When you have a baby, one of the essential items is a car seat. Choosing the right one for your baby can be a big decision. With so many options and safety features, it can be challenging to decide on one.
There are many car seats, but a popular option among parents is the convertible car seat. They last for years as long as there are no recalls, and they can save you money since you won’t have to purchase a new car seat for every stage of your child’s life. The seat will be around for a long time, so you want what’s best for your baby!
What Is A Convertible Car Seat?
It’s exactly as it sounds — the car seat can transform to be the correct car seat for your child’s age, weight and height. Children of various sizes can fit into a convertible car seat. Plus, you’re able to change the seat from rear-facing to forward-facing when the time is right. Even further, some convertible car seats change into a booster seat, meaning it will last for most of your child’s car seat life.
You’ll eventually need to get a convertible car seat for your kids. Some parents choose to use one from the day their child is born, which is perfectly fine. Other parents might use an infant car seat for the first few months to a year and then make the switch to a convertible one when their child reaches the maximum weight or height.
Things to Look for in a Convertible Car Seat
All car seats are safe. They must meet government standards to go on the market, so your child will be safe no matter what you choose. However, some car seats come with extras that others don’t have. In general, here are some things to look for in your convertible car seat:
- As a parent, you want all of the safety for your child as you can get. Look for a car seat that includes a leveling system or an indicator that your car seat is level. Additionally, you can get one that includes extra padding or even shock absorption.
- Everyone has different vehicles, so try to find a car seat that works with yours.
- Car seats come with instructions, but they can still be confusing at times. Find a seat that’s easy to install.
Make a list of your car seat must-haves to better narrow down the car seat that’s right for you and your child.
The Best Convertible Car Seats in 2021
Now that you have the basics of what makes a good convertible car seat, here are some of the best convertible car seats of 2021.
Britax Boulevard ClickTight Anti-Rebound Bar Convertible Car Seat
Many parents choose the Britax Boulevard convertible car seat. It has gotten many great reviews, and it’s in the middle range price-wise. This car seat is relatively easy to install. Plus, safety features include a steel frame, side-impact protection, and a base that absorbs any impact. The harness and angle recliner easily adjust to fit your child’s height.
Price: 354.99 from Britax
Evenflo Tribute LX Convertible Car Seat
The Evenflo Tribute LX is a more affordable option among car seats. It’s super lightweight, so if your family switches vehicles often, this one is easy to move around. It comes with side impact protection and a removable head pillow for proper head positioning.
Price: $60.00-$69.99 from Evenflo
Nuna RAVA Convertible Car Seat
If you can afford a more expensive car seat, then the Nuna RAVA convertible car seat is a great choice. It ensures that your baby is snug and secure. Plus, there are reclining guides and a color-coded seat belt that makes it easy to install. Additionally, it has a modern design and a rear-facing max of 50 pounds, so your child can rear-face for longer.
Price: $449.95-$479.95 from Pottery Barn Kids
Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat
Safety professionals recommend that you keep your child rear-facing for as long as possible to ensure safety in your vehicle. The Graco Extend2Fit has a weight limit of 50 pounds for the rear-facing position. Plus, there’s an extendable leg rest in the rear-facing position to make it more comfortable for your child. It also has an indicator to ensure you correctly installed the seat.
Price: $149.99 from Amazon
Chicco NextFit Zip Max Convertible Car Seat
One of the easiest-to-clean car seats is the Chicco NextFit Zip Max convertible car seat. If you have a messier kid, this might be for you! Besides the zip-off pad that makes it easy to wash, it also provides more legroom than most other car seats, which allows for a more extended rear-facing period. It’s also pretty easy to install with bubble levels and nine reclining positions.
Price: $369.99 from Chicco USA
Find the Perfect Convertible Car Seat
The options above for a convertible car seat are some of the best, and you can’t go wrong with any of them. Find one that’s comfortable, easy to use and most importantly, keeps your child safe and secure on every road trip.
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