What's the big difference between the $20 car booster seats and the $200?

I am ordering an extra car seat (booster) for my Mom's car so she can help out with DD more. It's not going to be used that often, but I obviously want something safe. What's with the huge range in price on toysrus.com? Is it safe to use the cheap ones? Something like this? Booster seat

Re: What's the big difference between the $20 car booster seats and the $200?

Re: What's the big difference between the $20 car booster seats and the $200?

Also, 5 point harnesses are safest. Seats with that will cost more and will have a back.

More padding and more "luxurious" fabrics will also make it cost more.

Re: What's the big difference between the $20 car booster seats and the $200?

not really much of a difference and this is based on what I've read on big carseat blogs and sites..

Re: What's the big difference between the $20 car booster seats and the $200?

Check out walmart or Amazon ..they make some great SAFE seats that are only carried at walmart or on Amazon.

Re: What's the big difference between the $20 car booster seats and the $200?

I think they say for backless boosters kids should be at least 40 pounds and 40 inches tall. They make the Graco Turbo booster with the back that ranges from $50-$80 which is a good compromise for a car that she won't be in all too often. I got the Graco Nautilus because it has a 5 pount harness but it was $180 and if she's not in your moms car that often you might not want that one.

Re: What's the big difference between the $20 car booster seats and the $200?

People, she isn't asking whether or not a backless booster is safe.. she is asking about $$$$ of a higher end one vs. one that doesn't cost as much.. whether it's still a good car seat.

Re: What's the big difference between the $20 car booster seats and the $200?

Posted by bicosi

People, she isn't asking whether or not a backless booster is safe.. she is asking about $$$$ of a higher end one vs. one that doesn't cost as much.. whether it's still a good car seat.

Re: What's the big difference between the $20 car booster seats and the $200?

Posted by LoveyQ

Posted by bicosi

People, she isn't asking whether or not a backless booster is safe.. she is asking about $$$$ of a higher end one vs. one that doesn't cost as much.. whether it's still a good car seat.

Actually, if you check the link in her OP, she is asking about the difference between that kind (backless and less expensive) and the more expensive ones. I have yet to see a backless booster that costs $$$, but maybe I haven't looked hard enough.

Re: What's the big difference between the $20 car booster seats and the $200?

Posted by bicosi

Posted by LoveyQ

Posted by bicosi

People, she isn't asking whether or not a backless booster is safe.. she is asking about $$$$ of a higher end one vs. one that doesn't cost as much.. whether it's still a good car seat.

Actually, if you check the link in her OP, she is asking about the difference between that kind (backless and less expensive) and the more expensive ones. I have yet to see a backless booster that costs $$$, but maybe I haven't looked hard enough.

Actually, her post is

"What's the big difference between the $20 car booster seats and the $200?

I am ordering an extra car seat (booster) for my Mom's car so she can help out with DD more. It's not going to be used that often, but I obviously want something safe. What's with the huge range in price on toysrus.com? Is it safe to use the cheap ones? Something like this? Booster seat "

Not whether the backless is safe or not.. unless there's another post? lol

Re: What's the big difference between the $20 car booster seats and the $200?

Posted by bicosi

Posted by LoveyQ

Posted by bicosi

People, she isn't asking whether or not a backless booster is safe.. she is asking about $$$$ of a higher end one vs. one that doesn't cost as much.. whether it's still a good car seat.

Actually, if you check the link in her OP, she is asking about the difference between that kind (backless and less expensive) and the more expensive ones. I have yet to see a backless booster that costs $$$, but maybe I haven't looked hard enough.

Actually, her post is

"What's the big difference between the $20 car booster seats and the $200?

I am ordering an extra car seat (booster) for my Mom's car so she can help out with DD more. It's not going to be used that often, but I obviously want something safe. What's with the huge range in price on toysrus.com? Is it safe to use the cheap ones? Something like this? Booster seat "

Not whether the backless is safe or not.. unless there's another post? lol

Message edited 1/19/2011 9:27:22 PM.

Re: What's the big difference between the $20 car booster seats and the $200?

The difference is $160...sorry I had to!

According to the description listed it is appropriate for 40lbs to 100lbs and it talks about being safe because it places the child in a position that allows for proper use of the seatbelt.

I bought a booster with a back for DS but haven't installed it yet. Seeing the price of the one you posted vs what I spent makes me wonder the same thing you are wondering.

If it's only one in a while I can honestly say I would consider the one you posted. See what others with experience say...sorry...not much help from me.

Re: What's the big difference between the $20 car booster seats and the $200?

Look into the Graco Nautilus it's a 3in1. Highly rated, nicely priced and will convert as your child grows. My parents have one for my DD. Well worth $138!!

Graco Nautilus

3-in-1 multi-mode Car Seat for longer use 20 pounds to 100 pounds
Extended 5-point harness for children 20-65 pounds
Converts to High-back belt positioning booster for child 30 pounds to 100 pounds
Converts to backless booster for child 40 pounds to 100 pounds
Steel reinforced frame for durability

Message edited 1/19/2011 9:34:24 PM.

Re: What's the big difference between the $20 car booster seats and the $200?

Alicia, my DD and yours I believe are same age..

I use the one you posted, for my dads car when he picks her up from school to his house.

I didnt want to purchase something more $$$ to have it used not as often,
and she is a little under the 40lbs.

You can get the one with the back, which I have and got at Walmart for a little more support and comfort and it can be removed.

Re: What's the big difference between the $20 car booster seats and the $200?

I have no idea how old your DD is...But a basic high back booster seat is fine for children over 4 years and 40 pounds. The high back ones position the seat belt better. Graco is a great brand. I used 2 of them when I worked as a Nanny. I now have a lowback one when I watch my friend's kids. One is 5 and the other is 8. They are rather short for their age and they fit fine in them...

Re: What's the big difference between the $20 car booster seats and the $200?

Thanks everyone...I ended up purchasing one with a back....DD is barely under 40 lbs, but I would feel bad if something happened. It was around $90 so not terrible.