Car Seat and Stroller Combos

The most reliable car seat stroller combos are so simple to attach that it's almost like they're doing it all by themselves. "Look for an appropriate base and a carrier that click together easily," advises Stanton. This minimizes the potential for errors that could occur during the installation process and detachment.

Doona is one of the options that allows you to do this. It effortlessly converts from a car seat into stroller, and frees up space in your trunk. Online reviewers love the Doona's versatility and ease of use, but also note its substantial feel.

Easy to Assemble

A stroller and car seat combo is an attractive choice for parents who wish to avoid the hassle of switching between the two. It's also a good option for parents who use rides or public transportation frequently, as well as those who change caregivers. "These are a single piece of equipment and the wheels are connected to the car seat, meaning they're more naturally mobile," says Stanton. However, she adds, it's important to ensure that your car seat is secured properly when using it with a travel system. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and the owner's manual for your vehicle to ensure an appropriate fit she adds.

In our tests, the top stroller-car seat combos have simple click-in connections, which requires little effort beyond moving the car seat from one place to another. They scored higher in comparison to models with more complicated connections due to the fact that they require less pressure and offer fewer chances for errors, whether deliberate or accidental. We like, for example, that the UPPAbaby Vista Combo is a simple drop-in attachment that requires no straps, and that it has an indicator on the base of the car seat that indicates that the seat is level correctly.

The Doona All in-One Stroller for Infants is easy to set up and then transfer from vehicle to stroller. It's a seamless transition that allows extra trunk space for shopping and errands. It also features a swivel front wheel that provides great maneuverability, even when the seat is in place.

Another alternative is the Britax and B-Safe Gen2 Travel System that has a springy suspension and a large, one-hand-fold chassis that can be easily stored. It comes with a large basket, as well as plenty of cups for snacks, drinks and baby equipment. Its padded seat is comfortable for long journeys and the tagless smooth-touch fabric is machine washable. It's FAA-approved and includes a safety harness that locks at or below your baby's shoulders and includes a SafeCell crumple zone to safeguard them in the event of a crash.

A reliable travel system should also be easy to push and, in our top picks, all have rubber tires with one, swivel front wheel for navigating busy streets and sidewalks. The Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo and the BOB Alterrain Pro are all smooth-gliding and have useful features like one-hand brake and a large storage basket.

Easy to store

Parents who want their baby to be as comfortable as possible should consider a car seat and stroller combination, regardless of whether they are doing errands during the day or going on an excursion with the family. Stroller-car seat combos are simpler to move around than separate items, and a number of models are equipped with features that set them apart from the rest. It is important to keep in mind that the car seat must be compatible with the stroller for them to work together. The car seat manufacturer must provide guidelines on what strollers are compatible with their products. A quick search on the internet can help you narrow your options.

Some strollers and car seats feature a direct connection that snaps into place without any straps or an intricate installation process. This kind of effortless attachment is a major selling point, and is particularly helpful for families who frequently utilize ride-share vehicles or public transportation. The Doona is an FAA approved infant car seat that can be converted to stroller with the click of a single button. This is a fantastic time-saver and helps you avoid having to check your stroller's gate on planes (assuming you've purchased an airline chair for your infant) or to hop into and out of a taxi.

Other stroller and car seat combinations, like the Nuna TRVL, permit parents to take the infant carrier from the stroller base and fold it into a compact package that fits inside the trunk of a vehicle. This is another great feature for busy families and the stroller is sleek and stylish, with high-end fabrics and clever touches, like a built-in drape canopy to protect a snoozing baby.

Ultimately, the best 2 in 1 stroller car seat for your family will depend on your preferences, lifestyle and growth plans and your budget. The most affordable models are likely to be frame strollers that can fit a car seat with minimal extra space, while higher-end combos may include a toddler seat or twin strollers and have more advanced features. You can be certain that the stroller meets all safety requirements.

Easy to Carry

These combinations are perfect for families who wish to avoid gate checking an infant car seat when flying. They are also ideal for people who frequently use public transportation and ride-sharing services. These strollers and cars seats are easy to carry and are ideal for parents who prefer their hands free when traveling with their children.

Look for a lightweight and compact 2 in 1 stroller/car seat. These models tend to move more smoothly, which can make them easier to push across various environments. The smaller frames make it easier to put the car seat in the trunk or back of a car.

Many of the most sought-after car seat/stroller combinations are lightweight and compact, and come with foldable casters that make it easy to store. The Cosco Finale 2 in 1 buggy-in-1 for example is a standard seat that can convert into a booster when the child no longer requires an infant carrier. It's light (12 pounds) and comes with LATCH straps which are relatively easy to use.

Other 2 in 1 pushchair and car seat in 1 stroller car seats include the Doona, which is a standout because it's a single piece of equipment that converts from a rear-facing infant car seat to a stroller in a few clicks. This lets you skip the hassle of getting your car seat removed from its base, and it helps you to climb the stairs or get into taxis without having the car seat stored.

Doonas are a fantastic affordable option, especially for new parents. It costs less than a year of gym membership, and gives parents peace of mind knowing that their baby is safe when traveling.

Many families opt for a two-piece stroller/car seat system if they are set on a specific model of infant carrier, or have plans to have multiple children. If this is the case, be sure to review the specifications of the product to ensure your chosen stroller and car seat will work in tandem. Consider purchasing an adapter if necessary to make your desired combination.

Easy to Fold

The stroller and car seat combo is a great choice for parents looking for a single piece that can be used for a variety of purposes. They can easily be converted from a car seat to stroller, and reverse. They are also easier to move around than two piece travel systems. "They're designed to be more easily portable," says Stanton. "They have less moving parts which makes them easy to fold, use, and carry."

Additionally, these types of strollers and infant car seats are typically lighter than two-piece options and fit in smaller trunks, making them easy to transport. These strollers and infant car seats tend to be lighter and feature more practical features, such as cup holders and sun shades. Some come with a swivel front wheel that is ideal for navigating sidewalks and stores.

Certain brands, such as Doona offer a stroller and infant car seats that can be used in conjunction. These are especially useful for parents who take public transportation or rideshares, or change caregivers often. This model is basically an automobile seat that is rear-facing on wheels, and the wheels drop down to become a stroller when you want to use it.

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

It is also important to consider whether a particular stroller or infant car seat combo can be used with the car seat you prefer. If the stroller and infant car seat are compatible, you can expect a longer-lasting product that will fit your child after they have outgrown the infant car seats.

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