Car Seat and Stroller Combos
The most effective car seat stroller combinations are so simple to attach that it's like they're doing it all by themselves. Stanton recommends: "Look for a base that is simple to click with the carrier." This will reduce the risk of errors that can happen when assembling and detaching.
One option that can do this is the Doona that seamlessly converts from a car seat into a stroller, and also frees up trunk space. Reviewers on the internet say it is hefty, but they also love its user-friendliness and functionality.
Easy to Assemble
A stroller and car seat combination is a great option for parents who wish to avoid the hassle of switching between the two. It's also a good option for parents who take public transportation or rideshares frequently and that switch caregivers. "These are a single item and the wheels are connected to the car seat, which means they're more mobile," says Stanton. Stanton stresses the need to ensure that the car seat is secured properly when using the travel system. She advises you to follow the manufacturer's instructions and the owner's manual of your vehicle for a secure fit.
In our tests, we found that the best stroller-car seat combos feature a simple click-in connection, which requires little effort beyond moving the carrier from one location to another. These models scored higher than those with more complex connections, as they require less pressure and offer the least chance of making errors (intentional or accidental). We like, for example the fact that the UPPAbaby Vista Combo is a simple drop-in accessory that does not require straps and that it has an indicator at the bottom of the car seat which indicates that the seat is level properly.
Similarly, the Doona All-in-One Infant Car Seat Stroller is easy to set up and then transfer from vehicle to stroller. It's a seamless change that allows extra trunk space for shopping and errands. It also comes with an adjustable front wheel that gives you excellent maneuverability, even when the seat is in place.
Another alternative is Britax B Lively and B Safe Gen2 Travel System. It features springy chassis as well as a large one-hand fold chassis that can be easily stored. It has a large basket and plenty cups to hold snacks, drinks, and baby gear. The padded seat is comfortable for long rides and the tagless smooth-touch fabric is machine washable. It is FAA-approved, and comes with an safety strap that is secured beneath or around your baby's shoulders. It also has a SafeCell Crumple Zone to protect the child in case of an accident.
A great travel system should be easy to push. Our top picks have rubber tires and a single swivel wheel on the front to navigate streets and busy sidewalks. The Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo and the BOB Alterrain Pro, and the Baby Jogger City Mini GT 2 Combo all glide smoothly and come with useful features, like one-hand brakes and a large storage basket.
Easy to Store
Parents who want their baby to be as comfortable as they can will be better off with a stroller and car seat combination, regardless of whether they are running errands or taking an excursion with the family. Stroller and car seat combinations are usually easier to maneuver than separate pieces, and most models have convenient features that make them stand out from the rest. It's important to remember that the car seat has to be compatible with the stroller for them to work together. The manufacturer of the car seat needs to provide guidelines on what kinds of strollers are compatible with their product and a quick internet search will help find the right stroller.
Certain strollers and car seats have an attachment that snaps into position without the need for straps or complicated assembly. This kind of simple attachment is a major benefit for families that frequently take public transport or ride-share vehicles. The Doona, for example, is an FAA-approved infant car seat that can transition into a stroller at the push of a button. This is a time-saving feature and lets you avoid having your stroller checked at the gate on planes (assuming that you've also purchased an airline chair for your child), or to jump into and out of a taxi.
Other car seat and stroller combinations, such as the Nuna TRVL, permit parents to take the infant carrier from the base of the stroller and fold it into a compact size that fits inside the trunk of a car. This is an excellent feature for parents with a busy schedule. The stroller itself features a sleek design and top quality fabrics and also smart touches such as a built-in canopy that drapes over the baby from sleeping.
The ideal 2 in 1, stroller/car seat combination for your family is based on your lifestyle, your plans for growth and your budget. The most affordable models tend to be frame strollers that can accommodate a car seat for a child with little extra space. Higher-end combos will include the toddler seat, twin stroller, or more advanced features. Either way, you can rest assured that the car seat and stroller will be up to the highest safety standards.
Easy to carry
These combos are ideal for families who want to avoid gate checking the infant car seat while flying. They are also ideal for those who frequently use public transportation and ride-shares. Car seats and strollers are easy to transport and maneuver around on the go and are perfect for parents who need their hands free while traveling with their little ones.
When deciding on a 2 in 1 stroller car seat, you should look for one that is lightweight and compact. These models are more comfortable to use and are more easy to push over different terrains. In addition, the smaller frame can help you get the car seat in and out of a trunk or at the back of a car.
A few of the most well-known and highly rated car seat/stroller combos are compact, lightweight and have wheels that fold to make it easy to store. For example the Cosco Finale 2-in-1 is an easy-to-use seat that converts from a five-point harness that is rear-facing to an infant booster when children are no longer in a baby carrier. It's lightweight (12 pounds) and has LATCH straps which are relatively easy to use.
Other 2 in 1 stroller car seats include the Doona that is an exceptional model because it's a single piece equipment that can be converted from a rear-facing infant car seat to a stroller in just a few clicks. This means you can skip the step of getting your car seat removed from its base. It also makes it easier for you to walk up and down the stairs or get into and out taxis without having the car seat stowed.
Doonas are a great option for those on a budget, particularly new parents. It's less than the cost of a year's gym membership, and it provides new parents with peace of mind that they're equipped with safe travel gear for their child.
Many families opt for a two-piece car seat/stroller system if they're set on an infant carrier from a certain brand or have plans for several children. If that's your case, be sure to read the product specs to ensure that the stroller you choose and car seat work in conjunction. Consider purchasing two in one pram if necessary to fit your preferred combination.
Easy to Fold
Car seat and stroller combos are a great option for parents who need only one piece of baby gear which can perform multiple functions. They are able to easily convert from a car to stroller, and reverse the process. They are also easier to move around than two piece travel systems. "They're designed to be more natural-looking and mobile," says Stanton. "They contain a lot fewer moving components, which makes them easy to fold, transport and use."
These strollers and car seats for infants are lighter than two-piece models and can be easily carried in trunks that are small. These strollers and infant car seats tend to be lighter and feature more practical features, like sun shades and cup holders. Some have a swivel wheel at the front, which is ideal for navigating busy streets and stores.
Some brands, like Doona offer an all-in-one infant stroller and car seat. These are particularly useful for parents who intend to take advantage of rideshares and public transportation, or who change caregivers frequently. This model is a rear-facing child car seat with wheels that can be transformed into stroller.
Other brands, such as the Evenflo Shyft DualRide, allow you to click on the car seat, and then fold it up into a stroller. This model isn't as sleek as Doona but you can remove the car seat without having to click into the base.
You should also think about whether a specific stroller and infant car seat combo will be used with the car seat you prefer. If the stroller and infant car seat are compatible, then you can expect a longer-lasting product as it will work with your child even after they've outgrown their car seats for infants.
However, it's important to be aware that some stroller and car seat combos aren't performing well in our tests for ease of use. This could be due to an design that makes it difficult or inconvenient to use steps, or the weight of the car seat and stroller could make it difficult to push across different terrains. It is worth reading our reviews to find out which option is the best one for you.