Car Seat and Pram 2 in 1
Parenthood is all about changing. Every day thousands of them go from the home to the car, to an appointment to back again.
One of the best ways to streamline your travels is to get an infant capsule and pram in 1. These are ideal from the beginning, and can be transformed into a stroller after your child is no longer in the car seat.
Easy to transport
Doona is an innovative car seat and stroller combo that can be transformed from a vehicle to a stroller in a matter of folding. It takes seconds to go from vehicle to sidewalk and is perfect for those who live in cities and who use public transportation frequently. It's also less bulky than a two-piece travel set making it easier to store or take on an plane.
It is important to choose a car seat or a pram 2 in 1 that fits your lifestyle. It is important to consider how often you will use the stroller, as well as whether or not you require a tray or basket for your child's food and drinks. It's also worth taking a look at your baby's height and weight to ensure that the combination will work well for them.
The parenting experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute regularly test and review hundreds products for children and babies, including strollers, carseats and baby sleep surfaces. Our experts evaluate the items according to their safety, design, functionality and usability. Our rating system provides scores for each item as well as a summary score which evaluates the overall rating of the whole product against all other items in the rating category and an overall score. The Good Housekeeping Institute provides parents with the tools they need to keep their children safe and content.
For trips on the road with your family, a car seat as well as a stroller 2 in 1 with a high safety rating will be essential. The car seat should be securely attached to the vehicle with the latch system. The stroller base should then be connected to it with LATCH connectors that are rigid. Before every use, it's a great idea to read the instruction from the manufacturer for installation and removal. You may require an adaptor when you own a car seat and stroller from different brands.
When shopping for a stroller and car combination, be aware that only infants in Group 0+ seats can be put into the stroller. If you're looking for a stroller which can handle an older toddler ensure you select one with a toddler-sized seat, or a carrycot. While some stroller/car seat combos are simple, you can also opt for models with extra features like a large canopy and cupholders for parents.
Easy to store
A travel system is a car seat + stroller that includes everything you require to take your baby on a journey. A stroller that is easy to fold and has plenty of storage space is the best choice. 2 in 1 pram stroller might also find one that includes extra features, like a parent organizer or cup holders. Certain stroller and car seats are more expensive than others, however the investment is worth it if you plan to take your child on a regular basis.
The most effective stroller and car seat combos are sleek and compact that make them easy move and store when not in use. Check the specs of each one to determine how much they weigh as well as how big their storage space is. Ideally, both pieces should fit in your trunk or the back of your car. You might also want to look into purchasing a stroller-friendly travel bag to safeguard it during transport.
For example the Nuna PIPA infant car seat and base is our top pick for car seat and stroller combination because it's a single unit that doesn't require an adapter for carseats to connect to a regular vehicle. The base is equipped with rigid LATCH connectors that allow it to fit into vehicles of all sizes and shapes. It even has built-in drape canopy that can be used to safeguard your baby's sleep.
The Doona is a different option. It is basically an infant car seat with wheels. It can be folded from the base into the stroller, and then folded back to a car-friendly position in seconds. 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 after the arrival of a baby can be a challenge. There are late night cry sessions, mountainous piles of swamp nappies, and the frequent realization that you've failed to pack something. One of the most important things for new parents to be sure of is their car seat and pram combo. They should be easy to install, simple to use and, above all, stylish.
Some new parents prefer a two-piece system, which consists of an infant stroller with an infant carrycot and a separate car seat. Some choose a triple-in-one model, which has an infant car seat that is attached to a stroller chassis. The advantage of this type is that it can be folded flat, allowing for easier storage. It can be heavier than a two-piece system. However, many parents love its sleek design.
If you're looking for a simple system, choose one that has a base which is easily connected to your vehicle using a strong LATCH connector. This will ensure a secure and seamless connection, and will also give you peace of mind that the seat is set up correctly. Many brands have useful videos for installation on their websites. Once you've successfully attached the car seat to the stroller, it will make a sound that clicks to inform you that it's secured.
Another important aspect to take into consideration when choosing a car seat and pram 2 in 1 is the height of the handlebars. If you are planning to take your baby in the car for a long period of time, you will need handlebars that are high enough so you can comfortably reach them. If you're planning on using public transport frequently, look for a pram that has dual-hand folding mechanism that can be folded easily for getting off and on buses and trains.
Make sure that the car's seat/pram 2 in 1 can be used in conjunction in conjunction with the seat belt of your vehicle. This is especially important if you're going be sharing the car with your parents or if you're using it for ride-sharing.
Easy to use
A car seat and stroller combination makes the journey with a baby much easier particularly for parents who are on the move. The car seat snaps into a frame for strollers and the stroller folds up to easily fit in the trunk of your vehicle. It also comes with an enclosed canopy that can protect an infant who is sleeping. It is easy to move and is a great option for families who travel via plane, bus, or train.
Some car seat and combo strollers have an audible click sound when attached to the base. This makes it easier to ensure that the car seat is properly in place. However, it is important to read through the instructions thoroughly prior to using the stroller and car seat to ensure they are properly installed. Some brands have helpful installation videos online to assist you in your first steps.
Most car seat and stroller combos require a little assembly prior to use, which includes placing the base in your vehicle, and then attaching the frame to the seat. Some require a little patience and time to figure out how to accomplish this, so it's best to read the directions before you start. It's recommended to practice with a buddy before you begin using it on your own.
Car stroller and seat combinations that have one-step attachments without straps earn our highest ratings for their ease of use. This eliminates the extra step of tightening and buckling straps which are prone to errors. Strollers that use this type of connection also score higher than those with straps, because they are more likely to be secure.
The best car seat and stroller combos are easy for you to maneuver even when there are a lot of children in the stroller. Find models with rubber tires and a single front wheel, that are light and easy to push. Some models come with an swivel-wheel on the front, which can help you maneuver in tight corners and narrow aisles. These systems are more expensive than standalone strollers and car seats, but they can save you time and effort when you're working.