5-Point Toddler Seat

I use an Eddie Bauer convertible carseat for my 3 1/2 yr old. It goes up to 80 lbs. Currently I use the 5 pt harness, but you can remove that after 40 lbs & use it as a high back booster with a regular over the shoulder seatbelt. I've seen the cost advertized for $120-$150. But the above 2 comments are right about Britax. They are one of the best carseats out there for safety, but they're also very big. They wouldn't fit in my car (Grand Prix).

We have the same problem and just bought a new car seat. The harness can be used up to 65 lbs. I don't remember what kind it is but it was on sale last month at Babies R Us for about $130 or $140. I have noticed though that his head is in an uncomfortable possition even with the harness, so I was going to get him on of those children's travel pillows (the ones that look like animals) to make it a little more comfy. His head seems to "flop" forward and to the side letting the strap rub on his neck. We didn't have this problem with the old seat because it had that "bar" that came down in the front and he would rest his head on that.

Just out of curiosity - do you have problems buying clothes? I have had the issue of wanting to get certain things (like the onesies and one piece fottie PJs made of lighter material) but they only make them so big. Since my "little" guy is in 4T and 5T at age 2 1/2, this has been a problem.

I also have the Eddie Bauer all in one car seat. I have used it for my 4 year old since she was 4 months old. I LOVE it!! I switch it to a booster seat for shorter trips but on longer trips that I know she will fall asleep I use the 5 point straps. Simply for the same reason you are asking about... it keeps her from flopping forward and the strap pads keep her head more sturdy. We bought our 4 years ago at Target for $100. Again though, you will be using it for years, as you will never have to buy another car seat (That is how we justified it). I know the price has come down a little on them. My neighbors just bought one at Sam's Club for $80. Hope that helps!! Good luck!!
I should add that our daughter was big also at 2 and could move into a booster seat but the weight and height requirements, our doctor told us to stick with the 5 point because her muscles were not well as developed like a 4 year old would be when they sit in a booster. And if an accident were to occur she may get hurt as a result of the support for her.
Good luck, car seats are expensive and something hard to decide!!

I also have a Britax, and it is more than 200 but worth every penny. It has the easiest adjusting straps ever, and rated very highly by Consumer Report for safety.

Many seats go up to larger kids- we use a Britax which goes to 60#. Kids should be in a car seat/booster until they are 4'9"