5 Reasons to Use a Child Car Seat When Traveling

Traveling with young children can be memorable and fun. However, looking after them along the way can be challenging, especially when traveling by car or public transport. A car seat is therefore an essential piece of equipment for keeping children safe and comfortable during a journey. There are many reasons to use a car seat, but the main purpose is to prevent injuries from accidents that may happen while traveling. A car seat can help prevent young children from being thrown out of the protected area of their seat and reduce injuries from collisions or compression from the side. It also makes travel more comfortable for children, especially on long journeys or when they need to sit in a car or passenger vehicle for an extended period.Choosing a quality car seat that meets international safety standards, such as UN ECE R44/04 or R129 (i-Size), is therefore important for keeping children as safe and comfortable as possible while traveling.

Thailand also has a law requiring child car seats. The Road Traffic Act (No. 13), B.E. 2565 (2022), requires children aged 6 or under or shorter than 135 cm to sit in a child safety seat when traveling by car (read more: Thai car seat law).

Safety while traveling

Traveling by car is a normal part of everyday life for many people. Using a car seat is important because it helps keep children safe during journeys, especially when they are very young. A car seat means children do not have to sit directly on the vehicle seat, where they could be at risk if something unexpected happens, such as sudden braking or a collision with another car.

Creating a suitable environment

Using a car seat also helps create a suitable travel environment for children, especially young ones. It helps protect them from jolts during car journeys and reduces distractions that could affect a parent or driver's driving and compromise the child's safety. Parents should make car seat use a priority whenever children travel by car, particularly when they are young. Besides improving their safety, it also helps create a suitable environment for their journey.

Choosing the right car seat

Young children need to travel safely and comfortably, so choosing an appropriate car seat is something parents should consider carefully before a journey. Choose a quality car seat that meets manufacturing standards to help keep young children safe while traveling.

Why do you need a car seat in your car?

Travel can be exciting, but having children with us means paying closer attention to their care and protecting them from accidents. A car seat is essential for helping keep your children safe throughout the journey. Closely supervising a child while traveling can be very difficult, especially in a car. The best option is to use and install a car seat, helping you travel safely and feel confident that your child has the greatest possible protection.

1. Child car seats help protect against accidents

A car seat does not stop accidents from happening, but it can greatly reduce the severity of a collision or impact. It restrains children so they are not thrown against objects or surfaces inside the car or ejected from the vehicle. TheWorld Health Organization (WHO)states that using child safety seats can reduce infant deaths by up to 71%.

2. Car seats help prevent injuries

Car seats can help prevent injuries to children. Most have a sturdy structure and meet established standards, providing your children with protection against injury in the event of an accident.

3. Comfortable, convenient travel

A car seat makes traveling with children easier and more comfortable. You do not have to worry about your child constantly moving around in the car. It helps position your child appropriately in the seat and also helps them sleep on longer journeys.

4. Building safe habits

Having your child use a car seat every time they get into the car from an early age gives them their own designated seat and makes car seat use a familiar, everyday habit. This can help reduce fussing about sitting in a car seat as they grow older.

5. Preventing driver distraction

Driving on the road requires concentration. Using a car seat is a responsible choice. Giving your little one their own designated seat allows the driver to focus on driving without constantly worrying about them.

How to install a car seat safely

• Keep your child rear-facing for as long as possible: Babies and young children should use a rear-facing car seat from the moment they leave the hospital. Keep them rear-facing until they reach the manufacturer's maximum weight or height limit. Many car seats accommodate rear-facing use until age 2 or beyond, in line with recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
• Never install a rear-facing car seat in a front seat with an airbag. An inflating airbag can strike a child's head and cause serious injury. The back seat is the safest place for children.
• Install it securely: Use ISOFIX or the seat belt as instructed in the manual. The car seat should not move more than 1 inch when checked at the attachment point, and the harness should be adjusted to fit your child snugly every time (read more: How to install a car seat).
• Choose the right type for your child's age: Learn about car seat types for different age groups in What is a car seat, and what types are available? or browse car seats in our store.

Car seat FAQ

What is special about modern car seats? Modern car seats feature more thoughtful designs, with adjustments for greater comfort and additional features to help keep your child safe. Can car seats be used in every car brand? Not always. Most car seats can be used in many vehicle models, but you need to check that the car seat's installation system (ISOFIX or seat belt) is compatible with your car. Check the car seat manufacturer's list of compatible vehicles, and remember to make sure the seat is appropriate for your child's weight, height, and age. What should I do if my child gets hot in their car seat? Choose a car seat with breathable fabric, direct air-conditioning airflow toward the back seat, use sunshades on the side windows, and avoid dressing your child too warmly. Do not modify the car seat or attach accessories that did not come with it, as these may reduce safety. Never leave a child alone in a car, even briefly.