Want to hear a fun fact? I actually sold my Nuna Rava Convertible Car Seat just a few months after buying it. *gasp* You may be wondering why I made such a decision, considering Nuna is a trusted and beloved carseat brand among many moms. But just like my quest for the perfect stroller, I thought that purchasing a premium brand would guarantee a great experience. What I didn't realize is that the Nuna Convertible Car Seat is bulky, heavy, and really limited the space in the back seat of my car (spoiler: the UppaBaby convertible car seat has the same issue). Even in a spacious SUV, fitting someone in that middle seat between two Nuna car seats is simply impossible.
After this experience, I realized the importance of having a car seat that wasn’t overly bulky, lightweight, and could accommodate three car seats across or at least fit someone in between them. So, I set out to research the best convertible car seats and here’s what I found:
What’s the difference between an infant car seat, convertible car seat, and an all-in-one car seat?
Before we dive into the best convertible car seat options, let's first clarify the different types of car seats. An infant seat is specifically designed for newborns and can be used until they reach a certain weight or height limit. Once your child outgrows their infant car seat, you will need to transition them to either a convertible car seat or an all-in-one car seat.
A convertible seat is able to convert from rear facing (for infants and toddlers) to forward-facing (for older children). These are typically used for longer periods of time than an infant car seat and can accommodate higher weight limits.
An all-in-one seat is essentially a combination of an infant car seat and a convertible car seat. It can be used in rear-facing, forward-facing, and booster seat positions, making it the only car seat you will need to purchase for your child.
The good news is that all car seats, regardless of type, must meet strict safety standards and pass rigorous crash tests to ensure your little one is protected. So, no matter which option you choose, you can feel confident that it’s designed to keep your child safe.
Features to consider when choosing a convertible car seat
When looking for a convertible car seat, there are several key features to consider:
The importance of a 5-point harness
A 5-point harness is crucial for keeping your child safe and secure during car drives. This type of harness secures your child at five points, over both shoulders, around the hips, and between the legs, and provides maximum protection and prevents them from being ejected from their seat during a crash or sudden movements.
The size of the car seat (hint: look for 3 across ability)
Slim-fit convertible car seats are designed to accommodate smaller cars or fit multiple car seats in the back seat. These car seats are usually lightweight and don’t take up so much space. If fitting 3 across is important to you, look for models that specifically disclose 3 across ability, meaning they can fit three car seats side by side in most standard-sized vehicles.
The significance of side-impact protection
When choosing a convertible car seat, look for models that have enhanced side-impact protection features, such as energy-absorbing foam or air cushions. These features are designed to absorb energy, reduce the impact of a potential crash, and protect the head and the neck of your child.
The ease of installation: LATCH system vs. seat belt
Most convertible car seats can be installed using either the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system or the seat belt. The LATCH system involves attaching anchors to designated points in your car, while the seat belt method requires you to thread it through the car seat and buckle it in. Consider which installation method would work best for you, since installing car seats can be a bit tricky. You can also find car seats that provide both options, but make sure to only install your car seat with one system (unless the car seat manufacturer says you can use both systems at the same time).
Longevity (height & weight limits matter)
Convertible car seats are made to grow with your child. Consider the height and weight limits of the car seat you choose to ensure it will accommodate your child as they grow. Some models have higher limits than others, so take note of this when evaluating different options. You don't want to end up having to purchase another car seat in a few months because your child has outgrown their current one. Make sure to also follow the manufacturer's guidelines when it’s time to move your child from rear-facing to front-facing mode.
Fabric and material for easy cleaning
Let's face it, kids can be messy. Between spills, accidents and general wear and tear, car seats can quickly become dirty and stained. Look for convertible car seats with easy to clean fabric and materials. Some models have removable covers that can be thrown in the washing machine while others are made with stain-resistant material. Keep in mind that darker colors may hide stains better than lighter colors.
