7 Easy Tips For Totally Rolling With Your 2 In 1 Travel System With Car Seat
A 2 in 1 Travel System With Car Seat
A 2-in-1 travel system that includes car seats gives parents the convenience of a car seat for their infant, as well as stroller that work in tandem. However, they can be expensive.
2 in 1 stroller and car seat let parents easily move a sleeping child from the car to the stroller, and reverse the process, without disturbing them. This is a great choice for families who spend a lot of time on the move.
Comfort
Travel systems that come with a stroller and an infant car seat are a great option to make the transition from car to stroller easy. These all-in-ones differ from stroller-only combos because they usually include an infant car seat as well as a stroller. They are suitable for both newborns and older children. Many of the car seat-and-stroller combos on our list have an attachment for a bassinet, which can be an alternative to a traditional stroller for naps.
While a 2 in 1 travel system that includes a car seat may cost more than separate products however, you'll likely save time and money if you buy them all in one package. If you decide later that the car seat and stroller aren't right for your family, most brands offer adaptors that allow you to use your chosen car seat alongside a stroller (provided it meets the weight and height requirements).
When you are looking for a travel set, be aware that a majority of them come with an infant car-seat and a stroller that are designed to work together. They are designed to be used in the first year. If you plan on keeping the seat after this time, choose a model that has a convertible car-seat that can be used by toddlers and is able to support a higher weight limit.
Some travel systems also feature a second seat that can serve as a booster for older kids. While this is a nice option, it's not a necessity and might not be feasible based on your lifestyle.
If you're looking to purchase a travel system that will last for a few years, check out our top choices for car seats and strollers. Tested by our editors, favorites like the UPPAbaby PIPA stroller and car seat combo come with numerous features that will keep your child and you comfortable. These strollers feature springy all-wheel suspension to smooth out the ride. The PIPA car seat also features a built in drape canopy to protect children who are snoozing. They also have rigid LATCH connectors that can be used with vehicles without a base making it a perfect choice for families who frequently use ride-sharing services or have two cars.
Convenience
Car seat/stroller combos are great for parents who often run out for errands or take their child out on public transportation such as buses and trains. They allow you to easily move your baby who is sleeping in the car to the stroller without disturbing them or waking them.
A few of the top strollers and car seat combinations also allow you to convert them into a double when your family expands. We love the Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo that comes with an infant car seat and stroller that click into place, instantly transforming them into a sleek chariot for two. This feature is particularly important when you intend to use the car seat as your baby's only vehicle seat.
Other stroller and car seat combination models have more complicated conversion methods that may require you to manually connect the car seat of your infant onto the stroller, or use the straps that attach to the base to fix it. In our tests, this method was often harder to master than the one-step procedure of the Doona. It can pose an accident hazard in the event that you lose or forget to secure the straps prior using the travel system.
While a combo of a stroller and car seat is convenient, you should take into consideration whether the stroller and car seat for your infant can work together for the time you need them to. Most car seat/stroller combination products are rear-facing only infant car seats that are designed to be used up until your child turns 1. These car seats cannot be connected to a stroller after they're no longer required in the car. Some all-in-one car seat/stroller products, like Doona can be used as car seats for toddlers with the seatbelt booster when your child has outgrown the infant car seat, however, it is too large to fit into most conventional strollers.
The ideal combination is a car seat and stroller for babies to early childhood. When your child has grown out of the infant car seat, you can replace the travel system with an extra large stroller which can be used for older children and toddlers. Also, keep in mind that you must ensure that your infant car seat is set up correctly and never remove it from the vehicle without taking off the straps first.
Safety
The combination of a stroller and car seat allows for easy transfer of infants from the vehicle to a stroller and reverse the process without disturbing or waking them up. Rothman states that this is especially useful when you are doing errands or traveling. For extra safety, look for a car seat that is attached to the stroller with either the simple click or the rigid LATCH system. This will ensure the car seat is secured when it's in use and that it won't come loose or fall off in transit. Combinations of strollers and car seats that work with or without a base are good options for ride-share vehicles.
When you purchase a travel system, be sure to check the weight and age restrictions for both the stroller and the car seat. The majority of the infant car seats that are included in these systems are rear-facing, and are only intended for use during the first 12 months of your child's life. Many of these car seats switch to a forward-facing seat that can be used in the vehicle or can snap into a stroller that is compatible. Stanton says it's crucial to read all labels and instructions, especially when it comes time to make sure your child meets the weight and height requirements for both the car seat and the stroller.
While some parents prefer to purchase separate items to build their own travel systems, others prefer buying pre-packaged stroller and car seats It is not unusual for companies to sell these sets. These sets are typically less expensive than purchasing them separately. Sets like UPPAbaby's bestselling Vista stroller and Mesa infant car seats are highly sought after. The stroller is smooth ride, springy suspension on all wheels, and a huge storage basket to store everything your baby needs. The car seat is low-profile and comes with a SafeCell crumple area for added protection. It is quick and simple installation, thanks to the exclusive SafeCenter LATCH. The car seat has a headrest that can be adjusted in four positions and four harness heights as well as an insert that is cushioned for your little one's comfort. It is easy to clean and folds in one hand.
Style
Although it's tempting to purchase a travel system to enjoy the ease of moving your child from car to stroller and back without having to wake them up, it's not the only reason to think about one. You should also choose a model with a stylish design, which is simple to use and has many other features to ensure your child's safety and for your own.
Travel systems that are the most effective include the infant car, stroller and car seat base in one box to allow you to move from your car to the street. They usually have a one-piece infant car seat that snaps easily into a stroller compatible with it and some offer the option of a bassinet attachment to allow strolls to nap (safety research suggests that babies sleep better in reclined positions).
Strollers and infant car seats made to work with 2 in 1 travel systems are light and sturdy, making them easy to move, push and fold. Make sure you choose models with rubber tires and a swivel wheel at the front for streets in cities, a large cargo basket and can hold multiple shopping bags. You also want to check how the car seat and stroller can be folded for ease of storage.
Some travel systems allow you to change the infant car seat with a toddler car seat once your child has outgrown it. This gives you an additional two years of use. This is a great option for those who intend 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 who want an all-in-one solution. It's easy to transfer from car seat to stroller, and back, thanks to the LATCH system that allows you to secure the seat quickly and securely in your car. It's also a certified air travel, so you can board and get off public transport with ease. The All-in-One Car Seat and Stroller can also convert into double strollers, allowing you to take your child on adventures around the world. It's also available in a range of vibrant colors that will match any wardrobe.