Car seats have also deterred me from a few trips, short and long. They're a hassle to get an uber and store at destination (say a sporting event), and they are a nightmare to lug around airports and add to the effective travel time by if you end up checking them in as luggage (and then waiting for them at the carousel).

Traveling with kids in car seats via any method other than one’s own vehicle is almost not worth the hassle. I always rent a car and car seat on the other end, or purchase a car seat for family to put in their car for us. I’ve also purchased strollers to stash with the same family. I’d rather buy all this than lug it through airports for “free.”

Last sporting event I went to I was able to check my car seat at the stroller check, the workers didn't bat an eye :)