IMMI Go Travel Car Seat: The Ultimate Solution for Flying With Kids?
The IMMI Go travel car seat promises to ease the pain of family travel with its innovative foldable design and lightweight construction. After extensive real-world testing on planes, trains, and rental cars, we deliver our comprehensive verdict on whether this $209 investment is worth it for traveling families.
Key Specifications & Safety Ratings
The IMMI Go stands out from traditional car seats with these features:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 10 lbs (vs 13+ lbs for typical seats) |
| Dimensions (folded) | 16.5" x 14" x 9.5" |
| Child Requirements | 22-55 lbs, 31-52", age 2+ (forward-facing) |
| Booster Mode | 40-100 lbs, 43-57" (backless) |
| Safety Certifications | FMVSS 213 compliant |
| Price | $209 |
Safety First
While lightweight, the IMMI Go meets all U.S. federal safety standards for child restraints. It features a 5-point harness system, top tether anchor, and LATCH compatibility just like conventional car seats.
Real-World Travel Testing
We put the IMMI Go through rigorous travel scenarios:
Air Travel Experience
- Fits easily in overhead bins (16.5" folded width)
- 10 lb weight makes airport navigation manageable
- Built-in carry handle simplifies transport
- Note: Cannot be used on airplane seats
Rental Car Installation
- LATCH system installation takes <5 minutes
- Seat belt installation more challenging
- Top tether essential for stability during setup
- Fits 3-across in most midsize sedans
The IMMI Go proved particularly valuable for rideshares and taxis where car seats aren't typically available.
Versatility: More Than Just Travel
Beyond air travel, the IMMI Go solves several common pain points:
Unexpected Use Cases
- Grandparent cars: Easy to transfer between vehicles
- Carpools: Compact size enables 3-across seating
- Emergency backup: Stows easily in trunk
- Urban living: Ideal for taxi/rideshare use
- Cleaning: Wipe-clean surface handles spills
The seat's narrow 16.5" width (vs 19.5"+ for conventional seats) makes it particularly useful for families needing to fit multiple car seats in one row.
Comparison: IMMI Go vs Traditional Car Seats
How this travel seat stacks up against conventional options:
| Feature | IMMI Go | Typical Convertible Seat |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 10 lbs | 13-25 lbs |
| Portability | Folds with carry handle | Bulky, no dedicated carry system |
| Installation | Easy with LATCH, harder with seat belt | Typically straightforward |
| Comfort | Minimal padding | Plush cushioning |
| Price | $209 | $100-$300 |
| Lifespan | Through booster stage | Often outgrown faster |
Long-Term Use Insights
After 12+ months of regular use, owners report:
Pros
- Durable construction holds up well
- Easy to clean after spills/accidents
- Adjustable harness accommodates growth
- Converts to backless booster
Cons
- Minimal padding becomes uncomfortable on long trips
- Harness straps can twist easily
- Not usable on airplanes despite portability
- Premium price point
Many families find the IMMI Go most valuable for frequent travelers rather than as a primary everyday seat.
Who Should Consider the IMMI Go?
This travel seat makes the most sense for:
- Frequent flyers: Families taking 3+ trips annually
- Urban families: Regular taxi/rideshare users
- Carpool organizers: Needing to fit multiple seats
- Grandparents: Wanting an easy-to-use spare seat
- Road trippers: Who rent cars at destinations
Casual travelers might prefer to check their everyday car seat rather than invest in this specialized product.
Alternative Options
Other travel-friendly car seats worth considering:
| Model | Weight | Price | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cosco Scenera Next | 10 lbs | $60 | Budget-friendly |
| WayB Pico | 8 lbs | $249 | Folds smallest |
| Mifold Grab-and-Go | 2 lbs | $40 | Booster only |
The IMMI Go stands out for its combination of harness and booster functionality in one relatively compact package.
