baby car travel

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Best Car Seats for Travel

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

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

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

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

Babylist’s Top Picks for the Best Travel Car Seats

Best infant car seats.

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

Best convertible car seats

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

Best booster seats

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

In This Article

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

What Is a Travel Car Seat?

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

UPPAbaby Aria Infant Car Seat - Jake

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

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

Additional Specs

Best affordable infant car seat for travel.

Evenflo Litemax 35 Infant Car Seat - Knowville Gray

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

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

Best Luxury Infant Car Seat for Travel

Nuna Pipa Rx Infant Car Seat with Relx Base - Granite

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

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

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

Best Infant Car Seat Stroller Hybrid for Travel

Doona Infant Car Seat & Stroller - Nitro Black

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

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

Convertible Car Seats

Best convertible car seat for travel.

Cosco Scenera NEXT Convertible Car Seat

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

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

A Longer Lasting Travel-Friendly Convertible Pick

Evenflo Sonus 65 Convertible Car Seat - Rocco Red

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

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

Most Compact Convertible Car Seat for Travel

WAYB Pico Travel Car Seat

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

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

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

Booster Seats

Best booster seat for travel.

Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Highback Booster Car Seat

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

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

Best Backless Booster Seat for Travel

Cosco Rise Backless Booster Car Seat

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

How We Chose Our Best Car Seats for Travel

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jen LaBracio

Senior gear editor.

Jen LaBracio is Babylist’s Senior Gear Editor, a role that perfectly combines her love of all things baby gear with her love of (obsessive) research. When she’s not testing out a new high chair or pushing the latest stroller model around her neighborhood, she likes to run, spin, listen to podcasts, read and spend time at the beach. In her past life, she worked for over a decade in children’s publishing. She lives outside of Chicago with her husband and their two boys, Will and Ben.

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• Baby and kid

The Best Travel Car Seats

By Christina Szalinski and Rebecca Gale

Let’s face it: Traveling with little kids can be a slog. But a lightweight, compact, easy-to-install travel car seat is one tool that can make trips a bit easier.

We’ve tested 17 travel car seats for infants and up, and we examined how they performed in various circumstances, including during air travel and in rental cars. The Chicco KeyFit 35 , one of our picks for the best infant car seats , is an excellent choice for both travel and everyday use. For an affordable and easy-to-use convertible car seat for toddlers and preschoolers, we recommend traveling with the Cosco Scenera Next , which fits kids up to 40 inches tall for rear-facing or 43 inches for forward-facing. For kids bigger than that who still need a seat with a five-point harness, we recommend the Cosco Finale 2-in-1 , which also converts to a high-back booster. The backless, lightweight Cosco Rise is great for booster-age kids.

If you’ll be hopping in and out of taxis or ride shares with a baby, the Doona is a unique but expensive infant car seat that converts to a stroller. And instead of purchasing a dedicated convertible car seat for travel, another option is to bring yours along with the Britax Travel Cart .

Everything we recommend

Chicco KeyFit 35 ClearTex

The best infant car seat for travel.

If you’re a frequent traveler, the Chicco KeyFit 35 is easier than most infant car seats to install securely without its base.

Buying Options

An infant car seat and stroller in one

This unusual car seat has integrated wheels that pop out to turn it into a stroller. It’s best for parents who frequently need to move their car seat in and out of different vehicles.

Cosco Scenera Next

The best convertible car seat for travel.

This affordable and easy-to-use car seat weighs 6.8 pounds and can be used rear- and forward-facing. But kids can outgrow it quickly.

Cosco Finale 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat

The best harness booster car seat for travel.

This no-frills seat converts from a forward-facing five-point harness to a high-back booster. It weighs just 12 pounds.

Britax Travel Cart

A travel cart for lugging your own seat through the airport.

This sturdy, smooth-rolling travel cart helps you transport your own convertible car seat—and avoid buying a standalone travel seat. You can even strap your child into their seat and use it like a stroller.

The best backless booster seat for travel

This basic booster seat weighs only 2.2 pounds and can work for children as small as 40 pounds. But it has a rather large footprint and will be too big to fit in most carry-ons.

May be out of stock

How we picked

A seat that’s lightweight is more manageable to carry between multiple locations. A more compact seat is also easier to pack.

We considered the seat’s comfort and ability to adjust straps and buckles.

Ease of installation is paramount, as the easier it is to do, the more likely it will be done properly.

We looked at crash-testing scores and ease-of-use ratings. Our infant, convertible, and harness booster picks are FAA-approved for use on a plane.

The Chicco KeyFit 35 is a great all-around infant car seat—and one of the ones we recommend for everyday use. But for travel it stands out: It has a European belt path that makes it easier to get a secure install without the base than for many car seats, and it’s cheaper than other seats that have this belt routing option.

Weight of seat: 10 pounds Orientation: rear-facing only Weight range: 4 to 35 pounds Height limit: 32 inches

Parents who can’t leave their infant seat base installed in a specific car but instead need to travel by taxi or rideshare frequently may find the innovative Doona to be a convenient option. This sleek infant car seat has integrated wheels and converts to a stroller that maneuvers easily, plus the seat is FAA-approved for use on an airplane. But the versatile Doona is much heavier and more expensive than a regular infant car seat.

Weight of seat: 14.3 pounds Orientation: rear-facing only Weight range: 4 to 35 pounds Height limit: 32 inches

The Cosco Scenera Next is a notably lightweight, affordable convertible car seat that is simple to install and carry on an airplane. It receives strong safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and is FAA-approved for use on a plane. But many kids will outgrow it before they reach the height or weight limit because of the low position of the shoulder straps.

Weight of seat: 6.8 pounds Orientation: rear- or forward-facing Weight range: 5 to 40 pounds rear-facing; 22-40 pounds forward-facing Height range: 19-40 inches rear-facing; 29-43 inches forward-facing

For children using a forward-facing five-point harness, the Cosco Finale 2-in-1 is a lightweight and affordable travel option that is FAA-approved for use on a plane (in harness mode only). It also converts to a high-back booster. However, it has lower height limits than some boosters, so kids may not get as many years of use from it, in comparison with pricier options.

Weight of seat: 12 pounds Orientation: forward-facing only Weight range: 30 to 65 pounds for harness mode; 40 to 100 pounds for high-back mode Height range: 32 to 49 inches for harness mode; 43 to 52 inches for high-back mode

Bringing your own car seat to the airport has one big advantage—you don’t have to learn how to install yet another seat. But your own convertible car seat is likely to be heavy (our picks in our guide to convertible car seats range from 19 to 33 pounds). The Britax Travel Cart is compatible with most convertible seats, and when your car seat is secured to it with LATCH, you can use it like a stroller to push your toddler through the airport. The cart can then be stored in an overhead bin during your flight.

Weight of cart: 7.6 pounds

If you need a cheap, no-frills booster seat, we recommend the Cosco Rise . It’s a bit too large to fit into a carry-on suitcase or backpack, but it’s easy to attach with a bungee cord to a carry-on for plane travel. It’s also a great option if you just need a spare booster for carpools or to order ahead for use at the grandparents' house.

Weight of seat: 2.2 pounds Weight range: 40 to 100 pounds Height range: 43 to 57 inches

The research

Why you should trust us, who should get this, the best infant car seat for travel: chicco keyfit 35, an infant seat and stroller in one: doona, the best convertible car seat for travel: cosco scenera next, the best harness booster seat for travel: cosco finale 2-in-1, a great car seat caddy: britax travel cart, the best booster seat for travel: cosco rise, other good travel car seats, should a kid sit in a car seat on the airplane, what about checking a car seat, the competition, care, use, and maintenance.

The authors of this guide have collectively interviewed 40 industry experts, safety authorities, and physicians. Among them were certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians (CPSTs) such as Lani Harrison, who installs more than 300 car seats each year; Dr. Aditya Belwadi, a biomechanics research scientist who previously led the child passenger safety research team at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and now works at Tesla in Crash, Safety, and Occupant Protection/Biomechanics; and Bill Horn, head sled testing engineer at Calspan , one of the country’s top crash-testing facilities. The authors also talked with dozens of parents and representatives from leading car seat manufacturers.

The original version of this guide was written by Rebecca Gale, whose reporting on policy and parenting has appeared in outlets including The New York Times, Slate, and The Washington Post. Rebecca has also been certified as a CPST, completing a 40-hour training program through the Safe Kids Worldwide organization.

In 2022 and 2023, this guide was updated by Christina Szalinski, a science writer whose reporting on health and parenting has appeared in The Atlantic and Kaiser Health News . In addition to writing the most recent versions of Wirecutter’s infant and convertible car seat guides, Christina is responsible for Wirecutter’s guides to the Best Baby Formula and kids face masks .

Few people strictly need a separate car seat for travel as you can gate- or baggage-check any car seat for free with most airlines. But lugging your regular (likely heavy and bulky) seat in and out of the car and through the airport can be a major hassle. Investing in a smaller, lighter-weight option may be worthwhile, especially if you fly or use ridesharing services or taxis frequently.

Infant car seats for travel

If you’re traveling with an infant or baby, bringing along your usual infant car seat without its base (to cut down on weight and heft) is typically the best option. Our top infant car seat pick, the Graco SnugRide SnugFit 35 DLX , is relatively lightweight and, like other infant car seats, can be safely strapped in with a seatbelt only and no base.

There are two possible ways to install an infant car seat without a base: either with the belt directly across the top, called “American routing,” or with the shoulder belt placed around the back of the seat in addition to the top, called “European routing.” It’s easier to get a secure fit with European routing, and two seats we recommend in our guide to infant car seats, the Chicco KeyFit 35 and the Clek Liing , are designed to allow for that type of install. If you know you’ll be traveling with your infant often, it may be worthwhile to choose one of these as your baby’s first car seat.

Many infant car seats are compatible with easy-to-fold stroller frames, such as the Chicco KeyFit Caddy , which turns an infant car seat into a stroller and can be convenient for travel. Most infant seats are FAA-approved for airplane use, should you decide to purchase an airplane seat for your infant.

Convertible car seats for travel

When your child has outgrown their infant car seat, deciding on a car seat for travel can be trickier. Alisa Baer, a pediatrician, CPST, and co-founder of the website The Car Seat Lady , recommends bringing your own convertible car seat and using a travel cart . That way you have a seat that you’re already comfortable installing. But some people will prefer a dedicated travel car seat, as they can be significantly lighter than regular seats—as little as 7 pounds versus 20 to 30 pounds.

If you do buy a dedicated travel seat, it’s a good idea to practice installing it before your trip—you don’t want to be figuring it out for the first time when you, and your kid, are potentially jet lagged and feeling extra cranky. Installation can be the most time-consuming and frustrating part of using a car seat—and particularly a convertible car seat—and is often the point of failure for using a car seat correctly.

Booster seats for travel

If your everyday booster seat has a removable back (as with our top pick and runner-up pick, the Chicco KidFit ClearTex Plus and the Graco TurboBooster LX ), you may prefer to simply bring that seat for travel, leaving the bulky back at home. But like with convertible seats, it’s also an option to get a dedicated travel booster that may be significantly lighter and smaller than the one you rely on every day.

Jessica Jermakian, vice president for vehicle research at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, offered several tips for bringing along a backless booster, especially if it’s not one that’s compact: “I bungee cord them to my luggage while traversing the airport. On most flights, my kids could shove them under the seat in front of them and still have room to throw their backpack on top. On some flights, I’ve put them in a tote in the overhead compartment.”

Travel car seat alternatives

If you’re headed to a familiar destination, you could look into borrowing a seat from friends or relatives. Or, you may be able to rent one through a baby equipment rental service.

Many car rental companies also offer car seats for a daily fee, but it can cost up to $15 a day—adding up to much more than the cost of a travel car seat, which can be less than $50. And though you can reserve one in advance, rental car seats are subject to availability, so there’s no guarantee that one will be available when you arrive. The car seat provided may also be difficult to install properly, especially in an unfamiliar car. That said, you may be able to find discounts or other benefits through programs such as AAA, which offers one free car seat rental for members when they book a car through Hertz, Dollar, or Thrifty. Ridesharing and airport and town car services may also provide a car seat with advance reservations.

There are hundreds of travel car seat options for infants, toddlers, and older kids. We began the whittling down process by examining online customer reviews and existing media coverage, which included going to Car Seats for the Littles , Lucie’s List , and the Car Seat Lady . We found the travel car seat category to be sorely lacking in an abundance of great options, so we also considered some “regular” car seats and alternatives.

We knew from our expert interviews that proper installation is generally a far bigger problem than the level of protection that a seat inherently provides, so we searched the NHTSA ease-of-use installation database to help determine which seats offer easy installation and come with clear instructions. We also relied on the personal experience of Wirecutter staffers, volunteer testers, and car seat techs who had used the car seats in the past.

Our research led us to conclude that the ideal travel car seat should be:

Lightweight and compact: A travel car seat will likely need to be carried between multiple locations, sometimes with a baby inside (if we’re talking about an infant). The less the seat weighs, the easier it is to deal with when combined with children and carry-on items. A more compact seat can also fit more readily in a wide variety of vehicles.

FAA approved: For parents who want to use their infant seat, convertible car seat, or harness booster on a plane, FAA certification is crucial.

Easy to install: As with all of our car seat recommendations, ease of installation is paramount, as the easier it is to do, the more likely it is to be done properly.

Easy to use: Straps should be simple to adjust to get a snug but comfortable fit in a five-point harness. The buckles should be easy for parents to clip and unclip but difficult to impossible for children to mess with. We considered the experience of both parents and kids in using the seats, as well as how easy each seat was to clean.

Safe: When it comes to travel, convenience can trump a minor safety advantage; a seat that you can bring along with you is vastly superior to no seat at all. Still, we did take the relevant government safety data from NHTSA into consideration.

Over the past five years we’ve tested 17 car seats with travel specifically in mind.

If you’re shopping for an infant car seat with travel in mind, we recommend the FAA-approved Chicco KeyFit 35 , one of our picks in our guide to infant car seats . It is lightweight and easy to use, and it can be installed securely without its base using the European belt path, a method that generally provides a superior install. (Any infant seat can be installed without its base, so if you already have an infant seat, using what you already own is likely the easiest choice.)

You can save on weight and bulk by leaving a car seat base at home when traveling. There are two ways to install an infant seat without its base. The most common is American belt routing, in which the seat belt goes over the top of the infant seat and the baby’s knees. We’ve found that it can be very difficult to secure an infant seat in the car securely using this method.

A few seats also offer the option to rely on the European belt path, the method we prefer, in which the lap belt goes over the top of the infant seat and the shoulder belt goes around the back. It’s easier to get a secure install with the European belt path, but it’s only found on a few car seat models. Of the four infant car seats we recommend, only the Chicco KeyFit 35 and Clek Liing offer the option of using the European belt path.

Beyond the advantage of the European belt bath, the Chicco KeyFit 35 has everything we love about the more popular Chicco KeyFit 30 with a few bonus features, such as an anti-rebound base as an added safety option. The KeyFit 35 can also accommodate a slightly larger baby (up to 35 pounds) than the KeyFit 30.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

The KeyFit 35 is about $50 more than our top infant car seat choice, the Graco SnugRide SnugFit 35 DLX . It probably doesn’t make sense to buy this seat just for travel if you already own a similar infant car seat. But if you plan to be jet-setting with your baby, it may be worth the additional $50 or so to get a better on-the-go install from the start.

The Doona is an FAA-approved infant car seat (rear-facing only) with built-in wheels that allow it to convert to a stroller. For travel, this is about as convenient as it gets, allowing caregivers to rely on a single piece of equipment to accomplish two goals: avoid gate-checking a stroller—assuming an airline seat is purchased for the infant—and hop in and out of cabs without having to stow anything in the trunk.

Compared with a regular infant car seat, the Doona has some drawbacks. For one thing, it did not perform particularly well in Baby Gear Lab’s crash testing (there are no government crash tests available yet for this seat). For this reason, and because it’s tricky to install without its base (as most infant seats are), one of our car seat experts does not recommend this seat. At 14.3 pounds, it’s heavy and bulky to carry and maneuver when in car seat mode. The Doona also has the steepest price of any of the car seats (including infant, convertible, and boosters) that we’ve reviewed. It does come with a traditional infant car seat base that allows for an easy click in and out of a car, but the extra width means it could be impossible to fit three across in a backseat. And it would defeat the point to use that base for travel.

Switching the Doona from car seat mode to stroller mode and back requires “both hands and concentration,” said one tester, as well as “quite a bit of practice for me. It takes a rather specific, subtle motion to collapse it back and tuck the wheels.” It’s harder than taking a regular infant car seat off of a stroller with an infant seat attachment. Plus, once your child outgrows this seat, you’ll have to buy another stroller.

As a stroller, the Doona maneuvers easily, and the brake is intuitive and easy to use. But though it comes with an attached storage bag, the Doona lacks a storage basket.

The inexpensive Cosco Scenera Next weighs just 6.8 pounds, is relatively easy to carry and install, and can be used rear-facing from 5 to 40 pounds and forward-facing from 22 to 40 pounds. It’s FAA-certified and easy to install on an airplane (using the plane’s seatbelt).

The Cosco sells for $60, which is a bargain compared with many convertible car seats (the Graco Extend2Fit , our favorite convertible seat for everyday use, is a little over $200). The seat gets strong safety ratings from NHTSA, and given its low weight and heft and easy-enough install, we think it’s the best option available for an on-the-go or backup car seat. We strongly prefer the (heftier) Graco Extend2Fit for everyday use. That’s because it’s easier to get a safe, secure install with that seat and to adjust it to fit the child. Plus, it can be used forward-facing until a kid is 65 pounds and 49 inches tall—a much longer usable life than the Scenera Next.

Several Wirecutter staffers use or have used the Cosco Scenera Next, appreciating its low cost, low weight, and small size. They’ve found that the seat’s slim profile makes it a great option for smaller cars (specifically, a Prius or Renault Scenic). Senior editor Courtney Schley found that the Cosco allowed her to get three seats (two Coscos and one infant car seat) across in her family’s car.

The Scenera Next’s low shoulder straps mean that a child may outgrow this seat well before they are ready for a booster. ( Shoulder straps should hit at or below the shoulders when a child is rear-facing; when forward-facing the straps should hit at or above the shoulders.) The low straps mean that many 3-year-olds with longer torsos may outgrow the seat in forward-facing mode, even though the seat’s height and weight limits indicate that it should fit an average-size kid up to age 4. With a long torso, the straps end up hitting below the shoulders, a situation that can compromise safety.

Though the Scenera Next is simple to install compared with other lightweight convertible car seats we tested, some of our testers still found it difficult to get a tight, secure install. It has hook LATCH straps that aren’t particularly easy to use—you really have to tug on the LATCH straps to get a tight fit, and getting them off can be an even bigger challenge. We preferred installing the seat with a seat belt in unfamiliar cars, which was an easier way to get a tight install (try the inside/outside trick with the shoulder belt), and made it much easier to uninstall.

Our testers also found that the chest clip on the harness wasn’t as responsive or easy to use as those on more expensive seats. The Scenera Next also has less padding than many seats, though Baer points out that the padding on most seats is highly compressible, meaning that just because a seat looks fluffier doesn’t mean it provides much more cushion.

This seat also has a few downsides if you bring it on a plane. Like most convertible car seats, it’s wider than the aisle, so you have to carry it awkwardly down the plane to get to your seat, which can be quite a challenge if you’re on your own and have other carry-on items (plus your child). Additionally, the plane’s seat belt buckle is going to be pushing into your child’s back if the seat is oriented forward-facing. Alisa Baer, co-founder of The Car Seat Lady, recommends installing any seat with this issue rear-facing, even if a kid is used to forward-facing. Or you can put a diaper or other soft item over the buckle to make it a bit more comfortable.

The Cosco Finale 2-in-1 is a solid option for kids who are no longer rear-facing but still benefit from a five-point harness. It’s affordable, weighs just 12 pounds, and is relatively easy to install using the car’s seat belt while in harness mode (it also comes with LATCH straps, though we didn’t find these as easy to use). Like other boosters, when in booster mode, this seat relies on the car’s seat belt to secure the child, so there’s no need to install it.

This bigger-kid seat can see a growing child through years of travel: It can be used as a forward-facing five-point harness booster seat from 30 to 65 pounds and then as a regular (harness-free) booster from 40 to 100 pounds (up until a child is 52 inches tall).

As a five-point harness, it’s FAA-certified and easy to install on an airplane using the plane’s seatbelt. However, when it’s in booster mode, like all boosters, it cannot be used on an airplane.

In harness mode, the Cosco Finale 2-in-1 performed well in an NHTSA crash test. And several Wirecutter staffers use or have used the Cosco Finale 2-in-1 while traveling after their child outgrew the Cosco Scenera Next—they liked the price and straightforward install. Converting the seat to a booster is fairly straightforward , and the seat has storage for the harness, crotch buckle, and chest clip. Once the seat is in booster mode, your child can’t use it on an airplane, but many airlines will allow you to check a booster seat for free (you may wish to check with your airline in advance).

A more expensive version of the Cosco Finale 2-in-1, the Cosco Finale DX 2-in-1 , is also available. The only difference between the two is the fabric—the DX has a tiny bit more cushion and a slightly less slippery texture. We asked several children to try each seat and then report their favorite (they wore blindfolds, to remove color preference as a factor). There was no clear winner between the two seats, and our adult testers could hardly distinguish a difference in the cushioning. For this reason, we don’t think it’s worth the extra $20 for the DX.

When using the Finale 2-in-1 in harness mode, you first have to install it in the car, which you can do either with the seat’s LATCH straps or with the car’s seat belt. We found the Finale 2-in-1’s hook LATCH straps difficult to use—it’s hard to get a tight fit in the car, and getting them off can be a big challenge. As we did with the Cosco Scenera Next, we preferred installing the harnessed seat with a seat belt; this was an easier way to get a tight install (try the inside/outside trick with the shoulder belt) and also made it much easier to uninstall. (When the harness is removed and the seat is in booster mode, you do not need to install it in the car, since the car’s seat belt holds it in place and secures the child.)

