Why a Portable Infant Car Seat is a Must-Have
Parenting is a journey rife with many choices. A portable infant car seat should be a must for parents who frequently take taxis or rideshares.
The baby seats can be removed from their base and snap into strollers that are compatible, so you can transport your sleeping baby without disturbing them up or disturbing their car journey.
Safety Features
Infants are particularly susceptible to neck and head injuries in an accident. This is why infant-only car seats are designed to be as secure as is possible. Based on the model you choose, an infant-only car seat may have energy-absorbing foam or Side Impact Protection pods to protect your child in the event of an accident. Other features include a five-point, no-rethread harness and a recline for an easier ride for your child and strap holders to keep the straps from getting caught. Some models include an aluminum stability foot to prevent car seats from turning in an accident.
Many parents are pleased to know that infant car seats are often compatible with strollers, allowing you to effortlessly transfer your child from the car seat to a stroller. This is especially helpful in the event that you plan to use the car seat on taxis or public transportation. Most infant car seats come with FAA approval for air travel so you can also use them in the cabin of an airplane.
A portable infant car seat also lets you take your child on more family adventures, including hikes and camping trips. These seats are typically smaller and compact than convertible car seats, which makes them easier to maneuver in small vehicles or on uneven terrain. Many portable infant car seats have built-in handles that make them easier to carry.
If you're unsure of how to properly install your infant car seat, consult with a certified child passenger safety technician (CPST). You can find one in your area through the National Child Passenger Safety website. Local police and fire departments also have CPSTs who can help you free of charge. You can join an organization such as Tot Squad for virtual or in-person assistance from a trained expert.
When making this choice when making this decision, you must think about your lifestyle and the dimensions of your vehicle. A convertible car seat, for instance will not fit into the trunk of your car, and you'll need to install the base separately. It is heavier and bulkier than an infant car seat and cannot be used to support a child.
Comfort
Comfort may not be what parents consider when it comes down to the infant car seat, but a comfortable ride is essential for parents and infants. Some of the most comfortable portable infant car seats feature soft shoulders and headrests for extra cushioning. Other seats offer adjustable reclining options to find a custom fit. Some include built-in shades and storage pockets for toys, snacks and other things.
When selecting the right car seat for your infant safety is the most important factor. There are many options to consider. For instance, some seats have a no-twist harness indicator, which makes buckling your child easier, whereas others come with an integrated bubble level for quick and accurate installation. Many infant car seats are designed to work combination with a stroller, creating an entire travel system. This lets you easily transport your child from the vehicle to the location you want them to go.
Other factors to take into consideration when buying an infant car seat that is portable include the size and weight of the seat as well as how easy to install, and whether or not it comes with additional safety features. Certain seats have an Euro-belt path that allows you to install the seat without a base in certain European vehicles. Some are certified GREENGUARD GOLD, which means they have low chemical emissions and low VOC. A light-weight seat is easier to carry around.
Certain infant car seats can be transformed into toddler boosters once your child is old enough. This will save you time and money over the long haul. This is especially useful for parents who take taxis or rideshares regularly, as they can keep their child's car seat in place when they change cars. Examples of this type of portable infant car seat include the Doona that has wheels that are integrated to transform it into a stroller and is FAA-approved for use on airplanes. Other convertible infant car seats include the Graco SnugRide 35 DLX and the Evenflo Litemax DLX.
Convenience
Portable infant car seats, which are designed for newborns and babies, are typically smaller and lighter than convertible seats. They are simple to transport from one vehicle to another, especially if they're combined with a stroller which is compatible as part of an entire travel set. The majority of car seats come with a canopy for additional protection from sunlight.
Newborns and infants need an appropriate, secure car seat and that's why portable infant car seats are a great choice for families. Often, these car seats come with additional padding for the head area that can help protect an infant's head in case of an accident. They also come with a five-point safety harness and side impact protection that has been specifically designed to ensure your baby's safety and comfort.
Many infant car seats for portable use include a base that connects to your car. The car seat can be plugged into the base or a stroller compatible with the car seat which makes it easy to move your baby between the car and stroller without causing any disturbance. Car seats usually have a lock off mechanism that prevents your child from removing or buckling their straps.
It's important to note that, even when moving the infant car seat between vehicles, you shouldn't remove or loosen the straps on your baby's harness, since this could cause strangulation in the event of a crash. Instead, make sure they're always buckled and put a blanket or coat over the the straps in cold weather.
Before you purchase an infant car seat, also consider the length of time your child is likely to stay in it. Since they're specifically designed for infants and newborns they tend to have a shorter lifespan than convertible car seats, meaning that you may have to buy another seat sooner than expected. Car seats for infants are generally used until the child outgrows it, which typically happens within the first year.
Cost
When you are deciding on which car seats for infants that you can purchase there are some costs to consider. You may need to purchase a base to install your carrier in your vehicle. Certain models require that you use LATCH to set up them. This will add to the total price of the purchase but can save you money in the long run as you won't have to purchase a separate infant car seat base if you are using multiple vehicles.
Consider purchasing a convertible car seat that is 3-in-1 or 4-in-1. These seats can grow with your child, from rear-facing babies to toddlers facing forward and then into boosters for older children. rotating infant car seat are an excellent choice for parents who frequently travel or who have to move their child from one vehicle to the next. You'll need to purchase an appropriate base for each vehicle that you intend to use the seat. They are also heavier than baby car safety seats.
Many infant car seats don't fit in strollers, so you have to wake your baby to get them moving. This can be a problem when you have a long commute or spend a lot of your time running errands while having your baby in your car. This type of car seat is a good choice for parents who are using ride-sharing companies like Uber and Lyft. You can easily snap it into a stroller that works with the car seat to continue your journey.
Some parents also prefer to buy a travel system that includes a car seat for infants and a stroller. This could be a good option if you're expecting a premature or smaller than average baby, since these types of models are the best for infants.
Most children outgrow their infant seat by the age of one, based on their height and weight. You'll need to upgrade your child's car seat, even in the event that they're not at their maximum weight or height.