Anyone have experience using a Canadian or US certified car seat at any of
the major car rental firms. I am bringing the seat along to use on the
plane, and don't want to have to haul around an empty seat if we have to
rent one.

I know when I have rented in the US, no one has questioned my Canadian car
seat.

Thanks,

Tim Harrison

Tim,

My experience of going from the UK to the US is that a UK certified car seat
is _not_ legal in a US car. There is a two-way agreement between the FAA
and CAA (the UK equivalent of the FAA) which covers using car seats in
aircraft but nothing for car usage. I was told by both state and federal
officials that a European car seat would not cover the requirements and my
father-in-law's insurers in the UA hinted that it would probably invalidate
his insurance.

You will almost certainly need a european certified car seat whilst in
Europe. However, a suitable car seat is still the safest way for a small
child or infant to travel on an aircraft. Has the airport in Germany got
left luggage perhaps where you could store in until you return?

Paul DS.