Best Car Seats for 5-Year-Olds: Top 11 Picks
Are you looking for the best car seat for your 5-year-old? As a parent, it’s important to ensure that your child is safe and secure while traveling in a car. Car seats play a crucial role in protecting children from injuries during accidents. However, with so many options available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming.
When selecting a car seat for your 5-year-old, there are several factors to consider such as size, weight limit, installation method, and safety features. It’s also essential to choose a car seat that meets the necessary safety standards.
So whether you’re looking for a travel-friendly option or an all-in-one convertible car seat that will grow with your child, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!
Types of Car Seats and Installation Types
There are a few things to consider. One of the most important factors is the type of car seat that will provide your child with maximum safety and comfort while traveling. There are three main types of car seats for 5-year-olds: forward-facing, booster, and combination seats.
Forward-Facing Car Seats
Forward-facing car seats are designed for children who weigh between 20 and 65 pounds and have a harness system to secure the child. These car seats come with adjustable straps that can be tightened or loosened as needed to keep your child snug and secure. They also have an adjustable headrest that can be moved up or down depending on your child’s height.
One example of a great forward-facing car seat is the Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Seat. This seat is designed to grow with your child from toddlerhood through their early years as a school-aged child. It features an easy-to-adjust harness system that can be used in both harness mode and belt-positioning booster mode.
Booster Seats
Booster seats are intended for children who have outgrown their forward-facing seat and weigh between 40 and 120 pounds. They use the car’s seat belt to secure the child, positioning it properly across their lap and chest. Booster seats come in two types: high-back boosters and backless boosters.
High-back boosters provide additional support for your child’s head, neck, and torso while also helping position the vehicle’s shoulder belt correctly across their chest. The Chicco KidFit Zip Plus Belt-Positioning Booster is one such example of a high-back booster that provides superior comfort, safety, and convenience.
Backless boosters are more portable than high-back boosters but do not offer as much protection against side-impact collisions or as much head and neck support. The Graco TurboBooster Backless Booster Seat is a great option for parents looking for a lightweight, easy-to-install booster seat that still provides adequate safety features.
Combination Seats
Combination seats can be used as both a forward-facing seat with a harness and a booster seat, making them a versatile option for parents. They are designed to grow with your child and can be used from toddlerhood through their early years as a school-aged child. Combination seats come in two types: harness-to-booster combination seats and high-back booster-to-backless booster combination seats.
The Evenflo Maestro Sport Harness Booster Car Seat is an excellent example of a harness-to-booster combination seat that provides superior comfort, safety, and convenience. It comes with adjustable straps that can be tightened or loosened as needed to keep your child snug and secure.
Installation Types
It’s important to install car seats correctly to ensure maximum safety. The three main installation types are LATCH, seat belt, and tether.
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) systems are designed to make it easier to install car seats without using the vehicle’s seat belt.
Best Convertible Car Seat for Crash Tests and Overall
Rigorous Safety Testing and High Ratings
Safety is a top priority for parents. The Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat has passed rigorous crash tests and is highly rated by safety organizations such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). This means parents can trust that their child will be safe in this car seat.
Accommodates Growing Children
Children grow quickly, so having a car seat that can accommodate them as they get older is essential. The Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat can be used in both rear-facing and forward-facing positions, accommodating children up to 65 pounds. This makes it an excellent investment for parents who want a car seat that will last for years.
Extra Legroom for Taller Children
Taller children often struggle with traditional car seats because they don’t have enough legroom. The Extend2Fit feature on the Graco Convertible Car Seat provides extra legroom for taller children, keeping them comfortable and safe during long car rides.
Easy Installation and Secure Fit
Installing a car seat can be challenging, but the InRight LATCH system on the Graco Convertible Car Seat makes it easy. Simply attach the LATCH connectors to your vehicle’s anchors, push down on the seat, and you’re done! The adjustable headrest and harness also ensure a secure fit for your child.
Convenient Features for Parents
Parents know all too well how messy kids can be, which is why convenience features matter when choosing a car seat. The Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat has a machine-washable cover that’s easy to remove – perfect for cleaning up spills or accidents quickly. The cup holder keeps drinks within reach during long road trips.
Best Backless Booster for 5-Year-Olds: Comfortable and Safe Options
Safety is always the top priority. As your child grows, you need to make sure they are still properly secured while riding in the car. Backless boosters are a great option for 5-year-olds who have outgrown their forward-facing car seats. They provide an extra boost that helps position the seat belt correctly over your child’s lap and shoulder.
