12 Lightweight Infant Car Seats in 2024 (Light & Safe)

Bringing your baby home from the hospital is one of the scariest moments of your life. The next one is making your first solo trip to the grocery store.

To make this easier, you want a lightweight infant car seat that is easy for you to install, connect to a stroller, and carry around.

Our Favorites

doona seat

Seat With Wheels
Doona

bugaboo-turtle-air-by-nuna

Best Lightweight Option
Bugaboo Turtle

graco-snugride-35-lite-lx-infant

Best Budget Option
Graco SnugRide 35

Lightweight Infant Car Seat

1. Doona+ Car Seat Stroller Bundle

This might not be the lightest car seat for infants at 16.5 lbs, but it comes with a built-in stroller, so that isn’t a problem.

In fact, you can take this seat out of the car and convert it into a stroller in one smooth motion and simple click. This might make it the lightest weight infant car seat because you don’t even have to carry it.

It has great safety features like a 5-point harness, 3 layers of side impact protection, and the handlebar doubles as an anti-rebound bar.

The canopy could be bigger, which is a downside to this seat.

What We Liked

  • Bamboo infant insert
  • Super convenient and easy for moms out on their own
  • It saves space in your car because you don’t need an extra stroller
  • Includes a seat protector
  • You can convert it into a stroller while your baby is in the seat

What Can Be Improved

  • No storage
  • Harness buckle can be hard to unclip
  • The wheels are small

Seat Weight: 16.5 lbs (7.5 kg)
Base Weight: 10.3 lbs (4.7 kg)
Dimensions: 26 H x 17 W x 23.6 L in
Expiration Date: 6 years from the manufacturing date
Child Height: Up to 32 in (81 cm)
Child Weight: 4-35 lbs (1.8-16 kg)

2. Bugaboo Turtle Air by Nuna Car Seat

The Bugaboo Turtle Air by Nuna not only connects with all current models of Bugaboo strollers but is also 2.8 lbs lighter than the Turtle One, an upgrade since the earlier model.

Weighing just over 7 lbs, this is an infant car seat that is lightweight and ideal for on-the-go moms. So, if you are looking for the most lightweight newborn car seat to complete your travel system, then The Turtle Air is for you.

The luxurious materials and merino wool insert will keep your baby cool and comfortable while out and about.

The canopy can be tricky to store away, though.

What We Liked

  • No re-thread harness for easy adjusting
  • 5-point harness with magnetic buckle holders
  • UPF50+ canopy with mesh window
  • Recline base offers 4 position options
  • Easy to use without a base

What Can Be Improved

  • You have to pay extra for adapters
  • The button for releasing the seat belt is hidden
  • Finding the correct angle may be tricky

Seat Weight: 7.06 lbs (3.2 kg)
Base Weight: 17.2 lbs (7.8 kg)
Dimensions: 23.5 H x 17.3 W x 27.2 L in
Expiration Date: 7 years from the manufacturing date
Child Height: Up to 32.6 in (82.8 cm)
Child Weight: 4-32 lbs (1.8-14.5 kg)

3. Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX Infant Car Seat

The Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX is 2.5 lbs lighter than the LX, which is an improvement from the prior model.

It is one of the lightest Graco infant car seat options, ideal for new moms carrying babies from car to stroller.

It also attaches in one step to compatible strollers and Graco bases, allowing you to go for coffee or pop to the store.

The rotating canopy keeps your baby shaded and safe when you are out and about, and because this seat only weighs 7.2 lbs, you can run errands easily.

This lightweight car seat for infants could use additional padding, though.

What We Liked

  • 4-position adjustable base with level indicator
  • Machine washable seat pad and canopy
  • Infant head and body support
  • Easy for moms to get in and out of the car
  • Very affordable

What Can Be Improved

  • The fabric could be better quality
  • The straps can be tricky to tighten
  • Canopy be noisy and difficult to adjust

Seat Weight: 7.2 lbs (3.3 kg)
Base Weight: 5.89 lbs (2.7 kg)
Dimensions: 27.4 H x 14.41 W x 18.07 L in
Expiration Date: 7 years from the manufacturing date
Child Height: Up to 32 in (81 cm)
Child Weight: 4-35 lbs (1.8- 15.9kg)

Also read about the best lightweight convertible car seats that are the lightest but still provide the maximum security for your LO.

