Car Seat and Stroller Combos
The best car stroller and seat combos nearly appear to be able to attach themselves. Stanton recommends: "Look for a base that is easy to connect with the carrier." This will reduce the risk of errors that can happen during the installation process and detachment.
One option that can do this is the Doona that effortlessly transforms from a car seat into a stroller and frees up trunk space. Online reviewers love the Doona's features and ease of use, but they also praise its robust feel.
Easy to Assemble
Parents who don't want to switch between strollers and car seats often will find a combination of both appealing. It's also a good option for parents who use rides or public transportation frequently and who change caregivers. "These are a single piece of equipment and the wheels are attached to the car seat, which means they're more naturally mobile," says Stanton. Stanton stresses the need to secure the car seat properly when using a travel system. She suggests that you always follow the manufacturer's instructions and your vehicle's owner's manual to ensure a secure fit.
In our tests, we found that the most effective stroller and car seat combos come with a simple click-in connector that requires no effort beyond moving the carrier from one location to another. These models scored higher than those with more complicated connections, since they require less pressure and have the least chance of making mistakes (intentional or accidental). We like, for instance, that the UPPAbaby Vista Combo is a simple drop-in accessory that does not require straps, and has a gauge on the bottom of the car seat that shows that the seat is level correctly.
The Doona All-in One Infant Car Seat Stroller, is also easy to install and switch from the car to the stroller. It's a seamless change that frees up extra trunk space for shopping and errands. It also features a swivel front wheel that provides excellent maneuverability even when the seat is attached.
Another option is Britax B Lively and B Safe Gen2 Travel System. It features springy chassis as well as a large one-hand fold chassis for easy storage. It has a spacious basket and plenty of cup holders to hold drinks, snacks and baby equipment. The padded seat makes it ideal for long journeys and the tagless smooth touch knit fabric is machine washed. It is FAA-approved and comes with an safety strap that is secured below or at the shoulders of your baby. It also has a SafeCell Crumple Zone that protects them if they are in an accident.
A great travel system should also be easy to push and, in our top picks, all have rubber tires that have one, swivel front wheel to navigate busy streets and sidewalks. The Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo and the BOB Alterrain Pro are all smooth-gliding and have useful features such as one-hand brake and a large storage basket.
Easy to Store
Car seat stroller combos are a great option for parents who wish to keep their baby as comfortable as they can, whether they're doing errands or heading out for an extended family trip. Stroller-car seat combos are easier to move than separate items, and many models are equipped with features that set them apart from the rest. It is important to keep in mind that the car seat and stroller have to be compatible in order to work. The manufacturer of the car seat should give guidelines on which strollers are compatible with their products. A quick search on the internet will help narrow your choices.
Some strollers and carseats have a direct attachment that snaps into position without the need for additional straps or complicated installation. This kind of effortless attachment is a major selling point, and it's particularly beneficial for families that frequently use ride-share vehicles or public transport. The Doona is a good example. It is an FAA-approved infant car seat that can be converted into a stroller with just the touch of a button. This is a major time saver and allows you to avoid gate-checking a stroller on airplanes (assuming you've also purchased an airline seat for your infant) or to get into and out of taxis.
Other stroller-car seat combinations like the Nuna TrVL let parents remove the infant car seat from the stroller base, and fold it easily into a compact package which can be stored inside the trunk. This is a great feature for busy families and the stroller is sleek and stylish, with high-end fabrics and smart touches, like a built-in drape canopy to protect a snoozing baby.
In the end, the ideal 2 in 1 stroller car seat for your family will be contingent on your lifestyle and plans for growth and budget. The cheapest models tend to be frame strollers which can accommodate a car seat for a child with little extra space. The more expensive models will have a toddler seat, a twin stroller, or more advanced features. In any case you can be assured that the stroller and car seat will be up to the highest standards of safety.
Easy to Carry
These combos are perfect for families that want to avoid the hassle of checking the gate for an infant car seat when flying. They're also great for those who frequently use public transportation and ride-sharing services. These strollers and cars seats are simple to transport, making them perfect for parents who want their hands free when traveling with their children.
When you're deciding on the best 2 in 1 stroller car seat, choose one that's lightweight and compact. These options have a smoother ride and are easier to push on different terrains. In addition, the smaller frame can make it easier to get the car seat in and out of a trunk, or the back of a vehicle.
Some of the most popular and highly rated car seats/strollers combos are lightweight, compact and come with wheels that fold to make it easy to store. The Cosco Finale 2-in-1, for example is a standard seat that can convert into an infant booster when the child no more requires an infant carrier. It's reasonably priced, light (12 pounds), and features LATCH straps that are relatively user-friendly (we didn't score it as a top pick for ease of assembly).
Other 2 in 1 stroller car seats include the Doona that is unique 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 skip the step of removing the base of the seat and makes it much easier to move up and down stairs or get into taxis without having to store the car seat.
Doonas are a great budget-friendly choice, especially for first-time parents. It's less expensive than the cost of an annual gym membership, and it gives parents assurance that they have safe travel gear for their baby.
Many families choose a two-piece stroller/car seat system if they're set on an infant carrier from a particular brand or have plans for multiple children. If this is the case, make sure you've read the specifications to ensure that your car seat and stroller are compatible. You may want to consider purchasing an adapter to match your desired combination.
Easy to Fold
The stroller and car seat combination is a great option for parents who are seeking a single piece that can be used for a variety of functions. They can easily convert from a car seat to the stroller and vice versa. They are also simpler to maneuver than two piece travel systems. Stanton states that they're made to be lighter and more portable. "They have a lot less moving parts, which means they're more compact to fold, carry, and use."
These strollers and car seats for infants are lighter than two-piece models, and they can be easily carried in trunks that are small. These strollers and infant car seats are generally lighter and feature more practical features, like cup holders and sun shades. Some models even come with a swivel front wheel that is ideal for navigating sidewalks and stores.
Some brands, such as Doona provide an all-in-one baby stroller and car seat. They are especially useful parents who plan to take advantage of rideshares and public transportation, or shift between caregivers frequently. This model is a rear-facing car seat with wheels that can be transformed into a stroller.
Certain brands, such as the Evenflo Shyft DualRide allow you to insert the car seat in and then unfold it as a stroller. This model is not as sleek as Doona however you can take out the car seat without needing to click into its base.
Check if the stroller and infant seat combo you're considering will work with your preferred car seat. If 2in1 pram and infant car seat are compatible, you can expect a longer-lasting product as it will work with your child even after they've outgrown the infant car seats.
However, it's important to know that certain car seat and stroller combos aren't performing well in our ease-of-use tests. This could be because of an design that makes it difficult to climb stairs or due to the weight and size of the car seat could make it difficult to push. In either scenario, you should check out our full reviews to find the most suitable option for you.