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Best Travel Car Seat For Plane Carry On (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a travel car seat for plane carry on, there are a few factors you need to consider before making your purchase. First and foremost, you should look for a seat that is FAA approved. This will ensure that your seat meets safety standards and can be used on airplanes. Additionally, you should consider the size and weight of the seat, as well as how easy it is to install and remove from the plane.

Another important factor to keep in mind is the age and size of your child. Some car seats are designed specifically for infants, while others can accommodate toddlers or even older children. You’ll also want to consider whether or not the seat can be adjusted to fit your child’s height and weight, as well as how comfortable it is for long periods of time.

If you’re traveling with young children, having a reliable and safe travel car seat can make a big difference in your overall travel experience. But with so many options on the market, it can be hard to know where to start. Are you wondering what the best travel car seat is for your family? Do you want to know more about the safety features you should look for in a car seat? Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about finding the perfect travel car seat for your next adventure.

10 Best Travel Car Seat For Plane Carry On

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The Britax Car Seat Travel Cart is ideal for transporting car seats and fitting them in airplane overhead bins.
2
Ideal for parents who need a lightweight, portable, and foldable car seat for air travel, rideshares, and road trips.
3
The product is designed for safe and convenient travel with infant car seats, providing protection and cushioning during transportation.
4
The product is ideal for a portable and travel-friendly booster seat for toddlers, kids, and children with a narrow backless design.
5
The product is ideal for parents of young children who want a long-lasting and slim-fitting car seat with multiple configurations.
6
The product is ideal for parents traveling with toddlers who need a padded car seat carrier bag with extra storage.
7
The product is ideal for parents who want a portable car seat solution for everyday use and travel.
8
The product is ideal for carrying essentials on short trips or as an under-seat carry-on bag.
9
It is ideal for men and women who need a carry-on luggage with expandable space, USB port, and suiter.
10
It is an ideal luggage for those who need a durable, expandable, and easy-to-carry option for short trips.
The Britax Car Seat Travel Cart is ideal for transporting car seats and fitting them in airplane overhead bins.
Ideal for parents who need a lightweight, portable, and foldable car seat for air travel, rideshares, and road trips.
The product is designed for safe and convenient travel with infant car seats, providing protection and cushioning during transportation.
The product is ideal for a portable and travel-friendly booster seat for toddlers, kids, and children with a narrow backless design.
The product is ideal for parents of young children who want a long-lasting and slim-fitting car seat with multiple configurations.
The product is ideal for parents traveling with toddlers who need a padded car seat carrier bag with extra storage.
The product is ideal for parents who want a portable car seat solution for everyday use and travel.
The product is ideal for carrying essentials on short trips or as an under-seat carry-on bag.
It is ideal for men and women who need a carry-on luggage with expandable space, USB port, and suiter.
It is an ideal luggage for those who need a durable, expandable, and easy-to-carry option for short trips.

1. Britax Travel Cart: Easy Car Seat Transport

Traveling with a child can be a hassle, but the Britax Car Seat Travel Cart makes it simple and easy. This cart is designed to conveniently transport a child for short travel distances while harnessed in a car seat. It is compatible with all Britax forward facing convertible car seats and harnessed booster seats, as well as most other car seat brands using Latch.

The car seat is attached to the durable steel travel cart using the seat's Latch connectors, and the one-hand telescoping handle adjusts to two positions to accommodate all users. The handle can be adjusted up to 42 inches from the floor to the top of the handle.

When not in use, the cart can be easily folded into a compact size that stows into small spaces, including aircraft overhead bins. It requires no assembly or breakdown, making it a hassle-free solution for parents on the go.

The dimensions of the cart are 24 x 13.5 x 5.5 inches (HxWxD). It fits all Britax convertible car seats and harnessed booster seats, and most other car seat brands. With its durable construction and easy-to-use features, the Britax Car Seat Travel Cart is an excellent choice for parents who want to simplify their travel experience.

