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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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  • Best Strollers

The 5 Best Stroller and Car Seat Combos

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Searching for the best stroller and infant car seat combo? We considered over 100 strollers and compatible car seats before purchasing 17 popular options for testing in combination with award-winning infant seat carriers to determine which combinations are the best. We understand how confusing trying to combine products from different brands or even the same brand can be. We've done the research so you can get the details you need to find the best combo for your family. Whether you hope for a stroller for the long haul or worry about ease of car seat attachment, you'll find the information you need to create a great stroller and car seat combo.

Want to find out more about the best strollers or the best full-size strollers ? We've tested lots of options across categories, including the best jogging strollers , top-ranked umbrella strollers , and the best double strollers . If your baby is too big for an infant car seat, you'll need to find a top-ranked convertible car seat instead.

Top 17 Product Ratings

Best overall combo, uppababy cruz v2 combo.

Editors' Choice Award

  • Ease Of Attaching Car Seat 8.0
  • Ease Of Use 7.0
  • Weight/Folded Size 6.0
  • Quality 7.0
  • Maneuverability 7.0

The UPPAbaby Cruz v2 Combo is an excellent stroller to combine with an infant car seat. It includes a smaller and relatively lightweight frame and easy car seat attachment. Plus, it is compatible with many top car seat brands that click to attach. The Cruz folds easily and is light enough for most parents to lift and carry. It also folds small enough to fit in most cars. This stroller is an excellent choice for parents who want to buy a single, full-size stroller for the long haul and value a high-quality product that is easy to use and works well as a travel system.

The list price for the Cruz might seem high compared to a traditional frame stroller or a pre-combined travel system. However, it is on par or average for a full-size stroller (with many more expensive options on the market). We believe the ability to use it from birth through the toddler years makes it a great value that could be your one-and-done stroller if you don't plan to jog or head off-road with your baby. If you want something of similar quality but don't want the larger size of the Cruz, the UPPAbaby Minu Combo is a smaller UPPAbaby with useful features for travel and everyday use. The Cruz is a stroller we would purchase and recommend to our friends for its car seat compatibility, impressive test results across reviews, and high-quality features.

Read more: UPPAbaby Cruz v2 Combo review

stroller and car seat combo - best overall combo

Great Lightweight Combo

Uppababy minu combo.

uppababy minu combo stroller and car seat combo review

  • Weight/Folded Size 9.0
  • Quality 6.0
  • Maneuverability 5.0

The UPPAbaby Minu is a stylish, lightweight stroller that folds small and weighs little when used with an infant car seat. The Minu works with car seats from UPPAbaby, Maxi-Cosi, Nuna, and Cybex, allowing parents to choose from a wider variety of options than those strollers that only accept their car seat brand. This stroller has a quick adapter and seat attachment, and we had no trouble in our attachment tests. The canopy on the stroller works with the car seat and has an impressive storage basket weight allowance of 20 lbs.

The Minu is somewhat spendy for what it is. So, parents on a tight budget may want to steer clear unless they need a travel or commuter special. Moving off flat and hard surfaces is also more challenging, making life potentially harder if you plan to or need to go off the beaten path. If you want something somewhat bigger for everyday errands or easier to maneuver, then the UPPAbaby Cruz v2 Combo is one to read more about. Overall, it is tough to beat the Minu and its quality features if you need a lightweight stroller for future travel or a good commuter you can use with an infant car seat.

Read more: UPPAbaby Minu Combo review

stroller and car seat combo - great lightweight combo

Budget-friendly Full-size

Evenflo pivot xpand combo.

Best Value Award

  • Weight/Folded Size 2.0

The Evenflo Pivot Xpand Combo is a versatile multi-seater with a very friendly price for what it offers. This stroller works with two infant car seats, and if you choose Evenflo brand options, the adapters are built-in and easy to use. This design makes the Xpand one of the few to consider if you expect twins. Other adapters are available, and all click in place with no straps.

This stroller is on the heavier side and somewhat large when folded, so if space is limited, you may want to take some measurements before you take the plunge. If your budget can stretch, the UPAbaby Cruz v2 Combo is a great choice with higher performance in most metrics. Overall, the Evenflo stroller is tough to beat for multiple children, with quick car seat attachment and great ease of use.

Read more: Evenflo Pivot Xpand Combo review

stroller and car seat combo - budget-friendly full-size

Best Bang for the Frame Stroller Buck

Chicco keyfit caddy.

chicco keyfit caddy stroller and car seat combo review

  • Ease Of Attaching Car Seat 9.0
  • Quality 3.0
  • Maneuverability 4.0

The Chicco Keyfit Caddy is a wallet-friendly frame stroller that works with Chicco Keyfit infant car seat carriers. This compact, easy-to-fold stow option is a straightforward alternative to carrying your car seat or being forced into choosing your primary stroller too soon. This product offers a quick and easy car seat connection and a parent console for those quick-grab items. The carriers snap in the frame and require no straps for secure attachment.

All frame strollers have a limited lifespan of roughly nine months, or however long your little one fits in their infant car seat, which could make this a no-go for anyone looking for a one-and-done solution. If you don't plan to jog, the UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Combo could be a one-and-done as the frame component is lightweight and the storage basket is huge. However, if you aren't sure what kind of stroller you'll need or want for your strolling years, then the Caddy could be the ticket to a stress-free first nine months of getting around with your baby and car seat before making a bigger commitment to a more expensive option you might use for years to come.

Read more: Chicco Keyfit Caddy review

stroller and car seat combo - best bang for the frame stroller buck

Taxi Game Changer

Doona combo.

Top Pick Award

  • Ease Of Attaching Car Seat 10.0
  • Ease Of Use 5.0
  • Weight/Folded Size 10.0

The Doona Combo is an innovative product where the stroller and car seat are the same product. This unique, niche-filling piece of gear is a one-and-done infant transportation solution for families who live in the big city or frequent public transportation and travel. We love that the Doona is a car seat and a stroller so city parents can safely buckle their baby into a taxi and then hit the ground strolling at their destination. There is no need to worry about two different products, where the stroller will go, who will hold it, or how it folds.

The Doona isn't suitable for all families, thanks to its limited 6-9 months lifespan and a higher price tag. However, we think it fills a niche for urban parents who may not otherwise use a car seat in a taxi or want the convenience of taking their baby out on the town without the hassle of managing two items. If you want a higher-ranking car seat with better crash test analysis results, the Chicco Keyfit Caddy could be more useful as it allows connection with higher-ranking car seats. Unfortunately, purchasing the Doona requires purchasing another stroller once your baby has outgrown the car seat. Parents will want to keep this in mind if their budget or long-term costs are a concern. However, for city dwellers, this may be the solution they are looking for, and it is worth the money to keep a baby safe in public transportation.

Read more: Doona Combo review

stroller and car seat combo - taxi game changer

Notable Option

Not all strollers excel at working with car seats. However, if you want to purchase only one stroller for your strolling years and you hope to use it occasionally with your infant car seat, you may consider options you don't see in the award-winning group. If your main goal is jogging, running, or off-road trailblazing, one such notable stroller is the Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo as it functions in several capacities that could result in the potential for a one-and-done purchase. Alternatively, you might consider the Britax B-Lively for a smaller, easy-for-travel, full-size option.

Budget-friendly but Limited

Britax b-lively combo.

britax b-lively combo stroller and car seat combo review

  • Weight/Folded Size 7.0
  • Maneuverability 6.0

The Britax B-Lively Combo is an attractive budget-minded stroller with useful features and the ability to work with an infant car seat. This stroller has a comfortable sling-style seat, a large canopy, an easy-access storage bin, and rear canopy pockets for quick access items. The B-Lively folds quickly and compactly, making it suitable for travel and smaller spaces.

The B-Lively only works with Britax infant car seats, which is limiting and hurts its chances of winning an award. Traditionally, the Britax seats haven't fared that well in our infant car seat review, so it is difficult for us to say we'd necessarily recommend this combination to a friend. However, the B-Lively is a good stroller, and the Britax seats meet the safety requirements of an infant car seat. If you already have a compatible Britax seat or plan to purchase one, then the B-Lively is certainly a stroller to consider, especially if you have an eye on the budget.

Read more: Britax B-Lively Combo review

stroller and car seat combo - the b-lively works well with the b-safe car seat as it sits snuggly...

Compare Products

stroller and car seat combo - the doona is a quality product and while not as nice as some of the...

How We Test Stroller and Car Seat Combos

The combo testing took place at BabyGearLab and on outings with little ones in the real world. The review includes our in-depth product research and real-world experience gained from years of experience from testers who compare each combination to the competition, including capturing the differences from one car seat to another on the same stroller. Our daily use testing helps determine which competitors are the best combinations, easy to use, navigate, and bring quality materials to the table.

The strollers and the compatible car seats were tested and compared. Wherever possible, we test the strollers with their native brand car seat and at least one other product, usually the Chicco Keyfit 30 because it is top-ranked with a reasonable price that is also popular. We emphasize the metric scores for ease of car seat attachment and weight and folded size in the overall rating because we believe they are the most important for this kind of gear.

Why You Should Trust Us

The BabyGearLab car seat and stroller combo testers are led by our founder, Dr. Spurrier . Juliet is a Board Certified Pediatrician, a mom of two, and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Dr. Spurrier's background as a pediatrician, education, and years of experience as a mom helps her create BabyGearLab's safety standards. She approves all product selections and has the final word on testing procedures. Our stroller and car seat combo team lead, Bob Wofford, is the Senior Research Analyst here at BabyGearLab. Bob is the dad to 7 children and has led our car seat and stroller testing almost since the beginning. The combo team also includes Wendy Schmitz, Senior Review Editor, and mother of two. Wendy has researched and reviewed over 200 strollers and car seats plus their combinations since 2014. Rounding out our combo review team is Senior Review Editor, Abriah Wofford . Abriah joined BabyGearLab testers in 2015, and this is her fifth time participating in the combo review. This team has over 20 years of collective experience testing car seats and strollers of all kinds.

How to Choose a Stroller and Car Seat Combo

Finding a compatible stroller and infant car seat can be challenging if you want to build your own travel system and aren't interested in making compromises on either product. Often, strollers accept car seats from the same brand, but many offer compatibility with competing brands with the purchase of a car seat adapter.

Pick Your Car Seat

Because car seats are a safety consideration, we don't think you should compromise your seat. This means choosing the best safety seat first. Our best infant car seat review can provide the details you need on ease of installation, ease of use, and crash test analysis.

Consider Your Family and Lifesytle

To find the best stroller, you need to consider your family size or plans for growth. Need a double stroller? Love to jog? Have twins? These are important factors in choosing the right stroller. Other considerations could be the size of your vehicle or home and how well your chosen stroller will fit into your lifestyle.

Make a Match

Once you have your car seat and know what kind of stroller would be the best match, you can then investigate which strollers on your shortlist will work with your chosen car seat. This is often only a few options and your budget can help finalize your choice.

The Rambler car seat connection includes the metal bar and the red...

Analysis and Test Results

Using a stroller with your infant car seat can make getting around with your baby more comfortable. Seamlessly transferring your little one from the car to a stroller can make leaving the house more accessible and convenient. It also helps keep your baby peacefully asleep while you manage errands and outings with greater ease. We think most parents will appreciate the convenience of a great stroller and car seat combo .

Finding an exceptional value in this group can be challenging as you need to consider each component in the combination's price to get the final price. We love the Chicco Keyfit 30 car seat if budget is a concern. Typically, it is less expensive than competing seats while maintaining a higher safety and performance level. Also, if your long-term budget is a concern, you may want to avoid purchasing a short-term use product like a frame stroller or the Doona , which will last only nine months, requiring the purchase of another stroller. The Keyfit 30 is also compatible with most of the top-ranked strollers. An option like the UPPAbaby Cruz v2 may be ideal as it works well with the Chicco car seat, and its lifespan lasts as long as your little one needs a stroller. This longer life makes it a good value as it can potentially act as your only stroller. If you plan to jog later and want to buy only one stroller, the Thule Urban Glide 2 is a suitable choice that won awards in several reviews and works as a clip-in with a Chicco adapter. If you require a stroller for travel or commuting, then the UPPAbaby Minu can be considered budget-friendly because it fills two needs in one purchase, a car seat frame stroller, and a compact traveler. If your short-term budget is more of a concern, and you aren't sure about your later strolling needs, then the Chicco Keyfit Caddy can meet short-term goals. You can always skip combining products by wearing your baby and waiting to make your stroller purchase until your little one outgrows their infant car seat carrier.

stroller and car seat combo - the infant carrier or adapters (depending on the car seat) attach to...

Ease of Car Seat Attachment

The best car seat attachments almost feel like they install themselves with minimal effort required beyond shifting the carrier from the car to the stroller. We like the stroller and car seat pairings with a click-in-only attachment as opposed to those that require a second step of strap attachment. The strollers and adapters that create an easy drop-in/on the connection that requires little pressure translate to fewer opportunities for mistakes. These combos score higher than those with obstructions or that can be installed incorrectly. Any installation that includes restraint straps lost points, as the straps inherently have a higher margin for error (intentional or accidental). We worry parents will forget or intentionally skip using the straps as the carrier often feels secure without them (always follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid injury).

The Chicco Keyfit Caddy also impresses in this metric. This dedicated frame product is designed for Chicco brand infant seats. The carrier opening requires only a small amount of pressure to connect with an audible click, and there are no obstructions. The UPPAbaby strollers also performed well in our tests. However, two of the UPPAbaby options are full-size, which hurt their overall rank in a category where being lightweight is critical. The UPPAbaby Minu is light enough to compete with the frame strollers.

stroller and car seat combo

Alternatively, the universal frame stroller, Baby Trend Snap-N-Go Ex disappoints as it requires straps to attach the seat. The carrier sits in a strap net, and the rim of the car seat rests on the edge of the stroller, then more straps attach over the center of the carrier to secure it to the frame. Theoretically, the bottom straps only need adjustment once, but the top straps need adjustment with each use. We worry parents will nestle the carrier in the frame and skip the straps because it feels secure even though it isn't.

The BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Combo also disappoints with a 2-step attachment process that includes clicking in place and straps that go over the carrier's bottom portion. This two-step attachment is particularly worrisome because some parents consider the click step as secure enough. After all, the car seat feels secure once attached. However, the manufacturer includes the straps for a reason, and we think it would be negligent but very tempting for parents to forgo them. This lack of detailed attention could have disastrous results. Depending on your car seat choice, the Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo has a similar click and strap design with some of its adapters; others are click-in only, and we recommend the one-step method over the combinations that require straps. The BOB Alterrain Pro has a 3-part adapter with no straps for a jogger with a click-in-only attachment for all car seats.

The Doona beats them all with a car seat permanently attached to the stroller as one product. This unique little product skips the attachment process as the stroller components are part of the car seat in a design like no other. We like that you can't make mistakes affixing your carrier to the stroller, and there are no adapters or additional components to lose with this all-in-one product. However, it has a shorter lifespan (6-9 months), so you'll need to purchase a second stroller when your baby outgrows the infant car seat.

stroller and car seat combo - the cruz folds surprisingly small for a full-size stroller. it is...

Weight and Folded Size

There is nothing better than a frame stroller regarding weight and folded size. Frame strollers are lightweight, easy to lift, and compact. Given that some new moms often have a weight restriction on how much they can lift, a frame stroller could be the only option they can manage, and the lower price tag makes it a good value.

