Car Seat and Pram 2 in 1
Parenthood is all about transitions. Thousands of them every day - from home to the car to an appointment, then back.
One of the best ways to streamline your travels is to get an infant capsule and pram in one. These are typically suitable from birth and then convert into a stroller after your child has outgrown the car seat.
Easy to transport
Doona is a fresh version of car seat and stroller combinations that can transform from a car seat to a stroller by simply unfolding it. It takes only a few seconds to go from the car to the sidewalk. This is perfect for city dwellers or those who frequently use public transport. It's also smaller than two-piece travel systems, making it easier to store and transport on an aircraft.
You should choose a car seat or a pram 2 in 1 that will fit your lifestyle. Consider things like how often you'll be using the stroller and whether you'll need a basket or tray for your child's meals and drinks. You should also be aware of your child's weight and height to ensure that the combination will be suitable for them.
The Good Housekeeping Institute parenting pros regularly review and test hundreds of products for babies and young children, including carseats, strollers, and infant sleep surfaces. Our experts assess these products by evaluating their safety, design, accessibility, and functionality. Our rating system contains ratings for each individual item as well as a summary score which compares the rating of the entire product against all the other items in the category, and an overall rating. The Good Housekeeping Institute provides parents with the tools they need to keep their children safe and content.
A car seat and pram 2 in 1 with an extremely high safety rating is crucial for family journeys. The car seat should be securely attached to the vehicle using the latch system, and the stroller base should be connected to the car seat via rigid LATCH connectors. Before every use, it's a great idea to read the instruction from the manufacturer regarding installation and removal. You may need an adaptor for a car seat and stroller from different brands.
One thing to be aware of when looking for a car seat and stroller combo is that only infant car seats can be converted into a stroller. If you're looking for a stroller that can handle an older toddler, be sure to choose one with a toddler-sized seat or a carrycot. While some car seat/stroller combos are simple, you can also opt for models that have extra features, such as a big canopy and cup holders for parents.
Easy to store
A travel system is an all-in-one car seat and stroller that comes with everything you need to carry your child. A stroller that folds easily and has ample storage space will be the best choice. You might also find one with extra features, like a parent organizer or cup holders. Certain combinations of carseats as well as strollers are more expensive than other options, but it's a worthwhile investment if you plan to take your child on a regular outing.
The top car seat and stroller combos have sleek, compact designs that make them easy to maneuver and store when not in use. Check the specs of each one to determine how much they weigh, and how large their storage spaces are. Ideally, both pieces should be small enough to fit in the back of your vehicle or a trunk-size trunk. You may want to invest in a stroller travel bag to keep it safe during transport.
The Nuna PIPA infant seat and base, for instance is our top pick for car seats and strollers combinations. It's a one-piece that can be attached to any vehicle that doesn't have an adapter for cars. The base comes with a rigid LATCH connector that permit it to fit into vehicles of all sizes and shapes. It also comes with built-in drape canopy that can be used to safeguard your baby's sleep.
Another great alternative is the Doona, which is essentially an infant car seat that has wheels. It can be unfolded from the base into a stroller, then folded back to a car-friendly configuration in minutes. This makes it a more portable alternative to two-piece car seats and stroller combos, however you'll need to have an adapter if your child's preferred car seat isn't compatible with the Doona.
Easy to install
The first few weeks following the arrival of a new baby can be a struggle. There are late-night crying sessions, a mountain of swamp nappies, and the constant realization that you've failed to bring something. The combination of a car seat and pram is among the most important decisions that new parents make. They must be easy-to-install and use, as well as fashionable.
Some parents choose two-piece systems, which include an infant stroller, a carrycot, and a separate child car seat. Some parents prefer the three-in-one model that includes an infant car seat which can be attached to the stroller chassis. It can be folded flat for easier storage. The drawback is that it is heavier than a traditional two-piece system, however many parents love its sleek design.
If you are seeking a basic travel system, choose one with an automobile seat base that is easily connected to your vehicle using an LATCH connector that is rigid. This will ensure a secure and smooth connection, and will also ensure that the seat has been installed correctly. Many brands also have helpful videos for installation available on their websites. When you have successfully attached the stroller to your car it should make a clicking noise to signal that it's securely secured.
The height of the handlebars is a further important aspect to take into account when selecting a car or pram 2 in 1. If you're planning to carry a baby in the car seat for a long time, it's important that the handlebars have a height enough to allow you to comfortably reach them. If you're planning to use public transport often pick a stroller that has swivel-wheels or a one-handed folding mechanism. This will make it easier for you to get on and off trains and buses.
Also, make sure that the car seat and pram 2 in 1 can be used with your vehicle's seat belt. This is especially important if you're going to share the car with your parents or if you're using it to ride-share.
Easy to use
A car seat and a stroller combination makes travelling with a baby less stressful especially for parents who are on the move. The car seat snaps into a stroller frame and the stroller folds to easily fit into the trunk of your vehicle. It also has an enclosed canopy that can protect the infant from sleeping. It's easy to move and is a great choice for families that travel frequently via train, plane, or bus.
Some stroller and car seat combinations have an audible click when connected to the base which makes it easier to ensure that the seat is properly positioned. It is nevertheless important to read the directions thoroughly before using the stroller or car seat to ensure that they are correctly installed. Related Homepag have helpful installation videos online to assist you in getting started.
Most car seat and stroller combination require some assembly prior to use. This includes installing the base inside your vehicle and attaching seat to frame. Some require patience and time to figure out how to accomplish this and so it's a good idea to study the instructions before you begin. It's recommended to practice with a friend before you begin using it on your own.
Car stroller and seat combinations that have an easy-to-attachment with no straps earn our highest scores for user-friendliness. This eliminates the extra step of tightening and buckling straps, which can be prone to errors. Strollers that use this type of connection also are more secure than those who use straps, as they are more likely to be secure.
The most effective car seat-stroller combinations are easy to maneuver, even if there are lots of children in the stroller. Choose models with rubber tires and one front wheel, that are light and easy to push. Some come with a swivel wheel to maneuver in narrow aisles and tight corners at stores. These systems are generally more expensive than standalone strollers and car seats, but they can save you a lot of time and effort on hectic days.
