Car Seat and Stroller Combos
The most reliable car seat stroller combinations are so easy to attach that it almost feels like they're doing it themselves. "Look for an appropriate base and a carrier that click together easily," advises Stanton. This reduces the chance of errors that can happen during installation and detachment.
One option that accomplishes this is the Doona that seamlessly converts from a car seat into a stroller and frees up trunk space. Reviewers on the internet say it is hefty but they also appreciate its simplicity of use and functionality.
Easy to Assemble
Parents who do not want to switch between car seats and strollers often find a combination of both attractive. It is also a good option 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, meaning they're more naturally portable," says Stanton. Stanton says it is important to secure the car seat properly when using an air travel system. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines and your vehicle owner's manual to ensure that the seat is secure she adds.
In our tests, the top stroller-car seat combinations have a simple click-in connection, that requires no effort, other than moving the car seat from one location to the next. These models scored higher compared to models with more complicated connections because they require less pressure and have fewer opportunities to make mistakes, whether they are intentional or accidental. We like, for example, the fact that the UPPAbaby Vista Combo is a simple drop-in accessory that does not require straps and has an indicator on the base of the car seat that indicates when the seat is leveled properly.
Similar to the Doona All-in One Infant Car Seat Stroller is easy to set up and then transfer from vehicle to stroller. It's a seamless change that frees up extra trunk space for shopping and other errands. It also features an adjustable front wheel that offers excellent maneuverability, even when the seat is mounted.
Another option is Britax B Lively and B Safe Gen2 Travel System. It features springy chassis as well as a large fold-down chassis that can be easily stored. It has a big basket as well as plenty of cups for snacks, drinks, and baby gear. The padded seat is comfortable for long journeys and the tagless smooth-touch fabric is machine washable. It's FAA approved and comes with the safety harness which is secured at or below the shoulders of your baby and includes a SafeCell crumple zone that protects them in the event of a crash.
A good travel system will also be easy to push, and our top picks all come with rubber tires and one, swivel front wheel that can be used to navigate busy roads and sidewalks. The Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo and the BOB Alterrain Pro are all easy-gliding and come with useful features like one-hand braking and an ample storage basket.
Easy to Store
Parents who want their baby to be as comfortable as they can should consider a car seat and stroller combination, whether they are doing errands during the day or going on an outing with the family. Combinations of car seats and strollers are generally easier to maneuver than separate pieces, and most models have convenient features that make them distinct from other models. It's important to remember that the car seat has to be compatible with the stroller for them 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 feature an immediate connection that snaps into place without any straps or a complex installation procedure. This kind of effortless attachment is a major selling point, and it's particularly helpful for families who frequently use ride-share vehicles or public transportation. The Doona is an FAA approved infant car seat that can be converted into stroller with the click of a button. This is a fantastic time-saver and lets you avoid gate-checking your stroller on planes (assuming that you have also purchased an airline chair for your baby) or to get into and out of taxis.
Other car seat and stroller combinations, like the Nuna TRVL, allow parents to remove the infant car seat from the stroller's base and then fold it up into a compact size that can be stored inside the trunk of a vehicle. This is a fantastic feature for busy families and the stroller has a sleek profile with premium fabrics and clever touches such as a built-in drape canopy to protect a snoozing baby.
The ideal 2 in 1 stroller/car seat combination for your family is based on your lifestyle, plans for growth and your budget. The cheapest models tend to be frame strollers that can fit a child car seat with a small amount of space. Higher-end combos will include the toddler seat, twin stroller, or more advanced features. You can be assured that the stroller meets all safety requirements.
Easy to carry
Car seat/stroller combos are ideal option for families who wish to avoid having to check gate-check the infant car seat when flying They're also great for those who utilize public transportation and ride-shares frequently. These strollers and cars seats are easy to carry and are perfect for parents who prefer their hands free when traveling with their children.
When choosing the best 2 in 1 stroller car seat, choose one that's lightweight and compact. These types of strollers roll more smoothly and are easier to push on different terrains. The smaller frames make it easier to put the car seat into the trunk or the back of the car.
Many of the most sought-after and highly rated car seats/strollers combinations are light, compact, and feature foldable wheels to make it easy to store. The Cosco Finale 2-in-1, for example is a standard seat that can convert into a booster once the child no longer needs an infant carrier. It's affordable, lightweight (12 pounds) and comes with LATCH straps that are user-friendly (we didn't score it as a top pick for ease of installation).
The Doona is a different 2 in 1 stroller/car seat worth to be mentioned. It's a unique piece of equipment since it can be converted from a rear facing infant car seat into a stroller simply by pressing on a button. This allows you to avoid the hassle of removing your car seat from its base, and it allows you to navigate the stairs or get into and out taxis without having your car seat stowed.
Doonas are a fantastic option for those on a budget, particularly first-time parents. It's less expensive than a year's gym membership and provides parents with peace of mind knowing that their child is safe traveling.
Many families opt for a two-piece stroller/car seat system in the event that they have decided on a specific type of infant carrier or plans to have multiple children. If that's 2 in 1 pram , make sure you go over the specifications of the product to ensure your chosen stroller and car seat will work in tandem. You may want to consider purchasing an adapter to fit your preferred combination.
Easy to Fold
Car seat and stroller combos are a great choice for parents looking for one piece of baby gear that can serve multiple purposes. They can easily be converted from a car seat to stroller, and reverse the process. They are also easier to maneuver than two piece travel systems. Stanton says that they are designed to be more compact. "They contain a lot fewer moving parts, which makes them more compact to fold, carry and use."
These strollers and car seats for infants are lighter than two-piece models, and they can be easily carried in trunks that are small. They also have more space for cargo and more practical features like cup holders and sun shades. Some have a swivel wheel on the front, which is great for navigating busy streets and shopping centers.
Some brands, such as Doona provide a stroller and baby car seat that can be used in conjunction. These are especially beneficial for parents who take public transportation or rideshares, or who change caregivers frequently. This model is a rear-facing child car seat with wheels that can be transformed into a stroller.
Other brands, such as the Evenflo Shyft DualRide, allow you to insert the car seat, and then unfold it into a stroller. This model isn't as sleek as Doona however, you can remove the car seat without having to click into the base.
Check if the stroller and infant seat combination you are considering can accommodate your preferred brand of car seat. If it's compatible, you are likely to enjoy a longer life out of the product because it will continue to be able to work with your child once they are no longer in the infant car seat.
It's important to know that certain stroller and car seat combinations don't perform very well in our ease of use tests. This could be due to a design that creates difficulty or isn't convenient to climb stairs, or due to the weight of the car seat and stroller could make it difficult to push across different terrains. It's worth reading our review to determine which model is the best for you.