Stroller Reviews

Best Travel Systems (Stroller and Car Seat Combo): Reviews & Buying Guide

Best Baby Stroller Travel Systems (Car Seat Stroller Combos) reviewed here. A travel system (stroller plus a car seat) makes it easy to switch from carrying your baby in the car to pushing them in a stroller. It can also be a cost-effective option; initially, the car seat eases onto the stroller, but when your child grows up, you can switch to using only the stroller.

Introduction

A travel system (also known as stroller and seat combo , or stroller sets) features a car seat and stroller combo that provides seamless transition when needing to travel by car and foot. On a travel system, the car seat can be used as a stroller seat making it easy to transfer babies from car to stroller and vice versa.

Believed to be first designed by Bugaboo, over time, other brands started imitating Bugaboo’s “travel system” that carries a baby and all its paraphernalia (equipment, accessories, furnishing) in maximum comfort in both city and country.

Travel systems consist of a chassis, a removable stroller seat and an infant car seat. You can place either the car seat or the stroller seat on the chassis depending on your requirement, which makes these extremely convenient for car travel; you can keep the stroller in the car trunk and use only the car seat, and once you’re at the destination, you can lift the car seat out (with the baby), and place it in the chassis of the stroller to move your baby around.

A travel system stroller is heaver than the other stroller options available but it offers a lot of convenience.

Travel systems also offer better value, because you get a stroller and car seat in one. They also offer longevity: most are suitable for newborns, and as the child grows older, they can continue using the same stroller with the regular seat.

Benefits of Buying a Travel System

A baby travel system includes the combination of a good stroller and a compatible car seat. You will need both items for your baby, and buying a good travel system will kill two birds with one stone.

Buying a travel system has many benefits, such as:

  • Your stroller and carrier will be compatible, so you don’t have to worry about buying something that doesn’t fit.
  • Easy to shift the car seat to the stroller. There is no need to fasten, un-fasten, move the child etc. to disengage the car seat.
  • You don’t have to do two separate research for stroller and car seat. You get both in one stroke.
  • Easy to shop/ travel with your baby when you have a good travel system.
  • You can always save the travel system for your future children or other kids in the family.

 

More features include:

  • Easy to manoeuvre due to the combination of front swivel wheels (on most models) and large rear wheels.
  • Most models are lightweight thanks to the hi-tech aluminum frame.
  • Handle has an adjustable height with ergonomically designed soft grips.
  • The pushchair seat can be forward or rearward facing – Face mum or face away feature
  • Plenty of pockets for feeding bottles etc
  • Luxury coordinated fabrics

 

Usually Baby Travel Systems come with carrycot, pushchair, car seat, Foot-muff and Changing Bag.

  • Pushchair Features: Fully reclining Seat suitable from birth, 5 point harness for comfort and security. Easy folding to a very compact size, Removeable bumper bar , Includes hood and rain cover
  • Carry-Cot Features: Comfy lie flat hard carry cot suitable from birth, Nice fabrics, Ergonomically designed and fully padded for extra comfort, Machine washable covers
  • Car Seat Features: Car Seat fits easily onto pushchair chassis, Suitable from birth to 13kgs, 5 point harness for comfort and security, Head-hugger for extra support for younger/smaller babies, Removable hood, Side impact protection
  • Foot-Muff: Co-ordinating luxury foot-muff, ideal for keeping your little one nice and snug
  • Changing Bag: Luxury changing bag designed with lots of compartments for maximum storage for mums and dads on the go.

 

Any Downsides?

Here are some of the downsides of owning a travel system pushchair.

  • A carrycot can only be used until your baby reaches approximately six months old. Even an infant car seat is only suitable for the first year. So it means after the first year, you will only require a regular stroller.
  • Babies cannot be left in the car seat for hours. Experts say babies shouldn’t be left in their car seat for more than two hours at a time, and in the first four weeks of a baby’s life they shouldn’t be in the car seat for over 30 minutes at a time.
  • Many parents still find attaching and removing car seats and carrycots fiddly; in some cases adaptors are required and it can take some time making sure the car seat or carrycot is securely connected.

