Car Seat and Stroller Combos
The most effective car seat and stroller combos almost feel like they attach themselves. Stanton advises: "Look for a base that is simple to click together with the carrier." This reduces the chance of mistakes that could occur during the installation process and detachment.
One option that accomplishes this is the Doona that seamlessly converts from a car seat into a stroller, and also helps to free up space in the trunk. Online reviewers note that it feels substantial but they also appreciate its ease of use and its functionality.
Easy to Assemble
Parents who do not want to switch between car seats and strollers often find a mix of both appealing. This is also a good option for parents who use public transportation or rideshares frequently and who change caregivers. Stanton says that since they are a single item and the wheels are connected, the car seats are more easily portable. Stanton stresses the need to secure the car seat properly when using the 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, the top stroller-car seat combinations have an easy click-in connection which requires little effort other than moving the carrier from one place to another. They scored better than those with more complicated connections, as they require less pressure and provide less chance of making mistakes (intentional or accidental). We like, for instance that the UPPAbaby Vista Combo is a simple drop-in accessory that requires no straps, and includes a meter on the bottom of the car seat that shows that the seat is level correctly.
Similar to the Doona All-in One Infant Car Seat Stroller is easy to set up and move from stroller to vehicle. It's a seamless transformation that allows extra trunk space for shopping and other errands. It also comes with an adjustable front wheel that provides great maneuverability even when the seat is in place.
Another alternative is the Britax and B-Safe Gen2 Travel System with springy suspension as well as a large, one-hand-fold chassis that can be easily stored. pram 2 in 1 has a spacious basket, as well as plenty of cup holders for snacks, drinks and baby equipment. The cushioned seat makes it ideal for long journeys and the smooth, tagless knit fabric can be washed in the machine. 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 that protects them in the event of an accident.
A good travel system should be simple to push. 2 in 1 pram stroller and a single pivoting wheel in the front for navigating busy sidewalks and streets. The Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo and the BOB Alterrain Pro are all easy-gliding and come with useful features such as one-hand brake and a large storage basket.
Easy to Store
Parents who want their child to be as comfortable as they can should consider a car seat stroller combination, whether they are doing errands during the day or going on a family trip. Stroller and car seat combinations are often simpler to maneuver than individual pieces, and most models come with features that make them stand out from the rest. However, click here for info to remember that the car seat and stroller have to be compatible to work together. The manufacturer of the car seat needs to give guidelines on what kinds of strollers can be used with their product and a quick internet search can help find the right stroller.
Some strollers and car seats feature a direct connection that snaps into place without any straps or a complex installation process. This kind of effortless attachment is a huge selling point, and it's especially beneficial for families who frequently utilize ride-share vehicles or public transportation. The Doona is an FAA approved infant car seat which can be converted to a stroller at the touch of a single button. This is a huge time saver and makes it easy to avoid gate-checking a stroller on airplanes (assuming you've also purchased an airline seat for your baby) or to hop in and out of taxis.
Other car seat and stroller combos, like the Nuna TRVL, allow parents to take the infant carrier from the stroller's base and easily fold it into a compact unit that can be tucked away in the trunk of a car. This is a great feature for busy families and the stroller itself has a sleek design with top-quality fabrics and clever touches such as a built-in drape canopy to protect a snoozing baby.
The ideal 2 in 1, stroller/car seat combo for your family will depend on your lifestyle, plans for growth, and your budget. The cheapest models will likely be frame strollers that can fit a child car seat with a small amount of space. More expensive combos will include the toddler seat, twin stroller or more advanced features. Either way, you can rest assured that the stroller and car seat will meet the highest standards of safety.
Easy to carry
Car seat/stroller combos are excellent option for families that want to avoid gate-checking an infant car seat when flying and are also ideal for those who use public transportation and ride-shares frequently. These strollers and cars seats are simple to transport, making them perfect for parents who prefer their hands free when traveling with their children.
Choose a light and compact 2 in 1 stroller/car seat. These models have a smoother ride and can be easier to push across different terrains. The smaller frames allow for easier placement of the car seat in a trunk or back of the car.
Some of the most popular car seat/stroller combinations are light compact and foldable casters for easy storage. The Cosco Finale 2-in-1 for instance, is a simple seat that converts to a booster when the child no more requires an infant carrier. It's lightweight (12 pounds) and has LATCH straps that are simple to use.
Other 2 in 1 stroller car seats include the Doona that is a standout because it's a single piece of equipment that can be converted from an infant car seat that faces rearwards to a stroller in just a few clicks. This lets you skip the hassle of removing your car seat from its base, and it makes it easier for you to navigate up taxis without having to have the car seat stowed.
Doonas are a great affordable option, especially for first-time parents. It costs less than a year of gym membership, and provides parents with peace of mind knowing their baby is safe when traveling.
Many families choose a two-piece stroller/car seat system when they're deciding on a particular type of infant carrier, or have plans to have several children. If this is the case, make sure to read the specifications to ensure that your car seat and stroller are compatible. Also consider purchasing an adapter to accommodate your desired combination.
Easy to Fold
The car seat and stroller combination is a great option for parents who are looking for a single item that can be used for a variety of functions. They are able to effortlessly switch from being a car seat to a stroller, and back again, and they are generally more maneuverable than two-piece travel systems. Stanton says that they are made to be lighter and more portable. "They have a lot less moving parts, which makes them easier to fold, carry and use."
These strollers and car seats for infants are lighter than the two-piece versions and can be easily carried in trunks that are small. They also tend to have more space for cargo and more convenient features like cup holders and sun shades. Some models even come with a swivel front wheel which is great for navigating busy sidewalks and shopping centers.
Some brands, such as Doona provide an all-in-one baby stroller and car seat. These are especially useful for parents who take public transportation or rideshares or who have to change caregivers frequently. This model is basically an automobile seat that is rear-facing on wheels, and the wheels can be lowered to become a stroller when you wish to use it.
Other brands, like the Evenflo Shyft DualRide, allow you to click on the car seat and then fold it up into the form of a stroller. It's not as sleek as Doona however it does allow you to remove the car seat from the frame without needing to click it into the base.
You should also think about whether a specific stroller and infant car seat combo can fit the car seat you prefer. If the stroller and infant car seat are compatible, you can expect a longer-lasting product that will be able to work with your child after they've outgrown their car seats for infants.
However, it's important to know that certain stroller and car seats aren't performing well in our tests of ease-of-use. This could be due to an design that makes it difficult or uncomfortable to navigate stairs, or because the weight of the stroller and car seat can make it harder to push on different terrains. In either case, it's worth checking out our full reviews to find the best solution for you.