Car seats are essential for keeping children safe during car travel. When flying, many parents want to bring a car seat onboard to maintain that safety from airport to destination. Traveling with a car seat on a plane requires a product that is both secure and easy to handle.
Not all car seats are designed for air travel. Some are too heavy or bulky to carry easily, and others may not be approved for use on airplanes. The best car seat for flying is lightweight, FAA-approved, and simple to install on an airplane seat. Comfort for the child during the flight is another important factor.
When choosing a car seat for a plane trip, pay attention to its size, weight, and certification for airplane use. Easy folding and carrying options can make travel less stressful. We tested several car seats to find the best options that offer safety, convenience, and comfort when flying.
Contents
Best Car Seats for Traveling on a Plane
We have tested and researched the best car seats for flying with children. Our list includes options that are safe, comfortable, and easy to carry on a plane. These seats meet travel requirements and make flying with kids easier for parents.
RideSafer Travel Vest
This vest is a smart choice for traveling families who want a safe, lightweight car seat alternative that fits easily in taxis and airplanes.
Pros
- Very compact and easy to carry around
- Quick to install and remove in different cars
- Meets safety rules in all US states
Cons
- Takes time to learn how to adjust properly
- Not as comfortable for long car rides
- Fits best for kids 3 years and older only
We found the RideSafer vest super handy when hopping between rental cars and taxis on trips. It folds small and weighs almost nothing, so carrying it isn’t a chore like big car seats.
Putting the vest on feels different from regular seats. At first, it took us a few tries to get the straps right, but once adjusted, it gave a snug and secure fit. This vest is especially good for quick rides and travel where lugging large seats is tough.
It’s not a perfect match for long drives because the vest doesn’t let kids sit as comfortably as usual car seats. Still, for flying or rideshares, it’s a useful tool that keeps safety in check without the bulk.
Doona Car Seat & Stroller
This all-in-one car seat and stroller is a solid choice for families who want easy travel without carrying extra gear.
Pros
- Quickly converts from car seat to stroller
- Feels sturdy and secure during use
- Comfortable support for newborns
Cons
- Heavier than some other travel seats
- Limited to rear-facing use only
- Wheels might be less smooth on rough surfaces
We found it very practical to switch from car seat to stroller in seconds, perfect for tight airport spaces. It saved us from juggling a bulky stroller and car seat separately, which really cuts down on the hassle of travel.
The design keeps our baby comfortable and well-supported with good back and neck alignment. The safety features gave us peace of mind, especially on planes where certified approval is key.
While it is a bit heavy to carry for long times, moving through airports was easier than expected. The wheels work fine on smooth floors but can feel stiff on bumpy paths. Overall, the Doona is a dependable, all-in-one option for travel-minded parents.
Safety 1st Grand Booster
This booster seat offers a flexible, easy-to-use option that grows with your child and works well for travel.
Pros
- Converts from high-back harness to belt-position booster
- Lightweight and easy to move between cars
- Comfortable padding with adjustable headrest
Cons
- Fabric feels a bit cheap compared to pricier models
- May not be the best fit for very small toddlers
- Cup holders can be flimsy
We found this seat fits nicely in most cars, especially when you need to fit three seats across. Its slim design really helps with that crowded back seat problem.
The adjustable headrest and soft padding kept our child comfortable on longer drives. Switching between the 5-point harness and belt mode was straightforward without fuss.
While the materials aren’t top-end, the seat still feels safe and sturdy. The cup holders were handy but not very robust. Overall, it’s a smart choice if you want a booster that adapts and packs light for travel.
J.L. Childress Gate Check Bag
This travel bag is a solid choice for protecting car seats at the airport while making gate checking easier.
Pros
- Fits all car seats and boosters we tried
- Bright red color makes it easy to spot
- Durable material with a secure lockable drawstring
Cons
- Drawstring can come undone during use
- Bag can get dirty or develop small tears after a few flights
- No backpack straps, only a carry handle
We have found the J.L. Childress Gate Check Bag very useful when flying with kids. It fits our infant car seat without any trouble, and the bright red color really stands out on the luggage carousel. This made finding the car seat quick, which is one less thing to worry about.