Pros

  • Compatible with all Britax forward facing convertible car seats and harnessed booster seats, as well as most other car seat brands using Latch
  • Durable steel travel cart and telescoping handle for easy transport
  • No assembly or breakdown required
  • Compact fold for easy storage in small spaces, including aircraft overhead bins

Cons

  • – Not suitable for long distances or multiple children
  • – May not fit all car seat brands

2. Travel With Ease: Wayb Pico Car Seat

The Pico travel car seat is a great solution for parents who are always on the go. It can accommodate kids aged 2 years and above, weighing between 22-50 lbs. and measuring 30-45 inches in height. The 5-point safety harness ensures that your little one is secure and protected whether you are taking a road trip or using a ride-sharing service.

This car seat has been designed with safety in mind and meets all U.S. safety standards as set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Federal Aviation Administration. The FAA approved sticker is located on the bottom of the seat. The Pico is lightweight, weighing just 8 pounds, and features an AeroWing aerospace-grade aluminum frame that provides lightweight strength. The AstroKnit performance wool/polyester mesh fabric cover keeps your child cool and comfortable during long trips.

The Pico travel car seat is easy to carry and stow away. It can be folded down to a compact size of 11.6" L x 14.5" W x 18.9" H, which means it can fit into overhead bins on airplanes. The Premium Travel Bag that comes with each purchase is made from 100% bluesign certified recycled polyester and does not contain any PU, EVA, or EPS foams. It can be carried as a backpack or slipped over the handle of rolling luggage for easy transport.

Before unboxing your Pico travel car seat, make sure it is the exact item you wanted to purchase as returned car seats with open boxes must be destroyed due to industry standards. By doing your part, you can help keep car seats out of landfills and on to new adventures with your family.

Pros

  • Lightweight design makes it easy to carry and stow away, especially while traveling.
  • AeroWing aerospace-grade aluminum frame provides lightweight strength.
  • AstroKnit performance wool/polyester mesh fabric cover keeps kids cool and comfortable.
  • Premium Travel Bag made from 100% bluesign certified recycled polyester is environmentally friendly.
  • The 5-point safety harness ensures that your child is secure and protected.

Cons

  • – The Pico travel car seat is only suitable for children aged 2 years and above, weighing between 22-50 lbs. and measuring 30-45 inches in height.

3. Padded Car Seat Backpack: Ultimate Travel Companion.

The Car Seat Travel Backpack is a versatile and durable travel accessory that makes it easy to carry a baby car seat while traveling. This LIFETIME PROMISE backpack measures 28 x 18 x 18 inches, providing ample space to accommodate most major brand car seats. If for some reason your car seat doesn't fit, the company offers a 24-hour customer service to address your issue.

Made from high-quality, water-resistant polyester fabric, this heavy-duty backpack is easy to clean and provides complete protection against scratches, dirt, and other contaminants. The dual lockable zipper opening ensures that the car seat remains secure and safe. The backpack also features thick feet on the bottom and padded wings that offer additional protection to the car seat.

The backpack is equipped with padded backpack straps and a waist strap that are adjustable, providing a comfortable, hands-free carrying option for parents. The ergonomic design of the backpack ensures that the infant car seat remains in its place, thanks to the internal fixing strap. The backpack also features elastic pockets on both sides that provide extra space for storing small accessories like diapers, towels, and clothing.

The versatile design of this backpack makes it perfect for air travel, saving parents extra money in luggage fees and car seat rental fees. The vivid packing instructions make it easy to pack or fold the backpack flat for easy storage. The backpack also features a clear ID pocket, making it easy to find your car seat backpack in busy airports.

This Car Seat Travel Backpack is an ideal gift for parents, fathers, mothers, men, and women who travel with babies or toddlers. It is perfect for family trips, air travel with a car seat, or for use as a holiday gift during New Year's Day or Valentine's Day.