Top ranked convertible car seats for safety and comfort
Here are my top choices:
Best overall: Graco SlimFit LX
- Fits 3 across: Yes
- Configurations: Rear-facing, forward-facing, high-back booster
- Car seat width: 16.7 in
- Car seat weight: 19.2 lbs
- Weight & height limit rear-facing: 5-40 lbs, head must be at least 1 inch below handle
- Weight & height limit forward-facing: 22-65 lbs, up to 49 inches
- Highback booster weight & height limit: 40-100 lbs, 43-57 inches (at least 4 years old)
- Harness system: 10-position No-Rethread Simply Safe Adjust Harness System
- Cup holders: Yes
- Price: $279.99
This has become my top recommended car seat! We have two in our car and even had our parents purchase them for their vehicles at home. I love its size, ease of use, the longevity it offers, and the unbeatable value for the price. I always tell my friends to consider this one when they start their search. Dahlia at NMM also has three of these car seats for her kids, and they fit 3 across comfortably in both her large SUV and in compact rental cars when she travels.
Most budget-friendly: Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One Convertible Car Seat
- Fits 3 across: No
- Configurations: Rear-facing, forward-facing, belt-positioning booster
- Car seat width: 31.75 inches
- Car seat weight: 18.7 pounds
- Weight & height limit rear-facing: 5–40 lbs, 19–40 inches
- Weight & height limit forward-facing: 30–65 lbs, 34.4–49 inches
- Belt-positioning booster seat weight & height limit: 40–100 lbs, 43.4–52 inches
- Harness system: 5-point harness
- Cup holders: Yes
- Price: $159.99
This convertible car seat offers great value for budget-conscious parents. Despite its friendly price point, this seat doesn’t skimp on versatility or safety. It seamlessly transitions from rear-facing to forward-facing, and even into a belt-positioning booster, making it a great investment that grows with your child. Keep in mind that it's a bit too wide to fit three car seats across
Best for extended rear-facing: Graco Extend2Fit
- Fits 3 across: No
- Configurations: Rear-facing, forward-facing
- Car seat width: 19.5 inches
- Car seat weight: 19 lbs
- Weight & height limit rear-facing: 4-50 lbs, head must be at least 1 inch below handle
- Weight & height limit forward-facing: 22-65 lbs, p to 49 inches
- Harness system: 5-point harness
- Cup holders: Yes
- Price: $199.99
If you're considering a car seat that allows for extended rear-facing, the Graco Extend2Fit is a standout choice. This car seat is particularly praised for its ability to keep your child in the safer rear-facing position for a longer period, thanks to its 4-position extension panel. This thoughtful feature offers up to 5 inches of extra rear-facing legroom, allowing your child to safely ride in the rear-facing position for longer. Though it's a slim-fit car seat, it's not slim enough to be able to fit 3 across.
Best rotating/swivel: Evenflo Gold Revolve360 Extend All-in-One
- Fits 3 across: No
- Configurations: Rear-facing, forward-facing, booster
- Car seat width: 19.8 inches
- Car seat weight: 29.6 lbs
- Weight & height limit rear-facing: 4 to 50 lbs, 17-48 inches
- Weight & height limit forward-facing: 22 to 65 lbs, 28-49 inches
- Booster weight & height limit: 40-120 lbs, 44-57 inches
- Harness system: 5-point harness
- Cup holders: Yes
- Price: $429.99
What really sets this car seat apart is its awesome one-hand 360° rotation which makes it easier to place your child in and out of the car seat. Say goodbye to the hassle of awkwardly maneuvering between the seats! Another cool feature is the SensorSafe buckle which provides real-time alerts if your child is in unsafe conditions in their car seat. It will alert you if there is an unbuckling, if the temperature is too hot or too cold, if the child is unattended, and if the child is seated for too long. The higher price tag reflects these features here. While this car seat has a slim build, it's still too wide to fit three across, and it's also particularly heavy.
