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Choosing a Pushchair Travel System

The choice to purchase the right pushchair for your family will be one of the most important choices you make as a parent. There are a lot of aspects to be aware of, whether you opt for a travel bundle for its convenience and initial cost savings, or a separate frame and car seat that is compatible to ensure maximum flexibility.

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

What is a travel system?

A travel system is a stroller that can accommodate a car seat for your baby. some even come with a carrycot. Parents with newborns will appreciate this option as they can easily transfer their baby's sleeping infant from the car into the pushchair.

A good travel system can be glued to your pushchair frame and will fit perfectly into your car. This ensures a smooth journey for your child. It's also a practical option since it means you only have to make one big purchase when getting ready for the arrival of your child and will usually save you money too.

There are many types of travel system available, from budget-friendly options to top-of-the-line brands like JANE or TYPO. Many will come with a matching changing bag that is a perfect match and car seat accessories and should you want to simplify things there are travel system bundles that come with everything you need in just one purchase. This is the best way to make sure all parts work together. There's no need to search online for a car seat that works and then finding out you need adapters too!

What are the recline options for seats? options?

If you decide to go with a travel system that includes a carrycot, you should make sure the pushchair seat also fully reclines to ensure your baby can nap comfortably and is in the recommended lying flat position for spinal and respiratory development. You should also think about whether the handlebar is adjustable in height so that it's comfortable for you as well as your companion or anyone else who might use it regularly.

The majority of pushchairs that are 'from birth' come with a reversible seat to allow you to choose whether your child sits parent-facing (to help them develop their communication skills) or world-facing to stimulate their curiosity and allow them to know where they are going. Some travel systems also come with an reversible car seat that clips directly onto the frame of the pushchair without having to remove it, ensuring that you can easily transfer your child from the car to the stroller and back.

Not all infant car seats work with all pushchairs car seats. Some travel systems come with all the adaptors you need in the box. Others may require that you purchase adaptors on your own. You can find out whether this is the case by examining the product details or asking at the local retailer.

How do I get around it?

If you're in search of a travel system to take your newborn from car to pushchair and back again, make sure the pushchair's chassis isn't too heavy, and you have enough space in your boot to accommodate a carrycot. Carrycots are light and easy to attach, but they should be used with infants that are less than 6 months old and must always be used with a pushchair that is lying flat to allow the baby to be in a fully reclined position. This is best for their lung and spine development.

It's important to note that the majority of brands have designed them to function together. This means you can be certain that they'll all function well and fit together. Shopping in one place is convenient and usually works out cheaper than purchasing items separately. And being capable of moving your sleepy newborn from their car seat to a stroller for the nursery or to go to shops without disturbing them is a big plus. Travel systems are worth the investment.

How easy is it attaching an automobile seat or a carrycot?

Most 'from birth' pushchairs can be connected to a compatible baby car seat or carrycot for simple transitions from your car to the street. This is great for babies because it allows them to sleep in a flat position.

Once the baby has outgrown their car seat (usually until the age of 18 months) the majority of travel systems can be used with a stroller seat and will therefore last longer as your child develops. A majority of travel systems come with an additional stroller seat, however some, like the Doona and the Evenflo Shyft DualRide, have an all-in-one design that allows the car seat unfolds into a pushchair, and then unfolds again to be inserted into the vehicle's base.

If you decide to use a car seat or a carrycot on your pushchair, be certain to read the instructions provided by the manufacturer and be sure to follow their weight, age and size restrictions. Also, make sure to determine if the pushchair and car seat has been recalled as part of a safety recall.

A lot of pushchairs come with additional accessories that can help enhance your experience, for example the footmuff can protect your child from the elements, and the parasol made of SPF/UPF 50+ fabrics, can keep them shady when it's sunny. Some pushchairs also have a ride-on board that is ideal for toddlers who are ready to take on the world by themselves, but need assistance.

What is the weight limit?

A pushchair is generally designed to fit babies up to a maximum weight and age. This will vary depending on the car seat and pushchair combo you choose as well as your own requirements for your lifestyle, so it's worth checking these specifications carefully. Similar to the brakes of the car you've chosen, it's important that you check that these are strong and easy to operate.

Many brands offer infant seat adaptors as part of their travel system packages. This allows you to easily clip the car seat of your infant onto the frame of the stroller. This makes the whole process of getting out and about with a newborn much quicker and simpler. It also means that when your baby is no longer in their car seat and carrycot they will still be able to use the stroller with you. This is a great option for families that have busy lives and a lot to do each day.

How easy is it to fold?

Some pushchairs can be folded with a single press. Others require two hands or a few steps but still manage to fold down to a small size. Some models even stay standing when folded, which makes it simple to carry around. This type of design is ideal if you live in the city or commute and wish to make the transition from your car to a pushchair an effortless process, or in the case that you have a tiny boot and need a model that folds up to fit in it.

Some travel system pushchairs depending on the model, can be used from the time of birth, by incorporating a car seat or carrycot. Some models are approved for use in the cabin of planes, making them suitable for parents who prefer to travel with their 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 brand and comprises of a pushchair and car seat that are designed to work together. Some pushchairs include the car seats they are compatible with, and you can purchase the car seat separately. (This could require converters for car seats.) MFM Editor Gemma's pick of the most lightweight travel system is the Babyzen YOYO due to its innovative features and a stunning one-second fold.

What is it like?

A travel system bundle provides convenience, security and cost savings. These bundles are put together by retailers or brands, with each piece carefully selected to be compatible. That means you don't have to research which car seat is compatible with your dream pushchair, or search online for a footmuff or changing bag that fits the style.

These cheap pushchairs are generally comprised of a frame that fits into the car seat group 0+ and include a carrycot, or seat unit, which can be used either facing forward or in the opposite direction to the parent, based on your preference or regulations (rear-facing is recommended for cars until 15 months). Some of them can be converted into a tandem or twin if you're expecting more than one child.

If you are planning to drive a lot and walking, a travel 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 place. They can also save space in the boot of your car, making it easier to get to shops or run the school run.