Pros

  • Made from high-quality, water-resistant polyester fabric
  • Dual lockable zipper opening ensures that the car seat remains secure and safe
  • Equipped with padded backpack straps and a waist strap that are adjustable
  • Elastic pockets on both sides provide extra space for storing small accessories
  • Versatile design makes it perfect for air travel, saving parents extra money in luggage fees and car seat rental fees
  • Clear ID pocket makes it easy to find your car seat backpack in busy airports
  • Lifetime promise and 24-hour customer service

4. Hiccapop Uberboost Backless Booster: Portable Travel Solution

The hiccapop UberBoost portable car seat is a lightweight and practical solution for parents on-the-go. It can be inflated with just a few breaths, taking less than 20 seconds to set up, making it a breeze to install quickly. When not in use, it can be easily deflated and rolled up tightly in its own travel bag, taking up minimal space in suitcases, carry-ons, large purses or backpacks.

Safety is a top priority for hiccapop UberBoost. The car seat meets or exceeds all federal standards for car seat safety, including FMVSS213 Federal Motor Safety Standard for USA. Parents can rest assured that their child is protected and secure during those quick journeys in rental cars, taxis, Uber rides, on school trips or in car pools.

The non-skid base of the hiccapop UberBoost is designed to sit firm and steady on leather, vinyl or cloth seats, providing soothing stability while riding and limiting movement in case of an accident. It is gentle on your upholstery and can be easily installed in any vehicle.

The narrow yet roomy design of the hiccapop UberBoost allows you to fit three inflatable car seats across the back seat of smaller vehicles, or fit one in between two traditional car seats. This makes it perfect for large families, car poolers and busy soccer moms. The car seat is also buoyant and extra comfy for small bottoms, allowing your child to enjoy a comfortable ride.

Positioning clips ensure that the child's belt fits properly and comfortably across the lap rather than dangerously digging into the stomach, preventing internal damage in the event of an accident. The hiccapop UberBoost is a practical, comfortable and safe car seat that is perfect for parents on-the-go.

Pros

  • Lightweight and practical
  • Easy to inflate and install
  • Meets or exceeds federal safety standards
  • Non-skid base is gentle on upholstery
  • Narrow yet roomy design fits three inflatable car seats across the back seat of smaller vehicles
  • Buoyant and extra comfy for small bottoms
  • Positioning clips ensure proper and comfortable fit of child's belt

5. Slimfitjet: 3-In-1 Car Seat For All Ages.

The Diono Radian 3R Car Seat is designed to keep your child rear-facing for a longer duration, up to 50 pounds or approximately 4 years old, providing utmost safety and comfort. This car seat is a 10-year investment, as it allows for four different modes of travel from birth to booster, making it adaptable to your child's growth and weight, accommodating up to 120 pounds or 54 kg.

The Radian 3R Car Seat is engineered with a reinforced steel core using high-strength automotive-grade steel, offering extra strength and protection to your child. The car seat is built with the famous Radian slim fit convertible design, making it the original Radian 3 across, providing a 3-across option only with Diono Radian combinations without compromising the child's or passenger's comfort.

The Diono Radian 3R Car Seat is not only comfortable and safe for your child but is also super easy to clean, with machine washable covers, and is FAA approved for air travel. Feel secure and safe having your children in the backseat with the Diono Radian 3R Car Seat.

Pros

  • Allows your child to be rear-facing for an extended period
  • A 10-year investment with four modes of travel
  • Reinforced steel core for added strength and protection
  • Slim fit convertible design for the original Radian 3 across
  • Easy to clean with machine washable covers
  • FAA approved for air travel

6. Storksak Carseat Travel Backpack: All-In-One Airplane Essential

Traveling with family can be stressful, especially when it comes to carrying a car seat along with other luggage. But with AerCás, the first and only car seat carrier designed for airports, things just got easier. This 3-in-1 carrier can be rolled like a suitcase, worn as a backpack, or tethered to your luggage with the included strap. Its adjustable ergonomic backpack straps and 360° no-wobble wheels make airport travel a breeze.

