Car Seat and Pram 2 in 1
Transitions are the norm in parenthood. Every day thousands of them go from the house to the car to an appointment, and back to the car.
One of the best ways to streamline your travels is to purchase an infant capsule and pram in 1. These are suitable from birth, and can be transformed into a stroller after your child has outgrown the car seat.
Easy to transport
Doona is a brand new take on stroller and car seat combinations that can transform from a car seat to stroller by simply folding it. It only takes seconds to transform from the vehicle to the sidewalk. This is ideal for those who live in cities, or who frequently use public transport. It is also more compact than two-piece travel systems making it easier to store and transport on an aircraft.
It is important to choose a car seat/ pram 2 in 1 that will fit your lifestyle. Think about things like how often you'll use the stroller and if you'll need a basket, or tray to store your child's food and drinks. It's also worth taking a look at your child's height and weight to make sure the combo is suitable for them.
The Good Housekeeping Institute parenting pros regularly test and evaluate hundreds of products for infants and toddlers, including strollers, carseats and infant sleep surfaces. Our experts assess the products by their design, safety and user-friendliness. Our rating system contains ratings for each individual item as well as a summary score which evaluates the overall rating of the whole product against the other items in the rating category, and an overall rating. The Good Housekeeping Institute is dedicated to providing parents with the tools they require to keep their children secure and happy.
For trips on the road with your family, a car seat as well as a stroller 2 in 1 with a high safety rating is necessary. The car seat needs to be secured to the vehicle using the latch system. The base of the stroller must then be connected to it using rigid LATCH connectors. Before each use, it's a good idea to read the instructions from the manufacturer on installation and removal. If you have an infant car seat and a stroller from different brands, you may require an adaptor to use them together.
One important thing to remember when looking for a stroller and car seat combo is that only Group 0+ infant car seats can be converted into a stroller. If you're looking for a stroller to accommodate an older child, opt for one with a toddler seat or carrycot. While some car seat/stroller combos are basic but you can also go for models with extra features, such as a big canopy and cupholders for parents.
Easy to store
A travel system is a car seat + stroller combo that comes with everything you need for your baby's ride. Find a stroller that has an easy-to-fold design and ample storage space. You can also purchase a stroller with extra features such as an organizer for parents or cup holders. Some combinations of carseats and strollers are more expensive than other, but it's worth the cost if you intend to take your child out regularly.
The most effective car seat and stroller combinations have sleek, compact designs that make them easy to store and move when not in use. Look over the specifications to determine how heavy each unit is and how big their storage space is. Idealy, both pieces should fit inside your trunk or back of your car. You may want to invest in a stroller travel case to protect it during transit.
The Nuna PIPA infant seat and base, for example is our top pick for car seats and strollers combination. It's a one-piece that can be connected to any vehicle without a car adapter. The rigid LATCH connectors integrated into the base allow it fit in vehicles of various shapes and sizes. It also comes with an integrated drape canopy to safeguard your baby's sleep.
The Doona is another alternative. It is basically an infant car seat with wheels. It opens from the base to turn into a stroller, then folds down to return to its car-friendly location in just a few seconds. This makes it more portable than two-piece strollers or car seat combos. However, you will require an adapter if the car seat you want to use for your child isn't compatible with the Doona.
Easy to install
The first few weeks after the birth of a new baby can be challenging. There are late-night crying sessions, mountainous piles of nappies from the swamp, and the constant realization that you've forgotten to bring something. One of the most important items for new parents to get right is their car seat and pram combination. They should be easy to install, easy to use and, above all, stylish.
Some parents choose two-piece systems, which include a stroller with a carrycot, and an additional car seat for children. Some parents opt for a three-in-one model that has an infant car seat that can be attached to the stroller chassis. It can be folded flat for easier storage. The drawback is that it can be heavier than the traditional two-piece system however many parents love its sleek design.
If you are looking for a simple travel system, look for one that has an automobile seat base that can be connected to your vehicle via an LATCH connector that is rigid. This will ensure that the seat is properly installed and also provide a smooth and secure connection. Many brands also have helpful installation videos available on their websites. When you have successfully attached the stroller to the car, it will sound a click to let you know it's securely secured.
The height of the handlebars is a further important feature to consider when selecting a car or pram 2 in 1. If you're planning to carry an infant in the car seat for a long period of time, it's important that the handlebars are high enough to allow you to comfortably reach them. If you intend to use public transport often then you should choose a pram that has swivel-wheels or a one-handed folding mechanism. This will make it easier for you to take buses and trains.
Check that the car seat/pram 2 in 1 you have can be used in conjunction along with the seat belts of your vehicle. This is especially important if you're going be sharing the car with your parents or are using it for ride-share.
Easy to use
A stroller and car seat combination makes life on the move with a baby easier, especially for parents who are always on the move. The car seat snaps into a stroller frame and the stroller folds to easily fit in the trunk of your car. It also has an enclosed canopy that can protect babies who are snoozing. It is easy to move and is a great option for families who travel via plane or bus.
Some stroller and car seat combination models have an audible click when attached to the base which makes it easier to verify that the seat is properly in place. It is crucial to read the instruction manual prior to using the stroller or car seat. This will ensure that the seats are installed correctly. Certain brands have helpful installation videos on their websites that can aid.
Most stroller and car seat combos require a bit of assembly prior to use, which includes installing the base in your vehicle, and then attaching the frame to the seat. pushchair 2 in 1 may take some time and effort to figure out the instructions for certain models. It's also a good idea to practice using it with a partner.
Car stroller and car seat combination that has an easy-to-attachment with no straps earn our highest scores for user-friendliness. This eliminates the extra step of buckling and tightening straps which are prone to a lapse. This kind of connection is more secure than straps.
The best car seat and stroller combos are simple to navigate even with a load of children. Look for models with rubber tires and one front wheel, which are light and easy to push. Some models feature a swivel wheel on the front of the unit to help navigate through tight corners and narrow aisles. These systems are more expensive than strollers and car seats, but they can save you time and effort on busy days.