Choosing a Pushchair Travel System
Selecting the right pushchair for your family is among the biggest decisions you'll make as a parent. There are many factors to be aware of, whether you opt for a travel bundle due to its convenience and cost savings or travel system prams a frame that is separate and compatible car seats for maximum adaptability.
This helpful guide will help make the right decision for your lifestyle and requirements.
What is a travel systems?
A travel system is a stroller that can accommodate a car seat for your baby and some even include the option of a carrycot. It's a great choice for parents who are new since it lets you easily transfer your baby from the car to the pushchair without disturbing them. ideal for those short trips to the shops or do a nursery run.
A great travel system will fit comfortably in your car and click onto the pushchair frame to provide a seamless journey for your child. It's a great choice because you only have to make one purchase for the baby's arrival. You'll also save money.
There are lots of different kinds of travel systems available, from budget-friendly options to high-end brands such as JANE or TYPO. A majority of them come with matching changing bag that is a perfect match and car seat accessories, and If you're looking to simplify your life, there are travel system bundles that contain everything you require in one purchase. This is the most efficient method to ensure that all parts work together. Don't waste time searching online for a car seat that works and then finding out you need adapters too!
What are the seat recline options?
If you opt for a travel system that includes a carrycot, you should make sure the pushchair seat can fully recline so that your baby can nap comfortably and is in the recommended lying flat position for spinal and respiratory development. It is also important to be aware of whether the handlebar can be adjusted in height so that it can be comfortable for you as well as your companion or anyone else who may use it regularly.
Most 'from birth' pushchairs include a reversible seat so that you can decide which position your child is facing towards you (to encourage their communication skills) or world-facing, to encourage their curiosity and allow them to know where they are going. Some travel systems have a reversible seating unit that attaches directly to the frame of the pushchair without needing to take it off. This allows you to effortlessly transfer your baby from the car to the stroller, and in reverse.
Not all infant car seats work with all pushchairs. Some travel systems come with all the adaptors required in the box. Others might require that you purchase adaptors on your own. Check the product details or contact your local retailer.
How do you get it done?
Carrycots are lightweight and easy to attach, but they should be used with babies up to 6 months old. They should always be used with a lie-flat pushchair to allow the baby be in a fully reclined posture which is ideal for their lung and spinal development. Carrycots can be attached easily and are light. They're ideal for infants less than 6 months old and should be used with a pushchair that is lying flat. This allows the baby to sit in a fully reclined position which is good for their spinal development and lung development.
It's important to note that the majority of brands have designed them to function as a unit. You can be sure that everything will fit pram and travel system perform well. Shopping in one place is convenient and usually costs less than buying items separately. Also, being able to move your sleeping newborn from car seat to a stroller for the nursery or to go to shops without disturbing them is a big benefit. Travel systems are worth the investment.
How easy is it to attach a carrycot or car seat?
The majority of pushchairs 'from birth' can be linked to a baby car seat or carrycot for simple transitions from your car to the street. This is ideal for newborns as it allows them to rest in the recommended lie-flat position.
When the baby is outgrowing their infant car seat (usually up to the age of 18 months) the majority of travel systems can be used with a stroller seat and will therefore last longer as your child grows. The majority of travel systems come with an additional stroller, however certain models, like the Doona or the Evenflo Shyft DualRide have a single-piece design that permits the car seat to be folded into a pushchair, then refolded back into the base of the vehicle.
If you choose to use the car seat or carrycot on your pushchair, make sure to carefully read the instructions and adhere to the weight, age and size restrictions. Make sure to check whether the car seat and pushchair have been recalled for safety reasons.
A lot of pushchairs come with accessories that can enhance your experience. For example, a footmuff will protect your baby against the elements while a parasol made of SPF/UPF50+ fabric keeps them shaded in the sun. Some pushchairs also have a ride-on board that is ideal for toddlers who are ready to tackle the world by themselves, but need a little helping hand.
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, as well as your lifestyle. Therefore, it is essential to review the specifications carefully. Similar to the brakes of your chosen model It's crucial to make sure they're strong and easy to operate.
Many brands include infant seat adaptors in their travel system packages. This lets you simply clip the car seat of your child onto the frame of the stroller. This makes getting out with a baby much easier. This means that your baby can utilize their stroller even after they are out of the car seat and carrycot. This is a great choice for families that are busy and have plenty of things to do every day.
How do you make it easy for you to fold?
Some pushchairs travel systems can be folded with just a single button press. Some folds require two hands or a few steps but are still very compact. Some models are able to stand up when folded, making it simple to grab. This kind of design is perfect if you live in a city, or commute and want to make the transition from a car to a pushchair an effortless process or in the case that you have a tiny space in your boot and require a product that folds down to fit into it.
Some travel system pushchairs, dependent on the model, can be used as early as the time of birth, by incorporating an infant car seat or carrycot. Certain models are certified to be used in the cabin of flights, making them ideal for parents who want to travel with their families.
The most affordable option is to buy a car seat and an pushchair. The bundle is created by the brand, and it consists of the car seat and the pushchair that are designed to work in tandem. Additionally, some pushchairs indicate which car seats they're compatible with and you could purchase a separate seat (though this might require adaptors for your car seat). The Babyzen YOYO is Gemma's top pick for the top lightweight travel systems, due to its clever features and Toddler stroller one-second folding.
What do you think it looks like?
A travel system bundle is a fantastic option to purchase a stroller and car seat together with the added benefit of convenience, reassurance and, often, a cost savings. These bundles are assembled by retailers or brands. All the parts are selected by hand for their compatibility. This means that you don't need to spend time researching the best car seat with your dream pushchair, or trawling online for a footmuff or changing bag that complements the design.
They normally consist of a frame for a pushchair that fits a car seat and usually include a carrycot or seat unit which can be used both facing forward or towards the parent according to your preference (or regulations, as rear-facing in the car is recommended up to 15 months). Some are even able to be converted into a tandem or twin pushchair if you're expecting more than one child.
If you plan to drive a lot and walking, a travel system is a great choice. It is easy to move your child from the car to the pushchair, and vice versa without having to disrupt them or find a safe parking spot. They can also save space in the boot of your car, making it easier to go to shops or do the school run.