AerCás is not just a car seat carrier, it's a travel car seat bag designed for airplane use. It features a fully opening front panel for easy loading, lockable zippers, and an ID window. Plus, it comes with an extra drawstring storage bag to hold all your extra baby travel essentials for flying. The bag is large enough to hold most infant car seats and can be used as a carseat travel cover for the long haul.

The triple-layer, waterproof, tear-resistant, padded carseat cover for airplane travel is made with 900D polyester fabric and a sturdy polycarbonate base with curb-proof corners. This ensures the ultimate protection for your child's car seat during travel. AerCás is a USA-based small business that is family-focused. They understand the importance of protecting your child's car seat, which is why they have created a premium car seat bag with wheels that is top of the line.

Pros

  • Effortlessly roll, wear, or tether AerCás like a suitcase, backpack, or luggage
  • Adjustable ergonomic backpack straps and 360° no-wobble wheels for easy airport travel
  • Lockable zippers, ID window, and extra drawstring storage bag for all your baby travel essentials
  • Triple-layer, waterproof, tear-resistant, padded carseat cover for ultimate protection during long haul flights
  • A USA-based small business that is family-focused and understands the importance of protecting your child's car seat

7. Safer Compact Car Seat With Backpack

Introducing an innovative and unconventional vest type Child Restraint System that enhances safety for young travelers by optimizing the adult seat belt fit for their body. This revolutionary technology ensures that the child is secure and comfortable during travel.

The vest is certified for use in motor vehicles and exceeds all applicable FMVSS 213 requirements, making it safe and legal for use in all US states. Parents can travel with peace of mind, knowing that their child is well-protected.

This compact, ultra-lightweight, and portable vest is perfect for family travel, ridesharing, taxi, or rental cars. It can comfortably accommodate up to three children in the same row of a vehicle. Its lightweight nature makes it easy for grandparents and caregivers to install and use.

The vest can be used with or without a tether, depending on the vehicle lap belt and top tether. Users can secure the vest with a top tether anchor in the vehicle or use it with a lap and shoulder belt only, without a tether strap.

The vest is recommended for children aged three years and above, weighing between 30 lbs. and 60 lbs. It is designed to provide maximum safety and comfort for young travelers.

Pros

  • Innovative and unconventional design
  • Optimizes adult seat belt fit for a child's body for increased safety
  • Certified for use in motor vehicles and exceeds all applicable FMVSS 213 requirements
  • Compact, ultra-lightweight, and portable design for ease of use and installation
  • Can be used with or without a tether for added convenience
  • Suitable for children aged three years and above, weighing between 30 lbs. and 60 lbs.

8. Maxlite 5 Slate Green Travel Tote

Introducing the ultra-lightweight and compact carry on tote that is perfect for all your travels. With its dimensions of 11x18x8 inches and weight of 1.6 pounds, this tote is designed to fit easily in any domestic or international overhead bin and under the seat. The volume of this tote is 61.73 pounds and has a capacity of 28.0L.

Constructed with polyester fabric that is stain-resistant and water-repellent, this tote is durable and long-lasting. The duraguard coating and ergonomic, high-tensile strength zipper pulls provide added protection and security for your belongings. The rear strap allows for secure stacking, while the top carry handle and removable padded shoulder strap offer comfortable carrying options.

Keep your contents organized and accessible with the front flap, roomy interior, and built-in pockets. Whether you're on a business trip or a weekend getaway, this tote is the perfect companion. It comes with a limited lifetime coverage plus a trusted companion promise, which covers the cost of repair for damage from an airline or other common carrier for one year.

Get ready to travel in style with this carry on tote that lets you focus on the weight of your contents, not the weight of the bag.

Pros

  • Ultra-lightweight and compact
  • Stain-resistant and water-repellent fabric
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Easy to carry with multiple carrying options
  • Ample storage space with built-in pockets
  • Limited lifetime coverage plus a trusted companion promise

Cons

  • – Limited to carry-on size only

9. Platinum Elite Spinner: Vintage Carry-On Luggage

The Expandable Carry On Spinner Suitcase is an excellent choice for travelers who need a reliable and convenient suitcase. It is designed to meet FAA regulations for both carry on and checked baggage, making it perfect for any trip. With a PrecisionGlide System, users have precise control and effortless roll on eight MagnaTrac self-aligning spinner wheels led by a height-adjustable PowerScope handle with a comfortable Contour Grip.

