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Best car seats for 4-year-olds and beyond: tried and tested by parents

Need a car seat for a child aged four to 12? After months of in-depth testing by parents, we reveal the best car seats and high back booster seats for kids.

By Tammy Jacks & Laura Westerman | Last updated Jan 3, 2024

five of the best child car seats

When your child has grown out of their toddler car seat and is almost ready for primary school, choosing the best child car seat to see them through to age 12 (or 135cm, whichever comes first) can seem like a daunting task. After all, how can you pick a car seat for your preschooler that will also keep them safe all the way through to secondary school?

How we tested the best child car seats

We know that your child’s safety is of paramount importance, which is why each car seat on our list has been thoroughly tested by parents, both Mumsnet users and our dedicated team of parent testers.

  • We spent hours scouring the Mumsnet forums for honest and up-to-date product recommendations, reviews and first-hand advice from our community of 8 million real parents who have personally used high back booster car seats themselves.

  • As part of our research, we also reviewed independent crash test results conducted by ADAC, a prominent car seat tester in Europe, known and respected across the industry for its rigorous safety criteria.

  • We consulted Which? for their best car seat recommendations and trusted lab test results while also ensuring we were up to date with the latest car seat safety regulations. This is to ensure that the car seats we've picked meet the highest safety standards and provide optimal protection for children during car journeys.  

  • We tested the car seats ourselves with parent testers. We looked at key features like safety, ease of installation, comfort, adjustability, durability, harness design and overall ease of use to ensure that the high back car seats we recommend not only meet the strictest of safety standards but also provide practical benefits for both you and your child.

While we think these are the best car seats for four-year-olds, some of them can be used from either nine or 15 months if you're looking to bypass the toddler car seat stage altogether.

For more trusted car seat advice and recommendations, we also have Mumsnet guides to the best baby car seats, the best toddler car seats, and the best 360 car seats. If you need to kit out your car with child-friendly accessories, we have a handy round-up of the best car sunshades for babies.

Best car seats for age 4+ at a glance

1
Best overall child car seat
What we like
  • Conforms to the R129 car seat safety regulations and fits any car with ISOFIX

  • Quick and easy to fit – it took our tester a matter of minutes

  • Width of the seat increases with the height of headrest

  • Open design makes it easy for your child to get in and out

What we don't like
  • ISOFIX connectors feel a little stiff at first

  • Only available in plain colours

  • Doesn’t recline

Key specs

RRP: £170 | Age range: 3.5 to 12 years; 100 to 150cm | i-Size: Yes | Weight: 5.9kg | Dimensions: 51 × 44 × 76cm | Installation: Three-point seatbelt and ISOFIX or seatbelt only | Recline positions: No | ADAC test (rating): Good (2.1) | Warranty: 2 years

What Mumsnet users say
Tester, Jemma · Tried & Tested
Easy to install, and easy to change the height of the headrest for a different child. My child was comfortable in the seat on all journey types.
See Post
Our verdict

Tested by parents: Read our full Maxi-Cosi Kore i-Size review

With child safety being their highest priority on the road, it’s no surprise that Maxi-Cosi have designed the Maxi-Cosi Kore i-Size to comply with the highest and latest i-Size safety standards, making it a trusted reliable choice for your child.

The Maxi-Cosi Kore i-Size car seat is not only sturdy and comfortable, but it also comes with a smart safety feature called SPS Plus (Side Protection System Plus), which is like an extra layer of protection for your little one.

It's designed to help minimise the chances of injury by absorbing the force of any impact. Unlike the regular SPS, the SPS Plus has even better impact-absorbing materials added to its side wings. Plus, it's got glass fibre shock absorbers, which means there's a cocoon shell that offers full-body protection on the sides.

As well as boasting top-notch safety credentials, the Kore's sleek design means that it should continue to appeal to your child as they get older. It looks and feels more expensive than it is, and it’s also easy to clean – crucial in a seat that will last for multiple years.

Although we found the ISOFIX connectors stiff to use at first, the Kore is both simple to use and install. Our tester, Jemma, thought it would be very difficult to make a mistake when installing this seat, even in a hurry, as belt routing is generally very intuitive.

Conforming to the new R129 regulations, the only other seat we tested to do this was the much more expensive BeSafe iZi Flex Fix i-Size. Maxi-Cosi's lifetime warranty is also something none of the other manufacturers offer – and is something to bear in mind when considering the car seat's longevity.

While we also tested and liked the Maxi-Cosi Kore Pro i-Size (see our full review below), an updated version of the Kore i-Size, which has additional features and premium bamboo fabrics, we felt the value and the simplicity of the Kore (often a benefit when it comes to car seats) was something not to be ignored.

