Booster for children in a car - how to choose and install correctly?

A booster seat is a device that is often used to transport small children. Due to the seat and armrests, it is possible to place the baby higher in order to use the seat belts correctly. But at what age can you transfer a child from a seat to a booster seat?

How to choose such a device and which models should you look at first?

To answer these questions, we have compiled a rating of the most popular models in terms of price/quality ratio, based on the opinions of experts and users.

This tip will allow you not to get lost in the rich assortment and choose exactly the booster that will suit both you and your child.

Rating of the TOP 15 best boosters for children 2020-2021

Tips for choosing a booster

There are several points that you must pay attention to when purchasing a booster:

• A high-quality product must contain three important layers, namely a soft layer, a dense frame and a fabric covering;
• It is worth paying attention to the dimensions of the device, because the child will grow rapidly, and there should always be enough space for him;
• Since the device can be used for more than ten years, it is worth paying attention to the density of the fabric.

There are also several auxiliary factors that are also important when purchasing this device. For example, it is better to choose dark-colored products. This will reduce the risk of stains.

How to choose a booster seat for a child in the car?

When buying a booster in 2021, it is important to decide:

1. With the weight of a child . There are models that can be used for age groups 2-3 (weight from 15-36 kg), and there are only for group 3 (weight from 22-36 kg).
2. Type of seat fastening . There are two of them - using standard car belts and the Isofix system. The latter will provide a more reliable fixation, without displacement when the car moves suddenly, even when there is no child in it.
3. With seat belt guides . Not every model has them. Such adjusters will ensure the correct position of the belt on the child’s shoulder and protect it from shifting.
4. With seat width . See how comfortable your child will be in the booster seat, especially in winter clothes.
5. With weight, dimensions, softness of the seat . If you often go on long trips with your child, the seat should be soft so that the child’s body does not become numb. If the booster will be used in several cars, or you are buying it for taxi/car sharing, try to choose light and compact models, consider options with a folding mechanism.

Booster design

A car booster for starting an engine is a small suitcase unit, the main component of which is the battery. The device is designed to recharge a car battery and improve engine starting. The device is quite relevant in cold and frosty winters with temperatures from -20 and below. Also, advanced models allow you to charge mobile gadgets such as tablets and smartphones. Most boosters use a lithium polymer (Li-Pol) battery. This type of battery has a lot of advantages: reliability, durability, high capacity with relatively low weight. However, advanced developments are already using a new type - lithium iron phosphate batteries. Such products have an even longer service life, higher output current compared to other types of batteries and a lower discharge rate. The case also contains a control board that processes button presses and performs the necessary actions. Each device has two wires with alligator clips (plus and minus), which are connected to terminals on the car. Full-size models have several USB ports for charging mobile gadgets and a built-in flashlight. You can also find compact models on the market, which are slightly larger in size than regular smartphones. The principle of operation of the booster is similar to PowerBank for phones.

TOP 5 best children's booster seats for cars by price/quality for 2021

RANT Flyfix

This seat is an intermediate form between a car seat and a booster, which is why it is very popular among buyers..

The booster has a high soft seat and a small backrest with an inclination, which is convenient for the child to lean on while traveling.

The manufacturer also took care of high and wide armrests, which will absorb the main force of a side impact . This booster looks very reliable and safe compared to other models.

The manufacturer indicates in the instructions that the seat is best used for a child with a height of 125 cm and a weight of up to 36 kg.

Two types of fastening are available - using the Isofix system and standard seat belts. The booster comes with a wear-resistant, removable cover that can be machine washed at 30 degrees.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - second and third / from 15 to 36 kg.
2. There are no internal belts.
3. Fastening type: Isofix, vehicle belts.
4. Weight - 3.5 kg.

pros

• there is a small back;
• two types of fastening;
• lightweight design.

Minuses

• not detected.

Peg-Perego Viaggio Shuttle

Comfortable booster seat in solid colors, with high armrests . seat

It is made of two-layer foaming polystyrene, which ensures comfort and safety even when traveling over long distances.