Our testers also found that the chest clip on the harness was a bit more difficult to open compared to those on more expensive seats like the Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 . The straps have to be manually threaded through the car seat, which isn’t particularly difficult or time consuming, but you have to remember to do it before you install the seat. It also has less padding than many seats, though our child testers didn’t complain (however, we didn’t take it on any long road trips).

This seat won’t have as many years of use as other travel options, like the Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1, because the Cosco has a maximum height of 52 inches (most boosters go to 57 inches) and does not convert to a backless booster.

If you need to travel with a convertible car seat, you can bring the one you already have to the airport and onto the airplane with the Britax Travel Cart . The main benefit of bringing your own is that you’ll have a seat that you (and your child) are comfortable with, and that you know how to install confidently.

There are a number of similar travel carts out there, but we think this one offers the most for the price. We like that when the car seat is strapped onto the cart using the car seat’s LATCH clips, you can use the whole thing like a stroller and push (or pull) your child through the airport. The frame is also studier than other models—it can hold a total of 100 pounds of car seat and child. Plus, when it’s time to get on the plane you can fold the cart to stow it in an overhead bin.

At about $100 for the cart, it is cheaper to purchase a budget convertible car seat like the Cosco Scenera Next. However, depending on your circumstances, the Britax Travel Cart may outlive the expiration of many car seats (which are between six and 10 years), and could be used for future car seats, or passed along without as much consideration as a used car seat.

For a cheap, no-frills booster seat, the Cosco Rise is a reliable option that weighs only 2.2 pounds. It’s simple to use: Like other backless booster seats, it does not need to be physically attached to the vehicle; a child simply sits in it and fastens the car’s lap belt over their knees (under the seat’s sides).

The Chicco GoFit Plus is our overall top pick for the best backless booster seat because it’s cushy, made with easy-to-clean materials, and includes two cup holders and a LATCH system to anchor the seat to the car. But it’s bulky, heavy, and not great for travel. The Cosco Rise has fewer bells and whistles, but it offers a key safety feature: Unlike many other boosters, this seat has a strap that attaches to a car’s shoulder belt to adjust the belt’s position for smaller riders (the shoulder belt should always rest on a child’s collarbone, and not against their neck).

The Cosco Rise can accommodate children as small as 40 pounds, as long as they are also 43 inches tall, meaning it will work for most kids 5 and up but may not accommodate some 4-year-olds.

This seat is a bit too large to fit easily into a carry-on suitcase or backpack (it takes up almost all the room top-to-bottom in a standard-sized carry-on, with only a little room left on the side). There is also almost no padding on this seat, merely a polyester cover, but for short rides, our testers didn’t complain.

If you want an upgraded infant seat that’s great for travel : We recommend the Clek Liing , one of our favorite infant seats . Like the Chicco KeyFit 35, the Clek Liing can be installed without its base using a European belt path, which is much easier to get secure than the standard American belt routing found on most infant car seats. And when you’re at home, we love how easy it is to install the Liing’s base, which includes an added safety feature: a load leg .

If you want a high-end infant seat and don’t own a car: The lightweight, easy-to-clean Clek Liingo is similar to the Clek Liing but without the base. In general, we think installing a seat with the base is an easier and more secure option with infant car seats. But if you don’t own a car, the Liingo can be installed without a base in several ways. It has the same European belt path that the Liing has, which routes the lap belt over the top and the shoulder belt around the back for more security than an install that just goes over the top of the seat. The Liingo also comes with a LATCH strap that routes in the same spot as the lap belt—though we found this was not nearly as secure as the European belt path routing.

If you want a longer-lasting five-point harness seat for older kids: The Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 is a good choice. This forward-facing-only seat has a five-point harness that holds kids from 22 to 65 pounds and up to 49 inches tall, and it can be adjusted without rethreading it, so it is easier to modify as your child grows. When your child is ready for a regular booster, you can remove the harness and crotch buckle, converting the seat to a high-back booster that can hold a child from 40 to 100 pounds and up to 57 inches tall. Finally, you can remove the back and convert the seat to a lightweight backless booster that can also be used from 40 to 100 pounds and up to 57 inches tall.

First off, a car seat must be FAA-approved—as all of our recommended infant and convertible seats are—for a kid to ride in one on an airplane. (Booster seats are reserved for older children and not intended for use on airplane seats.)

Both the Federal Aviation Administration and CPSTs believe it is safer for kids under 2 to ride in a car seat aboard a plane rather than in their parents’ arms. In the event of turbulence or rough air, a child is much safer if strapped in. Being injured in turbulence , though very unlikely, does affect a handful of American flyers each year, and recent research indicates that turbulence is on the rise due to climate change.

Many parents find that air travel is easier when their child has their own seat (though of course you have to pay for that additional seat). Children are allowed to sit on caregivers’ laps on planes until age 2, but few toddlers can sit still for a long period of time, and that extra harness and recline (as well as familiarity) provided by the car seat may keep a child seated comfortably longer, especially once they are mobile but still too young to fully understand how to sit still in a lap belt.

There are a number of challenges to bringing a car seat, especially a convertible seat designed for a toddler, onto a plane. Some smaller planes may have seats that aren’t wide enough for many convertible car seats. And even if the car seat is narrow enough for the plane, not many seats are narrow enough to easily fit down the aisle. The Clek Foonf , one of our convertible car seat picks, is one of them, but it is pricey and heavy. (The Clek Fllo , Graco SlimFit3 LX , and Graco True3Fit also fit on an airplane seat, but we did not test them.) You’ll generally have to lift a car seat above the seats to carry it to the rear of a plane.

Finally, unlike a car seat buckle, which sits on your hip, a plane’s seat buckle sits right in the middle of your lap. That means for many car seats, once you install them on the plane, there’s going to be a large metal buckle below your child’s legs or behind their back (the Clek seats are among the few without this issue). Alisa Baer, co-founder of The Car Seat Lady, recommends using convertible seats with buckle-in-the-back issues rear-facing, even with a larger child—they’ll likely be more comfortable if their feet have a place to rest, plus they won’t be trying to rest their feet on the passenger’s seat in front of them. You can also put a diaper or spare T-shirt over the buckle to make it a bit more comfortable.

Some parents may find it simpler to use a CARES harness (Child Aviation Restraint System) to help keep kids in their seats on a plane (and their kids may prefer sitting in an airplane seat over a car seat); you install this four-point harness around the child’s seatback and under the tray behind it.

Most airlines allow at least one car seat to be checked for free but doing so has several potential problems . The luggage can be handled roughly and tossed, damaging the car seat in the process. Seats, like any piece of luggage, can also be lost or misplaced in transit. Ultimately, the main reason you may want to have your child use a car seat on the plane is so that you are absolutely confident you’ll have the car seat when you arrive at your destination.

For people who do check in their car seats, Harrison recommends—ideally—using the original box and styrofoam that the seat came with if they are available or using Bubble Wrap and a garbage bag if not. Examine the seat for visible damage when it comes out at baggage claim, and be prepared to replace the seat if it’s broken or bent.

Infant travel seats

The Chicco Fit2 can accommodate infants as small as 4 pounds and toddlers as large as 35 pounds or 35 inches. Like the Chicco KeyFit 35 we recommend as the best infant car seat for travel, it can be installed with a European belt path. But because of this seat’s large size, some seat belts are too short to route over the car seat securely.

Convertible travel seats

We previously recommended the lightweight, foldable, forward-facing WAYB Pico (rhymes with “baby”) as a good travel car seat for kids who are too big for the Cosco Scenera Next but still need a five-point harness. Its adjustable seat back allows it to accommodate taller kids, and its slim design means it takes up less room in the backseat than other car seats. The 8-pound seat is exceptionally convenient to install, uninstall, and carry around, including through airports and onto a plane. In September 2019, however, WAYB announced it was recalling 4,558 Pico car seats manufactured between March 1 and May 12, 2019, due to reports of breakage in the aluminum tube connecting the headrest to the seat. You can read NHSTA’s report (PDF)  for details about the recall, how to identify your car seat’s date of manufacture, and how to inspect your car seat for damage. Since the recall, there have not been further reports of problems. Like all car seats sold in the US, the Pico was self-certified by WAYB to pass NHTSA standards (PDF) for safety testing.

The EvenFlo Tribute is a lightweight seat (9 pounds) similar to the Cosco Scenera Next and also has a weight limit of 40 pounds, but as our convertible car seat guide testing showed us, it’s not as easy to get a good install with this seat. CPSTs like Harrison recommend using a towel or pool noodle when using the Tribute to address this. It’s also more expensive than the Cosco Scenera Next.

Booster travel seats

We previously recommended the BubbleBum , an inflatable, portable backless booster seat for older kids. However, in February 2022, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety raised concerns about the safety of inflatable boosters. A study using a computerized model determined that an inflatable booster may not have the stiffness required to keep a child from sliding out from under the lap belt upon impact in a car crash.

The backless Cosco Topside is too large to fit into a carry-on or a backpack. Unlike the Cosco Rise , our favorite backless booster for travel, this booster seat also doesn’t have a belt-positioning clip, which can help the shoulder belt fit better on a smaller rider.

We liked the Graco RightGuide booster seat because it was small enough to fit inside a carry-on or backpack. But it was recently discontinued.

The Immi Go is a booster car seat with a five-point harness that folds conveniently into its own carrying bag. Due to low sales, it is no longer for sale in the US, but you may see this seat if you travel abroad.

The MiFold backless booster seat (currently unavailable) is small enough to fit into the back pocket of some pants and weighs less than 2 pounds. It works by moving the seat belt down to fit the kid (as opposed to raising the kid to fit the belt, as other boosters do). However, our testers found its hard plastic shell uncomfortable to sit on for long periods of time and said that the seat was complicated and unintuitive to set up. Also, a car seat safety expert we consulted noted that the design of the seat may encourage a child to use bad posture while they’re sitting in it—in an effort to find a more comfortable position, the child may tend to scoot forward, moving the slick-bottomed seat along with them, which could pose a safety concern.

Travel carts

The Torevsior Car Seat Travel Cart is about $25 less than the Britax Travel Cart we recommend, but it’s also less robust—the frame just doesn’t feel as sturdy. The weight limit is also lower than the Britax’s, at 70 pounds versus Britax’s 100 pounds. Like the Britax travel cart, the Torevsior cart has hooks for LATCH straps, to secure a car seat onto the cart so that your child can ride in it as you’re moving through the airport. It’s 6.4 pounds (Britax is 7.6 pounds), and extends up to 46 inches (Britax to 42 inches).

All of the guidelines for car seat care, use, and maintenance in our other car seat guides apply to travel car seats as well.

This guide was edited by Ellen Lee, Amy Miller Kravetz and Kalee Thompson.

Jessica Jermakian, vice president for vehicle research at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety , email exchange , August 1, 2022

Alisa Baer, pediatrician, nationally certified child passenger safety instructor, and co-founder of The Car Seat Lady , phone interview, July 15, 2022 and January 9, 2023

Lani Harrison, CPST, Car Seats for the Littles , email interview , January 28, 2019

Meet your guides

Christina Szalinski

Christina Szalinski is a freelance science writer with a PhD in cell biology.

Rebecca Gale

Further reading

The Best Booster Car Seats

by Rebecca Gale

After researching over 50 booster car seats and testing 13, we’ve concluded that the convenient Chicco KidFit ClearTex Plus is the best overall choice.

The Best Travel Strollers

by Elise Czajkowski

After testing seven travel strollers on various trips and excursions, we’re confident that the Uppababy Minu V2 is the one to get.

Traveling With Little Kids Can Be Tough. The Right Gear Can Help.

by Kerry Davis McGuinness

From compact car seats and cribs to portable blackout shades and white noise machines, the right tools for travel can lead to less fuss—and more fun.

The Best Infant Car Seats

by Christina Szalinski

After extensive research and field testing, we found that the Graco SnugRide SnugFit 35 DLX is the best infant car seat for most families.

Best Baby Travel Essentials of 2024

Ready to plan a family trip? Our list of favorite baby travel gear spotlights only the best and most essential products for a successful journey. Traveling with your baby (or multiple children) can feel intimidating. If you have limited luggage or cargo space, it's tough to know what baby travel gear is travel-worthy and capable of withstanding the adventures ahead and what you might truly need.

We can ease your troubles with our travel and gear expertise.

When it comes to baby gear, we have lofty standards and equally high testing protocols. Nobody tests baby gear as extensively as BabyGearLab . Over the years, we've tested hundreds, if not thousands, of child-related products, and for each review, we've selected, purchased, and hands-on tested each product in the competition. Our testing covers all aspects of a product, allowing us to compare the contenders head-to-head. You can feel confident that only the finest high-quality products will make this list of the best baby travel gear. We regularly update this list if new and compelling gear outshines a top contender.

Our favorite baby travel gear list includes practical categories to help make your trip a success, including the most notable or budget-friendly products. There is something for every travel enthusiast in our lineup.

Transporting Your Baby

Factors like your destination, adventure goals, the number of children you're hauling, and budget will influence the best stroller or baby carrier you need .

Baby Carrier

A top-ranked baby carrier keeps your little one close as you navigate the hustle and bustle of air travel, public transportation, or locations where strollers can't go. This baby travel gear keeps you virtually hands-free so you can hold boarding passes, reach for snacks, or grab a pacifier. Plus, many parents find little ones are quieter and more content in a baby carrier.

Tula Free-to-Grow

Baby Backpack Carrier

The best baby backpack carrier can work well for treks or stroller-free trips for older babies and toddlers. It keeps your child contained and often decreases meltdowns and tantrums. Many museums and other public spaces won't allow strollers, but a backpack is usually allowed.

Kelty Journey PerfectFIT Elite

Deuter Kid Comfort Active SL

Umbrella Strollers

If your baby's travel gear requires wheels, pack a stroller. Many parents prefer a top-ranked umbrella stroller for travel, given their lightweight and compact design. Other stroller types might be a better fit, and we've tested those too.

BabyZen Yoyo2

Zoe Traveler

Mountain Buggy Nano Duo

Feeding On-the-Go

Bring the baby travel gear you need to make feeding time during vacation more convenient and manageable. While it might feel like you're lugging around a lot, we think you'll be glad you brought the extras.

Kids Lunch Boxes

Grab one of the best lunch boxes for kids to carry snacks in one place.

Bentgo Deluxe Lunch Bag

Protect clothing and make mealtime cleanup a breeze with a travel-friendly baby bib. A silicone bib is easy to clean, dry, and stow after mealtime.

Happy Healthy Parent Silicone Bib

Don't rely on fast food vendors to offer smaller spoons. Stash some of the best baby spoons in your diaper bag for baby's mealtime.

Munchkin Lift Infant Spoons

Snack Catcher

Keep little ones busy and stave off hunger and low blood sugar-related meltdowns with a snack catcher. A helpful snack catcher encourages independence and keeps hands and mouths busy.

Sippy cups allow for independent drinking without worrying about spills and loss of liquids. Little ones like to help themselves, and a water-filled sippy cup can help prevent dehydration.

Pura Kiki Vacuum Insulated Toddler with Sleeve

Munchkin Miracle 360 Stainless

Portable High Chair

A portable high chair or the table booster seat may not be a travel necessity, but they could be helpful if you are staying in one location for some time. A designated place for your child to eat can make a new place feel more like home, and they can enjoy mealtime with other family and friends.

Mountain Buggy Pod

Prince Lionheart SQUISH

Soothing Must-Haves

Packing gear that entertains or soothes your child is essential. If you're flying, you should plan on bottle-feeding, nursing, or giving your baby a pacifier (if they take one) to help ease ear pain caused by altitude changes while flying. Sucking and swallowing motions are the best way to relieve altitude-related pressure changes in the inner ear.

Sucking on the best pacifier is a great way to relieve pressure in little ears during air travel, especially for take-off and landing.

Chicco PhysioForma Soft Pacifier

Philips Avent Soothie Pacifier

Baby Bottle

Alternatively, a favorite baby bottle (if your baby knows how to) can help babies relax and prevent ear pain when taking off in an airplane or traveling swiftly from one altitude to another.

Nursing Clothing

Travel is a great time to capitalize on breastfeeding your baby, especially during altitude changes or if the situation might be upsetting, new, or stressful. Nursing can relieve ear pain and calm your baby when you need it most, and a nursing bra can make the task easier to achieve with some modesty when paired with a nursing top with openings for feeding.

Bravado Body Silk Seamless Nursing Bra

Ingrid and Isabel Seamless

BOOB Classic Short Sleeve

Fun in the Sun

If you're hitting the pool, lake, beach, or splash pad while vacationing, be prepared with some essentials that keep things safe and the good times rolling.

Sunscreen for Kids and Babies

Protect your child from the sun's powerful rays with one of our favorite sunscreens . We've tested various high-quality sunscreens to help you find the best option for your little one. Any outdoor time should include sun protection, even in the winter.

Babo Botanicals Baby Skin

Swim Goggles

A great pair of swim goggles can make time in the water more fun. Whether you're in the pool, lake, or ocean, swim goggles can improve visibility and comfort in the water for children.

Speedo Hydrospex

Kids Lifejackets

If you're planning time on the water with boating, kayaking, or paddle boarding, a kids' life jacket is a must-have.

Hardcore Life Vest

Road-Trip Essentials

Ready to hit the road? Ensure your child has a safe and cozy seat from our lineup of favorite car seats appropriate for their size and age.

Convertible Car Seat

For many kinds of travel, a top-ranked convertible car seat is a safety must. We recommend finding a safe seat that is lightweight and easier to carry while traveling.

Graco SlimFit 3-in-1

Booster Seat

Choosing the best booster seat is a must for little ones who still need a safety seat. You don't want to lug a heavy or large seat while on travel. Our pick is small, lightweight, and easy to carry.

Baby Toiletries

Like adults, you'll need to pack some toiletries for your child. We consider some health-related products essential.

Baby Shampoo

Baby shampoo can typically double as a body wash, which limits what you need to take on travel. Most adult or hotel-supplied soaps are not suitable for little ones, so don't forget to toss a favorite baby shampoo in with toiletries.

Honest Truly Calming Lavender Shampoo and Wash

Baby Lotion

Baby lotion is essential for soft and comfortable skin, especially if your travel plans include a dry climate or water fun with salt or chlorine.

Baby Dove Lotion

Baby Nail Clippers

You might think you can leave your baby nail clippers at home, but we recommend packing them. Not only do they take up little space, but you never know when a hangnail might need attention. Better to have them and not need them than the other way around.

Easy Grip Nail Scissors

Kid's Bandages

Boo-boos happen, even on vacation. We recommend keeping some bandages in your carry-on, wallet, or other easy-to-access location for accidents away from home.

Band-Aid Bandages Family Pack

Thermometer

Germs are everywhere; the further you go from your bubble, the higher the likelihood of little ones coming down with signs of illness. Having an accurate thermometer on hand can help determine if your child needs medical attention.

Digital Forehead and Ear Thermometer

Dental Care

Don't let dental care slide on holiday. Little ones need to brush regularly, even when away from home. Don't forget your favorite baby toothbrush and a top-ranked kids' toothpaste .

Jordan Step 0-2 Years Toothbrush

Tom's of Maine Children's Toothpaste

Nursing On-the-Go

If you're planning on pumping your breastmilk while traveling, you'll want to equip yourself with the right gear. Here are some pumping products, including some convenient products, that make the process more manageable.

Breast Pump Bag

Carrying a breast pump typically includes a plethora of accessories. One of the best breast pump bags can help keep it all together, offering functionality and extra storage.

Sarah Wells Abby

Nanobébé Duet

Breast Pump

Depending on your travel goals or plans, you might need a full electric pump to meet your needs, but you could potentially get away with a more transportable handheld pump. Check out our favorite breast pumps for recommendations before making a decision.

Spectra S1 Plus

Baby Buddha

Bottle Drying Rack

If you bottle-feed or need to while traveling, a travel-friendly bottle drying rack can help keep things clean away from home.

OXO Tot On-the-Go

Diapering Essentials

Traveling and diapering doesn't have to be challenging. You can carry all your supplies in one place, making it a smooth and efficient operation.

Disposable Diapers

On-the-go diapering is often easier with disposable products , even if you are a die-hard cloth diaper lover. It could be challenging (and stinky) to carry dirty diapers in a bag until you find a way to launder them.

Parasol Clear and Dry

Disposable baby wipes are good for travel and incredibly messy cleanups. Being able to throw yucky things away instead of keeping them for laundering later is a big win away from home.

Mama Bear 99% Water Baby Wipes

Diaper Cream

Diaper rash can result from changes in diet and habits, which are common on travel. Don't be caught without a soothing top-ranked diaper cream for tiny tushies in distress.

A+D Zinc Oxide Cream

Go for a top-ranked diaper bag that's easy to carry and holds enough items for your travel needs. Also, don't forget a changing mat to make diaper changes on-the-fly easier.

Ju-Ju-Be Be Right Back

Ju-Ju-Be B.F.F.

Gear for Sleeping

Although you can't bring your at-home nursery on the road, you can create a sleep-inducing atmosphere with some handy and portable gear. Keeping your little one on a regular sleep schedule in a calming environment is key to successful travel with little ones.

Travel Cribs

Many parents consider one of the best travel cribs a necessity if their little one hasn't transitioned to a bed. If your baby still sleeps in a crib, you'll find a travel crib to be a big benefit while away from home. It provides a safe and comfortable place for little ones to get some shut-eye. Trying them out at home can help familiarize your child with the new sleeping digs before you go.

BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light

Lotus Travel Crib

Baby Joy Travel Crib 2-1 Playpen

Swaddles and Sleep Sacks

Top-ranked baby swaddles and sleep sacks offer comfort to little ones away from home. Familiar sleep garments and consistent coverage can help toddlers sleep soundly.

