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• DTS is Operational Updated: 03/29/2024
• Authentication
• Document Signing
• Reporting Services
• Import/Export Services
• Receipt Services
• Travel Office Data Sync
• Ext: Air Availability (Google ITA)
• Ext: Accounting/Disbursement (GEX)
• Ext: Hotel/Car Availability (Sabre/Worldspan)
• Ext: Mileage Calculations (DTOD)
• Ext: Defense Lodging System (DLS)
• Ext: Archiving Services (DMDC)

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Defense Travel System

Your travel management hub for dod trips.

Military members and DoD Civilian personnel can book official travel and manage travel expenses.

How It Works

Book your travel.

with all the reservations you need, estimate expenses, and request advanced payments

Receive Approvals

for your travel plans and known expenses before and after you travel

Keep Records Up to Date

with your travel plans and expenses before and during your trip

Input Final Expenses

and attach receipts and records when you return from your trip

Get Reimbursed

back to your bank account, Government Travel Charge Card (GTCC), or both

DoD Travel News

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• Highlights of GovTravels 2024
• Rental Car Agreement #5 Effective April 1, 2024
• Top Performers Recognized for Excellence in Practice Awards at GovTravels 2024
• Sustainable Defense Travel – Travel Green on your next Official Trip

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Privacy and Ethics Policy

Please read the following DoD Privacy and Ethics Policy concerning DTS website, travel, and usage. By signing in to the DTS Systems, you agree to the terms and conditions of use.

STANDARD MANDATORY DOD NOTICE AND CONSENT

• The USG routinely intercepts and monitors communications on this IS for purposes including, but not limited to, penetration testing, COMSEC monitoring, network operations and defense, personnel misconduct (PM), law enforcement (LE), and counterintelligence (CI) investigations.
• At any time, the USG may inspect and seize data stored on this IS.
• Communications using, or data stored on, this IS are not private, are subject to routine monitoring, interception, and search, and may be disclosed or used for any USG-authorized purpose.
• This IS includes security measures (e.g., authentication and access controls) to protect USG interests--not for your personal benefit or privacy.
• Notwithstanding the above, using this IS does not constitute consent to PM, LE or CI investigative searching or monitoring of the content of privileged communications, or work product, related to personal representation or services by attorneys, psychotherapists, or clergy, and their assistants. Such communications and work product are private and confidential. See User Agreement for details.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITIES OF RECEIVING AND MAINTAINING PRIVACY ACT DATA

• Have completed the necessary training with regards to Security Awareness and Safeguarding Personally Identifiable Information.
• Ensure that data is not posted, stored or available in any way for uncontrolled access on any media.
• Ensure that data is protected at all times as required by the Privacy Act of 1974 (5 USC 552a(I)(3)) as amended and other applicable DoD regulatory and statutory authority; data will not be shared with offshore contractors; data from the application, or any information derived from the application, shall not be published, disclosed, released, revealed, shown, sold, rented, leased or loaned to anyone outside of the performance of official duties without prior DMDC approval.
• Delete or destroy data from downloaded reports upon completion of the requirement for their use on individual projects.
• Ensure data will not be used for marketing purposes.
• Ensure distribution of data from a DMDC application is restricted to those with a need-to-know. In no case shall data be shared with persons or entities that do not provide documented proof of a need-to-know.
• Be aware that criminal penalties under section 1106(a) of the Social Security Act (42 USC 1306(a)), including possible imprisonment, may apply with respect to any disclosure of information in the application(s) that is inconsistent with the terms of application access. The user further acknowledges that criminal penalties under the Privacy Act (5 USC 552a(I)(3)) may apply if it is determined that the user has knowingly and willfully obtained access to the application(s) under false pretenses.

Travelers must comply with the Federal and Departmental ethics rules when accepting travel benefits (i.e. goods, services, or payment) from non-Federal sources. For DoD personnel, see Joint Ethics Regulation, DoD 5500.7-R, Chapter 4. Travelers may keep items of nominal value (as defined in applicable ethics regulations). Travelers may also keep benefits received for voluntarily vacating a seat on an over-booked flight, but are not to vacate their seat if the Government would incur additional costs or if it would affect the mission.

PRIVACY ACT

AUTHORITY: 5 U.S.C. 57, Travel, Transportation, and Subsistence; DoD Directive 5100.87, Department of Defense Human Resources Activity; DoD Instruction 5154.31, Volume 3, Commercial Travel Management: Defense Travel System (DTS); DoD Financial Management Regulation 7000.14-R, Vol. 9, Defense Travel System Regulation, current edition; DoD Directive 4500.09E, Transportation and Traffic Management; DTR 4500.9-R, Defense Transportation Regulation, Parts I, Passenger Movement, II, Cargo Movement, III, Mobility, IV, Personal Property, V, Customs; 41 C.F.R. 300-304, The Federal Travel Regulation (FTR); Joint Travel Regulations, Uniformed Service Members and DoD Civilian Employees; and E.O. 9397 (SSN), as amended.

PRINCIPAL PURPOSE(S): The purpose of DTS is to provide a DoD-wide travel management process which will cover all official travel, from pre-travel arrangements to post-travel payments. The system facilitates the processing of official travel requests for DoD personnel and other individuals who travel pursuant to DoD travel orders. DTS provides information to financial systems to provide the reimbursement of travel expenses incurred by individuals while traveling on official business. DTS includes a tracking and reporting system whereby DoD can monitor the authorization, obligation, and payment for such travel.

ROUTINE USE: To Federal and private entities providing travel services for purposes of arranging transportation and lodging for those individuals authorized to travel at government expense on official business. To the Internal Revenue Service to provide information concerning the pay of travel allowances which are subject to federal income tax. To banking establishments for the purpose of confirming billing or expense data. See the applicable System of Records Notice for a complete listing of routine uses: DMDC 28 DoD, Defense Travel System (DTS) located at https://dpcld.defense.gov/Portals/49/Documents/Privacy/SORNs/OSDJS/DHRA-08-DoD.pdf .

DISCLOSURE: Voluntary, however, failure to provide all of the requested information may preclude the processing of both the travel request and the claim for reimbursement.

OMB CONTROL NUMBER: 0704-0577 OMB EXPIRATION DATE: 10/31/2024 AGENCY DISCLOSURE NOTICE The public reporting burden for this collection of information, 0704-0577, is estimated to average 10 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. Send comments regarding the burden estimate or burden reduction suggestions to the Department of Defense, Washington Headquarters Services, at [email protected]. Respondents should be aware that notwithstanding any other provision of law, no person shall be subject to any penalty for failing to comply with a collection of information if it does not display a currently valid OMB control number.

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Defense Travel System (DTS) Frequently Asked Questions

SEPTEMBER 29, 2023 – Air Force Reserve Command continues preparations to fully implement Defense Travel System Oct. 1, 2023 and transition away from legacy programs for its travel management needs.

Once implemented, the initiative is intended to reduce delays in processing since members will no longer have to rely on financial management specialists who are hundreds of miles away to review and approve vouchers for payment.

The following questions and answers are intended to assist Citizen Airmen as the Air Force Reserve Command transitions to increased use of the Defense Travel System effective Oct. 1, 2023.

Q. What is DTS? A: The Defense Travel System (DTS) is a fully integrated, automated, end-to-end travel management system that enables DoD travelers to create authorizations (TDY travel orders), prepare reservations, receive approvals, generate travel vouchers, and receive a split reimbursement between their bank accounts and the Government Travel Charge Card (GTCC).

Q: Why are we moving to DTS when My Travel will be mandatory in 2 years? A: Officials at AFRC are taking steps now to address longstanding Program, Policy and Training issues associated with official travel that are hindering the readiness for Citizen Airmen. Recent guidance was released that we will not be moving to MyTravel. Moving to DTS falls in line with the CAFR’s strategic priorities of “Ready Now” and “Transforming for the Future.” We are seeking to alleviate stressors on our Airmen now, which impacts readiness and retention.

Q: How will this change affect Citizen Airmen? A: AFRC is consolidating to a single platform for most all travel needs. Currently, we use AROWS-R to generate an AF Form 938 which populates with travel information and is our travel document for TDYs Annual Tour, MPA/RPA, etc. Once the change is implemented, the command will shift over entirely to DTS. The AF Form 938 will still be populated to “call Reservists to Active Duty via AROWS-R. However, it will not be used as a travel order as it been previously. The travel order will now be produced on a DD Form 1610 (generated in DTS).

