10 2 In 1 Stroller Car Seat Tricks Experts Recommend
Car Seat and Stroller Combos
The best car seat stroller combinations are so easy to attach that it almost feels like they're doing it all by themselves. Stanton suggests: "Look for a base that is easy to connect with the carrier." This will reduce the chance of mistakes during installation and removal.
One option that does this is the Doona that effortlessly transforms from car seat to stroller and frees up trunk space. Online reviewers love the Doona's versatility and user-friendliness, but they also praise its robust feel.
Easy to Assemble
Parents who don't want to switch between strollers and car seats often find a combination of both attractive. It is also a good option for those who regularly use public transportation or rideshares, as well as those who have multiple caregivers. Stanton states that since they are a single item and the wheels are connected to the car seats, they are more mobile. However, she adds that it's crucial to ensure that the car seat is securely secured when using it with a travel system. She suggests that you always follow the manufacturer's directions and your vehicle's owner's manual to ensure a secure fit.
In our tests, the top stroller-car seat combinations have an easy click-in connection that requires no effort, other than moving the stroller from one location to another. These models scored higher than those with more complex connections, because they require less pressure and provide fewer opportunities for mistakes (intentional or accidental). For instance, we like that the UPPAbaby Vista Combo has a simple, drop-in attachment that requires no straps--and that there's an indicator on the base of the car seat that indicates when it's level.
The Doona All in-One Stroller for Infants too, is easy to install and switch from vehicle into stroller. It's a seamless transformation that allows extra trunk space for shopping and other errands. It also has a swivel wheel on the front that allows for excellent mobility even with a seat attached.
Another option is the Britax B-Lively and B-Safe Gen2 Travel System with a springy suspension and a large, one-hand-fold chassis that can be easily stored. It comes with a large basket, as well as plenty of cup holders to store drinks, snacks and baby gear. The padded seat is comfortable for long rides and the tagless smooth-touch fabric is machine washable. 2in1 pushchair is FAA-approved and comes with a safety strap that locks beneath or around the shoulders of your baby. It also has a SafeCell Crumple Zone to safeguard the child in case of an accident.
A reliable travel system should also be easy to push, and our top picks all have rubber tires that have a single, swivel front wheel to navigate busy roads and sidewalks. The Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo and the BOB Alterrain Pro, and the Baby Jogger City Mini GT 2 Combo all glide effortlessly and have convenient features, such as one-hand brakes and a large storage basket.
Easy to Store
Car seat stroller combos are a great option for parents who want to keep their child as comfortable as they can whether they're running errands, or going on an excursion with the family. Stroller-car-seat combos are much easier to maneuver than separate items, and a lot of models have convenient features that differentiate them from other strollers. It's important to remember that the car seat must be compatible with the stroller in order for them to work. The manufacturer of the car seat should provide guidelines for strollers that are compatible with their product. A quick search online will help narrow your choices.
Some strollers and carseats come with an immediate attachment that snaps in place without the need for additional straps or complicated installation. This type of easy attachment is a huge selling point, and it's particularly beneficial for families that often use ride-share cars or public transportation. The Doona is a good example. It is an FAA-approved infant car seat that can transition into a stroller at the click of the button. This is a fantastic time-saver and lets you avoid gate-checking your stroller on planes (assuming you've purchased an airline chair for your baby) or to hop in and out of a taxi.
Other car seat and stroller combinations, like the Nuna TRVL, allow parents to take the infant carrier from the stroller's base and fold it into a compact unit that can be tucked away into the trunk of a car. This is a fantastic feature for busy families and the stroller has a sleek design with premium fabrics and smart touches, like a built-in drape canopy to shield a sleeping baby.
The best 2 in 1, stroller/car seat combination for your family depends on your lifestyle, plans for growth and your budget. The cheapest models will likely be frame strollers that can accommodate a car seat with minimal extra space, while more expensive combos could include a toddler seat or twin strollers, and include more advanced features. Either way, you can rest assured that the car seat and stroller will meet the highest standards of safety.
Easy to carry
These combos are ideal for families that want to avoid checking the gate of an infant car seat while flying. They are also ideal for those who regularly use public transportation and ride-shares. These strollers and car seats are easy to transport and maneuver around on the go, which makes them ideal for parents who want their hands off when traveling with their little ones.
When deciding on a 2 in 1 stroller car seat, look for one that's lightweight and compact. These types of strollers tend to roll more smoothly, which can make them easier to push across various terrains. The smaller frames allow for easier placement of the car seat in a trunk or the back of a car.
Many of the most sought-after car seat/stroller combinations are light and compact, and come with foldable casters for easy storage. For example the Cosco Finale 2-in-1 is an easy-to-use seat that converts from a five-point harness that is rear-facing to a booster for kids who are no longer in an infant carrier. It's lightweight (12 pounds) and has LATCH straps which are relatively simple to use.
Other 2 in 1 stroller car seats include the Doona that is a standout because it's a single piece equipment that transitions from a rear-facing infant car seat to a stroller with just a few clicks. This allows you to avoid the process of getting your car seat removed from its base. It also helps you to navigate the stairs or get into and out taxis without having your car seat stored.
The Doona is a budget-friendly option that is a great choice for first-time parents. It costs less than a year's gym membership, and provides parents with peace of mind knowing their child is safe traveling.
Many families choose a two-piece stroller/car seat system when they're deciding on a specific brand of infant carrier, or have plans to have more than one child. If this is the case, make sure you've read the specifications to ensure that your stroller and car seats are compatible. Also, consider buying an adapter to make your desired combination.
Easy to Fold
Car seat and stroller combos are an excellent option for parents who want a single piece of baby equipment that can serve multiple purposes. They are able to effortlessly switch from a car seat to a stroller and back again, and they're generally more maneuverable than two-piece travel systems. "They're designed to be more natural-looking and mobile," says Stanton. "They have a lot fewer moving components, which makes them easy to fold, transport and use."
These strollers and car seats for infants are lighter than two-piece models and can be easily transported in small trunks. They also have more space for cargo and more practical features like sun shades and cup holders. Some even have a swivel front wheel that is ideal for navigating sidewalks and stores.
Some brands, such as Doona provide an all-in-one baby car seat and stroller solutions. They are especially useful for parents who intend to take advantage of rideshares or public transportation, or who change caregivers frequently. This model is essentially an rear-facing car seat with wheels, and the wheels can be lowered to become a stroller when you want to use it.
Some brands, like the Evenflo Shyft DualRide allow you to click the car seat into the frame and then fold it out as a stroller. It's not as sleek as Doona however, it does allow you to remove the car seat from the frame without needing to click it into the base.
Check if the stroller and infant seat combination you are considering can accommodate the car seat you prefer. seat. If the stroller and infant car seat are compatible, then you can expect a more durable product that will be able to work with your child after they've outgrown the infant car seats.
However, it's important to be aware that some car seat and stroller combos aren't performing well in our tests of ease-of-use. This could be because of a design which makes it difficult to navigate stairs or because the weight and size of the stroller/car seat may make it difficult to push. In any situation, it's worth checking out our full reviews to find the best solution for you.