Burt's Bees Baby Beekeeper

Night Light

New places can be scary for little ones, and one of the best night lights can offer comfort by illuminating the dark, providing a feeling of safety in a strange room or sleep area.

Hatch Baby Rest Night Light

Sound Monitor

A simple and cost-effective top-ranked sound monitor can be useful while staying in new spaces where you might not be by your baby's side every moment. A dedicated unit is easy to set up and use in any location with electricity.

TimeFlys QQ Portable

Sound Machine

If you plan to travel to hotels or with family, nap times might be loud. One of the best sound machines can provide masking of ambient noises and a calming environment conducive to sleep.

VTech Myla The Monkey

Outdoor Travel

If you're an adventurous parent who wants to explore the great outdoors with your child, we've got the inside scoop on some must-have gear. Although flying hinders what you can pack, this list is best for road warriors with a car, trailer, or RV space to spare.

Kid's Bike Helmet

Keep heads and brains safe with our favorite kids' bike helmets ready for every adventure, from a passenger in the bike trailer to a pedal bike and beyond. Don't skimp on safety just because you're away from home.

Schwinn Thrasher

Keep the bugs at bay with a top-ranked bug spray . While young babies should be protected with clothing and netting (not chemicals), older babies and children should use a suitable repellent to help avoid bites, discomfort, and insect-borne illnesses.

Sawyer Insect Repellent

Kid's Fishing Pole

Fishing can be a fun and bonding experience for family and friends. Finding an easy-to-use child-sized fishing pole can help bring joy to the water for pint-sized fishing.

Kid's Bike Seat

Riding your bike with a child on board can give your little one a new vantage point on fun and the environment. Be it a city sidewalk or park, a bike seat can be a fun form of sightseeing for children.

Keep'em Entertained

Wherever you roam, avoid boredom by packing some entertainment. And, if you read books before bed at home or use bath toys , continue the routine on vacation. Children thrive on routine.

Toddler Books

Books can be heavy and perhaps not the best travel partners for planes, but entertaining toddler books can be a great resource for road trips and stays at Grandma's house.

The Pout-Pout Fish

Children's Books

Older children may be more interested in books for older children . Plus, reading can help make time pass while traveling.

Room on the Broom

Teething Toy

Babies cutting teeth will find relief and entertainment with the best teething toys . You don't need a baby in pain from erupting teeth to have a meltdown in public if a teething toy can help ease their discomfort.

Comotomo Silicone Teether

Bathing in an unfamiliar bathtub can be more fun and engaging with the addition of fun bath toys from home. Little ones can stress when exposed to new places; bringing part of your home with you can help.

Munchkin Fishin' Bath Toy

Older Kids on Travel

Traveling with older kids takes different gear for safety, hydration, and entertainment. Consider some of our favorite products if your child is old enough to monitor their supplies.

Kid's Headphones

A great pair of kids' headphones lets little ones watch shows and play games or listen to music without disturbing those around them. If you have multiple kids, headphones can stop the fighting between siblings listening to two different things. Headphones with Bluetooth capabilities are a plus, so you don't have to deal with cord-related snags, tangles, and drops.

Puro Sound Labs

Kid's Backpack

Many kids love independence and want to carry their own gear. Check out some of our favorite backpacks for kids . Plus, it can help ease the burden of carrying too much stuff in an airport or train station for you.

Everest Basic Backpack

Kid's Water Bottle

Nothing leads to a meltdown or tantrum like hunger or dehydration. Little ones need regular snacks and water to keep in top form. We recommend providing a kid-friendly water bottle , so they can stay hydrated. You might want to avoid frequent restroom breaks, but, trust us, thirsty kiddos are far more of a travel hindrance than the frequent need to pee.

Thermos FUNtainer

The best masks for kids can help prevent your child from contracting all kinds of germs. Indoor public places increase their risk of transmitting all sorts of viruses that could put a damper on your travel fun. A great mask can make all the difference in getting to your destination illness-free, so everyone is ready for fun.

Kimberly-Clark N95 Pouch

WWDOLL Kid KN95 Face Mask

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Travel Advice

Road trip with a baby: 10 essential survival tips + packing list.

How to plan successful long drives traveling with an infant

The prospect of a long road trip with a baby can fill even the most experienced traveling parents with anxiety. We know; we’ve been there!  There are just so many extra items that are needed for baby car travel and don’t forget those ill-timed diaper blowouts while you’re inconveniently between stops.

We’ve put our own traveling experiences to work for you by compiling ` 10 Tips for Road Tripping with a Baby to help make your journey as stress-free as possible. You’ll also find a helpful list of baby road-tripping gear at the end to make packing a breeze.

This post is part of our family road-tripping and best baby travel advice series

If your child is a little bit older, then pop on over and read all our best toddler road trip travel advice here.

10 Tips For Road-Tripping With A Baby

Before we dive into traveling tips for baby’s first road trip, we’d like to emphasize the importance of having a suitable rear-facing car seat for your baby .  Please check to make sure it has not expired, and if you are traveling to another country, it’s best to look up child safety laws for the area you’re driving to. 

1. Get as Much Practice as Possible

You may have heard horror stories of families embarking on a long drive with their baby only to turn around because their little one dissolved into hysterics. We have experienced a fair amount of crying while traveling ourselves, and the best solution we’ve found to this has simply been to get your baby used to being in their car seat. 

We know that getting out and about with your baby is easier said than done, especially if you have more than one child.  Even a few trips to pick up groceries or going to the park will help your little one realize that being in a car seat is not the end of the world. 

Once that is going well, perhaps plan a day trip to a park or location an hour or two away.  By increasing your baby’s time in their car seat incrementally, you’re decreasing the chances of constant crying when you’re committed to a longer trip.

2. Be Reasonable With Your Itinerary

If you thrive on making schedules and sticking to them, you’ll need to adjust your expectations when it comes to baby car travel. As tempting as it is to reach your destination as soon as possible, as new parents, you’ll need to keep your baby’s needs and your own sanity in mind when planning your first family road trip. 

Even the most well-traveled infant can only spend so many hours in a moving car (and you shouldn’t leave a baby in their infant car seat for more than a couple of hours at a time). When taking on long car journeys, build in plenty of pit stops for the whole family.

You also wanted to make sure that you are taking care of yourself and your partner.  Sleepless nights and babies often go hand-in-hand. If you’re already running on fumes, avoid trying to drive for more than five to six hours a day or through the night. Your family’s safety is the most important thing.

We’ve always found it helps to time the long stretches for what would be your baby’s normal nap time – but “normal” doesn’t always apply when traveling with a baby! If you have older children to consider too, you may have multiple napping schedules to consider, and there is no ‘best time.’

3. Bring Pumping Supplies or Extra Formula

Whether you’re a breastfeeding mum or you’re feeding your little one with baby formula , you’ll need to pack extra feeding supplies when on the road with an infant. Bringing along ready-to-feed formula can be a lifesaver during travel, as mixing formula on the go can prove to be a hassle, especially on extended journeys.

In the event that you either aren’t able to pull over and nurse your baby or that they are sleeping soundly in their car seat at feeding time, you’ll probably want to bring a travel breast pump along with you.

This can be one of the bulkiest items to pack, and you’ll need to remember to bring extra batteries or have a charging cord that plugs into your car’s adapter (naturally, this is if you’re the passenger, not the driver!).

I can’t say enough good things about the Spectra breast pump . The latest model even has a rechargeable battery. A car adapter is also available for additional purchase. The Spectra is powerful and easy to clean, both of which are pluses when traveling.

Additional recommended supplies for feeding on the move:

• Nursing Cover
• Milk Storage Bags
• Insulated Bottle Cooler
• Travel Bottle Warmer
• Milk Bottles
• Cleaning Kit

You can find our complete guide to breastfeeding on the go here, as well as our complete guide to bottle feeding on the go .

4. Car Seat Additions

In some ways, babies are both easier and more difficult to entertain than toddlers .  Your newborn won’t be screaming because you took their tablet away from them, but they may scream because of a dirty diaper, they’re hungry, or they’re tired of being in their car seat.  Yes, taking a baby on the road can be a different animal altogether.

Babies are sometimes easier in the sense that they can be distracted by much simpler items, such as favorite toys that rattle or make noise, or merely seeing their own reflection in a mirror. 

We suggest a toy strip that attaches to the handles of your baby’s car seat.  This ensures they will have a variety of engaging travel toys that can’t be thrown on the floor (A toy tether is also an excellent way to avoid this scenario!).

Some of our favorite baby road trip toys

We also recommend having a car seat mirror when you’re on a long trip with your baby so that you can keep tabs on how they’re doing.  It’s always helpful to know when your baby is napping, as this can help determine whether or not you can squeeze in another hour of driving.  A mirror can also alert you to those unfortunate milk spit-ups that will more than likely result in an extra pit stop.

Some babies will go through phases of simply not settling in the back seat. Particularly if they are the only one in the back, a quick way to a happy baby may be simply having another adult or family member sit with your infant to entertain them in their car seat.

5. Pack a Travel Bag

You’ll want to have some of the essentials within arm’s reach in your vehicle, which is why you’ll need an extra travel bag inside the car, aside from your suitcases in the trunk. 

Your regular diaper bag can be perfectly suitable for this, or you can simply pack an extra tote.

Here are some helpful items to stock your car baby bag with:

• Travel changing pad
• Extra diapers
• Diaper Cream
• Healthy Snacks
• Hand sanitizer
• Burp cloths
• Plastic bags (for dirty diapers)
• A change of clothes (for baby and for you!)
• Ziploc bags or wash bags (for dirty clothes)
• Extra pacifiers (if needed)
• First Aid Kit

We’ve found that it’s always helpful to have a small selection of baby’s favorite toys for when we would have to stop and eat while traveling. 

These could be brought into the restaurant and swapped out, and sanitizing wipes certainly came in handy when those toys inevitably hit the floor. Bibs also became a necessity, as they helped protect our baby’s clothes from spit-ups in the car. 

• You’ll find our complete baby travel checklist here .

6. Expect a Few Diaper Blowouts

Ah, diaper blowouts.  These are a fact of parenting life, and traveling with a newborn by car practically guarantees that a few will occur between Point A and Point B – we’ve learned the hard way! 

While there’s nothing you can do to prevent blowouts, you can minimize the cleanup, thereby reducing your own stress in these situations.

We absolutely recommend a car seat liner .  Many are universal, but you should also be able to find one that fits your specific car seat.  Car seat liners can be wiped clean and are machine washable, and they prevent anything from soaking into the actual car seat (you’ll use these right through the toilet training stage up to the pre-school years).

Baby car travel also dictates the necessity of packing backup clothing, and onesies are extremely convenient.  We advise packing 2-3 onesies in your travel bag to cover all of your bases – it’ll save you needing to dig them out of suitcases on the side of the road for those emergency diaper changes.

7. Prepare for Frequent Stops

Taking baby on the road goes hand-in-hand with stopping. Frequently.  It’s just a fact of life, and if you accept it at the onset of your road trip, this will probably reduce the chances you’ll be cranky about it later. 

Babies simply require extra handling, whether it be an unanticipated nursing or feeding stop, milk-spit-up-fiasco, or the dreaded diaper blowout.  It’s best just to buck up, pull over, and take care of business.

It’s also a good idea to bring along your stroller .  This really is an essential road-tripping item, as you’ll need to stretch your legs as well as transport your baby to and from your hotel room or take in some trails during a rest stop. 

8. For Mom – Take Care of YOU

This article may be about road trips with a baby, but we’re going to take a moment and focus on you, Mom.  It can be tempting to put your needs last, as it so often seems to be a part of being a mother.  However, your own well-being is directly linked to the health and happiness of your little one, and it’s important to remember this.

For one, don’t be afraid to speak up if you’re exhausted.  Letting your partner or spouse take the wheel while you’re on the road is an excellent way to catch up on any sleep you may have missed the night before.  Even a half-hour of added sleep can do wonders, as we’re sure you know!

If you’re a nursing mom , you’ll also want to make sure that you’re staying hydrated.  You’ve already adopted the mindset that stops will be more frequent, so if that means a few extra trips to the bathroom, so be it.  Don’t sacrifice your own health because it may be temporarily inconvenient for others.

9. Pack A Few Travel Dining Essentials

Car travel with a baby means that you’ll be stopping along the way to eat, which means you’ll need to pack a few travel dining essentials.  If your baby can sit up with support, a travel high chair can make indoor dining much easier.  These fold up when not in use and can easily be stored in the trunk of your vehicle. 

As we’ve mentioned before, it’s best to pack several bibs in your travel bag for easy access while travelling.  We’re big fans of these silicone bibs , as they can be easily wiped clean for repeated use on your journey. Don’t forget surface wipes before sitting at a table and for wiping little hands that will want to touch EVERYTHING before serving up baby food!

10. Prepare for Hotel Stays

Staying in a hotel with your baby usually means that you’ll get much less sleep than normal, but we have some tips to make these experiences less tiring for everyone involved.

• Ask for a corner room.  These are often quieter and farther away from elevators.  Many hotels will work to accommodate families with infants, and you should not be afraid to speak up.  The worst they can tell you is that they don’t have any available. 
• If financially possible, spring for a suite room.  These generally have a separate space (such as a common living room area) where you can place your baby’s travel cot. 
• Bring a portable baby travel bassinet , not a bulky pack n’ play.  While useful, pack n’ plays can take up space in your vehicle that you’ll need for other items. Most hotels offer some sort of travel crib, but that doesn’t guarantee that the mattress will be lined or as thick as your baby is used to. A travel bassinet can be placed in the crib and provide all that your baby needs for a restful night’s sleep.

Baby Road Trip Essentials – Gear You’ll Need

We’ve mentioned several pieces of essential gear to prepare for a successful road trip with your infant or baby. To help you pack, here is a convenient list for your reference (you can also head straight to our Amazon store , where we set out all our favourite baby travel essential items)

• Travel Breast Pump
• Car Adapter
• Toy Teether
• Silicone Bibs
• Car Seat Liner
• Travel diaper change kit
• Travel High Chair
• Travel Bassinet

 What about when you arrive at your destination? Download our complete baby packing list when you sign up for our newsletter here – never forget an essential item again traveling with a baby!

Final thoughts on taking baby on the road

Remember, it’s all about setting realistic expectations. Give yourself plenty of time, pack well, rest frequently, and go easy on yourself if things don’t go exactly to plan! Traveling with a newborn may not be your best road trip, but it IS achievable with a little thought and planning. Safe Travels!

More Top Travel Tips With A Baby

Before you leave home with a baby in tow, firstly pop over to our Best Baby Travel Advice homepage. We cover a huge range of baby travel topics here including:

• How to Handle Baby’s First Flight – from booking the tickets to getting on the plane and surviving mid-air meltdowns, here’s how baby air travel works.
• Hiking with a Baby – babies can make great travel companions in the early days – here’s how to get yourself set up for a successful baby hike.
• Essentials Camping with a Baby – undoubtedly, tots do come with a lot of stuff! Here are the essential baby items we always recommend you take on a baby camping trip & hitting the trails.
• Bringing Baby to the Beach – Top tips for when you’re out in the sun and the surf to keep baby safe and make sure its a fun day for all of you.
• Baby Travel Essentials – the most important things for baby we never leave home without.

You can find all of our family travel product reviews here

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2 thoughts on “ Road Trip With A Baby: 10 Essential Survival Tips + Packing List! ”

I’m also bring my electric breast pump just in case!

great tip for newbie parents

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• Baby & Toddler
• Baby Health & Wellness
• Toddler and Baby Gear

7 Essential Accessories for Traveling in the Car With Baby

Whether you’re prepping for a cross-country road trip or just taking a quick drive to the store, here are the must-have travel accessories that will make your life a lot easier (and we love easy!).

Travel snack pouches

Remember to pack goodies in case the hungries strike.  You’ll want food that’s easy to access in the car, but doesn’t pose a choking hazard (that means no hard fruits, big crackers or raisins). Bumpies love Itzy Ritzy’s eco-friendly, reusable snack pouches. They come in cool designs (hey chevron!) and, best of all, are machine washable. $19, ItzyRitzyStore.com

Portable diaper pad

You never know when you’ll be stopped at a place where the bathroom changing station just doesn’t cut it. Ew. We love this one from Aden+ Anais. It’s made with durable — and washable — muslin and comes in cute patterns. $20, Diapers.com

Teething toy

She’s soft. She’s teethable. She squeaks. Baby can love on her for hours in the car. Buy one regular-sized Sophie la Giraffe for the diaper bag and keep a travel-sized Sophie in the car. You know he’s going to throw one on the floor while driving! $23, BabiesRUs.com

Backseat organizer

Safely stow soft books, sippy cups and other loose stuff in pockets and pouches. Most organizers just snap onto the backseat pocket like this one by Munchkin. We love that it has mesh pouches (we see you, pacifier!) and is made of durable Nylon. $10, Amazon.com

Car seat monitor

The ChildMinder Smart Clip System snaps on to baby’s car seat strap and alerts you if the strap becomes detached, too loose, or if you forget to buckle baby in (hey, we know how tired you are). You’ll have time to pull over and readjust before anything happens. It’ll also trigger an alarm if you inadvertently move more than 15 feet away from baby, preventing you from ever accidentally leaving baby in the car unattended. $80, Amazon.com

Soft books for baby

Bumpies love Jelly Cat’s colorful books that can be tucked into a backseat pocket and provide a much needed distraction during a car trip. You’ll probably have them memorized, so as long as baby can look at the pictures, you can “read” them to her from the driver’s seat! $17, Nordstrom.com

Pacifier friend

We would like to personally high-five the mom who created the wonder that is the Wubbanub. This pacifier-and-lovey-in-one is a must-have for a cranky baby, and it’s easy for baby to find in her seat. If baby takes a paci, consider picking one up for the car. $13, Target.com

Plus, more from The Bump:

Best Car Tunes for Rocking Out With Baby  

Top Travel Gear

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The 9 Best Stroller and Car Seat Combos for Families on the Go

Move your newborn seamlessly from the car to the stroller with these editor-tested travel systems.

In This Article

Our Favorites

• Notable Mentions

Our Testing Process

• Factoris to Consider

Your Questions, Answered

Parents / Joy Kim

When a fussy newborn finally finds a comfortable snoozing position, the last thing you want to do is move them and potentially wake them up. This is where a great car seat and stroller combination comes in handy. Also known as a travel system, these are generally made up of an infant car seat and a matching stroller that work together. They allow you to move your infant car seat from its base in your car to your stroller where the seat would normally be. 

Most travel systems consist of two separate pieces (a car seat and a stroller) that work together or apart, but some newer versions are made up of a one-piece car seat that converts into a stroller. The best car seat and stroller combinations are safe, easy to use, easy to clean, and versatile. You also want to find a stroller that maneuvers well, even when a fully loaded car seat is attached. 

To find the best travel systems, we evaluated 23 highly rated models in our testing lab in Des Moines, Iowa. 11 editors and testers first assembled the strollers, when applicable, noting how intuitive that process was. Then, they took note of the stroller’s design features, looking at if the handlebar was adjustable, if the canopy was spacious, if the seat reclined, and more. We then installed the car seat bases into actual cars outside our lab, noting the ease of installation. Next, we loaded each car seat with a sandbag to mimic a baby’s weight and attached it to the car seat base, noting how intuitively it clicked in and detached, and if there were any level indicators (or an audible click) to let you know you’ve installed the car seat safely. We repeated this process with the strollers, observing if the car seats clicked in and out of their corresponding stroller easily. Then, testers took the travel systems for a spin, maneuvering them around tight corners and across multiple terrains to see how well they steer.

Since car seat and stroller combos can be on the pricier side—our picks range from $330 to $1,350—you really want an option that can be used for as long as possible. Many models can grow with your family and be used as a stroller for your toddler, or you can pass it down to a younger sibling.

Best Overall: Britax B-Free Premium & B-Safe Gen2 FlexFit Plus Travel System

• Easiest to Use: UPPAbaby Cruz V2 + Mesa V2 Infant Travel System
• Best Luxury: Nuna MIXX Next + Pipa RX

Best for City Use: Doona Car Seat and Stroller

Best handling: chicco corso le modular travel system, best for growing families: graco modes nest2grow travel system, best compact: evenflo shyft dualride, best for your money: graco modes pramette travel system, best for shopping: graco modes nest travel system.

Why We Like It: Both the car seat and stroller feel durable and sturdy, and they’re easy to use all around. Plus, the three-point tire system makes the stroller a breeze to maneuver. 

But Take Note: Detaching the car seat from the stroller or the base requires the use of two hands. We also think the fabric storage bag on the stroller could be a little more sturdy. 

This premium Britax travel system earned the top spot on our list with its durable, strong feel and overall user-friendliness. Installing the car seat base into a vehicle is a total breeze—and when using the LATCH system, we were able to get it securely in the car in just about two minutes. The anti-rebound bar on the base offers another level of protection, and the easy-to-read level indicators offer a feeling of confidence about installation. 

A six-position harness and headrest are easy to adjust for your baby’s comfort. Plus, attaching the car seat to the base and stroller is extremely simple as well, as both can be done one-handed—then a satisfying click lets you know that it’s where it should be. To detach the car seat from the base and the stroller, you’ll need to use two hands: The button needs to be depressed while you are lifting the seat out of either option. Though we wish that weren’t the case, we do appreciate how sturdy the car seat feels when connected to the base and stroller.

The stroller is comfortable to use, thanks to an adjustable handlebar that lets caregivers of different heights navigate with ease. The rubber handlebar allows for a firm grip, too. A three-point tire system makes maneuvering over most super simple, though it did fall over when we tried to take it over a curb, so it might not be ideal for steps. We love that the wide canopy has a small mesh viewfinder so you can keep an eye on your baby, and the flap’s magnetic closures make it super easy to open or close. Your baby will love the softness of the fabric, while you’ll appreciate that it’s easy to wipe clean with water and a little bit of soap. 

