emcash

we're headed to FLA soon and have rented a car from Dollar. I wonder what it would be like to rent a car seat for my toddler from them rather than lug the sit n' stroll that we normally use. (I would use the CARES harness i bought per a fodors suggestion instead on the plane).

I've never rented a car seat from a car rental company and i wonder how that works-- does it come installed in the care or will we have to install it ourselves? Are they generally clean/in good shape? Curious as to whether anyone has any experience with this. TIA!

j000545

they are clean and in good condition, but you have to install it yourself

surfmom

We did it *once* and never again. I wasn't impressed with the style of it - considering the restrictions on car seats (5 yrs., no car accidents, etc.) I wouldn't trust one that I knew nothing about, no matter what they said.

Will you be in the car alot ? When you say toddler, I assume you mean forward facing, in a car seat, not a booster ?

I prefer to check mine -- also allows me to fill the bag with bulky things - blanky, diapers, etc. (of course, I don't pay to check either).

kelliebellie

Just make sure you are well versed in most types of car seats. It probably won't have a book with it and you will need to adjust it. And you have to put it in yourself, they won't. And it will probably be a bit dirty too.

Why not check a lighter carseat (they sell nice bags at Babies R' Us) ad then check an umbrella stroller at the gate.

emcash

Thanks everyone, i think i'm just going to use the sit n stroll-- paid enough for it, might as well use it! i know how to install it, which is a plus and I know it will be clean. i appreciate the comments and advice!

kureiff

We usually bring our own and use it on the plane. It's nice to use a seat you're familiar with and comfortable installing in a car.