Choosing a Pushchair Travel System
Choosing the perfect pushchair for your family is among the most important decisions you'll make as a parent. There are a variety of factors to consider, whether you choose a travel bundle due to its convenience and initial cost savings or a separate frame and car seats that are compatible for maximum adaptability.
This handy guide will help to make the best decision for your lifestyle and needs.
What is a travel system?
A travel system is a pushchair that can be fitted with the baby car seat and some come with a carrycot as well. It's a great option for parents with young children since it lets you easily move your baby from the car to the pushchair without disturbing them. It's perfect for those quick trips out to nip to the shops or make a nursery run.
A good travel system will fit comfortably into your car and then click onto the pushchair frame to make a seamless trip for your little one. It's also a convenient option as it means that you only need to purchase one item in the process of getting ready for the arrival of your child - and it'll usually reduce your expenses too.
There are lots of different types of travel systems available, from budget-friendly options to top-of-the-line brands like JANE or TYPO. There are numerous travel systems that come with matching car seat accessories including changing bags, changing bags and changing mats. If you want to make your life easier by purchasing a travel system bundle that includes everything you need. This is the best method to ensure that all components work. No more searching for an automobile seat that is functional and then finding out you need adapters too!
What are the seat recline options?
If you choose to purchase an option that includes a carrycot, ensure that the seat can fully recline so that your baby can nap comfortably and is in the recommended lie-flat position for spinal and respiratory development. It is also important to think about whether the handlebar is height-adjustable so that it's comfortable for you as well as your companion, or any other person who may utilize it frequently.
Most pushchairs that are "from birth" have a reversible seat unit so that you can decide whether your child sits parent-facing (to increase their communication skills) or world-facing, to encourage their curiosity and allow them to be aware of where they are. Some travel systems come with a reversible seating unit that is attached directly to the frame of the pushchair without having to take it off. This lets you effortlessly transfer your baby from the car into the stroller, and strollers vice versa.
Not all infant car seats are compatible with all pushchairs. Some travel systems include all the adaptors needed in the box. Others might require that you purchase the adaptors separately. Check the product details or contact your local retailer.
How easy is it to manoeuvre?
If you're looking for a transport system to transport your baby from the car to the pushchair, and back ensure that the pushchair's chassis is light enough and that you have enough room in your trunk to fit the carrycot. Carrycots are lightweight and easy to attach, but they're best used with infants that are less than 6 months old. They should always be used in conjunction with a lying pushchair to allow the baby to fully reclined position, which is great for their lung and spinal development.
It's important to keep in mind that the majority of the brands have designed them to work together. This means you can be certain that they'll all fit and work well. Buying all your items together can be a great idea and is generally cheaper than purchasing each item separately. It's an enormous benefit that you can transfer your baby's sleeping infant from the car seat to the stroller for a trip to the nursery or to shop without disturbing them. Travel systems are worth the investment.
How do I attach a carrycot or car seat?
Most of the 'from birth pushchairs can be clicked on to a compatible car seat or carrycot to allow you to transition from your vehicle to street easy. This is ideal for newborns and allows them to sleep in the preferred position of lying flat.
Most travel systems are sold with a separate stroller. However, some, like the Doona or the Evenflo DualRide, feature a one-piece design so that the car seat can be folded into a pushchair. The majority of travel systems include an additional stroller, however some, like the Doona or the Evenflo Shyft DualRide have a single piece design that allows the car seat to fold into the pushchair, and then folded back into the base of the vehicle.
If you choose to use the car seat or carrycot on your pushchair, be sure you read carefully the instructions and observe the age, weight, and size limitations. Also, determine if the pushchair and car seat have been recalled as part of a safety recall.
Many pushchairs have additional accessories that can improve your experience, for example a footmuff can help protect your child from the elements, whereas an umbrella made of SPF/UPF 50+ fabrics, can keep them shady when it's sunny. Some also feature a ride-on board that is ideal for toddlers who are ready to conquer the world on their own, but require some help.
What is the weight limit?
A pushchair is generally designed to fit babies until a certain age and weight. This can vary based on the combination of car seat and pushchair you choose as well as your own requirements for your lifestyle, so it's important to check these specifications thoroughly. The same applies to the brakes on the car you've chosen It is essential to ensure that they are sturdy and simple to operate.
Many brands include infant car seat adaptors in their travel systems packages which allow you to easily clip your baby's car seat onto the pushchair frame to allow them to be easily moved from stroller to car. This makes a stroller ride with a baby much easier. It also ensures that once your baby is no longer in their car seat and carrycot, they can utilize the stroller. This is a great choice for families that have busy lives and a lot to do daily.
How easy is it to fold?
Some pushchairs fold by a single button press. Others need two hands or a few steps, yet they can be very compact travel stroller when folded. Some models even stay standing when folded which makes it simple to grab and go. This model is ideal if you commute or live in a city, and need to make the transition from car and pushchair smooth. Or if you only have a tiny boot.
Some travel system prams pushchairs prams pushchairs, depending on the model can be used from birth by adding a car seat or carrycot. These are typically approved to be taken in the cabin on flights and are ideal for parents that like to travel a lot as a family.
The most affordable option is to buy a car seat and the pushchair. The bundle is developed by the manufacturer that includes a car seat and pushchair designed to work together. Additionally, some pushchairs indicate which car seats they are compatible with and you can then purchase a seat separately (though it may require adaptors for your car seat). The Babyzen YOYO is Gemma's top pick for the top lightweight travel systems, due to its clever features and quick folding.
What is it like?
A travel system bundle is a fantastic option to purchase a stroller and car seat together and also enjoy the benefits of comfort, security and, in most cases, cost savings. These bundles are put together by retailers or brands, with all the parts hand-picked to be compatible. This means you don't have to spend time researching which car seat will work with your dream pushchair, or searching online for a footmuff or changing bag that fits the design.
They are typically comprised of a frame that fits into the car seat group 0+ and includes the carrycot, or seat unit, that can be used forward-facing or facing the parent depending on your preference or regulations (rear-facing is recommended for cars up to 15 months). Some are even able to be transformed into a tandem or twin if you're expecting more than one child.
If you intend to spend a lot of time driving and walking, a travel system is a great option. It is easy to move your child from the car to the pushchair, and vice versa without having to disrupt them or locate a safe parking place. They can also save you space in the boot of your car, making it easier to go shopping or take your child to school.