Car Seat and Pram 2 in 1
Transitions are the main thing to do in parenthood. Every day, thousands of them - from the home to the car, to an appointment, and back to the car.
A capsule and pram 2-in-1 is a great option to simplify your travels. These are ideal from the beginning, and can be transformed into a stroller once your child has outgrown the car seat.
Easy to transport
Doona is a new take on stroller and car seat combinations that can transform from a car seat to stroller by simply folding it. It takes only a few minutes to change from the vehicle to the sidewalk. This is great for city dwellers or those who frequently use public transport. It's also smaller than a two-piece travel system, which makes it easy to store or carry on an aircraft.
It's important to find the right pram and car seat in 1 that will meet your lifestyle needs. You should consider how often you will use the stroller, as well as whether or not you will require a tray or basket for your child's drinks and snacks. It's also worth taking a look at your child's height and weight to ensure the combination is appropriate for them.
The Good Housekeeping Institute parenting pros regularly test and review hundreds of products for infants and young children, such as strollers, carseats, and infant sleep surfaces. Our experts assess the products based on their design, safety, and ease of use. Our rating system includes ratings for each individual item, a summary score that compares the rating of the entire product against all the other items in the category and an overall rating. 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 an extremely high safety rating is vital for family road trips. The car seat must be securely connected to the vehicle with the latch system, and the stroller base must be linked to the car seat with rigid LATCH connectors. It is recommended to follow the manufacturer's instructions on installation and detachment prior to every use. If you have an infant car seat and a stroller of different brands, you might need to purchase an adaptor to use them together.
One thing to be aware of when you're shopping for a car seat and stroller combination is that only Group 0+ infant car seats convert into a stroller. If you're looking for a stroller that can accommodate a toddler who is older ensure you select one with a toddler-sized seat or a carrycot. Some car seat/stroller combinations are straightforward however, you can also select models with extra features like a large canopy or cupholders that can be used by parents.
Easy to store
A travel system is a car-seat and stroller set that includes everything you require for your baby's journey. A stroller that is easy to fold and has ample storage space is the best option. You can also find one that has additional features, such as a parent organizer or cup holders. Certain stroller and car seats are more expensive than others, but the investment is well worth it if you're planning on taking your baby out for a walk regularly.
The most effective car seat and stroller combinations have sleek, compact designs that make them easy to store and move when not in use. Review the specifications to determine how heavy each unit is and how big their storage capacity is. Ideally, both pieces are compact enough to fit in the back of your car or a trunk-size trunk. You may want to get a stroller travel bag to keep it safe during transport.
For instance the Nuna PIPA infant car seat and base is our best pick for car seat and stroller combination because it's a single product that doesn't require a car seat adapter to connect to any regular vehicle. The LATCH connectors, which are rigid, built into the base help it fit into vehicles of different dimensions and shapes. It comes with an integrated drape canopy that protects a snoozing child.
The Doona is another option. It is basically a baby car seat with wheels. It can be unfolded from its base to become a stroller, and then folded back to a car-friendly position within seconds. This makes it a more portable option than two-piece car seat and stroller combos, but you'll need an adapter in case your baby's preferred car seat isn't compatible with the Doona.
Easy to install
The first few weeks after the birth of a baby can be challenging. There are late night cry sessions, a mountain of swamp nappies and the constant realization that you've failed to pack something. One of the most important items for new parents to get right is their car seat and pram combo. They must be easy-to-install, easy-to use, and stylish.
Some parents choose two-piece systems, which include the stroller, which also has a carrycot, and an additional child car seat. Some parents prefer a three in one model that comes with an infant car seat which can be connected to the stroller chassis. It can be folded flat for more convenient storage. It can be heavier when compared to a two-piece. However many parents like its sleek design.
If you are seeking a basic travel system, look for one that has car seat bases that is easily connected to your vehicle using an LATCH connector that is rigid. This will ensure a secure and smooth connection, and will also provide you with peace of mind that the seat is set up correctly. Many brands also have helpful installation videos available on their websites. After you've secured the car seat to the stroller, it will make a clicking sound to signal that it's securely fastened.
Another important aspect to take into consideration when selecting a car seat or pram 2 in 1 is the height of the handlebars. If you intend to take your baby in the car for a long period of time, you'll require handlebars that are high enough so you can comfortably reach them. If you're planning on using public transport frequently, look for a stroller with swivel wheels or a single-handed folding mechanism that can be folded easily to get off and on buses or trains.
Lastly, check that the car seat and pram 2 in 1 are able to be used in conjunction with your vehicle's seat belt. This is particularly important if you're going be sharing the car with your parents or using it as a ride-share.
Simple to use
A car seat and stroller combination makes traveling with a baby easier particularly for parents on the go. The car seat snaps into a stroller frame and the stroller folds to easily fit into the trunk of your car. It also has a built-in drape canopy to shield a sleepy infant. It is easy to move, and a great choice for families who travel by plane or bus.
Some car seats and combo strollers come with an audible click sound when attached to the base. This makes it easier to ensure that the car seat is properly positioned. It is nevertheless important to read through the instructions thoroughly prior to using the stroller or car seat to ensure that they are properly installed. Certain brands offer helpful videos on installation on their websites which can help.
Most stroller and car seat combination require some assembly prior to use. This involves putting the base inside your vehicle and securing the seat to frame. Some require a little patience and time to figure out how to accomplish this so you should read the directions before beginning. It's also a good idea to practice with a partner before you start to use it on your own.
The combination of a car seat and stroller that features a one-step installation without straps receives our highest score for user-friendliness. This eliminates the need to tie straps and buckle them, which could lead to errors. 2 in 1 prams who use this type of connection score higher than those with straps, because they are more likely to be secure.
The best car seat and stroller combos are easy for you to maneuver even when there are lots of children in the stroller. Find models with rubber tires and one front wheel, which are lightweight and easy to push. Some feature a swivel front wheel to maneuver in narrow aisles and tight corners in stores. These systems are generally more expensive than car seats but they can save you a lot of time and effort on busy days.