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Best Travel Car Seats of 2024

Traveling with kids? Whether an extended road trip or airplane ride is on the agenda, your little one needs a travel car seat to stay safe on the journey. Travel car seats are a bit different from everyday ones, as they’re typically lighter in weight, easier to move and set up from car to car, and approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to take in the air.

A travel car seat also comes in handy if you find yourself in ride-shares or taxis regularly. Many models don’t require a base, so it’s simple to strap the unit in without spending half the afternoon figuring out which piece goes where. The best travel car seats are so convenient, in fact, that you might stick to them altogether.

Table of Contents

• Best Travel Car Seats
• Things To Consider When Buying
• How We Chose

Chicco KeyFit 35 ClearTex Infant Car Seat  »

Various features for correct installation

Can be installed without a base via European belt routing

Five height positions and six recline positions

Includes base and newborn positioner

Extendable canopy with UPF 50+ sun protection

JPMA certified and GreenGuard Gold Certified

Not super light

Travel bag sold separately

There’s no need to worry about properly installing the Chicco KeyFit 35 ClearTex Infant Car Seat. It comes with multiple features to ensure you do it correctly, including LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) connectors, a SuperCinch force-multiplying tightener, and RideRight bubble level indicators to make sure it’s at the right angle.

This best travel car seat comes with ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) 50+ sun protection. It also comes with a base, but doesn’t require one in order to use. That means you can keep the base in your car for regular use and still be able to install it in other vehicles, thanks to its European belt routing system. It only weighs 10 pounds and is FAA approved, so it’s ready to bring on an aircraft. The Chicco Car Seat Travel Bag , however, is sold separately. But with the five height positions and six recline positions, your baby is bound to be comfortable no matter how you choose to travel. And once you reach your destination, keep the car seat looking fresh by tossing the fabrics in the washing machine.

They KeyFit 35 is certified by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA), meaning it meets minimum government requirements based on safety and use, and GreenGuard Gold Certified, meaning it’s built to contribute to safer, healthier air and has been screened for more than 15,000 volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Cosco Kids Scenera Next Convertible Car Seat  »

Affordable price point

Aircraft certified and TSA-friendly designed

No additional base needed

Side Impact Protection

Machine-washable and dryer-safe seat pad

Installation may be tricky with some seat belts

May fit snugly on older babies

If you’re looking for a secondary car seat, chances are that you’re hoping to keep the cost low. With the Cosco Kids Scenera Next Convertible Car Seat, you’ll save money without losing the factors that make a travel car seat desirable. At just 6.8 pounds, this is one unit you won’t struggle to carry through the airport. Plus, you’ll have peace of mind knowing it has built-in Side Impact Protection.

This model can carry a child up to 40 pounds and 43 inches tall. It has five harness heights and three buckle locations, so it’ll grow with your baby from infancy to toddlerhood. This affordable car seat comes in seven designs with black details. And Cosco Kids makes it easy to clean with its machine-washable and dryer-safe seat pad and dishwasher-safe removable cup holder.

While this may not be the ideal pick for everyday use, the no-base, lightweight design makes it a smart pick for upcoming vacations or times when you need to move it between cars often. Just use the LATCH connectors to safely secure it in place.

Diono Radian 3RXT SafePlus  »

Only 17 inches wide

Seats folds up

FAA approved

Supports kids up to 120 pounds

12 headrest positions

Available in five colors

Heavy at 30.6 pounds

Booster mode can’t be used on a plane

LATCH connectors not available for all weights

At just 17 inches wide, the Diono Radian 3RXT SafePlus comfortably fits in even the most compact cars. If you have a full backseat, three of these models can fit across the backseat. Don’t let its compact size fool you, though. This travel car seat was designed to grow with your child from 4 to 120 pounds, in rear-facing position, forward-facing position, and booster mode.

This unit comes with a detachable rear-facing base, which Diono recommends using, but it can be used without it. The base shouldn’t be used in the forward-facing position or in booster mode. To make sure your little one is happy, the Radian boasts a 12-position headrest that you can adjust with just one hand. The covers are machine washable, and the shell and components on the rest of the car seat can be spot cleaned.

This convertible car seat folds to make travel easier, and its FAA-approved status means it’ll be your airplane companion. Just keep in mind that it can only be taken on a plane in rear-facing and forward-facing positions, not booster mode.

Doona + Car Seat & Stroller  »

Converts from car seat to stroller in seconds

Comes fully assembled

FAA approved and can be pushed down airplane aisle

Available in seven colors

UPF 50+ sun protection and water-repellant canopy

Includes LATCH base, infant insert, head support, and vehicle seat protector

Can only be used up to 35 pounds

The Doona + Car Seat & Stroller can be used with or without the included base, but the real magic comes in when you’re using it in between car and airplane rides. Within a matter of seconds, this innovative model goes from car seat to stroller with the push of a button. Plus, it comes fully assembled, so you can use it the moment it arrives.

The water-repellent canopy provides UPF 50+ sun protection, and comes in seven bold colors, including Racing Green, Flame Red, and Blush Pink. The adjustable handle is a nice touch, too, for a more comfortable gliding experience for adults.

Not only is the Doona approved by the FAA, but at just 17.4 inches wide, it can easily be pushed down an airplane aisle so you can get in your seat easily. Although it’s pricey, the fact that it acts as both a travel car seat and stroller means that it’s a great value. Consider this the all-in-one travel system that makes navigating the world with a baby so much simpler. Megan Wood, Senior Editor at U.S. News 360 Reviews, uses the Doona as her family’s main car seat and loves how easy it makes running errands and travel without having to pack a separate stroller.

Wayb Pico Portable Car Seat  »

Fits in most airplane overheads bins

Only weighs 8 pounds

Installs via LATCH or car or plane seat belt

Folds down to 11.6 inches long by 14.5 inches wide by 18.9 inches tall

Made with space-grade aluminum alloy and Responsible Wool Standard (RWS)-certified wool

On the pricier side

Can’t be used until child is 22 pounds

Make your next flight with your child as easy as possible with the Wayb Pico Portable Car Seat. With a compact design that folds up—so much so that it fits in most airplane overhead bins—this FAA-approved model goes wherever you do. Weighing just 8 pounds, this travel car seat is installed via LATCH connectors or using the car or airplane seat belt.

Unlike the other best travel car seats on our list, the Pico is a forward-facing option that’s designed for children 22 to 50 pounds and 30 to 45 inches tall. Wayb recommends it for ages 2 years old and up. While you can’t use it for a newborn, it’ll be your little one’s travel companion once they grow a bit.

The Pico is available in five colors, and an optional carry bag, vehicle seat protector, and cup holder are sold separately. If you have multiple children, you can snag a few of these and three can fit in a row in the backseat of most vehicles.

Nuna Pipa RX x Pipa Relx Base  »

Five-second installation

Can be used with or without the included base

Removable UPF 50+ canopy

GreenGuard Gold Certified and fire retardant-free materials

Connects with all Nuna strollers

Doesn’t fold

If installing a car seat isn’t something you’re looking forward to, make it easy on yourself with the Nuna Pipa RX. It comes with Pipa Relx Base, but you don’t need it in order to put it to use in a car or on an airplane. If you do decide to use it, however, the base features a stability leg that absorbs impact to prevent motion from transferring to your baby. Plus, installation takes just five seconds.

At 7.6 pounds (not including the canopy or infant insert), it’s one of the lightest options on our list. This travel car seat has a four-position recline, and you don’t have to reinstall it to change the position. It features an infant insert that can be removed when your little one grows. But no matter what age they are, you’ll want to take advantage of the removable, full-coverage UPF 50+ canopy.

This unit has the green light to be part of air travel, and you can feel good knowing that it’s GreenGuard Gold Certified and made with fire retardant-free materials.

Britax Emblem 3-Stage Convertible Car Seat  »

High-strength steel frame and SafeCell technology to absorb crash energy

Accommodates children up to 65 pounds

Aircraft approved

10-position harness and headrest adjust together

Machine-washable and dryer-friendly fabrics

On the heavier side

Any piece of baby gear you put your child in needs to be sturdy and durable. The Britax Emblem 3-Stage Convertible Car Seat was built to last. Its frame is made of high-strength steel, and it features SafeCell technology to absorb crash energy, so you can feel confident that your little one is protected. Its fabric is tough and can be tossed in the washing machine and dryer to refresh it after a spill or accident.

This best travel model is designed to grow with your child, as it accommodates them from 5 pounds all the way up to 65 pounds. As they get bigger, you can adjust the harness and headrest, which move together in 10 different positions.

The Emblem is on the heavier side at just under 20 pounds, but it’s still reasonable enough to bring with you in a ride-share or carry it on for aircraft use. Just utilize its installation features, including LATCH connectors and level indicators, to ensure that it’s correctly set up.

Graco Century Carry On 35 Lightweight Infant Car Seat  »

Only weighs 6.8 pounds

Four-position carry handle

Machine-washable seat pad and canopy

Doesn’t convert to front facing

Graco refers to its Century Carry On 35 Lightweight Infant Car Seat as “The Weightless Wonder,” and it’s clear why. This lightweight car seat only weighs 6.8 pounds. If you count the base, it only goes up to 10.4 pounds. It’s the lightest carrier on our list, so it’ll truly become a travel must-have when vacation is calling.

Approved to take on an airplane, the Graco Century has a carry handle with four adjustable positions, so both you and your baby will be comfortable. It comes with a base that can be installed via LATCH connectors. However, it can be used without one for even quicker installation with a vehicle or airplane seat belt. And if an in-flight spill dirties the seat pad or canopy, both are machine washable.

The Century is designed for babies up to 35 pounds. Even though it won’t go the long haul, it’s a budget-friendly option that does its job well while it can. Plus, it’s compatible with all Century strollers and car seat bases from Graco that can be purchased separately.

The Bottom Line

The market is far from short on car seat options, and that rings true for travel car seats, too. To choose the best one for your child, consider how often you plan to use it. If it’s a secondary car seat that you’re planning to only break out a couple times of year for vacation, then you may want to keep your budget low. But if you’re looking forward to road trips and airplane rides on the regular, better quality and durability may be more important. Once you see how much use you’ll get out of it, you can focus on what features are necessities in your book. Does it need to fold? Does its weight need to stay super low? But if you’re not totally sure what you need in a travel car seat, the Chicco KeyFit 35 ClearTex Infant Car Seat, our Best Overall pick, is FAA approved, weighs just 10 pounds, comes with a UPF 50+ canopy, and comes with a base but doesn’t need it in order to install.

Things To Consider When Buying Travel Car Seats

Safety Certification and Compliance

The good news is that if you’re buying a new travel car seat from a reputable retailer in the United States, you’re probably in good shape.

“All car seats sold in the U.S. must meet stringent safety regulations, following the requirements set by the NHTSA,” says Joe Colella, JPMA director of Child Passenger Safety and 2020 Child Passenger Safety Hall of Fame Inductee. “A car seat that meets these standards is required to be labeled with, ‘This child restraint system conforms to all applicable Federal motor vehicle safety standards.’”

Don’t forget that car seats also have expiration dates, and when they hit it, toss them, reminds Samora Coles, founder and executive director of The Alex House Project , an organization that supports low-income families and young mothers with their transition to parenthood. While this is one piece of baby gear you’re likely to want to buy new, if you’re using a secondhand model, it’s even more imperative that you check its expiration date and look up if any recalls or malfunctions have been reported.

Size and Weight Suitability

Most—but not all—travel car seats can be used right from birth, so keep in mind when you plan on using it and if your little one is big enough to be safely strapped in. Some options have one mode while others convert to various positions, including rear facing, forward facing, and booster to grow with your child. Each mode has its own weight and height limits, and those numbers vary depending on the brand and model. It’s important to read through and follow those instructions for safety.

“Car seats, when not used according to the manufacturer’s instructions, could be less likely to protect a child from injury,” says Colella. “Car seats are safety devices that are designed and tested to protect children when used as directed by the manufacturer.”

Many travel car seats have an adjustable headrest that you can raise as your child grows. If longevity is important to your buying decision, check to make sure it has this capability so you’re not stuck getting a new one in a year’s time.

Ease of Installation and Compatibility

The first time you put a typical car seat in your vehicle may have taken a while. That kind of time isn’t provided when you’re on the tarmac, so the best travel car seats need to be easy to install. It’s a smart idea to do a test run in a car so you can feel confident in its setup.

Even though many travel car seats come with a base, they’re typically not a must-use on the road. Some models just need a vehicle’s or airplane’s seat belt to safely strap in. Others also offer LATCH connectors that provide a super-secure installation.

“Most travel car seats are compatible with any vehicle, but parents want to research car seat company manuals and reviews from other parents,” says Coles. To assure parents that they did it correctly, some units have colored indicators that give the thumbs up when it’s ready to use or level indicators that confirm it’s not tilted. If you’re concerned about always setting it up and taking it out, look for a model that eases your worries.

Portability for Frequent Travel

Whether you’re hurrying to your gate or rushing to the taxi stand, the last thing you want is a bulky, heavy travel car seat weighing you down. Even if you don’t plan to carry it around while your baby is in it most of the time, you want the unit to be built for portability. That starts with looking at the car seat’s weight. The lowest on this list is 6.8 pounds, and it goes up quite a bit from there. It’s also helpful if the travel car seat folds down — not only so that it fits in the overhead bin on an airplane, but so it’s convenient to carry along with your weekender bag.

“When considering portability factors, parents should consider dual abilities in a travel car seat,” explains Coles. “Seats that can act as strollers can help parents limit necessary items they must carry while traveling.”

Don’t forget to check out the handle, too. Even if it’s lightweight, if the handle doesn’t boast an ergonomic design, parents can feel quite uncomfortable.

Convertibility as the Child Grows

Some travel car seats grow with your child, so they’ll go from rear facing to forward facing to even booster. Each of these stages have their own weight and height limits. However, things can get tricky depending on where you’re traveling to.

“Every U.S. state and territory has a law that defines how a child must be restrained in a vehicle and also requires car seat compliance with the aforementioned safety regulations. State laws vary significantly, and travelers must follow the law for the state in which they are traveling,” says Colella. “For example, 19 states and the District of Columbia require that children ride in rear-facing car seats until at least age 2, while other states use age 1 or do not specify a rear-facing age requirement. Most states also require the use of car booster seats, though the maximum age for those requirements varies from 5 to 10 years old.

How We Chose the Best Travel Car Seats

Nothing is more important than safety when we’re talking about baby gear. U.S. News 360 Reviews kept it at the top of mind when hunting down the best travel car seats, but we also considered price, weight of the carrier, weight and height limits, and installation. To ensure we had the must-know information, we consulted the director of Child Passenger Safety at JPMA and the founder and executive director of an organization that helps young mothers with their transition to parenthood. They provided insight on which key components to understand before landing on the travel car seat for your personal lifestyle. Before adding to cart, think about when and where you’ll use it and what features truly matter to you.

WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?

Caitlyn Fitzpatrick , the author of this piece, has been researching, testing, and reviewing products since 2017. This means she has years of experience honing in on what’s important when shopping for a product, including baby gear. Fitzpatrick is a mom herself and has done her own personal deep dive on what makes one car seat better than another. That’s why she concentrated on safety as the top priority when choosing the best travel car seats. Megan Wood , Senior Editor at U.S. News 360 Reviews, focuses on baby gear and recommends the Doona Car Seat + Stroller for traveling families.

“While the FAA does not require the use of car seats on airplanes for children, and those under the age of 2 are allowed to ride on their parents’ lap, this is not considered best practice,” says Colella. “Turbulence can happen with little or no warning, and appropriate car seats provide the safest way for children to travel on airplanes.”

Most travel car seats are certified to use on aircrafts, but be sure to check that it’s the case with your specific model. It can also make a difference which airline you fly and if you’re traveling domestically or internationally. Booster car seats and child restraint harnesses are generally not supposed to be used on an airplane. All of the recommendations on this list are approved for airplane use.

As far as adjustability, many models feature adjustable straps, height/headrest positions, and recline positions.

The best travel car seats are typically easy to install. After all, they’re expected to be moved between vehicles or on and off airplanes regularly. Some of these models come with a base, but don’t necessarily require it for the unit to be secured. Many travel car seats come with LATCH connectors. “This system is compatible with vehicles with anchors located at the lower and upper tether of their seats where the car seat can be secured,” explains Coles. “Since all vehicles must have seat belts, all car seats have a space to secure car seats using the seat belt.”

Two of the most important factors when shopping for the best travel car seat are installation and portability. You want it to be easy to secure on an airplane and in a ride-share, and simple to carry it with you wherever your adventures lead.

“Additionally, factors such as the age, weight, height, and overall condition of the seat should be considered as they can help determine the overall value of the car seat, especially for those with limited resources and busy lifestyles,” says Coles.

About Our Team

Caitlyn Fitzpatrick

Contributor

Senior Editor

U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.

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The 7 Best Travel Car Seats

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Verywell Family / Danie Drankwalter

Car seats are not optional for babies and kids who are riding in vehicles, which makes this already difficult but essential purchase all the more daunting for families who like to travel a lot. If you’re frequently switching cars, boarding airplanes, or getting into taxis, you need a car seat that is lightweight, easy to install and uninstall, comfortable for your child, and somewhat compact.

When shopping for a car seat, you'll want to decide if it's rear- or forward-facing . According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, rear-facing seats are the safest for all kids under 2 years old and most kids under 4 years old. For forward-facing seats, they recommend following the car seat's weight and length limits. Other important features to look for include a LATCH system, a five-point harness system, ease of cleaning, and more. We researched a variety of options from trusted brands with these features in mind. A physician from our Review Board also reviewed this article for medical accuracy and integrity surrounding travel car seats, safety features, and size and weight limitations.

Here are some of the best travel car seats available now.

• What to Look for

Why Trust Verywell Family?

Best overall, graco slimfit 3-in-1 car seat.

 Amazon

Convertible

Base is attached for easy traveling

Straps can't be removed to clean

We like this Graco option because it will take your baby from infancy into toddlerhood. It converts from a rear-facing car seat to a forward-facing car seat to a high-back booster seat. It has a slimmer frame than other similar models, making it more versatile if you’re changing vehicles often.

The seat uses the LATCH system, which makes installation a breeze. It also has a five-point harness (with the option to tuck away behind the child's back for a booster seat ) and an adjustable headrest to grow with your child. The rear-facing harness holds children weighing between 5 to 40 pounds, while the forward-facing harness holds children weighing between 22 and 65 pounds. When used as a booster seat, it can accommodate children weighing between 40 to 100 pounds. The seat itself measures ‎21.5 x 19.9 x 25.5 inches and weighs around 20 pounds. Reviewers note that it's easy to carry around, especially in airports. It is FAA certified as well.

Your child gets two cup holders with this seat, and they rotate away when not in use to create a slimmer profile for the chair. If there’s a spill you can easily clean it up because the seat cover is removable and machine washable.

Key Specs: Item Weight: 25 pounds | Weight Limits: 5-100 pounds | Height Limits: Up to 57 inches | Age Range: N/A | Convertible: Yes

Best Convertible

Evenflo tribute 5 convertible car seat.

Lightweight

Machine washable seat pads

Thin padding

Continuous loop harness causes twisting

Available in several colors, this car seat can be either rear or forward-facing and can safely transport newborn babies . It has a five-point harness with four shoulder strap positions to accommodate growing kids.

The seat is also very lightweight, making it great for transporting during travel. The cup holder is removable, the seat pads are machine washable, and the seat is designed with a slim frame so that you can safely install three of them across most backseats.

Key Specs: Item Weight: 9.29 pounds | Weight Limits: 5-40 pounds | Height Limits: 19 to 40 inches | Age Range: N/A | Convertible: Yes

Best for Toddlers

Diono radian 3r 3-in-1 convertible car seat.

Slim, three across frame

Learning curve for installation

While this seat is safe for babies as small as 5 pounds, it’s also a great option for a toddler as it can be installed both rear-facing and forward-facing with a five-point harness. Once they've grown out of those positions, your kiddo can sit in the seat as a highback booster.

It has a slim design that doesn’t have a lot of bells and whistles but is great for traveling in compact cars. The cover comes in several color options and is removable and machine washable.

Key Specs: Item Weight: 26 pounds | Weight Limits: 5-120 pounds | Height Limits: Up to 57 inches | Age Range: N/A | Convertible: Yes

Best Budget

Cosco scenera next convertible car seat.

Aircraft certified

Low weight maximum

Super lightweight, this Cosco convertible car seat can accommodate your little one in a rear or forward-facing position. As your tot grows, you can adjust the straps using the five different height positions and three buckle locations. If you have a family vacay on your wishlist, this convertible car seat is the perfect companion as it is certified for use on an aircraft. The removable cover is available in several cute designs and can be tossed in the wash.

Key Specs: Item Weight: 10.40 pounds | Weight Limits: 5-40 pounds | Height Limits: 19 to 43 inches | Age Range: N/A | Convertible: Yes

Best with Stroller

Doona car seat and stroller.

All-in-one design

Quick installation

Not ideal for tall parents

Seat isn't convertible

For easy travel with an infant, this is about as simple and compact as it gets. This infant car seat easily snaps in and out of a car seat base and can also convert into a stroller. When it’s set up as a stroller, the infant seat carrying handle extends out to make it easy to push and the car seat base can be quickly installed and removed using the LATCH attachment. This travel car seat is especially great for families who are frequently in and out of taxis. 

Key Specs: Item Weight: 16 pound seat/stroller, 17 pound base | Weight Limits: 4-35 pounds | Height Limits: Up to 32 inches | Age Range: Infant | Convertible: No

Best Forward Facing

Wayb pico travel car seat.

