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RideSafer Travel Vest (My Review as a Traveling Mom and CPST)

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Is the RideSafer Travel Vest A Good Option For Your Family? Let’s dive in!

The RideSafer Travel Vest is a compact and lightweight child restraint system designed for kids as young as 2 and up, although as CPSTs we typically don’t recommend these types until the age of 4 or 5 (few exceptions below). Unlike traditional booster seats, it’s worn like a vest and works by correctly positioning the vehicle’s seat belt across your child’s body by bringing the seatbelt down to their level, as opposed to the traditional booster that raises the child to the seatbelt level.

The vest is crash-tested and meets or exceeds Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS 213).

My personal opinion:

I prefer using the WayB Pico car seat before graduating to the RideSafer Vest. I can see myself using this lot though when my son grows out of the Wayb Pico. However, I had the privilege of being able to receive the WayB Pico as a gift (it’s expensive) so I understand how this may not be in the budget. I still think using the RideSafer vests is a great option if you’re traveling and still want to keep your child safe but can’t afford the WayB Pico or simply can’t bring their bulky or heavy car seat from home. The RideSafer vest is very convenient when using Ubers/Taxis and even when you’re trying to get three kids in a row.

Check out the car seats that I use from birth to kid.

Common Questions Parents Ask

Is it safe?

Yes. The RideSafer Vest is rigorously tested and has passed all required safety standards. However, it’s important to follow the instructions carefully for proper use. The manufacturer has approved use as young as two years old but as CPSTs, we recommend waiting until they are five. There are circumstances where using this vest before the age of 4 or 5 may be a good idea for your family (like when it comes to traveling, trying to fit three kids in a row, or traveling frequently with taxis/ubers).

What ages and sizes does it fit?

The vest comes in multiple sizes, from XS to XL, fitting kids from 22 lbs to 110lbs. You’ll have to continue to buy the next size up as your child grows, so it may not be as cost-effective as you might initially think. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s guidelines for exact sizing recommendations.

My four year old wearing it

Can my child wear it on a plane?

No, the vest is not FAA-approved for use on airplanes. However, it can be used for the ground portion of your travels, including taxis and rental cars.

Is it difficult to use?

My answer is yes and no. Because it’s different than a traditional car seat, there is a learning curve. However, if you practice at home before your travels, it can become very easy to install quickly in rental cars and vehicles.

Anything else I should be aware of?

The biggest issue that I find when correctly using the RideSafer vest is that young kids don’t always want to sit upright in a car. Because their legs are shorter and can’t bend at the seat’s end, they’ll sometimes try and slouch down in the seat which can create an unsafe environment for this vest. This is another reason that starting at the age of 2 may not be the best idea because they won’t be able to follow directions of not slouching in their seats. A big tip to solve this is having them sit with their legs folded (crisscross apple sauce).

Photo credit- Safe Ride 4 Kids

How do I install it?

I don’t have a filmed install video (yet!) but here’s a great video from Safe Ride 4 Kids.

Can I use it while traveling internationally?

Every country has its unique certification process. RideSafer vests are legal to use in all countries that recognize US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. They also hold compliance certification under China Compulsory Certification, Korean KCL, and are permitted in Canada as CMVSS 213.3 custom restraints. You can learn more about traveling with a US car seat in this module. In my experience, most families will still travel with their US car seats even if they are technically not legal in the country they are traveling to. There is the possibility of insurance or ticketing but chances are extremely low. Here’s a good letter to bring with you just in case when traveling with this RideSafer vest.

Please reach out if you have any questions and happy travels!

This is what will come in the package. I ordered here.

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This Site is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Amazon and the Amazon logo or trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.