Read next: The best baby car seats to buy

2
Best budget child car seat
What we like
  • Great value for money

  • Very simple to install

  • Lightweight at less than 5kg

  • Adjustable headrest

  • Covers very easy to remove

  • Can become a backless booster seat later on

What we don't like
  • Basic design

  • Headrest can be tricky to alter

  • Covers not machine-washable

Key specs

RRP: £50 | Age range: 4 to 12; Group 2/3 | i-Size: No | Weight: 4.9kg | Dimensions: 46 x 48 x 68cm | Installation: Three-point seatbelt and ISOFIX or seatbelt only | Recline positions: No | ADAC test (rating): Not ADAC tested. R44.04 tested | Warranty: 12 months

What Mumsnet users say
Tester, Jemma · Tried & Tested
Very light and not bulky to transport, plus it separates into two pieces for packing, so it could be good as a holiday car seat.
See Post
Our verdict

Tested by parents: Read our full Cozy N Safe Augusta EZFix review

Winners of the 2022 LBP best Car seat Group 2/3 Award, there’s no doubt that parents love and trust the safety credentials behind the Cozy N Safe Augusta EFix.  So if you’re looking for a safe, comfortable and good-looking seat that won’t break the bank, this model could well be the answer.

The lowest priced seat on our list, the Augusta EZFix is one of the only car seats we’ve tested that comes in two parts that simply click together. Like its competitors, the Augusta EZFix can be installed using ISOFIX and a three-point safety belt. If you generally struggle with ISOFIX, this car seat comes with yellow EZFix connectors to guide you when connecting the car seat to the anchor points. 

The armrests, deep seat padding, wide seat and side impact protection features are not only comfortable but help to secure your child and keep them safe while in the car. Design-wise, this car seat is light, sleek and practical for any compatible car, and we like the reversible covers to keep your small passenger happy and your car completely stain-free.

We do wish the headrest was easier to adjust and some reviewers don’t like that the ISOFIX handles don’t extend, but this is a minor downside to an otherwise high-performing, great value seat. At less than £100, you can't really go wrong.

Read next: The best lie-flat car seats

3
Best extended rear-facing child car seat
What we like
  • Easy 30-second installation

  • Relatively easy to pick up, despite weighing 10kg

  • Triple secure, with an alert system to tell you if it’s not installed correctly

  • Rear-facing up to the age of seven (or 23kg)

  • Great recline option

  • Fixed shoulder pads for side impact protection

What we don't like
  • Expensive

  • Wider than many other child car seats

  • When reclined fully, it doesn’t leave much legroom for older children

  • Limits how much the adult car seat in front can move back/recline

Key specs

RRP: £650 | Age range: 6 months up to 7 years (23kg/61 to 125cm) | i-Size: Yes | Weight: 10kg | Dimensions: 44 x 76 x 54cm | Installation: ISOFIX only | Recline positions: No | ADAC test (rating): Good (1.5)  Warranty: 2 years

What Mumsnet users say
Tester, Beccy · Tried & Tested
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my experience with the Axkid ONE 2 car seat so far, and wish I had discovered it sooner. Despite its premium price, its exceptional safety features, user-friendly design, and long-term usability make it a valuable investment for any parent.
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Our verdict

Tested by parents: Read our full Axkid ONE 2 review

Passing one of the world’s toughest crash tests, the Swedish Plus Test, the Axkid ONE 2 excels when it comes to safety - which is the most important thing, even though it’s not the sleekest or most stylish child car seat on the market.

An update on the popular Axkid ONE, the Axkid ONE 2 boasts over 150 updates, most notably the headrest adjustment, which now slides to extend at the push of a button. You’ll also find new ventilation holes for maximum safety and comfort on long car journeys, particularly in warm weather.

While it comes with a pretty hefty price tag, the Axkid ONE 2 is currently the only ISOFIX car seat on the market that allows your child to sit rear-facing up to age seven (or 23kg, whichever comes first), which makes it a worthwhile investment if you want your child to travel rear-facing for longer. The seat slides back seamlessly to allow for more legroom as they grow, however you may find that legroom is compromised slightly when the seat is fully reclined.

Once you’re ready to install the seat, the quick 30-second installation method (once you get the hang of it) leaves little margin for error, and the high-quality shock-absorbing materials minimise force during any impact. Our tester, Beccy, liked the indicators on the side panel which show which position the seat should be in, depending on your child’s size - handy feature if you forget how it all works later on.

Another great safety feature is the support leg, which can be extended using a discreet grey button located on its rear, and it serves to provide added stability and support to the Axkid ONE 2. 

