Safe and comfy travel: Best car seats for airplanes on ParentalPicks — this is the key to a stress-free journey when flying with kids. Traveling by air with children can be daunting, especially when it comes to ensuring their safety and comfort during long flights. The right car seat can make all the difference. It should be lightweight, easy to install, and, most importantly, FAA approved. Here’s a look at some of the top car seats that meet these criteria and are highly recommended for airplane travel.

The Cosco Scenera Next Convertible Car Seat is a standout choice for air travel due to its lightweight design and affordable price point. Weighing only about 10 pounds, it’s easy to carry through airports and install on planes. Despite its light frame, it doesn’t compromise on safety, meeting all airline and FAA standards. The car seat can accommodate children from 5 to 40 pounds, making it a versatile option for traveling families.

Another excellent choice is the Safety 1st Guide 65 Convertible Car Seat. It’s slightly heavier than the Cosco Scenera Next but compensates with its higher weight limits (up to 65 pounds). Its compact design makes it a good fit for smaller airplane seats, and the adjustable headrest ensures your child’s comfort, even during long flights.

For parents seeking a car seat that’s easy to maneuver through busy airports, the Doona Infant Car Seat & Stroller shines. This 2-in-1 product easily transitions from a car seat to a stroller, making it perfect for navigating through terminals. It’s suitable for infants weighing up to 35 pounds and is FAA approved for air travel.

The Chicco KeyFit 30 Infant Car Seat is known for its ease of installation and overall safety. Weighing 17 pounds, it’s a bit heavier but offers features like a ReclineSure leveling foot and RideRight bubble level-indicators, ensuring the safest installation on an airplane seat. The removable newborn insert is ideal for smaller babies, providing extra support and comfort during flights.