Car Seat and Pram 2 in 1
Parenthood is all about changes. Thousands of them every day all the way from home to car, to an appointment and back again.
A capsule and pram 2-in-1 is a great way to streamline your travels. These are suitable from birth, and can be converted into a stroller after your child is no longer in the car seat.
Easy to transport
Doona is a brand new take on stroller and car seat combos that transform from a car seat into a stroller by simply unfolding it. It takes only a few seconds to transform from the car to the sidewalk. This is great for those who live in cities, or who frequently use public transport. It's also smaller than a two-piece travel set and is easy to store or carry on an aircraft.
It is recommended to select a car seat or a pram 2 in 1 that fits your lifestyle. You should consider how often you'll use the stroller, and whether or not you require a tray or a basket for your child's food and drinks. Also, take into consideration your child's weight and height to ensure that the combination will be suitable for them.
The Good Housekeeping Institute parenting pros regularly test and evaluate hundreds of products for babies and young children, such as strollers, carseats, and infant sleep surfaces. Our experts assess these products by evaluating their safety, design, user-friendliness and usability. Our rating system includes ratings for each individual item, a summary score that compares the rating of the whole product against all the other items in the category and an overall rating. The Good Housekeeping Institute provides parents with the tools needed to keep their children safe and content.
A car seat and pram 2 in 1 with a high safety rating is essential for your family's road trips. The car seat must be attached securely to the vehicle with the latch system. The base of the stroller must then be connected to it using LATCH connectors that are rigid. Before every use, it's a good idea to read the instruction from the manufacturer regarding installation and removal. If you have an infant car seat and a stroller of different brands, you might require an adaptor to put them together.
One thing to keep in mind when looking for a car seat and stroller combination is that only infant car seats convert into a stroller. If you're looking for a stroller that can accommodate an older child, opt for one that comes with a toddler seat or carrycot. Some car seat/stroller combinations are simple however you can select models with additional features such as a big canopy or cupholders for parents.
Easy to store
A travel system is a complete car seat and stroller that includes everything you require to transport your baby. A stroller that is easy to fold and has ample storage space is the best option. You can also find a stroller that has extra features like an organizer for parents or cup holders. Certain stroller and carseat combinations are more expensive than others, however the investment is worth it if you plan to take your child out on the go regularly.
The best car seats and stroller combos have sleek and compact designs that make them easy to move and store when not in use. Check the specs to see how heavy each one is and how big the storage space they have. Ideally, both pieces must be small enough to fit into the back of your car or a trunk-sized trunk. You may also want to look into purchasing a stroller-friendly travel bag to protect it during travel.
For example the Nuna PIPA infant car seat and base is our top choice for stroller and car seat combination because it's a single product that doesn't require a car seat adapter to connect to any standard vehicle. The rigid LATCH connectors built into the base help it fit in vehicles of various dimensions and shapes. It has an integrated drape canopy to guard children who are snoozing.
Another great alternative is the Doona which is an infant car seat that has wheels. It can be unfolded from the base into a stroller, then folded down to return to a car-friendly position in minutes. This makes it a more convenient option than two-piece car seat and stroller combos, but you'll need to have an adapter in case your baby's favorite brand of car seat isn't compatible with the Doona.
Easy to install
The first few days following the arrival of a baby can be challenging. There are late night cry sessions, a mountain of swamp nappies and the constant realization that you have forgotten to pack something. One of the most important things for new parents to do is their pram and car seat combination. They should be simple to install, simple to use and, above all, stylish.
Some new parents prefer a dual-piece travel system, which is comprised of the pram, which includes an infant carrycot and a separate car seat. Some choose a triple-in-one model that comes with an infant car seat that can be attached to the chassis of a stroller. The model can be folded flat for easier storage. However, it can be bulkier than the traditional two-piece system however many parents love its sleek design.
If you're looking for a simple travel system, look for one with car seat bases that can be connected to your vehicle using a rigid LATCH connector. This will ensure that the seat is properly installed and will provide an effortless and secure connection. Many brands also have helpful videos for installation available on their websites. Once 2 in 1 prams have successfully connected the stroller to your car it will make a click sound to let you know it's securely secured.
Another key feature to consider when selecting a car seat and pram 2 in 1 is the height of the handlebars. If you plan on carrying an infant in the car seat for a long period of time it is essential that the handlebars are tall enough to allow you to comfortably reach them. If you plan to take public transport frequently pick a stroller with swivel wheels or a one-handed folding mechanism. This will make it easier for you to take buses and trains.
Make sure that the car's seat/pram 2 in 1 can be used in conjunction along with the seat belts of your vehicle. This is especially important if you're going be sharing the car with your parents or are using it for ride-sharing.
Simple to use
A car seat and stroller make the journey with a baby much easier, especially for parents who are on the move. The stroller can fold to fit in the trunk of a vehicle. The car seat snaps onto the frame. It also has a built-in canopy for drapes to guard against a sleepy baby. It's easy to move and is a good choice for families who travel frequently by plane, train or bus.
Some car seat and combo strollers come with an audible click sound when they are attached to the base. This makes it easier to ensure that the seat is firmly positioned. It is important to carefully go through the directions prior to using the stroller or car seat. This will ensure that the seats are installed correctly. Some brands even have videos on installation that can help you get started.
The majority of car seats and stroller combos require a little assembly prior to use, such as installing the base in your vehicle and attaching the seat to the frame. Some require a little patience and time to figure out how to accomplish this, so it's best to go over the instructions before you start. It's a good idea also to practice using it with a partner.
Car stroller and car seat combinations that have one-step attachments with no straps get our highest scores for their ease of use. This eliminates the extra step of buckling and tightening straps which could lead 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 a lot of children in the stroller. Find models with rubber tires and a single front wheel which are lightweight and easy to push. Some also come with a swivel wheel to maneuver in narrow aisles and tight corners in stores. These systems are more expensive than standalone strollers and car seats, but can help you save time and effort on busy days.