See What Pushchair Travel System Tricks The Celebs Are Using

Choosing a Pushchair Travel System

The choice of the ideal pushchair for your family is one of the most important decisions you'll have to make as a parent. There are a lot of aspects to be aware of, whether you opt for an all-in-one travel package for its convenience and initial cost savings or a separate frame and compatible car seats for maximum adaptability.

This handy guide will help to make the best choice 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 the option of a carrycot too. New parents will love this option because they can easily transfer their baby in a sleep position from the car into the pushchair.

A good travel system will click onto the frame of your pushchair and fit snugly into your car. This ensures a smooth journey for your child. It's also a practical option since it means that you only need to purchase one item to get ready for your new baby and will typically cost less too.

There are lots of different types of travel systems available ranging from budget options to high-end brands such as JANE or TYPO. A lot of them come with a matching coordinating changing bag and car seat accessories and If you're looking to simplify things there are travel system bundles that include everything you need in just one purchase. This is the best way to be sure that all the components work - no searching online for Triple Pram a compatible car seat and finding out you need additional adaptors too!

What are the different options for reclined seating?

If you opt for a travel system with a carrycot then ensure that the seat in the pushchair is fully reclined, allowing your baby to rest comfortably in the position recommended for breathing and spinal development. Also, think about whether the handlebar is height-adjustable so that it's comfortable for both you and your companion, or anyone else who might utilize it frequently.

The majority of pushchairs that are 'from-birth' come with a reversible seating option so you can choose if your child should face the parent (to help develop communication skills) or to the world, to encourage curiosity and inform them of where they're going. Some travel systems come with an reversible seat unit that attaches 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.

Check that the car seat you choose is compatible with your pushchair, since not all infant car seats can be used with all pushchairs without additional adaptors. Some travel systems come with all the adaptors needed included in the box. Others may require that you purchase adaptors on your own. You can find out if this is the case by examining the product's specifications or contacting your local retailer.

How easy is it to manoeuvre?

If you're looking for a transport system that can transport your baby from the car to the pushchair, and back Make sure that the pushchair's chassis isn't too heavy, and that you have room in your car to fit a carrycot. Carrycots are lightweight and simple to attach, but they're best used for newborns up to 6 months old and must always be used with a lie-flat pushchair to allow the baby to be in a fully reclined position, which is ideal for their lung and spinal development.

It's important to remember that the majority of brands have designed them to function as a unit. You can be sure that everything will function well. Buying everything in one place is convenient and usually is less expensive than buying items separately. It's an enormous benefit that you can transfer your sleeping baby from the car seat to the stroller in order to go to the nursery or to shop without causing disturbance to them. Travel systems are worth the expense.

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

Most 'from-birth pushchairs can be clicked on to a car seat that is compatible or a carrycot to allow you to transition from your car to the street a breeze. This is ideal for infants since it lets them sleep flat.

When the baby is outgrowing their car seat (usually until the age of 18 months) most travel systems can be used with a stroller, meaning that they will last longer as your child grows. The majority of travel systems include a separate stroller, however certain models, like 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 refolded back into the base of the vehicle.

If you choose to use a car seat or carrycot on your pushchair, make sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer carefully and always adhere to their weight, age and size limits. Check if the car seat and pushchair have been recalled due to safety reasons.

Many pushchairs have additional accessories that can help enhance your experience, such as the footmuff can protect your baby from the elements, and an umbrella made of SPF/UPF 50+ fabric, can keep them cool when it's hot. Some pushchairs include a ride-on board designed for toddlers who want to explore the world, but need a little help.

What is the weight limit?

A pushchair travel system can usually accommodate babies until the maximum weight and age. This can vary based on the car seat and pushchair combo you select, and also your personal lifestyle needs 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 carseats in their travel system packages that allow you to clip your baby's car seat onto the pushchair frame to allow them to be moved seamlessly from stroller to car. This makes the entire process of going out and about with a newborn much easier and less complicated. This means that your baby will be able to utilize their stroller even after they grow out of the car seat and carrycot. This is an excellent option for families that have hectic lives and plenty to do every day.

How easy is it to fold?

There are a range of fold styles that are available on pushchairs. Some are actually one-handed with a simple press of the button. Others need two hands or a couple of steps, yet they can fold very compactly. Some models even stand when folded which makes it simple to grab and go. This sort of design is ideal if you live in the city or commute regularly and want to make the transition from a car to a pushchair an effortless process or when you have a small space in your boot and require a product that folds down to fit inside it.

Depending on the model, some travel system pushchairs may be used from birth by adding a carrycot or infant car seat. These are typically approved to be taken in the cabin on flights and are perfect for parents who do lots of travelling as a family.

If you decide to purchase a pushchair and car seat bundle, this is the most cost-effective option to purchase. The bundle is usually created by the manufacturer and consists of a car seat that are designed to work together. Some pushchairs specify the car seats they are compatible with and you could then purchase a seat separately (though it may require adaptors for your car seat). The Babyzen YOYO is Gemma's top pick for the best lightweight travel systems, due to its unique features and quick folding.

What is it like?

A travel system bundle is a great way to buy a pushchair and car seat together and also enjoy the benefits of ease of use, security and, in most cases, cost savings. These bundles are designed by brands or retailers, with all the parts hand-picked to work perfectly together. This means that you don't need to do a lot of research on the best car seat with your dream pushchair, or trawling on the internet for a footmuff or a changing bag that matches the design.

They normally comprise a frame for a pushchair that fits a group 0+ car seat. They usually include a carrycot or seat unit which can be used facing forward or towards the parent according to your preference (or the rules, as rear-facing in the car is recommended up to 15 months). Some of them can be converted into a tandem or twin if you're expecting more than one child.

A travel system can be extremely useful if you're planning to be walking and driving with your child, because it allows you to transfer them from the car to pushchair and back again without disturbing them or having to find a safe place to park. They can also help you save space in the trunk of your car and make it easier to nip into shops or do the school run.