A backless booster car seat is crucial for parents and caregivers ensuring children’s safety during car rides. These seats lift kids to the right height for the seat belt to fit them correctly, lowering the chance of injury in a crash. If you’re in search of an ideal backless booster seat for your child, we have some safe, and comfortable seats featured here. So before you buy one, the below factors are sure to make your buying easier.
Key Factors To Be Considered:
- Age And Size: Make sure the seat fits your child’s age and size. Aim for one suitable for kids over 5 years old and up to around 38-40 inches tall. This ensures a snug and safe fit.
- Installation: Choose a seat with options for both Latch System and Belt Type installation. This flexibility ensures you can securely install the seat in any vehicle, making travel easier.
- Weight Capacity: Check the seat’s weight limit to ensure it can support your child. Look for a capacity of about 38-40 pounds to accommodate growth and long-term use.
Stay tuned for our detailed “Buying Guide”, where we’ll explore each seat’s features and advantages in depth.
Best Backless Booster Seat Table
| backless booster seats | Height | Weight Capacity | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graco Backless Booster Car Seat | 40 to 57 Inches | 40 - 100 lbs | Check On Amazon |
| Cosco Backless Booster Car Seat | 43 to 57 inches. | 40 - 100 lbs | Check On Amazon |
| Chicco Backless Booster Car Seat | 38 to 57 inches | 40-110 lbs | Check On Amazon |
| Chicco Backless Booster Seat | 38 to 57 inches. | 40 - 110 lbs | Check On Amazon |
| Hiccapop Backless Booster Car Seat | 38 to 62 inches | 40 – 110 lbs | Check On Amazon |
| Diono Backless Booster Car Seat | 38 to 63 inches | 40 - 120 lbs | Check On Amazon |
| Bubblebum Backless Booster Car Seat | 40 to 57 Inches | 40 - 100 lbs | Check On Amazon |
| Diono Solana Backless Booster Car Seat | 40 to 63 Inches | 40 - 120 lbs | Check On Amazon |
| KidsEmbrace Backless Booster Car Seat | 40 to 57 Inches | 40 – 100 lbs | Check On Amazon |
Best Backless Booster Seat Reviews
1. Graco Backless Booster Car Seat
The Graco Backless Booster Car Seat excels in balancing safety, comfort, and convenience for children aged 4 to 10 years. The standout feature is the Graco ProtectPlus Engineering. This offers protection in frontal, rear, and rollover crashes. It ensures your child is correctly positioned for the seat belt, giving you peace of mind on every trip.It is ideal for both daily use and long trips. It offers a reliable and comfortable ride for kids while giving parents trusted safety features.
Comfort is a priority with this booster seat. The height-adjustable armrests grow with your child, ensuring a good fit at every stage. The hide-away cup holders are handy. They provide easy access to drinks and snacks and keep clutter away when not needed. Cleanup is simple with a machine-washable seat pad, making life easier after spills and messes.
Specifications:
- Material: Polyester
- Color: Denton
- Installation Type: Seat Belt
- Orientation: Forward Facing
Pros:
- Adjustable armrests enhance comfort for growing children.
- Includes hide-away cup holders for convenience.
- Machine-washable seat pad simplifies cleaning.
- Lightweight design makes it easy to transfer between vehicles.
Cons:
- Cup holders may be too shallow for some bottles.
- Not suitable for children over 100 pounds.
Our Experience:
In our experience, the Graco TurboBooster 2.0 excelled in both comfort and safety. The seat’s padding and adjustable armrests were significant pluses. Here’s a closer look at our findings:
- Ease Of Installation: The seat belt guide ensures correct positioning, making installation straightforward. However, the absence of a LATCH system might be a concern for those preferring a more secure setup.
- Comfort: Height-adjustable armrests and plush padding provide a comfortable ride, even on longer journeys.
- Convenience: The hideaway cup holders are a hit among kids, keeping drinks and snacks easily accessible.
What Customers Are Saying:
Customers like the Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Backless Booster for its safety and comfort. Many say their children find it comfy and enjoy the design and cup holders. Parents appreciate the easy-to-clean, machine-washable seat pad. The booster is lightweight and simple to move between cars. Some wish it had a LATCH system for more stability.
In A Nutshell:
- Safety Features: Equipped with Graco’s ProtectPlus engineering for enhanced crash protection.
- Designed for Comfort: Adjustable armrests and a padded seat offer a comfortable ride.
- Ease of Maintenance: The washable seat pad makes it simple to keep the booster clean and fresh.