The bag’s fabric is thick enough to protect the seat from dirt and scuffs, but after two or three uses, we did notice some wear along the seams. The drawstring closure is meant to keep everything secure, though we struggled with it loosening once or twice. It’s also handy that the bag folds into its own pouch to save space between trips.
One downside is that it only has a simple carry handle. Carrying it through busy airports could be easier with backpack straps. Still, this bag offers good value for parents who want reliable protection without spending too much. Overall, it helps take the stress out of gate checking a car seat.
Evenflo REO Revolve360 Car Seat
This car seat is a smart choice for plane travel thanks to its compact design and easy 360-degree rotation that helps with quick child loading.
Pros
- Rotates fully with one hand for easy access
- Installs once with LATCH and rotates forward without uninstalling
- Compact size fits well in tight car or airplane seats
Cons
- Weight limit caps at 40 pounds
- Rotation adds some bulk compared to simpler models
- Adjustment can take a minute to get used to
We found the 360-degree swivel feature really cuts down the hassle of putting a child in and out, especially in cramped spaces like planes or small cars. It saves your back because you don’t have to twist or strain to reach the child.
Installation was straightforward after the initial setup, and the seat stayed secure without needing to be moved when switching from rear-facing to forward-facing. That convenience is a big help when traveling or sharing the seat between vehicles.
The seat’s narrow width let us fit it nicely alongside other passengers without crowding, which is often a deal breaker with travel car seats. It’s not the lightest seat, but it balances ease of use and safety well. Overall, it performed as we expected for traveling families.
Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1
We found this car seat to be a solid choice for plane travel, offering flexibility as kids grow and enough comfort for longer rides.
Pros
- Converts from harness to booster, adapting as your child grows
- Compact size fits well in tight airplane seats
- Easy to clean and maintain, even after snacks or spills
Cons
- Cup holders are small and not very sturdy
- Only one recline position, which might limit comfort
- Middle seat placement on planes might feel a bit tight
This car seat stood out for its ability to grow with our kids, going from a forward-facing harness seat to a highback or backless booster. That versatility means fewer seats needed over time, which is handy for travel. The size is smaller than many car seats, making it easier to manage in the cabin without feeling too bulky.
Installation was straightforward. We appreciated how quickly it moved from one car to another and how easy it was to clean. The removable, machine-washable covers really help with messes during travel. Our children seemed comfortable, even on longer flights.
Not everything was perfect. The cup holders felt a bit flimsy and small, making them less useful on the go. Also, the single recline option meant we couldn’t adjust it for extra nap comfort. Still, for the price and its multi-use design, it fit our needs well.
Safety 1st Ellaris Car Seat
This car seat is a solid choice for families who want a flexible, travel-friendly option that grows with their child.
Pros
- Fits well on planes and car seats with its slim design
- Easy to adjust headrest and harness for growing kids
- Simple LATCH system that makes installation straightforward
Cons
- Can be tricky to install perfectly at first
- Heavier than some other travel car seats
- Rear-facing fit may be tight or hard to secure in some cars
We found this seat works well for different ages because it changes from rear-facing infant to forward-facing toddler easily. The slim shape helped us when seating three car seats across the backseat, which is a big plus on trips. It made traveling smoother without feeling bulky.
Adjusting the headrest as our child grew was quick and hassle-free. The padding felt soft and made rides comfortable. When moving it through airports, I liked that it wasn’t too big, though it is a bit heavy compared to lighter travel-only seats.
Installation took some patience. The hook-style LATCH helped, but getting it perfectly secure with the rear-facing mode was a little challenging. Still, once installed right, it felt safe and solid for both car rides and flights.
