What are my options? Don't really want to bring a car seat from halfway across the globe...?

You can definitely rent a car seat when you get there. No need to lug that thing with you! Check out http://www.thenewparentsguide.com/baby-equipment-r...

I did something similar last year with my daughter. I had my mom get a 2nd hand car seat for us to use and it woked out well. Mybe your friend can check out a thrift shop or yard sale for you?? If you are getting a rental car you CAN also rent a car seat with it...it may be a few extra dollars per day. I looked into that option as well. An 18 month old is enough to deal with...no need to also have to worry about lugging a car seat as well! Believe me...i know! I even left a stroller behind at the airport because it was just too much! Have a safe trip!!

I disagree with some of the others' answers on here. Why should your friend get a car seat for your child? This is your kid/ your responsibility. Car seats can be rented at most rental car agencies. A second-hand car seat would not be a good idea. California has strict laws about what is considered safety compliant. Anything used probably isn't up to standard.

as a mom my self I have traveled with kids that age I know what you mean ,

I think you need to bring you're car seat if you're son has a chair in the air plane.

but if he is a lap baby since he is under 2 years old

just ask you're friend to get you one at a thrift shop there .it's cheaper that having to bring one across the globe .

Good luck and have a safe trip .

car seats are realy cheap like 30 dollars . but that might be expensive for europe. maye you should leave you baby home

you can have more fun.

Why not leave the baby at home? You and your friend would probably have more fun without him around, anyway.

have her buy a second hand one ..they run $5.00 to $15.00 and a whole lot easer..if you rent a car most places have them there as part of your rental.

I think it would be best to just ask your friend to go get another one.