2. Cosco Backless Booster Car Seat
For those looking for a lightweight, comfortable, and affordable booster seat, the Cosco Topside Backless Booster Car Seat is an excellent choice. It’s designed for children weighing 40 to 100 pounds and measuring 43 to 57 inches in height. This booster seat ensures the seatbelt is properly positioned.
The Cosco Topside Booster has extra-plush padding to keep your child comfortable, even during long car rides. Its lightweight, compact design makes it easy to move between vehicles, perfect for busy families. The seat-friendly design also prevents marks or indentations on your car seats.
Specifications:
- Material: Plush
- Color: Grape
- Installation Type: Seat Belt
- Product Dimensions: 14″D x 15.5″W x 6.5″H
Pros:
- Extra-plush padding enhances comfort for long rides.
- Lightweight and compact design for easy transfer between vehicles.
- Seat-friendly design prevents indentations on car seats.
- Designed for kids from 40 to 100 pounds.
- An affordable price point makes it accessible for many families.
Cons:
- Does not include cup holders, which may be inconvenient for some.
- Hand-washing only fabric covers can be less convenient.
- No LATCH system for additional stability.
Our Experience:
In our experience, the Cosco Topside Booster is simple and easy to use. Here are our key observations:
- Ease Of Installation: The seat’s design makes it easy to install and move between vehicles. It only uses the seat belt for security, which might be less stable than a LATCH system.
- Comfort: The extra-plush padding is great, keeping kids comfortable on long rides. It lacks cup holders, but this doesn’t affect overall comfort.
- Portability: Its lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry, perfect for families who switch cars often or travel a lot.
What Customers Are Saying:
Parents appreciate the Cosco Topside Booster for its simplicity and affordability. Many find it easy to transfer between vehicles due to its lightweight design. Children enjoy the comfortable padding, and the compact size makes it a convenient option for smaller cars.
In A Nutshell:
- Great Value: The Cosco Topside Booster offers comfort and convenience at an affordable price.
- Easy To Move: Its lightweight design makes it simple to transfer between vehicles.
- Comfortable Rides: Extra-plush padding ensures long rides are comfortable for your child.
3. Chicco Backless Booster Car Seat
The Chicco GoFit Backless Booster provides a comfortable and secure seat for kids moving from a high-back to a backless booster. It’s perfect for children aged 4 and up, weighing between 40-110 lbs. This booster ensures the car’s seatbelt fits correctly on the child’s shoulder and lap, improving safety.
The ErgoBoost double foam padding and contoured seat design offer superior comfort and support, making long car trips more enjoyable. The integrated lap belt guides and shoulder belt clip help adjust the seatbelt to the right height. The built-in carry handle makes it easy to move the booster between cars, which is great for busy families. The two cup holders are removable and dishwasher-safe, adding convenience for parents.
Specifications:
- Material: Foam
- Color: Shark
- Installation Type: Seat Belt
- Orientation: Forward Facing
Pros:
- ErgoBoost contoured seat with double foam padding for enhanced comfort.
- Built-in carry handle for easy portability.
- Dishwasher-safe, fold-away cup holders for convenience.
Cons:
- No LATCH system, which may concern some parents seeking extra security.
- Limited color options may not appeal to all children.
Our Experience:
- Ease Of Installation: The seat is straightforward to place and adjust using the car’s seatbelt. While it lacks a LATCH system, the seat remains stable under normal conditions.
- Comfort: The double foam padding and contoured design were particularly appreciated, providing comfort that lasted throughout long drives. My child enjoyed the added comfort compared to other boosters.
- Convenience: The dishwasher-safe cup holders and easy-to-carry handle increased the booster’s convenience factor, especially for families frequently on the move.
What Customers Are Saying:
Parents praise the Chicco GoFit for its comfort and ease of cleaning. The removable, dishwasher-safe cup holders are a hit among both kids and parents. However, some have noted that the seat can be narrow for older or larger children, and the absence of a LATCH system is occasionally mentioned as a concern.
In A Nutshell:
- Superior Comfort: Double foam padding and a contoured seat ensure a pleasant ride.
- Portability: Features like a built-in handle and lightweight design make it highly portable.
- Easy Maintenance: Dishwasher-safe cup holders and a washable seat cover simplify cleaning.
4. Chicco Backless Booster Seat
The Chicco GoFit Plus Backless Booster with LATCH is made for both kids’ comfort and parents’ convenience. It suits children from 40 to 110 pounds and 38 to 57 inches tall. The booster offers a stable and secure boost with its contoured ErgoBoost seat and double foam padding.
