Choosing a Pushchair Travel System

The choice of buying the ideal pushchair for your family will be one of the most important decisions you make as a parent. There are a lot of aspects to take into consideration, whether you choose an all-in-one travel package for its convenience and initial cost savings or a separate frame and car seats that are compatible for maximum adaptability.

This handy guide will help make the right choice for your lifestyle and requirements.

What is a travel system?

A travel system is an infant pushchair that is able to take the baby car seat and some carry the option of a carrycot too. Parents with newborns will appreciate this option since they can easily move their baby's sleeping infant from the car to the pushchair.

A great travel system will fit snuggly into your car and then connect to the frame of your pushchair to provide a seamless journey for your baby. It's also a convenient option as it means you only have to buy one thing to get ready for the arrival of your child and will typically cost less too.

There are a variety of travel systems on the market, ranging from budget-friendly options to high-end brand names such as TYPO or JANE. A majority of them come with matching coordinating changing bag and car seat accessories and If you're looking to simplify things there are travel system bundles that contain everything you require in one purchase. This is an excellent way to make sure all of the components work without having to look for a car seat that is compatible and finding out you'll need additional adaptors!

What are the different options for reclined seating?

If you opt for an option that includes a carrycot, then make sure the pushchair seat can fully recline so that your baby is able to sleep comfortably and is at the recommended lie-flat position for spinal and respiratory development. Take into consideration whether the handlebar could be adjusted in height to ensure it is comfortable for you, your partner or anyone else who uses it frequently.

Most 'from-birth' pushchairs have a reversible seat so you can choose if your child should face the parent (to increase communication skills) or to the world to encourage curiosity and let them know where they're going. Some travel systems have a reversible seating unit that attaches directly to the frame of the pushchair without having to take it off. This allows you to easily transfer your baby from the car to the stroller and vice versa.

Not all infant car seats work with all pushchairs. Some travel systems come with all the adaptors required included in the box. Others might require that you purchase adaptors on your own. You can find out whether this is the case by looking up the product's specifications or contacting the local retailer.

How easy is it to manoeuvre?

Carrycots are lightweight and simple to attach, but they're best prams used with babies up to 6 months old. They should always be paired with a lie-flat pushchair to allow the baby to be in a fully reclined posture which is ideal for their spine and lung development. Carrycots are easily attached and are lightweight. They're best for newborns less than 6 months old. They should be used with a lie flat pushchair. This allows the baby to be in a fully reclined position, which is beneficial for their spine development and lung development.

It's important to note that the majority of the brands have designed them to work as a unit. You can be assured that everything will fit and perform as intended. Buying all your products in one location can be convenient and is generally cheaper than purchasing the items separately. And being capable of moving your sleepy newborn from their car seat to a stroller for the nursery or to go to shops without disturbing them is a big benefit. That's why we think travel systems are definitely worth the investment.

How easy is it attaching a car seat or carrycot?

The majority of pushchairs 'from birth' can be linked to a compatible baby car seat or carrycot for simple transitions from your car to the street. This is perfect for infants as it allows them to rest in the recommended lie-flat position.

Most travel systems are sold with a separate stroller. However, a few, like the Doona and the Evenflo Shyft DualRide have a one-piece design so that the car seat can fold into the pushchair. The majority of travel systems include an additional stroller, however some, such as the Doona or the Evenflo Shyft DualRide have a single-piece design that permits the car seat to be folded into the pushchair, and then folded back into base of the vehicle.

If you decide to use a car seat or carrycot on your pushchair, be sure to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer and be sure to adhere to their 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.

A lot of pushchairs car seats come with 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 cool when it's hot. Some pushchairs include a 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 is typically designed to fit babies up to a maximum age and weight. It will depend on the car seat/pushchair combo that you choose and your lifestyle. Therefore, it is important to check the specifications carefully. It's also important to check the brakes on your chosen model. They must be durable and easy to operate.

Many brands include adaptors for infant carseats in their travel systems packages that allow you to attach your baby's car seats onto the frame of the pushchair to be moved seamlessly from stroller to car. This makes getting out with a baby much more convenient. This ensures that your baby can still utilize their stroller even after they grow out of the car seat and carrycot. This is a great choice for families that are busy and have a lot of things to accomplish each day.

How easy is it for you to fold?

There are a range of folds available for pushchairs. Some are truly one-handed with a simple press of a button. Others need two hands or a few steps, but they manage to fold down to a small size. Some models are even able to stand upright when folded, making them easy to carry. This sort of design is perfect if you live in the city or commute, and need to make the transition from car to pushchair a seamless process or in the case that you have a tiny boot and need a model that folds down to fit into it.

Based on the model, travel system pushchairs can also be used from birth, by adding an infant car seat. Some models are approved for use in the cabin of flights, which makes them ideal for parents who prefer to travel with their families.

If you choose to buy the car seat and pushchair bundle, it's the most economical method of purchasing. The bundle is typically created by the brand and consists of a pushchair and car seat that are designed to work together. Some pushchairs include the car seats that they are compatible with and you can also purchase an additional seat. (This could require car seat converters.) MFM Editor Twin Stroller Gemma's pick of the best lightweight travel system is the Babyzen YOYO because of its clever features and incredible one-second fold.

What is it like?

A travel system bundle can provide convenience, assurance and cost savings. These bundles are assembled by retailers or brands. All the parts are carefully selected for compatibility. This means that you don't have to do a lot of research on which car seat is compatible for your dream pushchair or searching on the internet for a compatible footmuff or changing bags.

They usually consist of a frame for a pushchair that can be used with a group 0+ car seat, and typically include a carrycot, or seat unit which can be used either front-facing or rear-facing, according to your preference (or regulations, as rear-facing in the car is recommended until 15 months). Some can even be converted into a tandem or twin if you are expecting more than one child.

A travel system can be extremely practical if you're likely to be doing a lot of walking and driving with your child since it lets you transfer them from car to pushchair and back again without disturbing them or needing to find a safe place to park. They can also help you save space in your car's boot, making it easier for you to pop into the shops or do the school run.