Car Seat Checklist
Choosing the right car seat is one of the most important safety decisions you'll make for your child. This checklist helps you work through the key considerations so you can choose a seat that fits your child, your vehicle, and your everyday life.
The safest car seat is one that fits your child correctly, installs securely in your vehicle, and is used properly every time you travel. Browse our full car seat range to find the right fit for your family.
Understanding Car Seat Stages
Infant Capsule
☐ Designed for newborns and small babies
☐ Rear-facing only
☐ Portable seat that can move from car to stroller
☐ Often used with a compatible base for easy installation
☐ Can form part of a travel system with certain prams
☐ Typically used for the first 6-7 months before moving to the next stage
Convertible Car Seat
☐ Rear-facing for infants and forward-facing for toddlers
☐ Designed for longer use as your child grows
☐ Often used from infancy through early toddler years
☐ A good option if you prefer not to use a capsule
Harnessed Booster Seat
☐ Forward-facing seat with a 5-point harness
☐ Designed for toddlers and younger children who still need harness support
☐ Provides extra security before transitioning to a seatbelt booster
☐ Used once a child has outgrown rear-facing limits
Booster Seat
☐ Positions the vehicle seatbelt correctly across the shoulder and hips
☐ Used when a child has outgrown their harnessed seat
☐ Helps improve seatbelt fit for growing children
☐ Suitable for children not yet tall enough for an adult seatbelt alone
Backless Booster (Half Booster)
☐ Raises the child so the seatbelt fits more safely
☐ Compact and lightweight option for older children
☐ Often used once a child has outgrown a full booster seat
☐ Helps guide the seatbelt across the hips and shoulder
Seat Belt Trainer
☐ Designed for older children transitioning to the adult seatbelt
☐ Helps improve seatbelt positioning without a full booster seat
☐ Often used for children approaching adult seatbelt height
☐ Supports a safer seatbelt fit across the shoulder and hips
When to Move to the Next Stage
☐ Your child reaches the maximum height or weight limit for their seat
☐ The top of your child's head is close to the top of the seat shell
☐ Your child's shoulders move above the harness height limit
☐ The harness or seat no longer fits correctly even when adjusted
☐ Your child is developmentally ready for the next stage
Tip: It is safest to keep children rear-facing and in a harnessed seat for as long as they fit within the limits of their car seat.
At Baby On The Move, we are strong rear-facing advocates and encourage families to keep children rear-facing for as long as possible within the limits of their car seat.
Booster Seat Safety Reminder
Safer in a booster until 148 cm
☐ Most children need a booster seat until they are around 148 cm tall
☐ This usually happens between 10–12 years of age
☐ The adult seatbelt should sit across the shoulder and low on the hips
☐ Children should be able to sit upright with knees bending over the seat edge
Safety Considerations
☐ Choose a seat that meets approved safety standards
☐ Ensure the seat suits your child's height and weight
☐ Keep children rear-facing as long as possible
☐ Use a 5-point harness for as long as your child fits within the limits
☐ Ensure the harness sits snug and correctly positioned
☐ Check installation regularly — book a car seat installation check
Vehicle Fit
☐ Check the car seat fits securely in your vehicle
☐ Ensure there is enough room for rear-facing installation
☐ Consider whether you need to fit multiple seats across the back
☐ Check whether your vehicle uses ISOFIX or seatbelt installation
☐ Ensure top tether anchor points are accessible where required
Everyday Practicality
☐ Seat is easy for you to install and adjust
☐ Harness is simple to tighten and loosen
☐ Fabric covers are removable or easy to clean
☐ Seat size works with your vehicle and family setup
☐ Easy access when placing your child in the seat
Getting the Best Fit
☐ Have your car seat installed by a Child Restraint Technician at Baby On The Move
☐ Learn how to adjust the harness as your child grows
☐ Understand when it's time to move to the next stage
☐ Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation and use
Helpful Accessories to Consider
☐ Back seat mirror for rear-facing babies
☐ Seat protector mat for vehicle upholstery
☐ Travel bag for flying with a car seat
☐ Sunshade to help reduce glare and heat
