Are you overwhelmed when it comes to picking out a baby travel system?
When I was a first-time parent, I had no idea what to look for so I bought a traditional pram and a separate car seat. Imagine when I turned up to mothers Group for the first time after having wrestled my baby out of her car seat and into the pram, to see all the other Moms had just whisked their car seat straight INTO their pram frame!
What?!!
That’s how I learned travel systems exist, far too late for my first but in plenty of time for my second! But then the next hurdle….there are so many options that come with so many different parts. I ended up with bits and pieces from all over the place that didn’t fit nicely together, so I failed again.
You don’t have to be in the same position I was tough, I’ve taken the guesswork out of picking a travel system so that you don’t need to go through the headaches I did!
Read on to see my top suggestions.
What is a travel system?
A travel system is a baby stroller that includes a detachable car seat and base. This type of stroller can be used from birth until the child reaches around 35 or 40 pounds (16-18kg), or 35 or 36 (89 to 91cm) inches tall, which typically covers the infant and toddler stages.
A travel system is often seen as a more economical option because you're getting two products in one. It can also be convenient to have everything all together in one place when you're ready to go out with your child. And finally, it's just nice to have the option to use the car seat without the stroller if needed. For example, if you need to take your child somewhere and they're already asleep in their car seat, you can just pop the car seat straight into the stroller frame without waking your baby.
What to look for when buying a travel system
A travel system is a great investment for parents because it allows them to transport their child in a car seat without having to disturb the child. When shopping for a travel system, it is important to consider the below points:
Assembly
The weight and size of the stroller should be considered, compared to the size of your car and car boot/trunk). The stroller should also be easy to fold and unfold.
Quality
It is also important to check the quality of the car seat. The car seat should have a five-point harness system and an adjustable headrest. The car seat should also be able to accommodate children up to 35 pounds (16kg). Parents should also make sure that the travel system they are considering has a warranty.
Storage
The stroller will need to have plenty of storage, you really can't imagine until you have your baby just how much STUFF they need! So, the more storage space in the bottom, the better.
Car Seat
An important consideration is if the car seat is included in the package of what you're buying or if you need to purchase it separately. If you are purchasing it separately, make sure you consider the cost of the entire system and also ensure you get the correct version by the same brand so that the car seat will fit (that's where I went wrong!)
Bassinet / Carrycot
For the first 6 months of their lives it is recommended that babies lie flat when being transported. The maximum time they should be in the car seat is 2 hours so if you're out for the day, make sure you choose a travel system that also comes with a bassinet/carrycot that your baby can lay flat in.
Seat direction
When your baby graduates to the seat in the stroller, there are two options, facing the world so your little one can have a good look around and see everything that's going on (and, if your child is anything like my son, wave and smile at literally every person that walks by) or rear facing so that your little one gets to see their parent pushing them and has comfort in knowing you're there. Its recommended to keep them rear facing for as long as possible so having the option to face your stroller either way can be a great bonus.
Wheels
The last thing to consider is what kind of terrain you'll be using the stroller on. Where I lived there were no pavements, just mud tracks (despite us being only 12 minutes from our local city of Sydney, Australia, it was quite a 'rustic' area!) so for me I needed wheels that would work on tracks as well as tarmac. Larger, all terrain wheels are best for tracks and the smaller, solid wheels are great for shopping centers and flat walkways.
How We Choose - Best Baby Travel System
We know that the safety and comfort of your baby is your top priority so I personally have read through thousands of user reviews and star ratings and spoken to tons of Parents to find the best products out there for your little angel. As well as recommendations from other parents, I cross check facts with medical advice where necessary and the latest recommendations.
Babystyle Oyster 3
Why Parents Love It
Parents using the Oyster 3 travel system love that it can be used with a buggy board for their toddlers so it suits a growing family perfectly. The adjustable handlebar comes in handy for families with one parent a different height to the other (which was important in my case, I never appreciated how uncomfortable it can be for a tall person to hold a low handlebar until my husband hurt his back after a long day out with the pram!).
The Babystyle Oyster 3 travel bundle has a bassinet/carrycot and car seat so that baby can use it safely from newborn and comes with a Changing bag and Footmuff.