It absorbs most of the braking in a crash . The model is installed using standard seat belts or using Isofix hooks of your car.

The latter method ensures reliable fastening of the booster even if there is no child in it, that is, the device does not slide around the car seat.

To ensure that the seat belt is correctly placed on the baby’s shoulder, the manufacturer has provided a tension lock. There is also a convenient handle for carrying, as well as a cup holder.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - second and third / from 15 to 36 kg.
2. There are no internal belts.
3. Fastening type: car belts, Isofix.
4. Weight - 3 kg.

pros

• classic design;
• softness and safety of the seat;
• high armrests;
• two types of fastening;
• There is a carrying handle.

Minuses

• more expensive than other models.

Siger Booster FIX

The seat from Siger is very popular among parents of babies weighing from 22 to 36 kg.

The booster is attached to the car seat using standard belts or using the Isofix system.

The fixation is reliable, the device does not slide around the seat of the car, and can be easily placed in another place.

The booster is equipped with small armrests so that the child can sit comfortably.

However, the manufacturer recommends that before purchasing you make sure that the booster can be used in your car.

The fact is that in some brands the booster covers the place where the belt is attached .

There is also a small gap between the car seat and the booster, but, according to most buyers, this has virtually no effect on the comfort of placement.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - third, from 22 to 36 kg.
2. There are no internal belts.
3. Fastening type: car belts, Isofix.
4. Weight - 3.1 kg.

pros

• compact and lightweight model;
• there are armrests;
• two types of fastening.

Minuses

• Doesn't fit every car.

Heyner SafeUp XL Comfort

This booster is a simpler version of the SafeUp XL Fix model from the same brand, which we will discuss below.

The booster has a wide seat and high armrests, so it is suitable for large and tall children. And the breathable materials used for the seat upholstery will ensure comfort even in hot weather.

There are ISO 9001 and ECE-R 44/04 certificates, which act as a guarantee of the safety and reliability of the device.

The product is regularly tested by Rostest and is considered one of the safest restraint devices for this age group in 2021.

The booster is attached to the rear or front seat of the car using standard belts.

The booster is equipped with a special guide that allows you to control the belt tension.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - second and third / from 15 to 36 kg.
2. There are no internal belts.
3. Fastening type: car seat belts.
4. Weight - 2.3 kg.

pros

• high armrests and wide seat;
• ease of use and fixation;
• breathable materials;
• There is a belt guide.

Minuses

• The upholstery wears out after a year or a year and a half.

Heyner SafeUp XL Fix

An excellent booster option for regular installation in a car, due to its large dimensions and weight of 3.6 kg - it’s not always possible to take such a seat with you.

However, we immediately note the increased comfort of the model - the seat is soft, upholstered in thick fabric. Installed in cars using standard belts or the Isofix system, both in the front and rear seats.

The booster has soft armrests, and mesh baskets are sewn on the sides for bottles, toys and other small things that may be needed during the trip..

The device is attached very securely, the fixation does not depend on whether the child is sitting in it or not. The seat has an elongated cushion that provides support for the legs.

The seat width is 40 cm, of which 36 cm is the usable area . And the discreet colors will fit into any salon.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - third / from 22 to 36 kg.
2. There are no internal belts.
3. Fastening type: Isofix, vehicle belts.
4. Weight - 3.6 kg.

pros

• high-quality construction and durable materials;
• soft upholstery;
• there are pads on the belts;
• there is no gap between the booster and the seat back;
• two types of installation.

Minuses

• price;
• weight, not suitable for transportation.

Do you need a launch booster?

A car booster is a really useful and practical thing. It will help start the car if the battery is faulty or completely dead. These are common situations, since a car left for a long time with the headlights, hazard lights or alarm on will quickly “gobble up” the entire battery charge. Some people actively charge phones or other equipment in the car, but forget to turn it off. To start the car without any problems, we recommend using a booster. It is worth noting that there are a number of alternatives to using a booster:

• recharging a car battery in a garage using a charger (if available);
• starting the engine from another standard battery, which is already charged.
• “lighting up” (the process of starting a car from the battery of another car using special wires).
• starting the engine manually (method not available on modern foreign cars).

