Car Seat and Pram 2 in 1
Transitions are the name of the game in parenthood. Every day thousands of them go from the home to the car, to an appointment and back.
A 2-in-1 capsule and pram is a great way to simplify your travels. They are generally suitable from birth and can be converted into a stroller when your child has outgrown the car seat.
Easy to transport
Doona is an innovative new car seat and stroller combo that can be converted from a car into a stroller in a matter of folding. It takes only a few seconds to move from vehicle to sidewalk, and it's perfect for those living in cities and who frequently use public transportation. It's also less bulky than a two-piece travel set and is easy to store and transport to an aircraft.
It is essential to find a pram and car seat in 1 that will meet your lifestyle needs. You should consider how often you will use the stroller, and whether or not you require a tray or basket for your child's snacks and drinks. It is also important to take into consideration your child's weight and height to ensure that the stroller will be appropriate for them.
The Good Housekeeping Institute parenting pros regularly test and review hundreds of products for infants and toddlers, including strollers, carseats and infant sleep surfaces. Our experts assess the products according to their safety, design, functionality and usability. Our rating system incorporates individual ratings, a summarised score that evaluates the overall rating of the entire product to all other items in a rating category, and a final rating. The Good Housekeeping Institute provides parents with the tools necessary to keep their children safe and happy.
A car seat and pram 2 in 1 with an extremely high safety rating is crucial for family journeys. The car seat must be securely attached to the vehicle using the latch system. The base of the stroller must be connected to it using LATCH connectors that are rigid. It is a good idea to read the manufacturer's instructions on installation and detachment prior to every use. If you own an infant car seat and a stroller of different brands, you might require an adaptor for them to work together.
One thing to keep in mind when shopping for a stroller and car seat combination is that only infant car seats convert into a stroller. If you want the stroller to fit older children, select one with an infant seat or carrycot. While some car seat/stroller combos are no-frills however, you can opt for models with additional features such as a large canopy and cupholders for parents.
Easy to store
A travel system is a complete car seat and stroller that includes everything you need to transport your baby. A stroller that folds easily and has plenty of storage space is the best choice. You can also find one that includes additional features, such as the parent organizer or cup holders. Some combinations of carseats and strollers are more expensive than others models, but they're worth the cost if you intend to frequently take your child to the park.
The best car seats and stroller combos feature sleek, compact designs that make them easy to maneuver and to store away when not in use. Look over the specifications to determine how heavy each unit is and how large their storage space is. Ideally, both pieces should be able to fit in your trunk or back of your car. You might want to purchase a stroller travel case to protect it during transit.
The Nuna PIPA infant seat and base, for example is our top pick for strollers and car seats combinations. It's a single piece that can be attached to any vehicle, without the need for the need for a car adapter. The base comes with rigid LATCH connectors that permit it to fit into vehicles of all sizes and shapes. It has an integrated drape canopy that protects children who are snoozing.
Another great option is the Doona that is basically an infant car seat that has wheels. It unfolds from the base to become a stroller and then folds down to return to its car-friendly location in just a few seconds. This makes it a much more portable option than two-piece car seat and stroller combos, but you'll need an adaptor if your baby's preferred brand of car seat isn't compatible with the Doona.
Easy to install
The first few weeks following a baby's arrival can be a challenge. There are late night cry sessions, mountains of swamp nappies and the frequent realization that you've forgotten to pack something. The combination of the pram and car seat is among the most important choices that new parents will make. They should be simple to install, easy-to use, and elegant.
Some new parents prefer a two-piece system, which is comprised of the pram, which includes an infant carrycot as well as an additional car seat. Some parents choose a three-in-one model that has an infant car seat that can be connected to the stroller chassis. The model can be folded flat for easy storage. It is more bulky compared to a two-piece system. However many parents appreciate its sleek design.
If you are seeking a basic travel system, look for one with an automobile seat base that can be connected to your vehicle using an LATCH connector that is rigid. This will ensure a secure and seamless connection, and ensure that the seat is installed correctly. Many brands also have helpful videos for installation available on their websites. Once you've successfully attached the car seat to the stroller, it will make a clicking sound to signal that it's securely secured.
The height of the handlebars is an important aspect to take into account when selecting a car or pram 2 in 1. If you intend to carry an infant in the car seat for a long period it's essential that the handlebars are tall enough to let you comfortably reach them. If you plan to use public transport frequently, look for a stroller with swinging wheels or a single-handed folding mechanism that can be folded easily when getting on and off buses and trains.
Lastly, check that the car seat and pram 2 in 1 are able to be used with your vehicle's seat belt. 2 in 1 pushchairs is particularly crucial if you're planning to share the car with your parents or are using it for ride-share.
Easy to use
A car seat and a stroller make the journey with a baby much easier particularly for parents who are constantly on the move. The stroller folds to fit inside the trunk of a car. The car seat snaps on to the frame. It also comes with an integrated canopy that can be draped to guard against a sleepy baby. It is easy to maneuver and is a great choice for families that travel by plane or bus.
Some car seats and combo strollers make a distinct sound that can be heard when connected to the base. This helps to ensure that the seat is firmly positioned. However, it is important to read the directions thoroughly prior to using the stroller and car seat to ensure they are installed correctly. Certain brands have useful videos for installation on their websites which can assist.
Most stroller and car seat combos require a little assembly prior to use, which includes mounting the base into your vehicle and attaching the seat to the frame. It could take a bit of time and patience to learn the proper instructions for certain models. It's also a good idea to practice with a friend before you start to use it on your own.
The combination of car seats and strollers with a single-step installation without straps receives our highest score for user-friendliness. This avoids the additional step of buckling and tightening straps, which can be prone to a lapse. This type of connection is also more secure than straps.
The best car seat-stroller combos are easy for you to maneuver even if there are many children in the stroller. Choose models with rubber tires and one front wheel, that are light and easy to push. Some also feature a swivel front wheel for maneuvering in narrow aisles and tight corners at stores. These systems are more expensive than car seats and strollers, but can save you time and energy on busy days.