2 in 1 prams and Stroller Combos
The most effective car stroller and seat combos nearly appear to be able to attach themselves. Stanton advises: "Look for a base that is easy to connect with the carrier." two in one pram will reduce the chance of errors during installation and removal.
Doona is one option that can do this. It seamlessly transforms from a car seat to a stroller, and it frees up space in your trunk. Reviewers on the internet love the Doona's features and user-friendliness, but also note its substantial feel.
Easy to Assemble
Parents who don't want to change between car seats and strollers often find a combination of both appealing. It's also an ideal choice for those who frequently use public transportation or rideshares, as well as parents who change caregivers. "These are a single product and the wheels are attached to the car seat, which means they're more naturally mobile," says Stanton. However, she says that it's crucial to ensure that the car seat is secured properly when you use it with a travel system. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and your vehicle owner's manual to ensure a secure fit, she says.
In our tests, we found that the best stroller and car seat combinations come with a simple click-in connector that requires no effort beyond shifting the carrier from one location to another. These models scored better compared to those with more complex connections due to the fact that they require less pressure and have fewer opportunities for mistakes, whether intentional or accidental. For example, we like that the UPPAbaby Vista Combo has a simple, drop-in attachment that requires straps and no straps. It also has an indicator on the car seat base that shows when it is properly leveled.
The Doona All in-One Infant Car Seat Stroller is also easy to set up and move from the car to the stroller. It's a seamless conversion that lets you to use the extra space in your trunk for shopping or running errands. It also has a swivel wheel at the front that allows for excellent maneuverability even with the seat on.
Another alternative is Britax B Lively & B Safe Gen2 Travel System. It has springy chassis as well as a large one-hand fold chassis that can be easily stored. It comes with a large basket and plenty cup holders for snacks, drinks and baby gear. The cushioned seat is comfortable for long trips, and the smooth, tagless knit fabric is machine washed. It is FAA-approved and comes with a safety strap that can be locked below or at your baby's shoulders. It also has a SafeCell Crumple Zone to safeguard them if they are in an accident.
A good travel system should also be easy to push. Our top picks have rubber tires and a single, pivoting wheel in the front for navigating streets and busy sidewalks. The Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo as well as 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 braking as well as a large storage basket.
Easy to Store
Parents who want their child to be as comfortable as possible should consider a stroller and car seat combination, regardless of whether they are running errands or taking an excursion with the family. Combinations of car seats and strollers are generally more maneuverable than separate pieces, and most models are equipped with convenient features that make them stand out from the competition. However, it's important to keep in mind that the car seat and stroller have to be compatible to work together. The manufacturer of the car seat should give guidelines on which strollers are compatible with their product. A quick search online can help you narrow your options.
Certain strollers and car seats feature an easy connection that snaps into place without any straps or an intricate installation process. This kind of simple attachment is a major benefit for families who regularly utilize public transportation or ride-share vehicles. The Doona for instance, is an FAA-approved infant car seat that can be converted into a stroller with just the touch of one button. This is a time-saving feature and helps you avoid having to check your stroller's gate on planes (assuming that you've also purchased an airline chair for your baby) or to get in and out of taxis.
Other car seat and stroller combinations, such as the Nuna TRVL, allow parents to take the infant carrier from the base of the stroller and then fold it up into a compact package that can be tucked away inside the trunk of a vehicle. This is a fantastic feature for parents who are busy. The stroller itself also features a sleek design and high-end fabrics, and also smart touches such as a built-in canopy with a drape that can protect the baby from snoozing.
In the end, the ideal 2 in 1 stroller car seat for your family will be contingent on your lifestyle and plans for growth and your budget. The most affordable models tend to be frame strollers which can accommodate a car seat for a child with a small amount of space. More expensive combos will include a toddler seat, twin stroller or more advanced features. You can be certain that the stroller will meet all safety standards.
Easy to carry
These combos are ideal for families who want to avoid the hassle of checking the gate for an infant car seat when flying. They're also great for those who frequently use public transportation and ride-sharing services. These car seats and strollers are simple to transport and move in a hurry, which makes them ideal for parents who need their hands free while traveling with their kids.
When choosing a stroller that is a 2 in 1 car seat, you should look for one that's lightweight and compact. These options tend to roll more smoothly, which could make them easier to push in different terrains. Furthermore, the smaller frames can aid in getting the car seat in and out of a trunk or at the rear of a vehicle.
Many of the most sought-after and highly rated car seat/stroller combos are compact, lightweight and have wheels that fold to make it easy to store. The Cosco Finale 2-in-1, for example is a standard seat that can convert into a booster when the child no longer needs an infant carrier. It's inexpensive, light (12 pounds) and has LATCH straps that are simple to use (we didn't score it as an ideal choice for ease of assembly).
Other 2 in 1 stroller car seats include the Doona It's a standout because it's a single piece equipment that converts from an infant car seat that faces rearwards to a stroller in a few clicks. This means you can skip the step of taking your car seat off its base, and it helps you to walk up and down the stairs or get into and out taxis without having the car seat stored.
The Doona is a budget-friendly option that is particularly appealing for parents who are first-time parents. It's less than the cost of one year's gym membership and it gives new parents assurance that they have safe travel gear for their baby.
Many families choose a two-piece stroller/car seat system if they are set on a specific brand of infant carrier or plans to have multiple children. If this is the situation, make sure you read the product specs to ensure that your stroller and car seat will work together. You may want to consider purchasing an adapter to fit the combination you want.
Easy to Fold
The stroller and car seat combination is a great option for parents who are looking for a single piece that can be used for multiple purposes. They can easily convert from a car to a stroller, and vice versa. They are also more easy to move around than two piece travel systems. Stanton says they're designed to be more portable. "They have fewer moving parts, making them easy to fold, use, and carry."
These car seats and strollers for infants are lighter than the two-piece options and are easily transported in small trunks. They also have an extra cargo basket and more useful features such as sun shades and cup holders. Some come with a swivel front wheel that is ideal for navigating sidewalks and shopping centers.
Certain brands, like Doona offer an all-in-one infant car seat and stroller solutions. These are especially beneficial for parents who take public transportation or rideshares, or who have to change caregivers frequently. This model is a rear-facing child car seat with wheels that can be transformed into a stroller.
Other brands, like the Evenflo Shyft DualRide, allow you to click on the car seat and fold it up into the form of a stroller. The model isn't as sleek as Doona, but it does allow you to remove the car seat from the frame without needing to click it into the base.
You should also think about whether a specific stroller and infant car seat combo can accommodate the car seat you prefer. If 2 in 1 prams and infant car seat are compatible, you can anticipate a longer-lasting product as it will work with your child even after they've outgrown the car seats for infants.
However, it's important to note that some stroller and car seats aren't performing well in our tests for ease of use. This could be due to an design that makes it difficult to navigate stairs, or the weight and size of the car seat can make it harder to push. It's worth reading our reviews to determine which one is the best for you.