4. Nuna Pipa Lite RX Infant Car Seat

The Nuna Pipa Lite RX is the best lightweight newborn car seat if you want superior Nuna safety. 

This is one of the lightest Nuna infant car seat options weighing 6.9 lbs. The European belt path is an upgrade from the past version and makes this lightweight newborn car seat a dream for new moms to travel with.

The AeroSpace aluminum frame makes the seat safe while keeping it lightweight. As a new mom, you want the security of using your car seat confidently, and the Pipa Lite RX is light and simple to install.

The canopy is a great feature for traveling, but the zipper can get stuck.

What We Liked

  • Greenguard Gold certified and flame-retardant-free.
  • UPF50+ canopy for sun protection
  • Sky drape attaches with convenient magnets
  • GOTS organic cotton insert included
  • There is an extra layer of side impact protection

What Can Be Improved

  • It doesn’t fit well with other seats in the car
  • The shape can make it awkward to carry
  • It is tricky to assemble

Seat Weight: 6.9lbs (3.1 kg)
Base Weight: 16.8 lbs (7.6 kg)
Dimensions: 23 H x 27.25 W x 17.5 L in
Expiration Date: 7 years from the manufacturing date
Child Height: Up to 32 in (81 cm)
Child Weight: 4-32 lbs (2-14.5 kg)

5. Maxi Cosi Coral XP Infant Car Seat

If you are looking for the best lightweight infant car seat, then the Coral XP is for you.

This innovative car seat has a modular system that allows you to take your baby out of the car without waking them up. 

The inner only weighs 5 lbs, and combined with the shell weighs 12 lbs. Paired with the cross-body carry strap, this seat is ideal for new moms who want to have their babies close to them.

The strap may be awkward to get used to, though.

The Coral XP is the lightest Maxi Cosi infant car seat, and the one-button release makes getting your baby in and out of the car a breeze.

What We Liked

  • The inner seat is soft and comfortable
  • Self-retracting LATCH connectors that allow for easy and safe installation
  • Machine washable and dryer safe
  • Anti-rotation stability leg
  • Easy for moms to carry after birth

What Can Be Improved

  • Low weight and height limit
  • Pinches when placed between other seats
  • The inner carrier gets a bit stuck

Seat Weight: Inner 5 lbs (2.3 kg); Outer and Inner 12 lbs (5.4 kg)
Base Weight: 11.77 lbs (5.3 kg)
Dimensions: 31 H x 17.5 W x 18 L in
Expiration Date: 8 years from the manufacturing date
Child Height: Up to 29 in (74 cm)
Child Weight: 4-22 lbs (1.8-10 kg)

6. Cybex Aton M SensorSafe Car Seat

Weighing in at 10.9 lbs, this light infant car seat is great for city-dwelling families. It allows for baseless installation, a change since the last version, and this makes it ideal for taxis and Ubers.

It may be an easy-to-carry infant car seat, but it still has safety features like the SensorSafe chest clip that alerts you if your baby is too hot or has come unclipped.

If you remove the infant insert, your baby can recline almost flat. This is perfect for naps while you are out and about.

Getting your baby in and out of the seat can be tricky.

What We Liked

  • Plush padding is comfortable
  • Safety belt pads make the straps gentle
  • The canopy extends and retracts smoothly
  • The seat is deep
  • Easy to use with compatible strollers

What Can Be Improved

  • Locking the seat into the base can be challenging
  • The material doesn’t wick away moisture well
  • The headrest could be bigger

Seat Weight: 10.9 lbs (4.9 kg)
Base Weight: 14.2 lbs (6.45 kg)
Dimensions: 15.4 H x 17.3 W x  26 L in
Expiration Date: 6 years from the manufacturing date
Child Height: Up to 30 in (76.2 cm)
Child Weight: 4-35 lbs (1.8-16 kg)

7. Chicco Keyfit 30 Infant Car Seat

This top-rated car seat is one of the safest lightweight infant car seat options because it is simple to install correctly every time.

