Best Car Seats for 1-2-Year-Olds in 2024: Find What You Need!

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Best Car Seats for 1-2 Years Old

In this review, I delve into the top car seats for 1-2-year-olds in 2024, breaking down their safety ratings, comfort levels, ease of use, and more to help you make an informed decision for your little one’s safety and comfort.

Top Picks for the Best Car Seats:

  • Best Overall Infant Car Seat for Safety and Compatibility: UPPAbaby MESA | Jump to Review;
  • Best Rear-Facing Car Seat with Energy Absorbing Foam: Chicco KeyFit 30 | Jump to Review;
  • Best Convertible Car Seat with High-Strength Steel Frame: Britax One4Life ClickTight | Jump to Review;
  • Best Car Seat with Advanced Side Impact Protection: Britax Willow S | Jump to Review;
  • Best Affordable Car Seat Meeting Federal Standards: Safety 1st® Onboard 35 LT | Jump to Review;
  • Best Lightweight Travel Car Seat: Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX | Jump to Review;
  • Best Versatile Convertible Car Seat: Evenflo EveryFit 4-in-1 | Jump to Review

Top-3 Car Seats for 1-2-Year-Olds in 2024

Best Infant Car Seats for 1-Year-Olds Comparison Chart

Preview
BEST CHOICE
MESA Infant Car Seat - Bryce (White and Grey Marl) + MESA Base
Best Britax
Britax B-Safe Gen2 Infant Car Seat, Eclipse Black SafeWash
Title
UPPAbaby MESA — Best narrow infant car seat with MAX protection
Britax B-Safe Gen2 — best Britax narrowest infant car seat
Rear-Facing
4-35 lb / up to 32″
4-35 lb / up to 32″
Safety Ratings (NHTSA.gov)

Rear-Facing Mode:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Rear-Facing Mode:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Adjustable Headres
Advantage

✔SMARTSecure system installs in seconds, Adjustable headrest with Side Impact Protection;
✔Attaches directly to VISTA, CRUZ, VISTA V2, and CRUZ V2 strollers without adapters;
✔ UPF hideaway canopy
✔ Easily removable and washable seat fabric

✔ Travel System Compatible;
✔ Sturdy build with a high-strength steel reinforced base and SafeCell crumple zone;;
✔ Protective shell with foam provides head-to-toe safety;
✔ 3 easy steps with SafeCenter LATCH: connect lower anchors, pull straps to tighten, click carrier into the base;
✔ Travel System Compatible;

Item Dimensions LxWxH (inches)
27 x 16.75 x 25.5
26.6 x 17.9 x 25.85
Item Weight (Pounds)
19.36
19.91
Buy Now on Amazon
BEST CHOICE
Preview
MESA Infant Car Seat - Bryce (White and Grey Marl) + MESA Base
Title
UPPAbaby MESA — Best narrow infant car seat with MAX protection
Rear-Facing
4-35 lb / up to 32″
Safety Ratings (NHTSA.gov)

Rear-Facing Mode:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Adjustable Headres
Advantage

✔SMARTSecure system installs in seconds, Adjustable headrest with Side Impact Protection;
✔Attaches directly to VISTA, CRUZ, VISTA V2, and CRUZ V2 strollers without adapters;
✔ UPF hideaway canopy
✔ Easily removable and washable seat fabric

Item Dimensions LxWxH (inches)
27 x 16.75 x 25.5
Item Weight (Pounds)
19.36
Buy Now on Amazon
Best Britax
Preview
Britax B-Safe Gen2 Infant Car Seat, Eclipse Black SafeWash
Title
Britax B-Safe Gen2 — best Britax narrowest infant car seat
Rear-Facing
4-35 lb / up to 32″
Safety Ratings (NHTSA.gov)

Rear-Facing Mode:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Adjustable Headres
Advantage

✔ Travel System Compatible;
✔ Sturdy build with a high-strength steel reinforced base and SafeCell crumple zone;;
✔ Protective shell with foam provides head-to-toe safety;
✔ 3 easy steps with SafeCenter LATCH: connect lower anchors, pull straps to tighten, click carrier into the base;
✔ Travel System Compatible;

Item Dimensions LxWxH (inches)
26.6 x 17.9 x 25.85
Item Weight (Pounds)
19.91
Buy Now on Amazon

