Car Seat and Pram 2 in 1
Transitions are the norm in the parenthood. Every day, thousands of them - from home to the car to an appointment, and back.
One of the best ways to streamline your travels is to purchase a capsule and pram 2 in one. These are usually suitable from birth and then convert into a stroller when your child has outgrown the car seat.
Easy to transport
Doona is a revolutionary new car seat and stroller combination that can be transformed from a vehicle to a stroller simply by unfolding. It takes seconds to go from vehicle to sidewalk and is ideal for those who live in cities and who frequent public transportation. It's also less bulky than two-piece travel systems making it easier to store and transport on an airplane.
It is important to choose a car seat or a pram 2 in 1 that will fit your lifestyle. Consider how often you'll use the stroller, and whether or not you will require a tray or a basket for your child's snacks and drinks. It's also worth assessing your baby's height and weight to make sure the combo will work well 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 baby sleep surfaces. Our experts review the products according to their safety, design, functionality and user-friendliness. Our rating system includes scores for each item, a summary score that evaluates the overall score of the entire product against all the other items in the rating category and an overall rating. The Good Housekeeping Institute provides parents with the tools they need to keep their children safe and happy.
For road trips with your family, a car seats and stroller 2 in 1 that have an excellent safety rating is necessary. The car seat should be securely attached to the vehicle using the latch system. The base of the stroller should be connected to it using rigid LATCH connectors. Before each use, it's a good idea to read the instruction from the manufacturer for installation and removal. If you have a car seat and stroller from different brands, you might require an adaptor to use them together.
One thing to be aware of when you're shopping for a car seat and stroller combo is that only Group 0+ infant car seats convert into strollers. If you want the stroller to fit older children, select one that has a toddler seat or carrycot. While some car seat/stroller combos are basic, you can also opt for models with additional features such as a large canopy and cupholders for parents.
Easy to store
A travel system is a complete stroller and car seat that includes everything you need to carry your child. Choose a stroller with an easy-to-fold design and ample storage space. You can also find a stroller with extra features like a parent's organizer or cup holders. Some combinations of carseats and strollers are more expensive than others, but it's worth the cost if you intend to frequently take your child to the park.
The most effective stroller and car seat combos have sleek, compact designs that make them easy move and store when not in use. Review the specifications to determine how heavy each one is and how big their storage space is. Ideally, both pieces are small enough to fit in the back of your car or a trunk-sized trunk. You may also want to look into purchasing a stroller-friendly travel bag to safeguard it during travel.
For example, the Nuna PIPA infant car seat and base is our top choice for stroller and car seat combos because it's a single unit that doesn't need a car seat adapter to connect to a regular vehicle. The LATCH connectors, which are rigid, integrated into the base allow it fit in vehicles of different shapes and sizes. It has a built in drape canopy to protect the child who is snoozing.
The Doona is another alternative. It's basically a baby car seat with wheels. It folds up from the base to become an infant stroller, and folds down to return to its car-friendly position in seconds. This makes it much more portable than two-piece strollers and car seat combos. However, you'll require an adapter if the car seat your child is using isn't compatible with the Doona.
Easy to install
The first few weeks following the arrival of a baby can be difficult. There are the late-night crying sessions mountains of swamp nappies, and the constant realization that you've missed something. The combination of a car seat and pram is among the most important choices that new parents make. They must be easy-to-install, easy-to use, and fashionable.
Some new parents prefer a two-piece travel system, which consists of an infant stroller with a carrycot and a separate car seat. Some opt for a three-in-one design, which has an infant car seat that is connected to the chassis of a stroller. The benefit of this type is that it can fold flat, making it easier for storage. The downside is that it is heavier than a traditional two-piece system, however many parents love its sleek design.
If you are seeking a basic travel system, look for one that has car seat bases that can be easily connected to your vehicle using a rigid LATCH connector. This will ensure that the seat is properly installed and will provide an easy and secure connection. Many brands also have helpful installation videos available on their websites. After you have successfully secured the stroller to the car, it will make a click sound to signal that it is securely fastened.
Another crucial aspect to think about when choosing a car seat and pram 2 in one is the height of the handlebars. If you're planning to carry a baby in the car seat for a long period of time it is essential that the handlebars are tall enough to let you comfortably reach them. If you're planning on using public transport frequently, look for a stroller with dual-hand folding mechanism that can be folded easily for getting off and on buses or trains.
Make sure that the car seat/pram 2 in1 can also be used along with the seat belts of your vehicle. This is especially important if you're going to be sharing the car with your parents or are using it to ride-sharing.
Simple to use
A stroller and car seat combination makes life on go with a baby much easier, especially for parents who are constantly moving. The stroller folds to fit into the trunk of a vehicle. The car seat snaps on to the frame. It also comes with a built-in canopy to protect babies who are sleeping. It is easy to move and is a great choice for families who travel via plane or bus.
Some stroller and car seat combination models have an audible click once connected to the base which makes it easier to verify that the seat is securely positioned. It is crucial to read the instructions before using the car seat or stroller. This will ensure that the seats are installed correctly. Some brands have instructional videos on how to install them online that can assist you in your first steps.
Most stroller and car seat combinations require some assembly before use. This includes putting the base inside your vehicle and then attaching the seat to frame. It could take a bit of time and patience to figure out the instructions for certain models. It's a good idea also to practice using it with a friend.
Car stroller and seat combinations that have a one-step attachment with no straps get our highest ratings for ease of use. This eliminates the extra step to buckle and tighten straps which can cause mistakes. This type of connection is also more secure than straps.
The best car seats and stroller combos are easy to navigate, even with a full load of kids. Make sure you choose models with rubber tires on the front wheel and are lightweight. Some also feature a swivel front wheel to maneuver in narrow aisles and tight corners at stores. These systems are more expensive than strollers and car seats, but can help you save time and effort on busy days.