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Ride Safer Travel Vest review (2024)

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This review of the Ride Safer travel vest is written by certified Child Passenger Safety Technician Melissa Conn and may contain affiliate links.

We’re all about experiences over things, but sometimes things come along that makes the experiences a thousand times more enjoyable. That’s my overall impression of the Ride Safer travel vest car seat – for our family it has become an indispensable piece of travel gear as we’ve gallivanted around the globe with two young children. In this Ride Safer travel vest review, you’ll get my complete, honest opinions as a Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST) and a mom.

We have now used two different generations of the Ride Safer Travel Vest, the Ride Safer Delight travel vest and the current Ride Safer Travel Vest Gen 5 . Within the current generation we own three of the four sizes and in this review I’ll share photos on a variety of kids. We’ve spent many years with our vests, so I’ve had plenty of time to get acquainted with them!

You may have seen parents in Facebook groups refer to it by a range of almost-correct names: safe rider vest, rider safe vest, ride safe vest, rider safe travel vest, rider safety vest… I’ve seen pretty much every combination but the only correct one is Ride Safer Travel Vest.

Keep reading (and watching!) to learn how to use the Ride Safer travel vest, its pros and cons and how to decide if it’s right for your family. I’ll also share some information about the companion TravelSmarter booster seat.

DEAL ALERT! Save $11 off the Ride Safer Travel Vest with coupon ‘ VOYAGE ‘

Here’s a quick video review of the Ride Safer travel vest:

What is the Ride Safer travel vest?

The Ride Safer travel vest is a wearable booster seat alternative for young children up through tweens. It works by bringing the seatbelt down to your child’s level rather than boosting her up.

Your child puts the vest on (like a clothing vest) and then you secure it using the industrial-strength velcro panel and metal buckle on the front. Once you get in the car, you’d buckle the seatbelt as usual but then thread it through the seat belt guides that are included on the lap and shoulder portions of the vest. The Ride Safer Travel Vest has fairly rigid support through the body, unlike a traditional booster seat that has no body support.

It meets or exceeds all crash test requirements and Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for harness restraints, meaning the Ride Safer travel vest is legal throughout the US. It is still considered a booster seat, allowing much more mobility than a harnessed seat. You’ll have to use your judgement regarding your young child’s maturity and ability to stay in the proper position for the whole car ride.

There’s also an optional top tether that should be used whenever possible to limit head movement in an accident. It also help to keep younger riders from reaching for a toy or slumping when asleep in this kids seat belt vest. Having forgotten the top tether piece on a recent trip, I can tell you that it’s an essential piece (even for kids who are old enough for a traditional booster seat).

Want to know all my best secrets? Click here to learn how to travel with your car seat like a pro!

Who should use the Ride Safer Travel Vest?

According to the manufacturer specifications, the Ride Safer Travel Vest Gen 5 will fit the following ages and sizes:

Ok, but what ages and sizes should use the Ride Safer Travel Vest?

As I mentioned in the introduction, we’re fortunate to have used two generations and several sizes of Ride Safer travel vest over the course of many years and many rides.

2023 update! In previous versions of this review I expressed frustration that the Gen 5 vest ran much larger than Gen 4 and didn’t fit kids as the size chart indicated. I’m thrilled to say that the manufacturer, Safe Traffic Systems, responded to sizing feedback and quietly change the design! The changes are significant enough that I wish they’d given it a new name or generation number. This is especially worth noting if you owned a previous vest or have been considering one for a while.

In the photo below, the original Gen 5 is on the left and the new Gen 5 vest is on the right. As you can see, the new version has a much wider range of length adjustability! The diamond-shaped panel can slide up and down along the harness and the velcro tab that determines the vest’s length can be affixed either to the diamond or basically anywhere along the back strap. On the old version we only had about 2″ of Velcro to work with, which translated to very little length difference.

Travel Car Seat Mom - Two black harnesses on a wooden table.

Here’s a comparison of the XS vest at its largest setting along with the new Gen 5 and old Gen 5 smalls at their smallest settings – don’t worry, you’ll see them on real kids in a minute! The XS Ride Safer Travel Vest has some additional considerations so look for that in the next section. In the middle you can see that I’ve also crossed the buckle over to the far side of the vest, which is now permitted to get a better fit on slim kids.

Travel Car Seat Mom - Three different types of harnesses on a wooden floor.

Here’s the updated Gen 5 Ride Safer Travel Vest size small fit. My cute nephew is 5 years old and around 43″ with an average build, while my sweet niece is 7.5 years old, around 46″ and slim. With the improved adjustability, an average sized 4 year old should be able to use the size small. I tried the small on my 9 year old – around 48″ and 60lbs – but it was too small on her.

Travel Car Seat Mom - A young boy sitting in the back seat of a car.

Not ready for the Ride Safer yet? Here are some great travel car seats for 3 year olds and 4 year olds to consider instead.

Many parents ask if they should buy the small or large Ride Safer Travel Vest for their child (there is no medium vest). Here are updated pictures of my own kiddos using the size large vest. At 48″/60lbs (left) and 53″/75lbs (right), the large fits great! My son still has plenty of growing room as well.

Travel Car Seat Mom - A young girl wearing the Ride Safer Travel Vest sits comfortably in the back seat of a car.

Ride Safer Travel Vest X-Small review

In this section, I’m going to address the Ride Safer XS vest that was released in 2022. It’s a bit of a different product and there are a host of considerations that aren’t as important for kids old enough to use the small through XL sizes. Remember, it’s still safer for kids this age to be rear facing in a convertible car seat .

If your kiddo is already 4, scroll down to the next section.

Ride Safer Travel Vest small vs x-small comparison

First, let’s look at a comparison between the Gen 5 Ride Safer Travel Vest XS (left) and the Small (right) and spot the differences:

The overall concept is the same, but there are some critical changes here! First, the XS is obviously smaller. This photo shows the XS on its largest setting and the small on its smallest setting, and there’s still a pretty big difference. There’s just isn’t a ton of room on the back of the XS for the velcro torso length adjustment, so it has a much narrower range than the small.

Second, the small has a metal buckle at the waist while the XS has a similar buckle attached at the chest pads and only velcro at the waist. If you’ve never had one of these vests in your hands, the velcro is incredibly strong so don’t be concerned that kids are going to mess with it, nor that it would open in a crash. But that metal buckle on the chest? Genius.

It remedies the biggest issue with size small for smaller kids, which is that the shoulder straps can easily slide off of slim shoulders. I’d love to see this change on the Ride Safer Gen 6 vests! Not only does that “chest clip” give a better fit but it also prevents kids from deliberately getting out. Could a determined child unfasten it? Surely. But it’s an important first line of defense!

Finally, you’ll see that the shoulder belt guides on the x-small travel vest are exposed while they’re covered with fabric on the small. While the velcro on those flaps is pretty flimsy, I miss them on the XS. In their absence, curious fingers may be more inclined to play with the shoulder belt and potentially remove it from the guide.

Ride Safer Travel Vest XS fit to child

I’m excited to have a tiny new model to show off the XS vest! This little lady is just over 2 and on the short side. You can see that the XS fits her nicely. If she had been more compliant I would have used the crotch strap as well (more on that later).

Travel Car Seat Mom - A toddler wearing a safety vest in front of a car.

On the topic of curious fingers, let’s meet our second adorable XS vest model: my 3.5yo nephew – these photos were taken a few years ago, and you’ll see above that he’s now comfortably modeling the size small. At 3 he was 37.5″ and 33.5lbs – exactly average for height and just a little above average for weight. In these photos he was probably around 39″ and 35lbs – nearing the top end of the size range for XS.

He juuuuust fit into the XS (right) and the crotch strap was very helpful for keeping the vest low with the lap panel on the tops of his thighs. By contrast, the small was so baggy through the shoulders that when he was fed up with modeling he slid his tiny shoulders through and pulled the whole thing down.

Is the extra-small Ride Safer Travel Vest right for your child?

And therein lies rub… a child doesn’t need to be 100% booster-ready to use the vest, but he still needs to basically be a calm and compliant child even if a vest or other car seat makes him grumpy.

The XS Ride Safer Vest is marketed for 2 and 3 year olds, but that’s precisely the age at which kids beginning pushing boundaries and asserting their independence. Some kids, like my daughter photographed above at the same age, are total rule followers and will just sit where you place them and how you place them. Others – perhaps the majority – at 2 or even 3 will wiggle and squirm, sometimes for discomfort and sometimes to get a rise out of their safety-minded parents.

While my little niece looked like the perfect model above, before getting that picture she spent about 30 minutes sitting on the ground saying “I don’t like it!” when I showed her the vest. She wasn’t willing to put it on at all until after both of her older siblings had modeled for me. If you’re considering using the vest for a trip with a young or sensitive child, give yourself plenty of extra time to get them comfortable and situated.

Travel Car Seat Mom - A little girl sitting on the sidewalk with her hands on her face.

It’s not an exaggeration to say that the CPST community is split on whether or not the XS vest should exist. Yes, it passes Federal crash testing both with and without the top tether. However, crash test dummies don’t move . In deciding whether or not your child is ready for the vest, you have to be honest about her behavior and developmental level.

There aren’t many situations where I’m inclined to steer parents to the XS vest versus a traditional travel car seat or the WAYB Pico , but here they are:

You have a calm, compliant, petite 3-4 year old and will be doing the sort of travel that just doesn’t work with a traditional car seat (like full-time travel )
You’re taking a 2 year old on a car-free vacation that only requires a taxi / Uber from the airport and an adult or teen will be sitting next to the toddler in the car

While the crotch strap is optional for all ages, I strongly recommend its use with the XS vest. Kids this age are prone to wiggling and the strap ensures that the lap belt stays nice and low on the thighs. Between that and the “chest clip” it’ll also remind kids that they’re in a car seat and shouldn’t be frolicking around the car.

When possible, I also recommend using the top tether. With that piece the Ride Safer Travel Vest passes the same testing that’s required of a forward-facing harness. Furthermore, you’re really limiting how much your young child can squirm out of position. In some countries (generally in the developing world) there are no top tethers, so keep that in consideration as you decide whether or not to travel internationally with the XS RSTV.

Finally, if you have no alternative but to use the vest and you think your child will try to wiggle too much you do have the option of locking the seatbelt at the retractor like you would when installing a car seat. Many countries (like Mexico ) don’t have that “switchable” retractor as a standard unfortunately but it’s mandatory in the US and Canada.

XS Ride Safer Travel Vest in the car

So how does the vest do when you put an actual child in the car? It was actually pretty good for my little nephew at 3.5 and average height!

You can see that I managed to pull the vest down pretty far so that the lap panel is flat on his thighs. I’ve used the top tether and the crotch strap to limit the wiggles. If he had a little more room in the vest, sitting “criss-cross” would help the lap panel sit even flatter.

He’s right near the top of the size chart for the XS vest, and because he’s 3 he had no tolerance for trying the small in the car. It’s also worth nothing that in this vehicle he doesn’t have the appealing red button of the seatbelt buckle right next to him, but he would in a sedan or other bench seat. I’m confident that this little guy wouldn’t mess with it once told, but only you know how your child will handle that situation.

Travel Car Seat Mom - A little girl sitting in a car seat.

This is in a different vehicle, but you can see that the fit on his sister at age 2 is… less good. In theory this works: the lap belt is flat on her thighs and the shoulder belt crosses near her collar bone. But because she’s very small and the seatbelt is mounted high in this car, it hits her right in the face! There’s a good chance that she would (understandably) move the seatbelt out of position after a few minutes because that can’t be comfortable.

Travel Car Seat Mom - A child sitting in the back seat of a car.

Safe Traffic Systems offers the Travel Smarter backless booster seat that can be used with any size vest to improve the seatbelt fit. As you can see here, it does exactly that! There’s no chance of the lap belt riding up onto her “soft belly” and the shoulder belt is more appropriately positioned. She’s also able to benefit from the car’s advanced safety features like side curtain airbags since she’s higher up.

You can read my Travel Smarter booster seat review for more info. It’s incredibly light and comes with its own backpack that also fits the vest inside.

If you feel that the XS Ride Safer vest is right for your family, you can buy it here and save $11 with coupon ‘VOYAGE’.