Q. Who can I contact for assistance or questions concerning DTS? A: Every unit has an appointed Lead Defense Travel Administrator (LDTA). They are responsible to assist you in setting up your DTS account and ensuring you are receiving the proper DTS training and support. An Organization Defense Travel Administrator (ODTA) can also assist you to prepare an authorization and voucher.

Q: When can I expect more guidance on the transition to DTS? A: Officials at Air Force Reserve Command are providing guidance to Financial Management sections at units now so they can serve as local subject matter experts. They will also begin training LDTAs and ODTAs on the new functions that will be performed in DTS as part of the transition.

Q: What steps should I be taking today to prepare for the transition? A: Begin using DTS now. Log into DTS now and establish your profile. [Wing FMs} Prepare internal deadlines to and initiate measures to guide Airmen who are accustomed to using RTS on the new process.

Q: How is the command planning on implementing the change to DTS for all travel requirements? A: The goal is to fully transition to DTS by 1 Oct 23 with minor exceptions (i,e. attendance at BMT and PCS travel). Traditional Reservists and IMAs on MPA orders will follow guidance implemented Oct 22. The AF Form 938 will still be generated in AROWS-R and required for activation regardless of funding source (RPA, MPA, etc) after the 1 Oct transition.

Q: How are DTS documents processed? A: Documents are submitted, processed, and approved at the organization responsible for funding the travel. Once approved by the organizational approving official, the payment is electronically sent to the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) for payment via electronic funds transfer (EFT) to the traveler’s bank account.

Q: Will Air Reserve Technicians maintain dual profiles? A: Due to multiple business rule requirements, ARTs will maintain dual profiles.

Commander Support Staff

Q: What does the transition to DTS mean for employees in a unit’s CSS who typically generate orders? Will CSS representatives still produce orders or will the member be responsible for all aspects of the process? A: CSS/Orders writers will continue to generate orders in AROWS-R (AF Form 938) to bring members into a duty status. All travel will be accomplished in DTS (by the member).

Q: Is this statement still required on the AF Form 938? Alternate means such as Secure Video Teleconference (SVTC) or other web-based communications are not sufficient to accomplish travel objectives Development Team meetings of this size because the force development process requires significant, dedicated time for discussion and hands-on record reviews, and placement of students to correct courses. A: Yes

Q: Is UTAPS still required to forecast AT and IDTs or is UTAPS also sunsetting on 1 Oct 23? A: The transition to DTS will not effect UTAPS current requirements or processes.

DTS Use and Functions

Q: We have aircrew members who fly missions as a group. Does DTS allow personnel to submit a group authorization & voucher? A: Group authorization and group voucher training is available on the DTMO site.

Q: Does the AF Form 938 have to be processed and approved prior to initiating a travel authorization in DTS? A: Yes, the AF Form 938 needs to be attached to the DTS authorization for approval/authorization.

Q: DD Form 1610s have historically been created in AROWS-R. Will the DTS authorization replace the 1610 orders request? A: Yes. Members will be able to print their own DD Form 1610 after initiating their authorization in DTS. DD Form 1610s will be generated in DTS with the ability to print from the authorization.

Q: Travel is being turned of in AROWS-R soon. When members build their authorizations, will they have to select a budget label to coincide with their type of duty? A: Yes, the traveler or person creating the DTS authorization will select the Accounting/Budget label for accepted travel expenses.

Q: Will the new DTS transition allow for filing local vouchers within DTS? A: Yes, local vouchers will be filed in DTS.

Q: Will there be another step or review put in place on the authorizations to ensure the proper funding is being used depending on the status of the member as listed on the AF 938. A: Yes, Resource Advisors (RAs) can be added to the routing list if the unit chooses.

Q: Will Traditional Reservists (TRs) be responsible for building their own travel authorizations? A: Yes, end users will be responsible for building their own authorizations in DTS.

Q: Will DTS be updated to include “other mileage” rate? A: Officials at AFRC/FM are working through this process. Contact your local FM representative if you have questions on this issue.

Q: Can you please elaborate on why AROWS-R was not kept “as is” and adjustments made to simply route all applicable RTS orders to DTS? A: The move to take travel out of AROWS-R into DTS was a corporate decision. Separating the process of placing a member in military status (AF Form 938) and the travel process (DD Form 1610) better aligns the Reserve with Active Duty.

Q: Since we are not to use travel days for our AROWS-R requests, do units need to resubmit AROWS requests for FY24 that have already been submitted? For example, I have a member who signed up for school from 27 Nov 23 to 7 Dec 23 with a travel day at the beginning and end of the TDY. Do I need to cancel this order? A: Yes, all orders that were routed and approved without the manual workaround should be cancelled and resubmitted in AROWS-R using the new “Corporate City Limits” process.

Q: Is it possible to MOD those orders that were created previously and labeled as RTS? A: Orders currently routing to RTS should not be curtailed, MOD’d or cancelled. The change is for orders starting on or after 1 Oct 23 unless transitioned earlier.

Q: If an order that includes travel crosses over into FY24, should the unit cancel the order 30 Sep 23 and start a new one in its place? A: Any orders that started in AROWS-R for processing in RTS in FY23 and cross over into the new fiscal year should finish and be filed in RTS.

Budget and Lines of Accounting

Q: What DTS label will MPA mileage only orders use to tale the place of FC30 in PBAS? A: Use the same LOA as the other travel items on the authorization.

Q: Will DTS offer two Lines Of Accounting for centrally funded schools when members are authorized rental cars with a unit funded school LOA? A: Yes, DTS will accommodate multiple LOAs.

Q: If orders are mileage only then the LOA will not import into DTS. I have many active fund cites in AROWS. Will I have to build all those in DTS now? A: There will not be an import. Local vouchers will be processed for mileage only. We are working with the Budgets to see what level the LOAs need to be built at to allow the least amount of lines to be manually created.

Q: If non-corporate limits orders are cut as corporate (mileage only) will the travel obligate when the authorization is approved in DTS or when the DTS voucher is filed? I’m concerned with following the money on my SOF. A: Corporate Limits does not create any travel expense entitlement. This is the workaround to remove travel from AROWS-R without extensive programming. Additionally, for mileage only, the obligation will occur when the member submits a local voucher in DTS.

Q: Will Special Partial Payments be an option (to alleviate the member from having to file every 30 days)? A: Yes. DTS has an option in the authorization (for 46+ day orders) to schedule partial payments. As long as a voucher is not initiated, members can go into DTS and adjust their partial payments, as needed. Training available in Defense Travel System (DTS) Guide 2: Authorizations (pg. 80)

Q: From what we understand currently, any order that is under 45 days will not have the option in DTS to make partial payments. So, if a member is on a long tour order over 31 days but less than 45 and goes TDY multiple times while on that order, he/she will not be able to get paid for any of those trips until after the order is over and voucher submitted. A: If each TDY is a separate trip and return to PDS or Home Of Record between trips, the members should create a DTS authorization for the intent of the trave required – voucher will be created after trip competition.

Q: Officials at AFRC are going to turn travel off in AROWS-R effective 1 Oct 2023. When members build their authorizations, will they have to select a budget label to coincide with their type of duty? A: Yes, the traveler or person creating the DTS Authorization will select the Accounting/Budget Label for associated travel expenses

Q: Since mileage will not be paid through MILPAY anymore, will the mileage cost be obligated through DEAMS and if the member doesn’t want to complete a voucher for the mileage only will that cost show up on the UOO report? A: Mileage only will be a local voucher. Local vouchers will straight pay from the LOA in DEAMS, no UOO will be established. Additionally, Mileage Only is on the “Processes under Review” list – more to follow.

Q; If non-corporate limits orders are cut as corporate (mileage only) will the travel obligate when the authorization is approved in DTS or when the DTS voucher is filed? I’m concerned with following the money on my Status of Funds (SOF). A: Corporate Limits does not create any travel expense entitlement. This is the workaround to remove travel from AROWS-R without extensive programming. Additionally, for mileage only, the obligation will occur when the member submits a local voucher in DTS.

