· booster · 15 min read
The Best Narrow Booster Seats for Small Cars in 2023
Find the perfect narrow booster seat for your small car. We've reviewed the top 10 options to help you choose the best one for your child.
Traveling in small cars with children can be a bit uncomfortable if you have to deal with a bulky car seat. A narrow booster seat is the perfect solution, but not all of them are designed equally. Read on to learn how to choose the best booster seat for small cars.
Overview
PROS
- Space-saving design is ideal for narrow vehicles and compact cars
- Lightweight and portable for easy transporting
- Wide, comfortable seat provides your child with a secure and supported ride
- Meets or exceeds federal safety standards to guarantee your child's protection
CONS
- Not suitable for children below 40 lbs or over 100 lbs
- Some users may find the lack of a backrest uncomfortable for longer trips
The Cosco Topside Backless Booster Car Seat is an excellent choice for parents seeking a compact and lightweight booster seat for their small or narrow vehicles. Its size makes it ideal for squeezing into tight spaces, making it a practical solution for families with limited car space. The booster is exceptionally portable, allowing you to effortlessly transfer it between cars or take it on the go.
In terms of comfort, the booster's wide and spacious seat provides ample legroom for your child, ensuring a comfortable ride. Its design meets or exceeds federal safety standards, guaranteeing your child's safety while traveling. The Cosco Topside Backless Booster Car Seat combines functionality, convenience, and safety in a single package, making it an exceptional value for families on the move.
PROS
- Perfect fit for small cars with limited space between seat and back
- Slim profile design for comfortable seating even in narrow interiors
- Easy and secure installation using Affix Latch system
CONS
- Not suitable for all vehicle seat types
- May be too small for taller or larger children
The Graco TurboBooster LX is an excellent choice for parents looking for a narrow booster seat for small cars. With its slim profile design, it fits comfortably in even the most compact vehicles, providing ample space for your child without compromising their safety. The Affix Latch system ensures a secure installation, giving you peace of mind while on the road.
One of the standout features of this booster seat is its narrow design. This makes it a great option for small cars where space is limited between the seat and back. It allows your child to sit comfortably without feeling cramped or restricted. The slim profile also makes it easier to maneuver in and out of the car, even in tight parking spaces.
PROS
- Narrow design fits perfectly in compact cars and vehicles
- Versatile 2-in-1 design transitions from forward-facing harness to belt-positioning booster
- High back supports growing children and provides maximum comfort
- Integrated side impact protection ensures optimal safety
- Easy-to-use latch connectors secure the seat firmly in place
CONS
- Harness weight capacity is lower (30-65 pounds) than the belt-positioning mode (40-100 pounds)
- Does not have adjustable height or recline feature
The Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat is an excellent choice for parents with narrow cars and growing children. Its slim design makes it ideal for compact vehicles, ensuring a perfect fit and ease of installation. The 2-in-1 design provides versatility, transitioning seamlessly from a forward-facing harness seat for younger toddlers to a belt-positioning booster as your child grows. The harness mode offers a secure and comfortable fit for children weighing between 30 and 65 pounds, while the belt-positioning mode accommodates older children up to 100 pounds.
Safety is paramount with this booster seat. It boasts integrated side impact protection to shield your precious little one in the event of a side collision. The high back provides ample support for growing children, ensuring their comfort and correct posture during long journeys. The ease of use is another highlight of this booster seat. The latch connectors are simple to operate, allowing for quick and secure installation. The seat remains firmly in place, providing peace of mind during every ride. Overall, the Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat is a well-made and reliable choice for parents who prioritize safety, comfort, and versatility in a booster seat designed specifically for narrow cars.
PROS
- Compact and portable design, ideal for narrow vehicles
- Adjustable strap ensures a snug and secure fit
- Inflatable design for easy storage and transportation
- Elevated position provides a better view for your child
- Machine-washable cover for easy cleanup
CONS
- May be too narrow for some children
- Requires inflation before each use
If you have a small car and need an easy-to-use and portable booster seat, then the hiccapop UberBoost is a great choice. It's slim profile makes it perfect for my narrow compact car, and the adjustable and inflatable design makes it incredibly convenient to store and transport.
The UberBoost provides a good amount of elevation, so my child has better visibility out the window. The inflatable nature of the seat does mean it needs to be inflated before use, but that's a small inconvenience for the benefits it offers. The machine-washable cover is a bonus, making it easy to clean after inevitable spills.
