Car seats are an essential part of keeping children safe in vehicles. Rear-facing car seats are designed to protect young children in the event of a crash by supporting their head, neck, and spine. Many parents prefer rear-facing seats for travel because they offer better safety for infants and toddlers compared to forward-facing seats.
Travel car seats are made to be portable and easy to install in different vehicles. They often weigh less and have features that make them convenient for trips, such as compact design or easy folding. Rear-facing travel car seats combine safety with convenience, helping families keep their kids secure on the go.
When choosing the best rear-facing travel car seat, it is important to consider safety ratings, ease of installation, size, and weight. The seat should be comfortable for the child, easy to tighten and remove, and fit well in a variety of vehicles. We tested several models to find those that balance protection, comfort, and travel-friendly features.
Contents
Best Travel Car Seats Rear Facing
We looked at many travel car seats that keep kids safe while riding rear facing. Our list shows the best options for comfort, safety, and ease of use. These seats meet safety standards and work well for travel.
Graco Contender Slim Car Seat
We recommend the Graco Contender Slim for parents who need a lightweight, space-saving rear-facing car seat that is easy to travel with.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to move between vehicles
- Slim design saves space in smaller cars
- FAA approved for air travel
Cons
- Takes up more room than some ultra-compact seats
- Needs LATCH anchors for best installation
- Recline positions could feel limited for some users
We used this car seat on a recent trip, and its slim profile made fitting it alongside another seat very doable. Carrying it through airports was less tiring due to the lighter weight. The headrest and harness adjusted smoothly together, which made setup quick.
The seat felt secure and comfortable, even for long drives. The dishwasher-safe cup holder was handy and easy to keep clean after snacks. Installation was straightforward with LATCH, and the clear levels helped us know it was positioned correctly.
While it doesn’t fold down smaller than some travel-only seats, the extra room it takes up felt worth it for the added comfort and safety. Overall, it strikes a good balance for families who want a solid car seat that’s also travel-friendly.
Safety 1st Ellaris 3-in-1 Car Seat
We found this car seat easy to adjust and travel-friendly, making it a solid choice for families needing a rear-facing option that grows with their child.
Pros
- Fits well three across in most vehicles
- Adjustable headrest and harness for comfort
- Compact and airplane ready for travel
Cons
- Installation can be tricky at first
- Slightly bulky for small cars
- Some found rear-facing fit challenging
The slim design really helped us fit this seat across the back row without squeezing other seats too tightly. Adjusting the headrest and harness was simple and kept our toddler comfortable on longer trips.
While the seat is lighter than many others in its class, it still feels sturdy. The washable seat pad and removable cup holders are helpful for keeping things clean. It’s also nice that it works for rear-facing infants and toddlers, so we didn’t need multiple seats.
We did notice the seat takes some patience to install securely, especially with the rear-facing setup. Its size can feel a bit big if your vehicle is compact. Still, the airplane-ready design made traveling with it smoother than we expected.
Safety 1st Crosstown Slim
This car seat is a great choice for families who want a long-lasting, space-saving option that grows with their child.
Pros
- Slim design fits 3 across most back seats
- Easy one-hand harness and headrest adjustments
- Converts to booster, usable up to 10 years
Cons
- Bulkier than some travel car seats
- Can be tricky to install in certain cars
- Not the best for frequent moving in and out
We found the Crosstown Slim to be very practical for daily use. Its slim build really helps when you need to fit three car seats across the back, which is a huge plus for larger families. Adjusting the harness as the child grows was simple and didn’t require rethreading, saving us time and hassle.
The seat held up well in long drives and kept our little one comfortable thanks to the 8-position headrest. The removable cup holders and machine-washable cover are nice touches that make life easier for busy parents.
On the downside, the seat feels a bit bulky when you try to move it between cars. Installation took some patience in our vehicle, especially making sure the anchor points were tight. Overall, it’s solid but better suited for mostly staying installed rather than frequent travel swaps.
Safety 1st Grow and Go Car Seat
This car seat works well for families looking for a single seat that grows with their child from babyhood to booster stage.
Pros
- Easy to adjust harness and headrest without re-threading
- Machine-washable seat cover and dishwasher-safe cup holders
- Supports rear-facing use for babies up to 40 pounds
Cons
- Installation can be a tight fit in some cars
- Heavier than some travel-specific seats
- Not all kids will fit comfortably in every growth stage
We found the Safety 1st Grow and Go great for kids who need a seat that adapts as they grow. The quick-fit harness made getting our little one in and out easier, saving time during busy days.
Cleaning is simple because the seat pad comes off without hassle, and cup holders are easy to keep clean after snacks. This helped when messes inevitably happened on longer rides.
While installing the seat took extra effort thanks to the snug fit, it felt very secure once in place. Its size and weight mean it’s best for families who want a seat that lasts rather than a light travel-only option.
Graco SnugRide Lite LX
This car seat is a solid choice for parents who want a lightweight, easy-to-install rear-facing seat for their infant.
