Choosing a Pushchair Travel System

The decision to purchase the ideal pushchair for your family is one of the most important decisions you make as a parent. Whether you choose a travel system bundle for its initial convenience and cost savings or a distinct frame for your pram pushchair and a compatible car seat to allow for maximum flexibility, there's plenty to consider.

Luckily, this handy guide will assist you in making the best option that will meet your lifestyle and needs.

What is a travel system?

A travel system is a stroller that can accommodate a car seat for your baby and some come with the option of a carrycot. It's a great option for new parents since it lets you easily move your sleeping baby from the car to the pushchair without disturbing them - ideal for quick trips out to nip to the shops or go on a nursery run.

A quality travel system will fit comfortably in your car and click onto the pushchair frame to make a seamless trip for your child. It's a good choice since you'll need only one purchase for your baby's arrival. It also helps you save money.

There are lots of different kinds of travel systems available, from budget-friendly options to top-of-the-line brands like JANE or TYPO. There are a variety of travel systems that include matching car seat accessories, changing bags and matching changing mats. If you want to simplify your life by purchasing a bundle of travel systems that include everything you require. This is the best way to be sure that all the parts work together - no searching for a car seat that is compatible and then finding out that you require additional adaptors too!

What are the different options for reclined seats?

If you choose a travel system that includes a carrycot, make sure that the seat in the pushchair is fully reclined to allow your baby to nap comfortably in the recommended position for breathing and spinal development. Consider whether the handlebar can be adjusted in height to ensure it is comfortable for you, your partner or anyone else who uses it often.

Most 'from-birth' pushchairs come with a reversible seat which allows you to choose which direction your child will face, the parent (to help develop communication skills) or face the world, to stimulate curiosity and let them know where they are going. Some travel systems also come with a reversible car seat that attaches directly to the frame of the pushchair, without taking it off it, ensuring that you can easily move your child from the car to the stroller, and then back.

Make sure the car seat you pick is compatible with your compact pushchair as not all infant car seats are able to be attached to all pushchairs without additional adaptors. Some travel systems come with all the adaptors required in the box. Others may require that you purchase adaptors on your own. Review the product's specifications or ask your local retailer.

How easy is it for you to move around?

If you're looking for a travel system that can transport your baby from car to pushchair and back again, make sure the pushchair chassis isn't too heavy and that you have room in your car to fit a carrycot. Carrycots are lightweight and easy to attach but they're best used with babies up to 6 months old and should always be paired with a lie-flat pushchair to allow the baby to fully reclined posture, which is great for their lung and spine development.

It's important to note that the majority of brands have designed them to function as a unit. This means you can be confident that they'll all fit and work well. Buying everything together is convenient and often costs less than buying items separately. And being capable of moving your sleepy baby from the car seat to stroller for the nursery walk or even a trip to shops without disturbing them is a big benefit. Travel systems are worth the expense.

How easy is it to attach a car seat?

Most 'from-birth' pushchairs can be clicked on to a compatible car seat or carrycot to make the transition from your vehicle to the street simple. This is ideal for newborns, allowing them to sleep in the recommended lie-flat position.

When the baby is outgrowing their infant car seat (usually up to the age of 18 months) the majority of travel systems can also be used with a stroller which means that they'll last longer as your child develops. A majority of travel systems come with a separate stroller seat but some, like the Doona and the Evenflo Shyft DualRide, have an all-in-one design that allows the car seat unfolds into the pushchair and then folds back to fit into the base of your car.

Whether you choose to use the car seat or carrycot on your pushchair, make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and be sure to adhere to their weight, age and size limitations. Check whether the car seat or pushchair are being recalled due to safety reasons.

Many pushchairs come with accessories to enhance your experience. For instance the footmuff can protect your baby against the elements while a parasol made of SPF/UPF50+ fabric keeps them shaded in the sun. Some pushchairs also have an inflatable ride-on board, which is perfect for toddlers who are ready to take on the world themselves but need some help.

What is the weight limit?

A pushchair will usually accommodate babies as long as they are of the appropriate weight and age. It's contingent on the car seat/pushchair combination that you choose and the kind of lifestyle you have. Therefore, it is crucial to examine these specifications thoroughly. It's also important to check the brakes on your chosen model. They should be sturdy and easy-to-operate.

Many brands include infant car seat adaptors in their travel systems packages enabling you to easily clip your baby's car seat onto the frame of the pushchair to be easily moved from car to double stroller. This makes a stroller ride with a baby much more convenient. It also means that when your baby is no longer in their carrycot and car seat they can still use the stroller with you. This is a great option for families that are busy and have a lot of things to do every day.

How do you fold?

Some pushchairs fold with a single press. Others need two hands or a few steps, yet they can fold down to a small size. Some models are even able to stand upright when folded, making it easy to grab. This model is ideal if you commute or live in a city and want to make the transition between car and pushchair smooth. If you have a small car boot.

Some travel system pushchairs depending on the model can be utilized as early as birth by adding a car seat or carrycot. Those that can are often approved to be taken in the cabin of flights and are ideal for parents who travel a lot as a family.

The most cost-effective option is to buy an automobile seat that is paired with the pushchair. The bundle is developed by the manufacturer, and it consists of the car seat and the pushchair that are designed to work in tandem. Some pushchairs will list the car seats they are compatible with, and you can purchase the car seat separately. (This might require converters for car seats.) MFM Editor Gemma's pick of the best lightweight travel system is the Babyzen YOYO because of its clever features and incredible one-second fold.

What does it look Like?

A travel system bundle is an excellent option to purchase a stroller and car seat in one go, with the added bonus of convenience, reassurance and, often, a cost savings. These bundles are designed by retailers or brands with each component carefully selected to work seamlessly. This means you don't have to do a lot of research on the best car seat with your ideal pushchair or trawling online for a sock or changing bag that complements the design.

They are typically made up of a frame that can fit into a car seat group 0+ and include the carrycot, or seat unit, that can be used forward-facing or facing the parent depending on your preference or the regulations (rear-facing is recommended for cars until 15 months). Some convert to a twin pram/tandem when you're expecting more than one child.

If you intend to spend a lot of time driving and walking, a transport system is a great choice. It is simple to transfer your child from the car to the pushchair and back without having to disrupt them or find a safe parking spot. They can also save space in the car's boot and make it easier to get to shops or run the school run.