help finding 3 across for 2016 subaru outback

[Will and Emma's Mom]

Hi. I'm struggling to get two convertibles (boosters with harness, actually) and one backless booster in my 2016 subaru outback. I've tried two tranzitions, but they leave room only for an 11" backless, whether placed side by side or each on a window side. Huge problems getting the backless booster belt buckled if it's in the center. We need a belt positioning clip for the backless (many sold now do not have them). I prefer not to put my twins (5.5 years old, 45" tall and 41/47 lbs) in a belt positioner only, but would do this if I could find a solution. But even the narrow high backs that are slimmer than the tranzitions cause problems, because they have to be dead in the center of the subaru bucket seats, so I lose the advantage of the trimmer fit (I have the snuglock tranzitions, so I can push them off center a bit before locking them down). Has anyone put two high back harness seats and a backless booster with belt positioning clip in the back of their 2016 outback? Any help would be super crazy greatly appreciated!!!

 

[MelodyoftheForest]

It sounds like you've tried many of the tricks we often recommend. Have you put the harnessed seats next to each other in both possible combinations? It looks like the back bench has a 60/40 fold, and sometimes which side the outboard seat is on when installing side-by-side can make a difference.

Generally, as you have found, boosters are harder to get 3 across with enough room for buckling.

What is the booster rider's age/height/weight? There are some good low-profile seats, but some have higher than typical lower weight limits.

 

[ketchupqueen]

If all else fails, there's the Ride Safer Travel Vest.

 

[Will and Emma's Mom]

It sounds like you've tried many of the tricks we often recommend. Have you put the harnessed seats next to each other in both possible combinations? It looks like the back bench has a 60/40 fold, and sometimes which side the outboard seat is on when installing side-by-side can make a difference.

Generally, as you have found, boosters are harder to get 3 across with enough room for buckling.

What is the booster rider's age/height/weight? There are some good low-profile seats, but some have higher than typical lower weight limits.

Thank you for your reply. We ended up putting the Tranzitions at the outer spots, using the snuglock to get them as far to the side as possible. Then we used a bubble bum (initially) in the center with a belt positioning clip and later when it arrived a graco right guide in the center. It was a little bit of a challenge to get the center clipped in and to not accidentally unclip the tranzitions with a clip at the same location, but overall worked well and kids were all happy/safe. I think I might still play around with a side by side option for the high backs for futures. Thanks again for your repsonse!

 

[SafeDad]

Glad you found a solution! For others that are looking for tips, we have some here: https://carseatblog.com/49714/3across/

Also, the Graco Slimfit3LX might be a bit narrower than a Tranzitions SnugLock. I wouldn't replace your Tranzitions if they are working, but for someone buying new seats you might gain just enough room in some situations. https://carseatblog.com/52131/slimfit3lxreview/