A 2 in 1 Travel System With Car Seat
A 2 in 1 travel system that incorporates a car seat provides parents with the convenience of having an infant car seat and stroller that work together. However, they can be expensive.
These combos let parents easily move a child asleep from the car to the stroller, and reverse the process, without disturbing them. This is a great option for families who are always on the move.
Comfort
If you're looking for a simple way to transfer your baby from car to stroller without disturbing them the next morning, a travel set-up that includes a stroller seat and infant car seat may be just the thing you're looking for. Unlike stroller-only combinations, these all-in-ones typically include an infant car seat and a stroller that can be linked and can be used with both newborns and toddlers. Many of the car seats and strollers combinations on our list come with an attachment for a bassinet and can be a safe alternative to a traditional stroller for walks during naptime.
While a two-in-one travel system with car seat could cost more than separate items however, you'll likely save time and money if you buy them as a set. If you decide that the car seat and stroller are not right for your family in the future, most brands have adaptors that let you use the car seat in conjunction with a different stroller.
When shopping for a travel set be aware that a majority of them come with an infant car-seat and a stroller that are designed to work together. They are designed to be used within the first year. If you plan on keeping the seat and using it past this period, look for an option with an convertible car seat that can be used as a toddler's seat and has a heavier weight limit.
Certain travel systems also come with a second seat that can be used as a booster for older children. While this is a nice option however, it's not necessary and may not be feasible based on your lifestyle.
Check out our top choices of car seats and strollers If you're looking for an budget-friendly travel system that can last for a long time. Our top choices, which have been tested by our editors, such as the UPPAbaby PIPA car seat and Vista stroller combo are packed with features to help you and your baby stay comfortable. These strollers feature springy all-wheel suspension to ease the ride. The PIPA car seat also features an integrated drape canopy that protects children who are snoozing. These seats also come with rigid LATCH connectors which can be used on cars that don't have a base. This makes them a great option for families who frequently ride-share or have two cars.
Convenience
These combos are perfect for parents who run errands or take their babies on public transportation such as trains and buses. They let you easily transfer your baby who is sleeping in the car to the stroller without disturbing them or awakening them.
Some of the best stroller and car seat combinations also allow you to transform them into a double as your family grows. We love the Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo that 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 when you intend to use the car seat as your baby's primary vehicle seat.
Other stroller-car seat combos may have more complex conversion methods. You may have to manually snap the car seat onto stroller or strap it to base to ensure it is secured. This method was more difficult to master in our testing than the Doona's one-step conversion. If you misplace or forget the straps, it may cause a safety risk.
While a combination of a car seat and stroller is convenient, you must also consider whether the stroller and infant car seat will work together for 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. The car seats do not attach to strollers when 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 for infants but is too tall for most traditional strollers.
Car seat/stroller combos are ideal for newborns through early childhood. When your child grows out of the infant car seat you can replace the travel system with a larger stroller that can accommodate older toddlers and older children. Always ensure that your infant car seat is fitted correctly. Don't remove it from the car without first taking off the straps.
Safety
The combination of a car seat and stroller allows you to easily transfer infants from a car to a stroller and vice versa, without disturbing or waking them up. This is especially helpful when you're running errands or traveling, says Rothman. For extra safety, look for a car seat that attaches to the stroller using either an easy click or a rigid LATCH system. This will ensure that the car seat will be secure while in use and won't fall off or come loose in transportation. Combinations of strollers and car seats that work without or with bases are also great options for vehicles that ride-share.
When purchasing a travel system, be sure to check the weight and age limits for both the stroller and the car seat. Most infant car seats included in these systems are rear-facing and only intended for use during the first 12 months of your child's life. 2 in 1 buggy of these seats switch to a forward-facing seat that is able to remain in the vehicle or snap into a compatible stroller. Stanton says it's crucial to read all labels and instructions, especially when it comes time to make sure your child meets the weight and height requirements for both the car seat as well as the stroller.
Some parents prefer to buy separate items to create their own travel system, others prefer to buy pre-packaged car seats and stroller combinations it is not unusual to see companies offer these sets. These sets are typically less expensive than buying them separately. For example, UPPAbaby's popular Vista stroller that comes with the Mesa infant car seat is an extremely sought-after set. The stroller offers smooth riding with suspension that is all-wheel and springy, and a large basket to store all your baby's equipment. The car seat is low profile and has a SafeCell crumple zone for extra security. It's a simple and simple installation thanks to the exclusive SafeCenter LATCH. The car seat has a four-position adjustable headrest, four harness settings and a padded insert to ensure your child's comfort. It is easy to clean and features one-hand fold, making it ideal to store.
Style
It's tempting to buy an accessory for travel to make it easier to transfer your child from the car to the stroller without disturbing them up, however, that's not the only reason to consider buying one. You should also consider one with a sleek design, which is simple to use and has many other features for your child's safety and for your own.
The best travel systems best include an infant car stroller, car seat, and stroller base in one box to help you to move from your car to the street. They usually have a one-piece infant car seat that snaps easily into a compatible stroller and some offer a bassinet attachment for naptime strolls (safety research suggests that babies sleep best when in an upright position).
Strollers and infant car seats that work with 2-in-1 travel systems are lightweight and durable. They are also easy to fold and move. Make sure you choose models with rubber tires and a swivel wheel at the front for streets in cities and a large cargo basket, and can accommodate multiple shopping bags. You should also consider how the stroller and car seat are when they're folded to make storage easier.
Certain travel systems allow you to change the infant car seat included with a toddler car seat when your child grows out of it. This allows you to enjoy an additional two years of use. This is an excellent option for those who plan to use the seat for a longer period of time or if their partner travels by bus, train or ride-share.
The All-in-One Car Seat and Stroller is a top pick for families who want an all-in-one solution. It's simple to transfer from the car seat to the stroller and back with the built-in LATCH system that locks the seat quickly and safely in your car. It's also approved for air travel, so you can get on and off public transport in peace. The All-in-One Car Seat & Stroller can be converted to a double stroller, so you can take your child on adventures across the world. It is available in a range of vibrant colors that will fit in with any outfit.