachable car seat – either using an adapter or an easy one-click connection.

Another option could be to buy a car seat that is compatible with your stroller so that you can connect them using an adapter piece.

However, if you’re on a budget, and looking for a cheaper way, then a snap-and-go stroller frame could do the trick for you.

In layman’s terms, it’s essentially a set of wheels for a rear-facing car seat.

Of course, this is a cheaper option but at the same time, you need to understand that your baby will outgrow this option relatively quickly.

Which car seats are approved for air travel?

Many first-time buyers wouldn’t be aware of the fact that most of the car seats that are made in the US market are FAA approved and can be used for air travel.

So, if you’re looking for a car seat for air travel, then make sure it is FAA approved.

What are some of the travel car seat alternatives for airplanes?

To be honest, we would recommend you go for a travel car seat because it will not only keep your child safe but also comfortable.

However, if you’ve decided that you want to go for a car seat alternative, then definitely, Primo LapBaby could do the trick for you.

Not only can you use it comfortably for your infant in airplanes but also in cars and restaurants.

However, it comes with its own set of limitations, you can’t use it for older kids.

It will work fine for infants as young as three months old.

Not only is it small, compact, lightweight, and portable but also comes with a storage bag.

The thing that I really like about the LapBaby is that it allows your infant to sit comfortably and safely on your lap.

And, the best part is, it is FAA approved.

Well, if your child falls in the age group of 8-24 months, then I’ve got a great travel car seat alternative for you- Baby B’Air.

Frankly speaking, if you’re traveling with a toddler who always needs you at his side, it becomes really cumbersome to carry both your child as well as a travel car seat, isn’t it?

So, in that case, this safety vest can do the trick for you.

Of course, you can use it while traveling in airplanes as it is FAA approved.

However, make sure that you’re NOT using this safety vest during take-off and landing.

Not only is it comfortable for toddlers but also for parents.

Moreover, the safety vest is equipped with 3 plastic buckles for the sides as well as the crotch.

In order to provide your infant with the best possible comfort, the fabric used in the vest is PURE cotton.

Also, the straps are adjustable.

The third one and my favorite travel car seat alternative that I’ve got for you is Child Airplane Travel Harness. (Check current price on Amazon)

When it comes to safety and comfort, it really hard to find a competitor that matches the wavelength CARES Flight harness, trust me, I’m confidently giving this statement only after using this little beast for my kids for quite some time.

Rest assured, the probability is very high that it will match your expectations.

The FAA-approved travel car seat alternative is suitable for kids whose weight falls in the range of 22 to 44 lbs.

The belt is small (6″), compact and lightweight (1 pound), and easy to throw into your carry-on bag.

Common Mistakes When Choosing A Travel Car Seat

Frankly speaking, we at izzysmarthomeguide.com have realized that most first-time buyers does the same set of common mistakes when choosing a travel car seat.

Please allow us to throw some light on these mistakes, and do let us know in the comment section whether this piece of information was helpful to you or NOT.

Incomplete Information

We’ve found that most parents land up to shop directly for a travel car seat purchase without acquiring some important piece of information.

Trust me, it isn’t the best way to make a purchase.

In fact, you should be well informed about the travel car seat that you’re planning to buy.

A better understanding of specifications and features can help you in making a smart buy.

In the buyers’ guide section, we’ve clearly explained all the parameters that a travel car seat MUST possess.

Read the Manual Properly And Thoroughly

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned professional, spend some time with the manual.

Read it thoroughly and then only expedite the installation process in order to avoid any last-hour misadventure.

Improper Installation

Improper installation of a travel car seat is definitely one of the most common mistakes that first-time buyers do, and later they start blaming the travel car seat brands.

Well, you need to ensure the proper latching of a car seat before you start using it.

Use the Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) restraint system or seat belt to install the car seat and use the top tether to secure forward-facing car seats.

Not Registering The Car Seat

It is highly recommended that you register the travel car seat to the related agency in order to prevent any last-hour misadventure.

By doing so, you would be informed by the brand about any safety recall.

Don’t Hesitate In Contacting the Manufacturer

Once you’ve bought a particular travel car seat model for your child, make sure that she is both safe and comfortable while using the travel car seat.

And, in case, your child is facing any sort of issue with the travel car seat, contact the manufacturer and ask them to recall it.

And, update the manufacturer about the problem your child is facing.

By giving feedback, you’re helping the manufacturer in improving and enhancing the features of the travel car seat.

FAQs

Well, as promised to the avid readers of this blog, we would be responding to the queries related to the best travel car seat review in order to help you guys in making an informed buying decision.

What is the best travel car seat?

• Best Backless Booster Seat For Travel- BubbleBum
• Best Travel Infant Car Seat- Clek Liingo
• Best Travel Car Seat For A One-Year-Old- Cosco Mighty Fit 65 DX
• Best Travel Car Seat For A Two-Year-Old- Evenflo Sonus 65
• Best Travel Car Seat For A Three-Year-Old- Graco Tranzitions SnugLock
• Best Travel Car Seat For A Four-Year-Old- Ride Safer Travel Vest
• Best Travel Car Seat For A Five-Year-Old- Evenflo Maestro Sport
• Best Travel Car Seat For A Six-Year-Old- Graco Turbo GO
• Best Travel Car Seat For A Seven-Year-Old- Peg Perego Viaggio Flex
• Best Travel Car Seat For A Eight-Year-Old- Graco TurboBooster
• Best Travel Car Seat With Wheels- Chicco Viaro Travel System
• Best Portable Travel Car Seat- Diono Radian 3R
• Best All-Round Travel Car Seat- Britax One4Life
• Best Foldable Travel Car Seat- Graco Turbo GO
• Best Travel Car Seat For Toddlers- Graco Extend2Fit
• Best Car Seat Travel System- Chicco Viaro Travel System
• Best Compact Travel Car Seat- Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35 Elite
• Best Travel Car Seat For Smaller Cars- Graco SlimFit 
• Best Travel Car Seat For Airplane- WAYB Pico

Do I need a travel car seat for my kid?

Frankly speaking, any car seat can serve its purpose.

However, we at izzysmarthome.com recommend purchasing a travel car seat that is not only safe and comfortable but also portable, compact, lightweight, and most importantly, affordable.

Can you take a car seat on the flight?

You can take FAA-approved travel car seats on flights.

However, the FAA encourages bringing a travel car seat for kids who are under 40 pounds.

Which Cosco car seat is best for travel?

We recommend Cosco Mighty Fit 65 DX. (Check Current Price On Amazon)

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 TRAVEL CAR SEAT.

And, in case, you liked our efforts and want to appreciate us, then please feel free to share this piece of information with like-minded people and the ones who are in need of it.

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

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

Always look for a travel car seat that not only caters to your requirements but also falls well within your budget.

The term “best” travel car seat is RELATIVE and not absolute so the travel car seat that might be best for you may not cater to my needs and vice-versa.

Trust me, from my past experience and the knowledge that I’ve acquired over a period of time, all I can say is that the costliest products aren’t always the BEST and the cheapest ones aren’t always the worst.

So, choose wisely.

That’s all, as of now :):)

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