Under 10 pounds

Folds down for overhead storage

Not suitable for kids under 2 years old

Can be difficult to install

It’s hard to believe a car seat could be so small and easy to use, but this one weighs under 10 pounds and uses the LATCH system for quick and simple installation and removal. Kids as young as 2 years old (and minimum of 22 pounds) can use the forward-facing seat which features a five-point harness and has a slim design suitable for air travel or three-across car travel.

When it’s not in use, this seat folds down for easy carrying and can fit into most airplanes’ overhead compartments. 

Key Specs: Item Weight: 9.7 pounds | Weight Limits: 22-50 pounds | Height Limits: 30 to 45 inches | Age Range: 2 years | Convertible: No

Best Highback Booster

Evenflo chase plus booster.

Plane-friendly

Adjustable buckles

Headrest is not adjustable

This lightweight seat can be used as a front-facing car seat with a five-point harness or a highback booster seat. When it’s being used as a booster, it features a seatbelt guide to ensure your child is safely buckled in. With an easy-to-install LATCH system, the seat features two adjustable buckles that secure between your child's legs to allow them to sit comfortably as they grow.

Your kiddo will have a place to store their snacks and sippy cups with the two handy integrated cup holders. For the adventurous family, this car seat is FAA Inversion compliant so you can bring it with you on a plane.

Key Specs: Item Weight: 11 pounds | Weight Limits: 22-110 pounds | Height Limits: 28 to 57 inches | Age Range: Booster 4 years+ | Convertible: Yes

Final Verdict

There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing the best travel car seat for your family, but in general, we think the Graco SlimFit 3-in-1 Car Seat ( view at Amazon ) is the best because of its convertibility, ease of use, and size.

What to Look for When Buying a Travel Car Seat

Safety is always the most important thing to look for when purchasing a car seat. Make sure you’re familiar with the American Academy of Pediatrics’ car seat guidelines to ensure you’re getting a seat that meets all safety requirements.  

Size and Weight

Since you will be using this car seat while traveling, be mindful of size to ensure it will easily fit into a variety of car seats and that it’s not too heavy to carry through an airport or city if necessary. If you have plans on taking the car seat on a flight, check with your airline before you make a purchase to ensure you're choosing one that is compliant with their guidelines. While most car seat brands are designed to comply with the Federal Aviation Administration , it is important that you double-check with your specific airline.

Ease of Installation & Removal

Travel for your family could mean hopping on a plane or jumping in and out of taxis. Depending on your travel needs, you'll want to prioritize finding a seat that installs and removes easily. To avoid the frustration of having to go through a complicated installation process over and over again, you can opt for a seat that doesn't need a base and utilizes a LATCH system.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re traveling by plane, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children under 40 pounds sit in their own seat with an FAA-approved car seat. If your child is over 40 pounds, most airlines will allow you to check your child’s car seat as luggage free of charge. If you’re going on a road trip , install the seat into your car as you would any other time.

Stop frequently to let your kids stretch their legs and get some energy out, make sure you have plenty of snacks and entertainment, and ensure the car seat is comfortable enough for your child to stay in their seat when the car is moving.  

Most car seat manufacturers, health care professionals, and safety experts advise babies spend no longer than two hours in their car seat at a time (known as the two-hour rule) because the curve of those seats can create problems with a baby’s developing spine. Additionally, while the American Academy of Pediatrics notes that the safest place for a baby in a vehicle is in a car seat, they don’t recommend babies sleep in them for extended periods of time.  The exception to this rule is if you are on a long flight, which in this case the safest place for your baby is buckled up in their car seat.

Ashley Ziegler is a full-time parenting writer, mom to a 1 and a 4-year-old, and she has personal experience in researching and using infant carriers, rear-facing, and forward-facing car seats. Key considerations she focused on when selecting these products include personal experience, safety features, longevity, and user reviews.

Car seats: information for families . HealthyChildren.org.

Durbin DR, Hoffman BD, COUNCIL ON INJURY, VIOLENCE, AND POISON PREVENTION, et al. Child passenger safety .  Pediatrics . 2018;142(5):e20182460. doi:10.1542/peds.2018-2460

Flying with Children .

Travel safety tips . HealthyChildren.org.

Wyckoff AS. Large study sheds light on infant deaths in sitting devices . AAP News.

The best travel insurance policies and providers

It's easy to dismiss the value of travel insurance until you need it.

Many travelers have strong opinions about whether you should buy travel insurance . However, the purpose of this post isn't to determine whether it's worth investing in. Instead, it compares some of the top travel insurance providers and policies so you can determine which travel insurance option is best for you.

Of course, as the coronavirus remains an ongoing concern, it's important to understand whether travel insurance covers pandemics. Some policies will cover you if you're diagnosed with COVID-19 and have proof of illness from a doctor. Others will take coverage a step further, covering additional types of pandemic-related expenses and cancellations.

Know, though, that every policy will have exclusions and restrictions that may limit coverage. For example, fear of travel is generally not a covered reason for invoking trip cancellation or interruption coverage, while specific stipulations may apply to elevated travel warnings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Interested in travel insurance? Visit InsureMyTrip.com to shop for plans that may fit your travel needs.

So, before buying a specific policy, you must understand the full terms and any special notices the insurer has about COVID-19. You may even want to buy the optional cancel for any reason add-on that's available for some comprehensive policies. While you'll pay more for that protection, it allows you to cancel your trip for any reason and still get some of your costs back. Note that this benefit is time-sensitive and has other eligibility requirements, so not all travelers will qualify.

In this guide, we'll review several policies from top travel insurance providers so you have a better understanding of your options before picking the policy and provider that best address your wants and needs.

The best travel insurance providers

To put together this list of the best travel insurance providers, a number of details were considered: favorable ratings from TPG Lounge members, the availability of details about policies and the claims process online, positive online ratings and the ability to purchase policies in most U.S. states. You can also search for options from these (and other) providers through an insurance comparison site like InsureMyTrip .

When comparing insurance providers, I priced out a single-trip policy for each provider for a $2,000, one-week vacation to Istanbul . I used my actual age and state of residence when obtaining quotes. As a result, you may see a different price — or even additional policies due to regulations for travel insurance varying from state to state — when getting a quote.

AIG Travel Guard

AIG Travel Guard receives many positive reviews from readers in the TPG Lounge who have filed claims with the company. AIG offers three plans online, which you can compare side by side, and the ability to examine sample policies. Here are three plans for my sample trip to Turkey.

AIG Travel Guard also offers an annual travel plan. This plan is priced at $259 per year for one Florida resident.

Additionally, AIG Travel Guard offers several other policies, including a single-trip policy without trip cancellation protection . See AIG Travel Guard's COVID-19 notification and COVID-19 advisory for current details regarding COVID-19 coverage.

Preexisting conditions

Typically, AIG Travel Guard wouldn't cover you for any loss or expense due to a preexisting medical condition that existed within 180 days of the coverage effective date. However, AIG Travel Guard may waive the preexisting medical condition exclusion on some plans if you meet the following conditions:

• You purchase the plan within 15 days of your initial trip payment.
• The amount of coverage you purchase equals all trip costs at the time of purchase. You must update your coverage to insure the costs of any subsequent arrangements that you add to your trip within 15 days of paying the travel supplier for these additional arrangements.
• You must be medically able to travel when you purchase your plan.

Standout features

• The Deluxe and Preferred plans allow you to purchase an upgrade that lets you cancel your trip for any reason. However, reimbursement under this coverage will not exceed 50% or 75% of your covered trip cost.
• You can include one child (age 17 and younger) with each paying adult for no additional cost on most single-trip plans.
• Other optional upgrades, including an adventure sports bundle, a baggage bundle, an inconvenience bundle, a pet bundle, a security bundle and a wedding bundle, are available on some policies. So, an AIG Travel Guard plan may be a good choice if you know you want extra coverage in specific areas.

Purchase your policy here: AIG Travel Guard .

Allianz Travel Insurance

Allianz is one of the most highly regarded providers in the TPG Lounge, and many readers found the claim process reasonable. Allianz offers many plans, including the following single-trip plans for my sample trip to Turkey.

If you travel frequently, it may make sense to purchase an annual multi-trip policy. For this plan, all of the maximum coverage amounts in the table below are per trip (except for the trip cancellation and trip interruption amounts, which are an aggregate limit per policy). Trips typically must last no more than 45 days, although some plans may cover trips of up to 90 days.

See Allianz's coverage alert for current information on COVID-19 coverage.

Most Allianz travel insurance plans may cover preexisting medical conditions if you meet particular requirements. For the OneTrip Premier, Prime and Basic plans, the requirements are as follows:

• You purchased the policy within 14 days of the date of the first trip payment or deposit.
• You were a U.S. resident when you purchased the policy.
• You were medically able to travel when you purchased the policy.
• On the policy purchase date, you insured the total, nonrefundable cost of your trip (including arrangements that will become nonrefundable or subject to cancellation penalties before your departure date). If you incur additional nonrefundable trip expenses after purchasing this policy, you must insure them within 14 days of their purchase.
• Allianz offers reasonably priced annual policies for independent travelers and families who take multiple trips lasting up to 45 days (or 90 days for select plans) per year.
• Some Allianz plans provide the option of receiving a flat reimbursement amount without receipts for trip delay and baggage delay claims. Of course, you can also submit receipts to get up to the maximum refund.
• For emergency transportation coverage, you or someone on your behalf must contact Allianz, and Allianz must then make all transportation arrangements in advance. However, most Allianz policies provide an option if you cannot contact the company: Allianz will pay up to what it would have paid if it had made the arrangements.

Purchase your policy here: Allianz Travel Insurance .

American Express Travel Insurance

American Express Travel Insurance offers four different package plans and a build-your-own coverage option. You don't have to be an American Express cardholder to purchase this insurance. Here are the four package options for my sample weeklong trip to Turkey. Unlike some other providers, Amex won't ask for your travel destination on the initial quote (but will when you purchase the plan).

Amex's build-your-own coverage plan is unique because you can purchase just the coverage you need. For most types of protection, you can even select the coverage amount that works best for you.

The prices for the packages and the build-your-own plan don't increase for longer trips — as long as the trip cost remains constant. However, the emergency medical and dental benefit is only available for your first 60 days of travel.

Typically, Amex won't cover any loss you incur because of a preexisting medical condition that existed within 90 days of the coverage effective date. However, Amex may waive its preexisting-condition exclusion if you meet both of the following requirements:

• You must be medically able to travel at the time you pay the policy premium.
• You pay the policy premium within 14 days of making the first covered trip deposit.
• Amex's build-your-own coverage option allows you to only purchase — and pay for — the coverage you need.
• Coverage on long trips doesn't cost more than coverage for short trips, making this policy ideal for extended getaways. However, the emergency medical and dental benefit only covers your first 60 days of travel.
• American Express Travel Insurance can protect travel expenses you purchase with Amex Membership Rewards points in the Pay with Points program (as well as travel expenses bought with cash, debit or credit). However, travel expenses bought with other types of points and miles aren't covered.

Purchase your policy here: American Express Travel Insurance .

GeoBlue is different from most other providers described in this piece because it only provides medical coverage while you're traveling internationally and does not offer benefits to protect the cost of your trip. There are many different policies. Some require you to have primary health insurance in the U.S. (although it doesn't need to be provided by Blue Cross Blue Shield), but all of them only offer coverage while traveling outside the U.S.

Two single-trip plans are available if you're traveling for six months or less. The Voyager Choice policy provides coverage (including medical services and medical evacuation for a sudden recurrence of a preexisting condition) for trips outside the U.S. to travelers who are 95 or younger and already have a U.S. health insurance policy.

The Voyager Essential policy provides coverage (including medical evacuation for a sudden recurrence of a preexisting condition) for trips outside the U.S. to travelers who are 95 or younger, regardless of whether they have primary health insurance.

In addition to these options, two multi-trip plans cover trips of up to 70 days each for one year. Both policies provide coverage (including medical services and medical evacuation for preexisting conditions) to travelers with primary health insurance.

Be sure to check out GeoBlue's COVID-19 notices before buying a plan.

Most GeoBlue policies explicitly cover sudden recurrences of preexisting conditions for medical services and medical evacuation.

• GeoBlue can be an excellent option if you're mainly concerned about the medical side of travel insurance.
• GeoBlue provides single-trip, multi-trip and long-term medical travel insurance policies for many different types of travel.

Purchase your policy here: GeoBlue .

IMG offers various travel medical insurance policies for travelers, as well as comprehensive travel insurance policies. For a single trip of 90 days or less, there are five policy types available for vacation or holiday travelers. Although you must enter your gender, males and females received the same quote for my one-week search.

You can purchase an annual multi-trip travel medical insurance plan. Some only cover trips lasting up to 30 or 45 days, but others provide coverage for longer trips.

See IMG's page on COVID-19 for additional policy information as it relates to coronavirus-related claims.

Most plans may cover preexisting conditions under set parameters or up to specific amounts. For example, the iTravelInsured Travel LX travel insurance plan shown above may cover preexisting conditions if you purchase the insurance within 24 hours of making the final payment for your trip.

For the travel medical insurance plans shown above, preexisting conditions are covered for travelers younger than 70. However, coverage is capped based on your age and whether you have a primary health insurance policy.

• Some annual multi-trip plans are modestly priced.
• iTravelInsured Travel LX may offer optional cancel for any reason and interruption for any reason coverage, if eligible.

Purchase your policy here: IMG .

Travelex Insurance

Travelex offers three single-trip plans: Travel Basic, Travel Select and Travel America. However, only the Travel Basic and Travel Select plans would be applicable for my trip to Turkey.

See Travelex's COVID-19 coverage statement for coronavirus-specific information.

Typically, Travelex won't cover losses incurred because of a preexisting medical condition that existed within 60 days of the coverage effective date. However, the Travel Select plan may offer a preexisting condition exclusion waiver. To be eligible for this waiver, the insured traveler must meet all the following conditions:

• You purchase the plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment.
• The amount of coverage purchased equals all prepaid, nonrefundable payments or deposits applicable to the trip at the time of purchase. Additionally, you must insure the costs of any subsequent arrangements added to the same trip within 15 days of payment or deposit.
• All insured individuals are medically able to travel when they pay the plan cost.
• The trip cost does not exceed the maximum trip cost limit under trip cancellation as shown in the schedule per person (only applicable to trip cancellation, interruption and delay).
• Travelex's Travel Select policy can cover trips lasting up to 364 days, which is longer than many single-trip policies.
• Neither Travelex policy requires receipts for trip and baggage delay expenses less than $25.
• For emergency evacuation coverage, you or someone on your behalf must contact Travelex and have Travelex make all transportation arrangements in advance. However, both Travelex policies provide an option if you cannot contact Travelex: Travelex will pay up to what it would have paid if it had made the arrangements.

Purchase your policy here: Travelex Insurance .

Seven Corners

Seven Corners offers a wide variety of policies. Here are the policies that are most applicable to travelers on a single international trip.

Seven Corners also offers many other types of travel insurance, including an annual multi-trip plan. You can choose coverage for trips of up to 30, 45 or 60 days when purchasing an annual multi-trip plan.

See Seven Corner's page on COVID-19 for additional policy information as it relates to coronavirus-related claims.

Typically, Seven Corners won't cover losses incurred because of a preexisting medical condition. However, the RoundTrip Choice plan offers a preexisting condition exclusion waiver. To be eligible for this waiver, you must meet all of the following conditions:

• You buy this plan within 20 days of making your initial trip payment or deposit.
• You or your travel companion are medically able and not disabled from travel when you pay for this plan or upgrade your plan.
• You update the coverage to include the additional cost of subsequent travel arrangements within 15 days of paying your travel supplier for them.
• Seven Corners offers the ability to purchase optional sports and golf equipment coverage. If purchased, this extra insurance will reimburse you for the cost of renting sports or golf equipment if yours is lost, stolen, damaged or delayed by a common carrier for six or more hours. However, Seven Corners must authorize the expenses in advance.
• You can add cancel for any reason coverage or trip interruption for any reason coverage to RoundTrip plans. Although some other providers offer cancel for any reason coverage, trip interruption for any reason coverage is less common.
• Seven Corners' RoundTrip Choice policy offers a political or security evacuation benefit that will transport you to the nearest safe place or your residence under specific conditions. You can also add optional event ticket registration fee protection to the RoundTrip Choice policy.

Purchase your policy here: Seven Corners .

World Nomads

World Nomads is popular with younger, active travelers because of its flexibility and adventure-activities coverage on the Explorer plan. Unlike many policies offered by other providers, you don't need to estimate prepaid costs when purchasing the insurance to have access to trip interruption and cancellation insurance.

World Nomads offers two single-trip plans.

World Nomads has a page dedicated to coronavirus coverage , so be sure to view it before buying a policy.

World Nomads won't cover losses incurred because of a preexisting medical condition (except emergency evacuation and repatriation of remains) that existed within 90 days of the coverage effective date. Unlike many other providers, World Nomads doesn't offer a waiver.

• World Nomads' policies cover more adventure sports than most providers, so activities such as bungee jumping are included. The Explorer policy covers almost any adventure sport, including skydiving, stunt flying and caving. So, if you partake in adventure sports while traveling, the Explorer policy may be a good fit.
• World Nomads' policies provide nonmedical evacuation coverage for transportation expenses if there is civil or political unrest in the country you are visiting. The coverage may also transport you home if there is an eligible natural disaster or a government expels you.

Purchase your policy here: World Nomads .

Other options for buying travel insurance

This guide details the policies of eight providers with the information available at the time of publication. There are many options when it comes to travel insurance, though. To compare different policies quickly, you can use a travel insurance aggregator like InsureMyTrip to search. Just note that these search engines won't show every policy and every provider, and you should still research the provided policies to ensure the coverage fits your trip and needs.

You can also purchase a plan through various membership associations, such as USAA, AAA or Costco. Typically, these organizations partner with a specific provider, so if you are a member of any of these associations, you may want to compare the policies offered through the organization with other policies to get the best coverage for your trip.

Related: Should you get travel insurance if you have credit card protection?

Is travel insurance worth getting?

Whether you should purchase travel insurance is a personal decision. Suppose you use a credit card that provides travel insurance for most of your expenses and have medical insurance that provides adequate coverage abroad. In that case, you may be covered enough on most trips to forgo purchasing travel insurance.

However, suppose your medical insurance won't cover you at your destination and you can't comfortably cover a sizable medical evacuation bill or last-minute flight home . In that case, you should consider purchasing travel insurance. If you travel frequently, buying an annual multi-trip policy may be worth it.

What is the best COVID-19 travel insurance?

There are various aspects to keep in mind in the age of COVID-19. Consider booking travel plans that are fully refundable or have modest change or cancellation fees so you don't need to worry about whether your policy will cover trip cancellation. This is important since many standard comprehensive insurance policies won't reimburse your insured expenses in the event of cancellation if it's related to the fear of traveling due to COVID-19.

However, if you book a nonrefundable trip and want to maintain the ability to get reimbursed (up to 75% of your insured costs) if you choose to cancel, you should consider buying a comprehensive travel insurance policy and then adding optional cancel for any reason protection. Just note that this benefit is time-sensitive and has eligibility requirements, so not all travelers will qualify.

Providers will often require CFAR purchasers insure the entire dollar amount of their travels to receive the coverage. Also, many CFAR policies mandate that you must cancel your plans and notify all travel suppliers at least 48 hours before your scheduled departure.

Likewise, if your primary health insurance won't cover you while on your trip, it's essential to consider whether medical expenses related to COVID-19 treatment are covered. You may also want to consider a MedJet medical transport membership if your trip is to a covered destination for coronavirus-related evacuation.

Ultimately, the best pandemic travel insurance policy will depend on your trip details, travel concerns and your willingness to self-insure. Just be sure to thoroughly read and understand any terms or exclusions before purchasing.

What are the different types of travel insurance?

Whether you purchase a comprehensive travel insurance policy or rely on the protections offered by select credit cards, you may have access to the following types of coverage:

• Baggage delay protection may reimburse for essential items and clothing when a common carrier (such as an airline) fails to deliver your checked bag within a set time of your arrival at a destination. Typically, you may be reimbursed up to a particular amount per incident or per day.
• Lost/damaged baggage protection may provide reimbursement to replace lost or damaged luggage and items inside that luggage. However, valuables and electronics usually have a relatively low maximum benefit.
• Trip delay reimbursement may provide reimbursement for necessary items, food, lodging and sometimes transportation when you're delayed for a substantial time while traveling on a common carrier such as an airline. This insurance may be beneficial if weather issues (or other covered reasons for which the airline usually won't provide compensation) delay you.
• Trip cancellation and interruption protection may provide reimbursement if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip for a covered reason, such as a death in your family or jury duty.
• Medical evacuation insurance can arrange and pay for medical evacuation if deemed necessary by the insurance provider and a medical professional. This coverage can be particularly valuable if you're traveling to a region with subpar medical facilities.
• Travel accident insurance may provide a payment to you or your beneficiary in the case of your death or dismemberment.
• Emergency medical insurance may provide payment or reimburse you if you must seek medical care while traveling. Some plans only cover emergency medical care, but some also cover other types of medical care. You may need to pay a deductible or copay.
• Rental car coverage may provide a collision damage waiver when renting a car. This waiver may reimburse for collision damage or theft up to a set amount. Some policies also cover loss-of-use charges assessed by the rental company and towing charges to take the vehicle to the nearest qualified repair facility. You generally need to decline the rental company's collision damage waiver or similar provision to be covered.

Should I buy travel health insurance?

If you purchase travel with credit cards that provide various trip protections, you may not see much need for additional travel insurance. However, you may still wonder whether you should buy travel medical insurance.

If your primary health insurance covers you on your trip, you may not need travel health insurance. Your domestic policy may not cover you outside the U.S., though, so it's worth calling the number on your health insurance card if you have coverage questions. If your primary health insurance wouldn't cover you, it's likely worth purchasing travel medical insurance. After all, as you can see above, travel medical insurance is often very modestly priced.

