Best Car Seats for Airplane Travel

Find FAA-approved car seats and travel solutions perfect for flying with infants and toddlers.

Car Seat Categories

Best for Safety Convertible Car Seats Small Car Options Newborn Car Seats Easy Installation Long Trip Options Lightweight Models Airplane Travel Preemie Car Seats Heavy Baby Options Comfort-Focused Best Accessories

Car Seat Guides

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#1 CARES Harness

CARES Harness

$75.99
4.7 out of 5

The CARES Harness is the only FAA-approved alternative to car seats for aviation travel, perfect for keeping children secure during flights.

Pros:

  • FAA-approved
  • Weighs only 1 pound
  • Fits in carry-on
  • Easy installation

Cons:

  • Only for air travel
  • Limited padding
  • Age/size restrictions
#2 Doona Infant Car Seat & Stroller

Doona Infant Car Seat & Stroller

$549.99
4.8 out of 5

The Doona transforms from car seat to stroller, making it ideal for air travel and navigating airports with ease.

Pros:

  • FAA-approved for aircraft
  • Converts to stroller
  • Compact design
  • Easy installation

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • Heavy for carrying
  • Short usage period
#3 Cosco Scenera NEXT

Cosco Scenera NEXT

$89.99
4.4 out of 5

The Cosco Scenera NEXT is a lightweight, FAA-approved convertible car seat perfect for families who fly frequently.

Pros:

  • FAA-approved for aircraft
  • Lightweight (13 lbs)
  • Narrow width (17 inches)
  • Budget-friendly

Cons:

  • Basic features only
  • Minimal padding
  • No cup holders
#4 Chicco KeyFit 30

Chicco KeyFit 30

$199.99
4.6 out of 5

The Chicco KeyFit 30 offers premium infant car seat features with FAA approval for safe air travel.

Pros:

  • FAA-approved
  • Easy airport navigation
  • Premium comfort
  • Spring-loaded base

Cons:

  • Heavy carrier
  • Bulky for overhead
  • Expensive for travel
#5 Safety 1st Guide 65

Safety 1st Guide 65

$99.99
4.2 out of 5

The Safety 1st Guide 65 provides FAA-approved convertible car seat functionality at an affordable travel price.

Pros:

  • FAA-approved
  • Compact size
  • Side impact protection
  • Machine washable

Cons:

  • Basic materials
  • Limited comfort features
  • Short usage period
#6 Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35

Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35

$159.99
4.3 out of 5

The Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35 combines easy installation with FAA approval for reliable air travel safety.

Pros:

  • FAA-approved
  • SnugLock installation
  • Travel system compatible
  • Machine washable

Cons:

  • Heavy for travel
  • Bulky carrier
  • Limited airplane space
#7 Evenflo Sonus

Evenflo Sonus

$129.99
4.1 out of 5

The Evenflo Sonus offers essential FAA-approved car seat protection with lightweight portability for air travel.

Pros:

  • FAA-approved
  • Lightweight design
  • Side impact tested
  • Affordable price

Cons:

  • Basic feature set
  • Limited padding
  • Narrow fit
#8 Baby Jogger City GO 2

Baby Jogger City GO 2

$199.99
4.5 out of 5

The Baby Jogger City GO 2 emphasizes lightweight portability with FAA approval for active traveling families.

Pros:

  • FAA-approved
  • Ultra-lightweight
  • Quick-click base
  • Travel system ready

Cons:

  • Expensive for features
  • Limited weight range
  • Basic padding
#9 Britax B-Safe 35

Britax B-Safe 35

$229.99
4.4 out of 5

The Britax B-Safe 35 provides superior safety features with FAA approval, though it's heavier for frequent air travel.

Pros:

  • FAA-approved
  • Steel frame construction
  • Side impact protection
  • Premium materials

Cons:

  • Heavy carrier
  • Expensive
  • Bulky for airlines
#10 Maxi-Cosi Mico Max 30

Maxi-Cosi Mico Max 30

$249.99
4.3 out of 5

The Maxi-Cosi Mico Max 30 brings European-inspired design and FAA approval for premium air travel comfort.

Pros:

  • FAA-approved
  • Premium fabrics
  • Air protect cushion
  • Lightweight carrier

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • Complex features for travel
  • Limited airline space