Additionally, the extra-padded headrest has been designed to shield your child’s delicate head and neck area from crash forces. This car seat also has a side-impact protection pad that can be easily attached to the car seat's door-facing side. In fact, this car seat is, according to Axkid, the safest car seat they’ve ever built.

Related: The best travel cots for home and away

4
Best versatile child car seat

BeSafe iZi Flex Fix i-Size

What we like
  • Conforms to R129 safety regulations

  • Fully adjustable headrest up to 82cm

  • Has a recline function, which is great for longer journeys

  • Slim design but still with plenty of space for a growing child

  • Flexible so that parents can fit three car seats in a row

What we don't like
  • The covers are a bit tricky to put back on after washing

  • Pricey

Key specs

RRP: £239 | Age range: 4 to 12 years; 100 to 150cm | i-Size: Yes | Weight: 7kg | Dimensions: 42 × 52 × 64cm (in lowest position and including SIP bumpers); width without SIP bumpers: 44cm; seat height in highest position: 82cm | Installation: Seatbelt and ISOFIX or three-point seatbelt only | Recline positions: No | ADAC test (rating): Good (1.9) | Warranty: 2 years

What Mumsnet users say
elrider · Tried & Tested
Try the Besafe iZi Flex Fix. You can take the side wings off if it's in the middle. Very good safety ratings too.
See Post
Our verdict

Tested by parents: Read our full BeSafe iZi Flex Fix i-Size review

Trying to squeeze three car seats into the back of the car? The slim design of the BeSafe iZi Flex Fix i-Size is ideal for families who need a bit more flexibility day-to-day. In fact, this car seat has received accolades and won the esteemed Kind + Jugend Innovation Award in the ‘World of Travelling Kids’ category in 2017, owing to its smart features that prioritise comfort, safety and flexibility for varying space requirements.

We love the fact that the manufacturer has really considered what parents need when designing this seat. With children required by law to use a car seat or high back booster until they are 12 years old or 135cm (whichever comes first), it can often be tricky to find a configuration of seats to fit a packed family car. The versatility of the means this is much easier to accomplish.

But it's not just the seat's versatility that impressed us. Like the Maxi-Cosi Kore i-Size, the iZi Flex Fix i-Size conforms to the latest R129 regulations, but, unlike our overall winner, it's also equipped with three (yes, three!) layers of Side Impact Protection for maximum safety and comfort. A bonus is that the side protection features can be adjusted depending on where the seat is placed in the car.

The iZi Flex Fix is made with PAD+ for additional chin and chest protection. Simply slide the pad in place until it sits comfortably over your child’s chest and tucked underneath the chin. The soft lap belt guider, which folds over the seat belt and clicks in place with one button, is also great for securing the seat belt in the correct position over your child’s pelvic bone.

Yes, it may be pricey for parents on tighter budgets, but we think the BeSafe iZi Flex Fix i-Size is nevertheless a great choice for busy families. It even has a nifty handle that allows you to carry it seamlessly between cars.

Read next: The best lightweight strollers and buggies

5
Best child car seat for comfort
What we like
  • Conforms to R129 safety standards

  • ClickAssist light for easy buckling in

  • Highly adjustable backrest for taller children

  • Breathable bamboo fabric covers

  • Simple installation

  • Lifetime warranty covers all manufacturing defects

What we don't like
  • ISOFIX connectors feel a little stiff at first

  • More expensive than the Maxi-Cosi Kore i-Size – our tester thought the ClickAssist light wasn't worth the extra cost

Key specs

RRP: £200 | Age range: 3.5 to 12 years; 100 to 150cm | i-Size: Yes | Weight: 6kg | Dimensions: 51 × 44 × 76cm | Installation: Seatbelt and ISOFIX or three-point seatbelt only | Recline positions: No | ADAC test (rating): Good (1.5)  Warranty: 2 years

What Mumsnet users say
Tester, Jemma · Tried & Tested
The seat has a light which automatically turns on for 30 seconds when a child sits in the seat to illuminate the seat belt socket. This appears to be intended to aid my child in doing up the seat belt himself. Very useful!
See Post
Our verdict

Maxi-Cosi's Kore Pro i-Size has all the safety and comfort of our overall winner, the Maxi-Cosi Kore i-Size, but boasts additional features, including a ClickAssist light. This is an innovative addition that only Maxi-Cosi has introduced so far on the market. 

Our tester and her daughter really enjoyed the fact that her child could buckle in on her own with ease. The light illuminates the seatbelt socket for 30 seconds once a child is in the seat, which helps them to buckle themselves in, even in the dark. The car seat itself is also easy to install into the car, whether you’re using ISOFIX or not.