The advanced LATCH system keeps the booster in place, giving parents extra security and peace of mind. Integrated lap belt guides and a shoulder belt clip help with proper belt-positioning, which is crucial for safety. The booster is easy to maintain. The seat pad is machine-washable, and the cup holders are dishwasher-safe. This makes it a great choice for parents seeking both functionality and convenience. Plus, the built-in carry handle adds portability, perfect for families who often switch vehicles or travel.
Specifications:
- Material: Polyester, Plastic, Metal
- Color: Iron
- Installation Type: Latch
- Orientation: Forward Facing
Pros:
- Equipped with a LATCH system for added stability and security.
- ErgoBoost contoured seat with double foam padding ensures comfort.
- Easy to clean with machine-washable seat pad and pop-out armrest covers.
- Built-in carry handle and quick-release LATCH for easy portability.
Cons:
- Bulkier than some backless boosters, which might be an issue in smaller cars.
- The quick-release LATCH can be tricky to use until you get accustomed to it.
Our Experience:
- Ease Of Installation: The LATCH connectors make it straightforward to secure the booster to the vehicle, providing a stable base that doesn’t shift when the child moves.
- Comfort: The double foam padding and contoured design were significant advantages, providing a comfortable seat that supports the child’s posture.
- Convenience: The quick-release LATCH system was particularly appreciated during times when we needed to quickly move the booster from one car to another.
What Customers Are Saying:
Many parents commend the Chicco GoFit Plus for its solid construction and the added safety of the LATCH system. Comfort and easy cleaning are frequently mentioned as key benefits. However, some parents note the weight of the seat and its price as considerations before purchasing.
In A Nutshell:
- Secure Attachment: The LATCH system offers superior stability and safety.
- Comfortable Seating: Double foam padding ensures a comfortable ride.
- User-Friendly Features: Machine-washable cover and quick-release LATCH system enhance convenience.
5. Hiccapop Backless Booster Car Seat
The hiccapop UberBoost Inflatable Booster Car Seat is great for families on the go. It inflates quickly with a few breaths, making setup and storage easy. The non-skid base keeps the seat stable on leather, vinyl, or cloth seats, ensuring your child’s safety.
Designed for children between 40 and 110 pounds, the UberBoost meets all federal car seat safety standards. Its compact design fits into suitcases, backpacks, or even a large purse, making it perfect for travel and carpooling. The positioning clips ensure the seat belt fits properly across the child’s lap.
Specifications:
- Material: Polyester cover, Phthalate/lead-free PVC bladder
- Color: Pink
- Installation Type: Seat Belt
- Product Dimensions: 14.5″D x 14.5″W x 4.5″H
Pros:
- Inflatable design makes it highly portable and easy to store.
- Non-skid base ensures stability on all types of car seats.
- Quick inflation and deflation for convenient setup and storage.
- Certified safe, meeting all federal car seat safety standards.
- Ideal for travel, carpooling, and occasional use.
Cons:
- An inflatable design may not feel as sturdy as traditional boosters.
- Not as durable as non-inflatable booster seats.
Our Experience:
- Ease Of Use: The quick inflation and deflation process is straightforward, making this booster highly convenient for travel.
- Portability: Its ability to deflate and fold into a compact size is unparalleled, perfect for vacations or switching between different vehicles.
- Stability: Despite its inflatable design, the booster remained stable during rides thanks to its sturdy, non-skid base.
What Customers Are Saying:
Parents praise the Hiccapop for its portability and ease of use, especially appreciating its utility during travel and in situations requiring quick car changes. However, some express concerns about comfort for longer trips and the long-term durability of an inflatable product.
In A Nutshell:
- Innovative Portability: Easily inflates and deflates for compact storage and transportation.
- Certified Safety: Meets all federal standards for booster seat safety.
- Convenient For Travel: Ideal for families who frequently travel or use multiple vehicles.
6. Diono Backless Booster Car Seat
The Diono Solana 2 XL Backless Booster is designed for comfort and durability. It supports children from 40 to 120 pounds, featuring an extra-wide design for growing kids. The contoured base and deep padded cushioning ensure superior comfort during long rides.
For enhanced safety, the Solana 2 XL includes high-grade steel LATCH connectors and easy-adjust LATCH straps for quick installation and removal. It also offers two fold-away cup holders and storage compartments for easy access to drinks, snacks, and toys.
Specifications:
- Brand: Diono
- Material: Polyethylene, Alloy Steel, Aluminum, Plastic
- Color: Black
- Installation Type: Seat Belt
- Orientation: Forward Facing
Pros:
- The ultra-wide design provides ample room and comfort for larger children.