Here are some comfortable and safe options for the best backless booster for 5-year-olds:
Graco TurboBooster
The Graco TurboBooster is a popular choice among parents because of its affordability and comfort. It has a padded seat and adjustable armrests that can be moved up or down as your child grows. The armrests also provide extra support when your child falls asleep during long car rides.
One of the standout features of the Graco TurboBooster is its ability to convert into a backless booster once your child outgrows the high-back mode. This means you can use it for several years, making it an excellent value for money.
Other features of the Graco TurboBooster include:
- EPS foam lining for added impact protection
- Dual cup holders to keep drinks within reach
- Machine-washable seat pad for easy cleaning
- Lightweight design that makes it easy to move from one car to another
BubbleBum Inflatable Booster Seat
If you’re looking for a compact and portable option that is easy to store and travel with, consider the BubbleBum inflatable booster seat. It weighs less than a pound and can be deflated when not in use, making it perfect for families who frequently travel by plane or rental cars.
Despite its small size, the BubbleBum meets all safety standards and has been tested rigorously in crash simulations. It inflates quickly and easily using the air valve, and its narrow design means you can fit three across the back seat of most cars.
Other features of the BubbleBum inflatable booster seat include:
- Belt positioning clips that keep the seat belt in place
- A shoulder strap for easy carrying
- A removable cover that is machine-washable
- An affordable price point
Diono Monterey XT Booster Seat
The Diono Monterey XT booster seat is a high-end option that offers exceptional comfort and versatility. It has a spacious design with extra-deep side walls that provide excellent head and body support. The seat is also adjustable in height and width, making it suitable for children up to 12 years old.
One of the unique features of the Diono Monterey XT booster seat is its ability to convert into a backless booster once your child outgrows the high-back mode. This means you can use it for several years, making it an excellent investment.
Diono Monterey IST FixSafe Highback Booster Car Seat Review
Safety and comfort should be your top priorities. The Diono Monterey IST FixSafe Highback Booster Car Seat is a versatile and adjustable car seat that fits this description perfectly. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the features of this car seat and why it’s an excellent choice for parents.
Versatile and Adjustable Design
The Diono Monterey IST FixSafe Highback Booster Car Seat is designed to grow with your child. It can accommodate children weighing between 40-120 pounds, making it suitable for kids aged 4-12 years old. The headrest is adjustable, allowing you to customize the fit as your child grows taller.
The car seat also has an easy-to-use dial on the back that adjusts the width of the seat to fit your child’s shoulders comfortably. This feature ensures that your child is snugly secured in their booster seat while providing ample space for them to move around.
Safe+ Engineering System
The Diono Monterey IST FixSafe Highback Booster Car Seat features an innovative Safe+ engineering system that provides extra protection in case of a crash. The system includes side-impact protection, which reduces the risk of injury during a collision from any direction.
The car seat has integrated LATCH connectors that secure it firmly to your vehicle’s seats. This feature ensures that the booster remains stable even when not in use or during sudden stops or collisions.
Easy-to-Install Design
One of the best things about the Diono Monterey IST FixSafe Highback Booster Car Seat is its easy installation process. The LATCH connectors make securing it to your vehicle’s seats quick and straightforward. You can also install it using just a regular seatbelt if you prefer.
Comfortable Padding
The Diono Monterey IST FixSafe Highback Booster Car Seat has comfortable padding that will keep your child cozy during long car rides. The seat is covered with soft, breathable fabric that’s easy to clean in case of spills or stains.
Convenient Extras
The Diono Monterey IST FixSafe Highback Booster Car Seat comes with a cup holder and storage compartment. These features make it convenient for long car rides, as your child can keep their snacks or drinks within reach.
Chicco MyFit Harness and Britax Grow with You ClickTight: NHTSA Ease of Use Ratings
If you’re looking for the best car seats for 5-year-olds, the Chicco MyFit Harness and Britax Grow with You ClickTight are two of the top options according to NHTSA Ease of Use Ratings. These car seats received a 5-star overall rating, which is the highest possible score.
One of the most significant benefits of these car seats is their ease of installation and adjustment. As any parent knows, installing a car seat can be a frustrating experience, but both the Chicco MyFit Harness and Britax Grow with You ClickTight are designed to make this process as simple as possible.
Easy Installation
The Britax Grow with You ClickTight features an innovative design that makes it easy to install in just three steps. Simply open the front of the car seat, thread your vehicle’s seatbelt through the appropriate slots, click it into place, and close the front panel. This ensures that your child’s car seat is installed correctly every time.
