Car Seat and Stroller Combos
The most effective car seat stroller combinations are so simple to connect that it's almost like they do it themselves. Stanton recommends: "Look for a base that is easy to connect with the carrier." This reduces the chance of errors that can happen during installation and detachment.
Doona is one option that allows you to do this. It seamlessly converts from a car seat into stroller, and lets you free up space in your trunk. Online reviewers note that it feels substantial but they also appreciate its simplicity of use and functionality.
Easy to Assemble
Parents who don't want to switch between car seats and strollers often find a mix of both appealing. This is also a good option for parents who take rides or public transportation frequently and who switch caregivers. "These are a single piece of equipment and the wheels are connected to the car seat, so they're more easily portable," says Stanton. Stanton says it is important to ensure that the car seat is secured properly when using an air travel system. She suggests that you always adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines and the owner's manual of your vehicle to ensure an ideal fit.
In our tests, we found that the best stroller-car seat combos have a simple click-in connection, which requires little effort beyond moving the car seat from one place to another. They scored better than those with more complicated connections, because they require less pressure and provide the least chance of making errors (intentional or accidental). We like, for example, the fact that the UPPAbaby Vista Combo is a simple drop-in attachment that does not require straps, and that it includes a meter on the base 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 then transfer from stroller to vehicle. It's a seamless change that frees up extra trunk space to shop and run errands. It also has a swivel front wheel that provides an excellent maneuverability, even when the seat is mounted.
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 makes it easy to store. It has a spacious basket as well as plenty of cup holders to hold snacks, drinks and baby equipment. The cushioned seat is comfortable for long trips, and the smooth, tagless knit fabric can be machine washed. It's FAA-approved and includes a safety harness that locks at or below the shoulders of your baby and includes a SafeCell crumple zone to safeguard them in the event of an accident.
A good travel system must be simple to push. Our top picks feature rubber tires and a single, rotating wheel at the front to navigate busy streets and sidewalks. The Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo and the BOB Alterrain Pro are all easy-gliding and come with 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 possible should consider a car seat and stroller combination, regardless of whether they are running errands or taking an excursion with the family. Stroller and car seat combinations are generally easier to maneuver than separate pieces, and many models are equipped with convenient features that make them distinct from other models. But, it is crucial to keep in mind that the car seat and stroller have to be compatible for use together. The car seat manufacturer should provide guidelines for strollers that are compatible with their products. A quick online search will help narrow your options.
Certain strollers and car seats 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, and it's particularly beneficial for families that frequently utilize ride-share vehicles or public transport. The Doona is an FAA approved infant car seat that can be converted into stroller with the click of a single button. This is a great time-saver and lets you avoid having your stroller checked at the gate on planes (assuming that you've also purchased an airline chair for your child) or to hop in and out of taxis.
Other stroller and car seat combos, like the Nuna TRVL, allow parents to remove the infant carrier from the stroller base and fold it into a compact unit that fits in the trunk of a vehicle. This is a fantastic feature for families with busy schedules and the stroller is sleek and stylish, with top-quality fabrics and smart features such as a built-in drape canopy that can protect a sleepy baby.
The best 2 in 1 stroller car seat for your family will depend on your personal preferences and growth plans and your budget. The cheapest models tend to be frame strollers that can accommodate a car seat for a child with little extra space. Higher-end combos will include a toddler seat, twin strollers, or more advanced features. Either way you can be sure that the stroller and car seat will meet the highest standards of safety.
Easy to carry
These combos are ideal for families that want to avoid the hassle of checking the gate for an infant car seat while flying. They're also great for people who frequently use public transportation or ride-shares. Car seats and strollers are simple to transport and move around on the go and are ideal for parents who need their hands free while traveling with their little ones.
When deciding on the best 2 in 1 stroller car seat, you should look for one that is light and compact. These models roll more smoothly and are easier to push across different terrains. The smaller frames allow for easier placement of the car seat into a trunk or back of the car.
A few of the most well-known and highly rated car seat/stroller combinations are light, compact and come with wheels that fold for easy storage. For example the Cosco Finale 2-in-1 is an easy-to-use seat that converts from an rear-facing five-point harness into an infant booster when children are no longer in an infant carrier. It's reasonably priced, light (12 pounds) and comes with LATCH straps that are user-friendly (we did not rate it as an ideal choice for ease of assembly).
Other 2 in 1 stroller car seats include the Doona, which is unique because it's a single piece of equipment that can be converted from a rear-facing infant car seat to a stroller with just a few clicks. This lets you remove the base of the seat and makes it easier to maneuver stairs or hop in and out of taxis without having to store the car seat.
The Doona is a budget-friendly option that is particularly appealing for first-time parents. It's less expensive than a year's gym membership and gives parents peace of mind knowing their child is safe traveling.
Many families choose a two-piece car seat/stroller system if they are set on a specific type of infant carrier or plans to have several children. If that's the situation, make sure you go over the specifications of the product to ensure that your stroller and car seat work together. Also, consider buying an adapter if necessary to fit your preferred combination.
Easy to Fold
2in1 travel system and stroller combos are a great choice for parents looking for one piece of baby equipment that can handle multiple functions. They are able to effortlessly switch from a car seat to a stroller and then back again, and they're usually easier to maneuver than two-piece travel systems. Stanton says that they are designed to be more portable. "They have less moving parts, making them more compact to fold, use, and transport."
Additionally, these kinds of strollers and infant car seats are usually lighter than two-piece models and can be tucked away in small trunks, making them simple to carry around. They also tend to have more space for cargo and more practical features like cup holders and sun shades. Some have a swivel front wheel that is ideal for navigating streets and stores.
Certain brands, like Doona offer an all-in-one infant car seat and stroller solutions. These are particularly useful for parents who plan to use rideshares or public transportation, or who change caregivers frequently. This model is a rear-facing car seat with wheels that can be converted into stroller.
Some brands, like the Evenflo Shyft DualRide allow you to slide the car seat into and then unfold it as a stroller. This model is not as sleek as Doona however, you can remove the car seat without needing to click into the base.
Check if the stroller and infant car seat combination you're considering fits 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.
It's important to understand that certain stroller and car seats aren't very effective in our ease of use tests. This could be due to an design that makes it difficult or inconvenient to use stairs, or because the weight of the stroller and car seat could make it difficult to push across different terrains. In any case, it's worth checking through our reviews to determine the best option for you.