Car Seat Travel
A car seat for infants or newborns that snaps into the bottom of your car. A lot of infant car seats are also part of a travel system, integrating seamlessly with compatible strollers to make it easy to change.
Take into consideration bringing one for your child, especially when you fly with Southwest or Spirit, where one car seat per person can be checked at no cost.
Safety First
When buying an infant car seat, you should be mindful of safety first. You must ensure that the car seat is compatible with your car and comes with an LATCH system. It's also important to search for shock-absorbent materials and side impact protection. You'll want to ensure that the harness is comfortable for your child and easy to adjust. Review the information provided by the manufacturer to see where the car seat was made. It is best to select a car seat for infants that is not made in China.
Make sure that the car seat you select includes a cupholder and sun canopy or drape so your baby is safe from the elements. Also, if you're planning to travel with the infant car seat, be aware of whether it's eligible for gate check (carry it through the airport with you). Also, you should have a stroller that your infant car seat could be connected.
When you're looking for a baby seat, another thing to remember is to travel for as long as you are able with your child in the rear seat. Rear-facing car seats are more secure for infants than forward-facing ones, particularly if you're driving along curvy or twisty roads.
When your child has outgrown his car seat for infants, and has reached the weight limit or height limit of the seat, it's time to transition to a car seat that faces forward. If you're changing from an infant car seat to a convertible car seat, make sure you use the top tether strap.
When traveling with a newborn car seat is a little challenging however, it's worth the effort to ensure your baby's safety. You can always borrow car seats from a relative or friend, but there's nothing like having your own. The peace of mind knowing your baby is secure and happy in their own car seat is unbeatable. Make sure you research the various types of infant car seats to determine the perfect one for your requirements.
Having an adult or responsible Older Child in the Backseat
A car seat can be stressful for toddlers and infants who are used to being in a stroller, or on the laps of their parents. A backseat adult can take care of the child's needs and ensure that he is on track. This will make the trip less stressful. This includes feeding and changing diapers as well as calming babies who are crying. Consider a convertible car seat. It can be used as a booster for older children or a seat for older children.
Car seats are usually allowed on planes however they must be checked in and put away before you can board. Check your airline's policies before making your reservation. Some charge for this service. Make certain that the car seat is FAA-approved for air travel. The majority of them are, but it's always good to check just to be certain!
Certain car seat manufacturers offer models specifically designed for air travel. These seats are often smaller and lighter than conventional seats. This can save space in your luggage. Some seats have locking straps that can help keep the seat in place and provide a sleeping bag for your infant. Inflatable seat extenders are available for an extra fee on international airlines to create a lying-flat seat that can be used as an extra bed for your child.
Another factor to keep in mind is that certain cars come with different attachment systems for car seats and may require special attachments or tools to install the seat. Some car seats have rigid LATCH connectors that do not need to be tightened and have an auto-retracting mechanism. This makes them our favorite because of their convenience. Some car seats have adjustable center straps that can be cinched easily to adjust the angle of the base for a perfect fit.
Be aware that car seats purchased from outside of the US may be considered illegal in Europe. If best infant seat involved in an accident in Europe and your insurance company finds out that your US-made car seat isn't approved, it could invalidate your insurance coverage. Fortunately, it's rare for this to happen, but always be aware of rules of the road when you travel abroad with your baby car seat.
Car Seat with a Stroller
It is essential to have a stroller when traveling with an infant. Many parents opt to purchase a car seat that can be connected to a stroller in order to create a travel system. This makes it easy to transfer your child from the car to the stroller and back without disturbing them. Travel systems are especially useful for longer walks and running errands with your child.
When choosing a stroller-car seat combo, it's important to ensure the seat and base fit together in a seamless and secure way. When you attach the seat to the base, it should make a loud click. Also look for a indicator light that will indicate that the seat is leveled properly. You should consider a model that comes with adjustable height handles as well as padding for the harness and seat, and a good ergonomic design to keep caregivers comfortable.
Parents may decide to leave their car seat and stroller at home and rent the equipment when they reach their destination, but this could be a hassle if the rentals are limited or are not available at the location you want. Also, a rental could not be safe, which could mean your child is less secure in the case of an accident.
Although it may be tempting to let your child to sleep in their car seat while strolling, experts recommend against this. Only allow your baby to sleep in their car seat if they're traveling in an approved vehicle. Even then, restrict the time they spend in this position as it could put stress on the neck and head muscles. If you want to find a better solution, consider the stroller that has a bassinet attachment that can be used to let your baby to rest during travel.
It's important to test both the stroller and car seat before deciding. You'll know how the system works and you'll be sure that your child will be safe and secure on the move.
Having a Travel System
If you're planning on spending much of your time in the car with your child it might be a good idea to purchase a travel system. This includes a stroller and an infant car seat that can be linked together to avoid having to move your child from the car to the sidewalk and back, particularly when they're asleep.
If your car comes with an option to connect the infant car seat to a car seat base or another car you plan on driving frequently it could be worthwhile to invest in an accessory for travel that can work with these systems as well. This will make it much easier for you to go from the car to the walk, and back without disturbing your child.
Modern travel systems have many features that can be customized to suit your needs and comfort. They include soft padding, recline positions and storage spaces. Some systems have a snack tray built in to ensure that your child's food is within easy reach. They can also be constructed with weather conditions in mind, which means they are able to be used throughout the year without worrying about your baby getting too hot or cold.
Travel systems that incorporate the infant car seat with a stroller may be more expensive, but they're generally better in terms of value. If you're able to find one that fits your lifestyle and style it might be worth it to invest in one.
Many parents are debating whether they should invest in a travel system however, it's clear that it can be incredibly practical for parents who spend much of their time traveling with their newborns. If you're doing errands or going on an international trip, a good travel system will make the transition from the stroller and car effortless so you can focus on your child and the journey. Shop for the ideal baby travel system.