Don’t just bring the Car Seat – Bring The Base Too!
Most car seats can be installed with a belt or latch system. When you travel and leave your base behind you’re typically forced to use the belt system. This is typically not a big deal if you’re not going to be in and out of the car a lot. However, it will definitely be a problem for your little one if you’re going lots of places in a single day. Here’s our story:
We’re relocating to another state and need to find a new home. On our first trip we didn’t bring the car seat base and the belt rubbed against our son’s legs when we took him in and out of the car seat. On our second trip we brought the car seat base and it was much easier. He was able to take his naps and be comfortable; I got my exercise as I took the car seat (with baby inside) in and out of the car to look at houses.
By far this was the best way and I highly recommend it.
So, don’t just bring the car seat – bring the base too!
Bring Your Own Car Seat (BYOCS)
When you travel with your baby you may be tempted to use a rental car’s car seat. Let me tell you why this is a very bad idea:
1) They are not guaranteed to be there when you get there.
Ever read your rental car reservation details? They never guarantee that a baby car seat will be available for you. If you don’t have a car seat – You’re Stuck!
2) You don’t know what you’ll get.
You select a car seat for a reason. My wife and I bought the Graco SafeSeat (see above) because it has a great reputation and it’s safe. The first time we rented a car we didn’t get a Graco, we got a cheap piece of plastic that I will never put my son ever again.
3) You already know how to install the one you have.
Car rental agencies don’t install the car seat for you. If you brought your own you could probably install it in any car in about 5 minutes or less. But how long did it take for you to install the first time? Every car seat is different, and the last thing you want to do is waste time installing a strange car seat.
4) It’s very easy to travel with.
Car seats are very easy to travel with. Just take it right to the airport gate and check it at the gate. You’ll never have to wait for it at baggage claim and it’ll be there when you get off the plane (this works with the stroller too).
So – why leave things to chance? Always bring your own car seat!
