Juggling multiple car seats in a cramped backseat can feel like a frustrating puzzle, especially when aiming to fit three across. But fear not, parents with a crew! This guide dives deep into the world of car seats that can conquer the 3-across challenge.
We’ll explore top options known for their slim designs and space-saving features, helping you create a safe and secure ride for all your little passengers.
From lightweight infant carriers to convertible car seats, we’ll cover the best choices for fitting three car seats comfortably across your vehicle’s backseat. So, buckle up and get ready to find the perfect car seat solution for your growing family
Best Car Seats That Fit 3-Across
Here are the best Car Seats That Fit 3-Across
BEST FOR INFANT
- Century Carry On 35 LX
- Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35
- Nuna Pipa RX
- Chicco KeyFit 30
BEST FOR 3-Across Convertible Car Seats
- Graco SlimFit3 LX
- Safety 1st TriMate
- Britax Boulevard ClickTight Convertible Car Seat
- Britax Poplar Convertible Car Seat
- Clek Fllo Convertible Car Seat
BEST FOR 3-Across Combination Seats
- Chicco MyFit
- Cosco Finale
Best 3 Across Booster Seats
- Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Highback Booster
- Peg Perego Viaggio Flex 120 Highback Booster
Best 3-Across Infant Car Seats
Century Carry On 35 LX Lightweight Infant Car Seat
This infant car seat is a lifesaver for parents with limited space in their car! At only 17 inches wide, it can squeeze into some pretty cramped backseats. Plus, it’s a featherweight at just under 7 pounds, making it easy to carry around. Installation is a breeze too, thanks to the simple base design.
What we really love about this car seat is how compact it is, both from front to back and side to side. This makes it a great option for parents of premature babies who might need a little extra legroom. And get this – the comfy cover is actually made from recycled water bottles! Pretty cool, right? An eco-friendly choice for your little one’s first rides.
Another bonus: This Century car seat is compatible with Century strollers, which offer a variety of options to grow with your baby. So you can create a travel system that’s convenient and easy to use.
Graco Snug Ride Snug Lock 35 | Baby Car Seat, Redmond
Ever tried squeezing three car seats across your backseat? It can feel like a game of Tetris, especially with that awkward space left in the middle after installing two seats on the outside. If you could just nudge those outer car seats a tiny bit closer to the doors, everything would fit perfectly!
Well, fret no more, parents of multiples! Graco’s SnugLock technology might be your saving grace. Here’s why:
- Magic Inch: The SnugLock base has a special seat belt lock-off feature. This lets you position the car seat base slightly off-center on your vehicle seat. Those precious extra inches next to it can be the difference between a crammed middle seat and a happy three-across setup!
- Slim and Trim: The SnugRide SnugLock infant car seat itself is a space-saver too, measuring only 17.5 inches wide. This narrow profile helps maximize space when fitting multiple car seats across the backseat.
Together, the Snug Lock technology and the narrow design of the Snug Ride Snug Lock infant car seat make it a top contender for parents tackling the 3-across car seat challenge!
Nuna Pipa RX
The Nuna Pipa RX infant car seat is a dream come true for parents juggling multiple car seats, especially those with limited backseat space. Here’s why this car seat might be your perfect match:
- Slim Fit, Big Comfort: At only 17 inches wide and under 10 pounds (without the base), the Pipa RX is a lightweight champion. This makes it easier to carry and maneuver, and more importantly, it helps you squeeze three car seats across the backseat without feeling like you’re playing Tetris.
- Three-Across Savior: Just like the previous seat we discussed, the Pipa RX has a seat belt lock-off feature. This allows for some wiggle room during installation, potentially creating valuable extra inches when trying to fit three car seats across your vehicle.
- Safety and Luxury: The Pipa RX goes beyond just space-saving features. It boasts premium, toxin-free materials for your little one’s comfort, and a full-coverage canopy with a magnetic attachment for easy use. Supportive infant inserts ensure a snug and comfortable ride for your newborn.
- Built for Safety: Nuna prioritizes safety with features like the Rigid Latch and load leg, which help absorb impact during a crash. The Pipa RX is also compatible with all Nuna strollers and many other brands with the right adapters, allowing you to create a convenient travel system.
