A booster car seat is a firm cushion that raises your child higher from the stock car seat. This improves the position and angle of the seat belt relative to your kid’s smaller body. This way, a booster seat provides a safer car seat for your child by letting the seat belt rest comfortably and securely on their body parts, including their shoulders, hips, and upper thighs.
Child booster seats are the last car seat your kid will use before moving to the conventional seat of your vehicle. To help you choose the right one, we arranged a detailed list of the best booster car seats you can find online. We also prepared a buying guide with comments and tips from pediatrician Dr. Joanna Cuayo-Estanislao.
Dr. Joanna Pamela Cuayo-Estanislao is a pediatrician and child health specialist based in Metro Manila. Doc Joey is passionate about health education and empowering families to become informed advocates of their children's health and wellness. She uses social media to educate and raise awareness about important issues and topics in the field of pediatrics and child care.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
Some seats are better suited for a specific age bracket. Since significant child growth and development occurs from 0-12 years - in terms of height, weight, and musculoskeletal control—their seat requirements change significantly. For 2-7-year-olds, a seat with a harness and tether would be the best choice.
Aside from your car’s seatbelt, choose a booster with additional harnesses to keep your child secure in his or her seat, preferably a five-point seatbelt. For children 8-12 years of age, a booster seat without additional harnesses can be used. At this age, the only function of the booster is to help the stock seat belt sit correctly on the child’s body to keep them safe in the event of a crash.
In every age group, take note of this: the proper seatbelt fit is when the lap belt rests on the upper thighs and not the stomach. The shoulder belt should rest on the shoulder and chest, not the neck or face.
Booster seats are for older children who have outgrown their forward-facing seats, so do use the appropriate car seats for your child's age and size. Do always check as well what the make and seatbelt setup of your car is, so you can also get the car seat that is compatible with your vehicle.
There are three types of booster seats: no-back, high-back, and harness. Choosing the right type is important because there are ones that are better suited for toddlers, others for school-aged kids. You can also opt for convertible boosters - these have detachable components and transform into the booster type best for your child.
No-back or backless boosters are lightweight and fairly inexpensive. They simply function as a seat cushion and adds several inches to the car seat to position the seatbelt better.
They are easy to install and are very portable. Only use this type for children who can sit upright. Therefore, it’s best for bigger children who already have great body control, usually kids around 11-12 years old.
Backless boosters can be used safely in vehicles with headrests and high seat backs and are also great in that they are easier to move from one vehicle to another.
For better neck and spine protection, a seat with back support is great. Not only do they protect your kid in the event of a crash, but they also give him or her a more comfortable sitting position, especially during long car rides.
High-back boosters have a back and neck rest while others even have a headrest. A head holder and side-impact protection for the body are also great features to have. This type is best for school-age kids around 5-12 years old.
High-back boosters should be used in vehicles without headrests or with low seat backs. Many models are also combination seats that have removable harnesses so that both smaller and larger children are able to use them.
Combination seats provide the most safety for your child while traveling. It has its own set of seat belts or harnesses - the car’s seat belt only functions as a point of attachment. These built-in harnesses give better security and protection for your little one. This one’s best for toddlers and kids up to 6 years of age.
Do always check the instruction manual for the car seat to see how the harnesses are supposed to be secured and attached. Also never go below or beyond the recommended weight and size for a car seat.
ISOFIX and LATCH attachments are the top-class levels of car seat safety on the market at the moment. Having them equipped on your car and car seat ensures that the latter is secured safely, properly, and rigidly.
ISOFIX stands for "International Standards Organization Fix." LATCH, on the other hand, stands for "Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children". These two internationally recognized car seat installment systems allow for the best installation of child car seats without the need to use the car's seatbelts.
These attachments are specialized to fit universally in all car models that are equipped with ISOFIX and LATCH tethers, anchors, and attachment points. These areas can be on the crease of the seat, on the floor, and even the rear part of the backrest.
Lower anchors can be used instead of the seat belt to install your child's car seat. Many parents find the LATCH/ISOFIX system easier to use in some car models, while some may find the seat belt system easier. Whichever system you opt for, be sure that the top tether is always attached, particularly in seats with backs.
There are also other features that may seem moot to some but significant to others. These are dependent on the individual needs and wants of the kids or the parents. Below are some other features you can consider in picking and purchasing a booster car seat.
First, look if the car seat is made entirely of plastic or if it is reinforced with a metal frame to fortify its construction. The more durable the seat is, the better protection it offers and the longer it will last.
If it's made purely from plastic, opt for ABS composite which has a strength close to that of steel. For metal reinforcements, make sure there are no sharp edges or angles that can be fatal when a crash occurs.
Next, consider the comfort that the materials give. For the cushion, opt for firm cushions such as memory foam. For the cover, a breathable material such as mesh is best suited for our tropical climate. You might also want to consider materials that are fire-retardant and toxin-free.
