Choosing a Pushchair Travel System
The decision to purchase the best pushchair for your family is one of the most important decisions you make as a parent. There are a variety of factors to consider, whether you choose a travel bundle for its convenience and cost savings or a separate frame and car seat that is compatible for maximum adaptability.
This guide will help you to make the best decision for your lifestyle and needs.
What is a travel system?
A travel system is a pushchair that can take the baby car seat and some carry a carrycot as well. Parents with newborns will appreciate this option as they can easily move their sleeping baby from their car into the pushchair.
A quality travel system can be tucked in your car and connect to the frame of your pushchair to provide a seamless journey for your baby. It's a great option because you only have to make one large purchase for the baby's arrival. It also helps you save money.
There are many different types of travel systems available that range from budget-friendly options to top-of-the-line brands like TYPO or JANE. There are numerous travel systems that come with matching car seat accessories, changing bags and matching changing mats. If you're looking to make your life easier you can purchase an entire travel system that includes everything you need. This is the best method to ensure that the components are in sync. There's no need to search for an automobile seat that is functional and then finding out you'll need adapters!
What are the various options for reclined seating?
If you decide to go with a travel system that comes with a carrycot, make sure the pushchair seat also fully reclines to ensure your baby is comfortable to sleep and is in a lying flat position for spinal and respiratory development. It is also important to consider whether the handlebar is adjustable in height so that it's comfortable for you as well as your companion or anyone else who might use it regularly.
The majority of pushchairs that are 'from birth' have a reversible seat unit so that you can decide which position your child is facing towards you (to help them develop their communication skills) or facing the world to stimulate their curiosity and allow them to be aware of where they are. Some travel systems come pram with car seat a reversible seat unit that attaches directly to the frame of the pushchair without having to remove it. This allows you to easily transfer your child from the car into the stroller, and vice versa.
Check that the car seat you select is compatible with your pushchair stroller, since not all infant car seats are able to be connected to all pushchairs without additional adaptors. Some travel systems include all the adaptors required included in the box. Others may require you purchase them separately. You can find out whether this is the case by looking up the product's details or asking at the local retailer.
How easy is it to manoeuvre?
If you're looking for a travel system to transport your baby from the car to the pushchair, then back again, make sure the pushchair chassis isn't too heavy and you have enough space in your car to accommodate a carrycot. Carrycots are lightweight and simple to attach, but they're best prams used for newborns up to 6 months old and must always be used with a lying pushchair to allow the baby to fully reclined posture, which is ideal for their spinal and lung development.
If you choose to purchase a travel system bundle, or opt to pick and mix the components on your own It's important to remember that the majority of them are designed to work as a unit by the brands. You can be assured that everything will function well. Buying everything in one place is convenient and usually works out cheaper than purchasing items separately. And being in a position to move your sleepy newborn from car seat to a stroller for a nursery run or nipping into shops without disrupting them is a huge plus. Travel systems are worth the investment.
How easy is it to attach a car seat or a carrycot?
The majority of pushchairs that are 'from birth' can be connected to a compatible baby car seat or carrycot to allow effortless transitions from your vehicle to the street. This is great for infants as it allows them to rest in the preferred position of lying flat.
The majority of travel systems come with a separate folding stroller seat. However, some, like the Doona or the Evenflo DualRide, feature one-piece designs so that the car seat folds into a pushchair. The majority of travel systems include a separate stroller, however certain models, like the Doona or the Evenflo Shyft DualRide have a one piece design that allows the car seat to fold into a pushchair, then refolded back into the base of the vehicle.
If you decide to put the car seat or carrycot on your pushchair, be sure you read carefully the instructions and adhere to the weight, age and size restrictions. Also, determine if the pushchair and car seat have been recalled as part of an recall for safety.
A lot of pushchairs come with additional accessories that can enhance your experience, for example the footmuff can protect your child from the elements, while a parasol, made from SPF/UPF 50+ fabrics, can keep them cool when it's hot. Some pushchairs come with an ride-on board for toddlers who are eager to explore the world but require a little assistance.
What is the weight limit?
A pushchair travel system will generally accommodate children up to the maximum weight and age. It's contingent on the car seat/pushchair combo that you pick and your lifestyle. Therefore, it is important to check the specifications carefully. Similar to the brakes on your chosen model It's crucial to ensure that they are sturdy and easy to operate.
Many brands include infant car seat adaptors in their travel systems packages that allow you to attach your baby's car seat onto the frame of the pushchair so that they can be moved seamlessly from car to stroller. This makes a stroller ride with a baby much more convenient. This means that your baby can still utilize their stroller even after they are out of the car seat and carrycot. This is a great option for families with hectic lives and plenty to do each day.
How do you make it easy for you to fold?
Some pushchairs can fold with a single press. Others require two hands or just a couple of steps, yet they can be very compact travel pram when folded. Some models are able to stand upright when folded, making it simple to hold. This type of design is perfect for those who reside in a city or commute, and need to make the transition from your car to a pushchair seamless or when you have a small boot and need something that folds really small to fit inside it.
Depending on the model, travel system pushchairs can be used from birth by adding an infant car seat. These are typically accepted to be used in the cabin of flights and are ideal for parents that like to travel extensively with their family.
The most cost-effective choice is to buy a car seat and an pushchair. The bundle is typically created by the brand and consists of a car seat that have been designed to work together. Some pushchairs will list the car seats that they are compatible with and you can also purchase a seat separately. (This might require car seat converters.) MFM Editor Gemma's pick for the best lightweight travel system is the Babyzen YOYO due to its innovative features and a stunning one-second fold.
What does it look Like?
A travel system bundle offers ease of use, security and savings. These bundles are created by brands or retailers, with each component carefully selected to be compatible. This means you won't need to do a lot of research on which car seat is compatible with your dream pushchair or searching on the internet for a compatible footmuff or changing bags.
These pushchairs are usually comprised of a frame that can fit into the car seat group 0+ and includes the carrycot, or seat unit, that can be used forward-facing or facing the parent depending on your preference or regulations (rear-facing is recommended for cars up to 15 months). Some are even able to be converted into a tandem twin if you're expecting more than one child.
If you intend to drive a lot and walking, a travel system is a great option. It is simple to transfer your child from the car to the pushchair and vice versa without having to disrupt them or find a secure parking space. They can also save space in the car's boot and make it easier to go to shops or go on a school run.