Choosing a Pushchair Travel System

The choice of the ideal pushchair for your family is among the biggest decisions you'll make as a parent. There are a variety of factors to consider, whether you choose a travel bundle due to its convenience and cost savings, or a separate frame and compatible car seats for maximum adaptability.

Fortunately, this guide will help you make the best decision to meet your lifestyle and needs.

What is a travel system?

A travel system is a pushchair that can take the baby car seat and some carry a carrycot as well. New parents will love this option since they can easily move their sleeping baby from the car to the pushchair.

A quality travel system will attach to the frame of your pushchair and fit snugly into your car. This ensures a comfortable journey for your child. It's a good choice since you'll need only one large purchase for your baby's arrival. You'll also save money.

There are many types of travel systems available, from budget-friendly options to top-of-the-line brands like JANE or TYPO. There are many travel systems that include matching car seat accessories including changing bags, changing bags and changing mats. If you want to simplify your life by purchasing a bundle of travel systems that includes everything you need. This is the most efficient way to make sure all components work. No more searching for a car seat that functions and then finding out you also need adaptors!

What are the various options for reclined seating?

If you decide to go with a travel system that comes with a carrycot, make sure the pushchair seat also fully reclines to ensure your baby is able to sleep comfortably and is in the recommended lie-flat position for respiratory and spinal development. Also, consider whether the handlebar can be adjusted in height so that it can be comfortable for you and your companion or anyone else who might use it regularly.

The majority of pushchairs that are 'from-birth' have a reversible seat which allows you to choose which direction your child will face, the parent (to increase communication skills) or face the world, to stimulate curiosity and let them know where they're going. Some travel systems also have a reversible car seat that can be attached directly to the frame of the pushchair, without taking it off it, so that you can easily move your baby from the car to the stroller and back.

Make sure the car seat you choose is compatible with your pushchair as not all infant car seats are able to be used with all pushchairs without additional adaptors. Some travel systems include all the adaptors you need included in the box. Others may require you purchase them separately. You can determine whether this is the case by looking up the product details or contacting the local retailer.

How easy is it to manoeuvre?

If you're in search of a travel system to transport your baby from car to pushchair and back again, make sure the chassis of your pushchair is light enough and that you have enough room in your trunk to fit the carrycot. Carrycots are lightweight and simple to attach, but they're best used for newborns up to 6 months old and should always be used in conjunction with a lying pushchair to allow the baby to fully reclined position. This is great for their lung and spinal development.

If you opt for a travel system bundle, or opt to pick and mix the components on your own it's important to keep in mind that most of them are designed to work as a single unit by the brands. You can be assured that everything will fit and perform as intended. Buying all your items in one location can be convenient and is almost always cheaper than buying the items separately. It's a major benefit to be able to move your baby's sleepy body from the car seat to the stroller to go to the nursery or shop without causing disturbance to them. Travel systems are worth the cost.

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

The majority of 'from-birth pushchairs can be clicked onto a compatible car seat or carrycot to allow you to transition from your vehicle to the street a breeze. This is ideal for newborns as it allows them to rest in the recommended lie-flat position.

The majority of travel systems come with a separate stroller. However, a few, like the Doona or the Evenflo Shyft DualRide have a one-piece design so that the car seat folds into the pushchair. Most travel systems come with a separate stroller, but some, like the Doona or the Evenflo Shyft DualRide have a single-piece design that permits the car seat to fold into the pushchair and then folded back into the base of the vehicle.

Whether you choose to use the car seat or carrycot on your pushchair, be sure to read the instructions of the manufacturer carefully and always adhere to their weight, age and size limits. Check whether the car seat or pushchair have been recalled for safety reasons.

Many pushchairs come with additional accessories to make your experience more enjoyable. For instance the use of a footmuff is a way to shield your child from the elements while a parasol made of SPF/UPF50+ fabric will keep them shaded in the sun. Some pushchairs also have a ride-on board that is ideal for toddlers who are ready to take on the world themselves but need assistance.

What is the weight limit?

A pushchair is generally designed to be able to accommodate infants until a certain age and weight. It will depend on the car seat/pushchair combination that you choose and also on the kind of lifestyle you have. So it's crucial to examine these specifications thoroughly. It's also important to test the brakes of your chosen model. They should be strong and easy to operate.

Many brands include adaptors for infant car seats in their travel system packages enabling you to easily attach your baby's car seat onto the pushchair frame so that they can be moved seamlessly from stroller to car. This makes the whole process of getting out and travel System prams about with a newborn much quicker and simpler. This ensures that your baby can still use their stroller after they have outgrown the car seat and carrycot. This is an excellent option for families who are busy and have plenty of things to do each day.

How do you fold?

There are a range of fold styles available on pushchairs - some are truly one-handed with just a click of a button. Some folds require two hands or a few steps, baby transport but they are still extremely compact. Some models are able to stand upright when folded, making it easy to carry. This design is perfect for those who commute or live in a city and wish to make the transition from car and pushchair seamless. Also, if you have a tiny boot.

Some travel system pushchairs, depending on the model, can be used as early as birth by adding an infant car seat or carrycot. Certain models are certified for use in the cabin of planes, making them suitable for parents who like to travel with their families.

If you opt for a pushchair and car seat bundle, it's the most cost-effective way to buy. The bundle is developed by the brand and consists of two car seats and a pushchair designed to work together. Some pushchairs say which car seats they are compatible with, and you can then purchase a seat separately (though it may require adaptors for your car seat). MFM Editor Gemma's choice for the best lightweight travel system is the Babyzen YOYO because of its clever features and incredible one-second fold.

What does it look like?

A travel system bundle is an excellent way to buy a pushchair and car seat in one go with the added benefit of comfort, security and, in most cases, cost savings. These bundles are put together by brands or retailers, with each piece carefully selected to work seamlessly. This means that you don't have to spend time researching what car seat is compatible for your ideal pushchair, or search for a footmuff that matches or changing bags.

They usually consist of a pushchair frame that fits the group 0+ car seat, and typically include a carrycot or a seat unit which 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 converted into a tandem or twin if you're expecting more than one child.

A travel system can be really practical if you're likely to be doing a lot of walking and driving with your little one since it lets you transfer them from car to pushchair and back without causing any disturbance or having to find a secure place to park. They can also help you save space in the boot of your car making it easier to go to shops or go on a school run.