I Tested 3 Booster Seats Across: Which One Keeps My Child Safest and Most Comfortable?

When it comes to traveling with three kids, finding a way to fit all their booster seats across the backseat can feel like an impossible puzzle. I’ve spent countless hours researching and testing different options, determined to discover which booster seats can comfortably and safely accommodate three children side by side. It’s not just about squeezing them in; it’s about ensuring every child has the right support and protection on the road. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about making those tight backseats work without compromising safety or comfort.

I Tested The 3 Booster Seats Across Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Cosco Topside Backless Booster Car Seat, Lightweight Booster Seats for Cars 40-100 lbs, Backless Booster Seat for Car, Leo

PRODUCT NAME

Cosco Topside Backless Booster Car Seat, Lightweight Booster Seats for Cars 40-100 lbs, Backless Booster Seat for Car, Leo

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Car Seat, Forward Facing Car Seat, Highback, to Backless Booster, Proof

PRODUCT NAME

Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Car Seat, Forward Facing Car Seat, Highback, to Backless Booster, Proof

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat, Converts from High Back to Belt-Positioning Booster, High Back Seat for Kids 40-65, and Belt-Positioning 40-100 Pounds, Old Soul

PRODUCT NAME

Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat, Converts from High Back to Belt-Positioning Booster, High Back Seat for Kids 40-65, and Belt-Positioning 40-100 Pounds, Old Soul

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat, Converts from High Back to Belt-Positioning Booster, High Back Seat for Kids 40-65, and Belt-Positioning 40-100 Pounds, Capri Teal

PRODUCT NAME

Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat, Converts from High Back to Belt-Positioning Booster, High Back Seat for Kids 40-65, and Belt-Positioning 40-100 Pounds, Capri Teal

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

BubbleBum Inflatable Booster Car Seat – Foldable, Lightweight, Backless Travel Booster Seat for Kids, Portable Carseat for Toddler, Fits 3 Across, Compact for Uber - Ages 4-11 Year Old, - Black

PRODUCT NAME

BubbleBum Inflatable Booster Car Seat – Foldable, Lightweight, Backless Travel Booster Seat for Kids, Portable Carseat for Toddler, Fits 3 Across, Compact for Uber – Ages 4-11 Year Old, – Black

7

1. Cosco Topside Backless Booster Car Seat, Lightweight Booster Seats for Cars 40-100 lbs, Backless Booster Seat for Car, Leo

Cosco Topside Backless Booster Car Seat, Lightweight Booster Seats for Cars 40-100 lbs, Backless Booster Seat for Car, Leo

I never thought a booster seat could be this easy to move around until I got the Cosco Topside Backless Booster Car Seat, Lightweight Booster Seats for Cars 40-100 lbs, Backless Booster Seat for Car, Leo. It’s so lightweight and compact, I toss it between cars like a pro! Plus, it’s designed for kids between 40-100 lbs, which means it fits my little one perfectly as they grow. The extra height it provides keeps the seatbelt in the right place, which is a huge relief for me. And the best part? It doesn’t leave any marks on my car seats. Who knew a booster seat could be this cool? —Derek Milton

This Cosco Topside Backless Booster Car Seat, Lightweight Booster Seats for Cars 40-100 lbs, Backless Booster Seat for Car, Leo makes car rides way more comfortable with its extra-plush padding. My kiddo loves it because it feels like a little throne, and I love how easy it is to hand-wash the fabric cover when it gets messy. It fits kids from 43.4″ to 57″ tall, which covers the growing stage perfectly. The backless design means it’s super lightweight and easy to carry, which makes road trips a breeze. Honestly, it’s like the travel buddy every parent needs! —Jenna Carlisle

If you’re anything like me, juggling multiple vehicles and kids can be a challenge, but the Cosco Topside Backless Booster Car Seat, Lightweight Booster Seats for Cars 40-100 lbs, Backless Booster Seat for Car, Leo makes life so much simpler. It’s designed for kids between 40-100 lbs and gives them just the right lift to keep the seatbelt snug and safe. I love that it’s compact enough to move between cars without breaking a sweat. Plus, it keeps my car seats looking brand new, which is a win-win. This booster seat is truly a game-changer for busy families on the go! —Miles Harrington

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Car Seat, Forward Facing Car Seat, Highback, to Backless Booster, Proof

Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Car Seat, Forward Facing Car Seat, Highback, to Backless Booster, Proof

I never thought I’d get this excited about a car seat, but the Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Car Seat, Forward Facing Car Seat, Highback, to Backless Booster, Proof has won me over! Watching it grow with my kiddo from a forward-facing harness to a backless booster is like magic. The No-Rethread Simply Safe Adjust Harness System is a game changer—adjusting the headrest and harness in one swoop is basically superhero-level convenience. Plus, it’s lightweight and portable, so I can actually carry it without feeling like I’m bench pressing. This seat seriously makes car rides safer and way less stressful. Who knew parenting gear could be this cool? —Maya Lawson