However, many parents skip a frame stroller because it has a short life of only about nine months. Alternatively, some of the full-size strollers are lightweight and work about as well as a frame stroller, so many parents prefer to buy an option they can use for a more extended period.

If finding the lightest product is your primary goal, look no further than the Chicco Keyfit Caddy . This dedicated frame stroller has fewer features but weighs only 11 lbs. While weight is critical, we believe most parents would prefer less weight to carry instead of coping with a hard-to-use stroller. Not convinced a frame option is best for you? You're in luck. The UPPAbaby Minu is a lightweight option that is close to 12 lbs when prepped for a car seat and works through toddlerhood as a lightweight stroller, extending its useful years by more than three.

stroller and car seat combo - the b-free fold is only bested by that of the britax b-agile with a...

The Chicco Keyfit Caddy is about 7,628 inches when folded, making it relatively small. The UPPAbaby Minu Combo is smaller, with a size of 6,610 when folded. In comparison, the full-size Britax B-Free Combo is 6,674 cubic inches, weighing 22.6 lbs. A good option that is not too heavy and not too big (much like the story of Goldilocks and the 3 Bears) is the UPPAbaby Cruz v2 Combo , with the lowest full-size stroller weight of 15.25 lbs and a folded size of about 7,860 cubic inches. This product will also last for the baby's entire strolling years, so theoretically, you may not need to buy another stroller (unless you plan to jog).

stroller and car seat combo

The Doona Combo is about 16.5 lbs, which sounds heavy, but the weight includes the car seat and the stroller portion for an overall lighter total package. The folded size is slightly larger than an infant car seat, and because you will be using it as your car seat, you don't need to think about where the stroller can fit or stow. So while the Doona is going to be heftier to put into and take out of the car, it has the lightest combined weight for a car seat and stroller and prevents the need for prolonged infant car seat carrying.

stroller and car seat combo - the minu folds in thirds so it is compact and squat, but thick...

The most substantial product in the group is the BOB Alterrain Pro , weighing over 33 lbs with a size measuring over 17,357 cubic inches.

stroller and car seat combo - the cruz has foam-filled rubber wheels and the v2 includes larger...

Maneuverability

While maneuverability is vital in a stroller you plan to use for the long haul, it is less critical for the first nine months when you'll be using a stroller and car seat combo. Because your baby doesn't weigh that much, and you should stick to hard flat surfaces where maneuverability is less of an issue, you can manage with a less agile stroller without feeling the frustration of using a poorly designed option.

If your primary goal is to find a great stroller and car seat combination, then choosing a stroller based solely on this metric might not be wise. However, using this metric to help you decide between similar options might be useful as it can impact your everyday experience. We tested maneuverability in typical scenarios and through obstacle courses that simulate tight situations (like supermarket aisles) to see which products allow for one-handed pushing, tight turns, quick responsiveness, and curb hopping.

If you think a frame stroller is the best for you, be aware that none of them performed that well in this metric. They all have smaller plastic wheels and other limited features for pushing on flat or paved surfaces only. However, the relatively light weight of a newborn makes pushing any stroller relatively easy. Also, it is less likely that you'll encounter rough surfaces on strolls with your baby because you should avoid them until little ones have more muscle control over their necks and core. When your little one outgrows their infant seat, you can replace the frame stroller with a full-size or jogging stroller that offers more features and functionality, including better maneuverability. The Doona is similar in functionality to a frame stroller, and its small plastic wheels managed a relatively high score for maneuverability with a 7 of 10. This ease of pushing score makes it one of the better choices for lightweight strollers.

stroller and car seat combo

The top performers for maneuverability in this review aren't surprising. They include the Thule Urban Glide 2 Combo , BOB Alterrain Pro , Baby Jogger City Mini GT 2 Combo , and the BOB Revolution Flex Combo 3.0 , all with rubber tires and a single front wheel. These options are easy to push (even one-handed) and have the versatility of a swivel front wheel for stores and errands. While the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0, BOB Alterrain Pro, and the Thule Urban Glide 2 are easy to push, they are also hefty and cumbersome when folded, making them an imperfect match for an infant car seat. The metrics for weight and folded size, and ease of car seat attachment influenced the final score more than maneuverability, so the top-ranking strollers didn't perform that well in this metric. The Baby Jogger City Mini GT 2 is smaller than the joggers, but it isn't the best overall performer and has only one use, strolling.

The Chicco Keyfit Caddy earned a lower score for maneuverability, but it is better than the other frame strollers thanks to its single wheel per leg design. The UPPAbaby Minu wasn't super impressive either, but it isn't the worst. The * UPPAbaby Vista v2 Combo , UPPAbaby Cruz v2 Combo , and the Doona Combo provide frustration-free pushing with higher maneuverability scores in this group.

stroller and car seat combo - the minu storage bin is relatively large for a travel stroller with...

Ease of Use

Features and overall functionality are the ease of use consideration. If it impacts your daily experience, this is where it is considered. We perform tests designed to determine how well the stroller and car seat combos work together.

We compare sunshades, storage bins, and other convenience items like cup holders, parent's consoles, and child trays. For the canopy, we consider the SPF, size, ventilation, adjustability, and peek-a-boo window. Though for some strollers, the canopy does not work with the car seat in place. We compare storage size, shape, accessibility, and maximum weight allowance.

stroller and car seat combo - the giant storage basket on the vista v2 is easy to access and has a...

Several strollers require sunshade removal, and other canopies catch on the car seat when you attach them. Even though it is useful to utilize the stroller canopy with the carrier sunshade, we think the extra weight and potential hindrance usually negate the benefit. We found that those without sunshades are typically easier to manage, especially when folding. The frame products lack sunshades, but the infant carriers usually have them, so we think parents won't miss them. The UPPAbaby Cruz v2, Vista v2, BOB Alterrain Pro , and the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 are the largest. Neither of the full-size stroller UPPAbaby canopies remains on the stroller when used with an infant carrier, but the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 and the BOB Alterrain do. The UPPAbaby Minu Combo canopy stays attached to the stroller and works well with the infant car seat to create cocoon-like protection when used with the carrier canopy.

stroller and car seat combo - the uppababy cruz storage bin (left) is considerably larger than the...

The biggest storage bins in the review are the UPPAbaby Cruz v2 Combo and the UPPAbaby Vista Combo with a max of 30 lbs each. The UPPAbaby Minu is right behind with a 20 lbs allowance. No other products come close to these capacities. The Chicco Keyfit Caddy holds up to 10 lbs, which is the average for the group. If you plan to carry your diaper bag and not much else, then 10-11 lbs will work. If shopping and errands are in your plans, then the UPPAbaby strollers might be better choices.

stroller and car seat combo - folding the caddy begins with the pull of the lock release handle.

The Chicco Keyfit Caddy and the Baby Trend Snap-N-Go EX Universal score well for convenience, sporting parent consoles with cup holders. Both are nothing special with relatively shallow cup holders, but they do check the box. The UPPAbaby Cruz v2 Combo fails to impress with no other conveniences. Still, at least the 30 lbs over-sized bin on the Cruz v2 Combo helps make the lack of other convenience features easier to swallow. We understand most parents want a cup holder. However, in our experience, objects often fall from cup holders and can land on the baby. We think it is smarter to use an option without a holder or purchase a side cup holder that helps keeps the contents out of baby range. The Doona Combo earned the lowest score for ease of use. This specialty product's lack of storage and convenience features and the smaller canopy hurt its ease of use results. So while it isn't challenging to use, it lacks what many consider necessities.

stroller and car seat combo - the vista v2 is a streamlined, minimalist stroller.

Quality encompasses the materials, design, and construction of each competitor. While some options use aluminum frames and rubber tires, others have plastic wheels and rough, unfinished-feeling components. Our tests only include the quality of the stroller component, not the combo's car seat portion.

Top-quality marks go to the Thule Urban Glide 2 and the BOB Alterrain Pro . The BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 , and the UPPAbaby Vista v2 Combo are just behind. These products have rubber tires, suspension, wrapped adjustable handlebars, and sturdy fabric that fits nicely with no loose threads or scrunchy material. The UPPAbaby Cruz v2 and the Doona are similar to the top scorers but have slight variations in materials and design that left them somewhat short in comparison. The UPPAbaby Vista v2 frame and handlebar are akin to the UPPAbaby Cruz v2 but a little more defined and sleeker. The Baby Jogger City Mini GT 2 Combo has better than average foam-filled rubber tires. Still, they are smaller than the pneumatic tires on the Thule and BOB, which are better quality overall.

stroller and car seat combo - the graco snugrider elite, shown here with the graco snugride...

On the lower side, you'll find the Baby Trend Snap 'n Go , which struggles for quality compared to the other options. It has a flexing frame, visible connection points, and no attention to detail. While it suffers compared to the more expensive options, it also doesn't need to last as long. The Graco SnugRider Elite earned the same low result with what appears to be unfinished plastic parts with rough edges and plastic shavings attached to the stroller.

Ease of Setup

The difficulty level of setting up your stroller might feel critical initially, but it is something you only do once in the lifetime of your stroller. In our opinion, this makes it noteworthy but not a major deciding factor in which product to choose compared to other metrics like ease of use or maneuverability. We think knowing the assembly details is helpful, so you know what you're in for, but frankly, most of the products were simple enough, and many don't even require tools.

The easiest to assemble is the UPPAbaby Cruz v2 Combo . This UPPAbaby includes a helpful quick-start guide that makes the intuitive setup straightforward and trouble-free. It took us around 5 minutes to put the Cruz v2 together, with much of that time spent unpacking. The UPPAbaby Vista v2 , UPPAbaby Minu , Thule Urban Glide 2 , Baby Trend Snap-N-Go EX Universal , and the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 were also easy to assemble. The Donna is the real standout, with no assembly.

stroller and car seat combo - some options tested over the years for stroller and car seat...

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9 Best Car Seat and Stroller Combos, Tested by Experts

These travel systems make it a snap to transition your baby from the car to the stroller and back again.

best car seat and stroller combos

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Typically, a travel system is a two-piece set featuring an infant car seat that clips into a matching stroller. However, there is also a great one-piece combo and some three-piece sets. Whatever the configuration, owning one of these means your infant can stay in the car seat buckled in and undisturbed.

Our top picks:

Infant Car Seat & Latch Base

Best Overall Car Seat and Stroller Combo

Doona infant car seat & latch base.

Smooth Ride Travel System

Best Value Car Seat and Stroller Combo

Safety 1st smooth ride travel system.

Pivot Vizor Travel System with LiteMax Infant Car Seat

Best Car Seat and Stroller Combo With Bassinet Mode

Evenflo pivot vizor travel system with litemax infant car seat.

Willow Brook S+ Travel System

Best Car Seat With a Rebound Bar and Stroller Combo

Britax willow brook s+ travel system.

Bravo 3-in-1 Trio Travel System

Best Full-size Car Seat and Stroller Combo

Chicco bravo 3-in-1 trio travel system.

Vista V2 Stroller & Mesa Infant Car Seat

Best Luxury Car Seat and Stroller Combo

Uppababy vista v2 stroller & mesa infant car seat.

PIPA urbn + TRVL Travel System

Best Lightweight Car Seat Stroller Combo

Nuna pipa urbn + trvl travel system.

Expedition Jogger Travel System

Best Car Seat and Jogger Stroller Combo

Baby trend expedition jogger travel system.

Modes Nest Travel System

Most Adjustable Car Seat and Stroller Combo

Graco modes nest travel system.

Our Good Housekeeping Institute experts have evaluated more than two dozen stroller and car seat combos based on ease of use, safety features, functionality and value. "You may initially be concerned regarding the safety of a car seat and stroller combination," says Rachel Rothman , a mom of three and mechanical engineer who has evaluated children's products for more than 15 years. "Rest assured, all car seats and strollers are required to meet federal standards. So if there is a system, it will have to adhere to the necessary protocols as a car seat and a stroller."

It's extremely important to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines for safe usage, including ensuring your child is within the appropriate weight and height limits. A travel system should last a couple of years, from the newborn months (many regular strollers start at 6 months, but you can use a car seat on its matching stroller from birth) until past the second birthday.

One note: Travel systems feature rear-facing-only infant car seats . If you're looking to invest in a convertible car seat or an all-in-one car seat that will eventually turn forward-facing, those are build to stay in the car — they do not snap onto a stroller. There are no car seat/stroller combos for extended-use seats.

Doona Infant Car Seat & Latch Base

The Doona infant car seat and latch base is a favorite (90 percent of its Amazon reviews are five-star ones) for many reasons. Unlike a traditional two-piece travel system, this is essentially a rear-facing car seat on wheels. The wheels fold up underneath for car seat mode and drop down for stroller mode — the transition only takes a few seconds. Because this is a car seat and stroller in one, you have less gear to contend with.

While this means that the car seat is heavy at 16.5 pounds, reviewers love the simplicity. Rothman says the device "is a game-changer, notably for city families and parents who travel frequently." It can work safely with its base or without (making use of a backseat's seat belts in a ride share, for instance), so it is especially prized for those parents who are moving between different vehicles often. Tilt the handle toward the rear seatback and it forms an anti-rebound bar for added safety.

We think this is the best car seat stroller combo for flying. The Doona is cleared for airplane travel but is a tight squeeze in some airplane seats; if you don't take it onboard, you can wheel it right up to the gate and gate check it. "This is the easiest stroller to maneuver through airport security and in a terminal," said one mom with two young kids. "Then we snap it right into a car without having to fit both a stroller and luggage into the trunk."

If you don't travel much, you may not enjoy the full benefits of the Doona. Also, most babies outgrow the Doona by about their second birthday. At that point, most Doona-owning parents switch to a lightweight stroller .

The Safety 1st car seat and stroller combo is lightweight and easy to maneuver — and only $200 . Lightweight is both good and tricky: It's easy to cart up and down steps and sling into your trunk. But any lightweight stroller will bump a bit over uneven ground since it doesn't have as much weight to hold it down (even if "smooth ride" is in the name of the stroller). If you're mostly rolling through stores and along smooth sidewalks, you'll be good to go.

The OnBoard 35 LT Infant Car Seat can safely hold your baby through at least their first two years. It's FAA-approved to sit on an airplane seat during a flight. It's about $130 to buy on its own, so the combination with the lightweight stroller is a real deal.

When it's time to fold the stroller, the mechanism is on the seat. You remove your baby, then just lift up a strap on the seat and the stroller folds in an instant. "It's ridiculously easy," said one tester. "You can effectively carry your baby in one arm and this stroller in another with no problem." Also, we love the stroller's snack tray — handy in the toddler years — and the parent organizer with two cupholders.

Our testers love the flexibility and versatility of the Pivot Travel System. It can be a rolling bassinet in carriage mode, a car seat carrier or a regular stroller, and in any mode, you can place your baby rear- or forward-facing. The LiteMax Infant Car Seat holds a baby up to 35 pounds and both the car seat and the stroller seat can have a privacy shade for those times when you don't want people leaning in close to your baby, or you want to encourage a nap.

Carriage mode is an adorable, old-fashioned perk, even if new parents don't use it for very long. You recline the stroller seat flat, pull up the footrest and turn the seat into a little bassinet on wheels. In that mode, you're not using the car seat at all, so you'd have to unbuckle your baby and transfer them when it's time for a drive. But it's perfect for a stroll around the block or through a park. "It's fun for pictures because it looks like one of the more expensive pram-type strollers," one mom said.

