A 2 in 1 Travel System
A car seat and stroller combination is the best choice for anyone who wants to travel easily or create a contemporary version of the traditional pram. Take a look at the specifications carefully to ensure that your chosen car seat and pushchair are compatible, or consider buying an adapter.
Editor-tested travel systems let you transfer your newborn baby in a seamless manner from the car to the stroller without disrupting them. Some travel systems come with the option of a carrycot that encourages natural sleep.
Car Seat
A two-in-one travel set includes the stroller as well as an infant car seat that snap together. This is a great solution for parents who regularly make errands, or take their child on public transport or rideshares. "You have less gear to worry about," explains Graco spokesperson Rachel Stanton. "And it's great for families that alternate between public transportation and carpooling with other moms."
A top choice is the Doona infant car seat and latch base, which has 90% of five-star reviews on Amazon. It's a rear facing car seat that can be converted into a rolling jogging stroller in a matter of seconds. The wheels fold down underneath and it's small when not in use. The Doona also attaches to a car's backseat with the LATCH base, which is rigid, or to taxi-safe belt paths making it ideal for city families and commuters.
The Mamas & Papas pramette is another great car seat/stroller combination. It comes with an infant pram with a hood that opens and the front seat can be adjusted so that your child can lie down for naps or for feedings. It comes with a huge basket, cup holders, and an umbrella shade for your baby's necessities. The stroller seat can recline in multiple positions and can be flat too so that your child will be able to relax on every ride.
Other important car seat features to take into consideration are the weight and height limits and whether the infant seat can be used with only a car belt for backseats or has an additional layer of protection, with an integrated LATCH system. Look for a handle lock to keep the handle in position. You can also tilt the handle towards the seatback in the rear to create an anti-rebound bar.
Travel systems are only suitable for infant car seats. Extended-use car seats which can be turned forward-facing later, are not able to snap into strollers. Many moms choose to buy a separate car seat and stroller once their child is no longer in an infant seat.
Stroller
A stroller is an essential piece of equipment for any new parent. Some travel systems come with a baby pram which can be converted into a comfy infant carrycot. This is perfect for parents who do not want to disturb their newborn when traveling. Based on the brand it may also come with a car seat and stroller combination that can be connected to one another. This lets you keep your child in the car seat and then transfer them to a stroller, without disturbing them.
A good stroller should have many features that make it simple to use and practical. pram 2in1 should come with a large basket where you can store essentials like nappies as well as snacks, toys and other items. It should also be in a position to recline to provide your baby a relaxing rest. It should have an umbrella to protect your child from the sun, and a lockable wheel on the front for security. It should also be light and compact to store it in and transportation to and from the car.
Editor-tested travel system strollers like the UPPAbaby Cruz v2 Combo, Chicco Keyfit Caddy and Doona Combo all offer convenience by connecting to a variety of top car seats that click to attach to the frame and fold down effortlessly. Some also have a single wheel on each leg, making them more maneuverable and roll across different surfaces.
Ideal strollers should be capable of carrying your child throughout toddlerhood and beyond and beyond, allowing you to continue using it to get them to and from activities, school and play dates. To do this, choose a stroller that features an opening that allows your child to face the world (and reclines) once your baby outgrows the car seat.
If you are planning to utilize your 2-in-1 system on public transport, choose the model with an ISOFIX base. This will ensure it is safe for you to hop on and off buses or trains. Certain models, like the Doona can also be mounted on trains and planes to make traveling with a baby even simpler.