- An ergonomic, contoured base with deep padded cushioning enhances comfort.
- Includes high-grade steel LATCH connectors for added security.
- Two fold-away cup holders and storage compartments for snacks and toys.
- Durable fabrics and machine-washable cover for easy cleaning.
Cons:
- No buckles for the latch.
- Does not fit mid-size vehicles.
Our Experience:
- Ease Of Installation: While the LATCH connectors can be tricky to secure, they provide a stable and secure fit once attached.
- Comfort: The wide and padded seat ensures that children have enough space and comfort, even on long trips. However, the firmness of the padding might not suit all children.
- Convenience: The fold-away cup holders and storage compartments are practical additions, helping keep the car tidy and essentials within easy reach.
What Customers Are Saying:
Customers appreciate the Diono Solana 2 XL for its spacious design and comfort. Many find it a great fit for larger children and value the added security of the LATCH connectors. However, some parents find the width of the seat challenging in smaller cars and note the difficulty children have in buckling themselves in.
In A Nutshell:
- Spacious Comfort: Ultra-wide design provides ample room and comfort.
- Secure Fit: High-grade steel LATCH connectors enhance stability and security.
- Practical Features: Includes fold-away cup holders and storage compartments for convenience.
7. Bubblebum Backless Booster Car Seat
The Bubblebum Backless Booster Car Seat is designed for children weighing 40 to 100 pounds and up to 57 inches tall. It’s inflatable, making it convenient for travel like car rentals, taxis, school trips, and carpooling. Easy to inflate and deflate, it folds compactly to fit into backpacks or luggage.
This seat meets federal safety standards and includes a seat belt positioning clip for proper shoulder belt fit. Its narrow design allows fitting three across in most vehicles, ideal for families with multiple children needing booster seats.
Specifications:
- Material: Foam
- Color: Black
- Installation Type: Seat Belt
- Orientation: Forward Facing
Pros:
- Inflatable and packable design makes it ideal for travel and easy storage.
- Lightweight and can be inflated or deflated in minutes, offering extreme portability.
- Meets all US federal car safety standards for booster car seats.
- The narrow design fits easily in the middle seat, even in small cars.
Cons:
- Requires manual inflation, which may not be convenient for everyday use.
- The narrow fit might not be as comfortable for larger children.
Our Experience:
- Ease Of Use: Quick to inflate and set up, and equally fast to deflate and pack away, making transitions smooth and effortless.
- Portability: Its lightweight, compact design shines, especially when traveling or needing to switch between different cars.
- Stability: While stable once positioned correctly, it requires proper adjustment each time to ensure it doesn’t shift during the ride.
What Customers Are Saying:
Customers love the Bubblebum for its unrivaled convenience and portability, particularly for travel. It’s popular for fitting in tight spaces and easy to move between vehicles. However, some parents express concerns about its long-term durability and stability compared to traditional, non-inflatable boosters.
In a Nutshell:
- Travel-Friendly: Inflates and deflates quickly for easy travel and storage.
- Safety Compliant: Meets all necessary federal safety standards.
- Compact and Convenient: Ideal for tight seating arrangements and frequent vehicle switches.
8. Diono Solana Backless Booster Car Seat
The Diono Solana Backless Booster Car Seat is great for long-term use. It supports children from 40 to 120 pounds. Its lightweight and portable design makes it easy to switch between vehicles. The ergonomic contoured base and comfort cushioning keep your child comfortable. The machine-washable seat covers make cleanup easy.
Its narrow design is perfect for smaller cars or fitting between larger car seats. This is ideal for growing families. The built-in elastic cup holders keep drinks and snacks within reach during trips.
Specifications:
- Material: Plastic
- Color: Pink
- Installation Type: Seat Belt
- Orientation: Forward Facing
Pros:
- Ergonomic contoured base and comfort cushioning provide enhanced comfort.
- The lightweight design makes it easy to transfer between vehicles.
- Built-in elastic cup holders are perfect for road trips.
- Machine-washable seat covers allow for easy maintenance.
- The narrow design fits well in smaller cars or between other car seats.
Cons:
- The seat may slide if not properly positioned due to the lack of LATCH.
- Elastic cup holders may not accommodate larger drink containers.
Our Experience:
- Ease Of Installation: Simple seat belt installation with no LATCH system, which means it’s less secure than some models but very easy to move and set up.
- Comfort: While the seat offers basic comfort with its ergonomic design, it lacks the thicker padding found in some other models, which could be a drawback for very long trips.