There's no parent organizer on the handle, but there is a clip-on cupholder. The relatively small, plastic wheels are fine for most strolling but do not do well on rough terrain. Online reviewers say that the stroller is easy to assemble out of the box. We had no trouble setting it up for testing and found it easy to convert it from one mode to another. Add the Evenflo Rider Board and your older kid can stand and ride behind your younger one.

A winner in our most recent Parenting Awards , this modular stroller includes some of our favorite features: easy and intuitive buckles, a large under-seat basket, a handy toddler snack tray and, for extra stability, an anti-rebound bar on the car seat base . In our tests, we found that the stroller seat reclines smoothly and the footrest adjusts nicely for comfort. Though it's new and has not been tested over the course of years, the Brook stroller shows promise for lasting from birth through preschool.

The Willow infant car seat uses the Britax ClickTight system that makes it easy to install the base correctly using your car's seat belt. For a long time, that feature was only available on Britax convertible car seats, but now it is here as well. For times when you aren't traveling with your car seat base, there's a belt path to use instead — this car seat is certified for use in an airplane using the lap belt, for instance.

The car seat fabrics can be machine-washed. The stroller frame with the toddler seat attached is a bit heavy and the wheels don't turn on a dime like they do with smaller strollers, but first time parents might be reassured by the substantial feel (online, one fan of this set wrote that it's built "like a tank"). You push the frame with either the toddler seat or the car seat attached — with a modular system, you never need both at the same time. Note that the frame doesn't fold with either seat on it. You must remove the seat in order to fold the frame.

Often recommended by Reddit users, the Bravo Trio is popular for its reasonable price as well as its well-reviewed car seat . For the early newborn months you can completely remove the regular stroller seat and just push the KeyFit car seat around on the stroller frame. But you can also use this as a traditional travel stroller and sit the KeyFit on top of the toddler seat — it works that way, too.

We like that you can fold this with the toddler seat still on and, when folded, the stroller stands upright on its own. The fold mechanism is easy and within the seat itself. There's a toddler snack tray as well as a parent organizer, and the basket is large and can be accessed from the front or the back. Finally, we like the jumbo canopy for sun protection.

For more money there's also the Bravo Primo Trio Travel System which features leatherette trim and the Keyfit 35 car seat, our Good Housekeeping pick for best overall infant car seat . That car seat can hold a baby up to 35 pounds.

UPPAbaby Vista V2 Stroller & Mesa Infant Car Seat

While UPPAbaby's car seat and stroller combo is definitely a splurge, it's a great travel system from a sought-after brand, especially among parents who want the smooth-rolling Vista stroller.

It features a springy all-wheel suspension to keep your baby steady as you go up and down curbs or along a dirt road. Investing in the complete travel system gets you a ton of extras including the Mesa car seat, a bassinet, a bug shield and a rain guard. The Mesa car seat can be clipped into your vehicle with UPPABaby's unique Smart Secure LATCH system that makes installation easier. Rothman personally loves this travel system and has used it for all three of her kids.

On the Vista stroller, the handlebar easily and smoothly adjusts for adults of different heights. There's no parent organizer, but the handle is a luxe-feeling leatherette. The basket underneath is giant, so it should hold all your stuff plus whatever you pick up while running errands. The included bassinet is an adorable way to stroll around an infant, and it works as a nap space at home too. For an extra $160, you can buy the UPPAbaby bassinet stand if you want to use it regularly in your home for sleep. One caveat is that the fold and unfold of the stroller takes a couple of steps , and the stroller itself is heavy.

A final, big selling point: If you need to carry two children, you can buy the UPPAbaby RumbleSeat V2 for $270 and turn this into a double stroller . Or you can purchase the UPPAbaby Piggyback for $135 so a child can stand and ride along behind. If you buy both, you could push three children along!

We've previously named the Nuna TRVL the best stroller for frequent travelers for the easy one-hand fold that gets the stroller down to a slim 11" x 24" x 20.25" size. Here it's paired with the PIPA car seat, nice and lightweight at 7.5 pounds.

The PIPA doesn't work with a base; rigid LATCH connectors are built right into the seat so this can easily go in and out of different cars and ride-share vehicles. Together the two pieces make a super lightweight travel system that is among the best car seat and stroller combos for family trips.

We like the Nuna brand's easy, magnetic buckles and premium fabrics, plus the leatherette on the stroller handle, bumper bar and car seat handle. The car seat also has a built-in drape canopy to protect a snoozing baby. The TRVL stroller has a free-standing fold, so when you compact it down you don't have to lean it against anything.

If you're looking for the right car seat and stroller combo for your mini running buddy, the Baby Trend Expedition Jogger travel system is a great pick with more than 18,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. The three-wheel, bike-tire design means it can tackle rough terrains with ease. The front wheel can be locked straight to keep the stroller from veering as you jog or set to swivel when you're out shopping and need to make tight turns.

Once it's time to load your baby back into the car, the stroller collapses to fit into your trunk, and the car seat simply clicks into the LATCH base. "This travel system may cost you less than a year's gym membership," one mom pointed out. "And you might get a lot more exercise with it since you're able to bring your baby along." The low price reflects the fact that there's nothing splashy about the canopy, the fabric, the padding or the heavy alloy steel frame (about 27 pounds). The EZ-Flex Lock 30 infant car seat only holds your baby up to 30 pounds, while some others go up to 35.

We love the child tray — useful for when your baby turns into a toddler and demands a steady supply of snacks — and the parent tray that has a compartment that closes to keep your phone in place. There are two parent cupholders too.

If you need a car seat stroller combo for twins, we like the Baby Trend Universal Double Snap-N-Go . You'll have to buy infant car seats separately but the frame, just a little more than $100, is an easy way to to push your young twins around in their seats.

The Graco brand has been around for generations. The company invented the baby swing in the 1950s and debuted the first travel system concept, a car seat that snapped into its matching stroller, in the late 1990s.

In this century, Graco has often led the way in car seat safety with its SnugRide infant car seat line. We love that this set comes with the popular SnugRide 35 Lite Elite Infant Car Seat, and the stroller seat slides higher and lower on the frame as well as turns forward and backward and converts into a pram. Use the adjustable features to find the height and direction your baby loves (or that you need — this is the best car seat stroller combo for tall parents) and then change it as needed as your baby grows into a toddler.

When you fully recline the stroller seat, you can unbuckle a belt under the footrest to form a bassinet for the infant months. (Graco calls it a "pramette.") To stroll around with the car seat — which is, after all, the appeal of a travel system — remove the stroller seat altogether and use the frame as an infant car seat carrier. The car seat can slide up and down to your preferred height and face forward or back. The SnugRide 35 Lite Elite is among the very lightest infant seats on the market and, at just over 7 pounds, it's a breeze to carry.

Some of the stroller details are fairly standard as opposed to luxe. The plastic wheels are strong but not built for rough terrain. There's no parent tray, just a clip-on cup holder. The canopy is a traditional size, not oversized. There is a nice child snack tray, and we like how the storage basket underneath expands in height so you can fit more without anything falling out.

How we test the best car seat and stroller combos

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Over the years, the Good Housekeeping Institute has tested all sorts of baby equipment from booster car seats to double strollers , always making safety the highest priority.

For this story, our Parenting Lab experts tested more than 24 stroller and car seat combos , considering ease of use, safety features, functionality and value. We also sent travel systems to consumer testers for their feedback.

When testing many of the strollers that we feature, the Institute has a brake test that uses a gauge to measure the force required to move a stroller when brakes are engaged. We also perform a stability/tip-over test in which we hang weights on stroller handlebars and measure the force required to tip strollers over. We weigh and measure strollers while folded to help determine how well they can be carried and stored.

Our testers also place infant car seats into a variety of vehicles, taking note of each product's ease of use when it comes to installation. We ensure that each car seat has passed Federal Safety Standards. Then we perform in-Lab and at-home tests to assess stability, ease of adjustments, ease of getting babies in and out of each car seat and ease of removal of the car seat from the base and installation into compatible strollers.

What to look for when shopping for a car seat and stroller combo

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First, know that a few strollers call themselves a "travel system" and just mean that they come with an adaptor to hold a car seat.

Be sure that when you're buying something called a travel system, you are genuinely getting both the car seat and the stroller if it's that matching combo that you want. Also consider:

✔️ Height and weight limits: These specifications will be different depending on each car seat and stroller combo. To make sure your baby is as safe as possible, ensure that they fit into the recommended height and weight.

✔️ Your lifestyle: Are you looking for a travel system that will grow with your family or something that will make your jogging trips to the park that much easier? Depending on how you plan on using your car seat and stroller combo, you'll want to seek out a model that fulfills your lifestyle needs.

If you frequently use ride-share vehicles, look for a travel system with an infant car seat that can be installed using just a backseat seat belt, or one with a build-in rigid LATCH system.

If your family owns several vehicles, consider investing in an extra car seat base and installing one in each car. Every infant car seat brand sells extra bases.

✔️ Multiple kids: If you plan to expand your family, you might look for a travel system that allows you to add on a seat or add a ride board to the back for your older child.

✔️ Features: While a no-frills option can be great for your budget, some car seat and stroller combos offer extra features that make all the difference. Are you planning on taking a lot of sunlit walks? Opt for a unit with a large canopy. Do you want to carry a lot with you? Find something with an ample-sized storage basket. Trays and cupholders are the little things you'll use daily.

✔️ Weight: Although heavy strollers usually roll more smoothly than lightweight ones, if you have a lot of steps to contend with, or don't feel confident about lifting a heavy stroller frame in and out of your car's trunk regularly, be sure to get a lighter stroller. We love the new class of under 10-pound car seats, too.

Do you need a car seat/stroller combo, aka a travel system?

"

Transferring your baby from car to stroller can be a lot of hassle, so using a car seat that snaps into a stroller is fairly genius. That's where a car seat stroller combo will be your new best friend. It also means you only have to make one purchase for both items. Think of it as a two-for-one deal, where you get a stroller and a car seat both at a discount because you buy them together.

Car seat and stroller combos are particularly great for parents who want to move through the world as streamlined as possible. With a few clicks, you can pop the car seat out of the stroller and snap it into your car. There's no need to worry about whether or not your products are compatible since they come bundled together. In most cases, even after your baby outgrows the car seat, you will still be able use the stroller.

You will not want a travel system if your heart is set on one brand's infant car seat and another brand's stroller. In that case, you can check to see if the stroller can hold your chosen car seat with the help of an adaptor. Read all the product specs carefully to be sure you can use them together, buy an adaptor if possible, then purchase the stroller and car seat separately without the two-piece discount.

Another instance when you might not want a travel system is if you're buying an all-in-one car seat for your newborn, intending to use that car seat from birth through the big kid years. Extended-use car seats stay in the car and do not snap into a stroller. You might consider still buying a travel system too, though, and using it just for airplane trips if you are a frequently flying family.

The safest car seat and stroller combos

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Keeping your little one secure is your (and our) number one priority. All of the car seats and strollers we recommend meet the federal ASTM standards, and many have the third-party JPMA seal as well, so your baby will be safe as long as everything is installed properly. Here are some tips to ensure your kid is protected at all times:

  • Make sure your travel system is correct for the age and weight of your baby . All of the stroller/car seat combos we list are safe from birth. You can sit your infant car seat on top of the stroller base for the first year or two. A 1-year-old might prefer to sit on the stroller seat directly, but you can continue to safely use the infant car seat rear-facing in the car until your baby reaches the weight and height limit, which often happens soon after their second birthday. After age 2, you can continue to use the stroller by itself for years but will want a convertible car seat for your child.
  • Always install an infant car seat rear-facing . Every car seat-stroller combo includes an infant car seat, not a convertible car seat, so your baby needs to be facing the rear of the car. This is the safest position until your baby is older than 2 and ready for a larger car seat. See the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration instructions for how to properly install an infant car seat .
  • Thoroughly read the directions for your car seat and stroller combo prior to use to ensure that you've included all of the parts and put them together correctly. Very few strollers are ready to go out of the box; you often have to attach the wheels and canopy. Ensure that the LATCH base is properly installed in your car and that the car seat can seamlessly click into place. Many brands provide helpful installation videos on YouTube.
  • Double-check the security of the car seat when you place it on the stroller or in your car. Many make an audible click when in place. For safety, pull up a bit on the car seat to make sure it's really securely positioned.
  • Don't leave your little one snoozing in their car seat (or stroller) once you get home, per the AAP . While one of the benefits of a car seat and stroller combo is being able to transfer your infant without disturbing them, as soon as you're able, transfer them over to a proper sleep surface such as their crib or bassinet . That will make naps and nighttime easier and safer in the long run.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

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The Good Housekeeping Institute parenting pros regularly test and review hundreds of products for babies and young kids with an eye to safety. This includes things such as crib mattresses and baby monitors as well as the best infant toys .

Contributing writer Jessica Hartshorn worked closely with our testing experts to write this article. She's evaluated baby gear for 25 years, including at Parents magazine and American Baby magazine.

Headshot of Jessica Hartshorn

Jessica (she/her) is a freelance writer with several decades of experience writing lifestyle content and evaluating home and parenting products. A mom of two teens and two cats, her previous work can be seen in American Baby and Parents .

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Best Stroller and Car Seat Combos

These top-performing travel systems feature high-quality strollers and car seats that work well on their own and together

When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more .

Chicco Bravo Trio Stroller

Buying a traditional stroller —and researching the many models and features that you can choose from—is a rite of passage for many new parents. But there are reasons you might want to buy a car seat and stroller combo, also known as a travel system , instead.

Travel systems bundle together a stroller and a compatible car seat. The car seat clips into the stroller to function as the seat, and it can pop easily into and out of a car seat base, making for seamless transitions on the road with your baby. For many parents, that’s an irresistible advantage.

That’s why we’ve put 12 popular brands through both our rigorous stroller and car seat tests so that you can find one that works best for you.

Why Buy a Stroller and Car Seat Combo?

Two reasons: First, without having to deal with the harness, your baby is more likely to keep sleeping as you transfer him from car to stroller and vice versa. Simply click the seat out and click it in. As any sleep-deprived, peace-and-quiet-seeking new parent knows, this is particularly helpful. And while the seats of some stroller models don’t recline completely, you can still stroll with your infant by relying on the car seat for the first few months, then transitioning to the stroller seat when he or she is older.

Second, bundling the stroller and car seat usually costs less than buying the two items separately. For instance, the Chicco Mini Bravo Plus stroller and the Chicco KeyFit 30 Car Seat retail for about $200 each, but the Chicco Mini Plus travel system , which includes both, costs around $380.

It’s worth noting that a travel system is different from a car seat stroller, which is a car seat with attached wheels and a handle. The whole contraption functions as a stroller when fully expanded and a car seat when collapsed. It’s a handy design, but when your child outgrows the car seat, you’ll need both a new car seat and a new stroller. Travel systems and car seat strollers are also both distinct from car seat carrier strollers , which are simply frames on wheels that a compatible car seat can clip into to function as a stroller.

If you already own a car seat, you can opt for just a compatible traditional stroller and adapter; the stroller and car seat don’t need to be from the same brand. But our testers say you’ll get the most seamless experience when you buy a dedicated car seat and stroller bundle. “With a travel system, you’re getting products that the manufacturer has designed to work together,” says Joan Muratore, CR’s stroller-lab program leader.