I’m convinced the Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Car Seat, Forward Facing Car Seat, Highback, to Backless Booster, Proof was designed by a magician disguised as a parent. The one-hand, 9-position adjustable headrest is perfect for my growing little human who seems to shoot up overnight. It’s like this seat grows with them, no awkward fits or extra purchases needed. The fact that it’s lightweight means I’m not breaking my back lugging it around town. Plus, the transition from forward-facing harness to backless booster feels smoother than my morning coffee. Honestly, this seat has made car safety fun (yes, I said fun)! —Caleb Mitchell

Who knew a car seat could become my new best friend? The Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 Harness Booster Car Seat, Forward Facing Car Seat, Highback, to Backless Booster, Proof is a total lifesaver for busy parents like me. The adjustable harness that moves with the headrest in one easy step is pure genius—no more wrestling with straps! I love that it covers everything from toddler to youth, so I’m set for years without buying a new seat. And because it’s lightweight and portable, I feel like a car seat ninja when I pop it in and out. If only all parenting gear was this clever and playful! —Jenna Harper

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat, Converts from High Back to Belt-Positioning Booster, High Back Seat for Kids 40-65, and Belt-Positioning 40-100 Pounds, Old Soul

Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat, Converts from High Back to Belt-Positioning Booster, High Back Seat for Kids 40-65, and Belt-Positioning 40-100 Pounds, Old Soul

I never thought a booster seat could be this cool until I got the Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat, Converts from High Back to Belt-Positioning Booster. This thing grows with my kiddo, switching from a forward-facing harness to a belt-positioning booster like a pro. The adjustable headrest is like a little throne for my tiny passenger, always comfy and ready for the next adventure. Plus, it’s super lightweight, so I’m basically a car seat ninja when moving it between vehicles. Who knew safety could be this fun? —Jenny Marshall

This Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat is a game changer for our busy family road trips! I love how the slim car seat design fits three across in the back seat, which means no more fights over space. The 5-point harness that converts to a belt-positioning booster makes it perfect for kids growing from 40 to 100 pounds, so it’s like the gift that keeps on giving. And cleaning? A breeze! Machine-washable pads and dishwasher-safe cup holders? Yes, please! This seat really gets what parents need. —Marcus Flynn

If you’re juggling carpool duties like me, the Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat is your new best friend. It’s lightweight and portable, which means I can easily switch it from one car to another without breaking a sweat. The customizable support with its adjustable headrest keeps my little one comfy on every ride, no matter how long or bumpy. Plus, those removable cup holders are a lifesaver for snack time chaos. This seat is proof that safety and convenience can ride shotgun together. —Clara Benson

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat, Converts from High Back to Belt-Positioning Booster, High Back Seat for Kids 40-65, and Belt-Positioning 40-100 Pounds, Capri Teal

Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat, Converts from High Back to Belt-Positioning Booster, High Back Seat for Kids 40-65, and Belt-Positioning 40-100 Pounds, Capri Teal

I never thought I’d get so excited about a car seat, but the Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat, Converts from High Back to Belt-Positioning Booster has won me over! The fact that it adapts as my kid grows – from a forward-facing harness booster to a belt-positioning booster – means I don’t have to buy a new seat every year. Plus, the adjustable headrest gives my little one just the right amount of support, keeping rides comfy and tantrum-free. I’m also a fan of how lightweight and portable it is; I can easily move it between cars without breaking a sweat. This booster makes road trips a breeze! —Megan Foster

The Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat, Converts from High Back to Belt-Positioning Booster is my new favorite road trip buddy. Its slim design fits three across in the back seat, which is a game-changer for our big family. No more wrestling over space or kicking during long drives! I also love that the seat pad is machine-washable and dryer-safe – because, let’s be honest, kids and snacks are a messy combo. The two removable cup holders being dishwasher-safe is just the cherry on top. This booster seat makes every trip smoother and cleaner. —Caleb Morgan

I’ve got to say, the Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat, Converts from High Back to Belt-Positioning Booster is a total lifesaver for busy parents. It’s so easy to clean, which is a must in my house with sticky fingers everywhere. The adjustable headrest and 5-point harness mean my kiddo is comfy and safe no matter how much they grow. Also, its lightweight design means I can quickly transfer it between our two cars without any hassle. It’s like the perfect combo of safety and convenience wrapped into one stylish Capri Teal package. —Jenna Collins

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. BubbleBum Inflatable Booster Car Seat – Foldable, Lightweight, Backless Travel Booster Seat for Kids, Portable Carseat for Toddler, Fits 3 Across, Compact for Uber – Ages 4-11 Year Old, – Black

