10 Best Car Seat for Side by Side Vehicles in 2026 Review and Buying Guide

Side-by-side vehicles, also called UTVs, are popular for outdoor fun and work. They are designed to fit two or more people sitting next to each other. Using a car seat made for these vehicles adds safety and comfort, especially for kids.

Car seats for side-by-sides need to be strong and fit well in the vehicle’s seat. They should be easy to install and secure enough to keep passengers safe during bumps and turns. Because side-by-sides often go on rough trails, durability and proper fit are very important.

When choosing the best car seat for a side-by-side, we focus on safety features, ease of installation, and how well the seat fits different models. We spent time researching and testing multiple options to find car seats that offer secure, comfortable rides without complicated setups.

Best Car Seats for Side by Side

We have researched and tested a variety of car seats to find the best options for side by side vehicles. Our list focuses on safety, comfort, and fit to help you choose the right seat for your needs. Here are the top car seats that work well in side by side setups.

Baby Trend Hybrid SI Booster Seat

This booster seat works well for families who want a car seat that grows with their child while giving solid side impact protection.

Pros

• Changes from harness to booster modes easily
• Strong side impact protection
• Comfortable padding and cup holders

Cons

• Tether straps can be tricky to adjust
• Slightly bulky compared to some other models
• Installed best with car seat belt, not just tether

We found this seat to be reliable and fairly simple to switch between modes as our child grew. The padded headrest and side pods really make you feel safer during rides.

Comfort is good, too. Our kid seemed cozy, even on longer trips, thanks to soft inserts and handy cup holders. This helped keep snacks and drinks close and mess-free.

Some installation steps took more effort, especially tightening the tether straps. It felt better to rely on the seat belt for a secure fit, which limits where you can place the seat. Overall, it’s a solid choice for families balancing safety, comfort, and a stretch of use.

Graco TurboBooster 2.0

This booster seat is a solid choice for keeping older kids safe and comfortable during rides, especially in side-by-side vehicles.

Pros

• Lightweight and easy to move between vehicles
• Comfortable with adjustable height and cup holders
• Strong crash protection meeting high safety standards

Cons

• Backless design may offer less head support
• No built-in harness system
• Seat belt installation only, no latch option

We liked how light the TurboBooster 2.0 is, making it easy to switch between cars. Our kids found it comfy, thanks to the height-adjustable armrests and the cup holders that hide away when not in use.

The safety feels dependable. Graco’s crash testing covers front, rear, and rollover impacts, which is reassuring when the kids ride side-by-side. Just keep in mind it’s a backless seat, so it might not work well for younger children who need extra head support.

Installation was simple. The seat uses the vehicle’s seat belt, so no latch system. This worked fine for us but might take a bit to get the belt adjusted properly. Overall, it’s practical and built with the right balance of safety and comfort for kids moving up from a high-back seat.

Graco SlimFit 3-in-1 Car Seat

This car seat is a smart buy for anyone needing a good space saver that adapts as your child grows.

Pros

• Slim design frees up room in tight back seats
• Easy harness and headrest adjust together
• Sturdy build with strong side-impact protection

Cons

• Could use more recline options for front-facing mode
• Some may find the straps a bit confusing at first
• Heavier than some other slim models

We found the Graco SlimFit easy to fit in our side-by-side vehicle without squeezing other passengers. The rotating cup holders are small but smart since they tuck away completely. This helped keep the back seat less crowded.

Adjusting the harness and headrest together was simple, which saved us time as our child grew. The seat feels solid and steady once installed with the InRight LATCH system, giving us confidence during trips.

The seat is comfortable enough for long drives, thanks to four recline settings. Though front-facing recline could improve, overall it kept our little one cozy and safe. This one worked well for us when space and safety mattered most.

Baby Trend Trooper Slim 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat

This car seat works well for families needing a slim fit that grows with their child from infancy to toddler years.

Pros

• Fits three across most side-by-side seats
• Easy to install with helpful recline foot and bubble level
• Lightweight but sturdy with good side impact protection

Cons

• Cup holders can be tricky to use in tight spaces
• Padding can feel a bit firm for smaller babies
• Adjusting straps takes a few tries to get right

We found the Baby Trend Trooper Slim easy to work with during installation. The recline foot and built-in level helped us get the angle right without guesswork. Its slim width really made a difference, allowing us to fit three car seats in a row, which was key for our side-by-side setup.

Using this seat with our toddler was comfortable overall. The fabric held up well and the side wings gave us peace of mind about safety. The two cup holders are convenient but can be a bit awkward to access when the seats are tight together.

Overall, the Trooper Slim balances convenience and safety. It’s a solid choice for families who want one convertible seat that adjusts as their child grows and doesn’t take up too much space across the back seat.

Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster

This car seat works well for families needing a lightweight, easy-to-adjust option that grows with their child.