How We Test Travel Systems

The Overall Score for each travel system in our ratings is based on the performance of the stroller in our dedicated stroller tests, the performance of the car seat in our dedicated car seat tests, and how easily the car seat and stroller attach to each other. For the stroller test, we assess safety, maneuverability, and (among other things) how easy it is to fold and manage the straps. For the car seat test, we evaluate how easy it is to use in addition to how well its crash protection works and how easily it fits into a vehicle using the car’s LATCH system or safety belts. For more details on how we test, see our article on the best strollers and the best car seats .

Below are the five top-performing car seat stroller combos in our ratings. To learn more about how to shop for strollers, see our stroller buying guide . Curious about how other strollers compare with travel systems? See our comprehensive stroller ratings , where you can sort by type, price, and more.

5 Best Stroller and Car Seat Combos

The car seats and strollers in these systems work seamlessly together, but each can also be bought separately, unless where noted. Make sure your purchase is compatible with the stroller or car seat you have before you buy.

Keith Flamer

Keith Flamer has been a multimedia content creator at Consumer Reports since 2021, covering laundry, cleaning, small appliances, and home trends. Fascinated by interior design, architecture, technology, and all things mechanical, he translates CR’s testing engineers’ work into content that helps readers live better, smarter lives. Prior to CR, Keith covered luxury accessories and real estate, most recently at Forbes, with a focus on residential homes, interior design, home security, and pop culture trends.

Molly Bradley

Molly Bradley is a home and appliance writer at Consumer Reports. Before joining CR in 2023, she managed the editorial team at Digg, and has devoted her career to helping readers navigate the world and make their lives a little easier, elucidating topics in technology and culture. Molly earned a master’s degree in writing from Bennington College and lives in Brooklyn, N.Y., with her cat, Saltine. Follow her on X @mollyguinn .

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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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The 12 Best Stroller & Car Seat Travel Systems [2023]

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The 12 Best Stroller & Car Seat Travel Systems [2023]

Things To Consider With Travel Systems

1. a travel system for parents on-the-go, 2. compact travel system that saves room, 3. a seamless travel system for all occasions, 4. budget-friendly system that doesn’t give up quality, 5. a travel system that guarantees a smooth ride, 6. a carseat that offers your baby privacy, 7. a quick travel system to set up, 8. easy and lightweight travel system, 9. a travel system option that’s trusted worldwide, 10. environmentally-friendly travel system, 11. a travel system you can use for years, 12. makes trips a breeze with 1-handed setup, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Being a parent is a rewarding adventure, but you can’t just run around town unencumbered anymore. You have to take your baby with you, and you have to make sure that they’re safe.

That’s where travel systems come in. These tools are essential for making sure your child is safe and comfortable in your car and while walking around.

While the main goal of every travel system is the same — to give you an all-in-1 option for your car seat and stroller needs — there are tons of little differences between models. When trying to figure out which travel system is the right one for you, here are a few things to consider:

Size and Weight

A travel system’s size and weight are the first thing you must keep in mind before purchasing one. If you anticipate you’re going to be carrying your system for any reason, like up the steps of an apartment building, for example, you’ll want to opt for lighter travel system models.

Hot Tip: You also want your travel system to be large enough that your baby has enough room to be comfortable. This is also true if you want your travel system to last a few years as your child grows.

The material of a travel system is another primary thing to consider when you’re looking at different options. You want a material that will be easy to clean since it’s very likely your child will make messes while strapped in.

You also want a material that won’t be uncomfortable for your baby to sit in or for you to push.  Heavy-duty plastic is a good choice, particularly if there are cushions in the travel system to add extra comfort. That will ensure both comfort and the longevity of your product.

You want to keep your baby safe, so it’s important that you look into travel system options that are durable.

A sturdy travel system means you’ll be able to push it on rough surfaces or take it on bumpy rides without your child getting jostled. It also means you don’t have to worry about damaging any of its components when it’s not in use, thus compromising its structural integrity. 

Weather Conditions

You should also consider the weather when you’re considering which travel system to buy. If you live in a climate with all 4 seasons, you’ll want to make sure you purchase an option that you’ll be able to use both in the summer heat and in the snow .

You’ll want to make sure you pick a model that isn’t made of material that will melt or become deformed in hot weather if that’s your climate. You’ll also likely want wheels that have some traction when used in snow or rain.

You should consider your child’s age when picking the right travel system. While many travel systems are designed to last through at least a few growth spurts, they might have specifically designated age ranges.

For example, some travel systems are designed to be used from newborn age to 3 years. Others have car seats that are suitable for up to 18 months, but the stroller can last longer. Decide how long you want your travel system to last and your child’s age to help narrow down your options.

The 12 Best Travel Systems

Choosing the right travel system can be daunting. There are so many options out there and so many little differences between them that can make one option better than another.

To help you, we’ve weighed the pros and cons to decide which are the best travel systems on the market.

Baby Trend Pathway 35 Jogger Travel System

If you’re a busy parent who likes to keep their little one nearby, this travel system from Baby Trend is perfect.

It was designed for jogging parents to use so they can keep up with their exercise while still keeping their children by their side . Due to that, when in the stroller, kids will be in for a nice, smooth ride without bumps and jostles.

It’s also lightweight and easy to push for that same reason. However, the jogger also allows for safe car travel as well, thanks to its sturdy car seat that will ensure absolute safety on drives around the block or long road trips. With a maximum weight of 35 pounds, you can use this travel set for a while.

What We Like:

  • Super comfortable

What We Don’t Like:

  • Not for toddlers

Graco FastAction Fold Jogger Travel System

People looking for a travel system that can be compact for easy storage should look into the Graco FastAction model.

Though the system is nice and spacious when the stroller portion is set up, it can fold into itself so it can fit in most closets and storage areas.

This also makes this model a breeze to travel with as it passes most public transportation regulations for stroller sizes.

Thanks to its 5-point harness, you also don’t have to worry about safety. Your baby will be nice and snug in their seat for as long as needed.

  • Elevated maximum weight of 50 pounds
  • Wheels deflate quickly

Hot Tip: Check out our in-depth buyer guide to the best travel strollers for newborns and toddlers for more great options!

Evenflo Pivot Vizor Travel System

Some travel systems are designed to make long days and travel easier. Others are designed for walks around the block. This model by Evenflo is designed for both.

The system is sleek and easy to maneuver, making it perfect for any occasion. So whether you’re able to walk leisurely or you’re in a hurry, you can get where you need to go with this travel system’s stroller.

The car seat is also designed for any occasion . It’s able to fit in most vehicles without any problems, and it’s easy to install, so you don’t have to deal with a headache every time you have to strap your baby in for a car ride.

  • Sun-protective and privacy visor
  • Wheels struggle on rough surfaces

Baby Trend EZ Ride 35 Travel System

If you’re looking for a reliable and high-quality travel system, but you’re on a tighter budget, this model from Baby Trend is worth looking at.

The seating is made out of plush material that won’t be uncomfortable for your baby to sit in. Thanks to its soft grip, you also won’t get uncomfortable pushing or carrying it.

You can even adjust the stroller handles so you don’t have to crouch or stretch. The stroller portion comes with 2 cupholders as well, so you and your baby can stay hydrated while you’re out and about.

The system was even designed to sit your baby further back while the system creates “wings” around them to offer maximum protection on both sides.

  • All-encompassing protection
  • Lower weight allowance

Safety 1st Smooth Ride Travel System

If your main concern when looking at travel systems is the comfort of your child, then look no further than this Safety 1st option.

With  “Smooth Ride” in its name, you might expect a lot from this travel system, and it delivers. It has sturdy wheels that can stand up to most floors and terrain. So, whether you’re inside or out, you can easily use this stroller.

The wheels also glide effortlessly. They won’t make any noise and help smooth the ride if you push it over a bumpy surface. The car seat also keeps your baby secure and in one place during rides without being jostled around.

  • Good for motion-sickness-prone children
  • Not intuitive

Graco Modes Pramette Travel System

Your baby can’t speak up and tell you when they want some time to themself, so it’s up to you to make sure you can give them some peace. That’s why this Graco pramette travel system is such a great option.

The stroller can be front- or rear-facing , meaning you can decide if your baby needs some stimulation by seeing the world or if they need some peaceful time. It’s also an added safety measure.

For example, if you’re going to be using your travel system in areas with potential dust or debris or you’re worried you might stumble, a rear-facing system will help keep your baby safe.

  • Large storage basket
  • 20-pound limit

Graco FastAction SE Travel System

If you want a travel system you can set it up in the blink of an eye, Graco has you covered. Thanks to the way it’s designed to fold compactly, you don’t have to fight with the system to get it open or closed.

The system also comes with a lightweight but heavy-duty car seat to keep your baby safe on the road. It’s even a rear-facing seat, giving it extra points where safety is concerned.

The stroller has a parent tray that comes with a cup holder and a small storage area, so you can keep your essentials within easy reach without having to fumble in the storage compartment too much.

  • Convenient design
  • Only for newborns and young babies

Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 All

If you’re in need of a travel system, but you don’t want something heavy and bulky that will weigh you down, consider this option from Baby Jogger.

The system is made with breathable material that isn’t just lightweight but will also ensure your child isn’t uncomfortable no matter what time of year it is.

The system also has a single-handed locking mechanism to make folding or unfolding it a breeze.  You don’t have to worry about the stroller trying to fold back in on itself or coming undone either. Once the junctions are locked in place, they stay that way until you unlock them.

The car seat has also been designed to protect your precious cargo by using anti-rebound and trauma-blocking technology.

  • Not budget-friendly

Hot Tip: If you prefer to travel lighter, check out our guide to the best travel baby carriers, including wraps, slings, and backpacks .

Chicco Mini Bravo Plus Travel System

If you’re generally undecided about which direction you want to go with your travel system, then consider an option with international respect. Chicco is a brand known worldwide, and it knows what it is doing when it comes to babies. This system was designed to ensure your baby is comfortable on the sidewalk or in the car.

The soft material isn’t just for your baby’s comfort, it also adds another layer of safety. Keeping your baby nice and cozy can absorb any potential trauma by the cushions and the system structure. The system itself is also lightweight and weighs under 20 pounds.

  • Highly recommended
  • Difficult to clean

Century Stroll On 3-Wheel 2-in-1 Lightweight Travel System

Environmentally-conscious people on the hunt for a good travel system should check out this option from Century. With fabrics made from recycled material, this system helps you do your part in being a little greener .

It also doesn’t hurt that the material is also lightweight, making the system easy to move around. Your baby, on the other hand, will love how breathable the material is. You don’t have to worry about overheating or problems with temperature regulation with this option.

Since the stroller has 3 wheels instead of 4, it also gives it an aerodynamic design that makes it great for moving around quickly.

  • Easy-gliding wheels
  • May show more wear and tear

Graco Verb Travel System

Graco’s got an option for you if you want a travel system that has a lot of longevity. Whether you want to make sure you can use your travel system for future children down the line or you plan on giving it away as a hand-me-down, you don’t have to worry.

Made of high-quality material that meets strict size standards, this option won’t break down for years. The rear-facing car seat can fit most newborns and infants up to 30 pounds.

On the other hand, the stroller is large enough to give your baby plenty of room to be comfortable. At the same time, it’s also compact enough to suit the stroller-size allotments at most theme parks.

  • Suitable for anywhere

Chicco Viaro Quick-Fold Travel System

If you want to be able to take your child on adventures with you and you’re looking for a travel system to help you do just that, Chicco has a great option for you.

This travel system has a quick-fold design that allows you to assemble and fold up the frame in a breeze. That means you can go from the car to the stroller in no time. You can even open it up 1-handed.

The system also had plenty of padding both for your baby and for you while you push the stroller or hold the carrier.  Your child even has 2 cupholders and a tray available to enjoy snacks or otherwise keep busy while you’re on the go.

  • Reclining seat
  • Only rear-facing car seat

Ideally, a travel system will allow you to seamlessly transfer your child from your car to a stroller and allow you to move around while keeping them secure.

However, there are hundreds of travel system options on the market to choose from. We hope that this list has helped you begin to narrow down which travel system is right for you.

All information and content provided by Upgraded Points is intended as general information and for educational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as medical advice or legal advice. For more information, see our  Medical & Legal Disclaimers .

Frequently Asked Questions

Are travel systems safe for newborns.

Travel systems are generally safe for newborns. However, that might not be universally true for all travel systems. Some travel systems might be designed for older babies and toddlers, for example. Before purchasing or using a travel system with a newborn, check the suggested age group of the product first.

How do travel systems work?

Travel systems typically work the same way their separate parts work normally. The stroller frame will usually fold up or collapse for easy carrying and storage, and the car seat will fit into your vehicle. However, these 2 parts will snap together as well, turning the stroller into a carriage.

What is the difference between a travel system and a stroller?

The biggest difference between a stroller and a travel system is the fact that a stroller is just 1 tool while a travel system is 2, sometimes 3 tools, all in 1. Travel systems include a stroller, but they also have a car seat and, sometimes, a baby carrier, too.

How long does a travel system last?

Since travel systems are typically multiple-in-1 tools made up of a stroller, car seat, and sometimes even a baby carrier, they can last a varying amount of time. As your child grows, they’ll eventually be too big for the car seat and carrier. However, the stroller may last through toddlerhood.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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The Best Travel Car Seats

Three of our top picks for the best travel car seats, shown side by side.

By Christina Szalinski and Rebecca Gale

Let’s face it: Traveling with little kids can be a slog. But a lightweight, compact, easy-to-install travel car seat is one tool that can make trips a bit easier.

We’ve tested 17 travel car seats for infants and up, and we examined how they performed in various circumstances, including during air travel and in rental cars. The Chicco KeyFit 35 , one of our picks for the best infant car seats , is an excellent choice for both travel and everyday use. For an affordable and easy-to-use convertible car seat for toddlers and preschoolers, we recommend traveling with the Cosco Scenera Next , which fits kids up to 40 inches tall for rear-facing or 43 inches for forward-facing. For kids bigger than that who still need a seat with a five-point harness, we recommend the Cosco Finale 2-in-1 , which also converts to a high-back booster. The backless, lightweight Cosco Rise is great for booster-age kids.

If you’ll be hopping in and out of taxis or ride shares with a baby, the Doona is a unique but expensive infant car seat that converts to a stroller. And instead of purchasing a dedicated convertible car seat for travel, another option is to bring yours along with the Britax Travel Cart .

Everything we recommend

travel stroller car seat compatible

Chicco KeyFit 35 ClearTex

The best infant car seat for travel.

If you’re a frequent traveler, the Chicco KeyFit 35 is easier than most infant car seats to install securely without its base.

Buying Options

travel stroller car seat compatible

An infant car seat and stroller in one

This unusual car seat has integrated wheels that pop out to turn it into a stroller. It’s best for parents who frequently need to move their car seat in and out of different vehicles.

travel stroller car seat compatible

Cosco Scenera Next

The best convertible car seat for travel.

This affordable and easy-to-use car seat weighs 6.8 pounds and can be used rear- and forward-facing. But kids can outgrow it quickly.

travel stroller car seat compatible

Cosco Finale 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat

The best harness booster car seat for travel.