- Convenience: The machine-washable fabric is a major plus, allowing for easy cleaning. The built-in cup holders, although somewhat small, were a useful addition.
What Customers Are Saying:
Parents appreciate the Diono Solana for its easy cleaning and portability. The booster’s lightweight and narrow design make it popular among families with smaller cars or who need to fit multiple children in the back seat. Some feedback indicates a desire for more padding to increase comfort for longer journeys.
In A Nutshell:
- Practical Design: Ergonomic, lightweight, and easy to clean.
- Good For Small Spaces: Fits well in compact cars and between other car seats.
- Basic Comfort: Provides essential support with minimal cushioning.
9. KidsEmbrace Backless Booster Car Seat
The KidsEmbrace Disney Frozen Backless Booster Car Seat is designed for children who love Disney’s Frozen. It’s suitable for kids weighing 40-100 pounds and 40-57 inches tall. This booster seat ensures safety with a sturdy build and seat belt positioning clip. Plus, it adds magic to every ride with its colorful Frozen theme.
Extra polyurethane foam padding makes it comfy for short trips or long journeys. It also has a handy cup holder for drinks and snacks.
Specifications:
- Color: Disney Frozen
- Installation Type: Seat Belt
- Orientation: Forward Facing
Pros:
- Extra polyurethane foam padding for enhanced comfort.
- Includes a seat belt positioning clip for optimal seat belt fit.
- Certified safe by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
- Features a cup holder for added convenience.
Cons:
- The themed design may not be appealing as children grow older.
- Limited to one theme, which may not suit all children’s tastes.
Our Experience:
- Ease Of Installation: The seat installs easily with a standard seat belt, and the belt-positioning clip helps ensure the seat belt is properly aligned with the child’s shoulder.
- Comfort: The additional foam padding is a hit among the kids, providing comfort and making long rides more enjoyable.
- Design Appeal: The Disney Frozen theme is incredibly popular among children, making them more enthusiastic about using their booster seats.
What Customers Are Saying:
Parents report that their children are delighted with the Disney Frozen design, which often makes convincing them to buckle up easier. The added comfort and the inclusion of a cup holder are frequently mentioned as positive features. However, some parents note the booster’s larger size as a drawback in smaller vehicles or when trying to fit multiple seats.
In A Nutshell:
- Kid-Friendly Design: Engaging Disney Frozen theme that makes travel fun for children.
- Enhanced Comfort: Extra padding provides a cushioned ride.
- Certified Safety: Meets stringent safety standards and includes helpful features like a seat belt positioning clip.
FAQs:
A backless booster seat is designed to raise a child’s seating position for proper seat belt fit. Typically, children can transition to a backless booster seat when they outgrow their forward-facing car seat, usually around 4-8 years old or when they reach the height and weight limits recommended by the manufacturer.
Ensure your child meets the minimum height and weight requirements specified by the booster seat manufacturer. Additionally, they should be mature enough to sit properly for the entire car ride, with their back against the seat and knees bending comfortably at the edge of the seat.
Yes, backless booster seats are safe when used correctly. They provide the necessary boost for the seat belt to fit properly across the child’s body. However, high-back booster seats offer additional head and neck support, making them preferable for certain situations, like in vehicles without headrests.
Backless booster seats are generally versatile and can be used in various vehicles with lap and shoulder seat belts. However, it’s crucial to check the vehicle and booster seat manuals to ensure compatibility and proper installation.
Yes, each backless booster seat comes with specific weight limits. It’s crucial to adhere to these limits to ensure the seat functions as intended and provides optimal safety for your child.
Yes, backless booster seats are suitable for long journeys. However, frequent breaks are recommended to allow your child to stretch and move around.
While some backless booster seats are FAA-approved, it’s essential to check with the airline beforehand and follow their guidelines for child restraint systems.
Backless booster seats are generally designed for older children who have outgrown their toddler seats. It’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for age, height, and weight.
Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintenance guidelines. Typically, most booster seats come with removable and machine-washable covers. Regularly check for any wear and tear, and replace the seat if it shows signs of damage.
Conclusion
Choosing the best backless booster boils down to your child’s needs and your lifestyle. Here are top picks for different priorities:
- Travel-ready: For portability, consider the Chicco Backless Booster Car Seat or the inflatable hiccapop UberBoost. Both are lightweight and easy to store, making them perfect for on-the-go use.
- Extra security: If LATCH connectors for added stability are important, the Diono Backless Booster Car Seat with its dual LATCH system is a great choice.
Remember, regardless of your selection, ensure the booster meets federal safety standards and always check for proper belt fit to keep your child safe.