The driver must independently choose one of the described items or a booster. But it should be borne in mind that buying a booster is a profitable investment. The device will quickly help you out in critical situations, and can also be used to recharge mobile equipment.

TOP 5 best boosters group 2/3 for children 15-36 kg

AUTOPROFI Smeshariki SM/DK-500

This booster model from the AUTOPROFI brand will definitely attract the child's attention thanks to his favorite characters from the popular cartoon series..

The device is suitable for children of the second and third age groups, weighing from 15 to 36 kg.

It is equipped with comfortable soft armrests and is attached to the front or rear seat using standard seat belts.

Let us note the slightly elongated shape of the soft seat - its sloping end comfortably supports the child’s legs, protecting them from numbness . The seat is quite wide, it is not cramped even in winter clothes, for example, overalls.

Fixing the booster does not take much time, and if necessary, it can be easily moved to another car, because the model weighs only about 1700 grams.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - second and third / from 15 to 36 kg.
2. There are no internal belts.
3. Fastening type: car belts.
4. Weight - 1.7 kg.

pros

• extended seat;
• comfortable armrests;
• Attractive design for kids.

Minuses

• cartoon pictures do not always fit into the car interior.

RANT Play Story line

An inexpensive booster model from the RANT company, it features a classic design and discreet covers that will look appropriate in the interior of any car..

The device is secured with standard seat belts, and the manufacturer has provided soft armrests for support. The seat is soft and anatomically shaped, making it comfortable even on long trips.

The booster is intended for children of the second and third age groups; it can be attached to both the front and rear seats.

Let us also note the inexpensive cost of the model; its purchase will not greatly affect the family budget.

The cover is very easy to remove; all dirt can be removed using a regular washing machine.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - second and third / from 15 to 36 kg.
2. There are no internal belts.
3. Fastening type: car belts.
4. Weight - 2.8 kg.

pros

• convenient to fasten;
• light weight;
• there is a seat belt lock;
• nice appearance.

Minuses

• not detected.

Renolux Jet

Thanks to the high soft armrests and the same soft seat with an extended cushion, this booster seat is ideal if you are going on a long trip with your child, but the baby does not like the car seat or feels uncomfortable.

The manufacturer indicates that the booster is used for a child weighing 15 kg and at least 100 cm tall.

The removable cover made of plain fabric fits any interior and is also easily machine washable.

The booster is secured using car seat belts . Despite the Chinese production, the quality of the design does not raise doubts about reliability.

The main frame is made of durable metal, and the tall, soft, high-density polyurethane cushion absorbs most of the impact or braking force when needed.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - second and third / from 15 to 36 kg.
2. There are no internal belts.
3. Fastening type: car belts.

pros

• high and soft pillow;
• comfortable armrests;
• soft support for feet.

Minuses

• There are no belt guides.

Chicco Quasar Plus

The main feature of this booster from the popular company Chicco is the Qyasar Plus anatomical seat, which ensures a comfortable and ideal fit for the child..

The model is also equipped with two hard armrests with fabric covering. The booster is installed in the direction of travel, in the rear and front seats, and is secured with car seat belts.

The fabric cover in a single color matches any upholstery and can be easily removed for washing..

The booster meets all safety standards, is compact in size and weighs less than one kilogram.

To ensure that the seat belts are positioned correctly, special guides are provided - they will not allow the belt to move to the side or put pressure on the child’s body.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - second and third / from 15 to 36 kg.
2. There are no internal belts.
3. Fastening type: standard vehicle belts.
4. Weight - 950 grams.

pros

• high-quality materials and light weight;
• comfortable sitting;
• There are belt guides;
• high armrests.

Minuses

• The seat is too hard for long trips.

Happy Baby Booster Rider

A model from a popular English manufacturing company, which is considered an example of an ideal price-quality ratio.

