A 2 in 1 Travel System With Car Seat

A 2 in 1 travel system that includes a car seat provides parents with the convenience of having a baby car seat and stroller that can work together. However they can be costly.

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

Comfort

Travel systems that include an infant car seat are a great way to make the transition from car to stroller simple. In contrast to stroller-only combos, these all-in-ones typically have an infant car seat as well as a stroller that click together, and can be used with both newborns and toddlers. Many of the car-and stroller combinations that we have listed have a bassinet attached and can be used as a secure alternative to a stroller for walks during naptime.

A two-in-one travel system that includes a car seat is more expensive than purchasing the products separately, but you'll save time and money by purchasing them all together. If you decide that the stroller and car seat aren't right for your family in the future, most brands have adaptors that allow you to use the car seat in conjunction with an alternative stroller.

When you are looking for a travel set be aware that a majority of these sets include an infant car-seat as well as stroller designed to work together. They are intended to be used during the first year. If you intend to keep the car seat and using it beyond this period, look for one with an convertible car seat that can also be used as a toddler car seat and has a higher weight limit.

Some travel systems include a second seat which can be used to boost older children. This is a nice option, but it may not be appropriate for your particular lifestyle.

Check out our top choices of car seats and strollers if you're looking for an affordable travel system that will last for several years. Our editor-tested favorites like the UPPAbaby PIPA car seat and Vista stroller combo, have plenty of features that will help you and your baby remain comfortable. These strollers feature springy all-wheel suspension to smooth out the ride. The PIPA car seat also features an integrated drape canopy that can protect a child who is snoozing. They also have rigid LATCH connectors that can be used on vehicles that do not have a base, making it a great option for families that frequently use ride-sharing services or have two cars.

Convenience

These combos are perfect for parents who often run errands or take their babies on public transport like buses and trains. It is easy to transfer your sleeping baby from the car to a stroller without worrying about wake them up.

Some of the best stroller and car seat combinations allow you to convert them into a double when your family grows. We love the Thule Urban Glide 2 in 1 stroller and car seat Combo, which features an infant car seat and stroller that click into place, instantly transforming into a sleek chariot two in one pram. This feature is especially important when you intend to use the car seat for your baby's primary vehicle seat.

Other stroller-car seat combos may have more complicated conversion procedures. It is possible to manually snap the car seat onto stroller or use straps attached to base to ensure it is secured. In our testing this method was generally more difficult to master than one-step procedure of the Doona. It can be an accident hazard when you forget or misplace the straps to secure the straps prior using the travel system.

While a car seat/stroller combo is convenient, you must also consider whether the stroller and infant car seat will work as long as you need them to. The majority of car seat/stroller combos use rear-facing only infant car seats that are designed to be used until your child turns one. These car seats cannot be connected to a stroller after they're no longer needed in the car. Some all-in-one car seat/stroller products, such as Doona can be used as toddler car seats with the seatbelt booster when your child is no longer in the infant car seat however, it is too large to fit in most traditional strollers.

Car seat/stroller combinations work best for newborns through early childhood. If your child has outgrown the infant car seats, you should look into purchasing a separate stroller and replacing the travel system with a larger model that can accommodate toddlers and older children. Also, remember that you must always make sure your infant car seat is installed 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 reverse the process without disturbing them or waking them up. Rothman says this is particularly beneficial when you're doing errands or traveling. For added security, look for car seats that can be attached to the stroller using either an easy click or a rigid LATCH system. This will ensure the car seat is secure when in use and will not come loose or fall off in transit. Combinations of car seats and stroller that can be used with or without the base are also a good option for vehicles that ride-share.

When purchasing a travel set, be sure to check the weight and age limit for the stroller as well as the car seat. These systems include rear-facing infant car seat that are only intended for use during the first 12 months of the life of a child. A majority of these seats change to a forward-facing seat that will stay in the car or snap into a compatible stroller. Stanton advises parents to be aware of all labels and directions particularly when it's time to make sure that your child is in compliance with the weight and height requirements for both the car seat and the stroller.

While some parents prefer buying separate items to build their own travel system and others prefer buying pre-packaged strollers and car seats, it is not uncommon for companies to offer these sets. They're usually cheaper than buying the products separately. Sets like UPPAbaby's bestselling Vista stroller and Mesa infant car seats are sought-after. The stroller features an easy ride, with a springy all-wheel suspension, and a large basket that can be used to store all of your baby's gear. The car seat has a low profile and comes with a SafeCell crumple zone for added security. The SafeCenter LATCH makes it easy to put in. The car seat has a four-position adjustable headrest with four harness settings, as well as a padded insert to ensure your child's safety. It is easy to clean and has a 1-hand fold, making it convenient to store.

Style

It's tempting to buy an accessory for travel to make it easier to transfer your child from the car to the stroller, without waking them up, but that's not the primary reason to think about buying one. You should also choose one that is elegant, well-balanced and comes with a range of other features to make it comfortable for both your child and yourself.

The travel systems that are the best include the infant car stroller, car seat and stroller base in one box to make it easier for you to transition from your vehicle to the street. They usually include a single car seat that can be easily snapped into a stroller compatible with it. Some even have an ottoman for napping (safety studies have shown that babies sleep better when they are in a reclining position).

Strollers and infant cars seats that integrate with 2 in 1 stroller car seat-in-1 travel systems are light sturdy, durable, and easy to fold and move. Look for models with rubber tires, a swivel front wheel for urban streets, and a large cargo basket that can fit multiple shopping bags. You should also consider how compact the car seat and stroller can be folded for ease of storage.

Certain travel systems allow you to replace the included infant car seat with a toddler one as your child grows out of it, which gives you an additional two years of use. This is a great option for those who plan to use the seat for more than a year or if a partner is a commuter on a bus, train or ride-share.

The All-in-1 Car Seat and Stroller is a top choice for families looking for an all-in-one solution. The integrated rigid system of LATCH lets you easily switch from stroller to car seat and back. It's also approved for air travel so you can board and off public transport with confidence. The All-in-One Car Seat and Stroller can also be converted into a double stroller, allowing you to take your little one on global adventures. It is available in a range of vibrant colors that complement any wardrobe.