Safety 1st Crosstown vs. UPPAbaby MESA: Which is Better? (2024)

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Safety 1st Crosstown and the UPPAbaby MESA.

Our goal is to provide you with the information you need to feel confident that you're choosing the optimal car seat for your family's needs and budget. Let us know if you have any other questions!

At A Glance

Our Thoughts

One of the toughest decisions that we, as parents, face is selecting the perfect car seat to ensure our child's safety while on the road. Today, I will be comparing the Safety 1st Crosstown, a practical and affordable choice, with the UPPAbaby MESA, a premium infant car seat.

Starting with the Safety 1st Crosstown, this convertible seat is an adaptable option that is designed to grow with your child. From infancy, you can use it as a rear-facing seat up to 40 pounds, and as your child grows, it transitions to a forward-facing car seat that can comfortably accommodate up to 65 pounds. Finally, it even serves as a belt-positioning booster for up to 100 pounds, all while ensuring its removable seat pad can be cleaned easily. Another advantage is its easy-to-install design, which is often mentioned in reviews. Despite being budget-friendly, some parents have mentioned concerns about the quality of the plastic and difficulties in tightening the straps. However, it's important to remember that this car seat meets federal safety standards and makes a reliable choice for those needing an every day, long-term solution.

For the UPPAbaby MESA, the major standouts are its advanced safety features and ease of installation thanks to its SMARTSecure System. This high-end infant car seat is designed for newborns and smaller babies, providing a secure environment for your little one. Although this car seat is at a higher price point, its safety features and compatibility with UPPAbaby strollers enhance its value. Plus, its one-button stroller release makes for a smooth transition between car and stroller, ensuring convenience. However, one thing to bear in mind is that as an infant car seat, it has a shorter usage span, requiring an upgrade as the baby grows.

Between these two, if you're on a budget or prefer a car seat which can be in use for many years from infancy to booster seat stages, then I would recommend Safety 1st Crosstown. Its flexibility to change from rear-facing to front facing to a booster seat, makes it a practical and economical option to consider.

On the other hand, if you're willing to make a higher investment, frequently travel with your infant, and value advanced safety features, the UPPAbaby MESA would be a great fit. Though among parents there was concern about its weight as the baby grows, its easy installation, quality, and sleek design offer much to be appreciated. Keep in mind, though, you may need to invest in a different car seat as your child grows, due to its limited longevity as an infant seat.

Choosing a car seat is a personal decision that may vary based on your child's needs, your vehicle, and budget. Whether you choose Safety 1st Crosstown or UPPAbaby MESA, both offer great benefits and are dedicated to ensuring your child's safety.