The device weighs only 1.3 kg, which makes it easy to move it between cars or take it with you. The booster is secured with standard belts; there are no internal belts.

The model is suitable for installation not only on the back seat, but also on the front.

The seat upholstery is soft, as are the small armrests. The booster is suitable for babies from 99 to 145 cm tall and complies with the ECE R44/04 safety standard.

The position of the belt is adjusted using a special limiter . A wide range of colors allows you to choose a booster to match any upholstery.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - second and third / from 15 to 36 kg.
2. There are no internal belts.
3. Fastening type: standard belts.
4. Weight - 1.3 kg.

pros

• lightweight device, quick to install;
• compact dimensions;
• reliability of design;
• Belt guides are installed.

Minuses

• no isofix fastening;
• The armrests are a bit hard.

Advantages and disadvantages of boosters

It is necessary to consider the pros and cons of a booster on each specific model, since only the process of operation will help to identify them. But if we talk in general about this class of devices, we can highlight the following advantages:

• the ability to conveniently and relatively quickly start a car with a dead battery;
• compact size, which allows you to carry the booster in the trunk or even carry it in the pocket of a bag/backpack;
• accessibility, since you can find hundreds of different models on the market to suit every taste;
• relative cheapness, because buying a booster is more rational than purchasing a second new battery;
• wide functionality, since the user can use the booster to charge not only the battery, but also mobile gadgets (Android and even Apple devices);
• possibility of an unlimited number of launch times for stationary boosters.

The only drawback for drivers can be the price. Not everyone can afford high-quality and powerful models, so you have to carefully monitor the available choices to find the optimal booster for your budget and needs.

TOP 5 best boosters group 3 for children 22-36 kg

Mifold The Grab and Go Booster

A popular option among parents who often use taxi or car sharing services.

When folded, the device is very small in size, 25.5 by 12.7 cm and weighs 750 grams. Therefore, the booster will easily fit into your backpack until the next use. The booster is intended for children of the third age group, weighing from 22 kg.

The device is secured with standard belts, the design is suitable for any make of car.

It’s nice that the manufacturer took care of the belt tension lock. This ensures a secure fit for both the booster and the child.

But one of the disadvantages is the lack of armrests.

It is clear that they had to be abandoned for the sake of compactness and mobility, but this still affects the comfort of the small passenger, and when making a sharp turn, the child falls to the side.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - third / from 22 to 36 kg.
2. There are no internal belts.
3. Fastening type: car seat belts.
4. Weight - 750 grams.

pros

• the seat is height adjustable;
• there is a belt tension lock;
• little weight.

Minuses

• no armrests.

Siger Booster

A convenient model of an everyday booster seat for transporting children aged 6 years or older or weighing from 22 to 36 kg.

Available in orange, gray and blue, it is equipped with high armrests with a comfortable curve.

It is the armrests and high soft seat with increased seating that make this device an ideal option for traveling long distances.

The booster is secured with standard seat belts in one movement.

It can be installed on the back and front seats, and if necessary, it can be easily unfastened and moved into the trunk.

There is a lock that will monitor the tension of the belt and prevent it from slipping off your child’s shoulder . The booster has a removable cover that can be machine washed.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - third / from 22 to 36 kg.
2. There are no internal belts.
3. Fastening type: car belts.
4. Weight - 3.1 kg.

pros

• affordable price;
• wide seat;
• suitable for long trips;
• comfortable armrests.

Minuses

• There is a gap between the device and the seat.

Zlatek Gals

A lightweight booster option that will be a real salvation for a family where the restraint device regularly moves from one car to another.

It weighs only one kilogram, the main frame consists of durable plastic that can absorb impact in a collision.

The model is secured with standard seat belts and can be installed in both the front and rear seats.

It is worth saying that this model is more suitable for everyday use within the city - taking the child to classes or on a visit.

