Car Seat and Stroller Combos
The best car seat stroller combinations are so simple to attach that it's like they're doing it all by themselves. "Look for a base and carrier that snap together easily," advises Stanton. This reduces the possibility of errors during installation and removal.
One option that accomplishes this is the Doona that seamlessly converts from a car seat into a stroller, and also helps to free up space in the trunk. Online reviews praise the Doona's functionality and ease of use but also note its substantial feel.
Easy to Assemble
Parents who do not want to switch between car seats and strollers often find a combination of both appealing. It also makes sense for those who regularly use public transportation or rideshares as well as parents who change caregivers. Stanton states that since they're one item and the wheels are attached to the car seats, they are more portable. However, she notes that it's crucial to ensure that your car seat is properly secured when it's used with a travel system. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and the manual of your vehicle's owner to ensure an appropriate fit she advises.
In our tests, the top stroller-car seat combos have an easy click-in connection that requires no effort beyond moving the car seat from one location to another. They scored higher in comparison to models with more complicated connections because they require less pressure and have fewer opportunities for mistakes, whether intentional or accidental. We like, for instance that the UPPAbaby Vista Combo is a simple drop-in attachment, which does not require straps, and that it includes a meter on the base of the car seat that indicates when the seat is leveled correctly.
The Doona All-in-One Stroller for Infants is also easy to install and transfer from car to stroller. It's a seamless conversion that allows you to make use of the extra space in your trunk to go for shopping or running errands. 2 in 1 pram stroller has a swivel steering wheel on the front that permits excellent maneuverability even with the seat on.
Another option is Britax B Lively and B Safe Gen2 Travel System. It has springy chassis as well as a large one-hand fold chassis for easy storage. It has a big basket, as well as plenty of cups for drinks, snacks and baby equipment. Its cushioned seat is comfortable for long journeys and the tagless smooth-touch fabric is machine washable. It's FAA-approved and comes with an safety harness that is secured at or below your baby's shoulders and comes with a SafeCell crumple zone that protects them in the event of an accident.
A good travel system should also be simple to push. Our top picks have rubber tires and a single pivoting wheel in the front 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
Car seat stroller combos are an excellent choice for parents who wish to keep their child as comfortable as they can, whether they're running errands, or going on a family vacation. Stroller-car seat combos are easier to move around than separate items, and a lot of models have convenient features that differentiate them from the competition. But, it is crucial to note that the car seat and stroller need to be compatible to work together. The manufacturer of the car seat must give guidelines on what kinds of strollers can be used with their product and a quick internet search will help to narrow your choices.
Some strollers and car seats have an easy connection that snaps in place without any straps or an intricate installation procedure. This type of quick and easy attachment is a major benefit for families who regularly use public transportation or ride-share vehicles. The Doona is an FAA approved infant car seat which can be converted to stroller with the press of a single button. This is a major time-saver and makes it easy to avoid having a stroller checked on airplanes (assuming you've also purchased an airline seat for your child) or to hop in and out of taxis.
Other stroller and car seat combinations, such as the Nuna TRVL, permit parents to remove the infant carrier from the stroller base and fold it into a compact size that can be tucked away into the trunk of a car. This is a fantastic feature for parents with a busy schedule. The stroller itself is sleek and stylish, with premium fabrics, as well as smart touches like a built in drape canopy that protects the baby from asleep.
The best 2 in 1 stroller/car seat combination for your family will depend on your lifestyle, your plans for growth, and your budget. The cheapest models are likely to be frame strollers that fit a child car seat with little space. More expensive combos will include a toddler seat, a twin stroller, or more advanced features. Either way you can be assured that the car seat and stroller will be up to the highest safety standards.
Easy to carry
These combos are perfect for families who want to avoid checking the gate of an infant car seat while flying. They are also ideal for those who regularly take public transport or ride-shares. These cars seats and strollers are easy to transport, making them perfect for parents who want their hands off when traveling with their children.
Choose a light and compact 2 in 1 stroller/car seat. These options tend to move more smoothly, which could make them easier to push across different conditions. In addition, the smaller frame can make it easier to get the car seat into and out of a trunk, or the back of a car.
Many of the most sought-after car seats/strollers are lightweight, compact and feature foldable casters for easy storage. The Cosco Finale 2-in-1, for instance is a standard seat that can be converted into a booster when the child no longer needs an infant carrier. It's reasonably priced, light (12 pounds) and has LATCH straps that are relatively simple to use (we didn't score it as the best option for ease of installation).
The Doona is a second 2 in 1 stroller/car seat that's worth noting. It's an exceptional piece of equipment since it can be transformed from a rear facing infant car seat to a stroller by simply clicking on a button. This allows you to skip the step of removing the base of the seat and makes it much easier to navigate stairs or hop into and out of taxis without having to put away the car seat.
The Doona is a budget-friendly choice that is a great choice to parents who are just starting out. It's cheaper than a year of gym membership. It also gives parents peace of mind knowing their baby is safe when traveling.
Many families opt for a two-piece stroller/car seat system in the event that they have decided on a particular brand of infant carrier, or have plans to have several children. If that's the situation, make sure you go over the specifications of the product to ensure that the stroller you choose and car seat work in tandem. Also consider purchasing an adapter to make your desired combination.
Easy to Fold
Car seat and stroller combos are an excellent option for parents who need only one piece of baby equipment which can perform multiple functions. They can easily convert from a car seat to stroller, and reverse the process. They are also more easy to maneuver than two piece travel systems. Stanton says they're made to be lighter and more portable. "They have a lot less moving components, which makes them easier to fold, carry, and use."
Additionally, these types of strollers and infant car seats are typically lighter than two-piece ones and can be tucked away in small trunks, making them simple to carry around. They also have more space for cargo and more practical features like cup holders and sun shades. Some even come with a swivel front wheel that's great for navigating crowded sidewalks and shopping centers.
Certain brands, like Doona, offer all-in-one infant car seat and stroller solutions. These can be particularly helpful for parents who plan to use rideshares or public transportation, or switch between caregivers often. This model is basically an automobile seat that is rear-facing on wheels, and the wheels drop down to become an infant stroller when you decide to use it.
Other brands, such as the Evenflo Shyft DualRide, allow you to insert the car seat and fold it up into a stroller. The model isn't as sleek as Doona however you can take out the car seat without having to click into the base.
You should also think about whether a particular stroller and infant car seat combo will accommodate the car seat you prefer. If it's compatible, you can expect longer-lasting use from the product since it will continue to work with your child when they are no longer in the infant car seat.
It's important to understand that certain stroller and car seats don't perform very well in our user-friendliness tests. This could be due to an design that makes it difficult or uncomfortable to use stairs, or due to the weight of the stroller and car seat could make it difficult to push across different terrains. It is worth reading our reviews to determine which model is the best one for you.