Parenthood is all about changing. Everyday, thousands of parents go through transitions from home to the car to an appointment, then back.
One of the most efficient ways to simplify your travels is to get two prams 2 in 1 and a capsule in one. These are ideal for babies from birth and can be transformed into a stroller when your child is old enough to use the car seat.
Easy to transport
Doona is a brand new take on stroller and car seat combos that transform from a car seat to stroller by simply folding it. It takes only a few minutes to change from the car to the sidewalk. This is ideal for those who live in cities, or who frequent public transportation. It’s also smaller than two-piece travel systems making it easier to store and take on an aircraft.
You should choose a car seat/pram 2 in 1 that fits your lifestyle. You should consider the frequency you use the stroller, as well as whether or not you will require an extra tray or basket to hold your child’s food and drinks. It is also important to consider your baby’s weight and height to ensure that the combination will be suitable for them.
The Good Housekeeping Institute parenting pros regularly test and evaluate hundreds of products for infants and young children, including carseats, strollers, and infant sleep surfaces. Our experts evaluate the items based on their safety, design and user-friendliness. Our rating system includes ratings for each item and a summary score that weighs the rating of the whole product against the other items in the category and an overall rating. The Good Housekeeping Institute provides parents with the tools needed to keep their children safe and happy.
A car seat and pram 2 in 1 that have the highest safety rating is vital for your family’s journeys. The car seat must be securely attached to the vehicle using the latch system and the base of the stroller must be linked to the car seat using LATCH connectors that are rigid. Before each use, it’s a good idea to read the instruction from the manufacturer regarding installation and removal. You may need an adaptor for a stroller and car seat from different brands.
When shopping for a car and stroller combination, be aware that only infant Group 0+ seats can be put into a stroller. If you want a stroller 2 in 1 car seat that can accommodate older children, select one with an infant seat or carrycot. Some stroller/car seat combinations are easy to use, but you can choose models with extra features such as a big canopy or cupholders for the parents.
Easy to store
A travel system is an all-in-one car seat and stroller that includes everything you require to transport your baby. Choose a stroller with an easy-to-fold design as well as plenty of storage space. You may also find one that includes extra features like an organizer for parents or cup holders. Certain combinations of carseats and strollers are more expensive than others models, but they’re worth the cost if you intend to take your child on a regular outing.
The top car seat and stroller combos feature sleek compact designs that make them easy to maneuver and put away when not in use. Review the specifications to determine the weight of each piece and how large their storage space is. Idealy, both pieces should fit inside your trunk or in the back of your car. You might also want to consider getting a stroller travel bag to protect it during transport.
For instance the Nuna PIPA infant car seat and base is our best pick for car seat and stroller combos because it’s a single product that doesn’t require a car seat adapter to attach to any standard vehicle. The LATCH connectors, which are rigid, built into the base help it to fit into vehicles of various shapes and sizes. It has a built-in drape canopy to protect a snoozing child.
Another option is the Doona that is basically an infant car seat on wheels. It can be folded from the base into a stroller, and it can be folded down to a car-friendly position within minutes. This makes it much more portable than two-piece stroller and car seat combination. However, you will require an adaptor if your car seat your child is using is not compatible with the Doona.
Easy to install
The first few weeks after the birth of a baby can be challenging. There are the late-night crying sessions, mountains of swamp nappies, and the constant realization that you’ve forgotten something. The combination of the pram and car seat is among the most important decisions that new parents will make. They should be easy to install, easy to use and, above all, stylish.
Some new parents prefer a two-piece system, which is comprised of an infant stroller with an infant carrycot as well as an additional car seat. Some parents opt for a three in one model that includes an infant car seat that can be connected to the stroller chassis. The advantage of this model is that it can fold flat, making it easier for storage. The downside is that it can be bulkier than the traditional two-piece system however many parents love its sleek design.
If you’re looking for a straightforward system, look for one with a base that is easily connected to your vehicle with a rigid LATCH connector. This will ensure that the seat is correctly installed and will also ensure an easy and secure connection. Many brands also have helpful videos for installation available on their websites. When you have successfully attached the car to your stroller it will make a click sound to signal that it is securely fastened.
The height of the handlebars is another important factor to consider when selecting a car or pram 2 in 1 stroller with car seat in 1. If you’re planning 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’re planning to travel frequently on public transport then you should choose a pram that has swivel-wheels or a one-handed folding mechanism. This will make it easier for you to take buses and trains.
Check that the car seat/pram 2 in 1 can be used in conjunction with the seat belt of your vehicle. This is particularly important if you’re going be sharing the car with your parents or are using it to ride-share.
Easy to use
A car seat and a stroller combination makes traveling with a baby easier particularly for parents who are constantly on the move. The stroller can fold to fit in the trunk of a car. The car seat snaps onto the frame. It also comes with a built-in canopy for drapes to guard against a sleepy baby. It is easy to maneuver and is a great choice for families that travel by plane, bus, or train.
Some car seat and stroller combinations have an audible click when connected to the base, making it easier to make sure that the seat is properly placed. It is crucial to go through the directions prior to using the stroller or car seat. This will ensure that the seats are installed correctly. Some brands have instructional videos on how to install them online to assist you in your first steps.
Most car seat and stroller combinations require some assembly prior to use. This includes installing the base inside your vehicle and securing the frame to seat. It can take a bit of time and patience to figure out the instructions for certain models. It’s also a good idea to practice using it with a friend.
Car stroller and car seat combos that feature an easy-to-attachment with no straps get our highest marks for ease of use. This eliminates the need to tie straps and buckle them, which can lead to mistakes. This kind of connection is more secure than straps.
The best car seat and stroller combos are easy to navigate, even with a full load of children. Make sure you choose models with rubber tires on the front of the wheel and are light. Some models feature an swivel-wheel on the front of the unit to help navigate around narrow aisles and tight corners. These systems are typically more expensive than strollers that are standalone and car seats, but they can help you save time and hassle on busy days.