We’re particularly impressed by how easy this stroller is to push around, even with a full car seat in it. “It feels substantial in a good way when pushing—not too heavy that it’s an inconvenience and not too light,” one editor noted. It also features a one-handed fold to close it, and it folds down to a fairly compact size. 

One thing we don’t love about the stroller is the fabric storage bag hanging off the handlebar. While it’s a great spot for holding extra items, we wish it were a bit more structured and sturdy—we felt like our items were just going to get lost at the bottom of it. Overall, though, we love how sturdy and high-quality this entire system is. 

One other thing to note is that although we tested and loved the premium version of this Britax travel system, it’s very hard to find retailers that sell it. The non-premium version is more readily available (and cheaper at $670). Both use the same stroller and car seat, and the biggest difference we can notice is that the premium version is made of a stain-resistant Nanotex fabric for easier cleaning and extra cushioning. 

The Details:

• Stroller weight: 20 pounds 
• Car seat weight: 11.6 pounds for car seat, 9 pounds for base 
• Stroller dimensions: 33 x 23 x 40 inches
• Car seat weight/height limits: 4-35 pounds, up to 32 inches 
• Stroller age/weight limit: For use from birth to 55 pounds

Easiest to Use: UPPAbaby Cruz V2 + Mesa V2 Infant Travel System

Why We Like It: Installing the car is very intuitive, and overall, the entire system was easy to use. We appreciate the sleek design and that it can grow with your child over time.

But Take Note: This is definitely on the more expensive side. We also had difficulty getting the canopy on the infant seat to stay attached and in place. 

In terms of ease of use, it’s hard to beat the UPPAbaby Cruz travel system. The stroller’s intuitive assembly, the straightforward installation of the car seat, and its thoughtful design meant that we barely needed to consult the instructions. The stroller came almost entirely put together in the box—all we had to do was pop on the wheels. We installed the base of the car seat with almost no problems, aside from figuring out how to get the latches to release on either side (but once we got it, we had no further issues). The no-rethread harness is easy to adjust, and there are storage pockets for harness buckles. 

Attaching and detaching the car seat into both the base and stroller is super simple: You push it down, and a loud click lets you know it’s in place. There are no attachments necessary. Detaching the car seat is also easy, as you push down on a button that releases the seat so you can lift it out. There is also a level indicator on the base that turns green when it’s leveled correctly, so you can be assured your baby is secure. If you’re switching between a toddler seat and an infant seat, that’s also easy, since the toddler seat comes out with the push of a button. 

The stroller is easy to use—the handlebar and seatback are adjustable—and we had no problems figuring everything out on our own. Its sleek, modern design is aesthetically pleasing, and the full-grain leather handlebar is a chic touch. We appreciate the large cargo area that easily holds a medium-sized diaper bag, although we did note that a bar in there makes it sort of impossible to hold anything too bulky and large. The stroller has a lightweight feel and folds in half easily, and though it’s on the pricier side, it comes with several extras: a rain canopy, a mesh canopy to keep bugs away, and an extendable sun shade for super sunny days. One thing we did notice is that we couldn’t get the canopy on the infant seat to stay up and attached, which was disappointing. 

Overall, the stroller was easy to push on all terrain, with a smooth glide and a lightweight feel that was still sturdy. We never felt like we were struggling to get it over any surface. The only thing we had trouble with was getting it up steps due to the large tires, but it was light enough to be picked up and carried. It’s also worth noting that the toddler seat has a pretty high weight capacity, so this can grow with your child as they get older, and the stroller can be used beyond the first year. And if you own the UPPAbaby Vista V2 stroller, this car seat is compatible with that as well. While this travel system is pricey, we think it’s worth the investment. 

• Stroller weight: 35 pounds 
• Car seat weight: 10 pounds for car seat, 19 pounds with base 
• Stroller dimensions: 22.75 x 37.5 x 40 inches 
• Stroller age/weight limit: Seat capacity is 50 pounds, storage basket capacity is 30 pounds

Best Luxury: Nuna MIXX Next + Pipa Lite RX

Pottery Barn Kids

Why We Like It: With an overall sleek and aesthetically pleasing design, this combo has a high-quality feel, grows with your child, and maneuvers like a dream.

But Take Note: We found that the base of the car seat was tricky to install into a vehicle. We also wish it came with more extra features to justify the high price point. 

If you don’t mind spending more, this Nuna travel system is a lightweight option, and the stroller couldn’t be easier to use and grows with your child. Both pieces have a high-end design and are made with luxe fabrics that feel soft, comfortable, and durable. The stroller came fully assembled—we only had to glance at the instructions to figure out how to unfold it, which was an easy process. The suspension system on the stroller gives it a super smooth ride and the rubber wheels have good traction. We also found that the overall lightweight feel made it extremely easy to maneuver it no matter where we were. The stroller can even fold closed with the toddler seat still in it, and it has an adjustable handlebar. We do wish that the cargo area were a little bit bigger, but it still holds a decently sized diaper bag. 

The car seat is impressively light at just under 7 pounds, making it one of the lightest options for an infant car seat. This makes it extremely easy to carry and move from the infant seat base to the stroller. Attaching the car seat to the base and stroller—as well as detaching it from both—was really simple, and we could do it one-handed with the press of a button. You can also easily adjust the infant seat or toddler seat to face forwards or backwards in the stroller. However, we did find that installing the car seat base is a little tricky. It took about 30 minutes to install the base, and we had to consult the manual and instructional videos to figure it out. Ultimately, we discovered that you have to be at a very specific angle to successfully use the LATCH system, and overall, this was and it was just a little more difficult than many other options we tested. 

Details like a leather carrying handle, magnetic buckle holders to keep straps out of the way, and no-rethread harnesses are all great touches. While we love how high-end this stroller and car seat combo feels, we do think it could have come with some extra features to make it worth the higher price point. The stroller does not have a storage bag at the handlebar or any cup holders, which would have been nice. However, we love the one-touch brake that keeps the stroller securely in place. Plus, the UPF 50+ canopy is water-repellent with an extendable sun shade, a flip-out eyeshade, a ventilation panel, and a peek-a-boo window to see your baby. 

• Stroller weight: 28.5 pounds 
• Car seat weight: 6.9 pounds without base 
• Stroller dimensions: 23.75 x 32.75 x 45.5 inches 
• Car seat weight/height limits: 4-32 pounds, up to 32 inches 
• Stroller age/weight limit: Birth to 50 pounds

Why We Like It: This is just one piece of gear, so it’s a convenient space saver and ideal for people who use ride-shares or public transportation often. 

But Take Note: This can be a little awkward to use since the handlebar is so low, and it doesn’t grow with your child as much as some other options. Using it also requires a little bit of a learning curve. 

The standout feature of the Doona is its innovative design: It is a one-piece car seat and stroller. You simply take the seat out of the base, unfold the wheels, pull up the handlebar, and it becomes a stroller. This not only makes it a space saver (you don’t need to store a stroller anywhere when the car seat is in use) but also makes it ideal for city dwellers and people who use ride-shares or public transportation frequently. 

That said, this combo definitely comes with a little bit of a learning curve. During our first try, we found it a little tricky to figure out how to release the wheels down, although once we knew how to do it, it was actually pretty simple. We also had trouble figuring out how to attach and detach the seat from the base. Instead of clicking a button on the seat to release it from the base, you have to click a button on the base, which isn’t intuitive. But again, once we figured it out, it was simple to do. 

Overall, we’re impressed with how easily this stroller maneuvers and how well it takes corners. It offered a pretty smooth glide on most terrains, although its lack of suspension made us dubious of how it would perform on a rocky or bumpy surface. It’s pretty small and narrow, so it’s easy to navigate crowded spaces and tight spots. While the stroller is comfortable and straightforward to clean, it doesn’t feature any sort of storage basket or cup holder, and the seat does not recline. The handle is short, so it’s a little awkward to handle, especially if you’re on the taller side. We also found the car seat to be pretty heavy: One tester found that the weight made it awkward to lift up when clicking it into the base. 

It’s also worth noting that the Doona does not grow with your baby the way other combos do. This one doesn’t have a toddler seat, since it’s all one piece, so it will only be sufficient until your baby reaches 35 pounds. Overall, this is a niche piece of gear that won’t be the best choice for some families, but if you live in the city and plan on bringing your baby out often, it’s a game-changer. 

• Stroller/car seat weight: 17 pounds 
• Stroller dimensions: 17.3 x 23.6 x 26 inches  
• Car seat and stroller weight/height limits: 4-35 pounds, up to 32 inches

Parents / Dera Burreson

Why We Like It: With a sleek design, convenient extra features, and a stroller that maneuvers easily on almost any terrain, this is easy to use and grows with your child.  

But Take Note: This combo requires a separate attachment to get the car seat onto the stroller, so it cannot be attached or detached one-handed. 

This Chicco Corso travel system looks and feels more expensive than it is. It’s easy to use all around, and the stroller handles turns and various terrains extremely well. We really like the trendy design with the mixed colors and leather accents, but we’re even more impressed that installing the car seat base into the vehicle using the LATCH system only took us a few minutes. We had no problem attaching and detaching the car seat to the base with one hand, and throughout the process, each piece felt sturdy and secure. To detach, you simply pull up the lever and lift it out of the seat, and it doesn’t require any wiggling, like some other brands. 

The stroller also comes with several convenient features: It includes a cup holder, a removable handlebar for kids, and an extendable canopy for full sun coverage. Plus, the spacious cargo area holds a lot of stuff. We appreciate the simple one-handed fold (“It is awesome that this can be done with a baby on your hip at the same time,” one editor noted), and since the stroller stays upright when folded, it’ll stay cleaner than if it were lying down.

Even when a loaded car seat is locked in and the cargo space is full, this travel system moves seamlessly. It did surprisingly well on almost every surface we drove it on; the only time we had a small issue was when going over a crumbling sidewalk. Otherwise, we’re impressed with its maneuverability.

One thing to note is that this combo requires a separate piece to click the car seat into the stroller. While this attachment is included with your purchase, it does mean that you have to use two hands when you’re putting the car seat and stroller together, as well as when you’re connecting the car seat and base. The stroller grows with your child, with a comfortable toddler seat that can be used forwards or backwards, and you get a lot for the price. “It is everything I’d hope for in a car seat stroller combo and exceeded my expectations,” a tester raved.  

• Stroller weight: 18.7 pounds, 24.8 pounds with toddler seat
• Car seat weight: 10 pounds for seat, 18.5 pounds with base 
• Stroller dimensions: 34.5 x 24.8 x 42.8 inches
• Stroller age/weight limit: Not listed

Why We Like It: Intuitive installation and assembly make this one easy to put together, and it can convert into a double stroller if needed, making it ideal for families with two small children. 

But Take Note: It’s heavy and bulky, and doesn’t offer the smoothest ride. We also found it difficult to attach the car seat to the stroller, especially with a baby inside. 

What we really love about this Graco travel system is that it’s ideal for families with two small children. When you use the included infant car seat and toddler seat, this can easily convert into a double stroller . You can also separately purchase a bassinet attachment for an infant. Basically, this is a four-in-one stroller that truly grows alongside your family and can be used for years to come.

Assembling the stroller and installing the car seat into its base is straightforward. We were able to assemble the stroller most of the way without looking at the instructions. While installing the car seat with the LATCH system is a breeze, the seat belt method was a little more difficult because the openings to thread the seat belt through are narrow. It was also tricky to remove the base from the car since you have to unhook the LATCH connectors, so it’s really best to keep the base in one spot. If you are going to be switching the car seat between cars, we don’t feel this is the best option. 

It’s easy to detach the car seat from the stroller since you just push a button on the back of the seat and lift it up. Attaching it, on the other hand, was more complicated, and it took us some practice to be able to smoothly position the car seat so it clicks into place. You have to adjust the seat to the exact right angle on the stroller, which makes us feel a little weary with a baby inside. 

The stroller offers a huge cargo area that holds a lot of gear, and its leather accents make it look more expensive than it is. We also like the adjustable handlebar and easy fold. However, it’s important to note that this travel system is heavy and bulky. Turning it when fully loaded was a challenge, and it requires a lot of effort to push. It’s not super portable and doesn’t glide as smoothly as we’d like due to its weight. Because of this, though the system feels super solid and protective. “Nothing can drive this tank off the road,” one editor said. “You feel like your baby is safe.” So if you don’t mind a bulky, heavy stroller, then this can be a good thing. The travel system’s biggest selling point, though, is that grows with your family: For an infant, you can use the included car seat or bassinet attachment ( sold separately ), and as your kid gets older, they can ride in the toddler seat. Or, you can convert it into a double stroller to accommodate siblings.

• Stroller weight: 30.6 pounds 
• Car seat weight: 7.5 pounds without base 
• Stroller dimensions: 50.38 x 26.38 x 50.25 inches ‎
• Stroller age/weight limit: Up to 50 pounds

Why We Like It: This one-piece option is compact and great for parents who are always on the go or want a space-saver, and it has a nice ride that makes it easy to push in different terrains. 

But Take Note: To remove the car seat from the stroller frame, it must be clicked into the car seat base. This isn’t intuitive, and it could be inconvenient for families on the go.

Like the Doona, the Evenflo Shyft DualRide is more of a one-piece item: Once it’s out of the base, the car seat unfolds into a stroller, then folds back down again to go back into the base. This makes it a more compact option compared to the other two-piece travel systems since you don’t have to worry about storing a stroller when it’s not in use. This is a great option for parents who are always on the go and don’t want to have to deal with a bulkier stroller. Assembly is simple, as is installing the car seat base into your vehicle using the LATCH system. 

The easiest way to use this system is to remove the car seat from the base and unfold it into a stroller. Unlike the Doon, removing the actual car seat from the stroller base is possible (and necessary to adjust the straps), but it’s a complicated process: You can only do it when the entire set is attached to the base in the vehicle. So if you’re on the go and away from your car, you won’t be able to remove the infant carrier from the stroller frame, which isn’t an intuitive design.

We found it mostly easy to attach and detach the car seat from the base—you just pull a white lever to release the seat and pop it back in when needed. A loud click confirms when it is secure to the base and a level indicator lets you know it’s in the right position. However, we did find that the wheels are a little wonky and have to be slightly adjusted to ensure everything locks into place. 

Folding and unfolding this into a stroller requires a little bit of a learning curve, but once figured out, it’s fairly simple. Folding it requires you to push the wheels down or apply some pressure, so while not entirely seamless, it’s also not extremely difficult. Overall, the stroller feels solid and sturdy, and the canopy is thick and durable. The handlebar is about an inch and a half taller than the Doona, which makes a difference. While we struggled a bit to get the stroller over sand, we otherwise found it to offer a smooth ride. 

One thing to point out is that we had trouble adjusting the belts in the car seat and adjusting the strap length. There is a tiny button you have to press on the bottom of the car seat to adjust or loosen the straps, and doing that with a baby in the seat is difficult (this is where you need to remove the infant carrier from the stroller base, which we struggled with). A nice touch is the sensor technology on the buckle that lets you know if they’re buckled in correctly or if the child is left unattended or in the seat for too long. This also comes with a removable carryall storage bag and a parent cup holder, which is a nice bonus. 

• Product weight: 29 pounds 
• Stroller dimensions: 18 x 18 x 31 inches 
• Car seat/stroller weight/height limits: 3-35 pounds, up to 32 inches

Why We Like It: This is one of the most inexpensive travel systems out there, and it offers a smooth ride and plenty of storage space. We also love that it grows with your little one. 

But Take Note: We had a little trouble assembling the stroller. 

If you want a travel system but don’t want to spend a lot, this Graco system is your best option. We found that it works just as well as other more expensive travel systems and looks nice, too, making it an excellent value. While we did have a little trouble assembling the stroller, installing the car seat base into the vehicle using the LATCH system is a simple process that only took us a few moments. The car seat felt secure when we were done, and it’s fairly lightweight at just about 10 pounds. 

Attaching the car seat to the base is a breeze: Just pop it in without much force, and a clicking noise lets you know it’s stable. (There’s no need to break a sweat adjusting it to an odd angle, like some other options.) We found detaching the car seat slightly more tricky, as you need to press a button on the base that is nearly buried under the canopy. But, the seat pops right in and out of the stroller and clicks when it’s in securely. To detach it from the stroller, you push a lever on the back of the seat up, which we were able to do one-handed. We could attach the toddler seat one-handed as well, but detaching it requires two hands. 

As far as the design of the stroller, we’re impressed with the quality. While the fabric isn’t the most luxe, it gets the job done and is nice enough. The cargo area is pretty big and holds a lot of items, and we appreciate the extra features, like a phone holder and cup holder. Folding it is easy, but not something that can be done one-handed. The canopy is easy to adjust and the toddler seat can recline and face forwards or backwards, but we do wish the handlebar was adjustable. 

The stroller offers a very smooth ride and was easy to navigate around corners and through narrow spaces. It is also pretty lightweight, and even when loaded with a child and items, it was easy to maneuver and didn’t feel much harder than when it was empty. Overall, you get a lot for a reasonable price. “My baby doesn’t wake up when I take him in and out of the car to the stroller, and I can put it together and apart by myself so quickly that my 5-year-old doesn’t get impatient,” our tester reported. It checks most of the boxes at a budget-friendly price. 

• Stroller weight: 20.9 pounds 
• Car seat weight: 9.8 pounds without base 
• Stroller dimensions: 23.5 x 34.5 x 44.75 inches

Why We Like It: This glides smoothly and has some convenient features that make it a good option for running errands. 

But Take Note: It’s a little heavy to push, especially with a child inside the infant seat. 

This budget-friendly Graco travel system is easy to use and offers ample storage space. With some guidance from the manual, installing the car seat was mostly simple, but we did have some difficulty assembling the stroller and had to consult the instructions several times. We had no trouble installing the car seat base into the vehicle using the LATCH system, though it also feels secure when installing it with a seat belt. Attaching and detaching the car seat and toddler seat into the stroller is easy: Both snap into the frame with a click that lets you know it’s in correctly. And, attaching and detaching the car seat to its base is similarly easy, with a click that lets you know it’s secure. At just 7.5 pounds, this car seat is very lightweight, so it’s a great option if you plan to carry it around often.

The stroller glides pretty smoothly and drove well over different terrains. It was also surprisingly easy to lift up a flight of stairs. While it feels light on its own, it definitely feels heavier to push with a child inside. So this isn’t your best lightweight pick. We also struggled to figure out how to unfold the stroller, and that process requires two hands. 

That said, it has some nice features that are worth pointing out. The cargo area is massive and can hold a lot of items, from a diaper bag to your groceries. (This is particularly useful for city dwellers who walk to the store.) It comes with cup holders for the parent and toddler, as well as a snack tray. We appreciate that you can move the seat up or down to your preferred height, and though the fabric does feel a little scratchy, it looks pricier than it is. 

This is a secure and durable travel system that will last for years. It comes in at a reasonable price point, and we feel confident you’ll get your money’s worth. 

• Stroller weight: 21.96 pounds 
• Car seat weight: 7.5 pounds
• Stroller dimensions: 38 x 26.77 x 41.85 inches 

Other Notable Stroller Car Seat Combos

• Chicco Bravo Trio Travel System : This stroller is sturdy with large wheels that offer a pretty smooth ride. It was very easy to install the car seat base into our vehicle, and it’s fairly simple to attach the car seat to the stroller one-handed. You need two hands to detach it, though. A major downside was that one of the back wheels wasn’t secure: It would roll around and go out of place while pushing the stroller, which was not only inconvenient but didn’t seem safe. It was also pretty heavy, and we’d prefer something more lightweight.  
• Baby Jogger City Sights Travel System : We really like the sleek and modern design of this travel system. Assembly was easy and installation was mostly simple, aside from the fact that we initially couldn’t find the base clips needed to secure it into place. However, we did have difficulty folding it and felt the cargo area was small. It also requires an attachment in order to get the car seat onto the stroller, which is an added step in assembly. And although it had a nice ride, we didn’t feel it had enough features to be worth the steep $900 price point—if you’re going to splurge, we recommend the Uppababy Cruz V2 and Mesa V2 combo or the Nuna Mixx Next travel system.
• Baby Trend Expedition Jogger Travel System : Although this travel system is inexpensive and the stroller was easy to use, it wasn’t sturdy or secure enough for us to feel comfortable putting our kids in it. The car seat felt wobbly when attached to the stroller, and we also didn’t like that there weren’t any clicks or levers indicating that the car seat was installed correctly in the base, It offered an okay ride on smooth surfaces, but wasn’t impressive on gravel or grass. 

To find the very best stroller and car seat combinations, 11 testers evaluated 23 highly rated models from top brands in our testing lab in Des Moines, Iowa. Our criteria included the ease of assembly of the stroller, ease of installation of the car seat into the base, ease of use when using both pieces together, design and features, maneuverability of the stroller, and the overall value of the entire travel system. To simulate the weight of a baby, we placed sandbags in the car seat. For strollers that came unassembled, we timed how long it took to put it together. 

When looking at the installation of the car seat, we timed how long it took to install the base into the car using the seat belt or LATCH system, paying attention to how simple it was to click the car seat into the base and remove it. We noted whether these things could be done one-handed, and if doing so jostled the seat enough to potentially wake a sleeping baby. To assess how the two products work together, we noted if the seat popped easily into the stroller (and if this could be done one-handed) and if the sandbag inside the seat was jostled during the process. 

In terms of design, we considered the weight of the car seat and how easy it was to handle. For the stroller, we considered how the fabric felt, the various features it had (like cup holders and recline positions), how adjustable it was, and how much it held in the cargo area. We walked the stroller around to check how well it held up on various terrains and noted how stable it felt, even going up and down steps. To determine overall value, we considered whether each travel system offers enough to justify its price. 

After the lab test, we selected the nine top performers and sent them home with our editors to use with their own babies, asking them to look at the same criteria. They also evaluated how these travel systems perform in the real world and how well they hold up over time. They’ve been using them for over two months now, and we’ll continue to update this article as we learn more.