How to put on the Ridesafer vest for kids

When you open the Ridesafer travel vest backpack, you’ll see a few different parts and you’ll need to make some adjustments. The great news is that you can fit it to your child before you need to use it in the car.

The components included in the box are the vest, a sometimes-optional crotch strap, the optional-but-highly-recommended top tether, the truly optional neck pillow and a convenient carry backpack. We ditched the pillow after just one use and the crotch strap once our kids got a little bigger.

Putting the vest on is pretty intuitive: open the buckle and the very sturdy Velcro panel in the front, then have your child slip his arms in. Tug the vest down, fasten the Velcro so that it’s snug but not uncomfortable and then fasten the metal buckle, adjusting the strap length as necessary – there’s no way that vest is coming undone on its own! To get the length right, turn your child around and open the Velcro on the crossing straps on his back. Adjust the vest until the bottom flap on the front is resting on top of his thighs (since it will hold the lap portion of the seatbelt in the proper position), then refasten the Velcro straps on his back.

The final (optional) step is to the thread the Y-shaped crotch strap through the two slots on the back of the vest on the bottom (one on each side), then pull between the legs and fasten snugly through the slot at the bottom of the front. While the crotch strap is technically optional, it’s important for preventing younger riders from “submarining” (sliding down and out of the vest).

We stopped using the crotch strap around 4.5-5 years old. It’s not long enough to use all the way to the top of the size range, but it’s also not necessary at that point.

You can see a hands-on demo of putting on the Ride Safer vest below:

How to use the Ride Safer vest in the car

The Ride Safer travel vest is very easy to use once you get it on your child.

Here are the basic steps to use the Ridesafer vest:

Put the vest on the child, making sure that the lower panel is over the tops of the thighs. It can help to “fan out” the two sides of the lap panel so that it sits flat.
Have child sit in the car and fasten seatbelt as normal.
Feed the lap belt through both metal guides in the lap panel of the vest, then pull snug across the lap. Don’t over-tighten the lap belt or it may start to bunch in the guide on the side away from the buckle.
Open the Velcro shoulder pad on the side where the should belt crosses and feed the shoulder belt through that metal guide, then pull snug and close the shoulder pad.
Attach the optional but highly recommended top tether to the shoulder straps using the two metal hooks (above the pads), then attach the other end to the car’s top tether point and pull the tail to remove slack .

If you’ll be using the Ride Safe travel vest in your own car or a rental car, you can leave it attached to the car when you get out! Just unbuckle the seatbelt and remove it from the lap belt guide on the buckle side before you unbuckle the waist strap. You can leave the tether attached at the shoulders and even leave the seatbelt threaded through the shoulder and the other side of the lap! As you become more experienced with the vest, it’s a real time saver.

Ride Safer travel vest FAQs

Yes, as long as it’s used in accordance with the directions the Ride Safer travel vest is legal in the United States. Please see more information on Europe , Australia and Costa Rica for additional guidance if you’re traveling to those places.

Yes, it passes FMVSS 213 testing just like all other car seats in the United States.

No. If your child is under 40lbs, the CARES harness ( full review here ) is an excellent complement that can be used on planes.

The RSTV is permitted in Canada as a medical device with prescription.

The Ride Safer Travel Vest has only been crash tested an approved with the Travel Smarter backless booster seat . Using it with any other booster seat (inflatable or otherwise) may be unsafe and in some cases illegal.

RideSafer Travel Vest Review Impressions

Bottom-line upfront: we liked it enough to take it with us for a full year of travel. Yes, its that much of a game-changer. Now having returned, I have no regrets about that choice.

Now for my full thoughts: The Ride Safer vest is an awesome product that really delivers on its promise to make traveling with preschoolers and older kids easier without compromising safety. We took it to Europe without ever testing it at home, which was a risk for sure, but I figured it out pretty quickly. Our son barely complained during any of our car rides, though he’s generally pretty easygoing about car seat safety and is accustomed to riding in a forward-facing harness most of the time at home.

When we used it during our gap year trip, it was perfect for taxi rides in the cities because I could just roll it up and put it in our day bag. We also used it for some very long road trip stretches, and found it to be solid overall. There were times when our daughter slumped more than we would have liked when sleeping, and early in the trip the shoulder straps seemed a hair too long for her; however, a little gap at the shoulders isn’t necessarily a concern. In our long-term testing, she never complained about comfort despite some drives of 6 hours in a single day.

Overall we’re very satisfied with our decision to bring the Ride Safer rather than our usual travel car seat. For kids who are mature enough and big enough to fit, we whole-heartedly recommend it in situations like ours where traveling light is the only practical solution .

It’s also a great alternative to a booster seat for taxi or Uber riders living in major cities or families on extended trips at age 4+, especially when many families would otherwise allow their children to ride unrestrained. Just throw it in the included backpack and let your kid carry it around! We’ve also found it indispensable for fitting 3-across in our small car when Grandma comes to visit.

Bubblebum (left) compared with Ride Safer travel vest (right)

If your child is younger or smaller, take a look at the WAYB Pico , which is an excellent folding car seat with a 5-point harness. If you travel infrequently and will just be taking a single flight and then renting a car, one of these travel car seats might be a good fit for your needs.

The RideSafer travel vest is also sometimes prescribed for children with special needs, especially now that there’s a size Extra Large available. It can be a great choice for older children and even teens who have outgrown the tallest harnessed car seat and still need more support than a traditional booster seat can offer.

What we like:

-Feels very well made

-Design has multiple fail-safe mechanisms

-Extremely compact (takes up less than half of a preschool-sized backpack)

-Easy to use, takes less than 3min to put on the vest and get the seatbelt in place (assuming your kid is a willing participant)

-More torso support than a backless booster, avoids booster rider slumping when asleep

-Adjustable sizing so it can last for several years

-Wide range of sizes now available, from XS to XL

What we don’t love:

-Can take some practice and tweaking to get the fit of the car seat vest just right

-Crotch strap is almost too short for many kids, though its use is not required

-Getting the vest on the kid and then the kid in the car can get to be tiresome if you’re doing it several times per day, every day, for a whole year

-Lots of parts to keep track of (for a city family using the vest in a taxi, you can leave the headrest at home and save tons of space)

-The optional headrest is more trouble than it’s worth

-Not permitted to use on an airplane, so for a child under 40lbs you’d need to buy a CARES harness to make the airplane seatbelt safe

-Kids can’t see out the window (can be used with the Travel Smarter booster seat to give them a lift)

-The 2023 version now has a 5 year expiration, while earlier versions had a 10 year expiration

Final Thoughts on the Ride Safer car seat vest

As you can see from my impressions above, there is room for small changes or additional features; however, our impression is overwhelmingly positive. I was especially pleased that, when used with the top tether, the car seat travel vest prevented slumping out of position while sleeping. If we had just brought a booster seat, our daughter would have been in an unsafe position. Moving from two bulky car seats to none on our gap year was absolutely epic (we use this one for our son since he was 6 years old by then – full review here ). I honestly don’t know how we could have managed without the Ride Safer travel vest .

While the Ride Safer vest is a little pricey for an item most families will use only occasionally, if your family travels often with older preschoolers or young school age children I can’t recommend it enough. It would be a fantastic choice for car-free families with kids ages 4 and up as well, as you can easily shove it in your purse or backpack for unexpected taxi rides.

We feel confident that the Ride Safer offers a safe alternative to either lugging a huge car seat around a city or relying on an unfamiliar car/driver to maybe offer car seats. Ready to buy your own Ride Safer vest? Get it directly from Safe Ride 4 Kids for amazing customer service and fast, free shipping! Use coupon ‘VOYAGE’ to save $11 on your order.

Key stats: -Weight 2lbs -Size small: minimum age 3, fits best for 30+ lbs and 35-47″ -Size large: minimum age 4, fits best for 50+ lbs and 45-57″

Pros: ✔ Rolls up to the size of a 2L soda bottle ✔ Perfect for taxi rides ✔ Lowers seat belt to provide an appropriate fit for young children ✔ Keeps kids properly seated better than a traditional booster seat – even when sleeping ✔ Easy to fit 3-across since it’s only as wide as the child ✔ 5 year expiration

Cons: ✘ No side impact protection like a highback booster seat ✘ Takes practice to get belt fit right ✘ NOT permitted for use on planes

Still not sure? Pin this for later to come back to it!

Not sure what car seat to bring for travel? Find the best travel car seats by age

Our friends at Safe Traffic Systems and Safe Ride 4 Kids sent me several Ride Safer travel vest for kids to review; all opinions are my own.

24 thoughts on “Ride Safer Travel Vest review (2024)”

Hello! What are your thoughts on this for a tall 7 year old who is complaining that cat seats are getting uncomfortable, but has ADHD and needs something to help him stay in his belt? He also falls asleep in the car and tips over so I am not anywhere close to a booster for him. Thanks.

The Ride Safer is a wonderful solution in that situation as long as he won’t unbuckle the seatbelt. Just be sure to use the top tether for extra support. I suggest size large given his age and height (the length and width are adjustable). Right now you can grab the vest for 20% off with coupon HOLIDAYTRIP20 .

Best, Melissa

You mention the RideSafer Delight when discussing the size of the vest as an option for smaller children. As I search for the Ride Safer Delight, I find options that say things like RideSafer Delight (Gen 5) and they look exactly like the Gen 5. Do you have any advice for finding the Delight or know what the distinguishing features are? I can’t find the Delight on the Ride Safer website.

Thanks for stopping by! The Ride Safer Delight was the official name for the Gen 4 vest – I don’t know why they moved away from the numbers for that one and then moved right back! Unfortunately the Delight is discontinued now and not available to purchase. Only the Gen 5 is available. Since most reviews on the internet still reflect the Delight, I wanted to make sure everyone understands the sizing difference. The easiest ways to tell the difference are: -Gen 5 has fabric covered loops on the tops of the shoulders rather than metal on the Delight -Gen 5 has a buckle that slides closed from the top rather than hooking across on the Delight

I hope this helps!

What are your thoughts, in terms of convenience and comfort, of using this INSTEAD of a booster?

My oldest (7) will outgrow his 5pt harness car seat soon and so I’ve started researching boosters etc when I stumbled on your review. I LOVE the idea of no more bulky boosters etc to deal with…just wondering if this is easy for kids to get in and out of on their own and if they’re more comfortable or as comfortable as boosters?

*not asking about safety differences! Just ease of use and comfort for every day use*

Thanks for stopping by! It’s an important question. While I love having the Ride Safer in my toolkit when I need it (travel, tight 3-across etc), it’s not something I’d choose for every day use if I could realistically use a different option. Getting a perfect fit can be tricky and requires fine-tuning.

I’m not sure if you know this, but there’s no evidence that a highback booster is safer than a backless booster. There are some crashes in which one is (theoretically) better and other crashes in which the other option may perform better. If your child is at least 50 pound (and can sit properly for the duration of the ride), the Graco RightGuide is the most minimalist option out there. I’m actually about to buy one myself to review, but I’ve heard excellent feedback from my colleagues. One downside is that shorter kids may not be able to see out the window in some cars. My son has also liked the Chicco GoFit , Graco Turbo GO and Bubblebum over the years.

Super helpful! Thank you so much for your reply.

Your review is so very helpful. I have a situation where on 2 days of the week I have 2 different nannies doing pick ups and drop offs making the car seat situation difficult. Would you recommend the safe rider travel vest for these 3 times per week 20 min rides? I have a 3.5 and 5 yr old (40 and 44 lbs respectively). I am just so worried about the lack of side impact protection, though I have read that many cars have high standards for side impact protect in the car itself. Would love to know your thoughts on this.

Thanks, Brandy

That’s a great question. The Ride Safer can be a little finicky to fit properly on the lap – it needs to be lower than most people think, with the lower flap sitting flat on the thighs. It would really depend on how confident you are in the nannies’ abilities to get the fit right and their attention to detail. When we had a nanny for our kids back in the day, I made sure to get the absolute simplest seats I possibly could for the kids to reduce the chance of installation or usage mistakes – remember, most parents don’t even get everything right with their car seats!

Can you tell me the kids’ heights? And do you feel like your 5yo is mature enough to ride in a booster seat on those trips? I’m happy to try to come up with some additional ideas if you don’t feel that the nannies could properly use the vest.

