Choosing a Pushchair Travel System

Choosing the perfect pushchair for your family is one of the most important decisions you'll have to make as a parent. If you decide to go with a travel system bundle for its initial convenience and cost savings or a separate frame for the pram and a car seat to allow for maximum flexibility, there's plenty to consider.

This helpful guide will help to make the best decision for your lifestyle and needs.

What is a travel systems?

A travel system is a foldable stroller that can accommodate a car seat for your baby, and some even include a carrycot. Parents with newborns will appreciate this option as they can easily move their baby in a sleep position from the car into the pushchair.

A great travel system will fit comfortably into your car, and then attach to the frame of the pushchair to ensure a smooth journey for your child. It's a great option because you only have to make one large purchase for the baby's arrival. You'll also save money.

There are many kinds of travel systems that are available, ranging from budget-friendly options to top-of-the-line brands like TYPO or JANE. A majority of them come with matching changing bag with a matching color and car seat accessories, and should you want to simplify things there are travel system bundles that come with everything you need in just one purchase. This is an excellent way to make sure all of the components work without having to look for a compatible car seat and then finding out that you require additional adaptors!

What are the different options for reclined seats?

If you choose to purchase a travel system that includes a carrycot, then ensure that the seat of the pushchair can fully recline so that your baby is comfortable to sleep and is in the recommended lying flat position for spinal and respiratory development. Think about whether the handlebar can be adjusted in height to make it comfortable for you, your partner or anyone who may use it often.

The majority of pushchairs that are 'from-birth' come with a reversible seat so you can choose which direction your child will face, the parent (to increase communication skills) or face the world to encourage curiosity and inform them of where they are going. Some travel systems also have the option of a reversible car seats that attaches directly to the frame of the pushchair without having to remove it, so you can easily move your child from the car to the stroller and back again.

Check that the car seat you select is compatible with your pushchair, since not all infant car seats are able to be attached to all pushchairs without additional adaptors. Certain travel systems come with all the adaptors you require included in the box, while others might require them to be bought separately. You can find out if this is the case by examining the product details or asking at your local retailer.

How easy is it to manoeuvre?

Carrycots are lightweight and simple to attach, but they're best used with babies up to 6 months old. They should be used with a lie-flat pushchair cheap to allow the baby be in a fully reclined posture which is ideal for their lung and spinal development. Carrycots are light and easy to attach but they're best used for newborns up to 6 months old. They must always be used with a pushchair that is lying flat to allow the baby to fully reclined position, which is great for their lung and spine development.

It's important to remember that the majority of the brands have designed them to work as a unit. You can be sure that everything will perform as intended. Buying everything together is convenient and almost always works out cheaper than purchasing items separately. Also, being in a position to move your sleepy newborn from car seat to a stroller for a nursery run or nipping into shops without disrupting them is a major benefit. Travel systems are worth the investment.

How easy is it to attach a car seat or carrycot?

Most 'from birth' pushchairs can click on to an appropriate baby car seat or carrycot to allow simple transitions from your car to the street. This is great for babies as it allows them to sleep in a flat position.

When the baby is outgrowing their car seat (usually up to the age of 18 months) most travel systems can be used with a stroller seat which means that they'll last longer as your child develops. Most travel systems include a separate stroller, but some, such as the Doona or the Evenflo Shyft DualRide have a one piece design that allows the car seat to be folded into the pushchair and then folded back into the base of the vehicle.

Whether you choose to use a car seat or a carrycot on your pushchair, make certain to read the instructions provided by the manufacturer and always be sure to adhere to their weight, age and size restrictions. Also, check if your double pushchair and car seat has been recalled as part of a safety recall.

Many pushchairs have additional accessories that can enhance your experience, for example the footmuff can protect your child from the elements, whereas a parasol, made from SPF/UPF 50+ fabric can keep them shaded when it's sunny. Some pushchairs come with a ride-on board designed for toddlers who are eager to explore the world but require a little help.

What is the weight limit?

A pushchair travel system can usually accommodate babies as long as they are of the appropriate weight and age. This will vary depending on the car seat and lightweight stroller the pushchair combination you select and your personal requirements for your lifestyle, so it's important to review these specifications attentively. It's also important to check the brakes of your chosen model. They should be sturdy and easy-to-operate.

Many brands include adaptors for Infant carriages carseats in their travel systems packages which allow you to easily clip your baby's car seat onto the frame of the pushchair to allow them to be easily moved from car to stroller. This makes getting out with a baby much easier. This ensures that your baby can still use their stroller after they have outgrown the car seat and carrycot. This is an excellent option for families who are busy and have a lot of things to do each day.

How do you make it easy for you to fold?

Some pushchairs can fold by a single button press. Others need two hands or just a couple of steps but still manage to fold very compactly. Some models even stay standing when folded, which makes it easy to grab and go. This is a great option if you commute or reside in a city and wish to make the transition from car and pushchair smooth. Also, if you have a tiny boot.

Some travel system pushchairs, dependent on the model, can be used from birth by adding a car seat or carrycot. Certain models are certified to be used in the cabin of flights, which makes them perfect for parents who like to travel with their family.

The most affordable option is to buy a car seat with an pushchair. The bundle is typically designed by the brand and comprises of a pushchair and car seat that are specifically designed to work together. Some pushchairs say the car seats they are compatible with and you can buy a seat separately (though it may require car seat adaptors). MFM Editor Gemma's choice for the best travel system that is lightweight is the Babyzen YOYO due to its innovative features and amazing one-second fold.

What do you think it looks like?

A travel system bundle is a fantastic option to purchase a pushchair and car seat together with the added benefit of ease of use, security and, in most cases, cost savings. These bundles are designed by retailers or brands with each component carefully selected to work perfectly together. This means you don't have to do a lot of research on which car seat will work with your ideal pushchair, or search online for a matching footmuff or changing bags.

They are typically comprised of a frame that fits into the car seat group 0+, and also includes the carrycot, or seat unit, that can be used either forward-facing or facing the parent based on your preference or regulations (rear-facing is recommended in cars up to 15 months). Some are even able to be converted into a tandem twin if you're expecting more than one child.

If you are planning to spend a lot of time driving and walking, a travel system is a great choice. It is easy to move your child from the car to the pushchair and vice versa without having to disturb them or find a secure parking space. They can also help you save space in the car's boot, making it easier to get to shops or run the school run.