We also consulted experts on safety tips and features to keep in mind when shopping: Petra Stanton , car safety seat installer and trainer at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, Florida; and Kelly Moriarty , Injury Prevention Coordinator at Novant Health in Charlotte, North Carolina.   

Factors to Consider When Buying a Stroller Car Seat Combo

There are a few things to think about when shopping for a great travel system. Consider your lifestyle, how often you’ll be using it, and what you’re trying to gain from it. 

Age, Weight, and Size Limits

Read the label and instructions carefully and pay attention to the age, weight, and size limits for both the car seat and the stroller. Most of the stroller and car seat combos out there use infant car seats that have weight limits of 35 pounds and are only meant to be used in the first 12 months of a baby’s life. Of course, these limits will vary depending on the product and brand. 

Strollers vary more in weight and size limits, and if they come with a separate toddler seat aside from the car seat, check those limits to see how long you’ll be able to use it. “Keep in mind that your child may be ready to transition into a larger car seat in the first year of life, so look at the stroller and decide how easy and convenient it will be to use the stroller after the child outgrows the car seat,” says Stanton. “Thinking ahead is the key here.” 

Stroller Size and Portability

In general, most parents want a stroller that is fairly compact, easy to store when not in use, narrow enough to fit through most doorways, and portable enough to be taken almost anywhere. Bulky, large strollers may quickly feel inconvenient. “If the combo is very heavy or the stroller is very heavy, it may be challenging for a caregiver to fold and transition on their own,” says Stanton. 

The best size depends on your preferred method of transport, too. If you frequently use public transportation or ride shares, “Pick a combo that allows you to remove the car seat and fold the stroller easily,” says Stanton. If you tend to travel by car, Moriarty points out that you need to think about how well the stroller fits in your car, since that’s where it will be stashed a lot of the time. Consider how easily it folds and how large it is when folded. 

Comfort and Design

It’s easy to focus on the fun features a stroller offers, but it’s more important to think about how comfortable it is to use. “Make sure the stroller is a good height and that you are able to operate it comfortably,” says Moriarty. Plus, a car seat that can be attached to or detached from the base and stroller with just one hand makes it a lot more simple for caregivers with their hands full. If these processes require two hands, it may not be the best option, especially if you have more than one child. 

Stanton points out the advantages of using a car seat that transitions into a stroller, explaining they are particularly useful for families who use rideshares and public transportation or switch between caregivers. “These are one product. The wheels are attached to the car seat and therefore the parent can easily fold the system into the car seat that can be used in the vehicle,” she says. This makes them more naturally portable. Lastly, consider how versatile the travel system is. Can the stroller be used with a seat for a toddler after your baby sizes out of the infant seat? Does it have convenient features like cup holders, sun shades, and a large cargo basket? These are all things that can make using the stroller a better experience. 

Ease of Use 

A lot goes into a stroller and car seat combo. You want to make sure it’s easy to use at all times, whether you’re assembling the stroller, installing the car seat into the vehicle, or attaching and detaching the car seat to the stroller. Consider the weight of the stroller and the car seat in terms of lifting, carrying, and also pushing. You’ll want buttons and levers that are easy to push, but not so easy that a child could do it, Moriarty says. Pay attention to how easy it is to attach and detach the pieces together. Ideally, you should be able to do it one-handed with little to no adjusting. And since safety is the biggest priority, “Ease of car seat installation is one of the main points to look for,” Moriarty says. You want to make sure it is safely installed, or it may not work properly in a crash or a sudden stop. 

Maneuverability

When you receive your stroller, push it around as much as possible to see how well it rides. Consider how durable it seems, noting if the wheels are sturdy enough to be pushed over a variety of terrains, like grass, gravel, and the sidewalk. See how easily it turns, and take note of what terrain it’s meant for. You want your stroller to be easy to push, even if you’ve reached the max weight limit. 

How to Use Infant Car Seats and Strollers Safely

Don’t assume that learning how to use your car seat and stroller is intuitive. “Read the manual that comes with it to make sure you are using the products correctly, from strapping the child in properly to correctly installing the carrier in your car,” Moriarty urges. “Remember to pay attention to and follow weight and size limits.” 

Keep the American Academy of Pediatrics’ (AAP) safety guidelines in mind when installing the infant car seat base into your vehicle: You can use either the seat belt or LATCH system, but regardless of the method you choose, make sure the car seat is tightly secured with no wiggle room. The safest spot for a car seat is in the backseat, with the middle seat preferred if possible. Look for safety features like load legs and anti-rebound bars that can reduce the side effects of a crash. Remember that infants should ride in a rear-facing car seat for as long as possible until they max out on height or weight. If you are unsure of how well you installed the seat or experienced an issue, don’t hesitate to consult a professional. “Find a local nationally certified car seat technician in your area,” says Stanton. “The list of technicians can be found on cert.safekids.org . If there are none in your area, look for technicians who offer virtual education.” 

When using a car seat and stroller combo, remember to always make sure you are clicking the car seat into the stroller correctly. Ensure it is secure and will not move around or slip off. Also, don’t completely replace the stroller seat with the car seat. “Car seats are for riding in cars, not all-day stays,” Stanton warns. “While it’s easy to keep the baby sleeping in the car seat, it may not be the safest choice. Safe sleep research shows that babies are safest in their empty beds on their backs.” So, it may be beneficial to opt for a travel system that also has a bassinet attachment for safer sleeping on the go. 

Other safety tips include always keeping your baby properly harnessed in the car seat—even when outside of the vehicle. And once your baby starts sitting up, it might be time to switch to the stroller seat alone so they can sit more comfortably, says Stanton. Also, always check the Consumer Products Safety Commission’s site for recall notices. You can register your car seat and stroller to get notifications about any safety recalls. 

What age is a travel system best for?

Both Stanton and Moriarty agree that car seat and stroller combos work best for infants. This is because they typically include an infant car seat that is often not used after the first 12 months of a baby’s life. That said, you may find a travel system that has a stroller with a toddler seat that can be used for several more years. Look for this versatile feature if you want to get the most for your money. 

Are stroller car seat combos safe?

The short answer? Yes. As Stanton points out, the infant car seats that come as part of a travel system have to meet the same federal safety standards for use in a vehicle in the United States as car seats that don’t come in travel systems. She recommends looking for labels on the side of the car seat to see how it meets federal motor vehicle standards. As long as you purchase a legitimate travel system where the car seat is meant to click into the stroller, it should be safe, if used properly. If you are purchasing a system online or buying something used, make sure the car seat and stroller are meant to work together and have not been recalled. 

Is it worth it to buy an infant car seat and stroller together?

This really depends on your lifestyle. Travel systems are very convenient for families and caregivers who are often on the go. Think practically about how many times you’ll need to click your car seat into a stroller. If you plan on running a lot of errands with your baby or taking them out a lot, it might be really helpful. If you don’t plan on doing this, it’s not necessary—you can just purchase a separate car seat and stroller. Also, if you find the entire system too frustrating to use, then it isn’t worth the money. 

Jessica Booth is a freelance writer who covers parenting, shopping, wellness, entertainment, and wedding content. She has been freelance writing since 2017 and before that worked as an editor at an online publication for seven years. She has written for sites such as Brides, People, Insider, Bustle, Romper, Refinery 29, Cosmopolitan, Delish, The Daily Beast, Reviewed, She Knows, Scary Mommy, The Knot, and What to Expect. She also has two young daughters and has been through several different strollers, car seats, and a travel system herself.

Car Seats: Information for Families. American Academy of Pediatrics

Related Articles

9 Best Car Seat and Stroller Combos, Tested by Experts

These travel systems make it a snap to transition your baby from the car to the stroller and back again.

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

Typically, a travel system is a two-piece set featuring an infant car seat that clips into a matching stroller. However, there is also a great one-piece combo and some three-piece sets. Whatever the configuration, owning one of these means your infant can stay in the car seat buckled in and undisturbed.

Our top picks:

Best Overall Car Seat and Stroller Combo

Doona infant car seat & latch base.

Best Value Car Seat and Stroller Combo

Safety 1st smooth ride travel system.

Best Car Seat and Stroller Combo With Bassinet Mode

Evenflo pivot vizor travel system with litemax infant car seat.

Best Car Seat With a Rebound Bar and Stroller Combo

Britax willow brook s+ travel system.

Best Full-size Car Seat and Stroller Combo

Chicco bravo 3-in-1 trio travel system.

Best Luxury Car Seat and Stroller Combo

Uppababy vista v2 stroller & mesa infant car seat.

Best Lightweight Car Seat Stroller Combo

Nuna pipa urbn + trvl travel system.

Best Car Seat and Jogger Stroller Combo

Baby trend expedition jogger travel system.

Most Adjustable Car Seat and Stroller Combo

Graco modes nest travel system.

Our Good Housekeeping Institute experts have evaluated more than two dozen stroller and car seat combos based on ease of use, safety features, functionality and value. "You may initially be concerned regarding the safety of a car seat and stroller combination," says Rachel Rothman , a mom of three and mechanical engineer who has evaluated children's products for more than 15 years. "Rest assured, all car seats and strollers are required to meet federal standards. So if there is a system, it will have to adhere to the necessary protocols as a car seat and a stroller."

It's extremely important to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines for safe usage, including ensuring your child is within the appropriate weight and height limits. A travel system should last a couple of years, from the newborn months (many regular strollers start at 6 months, but you can use a car seat on its matching stroller from birth) until past the second birthday.

One note: Travel systems feature rear-facing-only infant car seats . If you're looking to invest in a convertible car seat or an all-in-one car seat that will eventually turn forward-facing, those are build to stay in the car — they do not snap onto a stroller. There are no car seat/stroller combos for extended-use seats.

Doona Infant Car Seat & Latch Base

The Doona infant car seat and latch base is a favorite (90 percent of its Amazon reviews are five-star ones) for many reasons. Unlike a traditional two-piece travel system, this is essentially a rear-facing car seat on wheels. The wheels fold up underneath for car seat mode and drop down for stroller mode — the transition only takes a few seconds. Because this is a car seat and stroller in one, you have less gear to contend with.

While this means that the car seat is heavy at 16.5 pounds, reviewers love the simplicity. Rothman says the device "is a game-changer, notably for city families and parents who travel frequently." It can work safely with its base or without (making use of a backseat's seat belts in a ride share, for instance), so it is especially prized for those parents who are moving between different vehicles often. Tilt the handle toward the rear seatback and it forms an anti-rebound bar for added safety.

We think this is the best car seat stroller combo for flying. The Doona is cleared for airplane travel but is a tight squeeze in some airplane seats; if you don't take it onboard, you can wheel it right up to the gate and gate check it. "This is the easiest stroller to maneuver through airport security and in a terminal," said one mom with two young kids. "Then we snap it right into a car without having to fit both a stroller and luggage into the trunk."

If you don't travel much, you may not enjoy the full benefits of the Doona. Also, most babies outgrow the Doona by about their second birthday. At that point, most Doona-owning parents switch to a lightweight stroller .

The Safety 1st car seat and stroller combo is lightweight and easy to maneuver — and only $200 . Lightweight is both good and tricky: It's easy to cart up and down steps and sling into your trunk. But any lightweight stroller will bump a bit over uneven ground since it doesn't have as much weight to hold it down (even if "smooth ride" is in the name of the stroller). If you're mostly rolling through stores and along smooth sidewalks, you'll be good to go.

The OnBoard 35 LT Infant Car Seat can safely hold your baby through at least their first two years. It's FAA-approved to sit on an airplane seat during a flight. It's about $130 to buy on its own, so the combination with the lightweight stroller is a real deal.

When it's time to fold the stroller, the mechanism is on the seat. You remove your baby, then just lift up a strap on the seat and the stroller folds in an instant. "It's ridiculously easy," said one tester. "You can effectively carry your baby in one arm and this stroller in another with no problem." Also, we love the stroller's snack tray — handy in the toddler years — and the parent organizer with two cupholders.

Our testers love the flexibility and versatility of the Pivot Travel System. It can be a rolling bassinet in carriage mode, a car seat carrier or a regular stroller, and in any mode, you can place your baby rear- or forward-facing. The LiteMax Infant Car Seat holds a baby up to 35 pounds and both the car seat and the stroller seat can have a privacy shade for those times when you don't want people leaning in close to your baby, or you want to encourage a nap.

Carriage mode is an adorable, old-fashioned perk, even if new parents don't use it for very long. You recline the stroller seat flat, pull up the footrest and turn the seat into a little bassinet on wheels. In that mode, you're not using the car seat at all, so you'd have to unbuckle your baby and transfer them when it's time for a drive. But it's perfect for a stroll around the block or through a park. "It's fun for pictures because it looks like one of the more expensive pram-type strollers," one mom said.

There's no parent organizer on the handle, but there is a clip-on cupholder. The relatively small, plastic wheels are fine for most strolling but do not do well on rough terrain. Online reviewers say that the stroller is easy to assemble out of the box. We had no trouble setting it up for testing and found it easy to convert it from one mode to another. Add the Evenflo Rider Board and your older kid can stand and ride behind your younger one.

A winner in our most recent Parenting Awards , this modular stroller includes some of our favorite features: easy and intuitive buckles, a large under-seat basket, a handy toddler snack tray and, for extra stability, an anti-rebound bar on the car seat base . In our tests, we found that the stroller seat reclines smoothly and the footrest adjusts nicely for comfort. Though it's new and has not been tested over the course of years, the Brook stroller shows promise for lasting from birth through preschool.

The Willow infant car seat uses the Britax ClickTight system that makes it easy to install the base correctly using your car's seat belt. For a long time, that feature was only available on Britax convertible car seats, but now it is here as well. For times when you aren't traveling with your car seat base, there's a belt path to use instead — this car seat is certified for use in an airplane using the lap belt, for instance.

The car seat fabrics can be machine-washed. The stroller frame with the toddler seat attached is a bit heavy and the wheels don't turn on a dime like they do with smaller strollers, but first time parents might be reassured by the substantial feel (online, one fan of this set wrote that it's built "like a tank"). You push the frame with either the toddler seat or the car seat attached — with a modular system, you never need both at the same time. Note that the frame doesn't fold with either seat on it. You must remove the seat in order to fold the frame.

Often recommended by Reddit users, the Bravo Trio is popular for its reasonable price as well as its well-reviewed car seat . For the early newborn months you can completely remove the regular stroller seat and just push the KeyFit car seat around on the stroller frame. But you can also use this as a traditional travel stroller and sit the KeyFit on top of the toddler seat — it works that way, too.

We like that you can fold this with the toddler seat still on and, when folded, the stroller stands upright on its own. The fold mechanism is easy and within the seat itself. There's a toddler snack tray as well as a parent organizer, and the basket is large and can be accessed from the front or the back. Finally, we like the jumbo canopy for sun protection.

For more money there's also the Bravo Primo Trio Travel System which features leatherette trim and the Keyfit 35 car seat, our Good Housekeeping pick for best overall infant car seat . That car seat can hold a baby up to 35 pounds.

UPPAbaby Vista V2 Stroller & Mesa Infant Car Seat

While UPPAbaby's car seat and stroller combo is definitely a splurge, it's a great travel system from a sought-after brand, especially among parents who want the smooth-rolling Vista stroller.

It features a springy all-wheel suspension to keep your baby steady as you go up and down curbs or along a dirt road. Investing in the complete travel system gets you a ton of extras including the Mesa car seat, a bassinet, a bug shield and a rain guard. The Mesa car seat can be clipped into your vehicle with UPPABaby's unique Smart Secure LATCH system that makes installation easier. Rothman personally loves this travel system and has used it for all three of her kids.

On the Vista stroller, the handlebar easily and smoothly adjusts for adults of different heights. There's no parent organizer, but the handle is a luxe-feeling leatherette. The basket underneath is giant, so it should hold all your stuff plus whatever you pick up while running errands. The included bassinet is an adorable way to stroll around an infant, and it works as a nap space at home too. For an extra $160, you can buy the UPPAbaby bassinet stand if you want to use it regularly in your home for sleep. One caveat is that the fold and unfold of the stroller takes a couple of steps , and the stroller itself is heavy.

A final, big selling point: If you need to carry two children, you can buy the UPPAbaby RumbleSeat V2 for $270 and turn this into a double stroller . Or you can purchase the UPPAbaby Piggyback for $135 so a child can stand and ride along behind. If you buy both, you could push three children along!

We've previously named the Nuna TRVL the best stroller for frequent travelers for the easy one-hand fold that gets the stroller down to a slim 11" x 24" x 20.25" size. Here it's paired with the PIPA car seat, nice and lightweight at 7.5 pounds.

The PIPA doesn't work with a base; rigid LATCH connectors are built right into the seat so this can easily go in and out of different cars and ride-share vehicles. Together the two pieces make a super lightweight travel system that is among the best car seat and stroller combos for family trips.

We like the Nuna brand's easy, magnetic buckles and premium fabrics, plus the leatherette on the stroller handle, bumper bar and car seat handle. The car seat also has a built-in drape canopy to protect a snoozing baby. The TRVL stroller has a free-standing fold, so when you compact it down you don't have to lean it against anything.

If you're looking for the right car seat and stroller combo for your mini running buddy, the Baby Trend Expedition Jogger travel system is a great pick with more than 18,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. The three-wheel, bike-tire design means it can tackle rough terrains with ease. The front wheel can be locked straight to keep the stroller from veering as you jog or set to swivel when you're out shopping and need to make tight turns.

Once it's time to load your baby back into the car, the stroller collapses to fit into your trunk, and the car seat simply clicks into the LATCH base. "This travel system may cost you less than a year's gym membership," one mom pointed out. "And you might get a lot more exercise with it since you're able to bring your baby along." The low price reflects the fact that there's nothing splashy about the canopy, the fabric, the padding or the heavy alloy steel frame (about 27 pounds). The EZ-Flex Lock 30 infant car seat only holds your baby up to 30 pounds, while some others go up to 35.

We love the child tray — useful for when your baby turns into a toddler and demands a steady supply of snacks — and the parent tray that has a compartment that closes to keep your phone in place. There are two parent cupholders too.

If you need a car seat stroller combo for twins, we like the Baby Trend Universal Double Snap-N-Go . You'll have to buy infant car seats separately but the frame, just a little more than $100, is an easy way to to push your young twins around in their seats.

The Graco brand has been around for generations. The company invented the baby swing in the 1950s and debuted the first travel system concept, a car seat that snapped into its matching stroller, in the late 1990s.

In this century, Graco has often led the way in car seat safety with its SnugRide infant car seat line. We love that this set comes with the popular SnugRide 35 Lite Elite Infant Car Seat, and the stroller seat slides higher and lower on the frame as well as turns forward and backward and converts into a pram. Use the adjustable features to find the height and direction your baby loves (or that you need — this is the best car seat stroller combo for tall parents) and then change it as needed as your baby grows into a toddler.

When you fully recline the stroller seat, you can unbuckle a belt under the footrest to form a bassinet for the infant months. (Graco calls it a "pramette.") To stroll around with the car seat — which is, after all, the appeal of a travel system — remove the stroller seat altogether and use the frame as an infant car seat carrier. The car seat can slide up and down to your preferred height and face forward or back. The SnugRide 35 Lite Elite is among the very lightest infant seats on the market and, at just over 7 pounds, it's a breeze to carry.

Some of the stroller details are fairly standard as opposed to luxe. The plastic wheels are strong but not built for rough terrain. There's no parent tray, just a clip-on cup holder. The canopy is a traditional size, not oversized. There is a nice child snack tray, and we like how the storage basket underneath expands in height so you can fit more without anything falling out.

How we test the best car seat and stroller combos

Over the years, the Good Housekeeping Institute has tested all sorts of baby equipment from booster car seats to double strollers , always making safety the highest priority.

For this story, our Parenting Lab experts tested more than 24 stroller and car seat combos , considering ease of use, safety features, functionality and value. We also sent travel systems to consumer testers for their feedback.

When testing many of the strollers that we feature, the Institute has a brake test that uses a gauge to measure the force required to move a stroller when brakes are engaged. We also perform a stability/tip-over test in which we hang weights on stroller handlebars and measure the force required to tip strollers over. We weigh and measure strollers while folded to help determine how well they can be carried and stored.

Our testers also place infant car seats into a variety of vehicles, taking note of each product's ease of use when it comes to installation. We ensure that each car seat has passed Federal Safety Standards. Then we perform in-Lab and at-home tests to assess stability, ease of adjustments, ease of getting babies in and out of each car seat and ease of removal of the car seat from the base and installation into compatible strollers.

What to look for when shopping for a car seat and stroller combo

First, know that a few strollers call themselves a "travel system" and just mean that they come with an adaptor to hold a car seat.

Be sure that when you're buying something called a travel system, you are genuinely getting both the car seat and the stroller if it's that matching combo that you want. Also consider:

✔️ Height and weight limits: These specifications will be different depending on each car seat and stroller combo. To make sure your baby is as safe as possible, ensure that they fit into the recommended height and weight.

✔️ Your lifestyle: Are you looking for a travel system that will grow with your family or something that will make your jogging trips to the park that much easier? Depending on how you plan on using your car seat and stroller combo, you'll want to seek out a model that fulfills your lifestyle needs.

If you frequently use ride-share vehicles, look for a travel system with an infant car seat that can be installed using just a backseat seat belt, or one with a build-in rigid LATCH system.

If your family owns several vehicles, consider investing in an extra car seat base and installing one in each car. Every infant car seat brand sells extra bases.

✔️ Multiple kids: If you plan to expand your family, you might look for a travel system that allows you to add on a seat or add a ride board to the back for your older child.

✔️ Features: While a no-frills option can be great for your budget, some car seat and stroller combos offer extra features that make all the difference. Are you planning on taking a lot of sunlit walks? Opt for a unit with a large canopy. Do you want to carry a lot with you? Find something with an ample-sized storage basket. Trays and cupholders are the little things you'll use daily.

