FAA Approved Car Seat: Best Car Seat For Travel

May 1, 2024

Traveling with young children can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to air travel. One of the biggest concerns for parents is ensuring the safety of their child during the flight, which includes choosing the right car seat. While car seats are not mandatory on airplanes, they are highly recommended by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and many airlines.

FAA approved car seats are designed to provide the same level of protection for children on airplanes as they do in cars. These car seats are rigorously tested and certified by the FAA to ensure they meet safety standards and can be securely installed on an airplane seat. They come in different sizes and styles to accommodate children of different ages and weights.

When choosing an FAA approved car seat, it is important to consider the weight and dimensions of the seat, as well as the age and size of your child. Some car seats are designed specifically for infants, while others can be used for toddlers and young children. It is also important to ensure that the car seat is easy to install and fits securely on the airplane seat.

Best FAA Approved Car Seats

As parents, we all want to ensure the safety of our little ones while traveling. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best FAA approved car seats that will guarantee your child’s safety and comfort during air travel. These car seats have been rigorously tested and approved by the Federal Aviation Administration for use on airplanes, giving you peace of mind while flying with your child. So, without further ado, here are our top picks for the best FAA approved car seats.

Evenflo Tribute LX 2-in-1 Lightweight Convertible Car Seat

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly car seat that doesn’t compromise on safety or comfort, the Evenflo Tribute LX 2-in-1 Lightweight Convertible Car Seat is definitely worth considering.

Pros

The compact design makes it easy to fit into smaller vehicles, making it a great option for families who need to save space.
The upfront harness adjust feature makes it easy to get a secure, snug fit for your child, regardless of their size.
The removable cup holder is a convenient feature that allows your child to keep their drinks and snacks within reach.

Cons

Although the car seat can be used for children up to 40 pounds, some parents have reported that it’s not the most comfortable option for larger toddlers.
The lack of padding on the straps can make them uncomfortable for some children.
The car seat cover can be difficult to remove for cleaning, which can be frustrating for busy parents.

Overall, we think the Evenflo Tribute LX 2-in-1 Lightweight Convertible Car Seat is a great option for parents who are looking for a budget-friendly car seat that doesn’t compromise on safety or comfort. While it may not be the most luxurious option on the market, it’s a solid choice that will get the job done without breaking the bank.

In our experience, the car seat was easy to install and adjust, and our child seemed comfortable and secure during car rides. The compact design was especially appreciated, as it allowed us to fit the car seat into our small sedan without any issues.

While there were a few minor drawbacks, such as the lack of padding on the straps and the difficulty of removing the cover for cleaning, we still think this car seat is a great value for the price. If you’re looking for a reliable car seat that won’t put a dent in your wallet, the Evenflo Tribute LX 2-in-1 Lightweight Convertible Car Seat is definitely worth considering.

Cosco Mighty Fit 65 DX Convertible Car Seat

If you’re looking for a convertible car seat that is FAA approved, the Cosco Mighty Fit 65 DX is a great option to consider.

Pros

The car seat is designed to fit three across in the back seat of most vehicles, which is perfect for growing families.
The MightyFit 65 DX is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry and install.
The car seat is machine washable and dryer safe, making it easy to clean when messes happen.

Cons

The car seat can be difficult to install rear-facing in the lowest weight setting.
The straps can be hard to tighten enough to prevent the car seat from wiggling when rear-facing.
The car seat is not as comfortable for larger children.

We recently used the Cosco Mighty Fit 65 DX on a cross-country flight with our toddler, and it was a great choice for us. The car seat is FAA approved, so we were able to use it on the plane, and it was easy to install and remove. The car seat is also compact and lightweight, which made it easy to carry through the airport and install in our rental car.

One of the best features of the MightyFit 65 DX is that it is designed to fit three across in the back seat of most vehicles. This was perfect for us, as we have a growing family and needed to fit three car seats in our car. The car seat is also designed to take up less room when rear-facing, which gives parents more leg room in the front seats.

The MightyFit 65 DX is also easy to clean, which is a huge plus for parents. The fabric is both machine washable and dryer safe, so it’s easy to clean up messes when they happen.

While we love the MightyFit 65 DX, there are a few downsides to consider. The car seat can be difficult to install rear-facing in the lowest weight setting, and the straps can be hard to tighten enough to prevent the car seat from wiggling when rear-facing. Additionally, the car seat may not be as comfortable for larger children.

Overall, we highly recommend the Cosco Mighty Fit 65 DX Convertible Car Seat for families who are looking for a lightweight, compact car seat that is FAA approved and easy to clean.

Cosco Onlook 2-in-1 Convertible Car Seat

If you are looking for a budget-friendly car seat that is FAA approved, then the Cosco Onlook 2-in-1 Convertible Car Seat might be the right choice for you.

