Diono Monterey 5iST FixSafe
In this review, we’ll take a close look at why the Diono Monterey 5iST booster may be a good option for your booster-aged child. It’s a nice option for parents who travel often since it folds up. Additionally, if you have non-removable headrests in your vehicle, this is one of the high-back booster options that will work. This is a great high-back booster option for higher-percentile kids as well.
- You frequently use Lyft/Uber/Taxis.
- You travel often.
- Your vehicle has non-removable headrests.
- You want a booster that converts to backless as well.
- You want a lightweight option to move between different vehicles.
- You need to fit 3 across in a vehicle.
- It folds!
- Rigid Lower Anchors
- It has backpack-style straps to carry it around easily
Our Review of the
Diono Monterey 5iST FixSafe
In this review, we’ll take a close look at why the Diono Monterey 5iST booster may be a good option for your booster-aged child. It’s a nice option for parents who travel often since it folds up. Additionally, if you have non-removable headrests in your vehicle, this is one of the high-back booster options that will work. This is a great high-back booster option for higher-percentile kids as well.
Our recommendation: From 5 years until it's outgrown (average 10-11 years old)
A high back-only booster seat
From 5+, but the child must be mature enough to sit properly at all times
Stand Out Features of this Car Seat
It folds!
We love that this booster can fold. This makes it easy for parents who want to have an extra booster in their trunk for carpooling or for parents who travel often. It makes storing it in your house easier as well!
Rigid Lower Anchors
Lower anchors on the booster are optional. But if you don’t use the lower anchors, then you need to buckle the seat belt whenever the child is not riding in the vehicle with you. The lower anchors on this seat are rigid, which makes them easy to attach in many vehicles.
It has backpack-style straps to carry it around easily
After folding up the seat, you can utilize the attached straps to carry it around like a backpack. This can be a good option for parents who don’t own a vehicle but prefer to have a high back booster.
Seat is good for you if
You frequently use Lyft/Uber/Taxis.
The Diono Monterey 5iST works well in most vehicles. It folds up to make it easier to carry around as well. But the backpack-style straps also allow you to wear it instead.
You travel often.
This seat folds up to the size of a carry-on so it can be stowed in the overhead compartment of many planes. This makes it a good option for parents who want to take a high back booster on their family trips.
Your vehicle has non-removable headrests.
This booster is one of the few options that works well with non-removable headrests because it does not have to be flush with the vehicle seat. Other options that work with these kinds of headrests are Nuna Aace, Clek Oobr, any of the other Diono boosters, and Evenflo’s boosters.
You have a tall child.
This high back booster has 63″ limits, which is currently the maximum standing height limit available for boosters. It also has a very tall belt guide that can accommodate a child until their torso height is around 21″.
Use caution if
You want a booster that converts to backless as well.
This is a high back booster only. But it has a very tall headrest, so it will accommodate most children until they can fit properly in the seat belt.
You want a lightweight option to move between different vehicles.
This booster weighs almost 19 pounds. With some boosters as light as 5 pounds, this is quite a heavy one. But it’s still not as heavy as many convertible car seats are, so this one may be ok for you!
You need to fit 3 across in a vehicle.
I can’t imagine the Diono Monterey 5iST fitting 3 across in any vehicle, since it’s one of the widest seats on the market. Check out our blog post on fitting 3 across here to find some better options.
Quirks to be aware of
Child Fit Information
Installation Information
Airplane Use
Like all boosters, the Diono Monterey 5iST does NOT have aircraft approval. But because it folds up, this is still a great option for airplane travel. When folded, it’s small enough to take as carry-on luggage for most airlines. For help with all things airplane travel and car seats, check out our Wheels Up Course and private Facebook group.
SITS Bottom Line
In conclusion, the Diono Monterey 5iST high-back booster seat is a standout choice for parents who demand flexibility, ease of use, and top-notch safety for their children. Its foldable design, rigid lower anchors, and backpack-style carrying straps cater to the needs of busy families on the move. Whether you rely on Lyft, Uber, or taxis, frequently embark on family adventures, or have a vehicle with non-removable headrests, this booster seat has you covered. While it may not convert to a backless booster, its tall headrest and impressive height limits ensure your child’s comfort and safety. Remember, when it comes to travel, the Diono Monterey 5iST is a reliable companion, with its compact fold making it suitable for overhead compartments on planes. So, whether you’re hitting the road or taking to the skies, this booster seat is your trusted partner for safer and more convenient journeys with your child.
Similar Car Seats
Specifications
Diono
Product Information
Weight: 18.7lbs
Width: 23"
Rear Facing Limits
Forward-Facing Limits
No Back Booster Limits
Highest Belt Guide Settings
21"
High Back Booster Limits
Height: 38-63"
Weight: 40-120lbs
Head Height Rules: ears must be below the top of the headrest
Other Important Details
Expiration Limit
8 years
Crash Replacement Policy
replace after a moderate or severe crash
Vehicle Seat Protectors
This brand allows Diono mats:
Diono Grip It Car Seat Protector