✔️ Weight: Although heavy strollers usually roll more smoothly than lightweight ones, if you have a lot of steps to contend with, or don't feel confident about lifting a heavy stroller frame in and out of your car's trunk regularly, be sure to get a lighter stroller. We love the new class of under 10-pound car seats, too.

Do you need a car seat/stroller combo, aka a travel system?

Transferring your baby from car to stroller can be a lot of hassle, so using a car seat that snaps into a stroller is fairly genius. That's where a car seat stroller combo will be your new best friend. It also means you only have to make one purchase for both items. Think of it as a two-for-one deal, where you get a stroller and a car seat both at a discount because you buy them together.

Car seat and stroller combos are particularly great for parents who want to move through the world as streamlined as possible. With a few clicks, you can pop the car seat out of the stroller and snap it into your car. There's no need to worry about whether or not your products are compatible since they come bundled together. In most cases, even after your baby outgrows the car seat, you will still be able use the stroller.

You will not want a travel system if your heart is set on one brand's infant car seat and another brand's stroller. In that case, you can check to see if the stroller can hold your chosen car seat with the help of an adaptor. Read all the product specs carefully to be sure you can use them together, buy an adaptor if possible, then purchase the stroller and car seat separately without the two-piece discount.

Another instance when you might not want a travel system is if you're buying an all-in-one car seat for your newborn, intending to use that car seat from birth through the big kid years. Extended-use car seats stay in the car and do not snap into a stroller. You might consider still buying a travel system too, though, and using it just for airplane trips if you are a frequently flying family.

The safest car seat and stroller combos

Keeping your little one secure is your (and our) number one priority. All of the car seats and strollers we recommend meet the federal ASTM standards, and many have the third-party JPMA seal as well, so your baby will be safe as long as everything is installed properly. Here are some tips to ensure your kid is protected at all times:

• Make sure your travel system is correct for the age and weight of your baby . All of the stroller/car seat combos we list are safe from birth. You can sit your infant car seat on top of the stroller base for the first year or two. A 1-year-old might prefer to sit on the stroller seat directly, but you can continue to safely use the infant car seat rear-facing in the car until your baby reaches the weight and height limit, which often happens soon after their second birthday. After age 2, you can continue to use the stroller by itself for years but will want a convertible car seat for your child.
• Always install an infant car seat rear-facing . Every car seat-stroller combo includes an infant car seat, not a convertible car seat, so your baby needs to be facing the rear of the car. This is the safest position until your baby is older than 2 and ready for a larger car seat. See the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration instructions for how to properly install an infant car seat .
• Thoroughly read the directions for your car seat and stroller combo prior to use to ensure that you've included all of the parts and put them together correctly. Very few strollers are ready to go out of the box; you often have to attach the wheels and canopy. Ensure that the LATCH base is properly installed in your car and that the car seat can seamlessly click into place. Many brands provide helpful installation videos on YouTube.
• Double-check the security of the car seat when you place it on the stroller or in your car. Many make an audible click when in place. For safety, pull up a bit on the car seat to make sure it's really securely positioned.
• Don't leave your little one snoozing in their car seat (or stroller) once you get home, per the AAP . While one of the benefits of a car seat and stroller combo is being able to transfer your infant without disturbing them, as soon as you're able, transfer them over to a proper sleep surface such as their crib or bassinet . That will make naps and nighttime easier and safer in the long run.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

The Good Housekeeping Institute parenting pros regularly test and review hundreds of products for babies and young kids with an eye to safety. This includes things such as crib mattresses and baby monitors as well as the best infant toys .

Contributing writer Jessica Hartshorn worked closely with our testing experts to write this article. She's evaluated baby gear for 25 years, including at Parents magazine and American Baby magazine.

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

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Best Baby Travel Systems (Stroller Car Seat Combos) 2022

When it comes to buying baby equipment, you would benefit from investing in multi-functional products. This way, you are not left with a million products your child has outgrown and have no use for. Versatile long lasting products, especially ones that go together, are extremely useful. The best baby travel systems combine a stroller and car seat so that you can move between places like your cars, or playgrounds with ease.

A travel system or a travel system stroller and car seat combo can help you kill two birds with one stone. You'll be getting both an infant car seat and a stroller with one buy.  Not to mention it's also more cost-effective. Which brings us to the next question- "What is the best travel system to buy?" This comprehensive review of the top baby travel systems will give you some great ideas.

What Is A Baby Travel System?

A travel system is a 2-in-1 combination of an infant car seat and stroller. How? By using a stroller frame that can accommodate both a car seat, toddler seat, and even a bassinet. The highlight of this unit is that allows you to transport your child using the same unit.

Why Buy A Baby Travel System?

Here are some reasons why you should consider investing in a  travel system stroller:

Undisturbed sleep:

Babies tend to wake up when they are being transferred from their car seat to stroller or vice versa. With a travel system, you can attach and detach the carrier with your baby still sleeping in it. 

Car seats can be heavy to lug around, and if you have a sleeping baby, you'll want a travel system to keep that baby sleeping!

Economical and saves time and energy:

Think of all the time, energy, and money you save on research and purchase with this 2-in-1 model. A travel system consists of a stroller that grows with your child, giving you value for your money.

Strollers can be quite expensive, though sometimes you might need an ultralight stroller as well as a sturdy stroller for day-to-day use. Many parents end up owning 3 or 4 different strollers!

In short, a travel system is all you need from birth through toddlerhood to transport your little one. 

This versatile stroller car seat combo can keep your child safe at all times.  Some models have reclinable seats. This is more suited for newborns as they have poor head and postural control.

Types of Stroller Travel Systems:

Common types of travel systems include:

Lightweight Travel System:

As the name suggests these travel systems weigh light, around 25-30 pounds . Ideally, your stroller must weigh around 15 pounds or less, and the car seat 5 pounds for easy handling. The lightweight factor is what makes these systems appealing for use on public transit and for those with poor arm strength.

Rugged Travel System:

These are ideal for nature lovers who want to take their kids along with them on their hikes.  It has larger wheels that can handle different types of terrain like tracks and gravel,

Jogging Travel Systems:

Runners invest in the jogging travel system. These are light and easy to maneuver. With its easy push feature, you can get back to jogging, with your little one for the company. 

But it should be noted that a jogging travel system is different from a jogging stroller . The latter has extra features to keep children safe such as safety tethers, locking front wheels, and brakes. Even so,  some jogging strollers are compatible with car seats and can double up as a travel system.

Deluxe Travel System:

These are high-quality models with features that enhance their durability, versatility, and reliability.

Buying A Travel System:

You can buy a travel system in two ways :

• As part of a package deal. This is more economical. It also guarantees the compatibility of the car seat and stroller as they belong to the same brand.
• Create your system. Using adaptors, we can combine individual strollers and car seats from different brands. While this method allows you to mix and match brands, you should know that some brands may not be compatible. Also, it's costlier than getting the 2-in-1 model.

Creating Your Travel System:

When creating a travel system, keep in mind the following factors :

If you are using your car seat, check for its compatibility with your travel system chassis. You might also need to figure out how to fit it onto the chassis. Check to see if you need adaptors to secure the car seat onto the frame. Additionally, consider the:

• The type of car seat to get. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that you use a rear-facing car seat up to 1 year of age.
• Seat weight and dimensions and maximum weight recommendations for the child.
• Compatibility with your car.

Stroller Frame: 

Check the stroller dimensions and make sure the car seat fits within the frame. Check to see how many adaptors you will need to install the car seat onto the frame.

Selecting A Travel System:

If you're purchasing a regular travel system, here's what you need to look out for :

Comfort and Safety: Look for models with:

• A bassinet or carrycot that can serve as an alternate sleeping area for your child outside.
• Canopies for protection from sun and other weather. You can choose from a wide range of canopies for sun protection. It ranges from full coverage to partial range coverage. Canopies also have a mesh window to increase air circulation and visibility.
• JPMA safety seal, which indicates that the model adheres to the safety standards. The model must not have received a r ecall notice from either the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association or the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
• A five-point harness system. The harness helps to secure your baby at all the key points. This includes the shoulders, waist, and between legs, preventing the baby from sliding, or falling out.

Dimensions: The car seat must fit the baby until they are 32 inches tall or weigh 35 pounds. Strollers must accommodate children until they are around 50 pounds. Checking the height and weight limit of the unit can help you determine its period of usefulness.

Frame : Choose a model with a small lightweight foldable frame for easy storage and transport.

Ease of use: The model must be easy to install, and use. You're less likely to use a model that is difficult to open or fold, or takes up time when you reattach the seat to the base. Choose units with a LATCH system (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children). This enables easy attachment and detachment of the car seat from the base and stroller frame.

Purpose: This can influence your choice of a system. For use on uneven terrain, you will need a model that has large, lockable, swiveling front wheels. For a smooth ride, you must choose between an air-filled, foam-filled tire, or models with a suspension system. Unlike foam-filled tires, air-filled tires require refilling.

Customer reviews: Choose a model with high customer ratings and safety ratings. It can give you a better idea of the pros, cons, and worth of the model in question.

Customer Support : Buying a product from a reputable company and with good customer service is invaluable when it comes to returning damaged or incorrect products. Also, ensure that the product has a warranty or return policy in place. This will protect you in case of receiving a damaged product.

The Best Travel Systems Of 2022

Bearing in mind these factors, we have reviewed and compiled a list of some of the best travel systems available to you:

The Best Travel Systems Of 2021:

Chicco bravo trio travel system, uppababy vista v2 & mesa infant car seat travel system.

• Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Travel System
• Britax B-Lively & B-Safe 35 Travel System

Maxi-Cosi Zelia Max 5-in-1 Modular Travel System

• Multi-functional 
• Easy to use
• Less space-consuming
• Brakes may not lock in place.
• Plastic wheels more suited to even terrain

Check Pricing

The Chicco Bravo Trio travel system is the most sought-after model at present. Why? Because it ticks all the boxes on our list. It is versatile and doubles as either a car seat or stroller. You can use it right until your child's toddler years, as it can accommodate a weight of 4-50 pounds.

Made out of aluminum the model is both sturdy and lightweight. It has an innovative one-hand fold to help you single-handedly fold the unit. Once folded, self-prop the model or store it away in your trunk.

With reclinable seats (into three positions), adjustable canopy, and large storage space, the Bravo Trio is designed for comfort. Not only for kids, but it also caters to parents' comfort with a parent tray and an easy-to-grip handle adjustable in three positions.

About safety, the Chicco system comes with excellent safety features. It has a 5-point harness system for securing the child and a LATCH system for secure attachment of infant seats onto the base. Energy-absorbing foam and side-impact protection reduce the impact of a collision. Its front swivel wheels (with suspension) and a one-touch brake system make it easy to maneuver the unit.

If you own the Chicco KeyFit 30 infant car seat, you can easily install it onto the stroller frame and create your DIY travel system.

Our Verdict:

Loaded with features for convenience,  the Chicco Bravo Trio Travel system is the best overall travel system currently available.

• Ideal for growing families
• Durable and easy to use
• Efficient safety features
• Heavier model

Price $$​$$​

If you’re into sleek and elegant designs, the UPPAbaby Mesa may interest you. Although pricey, bear in mind that the cost is inclusive of the VISTA V2 stroller and Mesa infant car seat. And both these products are high-quality products on their own.

The VISTA V2 is easy to install as it has a LATCH system, with an auto-tightening feature. The adjustable reclining base comes with level indicators to help you position the baby at the right height. It has a sliding shoulder harness for smooth, and quick positioning of the harness on the child.

Not to mention the other design features that add to its appeal. These include the breathable merino wool covering on the seat, high back, and deep footrest,  large adjustable canopy for adequate sun protection, and mesh windows for air circulation.

As for safety, the UPPAbaby VISTA is equipped with energy-absorbing foam for side-impact protection; shock-absorbing front and rear suspension wheels to handle rough terrain, and soft tires for a  comfortable ride.

The best part, this model is designed with multiple configuration options especially for growing families. The seat systems allow for two selections, forward or parent facing, and can recline into a flat position. You can use the reversible seating system with a carriage, toddler seat, or car seat and it can be doubled to include two children. That’s right, with the VISTA V2, you can double the car seats, toddler seats, and many more.

Our Verdict: The UPPAbaby VISTA V2 is definitely an expensive buy, but if you are particular about aesthetics along with functionality, then this is the best aesthetically designed model.

Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Travel System :

• Safety features that reduce the risk of injury.
• Convertible model, into a double stroller
• No need for adaptors
• Heavy and bulky.
• Thin tires.
• Shoulder harness adjustment is difficult.
• Fails to accommodate for child height.

The Evenflo Pivot Xpand Travel system is ideal for those looking for a double stroller at affordable pricing. Although the UPPAbaby is equally useful, it is way more expensive. That doesn’t mean the Evenflo Xpand is sub-par.

No indeed. In fact, this system combines the unique Evenflo SafeMax infant car seat with the Pivot Xpand stroller system. Add in super-rich features like adjustable handlebars (3 positions), self-standing fold, front swivel wheels, rear-wheel suspension, and 22 different modes and functions,  you have an efficient, effective travel system in hand.

The multiple configuration options enable this model to double up as a stroller using both the infant car seat and toddler seat, ergo its name ‘the Xpand system.’ That’s not all, it has a reversible (forward and parent facing), adjustable seat, with multiple recline positions making this unit ideal for newborns. Secondly, this is one model that allows for car seat attachment without any adaptor. How? The adaptors are inbuilt into the system, therefore eliminating the extra cost of purchasing additional ones. Let’s not forget the ample storage space (2 feet) under the seat, cup holders, large canopies for sun protection, peek-a-boo windows for increased visibility, and the thick padding and soft fabric that add to the convenience factor of the unit.

As for safety features, the Evenflo Pivot is one of the few travel systems that has been roll-over tested. Besides side-impact protection features, it has an anti-bound bar to reduce the impact of rotational forces preventing injuries in a frontal collision, and a flip-flop-friendly rear brake to safely lock the model in place.

Our Verdict: With its integrated belt lock system, multiple base positions and recline indicator, the Evenflo Pivot system is the best affordable double travel system stroller. With this model, you can be assured that your child is safe and secure in their transportations.

Britax B-Lively & B-Safe 35 Travel System:

• Prioritizes safety of the child
• Easily adjustable harness
• Easy maintenance
• Basic without accessories
• Shoulder space is less.
• Lacks an anti-rebound bar

The Britax B-Lively is a simple model designed specifically for its function, to transport children safely. And that it does well! The system is inclusive of the Britax B-Safe 35 infant car seat, a B-Lively stroller, and adaptors. It provides maximum child protection, especially their head, neck, and torso, using a layer of side impact protection, crash energy-absorbing base, and a v-shaped tether that minimizes seat rotation.

It utilizes the LATCH system to secure and tighten the car seat to the base and has a harness release button to loosen harness straps easily. While the car seat is steel reinforced to keep it more stabilized, the stroller frame is made with aluminum and is lightweight and sturdy. 

The Britax B-Lively offers comfort to the child through its all-wheel suspension system and 3-wheel design for smooth journeys, UV50 canopy for weather protection, ventilation window pockets for increased air circulation, peek-a-boo window for checking on the child, a near-flat infinite recline seat. For parents, the benefits include the one-handed quick fold, lightweight frame for easy maneuvering, large storage basket with front access for conveniently storing the baby’s essentials. 

The covers are removable and washable and you can attach the car seating using the car seat adaptors one for each side. 

Our Verdict: Sometimes safety 1st is our motto and in such cases, the Britax B-Lively with B-Safe car seat is the best safe high-quality system we need for our kids.

• Removable and cleanable fabrics
• Easy maneuvering as lightweight
• Safety features
• Difficult to install the car seat onto the base. 

This 5-in-1 Modular Travel system includes the Mico Max infant car seat, Zelia Max stroller, and the car seat base. Designed for both safety and comfort the Maxi-Cosi is equipped with a big inflated side impact protection, an anti-rebound bar, EPP energy-absorbing foam. Being made with soft-textured fabrics, the model is quite comforting for the kids.

With reversible (forward and parent facing) reclinable seat, removable bumper bar, extendable canopy which has an additional flip-out visor for added protection from the weather, mesh peek-a-boo windows to foster connection and increase ventilation.

Lockable swivel all-terrain wheel and all-wheel suspension help to keep the ride smooth. 

Our Verdict: Although it lacks too many bells and whistles, the Maxi-Cosi is enterprising enough to make its presence felt. The fact that it has washable fabric along with safety and convenient features, makes a huge case for this model, especially since we know how messy and dirty things can get with kids. 

Disadvantages Of The Travel System:

While there are many benefits to using the travel system, there are some cons too, such as:

• These systems are heavier and bulkier and are more difficult to transfer from in and out of the car, and maneuver on uneven roads, and narrow tight spaces like grocery aisles.
• You need to buy a front-facing infant car seat, once your baby outgrows the rear-facing one.
• You will need to buy multiple units (car seat and seat base), if you have different cars, to cut down on time and energy required to unhook and set up the unit each time you use a different car.

Tips For Safe Use:

While it is completely safe to use travel systems for your child, here are some additional safety tips to be aware of:

• Try and ascertain that the model is compatible with your car before purchasing it.
• When assembling the unit, make sure that you use all parts. It is there in the package for a reason.
• Make sure that the car seat is correctly aligned on the seat base or stroller frame before moving, to avoid accidents.
• Check for its expiration date. Some models have an expiration date set after 6 years from the time they are launched. It's good to check this so that you know your product won't expire before your child outgrows its use. Additionally, older models may not adhere to the latest safety standards and may lack the necessary safety features.
• Do not use a travel system as the main sleeping area for your child.

Second Hand Travel Systems:

While it's alright to accept or purchase certain second-hand products, when it comes to travel systems, this is not advised! Only because it might not be safe for your child, especially if it was

• Involved in an accident.
• Misused by the previous owners.
• Has faulty parts or that which do not align properly due to wear and tear.
• Expired warranty, which makes the cost of replacing parts high.

If we’ve been successful in convincing you of the advantages of having a travel system over a standard stroller car seat combo, the next step would be to find your unit. For this, you can use our comprehensive travel system guide to compare different models and find your fit. Or go through our list of travel systems, already reviewed to save you time, and find the one which suits your needs the best. 

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The 6 Best Travel Systems That Make Bringing Baby Everywhere Much More Convenient

No matter what your needs are, there’s a perfect stroller and car seat combo that’ll make life way easier.

If you buy something from the links on this page, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?

Because, let's face it — you're going to need an infant car seat (they won't let you leave the hospital without one), and you're going to need a stroller . Getting a travel system ensures that your car seat and your stroller work together seamlessly, which makes the whole process easier from start to finish.

Keep scrolling for quick info on the best travel systems, followed by things to consider as you're buying, a breakdown of our selection criteria, and our full reviews.

The Best Travel Systems

• Best Overall: Baby Jogger City Select 2 Single-to-Double Modular
• Best Budget: Graco FastAction SE
• For Parents Who Expect Luxury: Uppababy Vista V2 Stroller + Mesa Infant Car Seat
• Best Jogging System: BOB Gear Revolution 3.0
• Best Lightweight: Chicco Mini Bravo Plus
• Best Style-Meets-Substance: Maxi-Cosi Zelia Luxe 5-in-1 Modular Travel System, New Hope Black

What to Consider

Travel systems look trickier than they actually are. I’ve spent countless hours testing the stroller/car seat combos, and I can tell you they’re all pretty darn easy to figure out. It’s mostly about what you need as a parent and what you expect as a consumer.

I understand that the first thing you’re going to notice is the price tag (it’s hard not to!). And holy cow, these can be a big investment. But there are good travel systems at a variety of price points, from just a couple hundred dollars to upwards of $1,500. There will be significant differences in durability, and the materials in the lower-end models won’t be as luxurious or, honestly, aesthetic, but that doesn’t mean that less expensive models aren’t great, because every travel system on this list is the best of its type.

Other things you want to think about when buying a travel system are how you're using it, how much it weighs, the height and weight limits of the stroller and the car seat, and how the whole thing cleans up (kids can be messy — we get it).

How You’re Using It

If this is a system that’s going to be taken up and down stairs a lot, if you need it to store in a small space, or even if you just happen to have a bad back, you’ll want to look for a travel system on the lighter side.

Now, there’s no such thing as a “light” travel system. Car seats typically weigh over 10 pounds, the stroller itself can be 20+ pounds, and then you add a baby? It’s a lot — but there are more compact models on this list if you’re aiming to keep things light.

I've also included a jogging stroller on this list. As a runner, I know how hard it can be to hit the pavement as a new parent, and the right travel system can help in this area. While you won't be doing any running with your newborn, getting a jogging stroller travel system means that you don't have to buy another stroller when the time comes. Plus, with the adjustable lock-or-swivel front wheel, there's no reason this can't be your everyday stroller.

Lastly, if you’re planning on growing your family soon or you’re having twins, you should consider investing in a single-to-double stroller, which is also included in the list below.

Stroller Weight and Height Limits

How much does the stroller weigh? The car seat? What are the length and weight limits of both the seat and the stroller? You'll want to consider all of these factors because they can vary pretty widely.

How Do You Clean It?

Why must babies get poop on absolutely everything? It's one of life's great mysteries, but it's just as sure as death and taxes. Knowing how you're going to have to get the stroller and car seat clean is crucial. If you don't mind hand-washing, then you're less limited, but many of us are looking for the magic, golden words: machine-washable.

How We Chose

Every single stroller/car seat combo on this list has been tested by myself for a minimum of four hours of pushing with and without the car seat. I spoke with representatives from every company on this list to make sure that they are the safest, best-designed travel systems on the market. They've survived rigorous use and have been evaluated for durability, comfort of the ride, steerability, ease of cleaning and folding, and general overall quality. Each system on this list is a system that I would use personally, or recommend to family and friends.

