A 2 in 1 Stroller With Car Seat Is a Convenient Choice
A stroller that can be converted into a car seat and vice versa is incredibly convenient. It will save you time and energy. With so many options available, it can be hard to pick the best one for your family.
Read reviews and compare features to find the perfect car seat stroller for you. Spend time with your child, and simplify your journey.
Easy to Assemble
The most effective stroller and car seat combinations are simple to put together, attach to the vehicle, and then detach from the stroller. A good rule of thumb is to aim for five minutes or less to get everything set to go, Moriarty says. A simple, intuitive method can help you avoid mistakes that could put your child at risk.
In our tests we found that the Graco City Select 2 Car Seat and Stroller Travel System was rated first for ease of assembly, with a total time of under 30 seconds. We connected the infant car seat and toddler seat, that was then connected to the base using a single click. Then, we connected the upper and lower adapters to create space for a second seat (sold separately) or bassinet. This made a stroller that can grow alongside your family, with more than 22 seating configurations with the included seat and up to 45 lbs of weight in each seat.
UPPAbaby’s Vista v2 Combo impressed us too with its all-wheel suspension that is springy that can handle even rough roads. The combination isn't cheap, but it does come with a car seat, bassinet and a weather shield to keep your little one comfortable.
We also observed how easy it was to maneuver the stroller and car seat. The City Mini GT Combo by Baby Jogger comes with a single wheel on the front that is ideal for turning corners or going down narrow aisles. The Thule Urban Glide 2 BOB Alterrain Pro and Baby Jogger City Mini GT Combo have swivel tires to handle tight turns. These options were easy to push, even with the car seat on top. We also liked the way the frame folds down quickly and compactly.
The most user-friendly combo was the Doon. Its small size and single-hand fold (which one editor described as "amazing that you can do this with a baby on your hip!") make it an ideal space-saving device. The car seat can be removed from its base with a simple click and release. The only downside we've found is that the Doon requires straps to secure the carrier that some parents might forget to use--but that's a minor complaint.
Easy to Fold
A 2-in-1 car seat and stroller combination can simplify your life by streamlining your day-to-day routine. If you frequently use public transportation or ride-share vehicles, it's a great idea to be able move your child from car to stroller without any hassle. Moriarty recommends looking for a system which can be detached from the base and attached and removed from the stroller frame in single-handed movements. The Doona Combo is a great example of a car seat and stroller combo that meets these standards.
The unique design of this stroller allows it to transform from a newborn carrier to the toddler seat, allowing you to swap out the car seat to suit your growing child's requirements. It's also designed to be extremely compact and folds flat which makes it a great option for those traveling. It maneuvered well during our tests, and the suspension is outstanding. We love the fact that it can be put away away with the seat still attached, and that the handlebar can be adjusted.
The Doona isn't suitable for infants younger than 4 months since it can be taken off by one hand only and then attached to the stroller. It is difficult to fold once the infant carrier is in place. Nuna Pipa which does not require a base, is a better choice for babies. It also has a rigid LATCH connector built into the car seat.
It's more expensive than the Doona however it has additional features that make it well worth the investment. The Pipa is light and folds down into an upright position, meaning it's easy to carry around. It's also slightly more spacious than the Doona and can accommodate a medium-sized backpack. Its canopy is impressive, offering multiple options for adjusting the amount of coverage and allowing shade. It's an excellent choice for travel internationally since it can be put in the car without a base and is certified to fly. The only drawback is that it can't fit into an overhead bin on the majority of airplanes.
Convenient Cargo Area
When you're looking for a car-seat and stroller combo, make sure the stroller is large enough to hold both your child's and your personal things. Look for features like an ample storage basket, a diaper bag hook and an exterior cargo pocket that can fit a water bottle. You may also wish to think about a child's tray or a pocket inside for drinks and snacks, and an adult cup holder.
Car seat and stroller combinations that fold easily and compactly are ideal for parents who have limited storage space. The best ones can be folded in one hand and can fit in small trunks. Many of them stay upright when folded to avoid wrinkles. This makes them an ideal choice for busy families that are constantly on the go.
Another useful feature to look for in a stroller is one with an adjustable handlebar. You'll want to adjust the handlebar's levels to make sure you feel comfortable when pushing the stroller. You'll also need to be in a position to adjust the footrest to accommodate the growing feet of your child.
A travel system with an infant bassinet is ideal for infants and newborns. The Mompush Meteor 2 is an ideal choice since it is able to quickly transform into a comfortable bassinet and an actual seat, meaning you don't need to swap out your baby's car seat or stroller as they develop.
Evenflo Shyft DualRide, a stroller that doubles as a car seat, is a good choice. It folds up easily and compactly. It is heavier and heavier (weighing 17 lbs when the car seat is on), but has numerous features that are worth the extra weight. These include a large canopy and easy-to use brakes.
Other things to consider when shopping for a car seat stroller combination include a one-handed recline, easy-to-use harness and buckles, as well an extended sun canopy. The one-hand recline is particularly useful as it allows you to adjust the position of the seat with a toddler who is squirmy. The harness and buckle are easy to use, so there is no need for complex straps. This makes it much easier to ensure the safety of your toddler.
Safety First
A car seat and stroller combination can aid in keeping your child safe while on the move. It's important to follow the car seat and stroller manufacturer's guidelines for use, including weight and height limitations so that your child stays safe and comfortable in their seats. Look for an option that includes an easy-to-install LATCH base and the stroller that connects to it securely. Many brands have helpful videos on YouTube that will show you how to install these components correctly. The car seat must be able to make a sound when it's properly secured at the base and inside the stroller.
A travel system is an excellent option if you have to go on errands or take public transportation, as it can cope with the hustle and bustle of urban life. There are models that have an ultra-light frame and durable plastic wheels, and an expanding canopy that provides plenty of shade during sunny days. They're generally more maneuverable than heavier models, which are built for rough terrain, however they're still prone to bump into curbs and sidewalks that are uneven.
If you're a jogger choose a stroller with an adjustable front wheel that locks and suspension that gives an enjoyable ride. You'll also need a stroller that includes a tray for parents and a kid-friendly snack or drink tray. Some models have a large basket as well. Some models come with the cup holder, which is attached to the child's seat, making it easy to reach for snacks and drinks without having to unbuckle the toddler.
2in1 pushchair that can also double as a car seat could save time and money by making it easier to complete your daily chores. It's important to weigh all your options and choose the best model for your family. If you plan to use an infant car seat with your stroller, ensure it can be accommodated. You might also require an adapter. Consider the terrain you will be traveling over, and the amount of storage space you will need. If you're a budget-conscious buyer, you might want to consider a system that comes with a light stroller as well as the renowned Graco SnugRide 35 Lite Elite baby car seat.