Car Seat and Pram 2 in 1
Parenthood is all about changes. Everyday, thousands of parents go through transitions from home to the car, to an appointment and back again.
One of the best ways to streamline your travels is to buy two prams and a capsule in 1. These are typically suitable from birth and then convert into a stroller when your child is old enough to outgrow the car seat.
Easy to transport
Doona is a new version of car seat and stroller combos that transform from a car seat into a stroller by simply unfolding it. It's a matter of seconds to go from sidewalk to vehicle and is perfect for those who live in cities and who frequently use public transportation. It is also more compact than two-piece travel systems, making it easier to store and transport on an aircraft.
It's essential to choose a car seat and pram 2 in 1 that will meet your lifestyle needs. Think about things like how often you'll use the stroller and whether you'll require a basket or tray for your child's meals and drinks. It's also important to consider your baby's height and weight to make sure the combo will work well for them.
The parenting experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute regularly test and evaluate hundreds of products for babies and children, including strollers, carseats and baby sleep surfaces. Our experts assess these products by evaluating their safety design, style, accessibility, and functionality. Our rating system includes ratings for each item, a summary score that compares the rating of the whole product against all the other items in the rating category and an overall rating. The Good Housekeeping Institute is dedicated to giving parents the tools they require to keep their kids safe and happy.
For trips on the road with your family, a car seat and stroller 2 in 1 that has an extremely high safety rating is necessary. The car seat should be attached securely to the vehicle with the latch system. The base of the stroller should then be connected to it using rigid LATCH connectors. It is a good idea to read the manufacturer's instructions for detaching and installation prior to each use. You might need an adapter when you own a car seat and stroller with different brands.
When shopping for a car and stroller combination, remember that only Group 0+ infant seats can be snapped into a stroller. If you're seeking a stroller that can handle an older toddler ensure you select one with a toddler-sized seat or a carrycot. While some stroller/car seats are no-frills, you can also opt for models that have extra features such as a large canopy and cupholders for parents.
Easy to store
A travel system is an all-in-one stroller and car seat that includes everything you need to carry your child. A stroller that folds easily and has plenty of storage space is the best choice. You can also find a stroller that has extra features like a parent's organizer or cup holders. Push Chairs & Prams and stroller combinations are more expensive than others, but the investment is well worth it if you plan to take your child out on the go regularly.
The best car seats and stroller combos come with sleek, compact designs that make them easy to maneuver and to store away when not in use. Check the specs of each unit to see how much they weigh as well as how big their storage space is. Ideally each piece are small enough to fit in the back of your car or a trunk-sized trunk. You may also consider getting a stroller travel bag to safeguard it while in transit.
The Nuna PIPA infant base and seat, as an example, is our top pick for strollers and car seats combinations. It's a one-piece that can be attached to any vehicle without an adapter for cars. The base is fitted with rigid LATCH connectors that allow it to fit into vehicles of all shapes and sizes. It comes with an integrated drape canopy that protects a snoozing child.
The Doona is another option. It is basically a car seat for infants with wheels. It opens from the base to turn into an infant stroller, and folds back to its car-friendly location in just a few seconds. This makes it much more portable than two-piece stroller and car seat combos. However, you'll require an adaptor if your car seat you want to use for your child isn't compatible with the Doona.
Easy to install
The first few weeks after the birth of a new baby can be challenging. There are late night cry sessions, mountains of swamp nappies, and the constant realization that you've failed to pack something. The combination of the pram and car seat is one of the most important decisions that new parents will make. They must be easy to install, simple to use and, above all, stylish.
Some new parents prefer a dual-piece travel system, which includes a pram with a carrycot and an additional car seat. Some parents prefer a three-in-one model that has an infant car seat that can be connected to the stroller chassis. The advantage of this type is that it can fold flat, which makes it easier to storage. However, it can be bulkier than conventional two-piece systems, however many parents love its sleek design.
If you're looking for a simple system, select one that has a base which can easily be connected to your vehicle with a strong LATCH connector. This will ensure that the seat is properly installed and also provide an easy and secure connection. Many brands also have helpful videos for installation available on their websites. After you have successfully secured the car to your stroller it should make a clicking noise to let you know it's securely fastened.
Another crucial aspect to think about when choosing a car seat and pram 2 in 1 is the height of the handlebars. If you intend to carry an infant in the car seat for a long period of time it is essential that the handlebars have a height enough to let you comfortably reach them. If you plan to use public transport often pick a stroller with swivel wheels or a one-handed folding mechanism. This will allow you to get on and off trains and buses.
Make sure that the car seat/pram 2 in1 can also be used in conjunction with the seat belt of your vehicle. This is particularly important if you're going to share the car with other parents or are using it to ride-sharing.
Easy to use
A car seat and a stroller set-up makes the journey with a baby much easier, especially for parents who are on the move. The stroller can be folded to fit in the trunk of a car. The car seat snaps onto the frame. It also has an integrated canopy to safeguard an infant who is asleep. It's easy to maneuver and is a great choice for families who frequently travel by train, plane or bus.
Some stroller and car seat combos come with an audible click when connected to the base which makes it easier to verify that the seat is properly positioned. However, it is essential to read the instructions thoroughly before using the stroller or car seat to ensure that they are properly installed. Some brands have helpful installation videos on their websites that could aid.
Most stroller and car seat combinations require some assembly prior to use, which includes placing the base in your vehicle, and then attaching the seat to the frame. It may take some time and effort to understand the steps for specific models. It's also a good idea to practice using the device with a friend.
Car seat and stroller combos that feature one-step attachments with no straps get our highest scores for user-friendliness. This avoids the additional step of buckling and tightening straps which are prone to errors. This type of connection is more secure than straps.
The most effective car seat and stroller combos are simple to maneuver even with a number of children. Find models with rubber tires and a single front wheel, which are light and easy to push. Some models also come with a swivel wheel that allows for maneuvering through narrow aisles and tight corners in stores. These systems are typically more expensive than strollers that are standalone and car seats, but they can help you save time and effort on hectic days.