A 2 in 1 Travel System With Car Seat

A two-in-one travel system that incorporates a car seat provides parents with the convenience of having an infant car seat and a stroller that can work together. However they can be costly.

These combos let parents easily transfer a sleepy child from the car to the stroller and vice versa, without waking them up. This is a great option for families who are constantly moving.

Comfort

If you're looking for a simple method to move your baby from the car to stroller without waking them up the next morning, a travel set-up that includes an infant stroller seat and a stroller car seat might be what you're looking for. These all-in-ones differ from stroller-only combos because they usually include an infant car seat as well as the stroller. They are suitable for both infants and older children. Many of the car seats and strollers combinations on our list include an attachment for a bassinet, which can be an excellent alternative to a stroller for walks during naptime.

While a 2-in-1 travel system with a car seat might cost more than separate items but you'll probably save time and money if you buy the two items together. And if you decide later that the stroller and car seat aren't right for your family, a majority of brands offer adaptors that allow you to use your chosen car seat alongside a stroller (provided it is tall and weighs the same requirements).

When shopping for a travel set be aware that the majority of them come with an infant car-seat as well as a stroller that are designed to work together. They are intended to be used in the first year. If you plan to keep the seat after this point you should choose a model that includes a convertible car seat that can be used for toddlers and has a greater weight limit.

Some travel systems come with an additional seat that can be used to help older children. This is a great feature, but it may not be practical for your needs.

Take a look at our top picks of car seats and strollers to find an affordable travel system that will last for several years. Our top choices, which have been tested by our editors like the UPPAbaby PIPA car seat and Vista stroller combo come with a variety of features that will ensure that you and your baby stay comfortable. These strollers feature springy all-wheel suspension to make the ride more comfortable. The PIPA car seat also comes with a built-in drape canopy that can protect the baby who is sleeping. They also come with rigid LATCH connectors that can be used on vehicles that do not have a base, making it a great option for families who regularly utilize ride-sharing services or two cars.

Convenience

These are great for parents who often run errands or take their babies on public transport such as trains and buses. They let you easily move your sleeping baby from the car to the stroller without disturbing or awakening them.

Some of the best strollers and car seat combinations allow you to transform to a double as your family grows. We love the Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo which comes with an infant car seat and stroller that snap into place to instantly transform into a sleek chariot two. This is especially crucial if the car seat is your baby's primary vehicle seat.

Other stroller-car seat combos may have more complex conversion methods. You may need to manually attach the car seat to the stroller or strap it to the base to secure it. In our tests this method, it was harder to master than the single-step method of the Doona. If you misplace or forget the straps, it could be a danger to your safety.

While a car seat/stroller combo is convenient, you must be aware of whether the infant car seat and stroller will work the time you need them to. The majority of car seat/stroller combos utilize rear-facing infant car seats that are designed to be used until your child turns 1. These car seats are not connected to a stroller after they're no longer required in the car. Some all-in-one car seat/stroller products such as the Doona is able to be used as a toddler car seat with a seat belt booster after your child has outgrown the infant car seat but is too tall to fit into most traditional strollers.

Car seat/stroller combos are ideal for babies through early childhood. If your child is out of the infant car seat, you can replace the travel system with a larger stroller that can accommodate older toddlers and older children. Also, keep in mind that you should always ensure that your infant car seat is fitted properly and never remove it from the vehicle without taking off the straps first.

Safety

The combination of a stroller and car seat makes it easy to transfer infants from a car to a stroller and vice versa without disturbing them or waking them up. This is especially useful when you're doing errands or traveling, according to Rothman. For extra safety, look for car seats that can be attached to the stroller via an easy click or a rigid LATCH system. This will ensure that the car seat will remain secured during use and will not slide off or become loose during transportation. Combinations of car seat and strollers 2 in 1 that can be used without or with the base are also an excellent option for vehicles that ride-share.

When you purchase a travel system be sure to verify the weight and age limit for both the stroller and the car seat. Typically, the infant car seats included in these systems are rear-facing and only meant for use in the first 12 months of your child's life. These car seats can be changed to a forward facing car seat that can be used in the car or converted into the stroller. Stanton advises parents to be aware of all labels and directions, especially when it's time to make sure your child is in compliance with the weight and height requirements of the car seat as well as the stroller.

Some parents prefer to buy separate items to create their own travel systems, others prefer buying pre-packaged car seats and stroller combinations, it is not uncommon for companies offer these sets. These sets are generally less expensive than purchasing them separately. Sets like UPPAbaby’s popular Vista stroller and Mesa infant car seats are sought after. The stroller offers a smooth ride, a springy suspension with all-wheels and a large storage basket to store everything your baby needs. The car seat is low profile and has a SafeCell crumple zone for extra protection. It is quick and simple installation thanks to the exclusive SafeCenter LATCH. The car seat has an adjustable headrest with four positions, four harness heights and a padded insert for your little one's comfort. It is easy to clean, and folds in one hand.

Style

While it's tempting to buy a travel system to enjoy the convenience of transferring your child from car to stroller and back without waking them up, that's not the only reason to think about one. You should also look for a model with a stylish design, that is easy to maneuver and comes with a variety of other features for your child's comfort and yours.

Travel systems that are the most efficient include the infant car, stroller and car seat base in one box to make it easier for you to move from your car to the street. These systems typically include a one-piece car seat that is easily snapped into a stroller that is compatible with it. Some even have an infant bassinet to sleep in (safety studies show that babies sleep better when they are in the reclining position).

Strollers and infant cars seats that work with 2-in-1 travel systems are light and durable. They are also easy to fold and maneuver. Choose models with rubber tires with a swivel wheel on the front for city streets, and a spacious cargo basket that can hold multiple shopping bags. For easy storage, you should also check how compact strollers and car seats are when folded.

Some travel systems let you replace the infant car seat included with a toddler car seat when your child has outgrown it. This allows you to enjoy an additional 2 to 3 years of use. This is an excellent option for those who plan to use the seat for a longer period of time or if they have a companion who travels by bus, train or ride-share.

The All-in-One Car Seat and Stroller is a top pick for families looking for an all-in-one solution. It's easy to move from the car seat to the stroller and back thanks to the LATCH system that allows you to secure the seat swiftly and securely in your car. It's also a certified air travel, so you can hop on and off public transport in peace. The All-in-One Car Seat & Stroller can be converted into a double stroller, so you can take your child on adventures across the world. It comes in a variety of vibrant colors that complement any wardrobe.