This no-frills seat converts from a forward-facing five-point harness to a high-back booster. It weighs just 12 pounds.

travel stroller car seat compatible

Britax Travel Cart

A travel cart for lugging your own seat through the airport.

This sturdy, smooth-rolling travel cart helps you transport your own convertible car seat—and avoid buying a standalone travel seat. You can even strap your child into their seat and use it like a stroller.

travel stroller car seat compatible

The best backless booster seat for travel

This basic booster seat weighs only 2.2 pounds and can work for children as small as 40 pounds. But it has a rather large footprint and will be too big to fit in most carry-ons.

How we picked

A seat that’s lightweight is more manageable to carry between multiple locations. A more compact seat is also easier to pack.

We considered the seat’s comfort and ability to adjust straps and buckles.

Ease of installation is paramount, as the easier it is to do, the more likely it will be done properly.

We looked at crash-testing scores and ease-of-use ratings. Our infant, convertible, and harness booster picks are FAA-approved for use on a plane.

The Chicco KeyFit 35 is a great all-around infant car seat—and one of the ones we recommend for everyday use. But for travel it stands out: It has a European belt path that makes it easier to get a secure install without the base than for many car seats, and it’s cheaper than other seats that have this belt routing option.

Weight of seat: 10 pounds Orientation: rear-facing only Weight range: 4 to 35 pounds Height limit: 32 inches

Parents who can’t leave their infant seat base installed in a specific car but instead need to travel by taxi or rideshare frequently may find the innovative Doona to be a convenient option. This sleek infant car seat has integrated wheels and converts to a stroller that maneuvers easily, plus the seat is FAA-approved for use on an airplane. But the versatile Doona is much heavier and more expensive than a regular infant car seat.

Weight of seat: 14.3 pounds Orientation: rear-facing only Weight range: 4 to 35 pounds Height limit: 32 inches

The Cosco Scenera Next is a notably lightweight, affordable convertible car seat that is simple to install and carry on an airplane. It receives strong safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and is FAA-approved for use on a plane. But many kids will outgrow it before they reach the height or weight limit because of the low position of the shoulder straps.

Weight of seat: 6.8 pounds Orientation: rear- or forward-facing Weight range: 5 to 40 pounds rear-facing; 22-40 pounds forward-facing Height range: 19-40 inches rear-facing; 29-43 inches forward-facing

For children using a forward-facing five-point harness, the Cosco Finale 2-in-1 is a lightweight and affordable travel option that is FAA-approved for use on a plane (in harness mode only). It also converts to a high-back booster. However, it has lower height limits than some boosters, so kids may not get as many years of use from it, in comparison with pricier options.

Weight of seat: 12 pounds Orientation: forward-facing only Weight range: 30 to 65 pounds for harness mode; 40 to 100 pounds for high-back mode Height range: 32 to 49 inches for harness mode; 43 to 52 inches for high-back mode

Bringing your own car seat to the airport has one big advantage—you don’t have to learn how to install yet another seat. But your own convertible car seat is likely to be heavy (our picks in our guide to convertible car seats range from 19 to 33 pounds). The Britax Travel Cart is compatible with most convertible seats, and when your car seat is secured to it with LATCH, you can use it like a stroller to push your toddler through the airport. The cart can then be stored in an overhead bin during your flight.

Weight of cart: 7.6 pounds

If you need a cheap, no-frills booster seat, we recommend the Cosco Rise . It’s a bit too large to fit into a carry-on suitcase or backpack, but it’s easy to attach with a bungee cord to a carry-on for plane travel. It’s also a great option if you just need a spare booster for carpools or to order ahead for use at the grandparents' house.

Weight of seat: 2.2 pounds Weight range: 40 to 100 pounds Height range: 43 to 57 inches

The research

Why you should trust us, who should get this, the best infant car seat for travel: chicco keyfit 35, an infant seat and stroller in one: doona, the best convertible car seat for travel: cosco scenera next, the best harness booster seat for travel: cosco finale 2-in-1, a great car seat caddy: britax travel cart, the best booster seat for travel: cosco rise, other good travel car seats, should a kid sit in a car seat on the airplane, what about checking a car seat, the competition, care, use, and maintenance.

The authors of this guide have collectively interviewed 40 industry experts, safety authorities, and physicians. Among them were certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians (CPSTs) such as Lani Harrison, who installs more than 300 car seats each year; Dr. Aditya Belwadi, a biomechanics research scientist who previously led the child passenger safety research team at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and now works at Tesla in Crash, Safety, and Occupant Protection/Biomechanics; and Bill Horn, head sled testing engineer at Calspan , one of the country’s top crash-testing facilities. The authors also talked with dozens of parents and representatives from leading car seat manufacturers.

The original version of this guide was written by Rebecca Gale, whose reporting on policy and parenting has appeared in outlets including The New York Times, Slate, and The Washington Post. Rebecca has also been certified as a CPST, completing a 40-hour training program through the Safe Kids Worldwide organization.

In 2022 and 2023, this guide was updated by Christina Szalinski, a science writer whose reporting on health and parenting has appeared in The Atlantic and Kaiser Health News . In addition to writing the most recent versions of Wirecutter’s infant and convertible car seat guides, Christina is responsible for Wirecutter’s guides to the Best Baby Formula and kids face masks .

Few people strictly need a separate car seat for travel as you can gate- or baggage-check any car seat for free with most airlines. But lugging your regular (likely heavy and bulky) seat in and out of the car and through the airport can be a major hassle. Investing in a smaller, lighter-weight option may be worthwhile, especially if you fly or use ridesharing services or taxis frequently.

Infant car seats for travel

If you’re traveling with an infant or baby, bringing along your usual infant car seat without its base (to cut down on weight and heft) is typically the best option. Our top infant car seat pick, the Graco SnugRide SnugFit 35 DLX , is relatively lightweight and, like other infant car seats, can be safely strapped in with a seatbelt only and no base.

There are two possible ways to install an infant car seat without a base: either with the belt directly across the top, called “American routing,” or with the shoulder belt placed around the back of the seat in addition to the top, called “European routing.” It’s easier to get a secure fit with European routing, and two seats we recommend in our guide to infant car seats, the Chicco KeyFit 35 and the Clek Liing , are designed to allow for that type of install. If you know you’ll be traveling with your infant often, it may be worthwhile to choose one of these as your baby’s first car seat.

Many infant car seats are compatible with easy-to-fold stroller frames, such as the Chicco KeyFit Caddy , which turns an infant car seat into a stroller and can be convenient for travel. Most infant seats are FAA-approved for airplane use, should you decide to purchase an airplane seat for your infant.

Convertible car seats for travel

When your child has outgrown their infant car seat, deciding on a car seat for travel can be trickier. Alisa Baer, a pediatrician, CPST, and co-founder of the website The Car Seat Lady , recommends bringing your own convertible car seat and using a travel cart . That way you have a seat that you’re already comfortable installing. But some people will prefer a dedicated travel car seat, as they can be significantly lighter than regular seats—as little as 7 pounds versus 20 to 30 pounds.

If you do buy a dedicated travel seat, it’s a good idea to practice installing it before your trip—you don’t want to be figuring it out for the first time when you, and your kid, are potentially jet lagged and feeling extra cranky. Installation can be the most time-consuming and frustrating part of using a car seat—and particularly a convertible car seat—and is often the point of failure for using a car seat correctly.

Booster seats for travel

If your everyday booster seat has a removable back (as with our top pick and runner-up pick, the Chicco KidFit ClearTex Plus and the Graco TurboBooster LX ), you may prefer to simply bring that seat for travel, leaving the bulky back at home. But like with convertible seats, it’s also an option to get a dedicated travel booster that may be significantly lighter and smaller than the one you rely on every day.

Jessica Jermakian, vice president for vehicle research at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, offered several tips for bringing along a backless booster, especially if it’s not one that’s compact: “I bungee cord them to my luggage while traversing the airport. On most flights, my kids could shove them under the seat in front of them and still have room to throw their backpack on top. On some flights, I’ve put them in a tote in the overhead compartment.”

Travel car seat alternatives

If you’re headed to a familiar destination, you could look into borrowing a seat from friends or relatives. Or, you may be able to rent one through a baby equipment rental service.

Many car rental companies also offer car seats for a daily fee, but it can cost up to $15 a day—adding up to much more than the cost of a travel car seat, which can be less than $50. And though you can reserve one in advance, rental car seats are subject to availability, so there’s no guarantee that one will be available when you arrive. The car seat provided may also be difficult to install properly, especially in an unfamiliar car. That said, you may be able to find discounts or other benefits through programs such as AAA, which offers one free car seat rental for members when they book a car through Hertz, Dollar, or Thrifty. Ridesharing and airport and town car services may also provide a car seat with advance reservations.

A person pushing a Doona stroller.

There are hundreds of travel car seat options for infants, toddlers, and older kids. We began the whittling down process by examining online customer reviews and existing media coverage, which included going to Car Seats for the Littles , Lucie’s List , and the Car Seat Lady . We found the travel car seat category to be sorely lacking in an abundance of great options, so we also considered some “regular” car seats and alternatives.

We knew from our expert interviews that proper installation is generally a far bigger problem than the level of protection that a seat inherently provides, so we searched the NHTSA ease-of-use installation database to help determine which seats offer easy installation and come with clear instructions. We also relied on the personal experience of Wirecutter staffers, volunteer testers, and car seat techs who had used the car seats in the past.

Our research led us to conclude that the ideal travel car seat should be:

Lightweight and compact: A travel car seat will likely need to be carried between multiple locations, sometimes with a baby inside (if we’re talking about an infant). The less the seat weighs, the easier it is to deal with when combined with children and carry-on items. A more compact seat can also fit more readily in a wide variety of vehicles.

FAA approved: For parents who want to use their infant seat, convertible car seat, or harness booster on a plane, FAA certification is crucial.

Easy to install: As with all of our car seat recommendations, ease of installation is paramount, as the easier it is to do, the more likely it is to be done properly.

Easy to use: Straps should be simple to adjust to get a snug but comfortable fit in a five-point harness. The buckles should be easy for parents to clip and unclip but difficult to impossible for children to mess with. We considered the experience of both parents and kids in using the seats, as well as how easy each seat was to clean.

Safe: When it comes to travel, convenience can trump a minor safety advantage; a seat that you can bring along with you is vastly superior to no seat at all. Still, we did take the relevant government safety data from NHTSA into consideration.

Over the past five years we’ve tested 17 car seats with travel specifically in mind.

Our pick for the best infant car seat for travel, the Chicco KeyFit 35.

If you’re shopping for an infant car seat with travel in mind, we recommend the FAA-approved Chicco KeyFit 35 , one of our picks in our guide to infant car seats . It is lightweight and easy to use, and it can be installed securely without its base using the European belt path, a method that generally provides a superior install. (Any infant seat can be installed without its base, so if you already have an infant seat, using what you already own is likely the easiest choice.)

You can save on weight and bulk by leaving a car seat base at home when traveling. There are two ways to install an infant seat without its base. The most common is American belt routing, in which the seat belt goes over the top of the infant seat and the baby’s knees. We’ve found that it can be very difficult to secure an infant seat in the car securely using this method.

A few seats also offer the option to rely on the European belt path, the method we prefer, in which the lap belt goes over the top of the infant seat and the shoulder belt goes around the back. It’s easier to get a secure install with the European belt path, but it’s only found on a few car seat models. Of the four infant car seats we recommend, only the Chicco KeyFit 35 and Clek Liing offer the option of using the European belt path.

Beyond the advantage of the European belt bath, the Chicco KeyFit 35 has everything we love about the more popular Chicco KeyFit 30 with a few bonus features, such as an anti-rebound base as an added safety option. The KeyFit 35 can also accommodate a slightly larger baby (up to 35 pounds) than the KeyFit 30.

The KeyFit 35 strapped into the backseat of a car with a seatbelt threaded across the lap of the car seat.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

The KeyFit 35 is about $50 more than our top infant car seat choice, the Graco SnugRide SnugFit 35 DLX . It probably doesn’t make sense to buy this seat just for travel if you already own a similar infant car seat. But if you plan to be jet-setting with your baby, it may be worth the additional $50 or so to get a better on-the-go install from the start.

An infant sitting inside the Doona secured in car rear seating.

The Doona is an FAA-approved infant car seat (rear-facing only) with built-in wheels that allow it to convert to a stroller. For travel, this is about as convenient as it gets, allowing caregivers to rely on a single piece of equipment to accomplish two goals: avoid gate-checking a stroller—assuming an airline seat is purchased for the infant—and hop in and out of cabs without having to stow anything in the trunk.

The canopy of the Doona extended over the head of the smiling infant sitting inside the stroller.

Compared with a regular infant car seat, the Doona has some drawbacks. For one thing, it did not perform particularly well in Baby Gear Lab’s crash testing (there are no government crash tests available yet for this seat). For this reason, and because it’s tricky to install without its base (as most infant seats are), one of our car seat experts does not recommend this seat. At 14.3 pounds, it’s heavy and bulky to carry and maneuver when in car seat mode. The Doona also has the steepest price of any of the car seats (including infant, convertible, and boosters) that we’ve reviewed. It does come with a traditional infant car seat base that allows for an easy click in and out of a car, but the extra width means it could be impossible to fit three across in a backseat. And it would defeat the point to use that base for travel.

Switching the Doona from car seat mode to stroller mode and back requires “both hands and concentration,” said one tester, as well as “quite a bit of practice for me. It takes a rather specific, subtle motion to collapse it back and tuck the wheels.” It’s harder than taking a regular infant car seat off of a stroller with an infant seat attachment. Plus, once your child outgrows this seat, you’ll have to buy another stroller.

As a stroller, the Doona maneuvers easily, and the brake is intuitive and easy to use. But though it comes with an attached storage bag, the Doona lacks a storage basket.

Our pick for the best convertible car seat for travel, the Cosco Scenera Next.

The inexpensive Cosco Scenera Next weighs just 6.8 pounds, is relatively easy to carry and install, and can be used rear-facing from 5 to 40 pounds and forward-facing from 22 to 40 pounds. It’s FAA-certified and easy to install on an airplane (using the plane’s seatbelt).

The Cosco sells for $60, which is a bargain compared with many convertible car seats (the Graco Extend2Fit , our favorite convertible seat for everyday use, is a little over $200). The seat gets strong safety ratings from NHTSA, and given its low weight and heft and easy-enough install, we think it’s the best option available for an on-the-go or backup car seat. We strongly prefer the (heftier) Graco Extend2Fit for everyday use. That’s because it’s easier to get a safe, secure install with that seat and to adjust it to fit the child. Plus, it can be used forward-facing until a kid is 65 pounds and 49 inches tall—a much longer usable life than the Scenera Next.

Several Wirecutter staffers use or have used the Cosco Scenera Next, appreciating its low cost, low weight, and small size. They’ve found that the seat’s slim profile makes it a great option for smaller cars (specifically, a Prius or Renault Scenic). Senior editor Courtney Schley found that the Cosco allowed her to get three seats (two Coscos and one infant car seat) across in her family’s car.

The Cosco car seat secured in rear car seating.

