Car Seat and Stroller Combos
The most effective car seat stroller combinations are so simple to connect that it almost feels like they do it themselves. "Look for the base and the carrier that click together easily," advises Stanton. This minimizes the potential for errors that can happen during the installation process and detachment.
Doona is one of the options that allows you to accomplish this. It seamlessly transforms from a car seat into a stroller, and it makes space in your trunk. Online reviewers note that it feels sturdy but they also appreciate its simplicity of use and its functionality.
Easy to Assemble
Parents who don't want to switch between strollers and car seats often find a mix of both attractive. It also makes sense for those who regularly take public transportation or rideshares, as well as those who have multiple caregivers. Stanton says that since they're one item and the wheels are attached, the car seats are more portable. However, she says, it's important to ensure that your car seat is securely secured when using it with an electronic travel system. She advises you to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines and the owner's manual for your vehicle for an ideal fit.
In our tests, we found that the best stroller-car seat combinations have simple click-in connections, which requires little effort beyond moving the car seat from one location to another. These models scored higher than those with more complex connections, because they require less pressure and have fewer opportunities for mistakes (intentional or accidental). For instance, we love the fact that the UPPAbaby Vista Combo has a simple, drop-in attachment that requires no straps--and that there's an indicator on the base of the car seat that indicates when it's properly leveled.
The Doona All-in-One Infant Car Seat Stroller is also easy to install and transfer from the car to the stroller. It's a seamless change that frees up trunk space for shopping and other errands. It also comes with an adjustable front wheel that provides an excellent maneuverability, even when the seat is attached.
Another option is the Britax B-Lively & B-Safe Gen2 Travel System that has springy suspension as well as a large, one-hand-fold chassis for easy storage. It comes with a large basket, as well as plenty of cup holders for snacks, drinks and baby equipment. The cushioned seat is comfortable for long trips, and the tagless smooth knit fabric is machine washed. It is FAA-approved and comes with a safety strap that can be locked either below or on your baby's shoulders. It also comes with a SafeCell Crumple Zone to protect your child in the event of an accident.
A good travel system should also be simple to push. Our top picks have rubber tires and a single, swivel wheel on the front to help navigate streets and busy sidewalks. 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
Car seat stroller combos are a great option for parents who want to keep their child as comfortable as they can whether they're running errands or going on an extended family trip. Car seat and stroller combinations are usually more maneuverable than separate pieces, and a lot of models are equipped with convenient features that help them distinct from other models. But, it is crucial to keep in mind that the car seat and stroller need to be compatible in order to work. The car seat manufacturer must provide guidelines on what strollers are compatible with their products. A quick search on the internet will help narrow your choices.
Some strollers and carseats have an immediate attachment that snaps in place without the need for additional straps or complicated installation. This kind of simple attachment is a major selling point, and it's particularly beneficial for families that frequently utilize ride-share vehicles or public transportation. The Doona is an FAA approved infant car seat which can be converted into stroller with the click of a single button. This is a great time-saver and helps you avoid having to check your stroller's gate on planes (assuming that you have also purchased an airline chair for your infant) or to hop into and out of taxis.
Other stroller-car seat combos like the Nuna TrVL allow parents to remove the infant car seat from the base of the stroller, and fold it easily into a compact size that fits inside the trunk. 2 in 1 carrycot and pushchair is a fantastic feature for busy parents. The stroller itself features a sleek design and top quality fabrics as well as smart touches such as a built-in drape canopy that protects a baby who's sleeping.
The ideal 2 in 1, stroller/car seat combination for your family is based on your lifestyle, 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 little space. Higher-end combos will include a toddler seat, twin stroller or more advanced features. You can be certain that the stroller meets all safety standards.
Easy to carry
These combos are ideal for families that want to avoid the hassle of checking the gate for an infant car seat while flying. They are also ideal for people who frequently use public transportation and ride-shares. These car seats and strollers are easy to carry and maneuver on the go, which makes them ideal for parents who need their hands free while traveling with their little ones.
Choose a light and compact 2 in 1 stroller/car seat. These models are more comfortable to use and are easier to push across different terrains. Additionally, the smaller frames can make it easier to get the car seat into and out of a trunk or the back of a car.
Many of the most sought-after and highly rated car seats/strollers combos are lightweight, compact and come with wheels that fold to make it easy to store. The Cosco Finale 2-in-1, for instance is a standard seat that can be converted into a booster when the child no longer needs an infant carrier. It's lightweight (12 pounds) and has LATCH straps that are easy to use.
The Doona is a different 2 in 1 car seat/stroller worth to be mentioned. It's an exceptional piece of equipment since it can be converted from a rear-facing infant car seat to stroller with the click of a button. This lets you skip the step of taking your car seat off its base. It also makes it easier for you to navigate up and out taxis without having to have the car seat stowed.
The Doona is a budget-friendly choice that is a great choice to parents who are just starting out. It costs less than a year's gym membership. It also provides parents with peace of mind knowing their baby is safe when traveling.
Many families choose a two-piece car seat/stroller system if they are set on a particular type of infant carrier or have plans to have more than one child. If this is the case, be sure to read the specifications to ensure that your stroller and car seats are compatible. You may want to consider purchasing an adapter that will fit your desired combination.
Easy to Fold
Car seat and stroller combos are a great choice for parents looking for only one piece of baby gear which can perform multiple functions. They are able to easily convert from a car to a stroller, and reverse. They are also simpler to maneuver than two piece travel systems. Stanton states that they're made to be lighter and more portable. "They have fewer moving parts which makes them easy to fold and use as well as carry."
Additionally, these kinds of strollers and infant car seats are usually lighter than two-piece ones and can be tucked away in small trunks, making them simple to carry around. They also tend to have a larger cargo basket and more convenient features like sun shades and cup holders. Some models even come with a swivel front wheel that's great for navigating crowded streets and stores.
Certain brands, such as Doona offer a stroller as well as an baby car seat that can be used in conjunction. These can be particularly helpful for parents who plan to take advantage of rideshares and public transportation, or switch between caregivers often. This model is a rear-facing car seat that has wheels that can be converted into a stroller.
Some brands, like the Evenflo Shyft DualRide allow you to click the car seat into and then unfold it as a stroller. The model isn't as sleek as Doona however you can take out the car seat without having to click into the base.
Take into consideration whether the stroller and infant seat combination you're considering will work with the car seat you prefer. seat. If it is compatible, you can expect longer-lasting use from the product because it will still be able to work with your child once they grow out of the infant car seat.
It's also important to know that certain car seat and stroller combos don't perform well in our ease-of-use tests. This could be because of a design which makes it difficult to climb stairs or because the weight and size of the stroller/car seat could make it harder to push. It is worth reading our reviews to find out which option is the best one for you.