Car Seat and Stroller Combos
The most reliable car seat stroller combinations are so simple to attach that it's almost like they're doing it themselves. Stanton advises: "Look for a base that is simple to click with the carrier." This will reduce the chance of mistakes during installation and removal.
One option that accomplishes this is the Doona, which seamlessly transforms from car seat to stroller and makes room for the trunk. Online reviews have noted that it feels sturdy however they also appreciate its user-friendliness and its functionality.
Easy to Assemble
Parents who do not want to switch between strollers and car seats often will find a combination of both attractive. It's also a great option for parents who use public transportation or rideshares frequently and that switch caregivers. Stanton says that because they are a single item and the wheels are attached the car seats are more easily portable. However, she notes that it's crucial to make sure the car seat is properly secured when using it with the travel system. She suggests that you always follow the manufacturer's directions and your vehicle's owner's manual to ensure a secure fit.
In our tests, the best stroller-car seat combos feature a simple click-in connection, which requires little effort, other than moving the stroller from one location to the next. These models scored higher than those with more complicated connections, as they require less pressure and provide less chance of making mistakes (intentional or accidental). We like, for instance that the UPPAbaby Vista Combo is a simple drop-in attachment, which requires no straps, and also has an indicator at the bottom of the car seat which indicates when the seat is leveled correctly.
The Doona All in-One Infant Car Seat Stroller is easy to set up and then transfer from car to stroller. It's a seamless transition that frees up trunk space for shopping and other errands. It also has an adjustable front wheel that provides an excellent maneuverability, even when the seat is in place.
Another alternative is the Britax B-Lively and B-Safe Gen2 Travel Systems with springy suspension and a large, one-hand-fold chassis that can be easily stored. It comes with a large basket, as well as plenty of cups for snacks, drinks, and baby equipment. The cushioned seat makes it ideal for long journeys and the tagless smooth touch knit fabric can be washed in the machine. It's FAA-approved and includes the safety harness which is secured at or below the shoulders of your baby and includes a SafeCell crumple zone that protects your child in the event of a crash.
A great travel system should also be simple to push. Our top picks feature rubber tires and a single rotating wheel at the front for navigating busy streets and sidewalks. The Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo and the BOB Alterrain Pro are all easy-gliding and come with useful features like one-hand braking and an ample storage basket.
Easy to Store
Parents who want their child to be as comfortable as they can should consider a car seat stroller combination, whether they are doing errands during the day or planning a family trip. Stroller-car-seat combos are much easier to move than separate items, and a number of models come with convenient features that distinguish them from the rest. However, it's important to note that the car seat and stroller must be compatible in order to work. The car seat manufacturer must give guidelines on which strollers are compatible with their product. A quick search on the internet can help you narrow down your choices.
Some strollers and carseats come with an immediate attachment that snaps into position without the need for straps or complicated installation. This kind of effortless attachment is a major selling point, and is especially beneficial for families who frequently use ride-share vehicles or public transportation. The Doona is an FAA approved infant car seat which can be converted into a stroller at the touch of a button. This is a significant 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 stroller-car seat combos like the Nuna TrVL let parents remove the infant car seat from the stroller base, and fold it easily into a compact size that can be tucked away in the trunk. This is a great feature for parents who are busy. The stroller itself also is sleek and stylish, with top quality fabrics and smart features like a built-in canopy with a drape that can protect the baby from sleeping.
In the end, the ideal 2 in 1 stroller car seat for your family will be contingent on your lifestyle and plans for growth and budget. The most affordable models are likely to be frame strollers that accommodate a car seat for a child with a small amount of space. Higher-end combos will include the toddler seat, twin stroller, or more advanced features. Whatever you choose, you can rest assured that the car seat and stroller will meet the highest safety standards.
Easy to carry
Car seat/stroller combinations are a ideal option for families who are looking to avoid the hassle of gate-checking the infant car seat on airlines They're also great for people who use ride-shares and public transportation frequently. These strollers and car seats are simple to transport and are ideal for parents who prefer their hands free when traveling with their children.
Find a light and compact 2 in 1 stroller/car seat. These models tend to roll more smoothly, which can make them easier to push through various terrains. The smaller frames allow for easier placement of the car seat into the trunk or the back of a car.
Many of the most sought-after and highly rated car seats/strollers combos are lightweight, compact, and feature foldable wheels for easy storage. The Cosco Finale 2-in-1 for example, is a simple seat that can convert into an infant booster when the child no longer needs an infant carrier. It's light (12 pounds) and has LATCH straps that are easy to use.
The Doona is a second 2 in 1 car seat/stroller worth mentioning. It's an exceptional piece of equipment since it can be converted from a rear-facing infant car seat into stroller with the click of a button. This allows you to skip the step of removing the base of the seat and makes it easier to maneuver stairs or hop in taxis without having to store the car seat.
Doonas are an excellent affordable option, especially for first-time parents. It's cheaper than a year of gym membership. It also provides parents with peace of mind knowing that their child is secure when traveling.
Many families opt for a two-piece car seat/stroller system in the event that they have decided on a particular brand of infant carrier, or have plans to have several children. If that's your scenario, be sure to go over the specifications of the product to ensure your chosen stroller and car seat will work together. You may want to consider purchasing an adapter to fit your preferred combination.
Easy to Fold
Car seat and stroller combos are a great option for parents who want only one piece of baby equipment that can handle multiple functions. They can easily transition from a car seat to a stroller, and back again, and they are usually easier to maneuver than two-piece travel systems. Stanton says that they are made to be lighter and more portable. "They have less moving parts which makes them more compact to fold and use as well as carry."
These car seats and strollers for infants are lighter than the two-piece versions and can be easily carried in trunks that are small. These strollers and infant car seats are generally lighter and have more practical features, including cup holders and sun shades. 2 in 1 pram stroller have a swivel wheel on the front that's great for navigating crowded sidewalks and shopping centers.
Some brands, like Doona offer a stroller as well as an infant car seats that can be used in conjunction. They are particularly useful for parents who take rideshares or public transportation, or change caregivers often. This model is a rear-facing child car seat with wheels that can be transformed into stroller.
Some brands, like the Evenflo Shyft DualRide allow you to insert the car seat in and then unfold it as a stroller. The model isn't as sleek as Doona however it allows you to remove the car seat from the frame without needing to click it into the base.
You should also think about whether a particular stroller or 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 longer-lasting product that will be able to work with your child after they've outgrown the car seats for infants.
It is important to be aware that certain stroller and car seats aren't very effective in our user-friendliness tests. This could be due to a design which makes it difficult to climb stairs or due to the weight and size of the stroller/car seat could make it difficult to push. In any situation, it's worth checking out our complete reviews to determine the best option for you.