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When I was shopping for a car seat for my first child, the most important feature, aside from safety, was functionality. I wanted to make sure this car seat was not only easy to install, and to use, but that it also could easily connect to the stroller that I planned on using on the regular. That’s why I decided to go with a car seat stroller combo, also known as a travel system. This convenient and versatile solution allows parents to combine their car seat and stroller into a single integrated system they can use on the go.
What to consider when buying a car seat stroller combo
There are so many car seat stroller combos on the market today, as they’re one of the most popular options for parents looking for convenience. Here are a few pointers that can help guide you with your purchase.
Safety features
Safety will always be a top priority when it comes to buying any kind of a car seat—and stroller for that matter. You want to make sure that the car seat meets or exceeds the safety standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It should be made out of energy-absorbing foam, include side-impact protection, and have a five-point harness system.
Compatibility
The car seat and stroller you purchase need to be compatible to work. Some car seat stroller combos are sold together as a single package, including both the car seat and the stroller, while others allow you to mix and match products, sometimes even between two different brands. Just check to make sure that whatever products you purchase do, in fact, work together.
Ease of use
Installation and functionality doesn’t come easy for most parents, so try to find a car seat stroller combo that comes with easy-to-follow instructions for putting the products together and installing the car seat safely in your vehicle. Also, make sure that the stroller works on whatever terrain you intend to walk on the most, whether it’s smooth pavement or rugged trails.
Budget
Car seat stroller combos can get expensive. In fact, like cribs, they’re one of the big-ticket baby gear items you’ll purchase in preparation for your baby. While you want to ensure that your car seat stroller combo has all the bells and whistles, you can find options in your budget.
Our top picks for best car seat stroller combo:
Best car seat stroller combo installation: Britax B-Free Premium & B-Safe Gen2 FlexFit+ Travel System
Britax B-Free Premium & B-Safe Gen2 FlexFit+ Travel System - Clean Comfort Black
Britax is well known for both their car seats and their strollers, so it’s no surprise they make a car seat stroller combo worth writing home about. The best thing about this product is how easy it is to put together and install the car seat into the car. It comes with a Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system so the car seat clicks right into place with ease. The stroller is easy to put together and fold up. The toddler seat reclines all the way back, which comes in handy for naps on the go. The bottom is roomy—enough to fit a diaper bag at least.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 33 x 23 x 40 inches
- Cross-compatibility: Any Britax stroller
- Capacity limit: 55 pounds (stroller), 35 pounds (car seat)
- Adjustable handlebar height: Yes
- Weight: 40 pounds
- Color: Black
- FAA certified: N/A
- Price on publish: $562.49
What we like:
- Easy to assemble/function
- Sturdy and durable
- Recline and storage pockets
What we don’t like:
- No cup holder
- One front wheel
The bottom line:
If you’re okay with the fact that this stroller only has one front wheel, I think you’ll find it easy to use, install, and maneuver.
Get it here: Britax B-Free Premium & B-Safe Gen2 FlexFit+ Travel System
Best car seat stroller combo for travel: Nuna PIPA Urbn + TRVL System
Nuna PIPA Urbn + TRVL System
If you’re already a fan of Nuna, you know that their products are top notch. If you’re unfamiliar with the brand, it makes some of the safest, most durable, and high-quality car seats, travel strollers, double strollers, and more. Their travel system combo is super lightweight (the car seat is just seven pounds and the stroller is just 13.6 pounds) and it’s easy to maneuver thanks to progressive front- and rear-wheel suspension technology.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 32.5 x 20.25 x 44 inches
- Cross-compatibility: Nuna Pipa
- Capacity limit: 50 pounds (stroller), 22 pounds (car seat)
- Adjustable handlebar height: Yes
- Weight: 23.6 pounds
- Color: Caviar, Lagoon, Hazelwood, Droplet Dot Taupe, Rainbow, Curated
- FAA certified: Yes
- Price on publish: $800 - $850 (depends on color)
What we like:
- Luxury feel
- Lightweight
- Easy to fold
- GREENGUARD Gold certified
What we don’t like:
- Expensive
- Can’t use with other Nuna car seats
The bottom line:
Nuna is a luxury brand, so it comes with a hefty price tag, but reviewers note you get what you pay for: high quality and solid construction.
