5 2 In 1 Stroller Car Seat Tips From The Professionals
Car Seat and Stroller Combos
The most reliable car seat stroller combinations are so easy to attach that it almost feels like they're doing it themselves. "Look for an appropriate base and a carrier that click together easily," advises Stanton. This minimizes the potential for errors that could occur during installation and detachment.
One option that accomplishes this is the Doona, which seamlessly transforms from a car seat into a stroller and helps to free up space in the trunk. Online reviews have noted that it is hefty but they also appreciate its simplicity of use and functionality.
Easy to Assemble
A stroller and car seat combination is a great option for parents who want to avoid the hassle of switching between the two. It also makes sense for those who often use public transportation or rideshares, as well as those who have multiple caregivers. "These are a single item and the wheels are connected to the car seat, meaning they're more portable," says Stanton. However, she adds, it's important to ensure that the car seat is secured properly when you use it with a travel system. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines and your vehicle owner's manual to ensure a secure fit, she says.
In our tests, we discovered that the best stroller and car seat combinations come with a simple click-in connection that requires little effort beyond moving the carrier from one to another. They scored higher in comparison to those with more complex connections due to their lower pressure and offer fewer chances for mistakes, whether intentional or accidental. We like, for instance that the UPPAbaby Vista Combo is a simple drop-in accessory that does not require straps and has a gauge at the bottom of the car seat which indicates whether the seat is level correctly.
The Doona All in-One Infant Car Seat Stroller too, is easy to install and switch from car to stroller. It's a seamless conversion that allows you to use the extra space in your trunk for shopping or running errands. It also features an adjustable front wheel that provides great maneuverability even when the seat is attached.
Another option is Britax B Lively and B Safe Gen2 Travel System. It features an elongated chassis that is springy 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 drinks, snacks and baby equipment. Its cushioned seat is comfortable for long rides and the tagless smooth-touch knit fabric is machine washable. 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 them in the event of a crash.
A good travel system must be easy to push. pram 2 in 1 and a single pivoting wheel in the front for navigating busy sidewalks and streets. The Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo and the BOB Alterrain Pro are all smooth-gliding and have useful features like one-hand brake and a large storage basket.
Easy to store
Car seat stroller combos are an excellent choice for parents who want to keep their baby as comfortable as they can whether they're running errands, or going on an extended family trip. Stroller-car-seat combos are much easier to move around than separate items, and many models are equipped with features that set them apart from the competition. However, it's important to note that the car seat and stroller need to be compatible for use together. The manufacturer of the car seat needs to provide guidelines for what types of strollers are compatible with their product and a quick internet search can help narrow down your options.
Some strollers and carseats have an attachment that snaps in place without the need for straps or complicated installation. This type of easy attachment is a major selling point for families that frequently utilize public transportation or ride-share vehicles. The Doona is an FAA approved infant car seat which can be converted to stroller with the press of a button. This is a fantastic time-saver and helps you avoid having your stroller checked at the gate on planes (assuming that you have also purchased an airline chair for your baby), or to jump into and out of taxis.
Other stroller-car seat combos like the Nuna TrVL let parents remove the infant car seat from the base of the stroller, and fold it easily into a compact size that fits inside the trunk. This is a great feature for busy parents. The stroller itself features a sleek design and top quality fabrics as well as smart touches such as a built-in drape canopy that protects the baby from snoozing.
The best 2 in 1 stroller car seat for your family will be contingent on your preferences, lifestyle, plans for growth, and your budget. The most affordable options will likely be frame strollers that fit a car seat with minimal extra space, while more expensive combos could include a toddler seat or twin stroller and offer more advanced features. You can be assured that the stroller is compliant with all safety standards.
Easy to carry
These combinations are perfect for families who wish to avoid checking the gate of an infant car seat when flying. They're also great for people who frequently use public transportation and ride-sharing services. These car seats and strollers are simple to transport and move in a hurry and are perfect for parents who want their hands off when traveling with their kids.
When choosing a 2 in 1 stroller car seat, you should look for one that is light and compact. These options tend to move more smoothly, which could make them easier to push through different conditions. Furthermore, the smaller frames can aid in getting the car seat into and out of a trunk, or the back of a vehicle.
Many of the most sought-after car seats/strollers are lightweight and compact, and come with folding casters that can be stored easily. For example the Cosco Finale 2-in-1 is an easy-to-use 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 reasonably priced, light (12 pounds) and comes with LATCH straps that are easy to use (we didn't score it as an ideal choice for ease of assembly).
Other 2 in 1 stroller car seats include the Doona that is a standout because it's a single piece of equipment that can be converted from an infant car seat that faces rearwards to a stroller with just a few clicks. This allows you to avoid the step of removing your car seat from its base. It also helps you to navigate up and out taxis without having the car seat stowed.
Doonas are an excellent option for those on a budget, particularly first-time parents. It's less expensive than the cost of a year's gym membership, and it gives parents assurance that they're equipped with safe travel gear for their baby.
Many families opt for a two-piece stroller/car seat system in the event that they have decided on a specific type of infant carrier or have plans to have more than one child. If that's the situation, make sure you read the product specs to ensure that the stroller you choose and car seat work in tandem. You may want to consider purchasing an adapter to fit the combination you want.
Easy to Fold
Car seat and stroller combos are a great option for parents who need one piece of baby equipment which can perform multiple functions. They can easily be converted from a car to the stroller and reverse. They are also more easy to maneuver than two piece travel systems. Stanton says they're made to be lighter and more portable. "They contain fewer moving parts, making them easy to fold and use as well as carry."
In addition, these types of strollers and infant car seats are usually lighter than two-piece models and fit in smaller trunks, making them easy to transport. They also have more space for cargo and more practical features like cup holders and sun shades. Some models have a swivel wheel at the front, which is ideal for navigating busy streets and shopping centers.
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 change caregivers frequently. This model is essentially a rear-facing car seat on wheels, and the wheels drop down to become an infant stroller when you decide to use it.
Other brands, like the Evenflo Shyft DualRide, allow you to insert the car seat, and then fold it up into the form of a stroller. The model isn't as sleek as Doona however it does allow you to remove the car seat from the frame without needing to insert it into the base.
Check if the stroller and infant seat combination you're considering fits your preferred brand of car seat. 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's also important to know that certain stroller and car seat combos aren't performing well in our tests of ease-of-use. This could be because of the design that makes it difficult to navigate stairs or because the weight and size of the stroller/car seat can make it difficult to push. In any case, it's worth checking out our full reviews to determine the best solution for you.