Pros

With two modes of use, this LATCH-equipped car seat accommodates infants from 5 pounds up to toddlers weighing 40 pounds in rear-facing mode and kids up to 40 pounds in forward-facing mode.
The five-point harness adjusts easily from the front of the seat and features six heights and three buckle locations.
In both the rear-facing and forward-facing modes, built-in side-impact protection keeps your little one extra secure.

Cons

The seat might be a little bulky for smaller cars, and it might be challenging to fit three of these seats in the back seat.
The fabric might not be as breathable as other car seats, which could make your child hot and uncomfortable.
The cup holders might not be big enough to hold larger cups or bottles.

We recently used the Cosco Onlook 2-in-1 Convertible Car Seat on a flight, and we were impressed with its lightweight design and easy installation. The seat is easy to carry through the airport, and it fits well in the airplane seat. Our child seemed comfortable in the seat throughout the flight, and the built-in side-impact protection gave us peace of mind.

The five-point harness adjusts easily from the front of the seat, which makes it easy to get our child in and out of the seat quickly. We also appreciated the machine-washable and dryer-safe car seat pad, which made it easy to clean up spills and messes.

However, the seat might be a little bulky for smaller cars, and we had some difficulty fitting it in the back seat of our sedan. Additionally, the fabric might not be as breathable as other car seats, which could make your child hot and uncomfortable during longer car rides. Finally, the cup holders might not be big enough to hold larger cups or bottles, which could be a problem for some parents.

Overall, we think the Cosco Onlook 2-in-1 Convertible Car Seat is an excellent choice for parents who are looking for a budget-friendly car seat that is FAA approved. While it might not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive car seats, it is a solid choice for families who want a safe and comfortable car seat for their child.

mifold hifold fit-and-fold Highback Booster Seat

We highly recommend the mifold hifold fit-and-fold Highback Booster Seat for parents looking for a portable and adjustable booster seat that is perfect for everyday use, travel, carpooling, and more.

Pros

The hifold booster seat is the world’s most adjustable booster, with unique “multi-fit” technology that can be adjusted to 243 individual settings, ensuring optimal seatbelt fit and comfort while your child grows.
The “multi-fold” system quickly folds down to a compact and convenient size for storage, travel, carpooling, and more. It is lightweight and includes a convenient carry strap.
The hifold booster seat meets or exceeds NHTSA standard FMVSS 213 and is regulated for global use, so it can be taken and used everywhere in the world except Australia and Taiwan.

Cons

The hifold booster seat is not suitable for children under 4 years old, as it does not include an integrated harness.
The booster seat uses the vehicle installed adult seat belt to restrain the child and hold the booster seat in place, which may not be as secure as other types of car seats.
The hifold booster seat is more expensive than some other booster seat options on the market.

We recently used the mifold hifold fit-and-fold Highback Booster Seat on a family road trip, and we were impressed with its adjustability and portability. The “multi-fit” technology allowed us to adjust the seat, body, head width, and height to find the perfect fit for our child, and the “multi-fold” system made it easy to pack and store in the trunk when not in use.

The hifold booster seat is also easy to install and use, and we appreciated the lightweight design and convenient carry strap. Our child was comfortable and secure in the booster seat, and we felt confident that it met or exceeded safety standards.

Overall, we highly recommend the mifold hifold fit-and-fold Highback Booster Seat for parents looking for a portable and adjustable booster seat that is perfect for everyday use, travel, carpooling, and more.

Evenflo Revolve360 Extend All-in-One Rotational Car Seat with Quick Clean Cover

If you’re looking for a reliable and safe car seat that can grow with your child, the Evenflo Revolve360 Extend All-in-One Rotational Car Seat with Quick Clean Cover might be the perfect fit.

Pros

Protect with extended time rear-facing: Keep your child rear-facing for longer as recommended by child safety experts — all the way up to 50 lb.
Get in and out effortlessly: 360° rotation makes it a breeze to get your child in and out of the car with just one hand — an award-winning innovation that keeps on giving.
Keep it fresh: Offers the convenience of a Quick Clean Cover — easy to remove, easy to wash, easy to live with.

Cons

Heavy: At 29.6 pounds, it’s not the lightest car seat on the market.
Bulky: The seat might take up more space in your car than other models.
Expensive: This car seat is an investment, but it’s designed to last for 10 years.

We recently had the chance to test out the Evenflo Revolve360 Extend All-in-One Rotational Car Seat with Quick Clean Cover, and we were impressed with its features and ease of use. The 360° rotation feature makes it easy to get your child in and out of the car, and the extended rear-facing option provides added peace of mind.

The installation process was straightforward, and we appreciated the bead-level indicator for leveling in seconds. The Sure360 Safety Installation System with LockStrong and Tether360 kept the car seat secure and stable, and we felt confident that our child was safe during our travels.