Top Affordable Rear-facing Car Seats Comparison Chart

Preview
Best Rear-Facing
Chicco KeyFit 30 Infant Car Seat and Base | Rear-Facing Seat for Infants 4-30 lbs.| Infant Head and Body Support | Compatible with...
Best Affordable
Safety 1st® Onboard 35 LT Infant Car Seat, Monument
Best Lightweight
Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX Infant Car Seat
Title
Chicco KeyFit 30 — best rear-facing car seat for 1-year-old
Safety 1st Onboard 35 LT — best affordable car seat for one year old
Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX — best travel car seat for 1 year old
Orientation
Rear Facing
Rear Facing
Rear Facing
Rear-Facing
4-30 pounds (up to 30”)
4-35 pounds (up to 32″)
4-35 pounds (up to 32″)
Forward-Facing
Product Dimensions
‎27.5 x 16.75 x 24 inches
15.75 x 18 x 30.5 inches
18.07 x 14.41 x 27.4 inches
Item Weight weight without base
9.5 pounds (4.3 kg)
10.5 pounds (4.7 kg)
3,2 pounds (3.2 kg)
Item Weight & Base
16.6 pounds (7.2 kg)
14.99 pounds (6.7 kg)
‎11.49 pounds (5.2 kg )
Buy Now on Amazon
Best Rear-Facing
Preview
Chicco KeyFit 30 Infant Car Seat and Base | Rear-Facing Seat for Infants 4-30 lbs.| Infant Head and Body Support | Compatible with...
Title
Chicco KeyFit 30 — best rear-facing car seat for 1-year-old
Orientation
Rear Facing
Rear-Facing
4-30 pounds (up to 30”)
Forward-Facing
Product Dimensions
‎27.5 x 16.75 x 24 inches
Item Weight weight without base
9.5 pounds (4.3 kg)
Item Weight & Base
16.6 pounds (7.2 kg)
Buy Now on Amazon
Best Affordable
Preview
Safety 1st® Onboard 35 LT Infant Car Seat, Monument
Title
Safety 1st Onboard 35 LT — best affordable car seat for one year old
Orientation
Rear Facing
Rear-Facing
4-35 pounds (up to 32″)
Forward-Facing
Product Dimensions
15.75 x 18 x 30.5 inches
Item Weight weight without base
10.5 pounds (4.7 kg)
Item Weight & Base
14.99 pounds (6.7 kg)
Buy Now on Amazon
Best Lightweight
Preview
Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX Infant Car Seat
Title
Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX — best travel car seat for 1 year old
Orientation
Rear Facing
Rear-Facing
4-35 pounds (up to 32″)
Forward-Facing
Product Dimensions
18.07 x 14.41 x 27.4 inches
Item Weight weight without base
3,2 pounds (3.2 kg)
Item Weight & Base
‎11.49 pounds (5.2 kg )
Buy Now on Amazon

Top-3 Convertible Car Seats 1-2-Year-Olds

Preview
BEST CHOICE
Britax One4Life ClickTight All-in-One Car Seat, Spark
Best Easy-To-Use
Chicco Fit4 Adapt 4-in-1 Convertible Car Seat, Rear-Facing Seat for Infants 4-40 lbs., Forward-Facing Car Seat 25-65 lbs., Booster...
Best Versatile
Evenflo EveryFit 4-in-1 Convertible Car Seat Featuring 12-Position Headrest, Two Integrated Cup Holders, Removable Snack Tray, and...
Title
Britax One4Life ClickTight — Best Convertible Car Seat on 2023
Chicco Fit4 4-In-1 Convertible Car Seat Chicco Fit4 — best Easy-To-Use ConvertibleCar Seat
Evenflo EveryFit 4-in-1 — Best Versatile Convertible CarSeat
Safety Ratings (NHTSA.gov)

Rear-Facing Mode:
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Forward-Facing Mode:
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Booster Mode:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Rear-Facing Mode:
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Forward-Facing Mode:
⭐⭐⭐⭐

Rear-Facing Mode:
⭐⭐⭐
Forward-Facing Mode:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Booster Mode:
⭐⭐⭐

Five-Point Harness
Rear-Facing
5-50 pounds / up to 49″
4-40 pounds / up to 43″
4-40 pounds / 17″-40″
Forward-Facing
20-65 pounds / up to 49″
25-65 pounds / up to 54″
22-65 pounds / 28″-49″
Positioning booster
40-120 pounds / 44″-63″
40-120 pounds / 44″-57″
Backless belt-positioning booster
40-120 pounds / 44″-57″
Product Dimensions
‎20.5 x 19.5 x 25 inches
‎22 x 19 x 26 inches
22.25 x 19 x 32.5 Inch
Safety
Patented V-shaped tether, high-strength steel frame, and crumple zone absorb crash energy to help keep your child safe
DuoGuard offers 2 layers of protection with a steel-reinforced frame and EPS energy-absorbing foam that surrounds the head and torso, while a best-in-class 10-position headrest accommodates maximum growth
Meets or exceeds all applicable federal safety standards and Evenflo’s side impact standard. It is tested at energy levels approximately 2X the federal crash test standard
Buy Now on Amazon
BEST CHOICE
Preview
Britax One4Life ClickTight All-in-One Car Seat, Spark
Title
Britax One4Life ClickTight — Best Convertible Car Seat on 2023
Safety Ratings (NHTSA.gov)

