Car Seat and Stroller Combos
The best car seat stroller combinations are so simple to attach that it almost feels like they do it themselves. "Look for a base and carrier that can be easily clicked together," advises Stanton. This reduces the possibility of mistakes during installation and removal.
One option that accomplishes this is the Doona that seamlessly converts from car seat to stroller and makes room for the trunk. Online reviewers note that it feels substantial, but they also love its simplicity of use and functionality.
Easy to Assemble
Parents who don't want to switch between strollers and car seats often find a mix of both attractive. It's also an ideal choice for those who frequently use public transportation or rideshares and for parents who change caregivers. Stanton says that since they are a single item and the wheels are connected the car seats are more easily portable. Stanton suggests to secure the car seat correctly when using the travel system. She says to always follow the manufacturer's directions and the owner's manual of your vehicle for a secure fit.
In our tests, we discovered that the top stroller and car seat combinations come with a simple click-in connection that requires little effort beyond moving the carrier from one place to the next. They scored better than those with more complicated connections, as they require less pressure and offer the least chance of making mistakes (intentional or accidental). For example, we like the fact that the UPPAbaby Vista Combo has a simple drop-in attachment that has no straps--and that there's an indicator on the car seat base that tells you when it's level.
The Doona All in-One Stroller for Infants is easy to set up and then transfer from stroller to vehicle. It's a seamless transition that allows extra trunk space to shop and run errands. It also has an adjustable front wheel that gives you great maneuverability, even when the seat is attached.
Another option is Britax B Lively & B Safe Gen2 Travel System. It has springy chassis as well as an enormous one-hand fold chassis that can be easily stored. It comes with a large basket as well as plenty of cup holders for drinks, snacks, and baby gear. The cushioned seat is comfortable for long journeys, and the tagless smooth touch knit fabric can be washed in the machine. It's FAA-approved and comes with a safety harness that locks at or below your baby's shoulders and includes a SafeCell crumple zone to protect your child in the event of an accident.
A good travel system should be simple to push. Our top picks feature rubber tires and a single, swivel wheel on the front to help navigate streets and busy sidewalks. The Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo as well as the BOB Alterrain Pro, and the Baby Jogger City Mini GT 2 Combo all glide smoothly and have convenient features, such as one-hand braking and a spacious storage basket.
Easy to store
Car seat stroller combinations are a great option for parents who wish to keep their baby as comfortable as they can whether they're running errands, or heading out for an excursion with the family. Stroller-car seat combos are easier to move than separate items, and a number of models come with convenient features that set them apart from the competition. It is important to keep in mind that the car seat has to be compatible with the stroller in order for them to work together. The manufacturer of the car seat must provide guidelines on what kinds of strollers work with their product A quick internet search will help to narrow your choices.
Some strollers and carseats have a direct attachment that snaps in place without the need for additional straps or complicated installation. This kind of effortless attachment is a huge selling point, and is particularly beneficial for families that often use ride-share cars or public transport. The Doona is a good example. It is an FAA-approved infant car seat that is able to transform into a stroller at the click of the button. This is a huge time saver and makes it easy to avoid having a stroller checked on airplanes (assuming you've also purchased an airline seat for your child) or to hop into and out of taxis.
Other car seat and stroller combos, like the Nuna TRVL, allow parents to take the infant car seat from the stroller base and easily fold it into a compact unit that can be tucked away into the trunk of a car. This is another great feature for busy families and the stroller itself has a sleek profile with premium fabrics and clever touches, like a built-in drape canopy to protect a snoozing baby.
The best 2 in 1, stroller/car seat combo for your family will depend on your lifestyle, your plans for expansion and your budget. The most affordable models will likely be frame strollers that can accommodate a car seat for a child with little space. More expensive combos will include a toddler seat, a twin stroller or more advanced features. You can be sure that the stroller meets all safety requirements.
Easy to carry
Car seat/stroller combos are great choice for families who are looking to avoid the hassle of gate-checking an infant car seat on airlines and are also ideal for those who use public transportation and ride-shares frequently. These strollers and car seats are easy to transport, making them perfect for parents who want their hands off when traveling with their children.
When deciding on the best 2 in 1 stroller car seat, look for one that is light and compact. These options tend to move more smoothly, which can make them easier to push in different environments. Additionally, the smaller frames can help you get the car seat into and out of a trunk or at the back of a vehicle.
A few of the most well-known car seat/stroller combinations are lightweight, compact and feature foldable casters for easy storage. For example, the Cosco Finale 2-in-1 is a simple seat that converts from a rear-facing five-point harness to an infant booster when children are no longer in a baby carrier. It's affordable, lightweight (12 pounds), and features LATCH straps that are simple to use (we did not consider it a top pick for ease of assembly).
Other 2 in 1 stroller car seats include the Doona, which is a standout because it's a single piece equipment that can be converted from an infant car seat that faces rearwards to a stroller in a few clicks. This lets you skip the hassle of getting your car seat removed from its base, and also makes it easier for you to navigate up taxis without having your car seat in the.
The Doona is a budget-friendly choice that is particularly appealing for first-time parents. It's cheaper than a year's gym membership, and provides parents with peace of mind knowing their child is safe traveling.
Many families opt for a two-piece stroller/car seat system when they're deciding on an infant carrier of a specific brand or have plans for multiple children. If that's your situation, make sure you review the specifications of the product to ensure that your stroller and car seat will work in conjunction. Consider purchasing an adapter to fit your desired combination.
Easy to Fold
Car seat and stroller combos are an excellent option for parents who want one piece of baby equipment that can handle multiple functions. They are able to easily switch from a car seat to a stroller and then back again, and they're generally easier to maneuver than two-piece travel systems. "They're designed to be more natural-looking and portable," says Stanton. "They have less moving parts which makes them easier to fold and use as well as carry."
These strollers and car seats for infants are also lighter than the two-piece versions, and they can be easily carried in trunks that are small. These strollers and infant car seats tend to be lighter and have more convenient features, like sun shades and cup holders. Some come with a swivel front wheel that's great for navigating crowded streets and stores.
Some brands, such as Doona, offer all-in-one infant stroller and car seat. They are particularly useful for parents who use public transportation or rideshares or change caregivers often. This model is a rear-facing car seat with wheels that can be converted into a stroller.
Certain brands, such as the Evenflo Shyft DualRide allow you to insert the car seat in and then unfold it as a stroller. This model isn't as streamlined as Doona, but it does allow you to remove the car seat from the frame without having to click it into the base.
You should also think about whether a particular stroller and infant car seat combo can be used with your preferred car seat brand. If the stroller and infant car seat are compatible, then you can expect a longer-lasting product as it will be able to work with your child after they have outgrown the car seats for infants.
2 in 1 carrycot and pushchair 's also important to know that certain car seat and stroller combos do not perform well in our tests of ease-of-use. This could be because of a design which makes it difficult to navigate stairs, or the weight and size of the car seat can make it more difficult to push. In any case, it's worth checking out our full reviews to find the best option for you.