Lightest Infant Car Seat Carriers
Which Infant Child Passenger Restraints Weigh the Least?
There are many factors that parents consider when choosing an infant car seat. Safety features and cost are often two of the most pressing points. Additionally, some parents do not want to be lugging a ten pound carrier with an equally heavy baby resting in it. Parents looking for lightweight infant carriers might consider these options.
Evenflo Discovery
The Evenflo Discovery is hands-down the lightest weight infant carrier seat. Weighing in at 5.5 lbs (not including the base), parents may find this seat one of the easiest to tote around. Another benefit of the Discovery is that it is easy on the budget, priced between $45 and $60 depending on features.
Unfortunately, this lightweight carrier is equally light on positive reviews. Noted for its disappointing ease of use by both Consumer Reports and parents, it may not be worth the investment. If parents choose to purchase this seat, they should be sure to buy the 5-point harness version rather than the 3-point harness.
Graco Snugride
One and a half pounds heavier, the Graco Snugride might be the better alternative. This car seat better balances ease of use in the car with ease of carrying. The Snugride is the United States top-selling infant car seat carrier. Parents seem to find the moderate price appealing ($72-$150) as well as the excellent features that include EPS foam lining, adjustable base, and decent fit with ease of installation in most vehicles.
Chicco KeyFit 30
The Chicco KeyFit 30 weighs 9 lbs. and is of average weight for infant car seat carriers. However, this seat often tops the list of best or safest car seat. Well-noted for its ease of use and added safety features, both Consumer Reports and Child Passenger Safety Technician give top nods to this seat with an Italian flair.
Parents will appreciate the EPS foam, added side impact protection, multi-position handle, and comfort grip. Unlike both the Snugride (22 lbs./29") and the Discovery (22 lbs./26"), the KeyFit 30 will hold a child up to 30 lbs. and 30". Many parents complained of the Discovery and Snugride that that their child outgrew the seat before he could legally be turned forward facing.
There are two downsides to Chicco KeyFit 30. One, it does not adapt itself to most universal stroller frames. And two, it is a bit more pricey at $170.
Parents should keep in mind that more than just weight of the carrier should be taken into consideration. Though all seats sold in the United States meet federal guidelines, some seats outperform others in ease of use, ease of installation, and adaptability to certain vehicles. For more information refer to: Infant Car Seat Buying Guide or Best Infant Car Seats.
For a comprehensive list of car seat articles: Car Seat Article Index
