Car Seat and Stroller Combos
The most effective car stroller and seat combos nearly feel like they attach themselves. Stanton suggests: "Look for a base that is simple to connect with the carrier." This reduces the chance of mistakes that could occur during the installation process and detachment.
One option that can do this is the Doona, which seamlessly transforms from a car seat into a stroller and makes room for the trunk. Online reviewers note that it feels substantial but they also appreciate its simplicity of use and performance.
Easy to Assemble
Parents who don't want to change 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 those who have multiple caregivers. Stanton says that because they are a single item and the wheels are connected to the car seats, they are more mobile. However, she says that it's essential to make sure the car seat is secured properly when you use it with a travel system. She says to always follow the manufacturer's instructions and your vehicle's owner's manual to ensure an ideal fit.
In our tests, we discovered that the best stroller and car seat combinations have a simple click-in connector that requires no effort beyond moving the carrier from one place to the next. They scored better than those with more complex connections, since they require less pressure and have less chance of making errors (intentional or accidental). For instance, we love that the UPPAbaby Vista Combo has a simple drop-in attachment that needs straps and no straps. It also has an indicator on the car seat base that tells you when it's leveled correctly.
The Doona All in-One Infant Car Seat Stroller, it's also simple to install and transfer from the car to the stroller. It's a seamless transition that allows extra trunk space for shopping and errands. It also comes with an adjustable front wheel that gives you excellent maneuverability even when the seat is in place.
Another option is the Britax B-Lively and B-Safe Gen2 Travel Systems with springy suspension and an enormous, one-hand-folding chassis for easy storage. It has a big basket as well as plenty of cups to hold snacks, drinks, and baby gear. Its padded seat is comfortable for long trips and the tagless smooth-touch knit fabric is machine washable. It's FAA-approved and comes with a safety harness that locks at or below the shoulders of your baby and comes with a SafeCell crumple zone that protects your child in the event of an accident.
A reliable travel system should also be easy to push, and our top picks all have rubber tires that have one, swivel front wheel for navigating 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 smoothly and have convenient features, such as one-hand braking and a spacious storage basket.
Easy to store
Car seat stroller combos are a great choice 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 simpler to move around than separate items, and many models are equipped with features that distinguish them from the rest. It's important to remember that the car seat needs to be compatible with the stroller in order for them to work together. The car seat manufacturer must provide guidelines for strollers that are compatible with their product. A quick online search can help you narrow down your choices.
Certain strollers and car seats come with a direct connection that snaps into place without any straps or an intricate installation process. This kind of effortless attachment is a huge selling point, and it's particularly beneficial for families that often use ride-share cars or public transport. The Doona is an FAA approved infant car seat which can be converted into stroller with the press of a button. This is a major time saver and allows you to avoid having a stroller checked on airplanes (assuming you've also purchased an airline seat for your infant) or to get in and out of taxis.
Other stroller-car seat combos like the Nuna TrVL allow parents to remove the infant car seat from the stroller base, and fold it easily into a compact package which can be stored inside the trunk. 2in1 pushchair is a great feature for busy families, and the stroller itself has a sleek design with high-end fabrics and smart features such as a built-in curtain canopy that can protect a sleepy baby.
The ideal 2 in 1 stroller /car seat combo for your family will depend on your lifestyle, plans for expansion and your budget. The most affordable models tend to be frame strollers that accommodate a car seat for a child with a small amount of space. More expensive combos will include the toddler seat, twin stroller or more advanced features. In any case you can be sure that the car seat and stroller will meet the highest standards of safety.
Easy to carry
These combinations are perfect for families who want to avoid the hassle of checking the gate for an infant car seat while flying. They are also ideal for those who regularly use public transportation or ride-sharing services. Car seats and strollers are easy to carry and maneuver in a hurry and are ideal for parents who require their hands free when traveling with their kids.
Choose a light and compact 2 in 1 stroller/car seat. These types of strollers tend to roll more smoothly, which could make them easier to push across different conditions. The smaller frames make it easier to put the car seat into the trunk or back of a car.
Many of the most sought-after car seats/strollers are lightweight, compact and feature folding casters that can be stored easily. The Cosco Finale 2-in-1, for example, is a simple seat that converts to a booster when the child no longer needs an infant carrier. It's inexpensive, light (12 pounds) and comes with LATCH straps that are user-friendly (we didn't score it as a top pick for its ease of installation).
The Doona is another 2 in 1 car seat/stroller worth mentioning. It's an exceptional piece of equipment since it can be transformed from a rear facing infant car seat to a stroller by simply clicking the button. This allows you to avoid the process of getting your car seat removed from its base, and also makes it easier for you to climb the stairs or get into taxis without having the car seat stowed.
The Doona is a budget-friendly choice that is particularly appealing to parents who are just starting out. It's cheaper than the cost of an annual gym membership, and it provides new parents with peace of mind that they have safe travel gear for their child.
Many families choose a two-piece stroller/car seat system if they're set on an infant carrier of a specific brand or are planning to have multiple children. If that's your situation, make sure you review the specifications of the product to ensure your chosen stroller and car seat will work in conjunction. Also consider purchasing an adapter if necessary to accommodate your desired combination.
Easy to Fold
The stroller and car seat combo is a great choice for parents who are seeking a single piece that can serve multiple purposes. They can easily convert from a car seat to stroller, and vice versa. They are also easier to maneuver than two-piece travel systems. Stanton states that they're designed to be more compact. "They have fewer moving parts, which makes them easy to fold, use, and transport."
Additionally, these kinds of strollers and car seats for infants are generally lighter than two-piece options and fit in smaller trunks, making them easy to carry around. They also tend to have an extra cargo basket and more convenient features like cup holders and sun shades. Some even have a swivel wheel on the front that's great for navigating crowded streets and stores.
Certain brands, like Doona offer an all-in-one infant stroller and car seat. They are especially useful for parents who plan to take advantage of rideshares or public transportation, or switch between caregivers often. This model is basically an automobile seat that is rear-facing on wheels, and the wheels can be lowered to become a stroller when you wish to use it.
Other brands, such as the Evenflo Shyft DualRide, allow you to click in the car seat, and then fold it up into a stroller. This model isn't as streamlined as Doona however it allows 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 will fit your preferred car seat brand. If it's compatible, you are likely to enjoy longer-lasting use from the product as it will work with your child when they grow out of the infant car seat.
It's important to know that certain car seats and stroller combinations aren't very effective in our ease of use tests. This could be due to the design that makes it difficult to climb stairs or due to the weight and size of the stroller/car seat could make it more difficult to push. It's worth reading our review to find out which option is best for you.