Car Seat and Stroller Combos
The most reliable car seat stroller combos are so simple to connect that it almost feels like they're doing it themselves. Stanton advises: "Look for a base that is easy to click together with the carrier." This reduces the possibility of mistakes during installation and removal.
One option that does this is the Doona, which seamlessly transforms from a car seat into a stroller and frees up trunk space. Online reviewers love the Doona's versatility and ease of use, but also note its substantial feel.
Easy to Assemble
Parents who don't want to switch between car seats and strollers often will find a combination of both appealing. It's also a good option for parents who use public transportation or rideshares frequently, as well as those that switch caregivers. Stanton says that because they're one item and the wheels are connected to the car seats, they are more mobile. However, she adds, it's important to ensure that the car seat is properly secured when it's used with an electronic travel system. She suggests that you always follow the manufacturer's directions and the owner's manual of your vehicle to ensure a secure fit.
In our tests, the top stroller-car seat combinations have a simple click-in connection, which requires little effort other than moving the carrier from one location to the next. They scored better than those with more complicated connections, because they require less pressure and provide the least chance of making mistakes (intentional or accidental). We like, for instance, the fact that the UPPAbaby Vista Combo is a simple drop-in accessory that does not require straps and has an indicator on the base of the car seat which indicates when the seat is leveled properly.
Similarly, the Doona All-in-One Infant Car Seat Stroller is simple to set up and move from vehicle to stroller. It's an easy conversion that allows you to make use of the extra space in your trunk to go for shopping or for errands. It also features a swivel wheel on the front that allows for excellent maneuverability even when the seat attached.
Another option is Britax B Lively & B Safe Gen2 Travel System. It features springy chassis as well as a large fold-down chassis for easy storage. It has a big basket and plenty cup holders for snacks, drinks, and baby gear. The cushioned seat is comfortable for long trips, and the tagless smooth touch knit fabric is washed in the machine. It is FAA-approved, and comes with an safety strap that is secured below or at your baby's shoulders. It also has a SafeCell Crumple Zone that protects them if they are in an accident.
A good travel system must be easy to push. Our top choices have rubber tires and a single swivel wheel on the front to navigate busy streets and sidewalks. The Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo and the BOB Alterrain Pro, and the Baby Jogger City Mini GT 2 Combo all glide effortlessly and have convenient features, such as one-hand braking and a spacious storage basket.
Easy to Store
Parents who want their baby to be as comfortable as they can are better off choosing a stroller and car seat combination, whether they are doing errands during the day or taking an excursion with the family. Stroller-car-seat combos are much easier to move around than separate items, and a number of models come with convenient features that differentiate them from other strollers. However, it's important to keep in mind that the car seat and stroller need to be compatible in order to work. The manufacturer of the car seat needs to provide guidelines for what types of strollers work with their product A quick internet search can help to narrow your choices.
Certain strollers and car seats come with an easy connection that snaps into place with no any straps or an intricate installation process. This type of easy attachment is a major selling point for families who frequently use public transportation or ride-share vehicles. The Doona is a good example. It is an FAA-approved infant car seat that can transition into a stroller with just the touch of the button. This is a huge time saver and allows you to avoid having a stroller checked on planes (assuming you've also purchased an airline seat for your child) or to hop into and out of taxis.
Other stroller and car seat combinations, such as the Nuna TRVL, allow parents to remove the infant carrier from the stroller base and fold it into a compact size that can be tucked away inside the trunk of a vehicle. This is an excellent feature for parents with a busy schedule. The stroller itself also features a sleek design and top quality fabrics and smart features such as a built-in drape canopy that protects a baby who's sleeping.
In the end, the ideal 2 in 1 stroller car seat for your family will depend on your preferences, lifestyle and plans for growth and budget. The most affordable models will likely be frame strollers that fit a child car seat with a small amount of space. Higher-end combos will include the toddler seat, twin stroller, or more advanced features. You can be assured that the stroller meets all safety requirements.
Easy to carry
These combinations are perfect for families that want to avoid checking the gate of the infant car seat while flying. They are also ideal for people who frequently use public transportation or ride-sharing services. 2 in 1 pram stroller and cars seats are easy to carry, making them perfect for parents who prefer their hands free while traveling with their children.
Choose a light and compact 2 in 1 stroller/car seat. These models have a smoother ride and can be easier to push on different terrains. The smaller frames make it easier to fit the car seat into the trunk or the back of the car.
A few of the most well-known and highly rated car seat/stroller combinations are light, compact, and feature foldable wheels to make it easy to store. For instance the Cosco Finale 2-in-1 is an easy-to-use seat that converts from a five-point harness that is rear-facing to a booster for kids who are no longer in a baby carrier. It's lightweight (12 pounds) and comes with LATCH straps which are relatively simple to use.
The Doona is a second 2 in 1 car seat/stroller that's worth mentioning. It's a unique piece of equipment because it can be converted from a rear-facing infant car seat into a stroller by simply clicking the button. This allows you to remove the seat from the base and makes it easier to navigate stairs or hop into and out of taxis without having to store the car seat.
Doonas are a great budget-friendly choice, especially for first-time parents. It's less expensive than the cost of one year's gym membership and it gives parents assurance that they're equipped with safe travel gear for their child.
Many families opt for two-piece stroller/car seat systems in the event that they have decided on a specific model of infant carrier or have plans to have multiple children. If this is the scenario, be sure to review the specifications of the product to ensure your chosen stroller and car seat will work in tandem. Consider purchasing an adapter if necessary to make your desired combination.
Easy to Fold
The car seat and stroller combination is a great option for parents looking for a single item that can serve multiple functions. They are able to effortlessly switch from a car seat to a stroller and then back again, and they're generally more maneuverable than two-piece travel systems. Stanton states that they're designed to be more portable. "They have a lot less moving parts, which makes them more compact to fold, carry and use."
Additionally, these types of strollers and car seats for infants are generally lighter than two-piece options and fit in smaller trunks, making them simple to carry around. These strollers and infant car seats tend to be lighter and come with more useful features, like sun shades and cup holders. Some even come with a swivel front wheel that's great for navigating crowded streets and stores.
Certain brands, such as Doona provide a stroller and infant car seats that can be used together. These can be particularly helpful for parents who plan to take advantage of rideshares and public transportation, or who shift between caregivers frequently. This model is a rear-facing child car seat with wheels that can be converted into stroller.
Certain brands, such as the Evenflo Shyft DualRide allow you to insert the car seat in and then fold it out as a stroller. It's not as sleek as Doona however, it does allow you to remove the car seat from the frame without needing to click it into the base.
You should also consider whether a specific stroller and infant car seat combination can be used with your preferred car seat brand. If the stroller and infant car seat are compatible, you can expect a more durable product as it will be able to work with your child after they've outgrown the infant car seats.
However, it's important to know that certain stroller and car seat combos do not perform well in our ease-of-use tests. This could be due to an design that makes it difficult or uncomfortable to navigate steps, or the weight of the stroller and car seat makes it more difficult to push across different terrains. In any situation, it's worth checking out our complete reviews to find the best option for you.