Travel car seats designed for flying help families keep their children safe and comfortable during air travel. Unlike regular car seats, these models are lightweight, compact, and often meet airline safety standards. They allow parents to secure their child’s seat on a plane, making travel easier and more convenient.
Choosing the right travel car seat means balancing safety, size, and ease of use. Comfort is also important since kids may spend hours in the seat. Additionally, the seat should fit the airline’s space and be simple to carry through airports.
Our main focus was on seats that meet safety rules for both cars and planes while being easy to transport. We looked at materials, weight, and usability to find travel car seats that work best for flying. We spent time researching and testing popular models to find the ones that suit families on the go.
Contents
Best Travel Car Seats for Flying
We have tested and researched a range of travel car seats designed for flying. Our list includes options that prioritize safety, ease of use, and comfort. These car seats will help make your air travel with kids smoother and more secure.
RideSafer Travel Vest Car Seat
This vest-style car seat is a smart travel option for kids who need safe restraint without the bulk of traditional car seats.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Fits well with adult seat belts
- Quick to install, ideal for taxis and rentals
Cons
- Takes some practice to adjust correctly
- Not as comfortable for long drives
- Sizing can be tricky for smaller kids
We found that the RideSafer vest is much easier to travel with compared to bulky boosters or car seats. Its compact size fits well in airplane overhead bins and it weighs very little, letting us move through airports faster.
Using the grown-up seat belt in a safer way felt reassuring. It helped our child sit securely without extra heavy gear to lug around. The vest needs careful fitting to feel right, but after a couple of tries, it became quite simple.
It isn’t the best choice for long trips or everyday use because it doesn’t raise the child’s seat height like traditional boosters. Still, for travel and rideshares, it saved us time and hassle while keeping safety in place.
WAYB Pico Travel Car Seat
We found the WAYB Pico to be a solid choice for families needing a lightweight, easy-to-carry car seat for flying and travel.
Pros
- Very light and easy to carry with the included backpack-style bag
- Compact folding fits well in overhead bins
- Meets FAA and U.S. safety standards for air and road use
Cons
- Higher price point than some other travel seats
- Limited to forward-facing use for kids 22-50 lbs
- Some vehicles may need extra belt clips for proper installation
The Pico stood out to us because it weighs just 8 pounds, making it effortless to carry through airports or carry on luggage. The backpack bag made traveling hands-free much easier than bulky car seats.
Its foldable design shrinks the seat down so it fits in overhead bins without hassle. This was key on our last flight when we didn’t want to check the seat or carry it separately.
Installation was straightforward in different cars, but we noticed some rental cars required extra belt clips for locking the seatbelt securely. Still, it gave us peace of mind knowing it meets all FAA safety rules.
The premium fabric kept our child comfortable on long rides. While it’s a bit pricey, for us it was worth the ease and safety for vacations and trips.
WAYB Pico Travel Car Seat
This lightweight, foldable car seat is great for flying and quick trips, offering solid safety and easy handling.
Pros
- Very light and easy to carry
- Quick to install and remove
- Meets all safety standards for travel
Cons
- Limited availability since it’s re-certified
- No built-in handle for easier carrying
- Seat padding could be a bit softer for longer rides
We found the WAYB Pico is perfect when you need a travel car seat that won’t slow you down. At just 8 pounds, it folds up small and fits in tight spaces like overhead bins or rental cars.
Installation is simple with either LATCH or seatbelt, which saved us time during busy airport transfers. The five-point harness adds an important layer of security without making the seat bulky.
Although it’s re-certified, the inspection process ensures every seat meets strict safety rules. We did notice the seat isn’t the softest, so adding a small cushion might help on longer flights or car rides.
Overall, the WAYB Pico offers an excellent balance of portability and protection for families on the go.
Graco Contender Slim Car Seat
This car seat is a great choice for families who need a lightweight, space-saving option that works well for flying and everyday use.
Pros
- Slim design fits well in tight car seats and airplane seats
- Lightweight and easy to carry between cars and through airports
- Harness and headrest adjust together for a quick, secure fit
Cons
- Cup holder is removable but can be awkward to handle while traveling
- Takes up more room in very small cars despite being slim
- Recline options are limited to two positions
We found this seat especially helpful when traveling by plane. It’s light enough to carry easily and fits neatly into the airplane seat without crowding other passengers. Switching between rear and forward-facing modes was simple, which made it useful as our child grew.
Installing the car seat was straightforward. The LATCH system and clear level indicators removed a lot of the guesswork. In daily use, it didn’t feel bulky at all, which helped when fitting more than one car seat in our back seat.
While the slim profile saves space, it still takes up more room than some ultra-compact models in very small cars. Also, the recline options are minimal, so it might not always provide the perfect angle. Overall, it’s a solid travel seat with safety and convenience in mind.
Hiccapop UberBoost Inflatable Booster Seat
We found the Hiccapop UberBoost to be a useful and compact option for quick trips when carrying a bulky car seat isn’t practical.