Get it here: Nuna PIPA Urbn + TRVL System
Best car seat stroller combo for newborn: UPPAbaby® Cruz V2 + Mesa V2 Infant Travel System
UPPAbaby® Cruz V2 + Mesa V2 Infant Travel System
Despite its jaw-dropping price tag, this is one of the more popular car seat stroller combos on the market today. UPPAbaby creates quality products that are safe, intuitive for use and that come with a myriad of innovative features. This car seat clicks right onto the stroller, which also comes with a toddler seat that reclines and has a SPF 50 canopy. The storage basket underneath is on the larger side and the handlebar adjusts to your height.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 22.75 x 37.5 x 40 inches
- Cross-compatibility: MESA Infant Car Seat
- Capacity limit: 50 pounds (stroller), 35 pounds (car seat)
- Adjustable handlebar height: Yes
- Weight: 35.5 pounds
- Color: Jake, Greyson, Gregory
- FAA certified: Yes
- Price on publish: $1,012.13 - 1,059.98 (depends on color)
What we like:
- Easy to maneuver
- Grows with your family
- GREENGUARD Gold certified
What we don’t like:
- Expensive
- Not great on rough terrain
The bottom line:
This is one of the more expensive car seat stroller combos on the market, but parents rave about all of its bells and whistles, and how easy it is to maneuver.
Get it here: UPPAbaby® Cruz V2 + Mesa V2 Infant Travel System
Best twin car seat stroller combo: Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Travel System
Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Travel System
For the price and convenience, this car seat stroller combo is a great option, especially for parents of multiples. It offers 23 configurations to accommodate one or two riders in both forward- or rear-facing modes. You can opt to lay the toddler seat flat, which can encourage your baby to nap, and the anti-rebound bar helps absorb instability to ensure a smooth ride.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 26.5 x 39 x 39.25 inches
- Cross-compatibility: Litemax Infant Car Seat
- Capacity limit: 55 pounds (stroller), 35 pounds (car seat)
- Adjustable handlebar height: Yes
- Weight: 30.9 pounds
- Color: Ayrshire Black, Sabino Gray
- FAA certified: No
- Price on publish: $479.99
What we like:
- Convenient for multiples
- Offers 23 configurations
- Affordable
What we don’t like:
- Not FAA-certified
- Can feel bulky
The bottom line:
At a reasonable price, this car seat stroller combo offers 23 configurations to accommodate families of all sizes.
Get it here: Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Travel System
Best luxury car seat stroller combo: Nuna PIPA™ Rx + MIXX™ Next Stroller Travel System
Nuna PIPA™ Rx + MIXX™ Next Stroller Travel System
If budget isn’t a top concern and you’re looking for a car seat stroller combo with a luxury feel, this is a great option. The Nuna PIPA™ Rx + MIXX™ Next Stroller is ultra lightweight, easy to put together, and can be used in four different modes: PIPA™ series infant car seat, bassinet, seat parent facing, or world facing. It folds with one hand and comes with a UPF 50+ canopy that’s water repellent and provides shade for your baby. These products are also both GREENGUARD Gold Certified.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 23.75 x 32.75 x 45.5 inches
- Cross-compatibility: PIPA™ Rx seat
- Capacity limit: 50 pounds (stroller), 32 pounds (car seat)
- Adjustable handlebar height: Yes
- Weight: 35.9 pounds
- Color: Droplet Dot Taupe, Caviar Black, Granite Grey
- FAA certified: Yes
- Price on publish: $1,200
What we like:
- Lightweight
- One-hand recline
- Easy to fold
- GREENGUARD Gold Certified
What we don’t like:
- Expensive
- Car seat can be tricky to install with LATCH system
The bottom line:
If it’s within your budget, this luxury car seat stroller combo comes with all the features you’re looking for and it’s a safe, efficient choice.
Get it here: Nuna PIPA™ Rx + MIXX™ Next Stroller Travel System
Best affordable car seat stroller combo: Graco Modes Pramette Travel System
Graco Modes™ Pramette Travel System Stroller, Ontario Blue
Most single car seats cost what this car seats stroller combo costs after all is said and done. This Graco travel system offers three functional positions, including a car seat on top, a bassinet on top, and a toddler seat on top (the bassinet converts to a toddler seat for down the line). The car seat is installed using a LATCH system for ultra durability and clicks right onto the base of the stroller with ease. Unfortunately you can’t adjust the handlebar and this product is not FAA-certified.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 34.7 x 25.6 x 42.5 inches
- Cross-compatibility: Any Graco car seat
- Capacity limit: 50 pounds (stroller), 35 pounds (car seat)
- Adjustable handlebar height: No
- Weight: 38.2 pounds
- Color: Ontario, Ellington
- FAA certified: No
- Price on publish: $299.99
What we like:
- Affordable
- Three configurations
- Comes with child’s tray, cup holders, parents cup, and large canopy
What we don’t like:
- Bulky
- Not as durable as others
The bottom line:
For what you’d pay for a single car seat, you also get a stroller and a comprehensive travel system that works efficiently.
