Hi Lime Slice - I get what you are saying about using the Safe N Sound without the anchor - but I think either with or without the anchor, it needs to be used with the base unit (as you mention) - but my sister's car seat (an American car seat) had the option of being used without a base unit, thus when they traveled by plane, they'd check it and use it in any car they were in during their trip. So I think your description is accurate - that it is a reversible car seat - is there such a thing sold here - would you know the brand name so that I can research it?

Thanks for the info re: airplane - I think we may rely on our Ergo carrier.