Yes, you can absolutely rent car seats, and for many families, it's the most practical solution when traveling. Major rental car companies like Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise offer them as add-ons, and specialized baby equipment rental services often provide higher-quality or more specific models. The typical cost ranges from $10 to $15 per day.
However, the decision isn't just about availability; it's a balance of convenience, cost, and safety. Renting is fantastic for avoiding the hassle of lugging a heavy seat through airports. But if you're traveling for more than a few days, the daily rental fees can quickly exceed the price of buying a new, budget-friendly seat. The most critical factor is safety: you can't be 100% sure of a rental seat's history. It may have been in a minor collision, improperly cleaned, or installed incorrectly numerous times, all of which can compromise its integrity.
My advice is to consider your own seat if you're comfortable with the travel logistics. If you choose to rent, inspect the seat thoroughly for cracks, frayed straps, and a missing manufacturer's label before you leave the rental counter. Verify that it hasn't been recalled. For the best combination of convenience and peace of mind, look into reputable travel-specific rental companies that guarantee their seats are never checked as airline baggage and have clear, documented safety histories.
| Consideration | Renting a Car Seat | Bringing Your Own Car Seat |
|---|
| Typical Cost (for a 5-day trip) | $50 - $75+ | $0 (if you already own one) |
| Convenience | High at destination; need to arrange pickup | Low during travel; bulky to carry |
| Safety Assurance | Questionable; unknown history | High; you know its history and condition |
| Familiarity for Child | Child may be uncomfortable with a new seat | Child is used to their own seat |
| Best For | Short trips, fly-and-drive vacations, occasional needs | Long trips, families with infants, maximizing safety control |
