Car Seat and Stroller Combos
The most effective car stroller and seat combos almost feel like they attach themselves. "Look for a base and carrier that can be easily clicked together," advises Stanton. This reduces the chance of errors that could occur during the installation process and detachment.
One option that accomplishes this is the Doona that effortlessly transforms from car seat to stroller, and also frees up trunk space. Reviewers on the internet say it feels sturdy, but they also love its simplicity of use and functionality.
Easy to Assemble
A stroller and car seat combination is a good option for parents who want to avoid the hassle of switching between the two. It's also a good alternative for parents who utilize rides or public transportation frequently and who switch caregivers. "These are a single piece of equipment and the wheels are attached to the car seat, so they're more naturally mobile," says Stanton. However, she adds, it's important to ensure that your car seat is properly secured when it's used with the travel system. She says to always follow the manufacturer's directions and the owner's manual for your vehicle for an ideal fit.
In our tests, the best stroller-car seat combos have an easy click-in connection that requires no effort, other than moving the car seat from one location to another. They scored better than those with more complex connections, since they require less pressure and offer fewer opportunities for errors (intentional or accidental). We like, for instance, the fact that the UPPAbaby Vista Combo is a simple drop-in attachment that does not require straps, and also has an indicator on the base of the car seat that shows whether the seat is level correctly.
The Doona All-in-One Stroller for Infants it's also simple to set up and move from vehicle into stroller. It's a seamless change that frees up trunk space for shopping and other errands. It also has a swivel steering wheel at the front that permits excellent maneuverability even with a seat attached.
Another alternative is the Britax B-Lively and B-Safe Gen2 Travel Systems with springy suspension as well as a large, one-hand fold chassis for easy storage. It comes with a large storage basket, as well as plenty of cup holders for snacks, drinks and baby gear. Its padded seat is comfortable for long rides and the tagless smooth-touch fabric is machine washable. It's FAA approved and comes with a safety harness that locks at or below your baby's shoulders and comes with a SafeCell crumple zone to protect your child in the event of a crash.
2 in 1 carrycot and pushchair should also be easy to push and, in our top picks, all have rubber tires that have one, swivel front wheel that can be used to navigate busy sidewalks and streets. The Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo and the BOB Alterrain Pro are all smooth-gliding and feature convenient features such as one hand braking and an ample 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 and stroller combination, whether they are running errands or going on an outing with the family. Stroller-car-seat combos are much easier to maneuver than separate items, and a number of models come with convenient features that differentiate them from the competition. But, it is crucial to note that the car seat and stroller have to be compatible for use together. The car seat manufacturer must provide guidelines on what strollers are compatible with their products. A quick search online will help narrow your options.
Some strollers and car seats have a direct connection that snaps in place without any straps or a complex installation procedure. This type of easy attachment is a major benefit for families that frequently use public transportation or ride-share vehicles. The Doona, for example, is an FAA-approved infant car seat that can be converted into a stroller at the push of the button. This is a time-saving feature and helps you avoid having your stroller checked at the gate on planes (assuming that you've also purchased an airline chair for your child), or to jump in and out of a taxi.
Other stroller-car seat combinations like the Nuna TrVL let parents remove the infant car seat from the stroller base, and fold it easily into a compact unit that can be tucked away in the trunk. This is a great feature for families with busy schedules, and the stroller itself is sleek and stylish, with top-quality fabrics and smart features such as a built-in curtain canopy that can protect a sleepy baby.
The ideal 2 in 1, stroller/car seat combination for your family is based on your lifestyle, plans for expansion and your budget. The most affordable models are likely to be frame strollers that can accommodate a car seat for a child with a small amount of space. The more expensive models will have a toddler seat, a twin stroller, or more advanced features. Either way, you can rest assured that the stroller and car seat will be up to the highest standards of safety.
Easy to carry
These combinations are perfect for families that want to avoid the hassle of checking the gate for an infant car seat when flying. They're also great for people who frequently take public transport or ride-sharing services. Car seats and strollers are easy to transport and maneuver around on the go, which makes them ideal for parents who want their hands free when traveling with their kids.
When you're deciding on a 2 in 1 stroller car seat, you should look for one that is lightweight and compact. These models tend to move more smoothly, which can make them easier to push in various terrains. Furthermore, the smaller frames can aid in getting the car seat in and out of a trunk, or the back of a car.
Some of the most popular and highly rated car seat/stroller combinations are light, compact, and feature foldable wheels to make it easy to store. The Cosco Finale 2-in-1, for instance, is a simple seat that can be converted into an infant booster when the child no more requires an infant carrier. It's lightweight (12 pounds) and comes with LATCH straps which are relatively simple to use.
Other 2 in 1 stroller car seats include the Doona that is unique because it's a single piece equipment that transitions from a rear-facing infant car seat to a stroller in just a few clicks. This lets you skip the hassle of getting your car seat removed from its base, and also makes it easier for you to walk up and down stairs or get in taxis without having the car seat in the.
Doonas are an excellent option for those on a budget, particularly new parents. It costs less than a year's gym membership and provides parents with peace of mind knowing their child is secure when traveling.
Many families choose a two-piece stroller/car seat system when they're deciding on an infant carrier of a specific brand or plan to use it for several children. If this is the scenario, be sure to review the specifications of the product to ensure your chosen stroller and car seat will work together. Consider purchasing an adapter that will fit your desired combination.
Easy to Fold
The car seat and stroller combination is an excellent choice for parents who are looking for a single item that can be used for multiple purposes. They can easily transition from a car seat to a stroller and back again, and they're generally easier to maneuver than two-piece travel systems. "They're designed to be more easily mobile," says Stanton. "They have fewer moving parts which makes them easy to fold and use as well as carry."
These car seats and strollers for infants are also lighter than the two-piece options and are easily transported in small trunks. These strollers and infant car seats are generally lighter and have more practical features, including cup holders and sun shades. Some models even come with a swivel front wheel which is great for navigating busy sidewalks and stores.
Certain brands, like Doona offer an all-in-one infant car seat and stroller solutions. These can be particularly helpful for parents who intend to use rideshares or public transportation, or who switch between caregivers often. This model is essentially an automobile seat that is rear-facing on wheels. The wheels lower to make a stroller when you want to use it.
Certain brands, such as the Evenflo Shyft DualRide allow you to click the car seat into the frame and then unfold it as a stroller. The model isn't as sleek as Doona, but it allows you to remove the car seat from the frame without needing to click it into the base.
You should also think about whether a particular stroller and infant car seat combination can fit your preferred car seat brand. If the stroller and infant car seat are compatible, you can anticipate a longer-lasting product that will fit your child after they have outgrown the car seats for infants.
It is important to be aware that some car seats and stroller combinations aren't very effective in our user-friendliness tests. This could be due to an design that creates difficulty or isn't convenient to climb stairs, or due to the weight of the stroller and car seat can make it harder to push across different terrains. It is worth reading our reviews to determine which one is best for you.