how many booster seats should I rent?

[kkjd]

Hi,

I have two kids: and 8 and 5 yrs old. How many booster seats should I rent when we are at WDW?
Thanks.

 

[all4fun]

If you're renting a car then your 5yr old definitely would be safest riding in a booster. Your 8yr old may or may not still need a booster depending on size. Here's the 5 Step booster test

The 5-Step Test
1. Does the child sit all the way back against the auto seat?
2. Do the child's knees bend comfortably at the edge of the auto seat?
3. Does the belt cross the shoulder between the neck and arm?
4. Is the lap belt as low as possible, touching the thighs?
5. Can the child stay seated like this for the whole trip?

And here's what the Florida Hwy Patrol site has on Child Passenger Safety:

Step 1: Babies from birth to one year AND 20 pounds ride in rear-facing child seats.
Step 2: Toddlers from one year to age four (& 40 lbs.) ride in forward-facing child seats.
Step 3: Children ages four (& 40 lbs) - eight (or 4'9" tall) should ride in booster seats.
Step 4: Children over age eight (or 4’9" tall) may use vehicle's seat belt.

ALL children 12 and under should ride in the back seat of a vehicle.

If they use boosters at home, I would recommend just bringing them along. I understand renting them can cost as much as $10 a day so if you're there for a week, that could really add up. Most airlines do not consider car seats or boosters luggage.

edit to add, a Graco Turbo booster (high back, converts to backless) costs about $50, and you can pick up backless boosters for about $20.
hth

 

[scottish mum]

My rule is if they use them at home you use them while away.

 

[mommy-on-the-move]

just wanted to add if you intend on using disney transportation (magic express from airport to resort, shuttle buses from park to resorts etc) then you won't need them, I know there's alot of confusion on this as people are unsure if the buses will have seatbelts or need carseats etc to be used. The buses are bench/unbelted seats and move quite sedately.

Of course if you're hiring a car then yes... what the ladies above said (just thought I'd add this as I've seen people in the past worried they need boosters for the buses)

 

[kkjd]

I know that I could count on you for advices. They both are still using booster seat at home. I will bring them along.
Thank you very much.