Car Seat and Pram 2 in 1
Parenthood is all about changes. Every day, thousands of them - from the home to the car to an appointment, and back to the car.
One of the best ways to streamline your travels is to buy an infant capsule and pram in 1. These are ideal for babies from birth and can be transformed into a stroller once your child is old enough to use the car seat.
Easy to transport
Doona is a revolutionary new car seat and stroller combo that can be converted from a car to a stroller in a matter of folding. It's a matter of seconds to go from sidewalk to vehicle and is ideal for those who live in cities and who frequent public transportation. It's also more compact than a two-piece system making it easier to store and transport on an aircraft.
You should choose a car seat or a pram 2 in 1 that is suited to your lifestyle. You should consider the frequency you use the stroller and whether or not you require a tray or basket for your child's food and drinks. It is also important to be aware of your child's weight and height to ensure that the stroller is suitable for them.
The Good Housekeeping Institute parenting pros regularly test and review hundreds of products for infants and young children, such as strollers, carseats, and baby sleep surfaces. Our experts review the products according to their design, safety and user-friendliness. Our rating system includes ratings for each individual item, a summary score that evaluates the overall score of the entire product against all other items in the category, and an overall rating. The Good Housekeeping Institute is dedicated to providing parents with the tools they need to keep their kids safe and happy.
For trips on the road with your family, a car seats and stroller 2 in 1 that has an extremely high safety rating is necessary. The car seat should be attached securely to the vehicle using the latch system. The base of the stroller must be connected to it using LATCH connectors that are strong and rigid. It's a good idea to follow the manufacturer's instructions on installation and detachment prior to every use. You might need an adapter when you own a car seat and stroller with different brands.
One thing to keep in mind when you're shopping for a car seat and stroller combo is that only infant car seats can be converted into a stroller. If you want the stroller to fit an older child, choose one with a carrycot or toddler seat. While some stroller/car seats are no-frills however, you can opt for models that have extra features such as a large canopy and cupholders for parents.
Easy to store
A travel system is a car seat + stroller that includes everything you require for your baby's ride. Choose a stroller with an easy-to-fold design and ample storage space. You might also find one with extra features, like the parent organizer or cup holders. Certain stroller and car seats are more expensive than others, but it's worth it if you're planning on taking your little one out for a walk regularly.
The most efficient stroller and car seat combinations have sleek, compact designs which make them easy to transport and store when not in use. Check the specs of each unit to see the weight they are able to carry, and how large their storage spaces are. Idealy, both pieces should fit in your trunk or in the back of your car. You may also want to consider getting a stroller travel bag to protect it while in transit.
For example, the Nuna PIPA infant car base and seat is our top pick for car seat and stroller combinations because it's a one unit that doesn't need an adapter for car seats to connect to a standard vehicle. The LATCH connectors, which are rigid, built into the base help it fit into vehicles of different dimensions and shapes. It comes with a built in drape canopy to guard a snoozing child.
Another option is the Doona that is basically an infant car seat on wheels. It unfolds from the base to turn into a stroller, then folds back to its car-friendly position in a matter of seconds. This makes it much more portable than two-piece strollers and car seat combination. However, you will require an adapter if the car seat of your child's choice isn't compatible with the Doona.
Easy to install
The first few weeks following the arrival of a new baby can be a struggle. There are late night cry sessions, mountainous piles of swamp nappies, and the frequent realization that you have forgotten to bring something. The combination of the pram and car seat is among the most important decisions new parents will make. They should be simple to install, simple to use, and most of all, stylish.
Some parents choose a two-piece system that includes a stroller with an infant carrycot and an additional car seat for children. Some parents prefer the 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. The downside is that it is heavier than the traditional two-piece system however, many parents appreciate its sleek design.
If you're looking for a straightforward system, look for one that has a base which can be easily connected to your vehicle via a rigid LATCH connector. This will ensure a secure and smooth connection, and provide you with peace of mind that the seat is installed correctly. Many brands have instructional videos on installation available on their websites. After you've secured the car seat to the stroller, it will make a clicking sound to signal that it's securely fastened.
Another key feature to consider when selecting a car seat and pram 2 in 1 is the height of the handlebars. If you plan on carrying children in the car seat for a long 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 dual-hand folding mechanism to make it easy to collapse when getting off and on buses or trains.
Make sure that the car seat/pram 2 in 1 you have can also be used in conjunction with the seat belt of your vehicle. This is particularly important if you're going be sharing the car with other parents or using it to ride-sharing.
Easy to use
A stroller and car seat combination makes life on go with a baby much easier, particularly for parents who are always in motion. The stroller can be folded to fit inside the trunk of a car. The car seat snaps on to the frame. It also has an integrated canopy to safeguard an infant who is snoozing. It's easy to maneuver and is a great choice for families who travel frequently by plane, train or bus.
Some stroller and car seat combination models have an audible click when connected to the base which makes it easier to make sure that the car seat is securely positioned. It is essential to carefully read the instructions before using the car seat or stroller. This will ensure that the seats are installed correctly. Certain brands have instructional videos on how to install them online to assist you in getting started.
Most stroller and car seat combinations require some assembly prior to use, which includes mounting the base into your vehicle and attaching the seat to the frame. Some require some patience and time to figure out how to do this so you should go over the instructions before you begin. It's also a good idea to practice using the device with a friend.
The combination of the stroller and car seat with a single-step installation without straps receives our highest rating for ease of use. This eliminates the need to adjust straps and buckles that can cause mistakes. Strollers who use this type of connection also have higher scores than those using straps, because they are more likely to be secure.
The best car seats and stroller combos are simple to maneuver even with a full load of children. Look for
2 in 1 pram pushchair with rubber tires and one front wheel, which are lightweight and easy to push. Some models also have a swivel front wheel for maneuvering in narrow aisles and tight corners in stores. These systems are more expensive than standalone strollers and car seats, but they can save you time and effort when you're working.