The suitcase's drop-in, fold-out suiter keeps clothes wrinkle-free, while the interior tie-down system includes built-in accessory pockets and a TSA-compliant, removable quart-sized wet pocket for toiletries. The high-density nylon fabric with DuraGuard coating resists stains and abrasions, ensuring that the suitcase stays looking new for years to come.

The Expandable Carry On Spinner Suitcase has a tapered expansion design that keeps the center of gravity low to help reduce tipping while providing up to 2 inches of additional packing capacity. The leather top and side carry handles, along with the bottom cup, provide users with multiple carrying options. Additionally, the suitcase features an external USB port and a dedicated power bank pocket, which is perfect for keeping electronic devices charged while on the go. Please note that the power bank is not included.

The case dimensions of the suitcase are 21 in x 14 in x 9 in, and the overall dimensions are 23.5 in x 14.5 in x 9 in. The suitcase weighs 7.8 lbs and has a volume of 46 L. It is backed by a Built for a Lifetime Limited Worry-Free Warranty that covers the cost of repair for damage from airlines or other common carriers for the life of the bag after registration.

Pros

  • Meets FAA regulations for both carry on and checked baggage
  • PrecisionGlide System for precise control and effortless roll on eight MagnaTrac self-aligning spinner wheels
  • Drop-in, fold-out suiter keeps clothes wrinkle-free
  • Interior tie-down system includes built-in accessory pockets and a TSA-compliant, removable quart-sized wet pocket for toiletries
  • High-density nylon fabric with DuraGuard coating resists stains and abrasions
  • Tapered expansion design keeps the center of gravity low to help reduce tipping while providing up to 2 inches of additional packing capacity
  • Leather top and side carry handles, along with the bottom cup, provide users with multiple carrying options
  • External USB port and a dedicated power bank pocket

Cons

  • – The power bank is not included

10. Swissgear Sion Softside Expandable Roller Luggage, Black, Carry-On 21-Inch

Travel in style and ease with this rolling suitcase that features a 360-degree multi-directional spinner wheels and a locking retractable push/pull handle that make navigating through crowded airports and narrow airplane aisles a breeze. Measuring 22.75 x 14.25 x 10.25 inches including wheels and handles, this ergonomically expandable luggage provides ample parking space with packing dimensions of 21 x 12.75 x 10.25 inches.

Made from a durable, scuff-resistant polyester fabric with fully lined interior and adjustable tie-down straps to secure garments in place, this expandable travel case is both secure and durable. It also features multiple front pockets with a built-in ID tag for effortless organization and easy access to travel documents and small items.

Effortlessly maximize packing efficiency with this luggage bag that comes equipped with a removable zippered wet bag, large mesh lid pocket, and packing pocket for holding small items and accessories. Additionally, this roller suitcase features reinforced padded top handle with an integrated side and bottom handle, making lifting and carrying your luggage easy.

Pros

  • 360-degree multi-directional spinner wheels and a locking retractable push/pull handle make navigating crowded airports and narrow airplane aisles easy
  • Multiple front pockets with a built-in ID tag for effortless organization and easy access to travel documents and small items
  • Ample parking space with adjustable tie-down straps to secure garments in place
  • Removable zippered wet bag, large mesh lid pocket, and packing pocket maximize packing efficiency
  • Reinforced padded top handle with an integrated side and bottom handle makes lifting and carrying your luggage easy

Best Travel Car Seat For Plane Carry On FAQs

Are there any restrictions on the size or weight of a travel car seat for plane carry-on?

Yes, there are restrictions on the size and weight of a travel car seat for plane carry-on. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has set guidelines for the size and weight of the car seat that can be brought on board a plane. According to the FAA, the car seat must fit in the seat without extending beyond the armrests and must not weigh more than 20 pounds.

