10 Best Airplane Travel Car Seats 2025 in the United States

The Safety 1st Crosstown Slim All-in-One Convertible Car Seat is a solid choice for families needing a car seat that adapts as their child grows, covering from newborn up to about 10 years old. Its main strength lies in its slim 17-inch width, which allows fitting three seats across the back seat of most cars—ideal for families traveling with multiple children or needing extra space. The seat meets or exceeds federal safety standards and offers a 5-point harness system, which is important for securing children safely during travel.

Installation is designed to be straightforward with easily accessible belt paths and latch connectors, helping parents get a secure fit quickly. The adjustable base foot allows smooth switching between rear-facing and forward-facing modes, which is convenient when transitioning your child’s seating position. Weighing 14 pounds, it is moderately light for a convertible seat, making it manageable for travel though not the lightest option available.

Comfort is addressed with an 8-position adjustable headrest and a harness that can be adjusted with one hand, which helps accommodate growth without hassle. The seat pad is machine washable and dryer safe, and removable cup holders add practical convenience. Although it is slim, the seat still measures 20 inches deep and tall, so it’s important to check your vehicle’s dimensions for airplane travel or tight car spaces. While it’s easy to install, it does not have the ultra-lightweight design some travel-specific car seats offer. Families wanting a versatile, safe, and space-conscious seat that grows with their child will find this model offers a good balance of features and ease of use.

The RideSafer Small Black Car Seat is an innovative vest-type child restraint system designed for airplane travel and everyday use. One of its standout features is the optimization of the adult seat belt fit for a child's body, ensuring increased safety. It meets all applicable FMVSS 213 requirements, making it safe and legal to use in all US states, which is a crucial point for parents concerned about compliance and safety standards.

The product is ultra-lightweight at just 2.09 pounds and compact with dimensions of 15 x 9.5 x 3.5 inches, making it very portable and easy to use when traveling or in different vehicles such as rideshares, taxis, and rental cars. It's especially beneficial for families who need to fit three children in one row. The vest can be used with or without a tether, providing flexibility in different car setups.

While the product might not offer the same level of comfort as traditional cushioned car seats, especially for longer trips, the unconventional design might take some getting used to for both parents and children. The recommended age range is 3 years and above, with a weight requirement between 30 lbs and 60 lbs, which might limit its use for younger or lighter children. Despite these minor drawbacks, the RideSafer vest is a practical and safe choice for families who prioritize portability and ease of installation.

The Doona Car Seat & Stroller in the Midnight Edition is designed specifically for parents who need an easy and safe travel solution for their infant. It stands out with its unique all-in-one design that transforms from a car seat to a stroller in seconds, which is a big help when moving through airports or traveling by car, plane, or train without waking your baby. Safety-wise, it offers strong protection with features like a 3-layer side impact system, anti-rebound bar, and a 5-point harness, and it meets strict standards including FAA approval for air travel, so you can feel confident on the go.

Installation is straightforward thanks to its one-click secure mechanism and LATCH system, making it easier for parents who want peace of mind that the seat is properly installed every time. Comfort is also well considered, with ergonomic support to keep your baby’s back and neck aligned and a water-repellent canopy with sun protection. However, the seat and stroller combined weigh about 17 pounds, which is heavier than some other travel seats, and its folded size is a bit bulky, so it might be less convenient for those seeking ultra-light or compact options.

The rear-facing-only design means it's best for infants up to about 35 pounds and 32 inches tall. This product is well suited for parents valuing convenience, safety, and comfort in one package, especially for frequent travel, but the weight and size should be considered if you need something extremely lightweight or compact.