The Scenera Next’s low shoulder straps mean that a child may outgrow this seat well before they are ready for a booster. ( Shoulder straps should hit at or below the shoulders when a child is rear-facing; when forward-facing the straps should hit at or above the shoulders.) The low straps mean that many 3-year-olds with longer torsos may outgrow the seat in forward-facing mode, even though the seat’s height and weight limits indicate that it should fit an average-size kid up to age 4. With a long torso, the straps end up hitting below the shoulders, a situation that can compromise safety.

Though the Scenera Next is simple to install compared with other lightweight convertible car seats we tested, some of our testers still found it difficult to get a tight, secure install. It has hook LATCH straps that aren’t particularly easy to use—you really have to tug on the LATCH straps to get a tight fit, and getting them off can be an even bigger challenge. We preferred installing the seat with a seat belt in unfamiliar cars, which was an easier way to get a tight install (try the inside/outside trick with the shoulder belt), and made it much easier to uninstall.

Our testers also found that the chest clip on the harness wasn’t as responsive or easy to use as those on more expensive seats. The Scenera Next also has less padding than many seats, though Baer points out that the padding on most seats is highly compressible, meaning that just because a seat looks fluffier doesn’t mean it provides much more cushion.

This seat also has a few downsides if you bring it on a plane. Like most convertible car seats, it’s wider than the aisle, so you have to carry it awkwardly down the plane to get to your seat, which can be quite a challenge if you’re on your own and have other carry-on items (plus your child). Additionally, the plane’s seat belt buckle is going to be pushing into your child’s back if the seat is oriented forward-facing. Alisa Baer, co-founder of The Car Seat Lady, recommends installing any seat with this issue rear-facing, even if a kid is used to forward-facing. Or you can put a diaper or other soft item over the buckle to make it a bit more comfortable.

The Cosco Finale 2-in-1, our pick for best harness booster seat for travel.

The Cosco Finale 2-in-1 is a solid option for kids who are no longer rear-facing but still benefit from a five-point harness. It’s affordable, weighs just 12 pounds, and is relatively easy to install using the car’s seat belt while in harness mode (it also comes with LATCH straps, though we didn’t find these as easy to use). Like other boosters, when in booster mode, this seat relies on the car’s seat belt to secure the child, so there’s no need to install it.

This bigger-kid seat can see a growing child through years of travel: It can be used as a forward-facing five-point harness booster seat from 30 to 65 pounds and then as a regular (harness-free) booster from 40 to 100 pounds (up until a child is 52 inches tall).

As a five-point harness, it’s FAA-certified and easy to install on an airplane using the plane’s seatbelt. However, when it’s in booster mode, like all boosters, it cannot be used on an airplane.

In harness mode, the Cosco Finale 2-in-1 performed well in an NHTSA crash test. And several Wirecutter staffers use or have used the Cosco Finale 2-in-1 while traveling after their child outgrew the Cosco Scenera Next—they liked the price and straightforward install. Converting the seat to a booster is fairly straightforward , and the seat has storage for the harness, crotch buckle, and chest clip. Once the seat is in booster mode, your child can’t use it on an airplane, but many airlines will allow you to check a booster seat for free (you may wish to check with your airline in advance).

A more expensive version of the Cosco Finale 2-in-1, the Cosco Finale DX 2-in-1 , is also available. The only difference between the two is the fabric—the DX has a tiny bit more cushion and a slightly less slippery texture. We asked several children to try each seat and then report their favorite (they wore blindfolds, to remove color preference as a factor). There was no clear winner between the two seats, and our adult testers could hardly distinguish a difference in the cushioning. For this reason, we don’t think it’s worth the extra $20 for the DX.

A closeup showing the five-point harness of the Cosco Finale 2-in-1.

When using the Finale 2-in-1 in harness mode, you first have to install it in the car, which you can do either with the seat’s LATCH straps or with the car’s seat belt. We found the Finale 2-in-1’s hook LATCH straps difficult to use—it’s hard to get a tight fit in the car, and getting them off can be a big challenge. As we did with the Cosco Scenera Next, we preferred installing the harnessed seat with a seat belt; this was an easier way to get a tight install (try the inside/outside trick with the shoulder belt) and also made it much easier to uninstall. (When the harness is removed and the seat is in booster mode, you do not need to install it in the car, since the car’s seat belt holds it in place and secures the child.)

Our testers also found that the chest clip on the harness was a bit more difficult to open compared to those on more expensive seats like the Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 . The straps have to be manually threaded through the car seat, which isn’t particularly difficult or time consuming, but you have to remember to do it before you install the seat. It also has less padding than many seats, though our child testers didn’t complain (however, we didn’t take it on any long road trips).

This seat won’t have as many years of use as other travel options, like the Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1, because the Cosco has a maximum height of 52 inches (most boosters go to 57 inches) and does not convert to a backless booster.

The Britax Travel Cart.

If you need to travel with a convertible car seat, you can bring the one you already have to the airport and onto the airplane with the Britax Travel Cart . The main benefit of bringing your own is that you’ll have a seat that you (and your child) are comfortable with, and that you know how to install confidently.

There are a number of similar travel carts out there, but we think this one offers the most for the price. We like that when the car seat is strapped onto the cart using the car seat’s LATCH clips, you can use the whole thing like a stroller and push (or pull) your child through the airport. The frame is also studier than other models—it can hold a total of 100 pounds of car seat and child. Plus, when it’s time to get on the plane you can fold the cart to stow it in an overhead bin.

A person pulling the Britax Travel Cart with a bulky convertible car seat on it.

At about $100 for the cart, it is cheaper to purchase a budget convertible car seat like the Cosco Scenera Next. However, depending on your circumstances, the Britax Travel Cart may outlive the expiration of many car seats (which are between six and 10 years), and could be used for future car seats, or passed along without as much consideration as a used car seat.

Our pick for the best booster seat for travel, the Cosco Rise.

For a cheap, no-frills booster seat, the Cosco Rise is a reliable option that weighs only 2.2 pounds. It’s simple to use: Like other backless booster seats, it does not need to be physically attached to the vehicle; a child simply sits in it and fastens the car’s lap belt over their knees (under the seat’s sides).

The Chicco GoFit Plus is our overall top pick for the best backless booster seat because it’s cushy, made with easy-to-clean materials, and includes two cup holders and a LATCH system to anchor the seat to the car. But it’s bulky, heavy, and not great for travel. The Cosco Rise has fewer bells and whistles, but it offers a key safety feature: Unlike many other boosters, this seat has a strap that attaches to a car’s shoulder belt to adjust the belt’s position for smaller riders (the shoulder belt should always rest on a child’s collarbone, and not against their neck).

The Cosco Rise can accommodate children as small as 40 pounds, as long as they are also 43 inches tall, meaning it will work for most kids 5 and up but may not accommodate some 4-year-olds.

A view of the Cosco Rise booster seat showing the strap that attaches to the vehicle's shoulder belt.

This seat is a bit too large to fit easily into a carry-on suitcase or backpack (it takes up almost all the room top-to-bottom in a standard-sized carry-on, with only a little room left on the side). There is also almost no padding on this seat, merely a polyester cover, but for short rides, our testers didn’t complain.

If you want an upgraded infant seat that’s great for travel : We recommend the Clek Liing , one of our favorite infant seats . Like the Chicco KeyFit 35, the Clek Liing can be installed without its base using a European belt path, which is much easier to get secure than the standard American belt routing found on most infant car seats. And when you’re at home, we love how easy it is to install the Liing’s base, which includes an added safety feature: a load leg .

If you want a high-end infant seat and don’t own a car: The lightweight, easy-to-clean Clek Liingo is similar to the Clek Liing but without the base. In general, we think installing a seat with the base is an easier and more secure option with infant car seats. But if you don’t own a car, the Liingo can be installed without a base in several ways. It has the same European belt path that the Liing has, which routes the lap belt over the top and the shoulder belt around the back for more security than an install that just goes over the top of the seat. The Liingo also comes with a LATCH strap that routes in the same spot as the lap belt—though we found this was not nearly as secure as the European belt path routing.

If you want a longer-lasting five-point harness seat for older kids: The Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 is a good choice. This forward-facing-only seat has a five-point harness that holds kids from 22 to 65 pounds and up to 49 inches tall, and it can be adjusted without rethreading it, so it is easier to modify as your child grows. When your child is ready for a regular booster, you can remove the harness and crotch buckle, converting the seat to a high-back booster that can hold a child from 40 to 100 pounds and up to 57 inches tall. Finally, you can remove the back and convert the seat to a lightweight backless booster that can also be used from 40 to 100 pounds and up to 57 inches tall.

First off, a car seat must be FAA-approved—as all of our recommended infant and convertible seats are—for a kid to ride in one on an airplane. (Booster seats are reserved for older children and not intended for use on airplane seats.)

Both the Federal Aviation Administration and CPSTs believe it is safer for kids under 2 to ride in a car seat aboard a plane rather than in their parents’ arms. In the event of turbulence or rough air, a child is much safer if strapped in. Being injured in turbulence , though very unlikely, does affect a handful of American flyers each year, and recent research indicates that turbulence is on the rise due to climate change.

Many parents find that air travel is easier when their child has their own seat (though of course you have to pay for that additional seat). Children are allowed to sit on caregivers’ laps on planes until age 2, but few toddlers can sit still for a long period of time, and that extra harness and recline (as well as familiarity) provided by the car seat may keep a child seated comfortably longer, especially once they are mobile but still too young to fully understand how to sit still in a lap belt.

There are a number of challenges to bringing a car seat, especially a convertible seat designed for a toddler, onto a plane. Some smaller planes may have seats that aren’t wide enough for many convertible car seats. And even if the car seat is narrow enough for the plane, not many seats are narrow enough to easily fit down the aisle. The Clek Foonf , one of our convertible car seat picks, is one of them, but it is pricey and heavy. (The Clek Fllo , Graco SlimFit3 LX , and Graco True3Fit also fit on an airplane seat, but we did not test them.) You’ll generally have to lift a car seat above the seats to carry it to the rear of a plane.

Finally, unlike a car seat buckle, which sits on your hip, a plane’s seat buckle sits right in the middle of your lap. That means for many car seats, once you install them on the plane, there’s going to be a large metal buckle below your child’s legs or behind their back (the Clek seats are among the few without this issue). Alisa Baer, co-founder of The Car Seat Lady, recommends using convertible seats with buckle-in-the-back issues rear-facing, even with a larger child—they’ll likely be more comfortable if their feet have a place to rest, plus they won’t be trying to rest their feet on the passenger’s seat in front of them. You can also put a diaper or spare T-shirt over the buckle to make it a bit more comfortable.

Some parents may find it simpler to use a CARES harness (Child Aviation Restraint System) to help keep kids in their seats on a plane (and their kids may prefer sitting in an airplane seat over a car seat); you install this four-point harness around the child’s seatback and under the tray behind it.

Most airlines allow at least one car seat to be checked for free but doing so has several potential problems . The luggage can be handled roughly and tossed, damaging the car seat in the process. Seats, like any piece of luggage, can also be lost or misplaced in transit. Ultimately, the main reason you may want to have your child use a car seat on the plane is so that you are absolutely confident you’ll have the car seat when you arrive at your destination.

For people who do check in their car seats, Harrison recommends—ideally—using the original box and styrofoam that the seat came with if they are available or using Bubble Wrap and a garbage bag if not. Examine the seat for visible damage when it comes out at baggage claim, and be prepared to replace the seat if it’s broken or bent.

Infant travel seats

The Chicco Fit2 can accommodate infants as small as 4 pounds and toddlers as large as 35 pounds or 35 inches. Like the Chicco KeyFit 35 we recommend as the best infant car seat for travel, it can be installed with a European belt path. But because of this seat’s large size, some seat belts are too short to route over the car seat securely.

Convertible travel seats

We previously recommended the lightweight, foldable, forward-facing WAYB Pico (rhymes with “baby”) as a good travel car seat for kids who are too big for the Cosco Scenera Next but still need a five-point harness. Its adjustable seat back allows it to accommodate taller kids, and its slim design means it takes up less room in the backseat than other car seats. The 8-pound seat is exceptionally convenient to install, uninstall, and carry around, including through airports and onto a plane. In September 2019, however, WAYB announced it was recalling 4,558 Pico car seats manufactured between March 1 and May 12, 2019, due to reports of breakage in the aluminum tube connecting the headrest to the seat. You can read NHSTA’s report (PDF)  for details about the recall, how to identify your car seat’s date of manufacture, and how to inspect your car seat for damage. Since the recall, there have not been further reports of problems. Like all car seats sold in the US, the Pico was self-certified by WAYB to pass NHTSA standards (PDF) for safety testing.

The EvenFlo Tribute is a lightweight seat (9 pounds) similar to the Cosco Scenera Next and also has a weight limit of 40 pounds, but as our convertible car seat guide testing showed us, it’s not as easy to get a good install with this seat. CPSTs like Harrison recommend using a towel or pool noodle when using the Tribute to address this. It’s also more expensive than the Cosco Scenera Next.

Booster travel seats

We previously recommended the BubbleBum , an inflatable, portable backless booster seat for older kids. However, in February 2022, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety raised concerns about the safety of inflatable boosters. A study using a computerized model determined that an inflatable booster may not have the stiffness required to keep a child from sliding out from under the lap belt upon impact in a car crash.

The backless Cosco Topside is too large to fit into a carry-on or a backpack. Unlike the Cosco Rise , our favorite backless booster for travel, this booster seat also doesn’t have a belt-positioning clip, which can help the shoulder belt fit better on a smaller rider.

We liked the Graco RightGuide booster seat because it was small enough to fit inside a carry-on or backpack. But it was recently discontinued.

The Immi Go is a booster car seat with a five-point harness that folds conveniently into its own carrying bag. Due to low sales, it is no longer for sale in the US, but you may see this seat if you travel abroad.

The MiFold backless booster seat (currently unavailable) is small enough to fit into the back pocket of some pants and weighs less than 2 pounds. It works by moving the seat belt down to fit the kid (as opposed to raising the kid to fit the belt, as other boosters do). However, our testers found its hard plastic shell uncomfortable to sit on for long periods of time and said that the seat was complicated and unintuitive to set up. Also, a car seat safety expert we consulted noted that the design of the seat may encourage a child to use bad posture while they’re sitting in it—in an effort to find a more comfortable position, the child may tend to scoot forward, moving the slick-bottomed seat along with them, which could pose a safety concern.

Travel carts

The Torevsior Car Seat Travel Cart is about $25 less than the Britax Travel Cart we recommend, but it’s also less robust—the frame just doesn’t feel as sturdy. The weight limit is also lower than the Britax’s, at 70 pounds versus Britax’s 100 pounds. Like the Britax travel cart, the Torevsior cart has hooks for LATCH straps, to secure a car seat onto the cart so that your child can ride in it as you’re moving through the airport. It’s 6.4 pounds (Britax is 7.6 pounds), and extends up to 46 inches (Britax to 42 inches).

All of the guidelines for car seat care, use, and maintenance in our other car seat guides apply to travel car seats as well.

This guide was edited by Ellen Lee, Amy Miller Kravetz and Kalee Thompson.

Jessica Jermakian, vice president for vehicle research at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety , email exchange , August 1, 2022

Alisa Baer, pediatrician, nationally certified child passenger safety instructor, and co-founder of The Car Seat Lady , phone interview, July 15, 2022 and January 9, 2023

Lani Harrison, CPST, Car Seats for the Littles , email interview , January 28, 2019

Meet your guides

A headshot of Christina Szalinski

Christina Szalinski

Christina Szalinski is a freelance science writer with a PhD in cell biology.

travel stroller car seat compatible

Rebecca Gale

Further reading

Our three picks for the best booster car seat, arranged in a row.

