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 click together easily," advises Stanton. This helps reduce the risk of errors during installation and removal.
One option that can do this is the Doona that effortlessly transforms from a car seat into a stroller and frees up trunk space. Reviewers on the internet say it feels substantial, but they also love its simplicity of use and its functionality.
Easy to Assemble
A car seat and stroller combination is a great option for parents who want to avoid the hassle of switching between the two. It's also an ideal choice for those who regularly use rideshares or public transportation as well as parents who change caregivers. "These are a single item and the wheels are connected to the car seat, which means they're more naturally mobile," says Stanton. However, she adds that it's essential to ensure that your car seat is properly secured when you use it with a travel system. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and your vehicle owner's manual to ensure an appropriate fit she advises.
In our tests, we found that the top stroller and car seat combinations have a simple click-in connection that requires minimal effort beyond shifting the carrier from one location to another. They scored higher in comparison to models with more complicated connections because they require less pressure and provide fewer opportunities for errors, whether deliberate or accidental. For instance, we like that the UPPAbaby Vista Combo has a simple drop-in attachment that has straps and no straps. It also has an indicator on the base of the car seat that indicates when it's level.
The Doona All in-One Stroller for Infants is simple to set up and move from stroller to vehicle. It's a seamless transformation that frees up trunk space to shop and run errands. It also features a swivel front wheel that offers an excellent maneuverability, even when the seat is in place.
Another option is Britax B Lively & B Safe Gen2 Travel System. It has a springy chassis and an enormous one-hand fold chassis for easy storage. It comes with a large storage basket as well as plenty of cup holders for drinks, snacks, and baby gear. The cushioned seat makes it ideal for long journeys and the tagless smooth touch knit fabric is machine washed. It's FAA-approved and includes a safety harness that locks at or below the shoulders of your baby and has a SafeCell crumple zone that protects them in the event of an accident.
A great travel system should also be easy to push. Our top picks feature rubber tires and a single, rotating wheel at the front for navigating busy sidewalks and streets. The Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo and the BOB Alterrain Pro are all smooth-gliding and have useful features such as one-hand braking and an ample storage basket.
Easy to Store
Parents who want their baby to be as comfortable as they can will be better off with a stroller and car seat combination, regardless of whether they are running errands or taking a family trip. Stroller-car seat combos are simpler to maneuver than separate items, and many models are equipped with features that distinguish them from the rest. 2 in 1 stroller Pushchairs & Prams is important to keep in mind that the car seat and stroller need to be compatible in order to work. The manufacturer of the car seat should provide guidelines on what strollers can be used with their product. A quick search online can help you narrow down your choices.
Certain strollers and car seats have an attachment that snaps into place without the need for straps or complicated installation. This kind of effortless attachment is a big selling point, and is especially beneficial for families who frequently utilize ride-share vehicles or public transportation. The Doona, for example, 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 allows you to avoid having to check your stroller's gate on planes (assuming you've purchased an airline chair for your child), or to jump in and out of taxis.
Other stroller-car seat combos like the Nuna TrVL let parents remove the infant car seat from the base of the stroller, and fold it easily into a compact package which can be stored into the trunk. This is another great feature for busy families and the stroller itself has a sleek profile with premium fabrics and clever touches, like a built-in drape canopy to protect a snoozing baby.
In the end, the ideal 2 in 1 stroller car seat for your family will be contingent on your personal preferences and growth plans and your budget. The most affordable models will likely be frame strollers that fit in a car seat and have minimal extra space, while higher-end combos may include twin strollers and have more advanced features. Whatever you choose you can be sure that the car seat and stroller will meet the highest standards of safety.
Easy to carry
These combinations are perfect for families who want to avoid checking the gate of an infant car seat when flying. They are also ideal for people who frequently use public transportation and ride-shares. These car seats and strollers are simple to transport and move on the go and are perfect for parents who want their hands off when traveling with their children.
Choose a light and compact 2 in 1 stroller/car seat. These options roll more smoothly and can be easier to push on different terrains. Additionally, the smaller frames can aid in getting the car seat into and out of a trunk or the rear of a vehicle.
A few of the most well-known car seat/stroller combinations are lightweight, compact and feature folding casters that can be stored easily. The Cosco Finale 2-in-1 for instance, is a simple seat that can be converted into a booster when the child no longer requires an infant carrier. It's reasonably priced, light (12 pounds) and has LATCH straps that are relatively simple to use (we didn't score it as the best option for its ease of installation).
Other 2 in 1 stroller car seats include the Doona It's a standout because it's a single piece equipment that transitions from a rear-facing infant car seat to a stroller in a few clicks. This allows you to avoid the step of getting your car seat removed from its base. It also allows you to navigate stairs or get in taxis without having your car seat stored.
Doonas are an excellent affordable option, especially for first-time parents. It's less than the cost of a year's gym membership, and it provides new parents with assurance that they have safe travel gear for their baby.
Many families opt for two-piece stroller/car seat systems when they're deciding on a particular brand of infant carrier or plans to have more than one child. If that's the case, be sure to read the product specs to ensure your chosen stroller and car seat will work in tandem. You may want to consider purchasing an adapter that will fit your desired combination.
Easy to Fold
Car seat and stroller combos are an excellent choice for parents looking for only one piece of baby gear which can perform multiple functions. They are able to easily switch from a car seat to a stroller and back again, and they're generally more maneuverable than two-piece travel systems. "They're designed to be more naturally mobile," says Stanton. "They contain a lot fewer moving parts, which makes them easy to fold, transport and use."
In addition, these types of strollers and infant car seats are usually lighter than two-piece ones and can fit into small trunks, making them easy to carry around. These strollers and infant car seats are generally lighter and come with more convenient features, including sun shades and cup holders. Some models have a swivel wheel on the front, which is ideal for navigating busy streets and shopping centers.
Some brands, like Doona provide a stroller and infant car seat that can be used in conjunction. These are especially useful for parents who use rideshares or public transportation, or who have to change caregivers frequently. This model is essentially an automobile seat that is rear-facing on wheels, and the wheels lower to make an infant stroller when you decide to use it.
Other brands, like the Evenflo Shyft DualRide, allow you to click on the car seat and fold it up into a stroller. It's not 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 consider whether a particular stroller or infant car seat combination can fit your preferred car seat brand. If the stroller and infant car seat are compatible, then you can expect a more durable product that will be able to work with your child after they've outgrown their car seats for infants.
However, it's important to note that some stroller and car seat combos aren't performing well in our tests for ease of use. This could be because of the design that makes it difficult to climb stairs or due to the weight and size of the stroller/car seat can make it difficult to push. It's worth reading our review to find out which option is the best one for you.