Are you tired of lugging around a heavy car seat when traveling with your young children? The RideSafer Travel Vest claims to be the answer to your problems. This portable alternative to a traditional car seat promises to make traveling with kids easier and safer. But does it live up to its claims? Let's find out.
Introducing the RideSafer Vest
The RideSafer Travel Vest is not your typical car seat. It's more like a wearable booster seat that brings the car's seat belt down to the right position for your child to use. By threading the seat belt through the vest, it ensures that it contacts your child's shoulder and hips, providing the necessary support and protection. With added padding and structure, it distributes the force of a crash in the safest possible way.
...and usually like this.
Who can use the RideSafer Travel Vest?
The RideSafer Travel Vest is suitable for children who are at least 3 years old and weigh 30 lbs or more. It comes in three different sizes, accommodating kids up to 110 lbs and 14 years old. The main advantage of using this vest is its portability. Weighing under 3 lbs and about the size of a folded sweatshirt, it can fit into a backpack, making it perfect for travel. Whether you're taking a vacation or just exploring your own city, this vest allows you to travel safely without the hassle of carrying a bulky car seat everywhere.
Is the RideSafer Travel Vest legal?
Yes, the RideSafer Vest is a FMVSS 213 certified child restraint system, making it a legal option in the US. However, it's important to note that certification standards may vary between countries. While it is certified in the US, it's always a good idea to check the specific laws and regulations of the country you're traveling to. In Europe and Canada, the RideSafer Vest also has certified versions available.
Safety considerations
Nothing is as safe as a rear-facing car seat, especially for children under 5. However, the RideSafer Vest provides a secure and comfortable option for forward-facing travel. With the optional tether, it functions similarly to a 5-point harness, preventing slumping and keeping your child in a safe position. While a booster seat may be an alternative, it requires the child to sit correctly at all times, which can be challenging for younger kids. The RideSafer Vest offers more structure and security, ensuring your child stays safely seated throughout the ride.
What is it like to use the RideSafer Travel Vest?
Using the RideSafer Travel Vest may be a bit more complex than you initially expect. Getting the vest on and positioning the seat belt correctly takes practice. It's recommended to familiarize yourself with the process at home before using it in a taxi or other unfamiliar vehicle. The manual provides guidance on fitting the vest properly, including allowances for some gaps and looseness that may feel nerve-wracking to parents. The key is to ensure that the seat belt contacts the shoulder and tops of the thighs and stays in place during the journey.
Travel win: your preschooler bringing her own “car seat” along in her backpack.
Is the RideSafer Travel Vest worth it?
In conclusion, the RideSafer Travel Vest is a practical solution for families who travel with preschool-age children. While it may not replace your everyday car seat, it serves as a reliable backup, especially for travel or situations when you need to accommodate multiple children in a limited space. Its portability and ease of use make it a valuable tool for car-free families and frequent travelers alike.
So, if you're tired of carrying a heavy car seat everywhere or struggling to find a suitable option for taxi rides and vacations, the RideSafer Travel Vest may be the perfect solution for you. Invest in this portable and safe travel companion and enjoy the freedom to explore with your young child without compromising on their safety.
Originally published August, 2020. Updated January, 2022.
