Choosing a Pushchair Travel System

The choice of the ideal pushchair for your family is among the most important decisions you'll make as a parent. There are a variety of factors to be aware of, whether you opt for a travel bundle due to its convenience and initial cost savings or a separate frame and compatible car seats for maximum adaptability.

Luckily, this handy guide will assist you in making the best option that will meet your needs and lifestyle.

What is a travel system?

A travel system is a stroller that has the capacity to accommodate a car seat for your baby, and some even include the option of a carrycot. Parents with newborns will appreciate this option as they can easily transfer their baby's sleeping infant from their car into the pushchair.

A good travel system will fit snuggly into your car, and then attach to the frame of the pushchair to ensure a smooth journey for your baby. It's also a practical option since it means that you only need to buy one thing to get ready for the arrival of your child and will typically reduce your expenses too.

There are a variety of travel systems available that range from budget-friendly options to high-end brand names like TYPO or JANE. There are many travel systems that come with matching car seat accessories, changing bags and matching mats for changing. If you're looking to make your life easier, you can buy a travel stroller system bundle which includes everything you need. This is the most efficient method to ensure that the components are in sync. There's no need to search online for a car seat that functions and then discovering that you need adapters too!

What are the various seat recline options available?

If you opt for a travel system that includes a carrycot, make sure that the seat of the pushchair is fully reclined to allow your baby to rest comfortably in the recommended position for breathing and spinal development. Think about whether the handlebar can be adjusted in height to make it comfortable for you, your partner or anyone who may use it often.

Most 'from-birth' pushchairs have a reversible seat which allows you to choose which direction your child will face, the parent (to encourage communication skills) or to the world to encourage curiosity and let them know where they are going. Some travel systems also come with an reversible car seat that can be attached directly to the pushchair frame without removing it, so that you can easily move your baby from the car to the stroller, and then back.

Not all infant car seats are compatible with all pushchairs. Certain travel systems come with all the adaptors you need included in the box, while others may require them to be bought separately. Review the product's specifications or ask your local retailer.

How do you find it to maneuver?

If you're looking for a transport system that can transport your baby from the car to the pushchair, and back ensure that the pushchair's chassis isn't too heavy and you have enough space in your car to accommodate a carrycot. Carrycots can be attached easily and are lightweight. They are ideal for babies less than 6 months old and are best used with a pushchair that is lying flat. This allows the baby to sit in a fully reclining position, which is beneficial for their spinal development and lung development.

It's important to note that the majority of brands have designed them to work together. You can be assured that everything will fit and function well. Buying all your products in one place can be convenient and is almost always cheaper than buying each item separately. It's a huge plus that you can transfer your sleeping baby from the car seat to the stroller to go to the nursery or shop without disturbing them. Travel systems are worth the expense.

How easy is it to connect a carrycot or car seat?

The majority of pushchairs that are 'from birth' can click on to an appropriate baby car seat or carrycot for easy transitions from your vehicle to the street. This is great for infants and allows them to sleep in the preferred position of lying flat.

Most travel systems are sold with a separate stroller seat. However, a few, like the Doona or the Evenflo Shyft DualRide, have one-piece designs so that the car seat can be folded into a pushchair. Many travel systems are sold with a separate stroller seat but some, like the Doona and the Evenflo Shyft DualRide, have an all-in-one design that allows the car seat folds up into the pushchair and then unfolds again to go into the base of your car.

If you decide to use a car seat or carrycot on your pushchair, be sure to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer and be sure to adhere to their age, weight and size restrictions. Make sure to check if the car seat and pushchair have been recalled due to safety reasons.

Many pushchairs come with accessories to make your experience more enjoyable. For instance the footmuff can shield your child from the elements while a sun shade made of SPF/UPF50+ fabric keeps them shaded in the sun. Some also feature a ride-on board that is ideal for toddlers who are ready to conquer the world on their own, but require a little helping hand.

What is the weight limit?

A pushchair travel system will typically accommodate infants until the maximum weight and age. This can vary based on the car seat and pushchair combo you select and also your personal lifestyle needs so it's important to check these specifications carefully. It's also important to test the brakes on your chosen model. They should be strong and easy to operate.

Many brands include infant seat adaptors with their travel system packages. This lets you easily clip the car seat of your baby onto the frame of the stroller. This allows you to get out with your baby much more convenient. It also ensures that when your baby grows out of their car seat and carrycot they can still use the stroller with you. This is a great option for families who are busy and have lots of things to accomplish each day.

How do you fold?

There are a variety of fold styles that are available on pushchairs. Some are truly one-handed with just a click of one button. Some folds require two hands, or a couple of steps, but they are still extremely compact. Some models are able to stand upright when folded, making it easy to hold. This model is ideal if you commute or reside in a city and wish to make the transition from car and pushchair smooth. Or if you only have a small car boot.

Depending on the model, some travel system pushchairs can also be used from birth by adding a carrycot or infant car seat. These are typically allowed to be used in the cabin on flights and are great for parents who do lots of travelling with their family.

The most affordable option is to buy an automobile seat that is paired with the pushchair. The bundle is designed by the brand, and it consists of two car seats and a pushchair designed to work together. Some pushchairs include the car seats they are compatible with, and you can purchase the car seat separately. (This may require car seat converters.) The Babyzen YOYO is Gemma's pick for the best lightweight travel systems, due to its innovative features and one-second folding.

What does it look Like?

A travel system bundle is a great option to purchase a stroller and car seat together and also enjoy the benefits of ease of use, security and often a cost saving. These bundles are designed by brands or retailers, with all the parts hand-picked 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 search online for a sock or a changing bag that matches the design.

These pushchairs are generally comprised of a frame that fits into a car seat group 0+ and includes a carrycot, or seat unit, that can be used forward-facing or facing the parent based on your preference or regulations (rear-facing is recommended for cars up to 15 months). Some can even be converted into a tandem twin if you're expecting more than one child.

If you intend to spend a lot of time driving and walking, a transport system is a great choice. You can easily transfer your child from the car to the pushchair and back without having to annoy them or find a safe parking place. They can also save you space in the boot of your car and make it easier for you to pop into the shops or run the school run.