The seat pad cleans well in the washer, and the cup holders come off for easy washing too, which made messy travel days less stressful. Overall, it balances comfort, safety, and travel needs better than many other convertible seats.
J.L. Childress Car Seat Backpack
This backpack makes traveling with a car seat easier and safer by offering solid protection and hands-free carrying.
Pros
- Thick padding protects the car seat well
- Comfortable backpack straps let us carry it hands-free
- Fits most car seats and boosters
Cons
- Can feel bulky when loaded
- Backpack straps get uncomfortable on long walks
- Putting the car seat in the bag takes some practice
We found the padding on this bag very reassuring. It completely surrounds the car seat, so we didn’t worry about damage while checking it as luggage. It holds the seat snugly and gives good support to the safety parts.
The backpack style is a big help when juggling kids and luggage. It keeps our hands free for other things. Although the straps are padded and adjustable, we noticed some discomfort after carrying it for a long time.
Loading the car seat inside took a few tries to get it right. The dual zippers make it easier to open fully, which is helpful. Overall, it’s a strong choice if you want solid protection and easier transport through airports.
Graco Extend2Fit
This seat is a solid pick for families wanting to keep their child rear-facing longer while traveling by plane.
Pros
- Extra legroom keeps kids comfy for longer flights
- Easy one-motion harness adjustment saves time
- Simple LATCH system makes installation fast and secure
Cons
- Bulky size can be tricky to carry through airports
- Heavier than typical travel car seats
- Limited recline angles for sleeping
We found the Graco Extend2Fit really useful for longer trips with a toddler. The extra legroom makes a big difference, especially on planes where space is tight. Our little one stayed comfortable and safe in rear-facing mode beyond what many seats allow.
Adjusting the harness was quick thanks to the no-rethread system, which helps when juggling a squirmy child and luggage. Installation using the InRight LATCH felt secure and less frustrating than some other models we’ve tried.
The downside is the size and weight. Moving it through airport terminals was a workout. Also, it doesn’t recline a lot, so it’s not perfect if your child wants to nap on the go. Still, we think the safety benefits and legroom make it worth considering for flying families.
Graco EasyTurn 360 Car Seat
This seat is a smart choice for travel because it spins all the way around, making it easier for us to get kids in and out of the car on a plane trip.
Pros
- Spins 360 degrees with one hand for easy access
- Slim design saves space in tight airplane car seats
- Installs quickly and securely with simple latch system
Cons
- Heavier than some travel-specific car seats
- May feel bulky for smaller cars or narrow airplane rows
- The rotating function adds some complexity
We found the 360-degree rotation really helpful during travel. When our child fell asleep, we could turn the seat toward the door and quietly slide them in without awkward angles. It made moving between planes and cars less stressful.
The slim shape fits well in airplane seats and crowded back seats, which is key when space is tight. It still feels safe and comfy, so the little ones don’t complain on longer rides.
Installation took just a minute with the latch system, which is a relief when managing luggage and kids at the airport. The sturdy frame gave us peace of mind after multiple trips. Overall, it’s a practical and reliable seat for plane travel, especially if space and ease of use matter most.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best car seat for traveling on a plane, safety and size are our top priorities. We need a seat that fits airplane seats and meets all safety rules. It’s important to check if the car seat is approved for use on aircraft.
Comfort is next. A lightweight, easy-to-carry car seat helps us avoid extra stress. Padded seats and adjustable harnesses make travel easier for children.
We should also look at ease of installation. Quick and simple setups save time at the airport. Some car seats come with clear instructions or special airplane straps.
The weight and bulk of the seat matter too. We want a seat that doesn’t add much weight to our carry-on luggage. Compact designs are best for tight spaces.
| Feature | What to Look For | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Safety | FAA approval, strong harness | Legal and child safety |
| Size | Compact, fits airplane seats | Fits in tight airplane space |
| Weight | Lightweight | Easier to carry |
| Comfort | Padded, adjustable | Keeps child comfortable |
| Installation | Easy setup, clear instructions | Saves time and frustration |
By focusing on these features, we can choose a car seat that balances safety, comfort, and convenience for plane travel.
