Car Seat and Stroller Combos
The most reliable car seat stroller combos are so simple to attach that it's like they're doing it all by themselves. "Look for a base and carrier that snap together easily," advises Stanton. This helps reduce the risk of errors during installation and removal.
One option that can do this is the Doona that effortlessly transforms from a car seat into a stroller and frees up trunk space. Online reviewers note that it feels substantial however they also appreciate its user-friendliness and its functionality.
Easy to Assemble
Parents who don't want to switch between strollers and car seats often find a combination of both attractive. This is also a good alternative for parents who utilize rides or public transportation frequently and who change caregivers. "These are a single item and the wheels are attached to the car seat, meaning they're more naturally portable," says Stanton. Stanton stresses the need to secure the car seat properly when using an air travel system. She advises you to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines and your vehicle's owner's manual for an ideal fit.
In our tests, we found that the most effective stroller and car seat combinations feature a simple, click-in connection that requires little effort beyond shifting the carrier from one location to another. These models scored higher than those with more complex connections, because they require less pressure and have the least chance of making mistakes (intentional or accidental). We like, for instance the fact that the UPPAbaby Vista Combo is a simple drop-in attachment that does not require straps and that it has an indicator at the bottom of the car seat which indicates when the seat is leveled properly.
The Doona All in-One Infant Car Seat Stroller is easy to set up and transfer from car to stroller. It's a seamless transformation that frees up trunk space for shopping and errands. It also comes with an adjustable front wheel that provides great maneuverability even when the seat is in place.
Another alternative is the Britax B-Lively & B-Safe Gen2 Travel System that has a springy suspension and an enormous, one-hand-folding chassis that can be easily stored. It has a big basket as well as plenty of cups to hold snacks, drinks and baby equipment. The cushioned seat makes it ideal for long journeys and the tagless smooth knit fabric can be washed in the machine. It's FAA approved and comes with an safety harness that is secured at or below your baby's shoulders and includes a SafeCell crumple zone to safeguard them in the event of an accident.
A good travel system will also be easy to push and, in our top picks, all have rubber tires that have only a single, swivel rear wheel that can be used to navigate busy roads and sidewalks. The Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo, the BOB Alterrain Pro, and the Baby Jogger City Mini GT 2 Combo all glide effortlessly and have convenient features, like one-hand braking and a spacious storage basket.
Easy to store
Parents who want their baby to be as comfortable as possible will be better off with a car seat stroller combination, whether they are doing errands during the day or planning an excursion with the family. Stroller-car seat combos are easier to move than separate items, and a number of models have convenient features that differentiate them from the competition. But, it is crucial to remember that the car seat and stroller need to be compatible in order to work. The manufacturer of the car seat should provide guidelines on what kinds of strollers can be used with their product and a quick internet search will help find the right stroller.
Certain strollers and car seats have an immediate attachment that snaps into position without the need for additional straps or a complicated installation. This kind of simple attachment is a major benefit for families who regularly use public transportation or ride-share vehicles. The Doona, for example, is an FAA-approved infant car seat that is able to transform into a stroller with just the push of one button. This is a great time-saver and allows you to avoid gate-checking your stroller on planes (assuming that you've also purchased an airline chair for your infant) or to get into and out of taxis.
Other stroller-car seat combos like the Nuna TrVL let parents remove the infant car seat from the stroller base and fold it into a compact size that can be tucked away in the trunk. This is a fantastic feature for families with busy schedules, and the stroller itself has a sleek profile with top-quality fabrics and clever touches such as a built-in curtain canopy to shield a sleeping baby.
The best 2 in 1 stroller car seat for your family will depend on your personal preferences, plans for growth, and budget. The most affordable models are likely to be frame strollers that can accommodate a car seat for a child with little space. The more expensive models will have a toddler seat, a twin stroller, or more advanced features. You can be sure that the stroller will meet all safety requirements.
Easy to carry
These combos are perfect for families that want to avoid gate checking 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 easy to carry and maneuver in a hurry, which makes them ideal for parents who require their hands off when traveling with their kids.
Find a light and compact 2 in 1 stroller/car seat. These models tend to roll more smoothly, which can make them easier to push in various conditions. In addition, the smaller frame can help you get the car seat into and out of a trunk or the back of a vehicle.
A few of the most well-known and highly rated car seats/strollers combos are lightweight, compact and come with wheels that fold to make it easy to store. The Cosco Finale 2-in-1, for example is a standard seat that converts to a booster once the child no more requires an infant carrier. It's lightweight (12 pounds) and comes with LATCH straps which are relatively simple to use.
Other 2 in 1 stroller car seats include the Doona It's unique because it's a single piece of equipment that can be converted from a rear-facing infant car seat to a stroller in just a few clicks. This allows you to remove the seat from the base and makes it easier to navigate stairs or hop into and out of taxis without having to stow the car seat.
The Doona is a budget-friendly choice, which is especially appealing for parents who are first-time parents. It's less expensive than the cost of one year's gym membership and it gives new parents peace of mind knowing that they'll have a safe and secure travel kit for their infant.
Many families opt for a two-piece car seat/stroller system when they're deciding on a specific model of infant carrier or have plans to have more than one child. If this is the scenario, be sure to review the specifications of the product to ensure your chosen stroller and car seat work in tandem. Consider buying an adapter that will fit the combination you want.
Easy to Fold
The car seat and stroller combo is a great choice for parents looking for a single piece that can be used for multiple functions. They can easily convert from a car to the stroller and reverse. Full Record are also easier to move around than two piece travel systems. Stanton says that they are made to be lighter and more portable. "They have a lot fewer moving parts, which makes them more compact to fold, carry, and use."
In addition, these types of strollers and infant car seats are typically lighter than two-piece options and can fit into small trunks, making them simple to transport. They also tend to have an extra cargo basket and more practical features like cup holders and sun shades. Some have a swivel wheel at the front, which can be used to navigate busy streets and stores.
Certain brands, like Doona offer an all-in-one infant stroller and car seat. They are particularly useful for parents who take public transportation or rideshares, or who have to change caregivers frequently. This model is basically a rear-facing car seat on wheels, and 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 a stroller. This model is not as sleek as Doona but you can remove the car seat without needing to click into the base.
Check if the stroller and infant seat combination you are considering can accommodate your preferred brand of car seat. If it is compatible, you can expect to get 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 be aware that some stroller and car seats aren't performing well in our ease-of-use tests. This could be due to an design that makes it difficult to navigate stairs, or the weight and size of the stroller/car seat may make it more difficult to push. It's worth reading our review to determine which model is the best for you.