Do check if the product you intend to buy has been recalled or has had reported problems before purchasing it. Since we don't have a local equivalent yet, you can check the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website for any product recalls and reports.
It's also wise to check your car seat's model and make for any recalls periodically, apart from also regularly checking your car seat for any breaks, and wear and tear.
When we're in the car with our kids, safety should always be the number one priority. Side impact protection pads or side walls prevent your child from falling off the seat, especially on long trips where he or she tends to fall asleep.
Boosters are meant to force the seatbelt low on the pelvis or the femurs of the child for more effective and safer energy absorption in case of a collision. Seats that have too high of a lap guard or belt hook are prone to submarining or the instance where your kid slides under the seat belt.
So, look for adjustable seatbelt guides that help you get a better seatbelt fit for your child. Also, consider add-ons such as cup holders and armrests. These seemingly minute things can make your little one more comfortable during car rides.
There is no one seat or brand that is best or safest for all children. The best seat is the one that fits your child's size, is correctly installed, fits well in your vehicle, and is used and installed properly every time you drive.
Be sure that you are able to properly install your child's car seat every single time before placing your child in it. Always check that the car seat still fits your child well, and always check for wear and tear. Never use seats with visible cracks or significant damage/wear and tear to them.
This booster car seat converts from a five-point harness toddler car seat to a belt-positioning booster for older and bigger children. It allows for a very sturdy car seat installation with its LATCH attachment. Plus, it still offers the same rigidity of installation even with just the car seatbelt with its LockSure lock-offs.
It also has DuoGuard™ side-impact protection for the head and torso and a steel-reinforced frame. Plus, the ergonomic dual-density padding and sloped, contoured design give your child the best comfort they can get. Despite its hefty price tag, it's a good investment for your kid's whole childhood.
This is a complete booster car seat for all age groups. It can be used as a no-back, high-back, and harness booster. Its three main components, the headrest, backrest, and base, are all separable. Therefore, it adapts to your child as they grow. For maximum comfort, the booster is wrapped overall with highly breathable mesh.
It also has side vents for better ventilation. All these help keep your little one cool and comfy during road trips. It also comes with detachable cupholders that can hold both drinks and snacks. Plus, the five-point safety harness gives additional security to your child. You have a dedicated harness that is safer and offers better adjustment.
The Air Ride booster seat lives up to its name with its all-mesh cover construction. The backrest has air holes to increase airflow. The combination of the light yet firm memory foam, mesh covering, and ventilation holes keep your child cool throughout the journey. It also has a cupholder, so your child can munch freely.
Plus, its lighter-than-usual weight makes it easy to install and travel with. You will be traveling with this booster for a long time because it is meant to fit children from 3 to 11 years old, making it a worthwhile investment. It also has side protection for the head, torso, and legs, making it the perfect road companion.
The KidFit booster seat effectively protects against impact because its integrated side wings are lined with EPS energy-absorbing foam that compresses upon impact to reduce the effects of a collision. Add the DuoZone head and side-impact protection to the mix, and you have a well-secured car seat.
The ergonomic seat base has a double foam padding that makes for a comfortable commute. The elevated side guards of the base also help properly position your child. If portability or space is a concern, like when you tend to switch from a sedan to an SUV, this seat has a removable backrest and converts into a backless booster.
This car seat covers almost all age groups, from toddlers to school-aged children. Comparing the time of usability with the price, its value is hard to beat. It's fully reclining for your baby's optimal comfort and has an adjustable headrest to accommodate your child's growth.
It also has removable machine washable cushions for easy cleaning and disinfecting. It's made with hypoallergenic fabric, too, so it won't irritate your kid's skin, especially if they're more sensitive. Built with high-density EPS foam, it's guaranteed to be soft and comfortable, even if it has a sturdy plastic shell.
The Joie Traver is a great travel buddy, especially for bigger families. It has a smaller-than-usual base which takes up less space inside the car. This compactness is made possible by the detachable toddler seat that also allows for three adjustments in seat depth.
Its impact-absorbing side cushions prevent children from falling from their seats as they sleep. It also has the SnugShield™ restraint, which absorbs energy upon impact in case of unwanted vehicular mishaps. Not only that, but it adjusts to four positions to accommodate your child as they grow.
True to its name, the Combi Joykids aims to make car rides, even long ones, more enjoyable for both parent and child. It is equipped with Combi’s special Egg Shock foam for soft yet maximum protection for the head and lower back. The 3D mesh seat cushion is also breathable and makes for a comfortable ride.
One of its biggest advantages is the amount of adjustment you can do—both the headrest and the shoulder belt are adjustable to ensure that your child is in the correct position for safety and stability. Kids can also use the convenient drink holder that you can put on either the left or right side of the seat. This car seat is intended for use with children aged 3 to 11 years old.