Pros

• Grows with your child from harness to booster
• Lightweight and easy to move between vehicles
• Simple one-hand adjustment for headrest and harness

Cons

• Cup holders are removable but not very sturdy
• Minimum weight for booster mode increased to 40 pounds
• Padding is comfortable but a bit thin compared to bulkier seats

We found the Graco Tranzitions very handy when switching cars because it’s light and not bulky. The nine-position headrest adjusts smoothly alongside the harness, which saves time and hassle. Our child appreciated the comfy feel, though the padding isn’t very thick.

The two cup holders are great for keeping drinks close, but they feel a bit fragile and pop out easily. Also, the booster mode now starts at 40 pounds, so smaller kids may need to stay in the harness longer. Still, the easy cleaning of the washable seat cover makes maintenance simple.

Overall, this booster keeps us confident in safety and comfort without taking up too much space in the side-by-side. Its slim design lets us fit three seats across if needed.

Graco Extend2Fit

We recommend the Graco Extend2Fit for its extended rear-facing feature and easy installation that makes it a top pick for side by side seating.

Pros

• Extra legroom helps kids stay rear-facing longer
• Quick and secure latch installation
• Harness adjusts easily with one motion

Cons

• Bulkier than some car seats, takes more space
• Heavier to carry between vehicles
• Recline options are good but not very flexible

This seat stood out because of the way it grows with a child. The adjustable panel gives several inches of extra legroom, which means our little ones can ride rear-facing longer safely. That’s important since experts say rear-facing is safer for small kids.

Installing the seat was simple. The latch system clicks loudly so you know it’s on right. Plus, the harness adjusts smoothly with one hand, making getting kids in and out less stressful during busy days.

It does take up more room than slimmer models, which can be tricky side by side in smaller vehicles. Still, the sturdy build and comfort make up for the size. Overall, it’s a reliable choice for families wanting a safe, long-lasting car seat.

Baby Trend Booster Seat

This booster seat works well for growing kids and folds up easily for travel or storage.

Pros

• Folds compactly for easy carrying
• Adjustable headrest and shoulder belts fit kids as they grow
• Side impact protection feels sturdy and safe

Cons

• Takes up more space than some slim models
• Mostly for kids 4 years and older
• Armrests can feel a bit narrow for bigger kids

We found the folding feature useful when switching cars or going on trips. It fits well in tighter spaces like third-row seats, though it isn’t the slimmest option available.

Adjusting the headrest and belt positions was simple, which helped keep our child comfortable and properly secured. The padding provides enough comfort for longer rides without feeling too bulky.

The built-in cup holders and flip-up armrests added convenience, but the seat can feel a little tight for larger kids. Overall, it offers good safety features and easy maintenance with removable washable pads.

Cosco Topside Booster

This booster seat works well if you want a simple, light, and easy-to-move seat for your kids.

Pros

• Very lightweight and easy to transfer between cars
• Extra padding makes it comfortable for kids on short rides
• Keeps car seats clean and free from dents

Cons

• Not the best choice for long trips, padding is thin
• Only fits children within a specific size and weight range
• Fabric cover needs hand washing, which can be inconvenient

We liked how easy it was to carry this booster seat around. It’s not bulky, so switching it from our car to the side-by-side felt natural. The extra padding gave our child enough comfort, especially for quick rides.

Because it’s backless, it’s a good fit in tight spaces without putting pressure on car seats. The lightweight design really adds to the convenience if you need to use it in multiple vehicles.

On the downside, it’s not the plushest booster available. After two hours, our kid started to feel a bit sore. Also, the fabric cover isn’t machine washable, so cleaning takes a bit more care. Overall, it’s a solid pick for families who value portability and simple use.

Graco 4Ever 4-in-1 Car Seat

This car seat is a solid choice for families who want one seat that adapts as their child grows from infant to booster stage.

Pros

• Adjusts easily with one hand as your child grows
• Offers strong side impact protection from head to hips
• Washable cover attaches quickly without taking the harness apart

Cons

• Heavier than some other car seats, which can make moving it harder
• Bulkier design can take up more space in the vehicle
• Transitioning between modes can take some time to get used to

We found the Graco 4Ever very convenient for daily use. The one-hand adjustment made it quick to raise the headrest and harness as our child grew. This was especially helpful for busy days when every second counts.

Safety felt well covered thanks to the TrueShield side protection. It gave us peace of mind that the seat would shield our child from side impacts effectively.

Installation using the LATCH system was straightforward. The seat stayed firmly in place, which added to our confidence on longer drives. Although it’s a bit heavy, the steel frame makes it very sturdy.

The seat cover comes off easily for washing, which is a big bonus when dealing with spills and messes in a side-by-side vehicle. We felt the overall build quality was durable and suitable for long-term use.

For those looking for a dependable, versatile car seat to use for years, the Graco 4Ever stands out as a practical option.

Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster

This booster seat works well for families who want a car seat that grows with their child and fits side-by-side in most cars.

Pros

• Converts easily from high back harness to belt-positioning booster
• Slim design fits three car seats across in the back
• Lightweight and easy to move between vehicles

Cons

• Fabric feels a bit cheap compared to other seats
• Cup holders are small and may not hold larger drinks
• Padding could be thicker for longer trips

We liked how this booster is not bulky and fits nicely with other seats placed next to it. It was simple to move it from one car to another, which is useful for busy families like ours.