How much does travel insurance cost?

Travel insurance costs depend on various factors, including the provider, the type of coverage, your trip cost, your destination, your age, your residency and how many travelers you want to insure. That said, a standard travel insurance plan will generally set you back somewhere between 4% and 10% of your total trip cost. However, this can get lower for more basic protections or become even higher if you include add-ons like cancel for any reason protection.

The best way to determine how much travel insurance will cost is to price out your trip with a few providers discussed in the guide. Or, visit an insurance aggregator like InsureMyTrip to quickly compare options across multiple providers.

When and how to get travel insurance

For the most robust selection of available travel insurance benefits — including time-sensitive add-ons like CFAR protection and waivers of preexisting conditions for eligible travelers — you should ideally purchase travel insurance on the same day you make your first payment toward your trip.

However, many plans may still offer a preexisting conditions waiver for those who qualify if you buy your travel insurance within 14 to 21 days of your first trip expense or deposit (this time frame may vary by provider). If you don't need a preexisting conditions waiver or aren't interested in CFAR coverage, you can purchase travel insurance once your departure date nears.

You must purchase coverage before it's needed. Some travel medical plans are available for purchase after you have departed, but comprehensive plans that include medical coverage must be purchased before departing.

Additionally, you can't buy any medical coverage once you require medical attention. The same applies to all travel insurance coverage. Once you recognize the need, it's too late to protect your trip.

Once you've shopped around and decided upon the best travel insurance plan for your trip, you should be able to complete your purchase online. You'll usually be able to download your insurance card and the complete policy shortly after the transaction is complete.

Related: 7 times your credit card's travel insurance might not cover you

Bottom line

Not all travel insurance policies and providers are equal. Before buying a plan, read and understand the policy documents. By doing so, you can choose a plan that's appropriate for you and your trip — including the features that matter most to you.

For example, if you plan to go skiing or rock climbing, make sure the policy you buy doesn't contain exclusions for these activities. Likewise, if you're making two back-to-back trips during which you'll be returning home for a short time in between, be sure the plan doesn't terminate coverage at the end of your first trip.

If you're looking to cover a sudden recurrence of a preexisting condition, select a policy with a preexisting condition waiver and fulfill the requirements for the waiver. After all, buying insurance won't help if your policy doesn't cover your losses.

Disclaimer : This information is provided by IMT Services, LLC ( InsureMyTrip.com ), a licensed insurance producer (NPN: 5119217) and a member of the Tokio Marine HCC group of companies. IMT's services are only available in states where it is licensed to do business and the products provided through InsureMyTrip.com may not be available in all states. All insurance products are governed by the terms in the applicable insurance policy, and all related decisions (such as approval for coverage, premiums, commissions and fees) and policy obligations are the sole responsibility of the underwriting insurer. The information on this site does not create or modify any insurance policy terms in any way. For more information, please visit www.insuremytrip.com .

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Table of Contents

What travel insurance covers

How much does travel insurance cost, types of travel insurance, how to get travel insurance, what to look for in travel insurance, best travel insurance comparison sites, which insurance company is best for travel insurance, when to skip travel insurance, travel insurance, recapped.

Travel insurance can cover medical expenses, emergencies, trip interruptions, baggage, rental cars and more.

Cost is affected by trip length, pre-existing medical conditions, depth of coverage, your age and add-ons.

You can get it through credit cards or third-party companies, & can shop on travel insurance comparison sites.

Before buying, evaluate risks, know existing coverage, obtain quotes online and review policy details warily.

Skip it if you buy flexible airfare and hotels, already have coverage or only book refundable activities.

Booking travel always carries some degree of uncertainty. Travel insurance provides a safety net so you can step out with confidence. You may not need travel insurance for inexpensive trips, but it can provide a sense of security when you prepay for pricey reservations, a big international trip or travel during cold and flu season, which can be unpredictable.

According to insurance comparison site Squaremouth, travelers in 2023 spent an average of $403 for comprehensive coverage, compared to $96 for medical-only policies. Comprehensive plans typically cost between 5% and 10% of the insured trip cost.

Since that price tag is no small amount, it helps to know how to shop smart for travel insurance. Here's how to find the right travel insurance plan for you and your next adventure.

Depending on the type of coverage you’re looking for, the chart below will help you determine what to look for when selecting a policy:

Depending on the policy, travel insurance reimburses you or offers services when something goes awry. There’s even coverage for the worst-case scenario: if you die in an accident while traveling. Accidental death coverage pays your beneficiary a lump sum in that case.

Before you buy, take a little time to get familiar with different types of travel insurance products, how it’s priced, and what it covers and excludes. If you’re traveling during these uncertain times, you’ll want to make sure that the policy you select covers coronavirus-related emergencies. Usually, the more thorough the coverage, the more it will cost.

Travel insurance costs vary depending on:

Length and cost of the trip: The longer and more expensive the trip, the higher the policy cost.

Cost of local health care: High health-care costs in your destination can drive up the price of trip insurance.

Medical conditions you want covered: Conditions you already have will increase the cost of travel insurance coverage.

Amount and breadth of coverage: The more risks a policy covers, the more it will cost.

Your age: Generally the older you are, the higher the price.

Any optional supplement you add to your policy : Cancel For Any Reason , Interrupt For Any Reason and more.

Keep these factors in mind when considering different travel insurance options.

You’ll find a wide selection of travel protection plans when you shop for a policy.

Typically, travel insurance is sold as a package, known as a comprehensive plan, which includes a variety of coverage.

Here are seven of the most common types of travel insurance:

Travel medical insurance

These plans provide health insurance while you’re away from home. Although in some ways these policies work like traditional health plans, generally you cannot use travel health insurance for routine medical events. For example, a routine medical checkup is usually not covered. In addition, these policies often include limitations on coverage and exclusions for pre-existing conditions.

Although most travel insurance plans cover many recreational activities, such as skiing and horseback riding, they often exclude adventure sports, such as skydiving or parasailing, or competition in organized sporting events. You may need to buy a special travel policy designed for adventure or competitive sports.

International travel insurance

Most likely, your U.S.-based medical insurance will not work while you’re traveling internationally, and Medicare does not provide any coverage once you leave the United States outside of a few very specific exemptions. If you plan on traveling abroad, purchasing travel medical insurance could make a lot of sense.

» Learn more: Travel medical insurance: Emergency coverage while you travel internationally

Trip cancellation, interruption and delay

Trip cancellation coverage reimburses you for prepaid, nonrefundable expenses if the tour operator goes out of business or you have to cancel the trip for one of the covered reasons outlined in the policy, such as:

Your own illness.

The illness or death of a family member who’s not traveling with you.

Natural disasters.

Trip interruption insurance covers the nonrefundable cost of the unused portion of the trip if it is interrupted due to a reason outlined in the policy.

Trip delay coverage reimburses you for expenses such as lodging and meals if you’re delayed during a trip (e.g., your flight gets canceled due to weather ).

Many package policies cover all three. These policies are different from the cancellation waivers that cruise lines and tour operators offer, the Insurance Information Institute says. Waivers are cheap, ranging from $40 to $60, and often include restrictions. For example, according to the institute, waivers might not refund your money if you cancel immediately before departure. Waivers are technically not insurance policies.

Some companies offer additional layers of coverage at extra cost. “Cancel For Any Reason” coverage will reimburse a large part of the trip cost, no matter why you back out. And some companies let you pay extra to cover pre-existing conditions if you cancel for medical reasons.

Some insurers and comparison sites let you customize a policy by choosing types of coverage a la carte. For example, TravelInsurance.com is a comparison site that provides quotes from different providers.

Baggage and personal belongings

How does lost luggage insurance work? This coverage reimburses you for baggage and personal belongings that are lost, stolen or damaged during the trip. Some plans also reimburse you for extra expenses if you experience a baggage delay for more than a certain period, such as 12 hours.

Your renters or homeowners insurance may cover personal belongings while you are traveling. It’s best to review your homeowners insurance policy to determine the level of coverage it provides so you do not end up paying for a benefit you already have.

» Learn more: Baggage insurance explained

Emergency medical assistance, evacuation and repatriation

This coverage pays medical expenses if you get sick or injured on a trip . Medical evacuation coverage pays for transporting you to the nearest hospital, and medical repatriation pays for flying you to your home country.

» Learn more: Can I get travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions?

24-hour assistance

This service is included with many package plans. The insurer provides a 24-hour hotline that you can call when you need help, such as booking a flight after a missed connection, finding lost luggage, or locating a doctor or lawyer.

Generally, travel insurance companies do not cover sports or any activity that can be deemed risky. If you’re thinking of incorporating adventurous activities into your vacation, choose a plan that includes adventure sports coverage.

Most travel insurers cover a wide array of services, but the specific options vary. Some plans include concierge services, providing help with restaurant referrals, tee time reservations and more. Many services also offer information before the trip, such as required vaccinations. The only way to know what’s included is to read the policy.

» Learn more: Should you insure your cruise?

Accidental death and dismemberment insurance

This coverage pays a lump sum to your beneficiary, such as a family member, if you die in an accident while on the trip. Accidental death and dismemberment insurance policies also pay a portion of the sum to you if you lose a hand, foot, limb, eyesight, speech or hearing. Some plans apply only to accidental death in a plane.

This coverage may be duplicative if you already have sufficient life insurance, which pays out whether you die in an accident or from an illness. You may also already have accidental death and dismemberment insurance through work, so it's best to check your policies to ensure you’re not overpaying.

» Learn more: NerdWallet's guide to life insurance

Rental car coverage

Rental car insurance pays for repairing your rental car if it’s damaged in a wreck, by vandals or in a natural disaster. The coverage doesn't include liability insurance, which pays for damage to other vehicles or for the medical treatment of others if you cause an accident and are held responsible.

Ask your car insurance company whether your policy will cover you when renting cars on the trip. U.S. car insurance policies generally don’t cover you when driving in other countries, except Canada.

Car insurance requirements are complex because they vary among countries. You can usually purchase liability insurance from the rental car company. Learn about car insurance requirements by searching for auto insurance by country on the U.S. Embassy website .

» Learn more: Best credit cards for rental car coverage

A note about single vs. long-term policies

Single trip insurance plans are a great option for those going on a single trip for a specific length of time (e.g., a two-week vacation) and then returning home. The price of the policy is usually determined by the cost of the trip.

Long-term travel policies cover you for multiple trips, but there are limitations to how long you can be away from home, if you can return home during your travels and how many trips you can take. In addition, trip cancellation and interruption coverage is either not offered or capped at a dollar amount that can be significantly below the total cost of all the trips taken during the covered period.

Long-term travel insurance plans — often called 'multi-trip' or 'annual travel insurance' — are a suitable option for those who travel often and are satisfied with the amount of trip cancellation coverage for all the trips they take over the duration of the policy.

» Learn more: How annual (multi-trip) travel insurance works

Below, we include how to obtain travel insurance, along with the pros and cons of each option.

Some credit cards offer trip cancellation and rental car insurance if you use the card to book the trip or car.

When you book a trip with your credit card, depending on the card you use, you may already receive trip cancellation and interruption coverage.

» Learn more: 10 credit cards that provide travel insurance

Here are a handful of credit cards with travel insurance benefits.

on Chase's website

on American Express' website

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per ticket for delays more than 12 hours.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $40,000 per 12-month period.

• Trip interruption: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $40,000 per 12-month period.

• Baggage delay: Up to $100 per day for five days.

• Lost luggage: Up to $3,000 per passenger.

• Travel accident: Up to $500,000.

• Rental car insurance: Up to $75,000.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per ticket for delays more than 6 hours.

• Travel accident: Up to $1 million.

• Rental car insurance: Up to the actual cash value of the car.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per trip for delays more than 6 hours.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $10,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $20,000 per 12-month period.

• Trip interruption: Up to $10,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $20,000 per 12-month period.

Terms apply.

Pros: Coverage is free.

Cons: You can’t customize the insurance to meet your needs. Most credit cards offer secondary car rental insurance, which pays for the costs not covered by your regular car insurance plan.

Travel agents and travel reservation sites

You can buy travel insurance when you book your flight, hotel and car rental.

Pros: Buying is as quick and easy as clicking “yes” when you book reservations. Coverage is inexpensive.

Cons: You can’t customize the coverage.

» Learn more: Airline travel insurance vs. independent travel insurance

Travel insurance comparison sites

You can compare different policies and review quotes at once based on the trip search criteria you’ve input into the search form. Examples include marketplaces like Squaremouth or TravelInsurance.com.

Pros: You can choose a policy that fits your needs and compare policies and pricing in one place.

Cons: Comparing multiple policies takes time.

Travel insurance companies

You can purchase travel insurance directly from an insurance provider.

Pros: You can choose a policy that fits your needs. Many travel insurer websites also offer information to help you understand the coverage.

Cons: You’ll need to go to multiple websites to compare coverage and pricing.

» Learn more: The best travel insurance companies right now

Keep these tips in mind when you’re considering a trip insurance policy.

Evaluate the financial risks you face when traveling. Can you bear those costs yourself, or do you want insurance?

Examine what coverage you already have: Does your credit card offer travel insurance? Do you have renters or homeowners insurance to cover belongings? What is the deductible? Will your health plan cover you in all the locations where you travel?

Get quotes for trip insurance online. Choose a package of the benefits you need and compare prices for similar coverage among carriers.

Narrow your choices and then read the policy fine print to understand what’s covered, what’s excluded and the limits on coverage. You may find that the lowest-priced policy is too restrictive and that paying a little more gets you the coverage you need. Or you might find that the cheapest, most basic policy fits the bill.

If you don’t know which provider to go with, it makes sense to browse a list of plans on a travel insurance comparison site. These online marketplaces will often include plans from the best travel insurance companies along with customer reviews.

Squaremouth

Compare plans from more than 30 providers.

Over 86,000 customer reviews of insurers.

Under its Zero Complaint Guarantee, Squaremouth (a NerdWallet partner) will remove a provider if any customer complaint isn't resolved to its satisfaction.

Has a filter option to see policies that provide COVID-coverage.

TravelInsurance.com

Compare plans from 13 providers.

See good and poor customer ratings and reviews for each insurer when you receive quotes.

“Learning Center” includes travel insurance articles and travel tips, including important how-to information.

Quotes provided from each provider include a link to COVID-19 FAQs, making it easy for customers to review what’s covered or not.

InsureMyTrip

Compare plans from more than two dozen providers.

More than 70,000 customer reviews.

“Anytime Advocates” help customers navigate the claim process and will work on behalf of the customer to help with appealing a denied claim.

Includes a link to plans that offer COVID coverage.

Compare plans from 11 providers.

Search coverage by sporting activity, including ground, air and water sports.

Many types of plans available for students, visiting family members, new immigrants, those seeking COVID quarantine coverage and more.

Compare different insurance plans from 35 providers.

Over 5,600 customer reviews on Trustpilot, with an average 4.9 stars out of five.

Formerly known as AardvarkCompare, AARDY includes a “Travel Insurance 101” learning center to help customers understand various policies and benefits.

Quote search results page includes COVID-coverage highlighted in a different color to make it easier for customers to review related limits.

Whether you’re looking for an international travel insurance plan, emergency medical care, COVID coverage or a policy that includes extreme sports, these providers have you covered.

Our full analysis and more details about each organization can be found here: The Best Travel Insurance Companies Today .

Allianz Global Assistance .

Travel Guard by AIG .

USI Affinity Travel Insurance Services .

Travel Insured International .

World Nomads .

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection .

Travelex Insurance Services .

Seven Corners .

AXA Assistance USA .

There are a few scenarios when spending extra on travel insurance doesn't really make sense, like:

You booked flexible airline tickets.

Your hotel room has a good cancellation policy.

It's already included in your credit card.

You haven't booked any nonrefundable activities.

» Learn more: When you don't need travel insurance

Yes, especially for nonrefundable trips and travel during the COVID-era. Whether you purchase a comprehensive travel insurance policy or have travel insurance from your credit card, you shouldn't travel without having some sort of travel protection in place to safeguard you and your trip. Travel insurance can protect you in case of an unexpected emergency such as a canceled flight due to weather, a medical event that requires hospitalization, lost luggage and more.

There are many good travel insurance policies out there and a policy that may be great for you may not be good for someone else. Selecting the best plan depends on what coverage you would like and your trip details.

For example, World Nomads offers a comprehensive travel insurance policy that has excellent coverage for adventure sports. Allianz provides coverage for trips of varying lengths of time through its single trip plans and multi-trip plans. Some providers offer add-on options like Cancel For Any Reason travel insurance. If you’re not sure which plan to go with, consider looking at trip insurance comparison sites like Squaremouth or Insuremytrip.

Yes, you can. However, it's better to purchase it sooner rather than later, ideally right after booking your trip because the benefits begin as soon as you purchase a policy.

Let’s say you’re going on a trip in a month and a week before departure, you fall and break your leg. If you’ve purchased a travel insurance policy, you can use your trip cancellation benefits to get your nonrefundable deposit back.

Most comprehensive travel insurance plans offer trip cancellation, trip interruption, emergency medical and dental, medical evacuation, trip delay and lost luggage coverage. Many plans offer COVID coverage, but you’ll always want to check to ensure that the policy you choose provides that benefit if you’re traveling during these times. Some plans may also allow you to add features like Cancel For Any Reason travel insurance.

It depends which credit card you have. Premium travel cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and The Platinum Card® from American Express offer travel insurance benefits if you book a trip using your card or points.

However, the coverage provided by the credit cards is usually lower than if you purchased a standalone policy. Review the travel insurance benefits on your credit card and check that the limits are adequate before foregoing from purchasing a separate plan.

Let’s say you’re going on a trip in a month and a week before departure, you fall and break your leg. If you’ve purchased a travel insurance policy, you can use your

trip cancellation benefits

to get your nonrefundable deposit back.

It depends which credit card you have. Premium travel cards like the

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

The Platinum Card® from American Express

offer travel insurance benefits if you book a trip using your card or points.

Unpredictability is one of the mind-opening joys of travel, but travel insurance should contain no surprises. The time you spend to understand your options will be well worth the peace of mind as you embark on your next adventure.

Whether you’re seeking a single or a long-term policy, each travel insurance option offers different strengths and weaknesses. Choosing the right policy depends on your trip needs, your budget and how important various benefits are to you.

Keep reading

If you want to dig in deeper to world of travel insurance, these resources will point you in the right direction.

What is travel insurance? How much is travel insurance? Is travel insurance worth it? What does travel insurance cover? Does travel insurance cover COVID?

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-2x Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

• Baby and kid

The Best Travel Car Seats

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.

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

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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.

The Best Booster Car Seats

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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.

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

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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.

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The 8 Best Travel Car Seats of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We rounded up the best travel-friendly car seats to keep your kids safe wherever you go.

In This Article

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• Our top picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

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Travel + Leisure / Cassie Aulie

Traveling with children can be a gratifying and enriching experience, but family vacations are also challenging because of the extra items you need to pack (and carry), including a car seat, which adds quite a lot of bulk to your luggage. That's why we set out to find the most compact, travel-friendly, lightweight, and easy-to-install car seats on the market right now.

We combed through results and feedback from three different real-world car seat tests in which we tested a total of 57 car seats, looking specifically for portable, travel-friendly options. We rating each of our picks on several factors like design, features, ease of cleaning, value, and — most importantly — safety. Below, we rounded up eight of the best travel car seats to consider for your next family getaway.

Best Overall

Graco contender slim convertible car seat.

• Design 4.7 /5
• Ease of Installation 4.8 /5
• Durability 5 /5
• Safety 4.6 /5

It is an excellent fit for compact cars.

The chest buckle is large and bulky.

Lugging around a heavy car seat in addition to your luggage is not pleasant, but this car seat will make your life so much easier. Not only is it the lightest car seat on our list, but it is also the slimmest, making it an excellent choice for both compact and larger vehicles (or for larger families who need to fit more than one car seat in the backseat). Installation took us about 15 minutes, and then it was pretty intuitive to use. It has several inserts that help you customize it for your child, including an infant insert with extra padding, eight headrest heights, and two reclining positions.

It also has a removable cup for snacks and drinks that you can place on either side of the seat. And while we only had to spot-clean it, if you need to wash the entire cover, you can take it off and throw it in the washing machine. The fabric is breathable and has held up exceptionally well after over a month of use.

The Details: Weighs 16 pounds; holds 65 pounds | 24.75 x 18.9 x 21.5 inches | Rear and forward modes | Belt- and latch-compatible

Travel + Leisure

Best Rotating

Evenflo gold revolve360 convertible car seat.

• Design 5 /5
• Ease of Installation 5 /5
• Safety 5 /5

It’s easy to install and rotates 360 degrees.

It would be nice if it had a built-in sunshade.

Four minutes: that's exactly how much time it took us to install this Evenflo car seat after watching the instructional video. It was an incredibly easy-to-follow process, and we found the audible click and level indicator super helpful. But the most impressive feature of this convertible car seat is its ability to rotate 360 degrees, which is a complete game-changer for parents (seriously, our team member who tested this car seat said it spoiled them into "never using a car seat that doesn't have this feature"). This means that the seat can transform into rear- or forward-facing in seconds without the need to uninstall the entire seat and base. Just pull one of the two levers on either side and start rotating it. This feature also makes it super convenient to place your child in the seat and buckle them because you no longer have to bend at an awkward angle. 

Comfort is also a standout feature, and the upholstery fabric of this car seat felt soft, breathable, and very high-quality (cleaning it is also a breeze). The overall padding of the car seat and the generous recline positions also contribute to a more comfortable trip. And finally, while this is not the lightest car seat at 40.6 pounds, its design is quite compact, and even if you install it in a smaller vehicle, you will be left with a good amount of legroom and recline space for the seat in front. 