Pros
- Easy to inflate and pack away
- Lightweight and very portable
- Stable on different car seats without slipping
Cons
- Not suitable for very young children under 40 pounds
- Inflated seat may feel less solid than traditional boosters
- Takes some care to position seat belts correctly
The UberBoost pumps up in less than 20 seconds, which was a real time saver when juggling bags and kids. Carrying it around is effortless since it packs down small and comes with its own travel bag. This made it handy for us during flights and rental car rides.
It stayed firm on leather and cloth seats without shifting, which made our rides feel safer. The belt clips worked well to keep the straps in a good position, although we had to double-check them each time to avoid any slipping.
Overall, this seat fits nicely for older kids who need a booster without the heavy bulk. For those who want a practical, lightweight booster for travel, the UberBoost is worth considering.
BubbleBum Travel Booster Seat
The BubbleBum is a great choice for flying families who want a lightweight, portable car seat that’s easy to carry and quick to install.
Pros
- Inflates and deflates in seconds for easy setup
- Compact and lightweight, fits in a bag or backpack
- Slender design lets three kids fit across a backseat
Cons
- Needs periodic reinflation on longer trips
- Backless design may feel less secure for some kids
- Best suited for short rides, not extended car use
We found the BubbleBum made flying with kids smoother because it packed small and never felt bulky. Carrying it through airports was simple, and setting it up in taxis or rental cars took just a few breaths with no hassle.
Our children seemed comfortable in it and it gave us peace of mind knowing it met safety standards. The slim design allowed us to fit three car seats across the backseat during family road trips, which was a real space saver.
That said, the inflatable nature means air can leak a bit, so we checked and topped it up after a day of use. It works great for quick rides from the airport or short drives but less so for all-day trips without reinflation breaks.
If you need an easy-to-carry booster for travel, the BubbleBum Travel Booster Seat is worth considering.
Mifold Comfort Grab-and-Go Booster
This compact booster is great for flying and travel because it’s small, easy to carry, and works with any car’s seat belt.
Pros
- Fits in backpacks or small bags
- Easy to use without installation
- Adjustable belt for safe fit
Cons
- Not very comfortable for long rides
- No full back support
- Limited padding
We found the Mifold booster saves a lot of space when traveling. It slips easily into a backpack, so carrying it through airports is simple. Unlike bulky car seats, it makes moving between rides quick and hassle-free.
It works by pulling the car’s seat belt down to fit your child better, which is different from regular boosters. This helps secure small kids properly without having to lift them up. Setup took just seconds in the rental car we used.
The extra cushion is helpful, but if your child has a long flight or trip, they might want more padding. Also, it doesn’t have a backrest, so it gives less support on long drives. It’s mostly designed for short trips and quick use on the go.
Safety 1st Ellaris Car Seat
This car seat is a solid choice for families needing a travel-friendly option that grows with their child.
Pros
- Slim design fits three across most back seats
- Easy to install with hook-style LATCH
- Adjustable headrest and harness for comfort
Cons
- Rear-facing installation can be tricky for some
- A bit bulky for very small airplane spaces
- Heavier than other travel-only seats
We found this seat great for road trips and flying because it balances size and safety well. The slim profile helped us fit it snugly alongside other seats when needed. Installing it was mostly straightforward thanks to the hook-style LATCH, which saved time in busy airports or quick car switches.
Adjusting the headrest and harness was simple and helped keep our little one comfortable on long trips. The cup holders were a bonus, making it easier to keep drinks close without spills.
However, setting it up rear-facing wasn’t as smooth every time, which made some moments a bit frustrating. The seat’s weight is heavier than pure travel-model seats, so carrying it through airports required some effort. Still, its build quality and comfort make this a reliable option for families wanting a convertible seat that works well for travel.
Evenflo GoTime LX Booster
This booster seat works well for older kids who need a safe and comfy option when flying or traveling by car.
Pros
- Easy to adjust as your child grows
- Comfortable padding with removable cover
- Two built-in cup holders keep drinks handy
Cons
- Assembly takes a bit longer than expected
- Instructions for cover placement can be unclear
- Bulkier than some other travel boosters
We found this booster seat very easy to use once it was set up. The height adjusts smoothly with one hand, which helps a lot when your child is growing fast. It felt sturdy and kept our child well supported thanks to the deep side wings.
The cup holders were a nice touch to keep drinks accessible on long trips. The padding added comfort, especially during flights or long car rides, and cleaning the seat cover was simple after removing it.
Though setting it up wasn’t the fastest, it was manageable, and helpful video support was available. The seat is a bit bigger than other travel boosters, so consider the space in your vehicle or carry-on luggage. Overall, it’s a solid choice for families needing a high-back booster that can grow with their child.
Joie Mint Latch Car Seat
The Joie Mint Latch is a solid choice for parents who want a lightweight, easy-to-use car seat that works well for travel without needing a base.
Pros
- Very light and easy to carry
- Simple to install with or without the LATCH system
- Fits well with Joie strollers for smooth transitions
Cons
- Seat material can get warm in the sun
- Only a few recline positions available
- May feel less cushioned compared to bulkier models
We found this seat to be incredibly handy when moving between cars or getting through airport security. Its light weight makes it easy to lift and carry without extra effort. Installing felt straightforward, whether we used the built-in LATCH connectors or just the seat belt.
