Car Seat and Stroller Combos
The most reliable car seat stroller combos are so easy to attach that it almost feels like they're doing it themselves. "Look for an appropriate base and a carrier that snap together easily," advises Stanton. This will reduce the chance of mistakes during installation and removal.
One option that accomplishes this is the Doona that seamlessly converts from car seat to stroller, and also frees up trunk space. Online reviews praise the Doona's versatility and user-friendliness, but they also praise its robust feel.
Easy to Assemble
Parents who do not want to switch between strollers and car seats often find a mix of both attractive. This is also a good option for parents who use rides or public transportation frequently as well as those who switch caregivers. Stanton states that since they're one item and the wheels are attached the car seats are more easily portable. However, she adds that it's crucial to ensure that the car seat is properly secured when you use it with a travel system. She says to always adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines and the owner's manual for your vehicle to ensure a secure fit.
In our tests, the top stroller-car seat combos feature simple click-in connections, which requires little effort, other than moving the carrier from one place to another. These models scored better than those with more complicated connections, because they require less pressure and provide the least chance of making mistakes (intentional or accidental). For example, we like the fact 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 shows when it is level.
The Doona All-in-One Stroller for Infants is also easy to install and switch from car to stroller. It's a seamless transformation that frees up trunk space for shopping and errands. It also has an adjustable front wheel that offers an excellent maneuverability even when the seat is attached.
Another option is Britax B Lively and B Safe Gen2 Travel System. It has an elongated chassis that is springy and a large one-hand fold chassis that can be easily stored. It has a large basket, as well as plenty of cups to hold snacks, drinks and baby equipment. The cushioned seat makes it ideal for long journeys and the tagless smooth knit fabric can be machine washed. It's FAA-approved and includes the safety harness which is secured at or below the shoulders of your baby and has a SafeCell crumple zone that protects them in the event of an accident.
A good travel system must be simple to push. Our top picks feature rubber tires and a single, pivoting wheel in the front to navigate busy streets and sidewalks. The Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo, the BOB Alterrain Pro, and the Baby Jogger City Mini GT 2 Combo all glide effortlessly and feature useful features, like one-hand braking as well as a large storage basket.
Easy to Store
Parents who want their baby to be as comfortable as they can will be better off with a car seat stroller combination, regardless of whether they are running errands for the day or taking an outing with the family. Stroller-car seat combos are easier to move than separate items, and a number of models are equipped with features that distinguish them from other strollers. But, it is crucial to keep in mind that the car seat and stroller must be compatible in order to work. 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 you find the right stroller.
Certain strollers and car seats have an attachment that snaps in place without the need for additional straps or complicated installation. This kind of simple attachment is a major selling point for families that frequently take public transport or ride-share vehicles. The Doona, for example, is an FAA-approved infant car seat that can transition into a stroller at the push of a button. 2 in 1 stroller with car seat is a great time-saver and helps you avoid gate-checking your stroller on planes (assuming you've purchased an airline chair for your child) or to hop in and out of a taxi.
2 in 1 stroller with car seat and car seat combinations, like the Nuna TRVL, allow parents to remove the infant car seat from the stroller's base and easily fold it into a compact package that fits into the trunk of a vehicle. This is a great feature for busy families, and the stroller itself has a sleek profile with premium fabrics and smart touches such as a built-in drape canopy that can protect a sleepy baby.
The best 2 in 1 stroller car seat for your family will be contingent on your lifestyle and plans for growth and budget. The most affordable options will likely be frame strollers that can fit in a car seat and have the smallest amount of space. On the other hand, more expensive combos could include twin stroller and offer more advanced features. You can be sure that the stroller meets all safety requirements.
Easy to Carry
These combinations are perfect for families that want to avoid the hassle of checking the gate for the infant car seat while flying. They are also ideal for those who regularly use public transportation or ride-shares. These strollers and car seats are easy to transport, making them perfect for parents who prefer their hands free while traveling with their children.
Find a light and compact 2 in 1 stroller/car seat. These models tend to move more smoothly, which could make them easier to push through different terrains. The smaller frames allow for easier placement of the car seat in a trunk or the back of the car.
Some of the most popular car seat/stroller combinations are light and compact, and come with folding casters that can be stored easily. For instance, the Cosco Finale 2-in-1 is a no-frills seat that can be converted from a five-point harness that is rear-facing to an infant booster when children are no longer in a baby carrier. It's light (12 pounds) and comes with LATCH straps which are relatively simple to use.
Other 2 in 1 stroller car seats include the Doona It's unique because it's a single piece equipment that converts from an infant car seat that faces rearwards to a stroller in just a few clicks. This allows you to avoid the step of removing your car seat from its base, and it makes it easier for you to navigate up taxis without having your car seat stored.
Doonas are an excellent affordable option, especially for new parents. It's less expensive than the cost of an annual gym membership, and it gives parents assurance that they'll have a safe and secure travel kit for their infant.
Many families opt for two-piece stroller/car seat systems in the event that they have decided on a specific model of infant carrier or plans to have several children. If this is the case, be sure to read the specifications to ensure that your car seats and strollers will work in tandem. Consider buying an adapter to match the combination you want.
Easy to Fold
Car seat and stroller combos are an excellent option for parents who need a single piece of baby gear that can handle multiple functions. They are able to easily convert from a car seat to stroller, and reverse the process. They are also simpler to maneuver than two-piece travel systems. "They're designed to be more easily mobile," says Stanton. "They have less moving parts which makes them easier to fold, use, and carry."
Additionally, these kinds of strollers and car seats for infants are generally lighter than two-piece ones and fit in smaller trunks, making them simple to transport. These strollers and infant car seats are generally lighter and have more convenient features, like sun shades and cup holders. Some models have a swivel wheel at the front, which is ideal for navigating busy streets and shopping centers.
Certain brands, such as Doona offer a stroller as well as an infant car seat that can be used together. They are especially useful parents who plan to use rideshares or public transportation, or who switch between caregivers often. This model is basically an automobile seat that is rear-facing on wheels, and the wheels drop down to become a stroller when you want to use it.
Some brands, like the Evenflo Shyft DualRide allow you to click the car seat in and then unfold it into a stroller. This model is not as sleek as Doona however you can take out the car seat without needing to click into its base.
It is also important to consider whether a particular stroller or infant car seat combo can accommodate the car seat you prefer. If the stroller and infant car seat are compatible, you can expect a more durable product since it will work with your child even after they've outgrown their infant car seats.
It is important to be aware that certain stroller and car seats don't perform very well in our ease of use tests. This could be due to a design which makes it difficult to navigate stairs or due to the weight and size of the car seat could make it more difficult to push. It's worth reading our reviews to determine which model is the best for you.