Car Seat and Stroller Combos
The most effective car seat stroller combos are so simple to attach that it almost feels like they're doing it all by themselves. "Look for an appropriate base and a carrier that can be easily clicked together," advises Stanton. This will reduce the chance of mistakes during installation and removal.
One option that accomplishes this is the Doona, which seamlessly transforms from car seat to stroller and makes room for the trunk. Online reviews praise the Doona's features and ease of use but also note its substantial feel.
Easy to Assemble
A stroller and car seat combo is an attractive choice for parents who want to avoid the hassle of switching between the two. It also makes sense for those who regularly use rideshares or public transportation and for those who have multiple caregivers. Stanton says that because they're a single piece and the wheels are connected, the car seats are more easily portable. However, she notes that it's essential to ensure that your car seat is properly secured when you use it with the travel system. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines and the manual of your vehicle's owner to ensure that the seat is secure she advises.
In our tests, we found that the top stroller and car seat combos feature a simple, click-in connection that requires little effort beyond moving the carrier from one place to the next. These models scored higher than those with more complex connections, since they require less pressure and provide fewer opportunities for errors (intentional or accidental). For instance, we like the fact that the UPPAbaby Vista Combo has a simple drop-in attachment that has straps and no straps. It also has an indicator on the car seat base that shows when it is properly leveled.
Similar to the Doona All-in One Stroller for Infants is easy to set up and then transfer from car to stroller. It's a seamless conversion that lets you to use the extra space in your trunk to go for shopping or errands. It also has an swivel front wheel that provides great maneuverability even when the seat is in place.
Another alternative is the Britax B-Lively and B-Safe Gen2 Travel System that has springy suspension as well as a large, one-hand-fold chassis for easy storage. It has a spacious basket and plenty of cup holders for snacks, drinks, and baby gear. Its padded seat is comfortable for long trips and the tagless, smooth-touch knit fabric is machine washable. It is FAA-approved, and comes with a safety strap that locks below or at the shoulders of your baby. It also has a SafeCell Crumple Zone to safeguard them if they are in an accident.
A great travel system should also be easy to push and, in our top picks, all have rubber tires that have one, swivel front wheel 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, like one-hand brakes and a large storage basket.
Easy to Store
Car seat stroller combinations are a great choice for parents who want to keep their child as comfortable as they can, whether they're running errands, or going on an excursion with the family. Car seat and stroller combinations are generally more maneuverable than separate pieces, and a lot of models have convenient features that help them stand out from the rest. However, it's important to note 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 are compatible with their product A quick internet search can help to narrow your choices.
Certain strollers and car seats have a direct connection that snaps in place without additional straps or a complicated installation process. This kind of simple attachment is a huge selling point, and is particularly beneficial for families that often use ride-share cars or public transport. The Doona is an FAA approved infant car seat that can be converted to stroller with the press of a single button. This is a time-saving feature and helps you avoid having your stroller checked at the gate on planes (assuming you've purchased an airline chair for your child), or to jump in and out of taxis.
two in one pram -car-seat combos such as the Nuna TrVL let parents remove the infant car seat from the base of the stroller, and fold it easily into a compact unit that fits into the trunk. This is another great feature for busy families and the stroller has a sleek design with high-end fabrics and clever touches such as a built-in curtain canopy that can protect a sleepy baby.
The best 2 in 1 stroller car seat for your family will be contingent on your lifestyle and growth plans and budget. The cheapest models tend to be frame strollers which can fit a child car seat with little space. More expensive combos will include a toddler seat, a twin stroller, or more advanced features. In any case you can be sure that the stroller and car seat will meet the highest safety standards.
Easy to Carry
Car seat/stroller combinations are a excellent option for families that want to avoid gate-checking an infant car seat on airlines and are also ideal for those who use ride-shares and public transportation frequently. These cars seats and strollers are simple to transport and are perfect for parents who prefer their hands free when traveling with their children.
When you're deciding on the best 2 in 1 stroller car seat, choose one that is light and compact. These types of strollers tend to move more smoothly, which can make them easier to push through different terrains. The smaller frames make it easier to put the car seat into the trunk or back of the car.
Some of the most popular car seats/strollers are lightweight compact and folding casters that can be stored easily. The Cosco Finale 2-in-1, for example, is a simple seat that can be converted into a booster when the child no more requires an infant carrier. It's reasonably priced, light (12 pounds) and comes with LATCH straps that are user-friendly (we didn't score it as an ideal choice for ease of installation).
The Doona is another 2 in 1 stroller/car seat that's worth mentioning. It's a unique piece of equipment because it can be transformed from a rear facing infant car seat into a stroller by simply clicking the button. This means you can skip the hassle of getting your car seat removed from its base, and it makes it easier for you to climb stairs or get in taxis without having your car seat stowed.
Doonas are an excellent affordable option, especially for new parents. It's less expensive than a year of gym membership. It also gives parents peace of mind knowing that their baby is safe when traveling.
Many families opt for two-piece car seats/strollers when they're deciding on an infant carrier from a particular brand or have plans for multiple children. If this is the case, be sure you've read the specifications to ensure that your car seat and stroller will work together. Also consider purchasing an adapter if necessary to accommodate your desired combination.
Easy to Fold
pushchairs 2 in 1 and car seat combination is a great option for parents seeking a single piece that can be used for a variety of purposes. They are able to easily convert from a car seat to the stroller and vice versa. They are also easier to move around than two piece travel systems. Stanton says that they are designed to be more compact. "They have fewer moving parts, which makes them more compact to fold, use, and transport."
Additionally, these types of strollers and infant car seats are typically lighter than two-piece ones and fit in smaller trunks, making them simple to transport. These strollers and infant car seats tend to be lighter and come with more practical features, including cup holders and sun shades. Some models even have a swivel front wheel that is ideal for navigating sidewalks and shopping centers.
Some brands, such as Doona offer an all-in-one infant stroller and car seat solutions. These are especially useful for parents who take public transportation or rideshares or who have to change caregivers frequently. This model is a rear-facing child car seat that has wheels that can be converted into a stroller.
Other brands, like the Evenflo Shyft DualRide, allow you to click on the car seat, and then fold it up into the shape of a stroller. This model isn't as sleek as Doona however you can take out the car seat without needing to click into its base.
Check if the stroller and infant seat combination you're considering will work with your preferred brand of car seat. If the stroller and infant car seat are compatible, you can anticipate a longer-lasting product that will fit your child after they have outgrown the infant car seats.
However, it's important to note that some car seat and stroller combos do not perform well in our tests of ease-of-use. This could be because of an design that makes it difficult to climb stairs, or the weight and size of the stroller/car seat could make it harder to push. In either scenario, you should check out our complete reviews to determine the best solution for you.