Car Seat and Pram 2 in 1
Transitions are the norm in the world of parenthood. Every day thousands of them go from the house to the car to an appointment to back again.
One of the most efficient ways to simplify your travels is to buy an infant capsule and pram in one. These are suitable for babies from birth and can be converted into a stroller after your child is no longer in the car seat.
Easy to transport
Doona is a fresh version of stroller and car seat combinations that can transform from a car seat into a stroller by simply unfolding it. It takes only a few seconds to move from vehicle to sidewalk and is ideal for those living in cities and who use public transportation frequently. It is also more compact than two-piece travel systems, making it easy to store and carry to an airport.
You should choose a car seat or a pram 2 in 1 that is suited to your lifestyle. Consider the frequency you use the stroller, as well as whether or not you need a tray or basket for your child's food and drinks. It is also important to consider your baby's weight and height to ensure that the stroller is suitable for them.
The Good Housekeeping Institute parenting pros regularly review and test hundreds of products for infants and young children, including strollers, carseats and infant sleep surfaces. Our experts review these items based on safety and design, as well as accessibility and usability. Our rating system contains ratings for each item as well as a summary score which compares the score of the entire product against 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 happy.
For road trips with your family, a car seat and stroller 2 in 1 with an extremely high safety rating is necessary. The car seat needs to be securely attached to the vehicle with the latch system. The base of the stroller should be connected to it with LATCH connectors that are rigid. It is recommended to read the instructions of the manufacturer for installation and detachment before each use. You may need an adaptor for a stroller and car seat from different brands.
One thing to keep in mind when shopping for the car seat and stroller combination is that only infant car seats convert into a stroller. If you are looking for a stroller to accommodate an older child, opt for one that comes with a carrycot or toddler seat. While some stroller/car seat combos are no-frills, you can also opt for models that have extra features like a large canopy and cup holders for parents.
Easy to store
A travel system is a car-seat and stroller set that includes everything you require to enjoy your baby's ride. A stroller that folds easily and has ample storage space will be the best option. You can also find one that has additional features, such as the parent organizer or cup holders. Some carseat and stroller combinations are more expensive than others, however it's worth it if you're planning to take your child out for a walk regularly.
2in1 travel system and stroller combos come with sleek compact designs that make them easy to maneuver and store when not in use. Review the specifications of each model to see the weight they are able to carry, and how large their storage space is. The ideal scenario is that both units fit inside your trunk or in the back of your car. You may also want to consider getting a stroller travel bag to safeguard it during travel.
The Nuna PIPA infant seat and base, for example, is our top pick for strollers and car seats combinations. It's a single piece that can be connected to any vehicle without the need for a car adapter. The base is fitted with LATCH connectors that are rigid and allow it to fit into vehicles of all shapes and sizes. It comes with a built in drape canopy to protect a snoozing child.
The Doona is another great alternative. It's basically a baby car seat with wheels. It can be folded from its base to become a stroller, then folded back to a car-friendly position within minutes. This makes it much more portable than two-piece strollers and car seat combination. However, you will require an adaptor if your car seat you want to use for your child is not compatible with the Doona.
Easy to install
The first few days following the birth of a baby can be a challenge. There are the late-night crying sessions piles of swamp nappies and the constant realization that you forgot something. One of the most important things for new parents to do is their car seat and pram combo. They must be easy to install, simple to use and, above all, stylish.
Some parents opt for two-piece systems, which include an infant stroller, the carrycot, as well as a separate child car seat. Others choose a three-in-one model that comes with an infant car seat that can be connected to the chassis of a stroller. It can be folded flat for easy storage. However, it is heavier than conventional two-piece systems, but many parents like its sleek design.
If you're looking for a straightforward system, look for one that has a base that can be easily connected to your vehicle with an LATCH connector that is rigid. This will ensure a safe and secure connection, and ensure that the seat has been installed correctly. Many brands also have helpful installation videos available on their websites. After you've secured the car seat to your stroller, it should make a sound that clicks to signal that it's secured.
The height of the handlebars is another important factor to consider when selecting a car or pram 2 in 1. If you intend to carry your baby in the car for a prolonged period of time, you'll require handlebars that are high enough that you are able to reach them. If you're planning to use public transport often, look for a pram with dual-hand folding mechanism to make it easy to collapse when getting off and on buses and trains.
Finally, ensure that the car seat and pram 2 in 1 are able to be used in conjunction with your vehicle's seat belt. This is particularly important if you're going to share the car with your parents or using it to ride-share.
Simple to use
A car seat and stroller combination makes life on the go with a baby much easier, particularly for parents who are always moving. The stroller can be folded to fit into the trunk of a car. The car seat snaps onto the frame. It also features an integrated canopy that can be draped to guard against a sleepy baby. It is easy to maneuver and is a great option for families that travel by plane, bus, or train.
Some car seat and stroller combos come with an audible click when connected to the base, making it easier to ensure that the car seat is securely positioned. It is nevertheless important to read the instructions thoroughly before using the stroller and car seat to ensure that they are installed correctly. Some brands have helpful installation videos on their websites that can assist.
Most car seat and stroller combos require a little assembly prior to use, such as placing the base in your vehicle and attaching the seat to the frame. Some require a little patience and time to figure out how to do this and so it's a good idea to study the instructions before you begin. It's recommended to practice with a buddy before you attempt to use it on your own.
The combination of a car seat and stroller with a single-step installation without straps earns us the highest score for user-friendliness. This eliminates the need to buckle and tighten straps which can cause mistakes. This kind of connection is more secure than straps.
The best car seat-stroller combos are easy for you to maneuver, even if there are lots of children in the stroller. Choose models with rubber tires and one front wheel, which are light and easy to push. Some also feature a swivel front wheel that allows for maneuvering through narrow aisles and tight corners in stores. These systems are typically more expensive than strollers that are standalone and car seats however they can save you lots of time and effort on busy days.