Car Seat and Stroller Combos
The most reliable car seat stroller combos are so simple to connect that it almost feels like they do it themselves. Stanton suggests: "Look for a base that is simple to click with the carrier." This will reduce the risk of errors that could occur during the installation process and detachment.
Doona is one option that lets you accomplish this. It seamlessly converts from a car seat into stroller, and frees up space in your trunk. Online reviews have noted that it feels sturdy however they also appreciate its ease of use and performance.
Easy to Assemble
Parents who don't want to switch between strollers and car seats often will find a combination of both appealing. It's also a good alternative for parents who utilize public transportation or rideshares frequently, as well as those that switch caregivers. Stanton states that since they're one item and the wheels are connected, the car seats are more mobile. However, she notes that it's crucial to make sure the car seat is secured properly when you use it with a travel system. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and the owner's manual for your vehicle to ensure that the seat is secure she adds.
In 2 in 1 travel system , we found that the best stroller-car seat combos have a simple click-in connection, that requires no effort, other than moving the carrier from one place to another. These models scored higher than those with more complex connections, because they require less pressure and have less chance of making errors (intentional or accidental). We like, for example, that the UPPAbaby Vista Combo is a simple drop-in accessory that does not require straps and has an indicator on the bottom of the car seat which indicates whether the seat is level correctly.
Similarly, the Doona All-in-One Infant Car Seat Stroller is simple to set up and transfer from vehicle to stroller. It's a seamless transition that allows extra trunk space for shopping and other errands. It also has an adjustable front wheel that offers great maneuverability even when the seat is attached.
Another alternative is the Britax and B-Safe Gen2 Travel System with a springy suspension and an enormous, one-hand-folding chassis that can be easily stored. It has a large basket and plenty cups for snacks, drinks and baby equipment. The cushioned seat is comfortable for long journeys, and the tagless smooth touch knit fabric can be washed in the machine. It is FAA-approved and comes with a safety strap that can be locked beneath or around the shoulders of your baby. It also has a SafeCell Crumple Zone to protect them if they are in a crash.
A great travel system should be easy to push. Our top picks have rubber tires and a single, rotating wheel at the front to navigate busy sidewalks and streets. The Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo, the BOB Alterrain Pro, and the Baby Jogger City Mini GT 2 Combo all glide effortlessly and come with useful features, such as one-hand brakes and a large storage basket.
Easy to store
Car seat stroller combos are a great choice for parents who want to keep their child as comfortable as they can whether they're running errands, or heading out for an excursion with the family. Combinations of car seats and strollers are often more maneuverable than separate pieces, and a lot of models come with features that make them stand out from the rest. It is important to keep in mind that the car seat must be compatible with the stroller for them to work. The car seat manufacturer should give guidelines on which strollers can be used with their product. A quick search on the internet can help you narrow down your choices.
Certain strollers and car seats feature an immediate connection that snaps in place without any straps or an intricate installation procedure. This type of easy attachment is a big selling point, and is particularly helpful for families who frequently utilize ride-share vehicles or public transportation. The Doona, for example, is an FAA-approved infant car seat that is able to transform into a stroller with just the click of one button. This is a major time saver and makes it easy to avoid gate-checking a stroller on planes (assuming you've also purchased an airline seat for your infant) or to hop into and out of taxis.
Other stroller-car seat combos like the Nuna TrVL let parents remove the infant car seat from the base of the stroller and fold it into a compact package which fits into the trunk. This is a great feature for busy families and the stroller itself has a sleek profile with high-end fabrics and clever touches such as a built-in drape canopy to shield a sleeping baby.
The best 2 in 1 stroller/car seat combo for your family depends on your lifestyle, your plans for growth, and your budget. The cheapest models will likely be frame strollers that can fit a car seat with little extra space, whereas more expensive models may include a toddler seat or a twin strollers, and include more advanced features. You can be assured that the stroller will meet all safety requirements.
Easy to Carry
Car seat/stroller combos are a excellent option for families that wish to avoid having to check gate-check an infant car seat when flying and are also ideal for those who utilize public transportation and ride-shares frequently. These strollers and car seats are easy to transport and maneuver on the go, which makes them ideal for parents who want their hands free while traveling with their little ones.
Find a light and compact 2 in 1 stroller/car seat. These options are more comfortable to use and are more easy to push across different terrains. Furthermore, the smaller frames can aid in getting the car seat in and out of a trunk or at the back of a car.
Some of the most popular and highly rated car seats/strollers combinations are light, compact and have wheels that fold to make it easy to store. The Cosco Finale 2-in-1, for instance is a standard seat that converts to a booster when the child no more requires an infant carrier. It's light (12 pounds) and comes with LATCH straps which are relatively easy to use.
The Doona is a second 2 in 1 car seat/stroller that's worth to be mentioned. It's an exceptional piece of equipment because it can be transformed from a rear facing infant car seat to a stroller simply by pressing a button. This means you can skip the hassle of taking your car seat off its base. It also allows you to navigate the stairs or get into taxis without having to have the car seat in the.
Doonas are a fantastic budget-friendly choice, especially for new parents. It's cheaper than a year of gym membership, and gives parents peace of mind knowing their baby is safe when traveling.
Many families choose two-piece stroller/car seat systems if they are set on a particular model of infant carrier or have plans to have several children. If this is the scenario, be sure to read the product specs to ensure your chosen stroller and car seat work together. You may want to consider purchasing an adapter to match your preferred combination.
Easy to Fold
The stroller and car seat combo is a great choice for parents who are seeking a single piece that can serve multiple purposes. They can easily be converted from a car seat to a stroller, and reverse the process. They are also easier to move around than two piece travel systems. "They're designed to be more naturally mobile," says Stanton. "They have a lot less moving parts, which means they're easier to fold, carry, and use."
These strollers and car seats for infants are lighter than two-piece models and can be easily transported in small trunks. These strollers and infant car seats tend to be lighter and have more useful features, like cup holders and sun shades. Some have a swivel wheel on the front that's great for navigating crowded sidewalks and shopping centers.
Some brands, such as Doona provide an all-in-one baby stroller and car seat solutions. These can be particularly helpful parents who plan to take advantage of rideshares or public transportation, or change caregivers frequently. This model is essentially an rear-facing car seat with wheels. The wheels drop down to become a stroller when you want to use it.
Some brands, like the Evenflo Shyft DualRide allow you to slide the car seat into the frame and then unfold it as a stroller. This model isn't as sleek as Doona but you can remove the car seat without needing to click into its base.
Consider whether the stroller and infant seat combination you're considering fits your preferred car seat. If it's compatible, then you are likely to enjoy a longer life out of the product as it will be able to work with your child once they grow out of the infant car seat.
It's important to understand that certain stroller and car seats do not perform well in our ease of use tests. This could be because of the design that makes it difficult to climb stairs or because the weight and size of the car seat can make it harder to push. It's worth reading our reviews to determine which model is the best one for you.