Where to buy an affordable car seat today?

[BabCNesbitt]

We've just moved back to the UK and don't have a car, but will be hiring a car/van to do an Ikea run, god help us, in a couple of days. We'd already ordered the Bebe Style Deluxe 123 from Amazon for my brother to have in his car when we visit, but it'll take too long for it to arrive here. Where would be the best place to buy a decent, affordable car seat today that we can move from car to car easily? (And if you can recommend a seat that fits that description, that would be great! )

Try Argos or Halfords. I think both are open on a Sunday.

Sorry, should have really emphasised that it's more about what car seat can I get today that's decent and affordable?

Firstly what weight and age is the baby/child?

Any idea what vehicle you will be renting?

Ah sorry.

I think we got the Britax Prince which was only about £60 but that's a stage 1.

Is it for an infant or a toddler?

Ah, sorry! DD is nearly 3 but is small - only weighs about 28lbs. And we don't know yet what we'll be renting, though selection is limited due to DH's refusal to drive a manual shift

www.argos.co.uk/static/Product/partNumber/3763681.htm You can reserve and pick up from branch

American?

Well I know we had the Britax one for DPs car as it is so small, that was pretty much the only seat that would fit comfortably. DD is a standard age 3 I reckon and she still fits in it ok. Had it from around 14 months I think.

Britax is a well-respected brand.

www.argos.co.uk/static/Product/partNumber/3763681.htm#pdpFullProductInformation

Although now I'm thinking I should go weigh DD to see if it's still suitable!

Can't really go wrong with Britax or Maxi Cosi. Steer clear of Nania and Baby Style.

For your dd weight you'll be looking for a stage one (the kind with a 5 point harness).

Yep! We've moved to a hilly area and he doesn't fancy learning hill starts with a stick shift in a transit van...

We had a Britax one in the US (a Marathon, which they don't seem to do here? I guess all the styles are different), so I'm happy to give them another try - thanks!

Well, to be honest, I'm not sure I'd fancy that either and I learned to drive in the Peak District!