Car Seat and Stroller Combos
The best car stroller and seat combos almost feel like they attach themselves. Stanton recommends: "Look for a base that is easy to click together with the carrier." This reduces the chance of errors that can happen during installation and detachment.
One option that can do this is the Doona, which seamlessly transforms from a car seat into a stroller and makes room for the trunk. Online reviewers note that it feels sturdy but they also appreciate its user-friendliness and performance.
Easy to Assemble
Parents who don't want to change between strollers and car seats often will find a combination of both appealing. This is also a good alternative for parents who utilize public transportation or rideshares frequently, as well as those that switch caregivers. Stanton says that since they're one item and the wheels are connected the car seats are more easily portable. Stanton says it is important to secure the car seat properly when using a travel system. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines and your vehicle owner's manual to ensure that the seat is secure she adds.
In our tests, we discovered that the top stroller and car seat combos come with a simple click-in connector that requires no effort other than shifting the car from one to another. These models scored higher than those with more complicated connections, because they require less pressure and have the least chance of making mistakes (intentional or accidental). We like, for example that the UPPAbaby Vista Combo is a simple drop-in accessory that requires no straps, and has an indicator on the base of the car seat that indicates whether the seat is level correctly.
The Doona All in-One Infant Car Seat Stroller is easy to set up and then transfer from vehicle to stroller. It's a seamless transformation that frees up extra trunk space to shop and run errands. It also comes with a swivel front wheel that offers an excellent maneuverability, even when the seat is mounted.
Another alternative is the Britax B-Lively & B-Safe Gen2 Travel System with springy suspension and a large, one-hand-fold chassis for easy storage. It comes with a large basket, as well as plenty of cup holders to hold snacks, drinks, and baby gear. pram 2 in 1 is comfortable for long rides and the tagless smooth-touch knit fabric is machine washable. It's FAA-approved and comes with an safety harness that is secured at or below the shoulders of your baby and includes a SafeCell crumple zone to protect them in the event of a crash.
A good travel system must be easy to push. Our top picks have rubber tires and a single pivoting wheel in the front for navigating busy sidewalks and streets. The Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo and the BOB Alterrain Pro are all easy-gliding and come with useful features such as one hand braking and an ample storage basket.
Easy to store
Parents who want their child to be as comfortable as they can are better off choosing a car seat stroller combination, regardless of whether they are doing errands during the day or taking an outing with the family. Stroller-car-seat combos are much easier to maneuver than separate items, and many models are equipped with features that differentiate them from the rest. However, it's important to remember that the car seat and stroller need to be compatible for use together. The manufacturer of the car seat needs to provide guidelines for what types of strollers can be used with their product and a quick internet search can help to narrow your choices.
Some strollers and carseats have an attachment that snaps into position without the need for additional straps or complicated assembly. This type of easy attachment is a major benefit for families that frequently take public transport or ride-share vehicles. The Doona is a good example. It is an FAA-approved infant car seat that is able to transform into a stroller with just the touch of one button. This is a huge time saver and makes it easy to bypass gate-checking a stroller on airplanes (assuming you've also purchased an airline seat for your infant) or to hop into and out of taxis.
Other stroller-car seat combos like the Nuna TrVL let parents remove the infant car seat from the stroller base, and fold it easily into a compact size that can be stored inside the trunk. This is a fantastic feature for families with busy schedules and the stroller is sleek and stylish, with premium fabrics and smart features, like a built-in drape canopy to shield a sleeping baby.
The best 2 in 1, stroller/car seat combo for your family depends on your lifestyle, plans for growth and your budget. The most affordable models tend to be frame strollers that can accommodate a car seat for a child with little extra space. More expensive combos will include the toddler seat, twin stroller, or more advanced features. Whatever you choose, you can rest assured that the stroller and car seat will be up to the highest standards of safety.
Easy to carry
These combos are perfect for families that want to avoid the hassle of checking the gate for an infant car seat while flying. They're also great for those who frequently use public transportation and ride-sharing services. Car seats and strollers are easy to transport and maneuver on the go and are perfect for parents who require their hands free while traveling with their children.
When you're deciding on the best 2 in 1 stroller car seat, you should look for one that is lightweight and compact. These options have a smoother ride and are easier to push over different terrains. The smaller frames make it easier to fit the car seat into the trunk or the back of a car.
Many of the most sought-after car seat/stroller combinations are lightweight compact and foldable casters for easy storage. For example, the Cosco Finale 2-in-1 is an easy-to-use seat that converts from a five-point harness that is rear-facing to a booster for children who are no longer in an infant carrier. It's lightweight (12 pounds) and has LATCH straps that are easy to use.
The Doona is a second 2 in 1 stroller/car seat worth mentioning. It's a unique piece of equipment since it can be transformed from a rear facing infant car seat to a stroller by simply clicking a button. This lets you skip the step of removing the base of the seat and makes it easier to navigate stairs or hop in and out of taxis without having to put away the car seat.
The Doona is a budget-friendly choice, which is especially appealing for first-time parents. It's cheaper than the cost of one year's gym membership and it gives parents assurance that they have safe travel gear for their infant.
Many families choose a two-piece stroller/car seat system when they're deciding on an infant carrier from a particular brand or plan to use it for several children. If that's the scenario, be sure to review the specifications of the product to ensure your chosen stroller and car seat work in conjunction. Also, consider buying an adapter to fit your preferred combination.
Easy to Fold
The stroller and car seat combination is a great option for parents who are seeking a single piece that can be used for a variety of functions. They are able to easily switch from being a car seat to a stroller and back again, and they're generally more maneuverable than two-piece travel systems. Stanton says they're designed to be more compact. "They have a lot fewer moving components, which makes them more compact to fold, carry, and use."
These car seats and strollers for infants are lighter than two-piece models and can be easily transported in small trunks. These strollers and infant car seats tend to be lighter and have more practical features, like sun shades and cup holders. Some models have a swivel wheel on the front that is great for navigating busy sidewalks and stores.
Certain brands, such as Doona offer a stroller as well as an infant car seats that can be used in conjunction. These are particularly useful for parents who intend to take advantage of rideshares or public transportation, or who change caregivers frequently. This model is essentially an rear-facing car seat with wheels. The wheels lower to make an infant stroller when you decide to use it.
Some brands, like the Evenflo Shyft DualRide allow you to click the car seat into the frame and then fold it out as a stroller. It's not as sleek as Doona however, it does allow you to remove the car seat from the frame without needing to click it into the base.
You should also consider whether a particular stroller or infant car seat combo can fit the car seat you prefer. If the stroller and infant car seat are compatible, you can anticipate a longer-lasting product as it will fit your child after they've outgrown the infant car seats.
It is important to be aware that some car seats and stroller combinations aren't very effective in our ease of use tests. This could be because of the design that makes it difficult to climb stairs or due to the weight and size of the stroller/car seat may make it harder to push. In either situation, it's worth checking out our full reviews to determine the best option for you.