Baby Jogger City Select 2 Single-to-Double Modular Travel System

Not sure if you're going to have a second baby, or when? The Baby Jogger City Select 2 gives you options. Much like the UppaBaby Vista 2 (below), it's a single-to-double, but it's about 20% smaller when it's folded, which parents love, and it's $700 cheaper, which is also pretty important. Honestly, though? With the exception of some of the finishing, they are extremely similar strollers. The ride is smooth as silk, taking curves, ruts, bumps, and uneven surfaces like the boardwalk and cobblestone streets without becoming unwieldy.

The folding bit is downright impressive. While it's not a one-handed fold, it is an easy fold. It's also the most compact fold for a single-to-double that I've seen or tested. It doesn't scrimp on the size of the seat, which is comparable to the UppaBaby, nor the size of storage, which beats the competition.

And let's take a minute to discuss the car seat. It's spectacular. It has an anti-rebound bar that redistributes the impact of collisions. The RapidLock belt-tensioning base is easy to operate and stash, and the side-impact protection on the seat is tested to the highest standards. Installation isn't hard to accomplish, and once it's in? It feels secure and steady.

Graco FastAction SE Travel System

The Graco SnugRide car seat is hands-down the most well-known infant car seat in the United States. It's the car seat I used for my oldest, I am constantly putting it on car seat lists , and it's the car seat millions of parents choose every year. It's reliable, durable, affordable, and easy to install. It has an easy leveler, multiple positions of recline, and one of the easiest harnesses on the market. It's also the car seat included in this travel system.

The stroller is a kids' dream, too. It has an oversized canopy, a fold-flat seat, a gigantic snack and drink tray, and a huge cargo compartment. Graco definitely has parents in mind with its own tray and cup holder (we could all use snacks), quick fold, one-handed close, durable wheels that make maneuverability easy, and machine-washable fabrics, all for under $250.

UppaBaby Vista V2 Stroller + Mesa Infant Car Seat Travel System

Yes, this travel system is expensive — but you're getting the top-of-the-line car seat, stroller, and bassinet. It's a single-to-double stroller, with multiple configurations ranging from one car seat on the stroller to two car seats, to a bassinet and a jump seat, and more.

Almost all of it is machine-washable, it's durable enough to last through multiple children, and it performs smoothly. The wheels glide over any surface you throw at it — including sand, with the dual suspension making the whole thing such a smooth ride that babies snooze right over bumps in the terrain. The seat itself reclines almost fully flat if needed, so when your tot is a toddler, they can get in a good snooze.

One thing you might not have thought about is car seat installation — and, trust me, this one is one of the easiest out there. I have latched and unlatched the base, and taken the car seat on and off multiple times, and I never even so much as chipped my pricey manicure (which we all know is a big feat for a mama!).

I personally love this stroller and this car seat. My nephews have been using it for over a year, and my sister-in-law and brother rave about its durability, ease, steering, style, and general quality. My sister-in-law never had a problem maneuvering it, and let me tell you, my youngest nephew is a delightfully beefy fellow. However, again, this is a spend, and in this economy? It's asking a lot.

BOB Gear Revolution 3.0 Travel System

This made-in-the-USA travel system is a high-quality option for new parents who want to keep their baby safe while jogging or taking a nice stroll. Britax is known for its car seats that surpass general safety standards, and the baby gear brand offers a stroller that'll fit one of its most popular car seat models (B Safe 35) perfectly.

Britax car seats incorporate safe cell impact protection, which is a hex-shaped technology designed to absorb extra energy and protect your baby beyond federal standards in the case of a serious crash. It also features a deep foam-lined shell. We love that Britax paired it with the BOB Revolution Flex because it offers storage, a protective canopy to face the elements, a fast one-hand fold, and a lightweight frame. All in all, it has an easy ride with multiple reclining positions.

The advanced suspension system and air-filled tires, along with the adjustable handlebar make this the obvious choice for parents looking for an active lifestyle with their tot. The whole stroller glides easily but with enough heft that you don't feel like it will get away from you. Personally, I love the feel of this jogger as I push it — it’s stable while remaining light and nimble. It takes the ruts and divots of roads and the boardwalk with ease. I do wish that the brakes were a bit more intuitive, but they're not difficult, just a bit ungainly.

Chicco Mini Bravo Plus Travel System

The lightweight stroller included in this travel system features a one-hand fold and auto-positioning wheels for ease of use. Setting the system up is easy, and safe car seat installation is straightforward and simple. The car seat isn’t bulky, so it’s easy to carry and transfer from the car to the stroller. Plus, it clicks right into the stroller within seconds. The stroller features sturdy, agile wheels so that even on rougher terrain, your baby should experience a smooth ride.

It's light and easy to use — and while Chicco may be a more affordable system, they don't skimp on materials, and that's obvious when you consider that the KeyFit car seat is often the top-selling car seat of any brand. It's also one of my favorite infant car seats, period. It's easy to install, lightweight, wipes clean quickly, and buying extra bases is affordable and simple.

Maxi-Cosi Zelia Luxe 5-in-1 Modular Travel System

Best Lightweight

Maxi-Cosi's wonderful Zelia stroller and Mico XP car seat were designed with a real eye toward aesthetics. This stroller comes in several beautiful colorways with leather accents, brushed black aluminum hardware, and clean lines.

The mechanics of the travel system is on par with the looks. The car seat is a wonder with air protect side impact protection, wool-free fire retardant, chemical-free fabrics, an easy-to-thread harness, and leveling indicators that make installation simple. It's also one of the easiest strollers to learn how to fold, which is saying a lot — I'm not kidding. Generally, it takes me anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes to learn a new fold, and I'm an expert. I read the Maxi Cosi manual once, and I got it.

The stroller has rugged wheels that will never puncture but still glide over the pavement. The multiple recline seat with a deep canopy makes for the perfect place for your kid to relax in the afternoon. The seat itself can face the parent or the outside world depending on your baby's preference as well. All of the fabrics are machine-washable, and parents love that even after tons of washes, the fabrics' colors don't fade.

I do wish that the harnesses were easier to thread and that it had more accessories, but other than that, it's a great system. It's one of the most popular car seats for a reason, and the stroller is just as wonderful.

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Want a folding car seat for travel? Here are your best choices by age (2023 reviews)

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This article about folding car seats for travel is written by certified Child Passenger Safety Technician Melissa Conn and may contain affiliate links.

The car seat game is changing quickly these days. Child safety seats for use at home are getting bigger and beefier with every new generation – steel frames, massive headwings, and extremely high weight and height limits.

But on the other end, there’s a new set of folding car seats for travel that are changing how families explore the world. Gone are the days when you had no choice but to stay within the confines of the US and Europe lest you risk your child’s safety on crazy roads (there are still places like that, for the record). No, in 2023 you have options .

There are some amazing foldable car seats for travel and car seat alternatives that will take you around the world and back again without breaking a sweat. Especially once your child is a mature enough, there’s now an entire ecosystem of foldable booster seat choices for you!

In this article will share our top picks for folding travel car seats at each stage, including the advantages and disadvantages of each. You’ll also learn what to consider when you’re choosing the right portable car seat for travel with your family.

Quick picks: which folding car seat for travel is right for you?

Read more: 10 things you NEED to know before flying with your car seat

How to choose a foldable car seat for travel

What should you look for in a collapsible car seat? In reality, you don’t have nearly the same choices as you do in more “traditional” car seats.

The most important feature to look at is what stage the car seat is and how that matches up with your child’s age and size. After all, it’s not safe to put a 2 or 3 year old on a backless booster no matter how convenient! Likewise, your 6 year old who still sleeps in the car might not fit into the folding car seat with a 5 point harness option.

Since this article is all about folding car seats, portability is the name of the game! You want a car seat that folds small enough to take out for the day so that you have it when you need it. So some of the options on this list may not be the lightest in their classes, but they’re the best for putting in the overhead bin of an airplane or toting around the city.

In the picture at the beginning of this article, you can see how our family rocks folding travel car seats (and car seat alternatives). That photo was taken at the beginning of our family’s gap year – we needed to travel extremely light while keeping our kids as safe as possible. We’re fortunate to live in an era when we could make that happen!

Reviewing the best foldable travel car seat options

Doona infant car seat stroller review.

*Ideal for birth to age 1-1.5 years old

Key stats: -Weight 16.5lbs -Rear-facing size limits: 4-35lbs, up to 32”

Pros: ✔ Integrated car seat/stroller ✔ Several installation options ✔ Car seat handle doubles as anti-rebound bar

Cons: ✘ High price ✘ Heavy ✘ Need to buy a new car seat and travel stroller when it’s outgrown

Do you want the Swiss Army knife of baby travel gear? You’ll find it in the Doona infant car seat stroller , one of the coolest baby products I’ve ever seen. In just a matter of seconds your very capable infant car seat deploys its own wheels and converts into a perfectly serviceable baby-friendly stroller! I’ve had the opportunity to play around with it in person (though it was released after our youngest was born) and I definitely let out a few “WOW”s during my test drive.

This is the perfect foldable baby car seat for families who live in or travel to big cities and need to hop in and out of taxis. You’ll never have to worry about your baby being safe on the road, but you also won’t have to wonder what to do with your car seat while you hit a museum or go into a store.

Likewise, a foldable car seat stroller is an easier solution than a two-piece travel system that has to be separated and stored in the car trunk. The Doona is even FAA-approved and you can just wheel is straight down the airplane aisle. (While this isn’t truly a “foldable” car seat for a 1 year old, it’s the closest option out there – not including the extremely unsafe unapproved knock-off contraptions you’ll find online).

So why wouldn’t every family put this foldable carseat on their baby registry ? There are three downsides to consider with the Doona, and it’s up to you how important they are.

First, it’s heavy compared to other infant car seats. The official Doona weight listing is 14lbs (some reviewers say it’s more like 16lbs). Most infant carriers weigh more like 10lbs, but of course they don’t have a whole stroller built in. If you prefer a lightweight infant car seat, you’ll find great options here .

Second, it ain’t cheap . The price tag may make it a non-starter for many families, though once you add the cost of a well-respected infant car seat and a car seat stroller frame the sticker shock might subside a little.

Third, once your baby outgrows the Doona as a car seat around 1 year old you’ll be on the hook to buy a new car seat and a new stroller. Obviously that’s a tough nut to swallow financially. But many families find that the stroller they love for the newborn and infant stage just isn’t ideal for the toddler stage and they wind up wanting a new stroller anyway. Especially if you’re focusing on lightweight, travel friendly products you’ll find that many of the best ultralight strollers aren’t ideal until at least 6-12 months anyway.

All those cons aside, the Doona really is an incredible option for families who want to travel extensively with a young baby. It’s the only collapsible car seat that rear faces to keep the littlest travelers safe!

Evenflo Shyft DualRide review

*Ideal for preemie to age 1.5 years old

Key stats: -Weight 8-9lbs without wheels, ~19lbs with wheels -Rear-facing size limits: 3-35lbs, up to 32”

Pros: ✔ Integrated car seat/stroller ✔ Several installation options ✔ Approved down to 3lbs ✔ Option to leave the wheels in the car if you want to carry the car seat alone ✔ Tensioning panel on base for easy seatbelt installation ✔ Anti-rebound panel on base ✔ Approved in Canada

Cons: ✘ High price ✘ Requires 1.5″ between car seat and front seats if not installing in the center ✘ Can’t be used with other strollers ✘ Need to buy a new car seat and travel stroller when it’s outgrown

The Evenflo Shyft DualRide integrated infant car seat/stroller is brand new for 2023. If it looks similar to the Doona above, that’s because it is. But the Evenflo has a few nifty tricks up its sleeve that are worth mentioning.

First, the Evenflo Shyft DualRide is approved for newborns as small as 3 pounds (just like most Evenflo infant car seats). No one outside of Evenflo has gotten to test one out with such a tiny baby so we’ll need to see how the fit is for preemies in the real world – sometimes the beefy headrests of no-rethread harnesses like this one can be challenging for newborn head positioning. Hopefully the fit will be just as good as it is with this excellent preemie car seat .

On the other end, many kids can use it until 15-18 months thanks to the extended headrest. It’s a very convenient option for travel with toddlers!

Second, while the Doona always brings its wheels (and their weight) the Evenflo Shyft DualRide can leave the wheels behind on the car seat base or at home if you don’t anticipate needing them. That brings the weight of the car seat itself down to just 8-9 pounds – in line with many other car seats on the market. But it’s nice to have the flexibility to use the wheels when you want them and leave them behind when you don’t.

Third, the base has an integrated anti-rebound panel to help manage crash energy and a tensioning arm for easy seatbelt installation. You still need to lock the seatbelt when you install – always read your manual – but you don’t have to worry about putting much force into installing it.

As with all products, the Shyft DualRide isn’t perfect. For starters, the Evenflo Shyft DualRide is not compatible with any of the company’s strollers. That’s a bummer since many parents with an older child might like the flexibility to sometimes use the car seat with the Evenflo Pivot Xpand single-to-double stroller .

Like all Evenflo car seats, the manufacturer wants 1.5″ of clearance between the car seat and the vehicle seat in front of it. Practically speaking this rules it out for some compact cars unless you will always install it in the center seat (where the rule doesn’t apply). Keep that in mind if you’re planning on installing it by the window so that you can install another car seat on the other side!

The 10lb weight of the wheel assembly is surprisingly high. Families already sometimes complain that the Doona is too heavy, and the Evenflo car seat stroller combo is even heaver; the trade-off, of course, is that if you plan to hand carry it you can leave the wheels behind… unless you’re traveling and taking a taxi followed by a lovely walk over cobblestones.

Moment of truth here: I’m also surprised by the price point of the Evenflo Shyft DualRide. There are several versions with slightly different features/accessories and they range from $500-600. Thankfully you can get a discount when you buy direct and sign up for the email list, and Evenflo runs frequent sales as well. There’s also a slightly less expensive Walmart version , which lacks the carry-all bag and leather accents.

It’s great to see more innovation in this space, and finally a competitor to the Doona. The Evenflo Shyft DualRide has a lot going for it and will definitely be a contender for car-free city dwellers and travelers alike!

Read next: Best portable car seats for a 1 year old

Wayb Pico review

*Ideal for ages 2-5

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

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

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

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

In many ways their promise has come true. For certain families the Pico is the perfect solution to a really tough question of what to do when they need a travel 5-point harness, while for others it isn’t quite the right fit. Read our in-depth expert Wayb Pico review here .

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

The Wayb Pico is by far the best foldable car seat for a 3 year old if you plan on lots of international travel. Why? The concept of a folding forward-facing harnessed car seat isn’t new. They’ve actually been made for years , including the current car seat used by Uber Family . The downside of prior seats is that they required use of a top tether. Without it, the seats don’t stay upright! If you’re traveling within the US, Canada or Western Europe that’s no problem.

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

Because it doesn’t require a top tether, the Wayb Pico is also the only foldable car seat for airplane use. Your kids can even fully use the tray table, unlike most forward-facing travel car seats, since it’s so low-profile.

The major disadvantage of the Wayb Pico foldable child car seat is that the 45″ upper height limit and 16.5″ harness slots aren’t high enough for some families. Many kids will outgrow it around 5-5.5 years old, though if you’re buying it at 2 or 3 years old that’s a few years of good usage (and more if you can pass it down to a younger sibling). If you’re a family that prioritizes extended rear-facing and then you want an extended forward-facing harness, this isn’t the car seat for you! But if you’ll be doing a ton of traveling with a 2 or 3 year old (like our family gap year) then the Wayb Pico fold up travel car seat is the best option to keep your kid safe without lugging a full-size model. On the small end, the Pico is approved for kids at least 1 year old – but that’s not recommended, and in some places (like California and New York) it’s not even legal.

Finally, the price tag of the Pico may be tough for some families to swallow for a portable car seat for 3 year old. Of course, some families opt to use it at home too though it doesn’t offer the same creature comforts as typical forward facing car seats.

Is the Wayb Pico right for everyone? Maybe not. But if your family is going on an extended trip or relying on lots of taxis in your daily life and a folding travel car seat is on your must-have list, give the Wayb Pico a serious look once it’s available again.

Read next: Best travel car seats for a 2 year old

Ride Safer Travel Vest review

*Ideal for ages 3.5-6

Key stats: -Weight 2lbs -Size small: minimum age 3, fits best for 30+ lbs and 35-47″ -Size large: minimum age 4, fits best for 50+ lbs and 45-57″

Pros: ✔ Rolls up to the size of a 2L soda bottle ✔ Perfect for taxi rides ✔ Lowers seat belt to provide an appropriate fit for young children ✔ Keeps kids properly seated better than a traditional booster seat – even when sleeping ✔ Easy to fit 3-across since it’s only as wide as the child ✔ 5 year expiration

Cons: ✘ No side impact protection like a highback booster seat ✘ Takes practice to get belt fit right ✘ NOT permitted for use on planes

Several years ago the kind folks at Safe Ride 4 Kids sent us a Ride Safer Delight travel vest to review, and it hasn’t left our travel kit since. The Ride Safer travel vest (“Delight” has been dropped with the latest Ride Safer travel vest Gen 5 release) is completely different than the travel car seats above.

You could say that the Ride Safer travel vest is sort of in between a booster seat and a traditional forward-facing car seat. It relies on the car’s seat belt to handle most of the restraint, but also has an optional-but-pease-use-it-always top tether that minimizes head movement in an accident and keeps your child in the correct position even if they fall asleep (or drop a toy). While we won’t put our youngest child in a booster seat yet since she’s a car sleeper – especially when jet-lagged – we’re comfortable with her riding in the Ride Safer vest.

So comfortable, in fact, that we brought our Ride Safer vest on our year-long trip around the world! It’s seen action on six continents and served us well the whole time. Once we practiced a few times, we got very fast at putting her in the vest and getting her secured in the car. The biggest change from the Ride Safer Delight to the Gen 5 is an easier buckle in the front, so that should help many parents.

The Ride Safer Gen 5 is rated for kids beginning at 3 years old and 30lbs, but honestly we felt that the fit was better starting at 4 years old and other parents agree with us. Fortunately size small should last most kids until 6 or even 7 thanks to the adjustable shoulder strap length. Because there’s no side impact protection, it’s a good idea to put your Ride Safer in the middle seat if it has a top tether available. Read our in-depth Ride Safer review .

For families going on extended journeys like ours who just can’t take a traditional car seat or those heading somewhere like NYC or Paris, where they’ll mostly rely on public transportation but need an occasional taxi ride, the Ride Safer travel vest is a fantastic option. It is not approved for use on an airplane, so you may want to pair it with the CARES harness ( full review here ) to use on the plane.

For a more typical trip that involves flying and then renting a car for a week or two, we sometimes opt to bring our other travel car seat . But if you’re choosing between the Ride Safer travel vest or a backless booster seat, the vest is the better choice for younger kids and/or car sleepers .

While we generally think of the Ride Safer as one of the travel car seat alternatives, we also use it at home often. I keep it in my trunk at all times so that we can fit 3-across in our car for those unexpected carpools or for when Grandma comes for a visit! Since the vest is as narrow as the child in it, there’s no trouble fitting it between two big car seats in our compact SUV.

Read next: Best travel car seats for a 3 year old Best travel car seats for a 4 year old

Key stats: -Weight 10lbs -Highback booster size limit 4yo, 40-100lbs, 40-59″ -Belt guide 14-20″

Pros: ✔ Tons of size adjustments for great fit ✔ Folds down small ✔ Legal to use everywhere except Australia (in progress) ✔ Extremely narrow ✔ 7 year expiration

Cons: ✘ Expensive if you will only use for a few years ✘ No cup holders included ✘ Bigger than some of the other travel-specific car seats

Bubblebum booster seat review

*Ideal for ages 5+

Key stats: -Weight under 1 lbs ( really! ) -Backless booster size limit 40-100lbs, age 4+

Pros: ✔ Lightest booster seat ✔ Extremely narrow ✔ Good seatbelt fit in lots of cars

Cons: ✘ Can slide around if kids are wiggly ✘ 4 year expiration (from first use)

The best backless booster seat for travel is one with which we’re extremely familiar: the Bubblebum inflatable booster seat . We traveled full-time with this booster seat for the better part of two years. It’s my favorite folding travel booster seat!

The Bubblebum is a pretty amazing collapsible booster seat. It weighs about one pound and deflates/rolls to the size of a soda bottle. Setting it up takes just a few seconds, and there’s even a shoulder belt guide to give a great fit for kids of different sizes in all different vehicles.

Read more: My in-depth Bubblebum review

If you’re a family with a mature kid who doesn’t sleep in the car the Bubblebum gives you the paragon of portability. It’s the perfect option for taking around on days in a city when you think you might hop in a taxi to get home at night or if you’re taking lots of planes and trains for an extended trip.

The Bubblebum is so light that it may shift if your kid is very wiggly. But if your kid is very wiggly, they may not be ready for a backless booster yet. In that case, I’d go with the RideSafer travel vest for an ultra-portable option or the hifold folding booster seat . We also had an issue with one of our Bubblebums deflating after we left it inflated in a hot car for a month (oops!); we reached out to customer service and they sent us a whole new one for just the $7 shipping charge!

We started using this booster seat at 6 years old, and we think that’s about right. But it’s approved for 4 years old/40lbs and there are plenty of 5 year olds who can use it successfully, especially if your drives are short. This is a judgement call for each family and also depends on the specifics of your travels.

Read next: Best travel car seats for a 6 year old and best travel booster seat

hiccapop Uberboost booster seat review

*Ideal for ages 7+

Key stats: -Weight 1.25 lbs -Backless booster size limit 40-110lbs and 38-62″

Pros: ✔ Extremely light and compact ✔ Very narrow ✔ More stable than other ultra-portable booster seats

Cons: ✘ Frustrating shoulder belt adjuster clip

If you like the idea of an inflatable booster seat for travel, there’s a new option to consider these days. The newish hiccapop Uberboost follows the same basic concept as the Bubblebum but with a few pros and cons.