It is important to note that different airlines may have different regulations regarding car seats on planes. Some airlines may allow larger or heavier car seats, while others may have stricter guidelines. It is always best to check with the airline before traveling to ensure that the car seat meets their requirements.

Additionally, it is recommended to use a car seat that is FAA-approved for air travel. These car seats have been tested and approved for use on airplanes and will provide the necessary protection for your child during the flight.

Overall, while there are restrictions on the size and weight of a travel car seat for plane carry-on, there are still plenty of options available that will meet these guidelines and provide a safe and comfortable travel experience for your child.

Can I bring a car seat on a plane as a carry-on item?

Yes, you can bring a car seat on a plane as a carry-on item. Most airlines allow parents to bring a car seat on board for their child's safety and comfort during the flight. However, it is important to check with the airline beforehand to ensure that the car seat meets their specific requirements and can be properly secured on the plane. Some airlines may have restrictions on the size and weight of the car seat, and may also require it to be FAA-approved. It is also important to note that bringing a car seat as a carry-on item may count towards your carry-on baggage allowance, so be sure to check with the airline for any additional fees or restrictions. When traveling with a child and a car seat, it's always a good idea to plan ahead and be prepared to make the necessary arrangements with the airline to ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.

How do I install a travel car seat on a plane?

Installing a travel car seat on a plane can be a bit tricky but it is not impossible. Firstly, it is important to ensure that the car seat is FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) approved. Once you have confirmed that, you can choose to either check it in or bring it on board the plane.

If you decide to bring it on board, you will have to purchase a separate ticket for your child and the car seat will have to be installed in a forward-facing position in the plane seat. You will have to secure the car seat using the plane's seatbelt and ensure that it is tightly fastened.

If you decide to check in the car seat, it is recommended that you use a padded bag to protect it from damage. You can also consider using a car seat stroller which makes it easier to transport the car seat through the airport.

In any case, it is important to check with your airline beforehand to understand their specific policies and procedures for installing a travel car seat on a plane. This will help make the process smoother and ensure that you and your child have a safe and comfortable flight.

What are the best travel car seats for plane carry-on?

When it comes to choosing the best travel car seat for plane carry-on, there are several factors that you need to consider. First and foremost, it should be lightweight and compact enough to fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you. Additionally, it should be easy to install and secure, and provide adequate support and safety for your child.

Some of the top travel car seats for plane carry-on include the Cosco Scenera Next, the Graco Tranzitions, and the Evenflo Tribute LX. These seats are all FAA-approved and designed to meet the safety standards for child car seats.

The Cosco Scenera Next is a popular choice among parents due to its lightweight design and affordability. It can be used as a rear-facing or forward-facing seat and accommodates children from 5-40 pounds.

The Graco Tranzitions is another great option that is lightweight and easy to install. It also has a 5-point harness system and can be adjusted to fit children from 22-100 pounds.

The Evenflo Tribute LX is a highly-rated travel car seat that is both lightweight and compact. It can be used as a rear-facing or forward-facing seat and accommodates children from 5-40 pounds.

Ultimately, the best travel car seat for plane carry-on will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Be sure to do your research and choose a seat that will provide your child with the utmost safety and comfort during your travels.

What are the FAA regulations for using a car seat on a plane?

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires that all children under the age of two must be secured in a properly labeled and approved child restraint system (CRS) when flying on a plane. This can be either a car seat or a FAA-approved harness device. Children who are over the age of two can still use a car seat on a plane, but it is not mandatory.

There are some important things to keep in mind when using a car seat on a plane. Firstly, the car seat must be properly labeled as approved for use on an aircraft. Secondly, the car seat must be placed in a forward-facing position and secured using the aircraft seat belt. It is also important to ensure that the car seat does not block any emergency exits or impede the movement of other passengers.

Parents should also be aware that some airlines may have their own specific regulations regarding the use of car seats on their planes. It is important to check with the airline before flying to ensure that you are aware of any additional requirements or restrictions.

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