One of the biggest challenges facing parents with growing families is considering how they will possibly add a third car seat to the back of their car. Although welcoming a new family addition is exciting, keeping them safe on the move can be tricky when your car already has two child car restraints. Don’t panic! There are a few tips (and particular car seats) that can make this process easier.
Tip 1: Understand the Law
Understanding which car seats your children require is the first step. NZ requires child up to 24 months old to be secured in an approved, properly fastened and adjusted, rearward-facing child car seat. If your child is 24 months - 4 years old, they require a rearward-facing child car seat or a forward-facing child car seat with an inbuilt harness. From 4 years up to 8 years children must be secured in an approved, properly fastened and adjusted, forward-facing child car seat with an inbuilt harness or an approved booster seat which is properly positioned and fastened. Finally, from 7 years of age, children can travel in a car secured in either a booster seat or the car’s adult seat belt if they reach the minimum height requirement of 145cm and can sit in an adult seat safely. Perform the 5 Step Test to make sure!
Tip 2: Consider your car
Measure the back width and depth of your car seat so that you are certain of the space you have for your three car seats before purchasing.
Tip 3: Choose the right restraint for your family
Some car seats are slimmer than others, and selecting compact designed car seats will make fitting three seats into the back of your car easier. Our Poplar or Poplar S compact car seat has our narrowest width at only 43.2cm making it perfect for cars with small internal widths.
Tip 4: Think about positioning and installation
Consider how you will position your car seats in order to make them fit comfortably. Alternating between rearward and forward facing seats where possible will mean that the widest part of the seats are not squashed side by side. Additionally, car seat installation can be made easier with ISOFIX. Looking out for our ISOFIX compatible car seats allow for easier installation, correct fit and a safer journey every time.
Tip 5: Take advantage of professional installers
Car safety experts strongly recommend having your child’s car seat fitted professionally by an accredited installer, at least for the first time. Having your car seat fitted professionally ensures your car seat is installed safely. It also allows you to pick up any tips and advice the professional installer can offer you in order to fit three across the back.