Read more: My in-depth hiccapop Uberboos t review

The hiccapop packs down slightly smaller than the Bubblebum but inflates to offer a larger seating seating area. Score! It also has a grippy layer on the bottom to prevent it from sliding around.

The biggest downside for us is that our leggy 48″ rider needs the shoulder adjuster clip in most seating positions but finds it very uncomfortable. The clip is much bulkier than on our other travel booster seats.

If your child is 48″+ or has a longer torso, you might be able to avoid using the clip – just be sure that the shoulder belt makes nice, complete contact with the middle of the collar bone. In that case the hiccapop Uberboost is a great choice for a traveling booster seat. For a smaller child, I’d stick with the Bubblebum for now.

Graco RightGuide

Key stats: -Weight 2 lbs -Backless booster size limit 50-120lbs, 43-60″, age 5+

Pros: ✔ Extremely light booster seat ✔ Very compact booster seat when folded ✔ Narrow option for 3-across with big kids ✔ Inconspicuous option for tweens ✔ 10 year expiration

Cons: ✘ Belt guide may not stay in place securely ✘ Incompatible with some seatbelt designs

If you have a big kid or tween who’s approaching readiness for the adult seatbelt (usually 10-12 years old) but not quite there, check out the Graco RightGuide . It’s ultra low profile and easy to throw in a backpack or clip to the outside of a carry-on suitcase. It does require that kids be at least 5 years old, 43″ and 50lbs – a weight many kids don’t achieve until they’re around 7 or even older.

The RightGuide offers a wonderful seatbelt fit even for kids at the bottom of the stated size range. It can be problematic with certain types of seatbelts, so be sure to read my Graco RightGuide review to know what you need to look out for.

Foldable Car Seat for Travel FAQs

Yes. All car seats sold in the US have to pass the same Federal testing. The most important factors in keeping your child safe in the car are choosing an age-appropriate car seat for and using it correctly 100% of the time.

The best car seat for traveling is the one that fits your child properly and that you’ll use every time you’re in the car. Check this list to find the best choices by age.

Need more ideas? Check out the best travel car seats for every age

What’s your favorite folding car seat for travel? Tell us in the comments below!

2 thoughts on “Want a folding car seat for travel? Here are your best choices by age (2023 reviews)”

Hi! I am just trying to clarify- can the WayB Pico car seat be used on international flights that don’t adhere to FAA regulations? Has anyone done this or had a problem? Specifically I am most concerned with TAP Portugal. Do they allow? Thanks!

TAP allows a car seat for children up to 5 years old as long as it’s FAA-approved (which WAYB is) and the bottom of the seat is physically small enough (which WAYB’s is as well).

Safe travels,

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$ 329.99 - $ 359.99

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Blue Melange | Merino Wool

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• Description

See How Simple. ™

We designed the Mesa with intuitive innovations you can see and features that remove the guesswork. The Mesa maximizes ease to minimize error, which allows parents to move forward with confidence and security.

• SmartSecure® System with red-to-green visual indicator
• European Routing for a secure carrier only installation
• Robust Infant Insert designed to optimize fit and body positioning
• Direct attachment for Vista and Cruz strollers
• Car seat base included

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Protection From All Sides

The adjustable headrest is reinforced with EPP foam to help absorb energy while the integrated design of our Side Impact Protection keeps baby’s head protected during a collision. Additionally, the 4th rebound carry handle position allows for increased safety and aids in absorbing rebound forces.

Install In Seconds

We make installation quick and simple by combining our innovative SmartSecure® system, auto-retracting LATCH design, red to green tightness indicator, and four-position adjustable foot.

European Routing

European Routing provides a safe and secure carrier-only installation when the use of a base isn’t convenient. The belt path easily secures the carrier at three points of contact to reduce movement.

Fire Retardant Free Fabrics

The Mesa V2 is made with fabric that is free from fire retardant chemicals for all fashions and textiles, including the large UPF 25+ hideaway Canopy. It is also GREENGUARD® Gold Certified to support healthier air quality and low chemical emissions.

Robust Infant Insert

The removable infant insert is designed to provide better fit and body positioning for babies approximately 4 – 11 lbs.

Buckle Up with Confidence

Our simple one-crotch buckle position and no-rethread, adjustable harness makes buckling up a breeze.

Travel System

For the ultimate in portability and safety, Mesa V2 directly attaches to both the Vista® and Cruz® strollers. It is even compatible with the Minu® and Ridge® with the addition of convenient adapters. This creates a stylish and simple solution that goes from drive to stroll (and back again).

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Adapters for Ridge

Adapters for Minu

Convenient Release Button

A quick press of the button on the top of the carrier handle releases it from the frame so you can go from stroller to car in one seamless motion. Additionally, the convenient, reversible option allows baby to face you while strolling, or you can turn the carrier to pull right up to a table for mealtime.

Hideaway Canopy with UPF 25+

The extra-large integrated, extendable canopy provides more protection outside and conveniently tucks away when not in use.

CLEANTECH™ Collection

Not Sure Which Style?

Pick up to 4 favorites and we’ll send them to you absolutely free here

Keep baby safe from day one with our original fire retardant free fabric. These fabrics are not treated and contain no harmful chemicals anywhere on the seat. Includes fashions for the Mesa V2, Knox, and Alta.

Our merino wool fabric is hypoallergenic, temperature regulated, and made of materials that are naturally fire retardant free to keep baby safe in the purest form. The merino wool is woven naturally to eliminate the need for any additional treatment. Includes fashions for Mesa V2, Mesa Max and Knox.

Specifications

Approximately 0–1 years

Suitable 4-35 lbs and up to 32″ in height (whichever comes first)

Car Seat dimensions: 25.8” L x 17” W x 23” H

Car Seat on base dimensions: 28” L x 17” W x 25” H

Car Seat base-only dimensions: 20.8” L x 14.5” W x 9.8–12.8” H (height of base in lowest to highest positions)

True weight: Car Seat 9.9 lbs Base 9 lbs

Carrier Features

• 4th anti-rebound handle position for increased safety in rebound & rear-impact collisions
• Large, adjustable headrest for additional SIP performance
• European Routing for a more secure installation when installing without the base
• Included infant insert and low harness position for babies approximately 4-11 lbs
• Carrier weighs under 10 lbs
• Adjustable headrest with side impact protection
• No-rethread harness that adjusts with headrest
• Storage pockets for harness buckles
• One crotch buckle position
• Large, UPF 25+ hideaway canopy
• Direct attachment to Vista and Cruz strollers
• Convenient adapters available for the Minu and Ridge strollers
• Carry handle with stroller release button
• Removable and washable seat fabric
• Fabric free from flame-retardant chemicals

Base Features

• SmartSecure® System installs in seconds
• Red-to-green tightness indicator
• Built-in lock-off for secure seatbelt installation
• Level indicators on both sides
• Streamlined, low-profile base with finished bottom
• Four-position adjustable foot for easy leveling

What's Included

Robust Infant Insert (suitable approximately 4-11 lbs)

Must have additions.

Travel Bag for Aria, Mesa (all models)

Easy-Fit Sunshade

Extra Base for Mesa and Mesa V2

Infant Car Seat Rain Shield for Aria, Mesa, Mesa V2, & Mesa Max

Shop All Mesa V2 Accessories

Selected FAQs ( view the complete Mesa® V2 FAQs )

Are the harness pads required on the mesa v2.

The harness pads are optional.  They may need to be removed when using the Mesa V2 with a smaller child to achieve proper harness tightness and chest clip placement.

Can the Mesa V2 go on planes?

Yes, the Mesa V2 carrier is FAA approved when used according to the instruction manual We suggest you travel with your Mesa V2 in flight for optimal safety. The Mesa base is not approved for aircraft use.

Click here to learn about our TravelSafe program.

Click here for the Mesa Travel Bag.

Can you install the Mesa V2 using both LATCH and seat belt?

You cannot install with both systems. Both are incredibly effective on their own for proper installation.

Can you install the Mesa V2 without the base?

The base is not required to achieve a safe and secure install. The lap belt routes through the guides on the carrier that are located near the carry handle, and the shoulder belt routes behind the carrier through the guide located above the carrier release from base handle. Reference the Mesa V2 manual and vehicle manual for seat belt installation guidance.

Click here to learn how to install the Mesa V2 using European belt routing.

Ensure the red line on the side of the carrier is parallel to the vehicle floor rather than the ground outside the vehicle. Ensure the back angle of the carrier stays in the correct position and the carry handle is placed in the 4 th position.

How do I use European Routing on my Mesa V2?

There is a belt path feature added to the back of the Mesa V2 carrier. During carrier-only installation, the shoulder belt can be wrapped around the back of the carrier for a more secure install to the vehicle seat. In the event of a collision, this type of installation helps decrease the force on a baby’s shoulders and neck by limiting a downward motion in a frontal crash. 

Click here for a how-to video.

What is the difference between the Mesa V2, Mesa Max, and Aria?

The Aria is UPPAbaby’s lightest infant car seat and sets new standards weighing just under 6lbs. The extra-large UPF 25+ hideaway canopy with back panel ventilation and pop out extended sunshade intuitively provides additional airflow and sun protection when needed, and can be simply pushed back when not.

When do I transition my baby out of the Mesa V2?

UPPAbaby recommends transitioning your child out the Mesa V2 by their first birthday or the 1-inch rule, whichever comes first.  The 1-inch rule is applied when your child is using the headrest in its highest position and when the top of their head is less than 1-inch from the top of the headrest structure.  Please note that transition should also occur when your child meets the 35 lb weight limit.

Click here for the Knox Convertible Car Seat.

Quick Links

• Manual (PDF 8MB)
• Infant Car Seat Fit Guide
• Car Seat Safety Center
• Cleaning & Care

Parenthood, Understood.

Family, First

One-on-one customer service.

Whether it’s via Email, Text, Call, Live Chat, Video Chat, or Virtual Consultation, our exceptional Customer Experience Team is here to help you all day, every day, in every way.

The UPPAbaby Promise

Limited + extended warranties.

UPPAbaby has confidence in the quality of our products, and we are proud to offer warranty programs on all juvenile gear and accessories.

Where to Find Us

Hub locations + tune-up gear-up events.

Whether at one of our Hub Service Center & Showrooms or an event on the go, our helpful team of experts will have all the answers so you can make your purchase with confidence.

Fly Stress-Free with These Airplane Travel Essentials for Kids & Babies

From a lightweight stroller to an airplane seat extender, these must-have items can make your next trip via airplane easy and comfortable for you and your kids..

We independently selected these deals and products because we love them, and we think you might like them at these prices. E! has affiliate relationships, so we may get a commission if you purchase something through our links. Items are sold by the retailer, not E!. Prices are accurate as of publish time.

When you travel with kids , especially in the air, you can expect the unexpected. And between flight delays, turbulence, and cramped seating, sometimes staying prepared can be a challenge. And taking a long haul flight with a baby comes with its own complications. That's why I've put together a list of the best products for air travel with kids (both older kids and younger kids), that will keep everyone entertained, fed, and clean, no matter what the trip throws at you. 

What Are the Best Products to Ease Air Travel with Kids?

Whether you're packing for a long haul flight to a short plane ride, you want to look for lightweight and compact items that won't take up a lot of room in your luggage or weigh down a checked bag . You want to breeze through TSA precheck. And, older kids will typically need less accessories, while if you're flying with a baby, they'll need more. Travel cribs, a travel stroller, travel car seat, storage for the tray table, an airplane seat extender, and more, are all essentials that can keep kids, young kids, and babies, comfortable and stress-free.

So, keep on scrolling for the best products to make airplane trips easier (and more fun) with you and your kids. Get your boarding pass ready enjoy the flight.

Amazon Fire 7 Kids tablet

Keep kids occupied and entertained with the Amazon Fire 7 tablet . It's recommended for kids 3 to 7 and comes with 1-year of Amazon Kids+ content and a Kid-Proof Case with a built-in stand. The parental controls are easy to set and if you need to return it, the tablet comes with a 2-year warranty.

Maliton Inflatable Travel Foot Rest Pillow

Extend your airplane seat and create a little bed for your little one with this inflatable pillow . When it's deflated, it's easy to fit in your carry-on and it inflates within 30 seconds. However, it's not allowed on all flights, check with your airline restrictions before your trip.

Dr. Brown's Pacifier and Bottle Wipes, 40 Count

Pacifiers and bottles can get dirty so easily, especially when you're traveling. So travel with this conveniently sized, resealable wipe container from Dr. Brown's. They can also be used on teethers, toys, and more, and you can be safe in knowing they're made without alcohol, parabens, phthalates, sulfates, or fragrances.

Alpine Muffy Baby Ear Protection

Backed by over 16,000 5-star Amazon reviews, these ear muffs are designed to provide ear protection for babies up until 36 months old. They're not too tight for little ones' heads, and the soft padded ear cups easily fit over children's ears. One reviewer reported, "Thanks to this earmuff, my baby was able to sleep comfortably during the airplane takeoff and landing."

LiKee Strong Suction Cup Fidget Spinnerz

Just place these suction cup fidget spinners on your airplane window and they'll keep babies entertained for a long time. They're lightweight, and easy to pop and spin for little ones 12 months and up. If you're looking for toys for 6 months and up, you can get that here .

Summer Infant 3Dmini Convenience Stroller

Having a lightweight stroller available for tired kids is a must when you're traveling. This option weighs just 11 pounds and also reclines, includes a sun visor, and a weight limit of 45 pounds. It easily folds up and can take on any airport.

Doona Car Seat & Stroller, All-in-One Travel System

If you have a smaller child, the Doona car seat and stroller is a solid bet (and highly recommended by so many of my mom groups). It includes a car seat and stroller, and the car seat is approved for use on airplanes. Best of all, the stroller includes integrated wheels that convert it from a car seat to a stroller in a snap.

Trunki Ride-On Kids Suitcase

Make walking through an airport a little more fun, with this ride-on suitcase for kids. The luggage has wheels and a seat, so kids just need to sit and caregivers can pull them along with the included strap. It weighs just 3.5 pounds and is the perfect carry-on size.

reperkid Premium Car Seat Travel Bag for Airplane

This water-resistant car seat cover not only protects your child's car seat while you travel, it also includes padded backpack straps so carrying it around the airport is a little easier. When you get to your destination, it easily folds up in its own pouch.

EverSnug Travel Blanket and Pillow

Super soft and snuggly, this 65 x 40-inch blanket is sure to keep little ones warm up in the air. It's lightweight, easily attaches to your suitcase, and the included case can even be used as a pillow.

Lusso Gear Kids Tray Table Cover with Pockets

Instead of intensely cleaning your child's tray table, all you need to do is slide this cover over it. They can eat snacks over it and it includes a clear pocket for their tablet. When not in use, you can easily fold it up.

Momcozy Portable Bottle Brush Set

Make sure your baby's bottles are clean and ready to use when you're traveling, with this portable set . It easily folds up and includes a silicone bottle brush, bottle drying rack, straw cleaner brush, nipple brush, soap dispenser, and storage box.

CERES CHILL Breastmilk Chiller Reusable Storage Container

You don't need to stress out about keeping breastmilk cool when you're traveling if you have the Ceres Chill . It can keep milk cool for up to 20 hours and it's compatible with most pumps, so you can pump right into the container.

MineSign 2Pack Snackle Box

One way to keep kids entertained in the air is with snacks. Pack up these two snackle boxes with all of their favs and they'll stay satisfied for hours. The built-in handle makes it easy to carry and the compact size (11 x 8.3 inches) makes it easy to pack in your carry-on.

My 4-year-old is obsessed with this screen-free, storytelling toy. Get it while it's on sale.

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Car Seat Travel Bag for Airplane - Fits Convertible Car Seats, Infant carriers & Booster Seats, Black Upgrade

Purchase options and add-ons

About this item.

• PROTECTS YOUR CAR SEAT: This car seat travel bag protects your car seat from physical damage. You can travel stress-free and keep your baby safe and healthy.
• REINFORCED TEAR RESISTANCE: Made of reinforced tear resistant and lightweight upgraded material with special stitching techniques and extra strong thread to protect it from rips and tears.
• EASY IDENTIFICATION: Bright, black color and large "S" logo easily identify your car seat and ensures safe return to you. ID box to write your name.
• EASY to CARRY: This travel car seat protector can be folded and quickly filled into attached spandex pouch. Compact size easily fits in diaper bag, backpack, stroller basket or carry-on bag.
• FIT MOST CAR SEATS: This airplane car seat bag comes in a 34x18x18 inch size which can easily accommodate almost all major brands of infant or toddler car seats.

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Product information

Warranty & support, product description.

FIT MOST CAR SEATS

This airplane car seat bag comes in a 34x18x18 inch size which can easily accommodate almost all major brands of infant or toddler car seats.

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Keep Your Childs Car Seat Clean And Protected While Traveling

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Customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the portability, cleanliness, and fit of the carrier bag case. For example, they mention it's easy to travel with, keeps the car seat clean, and is large enough to fit both. They also like the performance, and ease of use. That said, some complain about the thickness, durability, and value.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the portability of the carrier bag case. They say it washes well, is easy to pack for travel, and is a great product for traveling with a car seat. Some mention that it packs into a small bag and is easy for carrying. Overall, most are satisfied with the port ability of the product.

"...But with out the bag on it could have done more damage. Easy to carry through airport with the straps!" Read more

" Basic bag for airplane travel . Does the job. Bought other brands in the past and had to return as it was torn the first use...." Read more

"... Carseats are super heavy and more difficult to carry from those tiny straps." Read more

" Great for traveling , nice to put extra jackets in as well" Read more

Customers like the fit of the carrier bag case. For example, they say it's large enough to fit their twin baby car seats, and perfect for their large car seat to travel on the plane. Some mention that it has a sewn-in pocket and takes up no space at all. Overall, most are satisfied with the fit and functionality of the product.

" Very large to fit car seat and extra things to put under a plane when you have a baby...." Read more

"...It was easy to use and a pretty big size for what my stroller is. I have the Graco modes stroller...." Read more

"Bought for traveling with car seat. Convertible car seat fit pretty snugly . Ripped on the first leg of trip...." Read more

"...I used it for my infant car seat. It’s super big with lots of room and two sets of handles which helps with holding. It works great...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the performance of the bag case. They mention that it works great, is perfect, and is wonderful.

"... It works great . Great bang for your buck." Read more

"Basic bag for airplane travel. Does the job . Bought other brands in the past and had to return as it was torn the first use...." Read more

" Works great keeping the car seat safe during travel. It washes well and is easy to pack for travel." Read more

"I purchased this for a trip and it worked perfectly . I kept it folded in our diaper bag and pulled it out when checking the car seat at the gate...." Read more

Customers like the cleanliness of the carrier bag case. They say it keeps the car seat from getting dirty, protects it from dirt, and is easy to wash.

"Works great keeping the car seat safe during travel. It washes well and is easy to pack for travel." Read more

"...It kept the car seat in perfect condition and kept it from getting dirty ! The bright red color also made it easy to spot when getting off the plane!" Read more

"Very durable and so easy to wash !" Read more

"...Very happy with my purchase and I highly recommend. They helped to keep the car seats clean and safe on the flight." Read more

Customers like the ease of use of the carrier bag case. For example, they say it's convenient, easy to put it in, and easy for the skycap to load.

"...It packs up inside itself and fits the car seat. Cheap and easy ." Read more

"...It was easy to put it in etc . it dosent really stay closed all too well, but enough that it was fine...." Read more

"After one use this product seems to be durable and easy to use ." Read more

Customers have mixed opinions about the value of the carrier bag case. Some find it decent for the price, while others say it's a waste of money.

"...Car seat fell out and got scuffed up. Waste of money ." Read more

"...It works great. Great bang for your buck ." Read more

"... Very disappointing ." Read more

" Not bad for the money ! Airline dragged them and they ripped and won’t take responsibility but we’ve flown multiple times and they were solid" Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the durability of the carrier bag case. They mention that it has some tears and frays, and it only lasted for one trip. Some customers also say that the handles both ripped away from the bag itself. Overall, some customers feel that the bag is not durable enough but gets the job done if you need it.

"It was ripped from being thrown onto the plane. Did scratch my car seats base as well. But with out the bag on it could have done more damage...." Read more

"...There are a few small tears after the 2 trips but is still intact and no damage to my items inside" Read more

"...Definitely kept my $400 stroller safe and that’s all I could ask for! Would highly recommend for other parents!" Read more

"...Convertible car seat fit pretty snugly. Ripped on the first leg of trip . Used it on way home too, just added some packing tape to torn areas...." Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the thickness of the carrier bag case. They mention that the material is very thin, poor, and not very strong. The drawstring top is flimsy and the bag needs to have more rugged bottom at the expense of the portability/folding feature.

"...I’m give it 4 stars instead of 5 because I thought the bag was a little thin , I wish the material had been a little thicker...." Read more

"Held up great for our trip. The material is a little on the thin side but it helped making out trip a little easier." Read more

"...The bag needs to have more rugged bottom at the expense of the portability/folding feature...." Read more

" Cheap quality but was able to use it one flight…" Read more

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Explore Elektrostal

Essential elektrostal.

Elektrostal Is Great For

Eat & drink.

• Apelsin Hotel
• Elektrostal Hotel
• Apart Hotel Yantar
• Mini Hotel Banifatsiy
• Restaurant Globus
• Amsterdam Moments
• Cafe Antresole
• Viki Cinema
• Statue of Lenin
• Park of Culture and Leisure

Best Hotels Near Electrostal History and Art Museum, Elektrostal

Hotels near electrostal history and art museum, property types, distance from, traveller rating, hotel class.

• Best Value Properties ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data, including traveller ratings, confirmed availability from our partners, prices, booking popularity and location, as well as personal user preferences and recently viewed hotels.
• Traveller Ranked Highest rated hotels on Tripadvisor, based on traveller reviews.
• Distance from Electrostal History and Art Museum See properties located closest to the place of interest first with confirmed availability for your dates from our partners.