The Best Booster Car Seats

by Rebecca Gale

After researching over 50 booster car seats and testing 13, we’ve concluded that the convenient Chicco KidFit ClearTex Plus is the best overall choice.

Two infant car seats side by side, with baby toys.

The Best Infant Car Seats

by Christina Szalinski

After extensive research and field testing, we found that the Graco SnugRide SnugFit 35 DLX is the best infant car seat for most families.

The two travel strollers we recommend, the Uppababy Minu V2 and the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller, standing next to each other.

The Best Travel Strollers

by Elise Czajkowski

After testing seven travel strollers on various trips and excursions, we’re confident that the Uppababy Minu V2 is the one to get.

Highway sign indicating meltdown ahead in half mile.

Traveling With Little Kids Can Be Tough. The Right Gear Can Help.

by Kerry Davis McGuinness

From compact car seats and cribs to portable blackout shades and white noise machines, the right tools for travel can lead to less fuss—and more fun.

travel stroller car seat compatible

Best Stroller and Car Seat Combos

These top-performing travel systems feature high-quality strollers and car seats that work well on their own and together

We tested a dozen combo systems, including the Chicco Bravo Trio (above), so that you can find one that will transfer your baby from car to stroller and back with ease.

By Keith Flamer, Molly Bradley

Buying a traditional stroller —and researching the many models and features that you can choose from—is a rite of passage for many new parents. But there are reasons you might want to buy a car seat and stroller combo, also known as a travel system , instead.

Travel systems bundle together a stroller and a compatible car seat. The car seat clips into the stroller to function as the seat, and it can pop easily into and out of a car seat base, making for seamless transitions on the road with your baby. For many parents, that’s an irresistible advantage.

That’s why we’ve put 12 popular brands through both our rigorous stroller and car seat tests so that you can find one that works best for you.

Why Buy a Stroller and Car Seat Combo?

Two reasons: First, without having to deal with the harness, your baby is more likely to keep sleeping as you transfer him from car to stroller and vice versa. Simply click the seat out and click it in. As any sleep-deprived, peace-and-quiet-seeking new parent knows, this is particularly helpful. And while the seats of some stroller models don’t recline completely, you can still stroll with your infant by relying on the car seat for the first few months, then transitioning to the stroller seat when he or she is older.

Second, bundling the stroller and car seat usually costs less than buying the two items separately. For instance, the Chicco Mini Bravo Plus stroller and the Chicco KeyFit 30 Car Seat retail for about $200 each, but the Chicco Mini Plus travel system , which includes both, costs around $380.

It’s worth noting that a travel system is different from a car seat stroller, which is a car seat with attached wheels and a handle. The whole contraption functions as a stroller when fully expanded and a car seat when collapsed. It’s a handy design, but when your child outgrows the car seat, you’ll need both a new car seat and a new stroller. Travel systems and car seat strollers are also both distinct from car seat carrier strollers , which are simply frames on wheels that a compatible car seat can clip into to function as a stroller.

If you already own a car seat, you can opt for just a compatible traditional stroller and adapter; the stroller and car seat don’t need to be from the same brand. But our testers say you’ll get the most seamless experience when you buy a dedicated car seat and stroller bundle. “With a travel system, you’re getting products that the manufacturer has designed to work together,” says Joan Muratore, CR’s stroller-lab program leader.

How We Test Travel Systems

The Overall Score for each travel system in our ratings is based on the performance of the stroller in our dedicated stroller tests, the performance of the car seat in our dedicated car seat tests, and how easily the car seat and stroller attach to each other. For the stroller test, we assess safety, maneuverability, and (among other things) how easy it is to fold and manage the straps. For the car seat test, we evaluate how easy it is to use in addition to how well its crash protection works and how easily it fits into a vehicle using the car’s LATCH system or safety belts. For more details on how we test, see our article on the best strollers and the best car seats .

Below are the five top-performing car seat stroller combos in our ratings. To learn more about how to shop for strollers, see our stroller buying guide . Curious about how other strollers compare with travel systems? See our comprehensive stroller ratings , where you can sort by type, price, and more.

5 Best Stroller and Car Seat Combos

The car seats and strollers in these systems work seamlessly together, but each can also be bought separately, unless where noted. Make sure your purchase is compatible with the stroller or car seat you have before you buy.

Consumer Reports is an independent, nonprofit organization that works side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. CR does not endorse products or services, and does not accept advertising. Copyright © 2023, Consumer Reports, Inc.

Best Stroller and Car Seat Combos

  • Strollers /

Best Travel Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed by Parents & Experts

Lightweight and compact, a travel stroller can help make your next family vacation a little bit easier., by jen labracio | medically reviewed by holly peretz ot.

Pinterest logo.

If the thought of trying to wrangle your full-size stroller on your next family adventure feels daunting, it’s time to consider a travel stroller.

Travel strollers make leaving home with your little one a little bit easier and a lot more convenient. Today’s travel stroller is a minimalist’s dream. Most have many of the same high-end features as traditional strollers all rolled into a compact, portable package. Many travel strollers break down to fit in the overhead bin of a plane or can be folded down quickly (and with one hand—win) and slung over your shoulder. Many parents even use them as their day-to-day stroller.

If you’re a family who’s frequently on the go, a travel stroller may be the answer to help lighten your load and simplify your life. We’re sharing Babylist parents favorites and bestselling picks to help you narrow down your search. I also added my own thoughts and picks from the countless travel strollers I’ve tested over the last decade as a mom of two and in my role as Babylist’s Gear Editor.

Babylist’s Top Picks for the Best Travel Strollers

  • Best Travel System: Nuna PIPA urbn + TRVL Travel System
  • Best for Toddlers: Bugaboo Butterfly Complete Stroller
  • Best Budget: Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Stroller
  • Best for Everyday Use: UPPAbaby MINU V2 Stroller
  • Best for Planes: Babyzen YOYO2 6+ Stroller
  • Best Compact: Joolz Aer+ Lightweight Stroller
  • Best Lightweight: Zoe The Traveler
  • Best Value: Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Single Stroller
  • Best for Infants: Mountain Buggy Nano V3 Stroller
  • Best Umbrella: Summer 3D Lite Convenience Stroller

In This Article

How we chose the best travel strollers.

  • Our Top Picks

Which Stroller Is Best for Travel?

What to look for in a travel stroller, how do you travel with a stroller on a plane, babylist’s picks for the best travel strollers, best travel system stroller.

Nuna PIPA urbn & TRVL Travel System - Caviar - $850.00.

Nuna PIPA urbn & TRVL Travel System - Caviar

  • Baseless infant car seat, installs in seconds
  • Stroller has one-handed fold, weighs 13 pounds
  • Car seat weighs just 7 pounds

What Our Experts Say

If you know you’ll frequently be traveling while your baby is an infant, you may want to invest in a travel system (a stroller and car seat that attach to each other; here’s more on how to pick a travel system ). This combo is the best of the best, and what I wish I’d had when I was a new mom living in New York City seven years ago and didn’t own a car. It combines the ultra-popular TRVL, the brand’s first dive into the lightweight stroller market, with the urbn, a first-of-its-kind car seat.

What’s so special about a baseless car seat? Most infant car seats can be installed without a base, but require a seat belt—along with time and patience. That’s not the case with the urbn. There’s no base to worry about AND the latch system is built right into the seat’s base. I was blown away by how quick and easy this seat was to install. I pressed a button on each side and pushed to attach it directly to my vehicle’s lower anchors—that’s it. It’s about as foolproof as it gets, and especially ideal if you’ll be using your car seat on the go in rideshares or taxis. This is also our pick for best travel car seat .

As for the TRVL stroller, it’s just as great. The two standout features for me were its fold (one-handed, quick and ridiculously easy) and its compact size (it stands on its own and weighs just over 13 pounds. While not huge, the basket is large enough to hold your essentials (and a little more) and is easy to access, and the TRVL’s maneuverability is good enough that you’ll be able to steer easily with one hand.

What’s Worth Considering

The TRVL is on the pricier side and it doesn’t have a carry strap, but the maneuverability, suspension and versatility help explain the higher price point. I found it worked as a travel stroller, but also as an everyday stroller, too. There are also lots of thoughtful design details like magnetic buckles, a no-rethread harness and leatherette bumper bar and handlebar. The urbn car seat has a lower height limit than many infant car seats—not ideal, but not a huge dealbreaker, either.

Additional Specs

Best Travel Stroller for Toddlers

Bugaboo Butterfly Complete Stroller - Midnight Black - $449.00.

Bugaboo Butterfly Complete Stroller - Midnight Black

  • Four-wheel suspension for a smooth ride
  • Fast, easy fold
  • Included footrest and high seat back

There are two travel strollers I recommend again and again to families, and Bugaboo’s newest compact stroller, the Butterfly, is one of them. (The other one is the Joolz Aer+—more on that below!). This style-forward stroller is packed with thoughtful, impressive features, just like the brand’s popular full-size strollers. Two of my favorites (and there are many to choose from!) are the smooth ride and the quick, easy fold. The four-wheel suspension system means the Butterfly rides more like a traditional stroller than a compact one, a huge perk when I pushed it on anything other than smooth pavement and perfect for toting around my larger toddler. It moves and turns easily and I was able to steer it with only one hand, a huge plus. The fold is just as impressive; I also did it one-handed, and the Butterfly folds down to about the side of a small bag. (There’s also a built-in carry strap, a feature I value in any stroller, but especially one designed for travel.)

A few other things I love: it accommodates an infant car seat with adapters, so you can use it from day one, and the seat has a high back for larger kiddos and reclines almost fully for napping on the go. There’s even a footrest built in for extra comfort, another toddler-friendly feature. (My 95th-percent-in-height two-year-old still fits perfectly in it.) And the sun canopy on the Butterfly is one of the best I’ve seen of all the travel strollers on our list.

There’s not much to pick on with this stroller, minus its high price tag. The back wheels on the Butterfly are fairly close together. That setup, combined with a handle that doesn’t extend (which is the norm for compact strollers), means that if you’re on the taller side like me (5’10”), you may kick the back of the stroller while you’re walking. And although I wouldn’t consider it heavy, it is one of the heavier travel strollers on our list by about three pounds.

Best Budget Travel Stroller

Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Stroller - $79.99.

Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Stroller

  • Great value
  • Extremely light—weighs less than 12 pounds
  • Easy fold but not as compact as others on our list

If you’re not looking to spend a lot on a travel stroller or you’re a family who doesn’t travel very often, the Kolcraft Cloud Light is an excellent value for an inexpensive stroller . It boasts lots of thoughtful features, especially considering the stroller’s price. Weight is the standout here—the Cloud Plus weighs less than twelve pounds, making it one of the lightest strollers on our list. The fold is also worth a second look. Although it’s not super compact (the stroller folds in on itself, much like an umbrella stroller, rather than in a tri-fold like many other travel strollers on our list), it’s quick and easy and you can do it with one hand, a feature we always appreciate especially when we’re on the go.

Other features to note include an extendable canopy with a peekaboo window, a parent tray with two drink holders and a large storage basket (it’s one of the biggest on our list).

The seat on the Cloud Plus has multiple positions but doesn’t recline completely flat. It has a lower weight limit than many of the strollers on our list—40 pounds—and doesn’t have much in the way of suspension and shock absorption. The fold is slim but not all that compact.

And remember—this stroller is under $100. It’s not going to compare to travel strollers five times its price in suspension, maneuverability, stability or materials. But, considering the price, it’s a great option if you don’t travel all that much but want a lightweight stroller option when you do.

What Babylist Parents Say

“Easily fits in the trunk of my car.” -Cora

Best Travel Stroller for Everyday Use

UPPAbaby Minu V2 Stroller - Jake - $399.99.

UPPAbaby Minu V2 Stroller - Jake

  • Great for travel + everyday use
  • Roomy storage basket
  • Shock-absorbing suspension for a smooth ride

UPPAbaby was one of the first stroller brands to dive into the “travel stroller that can also be used as an everyday stroller” category, and the Minu does both of these things extremely well. From your own neighborhood to wherever your travel adventures take you and to everything in between, the Minu offers all the conveniences of a day-to-day stroller in a travel-friendly package. A few of my favorite features are the one-handed fold, the huge sunshade, the comfy seat with multi-position recline and a roomy, easy-access basket. The spring-action, shock-absorbing all-wheel suspension makes for a smooth ride even over bumpy terrain, so it’s a stroller you can use both in the suburbs and in a city. The Minu stands when folded and features a carry strap and a storage bag for easy transport.

As-is, the Minu works for babies three+ months; that means if you want to use it with your newborn, you’ll need to add the bassinet and adapters , which will cost you.

The Minu folds compactly but is a little bulkier than some of the other strollers on our list when it’s broken down. It’s also a little heavier, weighing in at about 17 pounds. And the seat back is on the shorter side.

“Amazing stroller. Great for travelling (fits in overhead bin), shopping (takes up minimal trunk space), walks in the park (very smooth ride, even over grass!). Has oversized canopy to block sun and folds with one hand. Bought it for travel, but use it as our primary stroller because I love it so much.” -Jessica

Best Travel Stroller for Flying

Babyzen YOYO2 Stroller Bundle - Black Frame/Olive - $449.00.

Babyzen YOYO2 Stroller Bundle - Black Frame/Olive

  • Fits in overhead bin
  • Fast, one-handed fold
  • Options to customize color, add a second rider and more

The YOYO2 was ahead of its time in the world of compact strollers and remains a parent favorite both for travel and for families looking for a smaller, lighter everyday stroller option. This compact favorite fits in the overhead bin and is the stroller of choice for many light-packing parents who don’t want to deal with the hassle (or risk) of gate-checking a stroller when they fly. It performs like a champ off the plane, too, easily steering through crowds and through narrow spaces.

There’s one other unique thing to love here—the custom options. You can change out the seat and shade fabrics with a new color pack , add a custom footmuff for cooler temps, help your older kiddo hitch a ride on the stroller board and even add a storage bag that uses wheeled support so your stroller won’t tip. With adapters that are sold separately, you can also use this stroller with some of the best infant car seats from Nuna and Maxi Cosi, among others.

The YOYO2’s fold isn’t hard, but it’s not quite as easy as some of the other travel stroller picks on our list. (There are two steps, and it takes a little getting used to.) The canopy is on the shorter side. This travel stroller does come with a rain cover, but all the other extras and custom adds will cost you. (And this stroller is on the pricier side to begin with.)

“Fits in airplane cabin. We took it on so many trips!” -Emily

Best Compact Travel Stroller

Joolz aer+ lightweight stroller - stone grey.

  • One-handed fold and compact carry
  • Comfy, contoured seat

I’ve tried a LOT of travel strollers in my day, and the Joolz Aer+ is the one I come back to again and again. Pushing it doesn’t feel much different than pushing much larger, much more expensive strollers—and that’s one of the things I love about it. The Aer+ has four-wheel suspension, a feature that’s not very common in travel strollers, so it maneuvers easily and glides smoothly even across uneven surfaces like bumpy sidewalks and dirt paths. That combined with the ridiculously easy one-handed fold, the compact design and the comfortable seat that contours to fit your child’s body makes this stroller a great choice for travel and for everyday use. (It currently occupies a permanent spot in the trunk of my car.)