So, if you’re looking for a car seat that offers a perfect blend of space-saving design, comfort features, and top-notch safety, the Nuna Pipa RX might be your ideal choice, especially for parents tackling the 3-across car seat challenge!
Chicco Key Fit 30 Infant Car Seat and Base
The Chicco KeyFit 30 infant car seat is another great option for parents wrestling with limited backseat space. Here’s why this car seat might be a perfect fit for your little one’s first journeys:
- Inches Matter: At 17 inches wide, the KeyFit 30 is a space-saving champion. Don’t underestimate the power of those half-inch measurements! Sometimes, that tiny bit extra can make all the difference when trying to fit three car seats across your backseat.
- Versatility is Key: This Chicco car seat seamlessly clicks into any Chicco stroller, making it easy to create a travel system. And the good news doesn’t stop there! With the right adapters (sold separately), the KeyFit 30 is compatible with a variety of other popular stroller brands, offering you flexibility.
- Comfort and Convenience: The KeyFit 30 comes with a removable infant insert that provides additional support for your newborn. It also includes a canopy to shield your baby from the sun, and the seat pad is completely machine washable – a lifesaver for any parent dealing with inevitable spills!
- Easy Does It: This car seat is known for being user-friendly. With just a few simple adjustments as your baby grows, you can ensure a safe and comfortable fit throughout their early stages.
So, if you’re looking for a narrow infant car seat that prioritizes space-saving design, versatility, and ease of use, the Chicco Key Fit 30 might be the perfect match for you!
BEST FOR 3-Across Convertible Car Seats
Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 Car Seat, Fits 3 Car Seats Across, Kunningham
The Graco SlimFit3 LX lives up to its name; it’s a lifesaver for parents struggling to fit three car seats across their backseat! Here’s why this convertible car seat might be your perfect match:
Space-Saving Superstar:
At only 16.7 inches wide, the SlimFit3 LX is a champion when it comes to saving space. This narrow design allows you to fit three car seats across your backseat without feeling like you’re in a puzzle competition.
Easy Installation, Anywhere:
Forget complicated adjustments! This car seat features no-rethread harness straps and an integrated lock-off for easy forward-facing seat belt installation. No matter where you place the SlimFit3 LX in your car, installation and adjustments are a breeze.
Bonus for Busy Parents:
The seat cover is a lifesaver! Strategic snaps and velcro allow you to remove it for cleaning without uninstalling the entire car seat perfect for those inevitable messes. This is especially handy if the SlimFit3 LX ends up in the tight middle spot during your 3-across configuration.
Perfect for Growing Babies:
While not ideal for newborns due to its upright posture, the SlimFit3 LX is a great option for babies who’ve outgrown their infant car seat. It transitions seamlessly from rear-facing to forward-facing harness mode, and ultimately to a high back booster mode, offering long-term use.
Three-Across Friendly Extras:
The SlimFit3 LX even comes with two optional, removable cup holders! These space-saving cup holders cleverly fit within the car seat’s profile, so they won’t add extra bulk and disrupt your precious 3-across setup.
Important Note:
Make sure you get the right Graco SlimFit car seat! Graco offers other models with similar names, but the SlimFit3 LX (with the number 3 in the middle) is the narrow champion for fitting three across.
So, if you’re looking for a convertible car seat that prioritizes space-saving design, user-friendly features, and long-term use, especially for a 3-across car seat configuration, the Graco SlimFit3 LX might be your perfect match!
Safety 1st Tri Mate All-in-One Convertible Car Seat
Looking for a budget-friendly car seat that conquers the 3-across challenge? The Evenflo LiteRide 360 might be your answer! Here’s why this car seat is a great option for many families:
Perfect for Three:
At 17 inches wide, the LiteRide 360 is a space-saving champion. This allows you to fit three car seats across your backseat without breaking the bank. It hits a sweet spot between the super-affordable Cosco Scenera Next and pricier options, making it a great choice for budget-conscious parents.
Safe and Secure:
This car seat prioritizes safety. It rear-faces for babies up to 40 pounds and 40 inches tall, offering extended rear-facing use, which is the safest way for your little one to travel. Plus, the no-rethread harness is a breeze to adjust, ensuring a proper fit for your growing child.