These are the ‘essential features’ for parents when buying a new travel system/pushchair:

  • A compatible car seat is top of their list
  • A corresponding carrycot to use with their pushchair.
  • Value for money when investing in a 3-in-1 pram

You get travel systems that are jogging strollers, while some are more compact and portable, so choose as per your needs.

Baby Strollers with Car Seats: Various Types

  • 3-Wheel: Easy to navigate, better suited for city roads
  • 4-Wheel: Sturdier and well-equipped for bumpy terrain, offers more storage space underneath
  • Jogger: Compact, bigger wheels, better suspension, easy to navigate
  • Double: Lets you transport two kids, bulkier in size.

 

Things to know:

  • Car Seat: Most travel systems have rear-facing seats making them suitable for infants. These provide adequate side protection. Most car seats also come with a base.
  • Stroller Seat: Look for a seat that has several reclining positions, fully flat position is best for for newborns.
  • Look for additional features like safety harness, canopy, storage

Most travel systems include storage space, a tray for the baby and a cup holder for the parent.

So which infant travel system has worked the best for you, or which one do you think is the best and something that you would like to own? Which one is the easiest and most functional infant travel system? Which features you like the best? Which brand and model would you suggest to somebody else and why? Which travel system (stroller + car seat) would you recommend to other parents who plan on using it outdoors for walking or jogging?

Best Travel Systems: At a Glance

Travel Systems: Reviews

An important (and necessary) purchase for most new parents is a stroller. A good stroller has to be functional, versatile, safe, comfortable and good-looking.

Here we take a look at the best travel systems.

Chicco Bravo Trio Travel System

The Chicco Bravo Trio System features the versatile Bravo stroller, along with the KeyFit 30 infant car seat and base. Parents have rated this stroller well for everyday use and for maneuverability. The stroller seat can be removed to create a lightweight car seat carrier.

Bravo stroller dimensions: 35.5 x 43 x 21.75 inches
Folded dimensions: 16 x 28 x 21.75 inches
Stroller: holds a child up to 50 pounds
KeyFit 30 infant car seat dimensions: 22 x 17 x 24 inches
Base only dimensions: 20 x 15 x 8 inches

Pros: Convenient parent tray with storage and cup holders, folds up compact and self-standing.
Cons: Lacks a tray or holder for children’s snacks or cups.

 

Maxi-Cosi Zelia stroller

The Maxi-Cosi Zelia stroller comes in different color combinations, features an expanding canopy to protect from sunlight, and offers a spacious storage basket underneath to crry all baby essentials. The stroller is easy to assemble, sturdy, offers a smooth ride, and it’s very easy to switch between different positions.

The Maxi-Cosi Zella also features a one-click latch system with a car seat and accommodate childrens up to 30 pounds.

 

Graco Modes 3 Essentials LX Travel System

This travel system includes a stroller that features seven different riding positions, a storage basket, and cup and phone holders. This set also comes with a Graco Snug Ride Snug Lock 30 Infant Car Seat, rear facing from 4-30 lbs, which attaches directly to the stroller frame.

Reversible stroller seat with multi-position recline for added comfort. Reclining seat converts to cozy infant bassinet.

 

Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System

Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System is a stylish, 3-in-1 travel system with six modes of travel. Together with the SafeMax infant car seat it is a great budget friendly travel system for new families.

 


 

The Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System featuring the SafeMax Infant Car Seat and SafeZone Base. The SafeMax Infant Car Seat features an Anti-Rebound Bar that limits the amount of rebound movement experienced in a frontal-impact. The SafeMax Infant Car Seat has a full canopy and comfortable infant insert pad. Stay-in-car base allows for a quick and safe infant car seat connection from car to stroller Easy to Maneuver: Large Cruiser Tires and ergonomic handles create a smooth ride. Integrated belt lock-off system provides peace of mind that the base is securely and correctly installed.