Best for air travel: Safety 1st Getaway 2-in-1 Convertible Car Seat
- Fits 3 across: No
- Configurations: Rear-facing, forward-facing
- Car seat width: 22 inches
- Car Seat Weight: 11 lbs
- Weight & height limit rear-facing: 5-40 lbs, 19-40 inches
- Weight & height limit forward-facing: 22-40 lbs, up to 43 inches
- Harness system: 5-point harness
- Cup holders: Yes
- Price: $79.99
If you're looking for the best convertible car seat for travel, the Safety 1st Getaway 2-in-1 Convertible Car Seat is your best bet. It's certified for use on aircraft and it's very lightweight convertible car seat at only 11 lbs–you won't have to worry about lugging around a heavy car seat through airports! Even though it's small, it does not accommodate 3 across.
Convertible Car Seats I Don’t Recommend
I’ve tested several car seats, and here are the ones I wouldn’t recommend purchasing:
Nuna Rava
- Fits 3 across: Not in my personal experience, even though Nuna claims “fits 3 across in most full-sized vehicles”
- Configurations: Rear-facing, forward-facing
- Car seat width: 19 inches
- Car Seat weight: 27.9 lbs
- Weight & height limit rear-facing: 5-50 lbs, up to 49 inches
- Weight & height limit forward-facing: 30-65 lbs, up to 49 inches
- Harness system: 5-point harness
- Cup holders: Yes
- Price: $550
This car seat isn’t just pricey–it’s one of the bulkiest and heaviest options out there. While it looks chic and stylish in your car, it’s not the best option when you have multiple kids or a small car.
UPPABaby Knox
- Fits 3 across: No
- Configurations: Rear-facing, forward-facing
- Car seat width: 18.8 inches
- Car Seat weight: 32.5 lbs
- Weight & height limit rear-facing: 14-45 lbs, up to 49 inches
- Weight & height limit forward-facing: 25-65 lbs, up to 49 inches
- Harness system: 5-point harness
- Cup holders: Yes
- Price: $299.99
While many parents love the UPPABaby brand, this car seat isn’t my favorite option. While it may provide a bit more by way of cushioned seat pads than slimmer, more affordable options, I don’t think it's worth the investment IMO. Plus, it’s super heavy.
Making the most out of your convertible car seat
Having a convertible car seat is a great investment, as it can grow with your child from infancy to toddlerhood. However, there are some tips and tricks you can use to maximize its usage and make it last even longer.
Proper installation techniques for maximum safety
Installing a car seat properly is crucial for ensuring your child's safety while riding in the car. You can refer to the car seat's manual or watch online tutorials to learn how to install it correctly. You can even hire a certified car seat specialist to walk you through an easy installation or they can come to your house to teach you how to install one.
Maintenance tips to extend the life of your car seat
Proper maintenance is essential to keep your car seat in good condition and extend its lifespan. It can get dirty from food, spit up, or can get dirty if your kids get in the car with filthy hands from a fun day at school. Regularly clean the cover, straps, and buckles with mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach which can cause damage to the materials. Additionally, make sure to check for any wear and tear on the car seat and replace if necessary.
Transitioning from rear-facing to forward-facing: when and how
Convertible car seats can be used in both rear-facing and forward-facing positions. It's safest to keep your child in the rear-facing position as long as possible, or until they reach the maximum weight and maximum height limits set by the car seat manufacturer. When transitioning from rear-facing to forward-facing, make sure to adjust the straps accordingly and secure the top tether (if necessary). Always refer to the manufacturer's instruction manual for weight and height limits for both rear-facing and forward-facing for child passenger safety.
Accessories that enhance car seat usability and safety
Many car seats come with accessories that can enhance the usability and safety of your car seat. Some examples include a sunshade or canopy to provide shade, a mirror to keep an eye on your child while driving, and a car seat protector to prevent damage to your vehicle's seats. However, it's important to only use manufacturer-approved baby gear for your specific car seat model and avoid any aftermarket products that may compromise the safety of your child.
If you're in the market for a new car seat, I hope this list helped you find the perfect convertible choice for your child. Don’t forget to add one of these to your baby registry checklist! To discover more actionable tips for parents as well as valuable info on motherhood, and family life, subscribe to my newsletter!
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