Shoppers should also note that the Office of Vehicle Safety Compliance (OVSC) is currently evaluating this car seat .

The Details: Weighs 40.6 pounds; holds up to 120 pounds | 25.9 x 19.8 x 21 inches | Rear, forward, and booster modes | Belt- and latch-compatible

Best for Compact Cars

Diono radian 3rxt convertible car seat.

 Amazon

• Design 4.8 /5
• Ease of Installation 4.5 /5
• Durability 4.9 /5

The seat folds, making it easy to carry.

The initial installation takes more time than some of the other options on this list.

When renting a large car is not always possible, this Diono car seat is the way to go. First, it's much easier to carry (and store) because of its slim, foldable design. And while the installation took us a while compared to others on this list (about 45 minutes to an hour), we found it to be a perfect match for a smaller vehicle similar to a Fiat 500. 

Second, buckling and unbuckling is super intuitive, and the straps never get tangled up. And even after a year of constant use, the fabric is in excellent condition with few signs of wear and tear other than some light fading. You can also remove the cover and machine-wash it, another very convenient feature. 

Third, we love that even though the seat is about 17 inches wide, it features additional padding and side protection without compromising comfort. Lastly, this car seat is also FAA-approved, so feel free to fly with it.

The Details: Weights 30.6 pounds; holds up to 120 pounds | 17 x 28.5 x 16 inches | Rear, forward, and booster modes | Latch

Best With Stroller

Doona car seat and stroller.

• Assembly 4 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Maneuverability 4.8 /5

The wheels fold up and attach to the seat.

There is no storage space, and you need to purchase the base separately. 

There is a reason the Doona car seat is a best-seller and an all-time parent favorite. It's all in the smart design that combines a car seat and a stroller in one compact product. Unlike other models, the wheels of this car seat collapse under it so you can latch it into its base (sold separately). Basically, you can bid adieu to lugging a stroller and a car seat. This is the ultimate travel-friendly stroller/car seat combo for infants and toddlers up to 35 pounds. We recommend you take your time to read the folding and unfolding instructions before you use it. It took us some time to figure out what each button was for and how to attach it to the base correctly, but it was smooth sailing once we got the hang of it.

The Doona is upholstered in a cooling bamboo fabric for added comfort, and it has a canopy for shade. The car seat also scored an almost perfect rating in our maneuverability category during testing — it was a breeze pushing it even with one hand. The brake was easy to engage and disengage, so this is the perfect option for a city vacation or a road trip that requires you to quickly transport your baby in and out of the car.

The Details: Weights 16.5 pounds; holds up to 35 pounds | 26 x 17.4 x 22.4 inches (folded) | Rear-facing | Latch and belt

Most Durable

Graco extend2fit 3-in-1 car seat.

• Safety 4.8 /5

An extendable panel provides extra legroom.

The shoulder straps are difficult to adjust.

We tested this car seat for over two years, and it has held up exceptionally well against wear and tear, spills, and everything a toddler can (literally) throw at it. Graco makes some of the sturdiest, most durable car seats by focusing on quality and safety, and this is exactly why we included the Extend2Fit model in this list.

The car seat is easy to install (it took us about 20 minutes), and even if you're setting it up in a smaller vehicle, it leaves plenty of legroom and recline space. We appreciated the two deep cup holders that are perfect for holding sippy cups and snacks (and bonus points for how easy they are to clean). This car seat has a unique feature that accommodates growing kids — a retractable panel provides five extra inches of legroom, making it safer for taller infants and toddlers to ride in a rear-facing position.

The Details: Weighs 19 pounds; holds up to 65 pounds | 24.5 x 20.75 x 19 inches | Rear and forward modes | Latch

Most Comfortable

Safety 1st grow and go lx convertible car seat.

• Ease of Installation 4 /5

You can use the footrest in both rear- and forward-facing positions.

 It is a bit tricky to install.

Looking for a car seat to keep your little one comfortable during long road trips? This one scored perfect ratings in almost all categories thanks to its easy use, design, durability, and overall value. Its size is generous (so it may not be a great fit for compact vehicles) and provides ample space for kids to grow into without compromising on padding and safety.

Safety 1st updated this model with a footrest that really impressed us because you can use it in rear-facing, forward-facing, and booster positions so your child's feet will not dangle for hours. We also love that the removable cups are dishwasher-safe and come with convenient lids to prevent messes (but in any case, the cover is removable and machine-washable). The car seat we tested still looks new, and the fabric seems spill-resistant.

The Details: Weighs 20 pounds; holds up to 100 pounds | 23.5 x 19 x 25 inches | Rear, forward, and booster modes | Latch and belt

Best for Multiple Age Groups

Graco 3-in-1 rotating car seat.

It is super easy to install and accommodates various age groups.

This rotating car seat works better in larger cars and may be a tight squeeze in smaller vehicles.

Your child should be all set for years to come with Graco's convertible car seat, which accommodates children up to 100 pounds. It rotates in a rear-facing position so you can get your baby in and out of it more easily. As for securing your child, the buckles are extremely easy to use, and the straps stay in sync — meaning that if you loosen one, the other will loosen automatically, too. And with four reclining positions, your child will be comfortable whether they are taking a nap, eating a snack, or playing.

We tested this car seat in a mid-size SUV, and it left plenty of reclining space for the seat in front. However, if you install it in a smaller vehicle, it might be a much tighter situation. And speaking of the installation, it only took us 17 minutes to read the instructions, watch the YouTube video, and install it. Finally, this seat grows with your child as it can accommodate kids weighing from four to 100 pounds. 

The Details: Weighs 30 pounds; holds up to 100 pounds | 19.1 x 24.4 x 20.8 inches | Rear, forward, and booster modes | Latch

Easiest Installation

Britax emblem 3-stage convertible car seat.

• Design 4.5 /5
• Safety 4 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

This no-fuss car seat is quick to install, and it only weighs 19 pounds.

There are no extra features such as cup holders or sensors.

If you're in the market for a no-fuss, easy-to-use car seat, this is it. Installation is standard (although you will still have to read the instructions to do it), and once you've practiced a couple of times, you will be able to install it pretty fast in any vehicle. We tested it in a sedan and an SUV, and it fits well in both (although the SUV was a slightly better fit). Thanks to the excellent design, using it is a breeze. Buckling your child, adjusting the harness, and reclining is intuitive and stress-free, which is exactly what you need when you're on the road. And while it may not have many bells and whistles, it provides excellent padding, and the fabric is soft and pillowy without feeling scratchy. 

The Details: Weighs 19.5 pounds; holds up to 65 pounds | 21 x 18.3 x 26 inches | Rear and forward modes | Latch

Other Car Seats We Liked

We tested so many car seats that we think there are a few more worth mentioning, although we didn't love them quite as much as the others on our main list.

Baby Jogger City Sights Travel System: This stroller and car seat combo is a good option for parents looking for a two-in-one. The stroller is easy to maneuver and collapses into a pretty compact and travel-friendly size. The car seat has a weight capacity of 35 pounds, so it can only be used in a rear-facing position.

Nuna Rava Convertible Car Seat : This rear-facing car seat can accommodate children up to 50 pounds, which is impressive (however, keep in mind that the seat itself is almost 28 pounds). The straps and the buckles are very easy to use and don't get in the way when you place your child in and out of the seat.

We used results from three real-world tests in which we reviewed convertible car seats, rotating convertible car seats, and car seat stroller combos to find our favorite travel-friendly options. We sorted through feedback from 57 car seats we tested, looking at weight, size, and performance. Each car seat on our list was rated on a scale from one to five according to its performance in multiple categories, including ease of installation, ease of use, design, features, safety, value, and more.

We also consulted Ben Hoffman, MD, a pediatrician and nationally recognized expert in child injury prevention and education, to ensure the safety of the products we chose for real-life tests. In addition, every car seat meets the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) standards.

Tips for Buying a Travel Car Seat

Look for portability.

Portability is one of the major factors differentiating a standard car seat from one you'll mostly use while traveling. Consider its weight and size: opt for lighter and more compact car seats that you can carry without compromising safety features. Some car seats fold or feature collapsible stroller wheels — all features that come in handy when you're on the road or in transit. 

Consider ease of installation

When you're just getting off a long-haul flight and need to get in the car and drive for hours, the last thing you want is to waste time installing a car seat. That's why your travel car seat should be simple to install and use. Check if the vehicle you are setting it up in accommodates a latch or belt car seat, and make sure that yours can comfortably fit in the back seat of whatever size car you may be renting. Then, read through the installation instructions or watch the video, and make sure you don't need another adult to help you safely install it. 

Pay attention to your child's weight and height

Every car seat has strict weight and height limits to ensure your child's safety. Some might also have age restrictions, but they are not as important as children are different and grow at their own pace.Make sure you weigh and measure your child before purchasing a travel car seat. The good thing about convertible car seats is that you can use them in both rear- and forward-facing positions as your child grows so you don't have to invest in a new car seat every few years.

Some car seats come with travel bags with handles to make carrying easier. If yours doesn't have one, you can probably purchase it from the maker's website or find one that accommodates its size on Amazon. Certain bags even feature wheels to roll the car seat through the airport. If your car seat is oversized, you will be asked to check it in at the airport, so it's essential to place it in a protective bag and inspect it for damage as soon as you get it back.

Yes, but you must first ensure the car seat is FAA-approved (it will say so on the car seat). In fact, while using a car seat on a plane is not required, the FAA recommends it to ensure your little one's safety in case of turbulence, for example. If traveling on an international airline outside the U.S., check with that airline's policies, size limitations, and guidelines before your trip, as some international airlines do not allow car seats on board. Usually, using a booster seat during a flight is not an issue with airlines, and it doesn't count toward your carry-on luggage allowance.

The short answer is yes. Airlines will usually check in a car seat, stroller, or a child restraint system for free (one per child). However, the tricky part is that if you're not traveling with a child, you might have to pay to check in the car seat, so in this case, it's always best to contact the airline before your trip.

Most car rental companies offer car seats as an add-on for a fee, so if you don't want to invest in one or carry it with you, you can always rent one. U.S. car rental companies must offer car seats that comply with state and federal laws. However, if you're traveling internationally, the risk is that you don't know if the car seat has been stored and cleaned properly or if it’s ever been in an accident. It also means you have to install it yourself, which can be challenging and time-consuming if you're unfamiliar with that particular brand or car seat model. 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, Dobrina Zhekova worked with T+L editors to round up the safest and most comfortable travel car seats for kids of all ages from real-world tests. As a mother, she has also tested several car seats in the past five years and has extensive knowledge of airline policies and regulations about traveling with car seats. She also referenced customer reviews and expert recommendations in this article.

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The 7 Best Travel Car Seats of 2024

These top picks combine convenience and peace of mind

Jordi is a freelance contributor to TripSavvy. Her personal passions gravitate toward wellness and adventure, leading her to frequently plan trips that blend zen relaxation with urban and rugged exploration.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

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Traveling with small children is a great way to make memories. You expose little ones to new experiences and see the world through their eyes. But there are still everyday tasks to worry about on the road, from meal times to naps. Safety is the top priority, of course, and this means ensuring your kids have a good car seat.

If you're flying with small children or frequently switching cars, the thought of lugging around the car seat you have perfectly installed in your vehicle can seem daunting. Luckily, many companies make travel car seats lighter and easier to install on the go. These models also emphasize portability and legroom for your child to grow into.

To find the best choice for you, we looked closely at the installation process, weight ratings, and certification status of some of the most popular options on the market today.

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Best overall, cosco scenera next convertible car seat.

 Amazon

Easy to carry

Budget friendly

Sizing issues for older childen

The Cosco Scenera Next Convertible Car Seat receives excellent marks for lightness and simplicity. This affordable car seat is a great choice for those who already have a regular car seat but need a second option for traveling. Safety features include side-impact protection built into the headrest and a five-point harness that adjusts to accommodate your growing child. The car seat can be used rear-facing for kiddos 5 to 40 pounds and 19 to 40 inches tall or front-facing for those 22 to 40 pounds or 29 to 43 inches tall. The car seat will last from infancy through toddlerhood.

Use the LATCH connectors or a seat belt to secure the car seat in any rental car or taxi. It's also designed with air travel in mind: It's FAA-approved and lightweight at just 7 pounds. Additionally, its 17.5-inch width makes it a good fit for most airline seats. Other highlights include a removable, machine-washable, and dryer-safe car seat pad and a dishwasher-safe cup holder. Colors range from Moon Mist Grey to Ocean Breeze.

Dimensions: 17.6 x 15.8 x 30.3 inches | Weight Rating: Up to 40 pounds | Installation Type: LATCH

Best Lightweight

Wayb pico travel car seat.

Very compact

Includes a travel bag

Only for toddlers and older

Car seats are a hassle to travel with because they're bulky, heavy, and unwieldy. Luckily, this travel car seat by Wayb won't add much extra weight to your suitcase. Weighing under 8 pounds, the FAA-approved Pico Travel Car Seat is easy to transport everywhere you go. It's front-facing and can hold kids between 22 to 55 pounds or measuring 30 to 45 inches tall. It has an AeroWing aluminum frame that is durable yet lightweight, and the AstroKnit performance mesh lining will keep your kids comfortable throughout their journey. Best of all, this car seat folds into a small enough package to store in overhead bins and comes with a carrying bag that can slip onto your suitcase.

Dimensions: 15 x 11 x 20 inches | Weight Rating: Up to 50 pounds | Installation Type: LATCH or car/airplane seat belt

Most Compact

Safety 1st guide 65 convertible car seat.

Supports a variety of sizes and ages

Sleek design

Machine-washable cover

Complaints about installation

Safety 1st's Guide 65 Convertible Car Seat weighs 14 pounds; it's sturdy enough for everyday use yet light enough for travel. This car seat's frame is so compact that you could place three in the back of your car, making it an excellent option for larger families or smaller European rental cars. Plus, it can accommodate a wide range of weights, making it a budget-friendly pick that can last for years. It's for children who weigh between 5 and 40 pounds to use in a rear-facing position and children 22 to 65 pounds to use in a front-facing position.

Side-impact protection and five harnesses that adjust in the center ensure your child stays secure throughout their ride and help deflect impact away from their head, neck, and spine in the event of an accident. Other safety features include three buckle locations and an adjustable headrest. This car seat also has a LATCH connector system, making it easy to take the seat in and out of the car quickly. Both the cushion and cup holder are removable for easy cleanup. It's available in multiple colors.

Dimensions: 27.3 x 18.5 x 20.3 inches | Weight Rating: Up to 65 pounds | Installation Type: LATCH

Best for Bigger Kids

Graco extend2fit convertible car seat.

Harness storage makes loading and unloading easy

Rigorously crash tested

Several customizable features

Most of the car seats on this list are appropriate for children up to 40 pounds, but the Graco Extend2Fit is rated for up to 65 pounds. It also allows children up to 50 pounds to ride rear-facing and provides an extra 5 inches of legroom. This, plus a headrest that can also be adjusted to 10 different positions, ensures the child is comfortable and secure as they grow.

Two integrated cup holders keep juice bottles within easy reach and help to prevent spills. While there are multiple ways to install this model, it is easy to remember after the first time. Although this seat is designed with car travel in mind , it is FAA-approved. If you're flying economy class, consider calling ahead to check that the restraint is compatible with the airline seat.

Dimensions: 21.5 x 19.5 x 23.5 inches | Weight Rating: Up to 65 pounds | Installation Type: InRight LATCH

Best Booster Combo

Cosco finale dx 2-in-1 booster car seat.

Can fit three across

Easy to clean

Accommodates older children

Durability complaints

If you're shopping for a child aged 12 months or older, the Cosco Finale DX 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat will last from toddlerhood until after they start school. It has a 10-year lifespan and can be used as a forward-facing car seat or as a high-back booster seat. As a car seat, it's appropriate for kids between 30 to 65 pounds and 32 to 49 inches in height. The five-point harness has three different height settings, and the LATCH connectors can be used until your child reaches 50 pounds. In addition, the FAA approves the Cosco Finale for aircraft use in its car seat capacity.

It suits kids between 40 to 100 pounds and 43 to 52 inches in height as a booster seat. Its 17-inch width and 9-pound weight make it ideal for quick transfers between rental cars, taxis, and family cars back home. Other useful features include a removable cup holder and a machine-washable cover in colors that range from gray to pale pink. Lastly, thrifty families will appreciate this seat's affordable price tag.

Dimensions: 18.3 x 19 x 29.8 inches | Weight Rating: Up to 100 pounds | Installation Type: LATCH or seat belt

Most Innovative

Maxi-cosi pria max 3-in-1 convertible car seat.

Easy to buckle

Not the lightest pick

If you don't want to invest in multiple car seats, the Pria Max 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat is your best bet. It can handle children from birth to 10 years old, making it one of the most versatile options on the market. Plus, the high-end brand makes each stage supremely comfortable for your child and easy for adults to use. It has a spring-assist harness system, so the straps don't get tangled; a one-hand magnetic chest clip; a simple integrated headrest and harness system, so you don't have to rethread as your tot grows; and machine-washable fabric. Keep in mind it comes with a hefty price tag and heavier weight.

Dimensions: 25.3 x 24 x 19.9 inches | Weight Rating: Up to 100 pounds | Installation Type: LATCH or seat belt

Best For Road Trips

Chicco keyfit 35 cleartex infant car seat.

FAA-approved

Eco-friendly textiles

UPF 50+ canopy

Rear-facing only

This car seat is a great option for road trips —or as your primary car seat that occasionally travels—as the stay-in-car base is a breeze to install correctly and the carrier itself clicks into place in one motion. When it's time to stretch your legs and explore simply detach the seat and click it into any Chicco stroller base for a lightning-fast travel combo. The base has an anti-rebound bar for added stability and extra legroom for a rider up to 32 inches tall, and the headrest has five different positions to accommodate an infant's growth.

If your plans include air travel, this is still a solid pick. The best thing about this carrier is that it can be installed in an aircraft or rental vehicle without the base, using the European or American routing method. The base and carrier together weigh 18 pounds but you'll only have to manage 10 pounds if you go baseless. It comes with removable newborn positioners so little ones from 4 pounds are ready to roll.

Dimensions: 28 x 16.5 x 24 inches | Weight Rating: 4 to 35 pounds | Installation Type: LATCH or seat belt

The Cosco Scenera Next Convertible Car Seat is light, FAA-approved, and supports young travelers up to 40 pounds. We love the accessible price point and easy-to-clean cover. If you're shopping for a toddler or older but still want to prioritize portability, go for the Wayb Pico Travel Car Seat .

What to Look For in Travel Car Seats

Installation.

All models on our list use LATCH systems and some can also be installed using the vehicle's seat belt, but you should never use both anchoring methods together. LATCH, also known as Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children, is an alternative way of securing the car seat to the vehicle without using the seat belt. Both the vehicle and the car seat must have LATCH parts to install the seat properly, but most car seats (and vehicles manufactured after 2002) will do so. The car seat has straps that come from the bottom and a tether at the top. These attach to the lower anchors in the car, found in the space between the rear back seat and seat cushion, and to the top anchor, which could be near the rear window or on the car ceiling. When in doubt, check the vehicle manual and seat instructions.

Weight Rating

Like their everyday counterparts, travel car seats include maximum weight ratings that must be adhered to. Additionally, your decision to install the car seat front- or rear-facing is based on the weight and height of your child. Most models can transition from rear- to front-facing as your tot grows, or even from front-facing to a booster seat like the Cosco Finale DX . Consider the kid's age, weight, height, and the manufacturer's notes to choose a travel seat that will give you the longest practical use.

Certification Status

Most importantly, the car seat you buy should meet all safety standards. If you're flying, look for an FAA-approved or similarly aircraft-approved seat.

"All legal car seats must meet the same crash test criteria, or safety standards, and be properly labeled," said Amie Durocher, a CPS Tech at SafeRide4Kids.com. "If you are worried about counterfeit car seats, check the label. Certified seats in the U.S. are required to have very specific language on the labels. Beware if it doesn't mention federal motor vehicle safety standards or FMVSS213 or if it lacks a model name or number or manufacture date."

Yes, you can travel with a car seat on the plane —and it's actually recommended. "We recommend that parents purchase a seat even for children under 2 who could be 'lap babies' and use the FAA-approved child restraint on the airplane," said Durocher. "This makes it safer for the child—and the parent—in case of an incident during takeoff or landing and in case of turbulence during the flight."

The hardest part of traveling with a car seat is figuring out the logistics through the airport. “Infant car seats that click onto a compatible stroller are easy, but travelers might need a car seat cart, luggage strap, or bungee cords to lug a convertible car seat through the airport,” said Michelle Pratt, founder and owner of Safe in the Seat. “Some people prefer to check their stroller with their luggage and use a car seat cart to get their child and seat through the airport easily. Others babywear or let their toddler walk and load up their stroller with all their gear, then gate check the stroller planeside.”

“Rear-facing is the safest way for kids to ride in the car, but it’s not always possible on planes due to the tighter space,” added Pratt. “If the car seat fits rear-facing on the plane, that’s best. But kids who rear-face in the car can forward-face on the plane if they are at least 1 year old and meet their car seat’s forward-facing requirements. Then they seamlessly go back to rear-facing in the car at the destination.”

Author Jordi Lippe-McGraw has researched and written about travel and lifestyle products for nearly a decade. She is also the mom of a 3-year-old. When making this list, she researched dozens of products, looking at key specs like dimensions and weight rating and the number of positive and negative reviews. While researching the best travel car seats, we spoke with Amie Durocher , a CPS Tech at SafeRide4Kids.com, and Michelle Pratt , founder and owner of Safe in the Seat.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. " Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) Restraint System ." Accessed Feb 6th, 2023.