Compact Comfort:
The LiteRide 360 is designed to be fairly compact when rear-facing, providing enough legroom for your baby or your independent toddler. It also accommodates average and even larger newborns, making it a versatile option.
A Note on Sizing:
The one downside to consider is the harness height. It reaches only 15 inches, which means bigger or long-legged kids might outgrow the forward-facing mode around 4 years old. While smaller children might get a few more years of use, this could be a drawback for parents hoping for a long-lasting solution for their 3-across setup.
Overall Value:
Despite the harness height limitation, the Evenflo Lite Ride 360 offers great features at an accessible price point. It might be the perfect fit for your growing child for a few years before needing to upgrade, making it a valuable option for budget-minded families tackling the 3-across car seat challenge!
Britax Boulevard ClickTight Convertible Car Seat
The Britax Boulevard car seat might be your perfect match if you have a larger vehicle and need to fit two car seats comfortably with a little extra space for your little one. Here’s why this car seat stands out:
Spacious Comfort, Not Ideal for Tight Fits:
At 18 inches wide, the Boulevard is the roomiest option on this list. It offers a comfortable ride for your child with its sleek, square design. However, this spaciousness might not be ideal if you’re struggling to fit three car seats across a tight backseat. It’s a better choice for wider sedans or roomy SUVs.
Easy Installation and Space Optimization:
The Boulevard features Britax’s innovative ClickTight installation system. This makes it a breeze to install using your vehicle’s seatbelt and even allows for some side-to-side movement to maximize that precious backseat space by an inch or two.
Long-Lasting Value:
This car seat is built to grow with your child! It boasts a best-in-class harness height, meaning your little one can use it for a longer period of time before needing to upgrade.
Bonus Features :
Britax offers additional features you can purchase separately to customize your Boulevard car seat. These include a rebound bar for added security and a dishwasher-safe cup holder for ultimate convenience (if you have the extra space, of course!).
Clean and Safe:
The Boulevard comes with the option of choosing Safewash fabrics. These are free of flame-retardant chemicals and machine washable, making cleaning up spills a breeze.
So, if you have a larger vehicle and prioritize comfort, long-lasting use, and easy installation, the Britax Boulevard car seat might be the perfect choice for you!
Britax Poplar Convertible Car Seat, 2-in-1 Car Seat with Slim 17-Inch Design
The Britax Poplar is the newest contender in the car seat world, and it’s making waves for parents juggling multiple car seats! Here’s why this car seat might be your perfect match for the 3-across challenge:
Space-Saving Star:
At 17 inches wide, the Poplar is a champion when it comes to saving space. This narrow design allows you to fit three car seats across your backseat without feeling like you’re playing Tetris.
Easy Installation, Easy Maneuvering:
Just like other Britax car seats, the Poplar features their user-friendly ClickTight installation system. This makes installing the car seat with your vehicle’s seatbelt a breeze. Plus, you can easily move it an inch or two to the side, creating valuable extra space when configuring your 3-across setup.
Extended Rear-Facing:
Safety first! The Poplar boasts the highest rear-facing weight and height limits in the narrow car seat category, allowing your child to ride rear-facing for up to 50 pounds and 49 inches. Experts recommend rear-facing for as long as possible, so this feature is a big plus.
Clean and Convenient:
All Poplar car seats come with Britax’s SafeWash fabrics. These are free of flame-retardant chemicals and are machine washable, making cleaning up spills a breeze. An anti-rebound bar will also be available for purchase in the near future, offering an extra layer of security for your little one.
So, if you’re looking for a new, space-saving car seat with top safety features, user-friendly installation, and easy cleaning options, the Britax Poplar might be the perfect choice for your growing family, especially if you’re tackling the 3-across car seat challenge!
Clek Fllo Convertible Car Seat
Clek isn’t known for being the most budget-friendly car seat brand, but the Fllo offers some truly impressive features that might be worth the investment for particular parents. Here’s why the Clek Fllo might be your perfect match:
3-Across Champion:
At only 17 inches wide with a boxy design, the Fllo is a dream come true for parents struggling to fit three car seats across their backseat. Its straight lines and lack of unnecessary curves allow for a snug, space-saving installation.