Safe travels, Melissa

Thank you for this great review! We are Americans living in the EU, car-free so we only need car seat for taxis and rental cars. My large 3-year-old (37 lbs, 39”) is THIS close to outgrowing her Cosco Scenera NEXT so we are trying to find our next seat. Hoping this will work. We looked at Wayb Pico but I don’t think it’s technically approved in the EU like Ride Safer is, and we have never gotten good at the locking clip (we try to use LATCH/Isofix now). Do you think this will work? Am I overthinking given she hasn’t been in a car in months? 😂

Thanks for stopping by! Unfortunately the current version of the Ride Safer isn’t approved for Europe either 🙁 That said, in your situation I might still opt for it. We know that it is a *safe* choice. Since you’re rarely in cars it does seem like the best option. I suspect that many European parents in your situation might choose to use nothing other than the adult seatbelt, which of course is not a safe choice, or a booster seat (also not a safe choice). Some of the details will also depend on which country you live in, whether you’re there on US government orders, etc.

Safe travels,

Hello, Thanks for this review. Is it mendatory to use the “TravelSmarter Delight Booster Seat” or can we use in any booster such as “bubble bum”? Thanks again.

Thanks for stopping by! Using the TravelSmarter Delight booster seat (thanks for pointing out the name change) isn’t required, but the Ride Safer travel vest HAS NOT been crash tested with the Bubblebum. They are not approved for use together.

Good morning

I have an 8yr old who had down syndrome. He is around 3ft 54ish pounds I ordered the small. Is that the correct size? I was also curious as to how you would use it in the winter time with the heavy jacket. I will be sending him to and from school with this Amy suggestions on how to make sure the teacher is comfortable putting him in the vest for the ride home from school. I do pick up and drop off only 5mins down the road.

Thanks for stopping by! If he’s truly 3′, it’s possible that you may not get a great fit even with the size small vest. It’s a little more “fiddly” to get right than a traditional harnessed car seat so anyone who is going to put him in needs specific training on how to get the lap panel FLAT on the tops of his thighs.

Is there a reason you opted for the vest rather than a traditional harnessed car seat? What sort of vehicle will he be riding in? It will probably be easier for a teacher to buckle him properly in a combination car seat.

As to the jacket, it’s very important that he (and you!) choose outerwear that’s not overly bulky for use in the car. In very cold climates I recommend having kiddo wear a fleece and then another jacket, and take the outer shell off in the car. Alternatively you can look at various “car seat safe” winter jackets. Here are tips for riding safely in the winter .

Please let me know if you have any other questions!

Drive safely, Melissa

Thanks so much for this thorough review! I have a 4.5 yo who is quite tall (46″), would be an average 5.5-6 yo. any thoughts on whether he needs to be in small or large? we would be using it for Uber/Lyft in the town we live. thanks!

The large is quite large. I recently evaluated it on a skinny 49″ 6yo and it was like a circus tent. Can you have him sit straight against a wall with his legs in front and measure from the top of his thigh to his shoulder? That’ll be the best way to determine the correct size.

Hi, My child is 5 years old but only 30 pounds, 40 inches which fall within the size recommendations for the XS and S. Which one would you recommend? Seems the chest strap and crotch strap on the XS are great, but since she’s 5, maybe there is not much room to grow, or it may be too cumbersome.

Thanks for stopping by! I would go with the S, as I fear the XS would already be outgrown by height. However, I’m not confident that your child will get a great fit with being so slender. I would strongly recommend using the top tether, which should help keep the vest up on her shoulders. Just be sure not to over-tighten!

Hi, I’m looking at this as the next step after a Clek Foonf in forward-facing mode/other forward-facing car seats for every day use instead of a traditional booster seat. I’m thinking a couple years ahead here. LO is currently 3yo (38mo), 38.75 inches tall and 36.8 pounds (82nd percentile for height). Extrapolating, LO should be about 41 inches by age 4 and 45 inches by age 5.

I’m thinking of this for when LO is 5yo or when they grow out of any of the three (yes three!!) car seats we are forced to own. (We have two nannies who each need a car seat their car, plus the Clek Foonf in our family car.) I’d like to quit having a herd of car seats, its associated costs, the necessity of knowing how to install three different car seats, and the need to remember three different heights for when LO will outgrow each car seat. I’d also like to not have to buy yet a fourth car seat for LO to ride in Grandma’s car.

The Ride Safer vest appears to be the only option available.

What are you thoughts here? I see you mentioned maturity of rider as a factor, but didn’t go into great detail about it. What age/maturity level is necessary for this? How do I know if my kid meets those standards? I also see you mentioned in a comment above that you wouldn’t choose this for every day use. What is the reasoning there? If this is really not indicated for daily use in regular, non-travelling life, what other options are there for having one restraint for multiple cars?

(I feel like I’ve asked you to write another blog post here! Apologies. I feel like there is a huge gap in information available about restraint options beyond forward-facing 5 point harness type seats.)

Hi Adrienne,

Thanks for stopping by! These are great questions. I’ll start from the bottom, as in some ways that’ll be easier.

We used it daily for over a year. It’s a fine and safe choice BUT you really have to make sure that the fit is correct each and every time – in particular that the lap belt is sitting basically flat on the tops of the thighs. As a mom and CPST, it’s no problem. But it’s not an option that I would casually send with other caregivers who may struggle or be in a hurry.

As for maturity, it’s really about sitting basically still (not like a statue, but always in position) despite the additional “freedom” the vest offers. A basic pre-condition for using the vest is that your kiddo would never ever ever consider touching the tempting red button that unfastens the seatbelt!

We had a nanny when our kids were little, so we had three seats for each of them (plus travel seats!). I get it. The good news is that booster seats are generally inexpensive and very easy to use correctly. They don’t even *have* to be installed, though attaching with lower anchors prevents them from becoming projectiles when empty so it’s recommended. We’ll have to see what options are available and what your family’s situation is when your child reaches booster age, but you should be able to grab $16 backless boosters for nanny cars (or travel) and they’ll just require a few minutes of instruction for safe use. Then you can pick up one nicer booster seat for your family car and call it a day!

Hi Melissa,

Yes, this helps immensely. Thank you for the thoughtful response. My main concern now is LO growing out of the car seats we have before being developmentally ready to sit without the five point harness. Tall child problems.

Many thanks!

We have a laid-back, patient 2 year old who is 38.5″ and 31 lbs. We’re planning a family reunion for August, when she will be 2.5 and SizeCast predicts she will be 40.5″ and 33 lbs. She’s almost outgrown her Cosco Scenera NEXT, and we are older and have health issues making it hard for us to move heavier car seats. She’s already gone through a “no to everything” phase and that seems over now (though could always return). She’s always been very good about obeying safety warnings so far.

We’re taking the train to our destination, and we’ll need to take a taxi or Uber to the airport to pick up a rental car. (BTW we’ve never used Uber, so we’d have to hope the app even installs on our ancient phones, figure out how to use it etc…or we could just use a taxi.) We can rent a car seat with the rental car (I think–need to confirm that), but we’re unsure what to do about the ride to the airport. We could

* hope the Scenera still fits by then (it “officially should,” but it really doesn’t seem like it will) * try to drag along the new car seat we got before this trip was planned, even though it weighs almost as much as she does * try a Ride Safer vest

Might a Ride Safer vest work for this? If so, what size? (I know at her age it should be XS, but I saw in the comments that the XS might be too small for 40.5″?) (The Wayb Pico seems cool, but we can’t afford it, especially not for just one trip. The Safety 1st Go Hybrid seems like it would’ve been what we need, but it’s long gone…)

What are your thoughts here? Thanks!

I’m really glad you stopped by! While the vest is technically approved, it’s not ideal at this age. I recommend that you take a look at the Evenflo Chase . It’s not a seat I typically recommend since it only harnesses to 40lbs and the booster mode isn’t great, but it does have a 50″ standing limit with high top harness slots. It’s also very budget-friendly and lightweight! You should get several years of use out of it given her build.

Let me know what you think or if you need another recommendation 🙂

Ride Safer Travel Vest Review: it will change the way you travel with kids

This post contains affiliate links, for which I may earn a commission if you make a qualifying purchase.

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This review of the Ride Safer travel vest is written by certified Child Passenger Safety Technician Melissa Conn and may contain affiliate links.

DEAL ALERT! Save $11 off the Ride Safer Travel Vest with coupon ‘ VOYAGE ‘

Here’s a quick video review of the Ride Safer travel vest:

What is the Ride Safer travel vest?

The Ride Safer travel vest is a wearable booster seat alternative for young children up through tweens. It works by bringing the seatbelt down to your child’s level rather than boosting her up.

Who should use the Ride Safer Travel Vest?

According to the manufacturer specifications, the Ride Safer Travel Vest Gen 5 will fit the following ages and sizes:

Ok, but what ages and sizes should use the Ride Safer Travel Vest?

As I mentioned in the introduction, we’re fortunate to have used two generations and several sizes of Ride Safer travel vest over the course of many years and many rides.

Not ready for the Ride Safer yet? Here are some great travel car seats for 3 year olds and 4 year olds to consider instead.

Ride Safer Travel Vest X-Small review

If your kiddo is already 4, scroll down to the next section.

Ride Safer Travel Vest small vs x-small comparison

First, let’s look at a comparison between the Gen 5 Ride Safer Travel Vest XS (left) and the Small (right) and spot the differences:

Ride Safer Travel Vest XS fit to child

Is the extra-small Ride Safer Travel Vest right for your child?

There aren’t many situations where I’m inclined to steer parents to the XS vest versus a traditional travel car seat or the WAYB Pico , but here they are:

You have a calm, compliant, petite 3-4 year old and will be doing the sort of travel that just doesn’t work with a traditional car seat (like full-time travel )
You’re taking a 2 year old on a car-free vacation that only requires a taxi / Uber from the airport and an adult or teen will be sitting next to the toddler in the car

XS Ride Safer Travel Vest in the car

So how does the vest do when you put an actual child in the car? It was actually pretty good for my little nephew at 3.5 and average height!

You can read my Travel Smarter booster seat review for more info. It’s incredibly light and comes with its own backpack that also fits the vest inside.

If you feel that the XS Ride Safer vest is right for your family, you can buy it here and save $11 with coupon ‘VOYAGE’.

How to put on the Ridesafer vest for kids

We stopped using the crotch strap around 4.5-5 years old. It’s not long enough to use all the way to the top of the size range, but it’s also not necessary at that point.

You can see a hands-on demo of putting on the Ride Safer vest below:

How to use the Ride Safer vest in the car

The Ride Safer travel vest is very easy to use once you get it on your child.

Here are the basic steps to use the Ridesafer vest:

Put the vest on the child, making sure that the lower panel is over the tops of the thighs. It can help to “fan out” the two sides of the lap panel so that it sits flat.
Have child sit in the car and fasten seatbelt as normal.
Feed the lap belt through both metal guides in the lap panel of the vest, then pull snug across the lap. Don’t over-tighten the lap belt or it may start to bunch in the guide on the side away from the buckle.
Open the Velcro shoulder pad on the side where the should belt crosses and feed the shoulder belt through that metal guide, then pull snug and close the shoulder pad.
Attach the optional but highly recommended top tether to the shoulder straps using the two metal hooks (above the pads), then attach the other end to the car’s top tether point and pull the tail to remove slack .

Ride Safer travel vest FAQs

Yes, it passes FMVSS 213 testing just like all other car seats in the United States.

No. If your child is under 40lbs, the CARES harness ( full review here ) is an excellent complement that can be used on planes.

The RSTV is permitted in Canada as a medical device with prescription.

RideSafer Travel Vest Review Impressions

Bottom-line upfront: we liked it enough to take it with us for a full year of travel. Yes, its that much of a game-changer. Now having returned, I have no regrets about that choice.

