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When I was shopping for a car seat for my first child, the most important feature, aside from safety, was functionality. I wanted to make sure this car seat was not only easy to install, and to use, but that it also could easily connect to the stroller that I planned on using on the regular. That’s why I decided to go with a car seat stroller combo, also known as a travel system. This convenient and versatile solution allows parents to combine their car seat and stroller into a single integrated system they can use on the go.
Britax is well known for both their car seats and their strollers, so it’s no surprise they make a car seat stroller combo worth writing home about. The best thing about this product is how easy it is to put together and install the car seat into the car. It comes with a Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system so the car seat clicks right into place with ease. The stroller is easy to put together and fold up. The toddler seat reclines all the way back, which comes in handy for naps on the go. The bottom is roomy—enough to fit a diaper bag at least.
If you’re okay with the fact that this stroller only has one front wheel, I think you’ll find it easy to use, install, and maneuver.
If you’re already a fan of Nuna, you know that their products are top notch. If you’re unfamiliar with the brand, it makes some of the safest, most durable, and high-quality car seats, travel strollers, double strollers, and more. Their travel system combo is super lightweight (the car seat is just seven pounds and the stroller is just 13.6 pounds) and it’s easy to maneuver thanks to progressive front- and rear-wheel suspension technology.
Nuna is a luxury brand, so it comes with a hefty price tag, but reviewers note you get what you pay for: high quality and solid construction.
Get it here: Nuna PIPA Urbn + TRVL System
Despite its jaw-dropping price tag, this is one of the more popular car seat stroller combos on the market today. UPPAbaby creates quality products that are safe, intuitive for use and that come with a myriad of innovative features. This car seat clicks right onto the stroller, which also comes with a toddler seat that reclines and has a SPF 50 canopy. The storage basket underneath is on the larger side and the handlebar adjusts to your height.
This is one of the more expensive car seat stroller combos on the market, but parents rave about all of its bells and whistles, and how easy it is to maneuver.
Get it here: UPPAbaby® Cruz V2 + Mesa V2 Infant Travel System
For the price and convenience, this car seat stroller combo is a great option, especially for parents of multiples. It offers 23 configurations to accommodate one or two riders in both forward- or rear-facing modes. You can opt to lay the toddler seat flat, which can encourage your baby to nap, and the anti-rebound bar helps absorb instability to ensure a smooth ride.
At a reasonable price, this car seat stroller combo offers 23 configurations to accommodate families of all sizes.
Get it here: Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Travel System
If budget isn’t a top concern and you’re looking for a car seat stroller combo with a luxury feel, this is a great option. The Nuna PIPA™ Rx + MIXX™ Next Stroller is ultra lightweight, easy to put together, and can be used in four different modes: PIPA™ series infant car seat, bassinet, seat parent facing, or world facing. It folds with one hand and comes with a UPF 50+ canopy that’s water repellent and provides shade for your baby. These products are also both GREENGUARD Gold Certified.
If it’s within your budget, this luxury car seat stroller combo comes with all the features you’re looking for and it’s a safe, efficient choice.
Get it here: Nuna PIPA™ Rx + MIXX™ Next Stroller Travel System
Most single car seats cost what this car seats stroller combo costs after all is said and done. This Graco travel system offers three functional positions, including a car seat on top, a bassinet on top, and a toddler seat on top (the bassinet converts to a toddler seat for down the line). The car seat is installed using a LATCH system for ultra durability and clicks right onto the base of the stroller with ease. Unfortunately you can’t adjust the handlebar and this product is not FAA-certified.
For what you’d pay for a single car seat, you also get a stroller and a comprehensive travel system that works efficiently.
Get it here: Graco Modes Pramette Travel System
This luxury car seat stroller combo is lightweight, aerodynamic and as safe as it gets. It rolls smoothly over just about any terrain, from cracked city streets to tree-root-lined sidewalks in the suburbs. It’s made from PFAS-free fabric that’s flame retardant-free and the adjustable handlebar is designed with non-toxic, all-natural cork. I love how easy this stroller is to fold up and how it can stand up straight to save room wherever you store it.
For what you’d pay for a single car seat, you also get a stroller and a comprehensive travel system that works efficiently.
Get it here: Bumbleride Era + Clek Liing Travel System
City living is no easy feat with a baby in tow, but the Doona All-in-One Infant Car Seat/Stroller makes the process of traveling amidst the hustle and bustle so much more manageable. This single item doubles as both a stroller and a car seat—the stroller folds right up into the car seat and becomes a single unit that you fasten safely into a vehicle. It’s easy to install and easy to transfer from car seat to stroller—simply press the button atop the seat, watch the wheels swing out, and you’re ready to stroll.
You can’t beat this product’s offerings for city living, including its safety features and accessibility.
Get it here: Doona All-in-One Infant Car Seat/Stroller
I combed through hundreds of reviews to find the best car seat stroller combos in every category. Here’s what I looked for when it came to the chosen travel systems in this story.
In addition to durability, ease of use, and convenience, I also looked for car seat stroller combos that have additional features like folding mechanism, maneuverability, large storage baskets, cup holders, and adjustability. If a stroller was compatible with multiple car seats, that was a big plus.
I reached out to Dr. Kirkilas, who was able to provide me with expert insight about what to look for in a car seat stroller combo.
In addition to speaking to real parents to find out which worked best for them, I also combed through hundreds of reviews from other parents who have purchased and used the car seat stroller combos. I paid close attention to feedback about durability, ease of use, safety, and overall satisfaction.
Before featuring any car seat stroller combo, I checked to make sure there weren’t any recent recall alerts issued by the manufacturer.