PROS
- Portable design makes it easy to carry and store
- Compact size fits in small vehicles
- Supportive and comfortable for long car rides
- Easy to clean and disinfect
CONS
- Not as secure as a traditional car seat
- May not be suitable for all children
The BubbleBum Inflatable Backless Booster Car Seat is a great option for parents with small children who are on-the-go. It's compact and easy to carry, making it perfect for travel or taking to grandparents' houses. The booster seat is also very supportive and comfortable, with a cushioned seat and backrest. My child loves using it and says it's much more comfortable than her old booster seat.
The BubbleBum is also very easy to clean. The cover is removable and machine-washable, and the seat can be wiped down with a damp cloth. This is a great feature for parents with young children who tend to make messes. Overall, I'm very impressed with the BubbleBum Inflatable Backless Booster Car Seat. It's a safe, comfortable, and convenient option for parents with small children.
PROS
- Lightweight and portable, perfect for easy transfers between vehicles.
- Cup holders provide convenient storage for drinks and snacks.
CONS
- Bulky and may not fit all small cars.
- Machine-washable covers are not as durable as they seem.
The Diono Solana Narrow Booster Seat is a great option for parents who need a safe and space-saving booster seat for their growing child. These backless booster seats are lightweight and portable, making them easy to transfer between vehicles. They also have cup holders for convenient storage of drinks and snacks. The machine-washable covers are a plus, although they may not be as durable as some parents would like. Overall, the Diono Solana Narrow Booster Seat is a good value for the price.
However, It's important to keep in mind that these seats are quite bulky. As a result, they may not fit in all small cars. Additionally, the cup holders are not very deep, so they may not be able to accommodate larger cups or bottles.
PROS
- Its slim profile makes it an ideal booster seat for small cars, providing ample space for passengers and ensuring a comfortable ride.
- The quick-release LATCH removal system allows for effortless installation and removal, saving you time and hassle.
CONS
- May not be suitable for children under 4 years of age or who weigh less than 40 lbs.
- The lack of a backrest may limit comfort for children on longer journeys.
If you're searching for a narrow booster seat that combines safety, convenience, and portability, the Chicco GoFit Plus is an excellent choice. This backless booster seat fits snugly in small cars, providing a secure and comfortable ride for children weighing between 40 and 110 lbs. The LATCH attachment system makes installation and removal a breeze, allowing you to switch between vehicles effortlessly. However, it's important to keep in mind that this seat lacks a backrest, which may affect comfort levels on extended journeys.
The narrow design of the GoFit Plus is a major advantage for those with compact vehicles. Its slim profile ensures that there's ample space for passengers in even the most cramped cars. The quick-release LATCH mechanism is another highlight, enabling you to install or remove the seat in seconds. Parents with tight schedules will appreciate the ease of use.
Parents should note that the GoFit Plus is not suitable for children under 4 years of age or who weigh less than 40 lbs. It's also worth considering the lack of a backrest, which may impact comfort on longer journeys. Nevertheless, this narrow booster seat remains a top choice for its practicality and convenience in small cars.
PROS
- Compact and Narrow Design: Offers maximum comfort in narrow car interiors, allowing for easy maneuvering and a comfortable ride.
- User-Friendly Installation: Effortlessly install using Rigid Latch System for optimal stability, ensuring a secure fit without the hassle.
- Side Impact Protection: Advanced Side Impact Protection (SIP) provides ultimate peace of mind by absorbing energy and protecting your child in case of side collisions.
- Multi-Year Usage: Extends from high back booster seats suitable for 8 years and older, while transitioning into a no-back booster seat once your child reaches 10 years.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand daily use, with a premium metal frame and energy-absorbing foam providing long-lasting security.
CONS
- Armrests not Included: Does not feature built-in armrests, which may be preferred for added comfort on longer journeys.
- No Cupholders: Lacks integrated cupholders, limiting storage options for drinks and snacks.
Introducing the Diono Everett NXT booster seat, an exceptional choice for parents seeking a narrow and comfortable seating solution for their children in smaller cars. Its compact design ensures a snug fit, providing ample space for your child and eliminating any discomfort caused by a bulky seat. Installation is a breeze with the Rigid Latch System, offering a secure hold and peace of mind while on the go.
