Choosing a pushchair travel system (just click the following document)
The choice of the ideal pushchair for your family is among the most important decisions you'll make as a parent. It doesn't matter if you opt for a travel system bundle to benefit from its convenience and initial cost savings or a separate frame for the pram and a car seat to allow for maximum flexibility, there's plenty to consider.
This guide will assist you in making the best choice to suit your needs and lifestyle.
What is a travel system?
A travel system is a stroller that has the capacity to accommodate a car seat for your baby, and some even come with the option of a carrycot. It's a great option for parents who are new because it allows you to easily transfer your baby from the car to the pushchair without disturbing them. It's ideal for those short trips to the shops or do a nursery run.
A good travel system will fit comfortably into your car and then attach to the frame of the pushchair to provide a seamless journey for your baby. It's also a great option as it means you only have to buy one thing in the process of getting ready for the arrival of your child and will typically save you money too.
There are many kinds of travel systems available ranging from budget options to high-end brands such as JANE or TYPO. There are many travel systems that come with accessories for your car seat that match, changing bags and matching changing mats. If you want to make life easier you can purchase a bundle of travel systems that includes everything you need. This is a great way to ensure all the components work - no searching for a car seat that is compatible and finding out you'll need additional adaptors too!
What are the different options prams for newborns reclined seats?
If you choose a travel system that includes a carrycot, ensure that the seat in the pushchair twin is fully reclined, allowing your baby to rest comfortably in the ideal position for spinal and breathing development. Think about whether the handlebar can be adjusted in height to make it comfortable for you, your partner or anyone else who might use it often.
The majority of pushchairs that are 'from birth' come with a reversible seat so that you can decide which position your child is facing towards you (to increase their communication skills) or in a world-facing position to stimulate their curiosity and allow them to see where they are going. Some travel systems have a reversible seating unit that clips directly to the frame of the pushchair, without having to take it off. This allows you to effortlessly transfer your baby from the car into the stroller and in reverse.
Make sure the car seat you choose is compatible with your pushchair as not all infant car seats are able to be used with all pushchairs, without adaptors. Some travel systems include all the adaptors you require in the box, however others may require them to be purchased separately. Check the product details or contact your local retailer.
How easy is it to manoeuvre?
If you're in search of a travel system that can transport your baby from car seat pram to pushchair, then back again, make sure the pushchair chassis is light enough and that you have enough room in your car to fit the carrycot. Carrycots can be attached easily and are lightweight. They're ideal for infants under 6 months and should be used with a lie flat pushchair. This allows the baby to be in a fully reclined position which is beneficial for their spine development and lung development.
It's important to keep in mind that the majority of brands have designed them to work as a unit. This means you can be confident that they'll all function well and fit together. Shopping in one place is convenient and almost always works out cheaper than purchasing items separately. It's a huge plus to be able to move your baby's sleepy body from the car seat to the stroller in order to go to the nursery or shop without causing disturbance to them. Travel systems are worth the expense.
How do I connect a carrycot or car seat?
Most of the 'from birth pushchairs can be clicked on to an appropriate car seat or carrycot to allow you to transition from your car to street easy. This is ideal for newborns and allows them to sleep in the preferred position of lying flat.
When the baby is outgrowing their infant car seat (usually until the age of 18 months) most travel systems can also be used with a stroller seat which means that they'll last longer as your child develops. A majority of travel systems come with an additional stroller seat, however certain models, such as the Doona and the Evenflo Shyft DualRide, have a one-piece design so that the car seat can be folded into a pushchair, and then folds back to go into the base of your vehicle.
If you decide to use a car seat or a carrycot on your pushchair, make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and be sure to follow their weight, age, and size limitations. Also, be sure to verify if your pushchair or car seat have been recalled as part of an recall for safety.
Many pushchairs come with additional accessories that can enhance your experience. For example the use of a footmuff is a way to protect your child from the elements, while a parasol made of SPF/UPF50+ fabric will keep them shaded in the sun. Some pushchairs include a ride-on board for toddlers who want to explore the world but require a little assistance.
What is the weight limit?
A pushchair is generally designed to accommodate babies until a certain weight and age. This will vary depending on the car seat and the pushchair combination you select and also your personal needs, so it's important to review these specifications thoroughly. Similar applies to the brakes on the car you've chosen It is essential to make sure they're strong and easy to operate.
Many brands include adaptors for infant car seats in their travel systems packages enabling you to easily attach your baby's car seats onto the frame of your pushchair so that they can be easily moved from stroller to car. This makes getting out with a baby much easier. This means that your baby will be able to utilize their stroller even after they are out of the car seat and carrycot. This is a great choice for families that have busy lives and lots to do daily.
How do you make it easy for you to fold?
There are a range of fold styles available on pushchairs - some are actually one-handed with a simple press of a button. Others require two hands or a few steps, yet they can be very compact when folded. Some models are able to stand upright when folded, making it simple to carry. This sort of design is ideal for those who live in the city or commute, and want to make the transition from car to pushchair a seamless process, or if you have a small space in your boot and require a product that folds down to fit in it.
Some travel system pushchairs depending on the model, can be utilized as early as birth by adding the car seat or carrycot. Certain models are approved to be used in the cabin of flights, making them ideal for parents who want to travel with their family.
The most cost-effective choice is to purchase an automobile seat that is paired with a pushchair pram. The bundle is designed by the brand, and it consists of two car seats and a pushchair that are designed to work in tandem. Additionally, some pushchairs indicate the car seats they are compatible with and you could buy a seat separately (though this may require car seat adaptors). MFM Editor Gemma's pick of the best travel system that is lightweight is the Babyzen YOYO because of its innovative features and amazing one-second fold.
What does it look like?
A travel system bundle is an excellent way to buy a pushchair and car seat together and also enjoy the benefits of convenience, reassurance and often a cost saving. These bundles are put together by retailers or brands. The components are hand-picked for their compatibility. This means that you don't need to research which car seat will work with your dream pushchair, or trawling online for a sock or changing bag that fits the design.
They normally comprise a frame for a pushchair that is suitable for the group 0+ car seat, and typically include a carrycot or seat unit which can be used forward-facing or parent-facing depending on your preference (or regulations, as rear-facing in the car is recommended up to 15 months). Some of them can be converted into a tandem or twin if you are expecting more than one child.
If you plan to do a lot driving and walking, a transport system is a great option. It is simple to move your child from the car to the pushchair sale and back without having to disrupt them or find a secure parking space. They also can save space in the car's boot making it easier to get to shops or run the school run.