A 2 in 1 Travel System
If you're looking to get around with ease or create a modern version of a pram, an automobile seat and stroller combo is the best option. Verify the specifications to ensure that your stroller and car seat are compatible or consider purchasing an adaptor.
Travel systems that have been tested by editors allow you to transfer your sleeping baby from the car to a stroller, without disrupting them. Some even include a carrycot that allows for a natural sleep.
Car Seat
A two-in-one travel system includes an infant car seat as well as a stroller that snap together. It's a great option for caregivers and parents who often run errands while with baby, or take their little baby out on public transportation or rideshares. "You'll have less gear to manage," explains Graco spokeswoman Rachel Stanton. "And it's great for families who alternate between carpooling with other moms or using public transit."
A top pick is the Doona infant car seat and latch base, which gets an astounding 90 percent of five-star reviews on Amazon. It's a rear-facing vehicle seat that transforms into a rolling stroller--the transition is a matter of seconds. The wheels fold down underneath and the Doona is compact when not in use. The Doona can also be attached to a car's backseat using the LATCH base, which is rigid, or to taxi-safe belt paths making it perfect for city families and commuters.
The Mamas and Papas Pramette is a top car seat/stroller combo, with a pram with the hood as well as a front seats that open for you to lay your child down for naps or for feedings. 2 in 1 pram comes with a large basket with cup holders to store everything your baby needs, plus a parent tray and sun shade. The stroller seat features a multi-position reclining seat, and can recline to a flat, making sure your baby is comfortable on every ride.
Other important car seat features to be considered are the weight and height limits and whether the infant car seat can be used with just a car belt for backseats or has an additional layer of protection with a built-in rigid LATCH system. Look for a handle lock to secure the handle in position. You can also tilt the handle toward the back seatback to create an anti-rebound bar.
It is important to note that travel systems are only compatible with infant car seats. Extended-use car seats that are able to later be made forward-facing convert into strollers. This is why many moms opt to get an additional stroller and car seat when their child is no longer in the infant seat.
Stroller
A stroller is an essential piece of equipment for new parents. Some travel systems have a baby stroller that can transform into a cosy infant carrycot so that your child can rest comfortably on the go and is perfect for parents with newborns or who don't want to disturb them when traveling. Certain brands also provide the option of a car seat and stroller combination that can be connected. This allows you to keep your child in the car seat while transferring them to a stroller without disrupting them.
A good stroller should have many features that make it simple to use and practical. It should have a large basket to store essentials such as nappies as well as toys and snacks. It can also recline so that your child can rest comfortably. It should also come with a good canopy to protect your baby from sun, and a lockable front wheel for added safety. In addition, it should be lightweight and fold compactly for storage or transporting to and from the car.
Travel system strollers that have been evaluated by editors, such as the UPPAbaby Cruz v2 Combo and Chicco Keyfit Caddy, offer convenience as they can be connected to various top car seats. These car seats click onto the frame to be attached and fold up easily. Some come with a single wheel on each leg, making them more maneuverable and roll across different surfaces.
The best strollers are capable of carrying your child throughout the toddler years and beyond and allow you to continue to use it to transport them to and from activities such as school, play dates and other events. To do this, consider a model that features an opening that allows your child to face the world (and reclines) when your child is no longer in the car seat.
If you are planning to use your 2-in-1 travel system on public transport, select the model with an ISOFIX base. This will ensure it is safe for you to hop off and on trains or buses. Some models, like the Doona can be fitted on trains and planes to make traveling with your baby a lot easier.