Choosing a Pushchair Travel System
The decision to purchase the ideal pushchair for your family will be one of the most important decisions you make as a parent. Whether you choose a travel system bundle to benefit from its initial convenience and cost savings, or a separate frame for your pram newborn and a compatible car seat for maximum adaptability, there's plenty to consider.
Luckily, this handy guide will assist you in making the best choice to suit your needs and lifestyle.
What is a travel system?
A travel system is a stroller that has the capacity to accommodate a car seat for your baby. some even come with the option of a carrycot. It's an excellent choice for parents who are new as it means you can easily transfer your baby from the car to the pushchair without disturbing them - ideal for quick trips out to nip to the shops or go on an early morning run.
A quality travel system can be tucked into your car, and then click onto the pushchair frame to ensure a smooth journey for your little one. It's also a practical choice since you only have to buy one thing in the process of getting ready for your new arrival and will usually save you money too.
There are a variety of travel systems available with options ranging from budget-friendly choices to premium brand names like TYPO or JANE. There are many travel systems that come with matching car seat accessories such as changing bags, changing bags, and mats for changing. If you want to simplify your life, you can buy a bundle of travel systems that includes everything you need. This is an excellent way to make sure all the parts work together - no searching for a compatible car seat and finding out you'll need additional adaptors!
What are the recline options for seats? options?
If you choose a travel system with a carrycot then ensure that the pushchair seat is fully reclined, allowing your baby to rest comfortably in the recommended position for breathing and spinal development. Take into consideration whether the handlebar could be adjusted in height to make it comfortable for you, your spouse or anyone else who uses it frequently.
The majority of pushchairs from birth come with a reversible seating option so you can choose if your child should face the parent (to increase communication skills) or to the world to encourage curiosity and let them know where they're going. Some travel systems also come with the option of a reversible car seats that clips directly onto the frame of the pushchair, without taking it off it, so that you can easily move your child from the car to the stroller, and then back.
Not all infant car seats are compatible with all pushchairs. Some travel systems include all the adaptors you require in the box, however others may require them be bought separately. Check the product details or ask your local retailer.
How do I get around it?
Carrycots are light and easy to attach, but they should be used for newborns up to 6 months old. They should always be used in conjunction with a pushchair that can lie flat so that the baby can be in a fully reclined posture which is ideal for their spinal and lung development. Carrycots are light and easy to attach, but they're best used for newborns up to 6 months old and should always be paired with a lying pushchair to allow the baby to be fully reclined posture, which is best for their spinal and lung development.
It's important to keep in mind that the majority of brands have designed them to function as a unit. This means that you can be confident that they'll all fit and work well. Buying everything together can be convenient and is almost always cheaper than buying them separately. Being able to move your sleeping newborn from their car seat to a stroller for a nursery walk or even a trip to shops without disturbing them is a big plus. Travel systems are worth the investment.
How easy is it to attach an automobile seat or a carrycot?
The majority of pushchairs 'from birth' can be connected to a compatible baby car seat or carrycot for easy transitions from your vehicle to the street. This is ideal for infants as it allows them to sleep flat.
Most travel systems are sold with a separate stroller seat. However, a few, like the Doona and the Evenflo Shyft DualRide, have one-piece designs so that the car seat folds into the pushchair. A majority of travel systems come with a separate stroller, but some, like the Doona and the Evenflo Shyft DualRide, have an all-in-one design that allows the car seat folds up into a pushchair, and then folds back to go into the vehicle's base.
If you decide to put a carrycot or car seat on your pushchair, make sure you read the instructions and observe the age, weight and size restrictions. Check whether the car seat or pushchair have been recalled due to safety reasons.
Many pushchairs come with extra accessories that can improve your experience, for example a footmuff can help protect your baby from the elements, while an umbrella made of SPF/UPF 50+ fabric can keep them shady when it's sunny. Some pushchairs include an ride-on board for toddlers who are eager to explore the world but need a little help.
What is the weight limit?
A pushchair travel system is typically designed to fit babies until a certain weight and age. This can vary based on the combination of car seat and pushchair you select, and your personal lifestyle needs so it's important to check these specifications thoroughly. Similar to the brakes of the car you've chosen It's crucial to ensure that they are sturdy and easy to operate.
Many brands offer infant seat adaptors in their travel system packages. This lets you easily clip the car seat of your baby onto the frame of the stroller. This makes getting out with a baby much more convenient. This means that your baby can use their stroller after they are out of the car seat and carrycot. This is an excellent option for families who are busy and have lots of things to accomplish each day.
How easy is it to fold?
Some pushchairs fold with a single press. Others require two hands or a few steps but still manage to fold very compactly. Some models even stand when folded, which makes it simple to grab and go. This design is perfect if you commute or reside in a city and want to make the transition from car and pushchair effortless. Also, if you have a small car boot.
Some travel system pushchairs, dependent on the model, can be used as early as the time of birth, by incorporating an infant car seat or carrycot. These are typically allowed to be used in the cabin on flights and are great for parents who travel extensively as a family.
The most cost-effective option is to purchase a car seat with the pushchair. The bundle is designed by the brand that includes two car seats and a pushchair that are designed to work together. Some pushchairs include the car seats they are compatible with and you can also purchase the car seat separately. (This could require converters for car seats.) MFM Editor Gemma's pick of the best lightweight travel system is the Babyzen YOYO due to its clever features and incredible one-second fold.
What do you think it looks like?
A travel system bundle offers convenience, security and cost savings. These bundles are designed by brands or retailers, with each component carefully selected to work seamlessly. This means you don't have to research the best car seat with your dream pushchair, or trawling online for a sock or changing bag that complements the design.
They typically consist of a pushchair frame that is suitable for a car seat. They usually include a carrycot or a seat unit that can be used forward-facing or parent-facing depending on your preference (or regulations, since rear-facing in the car is recommended until 15 months). Some convert to twins/tandems when you're expecting more than one baby.
If you are planning to spend a lot of time driving and walking, a travel system is a great choice. It is simple to transfer your child from the car to the pushchair, and vice versa without having to disrupt them or find a secure parking spot. They also can save space in the car's boot making it easier to get to shops or go on a school run.