What we like:

-Feels very well made

-Design has multiple fail-safe mechanisms

-Extremely compact (takes up less than half of a preschool-sized backpack)

-Easy to use, takes less than 3min to put on the vest and get the seatbelt in place (assuming your kid is a willing participant)

-More torso support than a backless booster, avoids booster rider slumping when asleep

-Adjustable sizing so it can last for several years

-Wide range of sizes now available, from XS to XL

What we don’t love:

-Can take some practice and tweaking to get the fit of the car seat vest just right

-Crotch strap is almost too short for many kids, though its use is not required

-Getting the vest on the kid and then the kid in the car can get to be tiresome if you’re doing it several times per day, every day, for a whole year

-Lots of parts to keep track of (for a city family using the vest in a taxi, you can leave the headrest at home and save tons of space)

-The optional headrest is more trouble than it’s worth

-Not permitted to use on an airplane, so for a child under 40lbs you’d need to buy a CARES harness to make the airplane seatbelt safe

-Kids can’t see out the window (can be used with the Travel Smarter booster seat to give them a lift)

-The 2023 version now has a 5 year expiration, while earlier versions had a 10 year expiration

Final Thoughts on the Ride Safer car seat vest

Not sure what car seat to bring for travel? Find the best travel car seats by age

Our friends at Safe Traffic Systems and Safe Ride 4 Kids sent me several Ride Safer travel vest for kids to review; all opinions are my own.

What to read next

57 thoughts on “ride safer travel vest review: it will change the way you travel with kids”.

What a greta piece of travel kit. Having just returned from a trip where I had to take a car sat for my two-year-old and a smaller travel booster for my four-year-old I feel your pain having to lug bulky seats around in the past. This type of solution is brilliant for traveling families. It does look very secure too and maybe not so easy to wriggle out of as the travel seat I took with me on my last trip! Thanks for sharing this on #MondayEscapes

I really wish they had come out with this when my girls were younger, it certainly seems like such a huge help with travel – especially taxis and such! Excellent idea, and I’ve got to share this with some friends who still have younger kids.

I’ve been biding my time until Jacob was old enough! It’s a really innovative solution. Thanks for sharing!

What a great invention. Definitely a game-changer if you don’t need to carry a car seat or a booster. I’ve been keen on using Hertz with AAA code to get a free car seat with each rental.

Great idea but I appreciate you pointing out what you love and what could need more improvement #fearlessfamtrav

It’s a really interesting idea, but it seems just a wee bit too complicated and uncomfortable to fully replace a booster seat, especially for longer journeys. Also, I worry about it becoming too warm during summertime. Thanks anyway for bringing this to my attention. #FearlessFamTrav

If a child is truly old enough to use a backless booster, something like a bubble bum would be a great choice; however, my personal minimum for that would be 6yo AND not falling asleep in the car. Sadly I see so many pictures of booster riders who fall asleep and basically lay down sideways – not adequate protection in a crash, not even close.

The vest is really great for families whose kids are riding in a forward-facing harnessed seat, but who are basically willing not to squirm too much in the car.

Do you know if it can be used with only a lapbelt? We are going to Sri Lanka soon and can’t find a van that has shoulder belts so looking into different options since we won’t be able to use the high back booster.

Hi Kaylie, no it needs a shoulder belt. We’re in Panama now and have had a few van rides in which the kids just used the lap belt. Sometimes that’s the reality. We’ve found Uber cars to have better safety features than traditional taxis or vans, but I’m not sure if Uber is available in Sri Lanka. How old is your little one?

I had no idea anything like this existed! We make yearly trips to visit family and this would be so much better than lugging around a car seat! Thank you so much for this post!

Wow, it sounds brilliant. Definitely something we will invest in when we go abroad with the girls. It has always worried me about what to do with car seats and this seems like the perfect solution. I love that it doesn’t take up too much space. Nat.x

This is so interesting – I’ve not seen one of thes ebefore .So much lighter than a car seat and having to lug around. #familytraveltips

Thanks for such a comprehensive review! Can you share the dimensions of the item folded up and in a proper stuff sack? ie what is the smallest it can be? THANKS!

I don’t have the dimensions offhand (no soft tape with me while traveling!) but I’d say perhaps like a 2L soda bottle without the neck part?

This is not true – a ride safer vest can be used with just a lap belt PROVIDED the tether is used – the clip anchoring between the shoulders and the bolt or latch mandatory in most cars.

You are correct that it can technically be used with a lap-only belt in that situation, but I think you’d be hard-pressed to find a car today that has a lap-only belt AND a top tether. Alternatively, you could buy the EATAL accessory to mimic a tether point, but many cars don’t have a suitable tether point at all. I think that for 99% of parent out there, the best practice is to use it with a lap-shoulder belt if one is available. We found many cars in Thailand and Morocco that have lap-shoulder belts outboard and lap-only in the middle (no top tethers in ANY position), and I would rather not have parents remember only partial information and misuse the product. In that situation, the safest position for the child is outboard with a lap-shoulder belt.

Looks like the Amazon Prime code doesn’t work anymore – I’m getting “The promotional code you entered cannot be applied to your purchase.” Any chance you have a new one?

How was the comfort level for long drives? Also, it seems like the child wouldn’t be able to see out of the window. Was that an issue?

This is a very interesting alternative… My three year old is still rear facing in a convertible, so I am hesitant to downgrade in terms of protection, but It would be extremely convenient when traveling. Something to definitely consider!

I wholeheartedly agree! We kept our older one rear-facing until 4 and the younger one until 3.5, but at that point we went off traveling full-time and the Ride Safer was by far the best option for that lifestyle 🙂

Super excited to have found this option – this + Bubble Bum are good options for my two kids. Will look into the links.

They’re both awesome products! We started using the Bubblebum for our older one at 6yo. We started using the Ride Safer around 3.5yo but only because we were traveling full-time and a regular car seat just wouldn’t have worked. But for a more “normal” family travel schedule, I think the Ride Safer vest is a great choice starting around 4yo 🙂

I didn’t knew about this gadget until now and I’m glad I read your post.

Hopefully you’ll get a chance to try it out! We’ve loved it for traveling light 🙂

We’ve been thinking about purchasing one of these. Thank you for the information!

You won’t regret it, the Ride Safer vest is super handy once your kid is old enough to use it!

We travel about half the year with our daughter who is about to be the perfect age/size for this!

It’s perfect! We did find that our petite girl fit better once she was between 3.5 and 4yo. How big is your daughter?

This looks like a smart idea for traveling with our 3 year old. We have mifolds for our older kids but they complained that the seat area was uncomfortable. The vest would have solved the uncomfortable seat problem.

I’ve heard that the mifold can be uncomfortable and that the belt fit for some kids in some cars isn’t great :-/ If your older ones are booster-age and mature, I’d look into the Bubblebum . But for your younger one, the Ride Safer vest should be good (we liked the fit better closer to 4yo than 3yo for what it’s worth).

Would love to try this out, likely with our older one. Will need to wait a little for her to grow a little bigger 😉

I’d definitely wait until 3.5 or even 4 🙂

I’m a little concerned that my daughter – who is generally uncomfortable in car seats – will not find this comfortable, but am willing to deal with that in exchange for not logging a big car seat around. Thanks!

Traveling to Spain in October and this will be our first trip my daughter meets the requirements for this product. Excited to see how it compares to lugging a big seat with us.

I was wondering the same, sounds like a great product.

Sooo looking forward to when my little guy is big enough to use this!

Such an awesome tool! Wish I knew about these sooner.

There was nothing like when I first started traveling!

Thank you so much for the very thorough review and videos. I am getting ready to take 2 preschoolers on a trip from Atlanta to multiple cities in China for a month. On our way back to Atlanta, we will be in L.A. for a few days with a friend who has 3 kids in car seats, so, I have been looking for suitable child restraints that won’t destroy my back or my sanity. I would love to try the RideSafer Delight on my kids (both are on the taller side) since my youngest will just turn 3 while we are in China. Since I don’t think that we would use them much after the trip and since they are pretty pricey, I’ll try asking around to see if anyone in my area has one that I could borrow to test fit. Thanks again for the post!

I’m really excited because my oldest just turned 3 last month and we’ve got a Euro trio coming up that this would be great on!

Is there any way this cam be combined with bubble bum so kids can look out of the windows?

I live in San Francisco and think just about every friend here has one of these. I’m still holding out, based on price – but really appreciate the lower weight limit than other travel friendly (Uber/Lyft friendly) options for preschoolers, as my little one won’t hit 40 pounds for a long time. When we’ve borrowed one though, she seemed like she was swimming in it (at 34 pounds). You mentioned that too – so seems a common complaint – would be curious to know more from others. Thanks for all the details!

Can’t wait until my daughter is a little older/heavier to use this!

How convenient for rentals and taxis!

We are just starting to outgrow our carseat for flights and this would be such the perfect option!

We got one for our older girl when she was 3, traveled in Kenya with it… Now waiting for our youngest to hit the age/weight requirements so she can start using it too!

Amazing! Out of curiosity, what’t the seatbelt situation like in Kenya?

It says it’s not approved for use in Europe?

The previous version was approved for Europe, but the manufacturer is still going through the certification process for the updated vest.

Great idea but I appreciate you pointing out what you love and what needs work.

This is such a great option for travel! I really wish we had this when we went away last year instead of lugging our little one and the car seat with us! We are very excited to give this a try.

I can’t imaging doing a gap year with a regular car seat – you guys are troopers! I’m glad we waited until our daughter was old enough to use the vest. Hopefully you guys will have a Ride Safer vest in your future 🙂

I appreciate the review! I am interested in one of these when my daughter is old enough

The extra small size goes down to 20lbs. 30 lbs isn’t the minimim

Thanks for stopping by! Please see my updated Ride Safer Travel Vest review for more information on the XS. And while it is technically is rated to 22lbs (the Federal minimum for forward facing), there’s virtually no situation in which it’s an ideal restraint for that size child. Even in the most tricky of circumstances, I’d sooner put a 22lb child in this car seat that only weighs a little more than the vest.

Safe travels,

Hey Family travellers!

We just came back from travel with the family. Its was tons of fun ! The only issue we had was the transport ie safe taxi with car seat as we didnt have a car. Any tips on safe travels? We tried one company but they only have airport transfers.

It really depends on where you’re going. Is there a particular destination you had in mind?

RideSafer Vest | Travel Car Seat (Generation 5)

Lightweight, portable and convenient when traveling with kids. It can fit in your child's backpack).
Crash Tested and Safety Certified. RideSafer meets or exceeds Federal standards in FMVSS 21.
Vest comes with tether strap, crotch strap and carry bag.

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Return policy details.

Open Box items are discounted as they are products which were returned unused but perhaps missing some packaging materials. All Open Box items are hand inspected in our office to make sure they have all necessary parts. No Returns on discounted Open Box items.

RideSafer Crash Test Videos

For comparison: Booster seat crash test

Side view of the RideSafer crash test

Top view of the RideSafer crash test

Additional RideSafer Travel Vest Information

• Easy to put on and use correctly every time

• Lightweight to carry when traveling with children

• Safety and convenience in taxis or ride shares

• A convenient option to switching car seats for carpools or multiple cars; only need 1 vest per child NOT 1 car seat per vehicle per child.

• Increased safety and comfort by allowing the child sit further back and lower on the more comfortable vehicle seat.

• A unique, 3-clip design positions the car’s seat belt comfortably and correctly with shoulder tether for consistent sitting position and increased security (tether is recommended for kids at least up to 5 years old; tether is required if using vest with lap-only belt).

• Adjustable straps allow for growth (up to the next size).

• Padding absorbs and dissipates crash energy from seat belt.

• Neck pillow sold separately. No longer included with vest.

RideSafer is the innovative, wearable child restraint that is easy-to-use, easy-to-carry & legal!

Extra Small size RideSafer Travel Vest : For this age of child, rear-facing is the safest option. We would only recommend using an XS RideSafer vest for special situations such as for travel or taxis/ride shares. Ideally an adult will sit next to the child to help keep the child in proper position. (The XS is designed for use by very slim 2-year-olds or very slim 3- to, maybe, 4-year-old children. Most 3- and 4-year-olds will fit best in a small size vest.)

Fit 3 in a Row!

Best of all, RideSafer allows parents to easily fit three children in the back seat, side by side, with no crowding — and no complaining! No need to buy an expensive new car just to accommodate your car seats; RideSafer’s slim profile keeps kids safe and comfortable.

Better than a Booster

RideSafer is the safe alternative to a traditional booster car seat! The RideSafer vest can be tethered to your car for optimum upper body restraint and our unique, 3-clip design positions and secures the seat belt exactly where it needs to be for each specific child—across the lap, not the waist, protecting vital internal organs, and across the shoulders, not the neck, eliminating uncomfortable rubbing and dangerous ‘sneaky slipping’ of the shoulder harness behind the child.

