3 car seats - 1 car

[jerb00]

Hi,

I need help!

I have an '05 Santa Fe, a 3 yo FF in a alpha-omega elite, and a 17 month old RF in a Evenflo Triumph (I think - pretty sure that is what it is). They seems to be huge, the car seats, and we are trying for a third baby. A few questions:

1. Can the infant seat be put into the car without the base? I dont know how to get three car seats into th back of the car - they will be toto wide I think.
2. By the time the new baby is here, will my then 4 year old be too young to be in a 5 pt booster?
3. I figure when the new baby is big enough to be in a real car seat (out of the infant carrier) then we'll have more options because my then 5 year old will be in a booster.

Basically, I want to know if I cannot use the carrier without a base in the middle of the backseat (I have read on numerous sites this is okay but figured I should go to the people who really know), does anyone have any suggestions on what car seats to get so I can fit everyone in the back of my car. We really dont want to get a new car. Thanks, in advance!!!!! You advice is much appreciated!

[SusanMae]

Depending on the size of your 3 yr old, they may have already outgrown the AOE. The top headrest position is for booster use ONLY... so the highest you can use the harness with is the second highest position.

I'm glad to hear your 17 month old is still RF!

So onto your questions:
1. Depends on the brand, but are you committed to making sure it's EXACTLY right EVERY SINGLE TIME? It can be tedious.
2. Your then 4 yr old should still be in a harnessed seat when new baby comes. The longer the better.

It may be possible to puzzle 3 seats across the back seat...buy you may need different seats than what you have now. New carseats are a cheaper option than a new car.

Are you expecting now or just TTC? If you're just TTC, wait until you're pg before you start changing seats around, unless the children have outgrown what they have now.

Also you should check the manufacture date on your infant seat...it may be expired before #3 comes along and you'll need a new seat for new baby.

Susan