Car Seat and Pram 2 in 1
Parenthood is all about changing. Every day, thousands of them all the way from home to car to an appointment, and back.
A capsule and pram 2-in-1 is a great way to simplify your travels. These are typically suitable from birth and then convert into a stroller when your child outgrows the car seat.
Easy to transport
Doona is an innovative new car seat and stroller combination that can be converted from a vehicle to a stroller in a matter of folding. It takes only a few seconds to move from the car to the sidewalk and is ideal 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 take to an airport.
You should choose a car seat or a pram 2 in 1 that will fit your lifestyle. Consider how often you will use the stroller, as well as whether or not you need a tray or basket for your child's snacks and drinks. It's also important to consider your child's weight and height to make sure the combo is appropriate for them.
The parenting experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute regularly test and evaluate hundreds of products for babies and children such as strollers, car seats and infant sleep surfaces. Our experts assess these products in terms of safety design, style, accessibility and function. Our rating system includes ratings for each individual item as well as a summary score which evaluates the overall rating of the entire product against all the other items in the rating category and an overall rating. The Good Housekeeping Institute is dedicated to giving parents the tools they require to keep their children safe and content.
To travel with your family, a car seat as well as a stroller 2 in 1 with an excellent safety rating is essential. The car seat needs to be secured to the vehicle using the latch system. The stroller base should be connected to it using rigid LATCH connectors. It's a good idea to read the manufacturer's instructions for detaching and installation prior to every use. If you have a car seat and stroller with different brands, you may need to purchase an adaptor to put them together.
When looking for a car and stroller combination, remember that only infants in Group 0+ seats can be snapped into the stroller. If you're seeking a stroller that can accommodate a toddler who is older make sure you choose one with an adult-sized seat or carrycot. Some stroller/car seat combinations are easy to use however, you can also select models that have extra features, like a large canopy or cupholders for parents.
Easy to store
A travel system is a complete stroller and car seat that includes everything you require to carry your child. A stroller that is easy to fold and has ample storage space is the best choice. You can also find a stroller with extra features such as a parent's organizer or cup holders. Certain stroller and carseat combinations are more expensive than others, but it's worth it if you're planning on taking your baby out for a walk regularly.
The most efficient car seat and stroller combinations have sleek, compact designs that make them easy store and move when not in use. Review the specifications of each model to see the weight they are able to carry, and how large their storage spaces are. Ideally each piece are small enough to fit in the back of your car or a trunk-sized trunk. You might want to purchase a stroller travel bag to protect it during transit.
The Nuna PIPA infant seat and base, for example is our top pick for strollers and car seats combos. It's a single component that can be attached to any vehicle, without the need for a car adapter. The LATCH connectors, which are rigid, built into the base help it fit in vehicles of various shapes and sizes. It even comes with an integrated drape canopy to shield your baby from snoring.
Another great alternative is the Doona, which is essentially an infant car seat with wheels. 2 in 1 pram can be unfolded from its base to become a stroller, and then folded down to return to a car-friendly position within minutes. This makes it a more convenient alternative to two-piece car seats and stroller combinations, but you'll need an adapter in case your baby's preferred car seat isn't compatible with the Doona.
Easy to install
The first few weeks following the arrival of a baby can be a struggle. There are the late-night crying sessions, mountains of swamp nappies, and the constant realization that you forgot something. The combination of the pram and car seat is among the most important decisions that new parents make. They should be simple to install and use, as well as stylish.
Some new parents prefer a dual-piece travel system, which consists of a pram with an infant carrycot as well as an additional car seat. Some parents opt for a three-in-one model that has an infant car seat which can be connected to the stroller chassis. The model can be folded flat for easy storage. It is more bulky compared to a two-piece system. However, many parents love its elegant design.
If you're looking to purchase a simple system, look for one with a base that can easily be connected to your vehicle using an LATCH connector that is rigid. This will ensure that the seat is properly installed and will also ensure an easy and secure connection. Many brands have instructional videos on installation available on their websites. Once you have successfully connected the stroller to your car it should make a clicking noise to let you know it's securely secured.
Another crucial aspect to think about when choosing a car seat and pram 2 in one is the height of the handlebars. If you're planning to carry children in the car seat for a long period it's essential that the handlebars are tall enough to let you comfortably reach them. If you're planning to use public transport frequently, look for a pram with swinging wheels or a single-handed folding mechanism that can be folded easily for getting off and on buses and trains.
Check that the car seat/pram 2 in 1 you have can also be used along with the seat belts of your vehicle. This is particularly crucial if you're planning to be sharing the car with other parents or are using it as a ride-sharing.
Easy to use
A car seat and stroller combo makes life on the go with a baby much simpler, especially for parents who are always moving. The stroller can be folded to fit in the trunk of a car. The car seat snaps onto the frame. It also comes with an integrated canopy that can be draped to protect a snoozing infant. It's easy to move and is a great choice for families who frequently travel by plane, train, or bus.
Some stroller and car seat combinations come with an audible click when attached to the base which makes it easier to ensure that the seat is securely in place. However, it is essential to read the directions thoroughly prior to using the stroller and car seat to ensure that they are correctly installed. Some brands have useful videos for installation on their websites that can help.
Most stroller and car seat combination require some assembly prior to use. This involves putting the base into your vehicle and securing the frame to seat. Some require a little patience and time to figure out how to accomplish this so you should read the directions before you begin. It's also a good idea to practice with a buddy before you begin using it on your own.
Car stroller and car seat combos that feature a one-step attachment with no straps earn our highest ratings for user-friendliness. This eliminates the extra step to tie straps and buckle them, which could lead to errors. Strollers that use this type of connection score higher than those with straps because they are more likely to be secure.
The best car seats and stroller combos are easy to maneuver even with a full load of kids. Make sure you choose models with rubber tires on the front wheel and are lightweight. Some models feature an swivel-wheel on the front to help you navigate through narrow aisles and tight corners. These systems are more expensive than standalone strollers and car seats, but they can save you time and energy during busy times.