Q: If orders previously created are labeled as RTS during this transition, as you stated orders won’t stop, but is there a way to mod the original order to state DTS instead? A: Orders currently routing to RTS now should not be curtailed, mod’d, or cancelled. This change is for orders starting on or after 1 Oct 2023 unless transitioned earlier

Q: Are MOB/ACT orders going to be done the same way or will the FGC be loading the Auth in DTS since they do the 938? A: There will be no change to this process

Q: Regarding long tour orders: if duty crosses over into FY24, should the orders end in AROWS on 9/30 then pick it up in DTS starting 10/1? A: If a tour starts in AROWS you will continue the order in AROWS. (Note: Depending on the tour length, it may be deemed a Permanent Change of Station and PCS orders will not be processed in DTS).

Q: Who is copying/loading the budget in September/October? Are units responsible for this? A: Yes, units are responsible. FM shops are responsible for loading and maintaining budgets in DTS.

Authorizations

Q: How do I check the status of my authorization? A: Check document status by logging in to DTS. Go to “Official Travel” vouchers or authorization, and then look in the “Sort by Status” column. Or, go to the digital signature page within the document. If you can’t access to DTS, contact your Defense Travel Administrator (DTA) to check the status of your document. Find out from your supervisor who the DTA is for your organization.

Q: Why isn’t the Authorization built automatically in DTS like before (from AROWS-R)? A: AROWS-R will no longer “flow” into DTS and create an authorization. AROWS-R will be creating the “Call to Duty” AF938. This will be used to put a TR/IR in “active” status, and establish Military Pay. The AF938 will no longer serve as a travel authorization, so the “flow” to DTS will no longer exist. The 1610 (Travel Authorization document) will be generated in DTS when the authorization is built by the member (or the ODTA).

Q: What if: Member travels on a Sunday and performs Annual Tour Duty on Monday thru Thursday. On Friday, the member does an RMP and Saturday and Sunday are UTA days. The next Monday and Tuesday are back on Annual Tour. Wednesday is a AFTP day and member then departs the base on Wednesday and returns home. A: The orders specialist needs to zero out per diem and lodging for the days not on AT. The travel and “in-place” can be placed on one authorization. As with any authorization and voucher, be sure to add comments before signing so the reviewer and approver have an understanding of your specific situation. Lodging will not be included in the authorization since UTA lodging is a direct bill (Sunday night lodging can be manually adjusted if needed). The rest of the travel per diem can be established as usual. The zeroed out days will be achieved by selecting “Duty Days (no per diem). See link for quick instructional video

Q: What’s the process or workaround if we have members who don’t have CAC enabled computers at home? Several members don’t necessarily have the funds to purchase personal computers to ensure they can stay connected with the Reserve’s administrative processes. A: This will be a local decision for Wing CCs and likely to vary but can be completed by an NDEA. Defense Travel System regulations state NDEAs are authorized to input and digitally sign DTS vouchers for travelers who do not reasonably have access to computers.

Q: Who is considered FM for FM review where IDT travel reimbursement is concerned? Does this refer to those physically in the FM office or those who are FM coded? A: For the FM review, the person must actually be in the FM office.

Q: How will we track IDT trips in DTS per member to ensure they do not exceed 12? A: The process of tracking the number of IDT-Rs paid out to each member can be tracked by local policy/procedure.

Q: Will the LOA name for the IDT-R be up to the organization? If so, is it safe to assume the name could be different from other organizations? A: IDT-R Lines Of Accounting and routing lists will be established locally (not by AFRC).

Q: Is there a permission group that can be added to DTS for Read-Only visibility of unit members and where the vouchers are currently to verify if the vouchers moved as opposed to permission 5 that allows edits to the vouchers? A: No, Wing DTS Points Of Contact have access to reports to monitor document status. Members have the ability to view where their voucher is at any time. To do so, members simply need to open the voucher in DTS , click “View” on the applicable voucher and select “Sign and Submit” to get to the screen that shows the routing list and where the voucher is currently.

Q: Will there be another step or review put in place on the authorizations to ensure the proper funding is being utilized depending on the status the member is on as reflected on the AF Form 938 or ART/AGR status? A: Resource Advisors can be added to the routing list is the unit so chooses.

Inactive Duty Travel Reimbursement

Q: When it comes to meal expenses on IDT-R travel days, do we select the “Create Your Own Expense” line item or is there something more specific to this circumstance coming later? A: Until further notice, IDT-R meal expenses will be entered as a “Create Your Own Expense” line item.

Q: For IDTs, are members going to be charged CTO fees to book flights? The $500 usually doesn’t cover my providers flight and parking fee, so that would be an additional expense they would have to pay out of pocket.

Q: Reservists assigned to the Development & Training Flight are authorized IDT travel when attending UTAs prior to departing for Basic Military Training. Their Common Access Card will not allow them to access to complete required tasks. The ODTA could build their authorization but will not be able to sign the voucher. How will these individuals be able to finalize their vouchers to receive payments? A: IDT travel reimbursement for D&TF trainees will remain as it is currently which is within RTS.

Q: It appears IDT travel outside of normal commute will transition to DTS. Does this mean the Form 1164 is going away or will members still use it to request lodging reimbursement when not on the critical AFSC listing? A: Yes, the Form 1164 is going away. Additional guidance is provided in the updated IDT-R Guide (located on the AFRC/FM SharePoint site). Members will use a local voucher in DTS in lieu of a paper Form 1164. If a member is not on the approved IDT-R list, they will follow the normal process for securing lodging based on local policies/procedures. This process will not change.

Local Defense Travel Administrator/Organizational Defense Travel Administrator Functions Q: Every Air Force Reserve organization is authorized a position for a LDTA. Does that include tenant units (such as a unit that is being hosted by another AFRC unit)? A: As of 10 Aug 23, GSU/tenant locations who work under separate OBANs will be given the FDTA role to manage their funding in DTS.

Q: Tenants don’t have FDTAs – who will be responsible for loading the travel lines and funding? A: Wing LDTA/FMA offices will be loading LOAs and funding in DTS.

Q: Will AFRC FM train participation specialists on how to cut orders, FM Final Certifiers to review/approve orders, RPA and O&M Budget Analysts on when/how funds will be committed/obligated/move through the various accounting stages in DEAMS? A: AFRC FM will train the LDTAs on loading budgets in DTS. FM will be responsible for training their Wing establishing local policy and training their Wing on the process.

Q: Will the FMA side become FDTAs and have the responsibility of managing that function, or will we have the LDTA manage the LOA and budget label maintenance? A: It has been identified that the best practice is to have LDTAs/FMAs build LOAs in DTS and load funding for their Wing.

Orders/AF Form 938s Q: If orders previously created are labeled as RTS during this transition and will still be in effect, is there a way to MOD the initial order to route to DTS instead? A: Orders currently routing to RTS now should not be curtailed, modified or cancelled. This change is for orders starting on or after Oct. 1, 2023 unless transitioned earlier.

Q: Are MOB/ACT orders going to be generated the same way or will the Force Generation Center load the authorization in DTS since they produce the AF 938 for deployers? A: There will be no change to this process.

Q: If duty crosses over into FY24 on long tour orders, should the orders end in AROWS-R on Sept. 30, 2023 and then pick up in DTS on Oct. 1, 2023? A: If a tour starts in AROWS-R, it should be continued in AROWS-R (Depending on the tour length, it may be a PCS and PCS orders are not processed in DTS).

Q: What is the approximate amount of time it will take for a voucher to be paid after a member submits in DTS (Note: question is specifically asking the amount of time it will take from when the voucher is submitted by the member and not when it is AO approved until payment is received)? A: After a voucher is approved, members can expect payment within 3-5 business days. The amount of time it takes routing to Reviewer and Approver will vary by unit.

Special Circumstances (Deployments, Basic Military Training, etc.)

Q: What is the reason that deployment orders will not be moving to DTS? Is there an identified reason that is not allowing for it? AD creates the CED authorization directly in DTS; shouldn’t we as well? A: Deployments are on the “Processes under Review” list – more to come.

Q: When “review” for IDT reimbursement was mentioned, does that require utilization of the “process name” routing the way the Travel Agency book/submit steps are constructed or will units have to make an IDT routing list that includes FM review? A: AFRC/FM is still working through this process (suggesting the possibility of each unit creating IDT routing lists).

Q: For any member whose AFSC qualifies for the IDT reimbursement (up to $500) for residing outside the commuting distance for UTAs, will their reimbursement request be processed through the DTS “Local Voucher?” A: Yes, this will be processed in DTS. Officials from AFRC/FM are still working this issue.

