Car Seat and Pram 2 in 1
Transitions are the main thing to do in the parenthood. Every day, thousands of them from home to the car to an appointment, then back again.
A capsule and pram 2-in-1 is a great way to streamline your travels. These are ideal from the beginning, and can be converted into a stroller once your child is no longer in the car seat.
Easy to transport
Doona is a brand new version of car seat and stroller combos that transform from a car seat into a stroller by simply unfolding it. It only takes minutes to change from the vehicle to the sidewalk. This is great for those who live in cities or who frequent public transportation. It is also more compact than two-piece travel systems, making it easier to store and take to an airport.
It is important to choose a car seat/pram 2 in 1 that fits your lifestyle. Consider things like how often you'll be using the stroller and whether you'll need a basket or tray for your child's snacks and drinks. It is also important to be aware of your child's weight and height to ensure the stroller will be appropriate for them.
The parenting experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute regularly test and evaluate hundreds of products designed for babies and children such as strollers, car seats and infant sleep surfaces. Our experts review the products by their safety, design, functionality and user-friendliness. Our rating system contains scores for each item, a summary score that evaluates the overall rating of the whole product against the other items in the rating category and an overall score. The Good Housekeeping Institute is dedicated to giving parents the tools they need to keep their kids safe and happy.
A car seat and pram 2 in 1 that have an extremely high safety rating is vital for your family's road trips. The car seat should be securely attached to the vehicle with the latch system, and the stroller base should be connected to the car seat using LATCH connectors that are rigid. It is recommended to read the manufacturer's instructions for detaching and installation prior to every use. You might need an adapter if you have car seats and strollers from different brands.
When you're looking for a car and stroller combination, remember that only infant Group 0+ seats can be snapped into a stroller. If you're looking for a stroller to accommodate older children, select one that has a carrycot or toddler seat. While some car seat/stroller combos are simple however, you can opt for models with additional features such as a large canopy and cupholders for parents.
Easy to store
A travel system is an all-in-one car seat and stroller that includes everything you need to carry your child. Find a stroller that has an easy-to-folding design and plenty of storage space. You can also find one with extra features, like a parent organizer or cup holders. 2 in 1 pram stroller and carseat combinations are more expensive than others, but it's worth it if you plan on taking your little one out on the go regularly.
The top car seat and stroller combos have sleek, compact designs that make them easy to maneuver and put away when not in use. Check the specs to see how heavy each unit is and how big their storage space is. Ideally each piece are small enough to fit into the back of your vehicle or a trunk-sized trunk. You may also want to consider getting a stroller travel bag to protect it while in transit.
The Nuna PIPA infant base and seat, for example is our top pick for strollers and car seats combos. It's a one-piece that can be attached to any vehicle that doesn't have an adapter for cars. The LATCH connectors, which are rigid, built into the base help it to fit into vehicles of various shapes and sizes. It comes with an integrated drape canopy that protects a snoozing child.
Another great option is the Doona, which is essentially an infant car seat that has wheels. It can be unfolded from the base into a stroller, and then folded back to a car-friendly position in minutes. This makes it more compact than two-piece stroller and car seat combos. However, you will require an adapter if the car seat of your child's choice is not compatible with the Doona.
Easy to install
The first few weeks following the arrival of a new baby can be challenging. There are the late-night crying sessions, the mountains of swamp nappies and the constant realization that you've forgotten something. One of the most important items for new parents to get right is their pram and car seat combination. They must be easy to install, easy to use and, above all, stylish.
Some parents opt for two-piece systems that include an infant stroller, a carrycot, and a separate child car seat. Some parents opt for a three in one model that has an infant car seat which can be attached to the stroller chassis. This type can be folded flat for easy storage. However, it can be heavier than a traditional two-piece system, however many parents love its sleek design.
If you're seeking a basic travel system, you should look for one that has a car seat base that is easily connected to your vehicle with a rigid LATCH connector. This will ensure a safe and secure connection, and will also ensure that the seat is installed correctly. Many brands have instructional videos on installation available on their websites. After you've successfully connected the car seat to your stroller, it will make a sound that clicks to inform you that it's securely fastened.
The height of the handlebars is an important factor to consider when choosing a car seat/pram 2 in 1. If you're planning to carry a baby in the car seat for a long period of time, it's important that the handlebars are high enough to allow you to comfortably reach them. If you're planning on using public transport frequently, search for a pram with swivel wheels or a single-handed folding mechanism to make it easy to collapse for getting off and on buses and trains.
Lastly, check that the car seat and pram 2 in 1 are able to be used with your vehicle's seat belt. This is particularly crucial if your car is going to be shared with other parents or used to share rides.
Easy to use
A car seat and a stroller set-up makes traveling with a baby easier particularly for parents who are on the move. The car seat snaps into a frame for strollers and the stroller folds up to easily fit into the trunk of your car. It also comes with an enclosed canopy that can protect the infant from asleep. It's easy to maneuver and is a great option for families who frequently travel by train, plane or bus.
Some stroller and car seat combos come with an audible click when connected to the base, making it easier to make sure that the seat is properly placed. It is crucial to read the instructions before using the car seat or stroller. This will ensure that the seats are installed correctly. Some brands even have videos on installation that can assist you in getting started.
The majority of car seat and stroller combinations require some assembly prior to use. This includes installing the base in your vehicle and attaching frame to seat. Some require some patience and time to figure out how to accomplish this so you should read the directions before beginning. It's recommended to practice with a buddy before you begin using it on your own.
Car seat and stroller combinations that have an easy-to-attachment without straps earn our highest scores for user-friendliness. This avoids the additional step of buckling and tightening straps, which can be prone to a lapse. This type of connection is also more secure than straps.
The most effective car seat-stroller combinations are easy for you to maneuver even when there are many children in the stroller. Choose models with rubber tires and a single front wheel which are lightweight and easy to push. Some have a swivel front wheel to maneuver in narrow aisles and tight corners in stores. These systems are usually more expensive than strollers that are standalone and car seats but they can save you lots of time and effort on busy days.