7 Top Lightweight Car Seats for Travel Reviews

Finding the best lightweight car seat for travel can be a lifesaver for busy families. Lugging around bulky car seats is nobody’s idea of a fun vacation! This guide reviews seven top contenders, helping you choose the perfect one for your travel needs and budget.

Cosco Kids Finale DX 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat, Forward Facing

The Cosco Kids Finale DX is a versatile 2-in-1 option that transitions from a harnessed booster to a belt-positioning booster, making it suitable for a wider age and weight range. Its narrow design is a big plus for fitting three across in most vehicles, perfect for families with multiple children. While not the lightest option, it’s still relatively easy to manage.

• Versatile 2-in-1 design (harness and belt-positioning booster)
• Narrow design for fitting three across
• Removable, dishwasher-safe cup holders
• Removable, machine-washable seat pad

• Meets or exceeds Federal safety standards

• Pros: Affordable, versatile, narrow design.

• Cons: Not the absolute lightest option on the market, some users report the harness can be a bit difficult to adjust.

User Impressions: Many parents praise its affordability and space-saving design. Some mention minor issues with harness adjustments, but overall, it receives positive feedback for its practicality.

See it on Amazon here

WAYB Pico Travel Car Seat with Premium Carrying Bag

The WAYB Pico is designed with travel in mind. Weighing only 8 pounds, its lightweight and compact design makes it perfect for air travel or quick trips. The included carrying bag adds to its portability. It’s a great option if you prioritize ease of transport. Note that it is only suitable for older toddlers and young children.

• Weighs only 8 pounds
• Compact design suitable for overhead bins
• Included carrying bag
• Meets all U.S. safety standards

• FAA approved

• Pros: Extremely lightweight and portable, stylish design.

• Cons: Higher price point, suitable only for a limited weight and age range.

User Impressions: Customers love the Pico’s lightness and portability, often mentioning how easy it is to navigate airports and rental cars. However, the price is a recurring consideration.

See it on Amazon here

Cosco Mighty Fit 65 DX Convertible Car Seat, Heather Onyx

The Cosco Mighty Fit 65 DX is a solid convertible car seat offering great value for its features. It transitions from rear-facing to forward-facing and boasts side-impact protection. While not the lightest on this list, its compact design allows for three across in many vehicles.

• Convertible (rear-facing and forward-facing)
• Side-impact protection
• Five-point harness
• Three-across capability

• Machine-washable seat cover

• Pros: Affordable, good safety features, relatively compact.

• Cons: Not the lightest option, some users find the harness adjustment somewhat challenging.

User Impressions: Many appreciate its balance of safety, affordability, and space-saving design. Similar to the Finale DX, some comments focus on minor issues with harness adjustments.

See it on Amazon here

Safety 1st Guide Convertible Car Seat, Fits 3 Across

Another three-across option, the Safety 1st Guide Convertible Car Seat stands out for its easy installation thanks to LATCH. Its slim profile makes it ideal for smaller vehicles, while still offering good adjustability for growing children.

• Fits three across in most vehicles
• Convertible (rear-facing and forward-facing)
• Easy LATCH installation
• Multi-position adjustable headrest

• Removable cup holder

• Pros: Easy installation, slim design, good value.

• Cons: Not the lightest, some find the fabric less comfortable than others.

User Impressions: Parents appreciate the ease of installation and space-saving design. Feedback on comfort varies, with some noting the fabric could be softer.

See it on Amazon here

YOREPEK Padded Car Seat Travel Bag Backpack for Airplane

The YOREPEK Car Seat Travel Bag isn’t a car seat itself, but a crucial accessory for those frequently flying with a car seat. This padded bag provides protection and makes transporting your car seat significantly easier.

• Large capacity fits most car seats
• Padded backpack straps and waist strap
• Water-resistant polyester material
• Internal straps to secure the car seat

• Convenient storage pockets

• Pros: Makes carrying a car seat much easier, protects the car seat.

• Cons: Not a car seat itself, might be bulky for smaller car seats.

User Impressions: Travelers rave about how much easier this bag makes flying with a car seat, protecting it from damage and providing comfortable carrying options.

See it on Amazon here

RideSafer – Small Blue, Lightweight, Compact, Portable Car Seat

The RideSafer is a unique vest-style car seat, designed for older children. Its innovative design is incredibly lightweight and portable, making it a fantastic option for families that are constantly on the go.

• Innovative vest-style design
• Extremely lightweight and compact
• Meets all applicable safety standards
• Can be used with or without a tether

• Suitable for older children (3+ years, 30-60 lbs)

• Pros: Incredibly lightweight and portable, unique design.

• Cons: Only suitable for a specific age and weight range, unconventional design might take getting used to.

User Impressions: Users appreciate its portability and ease of use, especially in ride-sharing situations or when traveling with multiple children. However, the design is quite different from traditional car seats.

See it on Amazon here

Graco Contender Slim Convertible Car Seat, West Point

The Graco Contender Slim offers a good balance of features, safety, and portability. Its slim design saves space, while the convenient harness system makes adjusting it for your child’s growth a breeze.

• Convertible (rear-facing and forward-facing)
• Slim design
• Aircraft certified
• Easy harness adjustment

• Side-impact tested

• Pros: Good safety features, slim design, easy harness adjustment.

• Cons: Not the lightest on the list, might be slightly more expensive than some alternatives.

User Impressions: Parents appreciate the ease of use, the safety features, and its compact design. The slim profile is frequently praised for maximizing space in the car.

See it on Amazon here

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the best lightweight car seat for airplanes?

A: The WAYB Pico is specifically designed for air travel, with its compact size and lightweight design. However, other lightweight options like the RideSafer could also be suitable, depending on your child’s age and weight.

Q: How much should I spend on a lightweight car seat for travel?

A: Prices vary widely. You can find budget-friendly options like the Cosco car seats, or invest in more premium, feature-rich options like the WAYB Pico. Consider your budget and travel frequency when making your decision.

Q: What is the weight limit for most lightweight travel car seats?

A: Weight limits vary considerably depending on the specific model and whether it’s a booster or convertible seat. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications carefully before purchasing.

Q: Are all lightweight car seats FAA approved?

A: Not necessarily. While many are suitable for air travel, check the manufacturer’s documentation to ensure FAA approval for your chosen model.

Q: What is the best lightweight car seat for toddlers?

A: For toddlers, options like the Cosco Mighty Fit 65 DX and Safety 1st Guide offer a good combination of weight, size, and features. The WAYB Pico is also an option but note its weight restrictions.

Q: What are the key safety features to look for in a lightweight car seat?

A: Look for features like a five-point harness, side-impact protection, and assurance that the car seat meets or exceeds all relevant safety standards (e.g., those set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration).

We hope this guide helps you find the best lightweight car seat for travel! Remember to always check your child’s weight and height to ensure the car seat is appropriately sized and installed correctly. Happy travels!