What You Need to Know
Size of the Stroller with Seat open : 77cm x 57 cm x 109 cm, Size of the Stroller (with wheels) folded with seat: 70cm x 57cm x 37cm
Weight of the frame with wheels and seat 12kg
Suitable from birth to approximately 15months.
comes with frame, Raincover, Carrycot, Changing bag, Footmuff, Multi Car seat adapters, Capsule i size Car seat and Duofix isofix base.
For Your Little One Million Dreams 3 in 1 Travel System
Best travel system for maneuverability
For Your Little One Million Dreams 3 in 1 Travel System
Why Parents Love It
Parents love how easy this travel system is to move around (you’d be surprised how often you’ll need to push your pram with just one hand, especially if you’re a dog owner!) and that it is durable and well made as well as the fact it was shortlisted for the Mother & Baby Awards 2022
The Million Dreams stroller system includes an ergonomic design which adapts to the car seat, a bassinet/ carrycot and a reversible pushchair seat unit with 3 recline positions so your little one can take a nap laying flat if you’re out and about at nap time.
What You Need to Know
Size 83 x 49 x 47 cm;
Weight 15kg
Suitable from birth to toddler (max weight for car seat is 15kg).
It comes with a frame, a lie-flat carrycot, a separate seat unit, a Group 0+ car seat for use from 0-15kg, pushchair raincover, changing bag, changing mat, shopping basket, and apron-style footmuff
Silver Cross Wayfarer 2020 Travel System
Why Parents Love It
Parents love that this travel system is bamboo lined so super soft and comfortable for baby, and we’d expect nothing less form a company that has been making prams for over a century! This system has the added bonus that the carrycot can be used for the occasional overnight sleep so it saves on space when travelling to stay with friends and family.
It is noted to be easy to clean, lightweight and simple to assemble and parents also love that the pushchair has a see through panel for baby to peek through.
An additional feature that parents love with the Silver Cross Wayfarer 2020 Travel System is that it comes with a fitted quilted apron which is great for colder weather and the rain cover comes with a storage bag (which is something I would have loved as I had trouble folding mine down and it usually took over my entire storage basket!) Not so for this travel system though which is also said to have a large storage area.
What You Need to Know
Size 90 x 54 x 107 cm;
Weight 10kg
Suitable from newborn to toddlers up to 22kg
While this system doesn’t have the car seat included, it does include a frame, carry cot, pushchair seat, Hood and quilted apron, shopping basket and raincover.
Maxi-Cosi Zelia Luxe 2-in-1
Why Parents Love It
Tall parents were huge fans of the Maxi-Cosi Zelia Luxe Travel System as the adjustable handlebar makes it comfortable to push the stroller. Parents raved about the ample storage, ease of folding up for travel and the stylish design.
This stroller has an integrated carry cot so that you don’t need an extra piece and is compatible with all maxi cosi car seats and car seat base (not included).
What You Need to Know
Size 76 x 55 x 31 cm;
Weight 12.8kg
Suitable from birth to 22kgs
A shopping basket and baby car seat adaptors are included.
Mamas & Papas Ocarro All Terrain Pushchair
Why Parents Love It
The best feature that parents love about the Mamas & Papas Ocarro All Terrain Pushchair is that it runs smoothly over rough terrain allowing baby to remain comfortable, especially with the soft-brushed flannel fabric and plush memory foam-style cushioning in the seat which lays back so that you can use for your newborn.
What You Need to Know
Size 101 x 59 x 101 cm
Weight 13.7kg
Suitable for newborn to weight 22kg
Includes the frame, seat, carrycot, a faux-fur teddy bear, a baby blanket, a tote bag, car seat adaptors and a cup holder
FAQs
In my experience shopping for a travel system is confusing and overwhelming, there are plenty of products out there but how do you know which is best for you and your baby? I have compiled some of the top questions around baby travel systems here for you to review.
Is it worth getting a travel system?
It will come down to a variety of factors including your budget, the kind of travel you plan to do, and the age and size of your child. That said, here are some pros and cons to help you decide if a travel system is right for you:
Pros:
- A travel system can be less bulky than lugging around a stroller and infant car seat separately.
- It can be easier to get your child in and out of the car with a travel system.
- Some parents find that a travel system is more maneuverable than a single stroller.
Cons:
- Travel systems can be more expensive than buying a stroller and car seat if you don't consider all the relevant factors such as how long the items will last your baby.
Which stroller is best for travelling?
