Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Quick Favs - CARES Child Aviation Restraint System



As a family who travels a lot, we love smart gear that makes traveling easier.  We love the CARES harness (an abbreviation for Child Aviation Restraint System).  It is an FAA-certified 5-point harness that works with the seatbelt on the plane to make traveling tots safer.  It can be used throughout the flight instead of a carseat for children 22-44lbs (even take-off and landing).

We started using this when Tot #1 was about 2 and it has been great.  It weighs less than a pound, folds up into a tiny bag and easily stashes into a carry-on or purse.  We just check her car seat with the rest of our luggage and it makes getting through the airport a lot faster.
CARES Child Aviation Restraint System

To install the CARES harness You simply slide the red band over the top of the seat (you need to open the tray table on the seat behind you) and tighten the buckle when you have it at your child's chin level.  The two black straps have loops at the bottom that allow the airplane seatbelt to pass through.  The chest buckle clips just like a car seat and "voila!" you have one secure tot (and zero car seats dragged onto the plane).

Although the lower weight limit for this is 22lbs, it may be a challenge for a child younger than 2 who may want to sleep on the plane.   If your child is under 2, it's probably worth using your car seat instead.  Check out our recent review of the Go-Go Kidz Travelmate - its a great option for making airline travel with a carseat easier.

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