Rear-Facing Mode:
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Forward-Facing Mode:
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Booster Mode:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Five-Point Harness
Rear-Facing
5-50 pounds / up to 49″
Forward-Facing
20-65 pounds / up to 49″
Positioning booster
40-120 pounds / 44″-63″
Backless belt-positioning booster
Product Dimensions
‎20.5 x 19.5 x 25 inches
Safety
Patented V-shaped tether, high-strength steel frame, and crumple zone absorb crash energy to help keep your child safe
Buy Now on Amazon
Best Easy-To-Use
Preview
Chicco Fit4 Adapt 4-in-1 Convertible Car Seat, Rear-Facing Seat for Infants 4-40 lbs., Forward-Facing Car Seat 25-65 lbs., Booster...
Title
Chicco Fit4 4-In-1 Convertible Car Seat Chicco Fit4 — best Easy-To-Use ConvertibleCar Seat
Safety Ratings (NHTSA.gov)

Rear-Facing Mode:
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Forward-Facing Mode:
⭐⭐⭐⭐

Five-Point Harness
Rear-Facing
4-40 pounds / up to 43″
Forward-Facing
25-65 pounds / up to 54″
Positioning booster
Backless belt-positioning booster
Product Dimensions
‎22 x 19 x 26 inches
Safety
DuoGuard offers 2 layers of protection with a steel-reinforced frame and EPS energy-absorbing foam that surrounds the head and torso, while a best-in-class 10-position headrest accommodates maximum growth
Buy Now on Amazon
Best Versatile
Preview
Evenflo EveryFit 4-in-1 Convertible Car Seat Featuring 12-Position Headrest, Two Integrated Cup Holders, Removable Snack Tray, and...
Title
Evenflo EveryFit 4-in-1 — Best Versatile Convertible CarSeat
Safety Ratings (NHTSA.gov)

Rear-Facing Mode:
⭐⭐⭐
Forward-Facing Mode:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Booster Mode:
⭐⭐⭐

Five-Point Harness
Rear-Facing
4-40 pounds / 17″-40″
Forward-Facing
22-65 pounds / 28″-49″
Positioning booster
40-120 pounds / 44″-57″
Backless belt-positioning booster
40-120 pounds / 44″-57″
Product Dimensions
22.25 x 19 x 32.5 Inch
Safety
Meets or exceeds all applicable federal safety standards and Evenflo’s side impact standard. It is tested at energy levels approximately 2X the federal crash test standard
Buy Now on Amazon

The Best Infant Car Seat For One-year-old

October 9, 2024 7:59 pm

UPPAbaby MESA: NHTSA Ease of Use Ratings

UPPAbaby MESA: NHTSA Ease of Use Ratings

The Best Infant Car Seat Under Two-year-old

October 9, 2024 7:59 pm
Chicco KeyFit 30 Demo
Chicco Keyfit 30: NHTSA Ease of Use Ratings

Best Car Seat with Advanced Side Impact Protection

October 9, 2024 7:59 pm

Best Affordable Car Seat Meeting Federal Standards

October 9, 2024 7:59 pm

Best Lightweight Travel Car Seat

October 9, 2024 7:59 pm

The Best Convertible Car Seat (1-2-Year-Olds)

October 8, 2024 6:43 pm

The Best Versatile Convertible Car Seat

October 9, 2024 7:59 pm
Choosing the Perfect Car Seat for Your Toddler

Features To Look For In The Top Car Seats for One-Two-Year-Olds

  • Safety rating: Look for a car seat that has been tested thoroughly and has achieved a high safety rating from an independent testing body like NHTSA or Consumer Reports.
  • Comfort & Convenience: It’s important to make sure your child is as comfortable as possible while in the car seat. Look for adjustable straps and headrests, as well as soft padding on the seats and backrests, and ensure that it’s easy to get in and out of the seat too.
  • Ease of use: You want a car seat that’s easy to install and remove, so be sure to check customer reviews before buying to get an idea of how user-friendly each model is. Also, look at how adjustable the straps are – can they easily be adjusted as your child grows? Make sure it has all the necessary accessories like cup holders or snack trays too!
  • Size & weight limits: Make sure you select a car seat that accommodates your child’s height, weight, and age range correctly. Check with product packaging or online resources to determine if it fits within those limits before purchase.
  • Durability: Car seats can take quite a beating over time due to things such as spills, scratches, and general wear-and-tear; so if you want one that will last – opt for something made from sturdy materials such as heavy-duty plastic or metal frames with robust fabric covers where needed.