The RideSafer padded vest also disperses crash energy across a larger area of the child’s chest than the standard 2” seatbelt and keeps the child’s center of mass lower and further back in the seat than a traditional toddler car seat, which has proven safer in the event of an accident.

And, while car seats are installed incorrectly 3 out of every 4 times, RideSafer’s easy, intuitive installation eliminates the risk of incorrect usage when moving from car to car, making RideSafer the safer choice.

Portable and Packable

No more juggling heavy, cumbersome car seats and boosters—or worse, going without a car seat when traveling! RideSafer is your safe, portable travel car seat solution. Small enough to fit in a backpack or suitcase, RideSafer is a great on-the-go solution for kids in boosters and forward-facing 5-point harness seats.

A RideSafer vest makes it easier to justify bringing along a child restraint for the few taxi rides a family needs to take to their destination. Even at a resort destination like Disney World or a cruise, you need a proper child restraint for the ride between the resort and the airport to keep your child safe.

Since the RideSafer Travel Vest is easy to install in all cars, it takes away the worry of not being able to correctly install an unknown car seat in an unknown car; a challenge when renting a car seat on your family vacation. Not to mention, you know where it’s been. Parents often report about the dirty car seat rental car companies offer.

Safety Tested, Certified and Legal!

The RideSafer travel vest is designed for children ages 2 and up and meets or exceeds all crash test requirements and Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for harness restraints (FMVSS213). In fact, the RideSafer consistently tests well below—sometimes by half or more!— the standard safety allowances.

FMVSS 213 is the federal standard which sets the performance criteria for child restraints. It requires that manufacturers measure crash energy at several different locations on an instrumented crash test dummy.

The RideSafer is tested as a harness as prescribed by FMVSS 213.

View RideSafer Crash Test Videos

What Car Seat Challenges Does the RideSafer Solve?

• travel with kids

• riding in taxis and ride share services like Uber or Lyft

• fitting 3 across a narrow car • carpools

• multiple caregivers doing drop-off/pick-up • children with special needs

Have a Question? Read the FAQs
Want Proof? Read the Reviews
Press and Media Mentions

Beware of counterfeit products

The manufacturer, Safe Traffic System Inc., is aware that harnesses that look similar to the RideSafer Travel Vest are available and can be purchased in many countries worldwide. We cannot attest to the safety of any product that is not labeled as "RideSafer" brand and manufactured by Safe Traffic System, Inc., Franklin Park, IL. If you come across what looks like a RideSafer and wonder if it is real or fake, please feel free to email STS pictures and information. They can confirm if it is the original RideSafer.

Open Box items are discounted as they are products which were returned unused — or lightly used for trying — but perhaps missing some packaging materials. All Open Box items are hand inspected in our office to make sure they have all necessary parts. No Returns on discounted Open Box items.

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2020 RideSafer Travel Vest Review Update – Now in THREE sizes!

The 2020 RideSafer Travel Vest XL Delight! A Mini-Review of the new RSTV.

By Brigala and Erin Brill

Do you have a bigger kid for whom a booster isn’t a good option? Maybe your car doesn’t have enough space to buckle a booster. Maybe your child is still too young for a booster or has special needs. Maybe you are dealing with a seating position with only a lap belt. Whatever the reason, parents who find themselves with kids in the 80+ lb. range who are not finding a booster to be a viable option haven’t had many alternatives.

Safe Traffic System heard you! In 2019, they started shipping the RideSafer Travel Vest in a size XL!

Left to right: RideSafer Travel Vest Delight in sizes Small, Large, and Extra Large.

Weight and Height Ranges

Small (3-6 years old): 30-60 lbs., 34-52″

Large (5-8 years old): 50-80 lbs., 45-57″

X-Large (8-10 years old): 80-110 lbs.

There’s also an “expansion panel” to improve fit options for all three sizes for heavier kids who may need more room in whatever size vest is appropriate for their height. Between the XL size and the expansion panels, the RideSafer Travel Vest may become a go-to option for a variety of kids for whom traditional car seats and boosters just aren’t working out.

A “6 year old” Huggable Image Doll in a size Large RSTV, and an “8 year old” HI Doll in the size Extra Large.

This is the same basic vest as the one we reviewed in 2017 , but for children whose height is between 48 and 60 inches tall, and whose weight is between 80 and 110 lbs.

My 8 year old human model is a little too light to get a great fit, as she only weighs 76 lbs. Height-wise, at 56” tall, it fits her well; but she needs to fill out a bit to get the vest snug. She has been riding in a Safety 1st Incognito since she got too tall to get a good fit in the size L RSTV and that works OK for around town.

At 8 years old, a backless booster is a safe and appropriate choice for most children her age; but for this child, some special developmental needs make sitting still in the car a challenge, especially for longer rides. We have found in the past that the vest does a better job than a booster keeping her in her seat. That’s what makes this new size option so exciting for us—driving on vacation is back on the table once she grows into the vest a bit.

Our model here weighs 76 lbs, just under the weight minimum of the vest. She is 56″ tall.

This is definitely a “niche” kind of product; not all families will need it. Even for hardcore RSTV families, a lot of children will be fine in just a seat belt once the size L is outgrown. That said, there are a LOT of situations where this is going to come in really handy:

Families with extra large preschoolers (in the 80+ lb range) who are just not old enough or mature enough for booster seats.
Vehicles with lap-only belt positions who are trying to get a little more time for their kids to ride before they have to upgrade vehicles – if your car has or can be retrofitted with tether anchors (available upon request from Safe Traffic Systems), this vest can turn a lap belt into a safe restraint for your older child.
Older or larger children with special needs who need extra seating support when they are too big for a regular car seat. This can be a great alternative to a $800+ car seat for some of these “in between” kids who don’t necessarily need all the features of a custom special transportation seat, but aren’t quite ready for the seat belt alone. In addition to cost, the portability of this vest is a huge advantage over most car seats for kids with special needs. No need to be tied down to only one vehicle if this will work for your unique child.
Vehicles with crummy seat belt design for children. Some kids might pass the 5-step test in some cars and be too big for some boosters, but still not get a safe belt fit in certain cars or seating positions.
Any time you have a “tight fit” situation where you can’t squeeze in a booster and your child isn’t quite big enough or mature enough to safely use the seat belt alone but has outgrown the size Large RSTV.

As with the other RideSafer Travel Vest Delight models, you can choose to purchase the vest alone or in a bundle that includes the tether strap. The tether that comes with the XL is a heavy duty dual tether. If you are using this vest with a lap-only belt, you will need to attach one end to the tether anchor that is behind the child, and the other end to the anchor for an adjacent seating position. The strap for the tether anchor is extra long to make sure there’s enough length for it to reach two separate anchors.

If you do not have another available anchor, contact Safe Traffic Systems for a kit to install in your car (or two kits, if you are using a lap belt and have no tether anchors at all). This will almost always involve some drilling so you may need to consult with a mechanic or a NMEDA-certified shop that is familiar with safety retrofits for vehicles.

Standard single tether on the left. Heavy duty dual tether for the XL RSTV on the right.

If you buy the model without the tether and decide later that you need it, the dual tether can be purchased separately, just like it is today for kids weighing more than 60 lbs. using the size Large RSTV with a lap only belt.

If you are using the vest with a lap and shoulder belt, the tether is optional. It can be a convenient place to “hang” the vest when not in use, and it can help provide support for squirmy or tired children, but if a shoulder belt is in use it does not provide any additional crash protection.

Like all the other models of RSTV, the included crotch strap is optional. You may use it if it improves your child’s posture in the car or the fit, but if it isn’t helpful for your situation, don’t use it.

The retail price of the XL RSTV is $189 without the tether, or $229 with the tether. As of this writing, it is available through two distributors: Safe Ride 4 Kids or Innoride . It may be available through Amazon in the future.

Introducing the latest model…Gen 5 .

Perhaps the most notable change on the latest model, Gen 5 , is the buckle. The previous buckle was intended to be kid proof but it turned it out to be a bit more “adult proof” instead! You’ll notice the current version has a simple metal hook that loops through webbing on the opposite side of the vest. When the webbing is pulled snugly, the hook stays secure but it’s easily removed when slack is introduced.

The lap belt guides are shaped a bit differently and you’ll also find bright red embroidered arrows on the belt guides improving the overall instructional labeling on the vest.

The material has changed including a gorgeous blue color. They have introduced new energy absorbing material, including in the vertical straps adding padding to the inside of the vest. The tether attachment loops are now made of webbing and while we never heard complaints with the metal loops, this theoretically makes the vest more comfortable.

The Gen 5 ships with a tether, neck support, and crotch strap.

Customer service will replace lost parts such as crotch straps, belt guides, buckle parts, etc. And with online registration comes a limited lifetime warranty covering replacement of any parts damaged during normal use of the product.

Sizing has remained the same including the new XL option. Fit has remained the same from Gen 4 to Gen 5 as the shape of the vest and available adjustments remain unchanged.

Here you can see a 9 year old, 53″ and 54lbs wearing the large and a 5 year old, 46″ and 44lbs wearing the small.

Thank you to Safe Traffic Systems for providing a Gen 5 and XL RideSafer Travel Vest for this review.

2012 kia sorento review: kids, carseats and safety, finally ~ combi zeus 360 convertible carseat review, 2022 safety 1st grow and go carseat review: raising the bar.

The Gen5 vests all ship with a tether, neck support pillow and crotch strap. The expansion panel is now available for purchase.

Thanks, Vera! I’ve updated the review to show those changes.

I have to differ on the sizing remaining the same. The size *chart* remains the same, but we have both the Delight and Gen5 and find that the Gen5 runs quite a bit longer in the torso. I polled families in a group that I run and those who have used both on their toddlers agree that the size small Gen 5 is WAY too big for the advertised minimum size. It’s really unfortunate and Safe Ride 4 Kids has been very responsive but the rep from STS has not been.

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RIDESAFER DELIGHT TRAVEL VEST GEN5 (TAX-INCLUDED)

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Why buy here (vs Amazon)?
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To be fair, Amazon has its advantage. Their higher price tag gives you a 30-day return policy, if that's important to you, then I'd suggest opting for Amazon: RideSafer link .
The US version of RideSafer is manufactured specifically with Americans' needs and NHTSA's FMVSS regulations in mind
The US version of the RideSafer Delight GEN5 is approved by NHTSA based on the FMVSS 213 safety standards.
Orders process & shipping arrangement
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Orders received are processed within 12hrs (24x7)
Amazon auto-selects to ship from the closest warehouse for fastest delivery
Delivery time ranges from 1-4 days (estimates only) depending on your shipping choice.
Note: For some shipping locations, the Amazon MCF system will show the same shipping time for different speeding choice. In case you chose the faster speed option and it shows the same time estimate of a lower speed option, we will help you select the lower speed option and refunds any shipping price difference

This revolutionary wearable child restraint is lightweight and easy to use, making it the perfect travelling companion for children in taxis and school buses.

Trusted by parents worldwide, RideSafer now sells in stores across the globe!

Children 3-12 years old are protected NOT by the car seat, but by the vehicle seat belt, HOWEVER...

Solution: Belt positioning

Where a booster is used to lift the child to try to make the adult seat belt fit better on the child, the RideSafer is used to bring the seat belt down to the child with 3 main benefits:

Crash dynamics would say the child is safer in the vehicle seat. This gives the child a lower center of mass and puts her back further from the vehicle seats in front of the child.
The seat belt is properly positioned on the child’s body: low on the hips/lap, mid-chest mid-shoulder and moves with the child.
The front panels are designed to absorb and dissipate the crash energy of the seat belt as it crosses the child’s body.