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Everything you need to know about travel insurance before you book your next trip

With more and more people traveling , travel disruptions have increased. You might be ready to book your next vacation, but it's smart to consider buying a comprehensive travel insurance policy that will protect you from financial losses you may incur due to unexpected issues both before you travel and during your trip.

"Travel insurance is often an overlooked investment until the unforeseen happens," says Beth Godlin, a spokesperson with Aon Affinity Travel Practice . "It's designed to give travelers peace of mind and financial protection against the risks of travel."

While some travelers decline purchasing travel insurance because they think it will be costly, Godlin says it doesn't have to be expensive and notes "purchasing it adds an extra layer of protection and security." 

Travel insurance is obviously valuable for big-ticket trips, such as a luxury cruise, safari or multi-city international vacation, but it can even be helpful when you're staying closer to home. "When deciding if travel insurance is right for you, I suggest asking yourself what you could stand to lose if you had to cancel last-minute," says Godlin.

CNBC Select spoke to experts in the travel insurance space to get their best advice on everything consumers need to know about travel insurance.

How to find an insurance carrier

Purchasing travel insurance is relatively easy, and there are lots of different options in the marketplace. If you have never purchased a travel insurance plan, a good place to start is sites like InsureMyTrip.com , CoverTrip or Squaremouth , which let you compare different carriers based on both price and coverage. You simply fill out a brief questionnaire about the trip and the traveler.

The benefit of using aggregator sites is shoppers have the ability to view the entire travel insurance marketplace and compare policies all in one place. Squaremouth also provides verified customer reviews to help travelers feel confident about the policy they are purchasing. 

There is no charge to use Squaremouth, as they receive commission on every sale directly from the provider, and do not charge any type of fee to consumers.

Beyond comparison sites, you can always visit a specific travel insurance carrier's website for a quote or call the company's toll-free customer service number for information.

CNBC Select has reviewed many of the top travel insurance companies and named AXA Assistance USA Travel Insurance as the best choice overall with three tiers of coverage to choose from and a high financial strength rating. Our runner-up was Travel Guard® Travel Insurance for its offerings available online and coverage for one related child age 17 or younger.

AXA Assistance USA Travel Insurance

The best way to estimate your costs is to request a quote

Policy highlights

AXA Assistance USA offers several travel insurance policies that include travel interruption, trip cancellation, and the option of cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage.

24/7 assistance available

Travel guard® travel insurance.

Travel Guard offers a variety of plans to suit travel ranging from road trips to long cruises. For air travelers, Travel Guard can help assist with tracking baggage or covering lost or delayed baggage.

If you're using a site like Expedia , for example, to book your reservations, you usually have the option to purchase travel insurance, too, through a third-party provider. You should make sure to carefully review the full details of the policy, because the plans are based around the trip elements (hotel, flight, rental car) and could differ every time you book, and you want to make sure you understand what you're getting.

What does travel insurance cover?

Travel insurance can vary, but policies generally provide coverage for three things: protection for your financial expenses, protection for your well-being and protection for your personal belongings.

When shopping for a policy, look for these benefits:

Trip cancellation coverage  

Your travel insurance policy can reimburse you for prepaid, non-refundable trip deposits if a trip is canceled for a covered reason. These outlays can include airline tickets, hotel rooms, rental cars, tours and cruises, says Daniel Durazo, spokesperson with Allianz Travel Insurance .  

Examples of acceptable reasons to cancel a trip include illness, injury or death of the traveler, a close family member or a traveling companion; military deployment or civil unrest; a serious family emergency, even unplanned jury duty.

Other reasons include: your travel supplier stops offering services for 24 hours due to a natural disaster, severe weather or a strike, your home or destination becomes uninhabitable or you or a traveling companion lose your job after you purchase your policy.

You typically can't cancel your trip for any reason and expect to be reimbursed just because you have travel insurance. For example, if you have a fight with your friend and don't want to travel with her, or you change your mind about taking a long-haul flight to Hawaii, these are not covered reasons. 

If you want the highest level of flexibility to make changes to your trip, consider adding "cancel for any coverage" to your policy. Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) plans will bump up the cost of your travel insurance by about 40%, but it gives you the latitude to cancel your trip if you need to as long as you meet certain requirements like canceling no later than 48 hours before your scheduled departure. 

You won't be reimbursed for 100% of your trip costs. Typically, CFAR coverage will reimburse between 50 to 75% of trip expenses.

Trip delay coverage 

Should you experience a hiccup in your travel itinerary, your travel insurance policy can provide some financial relief. 

"Travel delay coverage provides reimbursement if a traveler is delayed for one of the policy's covered reasons," says Megan Moncrief, a spokesperson with Squaremouth. "This benefit will typically reimburse for expenses such as food, lodging and local transportation that are incurred during the delay."

Covered reasons will generally include severe weather, airline maintenance or civil unrest.

There's often a waiting period before your benefits kick in.

"In order for a traveler to become eligible for this benefit, they must be delayed for the amount of time listed on their policy," says Moncrief. "Some policies are very lenient and provide benefits available for any length delay, while other policies will specifically list a length requirement. This typically ranges from three to 12 hours. All travel delay policies will come with a daily limit, as well as a policy limit ranging from a couple hundred to a couple thousand dollars."

Daily limits typically range from $150 to $250 per traveler, while the policy limit can range from $500 to $2,000, Moncrief says. It's very important to save all your receipts as you will be required to submit them with your reimbursement claim.

Don't miss: The best credit cards with trip delay insurance

Trip interruption coverage

Should you need to cut your trip short due to illness or injury you experience during your trip, or if there's a family emergency back home, your policy may reimburse non-refundable expenses you forfeit if you return home early.

Your policy may also cover the cost of a one-way economy airline ticket home. Not all reasons are covered, however. For example, if your beach vacation is a washout or you miss your new puppy, your trip interruption benefits won't apply.

Medical expenses and emergency-evacuation benefits

If you're traveling within the U.S., your personal health insurance should cover any illness or injury you sustain while you are on a trip. But if you're traveling to a foreign country, your U.S.-based health plan will provide zero or very little coverage, and Medicare isn't accepted abroad, so it's good to sign up for additional coverage. 

"Domestic healthcare plans are usually not accepted outside the U.S., so it's especially important to get travel insurance with medical coverage and emergency medical transportation when traveling internationally," says Durazo. "If you do become ill or injured while traveling, these benefits can cover your medical costs including doctors' fees and hospital costs." 

In addition, your travel carrier's customer support hotline can help. "Allianz's 24/7 assistance team can coordinate your care with the doctors treating you in your destination, as well as ensure you're at an appropriate medical facility up to U.S. standards," he says.

Even more expensive than medical treatment is an emergency medical evacuation, something the right travel insurance policy can arrange and cover. "Medical evacuation and transport costs range from $15,000 to $200,000+, depending on the traveler's health condition and their location in the world," says Durazo.

"If you're heading overseas, you'll need the additional protection of emergency medical benefits and emergency medical transportation benefits," he adds. "And if you're visiting more remote areas, there's always a chance you may need emergency medical transportation to get you to an appropriate health care facility."

Find the best credit card for you by reviewing offers in our  credit card marketplace  or get personalized offers via  CardMatch™ .

Baggage loss

Should your checked baggage take a detour and not arrive at your destination, your travel insurance policy could be a saving grace. 

"If your travel insurance plan includes baggage benefits, your insurer can reimburse you, up to the maximum shown on the Confirmation of Coverage, for covered loss, theft or damage to your baggage and personal items," says Durazo. "Every plan has specific coverage limits for each benefit, which are outlined in the plan documents."

For example, Allianz Partners' OneTrip Prime plan , covers baggage loss up to $1,000 and baggage delay up to $300 while the OneTrip Premier includes up to $2,000 in baggage loss/damage and up to $600 for baggage delay.  

Your personal possessions are also covered if lost or stolen while you're traveling. "Travel insurance can reimburse you for the actual cash value, repair or replacement — whichever is less, based on the limits in your insurance policy's letter of confirmation," says Durazo.

You must report losses to your airline, airport, police or other relevant authority like a tour operator or hotel manager. You will need this documentation when you file a claim.

Not all items are covered by your travel insurance policy. For example, cash is not reimbursable, and many policies won't cover very expensive jewelry, art, antiques or heirloom items. To reduce the risk of losing irreplaceable items, don't bring these items on vacation. And make sure to read your policy carefully to see what is covered.

Money matters — so make the most of it. Get expert tips, strategies, news and everything else you need to maximize your money, right to your inbox.  Sign up here .

What you should know about Covid-19 and travel insurance

When it comes to Covid coverage , travel insurance plans can vary from one another, so you should read your policy carefully and ask your insurance provider if you have questions, says Godlin.

Also, regulations around travel have evolved during the pandemic, with some countries requiring specific travel insurance coverage for entry. "As a result, we're seeing new policies emerge to directly meet those needs," she says. 

How much is travel insurance?

Travel insurance can vary a lot depending on how much coverage you're getting and how expensive your trip is. CoverTrip advises its customers that travel insurance plans cost between 4 to 10% of the total trip cost. So if you're spending $5,000 on a European tour, your insurance could be anywhere from $200 to $500.

Of course, there are budget plans out there that could cost (and cover) less. And you could also shell out for premium coverage so you can take advantage of a "cancel for any reason" policy. Whichever plan you choose, make sure you read the fine print so you understand what you're paying for.

Your credit card may offer built-in travel protection

You may have a credit card in your wallet that offers travel insurance . "Travel insurance is a common benefit for credit cards that often comes at no additional cost to the cardholder," says Francis Hondal, president of loyalty and engagement with MasterCard. "It can also be extremely easy to take advantage of it—the key is knowing what coverage you have so you don't waste money on additional coverage you don't need."

Coverage is automatic when you make a relevant purchase, she says. "So, for instance, if you have trip cancellation insurance on a card, you're covered when you book a flight using that card. Same goes for checking your bag and activating your lost luggage protection," Hondal says. 

It's important to know if and how you're covered when making travel-related purchasing decisions. Mastercard offers a digital insurance platform, mycardbenefits.com . You can usually find more information on your credit card's website.

To ensure you reap the travel insurance benefits your card offers, you must charge the trip expenses on your card.

"Where credit card travel insurance can shine is if you run into weather problems or mechanical delays, or if you get sick while traveling or even if your luggage gets lost or delayed," says Ted Rossman, senior industry analyst, Bankrate.com. 

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is an industry leader in these areas, he says. It offers up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip in the form of trip cancellation/trip interruption coverage. If you run into a flight delay lasting at least six hours, you can get up to $500 per ticket to book a different flight, stay in a hotel, buy food, etc. 

If your luggage is late, you can get up to $100 per day for up to five days to buy necessities. 

"If something really bad happens while you're abroad, [Chase Sapphire Reserve travel insurance] will pay for up to $100,000 of emergency evacuation and transportation coverage," says Rossman. "And the Sapphire Reserve also gives primary rental car insurance benefits, meaning that you can decline the rental car company's expensive coverage, and you won't need to go through your personal car insurance if you get into an accident while renting a car."

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Earn 5X total points on flights and 10X total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3X points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases plus, 10X points on Lyft rides through March 2025

Welcome bonus

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

Regular APR

22.49% - 29.49% variable

Balance transfer fee

5%, minimum $5

Foreign transaction fee

Credit needed.

Terms apply.

Read our Chase Sapphire Reserve® review.

Rossman says another good pick is the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card which also has very good coverage although slightly less coverage than the Sapphire Reserve card, in line with a lower annual fee. Even the no-annual-fee Chase Freedom Flex℠ gives up to $1,500 per person and up to $6,000 per trip in trip cancellation/trip interruption coverage, Says Rossman.

For more information on cards that offer travel insurance, check out CNBC Select's round-up of the best travel credit cards .

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, and $50 annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

21.49% - 28.49% variable on purchases and balance transfers

Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater

Excellent/Good

Read our Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card review .

Is travel insurance worth it?

Travel insurance can be useful in many scenarios, from a medical emergency forcing you to cut your trip short to a tropical storm ravaging your destination. If you've spent a lot of non-refundable money on your trip, you could be at a loss if something goes awry.

There are several scenarios where travel insurance could be worth it , including if:

• You're traveling internationally where your US-based health insurance won't apply
• You've spent a lot on prepaid, non-refundable expenses
• You're traveling to a remote area
• Your flight involves multiple connections or destinations

For those who have spent a good amount of money on their trip, getting trip insurance generally makes sense whether that's through a separate policy or through a credit card you booked the trip with.

Catch up on Select's in-depth coverage of  personal finance ,  tech and tools ,  wellness  and more, and follow us on  Facebook ,  Instagram  and  Twitter  to stay up to date.

Information about the Chase Freedom Flex℠ has been collected independently by Select and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of the card prior to publication.

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• Learn about the four car seat types
• Follow NHTSA’s car seat recommendations based on your child’s age and size
• Find and compare car seats and ease-of-use-ratings using NHTSA’s Car Seat Finder

Install your car seat correctly

• Understand the parts and tips used for installation
• Follow our detailed car seat installation instructions and videos
• Get your car seat inspected at a station nearest you

Keep your child safe in a car seat

• Register your car seat and sign up for recall notices to receive safety updates

Learn about the four types of car seats, while keeping in mind the following tips:

• As children grow, how they sit in your car will change. Make sure you use a car seat that fits your child’s current size and age .
• Not all car seats fit in all vehicles. Make sure the car seat is the right fit for your vehicle (PDF, 1.77 MB). Test the car seat you plan to buy to make sure it fits well in your vehicle.
• Buy a car seat that can be installed and used correctly every time.

Rear-Facing Car Seat

The best seat for your young child to use. It has a harness and, in a crash, cradles and moves with your child to reduce the stress to the child's fragile neck and spinal cord.

• Infant Car Seat (Rear-Facing only) : Designed for newborns and small babies, the infant-only car seat is a small, portable seat that can only be used rear-facing. Most babies outgrow their infant seats before their first birthday. When that happens, we recommend that parents purchase a convertible or all-in-one car seat and use it rear-facing.
• Convertible Seat : As a child grows, this seat can change from a rear-facing seat to a forward-facing seat with a harness and tether. Because it can be used with children of various sizes, it allows for children to stay in the rear-facing position longer.
• All-in-One Seat : This seat can change from a rear-facing seat to a forward-facing seat (with a harness and tether) and to a booster seat as a child grows. Because it can be used with children of various sizes, it allows for children to stay in the rear-facing position longer.

Forward-Facing Car Seat

Has a harness and tether that limits your child's forward movement during a crash.

• Convertible Seat : As a child grows, this seat can change from a rear-facing seat to a forward-facing seat with a harness and tether.
• Combination Seat : As a child grows, this seat transitions from a forward-facing seat with a harness and tether into a booster.
• All-in-One Seat : This seat can change from a rear-facing seat to a forward-facing seat (with a harness and tether) and to a booster seat as a child grows.

Booster Seat

Raises and positions a child so the vehicle’s lap-and-shoulder belt fits properly over the stronger points of a child’s body, the hips and across the chest.

• Booster Seat With High Back : This type of booster seat is designed to boost the child’s height so the seat belt fits properly. It also provides neck and head support and is ideal for vehicles that don’t have head rests or high seat backs.
• Backless Booster Seat : A backless booster seat is designed to boost the child’s height so the seat belt fits properly. It does not provide head and neck support. It is ideal for vehicles that have head rests.
• Combination Seat : As a child grows, this seat transitions from a forward-facing seat with a harness into a booster.

Should lie across the upper thighs and be snug across the shoulder and chest to restrain your child safely in a crash. It should not rest on the stomach area or across the neck or face.

There are many car seat choices on the market. Use the information below to help you choose the type of car seat that best meets your child’s needs or print out NHTSA’s car seat recommendations for children (PDF, 370 KB).

• Select a car seat based on your child’s age and size , then choose a seat that fits in your vehicle, and use it every time.
• Always refer to your specific car seat manufacturer’s instructions (check height and weight limits) and read the vehicle owner’s manual on how to install the car seat using the seat belt or lower anchors and a tether, if available.
• To maximize safety, keep your child in the car seat for as long as possible, as long as the child fits within the manufacturer’s height and weight requirements.
• Keep your child in the back seat at least through age 12.

Recommended car seats based on your child's age and size

Attach top tether from the car seat to the tether anchor in the vehicle.

Fasten lower anchor attachments on the car seat to the lower anchors in the vehicle., lower anchor attachments.

Used to install the car seat in a vehicle with lower anchors

Used to secure a forward-facing car seat and limit forward head movement in a crash

The tether is located on the top rear of convertible, combination, and all-in-one car seats. It’s adjustable and has a hook and strap that connects to one of your vehicle’s tether anchors. Most rear-facing car seats in the United States do not use a tether for installation. However, installations vary from model to model, so you must review your particular car seat’s instructions and your vehicle’s owner manual carefully.

Follow your car seat manufacturer’s instructions regarding when and how to use the tether for your particular seat. NHTSA recommends always using a tether with a forward-facing car seat—installed with your vehicle’s seat belt OR the lower anchors—as long as it is permitted by both the car seat and vehicle manufacturers. IMPORTANT: Both installation methods are designed to work with the tether to achieve the highest level of safety for child passengers restrained in forward-facing car seats.

Lower Anchor Weight Limits

Lower anchors have weight limits set by the vehicle and car seat manufacturers. You can determine the lower anchor weight limit by checking the warning label or installation diagrams located on the side of the car seat. If your car seat does not have a label, you can determine the maximum allowable child weight for lower anchor use by subtracting the weight of the car seat (usually available in the car seat’s instruction manual) from 65 pounds.

Lower anchor weight limit = 65 lbs – weight of car seat

Know the Facts

Once your child outgrows the vehicle or car seat manufacturer’s established limits for the lower anchors, stop using the lower anchor attachments and reinstall the car seat using the vehicle’s seat belt.

Once you've become familiar with vehicle and car seat parts used for installation and NHTSA's tips to install your car seat, you're ready to follow these detailed car seat installation instructions and videos by type. 

How to Install Rear-Facing Car Seats

• Rear-Facing-Only Infant Car Seat
• Convertible Car Seat
• All-in-One Car Seat

How to Install Forward-Facing Car Seats

• Combination Car Seat

How to Install Booster Seats

• High-Back Booster Seat
• Backless Booster Seat
• Combination Car Seat as a Booster Seat
• All-in-One Car Seat Used as a Booster

Car Seat Inspection

Get your car seat inspected.

Whether you’ve just installed a car seat or need help installing or using one, get help at a car seat inspection station near you. Certified technicians will inspect your car seat free of charge, in most cases, and show you how to correctly install and use it. Some locations now offer virtual inspections.

Can’t find an inspection station near you? You may be able to find a tech through Safe Kids Worldwide .

Register Your Car Seat

Congratulations — you chose the right car seat and installed it correctly. Now it’s time to register your car seat with the manufacturer to receive recalls and safety notices so your child can remain safe. Also, you can sign up with NHTSA to receive e-mail alerts about car seat and booster seat recalls.

Register your car seat to receive important safety updates

Registering your car seat makes sense.

The car seat manufacturer can contact you directly about recalls and safety notices. 

Registering your car seat is easy

Send in the card that came with your car seat or complete a quick registration on the manufacturer’s website. Your child’s safety could depend on it. 

If you are unable to register your child’s seat with the manufacturer, contact NHTSA at [email protected] .

Also, get recall notices from NHTSA

In addition to registering your car seat to receive recalls and safety notices from your car seat manufacturer, you can sign up to receive e-mail alerts from NHTSA about car seat and booster seat recalls.

• Car Seat Glossary of Terms Learn about vehicle and car seat parts and more.
• Training Contacts by State for Child Passenger Safety Find your state's Child Passenger Safety Training Contacts.
• Car Seat Use After a Crash Make sure you know the difference between a minor crash and a moderate to major one before deciding to use a car seat after a crash.
• NHTSA’s Car Seat Recommendations for Children Use these recommendations to help you choose the type of car seat that best meets your child’s needs.
• Keeping Kids Safe - A parent’s guide to protecting children in and around cars (PDF) This booklet will help you better understand today’s vehicle safety features, car seats and how to keep kids safe in and around vehicles.
• Used Car Seat Safety Checklist Thinking about using a second-hand car seat? If you can check off each one of these statements, then it may be okay to use one.
• FAA's Flying With Children Keep children safe no matter how you are traveling – find more information on flying safely with children from the Federal Aviation Administration.

Search for more resources

Looking for more, explore other topics in vehicle safety.

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Safe and Sound: The 7 Best FAA-Approved Car Seats for Air Travel

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Bassinets on Planes

Car seats on international flights, car seats at the airport, 1. safety 1st jive 2-in-1 convertible car seat, 2. graco snugride 35 lite lx infant car seat, 3. cosco mightyfit 65 dx convertible car seat, 4. nuna pipa lite rx infant car seat, 5. doona infant car seat, 6. wayb pico travel car seat, 7. cares harness, car seat travel accessories, final thoughts.

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Earlier in 2023, the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA called on the FAA to ban lap infants for safety reasons. ¹ The union’s call-to-action shocked many, especially parents of infants and children young enough to fly as a lap child. But with more and more reports of sudden turbulence on planes, flight attendants have first-hand experience with the dangers lap children could face.

Though not a requirement, the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) ² and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) ³ strongly recommend that children fly in an FAA-approved car seat or harness. There are many car seats options for air travel, but finding an FAA-approved car seat isn’t as simple as it seems. Beyond FAA approval, there are other factors to consider, such as price, width, and convenience for your family. There are a few rules when it comes to infant car seat bases and booster seats.

Here’s a complete guide to help you find an FAA-approved car seat for air travel.