Pros
- Very lightweight and easy to carry
- Adjustable base helps with proper and secure installation
- Comfortable padding keeps baby snug and supported
Cons
- No cup holders included
- Can feel a bit narrow for bigger babies
- Some parts require careful cleaning to maintain fabric quality
We appreciated how light this car seat is. Carrying baby from car to stroller felt much easier than other models we’ve tried. The setup was straightforward, especially with the base that has clear level indicators to help us get the correct angle every time.
The cushioning around baby’s head and body really made a difference on longer drives. It moved with our little one as they grew, and the canopy adjusted nicely to block the sun. The seat’s safety features gave us peace of mind, especially for side and rollover protection.
Our only gripe is the lack of extra storage like cup holders, which could add convenience. Also, while the fabric is soft, it needs a bit of attention to stay clean. Overall, this seat balanced safety, comfort, and usability well for travel and everyday use.
Evenflo Tribute LX
We found this car seat to be a solid, budget-friendly choice that fits well in smaller cars and is perfect for families on the move.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Compact design fits well in tight backseats
- Simple harness adjustment for growing kids
Cons
- Strap tightening can be tough in some cars
- Minimal padding compared to higher-end seats
- Installation guide not always included
The Evenflo Tribute LX stands out because it’s very light, making it easy to take on trips or switch between vehicles. Its smaller size helped us fit it comfortably in a compact car without crowding other seats.
Setting up the harness was straightforward thanks to the front adjust feature. This really saves time as our child grew. The seat is safe and meets strict crash test standards, which gave us peace of mind.
Cleaning was simple too. The fabric removed easily for washing, and the cup holder came off without hassle. If you want a dependable rear-facing car seat that won’t take up a lot of room or cost a fortune, this one is worth considering.
Graco Extend2Fit
A solid choice for families wanting more rear-facing time thanks to its extra legroom and easy adjustments.
Pros
- Gives up to 5 inches more legroom for rear-facing comfort
- Simple one-motion harness and headrest adjustment
- Easy, secure installation with push-button LATCH
Cons
- Takes up more space in smaller cars
- A bit heavy to move between vehicles
- Recline options could be more flexible
We’ve used this seat on many trips, and the extra legroom really helps keep our little one comfortable for a longer time rear-facing. It’s nice to have the headrest and harness adjust together instead of fussing with each separately.
Installation is quick with the push-button LATCH—it clicks in easily and feels very secure. We noticed it’s a bit bulky, so if you drive a compact car, it might take up more space than you want.
The material feels durable and comfortable. The recline works well, but more positions would be better for fitting odd car seats. Overall, it’s a safe, user-friendly choice for extended rear-facing use.
Cosco Mighty Fit 65 DX
We find the Cosco Mighty Fit 65 DX to be a solid choice for families wanting a safe, compact rear-facing car seat that is easy to manage and comfortable for kids.
Pros
- Fits well in smaller cars and allows more legroom
- Comfortable padding and fabric that is easy to clean
- Approved for use on airplanes, making travel simpler
Cons
- Installation can be tricky and has a big base
- Less head support compared to some higher-end models
- Basic features, no advanced extras
The seat’s smaller size makes it easier to fit three car seats across a back seat. This was helpful when traveling with multiple kids. It didn’t crowd the front seats, so adults could sit more comfortably.
We appreciated the softness of the cover and how simple it was to remove for washing. Kids seemed cozy on longer rides. The built-in side-impact protection gave us confidence in safety without adding too much bulk.
One downside was getting it tightly secured at first. The large base can be awkward in smaller vehicles. Also, it lacks some comfort features like a padded headrest that other seats offer. Still, it does the job well for the price and convenience, especially for travel.
Graco SlimFit 3-in-1 Car Seat
This seat works well for families looking for a travel car seat that adjusts as their child grows and saves space in the back seat.
Pros
- Slim design fits well in tight spaces
- Easy harness adjustment with one hand
- Simple installation with the InRight LATCH system
Cons
- Slightly heavy to carry for travel
- Recline options can feel limited in some cars
- Harness straps can be confusing at first
We found the Graco SlimFit to be very practical during trips because it takes up less room than many car seats. The rotating cup holders are a small but useful feature that help make the seat slimmer when needed.
Adjusting the harness and headrest at the same time made fitting our child quick without wrestling with the straps. The installation was straightforward, which saved us time when moving between vehicles.
The seat kept our child comfortable with multiple recline positions, but some cars limited how much it could tilt. While the harness setup took a bit to figure out, once we got used to it, the seat felt safe and sturdy for everyday and travel use.
Graco TriRide 3-in-1 Car Seat
This car seat is a solid pick for families wanting a long-lasting, adjustable rear-facing option that grows with their child.
Pros
- Grows with your child through three modes
- Easy harness adjustment with one motion
- Comfortable with multiple recline positions
Cons
- On the heavier side to carry around
- Some find installation instructions a bit detailed
- Bulkier than some travel-specific seats
We found the Graco TriRide very useful, especially because it lets us keep our little one rear-facing until 40 pounds. The harness adjusts quickly, so it doesn’t take much time to get the perfect fit.