Story by Lt. Col. James Wilson 919th Special Operations Wing Public Affairs

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Reference Materials

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Featured Training

Check out DTMO's most popular reference materials.

• DTA Manual [ZIP]
• DTS Guide 1: Getting Started [PDF]
• DTS Guide 2: Authorizations [PDF]
• DTS Guide 3: Vouchers [PDF]
• DTS Guide 4: Local Vouchers [PDF]
• DTS Guide 5: Group Authorizations [PDF]

Reference materials include information papers, tri-folds, guides, and manuals.

Information papers are targeted at users already familiar with a topic who may need a brief refresher. They typically provide step-by-step guidance for completing a specific task or action.

Like information papers, tri-folds typically provide topical information or step-by-step guidance in an organized, print-friendly format.

Guides provide procedural, topical, or role-specific information in a specific, focused format that is usually smaller than a full manual.

Manuals provide comprehensive instruction on travel and support procedures. Manuals include figures showing screen examples and information tables.

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Defense Travel System (DTS)

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Back in the day when you went TDY the front office or orderly room would help you fill out the orders form and it would get wet signed by whoever needed to sign it.  Sometime between then and now the Department of Defense transitioned to a universal system called Defense Travel System.  Instead of getting hard copy orders and walking them around your squadron for signatures, you have to log in and create your orders online.

Instead of getting out a type writer and manually entering all of the information for your orders on the form, you are logging in and creating your orders by using the DTS tools to state your itinerary, travel and lodging costs, and funding source.  There are pros and cons to this system.  The major pro is that you get paid much quicker after your travel is complete.

I don’t feel like doing a full tutorial now but one problem everyone seems to have is printing your orders in the DD Form 1610 format.  By default, your printed orders look like this:

Default Orders

This format has all of the information you need and is indeed a print-out of your orders.  As long as you have a “AUTH NO” in line 2) your orders are approved.  However, this is not the traditional format people are used to seeing.  In order to print out your orders in the traditional format follow the following steps.

Log in to DTS

Here is the link to DTS.  You can also find it in Air Force Portal:

https://dtsproweb.defensetravel.osd.mil/wl/site/index.jsp

Change Form Preferences

Once logged in, go to “Traveler Setup/Form Preferences.”

Change Authorizations, Cash Advance, and Voucher to “Govt + Form.”  Click the “Save Form Defaults” button at the bottom.

View Your Travel Orders

Return to the home page and go to Office Travel/Authorizations/Orders:

Select View/Edit for your trip, then select “Print”

If your settings saved correctly you should now see a DD Form 1610 populated with your trip information.

You should be good to go now!  Again just make sure all of your information on the form is correct.

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Travel System Strollers

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Three air-filled tires ready to tackle your workout & just about any terrain.

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Forward-facing, rear-facing, bassinet…made to grow with your little one.

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Able to add a second seat when you add a second family member.

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Make travelling with your baby a breeze with travel systems strollers, also known as a car seat stroller combo. Add to your baby registry or check out Target.com to find a car seat travel system, that includes a car seat base from Graco, Evenflo, Baby Trend, Britax, Chicco or Maxi-Cosi. Most travel systems include a car seat base, an adapter to attach it to the stroller frame plus accessories like a parent tray & child tray that make it easy to double it up as an infant jogging stroller and a toddler car seat. Whether you’re out for a walk with your baby or driving your kiddo around in the car, stroller systems with detachable car seats make the perfect choice for fuss-free rides. Designed with anti-rebound bars & multi-position seats for front-facing and parent-facing rides, these adaptive systems grow with your baby to ensure safe and comfy travels through their infant to toddler years. Browse through a large collection of strollers and find the right one for you and your little one.

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The 9 Best Stroller and Car Seat Combos for Families on the Go

Move your newborn seamlessly from the car to the stroller with these editor-tested travel systems.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Parents / Joy Kim

When a fussy newborn finally finds a comfortable snoozing position, the last thing you want to do is move them and potentially wake them up. This is where a great car seat and stroller combination comes in handy. Also known as a travel system, these are generally made up of an infant car seat and a matching stroller that work together. They allow you to move your infant car seat from its base in your car to your stroller where the seat would normally be. 

Most travel systems consist of two separate pieces (a car seat and a stroller) that work together or apart, but some newer versions are made up of a one-piece car seat that converts into a stroller. The best car seat and stroller combinations are safe, easy to use, easy to clean, and versatile. You also want to find a stroller that maneuvers well, even when a fully loaded car seat is attached. 

To find the best travel systems, we evaluated 23 highly rated models in our testing lab in Des Moines, Iowa. 11 editors and testers first assembled the strollers, when applicable, noting how intuitive that process was. Then, they took note of the stroller’s design features, looking at if the handlebar was adjustable, if the canopy was spacious, if the seat reclined, and more. We then installed the car seat bases into actual cars outside our lab, noting the ease of installation. Next, we loaded each car seat with a sandbag to mimic a baby’s weight and attached it to the car seat base, noting how intuitively it clicked in and detached, and if there were any level indicators (or an audible click) to let you know you’ve installed the car seat safely. We repeated this process with the strollers, observing if the car seats clicked in and out of their corresponding stroller easily. Then, testers took the travel systems for a spin, maneuvering them around tight corners and across multiple terrains to see how well they steer.

Since car seat and stroller combos can be on the pricier side—our picks range from $330 to $1,350—you really want an option that can be used for as long as possible. Many models can grow with your family and be used as a stroller for your toddler, or you can pass it down to a younger sibling.

Our Favorites

Best overall: britax b-free premium & b-safe gen2 flexfit plus travel system.

• Easiest to Use: UPPAbaby Cruz V2 + Mesa V2 Infant Travel System
• Best Luxury: Nuna MIXX Next + Pipa RX

Best for City Use: Doona Car Seat and Stroller

Best handling: chicco corso le modular travel system, best for growing families: graco modes nest2grow travel system, best compact: evenflo shyft dualride, best for your money: graco modes pramette travel system, best for shopping: graco modes nest travel system.

Why We Like It: Both the car seat and stroller feel durable and sturdy, and they’re easy to use all around. Plus, the three-point tire system makes the stroller a breeze to maneuver. 

But Take Note: Detaching the car seat from the stroller or the base requires the use of two hands. We also think the fabric storage bag on the stroller could be a little more sturdy. 

This premium Britax travel system earned the top spot on our list with its durable, strong feel and overall user-friendliness. Installing the car seat base into a vehicle is a total breeze—and when using the LATCH system, we were able to get it securely in the car in just about two minutes. The anti-rebound bar on the base offers another level of protection, and the easy-to-read level indicators offer a feeling of confidence about installation. 

A six-position harness and headrest are easy to adjust for your baby’s comfort. Plus, attaching the car seat to the base and stroller is extremely simple as well, as both can be done one-handed—then a satisfying click lets you know that it’s where it should be. To detach the car seat from the base and the stroller, you’ll need to use two hands: The button needs to be depressed while you are lifting the seat out of either option. Though we wish that weren’t the case, we do appreciate how sturdy the car seat feels when connected to the base and stroller.

The stroller is comfortable to use, thanks to an adjustable handlebar that lets caregivers of different heights navigate with ease. The rubber handlebar allows for a firm grip, too. A three-point tire system makes maneuvering over most super simple, though it did fall over when we tried to take it over a curb, so it might not be ideal for steps. We love that the wide canopy has a small mesh viewfinder so you can keep an eye on your baby, and the flap’s magnetic closures make it super easy to open or close. Your baby will love the softness of the fabric, while you’ll appreciate that it’s easy to wipe clean with water and a little bit of soap. 

We’re particularly impressed by how easy this stroller is to push around, even with a full car seat in it. “It feels substantial in a good way when pushing—not too heavy that it’s an inconvenience and not too light,” one editor noted. It also features a one-handed fold to close it, and it folds down to a fairly compact size. 

One thing we don’t love about the stroller is the fabric storage bag hanging off the handlebar. While it’s a great spot for holding extra items, we wish it were a bit more structured and sturdy—we felt like our items were just going to get lost at the bottom of it. Overall, though, we love how sturdy and high-quality this entire system is. 

One other thing to note is that although we tested and loved the premium version of this Britax travel system, it’s very hard to find retailers that sell it. The non-premium version is more readily available (and cheaper at $670). Both use the same stroller and car seat, and the biggest difference we can notice is that the premium version is made of a stain-resistant Nanotex fabric for easier cleaning and extra cushioning. 

