Guide To 2 In 1 Travel System With Car Seat: The Intermediate Guide For 2 In 1 Travel System With Car Seat
A 2 in 1 Travel System With Car Seat
A two-in-one travel system that incorporates a car seat provides parents with the convenience of having a baby car seat and stroller that can work together. However, they can be expensive.
These combos make it easy for parents to take a sleepy baby from stroller to car and back again without waking them up. This is a great choice for families who spend the majority of their time on the move.
Comfort
If you're looking for a simple way to transition your baby from the car to stroller without waking them up, a travel system with the stroller seat as well as an infant car seat may be just what you're looking for. These all-in-ones differ from stroller-only models because they usually come with an infant car seat and the stroller. They can be used for infants as well as older children. Many of the car seat-and-stroller combinations on our list include a bassinet attachment as well, which can be a safe alternative to a traditional stroller for naptime walks.
While a two-in-one travel system that includes a car seat may cost more than separate products however, you'll likely save time and money if you buy them as a set. And if you decide later that the car seat and stroller aren't right for your family, most brands offer adaptors that allow you to use the car seat with a stroller (provided it is able to meet the weight and height requirements).
When shopping for a travel set keep in mind that most of these sets include an infant car seat and stroller designed to work together. They are designed to be used during the first year. If you plan on keeping the car seat after this period, choose a model that has a convertible car-seat that can be used for toddlers and has a higher maximum weight.
Certain travel systems also come with an additional seat that can serve as a booster for older kids. While this is a nice option but it's not essential and may not be practical depending on your life style.
If you're looking for a fantastic travel system that will last for a few years, check out our top choices for car seats and strollers. Our editor-tested favorites like the UPPAbaby PIPA car seat and Vista stroller combination, have plenty of features that will help you and your baby remain comfortable. These products feature springy all-wheel-suspension to make the ride more comfortable. The PIPA car seat also has an integrated drape canopy that protects children who are snoozing. They also have rigid LATCH connectors that can be used in vehicles without a base making it a great option for families that frequently use ride-share services or have two cars.
Convenience
These combos are ideal for parents who often run errands, or take their babies on public transport such as trains and buses. You can easily move your sleeping baby from the car to a stroller without disturbing or awakening them.
Some of the best 2 in 1 pram stroller and car seat combinations also allow you to transform to a double as your family grows. We like the Thule Urban Glide 2 in 1 stroller car seat Combo which comes with an infant car seat and stroller that click into place, instantly transforming them into a sleek chariot that can accommodate two. This feature is especially important in the event that you plan to use the car seat for your baby's only vehicle seat.
Other stroller-car seat combos may have more complicated conversion methods. You may have to manually connect the car seat to stroller or attach straps to the base to ensure it is secured. This method was more difficult to master during our testing than the Doona's one-step conversion. If you forget or lose the straps, it may pose a safety hazard.
A combination of a car seat and stroller is convenient, but you should also consider whether the infant car seats and strollers can work in the time you need them to. Most car seat/stroller combo products feature rear-facing infant car seat designed to be used until your child reaches the age of one. These car seats do not connect to strollers once they're no longer needed in the car. Some all-in one car seat/stroller models such as the Doona can be used as a toddler car seat with the seat belt booster when your child outgrows the car seat that was designed for infants, but is too tall to fit in the standard strollers.
Car seat/stroller combinations are best for infants and toddlers until early childhood. If your child is out of the infant car seat you can replace the travel system by an extra large stroller which can be used for older toddlers and older children. Make sure that your infant car seat has been installed correctly. Do not remove it from the car without first removing the straps.
Safety
Car seats and strollers make it easy to move infants from their car to the stroller and back without disturbing them or needing to wake them up. Rothman says this is especially useful when you are conducting errands or travel. To ensure your safety, opt for car seats that can be attached to the stroller using either an easy click or a rigid LATCH system. This will ensure that the car seat will remain safe while being used and won't fall off or come loose in transit. Combinations of car seats and stroller that can be used in conjunction with or without the base are also an excellent option for vehicles that ride-share.
When you purchase a travel system, be sure to check the weight and age restrictions for the stroller as well as the car seat. These systems include rear-facing infant car seats that are designed to be used during the first 12 months of a child's life. A majority of these car seats switch to a forward-facing seat that can be used in the vehicle or can snap into a compatible stroller. It is essential to read the labels and follow all instructions precisely, advises Stanton especially when it comes down to ensuring your child's height and weight are within the correct weight and height requirements for both the car seat as well as the stroller.
While some parents prefer to purchase separate items to build their own travel system, others prefer to buy pre-packaged car seats and stroller combinations It is not unusual to see companies to offer these sets. They are usually priced lower than buying the products separately. Sets such as UPPAbaby's popular Vista stroller and Mesa infant car seats are sought-after. The stroller features smooth riding with springy all-wheel suspension and a large storage basket to hold all your baby's gear. The car seat is low profile and features a SafeCell crumple zone for extra security. The SafeCenter LATCH makes it simple to set up. The car seat features an adjustable headrest with four positions and four harness heights as well as padding for your little one's comfort. It is easy to clean, and folds in one hand.
Style
It's tempting to purchase a travel system that makes it easier to move your child from the car to the stroller without disturbing them up, however, that's not the only reason to think about buying one. You should also choose one with a sleek design, that is simple to use and has many other features for your child's safety and for your own.
The best travel systems most efficient include the infant car stroller, car seat, and stroller base in one package to make it easier for you to transfer from your car to the street. They usually have a one-piece infant car seat that snaps easily into a compatible stroller, and some even offer the option of a bassinet attachment to allow strolls during nap time (safety research has shown that babies sleep better in an upright position).
Strollers and infant car seats that integrate with 2 in 1 pram-2 in 1 car seat and pram-1 travel systems are lightweight, durable, and easy to fold and maneuver. Make sure you choose models with rubber tires with a swivel wheels on the front for streets in cities as well as a large basket for cargo and can hold multiple shopping bags. To make storage easier make sure to check how small car seats and strollers fold when folded.
Certain travel systems allow you to replace the infant car seat with a toddler car seat once your child has outgrown it. This gives you an additional two years of use. This is an excellent option for those who intend to use the seat for a longer period of time or if a partner is a commuter on a bus, train or ride-share.
Graco's All-in-One Car Seat and Stroller is a top choice for families who want an all-in-one solution. It's easy to transfer from a car seat to a stroller and back thanks to the LATCH system that secures the seat quickly and securely in your car. It's also a certified air travel, which means you can get on and off public transport with confidence. The All-in-One Car Seat & Stroller can be converted into a double stroller, so you can take your child on adventures around the world. It's also available in a range of vibrant colors to complement any outfit.