This car booster seat is designed for 0 to 4-year-old kids. It's a convertible car seat that can be used rear-facing for your babies and toddlers and forward-facing for younger children. It's made with HDPE and knitted fabric with removable head and back pads. Many users love it, saying it has high quality, comparable to those in malls.
For its price of Php 2,999, it's a steal! This is perfect for those who take road trips often, so you can safely bring your baby along. Users commend its value for money since it's built well with all the basic features you need for a car booster seat. They also love its appearance, mentioning that it looks good and sturdy.
This backless booster seat is made with a well-ventilated structure that prevents the temperature inside the seat from rising. It allows air to pass through its 3D breathable all-mesh material. This helps regulate body temperature to keep kids cool so they don't sweat too much and become uncomfortable.
It has a marshmallow-soft cushion, too, which will prevent fatigue in the buttocks and thighs for a smoother fuss-free ride. Another advantage is that the whole seat is machine washable. You can simply toss it inside the washer! This makes it a very convenient booster seat to have, especially if you have older children.
This car seat is best for school-aged children, about 7 to 12 years old. The breathable covers of the base and side panels make it a comfortable booster to sit on. It also has a minimalist design that will fit well into any car interior, with multiple colors to choose from. It's lightweight and takes up very little space—for use or for storage.
Its deep-padded seat allows your kid to sink into their seat, which is not only cozier but also more secure. This is why if you happen to have a really tight budget, this booster is a great entry-level car seat that will keep your little secure. As one reviewer has mentioned, it will help prepare you for the Child Car Seat Law.
Here are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by Dr. Joey Cuayo-Estanislao.
Booster car seats are for older children who have outgrown their forward-facing car seats. All children whose weight or height exceeds the forward-facing limit for their car safety seat should use a belt-positioning booster seat until the seat belts in vehicles can fit them properly, usually, once they have reached at least 4 feet 9 inches (145cm) in height and are around 8 to 12 years of age.
The built-in seatbelts in vehicles are catered towards more adult-sized bodies, and seatbelts that don't fit or sit well on your body can pose a greater risk than benefit. Booster car seats keep kids who are not quite tall enough or big enough for regular seatbelts safe.
All children younger than 13 years should ride in the back seat. There is also a local law, Republic Act No. 11229 or the Child Safety in Motor Vehicles Act, which disallows children 12 years old and below who are shorter than 4’11 from sitting in the front passenger seat of the vehicle.
It also requires children to use Child Restraint Systems (CRS) or child car seats appropriate for their age, height, and weight while in a private vehicle. Similar laws are also implemented in other countries.
Since child car-safety seats cater to different age groups, you need to choose correctly among the plethora of child car seats available. The articles linked below will make your search for the right one quicker and easier. Give them a read, so that you can buy the best one for your child.
Author: Petre Baliton
Re-Editor: Bianca Angela Dela Cruz
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
Beauty
Body care, Makeup, SkincareCameras
Camera supplies, Digital cameras, Drones and multirotorsHealth
Beauty supplements, Medical supplies, Feminine careHousehold goods
Air treatment, Bath and shower supplies, BlanketsPCs and laptops
Computer accessories, Computer components, Desktop pcsHome appliances and electronics
Air conditioners and coolers, Air treatment, Blenders, mixers, and food processorsFood and drinks
Alcoholic beverages, Baked goods and desserts, BakingKitchen supplies
Baking tools, Coffee and tea accessories, Food containersClothing
Brands and shops, Men's coats and jackets, Men's innerwearShoes
Men's shoes, Other shoes and footwear, Outdoor footwearAccessories
Bags, Accessories and jewelry, BeltsMom and baby
Baby books and toys, Baby food and snacks, Baby suppliesInterior and furniture
Beds, Carpets and rugs and mats, ChairsHobbies
Animes, Arts and crafts, Board gamesOutdoor
Camping beds and cots, Camping stoves, CoolersDIY and tools
Sports and fitness
Accessories, Badminton, BasketballPets
Cat supplies, Dog supplies, Fish and aquarium suppliesBooks, CDs, and DVDs
Books and magazines, CDs, Linguistics, dictionaries, and phrase booksGames
Console accessories, PC and console gamesCars and motorcycles
Car accessories, Car seats, Car suppliesGifts
Christmas-related gifts, Gifts for kids, Gifts for menHome improvement and tools
Door hardware and locks, Electrical, Gas stovesSmartphones and tablets
Smartphone accessories, Smartphones, StorageBanking and finance
Credit cards, Debit cards, Services and appsInsurance
Car insurance, Life insurance, Medical insuranceAudio
Earphones, Gaming, HeadphonesSmartphone applications
Business apps, Dating apps, Education appsOthers
Others, Merch, Recreation