A 2 in 1 Travel System With Car Seat
A two-in-one travel system with car seat provides parents with the convenience of having an infant car seat and stroller that work together. However they can be costly.
These combos let parents easily move a child asleep from the car to the stroller and reverse the process, without disturbing them. This is a great option for families that are constantly in motion.
Comfort
If you're looking for a simple method to move your baby from car to stroller without awakening them, a travel system with an infant stroller seat and a stroller car seat may be just the thing you're looking for. In contrast to stroller-only combos, these all-in-ones typically include an infant car seat as well as stroller that connect and are suitable for toddlers and newborns. Many of the car seat-and-stroller combos on our list have bassinet attachments as well and can be a safe alternative to a stroller for walks during naptime.
While a 2-in-1 travel system with a car seat might cost more than separate items but you'll probably save time and money by purchasing them as a set. And if you decide later that the stroller and car seat aren't quite right for your family, most brands have adaptors that let you to use the car seat with a stroller (provided it is tall and weighs the same requirements).
When shopping for a travel set, be aware that a majority of them come with an infant car-seat as well as stroller designed to work together. These are meant to be used during the first year. If you plan on keeping the car seat after this period you should choose a model that includes a convertible car seat that can be used for toddlers and has a higher maximum weight.
Certain travel systems also come with a second seat that can serve as a booster seat for older children. This is a wonderful feature, but it may not be appropriate for your lifestyle.
If you're looking to purchase a travel system that will last for a few years, take a look at our top picks for car seats and strollers. Our top choices, which have been tested by our editors, such as the UPPAbaby PIPA car seat and Vista stroller combo come with a variety of features that will help you and your baby remain comfortable. These products have springy all-wheel suspension that smooths the ride and the PIPA car seat comes with an inbuilt drape canopy that is perfect for protecting a snoozing child. These seats also come with rigid LATCH connectors that can be used on cars that don't have a base. This makes them a great option for families who regularly use ride-sharing services or have two vehicles.
Convenience
Car seat/stroller combos are ideal for parents who often run the errands of their children or take them out on public transport such as trains and buses. You can easily move your sleeping baby from the car to a stroller without disturbing or wake them up.
Some of the best strollers and car seat combinations allow you to transform them into a double as your family expands. 2 in 1 buggy love the Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo which comes with an infant car seat and stroller that snap into place, instantly transforming them into a sleek chariot that can accommodate two. This feature is crucial when you intend to use the car seat as the baby's sole car seat.
Other stroller and car seat combos have more complex conversion methods that may require you to manually connect the infant car seat onto the stroller, or use the straps that attach to the base to secure it. In our tests this method, it was more difficult to master than the one-step procedure of the Doona. If you misplace or forget the straps, it may pose a safety hazard.
A combination of a car seat and stroller is a great option but you must think about whether the strollers and infant car seats can be used together for as long as you require them to. The majority of car seat/stroller combos use rear-facing only infant car seats that are made to be used until your child turns 1. These car seats don't snap onto a stroller when they're no longer needed in the car. Some all-in-one car seats/strollers product, such as Doona can be used as car seats for toddlers with a seatbelt booster after your child has outgrown the car seat for infants, however, it is too large to fit into most conventional strollers.
The ideal combination is an infant car seat and a stroller for newborns to early childhood. If your child is out of the infant car seat you can change the travel system to an extra large stroller that can be used by older children and toddlers. Also, remember that you should always ensure your infant car seat is fitted properly and never remove it from the vehicle without taking off the straps first.
Safety
The combination of a car seat and stroller allows you to easily transfer infants from a vehicle to a stroller and reverse the process without disrupting or waking them. This is particularly useful when you're running errands or traveling, says Rothman. To ensure extra security, opt for a car seat which attaches to a stroller using the rigid LATCH system or a click-on system. This will ensure that the car seat will be safe while being used and won't fall off or become loose during transit. Combinations of car seat and stroller that can be used without or with the base are also an excellent option for vehicles that ride-share.
When looking for a new stroller, make sure you know the age and weight limits of both the car seat and the stroller. The majority of the infant car seats included in these systems are rear-facing and are only designed for use during the first 12 months of your child's life. These car seats can be changed into a forward-facing car seat that can be used in a vehicle or converted into a stroller. Stanton advises parents to be aware of all labels and directions particularly when it's time to make sure that your child's weight and height requirements for both the car seat and the stroller.
While some parents prefer to purchase separate products to create their own travel systems, others prefer pre-packaged stroller and car seats it is not unusual to find companies that to offer these sets. These sets are typically less expensive than buying them separately. Sets such as UPPAbaby's popular Vista stroller and Mesa infant car seats are sought after. The stroller has smooth riding with suspension that is all-wheel and springy, and a large basket to store all your baby's gear. The car seat is low profile and has a SafeCell crumple zone for extra protection. The SafeCenter LATCH makes it easy to put in. The car seat features a four-position headrest, four harness heights and a padded insert for your child's comfort. It is easy to clean and features a 1-hand fold, making it convenient to store.
Style
While it's tempting to buy a travel system for the convenience of moving your baby from stroller to car and back again without waking them up, that's not the only reason to think about one. You also want to choose one that's elegant, well-balanced, and has a number of other features that make it comfortable for your child and yourself.
The best travel systems best include an infant car stroller, car seat, and stroller base in one package to allow you to transition from your car to the street. They typically feature a one-piece infant car seat that snaps easily into a stroller that is compatible and some include a bassinet attachment for strolls during nap time (safety research has shown that babies sleep best when in a reclined position).
Strollers and infant car seats that are compatible with 2-in-1 travel systems are lightweight, durable, and easy to fold and maneuver. Make sure you choose models with rubber tires and a swivel wheel at the front for city streets as well as a large basket for cargo, and can accommodate multiple shopping bags. Also, you should consider how compact the car seat and stroller are when they're folded for ease of storage.
Some travel systems allow you to change the infant car seat included with a toddler car seat once your child is no longer using it. This allows for an additional two years of use. This is a great option when you plan to use the car seat for more than a year, or if your partner frequently uses ride-share services or commutes by bus or train.
Graco's All-in-One Car Seat and Stroller is a top choice for families who want an all-in-one solution. It's simple to transfer from the car seat to the stroller, and back, thanks to the LATCH system that locks the seat quickly and safely in your car. It's also certified for air travel so you can board and off public transportation with ease. The All-in-One Car Seat & Stroller can be converted to a double stroller so you can take your child on excursions around the world. It comes in a variety of vibrant colors that match any outfit.