While the Maxi-Cosi Kore Pro i-Size is competitively priced, it doesn’t compromise on safety. Like all the Maxi-Cosi car seats currently on the market, this model has been rigorously tested for safety according to the R129 regulations, which means it’s had forward, rear, side and rollover testing to ensure it’ll protect your child in all types of impact. It also has superior side protection features built into the car seat.

Glass fibre shock absorbers in the padded wings of the car seat work quickly to disperse the force of an impact away from your child. We also like that the wings aren’t too rigid and have some movement which helps to cocoon your child in the event of an accident.

From a design point of view, this car seat doesn’t disappoint either. In contrast to the regular Kore i-Size, the Kore Pro's covers are made from premium bamboo fabrics to keep your child cool in warmer weather. Plus, it’s slimline design fits well into almost any compatible car, along with other car seats at the back. 

Read next: The best baby carrier backpacks to buy

6
Best child car seat for ease of use

Britax Römer Kidfix III M

What we like
  • Excellent safety credentials

  • Installation takes approximately five minutes

  • Headrest is simple to adjust for different heights (up to 85cm)

  • Longer seating area means added comfort for even the tallest of children

  • V-shaped backrest grows with your child

What we don't like
  • May be tricky for a child to strap themselves in if there are three seats installed in a row

  • Bulky and heavy

Key specs

RRP: £170 | Age range: 4 to 12 years; 15 to 36kg; Group 2/3 | i-Size: No | Weight: 7.5kg | Dimensions: 67-45 × 54 × 43cm | Installation: Seatbelt and ISOFIX or three-point seatbelt only | Recline positions: Yes – slightly adjustable to match the angle of the seat | ADAC test (rating): Good (1.7) | Warranty: 2 years

What Mumsnet users say
fabhead · Tried & Tested
We've got the Kidfix and it is very good - would recommend. Solid as a rock and doesn't move around at all.
See Post
Our verdict

Tested by parents: Read our full Britax Römer Kidfix III M review

A breeze to operate in an ISOFIX-ready or seatbelt-only car, the Britax Römer Kidfix III M is our top pick for ease of use and hassle-free safety.

Everything about this sturdy seat is simple, whether that’s installing the seat in your car with or without the ISOFIX connectors (there are handy indicators to help you guide the seat belt through correctly), adjusting the ergonomic headrest or removing, washing and replacing the covers. It’s really comfortable too and offers plenty of legroom, which is crucial considering how long you'd need the seat to last.

While it’s one of the bulkiest seats we tested and too heavy to lift between cars, if you’re looking for a seat that ticks all the boxes when it comes to safety, style and practicality, then the Britax Romer Kidfix II M is an excellent choice.

Key features also include a large seating area, a V-shaped backrest and extended seating area that grows with your child, and SecureGuard - a feature assists in properly positioning the lap belt over your child's pelvic bone to reduce the force on the abdominal area in the event of a front collision. 

It also comes with the latest Side Impact Cushion Technology (SICT) for extra protection in the event of a side collision. This large plastic dial unscrews easily from the side of the seat that’s closest to the door and is designed to compress and absorb some of the impact of a crash.

Read next: The best pushchairs, as tested by parents

7
Best lightweight child car seat

Apramo Ostara Fix

What we like
  • Lightweight

  • Easy and quick to install

  • Simple design

  • Seat covers easy to remove

What we don't like
  • Headrest difficult to adjust

  • Fabric could be irritating to sensitive skin

  • Doesn’t recline

Key specs

RRP: £89 | Age range: 4 to 12; 15 to 36kg; Group 2/3 | i-Size: No | Weight: 5.5kg | Dimensions: 73 × 48.5 × 48cm | Installation: Three-point seatbelt and ISOFIX or seatbelt only | Recline positions: No | ADAC test (rating): Not ADAC tested. Conforms to ECE R44/04; Superior Side Impact Protection (SSIP) | Warranty: 2 years

What Mumsnet users say
Tester, Jemma · Tried & Tested
The seat belt fitted comfortably, with good placement across the lap and chest. Red belt guides give a good indication of the correct placement and position of the seat belt.
See Post
Our verdict

Tested by parents: Read the full Apramo Ostara Fix full review

The award-winning Apramo Ostara Fix has racked up plenty of sterling reviews for being sleek, comfortable, secure, easy to install, and a breeze to take in and out of the car. So, if you’re a family that likes to travel, or if you need to transfer a seat from car to car, then the lightweight Apramo Ostara Fix may be right up your street.

Heavily padded around the head, sides and hips to keep your child secure and comfy at all times, the Ostara Fix also has Superior Side Impact Protection (SSIP), providing extra cushioning in the event of a side collision. Plus, some reviewers have found that the extra cushioning makes the seat more comfortable for kids who like to nap in the car.