There is no one "best" stroller for travelling. It depends on the type of travel you will be doing and your own personal preferences. Some factors to consider include weight, size, portability, and features.
If you will be doing a lot of walking or hiking, you'll want a lightweight stroller that is easy to fold up and carry with you. If you will be taking public transportation, a compact stroller would be ideal. If you have more money to spend, you might want a stroller with extra features like an adjustable sun canopy or a storage basket.
Ultimately, the best stroller for travelling is the one that best meets your individual needs and preferences.
Can I use car seat instead of carrycot?
You could use a car seat instead of a carrycot, but it is not recommended for any period of time over 2 hours until your baby is at least 6 months old.
A carrycot is designed to keep your baby in a flat position, which is better for their neck and spine. It is also well-ventilated, allowing air to circulate around your baby. A car seat does not offer either of these benefits.
How long does a travel system last?
It depends on the type of travel system. A typical travel system, which consists of a stroller and a car seat that attaches to the stroller, usually lasts until the child is around 3 years old. After that, you'll probably need to get a toddler or child seat. Some car seats can be used for children up to 10 years old or more.
Why do babies have to lie flat until 6 months?
Babies have to lie flat until 6 months because they can't yet hold their head up on their own. As babies learn to hold their heads up and strengthen the muscles in their necks, they will gradually be able to sit up, then stand, and eventually walk. Until then, it's important for them to stay in a lying position so that they don't strain their necks or vertebrae.
Do you need a carseat to take baby home from hospital?
Yes, it is the law in most countries that a baby must be in a carseat when riding in a vehicle. The only exception is if the baby is being transported in a ambulance.
Alternatively, if you don't drive you can usually leave the hospital with your baby in a pram.
What is I size travel system?
I size is a standard for baby car seats that was created in Europe. It's supposed to provide a safer and more comfortable ride for babies.
The biggest difference between I size and other car seat standards is that I size requires rear-facing installation until the baby is at least 15 months old and 20 pounds (9kg). Many American car seats don't have this requirement, which is why they're not considered I size compliant.
So if you're looking for a new car seat for your baby, be sure to choose one that meets the I size standard. That way you can be sure your child will have a safe and comfortable ride.
Is it better to get an infant car seat or convertible?
It depends on how long you plan to keep the seat. If you plan to keep it for less than five years, then a infant car seat would be a better option because it is lighter and easier to carry. However, convertible seats are a better investment because they can be used for both infants and toddlers, and they typically have a longer life span.
How long do babies stay in travel system car seat?
Most babies can stay in a travel system car seat until they weigh about 22 pounds (10kg) or reach the height of 29 inches (73.5cm).
However, it's always important to check with your car seat manufacturer to be sure that you are using the seat correctly and that it is still safe for your child to use. Many car seats now have a weight range of up to 30 or 35 pounds (13 - 16kg), so as your child gets closer to that weight limit, you'll want to make sure to switch them over to a regular car seat.
Can a newborn be in a car seat for 2 hours?
Yes. A newborn can be in a car seat for up to 2 hours. However, it is important to make sure that the baby is not in the sun, and to take frequent breaks so that the baby can move around.
What's the difference between ISOFIX and Isize?
Isofix is a system that anchors a car seat to the car, while isize is the European standard for car seats.
Isofix has two main benefits over using the seat belt to secure a car seat. First, it provides a more stable connection between the car seat and the car, which makes it less likely that the car seat will move around during a crash. Second, it takes up less space in the backseat of the car, which can be important if you have a small car or if you are using a taxi or Uber.
Speaking from experience, Isofix takes mere minutes to fit a car seat, whereas car seats without can literally take HOURS!
Most new cars come with Isofix anchors built into the seat, but you can also buy an aftermarket Isofix base that will work with any car seat
So, which baby travel system is the best?
There is no one "best" baby travel system. It really depends on your individual needs and preferences. Some factors to consider include the weight and size of the system, the type of stroller it includes, how easily it collapses and unfolds, and how comfortable it is for your baby.
The options I have presented above include all the details and features you could need after reading through thousands of reviews from verified customers on Amazon to find the best options for you.
I hope you’ve found the information above useful, as a first-time parent I often wish I had access to information like this so I want to help other parents through the minefield that is parenthood!
All of the baby travel systems above are available on Amazon so click ‘Check price on Amazon’ to see which travel system work best for your budget so you can shop today.
Thanks for reading!