The design without a base means less bulk in the trunk. It worked well in different cars without fuss. While the fabric got a bit warm during sunny days, the simple clean lines and safety features gave us confidence on the road.
Pairing it with a matching stroller made travel even smoother. We could go from car to stroller without waking the baby or fumbling with complicated attachments. Overall, the Joie Mint Latch made flying with our infant easier and more convenient.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best travel car seat for flying, we focus on safety first. The seat must meet all safety standards for both car and airplane use. Look for certifications like FAA approval to ensure it is allowed on the plane.
Next, we consider size and weight. A lightweight and compact seat is easier to carry and fit into airplane seats. Seats that can fold or come with carrying bags make traveling less stressful.
Comfort is important for our children on flights. Look for padded cushions and adjustable headrests. Seats with multiple recline positions can help kids rest better during long trips.
Ease of installation matters to us. Seats that install quickly with simple straps or buckles save time and reduce hassle at the airport and in the car.
Key Features to Look For
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| FAA Approval | Required for use on airplanes |
| Weight & Size | Easy to carry and fit in plane seats |
| Comfort | Helps child stay relaxed during travel |
| Installation Ease | Quick and simple setup saves time |
| Durability | Long-lasting for multiple trips or future use |
We recommend checking the product’s manual and reviews to confirm these features before buying. This helps us choose the best seat for safe and smooth travel.
Editor’s Choice
We chose the Cosco Scenera NEXT as our top pick for a travel car seat when flying. It is lightweight, weighing only 9 pounds, which makes carrying it through airports easier.
This seat fits most airplane seats and meets safety standards. It is also easy to install and remove, which saves time during travel.
The Scenera NEXT has simple straps and padding that keep your child comfortable. Plus, it supports children from 5 to 40 pounds, covering a wide age range.
Here’s a quick look at why we picked it:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 9 pounds |
| Size | Compact and slim |
| Age Range | 5 to 40 pounds |
| Safety Standards | FAA-approved, meets federal rules |
| Comfort | Padded and adjustable straps |
We found the Cosco Scenera NEXT balances safety, ease of use, and comfort well. It works for families who travel often by plane and need a reliable car seat that’s not heavy or bulky.
Other options can be good too, but this one fits best for most travelers who want a solid car seat to fly with.
Where to Buy – Best Amazon Deals
We find Amazon a reliable place to buy travel car seats for flying. It offers a wide range of models, from budget options to premium brands. You can easily compare prices and read real customer reviews.
Amazon often has special deals and discounts. Checking regularly helps us find the best offers. Prime members can get faster shipping, which is helpful when you need a car seat quickly.
Here is a quick look at popular features we see on Amazon car seats:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Lightweight | Easy to carry through airports |
| FAA Approved | Safe for use on planes |
| Compact Design | Fits well in tight airplane seats |
We also like that Amazon gives detailed product descriptions and Q&A sections. This info helps us understand what fits our travel needs.
Using filters on Amazon’s site lets us narrow down choices by age, weight, and price. This makes finding the right travel car seat faster and easier for us all.
FAQS
Can we use any car seat on a plane?
Not all car seats are allowed on planes. The car seat must have a label showing it is FAA-approved. Always check the airline’s rules before flying.
Will a travel car seat fit on an airplane seat?
Most travel car seats are designed to fit a standard airplane seat. However, some larger models might not fit well. Measure the seat and check the car seat size before your trip.
Can we check the car seat instead of bringing it on board?
Yes, you can check a car seat, but it may get damaged. Using a travel car seat on the plane is safer for your child during the flight.
How do we install a car seat on a plane?
Most car seats install using the airplane seat belt. Some travel car seats come with extra straps for easier fitting. Always read the instructions beforehand.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is the car seat FAA-approved? | Must have FAA label to be used |
| Can infants use car seats on flights? | Yes, for safety during takeoff and landing |
| Are travel car seats heavier? | Some are lighter for easy carrying |
Can a travel car seat be used after the flight?
Yes, most travel car seats work in cars as well. They are designed to be portable and safe for daily travel.
We recommend choosing a car seat that fits your child, meets safety rules, and is easy to handle during travel.
Conclusion
Choosing the best travel car seat for flying depends on our child’s age, size, and comfort needs. We need to focus on seats that are lightweight, easy to install, and approved for airplane use.
Safety is the top priority. Seats with a strong safety rating and FAA approval give us peace of mind during the flight.
Portability matters. Compact and foldable car seats make moving through airports easier for all of us.
Here’s a quick checklist to help us decide:
- FAA approval: Mandatory for use on flights
- Weight: Lighter seats are better for travel
- Ease of installation: Important for quick setup
- Comfort: Enough padding and support for our child
- Durability: Can handle travel wear and tear
By keeping these points in mind, we can find a travel car seat that fits our family’s needs and keeps our child safe and comfortable on the plane.