At just 5.5kg, it’s the second lightest child car seat on our list (next to the Cozy N Safe Augusta EZFix) and gives you the option of taking your own car seat with you when you travel. This is ideal if you plan to use your seat in multiple cars as it's light enough to make installation that much less of a chore.

The only downside is the headrest which was tricky to adjust despite boasting seven different settings, and some don’t like the fact that there’s no room for the car seat to recline. However, we love the look and feel of the comfy cushioning fabric as well as how easy the seat is to clean – and its price tag is a bit of a boon too.

Read next: The best bike trailers for kids

8
Best combination car seat

Britax Römer Advansafix IV R

What we like
  • Slim design so three car seats can fit in the car

  • Offers good longevity (can be used from nine months to 12 years)

  • Three-position recline for napping

  • No need for an ISOFIX base

  • Height-adjustable V-shaped headrest that grows with your child

What we don't like
  • Cover is hard to remove and takes a long time to dry

  • Five-point harness is a little stiff to release

  • Tricky to take in and out of the car

Key specs

RRP: £249 | Age range: 9 months to 12 years or 9kg to 36kg; Group 1/2/3 | i-Size: Yes | Weight: 11kg | Dimensions: 60-83 × 44 × 47cm | Installation: ISOFIX with top tether (Group 1); seatbelt with ISOFIX (Group 2/3); seatbelt (Group 2/3) | Recline positions: Yes - 3 | ADAC test (rating): Good (1.7) | Warranty: 2 years

What Mumsnet users say
BertieBotts · Recommended
I'd look at Britax Advansafix, as that is [one of] the best rated [for safety] 1/2/3 seat with five-point harness overall. You will need ISOFIX and a top tether to fit it, but it fits in any car with those features. It also makes a very good high-backed booster.
See Post
Our verdict

Tested by parents: Read our full Britax Römer Advansafix IV R review

The Britax Römer Advansafix IV R is a comfortable forward-facing-only car seat with a very reasonable price tag. Best of all, you can use it all the way up to 12 years old, making it a great combination child car seat that’s ideal for both babies and older children alike.

With plenty of impressive safety features and a simple installation process that doesn't require an ISOFIX base, the Advansafix is regarded as a durable and reliable car seat that will go the extra mile. This seat can be secured with ISOFIX anchor points and a top tether that goes over the top of the car seat, plus a five-point harness up until your child reaches 18kg. Then, from 18 to 36kg, simply use the ISOFIX and/or a three-point seatbelt to secure your child in place.   

This model is packed with safety features including soft, padded side wings for side impact protection, a SecureGuard that helps to keep the lap belt in an optimal position – over the pelvic bones (once your child has outgrown the five-point harness), and the SICT (Side Impact Cushion Technology) system. In a side collision, the SICT system pushes the child seat in a controlled way, away from the door, and then deforms. In this way, the additional force and impact is dispersed away from your child.

It's worth bearing in mind that the Advansafix is a big, sturdy seat, and can be tricky to take in and out of the car, so it’s not ideal for transferring between vehicles or if you have limited space. 

Unlike most child car seats that only have one upright position, this one has three easy recline, adjustable positions, allowing your child to nap or relax even while strapped in.

9
Best child car seat for long journeys

Cybex Anoris T i-Size

What we like
  • Super comfortable for children

  • Easy to install with LED-lit safety assistant

  • Additional safety features including air bag technology and load leg

  • Plenty of legroom for growing children

  • Comes with additional side impact protection features

What we don't like
  • Bulky and heavy

  • Some children take time to get used to the safety shield

  • Only lasts till age six

Key specs

RRP: £520 | Age range: 15 months to 6 years or up to 21kg | i-Size: Yes | Weight: 12kg | Dimensions: 44 x 61.5 x 66.5cm | Installation: ISOFIX only | Recline positions: Yes - 3 | ADAC test (rating): Very good (1.5) | Warranty: 2 years

What Mumsnet users say
Kranke · Recommended
The Cybex Anoris is [one of the] safest car seat[s]. We went by height/weight rather than age. The Anoris is forward-facing with an airbag and beat the rear-facing ones in testing. It will last until approximately six years. It is quite expensive though.”
See Post
Our verdict

As the only forward-facing car seat ever tested by ADAC to receive a safety score categorised as 'Very good,' there's no doubt that the Cybex Anoris T i-Size has earned its award title as the best child car seat for long journeys, especially when it comes to offering protection from all angles whilst driving. While only suitable up to age six, this car seat's excellent safety credentials made it too good not to include in our round-up.

