Choosing a Pushchair Travel System
The choice of buying the
best travel stroller pushchair for your family is 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 due to its convenience and cost savings or a frame that is separate and compatible car seats for maximum adaptability.
Luckily, this handy guide will help you make the best option that will 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 come with a carrycot. It's a great option for parents who are new as it means you can easily move your sleeping baby from the car to the pushchair without disturbing them - ideal for those short excursions to the shops or do a nursery run.
A quality travel system can be tucked into your car and then click onto the pushchair frame to make a seamless trip for your little one. It's also a great option since it means you only need to make one big purchase when getting ready for your new baby and will usually save you money too.
There are lots of different kinds of travel systems available ranging from budget options to top-of-the-line brands like JANE or TYPO. A majority of them come with matching coordinating changing bag and car seat accessories and if you're really looking to simplify your life, there are travel system bundles that include everything you require in one purchase. This is the most efficient way to make sure the components are in sync. No more searching for a car seat that functions and then discovering that you need adapters too!
What are the recline options for seats? options?
If you choose an option that includes a carrycot, make sure that the seat of the pushchair is fully reclined to allow your baby to sleep comfortably in the recommended position to develop their breathing and spine. It is also important to be aware of whether the handlebar can be adjusted in height so that it can be comfortable for both you and your companion, or anyone else who may use it regularly.
Most 'from-birth' pushchairs have a reversible seat so you can choose whether your child will face the parent (to increase communication skills) or to the world, to encourage curiosity and let them know where they're going. Some travel systems come with a reversible seating unit that attaches directly to the frame of the pushchair, without having to take it off. This lets you easily transfer your baby from the car into the
toddler stroller, and in reverse.
Not all infant car seats are compatible with all pushchairs. Some travel systems include all the adaptors you need in the box. Others may require that you purchase the adaptors separately. You can find out if this is the case by checking the product's details or asking at the local retailer.
How do I get around it?
Carrycots are lightweight and easy to attach, but they're best used for newborns up to 6 months old. They should always be used with a pushchair that can lie flat so that the baby can be in a fully reclined posture which is ideal for their spine and lung development. Carrycots are light and easy to attach but they're best used with babies up to 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 posture, which is best for their lung and spine development.
If you choose to purchase a travel system bundle, or opt to pick and mix your own components It's important to remember that the majority of them are designed to function as a unit by the brands. This means you can be certain that they'll all function well and fit together. Shopping in one place is convenient and
pushchairs usually is less expensive than buying items separately. Being able to move your sleeping 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 cost.
How easy is it to attach a carrycot or car seat?
The majority of 'from-birth' pushchairs can be clicked on to a compatible car seat or carrycot to allow you to transition from your vehicle to the street simple. This is perfect for newborns since it lets them sleep in a flat position.
Once the baby has outgrown their infant car seat (usually up to the age of 18 months) the majority of travel systems can be used with a stroller seat which means that they'll last longer as your child grows. Most travel systems come with an additional stroller, however some, like the Doona or the Evenflo Shyft DualRide have a single piece design that allows the car seat to be folded into a pushchair, then folded back into base of the vehicle.
If you decide to use the car seat or carrycot on your pushchair, make sure you read carefully the instructions and follow the age, weight and size restrictions. Make sure to check whether the car seat and pushchair have been recalled due to safety reasons.
Many pushchairs come with additional accessories that can enhance your experience. For example the use of a footmuff is a way to shield your child from the elements while a sun shade made of SPF/UPF50+ fabric will keep them sheltered 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 a little helping hand.
What is the weight limit?
A
pushchair travel system will usually accommodate babies as long as they are of the appropriate weight and age. It's contingent on the car seat/pushchair combo that you select and also on the kind of lifestyle you have. It is therefore essential to review these specifications carefully. The same applies to the brakes on the car you've chosen It is essential to make sure they're strong and simple to operate.
Many brands offer infant seat adaptors with their travel system packages. This lets you attach the car seat of your child onto the frame of the stroller. This makes the whole process of exploring the world with a newborn much easier and simpler. This ensures that your baby can use their stroller after they grow out of the car seat and carrycot. This is a great choice for families who are busy and have lots of things to do each day.
How easy is it for you to fold?
Some pushchairs can be folded with just a single button press. Some folds require two hands or a few steps however, they are still compact. Some models even stay standing when folded, which makes it simple to grab and go. This type of design is ideal if you reside in a city or commute, and need to make the transition from a car to a pushchair an effortless process, or when you have a small boot and need a model that folds up to fit inside it.
Depending on the model, some travel system pushchairs can also be used from birth when you add an infant car seat. Certain models are approved to be used in the cabin of flights, making them suitable for parents who prefer to travel with their families.
The most affordable option is to buy a car seat and a pushchair. The bundle is typically created by the brand and comprises of a pushchair and car seat that are designed to work together. Additionally, some pushchairs specify the car seats they are compatible with and you could buy a seat separately (though this may require car seat adaptors). The Babyzen YOYO is Gemma's pick for the most lightweight travel system due to its clever features and one-second folding.
What is it like?
A travel system bundle is a great option to purchase a stroller and car seat together, with the added bonus of ease of use, security and often a cost saving. These bundles are put together by retailers or brands, with each component carefully selected to be compatible. This means that you don't have to spend time researching what car seat is compatible for your dream pushchair or searching on the internet for a compatible footmuff or changing bags.
These pushchairs are generally comprised of a frame that can fit into a car seat group 0+, and also includes a carrycot, or seat unit, which can be used forward-facing or facing the parent depending on your preference or regulations (rear-facing is recommended for cars until 15 months). Some can even be converted into a twin/tandem in the event that you're expecting more one baby.
A travel system is practical if you're likely to be doing a lot of driving and walking with your child, since it lets you transfer them from the car to pushchair, and then back without disturbing them or needing to find a secure place to park. They can also save space in the boot of your car making it easier to get to shops or go on a school run.