The spring-loaded leveling helps you install the base at the right angle, and the visual RideRight bubble levels help you level the seat.

The Keyfit 30 has a higher weight limit compared to the previous version, which is why it is 0.5 lbs heavier. It is still one of the best light infant car seat options, though, weighing 9.5 lbs.

The one-hand release also makes it ideal for connecting to a stroller for family outings. It can be challenging to install without the base.

What We Liked

  • Machine washable cover is convenient for moms
  • Light, compact, and durable
  • Lower maximum weight limit compared to other seat options

What Can Be Improved

  • The release handle is in an awkward position
  • The harness strap can be tricky to tighten
  • The fabric gets hot

Seat Weight: 9.5 lbs (4.3 kg)
Base Weight: 7.4 lbs (3.4 kg)
Dimensions: 24 H x 16.8 W x 27.5 L in
Expiration Date: 6 years from the manufacturing date
Child Height: Up to 30 in (76.2 cm)
Child Weight: 4-30 lbs (1.8-14 kg)

8. UPPAbaby Mesa Max Infant Car Seat

The UPPAbaby Mesa Max is one of the best light newborn car seat options. 

It weighs 9.9 lbs which is the same as the Mesa and Mesa V2, but it has additional features like an XL canopy that gives your baby 43% more protection.

The Mesa Max offers baseless installation with a European belt path. This is ideal for families living in a city because you can quickly move this lightweight car seat from an uber to a stroller.

An improvement from the previous model is a load leg, a larger canopy, and a larger headrest.

What We Liked

  • The Mesa Max is Greenguard Gold certified
  • The car seat cover is removable and washable 
  • Load leg indicator tells you when it is properly secured
  • The infant insert offers extra cushioning and support
  • Enhanced side impact protection

What Can Be Improved

  • The Merino wool option is more expensive

Seat Weight: 9.9 lbs (4.5 kg)
Dimensions: 23 H x 17 W x 26.4 L in
Expiration Date: 7 years from the manufacturing date
Child Height: Up to 32 in (81 cm)
Child Weight: 4-35 lbs (1.8-16 kg)

9. Clek Liing 2021/2022 Lightweight Infant Car Seat

If you want the safest lightweight newborn car seat, then the Liing is for you. 

Most lightweight infant car seat options have good features, but the Liing boasts an energy-absorbing load leg, a two-piece shell lined with EPP foam, and a rigid LATCH base.

It is compatible with multiple strollers, so the one-hand release, lightweight design, and European belt path make it ideal for family outings.

The low-profile base and narrow design make it a great 3-across option for use in multiple vehicles.

The dark seat colors may get quite warm.

What We Liked

  • Narrow without sacrificing comfort
  • You can adjust the seat on the base
  • 13 position metal load leg for ultimate safety
  • Machine washable cover for quick cleaning
  • 2-stage insert system to keep your baby snug and secure

What Can Be Improved

  • It only comes in gray and black options
  • It doesn’t have a no-rethread harness
  • Warning labels get hot and sticky

Seat Weight: 9 lbs (4.1 kg)
Base Weight: 17 lbs (7.8 kg)
Dimensions: 26.8 H x 17 W x 27.7 L in
Expiration Date: 9 years from the manufacturing date
Child Height: Up to 32 in (81 cm)
Child Weight: 4-35 lbs (1.8-16 kg)

10. Baby Jogger City GO Air Car Seat

The City GO Air is one of the lightest newborn car seat options available at only 8 lbs.

The European belt path and RAPIDLOCK base make this seat a breeze to install whether you are planning a quick trip to the store or a doctor’s appointment.

