Car Seat and Stroller Combos
The most effective car seat stroller combinations are so easy to attach that it's like they're doing it all by themselves. Stanton advises: "Look for a base that is easy to connect with the carrier." This minimizes the potential for errors that could occur during installation and detachment.
One option that accomplishes this is the Doona that seamlessly converts from car seat to stroller, and also makes room for the trunk. Online reviewers note that it feels substantial but they also appreciate its ease of use and functionality.
Easy to Assemble
Parents who don't want to change between car seats and strollers often find a mix of both appealing. It is also a good option for those who often use public transportation or rideshares and for those who switch between caregivers. "These are a single product and the wheels are connected to the car seat, meaning they're more naturally portable," says Stanton. However, she adds that it's crucial to ensure that your car seat is properly secured when you use it with an electronic travel system. She advises you to follow the manufacturer's instructions and your vehicle's owner's manual for an ideal fit.
In our tests, we found that the best stroller-car seat combinations have 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 complex connections, because they require less pressure and offer fewer opportunities for mistakes (intentional or accidental). We like, for example the fact that the UPPAbaby Vista Combo is a simple drop-in accessory that requires no straps, and has a gauge on the bottom of the car seat that shows when the seat is leveled correctly.
The Doona All-in-One Infant Car Seat Stroller it's also simple to install and switch from car to stroller. It's a seamless transformation that frees up trunk space to shop and run errands. It also features an adjustable front wheel that offers an excellent maneuverability, even when the seat is attached.
Another option is Britax B Lively and B Safe Gen2 Travel System. It has an elongated chassis that is springy and a large fold-down chassis for easy storage. It has a big basket, as well as plenty of cups to hold snacks, drinks, and baby gear. The padded seat is comfortable for long rides and the tagless smooth-touch fabric is machine washable. It's FAA-approved and includes the safety harness which is secured at or below your baby's shoulders and includes a SafeCell crumple zone to protect them in the event of a crash.
A good travel system will also be easy to push and, in our top picks, all come with rubber tires and only a single, swivel rear wheel for navigating busy roads and sidewalks. The Thule Urban Glide 2 in 1 stroller with car seat Combo and the BOB Alterrain Pro are all smooth-gliding and have useful features such as one-hand brake and a large storage basket.
Easy to Store
Parents who want their baby to be as comfortable as they can will be better off with a car seat and stroller combination, whether running errands or taking an outing with the family. Car seat and stroller combinations are usually more maneuverable than separate pieces, and a lot of models have convenient features that make them distinct from other models. It is important to keep in mind that the car seat and stroller have to be compatible in order to work. The manufacturer of the car seat must give guidelines on what kinds of strollers work with their product A quick internet search will help find the right stroller.
Some strollers and car seats feature an easy connection that snaps into place with no additional straps or a complicated installation procedure. This kind of simple attachment is a big selling point, and it's especially beneficial for families who frequently use ride-share vehicles or public transport. The Doona is an FAA approved infant car seat that can be converted to stroller with the press of a single button. This is a major time-saver and makes it easy to bypass gate-checking a stroller on airplanes (assuming you've also purchased an airline seat for your infant) or to hop in and out of taxis.
Other stroller-car-seat combos such as the Nuna TrVL let parents remove the infant car seat from the stroller base and fold it into a compact size that can be stored in the trunk. This is another great feature for families with busy schedules, and the stroller itself has a sleek profile with high-end fabrics and smart touches, like a built-in drape canopy to protect a snoozing baby.
The best 2 in 1 stroller car seat for your family will depend on your preferences, lifestyle and growth plans and budget. The most affordable options are likely to be frame strollers that can fit a car seat with the smallest amount of space. On the other hand, higher-end combos may include twin stroller and offer more advanced features. You can be sure that the stroller meets all safety requirements.
Easy to carry
Car seat/stroller combinations are a excellent option for families that are looking to avoid the hassle of gate-checking the infant car seat on flights and are also ideal for those who use ride-shares and public transportation frequently. These car seats and strollers are simple to transport and move in a hurry and are perfect for parents who need their hands free while traveling with their little ones.
When choosing the best 2 in 1 stroller car seat, you should look for one that is lightweight and compact. These types of strollers roll more smoothly and can be easier to push across different terrains. The smaller frames make it easier to fit the car seat into a trunk or back of a car.
Some of the most popular car seat/stroller combinations are light compact and foldable casters that make it easy to store. The Cosco Finale pushchair pram 2 in 1-in-1, for example is a basic seat that can convert into a booster when the child no longer needs an infant carrier. It's light (12 pounds) and has LATCH straps which are relatively easy to use.
Other 2 in 1 stroller car seats include the Doona, which is unique because it's a single piece of equipment that converts from an infant car seat that faces rearwards to a stroller in a few clicks. This lets you remove the base of the seat and makes it easier to move up and down stairs or get into taxis without having to stow the car seat.
Doonas are a fantastic option for those on a budget, particularly first-time parents. It costs less than a year of gym membership and gives parents peace of mind knowing that their baby is safe when traveling.
Many families opt for two-piece stroller/car seat systems if they are set on a particular model of infant carrier or have plans to have more than one child. If that's your case, be sure to read the product specs to ensure your chosen stroller and car seat can work in conjunction. Also consider purchasing an adapter if necessary to accommodate your desired combination.
Easy to Fold
Car seat and stroller combos are a great option for parents who need only one piece of baby gear that can handle multiple functions. They are able to easily switch from a car seat to a stroller, and back to a car seat, and are generally more maneuverable than two-piece travel systems. Stanton says that they are designed to be more compact. "They contain fewer moving parts which makes them easier to fold, use, and transport."
These strollers and car seats for infants are lighter than the two-piece options, and they can be easily carried in trunks that are small. They also come with an extra cargo basket and more useful features such as cup holders and sun shades. Some models even come with a swivel front wheel that's great for navigating crowded sidewalks and shopping centers.
Some brands, like Doona offer a stroller as well as an baby car seat that can be used together. These can be particularly helpful parents who plan to use rideshares or public transportation, or who switch between caregivers often. This model is basically a rear-facing car seat on wheels. The wheels can be lowered to become a stroller when you want to use it.
Certain brands, such as the Evenflo Shyft DualRide allow you to click the car seat into and then fold it out as a stroller. This model is not as sleek as Doona however, you can remove the car seat without having to click into the base.
You should also consider whether a particular stroller or infant car seat combo can accommodate your preferred car seat brand. If it's compatible, then you are likely to enjoy more life from the product since it will be able to work with your child once they get out of the infant car seat.
It's also important to know that certain stroller and car seat combos aren't performing well in our ease-of-use tests. This could be due to a design that makes it difficult or uncomfortable to navigate stairs, or due to the weight of the car seat and stroller could make it difficult to push on different terrains. It is worth reading our reviews to find out which option is best for you.