Car Seat and Pram 2 in 1
Parenthood is all about changing. Thousands of them every day from home to the car, to an appointment and back.
One of the best ways to streamline your travels is to buy two prams and a capsule in 1. They are generally suitable from birth and can be converted into a stroller after your child is old enough to outgrow the car seat.
Easy to transport
Doona is a new take on stroller and car seat combinations that can transform from a car seat into a stroller by simply unfolding it. 2 in 1 pram stroller takes minutes to change from the vehicle to the sidewalk. This is great for city dwellers or those who regularly use public transportation. It's also less bulky than a two-piece travel set, which makes it easy to store or take on an aircraft.
It is recommended to select a car seat/pram 2 in 1 that is suited to your lifestyle. Think about things like how often you'll use the stroller, and whether you'll need a basket or tray for your child's snacks and drinks. It's also worth taking a look at your child's weight and height to make sure the combo is suitable for them.
The Good Housekeeping Institute parenting pros regularly test and evaluate hundreds of products designed for babies and young children, such as strollers, carseats, and infant sleep surfaces. Our experts evaluate these items in terms of safety design, style, user-friendliness and function. Our rating system includes individual ratings, a summary score which evaluates the overall rating of the entire product to the other items in a rating category and a final score. The Good Housekeeping Institute provides parents with the tools needed to keep their children safe and content.
A car seat and pram 2 in 1 with the highest safety rating is vital for your family's journeys. The car seat should be securely attached to the vehicle using the latch system, and the stroller base must be linked to the car seat with rigid LATCH connectors. Before every use, it's a great idea to read the instructions from the manufacturer on installation and removal. You might need an adapter when you own a car seat and stroller with different brands.
When shopping for a stroller and car combination, keep in mind that only Group 0+ infant seats can be put into a stroller. If you're seeking a stroller that will accommodate an older toddler, be sure to choose one with a toddler-sized seat, or a carrycot. While some car seat/stroller combos are no-frills, you can also opt for models with additional features, such as a big canopy and cupholders for parents.
Easy to store
A travel system is a complete car seat and stroller that includes everything you require to carry your child. Find a stroller that has an easy-to-folding design and plenty of storage space. You can also get a stroller that has extra features like an organizer for parents or cup holders. Certain stroller and carseat combinations are more expensive than others, however it's worth it if you're planning to take your child on a regular basis.
The top car seat and stroller combos feature sleek, compact designs that make them easy to move and put away when not in use. Examine the specifications of each unit to see how much they weigh and also how big their storage spaces are. Ideally both pieces are small enough to fit into the back of your vehicle or a trunk-sized trunk. You may also want to look into purchasing a stroller-friendly travel bag to safeguard it during transport.
For instance the Nuna PIPA infant car seat and base is our top choice for car seat and stroller combinations because it's a one unit that doesn't require a car seat adapter to connect to a regular vehicle. The LATCH connectors that are rigidly integrated into the base allow it fit into vehicles of various dimensions and shapes. It also comes with built-in drape canopy that can be used to shield your baby from snoring.
Another great alternative is the Doona, which is essentially an infant car seat with wheels. It can be folded from its base to become a stroller, and then folded back to a car-friendly position within seconds. This makes it a more portable alternative to two-piece car seats and stroller combos, however you'll need an adapter in case your baby's favorite brand of car seat isn't compatible with the Doona.
Easy to install
The first few days following a baby's arrival can be challenging. There are the late-night crying sessions, piles of swamp nappies and the constant realization that you've missed something. One of the most important items for new parents to do is their car seat and pram combination. They must be easy to install, easy to use, and most of all, stylish.
Some parents choose two-piece systems, which include an infant stroller, the carrycot, as well as an additional child car seat. Some parents prefer a three-in-one model that includes an infant car seat that can be attached to the stroller chassis. The advantage of this model is that it can fold flat, making it easier for storage. The drawback is that it can be heavier than the traditional two-piece system but many parents like its sleek design.
If 2 in 1 prams looking for a straightforward system, select one that has a base that can be easily connected to your vehicle with an LATCH connector that is rigid. This will ensure that the seat is properly installed and will provide an easy and secure connection. Many brands offer helpful installation videos on their websites. Once you've successfully attached the car seat to your stroller, it's likely to make a clicking sound to let you know that it's securely fastened.
The height of the handlebars is an important feature to consider when selecting a car seat/pram 2 in 1. If you intend to carry children in the car seat for a long period of time it's essential that the handlebars have a height enough to let you comfortably reach them. If you plan to travel frequently on public transport, choose a pram with swivel wheels or a one-handed folding mechanism. This will make it easier for you to take buses and trains.
Make sure that the car's seat/pram 2 in 1 you have can be used in conjunction along with the seat belts of your vehicle. This is especially important if your car will be shared with other parents or used for ride-sharing.
Simple to use
A car seat and stroller combo makes life on the go with a baby much easier, particularly for parents who are constantly on the move. The car seat snaps into a stroller frame and the stroller folds to easily fit into the trunk of your car. It also comes with a built-in canopy for drapes to shield a sleepy infant. It's easy to move and is a great choice for families who travel frequently via train, plane, or bus.
Some car seat and combo strollers have an audible clicking sound when attached to the base. This makes it easier to ensure that the car seat is properly in place. It is nevertheless important to read through the instructions thoroughly prior to using the stroller or car seat to ensure that they are properly installed. Some brands even have helpful installation videos online that can assist you in getting started.
The majority of car seats and stroller combos require a little assembly prior to use, which includes installing the base in your vehicle, and then attaching the frame to the seat. It can take a bit of time and patience to figure out the instructions for certain models. It's also a good idea to practice with a buddy before you begin using it on your own.
The combination of the stroller and car seat that features a one-step installation without straps earns us the highest rating for ease of use. This eliminates the extra step of buckling and tightening straps which are prone to mistakes. Strollers that use this type of connection also are more secure than those who use straps, as they are more likely to be secure.
The best car seats and stroller combos are easy to maneuver even with a full number of children. Make sure you choose models with rubber tires on the front wheel and are light. Some models also feature a swivel front wheel that allows for maneuvering through narrow aisles and tight corners in stores. These systems are more expensive than car seats and strollers, but can save you time and effort on busy days.