FAA-Approved Car Seats and Harnesses

Child restraint systems (CRS) are strongly recommended for children traveling by plane. You can elect to fly with an FAA-approved car seat or what’s called a Child Aviation Restraint System (CARES) device. Both devices are approved for use during taxi, takeoff, landing, and turbulence .

You must purchase your child a seat, no matter their age, if you plan to have them sit in a car seat or CARES device during your flight. An airline will not hold a complimentary seat for your child to sit in their car seat.

The U.S. government makes it easy to determine if a car seat is FAA-approved for air travel. To find out if the car seat you already have is approved, simply look for the label on the back, bottom, or side of your seat that reads, “ This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft .”

The rules are the same on an airplane and in a car for whether or not your car seat should be rear- or forward-facing depending on your child’s weight.

A CARES device is the only FAA-approved car seat alternative and can be used for children up to 40 inches tall and between 22 and 44 pounds. Children this size can still travel in an FAA-approved car seat. Children that can sit upright and be forward facing can use a CARES device that utilizes the aircraft’s existing seatbelt.

Note that while there are FAA-approved booster seats, they, along with backless child restraint systems, are not allowed during taxi, takeoff, and landing .

If you’re still unsure of if you want to purchase a seat and bring a car seat for your infant when traveling, some airlines may provide an extension for your seat belt. This allows you to secure your lap infant to your body through an extension of your own seatbelt. This is more common on international airlines.

Airlines do not provide car seats for use on their aircraft, but some airlines do provide bassinets for their youngest passengers. Requirements vary, but children must generally be 6 months or younger and weigh less than 22 pounds to travel in a bassinet. Bassinets are free of charge by the airlines that provide them, though you’ll need to be seated in the bulkhead to request a bassinet.

Bassinets are not allowed during taxi, takeoff, landing, and turbulence and are not as safe as when your child is in their own seat in a car seat or CARES system.

Car seats are allowed on international flights, but your car seat may not meet the standards for a car seat at your destination (which could be a problem if you plan to rent a car). In places such as the EU, a parent must be able to remove the harness in a single movement . For this reason, there is no chest clip on EU- or UN-approved car seats. Chest clips aren’t required in the U.S., but they’re still prevalent.

Most airlines do not require you to pay an additional fee for checking a car seat or for bringing a car seat to use in the seat you’ve purchased for your child. Car seats and strollers do not count toward your luggage or carry-on allotment .

If you choose to travel with your car seat but decide to check it at the airport, you may want to consider a car seat bag to protect it from dirt and damage. There are also car seat backpacks that hold the car seat and then allow you to — you guessed it — wear your car seat on your back. This frees up your hands to carry other luggage or push a stroller. We’ll dive in to accessories more later in this article.

Top 7 FAA-Approved Car Seats and Harnesses

There are dozens of car seat options out there, so for the sake of brevity, the FAA-approved car seats on this list are considered best based on a few criteria. Note that backless booster seats are not allowed for use on airplanes during taxi, takeoff, and landing and are therefore not included on this list.

Weight, size, price, overall reviews , and popularity are what make these car seats the best for air travel. When you’re juggling carry-on luggage, a child (or several children), passports, tickets, and more, the last thing you want to worry about is a heavy piece of equipment.

The width of your car seat of choice is also important. It might seem like air travel is getting more and more cramped, but thankfully and factually, the width of airline seats is not shrinking.

Even still, you’ll want to keep in mind that you won’t have as much room in an airplane seat as you do in your car , so size matters. To give you an idea of what to expect, here are the average seat widths for U.S.-based airlines on domestic routes less than 6 hours:

Before purchasing your ticket, check online for the seat pitch of the airline and aircraft that is scheduled to fly your itinerary ( SeatGuru is a great resource). You’ll be able to get an idea of whether or not your car seat will fit properly in the seat before you buy.

And lastly, you should consider the price and overall reviews when making your decision. Each of the car seats on this list is FAA-approved. More expensive won’t necessarily mean safer . And reviews of happy parents and kids should also help make the decision easier.

The Safety 1st June 2-in-1 Convertible Car Seat is our top choice for an FAA-approved car seat . This seat measures just over 18 inches wide and 14.25 pounds in weight. And with an affordable price on Amazon, it’s not a huge investment if you decided to exclusively use this car seat for air travel while having another that stays in your car.

This car seat is convertible, meaning it can grow with your baby . Babies can safely sit in this seat when rear-facing from 5 to 40 pounds, then turn it forward-facing starting at 22 pounds and up to 65 pounds.

Next on the list is an infant car seat that can only be used rear-facing and for babies from 4 to 35 pounds. Just like in your car, an infant car seat must be rear-facing when installed on a plane. The Graco SnugRide is around 15.5 inches wide when installed without the base (which is not FAA-approved) and weighs 7.2 pounds.

Infant car seats come with a base to use in your car, but the base will not fit on an airline seat (nor is it FAA-approved for use). Bases do, however, fit just fine in the overhead compartment, so you won’t have to check this important part of your child’s car seat for use at your destination.

The Cosco MightFit is a convertible car seat that can safely accommodate children from 5 to 40 pounds in rear-facing mode. At 21.5 inches wide, it’s great for airplane seats and can even fit 3 across a row in most cars — music to the ears of parents with 3 or more small children.

This convertible car seat will work for your child until they are 65 pounds, weighs just over 10 pounds, and generally costs less than $100.

For stylish parents ready to shell out a few hundred dollars on an infant car seat , the Nuna PIPA lite rx might be just what you’re looking for. This FAA-approved car seat come in a variety of colors and patterns and has grown in popularity over the last few years.

This infant car seat weighs just under 7 pounds and is for babies weighing between 4 and 32 pounds in a rear-facing position. The seat is 17.5 inches wide.

Infant car seats are great for traveling with an baby because they can go from your car to the plane without much effort or having to switch equipment. Just be sure that whichever infant car seat you choose is FAA-approved.

The Doona Infant Car Seat is the most expensive on this list, but it’s easily the most convenient and offers some of the greatest value . That’s because you can go from car to stroller in 1 move thanks to the car seat’s built-in wheels and handlebar, making it a fantastic option for families on the go. The thousands of 5-star Amazon reviews from happy parents confirm it’s a great buy.

The car seat weighs 17 pounds and is just over 17 inches wide . Keep in mind that an infant car seat must be rear-facing and can only hold children up to 35 pounds before needing a larger option. The Doona Infant Car Seat comes with a base for use in the car that should fit in the airplane’s overhead compartment.

Doona also makes accessories designed to fit its car seat and stroller, such as a rain cover and detachable storage bag.

Though another pricey option at ~$500, including a carrying bag, the WAYB Pico Travel Car Seat is a great investment for families who do a lot of travel and are in the market for convenience.

The WAYB Pico is a forward-facing car seat for kids that weigh 22 to 50 pounds and are between 30 and 45 inches tall. The seat itself folds up neatly and the option above even comes with a carrying bag for the 8-pound car seat to travel in when not in use. And at only 14.5 inches wide , it’s easily the most airline seat-friendly option on this list.

This is a really great option whether you rent cars or use rideshare apps on vacation. While it’s true that some countries don’t require car seats at all, or your taxi driver won’t require a car seat to transport your family, you can have peace of mind knowing that your child can comfortably ride in this compact car seat anywhere you go.

The Child Aviation Restraint System (CARES) Harness is for children who are at least 1 year old and weigh between 22 and 44 pounds . The harness works together with the aircraft’s seatbelt to provide added security to young children.

The harness is extremely lightweight and at just 1 pound, it can even fit into your pocket. In addition to being FAA-approved, the CARES Harness is also approved by air authorities in Canada, the U.K., France, and more . Contact your preferred airline to confirm that this car seat alternative is approved for travel outside of the U.S.

Note that CARES Harnesses are not approved for use in motor vehicles .

When traveling with a sometimes bulky item like a car seat, you might want to consider a few items to make it easier to carry everything.

If you’re checking your car seat, great — you can get a car seat cover that will protect your seat from the elements. The JL Childress Ultimate Backpack comes with straps to allow you to wear your car seat on your back. And if you’re taking your seat with you on the plane, you could tie your car seat to your carry-on suitcase with a car seat travel belt .

When considering a car seat for air travel, you’ll want to look for car seats that fit the width of seats on the aircraft you’ll be flying as well as the type of seat you need. Infant car seats must be rear-facing and are generally only for babies no heavier than about 35 pounds. Convertible car seats grow with your child and can be used rear-facing or forward-facing. However, these seats can be heavier to carry and too large for some airline seats. This guide will come in handy when choosing your child’s car seat for air travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are all car seats faa-approved.

Most car seats are FAA-approved, but to be sure, look for a sticker that specifically states that your car seat is approved for motor vehicles and aircraft. Backless booster seats, for example, are not FAA-approved to use on airplanes.

How do I know if car seat is FAA-approved?

FAA-approved car seats are clearly labeled on the car seat. To find out if your car seat is FAA-approved, look for a sticker either on the back, bottom, or side of your seat that reads, “This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft.”

Are Doona car seats FAA-approved?

Yes, the Doona car seat is FAA-approved. The base that the car seat fits into in a car cannot be used on an airplane but can be stowed in the overhead compartment for later use in a car.

Does a 2-year-old need a car seat on a plane?

No, a 2-year-old does not need a car seat on a plane. While it is recommended that all children have their own seats and sit in a car seat while on a plane, this is not a requirement.

What age does a child need a car seat on a plane?

Children are not required to be in a car seat on a plane. However, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) both highly recommend that babies and young children fly in their own seat in a car seat or other child safety harness.

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About Ashley Onadele

Ashley discovered a love for travel in college that’s continued as her family has grown. She loves showing parents how they can take their families on trips using points and has contributed to numerous publications and podcasts.

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Best Travel Car Seats

It is encouraged to use a car seat when flying with children. [Adobe Stock]

Editor’s note: The following article is not intended to be a ranking, but is only to serve as a list of possible options. As the saying goes, your mileage may vary.

So you‘ve decided to take your family on a much needed vacation and one of your children is still in a car seat. That’s OK! When traveling by air it’s encouraged to bring along an FAA approved travel car seat to keep your little ones safe and sound while traveling. If you’re curious as to which travel car seat you should choose when traveling, we‘ve laid out some of our top picks, below.

Quicklook: Best Travel Car Seats

• Best For Portability: Evenflo Tribute LX Convertible Car Seat
• Best For Travel: WAYB Pico Travel Car Seat
• Best For Comfort: Graco My Ride 65 Convertible Car Seat
• Best For 3-in-1: Maxi-Cosi Pria Max 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat
• Best For Price: Cosco Scenera NEXT Convertible Car Seat

If you are trying to decide which car seat is best for you and your family when traveling, FLYING has determined the best options to take on airplanes, below. 

Evenflo Tribute LX Convertible Car Seat 

The Evenflo Tribute LX Convertible Car Seat can be a great choice for parents looking to purchase a car seat that can be perfect for car travel and plane travel. The FAA approved seat is lightweight and affordable in an effort to make traveling with an infant or toddler  a little easier. 

Front or Rear Facing: Both

Child Weight: Up to 40 pounds 

FAA Approved: Yes

Weight: ‎9.29 pounds

Why People Like This Car Seat : 

• Long lasting
• Lightweight
• Comfortable 

Why People Don’t Like This Car Seat: 

• Not compatible with all cars 
• Low quality material

WAYB Pico Travel Car Seat

While the WAYB Pico Travel Car Seat may be a little on the pricey side, it is the perfect lightweight car seat for families on the move. The foldable design makes the WAYB easy to carry around and can fit in carry-on bins if needed. Unlike other models, the WAYB is only front-facing compatible. 

Front or Rear Facing: Front 

Child Weights: Toddlers between 22 to 55 pounds

Weight: ‎8 pounds

Why People Like This Car Seat :

• Portability 
• Convenience 
• Durable 
• Easy set-up
• Expensive 
• Not very comfortable

Graco My Ride 65 Convertible Car Seat

If you are looking for a car seat good for older, heavier children the Graco My Ride 65 Convertible Car Seat may be the best choice for you. This all-in-one car seat features the LATCH system and is side-impact tested to ensure your child’s safety. This car seat is one of the top sold car seats in the US. 

Child Weight: Up to 65 pounds

Weight: 14.7 pounds

• Easy assembly 
• Extra comfort 
• Easy to clip
•  Heavy 

Pricing : $152

Maxi-Cosi Pria Max 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat

If you are looking for a car seat that can last in the long term and stay with your child through infancy all the way up to late toddlerhood, the Maxi-Cosi Pria Max 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat may be the best fit for you. While this car seat does have a higher price tag than most, it shouldn’t need replacing while your child is growing. The easy to install system and the padded comfort will keep your child safe and cozy whether they are in the car or on an airplane. 

Child Weight: Up to 100 pounds

Weight: 19.88 pounds

• Adjustable Headrest 
• Easy to take in and out 
• Great for children with acid reflux

Why People Don’t Like This Car Seat:

• Connection problems 
• Not washable

Cosco Scenera NEXT Convertible Car Seat

If you are looking to purchase a travel car seat in addition to the standard one you have at home and you do not want to spend a ton of money, the Cosco Scenera NEXT Convertible Car Seat is the car seat for you. The harness features 5 heights and 3 buckle locations so you can be sure you’re giving the best fit to your growing child. The lightweight and compact design also gets you through the airport without weighing you down.

Child Weight: Up to 40 Pounds

Weight: 10 pounds

• Lightweight 
• A lot of space
• Low weight limit 
• Large care seat

Pricing : $60

Can You Take a Car Seat on a Plane?

If you are traveling with an infant or toddler it is recommended to bring a portable, FAA approved car seat on the aircraft. Just like in a car, the car seat will help protect your child while traveling and prevent injury in case of an emergency. Most standard car seats are FAA approved and can be taken through TSA.

What To Consider When Choosing a Travel Car Seat

When considering a car seat to take with you traveling there are a few things to consider. While safety is at the forefront of every parent’s mind, understand the car seat will need to be adjustable, to fit onto aircraft seats, lightweight, and affordable for your family.

Safety 

Car seats are the first line of defense for a child who is in an accident. While air travel is the safest way to get from point A to point B, it is essential that the car seat you choose is safe and secure for your little one. Takeoff, landing, and turbulence are all instances when children should be fastened safely in their travel car seat to ensure their safety. The FAA has set regulations for car seats and put their seal of approval on those they believe are the best options for air travel. 

Going through TSA and walking from gate to gate is already a workout without having to lug around a car seat. Keep this in mind when choosing what travel car seat to buy. The lighter weight your child’s travel car seat is, the less of a hassle it will be to cart it through the airport. 

For most people, airplane seats are not very comfortable, but for your child you have the ability to choose a seat that they will enjoy sitting in. When choosing a travel car seat for your little one, choose one that is comfy and cozy for their little bodies. 

Travel car seats come in a variety of prices. Your family situation will determine how much you would like to spend on one. Keep in mind that most car seats are compatible with aircraft seats and are FAA approved. If you do not want to buy a new car seat, check your everyday one to see about taking it with you!

Child Compatibility

When you are choosing a travel car seat for your child, make sure the age and weight limits are compatible with your little one. Just like standard car seats, travel car seats have weight limits associated with them. You can normally find these limits in the manual of the car seat on the specifications on the website. 

Family Vacation

Going on a family vacation can be stressful, but picking your child’s travel car seat shouldn’t be. If you liked this content and would like to stay up to date on more aviation related topics, including information about training to be a pilot, subscribe to FLYING Magazine.

It is not required to have a car seat on a plane, but it is recommended.

You do not need to check your child’s car seat as luggage; you can bring it on to the plane if your child has been assigned their own seat.

Yes, flying is the safest mode of transportation.

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In an ever-evolving world, emergency medical and evacuation travel insurance coverage is essential, especially if you're traveling internationally. However, sports equipment coverage, pet protection, and cancel for any reason coverage are among the increasingly popular coverage options that are changing the way we travel.

Best Cheap Travel Insurance

• HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance : Best overall
• GoReady travel insurance : Best for trip cancellation 
• Nationwide Travel Insurance : Best value
• Trawick International Travel Insurance : Most popular

Compare the Top Cheap Travel Insurance Plans

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Three plans to choose from
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Reasonable premiums
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. CFAR coverage available with some plans
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. High medical emergency and evacuation coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Special coverages for pets, sports equipment, etc not available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited reviews with complaints about claims not being paid
• Trip cancellation of up to $5,000 with the Economy plan and up to $50,000 with the Preferred plan
• Cancel for any reason insurance and missed connection insurance available with the Preferred plan
• Baggage delay insurance starting after 24 or 12 hours depending on the plan

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers a CFAR upgrade add-on on certain plans
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Comprehensive insurance plans include generous coverage for baggage loss, plus protection from hurricane and other intense weather-related issues
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Competitive pricing
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Online complaints about claims not being paid and non-responsiveness
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Not all more expensive plans include CFAR coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Dropping rating with AM Best
• Annual and multi-trip plans available
• All plans include pandemic coverage for COVID-19
• Coverage for weather-related delays, cancellations and other incidents

• Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of trip costs (for cruises) or up to $30,000 (for single-trip plans)
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Three cruise-specific plans to choose from
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Annual travel insurance plans available
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Strong trip cancellation coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Cancel for any reason coverage available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. CFAR insurance not available with every single plan
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage is lower than what some competitors offer

Nationwide Travel Insurance offers many of the standard benefits you might see with a travel insurance policy. This can include things like trip cancellation coverage, so you can recover pre-paid costs or trip interruption in the event your vacation is interrupted by an unexpected event. There's also baggage delay coverage and medical coverage.

• Cancel for any reason coverage available

Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of the trip cost and trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Useful for adventurous travelers headed to higher-risk destinations
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable plans with varying levels of coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. 10-day free look option
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous baggage loss replacement policy
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trip delay coverage kicks in after just six hours
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Some policies allow a CFAR add-on
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $1 million medical evacuation coverage limit
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Baggage and trip delay coverages don’t kick in until after the 12-hour mark
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. International student policies available for temporary stints abroad
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Complaints about claims not being paid or involving an intermediary to resolve claims

Trawick International travel insurance offers plans customized to diverse travelers' needs. We look at coverage options, claims processing, pricing, and other important factors for savvy travelers.

• Travel medical insurance
• Trip protection and cancellation
• International student insurance
• Visitor medical insurance (for traveling to the US)

Affordable Travel Insurance Reviews

So you're planning a big family vacation—if you're lucky, the trip of a lifetime. Travel costs can skyrocket quickly, leaving you feeling a bit overwhelmed. At this point, travel insurance starts to look like a potentially unnecessary cost, but is it really?

The best travel insurance plans can go a long way toward defraying unexpected costs that may arise if you're asking the right questions starting with: What does travel insurance cover ?

Best Affordable Travel Insurance Overall: HTH Worldwide TripProtector Economy Travel Insurance

The HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance Economy plan offers the most comprehensive coverage across major categories of all the providers in this guide.

You'll have some peace of mind with up to $75,000 of financial protection for eligible medical emergencies, and up to $500,000 per person for medical evacuation costs. For more everyday expenses, you can also relax with baggage loss and delay, trip interruption, cancellation and delay coverage that will help you recoup many, if not all, of your costs.

However, this plan falls short on missed connection benefits and accidental death coverage, both of which are not available under most circumstances (missed connection coverage only applies to cruises, and will only cover up to $500 per person after a three-hour delay).

Read our HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance review here.

Best Affordable Travel Insurance for Trip Cancellation: GoReady Trip Cancellation Plan Travel Insurance

The GoReady travel insurance Trip Cancellation Plan is exactly that: a cost-effective plan that offers protection in the event that your trip is canceled for a covered reason. The plan we priced out for our hypothetical trip cost just 1.16% of our total travel expenses — a very small amount of money to pay for the guarantee of our money back in the right circumstances.

The benefit is that this plan can supplement other coverage you already have, or give you a little bit of protection for a trip where you might not otherwise have opted for insurance altogether. On the downside, you won't get any protection for medical emergencies, trip interruption or delays or lost bags from this plan.

Read our GoReady Travel Insurance review here.

Best Value Cheap Travel Insurance: Nationwide Essential Travel Insurance

Nationwide Travel Insurance  is a well-rounded alternative to HTH Worldwide Trip Protector Economy. This plan offers solid protection for both travel-related snafus as well as situations that might call for emergency medical and evacuation, making it a good choice for trips where you have cause to worry about potential interruptions or delays. However, it does not offer protection for missed connections or accidental death.

Read our Nationwide Travel Insurance review here

Most Popular Cheap Travel Insurance: Trawick Safe Travels Explorer Travel Insurance

The Trawick International Travel Insurance Safe Travels Explorer plan has been purchased by more than 36,000 travelers since 2020, and it has great reviews to boot. And no wonder: Trawick offers generous trip delay coverage of up to $2,000 per person, although hopefully you won't need to reach that reimbursement amount because the daily limit is $150.

You'll also be able to rely on a $200 reimbursement per person for lost baggage - one of the higher amounts amongst these affordable plans, although this amount pales in comparison to the baggage loss coverage offered through the best travel credit cards .

Read our Trawick Travel Insurance review here.

Types of Cheap Travel Insurance

Comprehensive coverage.

This type of insurance offers extensive protection, covering everything from medical issues to trip cancellations. While it's more expensive up front, it can save you a lot in the long run.

Medical-Only Coverage

As the name suggests, this policy focuses solely on medical emergencies, making it a cost-effective option for travelers who are primarily concerned about health-related expenses.

Evacuation and Repatriation

In extreme cases where you need to be evacuated due to a medical emergency or a natural disaster, this coverage ensures that you can return home safely without incurring huge costs.