The adjustable headrest gave our child good support as they grew. The harness system felt secure, and the machine-washable cover made cleaning after snacks hassle-free.

While the fabric isn’t the softest, the overall comfort is fine for daily rides. The cup holders work okay for small items but aren’t very large. For a good price, this seat offers solid safety and flexibility.

Buying Guide

When we shop for the best car seat for side by side vehicles, safety is our top priority. We need to check the seat’s build quality and the materials used. Strong frames and durable fabric help protect us during rides.

Comfort is next. We want seats with proper padding and good back support for long rides. Adjustable features like recline or armrests can add to the comfort level.

Size and fit are important, too. Our chosen seat should fit well in our side by side without taking up too much space. It should allow for easy entry and exit.

We also look at installation options. Seats that are easy to install and remove save time and effort. Check whether the seat uses bolts, clamps, or straps and confirm they match our side by side’s design.

Some extra features can improve our experience. Look for water-resistant materials if we ride in wet conditions. Storage pockets and cup holders provide convenience.

Feature	What to Look For	Why It Matters
Safety	Strong frame, secure harness	Protects riders
Comfort	Padding, support, adjustable parts	Reduces fatigue
Size & Fit	Fits side by side without crowding	Ensures space and access
Installation	Easy mounting system	Saves time and effort
Additional Features	Water resistance, storage pockets	Adds convenience

Editor’s Choice

For the best car seat for side-by-side vehicles, we recommend the Fox Racing Pro Frame Seat. It offers excellent support and comfort for various riders. The padding is firm yet cushy, making long rides easier on the body.

The Pro Frame has a durable design that holds up well in rough conditions. Its shape fits most side-by-side models, which makes installation simple. We found that it stays securely in place, even on bumpy terrain.

Here are some key features:

• High-density foam padding for comfort
• Water-resistant cover for easy cleaning
• Reinforced frame for durability
• Compatible with many side-by-side brands

We also like the adjustable mounting options. This allows us to customize the fit depending on the rider’s size and preference. It helps keep the rider stable during sharp turns or quick stops.

While not the cheapest option, the balance of comfort, durability, and fit makes it a solid choice. We believe this seat helps improve the overall ride experience without much fuss.

Where to Buy – Best Amazon Deals

We recommend Amazon as a top place to buy the best car seats for side by side vehicles. They offer a wide range of brands and models in one spot.

Amazon often has competitive prices and regular deals. This helps us find seats that fit our budget without lowering safety or comfort.

Here is a quick list of what we look for on Amazon:

• Customer reviews and ratings
• Prime shipping for fast delivery
• Clear return policies
• Updated product descriptions and photos

Brand	Price Range	Key Feature	Rating (out of 5)
Brand A	$150-$200	Adjustable safety harness	4.5
Brand B	$100-$180	Extra side impact protection	4.3
Brand C	$130-$210	Easy installation system	4.6

We suggest checking daily for new deals or discounts to get the best offers. Amazon’s user reviews also help us choose the right fit based on real experience.

Using a saved wishlist on Amazon can help us track price changes on the seats we like. This way, we can buy when the price drops.

FAQS

We often get asked if all car seats fit in side-by-side vehicles. The answer is no. Not every car seat works because space can be tight. It’s important to choose seats made for compact areas.

Are car seats for side-by-sides safe? Yes, if you follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Always secure the seat tightly and use the right straps or anchors.

Can we install two car seats next to each other? Usually yes, but it depends on the size of the seats and the width of the vehicle. Measuring before buying helps avoid problems.

What types of car seats work best? Convertible and bucket-style seats are often good choices. They offer support and fit better in narrow spaces.

Do we need special tools for installation? No, most car seats come with all the hardware needed. Some vehicles require adapter kits, so checking your side-by-side’s manual is smart.

How do we clean and maintain the seats? Wipe them down regularly with a damp cloth. Use mild soap if needed. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the material.

Why is weight and height important? Seats must match the child’s size for safety. Check the car seat’s labels to find the correct weight and height ranges.

If you have more questions, checking product manuals and manufacturer websites gives reliable information.

Conclusion

When choosing the best car seat for side by side vehicles, we need to focus on safety, comfort, and fit. A seat that locks firmly in place and protects well during a side impact is crucial.

We should also consider how easy the seat is to install and clean. Some seats offer extra padding, which can make rides smoother for our passengers.

Budget matters, but spending a little more on a reliable seat is worth it. We want something that will last and keep everyone secure.

Here’s a quick list to remember:

• Safety features: Side impact protection, strong harness
• Comfort: Padding, support for long rides
• Fit: Easy to install and remove
• Durability: Materials that hold up over time
• Budget: Balance cost with quality

By keeping these points in mind, we can choose a car seat that suits our needs and keeps everyone safe. Our goal is a secure, comfortable ride every time.