The Best Packable Travel High Chairs (We’ve Tried Them All!)
After way too many meals where I tried to balance a wriggling toddler on my lap while also cutting up spaghetti (why is it always spaghetti?), I learned that a travel high chair is one of those items you think you can skip—until you’re three bites into cold pasta and deeply regretting your choices.
If you travel a lot like we do—hotels, Airbnbs, grandma’s house, beach resorts, even restaurants that “don’t do high chairs”—a compact, easy-to-clean, and actually safe travel high chair is a game changer. Here are the best ones I’ve tried or researched to death:
TL;DR: Our favorite for the lightweight nature of it and the sheer versatility is the Hiccapop, however the Inglesina was the one that my kiddo liked the best since he could sit up the straightest in it.
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Hiccapop OmniBoost Travel Booster Seat
Best for versatility + floor sitting
I love that the Hiccapop isn’t just a high chair—it’s a little booster with its own tray, and it can go on the floor or strap onto a regular chair. The wide base and pop-out “duck feet” make it surprisingly stable, even on uneven ground (looking at you, beach picnic). It’s super easy to wipe down, folds into a compact carry bag, and has a three-point harness to keep little escape artists contained. We’ve used it everywhere from the beach to Airbnb kitchens. Read our full Hiccapop review here.
Inglesina Fast Table Chair
Best for dining at the table like a big kid
The Inglesina Fast is one of the most popular travel high chairs for a reason—it clips right onto most tables and feels very secure. I love that it brings your baby right up to the table, which makes them feel included (and lets you skip the tray entirely). It’s lightweight, folds flat, and even has a little hidden pocket in the back for wipes or snacks. Bonus: it fits easily in a carry-on or diaper bag. Read our full Inglesina review here.
Heads-up: It doesn’t work on glass tables or those with lips underneath—always check before depending on it in a restaurant!
Chicco QuickSeat Hook-on
Best for all the bells and whistles
If you’re looking for a seat that’s more compatible with more tables and comes with a tray and carrying case (which the Inglesina does not) the Chicco QuickSeat is a great alternative to the Inglesina. It has a five-point harness and a solid aluminum frame that makes it feel extra sturdy. It also comes with a tray—perfect if you don’t want them gnawing on the restaurant table. It folds super flat and comes in a zip-up carrying case that feels a little fancier. That said, it’s a lot heavier than the Inglesina and is probably better for road trips than flights. Read our full Chicco QuickSeat review.
Maisonette Travel Up Booster Seat
Best for ultra-portable simplicity
This minimalist booster seat folds up flat, has a sleek profile, and attaches easily to almost any chair with adjustable safety straps. I love how slim and stylish it is, and it’s perfect for older babies or toddlers who don’t need a full tray. It even has a carry handle, so it’s easy to toss in your suitcase or stroller basket. If you want something simple, sturdy, and genuinely compact, this is it.
Ingenuity Baby Base 2-in-1 Booster Seat
Best for everyday use that can travel in a pinch
This Ingenuity Baby Base isn’t exactly packable, but it is compact and is a great portable high chair that works well if you’re traveling by car and have a bit more space. It’s a sturdy booster with a removable tray that cleverly tucks into the base when not in use. It’s perfect for grandma’s house or road trips where you’ll be staying put. Just know it doesn’t fold down, so it’s not ideal for air travel or minimalist packing. Rear our full Ingenuity baby base review here.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a frequent traveler, my top picks are:
- Best all-around: Hiccapop OmniBoost – Versatile, easy to clean, beach-to-dining-room adaptable.
- Best table chair: Inglesina Fast – Great for feeling like part of the meal, compact and easy to pack.
- Best for luxe travelers: Phil & Teds Lobster – Secure and stylish with a tray.
- Best minimalist booster: Maisonette Travel Up – Ultra compact and great for older toddlers.
- Best for road trips/stationary setups: Ingenuity Baby Base – Sturdy and comfy but doesn’t fold.
A travel high chair may seem optional until you’ve gone without one—it’s truly a sanity-saver. Let me know which one you end up with, or if there’s a hidden gem I need to add to the rotation!