Benefits of Opting for Cheap Travel Insurance

Cost savings.

Cheap travel insurance can significantly reduce your travel expenses, ensuring that you're not overpaying for coverage you might not need.

Adequate Coverage for Less

Just because it's cheap doesn't mean it's lacking. Many affordable policies offer substantial coverage, giving you peace of mind without breaking the bank.

How to Pick The Best Cheap Travel Insurance Plan for You

No single travel insurance plan will meet the needs of every single traveler. By nature, we are diverse and evolving meaning travel insurance should be equally so. Travel insurance for a week-long trip to a big city shouldn't be the same as the coverage for a backpacking expedition in the mountains. A splurge to purchase comprehensive insurance coverage may also be worth it for international ventures or other large expenditures.

In most cases, the cost difference between a basic and comprehensive travel insurance plan isn't as significant as you might think. Regardless, it's generally a good idea to choose a trusted travel insurance provider known for exceptional customer service and coverage. (For this roundup, we looked at traveler reviews shared through the travel agency SquareMouth .)

• Assessing Your Travel Needs: Consider the nature of your trip, the destination, and your own personal needs when choosing a policy. This ensures that you're not over-insured or underinsured.
• Comparing Different Policies: Don't settle for the first policy you find. Compare different options, looking at their coverage and prices, to find the best fit for your budget and needs.
• Reading the Fine Print: Always read the terms and conditions carefully to understand what's covered, what's not, and the process for making a claim.

If you just want trip cancellation protection, go with the GoReady Trip Cancellation Plan. For more robust coverage that won't break the bank, consider HTH Worldwide's TripProtector Economy, Trawick's Safe Travels Explorer, or Nationwide's Essentials plan.

Yes, many affordable policies offer comprehensive coverage suitable for international travel. It's crucial to compare policies and understand your needs.

Travelers insurance is relatively cheap because it only covers you for a set period of time, and depending on your plan, the level of coverage you get may not be particularly high. However, even with high coverage limits and extras like cancel for any reason coverage , travel insurance is relatively affordable. 

The average cost of travel insurance is 4%-8% of your trip's cost. This usually translates into a premium between $89 to $399.

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Chose the Best Cheap Travel Insurance

To determine the best insurance plan for travelers on a budget, we evaluated dozens of products using a hypothetical trip to Australia for a single traveler, age 26, with a total cost of $2,500 for flight, hotel and other incidentals. We then compiled the plans that covered the essentials at the lowest costs.

Of note: All of these plans include COVID-related medical coverage and 24-hour assistance, and pay at least 100% of your trip cost for eligible trip cancellations. None include rental car coverage.

The seven winning plans cost between $29 to $74 — significantly below the typical cost of comprehensive travel insurance, which can range between 4%-8% of total travel expenses, according to the US Travel Insurance Association. But these affordable plans also come with comparably low ceilings for various aspects of coverage such as emergency medical, trip cancellation, or delay — and do not include rental car or "cancel for any reason" (CFAR) protection. So if you think you might need these benefits, it may well be worth upgrading to a comprehensive travel insurance plan for a few more dollars, just for the peace of mind.

Convenience and Flexibility

Each of the plans in this list include 24-hour assistance worldwide from reputable insurance providers. And despite being on the lower end of insurance plans, each of these options includes refunds for up to 100% of your total trip cost for eligible reasons. Each of these plans also includes medical coverage for COVID-related issues that may arise during your travels, which may come in handy as the pandemic continues to evolve worldwide.

Sufficient Coverage in Essential Categories

The cheapest travel insurance plan will rarely cover every scenario that could go awry on your trip. However, each of these plans can at least help you get your money back in the event that your travel is canceled for an eligible reason, and most of them include financial protection if you incur emergency medical bills while traveling. We also factor in what travelers are most concerned about now. 

You can read more about how Business Insider rates insurance here.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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The Best Travel Car Seats to Keep Your Little One Safe on the Go

‘Tis the season for going over the river and through the woods to Grandmother’s house. But what to do when you have a little one in tow and Grandmother’s house is 2,000 miles away? Your full-featured, miniature La-Z-Boy-style car seat may be exactly the right tool for the job in day-to-day travels, however you’ll quickly find it’s impractical for planes, trains, and (rental) automobiles.

For long-distance travel you need a car seat that can safely transport your infant, toddler, or school age kiddo while being eminently luggable along with your rollaboards and diaper bag accoutrement. It needs to be easy to set up and break down while Uber drivers tap their fingers and fellow airplane passengers pile up behind you. Extra-soft cushions, sturdy cupholders, and cute patterns? These things are all gravy.

Here’s a selection of travel car seats to fit your budget and specific age-range needs. We’ve pulled a few with some nice-to-have bells and whistles as well as some innovative options that will have you thinking outside the standard car seat box.

For more information on the best travel car seats, refer to our table of contents.

Table of contents

1. editor’s pick: combi coccoro convertible car seat, 2. budget pick: cosco apt 50 convertible car seat, 3. luxury pick: doona infant car seat and stroller, 4. toddler and older pick: wayb pico travel car seat, 5. graco admiral 65 convertible car seat, 6. safety 1st guide 65 convertible car seat, 7. evenflo tribute 5 convertible car seat, 8. evenflo maestro sport booster car seat, 9. evenflo sonus convertible car seat, 10. bubblebum inflatable backless booster car seat, what is a travel car seat, what to expect when you’re choosing a travel car seat, how to install a travel car seat.

Our favorite travel car seat is a well-rounded pick with what we think is just the right mix of necessary features, quality construction, and simplicity. The Combi Coccoro is a travel car seat that is convertible, meaning that it can be mounted in either forward-facing or rear-facing modes depending on the age range and size of your child.

When positioned to be rear facing, the Coccoro accommodates kids from 3 to 33 pounds. In forward mode, the seat is rated for 20 to 40 pounds, and overall whether facing to the front or back, it’s made for a minimum height of 19 inches and maxes out at 40 inches.

The seat itself is especially lightweight at only 11 pounds, meaning transporting the Coccoro in and out of shuttles and through the airport is a breeze, even if you have to hand hold it. At a mere 15.5-inches wide, this seat has a notably slim footprint meaning not only is it less unwieldy to haul around, but also that it will mount in those ever-shrinking Economy Class seats with no problem. It’s compact enough that some parents report they can drop it into their stroller seat, kid and all, for even easier conveyance through the concourse. One more benefit of its skinny build is that you can easily fit three of these seats across the average automotive bench seat, a boon for parents with a passel of children who want to employ the Coccoro year-round.

Other features include a removable infant insert and machine-washable cover. It also has one-touch height adjustment of the five-point harness. As all good seats should have, this offering from Combi has side-impact protection and a thick layer of energy-absorbing foam. It’s FAA approved, and it has a buckle with a visual cue so you know when it is securely in place.

Buyers of the Coccoro report that it’s easy to mount in an airplane seat due to its small stature and curved bottom, allowing you to fine-tune its angle in tight quarters. These same qualities make it ideal for small rental cars outside of North America. As with most of our picks, this seat mounts securely using the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system or via seatbelt in older or non-American cars.

Of course, a simplified and compact car seat is not without its downsides. You won’t find any cupholders here, and its small size limits the kinds of kids that will fit comfortably within its confines. Average-sized kids are likely to max this car seat out at around four and a half years old while faster growers are going to find themselves in a squeeze.

A few customers have also struggled with rear-facing installations in certain vehicle models, and one reviewer took issue with the tricky crotch buckle. There also appear to be isolated incidents of the shock-absorbing Styrofoam cracking under the strains of normal use within a year.

For budget conscious shoppers, the Cosco Apt 50 provides a stripped down convertible car seat that gets the job done. Even lighter weight than our top pick, this model clocks in at a svelte 8 pounds, yet is rated for a wider range of occupants.

In rear-facing mode, the Apt 50 accommodates kids from 5 to 40 pounds and a maximum of 50 pounds while in the forward position. The seat’s five-point harness can be adjusted to six heights and three front buckle locations as children grow, and its seat pad is machine washable and tumble dry safe.

The gains in capability at a lower price point are achieved in part through the features it doesn’t have. Infant inserts and other niceties like strap pads must be purchased as separate accessories. Meanwhile, strap height adjustment is a manual affair unlike the one-touch operation of our top pick. Each time the height has to be adjusted, it requires rethreading the straps through one set of six pre-determined slots.

Still, this cost-effective model sports a pair of cupholders, has side impact protection and is certified for use on aircraft. James L. says the Cosco Apt 50 is “incredibly easy to install and take out, since there's a tension release button on the latch strap, which not all car seats have.”

It’s additionally worth noting that while owners report that it mounts fine to airplane seats in either forward or rear positions, the seatbelt can be felt beneath the padding and is uncomfortable to lay against without extra cushioning. Some reviewers also have encountered difficulty achieving a safe mount of any sort in a car, even when utilizing professional help.

If money is no object, and ultimate convenience is what you’re after, look no further than the Doona Infant Car Seat. When it’s in a vehicle, it’s a rear-facing car seat, but once outside, in one smooth motion, it’s a stroller. True, this option has a much more limited lifespan, being limited to infants 4 to 35 pounds and maxing out at 32 inches in height, but during that time it would be hard to find a carrier offering a more seamless experience.

The Doona features a five-point harness, adjustable handlebar, washable fabric cover, and side-impact protection. It includes an infant insert, head support, vehicle seat protector, and a base. The carrier is FAA approved and weighs a not insignificant 16.5 pounds.

Buyers say that while it is heavy, you’re rarely carrying it around as the burden of the weight is borne by the wheels. According to reviews, converting it can take a bit of practice, but if you try it a few times at home, you’ll quickly be ready to use it out in the real world. The Doona fits perfectly in an airplane seat or in the back of a two-door vehicle, and while it’s more secure on the base, which weighs an additional 10 pounds, it’s unnecessary while traveling. Getting it through airport security is simple too; just flip it upside down in car seat mode and it fits right through the scanner.

As for downsides, some taller customers mention needing to hunch down to push the carrier in stroller mode. On the flip side, more petite owners explain that getting the heavy car seat out of a tall SUV or crossover can be a bit of a struggle. Also, considering its steep price tag, reviewers wish it came with accessories such as a storage bag or shade extender.

Most buyers agree that it’s expensive, but worth the convenience it provides. NelWa lays it out this way, “We call this the marriage saver! We had a long distance trip with 6 flights and 10+ cabs and Uber’s [sic] and this saved us a ton of hassle and we got a lot of compliments on it!”

For toddler-age kids and up, WAYB has a unique solution that keeps children safely harnessed and also packs up easily when not in use. The Pico is a travel car seat recommended for kids two years and older in the 22- to 50-pound range who are between 30 and 45 inches tall. Unlike standard one-piece, shell-style seats, this product cleverly folds up into a compact eight-pound package that’s easy to lug around or stow away when not needed.

The WAYB Pico’s frame is sheathed in a responsibly sourced wool-polyester mesh fabric, which helps keep kids cool and is devoid of flame retardant chemicals and foams. The Pico is a forward-facing only design and is FAA approved. It can mount via the LATCH standard or via car or airplane belt. Children are secured by a five-point harness, and the design is slim enough to fit three Pico seats across most car bench seats.

The manufacturer recommends the fabric be spot cleaned and air dried, though it can be removed for more extensive cleaning. One buyer warns that the mesh can tear easily and is not easy to clean as any sort of liquid food becomes embedded in the covering. While the WAYB meets all NHTSA safety standards, some owners express concern over its impact protection compared to conventional seats.

Overall, reviewers agree that while not ideal as an everyday seat—armrests would be a welcome addition, for instance—the WAYB Pico serves well as a solution while traveling. It’s very convenient to install in a rush, and quite comfortable despite its skeletal appearance.

Accommodating the widest range of ages yet in this list of travel car seats is a convertible offering from Graco, the Admiral 65, whose name comes bearing a strong hint at its maximum weight rating.

In rear-facing configuration, the Admiral 65 seats kids from 5 to 40 pounds. When facing forward, the range is 22 to 65 pounds. The seat includes removable body supports for infants and has been tested to meet or exceed impact standards for front, side, rear, and rollover collisions. Additionally, it has been tested for structural integrity under extreme hot and cold temperatures.

This FAA-approved car seat mounts using the LATCH system and has a five-point harness and headrest that move in concert without the need to rethread the straps as kids grow or as differently sized siblings swap seats. The design also includes an integrated cupholder.

Owners praise its cozy padding, though they admit the seat is on the heavier side to travel with. A few find it challenging to loosen the straps and some wish it came with shoulder pads to protect the occupant’s neck. Several reviewers also complain of the difficult-to-release latch, which can be almost impossible to access when the seat is in rear-facing mode.

Another travel car seat that’s intent on giving the game away in its name is the Safety 1st Guide 65. As you might have guessed, it’s rated to carry children 5 to 40 pounds in rear-facing mode and 22 to 65 pounds in forward-facing configuration. Safety 1st specifies a minimum height of 19 inches and between 34 and 52 inches for each mode, respectively.

The Guide 65 utilizes a five-point harness, which must be threaded manually through one of five preset heights and one of three lower buckle positions. The head support is also adjustable, and the body pillows are removable, as is the cupholder, which can be placed on either the right or left side. The seat pad can be removed for handwashing.

Making it great for travel, this car seat has a diminutive profile and is FAA approved. It fits well in small cars, though reviewers warn that it can be a tight squeeze in airplane seats. Speaking of tight squeeze, bulkier or fast-growing kids may be better suited to a different seat as this one can be a bit of a pinch. It’s not a great fit for newborns either since the lowest shoulder strap setting is not quite low enough to be safe.

Also of note, some parents have found it a challenge to safely install, saying it requires multiple pool noodles or towels to shim it up. A couple of buyers have also spotted a manufacturing defect wherein screws were missing in a critical location.

Keeping costs in check, the Evenflo Tribute 5 convertible car seat offers up a no-frills solution that gets the job done. Weight ranges are 5 to 40 pounds when pointed rearward and 22 to 40 pounds when forward facing. The acceptable height range is 19 to 37 inches.

The Tribute 5 is engineered with side-impact protection which meets or exceeds all federal safety standards and is FAA certified. It features a removable head pillow and integrated body cushions. The seat pad can be removed and is machine washable on the cold cycle and safe to tumble dry on low heat. The five-point harness can be adjusted to multiple positions, and the seat itself is installed via the LATCH standard, though recline will need to be fine-tuned by using towels or pool noodles.

The seat includes a detachable cupholder, and overall, only weighs 9.3 pounds. Be advised however, that the cupholder does not match the one in the photo and has garnered poor reviews. Similarly, the placement of the airplane belt buckle can be felt through the modest seat padding and can be uncomfortable for little ones. Also, make sure you know the location of the hard-to-find FAA statement on this seat before the flight attendant puts you on the spot.

On the plus side, reviewers praise its lightweight, travel-friendly design saying it even squeezes into tiny budget airline seats *cough* Spirit *cough* . The cover holds up well to the rigors of cleaning up after car sick toddlers, and though it lacks many creature comforts, it delivers where it matters. Jim A. gets down to the brass tacks of what a car seat is for: “My daughter and my 2 year old were in horrible crash... the car flipped over, (sliding) across the highway landing upside down! The car seat saved her life! Just some red marks from the straps!”

For kids that have transitioned beyond the infant stage, the Evenflo Maestro Sport is a travel car seat that offers two front facing modes. One configuration is for smaller kids, 22 to 50 pounds and up to 50 inches in height, and it utilizes a standard five-point harness. When the kids have graduated beyond that stage, this seat converts to a belt-positioning booster that uses the car’s own safety restraints. Its top capacity is 110 pounds and 57 inches in height.

It features dual cupholders, a machine washable pad, and removable head pillow. It weighs less than 10 pounds and is FAA approved when used with the five-point harness. It’s manufactured with side-impact and rollover protection and can be mounted using the LATCH system or seatbelts. Perhaps most interesting, each purchase includes live video installation support.

Owners of the Maestro Sport report that it’s great for airplane use but can be a bit unwieldy to haul around. For that reason, a strap that can attach the seat to your roller bag is highly recommended. As with many travel car seats, parents tend to dislike this model for day-to-day use. It’s not as padded as more expensive models, tightening the top tether in trucks can be very difficult, and the upright seating position means kids’ heads tend to nod forward, unsupported, when they doze off. The cupholders also detach with frustrating ease, leaving one mom to worry that they will one day become toddler-powered projectiles while driving.

One last entry from the folks at Evenflo is the Sonus convertible car seat. Rated for children five to 40 pounds while rear facing and 22 to 50 pounds when aimed at the front, this travel car seat accommodates kids up to 50 inches tall.

In addition to rollover and side-impact protection, FAA approval, and a five-point harness adjustable to five height positions, the Sonus also touts ventilation built into the frame for better temperature regulation. And, to prevent unintentional “ouchies,” this seat has buckle storage pockets to keep hot metal clasps away from little fingers. The head pillow is removable, as are the seat pads for machine washing and tumble drying. There are two cupholders that fit both standard sippy cups as well as non-round objects like juice boxes due to the addition of elastic bands.

Parents report that this seat works well on airplanes and isn’t too heavy at just 11 pounds. Reviews indicate that this is a particularly good pick for taller toddlers and the kickstand allows the seat to recline both in forward- and rear-facing modes.

As to the bad, the crotch buckle is unpadded and is a potential pinch hazard, and despite efforts to the contrary, the black neoprene material gets very hot during the summer months. The seat is also quite tall making it problematic in rear-facing configurations since it needs a very deep back seat for proper installation. Finally, multiple buyers complain of the elastic breaking on the cupholders.

And finally for a completely different approach. With a cheeky, memorable name, the BubbleBum is a backless booster seat for toddlers and school age kids that may not need a full car seat but still need a boost for proper belt positioning.

Geared toward kids between four and 11 years old and weighing between 40 and 100 pounds, the BubbleBum is foldable for travel, easily squeezing into a purse or backpack. This booster gets its name from the fact that it has to be inflated by mouth using a nozzle in the rear, and when it’s time to pack it away, the air is squeezed out for a compact footprint. It takes about 10 seconds to inflate according to its manufacturer, but even when deflated, it meets federal safety regulations due to an adequate amount of memory foam that comprises its construction.

The BubbleBum includes seatbelt guides for proper routing of the vehicle’s safety restraints and a travel bag for storage. The booster can be cleaned by spraying and wiping the exterior and weighs a mere 1.2 pounds. The company advises that the seat should not be exposed to extreme temperatures while inflated because the internal bladder can expand and split, compromising its function. This includes leaving the booster in a hot car. Similarly, the BubbleBum is susceptible to great changes in altitude and may deflate when going from low to high. For this reason, it should never be inflated while at high altitude and then taken to a lower altitude. When flying, the booster should always be deflated.

While the manufacturer touts this product as an everyday solution, most reviewers agree it works better as a stopgap for situations where proper boosters with backs are unavailable. While it’s reportedly softer and more comfortable than standard boosters, it’s not as effective for a wiggly or sleepy kid who might slide off the seat. Finally, there’s a bit of an “ick” factor which is perhaps more pronounced in the COVID era. The only way to inflate the BubbleBum is to put the nozzle between your lips. The same nozzle that might have just been touching the seat of a well-used taxicab. Just sayin’.

Photo credit: mathom / Shutterstock.com

All the shiny bells and whistles are great when your kid’s car seat is practically a permanent fixture of your vehicle, but when it’s time to traverse the country—or the world—a lighter, more travel-friendly alternative is practically a must. Standard car seats fall in the 25- to 30-pound range while the kind of car seat you’ll want to haul through the airport is more like eight to 15 pounds.

The perfect travel car seat has all of the essentials and none of the overkill. That seat is going to go with you from home to shuttle to security to plane to shuttle number two to rental car and then the same sequence in reverse (and that’s assuming a direct flight!). Lightweight and easy-to-carry is the name of the game. Oh, and one more thing: approval from the FAA. Any car seat that you plan to install on an airplane must have explicit documentation stating that it’s safe to fly.

Travel car seats come in the same flavors as normal car seats: infant, convertible, booster, etc. In fact there aren’t really travel car seats so much as there are car seats that are better for travel. That is, there’s no reason you can’t use a travel car seat as your everyday car seat, just that a car seat ideal for travel is probably not the one you want to take the kids to school in day to day, if you can help it. They tend to be a bit flimsier, have a few less cupholders, and a little less room to spread out.

When choosing a travel car seat, consider how you want to use it and the child who will be using it. Ask yourself, how do I want to transport this through the airport? Will you have a cart at the ready, or do you plan to carry it?

While smaller is generally better, you’re ultimately limited by the size of your ever-growing passenger. Get a seat that’s made for an infant, and by the next time you go on vacation you may find you’re shopping for travel car seat number two. In fact, if you already have an infant carrier, a seat specifically for travel is probably unnecessary as your everyday car carrier can just be removed from its base and installed in the plane or in the car directly via seatbelt routing.

So, make sure you choose the right size for your needs according to how long you reasonably expect to use the same seat. You’ll get a lot more life out of a convertible car seat that can start out being mounted in rear-facing mode for infants and transition to forward-facing mode for toddlers and older kids. Just remember that do-it-all seats have their drawbacks, notably cramped installation in rear-facing mode.

And that’s one of the other major considerations. The seat you choose to travel with should be able to install in a shuttle, taxi, Uber, rental car, and airplane with minimal rigamarole. Some seats require shims like rolled up towels or pool noodles to achieve a safe and secure install. Do you really want to travel across the country with pool noodles in your diaper bag?

Other considerations include comfort. The amount of padding should be directly related to how long you expect your little one to stay in their seat. In poorly padded seats, the airplane buckle can often be felt through the cushion, poking into the child’s back. Verify also that the seat you choose is FAA approved. Know where the sticker stating its certification is located. It is always printed in red, and you may be asked by a flight attendant to show it.