Safety First, Without Compromise:
This car seat goes beyond just being narrow. The Fllo boasts advanced safety technology, including an anti-rebound bar and Clek’s unique EACT energy management system. These features offer superior protection for your little one in case of a collision.
Ideal for Growing Kiddos:
The Clek Fllo is one of the few car seats on the market with a 50-pound rear-facing weight limit. This is perfect for parents with bigger babies or toddlers, allowing them to ride rear-facing for a longer period, which is the safest way for them to travel.
Clean and Eco-Conscious:
All Clek Fllo car seats come with their high-tech fabric, free of harmful flame retardants. You can even upgrade to an option that’s entirely flame-retardant-free, making it a healthy choice for your child and the environment.
While the Clek Fllo might not be for everyone due to its price point, it offers a unique combination of space-saving design, top-of-the-line safety features, and eco-friendly materials. If these are your priorities, the Clek Fllo might be the perfect choice for your growing family, especially if you’re tackling the 3-across car seat challenge!
BEST FOR 3-Across Combination Seats
Chicco My Fit Harness + Booster Car Seat, 5-Point Seat and High Back Seat
The Chicco MyFit convertible car seat is a versatile option that adapts to your child’s growth, and it might be the perfect fit for your family! Here’s why:
From Baby to Big Kid:
The MyFit transitions smoothly from a 5-point harness car seat for younger children to a high-back booster for bigger kids (at least 2 years old, but remember rear-facing for as long as possible!).
Space Saver with User-Friendly Features:
At 17.5 inches wide, the MyFit fits nicely across the backseat alongside other car seats. It also features a built-in lock-off for easier seat belt installation, making setting it up a breeze.
Easy Cleaning and Comfort:
The MyFit’s cover is machine washable, a lifesaver for any parent dealing with spills! The seat also offers 4 recline positions to ensure a comfortable ride for your child at any age or size.
3-Across Friendly Extras:
My Fit’s integrated cup holders cleverly fold inward, preventing them from interfering with your 3-across car seat configuration. Plus, the seat boasts two layers of padding for additional comfort on long journeys.
Upgrade Option:
Looking for even more features? Consider the MyFit “Zip Air” model. This version offers removable fabric for easy cleaning, an extra layer of padding for ultimate comfort, and a built-in storage console for your child’s travel essentials.
So, if you’re looking for a convertible car seat that grows with your child, prioritizes space-saving design, and offers user-friendly features, the Chicco My Fit might be your perfect match!
Cosco Kids Finale 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat, Braided Twine
The Cosco Finale car seat is a great choice for budget-minded parents who are also tackling the 3-across car seat challenge! Here’s why this seat might be a perfect fit:
Space Saver on a Budget:
At 17 inches wide, the Finale is a champion when it comes to saving space. This allows you to fit three car seats across your backseat without breaking the bank. Cosco is known for its affordable prices, making the Finale an attractive option for value-conscious parents.
3-Across Friendly Design:
The Finale’s unique shape is designed to fit well in tight spaces. It even includes a cup holder that folds in or is strategically placed to avoid interfering with other car seats in a 3-across configuration.
Easy Cleaning:
The Finale’s cover is machine washable, a lifesaver for any parent dealing with spills! This makes cleaning up messes a breeze.
While the Cosco Finale might not have all the bells and whistles of some other car seats, it offers a winning combination of space-saving design, affordability, and easy cleaning, making it a great option for parents on a budget who need to fit three car seats across their backseat!
Best 3 Across Booster Seats
Graco Turbo Booster 2.0 High back Booster Car Seat
The Graco TurboBooster 2.0 high-back booster is a great option for your child who has outgrown their harnessed car seat but isn’t quite ready for the jump to a regular seatbelt. Here’s why this booster might be your perfect match:
Space Saver for Big Kids:
The TurboBooster 2.0 is designed with smart engineering. It offers the support your child needs in the right places, with a slim design of only 16.5 inches wide. This makes it a great space-saving option, especially for parents struggling to fit three car seats across their backseat.
Comfort and Convenience:
This booster features a comfortable, high back that keeps your child properly positioned for safe riding. It also comes with cup holders, although you might need to fold them in when configuring a 3-across car seat setup.
