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Choosing a Pushchair Travel System
The choice of the ideal pushchair for your family is one of the most important decisions you'll have to make as a parent. If you decide to go with a travel system bundle to benefit from its convenience and initial cost savings, or a separate frame for the pram and a car seat to ensure maximum flexibility There are plenty of options to think about.
Fortunately, this guide will help you make the best choice to suit your needs and lifestyle.
What is a travel system?
A travel system is a type of stroller that can accommodate a car seat for your baby and some come with carrycots. New parents will love this option as they can easily transfer their baby in a sleep position from the car into the pushchair.
A quality travel system will attach to your pushchair frame and fit snugly into your car. This allows for an easy journey for your child. It's a good choice since you'll only need to make one major purchase for the baby's arrival. It also helps you save money.
There are a variety of types of travel systems available ranging from budget options to premium brands like JANE or TYPO. A majority of them come with matching changing bag with a matching color as well as car seat accessories. And if you're really looking to simplify your life, there are travel system bundles that come with everything you need in just one purchase. This is the best way to be sure that all the parts work together - no searching for a compatible car seat and then finding out that you require additional adaptors!
What are the various seat recline options available?
If you opt for a travel system with a carrycot then ensure that the seat of the pushchair is fully reclined, allowing your baby to rest comfortably in the position recommended for breathing and spinal development. Consider whether the handlebar can be adjusted in height so that it is comfortable for you, your spouse or anyone else who might use it frequently.
Most 'from-birth' pushchairs have a reversible seat so you can choose if your child should face the parent (to increase communication skills) or to the world to encourage curiosity and let them know where they are going. Some travel systems have a reversible seating unit that is attached directly to the frame of the pushchair without having remove it. This allows you to effortlessly transfer your baby from the car into the stroller and vice versa.
Not all infant car seats work with all pushchairs. Some travel systems come with all the adaptors needed in the box. Others may require you purchase the adaptors separately. Check the product details or contact your local retailer.
How easy is it to maneuver?
If you're looking for a travel pushchair system to take your newborn from car to pushchair, and back ensure that the pushchair chassis isn't too heavy and that you have room in your trunk to accommodate a carrycot. Carrycots can be easily attached and are lightweight. They're ideal for infants less than 6 months old and are best used with a lie flat pushchair. This allows the baby to sit in a fully reclined position, which is beneficial for their spinal development as well as lung development.
Whether you go for a travel system bundle or pick and mix your own components it's important to keep in mind that most of them are designed to work together as a unit by the brands. This means you can be certain that they'll all work together and are functional. Buying everything in one place is convenient and almost always is less expensive than buying items separately. And being in a position to move your sleepy newborn from car seat to a stroller for a nursery run or nipping into shops without disrupting them is a major benefit. Travel systems are worth the expense.
How do I connect a carrycot or car seat?
The majority of pushchairs 'from birth' can be linked to a baby car seat or carrycot to allow effortless transitions from your vehicle to the street. This is ideal for newborns as it allows them to rest in the recommended lie-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 which means that they'll last longer as your child grows. Many travel systems are sold with a separate stroller, but some, like the Doona and the Evenflo Shyft DualRide, have one piece design, which means that the car seat can be folded into a pushchair, and then back again to fit into the vehicle's base.
If you decide to put a carrycot or car seat on your pushchair, make sure you read carefully the instructions and adhere to the age, weight, and size limitations. Verify if the car seat and pushchair are being recalled due to safety reasons.
Many pushchairs come with accessories to enhance your experience. For instance the footmuff can shield your child from the elements, while a parasol made of SPF/UPF50+ fabric keeps them sheltered from the sun. Some pushchairs come with a ride-on board for toddlers who want to explore the world, but need a little help.
What is the weight limit?
A pushchair travel system is typically designed to fit babies until a certain weight and age. It will differ based on the car seat and pushchair combo you choose as well as your own requirements for your lifestyle, so it's important to check these specifications carefully. It's also important that you check the brakes on your chosen model. They should be strong and easy to operate.
Many brands include adaptors for infant carseats in their travel systems packages enabling you to easily attach your baby's car seat onto the frame of the pushchair so that they can be effortlessly moved from toddler stroller to car. This makes getting out with a baby much more convenient. This ensures that your baby can still use their stroller once they grow out of the car seat and carrycot. This is a great option for pram with car seat families who are busy and have lots of things to do each day.
How do you fold?
Some pushchairs fold with a single press. Others need two hands or a few steps, yet they can be very compact when folded. Some models are even able to stand up when folded, making it simple to carry. This sort of design is perfect if you live in the city or commute regularly and need to make the transition from car to pushchair a seamless process, or when you have a small boot and need something that folds up to fit in it.
Depending on the model, some travel system pushchairs can be used from birth, by adding a carrycot or infant car seat. Certain models are approved to be used in the cabin of flights, making them perfect for parents who prefer to travel with their family.
The most affordable option is to purchase a car seat and an pushchair. The bundle is developed by the manufacturer and consists of two car seats and a pushchair sale designed to work in tandem. Some pushchairs list the car seats they are compatible with and you can also purchase the car seat separately. (This might require car seat converters.) The Babyzen YOYO is Gemma's pick for the best lightweight travel systems, due to its innovative features and one-second folding pram.
What is it like?
A travel system bundle can provide convenience, security and cost savings. The bundles are created by brands or retailers. All of the components are selected by hand for their compatibility. This means you don't have to research what car seat is compatible with your dream pushchair or searching online for a matching footmuff or changing bags.
They typically consist of a pushchair frame that is suitable for a car seat, and typically include a carrycot or a seat unit that can be used either facing forward or towards the parent according to your preference (or the rules, as rear-facing in the car is advised until 15 months). Some can even be transformed into a tandem or twin if you're expecting more than one child.
If you plan to drive a lot and walking, a travel system is a great option. You can easily move your child from the car to the pushchair, and vice versa without having to disturb them or find a safe parking space. They can also help you save space in your car's boot, making it easier for you to go shopping or run the school run.