Choosing a Pushchair Travel System

The choice of buying the best pushchair for your family is one of the most important decisions you make as a parent. Whether you choose a travel system bundle for its convenience and initial cost savings or a separate frame for the pram sets and a car seat for maximum adaptability There are plenty of options to think about.

This handy guide will help make the right decision to meet your needs and lifestyle.

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. It's a great choice for new parents since it lets you easily transfer your baby from the car to the pushchair without disturbing them. It's perfect for those quick trips out to nip to the shops or go on an early morning run.

A good 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 a great choice because you'll need only one large purchase for the baby's arrival. It also helps you save money.

There are lots of different types of travel system available ranging from budget options to top-of-the-line brands like JANE or TYPO. There are a variety of travel systems that include matching car seat accessories including changing bags, changing bags and changing mats. If you want to make your life easier you can purchase an entire travel system that include everything you require. This is the best 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 need adapters too!

What are the various options for reclined seats?

If you opt for a travel system that includes a carrycot, ensure that the seat in the pushchair is fully reclined to allow your baby to rest comfortably in the ideal position for spinal and breathing development. Consider whether the handlebar can be adjusted to ensure it is comfortable for you, your spouse or anyone else who uses it frequently.

The majority of pushchairs that are 'from birth' have a reversible seat unit so that you can decide whether your child sits parent-facing (to increase their communication skills) or in a world-facing position to stimulate their curiosity and allow them to see where they are going. Some travel systems also have an reversible car seat that clips directly onto the pushchair frame without removing it, so you can easily transfer your child from the car to the folding stroller and back.

Not all infant car seats are compatible with all pushchairs. Some travel systems come with all the adaptors you need included in the box, while others may require them to be bought separately. You can find out whether this is the case by checking the product details or contacting the local retailer.

How easy is it to move around?

If you're looking for a travel system to take your newborn from car to pushchair, then back again ensure that the pushchair chassis is light enough and you have enough space in your boot to fit a carrycot. Carrycots are easily attached and are light. They're ideal for infants under 6 months and should be used in conjunction with an upright pushchair. This allows the baby to sit in a fully reclining position which is good for their spinal development and lung development.

If you choose to purchase a travel system bundle or pick and mix the components yourself it's important to keep in mind that they're all designed to work as a single unit by the brands. This means that you can be sure that they will all function well and fit together. Buying all your products together can be convenient and almost always cheaper than buying the items separately. Being capable of moving your sleepy newborn from their car seat to stroller for the nursery or to go to shops without disturbing them is a big benefit. That's why we think it's worth the money.

How do I attach a carrycot or car seat?

Most of the 'from birth pushchairs can be plugged on to a compatible car seat or carrycot to facilitate the transition from your vehicle to the street simple. This is ideal for newborns and allows them to sleep in the preferred position of lying flat.

Most travel systems are sold with a separate stroller. However, a few, like the Doona and Evenflo Shyft DualRide have an all-in-one design, which means that the car seat can fold into a pushchair. A lot of travel systems come with a separate stroller, but some, like the Doona and the Evenflo Shyft DualRide, have one piece design, which means that the car seat folds up into the pushchair and then folds back to be inserted into the base of your vehicle.

Whether you choose to use the car seat or carrycot on your pushchair, be sure to read the instructions provided by the manufacturer and be sure to adhere to their age, weight and size limitations. Check if the car seat and pushchair are being recalled due to safety reasons.

A lot of pushchairs come with accessories to make your experience more enjoyable. For example the use of a footmuff is a way to protect your child from the elements, while a parasol made of SPF/UPF50+ fabric keeps them shaded from the sun. Some pushchairs also have an inflatable ride-on board, which is perfect for toddlers who are ready to take on the world by themselves, but need some help.

What is the weight limit?

A pushchair travel system is usually designed to accommodate babies up to a maximum age and weight. This can vary based on the combination of car seat and pushchair you choose and your personal requirements for your lifestyle, so it's important to check these specifications attentively. It's also important that you check the brakes of your chosen model. They should be strong and easy to operate.

Many brands include infant car seat adaptors in their travel system bundles enabling you to easily attach your baby's car seat onto the pushchair frame so that they can be easily moved from car to stroller. This allows you to get out with your baby much easier. It also ensures that once your baby grows out of their car seat and carrycot they can utilize the stroller. This is an excellent option for families who are busy and have lots of things to do every day.

How do you make it easy for you to fold?

Some pushchairs can be folded with a single press. Some folds require two hands or a couple of steps, but they are still extremely compact. Some models are even able to stand upright when folded, making them easy to grab. This model is ideal for those who commute or live in a city and wish to make the transition between your car and pushchair smooth. If you have a small boot.

Some travel system pushchairs, depending on the model, can be used as early as the birth of a child by adding a car seat or carrycot. Those that can are often allowed to be used in the cabin of flights and are perfect for parents that like to travel a lot as a family.

The most cost-effective option is to purchase a car seat and the pushchair. The bundle is designed by the brand that includes two car seats and a pushchair that are designed to work in tandem. Some pushchairs list the car seats that they are compatible with and you can also purchase an additional seat. (This could require car seat converters.) MFM Editor Gemma's pick for the best lightweight travel system is the Babyzen YOYO because of its innovative features and a stunning one-second fold.

What does it look like?

A travel system bundle offers convenience, assurance and cost savings. These bundles are designed by retailers or brands, with all the parts hand-picked to work perfectly together. This means you don't have to research which car seat is compatible with your dream pushchair, or searching online for a footmuff or changing bag that fits the design.

They typically consist of a pushchair frame that fits a group 0+ car seat, and typically include a carrycot, or seat unit that can be used facing forward or towards the parent depending on your preference (or regulations, as rear-facing in the car is recommended up to 15 months). Some are even able to be transformed into a tandem or twin if you are expecting more than one child.

If you plan to do a lot driving and walking, a transport system is a good choice. It is easy to transfer your child from the car to the pushchair and back without having to disrupt them or find a safe parking spot. They can also help you save space in the trunk of your car making it easier to get to shops or go on a school run.