Car Seat and Stroller Combos
The best car seat stroller combinations are so simple to connect that it's like they're doing it themselves. Stanton suggests: "Look for a base that is simple to connect with the carrier." This reduces the chance of errors that can happen during the installation process and detachment.
One option that accomplishes this is the Doona that effortlessly transforms from a car seat into a stroller and frees up trunk space. Online reviews have noted that it is hefty however they also appreciate its ease of use and functionality.
Easy to Assemble
Parents who don't want to switch between car seats and strollers often find a combination of both attractive. It's also an ideal choice for those who frequently use rideshares or public transportation as well as those who have multiple caregivers. Stanton says that since they're one item and the wheels are attached the car seats are more portable. Stanton suggests to secure the car seat properly when using a travel system. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines and the owner's manual for your vehicle to ensure that the seat is secure she adds.
In our tests, we discovered that the top stroller and car seat combos feature a simple, click-in connection that requires minimal effort beyond moving the carrier from one place to the next. These models scored better compared to models with more complicated connections because they require less pressure and offer fewer chances for mistakes, whether intentional or accidental. For instance, we love the fact that the UPPAbaby Vista Combo has a simple drop-in attachment that needs no straps. Additionally, there's an indicator on the base of the car seat that indicates when it's leveled correctly.
The Doona All-in One Stroller for Infants too, is easy to install and transfer from vehicle into stroller. It's a seamless conversion that lets you to make use of the extra space in your trunk for shopping or running errands. It also features a swivel front wheel that offers excellent maneuverability, even when the seat is in place.
Another alternative is the Britax B-Lively and B-Safe Gen2 Travel System with springy suspension and a large, one-hand fold chassis for easy storage. It comes with a large basket as well as plenty of cup holders to hold snacks, drinks and baby equipment. Its padded seat is comfortable for long journeys and the tagless, smooth-touch knit fabric is machine washable. It's FAA-approved and comes with an safety harness that is secured at or below your baby's shoulders and includes a SafeCell crumple zone that protects them in the event of a crash.
A reliable travel system should also be easy to push, and our top picks all have rubber tires that have one, swivel front wheel for navigating busy sidewalks and streets. The Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo as well as the BOB Alterrain Pro, and the Baby Jogger City Mini GT 2 Combo all glide smoothly and have convenient features, such as one-hand brakes and a large storage basket.
Easy to Store
Parents who want their baby to be as comfortable as they can are better off choosing a car seat and stroller combination, whether they are doing errands during the day or planning an outing with the family. Stroller-car-seat combos are much easier to move than separate items, and a number of models come with convenient features that distinguish them from other strollers. It is important to keep in mind that the car seat has to be compatible with the stroller in order for them to work together. The manufacturer of the car seat must provide guidelines on what kinds of strollers work with their product, and a quick online search can help you find the right stroller.
Certain strollers and car seats have an immediate attachment that snaps into place without the need for additional straps or complicated installation. two in one pram of easy attachment is a major selling point for families who regularly take public transport or ride-share vehicles. The Doona is an FAA approved infant car seat that can be converted to a stroller at the touch of a button. This is a major time-saver and allows you to bypass gate-checking a stroller on airplanes (assuming you've also purchased an airline seat for your child) or to get into and out of taxis.
Other car seat and stroller combinations, such as the Nuna TRVL, allow parents to remove the infant car seat from the stroller base and then fold it up into a compact size that can be tucked away into the trunk of a car. two in one pram is a fantastic feature for families with busy schedules and the stroller has a sleek profile with top-quality fabrics and clever touches, like a built-in drape canopy to shield a sleeping baby.
The ideal 2 in 1, stroller/car seat combination for your family depends on your lifestyle, plans for expansion and your budget. The most affordable models are likely to be frame strollers which can accommodate a car seat for a child with a small amount of space. The more expensive models will have a toddler seat, twin stroller or more advanced features. In any case you can be assured that the car seat and stroller will meet the highest safety standards.
Easy to carry
These combinations are perfect for families who wish to avoid the hassle of checking the gate for an infant car seat while flying. They are also ideal for those who regularly use public transportation and ride-sharing services. These car seats and strollers are simple to transport and move in a hurry and are perfect for parents who need their hands off when traveling with their children.
When deciding on a stroller that is a 2 in 1 car seat, look for one that is light and compact. These options tend to move more smoothly, which could make them easier to push in different conditions. In addition, the smaller frame can make it easier to get the car seat into and out of a trunk or the rear of a vehicle.
Many of the most sought-after car seats/strollers are lightweight, compact and feature foldable casters that make it easy to store. For example the Cosco Finale 2-in-1 is an easy-to-use seat that converts from a rear-facing five-point harness to a booster for children who are no longer in a baby carrier. It's reasonably priced, light (12 pounds) and comes with LATCH straps that are relatively simple to use (we did not rate it as a top pick for ease of installation).
Other 2 in 1 stroller car seats include the Doona that is an exceptional model because it's a single piece of equipment that converts from a rear-facing infant car seat to a stroller in just a few clicks. This lets you skip the step of taking your car seat off its base, and also allows you to navigate the stairs or get into taxis without having your car seat stowed.
Doonas are a great budget-friendly choice, especially for new parents. It's less than the cost of one year's gym membership and it gives new parents peace of mind that they're equipped with safe travel gear for their baby.
Many families opt for a two-piece car seat/stroller system if they are set on a specific brand of infant carrier or plans to have several children. If that's your case, be sure to go over the specifications of the product to ensure that your stroller and car seat can work together. Consider buying an adapter to fit your desired combination.
Easy to Fold
The stroller and car seat combo is a great choice for parents who are looking for a single piece that can be used for a variety of purposes. They are able to easily convert from a car to the stroller and reverse the process. They are also simpler to maneuver than two-piece travel systems. Stanton says that they are designed to be more compact. "They contain fewer moving parts, making them more compact to fold, use, and transport."
Additionally, these types of strollers and car seats for infants are generally lighter than two-piece models and can fit into small trunks, making them simple to carry around. These strollers and infant car seats tend to be lighter and come with more useful features, such as sun shades and cup holders. Some models even have a swivel wheel on the front that is ideal for navigating streets and stores.
Some brands, like Doona provide an all-in-one baby car seat and stroller solutions. These are especially useful for parents who take public transportation or rideshares, or who change caregivers frequently. This model is a rear-facing child car seat with wheels that can be transformed into stroller.
Some brands, like the Evenflo Shyft DualRide allow you to slide the car seat into the frame and then fold it out as a stroller. This model isn't as sleek as Doona however, you can remove the car seat without needing to click into its base.
Consider whether the stroller and infant seat combination you are considering can accommodate your preferred car seat. If the stroller and infant car seat are compatible, you can expect a longer-lasting product that will fit your child after they have outgrown the infant car seats.
It's also important to be aware that some stroller and car seat combos don't perform well in our ease-of-use tests. This could be due to the design of the product that makes it difficult or inconvenient to climb stairs, or because the weight of the car seat and stroller makes it more difficult to push on different terrains. In either situation, it's worth checking through our reviews to find the most suitable option for you.