A 2 in 1 Travel System
Whether you are looking to move around easily or want to create a modern version of the pram, a car seat and stroller combination is the best choice. Read the specs carefully to make sure your car seat and pushchair are compatible or consider buying an adaptor.
Editor-tested travel systems allow you to move your sleeping newborn seamlessly from the car to the stroller, without disturbing them. Some come with a carrycot to allow for natural sleep.
Car Seat
A 2 in 1 travel system that includes the infant car seat and a stroller that snaps together. It's a convenient option for parents and caregivers who often run errands while with their infant, or take their little one out on rideshares or public transportation. "You'll have less equipment to manage," explains Graco spokeswoman Rachel Stanton. "And it's great for families who alternate between carpooling with other moms and taking public transportation."
The best option is the Doona infant car seat and latch base, which receives an incredible 90% of five-star reviews on Amazon. It's a rear-facing car seat that converts into a rolling stroller--the transition is quick and easy. When not in use the wheels can be folded away and it's compact. The Doona can also be attached to a car backseat with the rigid LATCH base, or to taxi-safety belt paths. This makes it a great choice for urban families.
The Mamas & Papas Pramette is a top car seat/stroller, which includes the pram having the hood as well as a the front seat, which opens to let you lay your child down for naptime or for feedings. It has a spacious basket with cup holders to store everything your baby needs as well as a tray for parents and sun shade. The stroller seat features an adjustable reclining seat that can recline to a flat position, so baby is comfy for every ride.
Other important car seat features to consider are the weight and height limits, as well as whether the infant car seat can be used with only a car belt for backseats or comes with an additional layer of protection that includes an integrated LATCH system. Also, look for a lock on the handle to ensure it stays secure in place and the ability to tilt the handle toward the back of the seatback to make an anti-rebound bar.
Travel systems are only suitable for infant car seats. Extended-use car seats which can be turned forward later, cannot be converted into strollers. This is why many moms opt to get a separate stroller and car seat once their child grows out of the infant seat.
Stroller
A stroller is an essential piece of equipment for any new parent. Some travel systems come with the baby pram that can be converted into a comfortable carrycot for infants. This is ideal for parents who don't want to disturb their newborn while traveling. Some brands also have the option of a car seat and stroller combination that can be clicked together. This lets you keep your child in the car seat while you transfer them to a stroller without disturbing them.
A quality stroller should come with numerous features that make it simple to use and practical. It should come with a large basket where you can put away essentials like nappies as well as snacks, toys and other items. It should also be capable of reclining to give your baby a relaxing rest. It should also come with a good canopy to protect your baby from the sun, and a lockable front wheel to ensure safety. It should also be light and compact for storage as well as transportation to and from the vehicle.
Editor-tested travel system strollers such as the UPPAbaby Cruz v2 Combo, Chicco Keyfit Caddy and Doona Combo all have the benefit of connecting with a range of top car seats that click to attach to the frame and fold down with ease. Some have a single wheel at each leg, making them easier to manoeuvre and roll across different surfaces.
2 in 1 stroller with car seat will be able to endure through toddlerhood and beyond if you need it to continue to transport your child to and from school, activities and play dates. To do this, look for a model with an opening that allows your child to face the world (and reclines) when your child is no longer in the car seat.
If you intend to use your 2-in-1 travel system on public transport you should look for models that have an ISOFIX base, which makes it safe to get on and off trains or buses. Certain models, like the Doona can be installed on planes and trains to make travelling with your baby easier.