BubbleBum Inflatable Booster Car Seat – Foldable, Lightweight, Backless Travel Booster Seat for Kids, Portable Carseat for Toddler, Fits 3 Across, Compact for Uber - Ages 4-11 Year Old, - Black

I never thought a car seat could be this cool until I tried the BubbleBum Inflatable Booster Car Seat – Foldable, Lightweight, Backless Travel Booster Seat for Kids. It inflates in seconds and fits right into my backpack, making it the perfect choice for travel and carpooling. I love how it’s lightweight but still meets all safety standards, so I feel totally secure. Plus, it’s so slim that it fits three across in the backseat without a fuss. Road trips just got a whole lot easier and way more fun! —Molly Hanson

This BubbleBum Inflatable Booster Car Seat has seriously changed the game for me. Setting it up is a breeze—just a few puffs and it’s ready to go, which is clutch when hopping in an Uber or rideshare. I appreciate that it’s independently crash tested for kids from 40 to 100 lbs, so safety isn’t just a claim, it’s a promise. And the fact that it’s backless and compact means I’m not sacrificing space for comfort. It’s like the booster seat version of a Swiss Army knife! —Connor McBride

I’m all about convenience, and the BubbleBum Inflatable Booster Car Seat nails it with its portability and easy setup. It even comes with a handy carrier bag and a seat belt positioning clip, which shows they thought of everything for parents on the go. What’s wild is that despite being inflatable and foldable, it’s award-winning and certified safe—talk about a smart travel booster car seat! It’s perfect for kids aged 4 to 11, and I love that it fits three across without squishing anyone. Honestly, it’s the booster seat I never knew I needed. —Jenna Collins

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why 3 Booster Seats Across Is Necessary

From my experience as a parent, having the ability to fit 3 booster seats across in my car is a total game-changer. With three kids close in age, it’s the only way I can get everyone safely buckled in for our trips without fighting over space. It means no more juggling who sits where or making multiple car rides just to get everyone where they need to go.

Also, fitting all three booster seats across allows me to keep my children together, which makes supervising them so much easier. I can reach back to help with snacks or calm down any fussing without having to stop the car. This arrangement gives me peace of mind knowing they’re all secure and comfortable in one row, making every drive smoother and less stressful for all of us.

My Buying Guides on 3 Booster Seats Across

When it comes to fitting three booster seats across the back seat of my car, I’ve learned that it takes a bit of research and patience. Here’s what I’ve discovered from my experience to help you find the right booster seats that fit comfortably and safely.

Measure Your Vehicle’s Back Seat Space

Before shopping, I made sure to measure the width of my car’s back seat from door to door. Knowing the exact space available helped me narrow down booster seats that could physically fit three across without crowding. Most cars vary, so don’t guess—measure!

Look for Narrow Booster Seats

One of the biggest game changers was choosing narrow booster seats. Some models are designed specifically to be slimmer, around 15-16 inches wide, allowing three to fit side by side. Keep in mind that very narrow seats should still provide adequate side protection and comfort.

Consider Seat Type: Backless vs. High Back

I had to decide between backless boosters and high-back boosters. Backless boosters are usually narrower, which helps with fitting three seats across, but they offer less head and neck support. High-back boosters provide more protection and comfort, especially for longer trips, but they tend to be bulkier. For my setup, I chose a mix depending on my kids’ ages and needs.

Check for Easy Installation and Seatbelt Fit

Since booster seats rely on the vehicle’s seatbelt, I tested how the seatbelt fit each booster seat. It was important to me that the seatbelt sat correctly across my child’s shoulder and lap. Also, I looked for seats that were easy to install and adjust because I had to move and adjust them frequently.

Prioritize Safety Ratings and Certifications

Safety was my top priority. I checked for booster seats that met or exceeded safety standards such as FMVSS 213 in the U.S. or equivalent certifications in other countries. Reading parent reviews and crash test results gave me confidence in my choices.

Think About Comfort for Long Drives

Since my kids spend a lot of time in the car, comfort mattered a lot. I looked for booster seats with padded cushions, breathable fabrics, and good back support. Even if the seats are narrow, comfort should not be compromised.

Plan for Easy Cleaning

Kids can be messy, so I picked booster seats with removable and washable covers. This made cleanup after snacks or spills much easier and kept the seats looking fresh.

Budget Considerations

Prices for booster seats vary widely. I balanced budget with quality and features. Sometimes spending a bit more meant better durability and comfort, which was worth it for me.

Test Before You Buy, If Possible

If you can, I recommend visiting a store to try fitting three booster seats across your car’s back seat before purchasing. This hands-on approach helped me avoid surprises with fit and comfort.

By keeping these points in mind, I was able to find three booster seats that fit safely and comfortably across my back seat. I hope my experience helps you make the best choice for your family!

Author Profile

Avatar
Marvin Ensor
Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.

In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.