The seat here is not as soft as other models, so the child may experience discomfort on long trips. The surface of the booster is easy to care for; the fabric covering can be easily cleaned with wet wipes or a brush.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - third / from 22 to 36 kg.
2. There are no internal belts.
3. Fastening type: car belts.
4. Weight - 1 kg.

pros

• budget price;
• simple fastening;
• easy;
• comfortable armrests.

Minuses

• hard seat;
• Lots of plastic in the design.

Smart Travel Trust Fix

Convenient booster seat for the third age group, with a removable cover made of durable, wear-resistant fabric that is machine washable.

The model is equipped with wide and high armrests, which, if necessary, will protect against a side impact. The booster has a wide seat, which, however, is not soft, so it is better to use it for trips around the city.

Two mounting options are available - car seat belts or using the Isofix system.

The latter provides a more reliable fixation; even an empty booster will not move on the seat of your car during sudden movement.

Additionally, there is also a seat belt tension lock so that it is placed properly on the child’s body.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - third / from 22 to 36 kg.
2. There are no internal belts.
3. Fastening type: Isofix, vehicle belts.
4. Weight - 2.54 kg.

pros

• two mounting options;
• comfortable armrests;
• There is a belt tension lock.

Minuses

• not detected.

Graco Booster Basic (Sport Lime)

A practical model that is suitable for families with several cars - compact dimensions, simple mounting and a weight of 2 kg allow you to quickly move the booster from one car to another.

There are two retractable cup holders at the bottom, and the manufacturer did not forget about comfortable armrests. The model is intended for children of the third age group, up to 150 cm in height.

Let’s say right away that many parents point out the rigidity of the seat, so they rarely take it on a long trip . But for trips around the city, in a personal car or taxi, the booster is ideal.

The cover is removable, made of thick fabric, from which minor dirt can be easily removed with a regular damp cloth.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - third / from 22 to 36 kg.
2. There are no internal belts.
3. Fastening type: car belts.
4. Weight - 2 kg.

pros

• quality of construction;
• reliable fixation;
• practicality, ease of use;
• two cup holders.

Minuses

• hard seat;
• When driving, the cup holders may rattle; additional fixation is required.

Types of car seats

Car seats appeared in the 20th century, but then their main purpose was considered to be that the child would not distract the driver.

Now such devices provide safety and protect children from injury. Many manufacturers are trying to equip their products with a large number of additional functions and options. However, there are certain standards that structures must meet.

It all depends on their type:

• car seat - for newborns;
• car seat - for ages 0+;
• first group;
• second group;
• booster.

The choice of device is based on the child’s age, height and weight. The first four groups are generally similar to each other and have no fundamental differences. In any case, the child will be secured in the car seat on all sides.

Which company should you choose?

In 2021, experts recommend taking a closer look at booster models from the following manufacturers:

1. Graco . There are many models for children from 5 to 12 years old, with soft seats and simple care rules.
2. Chicco . The main profile of the company is children's furniture. But among the manufacturer’s products there are several popular models of car seats and a comfortable and high-quality Qussar booster model, which is suitable for a child weighing over 18 kg.
3. Heuner . This is a German manufacturer that produces a wide range of children's booster seats that meet international standards. The brand often uses unique technologies, and the price tag is quite loyal to the quality of the devices.
4. Clek Ozzi . There are many budget models that are of high quality. There are devices for large children that can withstand heavy loads.

Alternative options

Some parents wonder: is it possible to use a regular pillow instead of a booster? Car seat manufacturers do not recommend transporting children in a car without suitable restraints. No pillow can provide safety the way a special car seat can. Is it worth saving when it comes to the life and health of a child?

Do not forget that transporting children under 12 years of age without a car seat is prohibited. There is a fine for children being in a car without a restraint. The pillow is not such a special device, so it cannot replace a booster or car seat.

Statistics help quantify the risk of children being in a car without a special restraint device. In case of an accident, the risk of injury to a baby in a car seat is about 11%. Without a child seat, this figure exceeds 25%.

At what age according to the rules can a booster be used?

