Car Seat and Stroller Combos
The most effective car seat stroller combinations are so simple to connect that it's like they're doing it themselves. Stanton advises: "Look for a base that is simple to click together with the carrier." This will reduce the risk of mistakes that could occur during the installation process and detachment.
One option that can do this is the Doona that seamlessly converts from a car seat into a stroller and helps to free up space in the trunk. Online reviewers note that it is hefty however they also appreciate its ease of use and its functionality.
Easy to Assemble
Parents who don't want to switch between car seats and strollers often will find a combination of both appealing. It also makes sense for those who frequently use public transportation or rideshares as well as those who switch between caregivers. "These are a single item and the wheels are attached to the car seat, which means they're more easily mobile," says Stanton. Stanton stresses the need to ensure that the car seat is secured properly when using a travel system. She advises you to follow the manufacturer's instructions and your vehicle's owner's manual to ensure a secure fit.
In our tests, we discovered that the top stroller and car seat combos come with a simple click-in connector that requires no effort beyond shifting the carrier from one to another. These models scored higher compared to those with more complex connections because they require less pressure and have fewer opportunities for errors, whether deliberate or accidental. We like, for example, that the UPPAbaby Vista Combo is a simple drop-in attachment, which does not require straps and has a gauge on the bottom of the car seat which indicates when the seat is leveled properly.
Similarly, the Doona All-in-One Stroller for Infants is easy to set up and move from car to stroller. It's a seamless change that frees up trunk space for shopping and errands. It also has an swivel front wheel that offers an excellent maneuverability, even when the seat is attached.
Another alternative is Britax B Lively and B Safe Gen2 Travel System. It has an elongated chassis that is springy and an enormous one-hand fold chassis for easy storage. It comes with a large basket, as well as plenty of cup holders to store snacks, drinks, and baby gear. The padded seat is comfortable for long journeys and the tagless smooth-touch knit fabric is machine washable. It is FAA-approved, and comes with an safety strap that is secured below or at the shoulders of your baby. It also comes with a SafeCell Crumple Zone to safeguard them if they are in a crash.
A good travel system should be easy to push. Our top picks have rubber tires and a single, pivoting wheel in the front to navigate busy sidewalks and streets. The Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo, the BOB Alterrain Pro, and the Baby Jogger City Mini GT 2 Combo all glide smoothly and feature useful features, like one-hand braking and a spacious storage basket.
Easy to store
Parents who want their child to be as comfortable as they can will be better off with a car seat stroller combination, whether they are doing errands during the day or planning an excursion with the family. Stroller and car seat combinations are usually more maneuverable than separate pieces, and a lot of models have convenient features that make them stand out from the competition. It's important to remember that the car seat has to be compatible with the stroller for them to work. The car seat manufacturer should provide guidelines for strollers that can be used with their product. A quick search online can help you narrow your choices.
Some strollers and carseats come with a direct attachment that snaps into place without the need for straps or a complicated installation. This kind of effortless attachment is a big selling point, and it's especially beneficial for families who frequently use ride-share vehicles or public transportation. The Doona is an FAA approved infant car seat that can be converted into stroller with the press of a button. This is a time-saving feature and helps you avoid gate-checking your stroller on planes (assuming that you've also purchased an airline chair for your infant), or to jump in and out of taxis.
Other stroller and car seat combos, like the Nuna TRVL, permit parents to remove the infant carrier from the base of the stroller and easily fold it into a compact package that fits in the trunk of a car. This is a fantastic feature for families with busy schedules and the stroller has a sleek design with premium fabrics and smart touches such as a built-in drape canopy to protect a snoozing baby.
Ultimately, the best 2 in 1 stroller car seat for your family will be contingent on your personal preferences and growth plans and budget. The most affordable models are likely to be frame strollers that fit a car seat with little extra space, whereas more expensive models may include a toddler seat or a twin strollers, and include more advanced features. You can be assured that the stroller is compliant with all safety standards.
Easy to Carry
Car seat/stroller combos are a ideal option for families who are looking to avoid the hassle of gate-checking the infant car seat when flying and are also ideal for those who utilize ride-shares and public transportation frequently. These strollers and car seats are easy to transport and are perfect for parents who prefer their hands off when traveling with their children.
Look for a lightweight and compact 2 in 1 stroller/car seat. These types of strollers are more comfortable to use and can be easier to push over 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.
Some of the most popular car seats/strollers are lightweight, compact and feature foldable casters for easy storage. The Cosco Finale 2-in-1 for example is a standard seat that can convert into a booster once the child no more requires an infant carrier. It's lightweight (12 pounds) and has LATCH straps which are relatively simple to use.
Other 2 in 1 stroller car seats include the Doona It's a standout because it's a single piece of equipment that converts from a rear-facing infant car seat to a stroller with just a few clicks. This allows you to skip the step of removing the seat from its base and makes it easier to navigate stairs or hop into taxis without having to put away the car seat.
The Doona is a budget-friendly choice that is particularly appealing to parents who are just starting out. It costs less than a year's gym membership and provides parents with peace of mind knowing their baby is safe when traveling.
Many families choose a two-piece stroller/car seat system when they're deciding on a specific type of infant carrier or have plans to have multiple children. If this is the case, be sure to read the specifications to ensure that your stroller and car seats are compatible. Consider buying an adapter that will fit the combination you want.
Easy to Fold
The stroller and car seat combination is a great option for parents who are looking for a single piece that can be used for a variety of purposes. They can easily transition from being a car seat to a stroller, and back to a car seat, and are usually easier to maneuver than two-piece travel systems. Stanton says they're made to be lighter and more portable. "They have fewer moving parts, making them more compact to fold, use, and transport."
Additionally, these types of strollers and infant car seats are typically lighter than two-piece options and can be tucked away in small trunks, making them simple to transport. They also come with an extra cargo basket and more useful features such as sun shades and cup holders. Some have a swivel wheels on the front, which is ideal for navigating busy streets and stores.
Certain brands, such as Doona offer a stroller as well as an infant car seats that can be used together. two in one pram are especially useful for parents who plan to take advantage of rideshares and public transportation, or who change caregivers frequently. This model is essentially a rear-facing car seat on wheels, and the wheels can be lowered to become a stroller when you wish to use it.
Certain brands, such as the Evenflo Shyft DualRide allow you to insert the car seat into the frame and then unfold it into a stroller. It's not as sleek as Doona however it allows you to remove the car seat from the frame without needing to insert it into the base.
It is also important to consider whether a particular stroller and infant car seat combo will fit your preferred car seat brand. If the stroller and infant car seat are compatible, you can expect a longer-lasting product as it will be able to work with your child after they have outgrown the infant car seats.
It's also important to note that some stroller and car seat combos do not perform well in our ease-of-use tests. This could be because of an design that makes it difficult to navigate stairs, or the weight and size of the car seat may make it difficult to push. In any situation, it's worth checking through our reviews to find the most suitable solution for you.