Offers multi-position modular frame with 6 modes of use. The stroller converts easily from an infant car seat frame stroller to stroller seat and carriage mode. Each mode, baby can face in or out and is easily adjusted. The carriage mode is perfect for infants and offers a cover for chillier days.

Easy to Fold: Trigger release, self-standing fold.
Oversized Storage Basket, Large Canopy with peek-a-boo window, Removable Arm Bar makes getting baby in and out a breeze. Flex Hold Parent Cup. Convenient in-seat fold
The new Cruiser Tires have a sleek look and the over-sized rear wheels provide an easier ride.
Dimensions: 19.6 x 21.8 x 34.9 inches, Weight: 38 pounds

 


Watch: Evenflo Pivot travel System Review

 

 

Graco Verb Click Connect Stroller

Graco Verb Click Connect Stroller includes a top-rated Snug Ride Click Connect 30 Infant Car Seat (for baby from 4-30 lbs.), which connects to the stroller with a secure, one-second attachment. Looks stylish and offers a smooth ride for your child with a locking front-swivel wheel.

 


 

Multi-position reclining seat. Parent’s and child’s tray with cup holders and a large basket. One-hand, self-standing fold and carry strap makes transporting simple. Dimensions: 27 x 19.5 x 40.5 inches, Weight 19.07 pounds

 


Watch: Graco Verb Click Connect Travel System | Demo Product Tour

 

Britax 2017 B Agile & B Safe 35 Travel System

Britax B-Agile/B-Safe features a convenient one-hand quick-fold. Its easy to carry around. Looks stylish and lightweight. Great safety features, lightweight maneuverability.

Well-cushioned interior, front wheels swivel for tight turns, Weight: 50.2 pounds.

 

Graco Fast Action Click Connect Travel System

This Graco travel system comes with a car seat (Graco’s SnugRide Click Connect 30 infant car seat) suitable for infants and children up to 30 pounds, and the stroller is suitable for kids up to 50 pounds. The stroller features a multi-position reclining seat and one-hand quick-fold design plus you get locking front swivel wheels and sizable storage basket.

Baby Trend Expedition Jogger

Using just a lock of the front wheel, the Baby Trend Expedition Jogger switches from a walking mode to a jogging mode. It features rugged yet smooth-rolling bicycle tires for easy and fast maneuvering around every obstacle.
Accommodates babies up to 30 pounds, multi-position reclining seat, flex-loc infant car seat, Weight: 49.9 pounds

 

Peg Perego Booklet

The Peg Perego Booklet is an easy to use travel system, the stroller features retractable anchors that allows you to secure the car seat quickly without additional connectors. It is designed to fold inwards to help the fabric stay clean. Features lightweight aluminum frame, but stills its slightly on the heavier side.

Available in two colors. visor provides uv protection. Weight: 51 pounds

 

Evenflo Vive Sport Travel System

Evenflo Vive Sport Travel System offers hassle free transfer, the stay-in-car base makes for a quick and safe connection. Ultra Slim 16″, gravity fold/unfold fits any size vehicle from large to small. 13″ thick EVA wheels and front wheel shock adsorbing system for better stability.

 

Evenflo Vive Sport Travel System

 

Paired with the Embrace Infant Car Seat, for an extended weight rating (4-35lbs). Additional features include: Extra storage pocket on seat back, easy rear access to large storage basket that holds a 17″ diaper bag, Large coverage canopy to shield from the elements, Posh multi-position recline, Removable, 2 way pivoting child tray for easy in and out, Parent console with deep storage and 2 deep cup holders. Dimensions: 18.1 x 19.1 x 37.1 inches, Weight: 29.8 pounds.

 


Watch: Evenflo Vive Travel System | Product Tour

 

Safety 1st Smooth Ride Travel System

This is a budget-friendly travel system that features high-quality construction.

Has adjustable harnesses. Frame folds easily. Provides inserts and side-impact protection for newborns.

What we dislike: Can be difficult to get the car seat on and off the base.

