Editor-Tested 2 in 1 Travel System Pram
The best 2 in 1, travel system prams let you easily switch your child between the stroller and a car. These sets have been evaluated by editors and approved. They come with a baby seat that snaps into the matching stroller frame for a smooth ride.
Please be aware that these car seats are only compatible with rear-facing infant car seat (not extended-use car seats, which is meant to remain in the vehicle). The weight and age limitations vary for each product.
Car Seat
A 2 in 1 travel system pram comes with a car seat which can be plugged into the stroller. 2 in 1 stroller can also be converted into a carrycot. This is a one-stop shop for your baby's first years. These prams cost more than standard strollers. However, the ease of transferring your baby from the car to the stroller safely and without disrupting them is worth the extra cost.
The UPPAbaby car and pram combination is a modern version of the traditional pram. It is a favourite among parents. The Vista stroller glides smoothly, and the Mesa infant car seat clips effortlessly into your car using UPPAbaby's Smart Secure LATCH system, which makes it simpler than other models to set up. The stroller can be used in carriage mode or as a bassinet. You can also switch the direction of your seat from forward-facing to rear-facing depending on your preference.
The Graco LiteMax combo infant car seat and stroller is another highly rated option for parents who are new. Similar to the Doona it can be converted into a rolling bassinet or stroller with a reclining seat that can face your child to the front or back of the stroller based on their preference. It's easy to use and an excellent option if you are planning to purchase an additional car seat for older siblings since it can fit two seats.
There are a variety of alternatives available. Many 2 in 1 travel systems include a stroller and car seat that can be used right from the moment of birth. However, the majority of these car seats aren't compatible with all strollers. It's crucial to select a product that is compatible with your car model and can be installed in a safe manner. Check the Consumer Products Safety Commission's website and manufacturer's guidelines for recalls. Also, check with your insurance company if it offers roadside assistance in case you require help installing something or addressing other issues.
Carrycot
A carrycot is an easy-to-transport small cot that can be affixed to a frame for a pram. It lets babies rest comfortably while on the move. It's ideal for use from birth until your baby is able to sit up unaided, typically at around 6 months. A carrycot can be used as a substitute to a crib or moses basket. It can also double up as a travel bed when you're away from home. The carrycot in a 2 in1 travel system pram usually flat and large. It helps your baby's natural position for sleep and encourages healthy growth. Some of our carrycots such as the adorable Stargazer are suitable for overnight sleep and can be folded and stored when not being used.
The majority of 3 in 1 combination prams include a car seat, a pushchair and carrycot so you can select the best method of transport for every journey. They tend to be bulkier than their 2 in 1 counterparts, and could be preferred by parents who prefer the traditional pram style look. Many of these models offer the ability to remove the pushchair seat unit which allows you to use it as a light stroller when your baby is old enough to sit up and face you.
They are usually lightweight and fold flat. This makes them easier to be tucked away in smaller vehicles. They also come with a variety of features that make them more practical, such as large shopping baskets and rain covers.
Verify that the 2 in 1 travel system and the carrycot you are thinking of is safe and conforms to the most recent European safety standard. Check, for example, that the carrycot is in compliance with the new standard EN1466:2023. This replaces EN0+:2014+AC :2015 and becomes obligatory in June 2024. Also look out for carrycot accessories such as footmuffs weather shields, and tray dishes for both parents and children to help your child feel comfortable and secure when they sleep in their cot.
Stroller
If your baby is able to sit comfortably in an infant car-seat and is ready to walk on their own, a stroller might be the best option. Strollers are easy to fold and are small enough to can be put in the boot of your car. They are spacious enough to allow for all of your baby's necessities and will also offer an enjoyable ride for your child even on rough terrain. Some models come with a large bassinet, which allows napping while traveling. The best strollers are fitted with the most recent safety features, such as 5-point harnesses. They are an excellent choice for parents who are just starting out.
Modern prams and strollers have adaptors that allow you to attach an automobile capsule to the chassis. This allows you to transfer your baby to sleep without disturbing them. This is a great feature for parents who are always on the go, as it allows you to complete essential errands without having to wake your baby or risk removing them from the vehicle. The Doona travel system stroller is a fantastic example of this. It's it is a compact and lightweight stroller that can be transformed into a cosy carrycot and car seat for groups 0+ making it the perfect option for parents who are always traveling.
Real prams are the silvercross-sprung items that Mary Poppins used to take on her travels and are ideal for strolling around town or travelling to other countries, since they're easy to operate and can hold a huge amount of baggage. They're however heavy to carry and are difficult to fit into a taxi, or the small trunk of your vehicle However, they're perfect for long walks because of their spaciousness and the comfort they offer.
The latest 3 in 1 prams have more modern and sophisticated design. They have a frame that folds up like an umbrella, and a portable baby seat or carrycot. These are suitable for use from birth, and are less bulky than traditional strollers. The carrycot can be converted into a seat that faces your child, which can recline when they're ready. Our choice includes the Kinderkraft Juli, which is a great option that comes with an infant car seat and carryingcot as well as the pushchair.
Accessories
A pramette is an ordinary pram, but is much smaller in size and is great for travelling on busy trains or if your house doesn't have enough space for a full-size pram. Most of these convert into pushchairs so that your child can sleep flat from birth, and some also convert into a travel set-up with the inclusion of a car seat. Some of the brands that sell these include Hauck, Kinderkraft and Venicci.
A 3-in-1 travel bundle includes a pushchair, carrycot and car seat. This is the ultimate in convenience. You simply click the coordinating car seat onto the frame of your pushchair and your baby will enjoy easy, relaxing trips out from birth. Then, you can switch to a stroller once your baby is ready and you'll be able to enjoy a modern version of the traditional pram look. The Ickle Bubba Juli Travel System bundle is a great illustration of this. It comes with a Carrycot and Infant car seat that is suitable for use starting from the time of birth.