Choosing a Pushchair Travel System

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

Fortunately, this guide will help you make the right choice to suit your needs and lifestyle.

What is a travel system?

A travel system is a type of stroller that can accommodate a car seat for your baby. some even include a carrycot. Parents with newborns will appreciate this option since they can easily transfer their baby in a sleep position from the car into the pushchair.

A good travel system will fit comfortably into your car and then click onto the pushchair frame to make a seamless trip for your child. It's also a convenient option since it means that you only need to purchase one item in the process of getting ready for your new arrival and will typically save you money too.

There are lots of different types of travel systems available, ranging from budget choices to premium brands like JANE or TYPO. There are many travel systems that include matching car seat accessories, changing bags and matching changing mats. If you want to simplify your life, you can buy an entire travel system that includes everything you need. This is a great way to ensure all the components work without having to look online for a car seat that is compatible and then finding out that you require additional adaptors!

What are the seat recline options?

If you decide to purchase a travel system with a carrycot, make sure that the seat in the pushchair is fully reclined, allowing your baby to sleep comfortably in the position recommended for breathing and spinal development. It is also important to consider whether the handlebar is adjustable in height so that it can be comfortable for you as well as your companion or anyone else who might utilize it frequently.

The majority of pushchairs from birth come with a reversible seat so you can decide whether your child will face the parent (to increase communication skills) or face the world, to stimulate curiosity and inform them of where they are going. Some travel systems come with a reversible seat unit that clips directly to the frame of the pushchair, without having to take it off. This lets you easily transfer your child from the car to the stroller, and in reverse.

Make sure the car seat you pick is compatible with your pushchair, as not all infant car seats can be attached to all pushchairs without the need for adaptors. Certain travel systems come with all the adaptors that you require in the box, however others may require them be bought separately. Be sure to check the specifications of the product or contact your local retailer.

How do I get around it?

Carrycots are lightweight and easy to attach, but they should be used for newborns up to 6 months old. They should be used in conjunction with a pushchair that can lie flat so that the baby can be in a fully reclined position which is ideal for their spinal and lung development. Carrycots are easily attached and are lightweight. They are ideal for babies under 6 months and are best used with a lie flat pushchair. This allows the baby to sit in a fully reclined position, which is beneficial for their spinal development as well as lung development.

If you opt for a travel system bundle, or opt to pick and mix your own components, it's worth remembering that the majority of them are designed to work together as a unit by the brands. This means you can be confident that they'll all function well and fit together. Shopping in one place is convenient and almost always costs less than buying items separately. Being capable of moving your sleepy baby from the car seat to a stroller for the nursery or to go to shops without disrupting them is a major plus. Travel systems are worth the expense.

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

The majority of 'from-birth' pushchairs can be clicked on to a compatible car seat or carrycot to allow you to transition from your car to street easy. This is ideal for Folding Stroller infants as it allows them to sleep flat.

Once the baby has outgrown their car seat (usually up to the age of 18 months) the majority of travel systems can also be used with a stroller, meaning that they will last longer as your child develops. Many travel systems are sold with a separate stroller, but some, like the Doona and the Evenflo Shyft DualRide, have one piece design, which means that the car seat unfolds into a pushchair sale, and then back again to go into the base of your vehicle.

Whether you choose to use a car seat or carrycot on your pushchair, be certain to read the manufacturer's instructions carefully and adhere to their weight, age and size limits. Also, determine if the pushchair and car seat has been removed as part of an recall for safety.

Many pushchairs come with accessories that can enhance your experience. For example, a footmuff will protect your child from the elements while a sun shade made of SPF/UPF50+ fabric will keep them shaded in the sun. Some pushchairs come with a ride-on board for toddlers who are eager to explore the world but require a little assistance.

What is the weight limit?

A pushchair travel system is usually designed to accommodate babies up to a maximum age and weight. This will vary depending on the car seat and the pushchair combination you select, and your personal lifestyle needs so it's important to check these specifications carefully. It's also important to test the brakes of your chosen model. They should be strong and easy-to-operate.

Many brands offer infant seat adaptors in their travel system packages. This allows you to simply clip the car seat of your baby onto the frame of the stroller. This makes the entire process of going out and about with a newborn much easier and easier. It also means that when your baby is no longer in their carrycot and car seat they can still use the stroller with you. This is a great choice for families with hectic lives and plenty to do every day.

How do you fold?

Some pushchairs fold with a single press. Others need two hands or a few steps but still manage to be very compact strollers when folded. Some models even stand when folded, making it simple to carry around. This design is perfect if you commute or reside in a city and need to make the transition from car and pushchair smooth. If you have a tiny boot.

Based on the model, some travel system pushchairs can be used from birth when you add a carrycot or infant car seat. Those that can are often accepted to be used in the cabin on flights and are ideal for parents who do lots of travelling with their family.

If you choose to buy a car seat and pushchair bundle, it's the most cost-effective method of purchasing. The bundle is created by the brand, and it consists of two car seats and a pushchair designed to work in tandem. Some pushchairs say which car seats they're compatible with, and you can then purchase a seat separately (though this may require adaptors for car seats). MFM Editor Gemma's pick for the best travel system that is lightweight is the Babyzen YOYO because of its clever features and incredible one-second fold.

What is it like?

A travel system bundle is a great option to purchase a pushchair and car seat in one go, with the added bonus of convenience, reassurance and often a cost saving. These bundles are created by retailers or brands with each component carefully selected to work perfectly together. This means that you don't need to research which car seat is compatible with your dream pushchair, or search on the internet for a footmuff or changing bag that complements the style.

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

A travel system can be extremely convenient if you're going to be doing a lot of driving and walking with your child, because it allows you to move them from car to pushchair and back without causing any disturbance or having to find a safe spot to park. They can also help you save space in the car's boot, making it easier to nip into shops or go on a school run.