Editor’s Choice
We chose the Graco Extend2Fit as our top pick for the best car seat for traveling on a plane. It is lightweight and easy to install, which makes airport travel less stressful.
This seat grows with your child, fitting kids from 4 to 50 pounds. We like how the extra legroom extension adds comfort during long flights.
Next, the Evenflo Tribute LX stands out as a good budget option. It is compact and FAA-approved for air travel. It fits well in small airplane seats without taking up too much space.
Both seats meet safety standards and are easy to handle on the go. Here’s a quick look at our favorite features:
| Car Seat | Weight Range | Airline Approved | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graco Extend2Fit | 4-50 lbs | Yes | Extendable leg rest |
| Evenflo Tribute LX | 5-40 lbs | Yes | Lightweight, compact |
We recommend these car seats based on ease of use, safety, and comfort during plane travel. They both offer reliable options depending on your child’s needs and your budget.
Where to Buy – Best Amazon Deals
We find Amazon to be one of the best places to buy car seats for plane travel. It offers a wide range of options from trusted brands. Plus, the user reviews help us pick the right seat for safety and comfort.
Amazon often has discounts and bundle deals that save us money. We recommend checking their daily deals page and looking for special promotions. Signing up for alerts can help us catch price drops fast.
Here are some tips for shopping on Amazon:
- Use filters to choose the right size and weight limit.
- Read the Q&A section to get answers to common questions.
- Look for Prime shipping if you need the seat quickly.
| Brand | Popular Models | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Graco | Tranzitions, SlimFit | $70 – $200 |
| Cosco | Scenera NEXT | $50 – $150 |
| Britax | B-Safe, Roundabout | $150 – $300 |
We suggest always verifying the seller’s ratings to avoid fake or low-quality products. Buying directly from the brand store on Amazon is usually safer.
Using Amazon makes it easier for us to compare seats side-by-side and read honest reviews before buying.
FAQS
Can we use any car seat on a plane?
Not all car seats are approved for air travel. We should look for a label that says the seat is FAA-approved. This means it meets safety rules for airplanes.
Is it better to bring or rent a car seat?
Bringing our own car seat is often safer and more comfortable for the child. Rental seats might not be as clean or well maintained.
How do we install a car seat on a plane?
We install the car seat in a window seat using the airplane seat belt. This keeps the seat secure and avoids blocking other passengers.
What size car seat fits on a plane?
Compact seats usually fit better. Convertible seats can be large and may not fit well in airplane seats.
Can infants use a car seat on a plane?
Yes, but we need a car seat designed for infants. For babies under 20 pounds, an FAA-approved infant seat works best.
| Question | Quick Answer |
|---|---|
| Can we use any car seat? | No, must be FAA-approved |
| Is it better to bring one? | Yes, for safety and comfort |
| How to install it? | In window seat with belt |
| Seat size that fits? | Smaller, compact seats preferred |
| Can infants use them? | Yes, with infant-specific seat |
Conclusion
Choosing the best car seat for traveling on a plane means focusing on safety, ease of use, and comfort. We want a seat that meets airline rules and fits well in airplane seats.
Lightweight and compact car seats make travel easier. Seats with easy installation options save us time at the airport.
Some car seats offer extra padding or recline features. These can help keep our child comfortable during long flights.
We recommend checking the car seat’s FAA approval before buying. This ensures the seat is safe to use on a plane.
Using a car seat on a plane can add security for our child. It can also give us peace of mind while traveling.
To compare options, consider this quick list:
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| FAA Approved | Allowed on planes |
| Lightweight | Easier to carry |
| Compact Size | Fits airplane seat |
| Easy Installation | Saves time and hassle |
| Comfort Features | Better for long flights |
Keeping these points in mind, we can find a car seat that works well for our travel needs. Our child’s safety and comfort should come first when flying.