The Flexshade canopy drape makes it difficult to carry this seat over your arm, but overall it provides your baby with great coverage while you are out.

This ultra-lightweight infant car seat can be used to make a convenient travel system that gives you freedom, even with a newborn.

The shoulder strap release button is hidden under the fabric.

What We Liked

  • The sides are low, so it is easy getting your baby in and out of the seat
  • The material and padding are plush and soft
  • Bubble level indicators on the base mean a safe install every time
  • Anti-rebound on the base
  • Roomy but lightweight

What Can Be Improved

  • You have to use both hands to adjust the handle
  • The canopy feels flimsy
  • The shoulder strap release button is hidden under the fabric

Seat Weight: 8 lbs (3.6 kg)
Base Weight: 1 lbs (0.45 kg)
Dimensions: 30.67 H x 16.93 W x 18.11 L in
Expiration Date: 7 years from the manufacturing date
Child Height: Up to 32 in (81 cm)
Child Weight: 4-35 lbs (1.8-16 kg)

11. Peg Perego Primo Viaggio 4/35 Lounge Car Seat

This seat is heavier than the Nido, but the new, 3-position recline feature and kinetic pods make it worth it. The backrest reclines, and the leg rest extends, which is great if your baby is napping in the stroller.

Not to mention the pagoda canopy that extends over almost the whole seat, protecting your baby from the elements and prying eyes.

The European belt path makes it easy to install without a base and the handle doubles as an anti-rebound bar.

The EPP and EPS foam in the shell keep this seat lightweight and offer good shock absorption.

What We Liked

  • The base has a built-in anti-rebound bar
  • 6-position adjustable side impact protection
  • No-rethread harness
  • Dual-stage infant insert
  • Kinetic pods for added safety

What Can Be Improved

  • Indicators on the front of the base are difficult to see
  • The seat is quite bulky
  • The handle release button is hard to use

Seat Weight: 12 lbs (5.4 kg)
Base Weight: 11 lbs (4.9 kg)
Dimensions: 27 H x 17 W x 31 L in
Expiration Date: 7 years from the manufacturing date
Child Height: Up to 32 in (81 cm)
Child Weight: 4-35 lbs (1.8-16 kg)

12. Britax B-Safe Gen2 FlexFit Car Seat

You might want the lightest infant car seat for ease of use, but you still want all the safety features and thoughtful additions like the Gen2 FlexFit offers.

The steel frame makes it slightly heavier than other infant car seats but still not a bad weight at 11.6 lbs, and you have the added safety of a strong frame.

The ergonomic handle makes this seat easy and comfortable to carry. Paired with the European belt path, the Gen2 FLexFit is ideal for city families.

It has an improved 6-headrest position option, removable infant pillow, spacious seating, and one-hand buckle release.

What We Liked

  • The tagless branding won’t irritate your baby’s skin
  • 2 layers of side impact protection
  • Quick-Push LATCH connectors
  • Easy-read level indicators
  • SafeWash fabric that is flame-retardant-free

What Can Be Improved

  • The seat sometimes sticks to the base
  • The base can be tricky to install in some cars
  • The buckle can be challenging to use

Seat Weight: 11.6 lbs (5.3 kg)
Base Weight: 8.99 lbs (4.1 kg)
Dimensions: 25.9 H x 17.9 W x 26.6 L in
Expiration Date: 7 years from the manufacturing date
Child Height: Up to 32 in (81 cm)
Child Weight: 4-35 lbs (1.8-16 kg)

Caitlin van Wyk

Caitlin van Wyk is a Parenting Writer and mother of two. With a background in psychology and teaching, she is passionate about offering support and educational content for parents as they navigate the highs and lows of raising kids. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Psychology from the University of South Africa. Caitlin also has a Level 5 TEFL Certificate and enjoys helping people get better at English. This experience lets her connect with people from different cultures, which adds depth to her writing. She managed Glengarry Holiday Farm for 10 years, emphasizing the importance of good communication and strong relationships in business and content creation.

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