Cybex manufacturer’s claim that the car seat’s innovative, full-body airbag technology offers up to 50% higher safety levels when compared to a general forward facing car seat with a harness. Should the airbag deflate, it’s designed to form a C-shape around the safety shield to stop your child from moving forward, plus it lessens any pressure on the tummy area, and prevents your child from being thrown left or right.

Forget tricky ISOFIX systems - the Cybex Anoris T i-Size has separate ISOFIX arms, allowing you to secure one side at a time, plus the simple light-up guide turns green when you've secured it correctly. This car seat's load leg is yet another safety feature we like as it’s designed to enhance stability by adding extra support and minimising rotation during collisions. It also reduces forward movement and helps manage crash energy, safeguarding your child's head, neck and spine.

Stylish and easy to install, the plush memory foam padding and recline features also make it comfy for little ones. However some reviewers have noted that their children have taken a little more time to get used to the impact shield than they would a traditional harness as the solid piece fits securely across the body.

While we're recommending it as an excellent car seat for four-year-olds, you can use the Anoris T as early as 15 months once your child has outgrown their baby car seat. Overall, we’d say that when it comes to safety and comfort for long journeys, this car seat is a sure-fire winner.

10
Best child car seat for taller children
What we like
  • Great for taller children

  • Well priced

  • Comes with excellent safety features

  • Easy to install

  • Super lightweight

What we don't like
  • The seat is wide, so may not fit well with other car seats in the back of your car

  • Headrest doesn’t recline

Key specs

RRP: £95 | Age range: 3 to 12 years (15-36kg) | i-Size: No | Weight: 5.68kg | Dimensions: 85.4 x 40.9 x 55.5cm | Installation: ISOFIX with ISOSAFE attachments to lock in place | Recline positions: Yes - adjustable backrest with three positions | ADAC test (rating): Good (1.7) | Warranty: 2 years

What Mumsnet users say
justrestinginmybankaccount · Tried & Tested
I just bought the Joie Traver based on the safety reviews on Which?. I really like it. Depends if your three-year-old is up to the right weight and height yet though I was happy to spend a lot higher but was really happy with the reviews on this one.
See Post
Our verdict

With its reasonable price tag and ultra lightweight design, you might assume that the Joie Traver doesn’t offer the same level of safety as some of the pricier car seats in the 2/3 category. But the truth is, the safety elements of this seat are top quality.

Thanks to the car seat’s Guard Surround Safety features, the Joie Traver has received a ‘Good’ rating of four stars in tests conducted by ADAC, ÖAMTC and TCS. The sturdy side impact panels on the outer shell offer an extra layer of cushioning and protection for your child’s head, body and hips. Although the headrest is solid and secure with extra padding, some reviewers have noted that it’s not overly restrictive and has enough space for natural movement.

Another handy feature is the simple ISOSAFE technology that allows you to connect and lock the car seat to the ISOFIX handles in one swift motion. In comparison to previous Joie models, the Traver has a particularly nice feature which is that the leg base rest can be extended to improve comfort for older children. 

The seat can be set in one of three available positions with the possibility of changing its depth to accommodate larger bodies. The headrest also goes up slightly higher than the Joie Trillo model for instance, making it a great long-term investment that won't break the bank.

When it comes to overall design, safety, ease of use and quality materials, this car seat (which is a great budget buy too!) gets a thumbs up from us and Mumsnetters alike. The padded upholstery cover is also easy to remove and clean.

What is a high back booster seat?

A high back booster is a child car seat used from approximately age four to 12. It has sides (usually well-padded) and a headrest, and it will provide routing for the shoulder and lap part of the vehicle's seat belt. Depending on the specific seat and the car it's fitted in, it can often be used in combination with ISOFIX fixings.

When do I move to a high-backed booster seat?

According to the NHS, it’s best to move from a toddler car seat in the Group 1 category to a high-backed booster seat in the Group 2/3 category when your child weighs between 15 to 36kg and is approximately between four and 12 years old.

However, as experts from the In Car Safety Centre point out, some children are still very small at 15kg and might still need to use a harness rather than a safety belt, so they recommended a minimum weight of 18kg and height of 100cm for this category. They also suggest maxing out the car seat you currently have before moving onto the next one.

Most high back booster seats are forward-facing and don’t swivel like some 360 spin car seats, but we’ve included an extended rear-facing high back booster on our list should that be your preference.

We've selected high back booster seats only for this round-up because they offer optimal support for your child's head, neck and upper body, reducing the risk of injury during car rides by providing additional support and restraint. 

This added protection is especially important for young passengers in case of sudden stops or collisions. 