The Details:

• Stroller weight: 20 pounds 
• Car seat weight: 11.6 pounds for car seat, 9 pounds for base 
• Stroller dimensions: 33 x 23 x 40 inches
• Car seat weight/height limits: 4-35 pounds, up to 32 inches 
• Stroller age/weight limit: For use from birth to 55 pounds

Easiest to Use: UPPAbaby Cruz V2 + Mesa V2 Infant Travel System

Why We Like It: Installing the car is very intuitive, and overall, the entire system was easy to use. We appreciate the sleek design and that it can grow with your child over time.

But Take Note: This is definitely on the more expensive side. We also had difficulty getting the canopy on the infant seat to stay attached and in place. 

In terms of ease of use, it’s hard to beat the UPPAbaby Cruz travel system. The stroller’s intuitive assembly, the straightforward installation of the car seat, and its thoughtful design meant that we barely needed to consult the instructions. The stroller came almost entirely put together in the box—all we had to do was pop on the wheels. We installed the base of the car seat with almost no problems, aside from figuring out how to get the latches to release on either side (but once we got it, we had no further issues). The no-rethread harness is easy to adjust, and there are storage pockets for harness buckles. 

Attaching and detaching the car seat into both the base and stroller is super simple: You push it down, and a loud click lets you know it’s in place. There are no attachments necessary. Detaching the car seat is also easy, as you push down on a button that releases the seat so you can lift it out. There is also a level indicator on the base that turns green when it’s leveled correctly, so you can be assured your baby is secure. If you’re switching between a toddler seat and an infant seat, that’s also easy, since the toddler seat comes out with the push of a button. 

The stroller is easy to use—the handlebar and seatback are adjustable—and we had no problems figuring everything out on our own. Its sleek, modern design is aesthetically pleasing, and the full-grain leather handlebar is a chic touch. We appreciate the large cargo area that easily holds a medium-sized diaper bag, although we did note that a bar in there makes it sort of impossible to hold anything too bulky and large. The stroller has a lightweight feel and folds in half easily, and though it’s on the pricier side, it comes with several extras: a rain canopy, a mesh canopy to keep bugs away, and an extendable sun shade for super sunny days. One thing we did notice is that we couldn’t get the canopy on the infant seat to stay up and attached, which was disappointing. 

Overall, the stroller was easy to push on all terrain, with a smooth glide and a lightweight feel that was still sturdy. We never felt like we were struggling to get it over any surface. The only thing we had trouble with was getting it up steps due to the large tires, but it was light enough to be picked up and carried. It’s also worth noting that the toddler seat has a pretty high weight capacity, so this can grow with your child as they get older, and the stroller can be used beyond the first year. And if you own the UPPAbaby Vista V2 stroller, this car seat is compatible with that as well. While this travel system is pricey, we think it’s worth the investment. 

• Stroller weight: 35 pounds 
• Car seat weight: 10 pounds for car seat, 19 pounds with base 
• Stroller dimensions: 22.75 x 37.5 x 40 inches 
• Stroller age/weight limit: Seat capacity is 50 pounds, storage basket capacity is 30 pounds

Best Luxury: Nuna MIXX Next + Pipa Lite RX

Pottery Barn Kids

Why We Like It: With an overall sleek and aesthetically pleasing design, this combo has a high-quality feel, grows with your child, and maneuvers like a dream.

But Take Note: We found that the base of the car seat was tricky to install into a vehicle. We also wish it came with more extra features to justify the high price point. 

If you don’t mind spending more, this Nuna travel system is a lightweight option, and the stroller couldn’t be easier to use and grows with your child. Both pieces have a high-end design and are made with luxe fabrics that feel soft, comfortable, and durable. The stroller came fully assembled—we only had to glance at the instructions to figure out how to unfold it, which was an easy process. The suspension system on the stroller gives it a super smooth ride and the rubber wheels have good traction. We also found that the overall lightweight feel made it extremely easy to maneuver it no matter where we were. The stroller can even fold closed with the toddler seat still in it, and it has an adjustable handlebar. We do wish that the cargo area were a little bit bigger, but it still holds a decently sized diaper bag. 

The car seat is impressively light at just under 7 pounds, making it one of the lightest options for an infant car seat. This makes it extremely easy to carry and move from the infant seat base to the stroller. Attaching the car seat to the base and stroller—as well as detaching it from both—was really simple, and we could do it one-handed with the press of a button. You can also easily adjust the infant seat or toddler seat to face forwards or backwards in the stroller. However, we did find that installing the car seat base is a little tricky. It took about 30 minutes to install the base, and we had to consult the manual and instructional videos to figure it out. Ultimately, we discovered that you have to be at a very specific angle to successfully use the LATCH system, and overall, this was and it was just a little more difficult than many other options we tested. 

Details like a leather carrying handle, magnetic buckle holders to keep straps out of the way, and no-rethread harnesses are all great touches. While we love how high-end this stroller and car seat combo feels, we do think it could have come with some extra features to make it worth the higher price point. The stroller does not have a storage bag at the handlebar or any cup holders, which would have been nice. However, we love the one-touch brake that keeps the stroller securely in place. Plus, the UPF 50+ canopy is water-repellent with an extendable sun shade, a flip-out eyeshade, a ventilation panel, and a peek-a-boo window to see your baby. 

• Stroller weight: 28.5 pounds 
• Car seat weight: 6.9 pounds without base 
• Stroller dimensions: 23.75 x 32.75 x 45.5 inches 
• Car seat weight/height limits: 4-32 pounds, up to 32 inches 
• Stroller age/weight limit: Birth to 50 pounds

Why We Like It: This is just one piece of gear, so it’s a convenient space saver and ideal for people who use ride-shares or public transportation often. 

But Take Note: This can be a little awkward to use since the handlebar is so low, and it doesn’t grow with your child as much as some other options. Using it also requires a little bit of a learning curve. 

The standout feature of the Doona is its innovative design: It is a one-piece car seat and stroller. You simply take the seat out of the base, unfold the wheels, pull up the handlebar, and it becomes a stroller. This not only makes it a space saver (you don’t need to store a stroller anywhere when the car seat is in use) but also makes it ideal for city dwellers and people who use ride-shares or public transportation frequently. 

That said, this combo definitely comes with a little bit of a learning curve. During our first try, we found it a little tricky to figure out how to release the wheels down, although once we knew how to do it, it was actually pretty simple. We also had trouble figuring out how to attach and detach the seat from the base. Instead of clicking a button on the seat to release it from the base, you have to click a button on the base, which isn’t intuitive. But again, once we figured it out, it was simple to do. 

Overall, we’re impressed with how easily this stroller maneuvers and how well it takes corners. It offered a pretty smooth glide on most terrains, although its lack of suspension made us dubious of how it would perform on a rocky or bumpy surface. It’s pretty small and narrow, so it’s easy to navigate crowded spaces and tight spots. While the stroller is comfortable and straightforward to clean, it doesn’t feature any sort of storage basket or cup holder, and the seat does not recline. The handle is short, so it’s a little awkward to handle, especially if you’re on the taller side. We also found the car seat to be pretty heavy: One tester found that the weight made it awkward to lift up when clicking it into the base. 

It’s also worth noting that the Doona does not grow with your baby the way other combos do. This one doesn’t have a toddler seat, since it’s all one piece, so it will only be sufficient until your baby reaches 35 pounds. Overall, this is a niche piece of gear that won’t be the best choice for some families, but if you live in the city and plan on bringing your baby out often, it’s a game-changer. 

• Stroller/car seat weight: 17 pounds 
• Stroller dimensions: 17.3 x 23.6 x 26 inches  
• Car seat and stroller weight/height limits: 4-35 pounds, up to 32 inches

Parents / Dera Burreson

Why We Like It: With a sleek design, convenient extra features, and a stroller that maneuvers easily on almost any terrain, this is easy to use and grows with your child.  

But Take Note: This combo requires a separate attachment to get the car seat onto the stroller, so it cannot be attached or detached one-handed. 

This Chicco Corso travel system looks and feels more expensive than it is. It’s easy to use all around, and the stroller handles turns and various terrains extremely well. We really like the trendy design with the mixed colors and leather accents, but we’re even more impressed that installing the car seat base into the vehicle using the LATCH system only took us a few minutes. We had no problem attaching and detaching the car seat to the base with one hand, and throughout the process, each piece felt sturdy and secure. To detach, you simply pull up the lever and lift it out of the seat, and it doesn’t require any wiggling, like some other brands. 

