A 2 in 1 Travel System
A stroller and car seat combination is the best choice, whether you want to travel easily or create a contemporary version of a pram. Check the specifications carefully to make sure your car seat and pushchair work together, or consider buying an adaptor.
Editor-tested travel systems allow you to transport your newborn in a smooth and seamless way from the car to the stroller without having to disturb them. Some travel systems come with an infant carrycot to help encourage the natural sleeping.
Car Seat
A 2-in-1 travel system that includes an infant car seat as well as stroller that snaps together. It's a convenient option for parents and caregivers who frequently run errands with their infant, or take their little baby out on public transportation or rideshares. "You have less gear to deal with," explains Graco spokesperson Rachel Stanton. "And it's perfect for families that alternate between carpooling and public transit with other moms."
Doona infant car seats and latch bases are a top option, with 90 percent of Amazon reviews giving five stars. It's a rear-facing car seats that converts into a rolling stroller--the transition only takes seconds. The wheels fold under and it's small when not in use. The Doona can also be attached to a car backseat with the sturdy LATCH base or to taxi-safety belt paths. This makes it a great choice for city families.
The Mamas and Papas pramette is another great combination of a car seat and stroller. It comes with the pram with a hood that opens and a front seat that can be adjusted so that your child can lay down for naps or for feedings. It comes with a huge basket, cup holders, and a sun shade for your baby's essentials. 2 in 1 pram is a multi-position reclining seat, and can recline to a flat position, so your baby is comfortable for every ride.
Other important car seat features to be considered are the weight and height limits, as well as whether the infant seat can be used with only a car belt for backseats or has an extra layer of protection with the LATCH system built into it. Also, look for a lock on the handle to ensure it stays safe in its place and the ability to tilt the handle toward the back of the seatback to make an anti-rebound bar.
It's worth noting that travel systems only work with infant car seats, and extended-use car seats that can later turn forward-facing do not convert into strollers. Many moms decide to purchase an additional car seat and stroller when their child is no longer in an infant seat.
Stroller
A stroller is a crucial piece of equipment for any new parent. Some travel systems come with a baby stroller that can be converted into a comfortable infant carrycot. This is perfect for parents who don't want to disturb their infant when traveling. Depending on the brand it may also come with the option of a stroller and car seat combo that clicks into one another. This allows you to keep your child in the car seat while you transfer them to a stroller without disrupting them.
A great stroller should have plenty of features that make it functional and user-friendly. It should include a large basket that can store essentials like nappies as well as snacks, toys and other items. It should also be able to recline to give your baby a relaxing rest. It should have an umbrella to protect your child from the sun, and a lockable wheel on the front for safety. It should also be light and compact for storage and transport to and from the car.
Editor-tested travel system strollers such as the UPPAbaby Cruz v2 Combo, Chicco Keyfit Caddy and Doona Combo all provide convenience by connecting with a range of top car seats that snap to the frame and fold easily. Some models also have a single wheel on each leg, making them more maneuverable and roll on different surfaces.
A stroller should be versatile enough to last through toddlerhood and beyond if you require it to continue to transport your child to and from school, activities and play dates. To do this, look for a model that has an opening that allows your child to face the world (and reclines) after your child has outgrown the car seat.
If you intend to use your 2-in-1 travel system on public transportation, look for models that have an ISOFIX base so it's safe to hop on and off buses or trains. Certain models, like the Doona can also be mounted on planes and trains to make traveling with a child more convenient.
