Chapter 5 – Traveling with a Baby

Car seats sold on the market must be approved in accordance with specific safety regulations. In Europe, car seats released on the market after September 1st, 2024 must comply with and be approved under Regulation ECE R129. This new regulation replaces the previous ECE R44/04, introducing new safety standards and classifying car seats based on the child’s height rather than weight.

Designed to promote the use of devices equipped with isofix connectors, the new regulation includes stricter safety parameters than the previous one, such as passing specific side crash tests and the requirement to install car seats in a rear-facing position for children up to 15 months old.

When choosing a car seat, it’s important to check its compatibility with your vehicle, and it is strongly recommended to opt for models with isofix connectors. Isofix significantly reduces the risk of incorrect installation. Specialized baby stores provide all the assistance needed to select the right model according to your needs and often allow you to test it in your car.

Failure to use an appropriate restraint system results in an administrative fine ranging from €83 to €333 and a deduction of five points from the driver’s license. In the case of two violations within twenty-four months, the law also provides for a license suspension of fifteen days to two months.

European Regulation ECE R129 (i-Size)

Gradually introduced from 2014 to raise safety standards for child restraint systems beyond those of ECE R44, it currently complements the earlier regulation without fully replacing it. The main changes introduced by ECE R129 include:

1. Classification by child’s height: Car seat manufacturers specify the range of child heights for which the seat is approved.
2. Mandatory Isofix installation: i-Size seats for children up to 105 cm must be installed using the Isofix system. This international anchoring system connects the car seat directly to the vehicle’s seat using two rigid connectors, without using the car’s seat belts. In addition to easier and faster installation , it reduces the risk of improper use and creates a more stable and secure connection. The system includes an extra anchorage point to prevent the car seat from tipping forward during an impact—either a top tether strap or a support leg.
   Introduced in 2004, Isofix has been mandatory in all new cars manufactured from 2006 onwards. However, Isofix car seats are semi-universal and only compatible with specific makes and models listed by the car seat manufacturer. Therefore, it’s advisable to consult the compatibility list on the manufacturer’s website before purchasing. For i-Size seats approved under Regulation ECE R129, compatibility is ensured if your vehicle bears the relevant label.
3. Side impact protection: To enhance safety, ECE R129 requires car seats to pass side impact crash tests, unlike ECE R44/04, which only required frontal and rear impact tests. This provides extra protection for the child’s head and neck.