Car Seat and Stroller Combos
The most reliable car seat stroller combos are so simple to attach that it almost feels like they're doing it themselves. "Look for a base and carrier that can be easily clicked together," advises Stanton. This reduces the possibility of errors during installation and removal.
Doona is one of the options that allows you to accomplish this. It effortlessly converts from a car seat into a stroller, and it lets you free up space in your trunk. Online reviews have noted that it feels substantial but they also appreciate its simplicity of use and its functionality.
Easy to Assemble
Parents who do not want to switch between car seats and strollers often find a mix of both appealing. It's also an ideal choice for those who regularly use public transportation or rideshares, as well as those who switch between caregivers. "These are a single product and the wheels are attached to the car seat, which means they're more easily mobile," says Stanton. Stanton suggests to secure the car seat correctly when using the travel system. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines and your vehicle owner's manual to ensure an appropriate fit she adds.
In our tests, the top stroller-car seat combos have simple click-in connections, which requires little effort beyond moving the carrier from one location to the next. These models scored higher than those with more complex connections, as they require less pressure and provide the least chance of making errors (intentional or accidental). We like, for instance, that the UPPAbaby Vista Combo is a simple drop-in accessory that requires no straps, and has a gauge at the bottom of the car seat that indicates when the seat is leveled correctly.
Similarly, the Doona All-in-One Stroller for Infants is simple to set up and transfer from vehicle to stroller. It's a seamless transformation that frees up extra trunk space to shop and run errands. It also features an adjustable front wheel that gives you great maneuverability, even when the seat is attached.
Another option is the Britax B-Lively and B-Safe Gen2 Travel System, which has springy suspension as well as a large, one-hand-fold chassis that can be easily stored. 2 in 1 pram pushchair comes with a large basket as well as plenty of cup holders for drinks, snacks, and baby gear. The cushioned seat is comfortable for long trips, and the smooth, tagless knit fabric can be washed in the machine. 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 to protect your child in the event of an accident.
A great travel system should also be simple to push. Our top choices have rubber tires and a single pivoting wheel in the front to help navigate busy streets and sidewalks. The Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo and the BOB Alterrain Pro are all smooth-gliding and feature convenient features like one-hand braking and an ample storage basket.
Easy to store
Car seat stroller combinations are an excellent choice for parents who want to keep their child as comfortable as they can, whether they're doing errands or going on a family vacation. Stroller-car seat combos are 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 keep in mind that the car seat and stroller must be compatible for use together. The manufacturer of the car seat should provide guidelines on what kinds of strollers are compatible with their product and a quick internet search will help find the right stroller.
Some strollers and carseats come with an attachment that snaps in place without the need for additional straps or complicated assembly. This kind of effortless attachment is a huge selling point, and is especially beneficial for families who often use ride-share cars or public transportation. The Doona is a good example. It is an FAA-approved infant car seat that is able to transform into a stroller with just the click of the button. This is a major time saver and allows you to avoid gate-checking a stroller on planes (assuming you've also purchased an airline seat for your baby) or to hop into and out of taxis.
Other stroller-car seat combinations like the Nuna TrVL let parents remove the infant car seat from the base of the stroller and fold it into a compact size that can be tucked away inside the trunk. This is another great feature for busy families and the stroller has a sleek design with top-quality fabrics and smart features, like a built-in drape canopy to shield a sleeping baby.
The best 2 in 1 stroller car seat for your family will be contingent on your preferences, lifestyle and growth plans and your budget. The most affordable models tend to be frame strollers which can accommodate a car seat for a child with little extra space. More expensive combos will include the toddler seat, twin stroller, or more advanced features. You can be certain that the stroller meets all safety standards.
Easy to carry
Car seat/stroller combos are a excellent option for families that wish to avoid having to check gate-check the infant car seat on flights and are also ideal for people who use ride-shares and public transportation frequently. Car seats and strollers are easy to transport and maneuver around on the go and are perfect for parents who require their hands off when traveling with their little ones.
When deciding on a 2 in 1 stroller car seat, you should look for one that's lightweight and compact. These types of strollers have a smoother ride and can be easier to push over different terrains. Furthermore, the smaller frames can make it easier to get the car seat into and out of a trunk or the back of a vehicle.
Some of the most popular car seats/strollers are lightweight and compact, and come with foldable casters for easy storage. The Cosco Finale 2-in-1 for instance, is a simple seat that can be converted into an infant booster when the child no more requires an infant carrier. It's reasonably priced, light (12 pounds) and has LATCH straps that are simple to use (we didn't score it as an ideal choice for its ease of installation).
The Doona is a different 2 in 1 stroller/car seat that's worth to be mentioned. It's a unique piece of equipment due to the fact that it can be transformed from a rear facing infant car seat to a stroller by simply clicking on a button. This lets you remove the seat from the base and makes it easier to move up and down stairs or get into taxis without having to put away the car seat.
Doonas are a great budget-friendly choice, especially for first-time parents. It's less than the cost of a year's gym membership, and it gives parents assurance that they have safe travel gear for their baby.
Many families opt for a two-piece car seat/stroller system in the event that they have decided on a particular type of infant carrier or plans to have more than one child. If that's the situation, make sure you review the specifications of the product to ensure your chosen stroller and car seat can work together. You may want to consider purchasing an adapter to match your desired combination.
Easy to Fold
The car seat and stroller combo is a great choice for parents looking for a single piece that can serve multiple functions. They are able to easily switch from a car seat to a stroller and then back again, and they are generally more maneuverable than two-piece travel systems. "They're designed to be more easily portable," says Stanton. "They contain a lot fewer moving parts, which means they're easier to fold, carry, and use."
In addition, these types of strollers and infant car seats are typically lighter than two-piece options and fit in smaller trunks, making them easy to transport. These strollers and infant car seats tend to be lighter and come with more convenient features, such as cup holders and sun shades. Some models have a swivel wheel on the front, which is ideal for navigating busy streets and shopping centers.
Some brands, like Doona offer an all-in-one infant stroller and car seat. These can be particularly helpful for parents who intend to take advantage of rideshares or public transportation, or change caregivers frequently. This model is basically a rear-facing car seat on wheels. The wheels can be lowered to become an infant stroller when you decide to use it.
Other brands, like the Evenflo Shyft DualRide, allow you to click on 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 having to click it into the base.
Take into consideration whether the stroller and infant seat combination you're considering will work with your preferred car seat. If it's compatible, then you are likely to enjoy more life from the product since it will still work with your child when they are no longer in the infant car seat.
However, it's important to know that certain car seat and stroller combos aren't performing well in our tests for ease of use. This could be due to a design which makes it difficult to walk stairs or due to the weight and size of the stroller/car seat may make it harder to push. It's worth reading our review to determine which one is best for you.