Car Seat and Stroller Combos

The best car seat and stroller combos almost feel like they attach themselves. "Look for the base and the carrier that can be easily clicked together," advises Stanton. This will reduce the risk of errors that can happen during the installation process and detachment.

One option that can do this is the Doona, which seamlessly transforms from car seat to stroller, and also helps to free up space in the trunk. Online reviews praise the Doona's versatility and ease of use, but also note its substantial feel.

Easy to Assemble

A car seat and stroller combination is a good option for parents who want to avoid the hassle of switching between the two. It's also a great alternative for parents who utilize public transportation or rideshares often, as well as those who change caregivers. "These are a single product and the wheels are connected to the car seat, so they're more portable," says Stanton. Stanton stresses the need to secure the car seat properly when using a travel system. She says to always follow the manufacturer's instructions and the owner's manual for your vehicle for an ideal fit.

In our tests, we found that the best stroller-car seat combinations have a simple click-in connection, that requires no effort other than moving the carrier from one place to another. These models scored higher than those with more complex connections, since they require less pressure and have fewer opportunities for mistakes (intentional or accidental). For example, we like that the UPPAbaby Vista Combo has a simple, drop-in attachment that requires no straps--and that there's an indicator on the car seat base that indicates when it's properly leveled.

The Doona All-in-One Infant Car Seat Stroller, it's also simple to set up and move from the car to the stroller. It's an easy conversion that allows you to use the extra space in your trunk to go for shopping or for errands. It also features an swivel front wheel that provides excellent maneuverability, even when the seat is mounted.

Another option is the Britax B-Lively and B-Safe Gen2 Travel Systems with springy suspension as well as a large, one-hand fold chassis that can be easily stored. It comes with a large storage basket and plenty of cup holders to store drinks, snacks, and baby gear. Its padded seat is comfortable for long journeys and the tagless smooth-touch fabric is machine washable. It is FAA-approved and comes with an safety strap that is secured either below or on your baby's shoulders. It also has a SafeCell Crumple Zone to safeguard the child in case of a crash.

A good travel system will also be easy to push and use, and our top picks all have rubber tires with only a single, swivel rear wheel for navigating busy streets and sidewalks. The Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo and the BOB Alterrain Pro are all easy-gliding and come with useful features such as one-hand brake and a large storage basket.

Easy to store

Parents who want their baby to be as comfortable as possible are better off choosing a stroller and car seat combination, regardless of whether they are running errands for the day or taking a family trip. Combinations of car seats and strollers are often easier to maneuver than separate pieces, and most models have convenient features that help them stand out from the competition. However, it's important to remember that the car seat and stroller must be compatible for use together. The manufacturer of the car seat must provide guidelines for what types of strollers work with their product and a quick internet search will help to narrow your choices.

Certain strollers and car seats come with an immediate connection that snaps in place without any straps or a complex installation process. This kind of simple attachment is a major selling point for families who regularly utilize public transportation or ride-share vehicles. The Doona is an FAA approved infant car seat that can be converted into stroller with the click of a single button. This is a time-saving feature and helps you avoid having to check your stroller's gate on planes (assuming you've purchased an airline chair for your child) or to get into and out of taxis.

Other stroller-car seat combos like the Nuna TrVL let parents remove the infant car seat from the base of the stroller, and fold it easily into a compact package which can be tucked away inside the trunk. This is an excellent feature for parents with a busy schedule. The stroller itself features a sleek design and premium fabrics, and smart features such as a built-in canopy that drapes over a baby who's snoozing.

In the end, the ideal 2 in 1 stroller car seat for your family will be contingent on your preferences, lifestyle and plans for growth and budget. The most affordable models will likely be frame strollers that accommodate a car seat for a child with little space. The more expensive models will have a toddler seat, twin stroller, or more advanced features. You can be assured that the stroller meets all safety standards.

Easy to carry

Car seat/stroller combos are a excellent option for families that wish to avoid having to check gate-check the infant car seat when flying, and they're also perfect for those who utilize ride-shares and public transportation frequently. These strollers and car seats are easy to transport and maneuver around on the go and are ideal for parents who require their hands free when traveling with their little ones.

When you're deciding on the best 2 in 1 stroller car seat, look for one that is lightweight and compact. These types of strollers tend to roll more smoothly, which could make them easier to push through various terrains. In addition, the smaller frame can make it easier to get the car seat in and out of a trunk, or the rear of a vehicle.

Some of the most popular and highly rated car seat/stroller combos are compact, lightweight and come with wheels that fold for easy storage. For example, the Cosco Finale pushchair pram 2 in 1-in-1 is a no-frills seat that converts from a five-point harness that is rear-facing to a booster for kids who are no longer in an infant carrier. It's affordable, lightweight (12 pounds) and has LATCH straps that are simple to use (we did not rate it as the best 2 in 1 car seat stroller option for its ease of installation).

Other 2 in 1 pram and pushchair in 1 stroller car seats include the Doona, which is an exceptional model because it's a single piece equipment that converts from an infant car seat that faces rearwards to a stroller in just a few clicks. This means you can skip the hassle of removing your car seat from its base. It also helps you to navigate the stairs or get into taxis without having your car seat stored.

Doonas are a fantastic affordable option, especially for new parents. It's less than the cost of one year's gym membership and it provides new parents with peace of mind that they have safe travel gear for their child.

Many families opt for a two-piece car seat/stroller system If they're looking for an infant carrier of a specific brand or are planning to have several children. If that's your case, be sure to read the product specs to ensure your chosen stroller and car seat work in tandem. You may want to consider purchasing an adapter that will fit your desired combination.

Easy to Fold

Car seat and stroller combos are a great option for parents who need one piece of baby gear that can handle multiple functions. They are able to easily convert from a car seat to a stroller, and reverse. They are also simpler to maneuver than two piece travel systems. "They're designed to be more naturally portable," says Stanton. "They have a lot fewer moving components, which makes them more compact to fold, carry and use."

Additionally, these kinds of strollers and infant car seats are typically lighter than two-piece models and fit in smaller trunks, making them simple to transport. They also have more space for cargo and more useful features such as sun shades and cup holders. Some have a swivel front wheel which is great for navigating busy sidewalks and stores.

Some brands, such as Doona offer a stroller and baby car seat that can be used together. These are especially beneficial for parents who use public transportation or rideshares or change caregivers often. This model is a rear-facing car seat that has wheels that can be transformed into stroller.

Some brands, like the Evenflo Shyft DualRide allow you to slide the car seat into the frame and then unfold it as a stroller. The model isn't as sleek as Doona however you can take out the car seat without having to click into the base.

You should also think about whether a specific stroller and infant car seat combo can be used with the car seat you prefer. If the stroller and infant car seat are compatible, then you can expect a longer-lasting product that will work with your child even after they have outgrown the infant car seats.

It's also important to note that some stroller and car seat combos do not perform well in our ease-of-use tests. This could be due to an design that makes it difficult or uncomfortable to navigate stairs, or due to the weight of the car seat and stroller could make it difficult to push on different terrains. It's worth reading our reviews to determine which one is the best for you.