Age: 2 and up
Average age: 2 to 3
Recommended weight: 22-44 lbs (10-20kg)
Height: 30-45 inches (76.2-114.3cm）
Waist(When seated): 18-22 inches (45.7-55.9cm）
Torso Height (top of thigh to shoulder when seated): 8-10 inches (20.3-25.4cm)
The XS is designed for use by slim 2-year-olds or very slim, smaller 3-year-old children. Most 3- and 4-year-olds (and some 2-year-olds) will fit best in a small size vest. Make sure to check your child's torso height and waist circumference measurements!
Age: 3 and up
Average ages: 3 to 6
Recommended weight: 30-60 lbs (13.6-27.2kg)
Height: 34-52 inches (86.4-132cm）
Waist(When seated): 20-28 inches (50.8-71.1cm）
Torso Height (top of thigh to shoulder when seated): 10-14 inches (25.4-35.6cm)
Average ages: 5 to 11
Weight 50-80 lbs (22-36kg)
Height: 45-57 inches (114-145cm)
Waist(When seated): 22-34 inches (55.9-86.4cm）
Torso Height (top of thigh to shoulder when seated): 12-17 inches (30.5-43.2cm)
For larger children who've outgrown the small vest (approx. aged 5 or 6+).
Average ages: 9 to 14
Height: 47-62 inches (119-157cm)
Weight 80-110 lbs (36-49kg)
Waist(When seated): 24-36 inches (61-91.4cm）
Torso Height (top of thigh to shoulder when seated): 14-19 inches (35.6-48.3cm)
For larger children who've outgrown the large vest or special needs children who may still benefit from using a restraint at an older age

Vest is outgrown when the lower 'lap flap' can no longer sit flat on the child's legs. Children do not outgrow the vest by age or weight. If your child seems to be between the two sizes, choose the large vest.

RideSafer Vest
Crotch strap
Color-matched Travel backpack
Tether strap
EATA Loop (Optional item to purchase)
Neck pillow (Optional item to purchase. Note: This item was included for products manufactured before July of 2022)

Safe Traffic System, the Chicago based leader and pioneer in vehicle child restraint system since year 2000, has launched the ALL-NEW GEN5 patented 0.6kg(1.3lb)-ONLY crash-tested “car seat”

The SAFETY-CERTIFIED RideSafer not only solved the urban parents’ headaches with traditional car seats (bulky, inconvenient & hard to install correctly) , its advanced technology (energy management, anti-submarine, position optimization) is not just safe-enough, but MUCH more!

The clip on the shoulder pad keeps the shoulder seatbelt mid-chest mid-shoulder, away from the child’s fragile neck area.

During a crash, the vertically slide-able shoulder pad will auto-adjust dynamically to optimize the seatbelt’s position relative to the child, thus constantly keeping the seatbelt at the strongest parts of the body.

Quad-layered honeycomb air-bubble energy absorbing padding sits between the seatbelt and the child. It acts as a sponge, effectively reduces crash forces and spreads crash energy over a wider area of the child’s body.

RideSafer uses Air Mesh Fabric that has been tested on its non-Flammability and non-Toxic Chemical attributes.

A crumple zone is a buffer zone that absorbs energy during a crash. RideSafer has multiple deformable buffer rings for its strap connections.

When a crash occurs and generates tremendous force, multiple rings will be deformed in stages, which significantly reduce the crash energy that the child’s body needs to withstand. Offloading crash energy from children's body makes them safer.

Four heavy-duty dual-layered webbing are stacked on top of one another and act as a wall that separates the lap belt and the child’s abdomen.

When a crash occurs and generates tremendous force, the "wall" prevents the sharp edge of the lap belt from cutting into the child’s abdomen, protecting the delicate internal organs.

The optional tether strap, which effectively turns the vest into a harness (like in a conventional car seat) rather than just a seat belt positioning device (like a conventional booster seat).

The tether significantly reduces forward and side movement of your child's torso, neck and head during an accident - thus lessening the risk of injury.

The tether helps wriggly or sleeping children stay in the optimal position for the RideSafer and vehicle seat belt to do their job.

The multi-ring design on the tether deforms in stages during a crash. The deformation process absorbs the crash energy that would have been exerted on the child’s head, which effectively reduces the chance of head and neck injury

RideSafer is crash tested to the US (FMVSS 213), Canada (CMVSS 213.3) and China (GB27887) standards. It is recognised as a legal child restraint standard by Traffic Police in countries who also recognize above standards.

Child can sit directly in the vehicle's seat (well cushioned and ventilated).
Offer children greater freedom of movement without compromising safety.
Adjustable shoulder belt guides and shoulder strap length enables optimal fit as your child grows.
GEN5 design allows for increased airflow, especially welcoming in the summer.
Space-saving: Comfortably sits three in the back row.

RideSafer literally takes up ZERO space, unlike a conventional booster seat that typically takes up an extra half-seat space.

The waist band in the front can be adjusted for snug fit as shown:

Height adjustment is at the back of the vest as shown:

Ultralight; weighs less than 1.3lb (~600g).
Perfect for taxi travel and school bus runs.
Easy to use (ie. grandparents-friendly)
Convenient for children who ride on different cars.
Frees up your back seats, as it doesn't require permanent installation.

The vest opens up as shown

Simply buckle up and slide the vehicle seatbelt into the RideSafer's seatbelt guides (clips)

Note: Above photos are GEN4 reference. GEN5 can be used the same way.

Whether it's carpooling or riding in a small car, RideSafer is convenient for both parents and kids.

The size and weight of RideSafer allows the children to take with them easily.

Imagine having to carry a conventional booster seat when traveling! That can be quite hectic.

In contrast, RideSafer is foldable and fits easily in the luggage. In fact, your child may even want to carry it him/herself with the included cool mesh travel backpack.

RideSafer's built-in energy management helps dissipate crash forces across a greater area than just the adult seat belt contact-area (as with a conventional booster seat).

If the child sways left/right (especially young ones), backless boosters cannot prevent the seatbelt from getting out of position, severely compromises safety of the child.

Solution: Eliminate "out of position" risk

RideSafer's shoulder and lap belt guides (clips) secure the vehicle seatbelt ACTIVELY (mid-chest mid-shoulder) at all times.

As RideSafer moves with the child's body, it can effectively prevent the seatbelt from getting out of position, mitgating the safety risk of a backless booster.

Compared to a highback booster, RideSafer works without having to trade off the child's comfort and freedom of movement.

During a crash, a child may slide out from beneath the lap belt, causing the seatbelt to revert back to incorrect positions (both lap and shoulder). Car seats typically lack effective anti-submarining designs.

RideSafer secures the lap portion of the seatbelt through clips. The clips hold the lap belt in place and prevents the child from submarining.

If your child is wriggly, the included crotch strap can also be used for an extra layer of security

Whiplash (neck sprain) is caused by an abrupt backward and/or forward jerking motion of the head, often as a result of a car accident.

Conventional booster seat adds extra slack (The car seat moves forward first, followed by the child's body) to the restraint mechanism, which is not as optimized as the child sitting directly on the vehicle seat.

With RideSafer, the child sits low and leans directly to the vehicle seatback, allowing the vehicle seatbelt system to work efficiently and responsively.

RideSafer meets and exceeds the FMVSS213 standards in all 4 required criterion. In particular, RideSafer's design allows it to perform exceptionally well for the "Head injury" and "Head excursion" criterions, thus offers very good head and neck protection by reducing the "jerking motion".

The RideSafer Delight positions the adult seat belt over the strongest part's of your child's body. It is important to ensure the lower flap of the vest (which houses the lap-belt guides) is sitting flat on your child's legs, and isn't riding up onto their hips or abdomen.

Slide lap belt into clips
Slide shoulder belt into clip
Remove seatbelt slack

Getting out

Remove belt from only one clip
Slip out of the vest

After the kids got out...

When kids get back in, simply slip the vest back on, buckle up, and slide the lap belt back to only one clip (because the seatbelt is already inserted in the other 2 clips before)

Ordinary buses, school buses and vans only have 2-point waist belts, making traditional safety seats unusable.

4-point restraint: RideSafer can be used with a lap-only belt when a tether is also used. The tether helps restraint the child’s upper body, effectively creating a 4-point harness system.

When installing the tether, you should tighten the strap to remove the slack, but be careful not to over tighten it, as this will raise the vest and move the lap belt of the seat belt off your child's legs and onto their hips or abdomen.

5-point restraint: Using RideSafer with a 3-point seatbelt and a tether will effectively create a 5-point harness system. A 5-point system improves restraint effectiveness and distributes the crash force more evenly across the child’s body.

The adjustable shoulder belt guides allow you to achieve safe and correct positioning of the shoulder portion of the seatbelt (mid-chest mid-shoulder)

Above photos are GEN4 reference photos. Here is what the GEN5 vest looks like:

The lap belt guides allow you to achieve safe and correct positioning of the lap portion of the seatbelt (low on the hips/lap, flat on the thighs)

The neck pillow provides extra neck support that can improve comfort level especially when sleeping. Usage is optional and does not affect safety.

The aviation-grade Duralumin material is anti-rust and non-toxic, making it durable and safe to use.

RideSafer is equipped with tether loops on the shoulders, allowing it to be tethered to the vehicle's "top tether anchor"

Some buses, school buses and trucks only have 2-point lap belts installed, making regular car seats unusable.

The RideSafer Delight, with the tether, can be used with a lap-only (2-point) seat belt in those middle rear seats or middle seat of a truck in older vehicles. RideSafer is designed (and crash tested) to be used with the tether strap which attaches to both shoulders and the vehicle’s tether anchor point when used with a lap-only (2-point) belt.

GEN5 upgrades worthy of mentioning

Elastic waist band: Automatically adjusts, improving fit and comfort.

Extra padding: 2cm (3/4") thick padding, adding cushion and comfort

Tightly woven top fabric: Repels water & dirt; easier to clean

New buckle design: Made with duralumin (lightweight and durable) and simple to use by parents.

Pillow insert pocket: GEN4 required opening 2 velcro covers for pillow instllation. GEN5's pocket design allows direct insertion, literally takes only a second to put on.

Soft tether loop: The new tether loops use re-enforced webbing instead of metal, it is softer and more comfortable.

Embroided marks: The seatbelt routing marks are upgraded to use embriodery, which is high quality and scratch-resistant.

The tether strap hooks onto the vest at the shoulders and attaches to the vehicle's child restraint top tether anchor point. The tether effectively turns the vest into a harness (like in a conventional car seat) rather than just a seat belt positioning device (like a conventional booster seat).

The tether significantly reduces forward and side movement of your child's torso, neck and head during an accident - thus lessening the risk of injury. If your child is under 4 years of age, we strongly recommend you use the tether.

Most taxis and ride-sharing fleet have a child restraint top tether anchor point in the vehicle. If you happen to get in a vehicle without a tether anchor, it is safe to only secure the vest with the lap-shoulder (3-point) vehicle seat belt.

The primary function of the RideSafer vest is to position the vehicle's seat belt across the strongest parts of the child's body. The adjustable shoulder belt guides allow you to achieve safe and correct positioning of the seat belt, even if the child's torso is smaller than the vest.

For smaller children or children who carry their height in the legs (and therefore have a shorter torso), it's common to see the top of the vest up around their ears. So long as the vehicle seat belt is positioned across their thighs and collarbone, this is completely acceptable and safe.

A booster seat elevates the child to fit the adult seat belt. The Ride Safer Travel Vest brings the seat belt down to fit the child, which also optimizes the existing vehicle seat belt system to protect the child by keeping a low center of gravity, allowing the vehicle seat belt and seat cushion to manage the crash forces.

The vest’s belt guides place the seat belt into the correct pre-crash position. Because the belt guides move along with the child's body (since the child wears the 'car seat'), the pre-crash position is kept correctly even when the child doesn't sit straight or sways in the vehicle.

That is correct. No more belt positioning booster seat necessary. The booster has long been the only known tool for helping the adult seat belt fit the kids.

The seat belt is properly positioned on the child’s body — low on the hips/lap and mid chest mid-shoulder and moves with the child.

RideSafer Delight vests have a 10-year expiration date from the date of purchase, registration is required.

The RideSafer Delight, with the tether, can be used with a lap-only (2-point) seat belt in those middle rear seats or middle seat of a truck in older vehicles.

RideSafer is designed (and crash tested) to be used with the tether strap which attaches to both shoulders and the vehicle’s tether anchor point when used with a lap-only (2-point) belt.

Yes! This mode of use is tested and approved by Safe Traffic System, Inc. for the vests. Using the tether in addition to the 'lap and shoulder' (3-point) belt would reduce the rear passengers’ tendency for the unrestrained shoulder to rotate toward the front seat during a crash.

Using the tether also offers additional upper body support for special needs children or extra wiggly children.

Energy Absorption Tether Anchor (EATA) is a shock-absorbing strap that enables one to easily create an anchor point to be used with the Tether strap. It’s useful for cars that lack a built-in top tether anchor.