In 2021, it was possible to transfer a child from a car seat to a booster from the age of three. In rare cases, it was allowed to rely not on the baby’s age, but on his weight and height, if he was cramped and uncomfortable in a standard chair.

Do not forget that three years of age is not the only criterion by which “relocation” can be carried out..

The baby's weight must be at least 15 kg, and his height must be at least 120 cm.

In 2021, at the time of writing this article (end of February), there are no changes in the transportation rules, and if the parameters described above are reached, the child is also allowed to be transported in a booster.

At what age is it legal to switch from a car seat to a booster?

The relatively low price of boosters allows you to change models as the child grows. It is recommended to be guided by the same criterion when the question of changing a car seat comes up on the agenda, because if the child is as comfortable as possible in it, then there is no need to rush to change it.

If, on the contrary, he is clearly cramped in the seat, then it’s time to think about a booster, which will make the experience of the trip practically no different from that of adults. That is, in some cases it makes sense to be guided not by the child’s age, but by his weight, dimensions and comfort.

Also read: at what age can you use a “corner” for fastening a child.

Another thing is that the baby must be at least 3 and no more than 12 years old, because car seats for children were developed specifically for this age category, not excluding the use of a chair if it is still comfortable.

If the child is already 3 years old, then this is not a reason to quickly seat him in a chair. Instead, it is strongly recommended to measure its basic physical parameters, remembering that the optimal values ​​for transplantation from one device to another are 15 kg of weight and 120 cm of height, without which it is better not to rush.

Requirements from traffic regulations

The decision regarding the transportation of children was made back in 2021, and according to it, from the moment of birth until the age of 11, a child can travel in a vehicle exclusively in a special device, which can mean both a car seat and a booster.

It is strongly recommended not to choose a booster without a child

This means that the choice between a full-fledged chair with a backrest and a seat is a personal matter for parents; another thing is that, due to physiological characteristics, you certainly can’t carry babies in a booster seat, so it still makes sense to use the chair at the first stage, transferring the child to the seat no earlier than three years of age.

In front, it will be necessary to transport a small passenger exclusively in a restraint device, and so on until the age of 12, when you can already limit yourself to belts alone.

Selection by weight and height

For those who are not sure about choosing the optimal device for transporting children, it is worth giving some practical advice. And first of all, we are talking about the fact that in addition to boosters without a back, you can easily find devices with this part on sale, made in the form of a compact chair. By the way, this model is ideal for transporting thin, short children who are much smaller than their peers.

If the child is large and also mobile, then a seat without a backrest will be more suitable for him, the role of which will be played by the internal equipment of the car itself. As for the fixation, in both cases it will be equally reliable, assuming a rigid attachment to the car seats. But the child will be fastened in different ways: with the straps of a booster, made in the form of a high chair, or with the straps of the car itself, if you only have to use one seat without a backrest.

The upholstery material is also of great importance, and if possible, it is better to give preference to natural, breathable materials.

If we talk about fastening systems, today the most common ones are the American Latch with carabiners, the European Lsofix with brackets, as well as the ideal Top Tether anchor mechanism for infant carriers, despite the fact that they all have their own advantages.

Popular models and prices

In addition to all other conventions, it is worth paying attention to who created such a product. Its quality, durability and degree of safety depend on this indicator.

In total, we can highlight several of the most popular manufacturers:

1. "Click Ozzie." Today it is the most popular manufacturer in the world market that produces boosters. The demand is caused by the fact that you can find models for fairly large children, whose weight reaches up to 54 kilograms, its approximate cost is 2,500 rubles;
2. The most expensive device is produced by . It can be purchased for about 5,000 rubles. The boosters are quite large, but at the same time light, their weight reaches up to a kilogram;
3. famous for the most saturated type of goods. You can purchase the design in a completely different color shade. Its cost is about 3,000 rubles.

You should be wary if you come across a model in a store at a fairly low price. This suggests that the manufacturer saved money on basic materials. You should refuse such an offer, as it will not meet all security requirements.