Baby's First Car Ride

You’ve done it a million times: unlock the car, buckle, start up the engine, drive. It’s become routine, something that doesn't require much thought — until the time comes to bring your newborn home. Suddenly, everything feels a little less familiar. That first car ride with your baby is a milestone filled with excitement, but also a little uncertainty. Preparing ahead of time can help you feel more confident and at ease when the day comes, making way for a safe and smooth trip. 

From choosing the right car seat to practicing proper installation, here’s a simple timeline checklist to guide you through each step.

8+ Weeks Before Due Date: Select a Car Seat That Fits Your Baby and Your Vehicle(s) 

Your Baby: When choosing a car seat, make sure it’s appropriate for a newborn. Rear facing-only infant seats, convertible seats, and all-in-ones can all accommodate infants. Be sure to check your seat’s height and weight requirements, as these ranges can vary by brand and model. For example, the Britax® Willow® S, Willow SC, and Cypress® can accommodate babies as small as 4 pounds, while the Britax Poplar®, Poplar S, One4Life®, and One4Life® Slim all have a minimum weight of 5 pounds. 

If you’re expecting multiples or anticipating a lower birth weight, it’s especially important to confirm that the seat you choose supports smaller infants. Many models include infant inserts designed to help provide a better fit for newborns, providing support and making it easier to achieve proper positioning. Once you’ve selected your seat, check the user guide for information about any included inserts and take note of their weight ranges.

Your Vehicle: A variety of vehicle factors, including seat belt design, LATCH anchor placement, seat contouring, and front-to-back space, can all affect installation. If you drive a smaller vehicle, check whether the infant car seat’s carry handle can remain upright after installation, as required handle positions vary by model and can impact front-seat clearance.

Because every vehicle is different, be sure the car seat can be installed securely in all vehicles where it will be used.

4-8 Weeks Before Due Date: Practice Installing and Using the Car Seat

Once you've selected your car seat, it’s time to get hands on. 

Start by checking with your birthing hospital to see if they offer a car seat basics class for expectant parents. Before installing the seat, carefully read both the car seat user guide and the section of your vehicle owner’s manual that covers car seat installation. 

Many manufacturers, including Britax, also offer step-by-step videos online to demonstrate proper installation and use. Using a doll or stuffed animal, practice adjusting the harness height, tightening and loosening the harness, and buckling and unbuckling the seat

If you have questions or want added peace of mind, consider scheduling a visit with a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST) or attending a car seat check event. (You don’t have to wait until your child arrives to attend a seat check). To find one near you, visit SafeKids.org.

After Birth, Before Discharge: Practice Securing Your Baby in the Car Seat

Once your baby arrives and you’ve settled in, bring the car seat into your hospital room. Practice placing your baby in the seat, adjusting the harness height if needed, and securing the harness correctly. 

Avoid waiting until the last minute. Feeling rushed or overwhelmed can increase the chances of an incorrect harness fit. Taking time for a practice run can help you build confidence before heading home.

1-2 Months After Birth: Follow Up With a CPST 

As your baby grows and you gain real-world experience using the car seat, new questions may come up. A follow-up visit with a CPST or a car seat check event 1–2 months after birth can help ensure continued proper fit and installation, providing reassurance as your baby reaches new milestones.

A Safe Start for Every Journey 

Your baby’s first car ride is just the beginning of many adventures together. By planning ahead, choosing a car seat that fits both your baby and your vehicle, and seeking guidance when needed, you can gain confidence for a safe, smooth, and memorable journey.