Need narrow seat options for DS: Tote N Go, backless booster?

[JElaineB]

We are planning on taking a couple of short (1.5 hours each way) road trips with the 2 different sets of grandparents this summer. Unfortunately my in-laws got rid of their minivan recently. So we will be taking our Ford Taurus and/or their Ford 500. There will be 4 adults plus DS in the car for each trip (one trip with my ILs, one trip with my parents). DS is approx 35 lbs. and 39 inches.

There is no way 2 of the adults will fit in the back with DS in his MA, RA or Graco combo seat (most of us are big people :)). So I am looking for other options for use just on these trips. I have no intention of moving him to a booster permanently, but I am thinking of getting a backless booster just for these trips (he will be flanked by adults on either side). Or a booster with back might work if it is very narrow (I was looking at the Starriser Comfy but it says 43" minimum height). What about the Safety First Tote N Go http://www.babyuniverse.com/pro.asp?id=67363&rc=nextag67363&srccode=cii_9324560&cpncode=07-9958990-2? It looks like it would be ideal if it works, even though he would probably outgrow it by height after this summer.

I'm open to suggestions. We will only be using whatever we get on these trips, I plan to keep DS harnessed as long as possible in every other situation, but I just don't see a standard harnessed seat working in this particular scenario. Thanks!

ETA: I also just saw the RideSafer travel vest:
http://www.safetrafficsystem.com/
http://www.familyonboard.com/Ride_Safer_Vest.html
It is more expensive, but any opinions on this would be welcome too.

Jennifer
mom to Jacob 9/27/02

[mommyto4]

I would think that of the two options, the RideSafer vest would be your best bet. It looks more secure and safer to me and it would last you longer just in case you need it again. I would try to find somewhere locally that sells them and try before buying (or order from somewhere with a good return policy) in case it doesn't work for you. I hope this helps a little bit at least. Sorry I couldn't be more help for you.
-Melinda-mom to Sarah, Kaylee, Jayci, & Davis
---------grammy to Trevor, & Katie

[JElaineB]

That was very helpful, thanks. I do think I am leaning towards the RideSafer even though it is more expensive, because he would outgrow the Tote N Go after this summer, and we could use the RideSafer much longer. And I really don't think a backless booster is a safe option at his age even in the limited situation we would be using it.

Jennifer
mom to Jacob 9/27/02

[momtoB]

I think you'll be much happier with the Ridesafer vest than the Tote 'n Go. I hope it works out well for you!

Even though it sounds like you've made up your mind, here's a review of the Tote 'n Go if you're interested (and to make you feel better about your choice, lol): http://www.carseatdata.org/TNG.html

The only other option you might consider is the Sunshine Kids Radian, which is supposed to be very narrow. www.skjp.com


Cheryl
ds-4/03

[JElaineB]

The Radian looks interesting. DS is about to outgrow the RA that is in my car (which he is in only once in a while now), so I was figuring that I would get another MA or possibly a Regent. This looks like an interesting possibility that may kill 2 birds with one stone. Thanks!

Jennifer
mom to Jacob 9/27/02

[postmodernmommy]

The Radian is still 17" wide, so maybe measure that in regards to someone sitting on either side of your child? The seat seems more narrow in the seat area and wider in the torso area. I've not seen in in person so keep that in mind. Good luck with your decision.

Amy :)