The Quick Clean Cover was a game-changer for us. It was easy to remove and wash, and it kept the car seat looking fresh and clean despite spills and accidents. The ergonomic leg rest was also a nice touch, providing added comfort for our growing child.

Overall, we would recommend the Evenflo Revolve360 Extend All-in-One Rotational Car Seat with Quick Clean Cover to parents looking for a reliable and safe car seat that can grow with their child. While it might be on the heavier and bulkier side, its features and extended rear-facing option make it a worthwhile investment.

Doona Car Seat & Stroller, Nitro Black – All-in-One Travel System

If you’re looking for an all-in-one travel system that’s FAA approved, the Doona Car Seat & Stroller is a great option.

Pros

The Doona Car Seat & Stroller is incredibly easy to use, with an intuitive design that ensures correct installation every time.
Its ergonomic design ensures proper support for your baby’s body, promoting good posture and alignment.
The Doona Car Seat & Stroller is made from premium-grade materials that are designed to last, so you can use it for years to come.

Cons

The Doona Car Seat & Stroller is only suitable for rear-facing use, so you’ll need to purchase a separate car seat when your child outgrows it.
While the Doona Car Seat & Stroller is relatively lightweight, it can still be bulky to carry around, especially when you’re also carrying a diaper bag and other baby gear.
The Doona Car Seat & Stroller is on the expensive side compared to other car seats and strollers, so it may not be the best choice for budget-conscious parents.

We recently used the Doona Car Seat & Stroller on a cross-country flight with our newborn, and we were impressed with how easy it was to use. The one-click mechanism made it simple to switch between car seat and stroller modes, and the adjustable handlebar made it comfortable to push around the airport and on the plane.

One thing we really appreciated about the Doona Car Seat & Stroller was its ergonomic design. Our baby seemed comfortable and well-supported in the car seat, and the near-flat recline was perfect for naps. We also liked that the car seat had three layers of side impact protection and an anti-rebound bar for added safety.

Overall, we think the Doona Car Seat & Stroller is a great choice for parents who want an all-in-one travel system that’s easy to use, safe, and comfortable for their baby. While it’s on the expensive side, we think it’s worth the investment for its convenience and quality.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing an FAA-approved car seat, there are a few things to consider to ensure you select the best product for your needs. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Age and Weight Limits

The first thing to consider is the age and weight limits of the car seat. Make sure the car seat is appropriate for your child’s age and weight. It’s important to choose a car seat that can accommodate your child’s growth and development.

Safety Features

Safety should be your top priority when selecting a car seat. Look for a car seat that has been tested and approved by the FAA. Also, consider features such as a five-point harness, side-impact protection, and energy-absorbing foam.

Comfort

Your child’s comfort is also important. Look for a car seat with ample padding and support. Consider features such as adjustable headrests, reclining options, and breathable fabrics.

Ease of Use

You want a car seat that is easy to install and adjust. Consider features such as a simple installation process, easy-to-adjust straps, and a clear instruction manual.

Price

Finally, consider your budget. While you don’t want to skimp on safety, there are plenty of affordable options that meet FAA standards. Compare prices and features to find the best value for your money.

In summary, when selecting an FAA-approved car seat, consider the age and weight limits, safety features, comfort, ease of use, and price. By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the best product for your child’s needs and ensure their safety while traveling.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I identify a car seat with FAA approval?

Look for a label or sticker on the car seat that says “FAA Approved” or “For use on aircraft.” You can also check the manufacturer’s website or contact their customer service to confirm if a specific model is approved for use on airplanes.

What are the top-rated FAA approved car seats on the market?

Some of the top-rated FAA approved car seats include the Graco 4Ever DLX 4-in-1 Convertible Car Seat, the Britax Boulevard ClickTight Convertible Car Seat, and the Chicco NextFit Zip Convertible Car Seat. However, it’s important to note that the best car seat for your child will depend on their age, weight, and height.

Is there a list of FAA approved car seats from Graco?

Yes, Graco has a list of their FAA approved car seats on their website. You can also check the label or sticker on the car seat itself to confirm if it is approved for use on airplanes.

Are there affordable options for FAA approved car seats?

Yes, there are several affordable options for FAA approved car seats. Some of these include the Cosco Scenera Next Convertible Car Seat, the Evenflo Tribute LX Convertible Car Seat, and the Safety 1st Guide 65 Convertible Car Seat. However, it’s important to make sure that the car seat is appropriate for your child’s age, weight, and height.

Which car seat and stroller combinations meet FAA approval?

Not all car seat and stroller combinations are approved for use on airplanes. However, some popular options that are approved include the Baby Trend Snap-N-Go EX Universal Infant Car Seat Carrier and the Chicco Bravo Trio Travel System.

Does the FAA approve booster seats for airplane use?

No, the FAA does not approve booster seats for use on airplanes. Children who have outgrown their forward-facing car seat should use the airplane seat belt instead.