The use of crotch stap is optional. The main reason for using the crotch strap is to keep the lower flap of the vest (which houses the lap-belt guides) sitting flat on your child's legs. Scenarios where we recommend using the crotch strap:

Younger and more wriggly children who have trouble sitting straight.
When RideSafer is used in a 4-point or 5-point tether configuration, parents may have the tendency to over-tighten the tether strap, thus inadvertently lifting the vest up. The crotch strap can act as a counter-force to keep the vest down.

To use the crotch strap: Simply opens up the velcro on the crotch strap and attach them on the 3 plastic loops (2 at the back and 1 in the front). The strap goes in between the child's legs

It is highly dependent upon all the variables of your transport needs but we will do our best to guide you in making the decision.

All occupants, especially children under 13 years of age, are safer in the back seats of a car as they are further from the point of impact in a frontal crash which means they experience less crash force
Different regions (federal/state/provincial level) may have legal requirements for children under a certain age to be seated at the back only. Please always check with your local authorities to be certain of it.
The RideSafer Delight vest is crash tested to be used with lap-shoulder belts or a lap-only belt (only when used with a tether strap).
There is nothing inherent to using the vest that would prevent you from using it in the front seat, but if you do, you will want to move the seat back and make sure your child is correctly positioned in an upright seating position and sitting back correctly outside the airbag deployment zone. Airbags kill children.

This US version is only available to be shipped to an address within Contiguous United States. Depending on your shipping address, RideSafer will ship to you from a location closest to you. Shipping time typically ranges from 1-4 days (estimate only) depending on the option you choose

Caledonia, MI
Carteret, NJ
Jacksonville, FL
Oklahoma City, OK
West Jefferson, OH
Charlotte, NC
Thornton, CO

Kontenl's customers now enjoy an extended 3 year warranty on all RideSafer products (Proof of purchase from Kontenl required). To activate the warranty extension, send message "extend" here .

SAFE TRAFFIC SYSTEM, INC LIMITED WARRANTY

Standard 90-days warranty (By the manufacturer): Safe Traffic System Inc (STS) warrants to the original end user (“Purchaser”) this Product, including any accessories against defects in material or workmanship for the time frames listed below. Safe Traffic System, Inc.’s sole obligation under this express limited warranty shall be at Safe Traffic System, Inc’s option, to repair or replace any Product that is determined to be defective by Safe Traffic System Inc and determined to be covered by this warranty. For 90 days from the date of purchase, if you have proof of purchase. For 1 year from the date of purchase, if you mail in a postage-paid warranty card. For an extended period of 3 years from the original purchase of product, if the customer has registered the product online. Repair or replacement as provided under this warranty is the exclusive remedy of the Purchaser. Proof of purchase in the form of a receipted invoice or bill of sales the Product is within the warranty period must be presented to obtain warranty Service. This express limited warranty is extended by Safe Traffic System, Inc. ONLY to the original Purchaser of the Product and is not assignable or transferable to subsequent purchasers or end users of the Product. For warranty service, contact us via our contact page. We will work with you and the manufacturer, Safe Traffic Sytem, Inc., to get the matter resolved. EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT PROHIBITED BY APPLICABLE LAW, ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ON THIS PRODUCT IS HEREBY DISCLAIMED. Safe Traffic System, Inc SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDICENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL, SPECIAL OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES OF ANY KIND FOR BREACH OF THE EXPRESS LIMITED WARRANTY SET FORTH ABOVE. THERE ARE NO OTHER WARRANTIES THAT ACCOMPANY THIS PRODUCT ANY ORAL, WRITTEN OR ANY OTHER EXPRESS REPRESENTATION OF ANY KIND IS HEREBY DISCLAIMED.

The parents at STS believe that warmth, dedication, and mindfulness must be carried on through shared happiness. They strive to share with you their mutual interest in providing your child with the best care and affection imaginable.

STS RideSafer travel vests, designed and manufactured in your child’s best interest, deliver those very values in the hands of their trusted experts who know safety the best.

Their commitment is to keep your loved ones safe and sound over the past 20 years of culminated experience is absorbed in every inch of their product.

Provide your child with that devotion and care you ought to give. Keep this world warm for future generations to come, future happiness to be shared.

You’re not just loving your child, you’re sharing happiness.

During the warranty period, Kontenl will cover courier charges not covered by the manufacturer

Customers who have purchased the small RideSafer vest from us is qualified for an extra discount when it comes to upsizing to the large vest. For details, contact us by email or online chat

Kontenl is an authorized online retailer co-operated by Klau International Co, Limited (Hong Kong) and Kontenl Solutions Inc. (Canada).

Klau and Kontenl are authorized RideSafer distributors for Asia, Canada and the United States. The Kontenl store is authorized to ship RideSafer products internationally. Below is snapshot taken from Safe Traffic System (www.SafeTrafficSystem.com or www.RideSafer.net).

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RideSafer Gen 5
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What is the difference between the ridesafer travel vest and belt positioning booster.

A booster seat elevates the child to the level of the adult seat belt. The Ride Safer Travel Vest optimizes the existing vehicle seat belt system to protect the child by keeping a low center of gravity and allowing the vehicle seat belt and seat cushion to manage the crash forces.
The belt guides place the seat belt into correct pre-crash position and move with the child.

How can I sanitize my Ride Safer Travel Vest?

Soak the entire vest in a non-chlorinated laundry sanitizer such as Lysol brand or a generic equivalent of detergent that contains benzalkonium chloride.

Mix detergent in cool or lukewarm water according to detergent instruction
Soak the vest for 1-2 hours.
Rinse thoroughly in clean cool or lukewarm water several times to assure all of the detergents have been rinsed out of the fabric and panels.
Press panels between 2 dry towels to remove excess water.
Air-dry until no longer damp.
Do not use any type of bleach.
Do not soak in alcohols or solvents such as isopropyl alcohol, ethyl alcohol, methyl alcohol, denatured alcohol, propylene glycol or any other glycol solvent, any butanol or butyl alcohol, etc.
Do not dry with a hairdryer.
Do not iron.

Gen5 Ride Safer Travel Vests can be washed in a washing machine. Place the vest in a laundry bag to avoid damage from the metals on the vest hitting the wash machine interior, close all of the Velcro pieces so they do not snag the fabric, and use a non-chlorinated laundry detergent with cold or lukewarm water. Air dry, preferably in the sun.

For topical sanitation, the vests and harnesses can be lightly sprayed with any of the following:

Ethyl Alcohol Sprays (62% – 80% solution),
Isopropyl Alcohol Spray (70% – 90% solution)
Hydrogen Peroxide soak or spray (3% – 12% solution)

Spray the inside and outside of the entire vest and allow to air dry (preferably in the sun.)

Although effective against Corona Viruses, the sprays may not be effective for other contagions, larvae, eggs, or odors. If HFMD, lice, bedbugs, fleas, etc. are suspected, please use the detergent soaking method to assure the contagion has not penetrated into the padding.

My child is using the RideSafer and there is a gap between my child's shoulders and the top of the vest. Is that ok?

Yes. It is acceptable to have a gap between the shoulders and the top of the vest as long as the shoulder seat belt is:

Below the bottom of the earlobe of the child
Correctly routed through the shoulder belt guide
Crossing the center chest

Does the RideSafer Travel Vest have an expiration date?

The Vests that were manufactured between 2004 and September 2013 do not have an expiration date. However, the Gen3 vests, manufactured after September 2013 have a 10-year usable life.
Vests manufactured in and after May 2023 have an expiration date of 5 years from the date of purchase.

Can I use the RideSafer Travel Vest on an airplane?

The current versions of the vests cannot be used on airplanes because we require a tether to be used with a lap-only seat belt. We are in the process of developing an accessory that will be compliant with FAA requirements for upper body support. Please check back for updates on our website for availability and retrofitting capabilities to the older versions.

What is the difference between 'Certified to 213' and 'Tested to 213'?

The Ride Safer 2 (RS-2) Travel Vests are self-certified by our company to be compliant with all applicable aspects of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 213 for performance as a harness and for labeling.
The Ride Safer 3 (RS-3) Travel Vests are tested according to the same prescribed testing procedure but is only tested with a lap & shoulder belt.

Is the RideSafer Travel Vest legal in my state?

Yes! The Ride Safer is a legal alternative to belt positioning boosters in all States that do not require the child’s body to be elevated off the vehicle seat and when used according to our instructions.

Can I use the RideSafer Travel Vest with a booster seat?

Currently we do not recommend that the Ride Safer Travel Vests be used with belt positioning boosters not sold by Safe Traffic System, Inc. Our backless boosters will be able to be used with the Ride Safer Travel Vests and are expected to be available soon. Please check back on our website frequently for updates on new product availability.
Can be used with a Delighter Booster manufactured by Safe Traffic System, Inc.

Can I use the RideSafer Travel Vest in Canada?

Transport Canada does not address vests in their Safety Standards. Since the vest is to be used without a booster seat, it requires a prescription for legal use in Canada. It is our understanding that the child’s physician may issue the prescription.

Do I have to use the crotch strap?

No. The crotch strap is not required for use as long as the child is mature enough to sit upright during the entire trip.

Do I have to use the head pillow?

No. The head pillow is optional.

Can I use the RideSafer Travel Vest with an inflatable seat belt?

Yes! Safe Traffic System does permit the use of Inflatable Seat Belts with the Ride Safer Travel Vests. If you own an older version of the vest, please contact Customer Support for a retrofit shoulder belt guide.

Do I need to replace my RideSafer Travel Vest after a car crash?

Possibly. We follow the guidelines recommended by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

NHTSA recommends that car seats be replaced following a moderate or severe crash in order to ensure a continued high level of crash protection for child passengers. Car seats do not automatically need to be replaced following a minor crash.

What defines a minor crash?

A minor crash is one in which ALL of the following apply:

The vehicle was able to be driven away from the crash site.
The vehicle door nearest the car seat was not damaged.
None of the passengers in the vehicle sustained any injuries in the crash.
If the vehicle has air bags, the airbags did not deploy during the crash; and
There is no visible damage to the car seat.

Can the RideSafer Travel Vest be recycled?

Yes. Please contact our customer support for details about our recycle program.

My child loves the vest, but he/she can't see out the window. Can the vest be used with a booster?

Yes! They can use RideSafer Travel Vest with our Delighter Booster.

Can the RideSafer Travel Vest be used on trains and buses with a lap only seat belt?

Yes! An Energy Absorbing Tether Anchor Loop (EATAL) must be purchased separately and attached to either the leg of the seat or to a locked seatbelt in the seat behind the child.

WARNING - Counterfeit Products

Safe Traffic System Inc. is aware that harnesses that look similar to the Ride Safer Travel Vests are available and can be purchased in many countries worldwide. We cannot attest to the safety of any product that is not labeled as “Ride Safer” brand and manufactured by Safe Traffic System, Inc., Franklin Park, IL.

You have your own Question? Submit it now!

Registration & Manuals

You receive a 3-year extended warranty if you register your vest online. (Warranty is 1 year if you send in a warranty card and 90 days if you do not register but keep the receipt.)

ridesafer travel vest car seat evolution

Download an Owner’s Manual for:

Your ridesafer vest, date of manufacture 2022-….

Extra Small (JD14001xxx)
Small (JD14101xxx)
Large (JD14201xxx)
XL (JD14301xxx)

Date of Manufacture 2019-June 2022

Date of manufacture 2016-2019.

Small (JD14101xxx/JD15101xxx)
Large (JD14201xxx/JD15201xxx)

Date of Manufacture 2014-2016

RideSafer EU – Small and Large (JE17100xxx)

Date of Manufacture 2013-2016

RideSafer 2 (Gen 3) – Small (JD14100xxx) | Large (JD14200xxx)
RideSafer 3 (Gen 3) – Small (JD15100xxx) | Large (JD15200xxx)

Date of Manufacture 2012-2013

RideSafer 2 (Gen 2) – Small (JO10101XXX) | Large (JO10201XXX)
RideSafer 3 (Gen 2) – Small (JK11170XXX) | Large (JK12170XXX)
Dual Tether

Date of Manufacture 2010-2011

RideSafer 2 (Gen 2) – Small (GO10101XXX) | Large (GO10201XXX)

Date of Manufacture 2007-2009

RideSafer 2 (Gen 2) – Small (GD10101XXX) | Large (GD10201XXX)

Date of Manufacture 2004-2007

RideSafer (Gen 1)- Small (AO10101LGB) | Large (AO10201DGB)

Your Booster

Date of manufacture 2021-.