What is a backless booster and is it safe?

A backless booster seat is a seat cushion for children that can be routed into the car using only the lap part of the seatbelt.

Legislation around high back booster seats and booster cushions changed in March 2017. An amendment to R44/04 means that backless booster seats approved after this date can only be used with children weighing more than 22kg and who are taller than 125cm.

If a booster cushion was approved before this amendment, the approval relates to Group 2/3 (15 to 36kg) seats. As such, if the label on the booster cushion has a stated weight of 15kg to 36kg, it's still legal to use.

However, as car seat safety expert Jan James from Good Egg Car Safety points out, "Booster cushions are unable to provide the side impact protection that a high back booster can. As such, it's recommended that parents use a high back booster instead."

Do children aged four need a car seat?

UK law states that all children need to be in a car seat up to the age of 12 or 135cm (whichever comes first). When buying a seat at this stage, ideally, you'll want it to last until your child no longer needs one.

What are the different car seat groups?

Child car seats fall into five groups:

  • Group 1/2/3 (R44/04) – from 9 to 36kg, or around nine months to age 12 (or 135cm)

  • Group 2 (R44/04) – suitable from 15kg to 25kg, or approximately four to six years of age

  • Group 2/3 (R44/04) – from approximately four years up to age 12 or 135cm (15 to 36kg)

  • Group 3 (R44/04) – can be used with children who weigh 22kg to 36 kg and are 125cm or taller

  • i-Size (R129) – conforming to the R129 regulation, i-Size car seats for this age group can be used from 100 to 135cm (or from 135cm to 150cm in specific cars)

What is i-Size?

i-Size car seats meet the new R129 European car seat safety standards that came into force in July 2013, which aims to increase the safety performance of all car seats on the market.

R129 regulations are currently running in parallel with R44 so you can buy car seats that adhere to either guidelines. At some point, R44 car seats will be phased out of the shops – but it's unclear exactly when this will happen.

What are the differences between R44 and R129?

R44

  • Classification based on weight

  • Rear and front impact testing

  • Can be fitted using seat belt or ISOFIX points

  • Seat must be rear-facing until your child weighs 9kg

R129

  • Classification is based on height

  • Rear, front and side-impact testing

  • Seat is attached using ISOFIX points

  • Seat must be rear-facing until your child is older than 15 months

How to choose the best car seat for your 4-year-old

Choosing the best car seat for your four-year-old is essential for their safety. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you make the right choice:

  • Know the law: Understand UK car seat laws. Children must use a car seat until they reach 135cm in height or are 12 years old, whichever comes first. It’s best to use a high back car seat in the Group 2/3 category like those on our round-up for optimal safety.

  • Choose the right group: As highlighted above, in the 15kg to 36kg range, you're typically looking at Group 2/3 car seats. These seats are mostly forward-facing (apart from some models like the Axkid ONE 2 that’s rear-facing until age seven) and use the car’s seat belt or a three- or five-point harness system to ensure your child is secure throughout the journey.

  • Check for ECE R44/04 or i-Size approval: Look for car seats that comply with European safety standards, either ECE R44/04 or i-Size (R129). Both are legal in the UK, but i-Size seats are considered safer and have additional safety features.

  • Consider size and fit: Firstly, you need to ensure that the car seat fits your child's height and weight. The seat should offer good head and side-impact protection like all the car seats on our list. Some car seats in this group are adjustable in height, providing a better fit as your child grows.

  • ISOFIX compatibility: All car seats in our round-up can be secured using ISOFIX connectors, which add extra stability and safety to the car seat. Before buying your car seat, be sure to check if your car has ISOFIX points and whether the car seat is compatible.

  • Look for side-impact protection: Useful side-impact protection features like padded wings or cushions help to offer more protection for your child’s head and neck in the event of a side collision.

  • Recline features: If your child naps in the car, a recline feature can make their journey more comfortable.

  • Ease of installation: The car seat you pick should be simple to install and secure in your car as a properly installed car seat is crucial for safety. It should also have clear and easy-to-follow installation indicators to guide every step of the installation process. 

  • Check vehicle compatibility: As some of our testers have found, not all car seats fit well in all cars, especially if you need to use more than one car seat in the back. It’s important to check if the car seat you're interested in is compatible with your vehicle. Many manufacturers have online compatibility checkers.

  • Try before you buy: If possible, try fitting the car seat in your vehicle before purchasing to ensure it fits securely.

  • Adjustability: It’s important that the car seat you choose accommodates your growing child. Look for adjustable headrests and seat features that will support your child’s body.