Get it here: Graco Modes Pramette Travel System
Best lightweight car seat stroller combo: Bumbleride Era + Clek Liing Travel System
Bumbleride Era + Clek Liing Travel System - Black / Pitch Black
This luxury car seat stroller combo is lightweight, aerodynamic and as safe as it gets. It rolls smoothly over just about any terrain, from cracked city streets to tree-root-lined sidewalks in the suburbs. It’s made from PFAS-free fabric that’s flame retardant-free and the adjustable handlebar is designed with non-toxic, all-natural cork. I love how easy this stroller is to fold up and how it can stand up straight to save room wherever you store it.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 43 x 24.5 x 40.5 inches
- Cross-compatibility: Clek Liing infant car seat
- Capacity limit: 55 pounds (stroller), 35 pounds (car seat)
- Adjustable handlebar height: Yes
- Weight: 36 pounds
- Color: Black/Pitch Black, Sand/Pitch Black, Olive/Pitch Black, Maritime/Pitch Black,
- FAA certified: Yes
- Price on publish: $1,278.99 - $1,358.99 (depends on color)
What we like:
- All-terrain
- Lightweight
- Customizable
- Eco fabric made from 100% recycled PET
What we don’t like:
- Expensive
The bottom line:
For what you’d pay for a single car seat, you also get a stroller and a comprehensive travel system that works efficiently.
Get it here: Bumbleride Era + Clek Liing Travel System
Best car seat stroller combo for city living: Doona All-in-One Infant Car Seat/Stroller
Doona All-in-One Infant Car Seat/Stroller
City living is no easy feat with a baby in tow, but the Doona All-in-One Infant Car Seat/Stroller makes the process of traveling amidst the hustle and bustle so much more manageable. This single item doubles as both a stroller and a car seat—the stroller folds right up into the car seat and becomes a single unit that you fasten safely into a vehicle. It’s easy to install and easy to transfer from car seat to stroller—simply press the button atop the seat, watch the wheels swing out, and you’re ready to stroll.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 39 x 17.5 x 32.2 inches
- Cross-compatibility: Doona Infant Car Seat
- Capacity limit: 35 pounds
- Adjustable handlebar height: Yes
- Weight: 16.5 pounds
- Color: Blush Pink, Desert Green, Racing Green, Flame Red, Greyhound, Midnight Edition, Nitro Black, Racing Green, Royal Blue
- FAA certified: Yes
- Price on publish: $550
What we like:
- Folds into a car seat
- Lightweight
- Safe
What we don’t like:
- Difficult to maneuver
The bottom line:
You can’t beat this product’s offerings for city living, including its safety features and accessibility.
Get it here: Doona All-in-One Infant Car Seat/Stroller
How to maintain and clean a car seat stroller combo
Maintaining and cleaning a car seat stroller combo can help ensure its safety, durability, and longevity. Be sure to read the car seat’s manufacturer’s manual, which usually has guidance on how to clean and maintain both the seat and the stroller. Regularly inspect the items for signs of wear, damage, or loose parts, as they can become compromised over time. Be sure to promptly clean spills and stains and remove fabric covers when necessary, many of which are machine washable.
Car seat installation options
When installing a car seat, there are several options available to ensure proper and secure installation. Here are some common car seat installation options.
Seat belt installation
Perhaps the most common method, the seat belt installation involves securing the car seat using the seat belt system that exists in your vehicle. Be sure to follow the car seat manufacturer's instructions so you use the appropriate securement to attach the car seat safely to your car. Check that the seat belt is locked in place according to your vehicle's instructions, either by using a locking retractor or locking clip.
LATCH installation
Many modern vehicles and car seats are now equipped with what’s known as the LATCH system. This consists of lower anchors and tether anchors built into the vehicle. To install a car seat using the LATCH system, locate the lower anchors in the vehicle seat and attach them to the car seat's lower anchor connectors. Tighten the straps to secure the car seat in place. If your car seat has a top tether strap, attach it to the tether anchor in the vehicle and tighten it to provide additional stability.
Vehicle installation systems
Some vehicles may have built-in car seat installation systems or features designed to facilitate easier and more secure installation. These systems may include proprietary connectors, guides, or indicators that help ensure proper positioning and alignment of the car seat. Check your vehicle's owner's manual for information about any specific car seat installation systems or features available.