The stroller also comes with several convenient features: It includes a cup holder, a removable handlebar for kids, and an extendable canopy for full sun coverage. Plus, the spacious cargo area holds a lot of stuff. We appreciate the simple one-handed fold (“It is awesome that this can be done with a baby on your hip at the same time,” one editor noted), and since the stroller stays upright when folded, it’ll stay cleaner than if it were lying down.

Even when a loaded car seat is locked in and the cargo space is full, this travel system moves seamlessly. It did surprisingly well on almost every surface we drove it on; the only time we had a small issue was when going over a crumbling sidewalk. Otherwise, we’re impressed with its maneuverability.

One thing to note is that this combo requires a separate piece to click the car seat into the stroller. While this attachment is included with your purchase, it does mean that you have to use two hands when you’re putting the car seat and stroller together, as well as when you’re connecting the car seat and base. The stroller grows with your child, with a comfortable toddler seat that can be used forwards or backwards, and you get a lot for the price. “It is everything I’d hope for in a car seat stroller combo and exceeded my expectations,” a tester raved.  

• Stroller weight: 18.7 pounds, 24.8 pounds with toddler seat
• Car seat weight: 10 pounds for seat, 18.5 pounds with base 
• Stroller dimensions: 34.5 x 24.8 x 42.8 inches
• Stroller age/weight limit: Not listed

Why We Like It: Intuitive installation and assembly make this one easy to put together, and it can convert into a double stroller if needed, making it ideal for families with two small children. 

But Take Note: It’s heavy and bulky, and doesn’t offer the smoothest ride. We also found it difficult to attach the car seat to the stroller, especially with a baby inside. 

What we really love about this Graco travel system is that it’s ideal for families with two small children. When you use the included infant car seat and toddler seat, this can easily convert into a double stroller . You can also separately purchase a bassinet attachment for an infant. Basically, this is a four-in-one stroller that truly grows alongside your family and can be used for years to come.

Assembling the stroller and installing the car seat into its base is straightforward. We were able to assemble the stroller most of the way without looking at the instructions. While installing the car seat with the LATCH system is a breeze, the seat belt method was a little more difficult because the openings to thread the seat belt through are narrow. It was also tricky to remove the base from the car since you have to unhook the LATCH connectors, so it’s really best to keep the base in one spot. If you are going to be switching the car seat between cars, we don’t feel this is the best option. 

It’s easy to detach the car seat from the stroller since you just push a button on the back of the seat and lift it up. Attaching it, on the other hand, was more complicated, and it took us some practice to be able to smoothly position the car seat so it clicks into place. You have to adjust the seat to the exact right angle on the stroller, which makes us feel a little weary with a baby inside. 

The stroller offers a huge cargo area that holds a lot of gear, and its leather accents make it look more expensive than it is. We also like the adjustable handlebar and easy fold. However, it’s important to note that this travel system is heavy and bulky. Turning it when fully loaded was a challenge, and it requires a lot of effort to push. It’s not super portable and doesn’t glide as smoothly as we’d like due to its weight. Because of this, though the system feels super solid and protective. “Nothing can drive this tank off the road,” one editor said. “You feel like your baby is safe.” So if you don’t mind a bulky, heavy stroller, then this can be a good thing. The travel system’s biggest selling point, though, is that grows with your family: For an infant, you can use the included car seat or bassinet attachment ( sold separately ), and as your kid gets older, they can ride in the toddler seat. Or, you can convert it into a double stroller to accommodate siblings.

• Stroller weight: 30.6 pounds 
• Car seat weight: 7.5 pounds without base 
• Stroller dimensions: 50.38 x 26.38 x 50.25 inches ‎
• Stroller age/weight limit: Up to 50 pounds

Why We Like It: This one-piece option is compact and great for parents who are always on the go or want a space-saver, and it has a nice ride that makes it easy to push in different terrains. 

But Take Note: To remove the car seat from the stroller frame, it must be clicked into the car seat base. This isn’t intuitive, and it could be inconvenient for families on the go.

Like the Doona, the Evenflo Shyft DualRide is more of a one-piece item: Once it’s out of the base, the car seat unfolds into a stroller, then folds back down again to go back into the base. This makes it a more compact option compared to the other two-piece travel systems since you don’t have to worry about storing a stroller when it’s not in use. This is a great option for parents who are always on the go and don’t want to have to deal with a bulkier stroller. Assembly is simple, as is installing the car seat base into your vehicle using the LATCH system. 

The easiest way to use this system is to remove the car seat from the base and unfold it into a stroller. Unlike the Doon, removing the actual car seat from the stroller base is possible (and necessary to adjust the straps), but it’s a complicated process: You can only do it when the entire set is attached to the base in the vehicle. So if you’re on the go and away from your car, you won’t be able to remove the infant carrier from the stroller frame, which isn’t an intuitive design.

We found it mostly easy to attach and detach the car seat from the base—you just pull a white lever to release the seat and pop it back in when needed. A loud click confirms when it is secure to the base and a level indicator lets you know it’s in the right position. However, we did find that the wheels are a little wonky and have to be slightly adjusted to ensure everything locks into place. 

Folding and unfolding this into a stroller requires a little bit of a learning curve, but once figured out, it’s fairly simple. Folding it requires you to push the wheels down or apply some pressure, so while not entirely seamless, it’s also not extremely difficult. Overall, the stroller feels solid and sturdy, and the canopy is thick and durable. The handlebar is about an inch and a half taller than the Doona, which makes a difference. While we struggled a bit to get the stroller over sand, we otherwise found it to offer a smooth ride. 

One thing to point out is that we had trouble adjusting the belts in the car seat and adjusting the strap length. There is a tiny button you have to press on the bottom of the car seat to adjust or loosen the straps, and doing that with a baby in the seat is difficult (this is where you need to remove the infant carrier from the stroller base, which we struggled with). A nice touch is the sensor technology on the buckle that lets you know if they’re buckled in correctly or if the child is left unattended or in the seat for too long. This also comes with a removable carryall storage bag and a parent cup holder, which is a nice bonus. 

• Product weight: 29 pounds 
• Stroller dimensions: 18 x 18 x 31 inches 
• Car seat/stroller weight/height limits: 3-35 pounds, up to 32 inches

Why We Like It: This is one of the most inexpensive travel systems out there, and it offers a smooth ride and plenty of storage space. We also love that it grows with your little one. 

But Take Note: We had a little trouble assembling the stroller. 

If you want a travel system but don’t want to spend a lot, this Graco system is your best option. We found that it works just as well as other more expensive travel systems and looks nice, too, making it an excellent value. While we did have a little trouble assembling the stroller, installing the car seat base into the vehicle using the LATCH system is a simple process that only took us a few moments. The car seat felt secure when we were done, and it’s fairly lightweight at just about 10 pounds. 

Attaching the car seat to the base is a breeze: Just pop it in without much force, and a clicking noise lets you know it’s stable. (There’s no need to break a sweat adjusting it to an odd angle, like some other options.) We found detaching the car seat slightly more tricky, as you need to press a button on the base that is nearly buried under the canopy. But, the seat pops right in and out of the stroller and clicks when it’s in securely. To detach it from the stroller, you push a lever on the back of the seat up, which we were able to do one-handed. We could attach the toddler seat one-handed as well, but detaching it requires two hands. 

As far as the design of the stroller, we’re impressed with the quality. While the fabric isn’t the most luxe, it gets the job done and is nice enough. The cargo area is pretty big and holds a lot of items, and we appreciate the extra features, like a phone holder and cup holder. Folding it is easy, but not something that can be done one-handed. The canopy is easy to adjust and the toddler seat can recline and face forwards or backwards, but we do wish the handlebar was adjustable. 

The stroller offers a very smooth ride and was easy to navigate around corners and through narrow spaces. It is also pretty lightweight, and even when loaded with a child and items, it was easy to maneuver and didn’t feel much harder than when it was empty. Overall, you get a lot for a reasonable price. “My baby doesn’t wake up when I take him in and out of the car to the stroller, and I can put it together and apart by myself so quickly that my 5-year-old doesn’t get impatient,” our tester reported. It checks most of the boxes at a budget-friendly price. 

