A 2 in 1 Travel System
If you're looking to travel with ease or create a modern version of the pram, a car seat and stroller combination is the best option. Verify the specifications to make sure that your stroller and car seat are compatible or consider purchasing an adapter.
Travel systems that have been evaluated by editors allow you to transfer your sleeping baby from the car to a stroller without disturbing them. Some even come with a carrycot to allow for natural sleep.
Car Seat
A 2-in-1 travel set comes with a stroller and an infant car seat that snaps together. This is a great option for parents who often make errands, or take their baby on rideshares or public transport. " 2 in 1 carrycot and pushchair 'll have less equipment to manage," explains Graco spokeswoman Rachel Stanton. "And it's perfect for families that alternate between carpooling and public transit with other moms."
Doona infant car seats and latch bases are a top choice, with 90 % of Amazon reviews rating it five stars. It's a rear-facing car seat that transforms into a jogging stroller that rolls in just a few seconds. When not in use the wheels can be folded under and it's small. The Doona also attaches to a car's backseat with the LATCH base that is rigid or to taxi-safe belt paths, making it a great choice for commuters and city families.
The Mamas and Papas Pramette is another top car seat/stroller combination, featuring a pram with a hood and front seats that open to let you lay your child down for naps or for feedings. It comes with a large basket, cup holders, and a sun shade for your baby's necessities. The stroller seat can recline in various positions and can be flat too so that your child will be comfortable on every ride.
The weight and height limits are also important. Also, consider whether the infant car seat can be used only with a belt for the back seat or when it has a sturdy LATCH system built in. Find a lock for the handle to keep the handle in place. You can also tilt the handle towards the seatback in the rear to create an anti-rebound bar.
It is important to note that travel systems work only with infant car seats--and extended-use car seats that can later be made forward-facing snap into strollers. Many moms choose to buy an additional car seat and stroller once their child has outgrown an infant seat.
Stroller
A stroller is an essential piece of equipment for any new parent. Some travel systems include the baby pram that can be converted into a comfortable infant carrycot. This is a great option for parents who do not want to disturb their newborn while traveling. Some brands also offer a stroller and car seat combo that can be linked. This means you can keep your child secure in the car seat and then transfer them to a pushchair without causing disturbance. This is ideal for long drives and busy shopping centers.
A great stroller should include many features that make it simple to use and practical. It should come with an ample basket for storing important items like nappies as well as toys and snacks. It must also recline so that your child can lie down comfortably. It should have a canopy to shield your child from sun, and an lockable wheel on the front for safety. In addition, it should be lightweight and fold compactly to make it easy to store or transport to and from the car.
Editor-tested travel system strollers such as the UPPAbaby Cruz v2 Combo, Chicco Keyfit Caddy and Doona Combo all provide convenience by connecting with a range of top car seats that snap to the frame and fold up with ease. Some also come with a single wheel on each leg, which makes them easier to manoeuvre and roll across different surfaces.
Ideal strollers should be able to carry your child through the stage of toddlerhood, and beyond, so that you can continue to use it to transport them to and from events, school and play dates. This is why you should look for a model that has an opening that allows your child to face the world (and reclines) after your child has outgrown the car seat.
If you intend to use your 2-in-1 travel system in public transport, select one with an ISOFIX base. This will ensure it is safe to hop on and off trains or buses. Some models, like the Doona can be fitted on trains and planes to make traveling with your baby easier.