Grows with Your Child:
The TurboBooster 2.0 is designed to grow with your child! Once your little one is ready for the next stage, you can easily convert this booster to a backless booster. This eliminates the need to find another 3-across compatible booster in the future.
So, if you’re looking for a comfortable and space-saving high-back booster that transitions to a backless booster as your child grows, the Graco TurboBooster 2.0 might be your perfect match, especially if you’re navigating the challenge of fitting three car seats across your backseat!
Peg Perego Viaggio Flex 120 – Booster Car Seat – for Children from 40 to 120 lbs
The Peg Perego Viaggio Flex booster seat is a favorite among parents who need a space-saving and portable option for their growing kids. Here’s why this booster might be your perfect match:
Perfect for On-the-Go Families:
The Viaggio Flex folds completely flat, making it a dream come true for traveling families! This is especially handy if you fly frequently, use public transportation, or move your child’s car seat between vehicles often.
Space Saver for Three Across:
When installed, the Viaggio Flex is a mere 17 inches wide, taking up minimal space in your car. The cup holders are also retractable, allowing you to tuck them away for a perfect fit in your 3-across car seat configuration.
Customizable Comfort:
Despite being a booster, the Viaggio Flex offers surprising adjustability. With multiple recline positions and the ability to fine-tune the headrest, backrest, side wings, and seat, you can ensure a secure and comfortable fit for your child.
Long-Lasting Use:
This booster is suitable for children between 40 and 120 pounds, and who are at least 5 years old. This means it can grow with your child for many years!
So, if you’re a busy family on the go and need a space-saving, portable booster seat that offers a comfortable and customizable fit for your growing child, the Peg Perego Viaggio Flex might be your perfect match! This booster is also a great option for parents tackling the challenge of fitting three car seats across their backseat!
6 Tips for Fitting 3 Across Safely
Juggling multiple car seats can be a challenge, especially when trying to fit three across the backseat. But fear not, parents! Here are 6 essential tips to help you safely install 3 car seats and keep your little ones secure:
1. Measure Up Before You Shop:
Before you hit the stores, become a car seat measuring whiz! Look for your car’s “hip space” measurement in the manual or online by searching “[car make and model] hip space.” This tells you how wide each seating position is. If you have a bench seat, you’ll get the total width. Remember, this is a starting point, not the only factor.
Tight Squeeze? Consider an Upgrade:
If your car’s backseat is super tight, a larger vehicle might be necessary in the future. Don’t feel pressured to get a giant SUV, but a bit more hip space in the second row can make a big difference. Assuming you have a decent amount of space, look for car seats under 17.5 inches wide.
2. Buckle Up and Check for Overlap:
Unbuckle all your car seats and then buckle all the seat belts in your car. This might seem odd, but it’s important! You need to see if any seat belts overlap each other. Overlapping buckles are a no-go for safe car seat installation. If you find any overlaps, it might affect your final car seat configuration.
3. Consult Your Car Seat and Vehicle Manuals:
These manuals are your best friends for safe car seat installation! Your car’s manual will show you exactly where you can install car seats according to their type (infant, front-facing, etc.). For example, an infant car seat might be okay in any backseat position, while a front-facing seat might require a top tether anchor, limiting its placement options. Knowing your anchor locations is key!
4. Plan Out Your Seating Options:
Now comes the fun part (sort of) – planning your seating arrangement! Consider all the safe car seat configurations for your vehicle and choose the one that best suits your family’s needs. Remember, safety always trumps convenience, so prioritize configurations that meet all safety guidelines.
5. Seat Belt Installation for the Win:
Even if your car seat allows LATCH installation for rear-facing use, consider using the seat belt instead when fitting three across. Seat belts offer a little more wiggle room in tight spaces. Plus, kids outgrow LATCH weight limits quickly, so using seat belts now saves you the hassle of a complex 3-across LATCH installation later.
6. Independent Installations are Key:
Each car seat needs its own independent installation following its specific manual and instructions. After installation, make sure each car seat moves no more than an inch in any direction. And remember, car seats should never be braced against each other for stability. This might seem secure, but it’s actually dangerous in a crash. Install each car seat securely on its own!
By following these tips, you can safely navigate the 3-across car seat challenge and ensure a smooth ride for your little passengers. Remember, safety always comes first!