• Stroller weight: 20.9 pounds 
• Car seat weight: 9.8 pounds without base 
• Stroller dimensions: 23.5 x 34.5 x 44.75 inches

Why We Like It: This glides smoothly and has some convenient features that make it a good option for running errands. 

But Take Note: It’s a little heavy to push, especially with a child inside the infant seat. 

This budget-friendly Graco travel system is easy to use and offers ample storage space. With some guidance from the manual, installing the car seat was mostly simple, but we did have some difficulty assembling the stroller and had to consult the instructions several times. We had no trouble installing the car seat base into the vehicle using the LATCH system, though it also feels secure when installing it with a seat belt. Attaching and detaching the car seat and toddler seat into the stroller is easy: Both snap into the frame with a click that lets you know it’s in correctly. And, attaching and detaching the car seat to its base is similarly easy, with a click that lets you know it’s secure. At just 7.5 pounds, this car seat is very lightweight, so it’s a great option if you plan to carry it around often.

The stroller glides pretty smoothly and drove well over different terrains. It was also surprisingly easy to lift up a flight of stairs. While it feels light on its own, it definitely feels heavier to push with a child inside. So this isn’t your best lightweight pick. We also struggled to figure out how to unfold the stroller, and that process requires two hands. 

That said, it has some nice features that are worth pointing out. The cargo area is massive and can hold a lot of items, from a diaper bag to your groceries. (This is particularly useful for city dwellers who walk to the store.) It comes with cup holders for the parent and toddler, as well as a snack tray. We appreciate that you can move the seat up or down to your preferred height, and though the fabric does feel a little scratchy, it looks pricier than it is. 

This is a secure and durable travel system that will last for years. It comes in at a reasonable price point, and we feel confident you’ll get your money’s worth. 

• Stroller weight: 21.96 pounds 
• Car seat weight: 7.5 pounds
• Stroller dimensions: 38 x 26.77 x 41.85 inches 

Other Notable Stroller Car Seat Combos

• Chicco Bravo Trio Travel System : This stroller is sturdy with large wheels that offer a pretty smooth ride. It was very easy to install the car seat base into our vehicle, and it’s fairly simple to attach the car seat to the stroller one-handed. You need two hands to detach it, though. A major downside was that one of the back wheels wasn’t secure: It would roll around and go out of place while pushing the stroller, which was not only inconvenient but didn’t seem safe. It was also pretty heavy, and we’d prefer something more lightweight.  
• Baby Jogger City Sights Travel System : We really like the sleek and modern design of this travel system. Assembly was easy and installation was mostly simple, aside from the fact that we initially couldn’t find the base clips needed to secure it into place. However, we did have difficulty folding it and felt the cargo area was small. It also requires an attachment in order to get the car seat onto the stroller, which is an added step in assembly. And although it had a nice ride, we didn’t feel it had enough features to be worth the steep $900 price point—if you’re going to splurge, we recommend the Uppababy Cruz V2 and Mesa V2 combo or the Nuna Mixx Next travel system.
• Baby Trend Expedition Jogger Travel System : Although this travel system is inexpensive and the stroller was easy to use, it wasn’t sturdy or secure enough for us to feel comfortable putting our kids in it. The car seat felt wobbly when attached to the stroller, and we also didn’t like that there weren’t any clicks or levers indicating that the car seat was installed correctly in the base, It offered an okay ride on smooth surfaces, but wasn’t impressive on gravel or grass. 

Our Testing Process

To find the very best stroller and car seat combinations, 11 testers evaluated 23 highly rated models from top brands in our testing lab in Des Moines, Iowa. Our criteria included the ease of assembly of the stroller, ease of installation of the car seat into the base, ease of use when using both pieces together, design and features, maneuverability of the stroller, and the overall value of the entire travel system. To simulate the weight of a baby, we placed sandbags in the car seat. For strollers that came unassembled, we timed how long it took to put it together. 

When looking at the installation of the car seat, we timed how long it took to install the base into the car using the seat belt or LATCH system, paying attention to how simple it was to click the car seat into the base and remove it. We noted whether these things could be done one-handed, and if doing so jostled the seat enough to potentially wake a sleeping baby. To assess how the two products work together, we noted if the seat popped easily into the stroller (and if this could be done one-handed) and if the sandbag inside the seat was jostled during the process. 

In terms of design, we considered the weight of the car seat and how easy it was to handle. For the stroller, we considered how the fabric felt, the various features it had (like cup holders and recline positions), how adjustable it was, and how much it held in the cargo area. We walked the stroller around to check how well it held up on various terrains and noted how stable it felt, even going up and down steps. To determine overall value, we considered whether each travel system offers enough to justify its price. 

After the lab test, we selected the nine top performers and sent them home with our editors to use with their own babies, asking them to look at the same criteria. They also evaluated how these travel systems perform in the real world and how well they hold up over time. They’ve been using them for over two months now, and we’ll continue to update this article as we learn more.

We also consulted experts on safety tips and features to keep in mind when shopping: Petra Stanton , car safety seat installer and trainer at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, Florida; and Kelly Moriarty , Injury Prevention Coordinator at Novant Health in Charlotte, North Carolina.   

Factors to Consider When Buying a Stroller Car Seat Combo

There are a few things to think about when shopping for a great travel system. Consider your lifestyle, how often you’ll be using it, and what you’re trying to gain from it. 

Age, Weight, and Size Limits

Read the label and instructions carefully and pay attention to the age, weight, and size limits for both the car seat and the stroller. Most of the stroller and car seat combos out there use infant car seats that have weight limits of 35 pounds and are only meant to be used in the first 12 months of a baby’s life. Of course, these limits will vary depending on the product and brand. 

Strollers vary more in weight and size limits, and if they come with a separate toddler seat aside from the car seat, check those limits to see how long you’ll be able to use it. “Keep in mind that your child may be ready to transition into a larger car seat in the first year of life, so look at the stroller and decide how easy and convenient it will be to use the stroller after the child outgrows the car seat,” says Stanton. “Thinking ahead is the key here.” 

Stroller Size and Portability

In general, most parents want a stroller that is fairly compact, easy to store when not in use, narrow enough to fit through most doorways, and portable enough to be taken almost anywhere. Bulky, large strollers may quickly feel inconvenient. “If the combo is very heavy or the stroller is very heavy, it may be challenging for a caregiver to fold and transition on their own,” says Stanton. 

The best size depends on your preferred method of transport, too. If you frequently use public transportation or ride shares, “Pick a combo that allows you to remove the car seat and fold the stroller easily,” says Stanton. If you tend to travel by car, Moriarty points out that you need to think about how well the stroller fits in your car, since that’s where it will be stashed a lot of the time. Consider how easily it folds and how large it is when folded. 

Comfort and Design

It’s easy to focus on the fun features a stroller offers, but it’s more important to think about how comfortable it is to use. “Make sure the stroller is a good height and that you are able to operate it comfortably,” says Moriarty. Plus, a car seat that can be attached to or detached from the base and stroller with just one hand makes it a lot more simple for caregivers with their hands full. If these processes require two hands, it may not be the best option, especially if you have more than one child. 

Stanton points out the advantages of using a car seat that transitions into a stroller, explaining they are particularly useful for families who use rideshares and public transportation or switch between caregivers. “These are one product. The wheels are attached to the car seat and therefore the parent can easily fold the system into the car seat that can be used in the vehicle,” she says. This makes them more naturally portable. Lastly, consider how versatile the travel system is. Can the stroller be used with a seat for a toddler after your baby sizes out of the infant seat? Does it have convenient features like cup holders, sun shades, and a large cargo basket? These are all things that can make using the stroller a better experience. 

Ease of Use 

A lot goes into a stroller and car seat combo. You want to make sure it’s easy to use at all times, whether you’re assembling the stroller, installing the car seat into the vehicle, or attaching and detaching the car seat to the stroller. Consider the weight of the stroller and the car seat in terms of lifting, carrying, and also pushing. You’ll want buttons and levers that are easy to push, but not so easy that a child could do it, Moriarty says. Pay attention to how easy it is to attach and detach the pieces together. Ideally, you should be able to do it one-handed with little to no adjusting. And since safety is the biggest priority, “Ease of car seat installation is one of the main points to look for,” Moriarty says. You want to make sure it is safely installed, or it may not work properly in a crash or a sudden stop. 

