Choosing a pushchair travel system (view publisher site)

The choice of the ideal pushchair for your family is among the most important decisions you'll have to make as a parent. There are many factors to consider, whether you choose a travel bundle for its convenience and initial cost savings, or a separate frame and car seats that are compatible for maximum adaptability.

Luckily, this handy guide will help you make the best decision to meet your needs and lifestyle.

What is a travel systems?

A travel system is a pushchair that can take a baby car seat and some come with a carrycot as well. It's a great choice for new parents since it lets you easily move your sleeping baby from the car to the double pram pushchair without disturbing them. ideal for quick excursions to the shops or go on a nursery run.

A quality travel system will fit snuggly into your car and then connect to the frame of your pushchair to provide a seamless journey for your child. It's also a convenient choice since you only need to purchase one item in the process of getting ready for your new baby and will usually reduce your expenses too.

There are many types of travel system available, from budget-friendly options to high-end brands such as JANE or TYPO. There are a variety of travel systems that come with matching car seat accessories, changing bags and matching changing mats. If you want to simplify your life you can purchase a bundle of travel systems which includes everything you need. This is the most efficient method to ensure that all components work. Don't waste time searching for a car seat that works and then finding out you'll need adapters!

What are the seat recline options?

If you opt for a travel system that includes a carrycot, then make sure the pushchair seat also fully reclines to ensure your baby can nap comfortably and is at the recommended lie-flat position for respiratory and spinal development. Think about whether the handlebar can be adjusted in height to make it comfortable for you, your partner or anyone else who might use it often.

The majority of pushchairs that are 'from-birth' come with a reversible seating option which allows you to choose if your child should face the parent (to encourage communication skills) or to the world, to encourage curiosity and let them know where they are going. Some travel systems have an reversible seat unit that clips directly to the frame of the pushchair without having to take it off. This lets you effortlessly transfer your baby from the car into the stroller, and reverse the process.

Not all infant car seats work with all pushchairs. Certain travel systems come with all the adaptors you need in the box, but others may require them be purchased separately. Check the product details or contact your local retailer.

How do I get around it?

Carrycots are lightweight and easy to attach, but they should be used with babies up to 6 months old. They should be used in conjunction with a pushchair that is lying flat to allow the baby be in a fully reclined position which is ideal for their spinal and lung development. Carrycots are easily attached and are lightweight. They're ideal for infants less than 6 months old and should be used in conjunction with an upright pushchair. This allows the baby to sit in a reclining position, which is beneficial for their spinal development and lung development.

If you choose to purchase a travel system bundle or choose and mix the components yourself it's important to keep in mind that the majority of them are designed to function as a unit by the brands. You can be assured that everything will fit and perform as intended. Buying everything in one place is convenient and almost always costs less than buying items separately. It's a huge plus to be able to transfer your baby's sleepy body from the car seat to the stroller in order to go to the nursery or shop without disturbing them. Travel systems are worth the cost.

How easy is it to attach a car seat or a carrycot?

The majority of 'from-birth' pushchairs can be clicked on to a car seat that is compatible or a carrycot to facilitate the transition from your car to street easy. This is ideal for newborns, allowing them to sleep in the position recommended for them to sleep.

After 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. The majority of travel systems come with a separate stroller, however some, such as the Doona or the Evenflo Shyft DualRide have a single piece design that allows the car seat to fold into a pushchair, then refolded back into the base of the vehicle.

If you choose to use a carrycot or car seat on your pushchair, be sure you read carefully the instructions and follow the age, weight, and size limitations. Check if the car seat and pushchair have been recalled due to safety reasons.

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

What is the weight limit?

A pushchair travel system can usually accommodate babies until the maximum weight and age. It will differ based on the car seat and pushchair combo you select, and your personal lifestyle needs so it's worth checking these specifications attentively. Similar applies to the brakes on the model you choose It is essential to make sure they're strong and easy to operate.

Many brands include adaptors for infant car seats in their travel system bundles enabling you to easily attach your baby's car seats onto the frame of your pushchair to be easily moved from car to stroller. This makes the whole process of exploring the world with a newborn much easier and less complicated. It also means that when your baby grows out of their carrycot and car seat they will still be able to utilize the stroller. This is an excellent option for families that are busy and have a lot of things to do every day.

How do you fold?

Some pushchairs fold with a single press. Others need two hands or just a couple of steps, but they manage to fold down to a small size. Some models are able to stand upright when folded, making it easy to carry. This design is perfect if you commute or live in a city and need to make the transition between car and pram pushchair seamless. If you have a small boot.

Based on the model, some travel system pushchairs travel systems can be used from birth, by adding an infant car seat. Those that can are often approved to be taken in the cabin of flights and are perfect for parents that like to travel a lot as a family.

If you decide to purchase a car seat and pushchair bundle, it's the most affordable method of purchasing. The bundle is developed by the brand and consists of a car seat and pushchair that are designed to work together. Some pushchairs include the car seats they are compatible with, and you can purchase an additional seat. (This may require converters for car seats.) The Babyzen YOYO is Gemma's pick for the most travel systems that are lightweight, thanks to its unique features and one-second folding.

What does it look Like?

A travel system bundle provides convenience, security and cost savings. These bundles are assembled by brands or retailers. All the parts are carefully selected for compatibility. This means you don't have to spend time researching the best car seat with your ideal pushchair or searching online for a sock or a changing bag that matches the style.

These pushchairs are generally composed of a frame that can fit into the car seat group 0+ and includes a carrycot, or seat unit, which can be used forward-facing or facing the parent based on your preference or the regulations (rear-facing is recommended for cars up to 15 months). Some are even able to be converted into a tandem or twin if you are expecting more than one child.

If you are planning to spend a lot of time driving and walking, a travel system is a good choice. You can easily transfer your child from the car to the pushchair, and vice versa without having to disturb them or locate a safe parking place. They also can save space in your car's boot making it easier for you to pop into the shops or run the school run.