2 in 1 Stroller and Car Seat Combo
Whether you're looking for a traveling system to help your baby sleep better or to make your jogging adventures with the little one more enjoyable, there are options that will satisfy your requirements. There are also one-piece models like the Doona that eliminate the need to attach.
We also tested models which allow you to remove and attach your car seat from its base with just one hand, while maneuvering through tight spaces and around curbs.
Features
A car seat and stroller combo is a good option for parents looking to minimize the amount they carry around. They usually include an infant car seat and a stroller that can be used for a number of years even after your child is out of the car seat. You can also avoid the hassle of purchasing and installing a separate adaptor for your car seat. Be aware that not every stroller or car seat is compatible. Make sure to verify the product specifications.
If you decide to buy a 2-in-1 stroller and car-seat, we recommend that you choose one that is secure between the base of the carrier and the carrier. These connections require minimal pressure, which decreases the chance of making mistakes that can occur when attempting to install a car seat using straps.
When you are choosing a stroller and car seat combo, you should take into consideration whether the car seat is removable from the frame of the stroller, without having to remove it from the vehicle. This makes it much easier to move your baby from the car to the stroller or back again. This is especially beneficial for sleep-deprived parents!
The Graco Travel System With OnBoard 35 LT Stroller and Infant Car Seat is a highly-rated stroller/car seat combination. It comes with an infant car seat that is rear-facing that can be fitted with either the lower anchors or your vehicle belt and has a silent canopy design to keep your baby comfortable when they travel in the car. The stroller features a spacious storage basket, a luxurious tray for parents with cups that are directional, as well as an adjustable handlebar.
The car seat and stroller set is a great choice for families who want a set that will expand with their family over the years. 2 in 1 stroller and car seat has a padded toddler seat that can be used in a variety of positions. The EZ-Lift Plus 35 Infant Car Seat comes with an easy-release buckle and a an integrated lock that makes it easy to install.
The Doona stroller and car seat combo is a favorite choice due to its flexibility, convenience, and safety. The innovative stroller transforms from a rear facing car seat to a stroller forward facing in only seconds. It's light, compact and easy to maneuver. It's a great choice to run errands or travel via train, plane or bus. It has an extremely low center of gravity, and an audible click when the car is secured to the base which means you can be sure that it's secure.
Safety
It is essential to have car seats and strollers that are compatible however, it is also important to ensure that your baby is protected. Look for car seats that click easily into the stroller, and is confirmed by an audible click when it's securely attached. Check that the car seat is correctly fitted in your car also, by adhering to the car seat manufacturer's guidelines and reading the owner's manual. Dr. Kirkilas says that the seat should fit snugly but not too tight and that the harness should be placed just below your baby's nipple.
Car seats that can be converted into strollers are useful for families who take public transportation or rideshares, says Stanton, as you can move your child from the car to the stroller, and back without leaving the vehicle. "They are usually easier to handle," says Stanton, especially on shorter excursions or errands. In our tests, strollers with integrated car seats had more maneuverability over other types of strollers. A lightweight stroller with a compact car seat that folds is easy to carry up and down stairs, or sling in a trunk and fits into small closets.
However, strollers with lighter weights tend to slide a bit more on uneven terrain than heavier models and are more difficult to push when loaded down with gear. To avoid the possibility of tipping, pick an option that weighs less than 25 pounds.
Take into consideration the size of your car seat and stroller. The larger models might be difficult to maneuver and need more storage space but they'll provide more comfort and a smoother ride. They also have more cargo space.
If you're planning to purchase a car seat and stroller from different brands, read the specifications carefully to be sure they can be used together. You can save money by purchasing a separate stroller and then buying an adapter to allow it to work with your child's car seat.
We are happy to recommend the Baby Jogger City GO 2 stroller and infant seat it has received rave reviews from parents and earned top marks during our tests. This travel system comes with a brand-new RAPIDLOCK base that can be installed in just seconds, using belt-tensioning technology to ensure safety while traveling and a level, secure installation, and an anti-rebound bar that protects your baby from injuries caused by side impacts.
Easy of Use
Car seat and stroller combos can help parents save time and money as well as hassle. Unlike a traditional travel system that requires you to transfer the infant car seat between your vehicle and stroller, combos let you to connect both together with just a click. This is especially helpful for mothers who are new to the world and be overwhelmed by the numerous steps involved in caring of a child.
Car-seat/stroller combos also tend to be lighter than separate strollers and car seats, which can make them easier to maneuver. Additionally, a lot of models come with quick-attach car seats bases and adapters that require little pressure to attach and release which decreases the chance for accidents (whether intentional or not). Additionally, many models come with easy-to-read instructions as well as audible clicks that let you determine if your car seat is secured.
In our testing of stroller/car seat combos We look for models with greater ease-of-use scores. Evenflo Shyft DualRide, for example, is a one piece option that unfolds to convert into a stroller before folding up and going back into its base. This model also has a smooth, consistent ride due to the progressive rear and front wheel suspension. The fabric can also be washed using a machine.
UPPAbaby Vista V2 Combo and UPPAbaby Cruz v2 Combo are also top-rated strollers, with high scores for ease of use. These strollers are easy to push due to their more efficient brakes and more maneuverable wheels. All models have adapters and car-seat attachments that allow you to snap an infant car seat in the correct position.
It is important to be aware that most stroller/car-seat combinations are not compatible with an all-in-1 convertible or extended-use car seat. These car seats are designed to be used in the vehicle, and they are not able to snap onto frames for strollers. However some options do exist, like the Doona infant car seat and latch base which can be used in conjunction with a stroller, but only for 6-9 months. The Doona may be expensive, but it is an excellent choice for families that want to utilize a travel set-up without having to purchase a second car seat or a stroller once their child is outgrowing the infant car seat.
Budget
While a 2-in-1 stroller and car seat may seem like a great way to save money, it is important to consider the quality of each component. The stroller should have a solid, comfortable feel while the car seat needs to have a sturdy five-point harness. A good combination should also include a large canopy to shield your child from the sun, and a tray for parents with two cup holders and a peek-a-boo window, so you can monitor your child while he walks.
In terms of convenience You should look for an item that is easy to put together and install into your vehicle. Then, it needs to fold up easily and compactly to store it. Also, make sure that the stroller is easy-to-maneuver and has comfortable handles. It's an added benefit if the stroller reclines to take naps or be adjusted to different height positions.
Another factor to consider is the amount of the time your child will spend in the infant car seat. We recommend that you choose an option that has a convertible car seat. This will allow your child to progress into a toddler car seat and then a booster seat when they get older.
A popular option is the Doona infant car seat and stroller combo. We love that it does not require the attachment process and is a rear-facing car seat on wheels, which makes switching from stroller to vehicle an easy transition for your child. The only drawback is that it has a shorter lifespan (6-9 months) and requires you to purchase another stroller once your baby has outgrown the infant car seat.
The Contours Snap N Go dual stroller and MESA infant seat is another option that gets high marks for its ease of use. The stroller is able to accommodate two infants and has multiple seating positions including forwards, backwards and face to face. Plus, it can attach to the car seat with one click and comes with rigid LATCH connectors built right into the base. The stroller is also able to slink down to an ultra-compact size for storage and fits in most trunks with ease.