A 2 in 1 pushchairs-in-1 travel set-up with car seats offers parents the convenience of a car seat for their infant and a stroller that can work in tandem. However they can be expensive.These combinations make it easy for parents to transport a sleeping baby from car to stroller and back without disturbing them. This is a great solution for families who are constantly moving.
Comfort
Travel systems that include an infant car seat are a great way to make the transition from car to stroller easy. These all-in-ones differ from stroller-only combinations since they typically include an infant car seat as well as the stroller. They can be used for infants as well as older children. Many of the car-and stroller combinations that make our list also include a bassinet that can be used as an alternative for a traditional egg stroller 2 in 1 for walks during naptime.
While a 2 in 1 stroller car seat-in-1 travel system with a car seat could cost more than separate products however, you'll likely save time and money if you buy them all in one package. And if you decide later that the stroller and car seat aren't quite right for your family, most brands offer adaptors that allow you to use the car seat with a stroller (provided it meets the weight and height requirements).
One thing to keep in mind when looking for a travel set is that these sets usually include a car seat for infants and a stroller made to work together, which is meant to be used during the first 12 months. If you are planning to keep the car seat and using it beyond this period, look for a model that has a convertible car seat that can also be used as a toddler car seat and has a heavier weight limit.
Certain travel systems also come with a second seat that can be used as a booster seat for older kids. This is a great feature, but it may not be practical for your lifestyle.
Take a look at our top picks of strollers and car seats to find an budget-friendly travel system that can last for several years. Our editor-tested favorites include the UPPAbaby PIPA car seat and Vista stroller combo are packed with features to ensure that you and your baby remain comfortable. These products feature springy all-wheel-suspension to smooth out the ride. The PIPA car seat also features a built-in drape canopy that protects the baby who is sleeping. They also have LATCH connectors that can be used with vehicles that do not have a base, making it a great option for families that frequently use ride-sharing services or have two cars.
Convenience
Car seat/stroller combos are great for parents who often run errands or take their baby out on public transport such as trains and buses. You can easily move your sleeping baby from the car to a stroller without disturbing or wake them up.
Some of the most effective stroller-car seat combinations can be transformed into a double when you have a growing family. We like the Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo that comes with an infant car seat and stroller that click into place, instantly transforming them into a sleek chariot that can accommodate two. This is especially important if your car seat is the sole vehicle seat for your baby.
Other stroller-car-seat combos might have more complicated conversion procedures. You may need to manually attach the car seat to the stroller or strap it to base to ensure it is secured. This method was more difficult to master during our tests than the Doona's one-step conversion. If you misplace or forget the straps, it can cause a safety risk.
While a combo of a stroller and car seat is convenient, you should also consider whether the stroller and infant car seat will work the time you need them to. The majority of car seat/stroller combos are rear-facing only infant car seats that are made to be used until your child is 1. The car seats can't be attached to a stroller once they are no longer required in the car. Some all-in one car seat/stroller products, such as Doona can be used as car seats for toddlers with an additional seatbelt booster once your child has outgrown the infant car seat, but it is too big to fit in most traditional strollers.
The best combination is the combination of a stroller and car seat for infants and children in the early years of childhood. When your child grows out of the infant car seat, you can replace the travel system by an extra large stroller that can be used by older toddlers and older children. Also, remember that you must always make sure the infant car seat is installed properly and never remove it from your vehicle without taking off the straps first.
Safety
Car seat and stroller combos make it easy to transfer infants from the car to the stroller and back without disrupting them or having to wake them up. Rothman says this is especially beneficial when you're conducting errands or travel. To ensure extra security, opt for a car seat which attaches to a stroller via the rigid LATCH system or an easy-on system. This will ensure the car seat is safe when in use and that it will not come loose or fall off during transportation. Combinations of car seat and strollers that can be used with or without the base are also a good option for vehicles that ride-share.
When you purchase a travel system, be sure to check the weight and age limit for both the stroller and the car seat. Typically, the infant car seats that are included in these systems are rear-facing and are only intended for use during the first 12 months of your child's life. A lot of these car seats switch to a forward-facing seat that will stay in the vehicle or can snap into a compatible stroller. It's important to study the labels and follow the instructions carefully, adds Stanton, especially when it comes down to ensuring your child is within the correct weight and height requirements for both the car seat as well as the stroller.
While some parents prefer to buy separate products and design their own travel system, it's not unusual to see companies sell pre-packaged car seat and stroller set-ups. These sets are usually cheaper than buying them separately. Sets like UPPAbaby's bestselling Vista stroller and Mesa infant car seats are sought after. The stroller offers a smooth ride, springy suspension with all-wheels and a large storage basket that can hold all of your baby gear. The car seat is slim and comes with a SafeCell crumple zone for extra protection. The SafeCenter LATCH makes it easy to set up. The car seat features a headrest that is adjustable in four positions with four harness settings as well as an insert that is cushioned to ensure your child's safety. It is easy to clean, and folds in one hand.
Style
While it's tempting to buy a travel system for the ease of moving your child from car to stroller and back again without waking them up, that's not the only reason to look into one. You should also look for one with a sleek design, that is simple to use, and that has many other features to ensure your child's comfort as well as yours.
The travel systems that are the most efficient include the infant car stroller, car seat and stroller base in one box to allow you to transfer from your vehicle to the street. They usually come with a single-piece infant car seat that snaps easily into a compatible stroller and some include an attachment for a bassinet for strolls to nap (safety research suggests that babies sleep best 2 in 1 pram in a reclined position).
Strollers and infant cars seats that are compatible with 2-in-1 travel systems are lightweight, durable, and easy to fold and move. Find models with rubber tires and a swivel wheel at the front to allow for city streets, a large cargo basket and the capacity to hold several shopping bags. To make it easier to store your items, you should also check how small car seats and strollers are when folded.
Some travel systems let you replace the infant car seat included with an adult car seat when your child is no longer using it. This allows you to enjoy an additional two years of use. This is an excellent option for parents who intend to use the seat for a longer period of time or if they have a companion who travels by bus, train or ride-share.
Graco's All in One Car Seat and Stroller is a great option for families who are looking for an option that is all in one. It's easy to move from a car seat to a stroller, and back, with the built-in LATCH system that locks the seat quickly and securely in your car. It is also certified for air travel, so you can board and off public transport with confidence. The All-in-One Car Seat and Stroller can also be converted to double strollers, allowing you to take your baby on adventures around the world. It comes in a variety of vibrant colors that fit in with any outfit.