A 2 in 1 Travel System
If you want to get around with ease or want to create a modern take on a pram, an automobile seat and stroller combination is the best option. Make sure to check the specifications to ensure that your car seat and stroller are compatible, or you can consider buying an adaptor.
Editor-tested travel systems let you move your sleeping newborn seamlessly from the car to the stroller without disturbing them. Some also come with a carrycot to allow for natural sleep.
Car Seat
A 2 in 1 travel set comes with a stroller and a baby car seat that snap together. This is a great solution for parents who frequently make errands, or take their child on rides or public transport. "You will have less gear to contend with," explains Graco spokesperson Rachel Stanton. "And it's great for families who alternate between carpooling with other moms and using public transportation."
The best option is the Doona infant car seat and latch base, which has an astounding 90 percent of five-star reviews on Amazon. It's a rear-facing car seat that converts into a jogging stroller that rolls in a matter of seconds. The wheels fold down underneath, and it's compact when not in use. The Doona can also be attached to a car's backseat with the LATCH base, which is rigid, or to taxi-safe belt routes, making it a great choice for city families and commuters.
The Mamas and Papas Pramette is yet another great car seat/stroller combo, with the pram having the hood as well as a front seat that open to allow you to lie your child down for naps or for feedings. It comes with a large basket and cup holders for all of your baby's necessities, plus a parent tray and sun shade. The stroller seat is able to recline in various positions and even flat, so your baby will be able to relax on every ride.
The weight and height limits are also important. Also, think about whether the infant car seat can only be used with a backseat belt or in the event that it comes with a strong LATCH system integrated into. Also look for a lock on the handle to keep it secure in place, as well as the ability to tilt the handle toward the rear seatback for an anti-rebound bar.
Travel systems are only suitable for infant car seats. Extended- 2 in 1 stroller with car seat which can be turned forward-facing later, do not snap into strollers. Many moms opt to purchase a separate car seat and stroller when their child is no longer in an infant seat.
Stroller
A stroller is a crucial piece of equipment for any new parent. Some travel systems have a baby pram which can be converted into a comfortable carrycot for infants. This is perfect for parents who do not want to disturb their infant while traveling. Depending on the brand it may also come with the option of a stroller and car seat combination that can be connected to each other. This lets you keep your child in the car seat while you transfer them to the stroller without disrupting them.
A good stroller needs to include plenty of features to make it functional and easy to use. It should have a large basket where you can store essentials like nappies, toys and snacks and be capable of reclining to give your baby a restful and comfortable sleep. It should also include a sturdy canopy to shield your baby from the sun, and a lockable front wheel for added safety. Additionally it should be light and fold compactly for storage or transporting to and from the car.
Travel system strollers that have been tested by editors, like the UPPAbaby Cruz v2 Combo and Chicco Keyfit Caddy, offer convenience due to their ability to connect with various top car seats. These car seats snap onto the frame to be attached and folded quickly. Some models have one wheel on each leg, making them easier to maneuver and roll across different surfaces.
A stroller should be able to function through toddlerhood and beyond if you need it to to transport your child to and from school or to play dates, activities and so on. For this reason, consider a model that has an opening that allows your child to face the world (and reclines) after your child has outgrown the car seat.
If you are planning to use your 2-in-1 travel system in public transport, choose a model that has an ISOFIX base. This will ensure that it is safe for you to hop on and off buses or trains. Some models, like the Doona can be mounted on planes and trains to make travelling with your baby easier.