Best Travel Car Seat For 1 Year Old
Traveling with a 1-year-old can be a challenge, especially if you’re driving long distances. One of the essential items you’ll need for a smooth journey is a travel car seat that ensures your child’s safety and comfort. In this guide, we’ll explore the best travel car seats for 1-year-olds, their features, and what to consider before making your purchase.
Why Do You Need a Travel Car Seat for Your 1-Year-Old?
Car accidents are one of the leading causes of death for young children in the United States. According to the CDC, over 600 children under 12 years old died as occupants in motor vehicle crashes in 2019. Using a car seat can reduce the risk of fatal injury by up to 71% for infants and 54% for toddlers, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. A travel car seat will provide the same level of protection as a regular car seat, but with added convenience.
What to Look for in a Travel Car Seat for a 1-Year-Old
When choosing a travel car seat for your 1-year-old, there are several factors to consider:
Safety Features
The most important feature of any car seat is its safety. Look for a seat with a 5-point harness, which provides the most secure restraint system for a child. Also, check if the seat has been tested and certified by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Size and Weight
Since you’ll be traveling, you’ll want to choose a seat that is lightweight and easy to carry. Look for a seat that can fit in airline overhead compartments and has a weight limit of around 20-30lbs.
Installation
You don’t want to struggle with installing the car seat every time you travel. Choose a seat that is easy to install and remove, preferably with a latch system or a seatbelt installation.
Best Travel Car Seats for 1-Year-Olds
1. Cosco Scenera Next Convertible Car Seat
The Cosco Scenera Next is an affordable convertible car seat that can accommodate children from 5-40lbs in the rear-facing position and 22-40lbs in the forward-facing position. It weighs only 10lbs and is compact enough to fit in airline overhead compartments. The seat is FAA approved and has removable machine-washable covers for easy cleaning.
2. Graco SnugRide SnugLock 30 Infant Car Seat
The Graco SnugRide SnugLock 30 is an infant car seat that can hold children from 4-30lbs in the rear-facing position. It has a one-second attachment system that makes it easy to install and remove with a latch system or a seatbelt. The seat is also lightweight, weighing only 7lbs, and has a canopy to protect your child from the sun.
3. Doona Infant Car Seat & Stroller
The Doona Infant Car Seat & Stroller is an innovative product that eliminates the need for a separate stroller. It is FAA approved, weighs only 17.6lbs, and can hold children from 4-35lbs in the rear-facing position. The seat transforms into a stroller with just one click and has a five-point harness system, a sunshade, and an adjustable handlebar.
4. Britax Boulevard ClickTight Convertible Car Seat
The Britax Boulevard ClickTight is a convertible car seat that can hold children from 5-65lbs in the rear-facing position and 20-65lbs in the forward-facing position. It has a ClickTight installation system that makes it easy to install and remove with just one click. The seat also has multiple recline positions, a 14-position harness, and side-impact protection.
Conclusion
A travel car seat is an essential item for any parent traveling with a 1-year-old. It provides your child with the necessary protection during a car ride, whether you’re traveling by car or plane. When choosing a travel car seat, look for features such as safety, size and weight, and easy installation. The Cosco Scenera Next, Graco SnugRide SnugLock 30, Doona Infant Car Seat & Stroller, and Britax Boulevard ClickTight are among the best travel car seats for 1-year-olds.
