Car Seat and Pram 2 in 1
Parenthood is all about changing. Every day, thousands of them from home to the car, to an appointment and back.
A 2-in-1 capsule and pram is a great way to simplify your travels. These are typically suitable from birth and can be converted into a stroller after your child has outgrown the car seat.
Easy to transport
Doona is a new version of car seat and stroller combos that transform from a car seat to stroller by simply folding it. It takes seconds to go from the car to the sidewalk and is perfect for those who live in cities and who frequently use public transportation. It is also more compact than two-piece travel systems, making it easier to store and transport to an airport.
It's important to find the right car seat and pram 2 in 1 that will meet your lifestyle needs. Consider things like how frequently you'll be using the stroller, and whether you'll need a basket, or tray for your child's meals and drinks. You should also consider your baby's weight and height to ensure the stroller is suitable for them.
The Good Housekeeping Institute parenting pros regularly test and evaluate hundreds of products for babies and toddlers, including strollers, carseats and infant sleep surfaces. Our experts assess these products by evaluating their safety design, style, accessibility, and functionality. Our rating system provides ratings for each item as well as a summary score which compares the rating of the entire product against all the other items in the category and an overall rating. The Good Housekeeping Institute provides parents with the tools needed to keep their children safe and happy.
A car seat and pram 2 in 1 with the highest safety rating is essential for your family's journeys. The car seat should be securely attached to the vehicle by using the latch system and the base of the stroller must be linked to the car seat via LATCH connectors that are rigid. Before every use, it's a great idea to follow the instructions from the manufacturer for installation and removal. If you own an infant car seat and a stroller of different brands, you might need to purchase an adaptor for them to work together.
One thing to be aware of when you're shopping for a stroller and car seat combo is that only Group 0+ infant car seats convert into strollers. If you're looking for the stroller to fit an older child, choose one that comes with a toddler seat or carrycot. While some stroller/car seats are simple but you can also go for models that have extra features like a large canopy and cupholders for parents.
Easy to store
A travel system is a complete car seat and stroller that comes with everything you need to transport your baby. Choose a stroller with an easy-to-fold design as well as plenty of storage space. You can also find one that includes extra features like a parent organizer or cup holders. Some carseat and stroller combinations are more expensive than others, however the investment is 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 that make them easy to transport and store when not in use. Examine the specifications of each model to see the weight they are able to carry, as well as how big their storage space is. Ideally each piece should be compact enough to fit in the back of your car or a trunk-size trunk. 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 combos because it's a single product that doesn't require an adapter for car seats to attach to any standard vehicle. The base is fitted with a rigid LATCH connector that allow it to fit into vehicles of all sizes and shapes. It even has built-in drape canopy that can be used to shield your baby from snoring.
Another great alternative is the Doona which is an infant car seat with wheels. It opens from the base to become an infant stroller, and folds back to its car-friendly position in a matter of seconds. This makes it more compact than two-piece stroller and car seat combination. However, you'll need an adaptor if the car seat of your child's choice is not compatible with the Doona.
Easy to install
The first few weeks after the arrival of a baby can be difficult. 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 things for new parents to get right is their pram and car seat combination. They must be easy-to-install and operate, as well as fashionable.
Some parents choose a two-piece system that includes a stroller with an infant carrycot and an additional car seat for children. Some opt for a three-in-one design, which has an infant car seat that can be connected to a stroller chassis. The advantage of this type is that it can fold flat, making it easier for storage. 2 in 1 stroller and car seat is more bulky when compared to a two-piece. However, many parents love its elegant design.
If you're looking for a simple travel system, you should look for one with car seat bases that can be easily connected to your vehicle using an LATCH connector that is rigid. This will ensure that the seat is correctly installed and will provide an easy and secure connection. Many brands provide useful videos for installation on their websites. Once you've successfully attached the car seat to the stroller, it's likely to make a sound that clicks to signal that it's secured.
Another crucial aspect to think about when selecting a car seat or pram 2 in 1 is the height of the handlebars. If you're planning to carry children in the car seat for a long period it is essential that the handlebars have a height enough to allow you to comfortably reach them. If you plan to use public transport often pick a stroller that has swivel-wheels, or a one-handed folding mechanism. This will make it easier for you to take trains and buses.
Finally, ensure that the car seat and pram 2 in 1 are able to be used with your vehicle's seat belt. This is especially important if you're going share the car with your parents or are using it to ride-sharing.
Simple to use
A car seat and stroller combination makes the journey with a baby much easier, especially for parents who are on the move. The car seat snaps into a stroller frame and the stroller folds to easily fit into the trunk of your vehicle. It also has an integrated canopy to safeguard the infant from asleep. It's easy to move and is a great choice for families who travel frequently by plane, train, or bus.
Some stroller and car seat combos have an audible click once connected to the base which makes it easier to verify that the seat is securely placed. It is nevertheless important to read through the instructions thoroughly before using the stroller and car seat to ensure they are properly installed. Certain brands offer useful videos for installation on their websites that could aid.
Most stroller and car seat combinations require some assembly prior to use, which includes mounting the base into your vehicle and securing the seat to the frame. It could take a bit of time and effort to figure out the instructions for certain models. It's recommended to practice with a buddy before you begin using it on your own.
Car seat and stroller combos that feature a one-step attachment with no straps earn our highest ratings for their ease of use. This eliminates the need to tie straps and buckle them, which can cause mistakes. Strollers using this type of connection also score higher than those with straps, because they are more likely to be secure.
The best car seat-stroller combos are easy to maneuver, even if there are many children in the stroller. Look for models that have rubber tires on the front wheel and are light. Some models come with a swivel wheel on the front, which can help you navigate around narrow aisles and tight corners. These systems are usually more expensive than standalone strollers and car seats but they can save you a lot of time and effort on hectic days.