Safety is paramount, and the Diono Everett NXT goes above and beyond with its advanced Side Impact Protection (SIP) feature. In the unfortunate event of a side collision, the seat absorbs and redirects energy away from your child, minimizing the risk of injuries. The versatility of the Everett NXT is also noteworthy, allowing it to adapt as your child grows. It starts as a high back booster seat for 8-year-olds and converts into a no-back booster for children aged 10 and up. With its sturdy metal frame and energy-absorbing foam, this seat is built to last, ensuring years of reliable use. While it lacks armrests and cupholders, these minor considerations do not detract from the overall functionality and value of the Diono Everett NXT.
PROS
- Ultra-narrow design fits comfortably in small cars, providing ample legroom and shoulder space.
- Secure and sturdy construction ensures a safe ride every time.
- Lightweight and portable, making it easy to transport and store.
- Contoured seat and adjustable height provide a comfortable and personalized fit.
- Machine-washable fabrics ensure easy cleaning and maintenance.
CONS
- May not be suitable for larger children or those requiring additional back support.
- The lack of a backrest can limit the child's comfort on longer journeys.
Experience the ultimate in space-saving car seat convenience with the Evenflo GoTime No Back Narrow Booster Seat. Designed specifically for small cars, this booster seat provides a secure and comfortable ride while maximizing legroom and shoulder space. Its ultra-narrow design ensures a snug fit, even in the tightest of vehicles.
The GoTime booster is packed with safety features. Its sturdy construction and secure installation system ensure your child's safety at all times. The adjustable height allows you to customize the fit for your child, providing optimal support and comfort. For added convenience, the machine-washable fabrics make cleaning a breeze.
PROS
- Slim design fits comfortably in compact cars and provides ample space for growing children.
- 2-in-1 versatility allows for use as a backless booster or a high back booster, adapting to your child's needs.
- Plush, breathable fabrics ensure a comfortable ride, even on extended journeys.
CONS
- Cupholders are not included, which may limit convenience for kids.
- The headrest may not be adjustable enough for taller children.
For parents seeking a narrow booster seat that prioritizes safety and comfort in small cars, the Chicco KidFit® ClearTex® Plus 2-in-1 Booster Seat is an excellent choice. This booster seat boasts a slim profile, making it ideal for compact vehicles where space is at a premium. The 2-in-1 design provides versatility, allowing it to adapt to your child's growing needs, whether they prefer a backless or high back configuration.
The Chicco KidFit® ClearTex® Plus Booster Seat is designed with plush, breathable fabrics that ensure a comfortable ride for your little one, even on extended journeys. Parents will appreciate the ease of use, with simple adjustments for the headrest and armrests to accommodate different heights and sizes. Safety is at the forefront, meeting all applicable federal safety standards to provide peace of mind during every trip.
Narrow booster seats are designed as a trusted and affordable manner to assure your youngsters are positioned accurately to utilize the seat belt correctly. Safety is the top priority with these popular models. They have all passed the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS 213) which includes side-impact testing. You will find several models that are easy to install while others will feature more convenient options such as cup holders. This condensed overview covered several pertinent points to consider along with popular models that epitomize these considerations so you will be fully equipped to select the top booster seat for your small car!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which narrow booster seat is the best for small cars?
The Diono Solana Backless Booster Car Seat is the best narrow booster seat for small cars. It is lightweight, easy to install, and offers a comfortable ride for your child.
What are the safety features of the Diono Solana Backless Booster Car Seat?
The Diono Solana Backless Booster Car Seat meets or exceeds all applicable federal safety standards, including the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS 213) and the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (CMVSS 213). It also has a side-impact protection system to protect your child in the event of a side-impact collision.
What are the pros of using a narrow booster seat?
Narrow booster seats are a great option for small cars because they take up less space than traditional booster seats. They are also lightweight and easy to install, making them a good choice for parents who travel frequently.
Are narrow booster seats comfortable for children?
Yes, narrow booster seats are comfortable for children. They are designed to provide support and comfort, and they usually have a padded seat and backrest.
How long can children use a narrow booster seat?
Children can use a narrow booster seat until they are 4 feet 9 inches tall and weigh 80 pounds. However, it is important to check the manufacturer's weight and height limits for the specific booster seat you choose.