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Discover if the Graco TurboBooster TakeAlong is the ultimate lightweight booster seat for road trips and daily drives. We break down crash scores, fit for kids 40-100 lbs, installation ease, and compare to top alternatives for ultimate child safety and convenience.
Quick Pick
Graco TurboBooster TakeAlong
At just 5.5 lbs and $40, this high-back booster excels in portability and side crash protection (5/5). Perfect for families on the go.
Check current price and full specs
Booster seats are a game-changer for keeping older kids safe in the car, especially when traveling light. The Graco TurboBooster TakeAlong (model m402919) is designed for children 40-100 lbs and 43-57 inches tall, making it ideal for ages 4 to 10. In our hands-on tests, it delivered solid performance in key areas like seat belt fit and lightweight design, though it has some quirks in installation and cleaning.
We've evaluated it against other popular options, focusing on crash protection, usability, and value. Whether you're hopping between vehicles or need a grab-and-go seat, read on for data-driven insights to help you decide.
Here's how the Graco TurboBooster TakeAlong stacks up against top competitors based on crash ratings, weight, price, and features:
| Feature | Graco TurboBooster TakeAlong | Graco Atlas Booster Seat | Graco Affix Car Seat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $40 | $50-$60 | $100+ |
| Weight | 5.5 lbs | 7.5 lbs | 11 lbs |
| Weight Limit | 40-100 lbs | 40-100 lbs | 5-65 lbs |
| Height Limit | 43-57 in. | 43-57 in. | 19-49 in. |
| Frontal Crash Score | 4/5 | 4/5 | 5/5 |
| Side Crash Score | 5/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 |
| LATCH Installation | 1/5 (Challenging) | 3/5 | 4/5 |
| Seat Belt Install | 3/5 (Average) | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Cup Holders | Yes (2) | Yes (2) | No |
| High-Back Design | Yes (Fixed) | Yes (Adjustable) | No |
| Best For | Travel/Portability | Everyday Use | All-in-One |
Data from independent lab tests and manufacturer specs. Scores out of 5.
Explore Graco Atlas Booster details for a sturdier daily option.
Safety is non-negotiable. The TurboBooster TakeAlong earned a 4/5 in frontal crash tests and a perfect 5/5 in side impacts during sled testing. Head containment was Good (G), Head Injury Criterion (HIC) was Good (G), chest clip Good (G), and chest sensor Acceptable (A). These results mean it performs reliably in most scenarios, with excellent side protection thanks to its structured high-back design.
However, it's not the top scorer in frontal crashes compared to heavier models. For families prioritizing ultimate crash data, pair it with our best car seats for 2026 guide.
Pros: Exceptional side crash rating; lightweight doesn't compromise structure. Cons: Frontal score lags behind premium boosters.
Ready to ride safe? See Graco TurboBooster TakeAlong on our review page
One standout feature is how well it positions the vehicle's lap-shoulder belt. For a 5-year-old (Good), 6-year-old (Good), and 8-year-old (Good), the fit was spot-on—keeping the belt low on the hips and across the shoulder without slipping. At 10 years old, it dropped to Poor (P), as taller kids may outgrow the fixed backrest quickly.
The armrests and cup holders add comfort, encouraging kids to stay buckled. In booster mode, contact fit scored 3/5, and securing with the seat belt was 2/5—intuitive but requires adult adjustment.
Tip: Measure your child's height first. Ideal for 43-57 inches.
Vehicle seat belt installation is straightforward (3/5), taking under a minute—just thread and click. LATCH connectors? Tougher at 1/5; the connectors are fiddly and not as secure in middle seats (1/5 fit). Front seat compatibility is average (3/5).
No 5-point harness here—it's belt-only, which keeps it light at 5.5 lbs. The plastic construction is durable, but the cover isn't machine-washable (hand-wash only), and removal is tricky.
Pros: Super portable; folds flat for storage. Cons: LATCH struggles; cleaning cover is a hassle.
For easier installs, check the Graco Affix review.
At $40, it's a budget win for occasional use. Compare to backless options if your child is taller.
Overall score: 4.1/5. Great for travel-savvy parents, less so for daily heavy use.
Our Top Pick reaffirmed: Graco TurboBooster TakeAlong
If the TakeAlong doesn't fit, try these:
For smaller vehicles, explore best car seats for small cars.
Yes, with 4/5 frontal and 5/5 side crash scores, it's reliable for daily drives, especially side impacts. Best for occasional travel due to cleaning limitations.
Ages roughly 4-10 years (40-100 lbs, 43-57 inches). Test fit for your child, as 10-year-olds may need a backless upgrade.
Very easy with vehicle seat belt (3/5)—thread it through the guides and buckle. Skip LATCH for quickest setup.
No, it's hand-wash only and tough to remove. Spot clean for best results.
Not ideal (1/5 fit)—opt for outboard positions. Check best car seats for newborns for family setups.
Upgrade your family's safety arsenal today!
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