Choosing a Pushchair Travel System

The decision to purchase the right pushchair for your family will be one of the most important choices you make as a parent. There are many factors to consider, whether you choose a travel bundle due to its convenience and cost savings or a separate frame and car seats that are compatible to ensure maximum flexibility.

This handy guide will help make the right choice for 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 come with a carrycot. New parents will love this option since they can easily move their sleeping baby from their car into the pushchair.

A good travel strollers system can be tucked in your car and connect to the frame of your pushchair to ensure a smooth journey for your baby. It's also a great option as it means you only have to purchase one item to get ready for the arrival of your child - and it'll usually cost less too.

There are a variety of travel systems available, ranging from budget-friendly options to top-of-the-line brands like TYPO or JANE. A majority of them come with matching coordinating changing bag as well as car seat accessories. And should you want to simplify your life, there are travel system bundles that contain everything you need in just one purchase. This is the most efficient method to ensure that all parts work together. Don't waste time searching for an automobile seat that is functional and then discovering that you also need adaptors!

What are the seat recline options?

If you choose to purchase a travel system that comes with a carrycot, ensure that the seat of the pushchair also fully reclines to ensure your baby can nap comfortably and is in the recommended lying flat position for respiratory and spinal development. Take into consideration whether the handlebar could be adjusted in height so that it is comfortable for you, your partner or anyone else who might use it frequently.

The majority of pushchairs that are 'from-birth' have a reversible seat which allows you to choose if your child should face the parent (to increase communication skills) or face the world to encourage curiosity and let them know where they're going. Some travel systems come with a reversible seat unit that clips directly to the frame of the pushchair, without having to remove it. This lets you easily transfer your child from the car into the stroller, and vice versa.

Not all infant car seats are compatible with all pushchairs. Some travel systems come with all the adaptors required in the box. Others might require that you purchase them separately. Be sure to check the specifications of the product or contact your local retailer.

How easy is it to move around?

If you're looking for a travel system to take your newborn from the car to the pushchair, and back, make sure the pushchair's chassis isn't too heavy and you have enough space in your boot to accommodate the carrycot. Carrycots are easily attached and are lightweight. They are ideal for babies under 6 months and should be used in conjunction with a pushchair that is lying flat. This allows the baby to sit in a reclining position, which is beneficial for their spinal development as well as lung development.

It's important to note that the majority of the brands have designed them to work together. This means that you can be sure that they will all fit and work well. Buying everything in one place is convenient and often costs less than buying items separately. And being able to move your sleeping newborn from their car seat to stroller for the nursery run or nipping into shops without disturbing them is a big benefit. That's why we think travel systems are definitely worth the money.

How do I attach a carrycot or car seat?

The majority of pushchairs that are 'from birth' can be linked to a compatible baby car seat or carrycot to allow easy transitions from your vehicle to the street. This is perfect for infants and allows them to sleep in the preferred position of lying flat.

When the baby is outgrowing their infant car seat (usually up to the age of 18 months) most travel systems can be used with a stroller which means that they'll last longer as your child grows. A majority of travel systems come with a separate stroller seat but some, like the Doona and the Evenflo Shyft DualRide, have one piece design, which means that the car seat can be folded into a pushchair, and then folds back to fit into the vehicle's base.

If you choose to use a carrycot or car seat on your pushchair, be sure you read carefully the instructions and follow the weight, age and size restrictions. Also, make sure to verify if your pushchair or car seat has been removed as part of an recall for safety.

Many pushchairs come with accessories that can enhance your experience. For example the use of a footmuff is a way to shield your child from the elements while a sun shade made of SPF/UPF50+ fabric keeps them shaded from the sun. 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 restriction?

A pushchair travel system is typically designed to accommodate babies up to a maximum weight and age. This will vary depending on the combination of car seat and pushchair you choose and also your personal lifestyle needs so it's important to check these specifications carefully. It's also important that you check the brakes of your chosen model. They must be durable and easy-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 frame of the pushchair to allow them to be easily moved from car to stroller. This makes the entire process of getting out and about with a newborn much easier and less complicated. It also ensures that once your baby grows out of their car seat and carrycot they can use the stroller with you. This is a great choice for families that have hectic lives and plenty to do daily.

How easy is it to fold?

There are a variety of fold types available on pushchairs - some are actually one-handed by pressing the button. Others need two hands or a couple of steps, yet they can fold very compactly. 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 want to make the transition from car and pushchair smooth. Or if you only have a tiny boot.

Depending on the model, some travel system pushchairs can also be used from birth by adding an infant car seat. They are usually accepted to be used in the cabin on flights and are ideal for parents that like to travel extensively as a family.

The most affordable option is to buy a car seat with an pushchair. The bundle is developed by the brand and consists of two car seats and a pushchair that are designed to work together. Additionally, some pushchairs say which car seats they're compatible with, and you can then purchase a seat separately (though this may require adaptors for your car seat). The Babyzen YOYO is Gemma's pick for the top lightweight travel systems, due to its clever features and one-second folding.

What does it look like?

A travel system bundle can provide convenience, security and cost savings. These bundles are assembled by brands or retailers. The components are carefully selected for compatibility. That means you don't have to spend time researching which car seat will work with your ideal pushchair or searching on the internet for a footmuff or changing bag that complements the design.

They typically comprise a frame for a pushchair that can be used with a group 0+ car seat. They usually include a carrycot or a seat unit that can be used either forward-facing or parent-facing depending on your preference (or regulations, since rear-facing in the car is recommended until 15 months). Some can even be converted into twins/tandems 3 in 1 pram the event that you're expecting more one baby.

A travel system is practical if you're likely to be walking and driving with your child, as it means you can transfer them from car to pushchair and back again without disturbing them or having to find a secure place to park. They can also help you save space in the boot of your car and make it easier for you to pop into the pram shops near me or take your child to school.