Average Height to Weight Chart of a Child

Male Toddlers: 1-2 Years (Updated: 2022-10-16, Author: Disabled World)
Age WeightLength
1 Years21.3 lb. (9.66 kg)29.8″ (75.7 cm)
2 Years27.5 lb. (12.47 kg)34.2″ (86.8 cm)
Female Toddlers: 1-2 Years (Updated: 2022-10-16, Author: Disabled World)
Age WeightLength
1 Years20.4 lb. (9.25 kg)29.2″ (74.1 cm)
2 Years26.5 lb. (12.02 kg)33.7″ (85.5 cm)

Recommended (nhtsa.gov) car seats based on your child's age and size
Recommended (nhtsa.gov)
How We Tested Car Seats for 1-2-Year-Olds
How We Tested Car Seats for 1-2-Year-Olds

Your Guide to the Top Car Seats for 1-2-Year-Olds

Navigating the world of car seats can seem daunting, especially with the plethora of choices available. From my personal experience and rigorous testing, I’ve handpicked some of the best car seats suitable for one-two year-olds. Here’s a peek at what my detailed reviews reveal:

  1. UppaBaby Mesa Infant Car Seat: A fantastic blend of safety, convenience, and style, this car seat is a top contender. My firsthand experience provides more insights on its advantages.
  2. Britax B-Safe Gen2 Infant Car Seat: Recognized for its exceptional safety features, this is a reliable option for your child. As my own trials have shown, the comfort it provides is unparalleled.
  3. Chicco KeyFit 30: Known for its ease of installation and secure fit, this car seat is a solid choice for many parents. Using this product, I found that its features definitely live up to the hype.
  4. Safety 1st Onboard 35 LT: This seat is a fusion of comfort and safety. Based on my observations, it’s designed to keep your little one secure and cozy on all your journeys.
  5. Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX: A lightweight yet sturdy car seat, its features are worth exploring. My analysis of this product demonstrates that it’s an excellent value-for-money option.

These detailed reviews and extensive research offer a holistic view of the top car seats for 1-2-year-olds in today’s market. Join me on this journey as we explore each of these seats in depth, helping you make an informed choice for your little one’s comfort and safety. So let’s buckle up and delve in!

Top Picks for Child Safety on the Go

Navigating the car seat market can be daunting, especially given the paramount importance of child safety while traveling. To help parents find the best options, I recommend visiting the following pages:

  1. Best Convertible Car Seat for Air Travel: If you travel frequently and need a car seat that’s convenient for airplane use, check out this guide. It’s an indispensable resource for identifying the best convertible car seat for air travel.
  2. Best Graco Carseat: Graco is a trusted brand when it comes to car seats. This page provides detailed reviews and rankings of the best Graco carseats, helping you find a reliable option that suits your specific needs.
  3. Best Lightweight Car Seat for Travel: When traveling, the lighter the car seat, the easier it is to manage. Explore this page to discover the best lightweight car seat options for travel.
  4. Best 3-in-1 Car Seats: 3-in-1 car seats offer versatility and longevity as they adapt to your child’s growth. This guide will help you find the best 3-in-1 car seats on the market.
  5. Britax One4Life vs Graco 4Ever: If you’re torn between the Britax One4Life and the Graco 4Ever, this comprehensive comparison will help you weigh the pros and cons of each.

Remember, choosing the right car seat is crucial for your child’s safety. These guides offer expert advice and reviews, providing a reliable basis for your decision.

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9 responses to “Best Car Seats for 1-2-Year-Olds in 2024: Find What You Need!”

  1. Kate Avatar
    Kate

    Do you need to use the base with the Chicco KeyFit 30 car seat?

    1. Nicole Moore Avatar

      You can use a latch or belt locks with the Chicco base, but you need it if your little one is going in and out of car seats regularly. The shoulder strap has its own safety feature that keeps them from getting suffocated by seat belts so there are no worries about those old-fashioned choking hazards!

  2. Kim Avatar
    Kim

    Can I buy head support separately from Chicco KeyFit 30 for my newborn?

    1. Nicole Moore Avatar

      You should always research the accessories you want before buying them so that when it comes time to use your new seat, there are no surprises. Make sure this head support is approved by car manufacturers and never install anything else onto our vehicle without checking with us first!

  3. Catherine Avatar
    Catherine

    What is the difference between a snap connection and a tight lock in the Graco SnugRide 35 car seat?

    1. Nicole Moore Avatar

      The Snug lock is click-connect enabled and its unique mechanism will keep your seatbelt securely fastened without having that loose rocking feeling, like most car seats.

  4. Tess Avatar
    Tess

    How wide is this at Safety 1st Onboard 35 LT widest point?

    1. Nicole Moore Avatar

      The Safety 1st Onboard 35 LT child car seat is 16.75 inches wide at its widest point.

  5. Mabel Avatar
    Mabel

    Does this work Safety 1st OnBoard 35 LT with a pivot system?

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