Choosing a Pushchair Travel System

The choice of the ideal pushchair for your family is one of the biggest decisions you'll make as a parent. Whether you choose a travel system bundle to benefit from its initial convenience and cost savings, or a separate frame for your pram and a compatible car seat to ensure maximum flexibility There's plenty to consider.

This guide will help you make the best choice to suit your lifestyle and needs.

What is a travel system?

A travel system is a stroller that can accommodate a car seat for your baby and some come with the option of a carrycot. It's an excellent choice for parents who are new since it lets you easily move your sleeping baby from the car to the pushchair without disturbing them. It's ideal for quick trips out to nip to the shops or do a nursery run.

A great travel system will fit snuggly into your car, and then connect to the frame of your pushchair to make a seamless trip for your baby. It's also a practical choice since you only need to make one big purchase in the process of getting ready for the arrival of your child and will usually cost less too.

There are many kinds of travel systems available, ranging from budget-friendly options to top-of-the-line brands like TYPO or JANE. A majority of them come with matching coordinating changing bag and car seat accessories and If you're looking to simplify your life, there are travel system bundles that come with everything you require in one purchase. This is the most efficient method to ensure that all parts work together. Don't waste time searching for a car seat that works and then figuring out that you need adapters too!

What are the various options for reclined seats?

If you opt for a travel system that comes with a carrycot, then make sure the pushchair seat is fully reclined to ensure your baby is comfortable to sleep and is in a lie-flat position for spinal and respiratory development. Take into consideration whether the handlebar could be adjusted in height so that it is comfortable for you, your spouse or anyone else who might use frequently.

The majority of pushchairs that are 'from birth' include a reversible seat so that you can decide whether your child sits parent-facing (to encourage their communication skills) or facing the world to stimulate their curiosity and let them know where they are going. Some travel systems also have the option of a reversible car seats that clips directly onto the pushchair frame without removing it, so you can easily move your baby from the car to the stroller and back again.

Not all infant car seats work with all pushchairs pushchairs. Some travel systems include all the adaptors needed in the box. Others may require you purchase the adaptors separately. You can find out if this is the case by looking up the product's details or contacting the local retailer.

How easy is it to manoeuvre?

If you're looking for a travel system to take your newborn from the car to the pushchair, and back, make sure the pushchair's chassis isn't too heavy and that you have enough room in your boot to accommodate the carrycot. Carrycots can be attached easily and are lightweight. They're best for newborns less than 6 months old and are best used with a lie flat pushchair. This allows the baby to sit in a reclining position which is good for their spine development and lung development.

It's important to keep in mind that the majority of the brands have designed them to function together. This means you can be sure that they will all fit and work well. Buying all your items in one place can be convenient and is almost always cheaper than buying the items separately. It's a huge plus to be able to move your baby's sleepy body from the car seat to the stroller in order to go to the nursery or shop without causing disturbance to them. Travel systems are worth the expense.

How do I attach a carrycot or car seat?

Most of the 'from birth pushchairs can be plugged on to an appropriate car seat or carrycot to allow you to transition from your car to street easy. This is great for babies as it allows them to rest in a flat position.

When the baby is outgrowing their infant car seat (usually until the age of 18 months) the majority of travel systems can be used with a stroller seat and will therefore last longer as your child grows. Most compact travel pram systems come with a separate stroller, but some, like the Doona or the Evenflo Shyft DualRide have a single-piece design that permits the car seat to fold into a pushchair, then folded back into base of the vehicle.

If you decide to put a car seat or carrycot on your pushchair, be sure you read the instructions and adhere to the weight, age, and size limitations. Also, make sure to determine if the pushchair and car seat have been recalled as part of a safety recall.

Many pushchairs have additional accessories that can help enhance your experience, such as a footmuff can help protect your baby from the elements, whereas a parasol, made from SPF/UPF 50+ fabric can keep them shaded when it's sunny. Some pushchairs come with a ride-on board designed for toddlers who are eager to explore the world but need a little help.

What is the weight limit?

A pushchair will typically accommodate infants as long as they are of the appropriate weight and age. This can vary based on the combination of car seat and pushchair you select as well as your own lifestyle needs so it's worth checking these specifications carefully. Similar applies to the brakes on the car you've chosen, it's important that you ensure that they are sturdy and easy to operate.

Many brands include infant seat adaptors with their travel system packages. This allows you to attach the car seat of your infant onto the frame of the stroller. This allows you to get out with your baby much easier. It also ensures that once your baby is no longer in their carrycot and car seat they can still utilize the stroller. This is a great choice for families that have hectic lives and plenty to do every day.

How easy is it to fold?

There are a range of fold types that are available on pushchairs. Some are completely one-handed, with just a click of a button. Others need two hands or a couple of steps, yet they can fold very compactly. Some models even stand when folded which makes it easy to carry around. This kind of design is perfect if you live in the city or commute regularly and want to make the transition from car to pushchair an effortless process or if you have a small boot and need a model that folds down to fit in it.

Depending on the model, travel system pushchairs can be used from birth by adding an infant car seat. These are typically approved to be taken in the cabin on flights and are ideal for parents who travel extensively as a family.

The most cost-effective option is to buy an automobile seat that is paired with the pushchair. The bundle is typically created by the brand and comprises of a car seat that have been designed to work together. Alternatively, some pushchairs will specify the car seats they are compatible with, and you can purchase a separate seat (though this might require car seat adaptors). The Babyzen YOYO is Gemma's choice for the most travel systems that are lightweight, thanks to its unique features and quick folding.

What is it like?

A travel system bundle is an excellent way to buy a pushchair and car seat together, with the added bonus of convenience, reassurance and, in most cases, cost savings. These bundles are put together by retailers or brands with each piece carefully selected to work seamlessly. This means you don't have to do a lot of research on which car seat will work with your dream pushchair or searching online for a matching footmuff or changing bags.

They typically consist of a pushchair frame that is suitable for a group 0+ car seat. They usually include a carrycot, or seat unit which can be used either forward-facing or parent-facing depending on your preference (or the rules, as rear-facing in the car is advised up to 15 months). Some of them can be converted into a tandem or twin if you are expecting more than one child.

A travel system can be really useful if you're planning to be walking and driving with your child, because it allows you to transfer them from car to pushchair and back again without disturbing them or having to find a secure place to park. They can also help you save space in the boot of your car making it easier to go shopping or take your child to school.