Installing a baby capsule is fairly straightforward, since manufacturers design their instruction books to make it as simple as possible. The introduction of Isofix, Clicktight, and SmartLock (Maxi Cosi’s version of Clicktight) has made installation even easier — meaning fewer mistakes, and a safer capsule for bubs.
Note: this article covers general hints for installing a capsule — there are many different capsules out there, and they differ significantly. If the installation feels beyond your capabilities, please contact your nearest accredited car seat fitter.
🍼 Hire a baby capsule
What do you do if you’ve hired the capsule from the council or a hire shop? Some councils and hire shops include the cost of fitting in the hire price — TravelSafe Baby Capsule Hire will fit the capsule for you, and show you exactly how it works.
When buying your own capsule, consider a head snuggler too — Maxi Cosi capsules only come with a donut pillow, which doesn’t offer much head support for a young baby.
Before installing, TravelSafe checks the harness is in the lowest slot — if not, ask the baby shop or council to re-thread it for you. At the same time, get them to fit the head snuggler too — most use press buttons, so you can also add one yourself later.
🔧 Capsule base installation
The most critical part of installing a baby capsule: making sure there’s no lateral movement of the base.
Clicktight installation
First, identify the correct seat belt path — for Clicktight, this is colour-coded blue. Follow the blue path and secure it in place via Clicktight.
Capsules using Clicktight include the Britax B-Pod Go, Britax B-Pod Lite, and Britax B-Pod LBW.
Lift the Clicktight tensioning lever and feed the seat belt along the blue path. Take out most of the slack, then press the lever down until it locks.
Isofix installation
A good example of an Isofix capsule is the Maxi Cosi Mico Plus with Isofix. Identify where the Isofix connections are located — either visually, or via the owner’s manual.
In most cars, Isofix connections only exist in the outer positions, so you often can’t install via Isofix in the centre seat. Some Isofix connectors have a cover that needs removing first.
TravelSafe always uses a locking clip when the capsule doesn’t have Clicktight or Isofix, to keep the capsule stable. The clip’s purpose is to lock in lateral tension, so the capsule won’t move in a side impact.
Once you’ve worked out whether you need a gated buckle, you can start installing the capsule. Pull the seat belt all the way out, but not so far that it activates the automatic locking system.
📏 Getting the lateral tension right
Thread the seat belt through the path indicated on the base, press down with your hand on the base, and pull the excess belt to the side until you feel sufficient tension. It’s best to avoid relying on ALR (Automatic Locking Retractor) — it can’t achieve a fully secure installation for a baby capsule.
If you need a gated buckle or locking clip, hold the seat belt together with your thumb and finger, then follow the instructions supplied with the clip to install it.
🪢 Upper tether attachment
Lastly, you need to attach the upper tether to the capsule. On some capsules, such as the Britax B-Pod Lite, there’s a hoop at the back the tether passes through, with the other end connecting to the car’s anchor point. For other capsule types, the tether may simply connect straight to the anchor point.
If in doubt, please contact an accredited child restraint fitter.
✅ Recommended baby capsules
Thankfully, the number of baby capsules on the market is limited, so it’s nowhere near as confusing as choosing a full baby car seat.
Maxi Cosi Mico Plus (with Isofix)
Extended canopy and thermo fabric, plus an Isofix installation — with all of Isofix’s usual limitations.
❓ Frequently asked questions
Is installing a baby capsule difficult? ＋
What’s the difference between Clicktight and Isofix installation? ＋
Do I need a locking clip or gated buckle? ＋
Why shouldn’t I rely on ALR when installing a capsule? ＋
What capsules are currently recommended? ＋
What if my hired capsule doesn’t fit properly? ＋
Mobile Baby Car Seat Installation — South East Suburbs
Not confident installing your capsule yourself? Book a fitting for expert, independent advice.