Choosing a Pushchair Travel System
The choice of the ideal pushchair for your family is among the most important decisions you'll make as a parent. There are many factors to take into consideration, whether you choose an all-in-one travel package for its convenience and initial cost savings, or a separate frame and Baby pram compatible car seats to ensure maximum flexibility.
Fortunately, this guide will help you make the right option that will meet your lifestyle and needs.
What is a travel system?
A travel system is a pushchair that can be fitted with a baby car seat, and some come with the option of a carrycot too. It's a great choice for parents with young children as it means you can easily move your sleeping baby from the car to the pushchair without disturbing them. perfect for those quick trips to the shops or do a nursery run.
A great travel system will fit snuggly into your car and then connect to the frame of your pushchair to provide a seamless journey for your baby. It's a good choice since you only have to make one major purchase for the baby's arrival. You'll also save money.
There are many kinds of travel systems on the market with options ranging from budget-friendly choices to premium brand names like TYPO or JANE. There are many travel systems that come with matching car seat accessories such as changing bags, Triple Stroller changing bags, and changing mats. If you're looking to make life easier by purchasing an entire travel system which includes everything you need. This is an excellent way to make sure all of the components work - no searching online for a compatible car seat and finding out you'll need additional adaptors!
What are the various seat recline options available?
If you choose a travel system with a carrycot, make sure that the pushchair seat is fully reclined to allow your baby to rest comfortably in the ideal position to develop their breathing and spine. Take into consideration whether the handlebar could be adjusted in height so that it is comfortable for you, your spouse or anyone who may use frequently.
The majority of pushchairs that are 'from birth' include a reversible seat to allow you to choose the position of your child's seat, either facing you (to encourage their communication skills) or world-facing to stimulate their curiosity and let them see where they are going. Some travel systems have a reversible seat unit that is attached directly to the frame of the pushchair without needing to remove it. This lets you easily transfer your baby from the car into the stroller, and in reverse.
Not all infant car seats work with all pushchairs. Some travel systems come with all the adaptors you require in the box, but others might require them to be bought separately. You can determine if this is the case by checking the product's details or contacting your local retailer.
How easy is it to manoeuvre?
If you're in search of a travel system to transport your baby from the car to the pushchair, then back again, make sure the chassis of your pushchair isn't too heavy, and that you have enough room in your trunk to accommodate the carrycot. Carrycots can be easily attached and Pushchairs travel systems are light. They're best for newborns less than 6 months old and should be used in conjunction with a lie flat pushchair. This allows the baby to be in a reclining position, which is beneficial for their spine development and lung development.
It's important to keep in mind that the majority of the brands have designed them to work together. You can be assured that everything will perform as intended. Shopping in one place is convenient and usually works out cheaper than purchasing items separately. Also, being capable of moving your sleepy baby from the car seat to a stroller for the nursery walk or even a trip to shops without disturbing them is a big plus. Travel systems are worth the investment.
How easy is it to attach a car seat?
The majority of pushchairs 'from birth' can be linked to a baby car seat or carrycot to allow effortless transitions from your vehicle to the street. This is great for babies as it allows them to sleep in a 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 be used with a stroller seat and will therefore last longer as your child grows. Many travel systems are sold with a separate stroller seat but certain models, such as the Doona and the Evenflo Shyft DualRide, have one piece design, which means that the car seat can be folded into the pushchair and then back again to fit into the base of your vehicle.
If you decide to use the car seat or carrycot on your pushchair, make sure you read the instructions and follow the age, weight, and size limitations. Check whether the car seat or pushchair have been recalled due to safety reasons.
A lot of pushchairs come with additional accessories that can enhance your experience. For instance, the footmuff can protect your child from the elements, while a parasol, made from SPF/UPF 50+ fabrics, can keep them shaded when it's sunny. Some pushchairs include a ride-on board designed for toddlers who want to explore the world but require a little assistance.
What is the weight limit?
A pushchair travel system is typically designed to accommodate babies until a certain age and weight. It's contingent on the car seat/pushchair combo that you pick and your lifestyle. So it's essential to review these specifications carefully. Similar applies to the brakes of the car you've chosen It is essential to check that these are strong and easy to operate.
Many brands include infant seat adaptors as part of their travel system packages. This allows you to easily clip the car seat of your baby onto the frame of the stroller. This makes a stroller ride with a baby much more convenient. It also ensures that when your baby has outgrown their carrycot and car seat they will still be able to use the stroller along with you. This is a great option for families who are busy and have lots of things to do every day.
How easy is it to fold?
There are a variety of fold styles available on pushchairs - some are truly one-handed with just a click of the button. Some folds require two hands, or a few steps, however, they are still compact. Some models even stand when folded, which makes it simple to carry around. This is a great option for those who commute or reside in a city and want to make the transition from car and pushchair pram smooth. Also, if you have a small boot.
Based on the model, some travel system pushchairs can be used from birth by adding an infant car seat. These are typically accepted to be used in the cabin on flights and are perfect for parents who travel extensively as a family.
If you choose to buy a car seat and pushchair bundle, this is the most economical method of purchasing. The bundle is typically created by the brand and consists of a car seat that are designed to work together. Some pushchairs will list the car seats they are compatible with and you can buy a seat separately. (This might require converters for car seats.) MFM Editor Gemma's pick for the best lightweight travel system is the Babyzen YOYO due to its clever features and incredible one-second fold.
What is it like?
A travel system bundle can provide ease of use, security and savings. These bundles are designed by retailers or brands, with each component carefully selected to be compatible. This means that you don't need to do a lot of research on which car seat will work with your dream pushchair, or search on the internet for a footmuff or a changing bag that matches the style.
These pushchairs are usually made up of a frame that fits into the car seat group 0+ and include a carrycot, or seat unit, that can be used either forward-facing or in the opposite direction to the parent facing pram, based on your preference or the regulations (rear-facing is recommended in cars until 15 months). Some are even able to be converted into a tandem twin if you're expecting more than one child.
If you plan to do a lot driving and walking, a travel system is a good choice. You can easily transfer your child from the car to the pushchair and vice versa without having to disturb them or find a safe parking place. They can also save you space in your car's boot making it easier to visit the shops or take your child to school.