Car Seat and Stroller Combos
The best car seat stroller combinations are so simple to attach that it's almost like they're doing it all by themselves. "Look for a base and carrier that click together easily," advises Stanton. This helps reduce the risk of errors during installation and removal.
One option that can do this is the Doona, which seamlessly transforms from car seat to stroller and makes room for the trunk. Online reviews have noted that it feels substantial but they also appreciate its ease of use and performance.
Easy to Assemble
Parents who do not want to switch between strollers and car seats often will find a combination of both attractive. This is also a good alternative for parents who utilize public transportation or rideshares often, as well as those who switch caregivers. "These are a single item and the wheels are connected to the car seat, which means they're more naturally mobile," says Stanton. Stanton suggests to secure the car seat correctly when using the travel system. She advises you to follow the manufacturer's directions and the owner's manual for your vehicle to ensure a secure fit.
In our tests, we found that the best stroller and car seat combos come with a simple click-in connection that requires minimal effort beyond moving the carrier from one location to another. These models scored higher compared to models with more complicated connections due to the fact that they require less pressure and have fewer opportunities for mistakes, whether intentional or accidental. For instance, we like that the UPPAbaby Vista Combo has a simple drop-in attachment that has no straps--and that there's an indicator on the base of the car seat that shows when it is properly leveled.
The Doona All in-One Infant Car Seat Stroller, is also easy to set up and move from vehicle into stroller. It's an easy conversion that allows you to use the extra space in your trunk for shopping or running errands. It also features a swivel wheel at the front that permits excellent maneuverability even when the seat attached.
Another option is Britax B Lively and B Safe Gen2 Travel System. It has an elongated chassis that is springy and a large one-hand fold chassis that can be easily stored. It has a large basket, as well as plenty of cups for snacks, drinks, and baby gear. Its cushioned seat is comfortable for long journeys and the tagless smooth-touch knit fabric is machine washable. It is FAA-approved and comes with a safety strap that can be locked below or at your baby's shoulders. It also comes with a SafeCell Crumple Zone to protect the child in case of an accident.
A good travel system will also be easy to push, and our top picks all have rubber tires that have one, swivel front wheel that can be used to navigate busy streets and sidewalks. The Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo and the BOB Alterrain Pro are all smooth-gliding and feature convenient features such as one-hand braking and an ample 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 running errands or heading out for a family vacation. Stroller-car seat combos are easier to move around than separate items, and a lot of models are equipped with features that differentiate them from the competition. But, it is crucial 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 online will help narrow your options.
Some strollers and carseats come with an immediate attachment that snaps in place without the need for straps or a complicated installation. This kind of simple attachment is a major selling point, and is especially beneficial for families who often use ride-share cars or public transportation. The Doona is an FAA approved infant car seat which can be converted to stroller with the click of a button. This is a time-saving feature and helps you avoid having to check your stroller's gate on planes (assuming that you have also purchased an airline chair for your infant) or to hop in and out of a taxi.
Other stroller-car-seat combos such as the Nuna TrVL allow parents to remove the infant car seat from the stroller base, and fold it easily into a compact size that can be tucked away into the trunk. This is a great feature for families with busy schedules and the stroller itself is sleek and stylish, with premium fabrics and smart features such as a built-in curtain canopy to protect a snoozing baby.
Ultimately, the best 2 in 1 stroller car seat for your family will depend on your personal preferences and plans for growth and budget. The most affordable models will likely be frame strollers that accommodate a car seat for a child with little space. The more expensive models will have the toddler seat, twin stroller, or more advanced features. In any case, you can rest assured that the car seat and stroller will be up to the highest standards of safety.
Easy to carry
Car seat/stroller combos are a ideal option for families who wish to avoid having to check gate-check an infant car seat when flying and are also ideal for people who use rides-shares and public transportation often. These strollers and car seats are easy to transport and are ideal for parents who want their hands free while traveling with their children.
Look for a lightweight and compact 2 in 1 stroller/car seat. These models are more comfortable to use and are easier to push across different terrains. Additionally, the smaller frames can make it easier to get the car seat in and out of a trunk, or the back of a vehicle.
Many of the most sought-after and highly rated car seat/stroller combinations are light, compact and come with wheels that fold for easy storage. For example, the Cosco Finale 2-in-1 is a no-frills seat that converts from a five-point harness that is rear-facing to a booster for kids who are no longer in an infant carrier. It's lightweight (12 pounds) and has LATCH straps that are simple to use.
The Doona is a second 2 in 1 car seat/stroller worth mentioning. It's a unique piece of equipment because it can be converted from a rear facing infant car seat to a stroller by simply clicking the button. This allows you to avoid the step of removing your car seat from its base, and also allows you to climb stairs or get in taxis without having your car seat stowed.
The Doona is a budget-friendly option that is particularly appealing for parents who are first-time parents. It costs less than a year's gym membership, and provides parents with peace of mind knowing their child is secure when traveling.
Many families opt for a two-piece car seat/stroller system in the event that they have decided on a specific type of infant carrier, or have plans to have multiple children. If this is the case, be sure you've read the specifications to ensure that your car seats and strollers will work together. You may want to consider purchasing an adapter that will fit the combination you want.
Easy to Fold
The car seat and stroller combo is a great choice for parents who are looking for a single piece that can be used for multiple functions. They are able to effortlessly switch from being a car seat to a stroller and back again, and they are generally more maneuverable than two-piece travel systems. Stanton states that they're designed to be more compact. "They have less moving parts, which makes them easy to fold and use as well as carry."
These strollers and car seats for infants are also lighter than the two-piece versions and are easily transported in small trunks. These strollers and infant car seats are generally lighter and come with more practical features, including sun shades and cup holders. Some models even have a swivel wheel on the front that's great for navigating crowded streets and stores.
Certain brands, like Doona offer an all-in-one infant stroller and car seat. They are particularly useful for parents who take public transportation or rideshares, or who have to change caregivers frequently. stroller 2 in 1 car seat is essentially an rear-facing car seat with wheels. The wheels drop down to become a stroller when you want to use it.
Some brands, like the Evenflo Shyft DualRide allow you to click the car seat into and then unfold it into a stroller. It's not as sleek as Doona, but it does allow you to remove the car seat from the frame without needing to insert it into the base.
You should also think about whether a specific stroller and infant car seat combination can accommodate the car seat you prefer. If the stroller and infant car seat are compatible, then you can anticipate a longer-lasting product since it will work with your child even after they've outgrown the infant car seats.
However, it's important to be aware that some stroller and car seat combos don't perform well in our tests of ease-of-use. This could be because of a design which makes it difficult to walk stairs or because the weight and size of the stroller/car seat can make it more difficult to push. In any case, it's worth checking out our complete reviews to find the most suitable option for you.