Buy Safety 1st Smooth Ride Travel System on Amazon

Disney Amble Quad Travel System

Bring a little magic to your strolls with the Disney Baby Amble Quad Travel System featuring the onboard22 Infant Car Seat. With a stay-in-car base and lightweight frame, it’s easy to get the infant seat in and out of your car without waking your baby. Going for a stroll? Thanks to Quick Click the car seat attaches to the stroller with one simple click.

The stroller has a large storage basket for your on-the-go gear and a convenient parent tray with 2 cup holders and a storage area ideal for cell phone, keys or other items you want to keep close at hand. The easy lift and fold ensures that the stroller folds up quickly with one hand and with little effort.

Onboard 22 Infant Car seat: Rear facing 4-22 pounds. Adjustable base.

Budget Baby Travel Systems

While most stroller/car seat combos are pricey, there are a few inexpensive baby travel systems; they have fewer features, but are fully functional and not some cheap stuff. Most of these are priced in the $200 to $300 range.

Evenflo Sibby Travel System Baby Trend Expedition Travel System Safety 1st Smooth Ride Travel System

Best Baby Travel System Under $100

While strollers have definitely become cheap over the years, its difficult to find a decent travel system under $100.

A better option is to choose from our list of budget travel systems (listed above), which will provide a safe and comfortable ride to your child.

Stroller Travel System: Buying Guide

Baby Strollers can be quite innovative and can turn into a single, double, reversible, stroller holding 1 or 2 car seats, bassinets and stroller seats. Then there’s the brake systems, safety harnesses, comfort, weight, cup holders, ease of folding, durability, and also the cuteness factor which you have to think over, before making a purchase. Your budget also plays an important role in choosing the one from the many different types of strollers.

Travel stroller systems include a high-quality stroller as well as a car seat. Often the car seat converts into a carrier or a bassinet that you can carry along. This If you’d like to take your child beyond your daily destinations, like on business trips or vacation (which research has found is great for their brain development), you’ll be glad you have a stroller travel system. Many are specifically designed to fold down and fit into overhead compartments in airplanes. Their roomy storage compartments allow you to pack all your baby’s essentials – sunscreen, snacks, maps, diapers and other things.

The various customization’s is like having many different strollers in one. It is perfect for new born babies; the infant car seats are safe for a new born and provides them with superior protection (top reason why they are used in cars and strollers). These are designed to take your baby comfortably from birth to up to 4 years old.

Assembling these strollers do not take much time. All you need to do is attach the wheels and canopy and you are ready to go. It adjusts as your child grows and holds different types of seats including an infant car seat, toddler car seat, and a bassinet. You can always purchase additional accessories such as the Child Snack Tray, Parent Console, or Travel Bag etc. separately if required.

Finally, if you enjoy taking your baby out on a jog or power walk, these strollers are made with features that make it easier for you to break a sweat with a baby in tow. They’re often lightweight with smooth-turning wheels, and have ergonomic handles that are easy to grasp. Busy parents know that sometimes the only way to squeeze in a workout is by bringing they baby along.

View Comments

  • Benefits of Using a Baby Travel System

    Most parents buy a baby travel system but only use the car seat initially, rarely ever the stroller. Its only after a year or so, you'll start using the stroller more. When your baby is newly born, you will rarely use the stroller, but that will completely change once your little one outgrows the infant seat. Almost all parents experience a similar thing.

    Travel systems are great. Most toddlers grow out of the car-seat but you can still use the stroller, until they're about 4. Also, if you have another baby, you can use the stroller for one and the car-seat/carrier for the infant.

    As your baby gets bigger do u really want to be carrying him/her? The stroller offers them a good veiw too. It’s easy to use when you go to the mall, and your baby’s always comfy. Its also very convenient if you walk daily because you can take the baby with you, just attach the car seat to the stroller. Also if you do alot of shopping or running around its much easier to throw the entire car seat onto the stroller rather than look for a shopping cart or carrying the baby.

    It’s not a great idea for babies or toddlers to spend a lot of time in a car seat, so bear that in mind. Most parents also prefer a baby sling or other baby carrier, once out of the car, as they're more comfortable for the child and safer in many ways.

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