Car Seat and Pram 2 in 1
Transitions are the name of the game in the parenthood. Everyday, thousands of parents go through transitions from home to the car to an appointment, and back.
One of the most efficient ways to simplify your travels is to purchase an infant capsule and pram in 1. These are usually suitable from birth and then convert into a stroller once your child has outgrown the car seat.
Easy to transport
Doona is a brand new take on stroller and car seat combination that can be transformed from a car seat into a stroller by simply unfolding it. It only takes seconds to transform from the car to the sidewalk. This is great for city dwellers or those who regularly use public transportation. It's also less bulky than a two-piece system, which makes it easy to store and transport to an aircraft.
It is recommended to select a car seat or a pram 2 in 1 that will fit your lifestyle. Consider things like how often you'll use the stroller and whether you'll need a basket, or tray for your child's meals and drinks. Also, be aware of your child's weight and height to ensure that the combination will be suitable for them.
The parenting experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute regularly test and evaluate hundreds of products designed for babies and children including strollers, carseats, and baby sleep surfaces. Our experts review these items based on safety and design, as well as ease of use and usability. Our rating system includes individual ratings, a summary score which compares the rating of the entire item to the other items in a rating category and a final score. The Good Housekeeping Institute provides parents with the tools necessary to keep their children safe and content.
A car seat and pram 2 in 1 that have the highest safety rating is crucial for family road trips. The car seat should be secured to the vehicle with the latch system. The base of the stroller must be connected to it using rigid LATCH connectors. Before every use, it's a great idea to read the instructions from the manufacturer on installation and removal. If you have a stroller and car seat from different brands, you might need to purchase an adaptor to put them together.
When shopping for a stroller and car combination, remember that only infant Group 0+ seats can be snapped into the stroller. If you're looking for a stroller that can accommodate older children, select one that comes with an infant seat or carrycot. While some car seat/stroller combos are no-frills but you can also go for models with extra features such as a large canopy and cup holders for parents.
Easy to store
A travel system is a complete stroller and car seat that includes everything you require to carry your child. Look for a stroller with an easy-to-folding design and plenty of storage space. You can also purchase a stroller that has extra features, such as an organizer for parents or cup holders. Certain stroller and car seats are more expensive than others, but the investment is worth it if you're planning on taking your baby out for a walk regularly.
The most efficient car seat and stroller combinations have sleek, compact designs that make them easy to transport and store when not in use. Check the specs to see the weight of each piece and how large their storage capacity is. Idealy, both pieces should be able to fit in your trunk or the back of your car. You may want to get a stroller travel case to keep it safe during transport.
For instance, the Nuna PIPA infant car seat and base is our top pick for stroller and car seat combos because it's a single unit that doesn't require a car seat adapter to connect to a standard vehicle. 2 in 1 pram integrated into the base allow it fit into vehicles of various dimensions and shapes. It even comes with an integrated drape canopy to safeguard your baby's sleep.
Another option is the Doona, which is essentially an infant car seat that has wheels. It unfolds from the base to become a stroller and then folds down to return to its car-friendly location in just a few seconds. This makes it a more portable option than two-piece car seat and stroller combinations, but you'll need an adapter in case your baby's favorite brand of car seat isn't compatible with the Doona.
Easy to install
The first few weeks following a baby's arrival can be difficult. There are the late-night crying sessions mountains of swamp nappies, and the constant realization that you've missed something. One of the most important items for new parents to do is their car seat and pram combination. They should be easy to install, easy-to use, and elegant.
Some parents opt for two-piece systems that include an infant stroller, an infant carrycot and an additional child car seat. Some parents opt for the three-in-one model that has an infant car seat that can be connected to the stroller chassis. It can be folded flat for more convenient storage. It can be bulkier when compared to a two-piece. However many parents appreciate its sleek design.
If you're looking to purchase a simple system, look for one that has a base which is easily connected to your vehicle with an LATCH connector that is rigid. This will ensure a safe and secure connection, and will also give you peace of mind that the seat is installed correctly. Many brands have instructional videos on installation available on their websites. Once you have successfully connected the car to your stroller it should make a clicking noise to let you know it's securely secured.
The height of the handlebars is another important feature to consider when selecting a car or pram 2 in 1. If you intend to transport your child in the car for a prolonged period of time, you will need handlebars that are high enough that you are able to reach them. If you plan to use public transport often, look for a pram that has swivel wheels or a single-handed folding mechanism to make it easy to collapse to get off and on buses or trains.
Also, make sure that the car seat and pram 2 in one can be used with your vehicle's seat belt. This is especially crucial if the car will be shared with other parents, or if it's used for ride-sharing.
Easy to use
A car seat and stroller combination makes travelling with a baby less stressful especially for parents who are constantly on the move. The stroller can be folded to fit inside the trunk of a car. The car seat snaps onto the frame. It also has an enclosed canopy that can protect babies who are snoozing. It's easy to maneuver and is a great choice for families that travel frequently via train, plane or bus.
Some stroller and car seat combinations have an audible click when connected to the base which makes it easier to ensure that the seat is properly placed. It is nevertheless important to read the instructions thoroughly prior to using the stroller and car seat to ensure they are properly installed. Some brands even have videos on installation that can help you get started.
Most car seat and stroller combos require a little assembly before use, including installing the base in your vehicle and securing the seat to the frame. Some require a little patience and time to figure out how to accomplish this and so it's a good idea to study the instructions before you begin. It's recommended to practice with a partner before you start to use it on your own.
Car stroller and seat combination that has one-step attachments with no straps get our highest scores for their ease of use. This eliminates the extra step to buckle and tighten straps which could lead to errors. This type of connection is also more secure than straps.
The best car seats and stroller combos are simple to maneuver even with a full load of children. Make sure you choose models with rubber tires on the front wheel and are lightweight. Some models have an swivel-wheel on the front, which can help you navigate through narrow aisles and corners. These systems are usually more expensive than car seats but they can save you a lot of time and hassle on busy days.