Published on: June 8, 2023
Written by Evander Mac / Fact-checked by Jamal Haider
Alright folks, buckle up! If you’ve been racking your brain and scouring the internet, trying to answer the question, “Can you fit three car seats in a Subaru Outback?”, you’re in luck! This article aims to tackle that question head-on, with insights, tips, and techniques. Let’s dive right in, shall we?
Can You Fit Three Car Seats in a Subaru Outback?
Well, the short answer to this is: yes, technically you can. But, the real question is, how comfortably and safely can you do it? We will dig into this, looking at factors like the size of car seats, the available space, and how to arrange them optimally.
Understanding the Size of the Subaru Outback
When talking about fitting three car seats in any vehicle, one has to consider the size of the car itself. The Subaru Outback, known for its reliability and spacious interiors, has a total interior width of 57.1 inches in the back seat. Does this mean you can slide three car seats in with no problem? Well, hold onto that thought as we delve into the nitty-gritty.
The Back Seat Area
Just because the total width is over 57 inches, doesn’t mean all of that is usable for car seats. The actual space available for car seats is reduced because of the contours of the seats and the doors. So, it’s not as simple as 1-2-3, but we’ll help you figure it out!
How Big is a Car Seat Anyway?
Before we go any further, let’s look at the size of an average car seat. There are a few different types of car seats, each with its own dimensions.
Infant Car Seats
These are the smallest type of car seats, designed for newborns and infants. They generally measure between 15 and 17 inches wide.
Convertible Car Seats
These seats can be adjusted as your child grows, and typically range from 17 to 20 inches in width.
Booster Seats
Booster seats, designed for older toddlers and young children, can be as narrow as 16 inches or as wide as 19 inches.
Can You Squeeze In Three?
Given the dimensions above, it becomes clear that fitting three car seats side by side in a Subaru Outback will be a tight squeeze, especially if you’re dealing with wider convertible or booster seats. With the right combination and arrangement, it can be done.
Choosing the Right Car Seats
When aiming to fit three car seats in the back seat of a Subaru Outback, the choice of car seats becomes critical. Consider slimline models that are specifically designed to fit more easily into tight spaces.
What Are the Best Seat Covers to Protect Car Seats in a Subaru Outback?
When it comes to safeguarding the car seats in your Subaru Outback, choosing the right seat covers is crucial. The market offers numerous options, but the best seat covers for a Subaru Outback would be specifically designed to fit the vehicle’s seats and provide maximum protection. Opting for high-quality and durable subaru outback seat covers can help defend against spills, stains, pet hair, and general wear and tear, ensuring that your car seats remain in pristine condition for longer.
The Importance of Safety
Remember, safety should always be your priority. Make sure that any seat you choose meets or exceeds Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
Arranging the Car Seats in the Subaru Outback
Even with the right car seats, how you arrange them can make a big difference in both fit and ease of use.
Arranging for Accessibility
One popular arrangement is to put the least mobile child (typically the youngest) in the middle, with the two older children on the sides. This arrangement provides easier access for the older children to buckle and unbuckle themselves.
A Word of Caution
Fitting three car seats in a Subaru Outback can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. However, be cautious about overcrowding. All car seats need to be installed correctly to ensure maximum safety.
Professional Installation
If you’re unsure whether you’ve installed the car seats correctly, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Many places offer car seat installation services to ensure that your little ones are as safe as possible.
Where to Find Help
Your local fire department or hospital might offer car seat installation help. There are also private companies that provide this service.
The Verdict: Three Car Seats in a Subaru Outback
So, can you fit three car seats in a Subaru Outback? The answer is, yes, with some caveats. The size and type of the car seats matter, as does their arrangement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you fit three car seats in a Subaru Outback?
Yes, it is possible to fit three car seats in a Subaru Outback, but the fit may be tight depending on the size and type of the car seats.
What type of car seat is best for fitting three in a row?
Slimline models are typically the best for fitting three in a row, as they are designed to save space.
Can the Subaru Outback fit three booster seats?
Depending on the model of the booster seat, it may be possible, but it will be a tight fit.
Is it safe to have three car seats in the back seat of a Subaru Outback?
As long as each car seat is properly installed and secured, it is safe. If you’re unsure, seek professional help for installation.
Which arrangement is best for three car seats?
Usually, the youngest child in the middle with the two older children on the sides works best for ease of use and accessibility.
What is the width of the back seat of a Subaru Outback?
The total interior width is 57.1 inches, but keep in mind that not all of this space is usable due to the contours of the seats and doors.
Conclusion
With careful planning and the right equipment, it’s possible to fit three car seats in a Subaru Outback. Remember, the priority is always safety, so take your time and don’t rush the process. Here’s hoping that this guide has brought some clarity to your car seat conundrum!
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