Is your kid four or older? A traditional car seat may not even be necessary. Other solutions exist such as travel boosters, backless or not, or a travel vest. Just remember, a booster seat is only for a car. On the airplane they need to be stowed away.

Proper installation of a car seat is an important safety concern. Always refer to your specific seat’s instruction manual and other accompanying documentation such as video demonstrations. It is often helpful to look for other customers’ how-to videos as well, but remember that your car seat manufacturer is the ultimate resource.

In general, every American car seat can be installed one of two ways: either using the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system or by using the automobile’s seat belt. Most cars manufactured after September 2002 are required to have the LATCH system, and it’s generally considered the safest way to install a child seat.

Before traveling, learn and practice installing your travel car seat using both methods. Once you’re in another city, state, or country, you will be in an unfamiliar vehicle with all of the pressures of family travel in tow. While almost any car you encounter will be child seat-ready, there’s still the chance you’ll find yourself in an outdated or foreign vehicle that doesn’t adhere to the American standard. Note the fact that while some child seats are equipped with top tethers, not all vehicles come equipped with top tether hooks, and not all top tether hooks are located in the same place. Some are closer to the floor than they are to the top of the seat.

We are committed to finding, researching, and recommending the best products. We earn commissions from purchases you make using the retail links in our product reviews. Learn more about how this works .

Main photo credit: TierneyMJ / Shutterstock.com

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What is the best travel car seat? (2021)

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You’ve probably come here because you’re planning a big trip for your family and don’t want to lug your beast of a car seat for home. What are the best travel car seats for airplanes to pick for your situation? Every family and every trip is different so there’s no single right answer.

We have tons of experience traveling with a car seat and have used many different ones. As a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, I also have the in-depth knowledge of what it takes to keep kids safe and familiarity with most car seats on the market. In this article you’ll find the honest pros and cons of the top traveling car seats available today as well as our favorite car seats for travel at each age.

Quick picks: Best travel car seat by age

Best car seat for airplane travel, best booster seat for travel, top picks: the best travel car seat for every age, best car seats for travel – wrapping up, you might also like….

Here are my top choices for the best portable car seat for travel at each stage:

• Doona – car seat stroller for birth to 1yo (also available here and here )
• Cosco Scenera Deluxe – travel convertible car seat for birth to 3 years old
• Evenflo Sonus 65 – long-lasting convertible car seat for birth to 6 years old ( check prices here too )
• Evenflo Maestro Sport – forward-facing travel car seat for ages 3 to 5 ( check prices here too )
• Ride Safer travel vest – car seat alternative for ages 4 to 6
• Bubblebum – inflatable booster seat for ages 5+

Want more info? We have full reviews of all of these best car seats for travel and other portable car seats further down. Remember: the best car seat for travel is the one that fits your child and that you actually use when you’re out in the world.

We’ve traveled with nearly a dozen different car seats over the years, and these are our favorites. The only one from this table we haven’t personally used is the Doona, which sadly came out after our kids had outgrown infant car seats.

Good news: nearly every seat sold in the US is an FAA-approved car seat! Just remember that you can’t use a booster seat (or the Ride Safer travel vest ) on an airplane.

Read more You’ll find an in-depth breakdown of what to look for, reviews and recommendations in these articles on the top travel car seats by age: – The best travel infant car seats – The best travel car seats for 1 year olds – The best travel car seats for 2 year olds – The best travel car seats for 3 year olds – The best travel car seats for 4 year olds – The best travel car seats for 5 year olds – The best travel car seats for 6 year olds – The best booster seats for travel

If your child is a frequent traveler, owning a lightweight car seat for travelling abroad is crucial for getting through the airport, hoisting it through the plane, rental car shuttles and taxis. We love our full-sized, full-features seats at home but would never dream of transporting 50lbs of car seats to the other side of the world. Here are our favorite travel-worthy car seats for kids of all ages, many of which we’ve owned over the years.

Best car seat for travel with an infant

You’re in luck! Usually you can just use your infant car seat – and if your little one isn’t too big yet, it makes a great travel car seat for a 1 year old. Our Chicco Keyfit served us well for many trips. A portable infant car seat is handy because you can click it into a matching stroller or carry it by the handle when you need to.

To save weight and bulk, leave the base at home and install with the seatbelt instead. In some countries, the seatbelts do not lock at the retractor so you’ll need to bring an old-school locking clip. If your car seat didn’t come with one, you can buy a locking clip here . Learn everything you wanted to know about locking clips (and more!).

If your infant will have more passport stamps than a flight crew or you live in a big city where you mostly take public transit check out the Doona car seat stroller combo, the infant car seat that magically becomes a stroller! I haven’t used one in a car but I did get a chance to play with it and I was impressed by this new-fangled travel car seat with wheels. Others who have used it say that it lives up to the hype as the best car seat for airplane travel with an infant. Stroll up to the taxi door, retract the handle and wheels, then install as you would any other infant seat. It makes a perfect portable car seat for taxi rides with an infant.

>>> Check prices on the Doona here

An awesome new infant car seat for travel in 2021 is the Century Carry On 35 , which weighs just 10 pounds for the car seat and base together . It’s the lightest infant car seat and base combination you can find. Since it’s a modified Graco SnugRide 35, it’s still easy to install and fits kids well from birth to 15-18 months. The best part? In addition to the light physical weight, it’s got one of the lightest price tags around: the base model is scant $72 when you use a coupon, while the upgraded Century Carry On 35 LX clocks in at $104.

Read more: MUST-HAVE travel baby gear to make your life easier

Travel toddler car seat options

Here are some choices for the best convertible car seat for travel. We look for light weight and ease of installation in portable car seats for toddlers. Every country we’ve visited in Europe has had lower anchors for LATCH/ISOFIX, though top tethers for forward-facing kids are not yet universal; if you’re traveling outside of the developed world you should bring a locking clip just in case and know how to use it .

Get more details on the best convertible car seats for travel

Here are several portable car seat reviews to start your search:

Cosco Scenera NEXT Review

*Our top pick for a travel car seat for a 1 year old

The Cosco Scenera NEXT is not designed specifically as a travel seat; rather, it’s designed as an affordable way for families to keep their children rear-facing until at least 2yo (as the AAP recommends) but as long as 4yo. Note that the forward-facing mode is outgrown before rear-facing because of the low top harness slots.

But it has quickly become an extremely popular travel car seat for preschoolers because of its light weight and shockingly low price tag . It’s the lightest toddler car seat currently on the market! If you’re an infrequent traveler but you want a portable car seat for travel or a backup for home, this is the car seat to buy.

Pro tip: the solid colors have much nicer, more cushioned covers than the patterns. Check Cosco travel car seat reviews and latest prices on Amazon – but you’ll often find the best deals on this seat at Walmart . There’s also now a Cosco Scenera Deluxe that offers a plush cover, padded head and body inserts and and harness covers.

For families on a budget, this is an excellent portable car seat for toddler travelers!

What we like:

• Ultra-low price tag for a functional seat
• Lightest convertible car seat – only 7lbs!
• Narrow convertible car seat is great for 3-across
• Rear-facing mode fits newborn until around 3-4yo

What we don’t like:

• Patterned cover has absolutely no padding – upgrade to the still-cheap Cosco Scenera Deluxe for more padding
• Taller shell makes it harder to install on planes with narrow seat pitch
• Car installation/removal isn’t always easy – cheaper hook-on LATCH connectors, and pull strap can be very stiff to tighten
• Continuous harness can be tough to use for a heavier child, especially forward facing; sometimes pulling the strap causes the entire seat to pivot when installed on leather seats

>>> Check prices on the Cosco Scenera NEXT here

Evenflo Sonus 65 Review

*Our top pick for a travel car seat for a 2 year old

We’ve been satisfied Evenflo customers for the last six years and are impressed by their latest lightweight convertible car seat offerings, including the travel-worthy Evenflo Sonus 65 . Unlike the Scenera NEXT, the Sonus 65 has a 25″ shell height that can keep average kids rear-facing until their 4th birthday – and then keep them forward-facing for several years after that!

This is one of the best traveling car seat options if your child will appreciate using the tray table one she turns forward-facing. Unlike some other seats, the front is low-profile enough to let the tray table fold all the way down. That also makes it a great car seat for travelling abroad since international flights typically involve meal service.

There are several other seats in the new Evenflo family (the Sonus and Stratos), but the middle-of-the road Sonus 65 strikes the right balance of travel features like light weight (around 11lbs) and two different recline options – it’s a solid portable toddler car seat option. Check reviews and latest prices on Amazon and be sure to compare the price with Walmart .

• Light convertible car seat
• Two re cline options should help fitting in an economy class seat
• Rear-facing mode fits an average 4yo
• Low profile allows tray table use when forward facing
• Decent padding, cupholders and ventilation make this a comfortable convertible car seat
• Taller shell makes it harder to install on planes with narrow seat pitch if you have a young infant
• Be careful not to pinch thighs when you’re buckling!
• Installation can be tricky in some cars

>>> Check prices on the Evenflo Sonus 65 here

Safety 1st Guide 65 Review

We haven’t tried the Safety First Guide 65 (also now available as the Cosco Mighty Fit 65 ), but we’ve heard that it can be a good choice for travel with older infants and toddlers. It’s almost as affordable as the Cosco Scenera Next! It offers more room forward-facing and a higher weight limit, but isn’t as ideally suited for youngest travelers. It weighs a moderate 13lbs, but probably wouldn’t be my top choice as a car seat to install in unfamiliar rental cars. Even so, it’s probably the best lightweight car seat for travel if you want just one travel car seat to last for many years. Check the latest prices on Amazon and Walmart .

• Affordable price tag
• Compact front-to-back for kids over 22lbs
• Relatively light weight
• Fits older infants through Kindergarteners!

What we don’t like:

• Doesn’t fit average babies until 6mo – don’t buy this for a newborn or young infant!
• Required recline position for babies under 22lbs is very reclined and takes up a lot of space, not ideal for smaller cars found in many countries
• Installation can be tricky and might require a pool noodle

>>> Check prices on the Safety 1st Guide 65 here

WAYB Pico foldable car seat review

If you’ve been anywhere on social media over the last year, you’ve surely heard of the WAYB Pico foldable toddler car seat. This lightweight aluminum foldable car seat for travel has the potential to be a real game-changer for kids who are old enough to forward-face (minimum age 2, but ideally closer to 4yo). It weighs a scant 8lbs and integrates a full five-point harness, making this a solid contender as your child’s travel car seat. But does it stand up to the hype?

There are still very few Picos in the wild and we haven’t managed to get our hands on one yet. However, a few of our Tiny Globetrotters families were early adopters through the crowdfunding process and have shared their feedback. Read our in-depth Wayb Pico expert review here.

• 8lb weight and easy folding make it perfect for city travels when you’ll need to use a taxi
• Optional carry backpack makes transporting it a breeze
• FAA approved car seat
• Easy LATCH install
• Max 50lbs and 44 inches gives a limited lifespan (around 5yo for average size kids)
• Seatbelt install can be tricky
• Short crotch strap
• Short tether strap for some cars (WAYB will send an extender upon request)
• High price tag for a seat that’s unlikely to be used as a daily ride

Save 15% on your WAYB Pico with coupon VOYAGE15

Best travel car seats for older preschoolers and early elementary

Once your child is ready to turn forward-facing, around 3 or 4yo, a combination seat (forward-facing harness that changes into a high-back booster) is a great light-weight option if you choose the right one. There are even some specialized car seats for travel for this age group that you may never have heard of!

Evenflo Maestro Review

*Our top pick for a travel car seat for a 3 year old

Evenflo’s combination seats are a great choice for travel thanks to their light weight and ease of use. We use the Maestro’s cousin every day, and it will last kids for several years as a harness and then well into booster age. It’s light enough for travel and easy to install. The newer Maestro Sport version has a little more padding than the original too. Check the latest prices here.

• Lasts from age 3 (as a forward-facing harness) until roughly age 9 (as a high-back booster seat)
• Easy to install in a range of cars
• No built-in lock-off
• 50 lb harness weight limit
• No harness strap covers and straps are somewhat narrow at the shoulders

>>> Check prices on the Evenflo Maestro here

Graco Tranzitions Review

While Graco redefined the market more than a decade ago with their Nautilus combination seat, it was always far too heavy and bulky to be a good travel booster seat or travel combination seat. They’ve now upped the ante with a new offering that’s vying for the best travel combination seat title – the Graco Tranzitions and Graco Wayz seats (same seat, different names). These three-mode harnessed booster seats for travel are narrower, cheaper and lighter than the Nautilus! There’s certainly a lot to like with this new Graco car seat platform.  Check the latest reviews and prices here.

In summer 2020, Graco addressed one of the biggest complaints about the Tranzitions: it can sometimes be a pain to install with the seatbelt. Obviously that’s an important factor for families traveling to countries that may not offer LATCH in cars and for kids who have exceeded the LATCH limit. Their new version is the Graco Tranzitions SnugLock , which adds a little weight and a few dollars but offers a much easier seatbelt installation. This is the version I’d pick!

• Reasonable price tag (though more than the Maestro)
• Lasts from age 3 (as a forward-facing harness) until age 10+ (as a backless booster seat)
• Only 17.5″ wide when the cupholders are folded in
• Lightweight 12.5lbs
• Works as a forward-facing harness, high-back booster seat and backless booster seat
• No built-in lock-off on the base version
• The seat itself has sparse padding, and for travel it may be inconvenient to bring the optional pad

>>> Check prices on the Graco Tranzitions here >>> Check prices on the Graco Wayz here >>> Check prices on the Graco Tranzitions SnugLock here

Ride Safer travel vest (Ride Safer Delight) Review

*Our top pick for a travel car seat for a 4 year old

The Ride Safer Travel Vest is one of the only safe, legal car seat alternatives. It’s a wearable booster seat, but when used with the top tether it passes US crash testing as a forward-facing harnessed booster. It weighs about 2 pounds and rolls up to the size of a 2L soda bottle. This folding car seat for travel beats any other portable carseat on size, hands down!

Check out our full review of the latest Ride Safer travel vest, the Gen 5. It’s now an indispensable piece of travel gear for our family and we’ve been so glad to have it for our year-long trip around the world. The Ride Safer travel vest is truly a game-changer in that it provides a safe restraint for kids 3 and up (though we feel more comfortable using it for age 4 and up, especially if there’s no top tether and/or parent sitting in back). 

Note: The Ride Safer Delight is not certified for use on airplanes, but pairs perfectly with the CARES harness for kids under 40lbs who still need extra protection in-flight – read my full review here . 

Get yours here – use coupon VOYAGE for a great discount!

• Extremely portable – it worked great on our trip to Paris with kids  and subsequent Croatia adventure and then for our round-the-world family gap year
• Provides better support and protection than a traditional booster seat, especially for sleeping kids
• Works in any car with a lap-shoulder belt – no worries about compatibility with an unfamiliar rental car
• Only as big as your child, perfect for tiny rental cars abroad
• Great car seat for taxi rides with a preschooler
• Not as easy to use as a car seat
• Can get uncomfortable after several hours of driving
• No view out the window
• Not a great fit for smaller kids

Read our full review of the Ride Safer travel vest (including video demos!)

>>> Check prices on the Ride Safer Delight here

When your child is old enough and mature enough (usually around age 5) you can move on to a portable booster seat to make your travels even lighter – keep reading to find the best travel booster car seat. Note that  you can’t use any booster seat on an airplane because they all require a lap-shoulder belt.

Bubblebum travel booster car seat

*Our top pick for best travel booster seat

We started using the Bubblebum as backup for our older one at 6 years old and then used it full-time during our gap year. We love it! It’s an inflatable cushion that has a positioning clip on each side to keep the lap belt in place and an optional clip to position the shoulder belt at the right spot.

It’s an awesome portable travel car seat! It folds up into a small stuff sack, about the size of a very compact sleeping bag. Inflating is a breeze and our son can get himself in and out.  Note: not for use on airplanes. Read our full review   or  check prices here.

• Extremely portable
• Easy to set up and use
• Kids can still see out the window
• Comfortable
• Very narrow
• Great car seat for taxi rides with an older child
• Adjusting the optional shoulder clip to the right height takes a little practice
• Need to make sure your child is sitting in the middle of the seat so that they don’t slide
• No support for sleeping kids

>>> Check prices on the Bubblebum here

Cosco Topside

If you want an extremely affordable booster seat that’s light enough for your child to carry, the simple-but-functional Cosco Topside may fit the bill. Unlike most other backless booster seats,  it doesn’t have a shoulder belt guide – that makes it more likely to fit slightly older kids (indeed, the minimum height is 43″ unlike the usual 40″). But at just 2.5lbs and less than $20, it may be a great choice for some families! Check the latest prices here.

• One of the lightest booster seats for travel
• Extremely low price
• Narrow enough to fit 3-across
• Shorter kids may not get a great fit due to the absence of a shoulder belt guide

>>> Check prices on the Cosco Topside here

Chicco GoFit

The Chicco GoFit isn’t technically a travel booster seat, but it could be a great pick for many families on the go! It’s reasonably priced, fairly light, extremely comfortable for kids, narrow enough to fit in even the tiniest rental cars and… drum roll please… it has a built-in carrying handle! Our 7yo has carried his through the airport without issue.

The belt fit is consistent, so you won’t have to worry about weird issues in different cars. The minimum height is just 38″, so if you have a tiny kid who’s mature enough to ride in a booster seat and stay in the correct position all the time, the Chicco GoFit is an awesome choice for travel. When we’re going on a long trip that doesn’t require multiple flights, we bring our GoFit. The latest version even has LATCH to keep it from shifting around. Check the latest price and read more reviews.

• Comfortable for kids
• Easy to use
• Carry handle for easy transportation
• Fits kids for many years (and it has an 8 year expiration, so multiple kids can use it)
• The price tag, though we’re willing to forgive that since it’s a wonderful choice for full-time use

>>> Check prices on the Chicco GoFit here

Which car seats are approved for air travel? Nearly all car seat in the US are FAA-approved!

Best portable car seat for baby:

The best travel car seat for 1 year old and younger – Doona infant car seat ( click here for reviews and latest prices )

Best portable car seat for 1 year old:

Cosco Scenera Deluxe portable toddler car seat ( click here for reviews and latest prices )

Best portable car seat for 2 year old:

Evenflo Sonus 65 lightweight convertible car seat ( click here for reviews and latest prices )

Best portable car seat for 3 year old:

Evenflo Maestro ( click here for reviews and latest prices )

Best portable car seat for 4 year old:

Ride Safer Delight travel vest ( click here for reviews and latest prices or buy directly from SafeRide4Kids )

Best travel booster seat:

Bubblebum inflatable travel booster seat ( click here for reviews and latest prices )

There are plenty of great lightweight car seats for travel available now! Hopefully you can find one from this list that makes your family’s travels easier and safer.

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What to read next

12 thoughts on “what is the best travel car seat (2021)”.

wow thats alot of info! right now, my kids are 6 and 8 so we have been through all the stages and are now at the point where they are both in a backless booster. We check those with the luggage and its all good. easy to use on the cab to and from airport and they are fine with the lap belt on the plane. BUT we have been through the snap and go with the infant seat, and then I had a Britax Boulevard – the smallest Britax of the line (I bought it in 09) and it fit in the airplane seat. I had a JJ Childress backpack to transport it. At one point we had two kids in big car seats and had two of the backpacks. those were great. I even did an CARES harness rental one time for my son. When he really didnt need the big car seat on the plane BUT I didnt trust him to keep the lap belt closed ( I think he was about 3.5) great wrap up

This is an essential read for parents. We always travel with ours

Great post. We have rented a car seat on a few occasions but always turned out more stressful than needed. So now we travel with our own car seats. So much easier! #fearlessfamtrav

This is really helpful, I never would have thought about needing a car seat in a plane. I just had my little girl on my lap when I travelled with her as a baby, I can see having read this that a car seat would have been saver. Lots of brilliant tips, thanks for linking up to #familytraveltips Nat.x

Wow, what a brilliant and comprehensive post. A great post for families who travel with young children. It gives clear options for most stages and alternative ideas to rent-a-car seats. Thanks for linking up to #wanderlustkids

Thank you for your great post, yours was the only I could find informing about flying with a car-seat in the plane. It is really very detailed and helpful. I hope I will keep my cool since it will be our first flight with our little one and it will be a 10 hour flight to the US.

Awwwww thanks! It’s comments like yours that make all the work worthwhile. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions!

We have our first trip after having a second child coming up. We will bring the car seat for our toddler in his purchased seat. But what to do for infant/newborn car seat since we didn’t buy a seat for her? Do you recommend checking it at the check in counter? Use it in the airport and then gate check it? For either option, any recommendations for how to securely pack/check it? We do have a layover if that matters.

A few options: 1) If you’re set on bringing one convertible and one infant seat, I’d bring the infant seat to the gate. If there’s an empty seat, many agents will shuffle sets to let your baby use it. There are also fewer opportunities for your seat to be lost or mishandled if you’re bringing it to the gate yourself. From there is put it in a padded bag like the one linked above. Not my top choice, but better than counter check with the baggage.

2) If you’re frequent travelers and your older one will be at least 3 (bigger is better), you can buy a Ride Safer Delight Vest for him or her. You can’t use it on board, but you’d use the convertible on-board for the big one and then once you get to the rental car adjust the straps down and put the baby in the convertible while the older one uses the vest for car rides. https://www.thefamilyvoyage.com/ride-safer-travel-vest-review/

What a magnificent blog this is! Bookmarked this & love this. Thanks a lot for your great info.

Thank so much The family voyage for this great content and information. I appreciate your efforts.

Happy to help!

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