Professional installation services
Not sure how to install the car seat? You can always seek out assistance from a certified child passenger safety technician (CPST)—trained professionals who can provide expert guidance and assistance with car seat installation. Your local fire or police department may offer this service and many car seat manufacturers offer free or low-cost car seat inspection and installation services conducted by CPSTs.
Safety guidelines for car seat stroller combos
Safety guidelines for car seat stroller combos are essential to ensure the safe transportation of your child. When using a car seat stroller combo, follow the key safety guidelines below as recommended by Gary Kirkilas, DO, a pediatrician and spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
Choose a safe car seat stroller combo
Be sure to do your research to confirm the car seat meets or exceeds safety standards set by regulatory agencies such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the AAP. For secure installation, key features to look for include a five-point harness system, side-impact protection, and compatibility with your vehicle's LATCH system.
Install the car seat correctly
Follow the car seat manufacturer's guidelines as well as your vehicle's owner's manual to ensure proper installation of the car seat in your vehicle. Use either the seat belt or the LATCH system to secure the car seat according to the manufacturer's specifications.
Check the harness fit
Dr. Kirkilas notes that the harness should be at or below your baby’s shoulders—right around their nipple line. It should be so snug that you can’t pinch any excess material at the shoulders.
Use stroller safely
Make sure the car seat is properly attached to the stroller—this is often confirmed with a click. Follow the stroller manufacturer's instructions and avoid overloading the stroller with heavy bags or items that can cause it to tip over.
Regularly inspect equipment
Every now and then, inspect both the car seat and the stroller for loose screws, frayed straps, or other issues that may affect safety. If anything looks damaged, discontinue use and contact the manufacturer.
Follow age and weight limits
Age, weight, and height limits are in place for a reason. Transition to a different car seat or stroller when your baby outgrows the size or weight limits specified by the manufacturer.
How we selected the best car seat stroller combo
I combed through hundreds of reviews to find the best car seat stroller combos in every category. Here’s what I looked for when it came to the chosen travel systems in this story.
Top-notch features
In addition to durability, ease of use, and convenience, I also looked for car seat stroller combos that have additional features like folding mechanism, maneuverability, large storage baskets, cup holders, and adjustability. If a stroller was compatible with multiple car seats, that was a big plus.
Expert advice
I reached out to Dr. Kirkilas, who was able to provide me with expert insight about what to look for in a car seat stroller combo.
Customer reviews
In addition to speaking to real parents to find out which worked best for them, I also combed through hundreds of reviews from other parents who have purchased and used the car seat stroller combos. I paid close attention to feedback about durability, ease of use, safety, and overall satisfaction.
Checked for recalls
Before featuring any car seat stroller combo, I checked to make sure there weren’t any recent recall alerts issued by the manufacturer.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Is it better to buy a car seat and stroller combo?
If you plan to be on the go often with your baby in tow, a car seat and stroller combo might be the best option, as it allows you to seamlessly transition your child from the car to the stroller without needing to transfer them between different seats or devices. Daniel Ganjian, MD, FAAP, board certified pediatrician at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California, explains that this option is more convenient, affordable, and might offer the most flexibility.
Can you mix and match strollers and car seats?
While it is possible to mix and match strollers and car seats, compatibility among different brands and models may vary. When mixing and matching, Dr. Ganjian recommends considering several factors to ensure a safe and secure fit, namely, that the two products are compatible, that you don’t have to purchase any adapters or accessories, any safety considerations that may be at play, as well as weight and size limits.
Is a parent-facing stroller worth it?
Whether you choose a parent- or front-facing stroller is really up to personal preference. While parent-facing strollers allow for close interaction and monitoring, they may limit your child's view of the surrounding environment, which may become an issue as your child gets into the toddler years and shows interest in the world around them. Some children may prefer facing forward to explore new sights and sounds. The cons of a parent-facing stroller, according to Dr. Ganjian, are they tend to offer less legroom for baby as they grow and they may not be ideal for bigger babies.
What car seat transitions into a stroller?
The Doona is great at transforming into a stroller, according to Dr. Ganjian, who used it for his own child. “The only problem is that it is heavier than a traditional car seat so you will need to use more strength,” he says. “It is not a good option for people who have a bad back.”
Why do you need a car seat adapter for strollers?
A car seat adapter for a stroller helps securely attach a compatible car seat to the stroller’s frame, creating a travel system that easily transitions between car and stroller, notes Dr. Ganjian.
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