The Chicco MyFit Harness also features a straightforward installation process. It comes equipped with a SuperCinch LATCH tightener that uses force-multiplying technology to achieve a tight and secure fit without requiring much effort on your part.
Convenient Adjustments
Both car seats are also designed with convenience in mind. The Chicco MyFit Harness features nine different headrest positions and four recline options, allowing you to customize it based on your child’s height and weight.
Similarly, the Britax Grow with You ClickTight offers nine different headrest positions as well as two buckle positions to ensure your child is comfortable throughout their ride.
Safety Features
Of course, safety is always a top priority. Both the Chicco MyFit Harness and Britax Grow with You ClickTight are designed with safety in mind.
The Chicco MyFit Harness features DuoGuard side-impact protection, which consists of two layers of energy-absorbing foam that surround your child’s head and torso. It also comes equipped with a steel-reinforced frame that provides additional strength and stability.
The Britax Grow with You ClickTight also features a steel-reinforced frame as well as SafeCell impact protection, which is an integrated system of safety components that work together to protect your child in the event of a collision.
Additional Features
Both car seats come equipped with several additional features to make them even more convenient for parents. The Chicco MyFit Harness features cup holders on either side, making it easy for your child to access their drinks or snacks during long car rides.
Similarly, the Britax Grow with You ClickTight comes equipped with two built-in cup holders as well as storage compartments for small items like toys or pacifiers.
Best Travel Booster Seats for 5-Year-Olds: Do You Need One for Flying?
If you are planning to travel with your 5-year-old, you might be wondering whether you need a booster seat for the plane. While it is not always necessary, a travel booster seat can make the trip more comfortable and safer for your child.
When Can My Kid Move to a Booster Seat?
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), children should remain in a forward-facing car seat with a harness until they outgrow it, usually around age 4. After that, they can move to a booster seat until they are big enough to use an adult seat belt safely, which is typically when they reach 4 feet 9 inches tall and are between ages 8 and 12.
However, if your child is already over age 5 and meets the height and weight requirements for a booster seat (usually at least 40 pounds and 40 inches tall), you can transition them directly from their forward-facing car seat to a booster seat.
What About Travel Systems?
If you have an infant or toddler who still needs to use a car seat on the plane, you might consider using a travel system that includes both an infant car seat or convertible car seat and a stroller. Some travel systems also include lightweight booster seats that are approved for air travel.
However, if your child has outgrown their car seat but still needs extra height in order to use the airplane’s lap belt safely, then a separate travel booster seat is probably your best option.
Where Do I Install A Booster Seat?
On most airplanes, booster seats must be installed in window seats so as not to block access to the aisle during an emergency evacuation. They cannot be installed in exit rows or in seats with inflatable seat belts.
When selecting a booster seat for air travel, look for one that is lightweight and compact enough to carry on the plane easily. Many booster seats are designed to be inflatable, which can save space in your luggage. Some popular options include:
- BubbleBum Backless Booster
- Graco TurboBooster TakeAlong
- Cosco Topside Booster
What About Weight Range?
Before purchasing a travel booster seat, make sure it is appropriate for your child’s weight and height. Most booster seats have a weight range of 40 to 100 pounds.
It’s also important to note that not all booster seats are approved for use on airplanes. Look for one that has been certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or has a label indicating that it meets FAA safety standards.
Our Top Picks for the Best Car Seats and Booster Seats for 5-Year-Olds
After extensive research and analysis, we have identified the top car seats and booster seats for 5-year-olds. Safety is our top priority, so all of our picks meet or exceed federal safety standards.
Our top pick for the best convertible car seat is the Britax Boulevard ClickTight. It has excellent crash test scores and provides superior protection in a wide range of scenarios. For backless boosters, we recommend the Graco TurboBooster Backless Booster Seat due to its comfort and safety features.
If you’re looking for a highback booster seat, we highly recommend the Diono Monterey IST FixSafe Highback Booster Car Seat. It offers exceptional side-impact protection and adjustable headrests to accommodate growing children.
Our top pick is the BubbleBum Inflatable Booster Seat. It’s lightweight, easy to inflate, and meets all safety standards.
In conclusion, choosing the right car seat or booster seat can be overwhelming, but with our top picks, you can rest assured that your child will be safe on every journey.
FAQs About Car Seats for 5-Year-Olds
What type of car seat should I choose for my 5-year-old?
For a 5-year-old child, a convertible car seat or booster seat would be suitable depending on their height and weight. Convertible car seats can be used as rear-facing or forward-facing while boosters help position your child correctly in your vehicle’s seat belt system.
