Car Seat and Stroller Combos
The most reliable car seat stroller combinations are so easy to attach that it's like they're doing it all by themselves. "Look for a base and carrier that can be easily clicked together," advises Stanton. This reduces the possibility of errors during installation and removal.
One option that can do this is the Doona, which seamlessly transforms from a car seat into a stroller and frees up trunk space. Online reviews praise the Doona's functionality and user-friendliness, however, they also appreciate its sturdy feel.
Easy to Assemble
Parents who don't want to change between strollers and car seats often will find a combination of both appealing. This is also a good alternative for parents who utilize public transportation or rideshares often, as well as those that switch caregivers. Stanton says that because they are a single item and the wheels are connected to the car seats, they are more mobile. Stanton suggests to ensure that the car seat is secured properly when using a travel system. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and your vehicle owner's manual to ensure that the seat is secure, she says.
In our tests, we discovered that the most effective stroller and car seat combos come with a simple click-in connection that requires little effort beyond shifting the carrier from one to another. These models scored higher than those with more complex connections, as they require less pressure and have the least chance of making mistakes (intentional or accidental). For pram 2 in 1 , we love that the UPPAbaby Vista Combo has a simple, drop-in attachment that requires no straps. Additionally, there's an indicator on the car seat base that tells you when it's leveled correctly.
The Doona All in-One Infant Car Seat Stroller, it's also simple to set up and move from vehicle into stroller. It's a seamless conversion that allows you to use the extra space in your trunk for shopping or running errands. It also features a swivel wheel on the front that allows for excellent maneuverability even with the seat on.
Another alternative is the Britax B-Lively and B-Safe Gen2 Travel System that has springy suspension and a large, one-hand-fold chassis that can be easily stored. It has a large basket, as well as plenty of cups for snacks, drinks, and baby equipment. Its padded seat is comfortable for long trips and the tagless smooth-touch fabric is machine washable. It's FAA-approved and comes with the safety harness which is secured at or below the shoulders of your baby and comes with a SafeCell crumple zone to protect your child in the event of an accident.
A good travel system will also be easy to push and, in our top picks, all come with rubber tires and one, swivel front wheel to navigate busy roads and sidewalks. The Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo as well as the BOB Alterrain Pro, and the Baby Jogger City Mini GT 2 Combo all glide effortlessly and feature useful features, including one-hand braking and a spacious storage basket.
Easy to store
Parents who want their baby to be as comfortable as they can will be better off with a car seat stroller combination, regardless of whether they are doing errands during the day or taking a family trip. Stroller-car seat combos are simpler to move around than separate items, and many models are equipped with features that distinguish them from the rest. It is important to keep in mind that the car seat has to be compatible with the stroller to work together. The manufacturer of the car seat should give guidelines on what kinds of strollers can be used with their product, and a quick online search can help you to narrow your choices.
Certain strollers and car seats feature an easy connection that snaps in place without any straps or an intricate installation process. This kind of effortless attachment is a big selling point, and it's particularly beneficial for families that frequently utilize ride-share vehicles or public transport. The Doona for instance, is an FAA-approved infant car seat that is able to transform into a stroller with just the click of the button. This is a significant time-saver and makes it easy to avoid gate-checking a stroller on planes (assuming you've also purchased an airline seat for your child) or to get into and out of taxis.
Other car seat and stroller combos, like the Nuna TRVL, allow parents to take the infant car seat from the base of the stroller and then fold it up into a compact unit that fits in the trunk of a car. This is an excellent feature for busy parents. The stroller itself is sleek and stylish, with high-end fabrics, and also smart touches like a built in canopy that drapes over a baby who's sleeping.
The ideal 2 in 1, stroller/car seat combo for your family is based on your lifestyle, your plans for growth, and your budget. The cheapest models are likely to be frame strollers that can accommodate a car seat for a child with little space. The more expensive models will have a toddler seat, twin stroller or more advanced features. In any case you can be sure that the stroller and car seat will be up to the highest standards of safety.
Easy to carry
These combinations are perfect for families who want to avoid gate checking an infant car seat while flying. They are also ideal for those who regularly use public transportation and ride-sharing services. These strollers and car seats are easy to carry and maneuver on the go and are perfect for parents who need their hands free when traveling with their kids.
When deciding on the best 2 in 1 stroller car seat, look for one that is light and compact. These types of strollers are more comfortable to use and are more easy to push across different terrains. Additionally, 2 in 1 pram stroller can make it easier to get the car seat in and out of a trunk or the back of a car.
Many of the most sought-after car seats/strollers are lightweight and compact, and come with foldable casters that make it easy to store. For example, the Cosco Finale 2-in-1 is an easy-to-use seat that can be converted from an rear-facing five-point harness into an infant booster when children are no longer in a baby carrier. It's lightweight (12 pounds) and comes with LATCH straps which are relatively easy to use.
Other 2 in 1 stroller car seats include the Doona, which is an exceptional model because it's a single piece equipment that transitions from an infant car seat that faces rearwards to a stroller in a few clicks. This allows you to avoid the process of taking your car seat off its base, and it helps you to climb up taxis without having your car seat stored.
Doonas are a great affordable option, especially for first-time parents. It's less than the cost of a year's gym membership, and it gives parents peace of mind that they're equipped with safe travel gear for their baby.
Many families opt for two-piece stroller/car seat systems in the event that they have decided on a specific type of infant carrier or have plans to have multiple children. If this is the situation, make sure you read the product specs to ensure that your stroller and car seat can work in conjunction. Also, consider buying an adapter if necessary to accommodate your desired combination.
Easy to Fold
Car seat and stroller combos are an excellent option for parents who want only one piece of baby equipment which can perform multiple functions. They can easily convert from a car seat to a stroller, and reverse the process. They are also simpler to move around than two piece travel systems. "They're designed to be more easily mobile," says Stanton. "They have fewer moving parts which makes them easy to fold, use, and carry."
Additionally, these kinds of strollers and infant car seats are typically lighter than two-piece ones and can be tucked away in small trunks, making them simple to carry around. These strollers and infant car seats are generally lighter and feature more practical features, including sun shades and cup holders. Some have a swivel wheel on the front, which is great for navigating busy streets and shopping centers.
Some brands, like Doona offer an all-in-one infant car seat and stroller solutions. They are particularly useful for parents who use 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 a stroller.
Some brands, like the Evenflo Shyft DualRide allow you to click 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 take out the car seat without having to click into the base.
Check if the stroller and infant seat combination you're considering will work with your preferred brand of car seat. If it's compatible, you are likely to enjoy a longer life out of the product since it will continue to work with your child when they grow out of the infant car seat.
It's important to understand that some stroller and car seat combinations aren't very effective in our ease of use tests. This could be due to a design that makes it difficult or inconvenient to climb steps, or the weight of the car seat and stroller can make it harder to push across different terrains. It's worth reading our reviews to determine which one is best for you.