Choosing a Pushchair Travel System
Choosing the perfect pushchair for your family is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a parent. Whether you choose a travel system bundle for its initial convenience and cost savings or a distinct pram newborn frame and compatible car seat for maximum adaptability, there's plenty to consider.
Fortunately, this guide will help you make the right choice to suit 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 even include carrycots. It's a great option for parents with young children since it lets you easily transfer your baby from the car to the pushchair without disturbing them - ideal for those short excursions to the shops or make an early morning run.
A good travel system can be tucked in your car and attach to the frame of the pushchair to make a seamless trip for your baby. It's a good choice since you'll only need to make one purchase for your baby's arrival. You'll also save money.
There are many kinds of travel systems available ranging from budget options to top-of-the-line brands like JANE or TYPO. A lot of them come with a matching changing bag that is a perfect match and car seat accessories, and if you're really looking to make things easier, there are travel system bundles that contain everything you need in just one purchase. This is the best way to be sure that all the components work without having to look to find a car seat that's compatible and finding out you need additional adaptors too!
What are the various seat recline options available?
If you decide to go with a travel system that comes with a carrycot, all-terrain strollers you should ensure that the seat is fully reclined to ensure your baby is able to sleep comfortably and is at the recommended lying flat position for respiratory and spinal development. It is also important to consider whether the handlebar can be adjusted in height to ensure it is comfortable for both you and your companion or anyone else who may utilize it frequently.
The majority of pushchairs that are 'from birth' include a reversible seat so that you can choose which position your child is facing towards you (to encourage their communication skills) or in a world-facing position to stimulate their curiosity and let them know where they are going. Some travel systems also come with a reversible car seat that can be attached directly to the frame of the pushchair, without taking it off it, so that you can easily move your baby from the car to the stroller and back.
Make sure the car seat you select is compatible with your pushchair, as not all infant car seats can be connected to all pushchairs, without adaptors. Some travel systems come with all the adaptors required in the box. Others might require that you purchase them separately. Review the product's specifications or ask your local retailer.
How do you get it done?
Carrycots are lightweight and simple to attach, but they're best used with babies up to 6 months old. They should always be used in conjunction with a pushchair sale that can lie flat to allow the baby be in a fully reclined position which is ideal for their lung and spinal development. Carrycots are light and easy to attach, but they should be used with babies up to 6 months old. They should always be paired with a lie-flat pushchair to allow the baby to fully reclined position, which is ideal for their spinal and lung development.
It's important to remember that the majority of the brands have designed them to work as a unit. You can be assured that everything will perform well. Buying all your products in one place can be a great idea and is usually cheaper than buying the items separately. Being in a position to move your sleepy newborn from their car seat to stroller for the nursery run or nipping into shops without disturbing them is a big plus. Travel systems are worth the investment.
How easy is it to attach a car seat or a carrycot?
Most 'from-birth pushchairs can be plugged onto an appropriate car seat or carrycot to make the transition from your vehicle to street easy. This is ideal for newborns and allows them to sleep in the preferred position of lying flat.
The majority of travel systems come with a separate stroller. However, some like the Doona or the Evenflo Shyft DualRide have a one-piece design so that the car seat can fold into a double pushchair. Many travel systems are sold with an additional stroller seat, however some, like the Doona and the Evenflo Shyft DualRide, have an all-in-one design that allows the car seat can be folded into a pushchair, and then folds back to fit into the vehicle's base.
If you decide to put a car seat or carrycot on your pushchair, be sure to carefully read the instructions and observe the age, weight and size restrictions. Make sure to check if the car seat and pushchair have been recalled for safety reasons.
Many pushchairs come with additional accessories that can enhance your experience. For example, a footmuff will protect your baby against the elements while a parasol made of SPF/UPF50+ fabric keeps them shaded from the sun. Some pushchairs come with an ride-on board for toddlers who are eager to explore the world but need a little help.
What is the weight limit?
A pushchair travel system can usually accommodate babies until the maximum weight and age. This can vary based on the car seat and the pushchair combination you choose and your personal needs, so it's important to check these specifications thoroughly. It's also important to test the brakes on your chosen model. They should be strong and easy to operate.
Many brands include infant car seat adaptors in their travel system packages which allow you to easily clip your baby's car seat onto the frame of your pushchair to be effortlessly moved from car to stroller. This makes the whole process of exploring the world with a newborn much easier and simpler. It also means that when your baby grows out of their car seat and carrycot they will still be able to use the stroller along with you. This is an excellent option for families who are busy and have lots of things to do every day.
How easy is it to fold?
Some pushchairs can be folded with a single press. Some folds require two hands, or a few steps, however, they are still compact. Some models even have the ability to stand up when folded, making it simple to hold. This sort of design is perfect if you reside in a city or commute, and want to make the transition from a car to a pushchair an effortless process or when you have a small boot and need a model that folds up to fit inside it.
Depending on the model, travel system pushchairs may be used from birth, by adding a carrycot or infant car seat. They are usually approved to be taken in the cabin of flights and are ideal for parents that like to do lots of travelling with their family.
If you opt for a pushchair and car seat bundle, this is the most economical option to purchase. The bundle is usually created by the brand and consists of a pushchair and car seat that have been designed to work together. Some pushchairs say which car seats they're compatible with, and you can buy a seat separately (though this may require car seat adaptors). MFM Editor Gemma's pick of the most lightweight travel system is the Babyzen YOYO due to its clever features and incredible one-second fold.
What does it look like?
A travel system bundle offers convenience, security and cost savings. These bundles are put together by retailers or brands with all the parts hand-picked to work seamlessly. This means that you don't have to spend time researching what car seat will work with your ideal pushchair or looking for a footmuff that matches or changing bags.
They usually consist of a frame for a pushchair that fits a car seat. They usually include a carrycot or a seat unit that can be used both facing forward or towards the parent depending on your preference (or regulations, as rear-facing in the car is advised until 15 months). Some convert to a twin/tandem when 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 locate a safe parking spot. They can also help you save space in the boot of your car and make it easier for you to go shopping or run the school run.