Are expensive car seats safer than cheaper ones?
The cost of a car seat does not necessarily determine its level of safety. All car seats sold in the US must meet federal safety standards regardless of price point. However, more expensive models may offer additional convenience features or higher-quality materials.
How long should I keep my child in a booster seat?
Children should remain in a booster seat until they are at least 4 feet 9 inches tall and between 8 and 12 years old. At this point, they can transition to using a regular seat belt.
Can I use a car seat on an airplane?
Yes, most car seats are FAA-approved for use on airplanes. However, it’s best to check with your airline beforehand to ensure that your specific model meets their requirements.
How do I know if my car seat is installed correctly?
It’s important to read both the car seat manual and your vehicle owner’s manual thoroughly before installation. You can also visit a local child passenger safety technician or police department for assistance with proper installation.
Quiz: Car Seats for 5-Year-Olds
Round 1: Types of Car Seats
1. What are the three main types of car seats for 5-year-olds?
a) Rear-facing, booster, combination
b) Forward-facing, high-back, backless
c) Forward-facing, booster, convertible
d) Rear-facing, high-back, combination
[x] Answer: c) Forward-facing, booster, convertible
2. Which type of car seat is designed for children who have outgrown their forward-facing seat and weigh between 40 and 120 pounds?
a) Rear-facing car seat
b) Combination seat
c) High-back booster seat
d) Backless booster seat
[x] Answer: c) High-back booster seat
3. What is the main purpose of a combination seat?
a) To provide additional head and neck support
b) To accommodate growing children with adjustable features
c) To convert into a backless booster seat
d) To offer easy installation using LATCH system
[x] Answer: b) To accommodate growing children with adjustable features
Round 2: Convertible Car Seats
4. Which convertible car seat has passed rigorous crash tests and is highly rated by safety organizations such as NHTSA and IIHS?
a) Britax Boulevard ClickTight
b) Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Seat
c) Diono Monterey XT Booster Seat
d) Chicco KidFit Zip Plus Belt-Positioning Booster
[x] Answer: a) Britax Boulevard ClickTight
5. What is one of the standout features of the Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat?
a) Extra legroom for taller children
b) Lightweight design for easy portability
c) Machine-washable cover for easy cleaning
d) Integrated LATCH connectors for secure installation
[x] Answer: a) Extra legroom for taller children
6. Which convertible car seat can be used in both rear-facing and forward-facing positions and has an easy-to-adjust harness system?
a) Chicco MyFit Harness
b) Britax Grow with You ClickTight
c) Graco Extend2Fit
d) Diono Monterey IST FixSafe Highback Booster Car Seat
[x] Answer: c) Graco Extend2Fit
Round 3: Backless Boosters
7. Which backless booster seat is known for its affordability and comfort, and can convert into a backless booster?
a) Graco TurboBooster
b) Diono Monterey XT Booster Seat
c) BubbleBum Inflatable Booster Seat
d) Chicco KidFit Zip Plus Belt-Positioning Booster
[x] Answer: a) Graco TurboBooster
8. What is one advantage of the BubbleBum Inflatable Booster Seat?
a) It meets all safety standards for air travel
b) It has adjustable armrests for added support
c) It is machine-washable for easy cleaning
d) It is lightweight and easily portable
[x] Answer: d) It is lightweight and easily portable
9. Which backless booster seat offers exceptional side-impact protection and adjustable headrests for growing children?
a) Graco TurboBooster
b) Diono Monterey XT Booster Seat
c) BubbleBum Inflatable Booster Seat
d) Chicco KidFit Zip Plus Belt-Positioning Booster
[x] Answer: b) Diono Monterey XT Booster Seat
Round 4: General Knowledge
10. What type of car seat is recommended for a 5-year-old child who has outgrown their forward-facing seat?
a) Rear-facing car seat
b) High-back booster seat
c) Combination seat
d) Backless booster seat
[x] Answer: b) High-back booster seat
11. Are expensive car seats necessarily safer than cheaper ones?
a) Yes, higher price guarantees higher safety
b) No, all car seats meet federal safety standards regardless of price
c) Yes, but only if they have passed additional safety tests
d) No, cheaper car seats are often safer due to simpler designs
[x] Answer: b) No, all car seats meet federal safety standards regardless of price
12. How long should a child remain in a booster seat?
a) Until they are at least 2 years old
b) Until they are tall enough to use an adult seat belt safely
c) Until they are 12 years old
d) Until they reach a weight of 80 pounds
[x] Answer: b) Until they are tall enough to use an adult seat belt safely