Comfort is noticeable with the reclining feature. Our child seemed more relaxed on long rides thanks to the multiple recline options and the plush padding.
While it isn’t the lightest travel seat, it installs solidly and feels durable. The cup holders are handy to keep drinks nearby. Overall, it offers practical features without being overly complicated.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best travel car seat for rear facing, we focus on safety, comfort, and ease of use. A good seat will protect your child in a crash and be simple to install correctly.
Safety features are the most important. Look for seats with side-impact protection and strong steel frames. Make sure the seat meets or exceeds government safety standards.
Comfort matters for long trips. We check the padding, adjustable headrests, and recline options. A seat with soft fabric and good ventilation helps our child stay comfortable.
Installation should be easy. We prefer seats with clear instructions, and systems like LATCH or seatbelt lock-offs. This helps us avoid mistakes and keeps the seat secure.
Weight and height limits are crucial. We find seats that accommodate our child’s size as they grow. A seat that fits a wide range of weights and heights will last longer.
| Feature | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Safety | Side-impact protection, strong frame, certifications |
| Comfort | Padding, headrest adjustability, breathable fabric |
| Installation | Clear instructions, LATCH or belt lock-offs |
| Size Limits | Wide range of weight and height acceptance |
We also think about portability. A lighter seat is easier to move between vehicles and carry around during travel. This makes trips smoother for our whole family.
Editor’s Choice
We chose the Graco Extend2Fit as our top pick for the best travel car seat rear facing. It offers excellent safety features, easy installation, and good legroom for growing babies. The extra extension panel helps keep your child comfortable on longer trips.
Another strong choice is the Chicco NextFit Zip Max. We like its one-hand recline and adjustable headrest. The seat is also easy to clean with its zip-off cover. It balances safety and convenience very well.
Here is a brief comparison of the two:
| Feature | Graco Extend2Fit | Chicco NextFit Zip Max |
|---|---|---|
| Rear-facing weight limit | Up to 50 lbs | Up to 40 lbs |
| Installation | LATCH or seat belt | LATCH or seat belt |
| Recline adjustment | Multi-position recline | One-hand, 9-position recline |
| Cover cleaning | Machine washable | Zip-off, machine washable |
Both models are reliable and meet safety standards. Our choice depends on your child’s size and your ease of use preferences. We recommend checking both to see which fits your travel needs best.
Where to Buy – Best Amazon Deals
We find Amazon a very convenient place to buy rear-facing travel car seats. It offers a wide range of brands and models, all in one spot. This makes comparison shopping easy and fast.
Amazon often has competitive prices. We look for deals and discounts that help us save money. Plus, we can check customer reviews to learn from others’ real experiences.
Here are some tips for buying on Amazon:
- Use filters to narrow down based on price, brand, and ratings.
- Check for Prime eligibility to get faster shipping.
- Read recent reviews to spot any new issues.
- Look for bundles that may include travel accessories.
We also watch for deals like “Lightning Deals” or seasonal sales. These can offer extra savings on car seats for travel.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Wide selection | Many options from budget to premium seats |
| Customer reviews | Honest feedback from other parents |
| Fast shipping | Quick delivery, especially with Prime |
| Deals & discounts | Frequent price drops and special offers |
Using Amazon makes it easier for us to find the best rear-facing car seat for travel. We just need to keep an eye on the deals and check what others say before buying.
FAQS
How long should our child use a rear-facing car seat?
We recommend keeping our child rear-facing until at least age 2 or until they reach the car seat’s height and weight limit. This position offers better protection for their head and neck.
Are rear-facing car seats easy to install?
Most modern rear-facing seats are designed for easy installation. We should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use either the seat belt or LATCH system securely.
Can we use a travel car seat on an airplane?
Yes, many travel car seats are FAA-approved for airplane use. We should check the seat’s label for approval and ensure it fits properly in the airplane seat.
What’s the difference between an infant car seat and a convertible car seat?
Infant seats are small and designed only for rear-facing use. Convertible seats can be used rear-facing for infants and later switch to forward-facing as the child grows.
| Question | Quick Answer |
|---|---|
| When to switch to forward-facing? | After reaching seat limits (age 2+ usually) |
| Can we use hand-me-down car seats? | Only if they are not expired or damaged |
| Is extra padding safe? | Only use padding approved by the car seat maker |
We should always register our car seat to get safety updates and recalls. Safety is the top priority when traveling with our little ones.
Conclusion
When choosing the best travel car seat for rear-facing use, safety and comfort should be our top priorities. We want a seat that fits well in our vehicle and is easy to install correctly.
It’s important that the car seat offers solid protection in crashes while also being lightweight and portable. We should look for features like adjustable harnesses and good padding to keep our child secure and cozy.
Consider the age and size of your child. Some seats grow with your child, which helps us save money over time. Others focus on being compact for travel convenience.
Key things to remember:
- Check the seat’s safety ratings
- Make sure it is rear-facing compatible
- Think about how easy it is to move and carry
- Look for comfortable padding and adjustable straps
Our choice should balance safety, comfort, and convenience. This way, we can make sure our child is protected and comfortable on every trip.