Car Seat and Pram 2 in 1
Parenthood is all about transitions. Every day, thousands of them - from home to the car to an appointment, and back again.
One of the best ways to streamline your travels is to get a capsule and pram 2 in one. These are ideal for babies from birth and can be converted into a stroller when your child has outgrown the car seat.
Easy to transport
Doona is a brand new version of stroller and car seat combos that transform from a car seat into stroller by simply folding it. It takes only a few seconds to move from sidewalk to vehicle, and it's perfect for city dwellers and those who frequent public transportation. It's also smaller than a two-piece travel set making it easier to store or carry to an airplane.
It is essential to find a car seat and pram 2 in 1 that will meet your lifestyle needs. Consider things like how frequently you'll use the stroller and whether you'll need a basket, or tray for your child's meals and drinks. It's also important to consider your child's height and weight to ensure that the combination is appropriate for them.
The parenting experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute regularly test and evaluate hundreds of products designed for children and babies such as strollers, car seats and infant sleep surfaces. Our experts review these items in terms of safety design, style, ease of use and usability. Our rating system includes individual ratings, a summarised score which compares the rating of the entire item to all other items in a rating category and a final rating. The Good Housekeeping Institute is dedicated to providing parents with the tools needed to keep their kids safe and content.
For road trips with your family, a car seats and stroller 2 in 1 with a high safety rating is essential. The car seat must be attached securely to the vehicle with the latch system. The stroller base should be connected to it using LATCH connectors that are strong and rigid. Before each use, it's a great idea to read the instructions from the manufacturer regarding installation and removal. You may require an adaptor if you have a stroller and car seat from different brands.
One thing to keep in mind when shopping for the car seat and stroller combo is that only Group 0+ infant car seats snap into strollers. If you're looking for a stroller to accommodate older children, select one with an infant seat or carrycot. While some stroller/car seat combos are basic however, you can opt for models with additional features such as a large canopy and cupholders for parents.
Easy to store
A travel system is a car seat and stroller combo that comes with everything you need to take your baby on a ride. A stroller that is easy to fold and has ample storage space is the best option. You can also find one with additional features, such as a parent organizer or cup holders. Certain stroller and car seats are more expensive than others, however it's worth it if you plan on taking your little one out on the go regularly.
The top car seat and stroller combos have sleek, compact designs that allow them to be easily maneuvered and put away when not in use. Examine the specifications of each one to determine the weight they are able to carry, and how large their storage spaces are. Ideally, both pieces should be able to fit in your trunk or the back of your car. You might want to purchase an infant stroller case to safeguard it during travel.
The Nuna PIPA infant seat and base, for instance, is our top pick for car seats and strollers combos. It's a single piece that can be attached to any vehicle, without the need for an adapter for cars. The base is equipped with a rigid LATCH connector that allow it to be used in vehicles of all shapes and sizes. It comes with a built-in drape canopy to guard children who are snoozing.
Another alternative is the Doona that is basically an infant car seat on wheels. It opens from its base to transform into a stroller and then folds down to return to its car-friendly location in just a few seconds. This makes it much more portable than two-piece strollers and car seat combination. However, you'll need an adaptor if the car seat your child is using is not compatible with the Doona.
Easy to install
The first few weeks following the birth of a baby can be a struggle. There are late-night crying sessions, mountains of nappies from the swamp, and the frequent realization that you have forgotten to pack something. One of the most important things for new parents to get right is their pram and car seat combination. They should be easy to install, simple to use and, most important of all, stylish.
Some parents opt for a two-piece system that includes an infant stroller, the carrycot, as well as a separate child car seat. Some parents prefer a three-in-one model that has an infant car seat that can be connected to the stroller chassis. The benefit of this type is that it folds flat, making it easier for storage. The drawback is that it can be heavier than conventional two-piece systems, however many parents love its sleek design.
If you're looking for a straightforward system, choose one that has a base that can be easily connected to your vehicle via a rigid LATCH connector. This will ensure a secure and smooth connection, and will also ensure that the seat has been installed correctly. Many brands have instructional videos on installation available on their websites. Once you have successfully connected the car to your stroller it will make a click sound to indicate that it's securely fastened.
The height of the handlebars is another important feature to consider when selecting a car seat/pram 2 in 1. If you intend to carry an infant in the car seat for a long time, it's important that the handlebars have a height enough to allow you to comfortably reach them. If you intend to take public transport frequently then you should choose a pram that has swivel-wheels or a one-handed folding mechanism. This will make it easier for you to get on and off trains and buses.
Check that the car seat/pram 2 in 1 you have 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 other parents or are using it to ride-sharing.
Simple to use
A stroller and car seat combo makes life on the go with a baby much easier, especially for parents who are constantly on the move. The stroller can be folded to fit in the trunk of a vehicle. The car seat snaps onto the frame. It also comes with a built-in drape canopy to protect a snoozing infant. It's easy to maneuver and is a great option for families who travel frequently via train, plane or bus.
Some car seats and combo strollers make a distinct sound that can be heard when connected to the base. This helps to ensure that the seat is securely placed. It is nevertheless important to read through the instructions thoroughly prior to using the stroller and car seat to ensure that they are properly installed. Certain brands have helpful installation videos online that can help you get started.
The majority of car seats and stroller combinations require some assembly prior to use, which includes installing the base in your vehicle and securing the seat to the frame. It could take a bit of time and effort to understand the steps for specific models. It's also a good idea to practice using the device with a friend.
The combination of the stroller and car seat with a single-step installation without straps is awarded our top score for user-friendliness. This eliminates the hassle of buckling and tightening straps which are prone to mistakes. This type of connection is also more secure than straps.
The best car seat and stroller combos are easy for you to maneuver even when there are a lot of children in the stroller. Find models with rubber tires and a single front wheel that are light and easy to push. Some models also come with a swivel wheel to maneuver in narrow aisles and tight corners at stores. 2 in 1 pram Pushchairs And Prams are more expensive than strollers and car seats but they can save you time and effort on busy days.