  • Consider your budget: Set a budget but prioritise safety over price. A pricier seat like the Cybex Anoris T i-Size may offer additional safety features (like airbag technology) and last longer. In fact, most models on our list can accommodate children up to 36kg, which might mean you won't need to buy another seat as your child grows.

How much should I spend on a child car seat?

Prices vary considerably and it’s worth looking into exactly what higher-priced seats are offering before spending any money as the most expensive seats aren’t necessarily the best.

Safety is the most important thing, and all car seats must conform to R44 or R129 regulations. Bigger brands often conduct their own safety testing too.

So, if you’re on a tight budget, do keep safety in mind as your first priority and make sure you always check independent reviews and safety test ratings before buying.

Can you use secondhand car seats?

A car seat's main job is to protect your child and, for that purpose, it tends to be a single-use item. You can use a car seat until you have an accident, at which point it must be thrown away and replaced.

While secondhand seats aren't necessarily unsafe, if you buy a seat from someone you don't know you have no real way of knowing the seat's history. This may not be the case if it's been passed down from a relative or a friend, but even if the seat looks fine, it could still have suffered invisible damage that has made it weak or unsafe.

As such, car seat experts from the likes of Good Egg Car Safety recommend never buying a secondhand car seat.

What we looked for when testing the best car seats for 4-year-olds

Our parent testers, Jemma and Beccy, used the child car seats we tested exactly as any mum would. They were tested right from the very start – from the unpacking and assembly of the seat when it arrived to installing it into the car.

Each seat was used on the daily school run and on longer trips of up to an hour. They were also switched between cars and different-aged children before being scored on other practicalities like stain removal, washing and getting pesky covers off and back on again.

Here's what we looked at for each of the six key testing criteria.

Safety, stability and comfort

  • Crash test results

  • How easy was the seat to install – was there any room for error?

  • Additional safety features

  • Materials – are they durable and robust?

  • How comfortable was the child in the seat?

  • Was there anything about the seat that could distract the parent while driving?

Assembly

  • Were clear instructions provided?

  • Was everything needed for set-up included in the box?

  • Did the seat need more than one person to install it?

  • Was the seat easy to install overall?

  • Were there a website and a customer service helpline if you got stuck? 

Day-to-day use

  • Could the child get in and out of the seat quickly and safely?

  • For longevity – could the seat grow with a child?

  • Was it easy to adjust the seat if you needed to use it with a child of different ages?

  • Was it easy to strap your child in the seat when you were in a rush? Could they do it themselves?

Aesthetics and cleanliness

  • Was the seat easy to clean? We spilled milk and juice on each seat to see how it fared after cleaning

  • Were the covers removable for washing, and were they easy to put back on afterwards?

  • How does the seat look overall? Is the fabric good quality? Would the seat still appeal to your child as they grow?

Value for money

  • Does the seat offer good value for money?

  • Does the price seem reasonable, particularly given the length of time it will be used?

About the author

Tammy Jacks has 15+ years' experience in the publishing industry, enjoying a long and fruitful career as Managing Editor and Health & Beauty Editor for Woman & Home magazine in South Africa. She later went on to become Assistant Editor of the popular South African parenting title Living and Loving, and has written for numerous lifestyle publications including Oprah Mag SA, Health Intelligence, Your Family Magazine, Longevity, and pharmaceutical company Clicks Clubcard Magazine, as well as edited books for popular fitness influencers and health professionals.

Tammy is a distinguished researcher and writer in the field of child safety, with a notable focus on the critical domain of car seats. Her extensive expertise and commitment to child safety have made her a trusted authority in providing comprehensive insights and guidance to parents and caregivers looking for the right car seat for their children. As a mum to an eight-year-old, Tammy has personally tried and tested numerous car seats over the years, across all age categories.

About the editor

Laura Westerman is an editor, writer, Deputy Head of Editorial Content at Mumsnet and mum to a one-year-old. With a passion for car seat safety, she has created trusted car seat buying advice for the last five years, working with experts and testers to bring parents the most up-to-date car seat guidance and product recommendations.

With over seven years' experience as a full-time editor, five of which have been spent writing, commissioning and editing product reviews and round-ups, Laura has a keen eye for the latest baby products and likes nothing more than putting together honest reviews to make parents' lives that little bit easier.

In addition to her work as a writer and editor, she has also appeared in a number of baby product review videos for Mumsnet's YouTube channel.

Why you should trust us

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We spend hours researching, speaking to parents, analysing data and listening to experts before we test out the products on our shortlist.

Transparency is really important to us and that's why we're always upfront about how we tested the products we recommend. We won't always recommend the cheapest products or the ones with the most extra features. We write about products that we feel offer the best value to most parents – the ones we'd recommend to our own friends and family.

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