Choosing a pushchair travel system (cdn.shortpixel.net)

The decision to purchase the best pushchair for your family is one of the most important decisions you make as a parent. There are many factors to be aware of, whether you opt for an all-in-one travel package for its convenience and cost savings, or a separate frame and car seats that are compatible to ensure maximum flexibility.

This helpful guide will help make the right decision for your lifestyle and needs.

What is a travel system?

A travel system is a type of stroller that can accommodate a car seat for your baby, and some even come with a carrycot. It’s an excellent choice for parents who are new because it allows you to easily move your sleeping baby from the car to the pushchair without disturbing them. It’s ideal for quick trips out to nip to the shops or make a nursery run.

A good prams travel system can be glued to your pushchair frame and will fit perfectly into your car. This ensures a smooth journey for your child. It’s a great choice because you’ll only need to make one purchase to celebrate the arrival of your baby. It also helps you save money.

There are lots of different kinds of travel systems available ranging from budget options to high-end brands such as JANE or TYPO. There are a variety of travel systems that include accessories for your car seat that match such as changing bags, changing bags, and mats for changing. If you want to simplify your life by purchasing an entire travel system that includes everything you need. This is the best way to be sure that all the parts work together – no searching online to find a car seat that’s compatible and finding out you need additional adaptors!

What are the recline options for seats? options?

If you choose to purchase a travel system that comes with a carrycot, ensure that the seat can fully recline so that your baby is able to sleep comfortably and is in a lie-flat position for respiratory and spinal development. Also, consider whether the handlebar can be adjusted in height so that it can be comfortable for you as well as your partner or anyone else who might utilize it frequently.

Most pushchairs that are “from birth” include a reversible seat so that you can choose which position your child is facing towards you (to encourage their communication skills) or facing the world, to encourage their curiosity and let them know where they are going. Some travel systems also have an reversible car seat that can be attached directly to the frame of the pushchair, without taking it off it, so you can easily transfer your child from the car to the stroller, and then back.

Not all infant car seats work with all pushchairs. Certain travel systems come with all the adaptors you need in the box, but others may require them to be purchased separately. You can find out if this is the case by looking up the product details or asking at your local retailer.

How do you find it to manoeuvre?

If you’re looking for a travel system to take your newborn from car to pushchair and back again, make sure the pushchair chassis isn’t too heavy, and you have enough space in your car to accommodate the carrycot. Carrycots can be attached easily and are light. They’re best for newborns less than 6 months old and should be used with a lie flat pushchair. This allows the baby to be in a fully reclined position which is beneficial for their spinal development as well as lung development.

If you opt for a travel system bundle or pick and mix the components on your own it’s important to keep in mind that most of them are designed to work as a single unit by the brands. This means that you can be confident that they’ll all fit and work well. Buying all your products in one place can be convenient and generally cheaper than purchasing each item separately. Being able to move your sleeping newborn from their car seat to stroller for the nursery run or nipping into shops without disrupting them is a huge plus. We believe that it’s worth the investment.

How easy is it to attach a car seat or carrycot?

Most of the ‘from birth’ pushchairs can be clicked on to a compatible car seat or carrycot to allow you to transition from your car to the street simple. This is great for babies since it lets them sleep flat.

Once the baby has outgrown their infant car seat (usually until the age of 18 months) the majority of travel systems can also be used with a triple stroller, meaning that they will last longer as your child grows. The majority of travel systems come with a separate stroller, however certain models, like the Doona or the Evenflo Shyft DualRide have a one piece design that allows the car seat to fold into the pushchair, and then folded back into base of the vehicle.

Whether you choose to use the car seat or carrycot on your pushchair, make sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer carefully and always follow their weight, age, and size limitations. Check whether the car seat or pushchair are being recalled due to safety reasons.

Many pushchairs come with extra accessories that can improve your experience. For instance, a footmuff can help protect your child from the elements, while the parasol made of SPF/UPF 50+ fabric can keep them cool when it’s hot. Some pushchairs include a ride-on board for toddlers who are eager to explore the world but require a little assistance.

What is the weight limit?

A pushchair travel system will typically accommodate infants as long as they are of the appropriate weight and age. This will vary depending on the car seat and pushchair combo you choose and your personal needs, so it’s important to check these specifications carefully. Similar to the brakes on the car you’ve chosen, it’s important that you ensure that they are sturdy and easy to operate.

Many brands include adaptors for infant carseats in their travel system bundles enabling you to easily attach your baby’s car seats onto the pushchair frame to be easily moved from car to stroller. This makes the whole process of going out and about with a newborn much quicker and simpler. It also ensures that when your baby grows out of their carrycot and car seat they can still use the stroller along with you. This is a great choice for families that have busy lives and lots to do every day.

How do you fold?

There are a variety of folds available for pushchairs. Some are actually one-handed with just a click of the button. Some folds require two hands or a few steps, however, they are still compact. Some models even stand when folded, making it easy to carry around. This is a great option if you commute or live in a city and need to make the transition between car and pushchair effortless. Or if you only have a tiny boot.

Based on the model, travel system pushchairs may be used from birth when you add an infant car seat. Some models are approved for use in the cabin of flights, making them perfect for parents who like to travel system prams with their families.

If you opt for a pushchair pram and travel system car seat bundle, this is the most economical method of purchasing. The bundle is created by the brand and consists of a car seat and pushchair that are designed to work together. Some pushchairs include the car seats that they are compatible with, and you can purchase a seat separately. (This may require car seat converters.) MFM Editor Gemma’s pick for the best lightweight travel system is the Babyzen YOYO because of its innovative features and a stunning one-second fold.

What does it look Like?

A travel system bundle offers ease of use, security and savings. These bundles are put together by retailers or brands. All the parts are carefully selected for compatibility. This means you won’t need to do a lot of research on which car seat is compatible for your ideal pushchair, or search for a footmuff that matches or changing bags.

They normally consist of a pushchair frame that is suitable for a group 0+ car seat, and typically include a carrycot or a seat unit that can be used either forward-facing or parent-facing according to your preference (or regulations, since rear-facing in the car is advised until 15 months). Some convert to twins/tandems in the event that you’re expecting more one baby.

A travel system can be extremely practical if you’re likely to be walking and driving with your little one since it lets you transfer them from the car to pushchair and back without disturbing them or needing to find a secure place to park. They also can save space in the boot of your car, making it easier for you to go shopping or run the school run.