Looking for affordable RF convertible for tall 2 yo

[ShumNum]

Hi all! I am actually a CPST but I've been out of the loop for the 18 months. Plus, when I've checked seats lately I tend to see the same seats again and again (Britax, Nuna, Clek). I also have a 2 year old and we have barely left the house since Christmas because of the pandemic. Point being, I don't know what's out there!
Here's what I need help finding:
A rear-facing convertible seat for the grandparents' cars. I'd like it to last for years to come, needs to be comfortable for a very long car trip, and I'm hoping to spend less than $175-$200 max. Would also like it to be pretty install-friendly for a variety of cars in hopes that we won't have major install problems.
My 24 month old child is 29 lbs, 35" tall, seated shoulder height 14". He rides in a Britax Boulevard CT in our car and it's great.
Any thoughts on what seats I should check out? I could take advantage of a tech discount as I am actively certified.

 

[ketchupqueen]

I would look at the Graco Contender. Well padded for the price, compact and easy to install in most vehicles, 40 lbs and among the tallest of rear facing seats, decent FF height. Usually about $120-130 but can go on sale as low as $75-80 with coupons and sales occasionally.

 

[aporthole]

The Contender is a great suggestion. You could also check out the Graco TrioGrow, Evenflo EveryKid/EveryFit, and the Britax Allegiance and Emblem. They all have easy installs as well as belt lock offs for nice solid seat belt installs. Just as a side note, the EveryKid/EveryFit also requires the seat belt to be switched to locking mode even when using the lock-off which can be easily overlooked.

 

[ShumNum]

Thank you both for these great suggestions. I had forgotten about the Contender and I've actually never gotten my hands on an EveryKid/EveryFit so thank you for that head's up about the locking retractor!!