Maneuverability

When you receive your stroller, push it around as much as possible to see how well it rides. Consider how durable it seems, noting if the wheels are sturdy enough to be pushed over a variety of terrains, like grass, gravel, and the sidewalk. See how easily it turns, and take note of what terrain it’s meant for. You want your stroller to be easy to push, even if you’ve reached the max weight limit. 

How to Use Infant Car Seats and Strollers Safely

Don’t assume that learning how to use your car seat and stroller is intuitive. “Read the manual that comes with it to make sure you are using the products correctly, from strapping the child in properly to correctly installing the carrier in your car,” Moriarty urges. “Remember to pay attention to and follow weight and size limits.” 

Keep the American Academy of Pediatrics’ (AAP) safety guidelines in mind when installing the infant car seat base into your vehicle: You can use either the seat belt or LATCH system, but regardless of the method you choose, make sure the car seat is tightly secured with no wiggle room. The safest spot for a car seat is in the backseat, with the middle seat preferred if possible. Look for safety features like load legs and anti-rebound bars that can reduce the side effects of a crash. Remember that infants should ride in a rear-facing car seat for as long as possible until they max out on height or weight. If you are unsure of how well you installed the seat or experienced an issue, don’t hesitate to consult a professional. “Find a local nationally certified car seat technician in your area,” says Stanton. “The list of technicians can be found on cert.safekids.org . If there are none in your area, look for technicians who offer virtual education.” 

When using a car seat and stroller combo, remember to always make sure you are clicking the car seat into the stroller correctly. Ensure it is secure and will not move around or slip off. Also, don’t completely replace the stroller seat with the car seat. “Car seats are for riding in cars, not all-day stays,” Stanton warns. “While it’s easy to keep the baby sleeping in the car seat, it may not be the safest choice. Safe sleep research shows that babies are safest in their empty beds on their backs.” So, it may be beneficial to opt for a travel system that also has a bassinet attachment for safer sleeping on the go. 

Other safety tips include always keeping your baby properly harnessed in the car seat—even when outside of the vehicle. And once your baby starts sitting up, it might be time to switch to the stroller seat alone so they can sit more comfortably, says Stanton. Also, always check the Consumer Products Safety Commission’s site for recall notices. You can register your car seat and stroller to get notifications about any safety recalls. 

Your Questions, Answered

What age is a travel system best for.

Both Stanton and Moriarty agree that car seat and stroller combos work best for infants. This is because they typically include an infant car seat that is often not used after the first 12 months of a baby’s life. That said, you may find a travel system that has a stroller with a toddler seat that can be used for several more years. Look for this versatile feature if you want to get the most for your money. 

Are stroller car seat combos safe?

The short answer? Yes. As Stanton points out, the infant car seats that come as part of a travel system have to meet the same federal safety standards for use in a vehicle in the United States as car seats that don’t come in travel systems. She recommends looking for labels on the side of the car seat to see how it meets federal motor vehicle standards. As long as you purchase a legitimate travel system where the car seat is meant to click into the stroller, it should be safe, if used properly. If you are purchasing a system online or buying something used, make sure the car seat and stroller are meant to work together and have not been recalled. 

Is it worth it to buy an infant car seat and stroller together?

This really depends on your lifestyle. Travel systems are very convenient for families and caregivers who are often on the go. Think practically about how many times you’ll need to click your car seat into a stroller. If you plan on running a lot of errands with your baby or taking them out a lot, it might be really helpful. If you don’t plan on doing this, it’s not necessary—you can just purchase a separate car seat and stroller. Also, if you find the entire system too frustrating to use, then it isn’t worth the money. 

Jessica Booth is a freelance writer who covers parenting, shopping, wellness, entertainment, and wedding content. She has been freelance writing since 2017 and before that worked as an editor at an online publication for seven years. She has written for sites such as Brides, People, Insider, Bustle, Romper, Refinery 29, Cosmopolitan, Delish, The Daily Beast, Reviewed, She Knows, Scary Mommy, The Knot, and What to Expect. She also has two young daughters and has been through several different strollers, car seats, and a travel system herself.

Car Seats: Information for Families. American Academy of Pediatrics

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Xi Wing (Rostov System)

• 1 Mission Layout
• 3 The Memoirs of Lieutenant Colonel Carl T. LaFong
• 4 Preflight Conversations
• 5 Mission Briefing
• 6 Mission Debriefing

Mission Layout

The memoirs of lieutenant colonel carl t. lafong.

While we'd been successful in halting the supply ships the Kilrathi had deployed throughout the system, their military presence was increasing daily. Tactical had reported several new bogies in the system, including a Ralari-class destroyer. Eliminating the Ralari was critical to our success.

Before we even hit the mission briefing, I met with Iceman. After yesterday, when I'd ordered a head-on attack against the Dralthi, I'd sensed he was holding something back. It was hard to tell with Iceman since he was so quiet all the time.

"I know I made a mistake out there yesterday, Iceman, and I appreciate your calling my attention to it before we met another enemy wing. I'm glad it was you on my wing. I know the wingman's role is to protect the wingleader and obey orders, but you're the real veteran in the wing and I'm always ready to listen," I said.

"No problem," was his characteristic reply. "Let's go."

We decided to take advantage of the asteroid field and try to use it as cover to ambush the Ralari. We were well on our way when two wings of Salthi seemed to appear out of nowhere. The smaller wing of two Salthi was closer, so I ordered a break and attack, hit the afterburners, and raced into battle. I wanted to take the first two out fast and then turn our attention to the three Salthi that were furthest away.

The Salthi pilots were good, very good, but the light fighters just didn't carry enough firepower to pose much of a threat to our Raptors. They could be pesky, since their speed and acceleration were excellent compared with our heavy fighters, but it doesn't take many shots from the neutrons to destroy the 1.5-cm left and right armor. The only chance they had was to hang on until the odds were 5-2. They didn't make it that long.

Iceman scored with two perfect shots from the full guns. It took me a little longer to down my target, but I might have been overly cautious after Iceman's warning the day before. I was giving the same respect to the Salthi that I usually reserved for the Kilrathi's heavy fighters. The comparison pales, since the Salthi only carries two laser cannons and a dumb-fire. The heavy fighters, especially the Jalthi, are heavily armed.

We turned on the last three ships and I ordered Iceman to attack my target. We could breeze right through these guys with our combined guns, and that's exactly what happened. We just evaded their first run, hit the afterburners to stay on their rear when they turned, and blasted away. Nothing to it.

I wish our next dogfight had been as easy. When we first saw the Ralari and the escort wing, we couldn't tell what type of fighters was providing protection. As soon as the first six-gun salvo headed our way, we knew they were Jalthi. They always present a formidable challenge.

Since there were four enemies, I ordered a break and attack and left Iceman to his own devices. I circled behind the Ralari, hoping to use it as a shield, but its turreted lasers locked on and sent my front shield reeling. I headed dead away from the enemy, with a Jalthi on my tail, to let the front shields regenerate and keep my intact rear shields towards the heavy fighter. Their strength dipped as well when a double shot of laser fire tore into me. It was time to go on the offensive.

I rolled left, turned hard to the right, and hit the afterburners to reverse direction and coem back from above the Jalthi. He was ready, but by the time he had me in his sights, I had scored with three shots. When he turned to regroup, I was on his butt and firing full guns. That's all it took.

"Help me out here!" I heard Iceman yell. Three Jalthi were giving him fits. I burned straight toward him, turned right to begin a slide, then hit backspace to put on the brakes. Keeping my speed set to 0 KPS and just using afterburners, a tactic the Kilrathi hadn't seen before, gave me the edge and I blasted two Jalthi while Iceman took out a third. It was full guns all the way.

I used the same tactic on the Ralari that I use on all capital ships, but I fired all my missiles first, and turned off when I was about 2000 meters from the target. The Ralari sends a lot of laser fire to the rear and I wanted to stay out of range. Once my missiles were expended, I switched to neutrons and, with Iceman, continued the attack. It took awhile, but she lit up like a shower of fireworks on the Fourth of July.

Preflight Conversations

Talk to SHOTGLASS

Talk to KNIGHT

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Mission Briefing

Mission Briefing. Rostov System, 12:00 hours, 2654.284.

Mission Debriefing

Mission Debriefing. 15:00 hours, 2654.284.

Hangar Deck. 17:00 hours, 2654.285.

Filled with pride, Maverick meets the applause of his fellows.

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