You can rent a car seat directly from your chosen car rental company (like Hertz, Avis, or Enterprise), from a baby equipment rental service, or through certain rideshare options. The most convenient option depends on your travel plans and needs.
Renting from a major car rental agency is often the most straightforward choice. They typically offer infant car seats, convertible seats for toddlers, and boosters for older children. You must reserve the car seat in advance when you book your vehicle, as availability is not guaranteed. The main drawback is the cost, which is usually a daily fee on top of the rental car price. While convenient, the seats may show signs of wear and tear, so it's a good practice to inspect the seat for cleanliness, expiration date (usually stamped on the plastic shell), and overall condition before you leave the lot.
For a wider selection and often newer, higher-quality models, specialized baby equipment rental companies are an excellent alternative. These services operate in many tourist destinations and major cities. They deliver the car seat directly to your airport, hotel, or rental home. The key advantage is choice; you can often rent specific premium brands or models you trust. This can be particularly valuable for extended trips, as weekly rates may be more economical than daily rental agency fees. They also ensure the seat meets the latest safety standards.
Some rideshare services, like Uber, offer a car seat option (typically called "Uber Car Seat" in select cities). This is useful for a single trip within a city but is not practical for a multi-day vacation where you need a car seat on demand. Always confirm availability through the app.
| Rental Provider Type | Examples | Average Daily Cost | Key Advantage | Important Consideration |
|---|
| Car Rental Company | Hertz, Enterprise, Avis | $10 - $15 | Maximum convenience; picked up with your car. | Must reserve in advance; inspect for wear/expiration. |
| Baby Equipment Rental Service | Baby's Away, Travelling Baby | $5 - $12 (lower weekly rates) | Wider selection of newer, premium models. | Requires separate coordination for delivery/pickup. |
| Rideshare Service | Uber (Car Seat) | ~$10-12 per trip (plus fare) | Good for one-off trips without a rental car. | Limited availability; not for multi-day use. |
The simplest rule is to book with your car rental company if you value convenience above all. If you want a specific, high-quality seat for your child's comfort and safety, a dedicated baby gear rental service is the better bet.
