AmSafe CARES for Special Needs vs WAYB Pico
The CARES for Special Needs is 7 lb lighter. The CARES for Special Needs lists for $406.5 less.
Only the differences are shown.
| AmSafe CARES for Special Needs | WAYB Pico | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Airplane gear | Airplane gear |
| List price | $92.50Lowest price | $499 |
| Weight | 1 lbLightest | 8 lb |
| Packed size | Not listed | 11.6 × 14.5 × 18.9 in1.8 cu ft |
| Set-up size | Not listed | 15.2 × 14.5 × 22.8 in |
| Child weight | Not listed | 26.5–50 lb |
| Child height | Not listed | 33.5–45 in |
| Age | Not listed | From 24 months |
| FAA-approved for aircraft | Not listed | Yes, per the maker label |
| Carry-on size | Not listed | Yes |
| Fits | Aircraft seats; extended version for taller flyers up to about 6 ft per maker | Forward-facing only; installs with LATCH or a car or plane seat belt |
| Machine washable | Not listed | No |
| Maker's use notes | Extended version always needs an FAA exemption letter carried on every flight; without it, not usable during ground movement, takeoff or landing; standard CARES is certified only up to 44 lb and 40 in | Forward-facing only, age 2+. Limits shown are for seats made on or after June 30, 2025; earlier seats are 22 to 50 lb and 30 to 45 in. Check the label on the seat bottom. |
AmSafe CARES for Special Needs
A longer-strap version of the CARES harness for older or taller special-needs flyers who can use it only with an FAA exemption.
- Longer straps for taller flyers
- About 1 lb
- Needs an FAA exemption letter, which takes weeks
WAYB Pico
An 8 lb folding forward-facing travel car seat that the maker says is FAA-approved and fits in overhead bins.
- Light at 8 lb
- Folds small
- Works in cars and on planes
- List price $499
- Forward-facing only, age 2+
Ask the meadow
CARES for Special Needs or Pico?
Answers come from each maker's published specs. Safety and health questions link to the agency or medical source.
Which is lighter to travel with?
The AmSafe CARES for Special Needs weighs 1 lb, versus 8 lb for the WAYB Pico.
Is the CARES for Special Needs cheaper than the Pico?
Yes. $92.50 versus $499 list price.
Still wondering? Write to us at hello@cribpicks.com and we'll look it up.