Spare car set recommendations

[mdm2137]

We need a spare car seat to have around for when other family members or my daughter's sitter take her in the car. We have a Cosco Scenera but it is a pain to install correctly and get the right rear facing angle so I'm thinking of taking it back. Anyone have a good recommendation for an inexpensive, yet easy to install choice?

 

[vmmatula]

If you could tell us the age, height(or which slot on the Scenera) and weight of the child who'll be using it, that'll help us all give better answers.

Also, if you know the main vehicle(s) that it'll be going in, someone with specific experiences might be able to pipe in.

 

[mdm2137]

My daughter is 1 year old, weighs a little over 20 lbs. She is about 28 inches tall (we will get specifics at her 1 year check up next week). We first tried installing the Scenera in my mom's Chysler Pacifica behind passenger seat. It will also be used in a GMC Terrain and a Town & Country Van, both behind the passenger seat.

 

[trippsmom]

Not as inexpensive as the Scenera, but I prefer to leave a convertible seat that sits /reclines on an a base. Something like the Graco Mysize, Evenflo Triumph or momentum, and the Britax Marathon/Roundabout/etc. automatically come to mind. Bonus points for those that have no-rethread harness.

I have a program sureride or Titan around at almost any time if it was an emergency, but I haven't ever had to use one, nor do I want to use a seat I intend to give away.

 

[mdm2137]

We have a Britax Roundabout in my car and we love it! We just didn't want to spend that much on a seat that won't get used a lot.

 

[vmmatula]

For generally easy installs, under $100, you might want to try the Safety 1st Guide 65, the Evenflo Tribute, or if you have a kohls card, you can get a Sureride right now for $70 I think(with 30% off code) plus you'd get $20 back in kohls cash.

 

[mdm2137]

Thank you for the recs. I do have a Kohl's card (and 30% right now) so I'm looking at that.

Of the models mentioned, do any allow for a more upright angle? We need a pool noodle with the Scenera and I'm trying to avoid that just for ease of use.

 

[vmmatula]

I know the Guide has two different recline angle lines posted on the seat so that ensures you can have it less reclined for older kiddos(alls for tons of legroom for front seats); not sure about the Sureride, sorry.

I have heard installation is a breeze for the sureride but then the Guide was for me too. I got the Guide over the sureride becuase the sides are lower so its easier to get a child into the seat when in a small car with small doorways...not sure most would consider that an issue though. I felt like it was most like my Radian without the $$$pricetag but I've never heard much about the Sureride not being a great seat too...I think either is a great option.

you could always try the sureride and return to kohls if you don't like it???

 

[mdm2137]

I know the Guide has two different recline angle lines posted on the seat so that ensures you can have it less reclined for older kiddos(alls for tons of legroom for front seats); not sure about the Sureride, sorry.

I have heard installation is a breeze for the sureride but then the Guide was for me too. I got the Guide over the sureride becuase the sides are lower so its easier to get a child into the seat when in a small car with small doorways...not sure most would consider that an issue though. I felt like it was most like my Radian without the $$$pricetag but I've never heard much about the Sureride not being a great seat too...I think either is a great option.

you could always try the sureride and return to kohls if you don't like it???

Thank you! My mom decided to purchase the extra seat as my daughter's birthday present. I think we will try the sureride. Kohls is so great with returns so I know we can take it back.