TravelSmarter Booster – JK16101xxx

Date of Manufacture 2019-2021

Delighter Booster – JD16100BKR

Your Combination Pack

Date of manufacture 2022-.

TravelSmarter Booster and RideSafer vest – TSbpBS- XS | TSbpBS-S

IMAGES

Safe Traffic Systems JD14200BLB
Safe Traffic Systems JD15200PWB
RideSafer Travel Vest, Gen 5, Small, Black
Safe Traffic Systems JD14200BGR
Ride Safer Travel Vest review (2022)
Ride Safer Travel Vest review (2023)

COMMENTS

Ride Safer Travel Vest review (2024)
The Ride Safer Travel Vest has fairly rigid support through the body, unlike a traditional booster seat that has no body support. It meets or exceeds all crash test requirements and Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for harness restraints, meaning the Ride Safer travel vest is legal throughout the US. It is still considered a booster seat ...
Summer Special $10 off w/code...
July 16, 2018 ·. Summer Special $10 off w/code SMR10. - Get $10 off on any RideSafer Travel Vest. - Use coupon code SMR10 at your cart to apply. - Free shipping within the contiguous 48 states. - 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed. Buy-Use-Return if you don't like. - Offer valid thru 8/31/2018. #ridesafer #ridesafer_travel_vest #travelwithkids # ...
Ride Safer Travel Vest Review: it will change the way you travel with
Save $11 off the Ride Safer Travel Vest with coupon ... I've been keen on using Hertz with AAA code to get a free car seat with each rental. Reply. Wandermust Mummy. June 11, 2017 at 10:35 am Great idea but I appreciate you pointing out what you love and what could need more improvement #fearlessfamtrav.
RideSafer Gen 5
The other way is to use without a tether belt. RideSafer® can also be used with a vehicle lap and shoulder belt with or without the tether. RideSafer® Travel Vest Gen 5 is provided in Extra-small size for children 22 to 44 lbs., small size for children 30 to 60 lbs., large size for children 50 to 80 lbs., and Extra large size for children 80 ...
RideSafer Travel Vest
Authorized reseller of the RideSafer Travel Vest, the wearable travel car seat and convenient everyday child restraint. Buy RideSafer Now; FAQs; Blog; Contact Us; Buy RideSafer Now; FAQs; Blog; Contact Us; ... Safe Ride 4 Kids 200 S Wilcox St #410 Castle Rock, CO 80104 Text: 844.749.8941. Convenience & Comfort; Fit 3 Across Easier; Travel with ...
Travel Car Seat
576 Reviews. $ 169.00 USD. 4 interest-free installments, or from $15.25/mo with. Check your purchasing power. Are you looking for a safe, legal, convenient travel car seat, secondary seat for carpools or for everyday use? The RideSafer vest is the certified, wearable child restraint. Lightweight, portable and convenient when traveling with kids.
Ride Safer Travel Vest with Zipped Backpack-Wearable, Lightweight
Amazon.com : Ride Safer Travel Vest with Zipped Backpack-Wearable, Lightweight, Compact, and Portable Car Seat. Perfect for Everyday use or Rideshare, Travel, and Rental Car. (X-Small, Blue) : Baby
Ride Safer Travel Vest with Zipped Backpack-Wearable, Lightweight
"The Rider Safer Travel Vest 2 by Safe Travel Systems by Safe Traffic System is our top pick for an easy to use and portable solution for carpoolers. No bulky seats, no complex belt-paths —the vest positions the vehicle shoulder and lap belts to correctly fit a child 30 to 80 pounds..." (by Denise & Alan Fields, November 2018)
Ride Safer 3 Travel Vest Review
The Ride Safer 3 Travel Vest is the continuation in the line of travel vests from Safe Traffic System, Inc. It's an alternative form of child restraint for situations where traditional carseats or belt positioning boosters may not work, such as narrow 3-across situations, air travel, grandparents' vehicles, or infrequent carpools. The travel vest is...
New Wearable Car Seat
Built on that principle and through numerous innovative structural variations in conventional child restraints, STS launched its 1st generation of RideSafer® in 2004, creating a big buzz among child safety professionals and the media. RideSafer Travel Vest manufacturer, New wearable car seat, maximize portability with same level of safety ...
2020 RideSafer Travel Vest Review Update
Large (5-8 years old): 50-80 lbs., 45-57″. X-Large (8-10 years old): 80-110 lbs. There's also an "expansion panel" to improve fit options for all three sizes for heavier kids who may need more room in whatever size vest is appropriate for their height. Between the XL size and the expansion panels, the RideSafer Travel Vest may become a ...
Convenience of the RideSafer Travel Vest
Keep your young children ages 3 and up safe without a car seat by using the revolutionary and wearable RideSafer® Travel Vest. It keeps your child safer in the car and doesn't require a bulky car seat or booster. ... Safe Ride 4 Kids 200 S Wilcox St #410 Castle Rock, CO 80104 Text: 844.749.8941. Convenience & Comfort; Fit 3 Across Easier ...
RideSafer Travel Vest
Buy RideSafer Travel Vest online at Allegro Medical. Lowest Price Guaranteed! ... FREE SHIPPING ON ORDERS $99+ Use code: FREE99 Ends 04/21/24 at 11:59pm CST. See details. Hurry, ends in: Days. Hours. Min. Sec. Menu . ... which ride safer travel vest should I order the small or the large? 1 Answers COMPARE PRODUCTS Related Products. Sale ...
RideSafer Travel Vest
The Ride Safer Travel Vest brings the seat belt down to fit the child, which also optimizes the existing vehicle seat belt system to protect the child by keeping a low center of gravity, allowing the vehicle seat belt and seat cushion to manage the crash forces. ... (Coupon code: 10OFF) For those who celebrate Easter, besides the bunny and the ...
How to Use the RideSafer Travel Vest
This video is for you! Safe Ride 4 Kid's Greg Durocher and his daughter demonstrate how easy it is to use RideSafer Travel Vest. She, now 8 years old, has been using a vest since she was 4 years old and putting on the the vest by herself since she was about 5 years old. 2:15. In this video, Greg also describes how the vest is supposed to fit ...
Introducing the RideSafer Delight Travel Vest
To use the vest, put it on the child like any vest. Put the seat belt over the child, buckle and insert the seat belt into the guides on the vest. The RideSafer Delight is adjustable in size across the chest with the Velcro and the web strap adjustments. On the back there are two adjustable straps that adjust for the comfort of the shoulder on ...
Amazon.com: Ride Safe Vest
Ride Safer Travel Vest with Zipped Backpack-Wearable, Lightweight, Compact, and Portable Car Seat. Perfect for Everyday use or Rideshare, Travel, and Rental Car. (Small/Black) Small (Pack of 1) 1,481. 800+ bought in past month. $17900. Save $9.00 with coupon. FREE delivery Thu, Jan 25.
Version Comparison
Here are what all RideSafer vests, past and present, offer when used with a lap/shoulder belt: ... Safe Ride 4 Kids 200 S Wilcox St #410 Castle Rock, CO 80104 Text: 844.749.8941. Convenience & Comfort; Fit 3 Across Easier; Travel with Children; Version Comparison; CPS Technician Pricing; Recent Posts. What if my vest was being worn during a ...
IS THE RIDE SAFER TRAVEL VEST LEGAL IN MY STATE?
As a FMVSS 213 certified child restraint, RideSafer is a legal child restraint in all states when used according to manufacturer's instructions. We have compiled a list of state laws for each state of the United States and comment about the legality of using the RideSafer in regard to the law for each state. Click here to see our list of ...
FAQs
A booster seat elevates the child to the level of the adult seat belt. The Ride Safer Travel Vest optimizes the existing vehicle seat belt system to protect the child by keeping a low center of gravity and allowing the vehicle seat belt and seat cushion to manage the crash forces. The belt guides place the seat belt into correct pre-crash ...
Amazon.com: Ride Safer Travel Vest Xs
Delivering to Lebanon 66952 Choose location for most accurate options All. Select the department you want to search in
Registration & Manuals
TravelSmarter Booster and RideSafer vest - TSbpBS- XS | TSbpBS-S; Safe Ride 4 Kids 200 S Wilcox St #410 Castle Rock, CO 80104 Text: 844.749.8941. Convenience & Comfort; Fit 3 Across Easier; Travel with Children; Version Comparison; CPS Technician Pricing; Recent Posts. What if my vest was being worn during a crash? How to Use the EATAL;
Safe Ride 4 Kids Coupons
Sorry folks! We just learned there are "coupon" sites offering bogus coupons to our store. Many of the Safe Ride 4 Kids "coupons" on those coupon sites either never existed or were advertised on Facebook many years ago. We don't list coupon codes to these sites. We don't know what they are trying to gain from offering bogus or ...

Ride Safer Travel Vest review (2024)

What is the Ride Safer travel vest?

Who should use the Ride Safer Travel Vest?

Ride Safer Travel Vest X-Small review

Ride Safer Travel Vest small vs x-small comparison

Ride Safer Travel Vest XS fit to child

Is the extra-small Ride Safer Travel Vest right for your child?

XS Ride Safer Travel Vest in the car

How to put on the Ridesafer vest for kids

How to use the Ride Safer vest in the car

Ride Safer travel vest FAQs

RideSafer Travel Vest Review Impressions

What we like:

What we don’t love:

Final Thoughts on the Ride Safer car seat vest

24 thoughts on “Ride Safer Travel Vest review (2024)”

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Ride Safer Travel Vest Review: it will change the way you travel with kids

What is the Ride Safer travel vest?

Who should use the Ride Safer Travel Vest?

Ride Safer Travel Vest X-Small review

Ride Safer Travel Vest small vs x-small comparison

Ride Safer Travel Vest XS fit to child

Is the extra-small Ride Safer Travel Vest right for your child?

XS Ride Safer Travel Vest in the car

How to put on the Ridesafer vest for kids

How to use the Ride Safer vest in the car

Ride Safer travel vest FAQs

RideSafer Travel Vest Review Impressions

What we like:

What we don’t love:

Final Thoughts on the Ride Safer car seat vest

What to read next

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

RideSafer Vest | Travel Car Seat (Generation 5)

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RideSafer Crash Test Videos

Additional RideSafer Travel Vest Information

RideSafer is the innovative, wearable child restraint that is easy-to-use, easy-to-carry & legal!

Fit 3 in a Row!

Better than a Booster

Portable and Packable

Safety Tested, Certified and Legal!

What Car Seat Challenges Does the RideSafer Solve?

Beware of counterfeit products

Notify me when available

2020 RideSafer Travel Vest Review Update – Now in THREE sizes!

The 2020 RideSafer Travel Vest XL Delight! A Mini-Review of the new RSTV.

Weight and Height Ranges

Related Posts

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RIDESAFER DELIGHT TRAVEL VEST GEN5 (TAX-INCLUDED)

Easter Special! 10% OFF

Ready to buy?

How can I sanitize my Ride Safer Travel Vest?

My child is using the RideSafer and there is a gap between my child's shoulders and the top of the vest. Is that ok?

Does the RideSafer Travel Vest have an expiration date?

Can I use the RideSafer Travel Vest on an airplane?

What is the difference between 'Certified to 213' and 'Tested to 213'?

Is the RideSafer Travel Vest legal in my state?

Can I use the RideSafer Travel Vest with a booster seat?

Can I use the RideSafer Travel Vest in Canada?

Do I have to use the crotch strap?

Do I have to use the head pillow?

Can I use the RideSafer Travel Vest with an inflatable seat belt?

Do I need to replace my RideSafer Travel Vest after a car crash?

What defines a minor crash?

Can the RideSafer Travel Vest be recycled?

My child loves the vest, but he/she can't see out the window. Can the vest be used with a booster?

Can the RideSafer Travel Vest be used on trains and buses with a lap only seat belt?

WARNING - Counterfeit Products

You have your own Question? Submit it now!

Registration & Manuals

Download an Owner’s Manual for:

Date of Manufacture 2019-June 2022

Date of Manufacture 2014-2016

Date of Manufacture 2013-2016