There are so many car seat stroller combos on the market today, as they’re one of the most popular options for parents looking for convenience. Here are a few pointers that can help guide you with your purchase.
Safety will always be a top priority when it comes to buying any kind of a car seat—and stroller for that matter. You want to make sure that the car seat meets or exceeds the safety standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It should be made out of energy-absorbing foam, include side-impact protection, and have a five-point harness system.
The car seat and stroller you purchase need to be compatible to work. Some car seat stroller combos are sold together as a single package, including both the car seat and the stroller, while others allow you to mix and match products, sometimes even between two different brands. Just check to make sure that whatever products you purchase do, in fact, work together.
Installation and functionality doesn’t come easy for most parents, so try to find a car seat stroller combo that comes with easy-to-follow instructions for putting the products together and installing the car seat safely in your vehicle. Also, make sure that the stroller works on whatever terrain you intend to walk on the most, whether it’s smooth pavement or rugged trails.
Car seat stroller combos can get expensive. In fact, like cribs, they’re one of the big-ticket baby gear items you’ll purchase in preparation for your baby. While you want to ensure that your car seat stroller combo has all the bells and whistles, you can find options in your budget.
Maintaining and cleaning a car seat stroller combo can help ensure its safety, durability, and longevity. Be sure to read the car seat’s manufacturer’s manual, which usually has guidance on how to clean and maintain both the seat and the stroller. Regularly inspect the items for signs of wear, damage, or loose parts, as they can become compromised over time. Be sure to promptly clean spills and stains and remove fabric covers when necessary, many of which are machine washable.
When installing a car seat, there are several options available to ensure proper and secure installation. Here are some common car seat installation options.
Perhaps the most common method, the seat belt installation involves securing the car seat using the seat belt system that exists in your vehicle. Be sure to follow the car seat manufacturer's instructions so you use the appropriate securement to attach the car seat safely to your car. Check that the seat belt is locked in place according to your vehicle's instructions, either by using a locking retractor or locking clip.
Many modern vehicles and car seats are now equipped with what’s known as the LATCH system. This consists of lower anchors and tether anchors built into the vehicle. To install a car seat using the LATCH system, locate the lower anchors in the vehicle seat and attach them to the car seat's lower anchor connectors. Tighten the straps to secure the car seat in place. If your car seat has a top tether strap, attach it to the tether anchor in the vehicle and tighten it to provide additional stability.
Some vehicles may have built-in car seat installation systems or features designed to facilitate easier and more secure installation. These systems may include proprietary connectors, guides, or indicators that help ensure proper positioning and alignment of the car seat. Check your vehicle's owner's manual for information about any specific car seat installation systems or features available.
Not sure how to install the car seat? You can always seek out assistance from a certified child passenger safety technician (CPST)—trained professionals who can provide expert guidance and assistance with car seat installation. Your local fire or police department may offer this service and many car seat manufacturers offer free or low-cost car seat inspection and installation services conducted by CPSTs.
Safety guidelines for car seat stroller combos are essential to ensure the safe transportation of your child. When using a car seat stroller combo, follow the key safety guidelines below as recommended by Gary Kirkilas, DO, a pediatrician and spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
Be sure to do your research to confirm the car seat meets or exceeds safety standards set by regulatory agencies such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the AAP. For secure installation, key features to look for include a five-point harness system, side-impact protection, and compatibility with your vehicle's LATCH system.
Follow the car seat manufacturer's guidelines as well as your vehicle's owner's manual to ensure proper installation of the car seat in your vehicle. Use either the seat belt or the LATCH system to secure the car seat according to the manufacturer's specifications.
Dr. Kirkilas notes that the harness should be at or below your baby’s shoulders—right around their nipple line. It should be so snug that you can’t pinch any excess material at the shoulders.
Make sure the car seat is properly attached to the stroller—this is often confirmed with a click. Follow the stroller manufacturer's instructions and avoid overloading the stroller with heavy bags or items that can cause it to tip over.
Every now and then, inspect both the car seat and the stroller for loose screws, frayed straps, or other issues that may affect safety. If anything looks damaged, discontinue use and contact the manufacturer.
Age, weight, and height limits are in place for a reason. Transition to a different car seat or stroller when your baby outgrows the size or weight limits specified by the manufacturer.
If you plan to be on the go often with your baby in tow, a car seat and stroller combo might be the best option, as it allows you to seamlessly transition your child from the car to the stroller without needing to transfer them between different seats or devices. Daniel Ganjian, MD, FAAP, board certified pediatrician at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California, explains that this option is more convenient, affordable, and might offer the most flexibility.
While it is possible to mix and match strollers and car seats, compatibility among different brands and models may vary. When mixing and matching, Dr. Ganjian recommends considering several factors to ensure a safe and secure fit, namely, that the two products are compatible, that you don’t have to purchase any adapters or accessories, any safety considerations that may be at play, as well as weight and size limits.
Whether you choose a parent- or front-facing stroller is really up to personal preference. While parent-facing strollers allow for close interaction and monitoring, they may limit your child's view of the surrounding environment, which may become an issue as your child gets into the toddler years and shows interest in the world around them. Some children may prefer facing forward to explore new sights and sounds. The cons of a parent-facing stroller, according to Dr. Ganjian, are they tend to offer less legroom for baby as they grow and they may not be ideal for bigger babies.
The Doona is great at transforming into a stroller, according to Dr. Ganjian, who used it for his own child. “The only problem is that it is heavier than a traditional car seat so you will need to use more strength,” he says. “It is not a good option for people who have a bad back.”
A car seat adapter for a stroller helps securely attach a compatible car seat to the stroller’s frame, creating a travel system that easily transitions between car and stroller, notes Dr. Ganjian.
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