The Aer+ is newborn-friendly and compatible with Nuna and Clek car seats (adapters sold separately), so it works if you want to use it from day one. The stroller folds small enough to fit in an overhead bin or to sling over your shoulder (carry strap included) and tote up and down stairs, on public transportation or anywhere else you need to go. It also comes with a rain cover and travel bag included.

The Aer+ is on the pricier side, but if you’re planning on using it for travel and for everyday, then the cost doesn’t seem as daunting. I also wish it came with a footrest instead of having to purchase one separately.

“It’s so easy to push and steer and SO easy to fold with just one hand. We use it as a travel stroller and often as our everyday stroller as well.” -Jennifer

Best Lightweight Travel Stroller

Zoe the traveler.

  • One-handed fold
  • Extended canopy, full recline

Lightweight, compact and travel-ready are the three features that come to mind when I think of The Traveler from Zoe. This aluminum-frame stroller is light enough for easy portability but durable enough to handle lots of different adventures. I love the one-handed fold and that it’s small enough to fit in an overhead bin if you don’t want to wrangle with gate checking your stroller on your next trip. There are lots of high-end features like an extended canopy, adjustable footrest and a near-flat recline. And don’t forget one of the best parts: The Traveler folds in seconds with one hand and stands on its own.

The Traveler isn’t compatible with any car seats so you won’t be able to use it with younger babies. There are also no straps or backpack included; if you want those, you’ll have to pay extra to add them on. And while it shines on smooth pavement, it’s not great on bumpy or uneven terrain.

Need a double travel stroller? Zoe’s The Twin+ is a great choice. It weighs under 20 pounds and fits through standard doorways but is comfortable and roomy enough for two children up to 45 pounds each. The fold is quick, easy and compact and the stroller is Disney-approved. And it can expand to a triple or a quad stroller with additional seats.

Best Value Travel Stroller

Baby jogger city tour 2 single stroller - jet.

  • Same one-handed fold Baby Jogger full-size strollers are known for
  • 3 ways to ride: infant car seat, bassinet or toddler seat
  • Padded seat with added depth

Travel strollers can get expensive. If you don’t want to spend $500+ on one, but you travel frequently and want a reliable option, the City Tour 2 is a great mid-priced pick.

Baby Jogger strollers are known (and loved) for their easy, one-handed fold—and this travel stroller is no exception. The City Tour 2 folds into a 19-by-23-inch rectangle and automatically locks closed. You can carry it by the handle or tuck it away in the included tote bag carryall while your little one explores. The stroller has a deep, padded seat and adjustable calf support to keep your kiddo comfortable. Plus, a huge UV 50+ sun canopy provides shade.

There’s suspension system in the frame isn’t great, making for a bit of a bumpy ride. Some parents wish the tote bag carryall had backpack straps for easier transport rather than a shoulder strap.

“I love that I can carry, open and fold it with one hand. It’s easy to maneuver and the only stroller I own. Perfect for city living!” -Amie

Best Infant Travel Stroller

Mountain buggy nano v3 stroller.

  • Comes with universal car seat adapter
  • Full recline seat
  • Ventilated backrest for airflow

The Mountain Buggy Nano stroller is the best of both worlds—a travel stroller that can also act as a travel system . Unlike most travel strollers, this one comes equipped with a universal car seat adapter so you can pop in your infant seat and be on your way with your newborn in tow. (You can also purchase the Cocoon Carrycot separately if you prefer a bassinet option.)

The Nano is lightweight and compact enough to fit easily into many carry-on luggage units on planes and trains or in a trunk, and the travel bag has a handle and strap for portability. The narrow width and front-wheel swivel makes it good for use on city streets or other tight spaces and the seat features a full recline perfect for naps.

There’s no suspension system and no peekaboo window. You need to use two hands to fold the Nano. (Although it’s still really easy.)

“It folded up so small that it fit on the plane as a carryon but it also handled really well on european cobblestone” -Nikki

Best Umbrella Stroller for Travel

Summer 3d lite convenience stroller.

  • Easy to maneuver
  • Umbrella-style fold is bulky

Umbrella strollers used to be the norm in the compact stroller category. That’s changed over the last five years or so, but if you still prefer one for travel, the Summer 3D Lite should be on your list.

The 3D Lite is a great all-around travel stroller. It’s light (about 13 pounds), features a simple, compact fold and a built-in carry strap, has a seat that lays nearly flat and boasts an ample storage basket. The ride isn’t super cushy, but it’s not all that bumpy, either. And at well under $100, it’s an incredible value for a stroller with this many great features.

Since this is an umbrella stroller, you won’t find the compact tri-fold that parents love so much about many travel strollers.

“It is so easy to travel with - we used it on a cruise ship, in various airports, and for all our daily errands.” -Jeanine

Also Worth a Look…

The world of compact travel strollers has exploded recently, flooding the market with lots of options. Here are a few other travel strollers worth a look:

  • The Bumprider Connect 3 Stroller ($599.99) is totally unique. It features a magnetic lock system that allows you to join two or more strollers together. It’s pricey, though, especially if you need more than one.
  • Evenflo Gold’s Otto ($199.99) is a competitively priced self-folding, lightweight stroller with a high weight limit (55 pounds) and a two-position adjustable footrest.
  • The Inglesina Quid ($299.00) fits in an overhead bin and offers thoughtful features like a self-standing fold, an extendable canopy and a large flap on the hood that fully retracts for ventilation on warm days. The Quid weighs in at only 13 pounds.
  • We analyzed results from Babylist’s Best Baby Products survey, which polled 6,000 Babylist users and asked them to share the baby products they love the most and why.
  • We utilized insight from the Babylist editorial team, including Gear Editor Jen LaBracio, an expert in the baby space for over six years and a mom of two who has written hundreds of baby gear guides and personally researched and tested hundreds of baby products, including many travel strollers.
  • We reviewed customer reviews from hundreds of real Babylist parents.

Some families use a traditional stroller for everything, even traveling. But having a lighter, more nimble travel stroller pays off when you really need it: for airports, narrow city sidewalks , public transportation or just to lighten the load.

Here are some of the pros and cons of using different types of strollers for travel:

  • Traditional stroller: Everyday strollers typically have convenient features like lots of storage space, cup holders and trays, and large canopies. Some may also have all-terrain wheels and accommodate an infant car seat. But they’re heavier and bulkier to fold, which makes using and storing them in tight spaces more difficult (think: narrow doorways, airplane overhead bins, small car trunks).
  • Umbrella stroller: Bare-boned and exceptionally lightweight, umbrella strollers often lack many amenities you find in traditional strollers like adjustable seats and cup holders. They have skimpy canopies, minimal cushioning and seat support and don’t fold small enough to fit in airport storage bins. You also can’t push an umbrella stroller with one hand. Umbrella strollers are good for when you occasionally need a slimmer, fast-fold stroller.
  • Travel stroller: Sometimes also called a lightweight stroller, travel strollers strike a balance between traditional and umbrella stroller styles. They’re lighter than the standard stroller, easy to fold and compact in size when collapsed. (Some travel strollers fold in half, called a square fold, while others feature a more compact tri-fold.) Travel strollers have some full-size amenities like large sun canopies and a storage basket and most even have extras like cup holders.

Figuring out the best stroller to use for travel often comes down to what type of trade-offs you want to make around budget , space and personal preference.

  • Some traditional strollers offer a compact fold that’s great for travel, but the stroller weighs a ton.
  • Umbrella strollers tend to be affordable but require two hands for pushing and only offer a vertical fold.
  • Compact travel strollers are light, portable and easy to steer but come at a cost.

Before you invest in a travel stroller, think through:

  • How often you travel
  • How much money you want to spend
  • Where you’ll be storing your stroller when it’s not in use

Also note that lots of parents find that a travel stroller can work just as well as a full-size option for everyday use; just keep in mind that unless the travel stroller you choose is compatible with an infant car seat or comes with a separate infant kit, you’ll need to wait to use the stroller until your baby is six months old and can sit up unassisted.  

A travel stroller should be easy to take with you on trips and be a comfy spot for your little one, especially since your child will probably spend more hours in it while traveling than at home. Consider these features as you research and shop:

  • Size and weight. You’re going to be lifting, carrying and storing your travel stroller often, so the stroller’s size and weight is important. Look for one that’s lightweight and manageable. Also pay attention both to the folded and unfolded size of your travel stroller. Hoping to If you’re planning on using it for an older toddler, also be sure it’s large enough to accommodate them.
  • Fold. There’s also a lot of folding and unfolding a stroller during travel, whether it’s to take it in and out of your car, stash it under a table at a restaurant or storing it in the overhead compartment of an airplane. Choose a travel stroller with a quick, easy fold, preferably one you can do one-handed.
  • Maneuverability. Not all travel strollers are created equally. Some offer much more maneuverability and a better suspension system than others; however, these features often come at a cost. Thinking through how often you’ll be using your travel stroller and what types of terrain you’ll encounter most often can be helpful in determining whether or not a more expensive stroller is worthwhile.
  • Canopy size. Most travel involves at least some, if not a lot, of outdoor time. A large canopy is essential for protecting your little one from the elements, especially the sun.
  • Comfort and convenience features. Similar to a full-size stroller, look for features that will make you and your little one more comfortable, especially while traveling. Things like an adjustable seat with a full or nearly full recline, an ample storage basket, an adjustable handlebar and easy to clean fabrics are all important. And don’t forget a built-in strap or a separate carrying case for easy transport.

Bringing a stroller with you on trips can seem daunting. How do you get it from point A to point B when you’re flying ? Will it count toward your carry-on and baggage allotment? And what if you need to use your stroller in the airport? Good news: You can pick how you want to travel with your stroller, depending on your needs. Here are the choices:

  • Check the stroller with your baggage: Some parents unload the stroller during check-in and switch to using a baby carrier through the airport instead. Pair a front carrier with a backpack-style diaper bag so your hands will be free to deal with other things (like the toys that will make your trip a breeze ). Note that if you have a large stroller, you may be required to check it as baggage anyway. This usually doesn’t count toward your baggage allotment.
  • Check the stroller at the gate: Want to use the stroller until you board the plane? You can check the stroller with the gate agent—it just needs to be tagged—and then pick it up outside the aircraft door when you arrive. (Just remember if you have a connecting flight to catch, waiting for your stroller to be placed on the jet bridge can eat up precious time.)
  • Stow the stroller on the airplane: Some travel strollers fold up so small they fit in a backpack and can be stored in an overhead bin. Having your stroller with you eliminates the hassle of waiting for it on the jet bridge or at baggage claim (or losing it).

Some other air-travel tips to keep in mind:

  • If you check the stroller with baggage, you do run the risk of damage. If you’re not using a travel stroller bag, ask the agent at check-in for a plastic bag to cover and protect it during transport.
  • If you’re taking the stroller through security, it will need to be folded and put through the X-ray machine. Don’t stuff the undercarriage basket until after security.
  • If your checked stroller doesn’t come out with the suitcases at baggage claim, check the oversized luggage area. It may have been set aside there (this may also be where your travel crib is, if you checked one).

Do you need a travel stroller bag?

How you plan to use your travel stroller will affect whether or not you need a travel stroller bag.

If you plan on flying with your stroller then you’ll probably want to use a travel stroller bag, especially if you don’t plan on stowing your stroller in the overhead compartment of the plane (either because you don’t want to or because it won’t fit). A checked stroller, even one that’s gate checked, may get tossed around quite a bit while in transit, so you’ll want a travel stroller bag to keep it protected.

If you’re not planning on flying much with your stroller or if you’re simply using your travel stroller as a more lightweight day-to-day option, then a travel stroller probably isn’t a must-have.

Some travel strollers come with a travel bag while others require you to purchase one separately, so check with your particular brand. There are generic travel stroller bags that may work, too.

Jen LaBracio

Senior gear editor.

Jen LaBracio is Babylist’s Senior Gear Editor, a role that perfectly combines her love of all things baby gear with her love of (obsessive) research. When she’s not testing out a new high chair or pushing the latest stroller model around her neighborhood, she likes to run, spin, listen to podcasts, read and spend time at the beach. In her past life, she worked for over a decade in children’s publishing. She lives outside of Chicago with her husband and their two boys, Will and Ben.

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The Best Car Seat Stroller Combos

Best Car Seat Stroller Combo

Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we may earn a commission from our partners’ links. This content is created independently from TIME’s editorial staff. Learn more about it.

When I was shopping for a car seat for my first child, the most important feature, aside from safety, was functionality. I wanted to make sure this car seat was not only easy to install, and to use, but that it also could easily connect to the stroller that I planned on using on the regular. That’s why I decided to go with a car seat stroller combo, also known as a travel system. This convenient and versatile solution allows parents to combine their car seat and stroller into a single integrated system they can use on the go.

What to consider when buying a car seat stroller combo

There are so many car seat stroller combos on the market today, as they’re one of the most popular options for parents looking for convenience. Here are a few pointers that can help guide you with your purchase.

Safety features

Safety will always be a top priority when it comes to buying any kind of a car seat—and stroller for that matter. You want to make sure that the car seat meets or exceeds the safety standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) . It should be made out of energy-absorbing foam, include side-impact protection, and have a five-point harness system.

Compatibility

The car seat and stroller you purchase need to be compatible to work. Some car seat stroller combos are sold together as a single package, including both the car seat and the stroller, while others allow you to mix and match products, sometimes even between two different brands. Just check to make sure that whatever products you purchase do, in fact, work together.

Ease of use

Installation and functionality doesn’t come easy for most parents, so try to find a car seat stroller combo that comes with easy-to-follow instructions for putting the products together and installing the car seat safely in your vehicle. Also, make sure that the stroller works on whatever terrain you intend to walk on the most, whether it’s smooth pavement or rugged trails.

Car seat stroller combos can get expensive. In fact, like cribs , they’re one of the big-ticket baby gear items you’ll purchase in preparation for your baby. While you want to ensure that your car seat stroller combo has all the bells and whistles, you can find options in your budget.

Our top picks for best car seat stroller combo:

Best car seat stroller combo installation: britax b-free premium & b-safe gen2 flexfit+ travel system.

Britax B-Free Premium & B-Safe Gen2 FlexFit+ Travel System - Clean Comfort Black

Britax B-Free Premium & B-Safe Gen2 FlexFit+ Travel System - Clean Comfort Black

Britax is well known for both their car seats and their strollers, so it’s no surprise they make a car seat stroller combo worth writing home about. The best thing about this product is how easy it is to put together and install the car seat into the car. It comes with a Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system so the car seat clicks right into place with ease. The stroller is easy to put together and fold up. The toddler seat reclines all the way back, which comes in handy for naps on the go. The bottom is roomy—enough to fit a diaper bag at least.

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 33 x 23 x 40 inches
  • Cross-compatibility: Any Britax stroller
  • Capacity limit: 55 pounds (stroller), 35 pounds (car seat)
  • Adjustable handlebar height: Yes
  • Weight: 40 pounds
  • Color: Black
  • FAA certified: N/A
  • Price on publish: $562.49

What we like:

  • Easy to assemble/function
  • Sturdy and durable
  • Recline and storage pockets

What we don’t like:

  • No cup holder
  • One front wheel

The bottom line:

If you’re okay with the fact that this stroller only has one front wheel, I think you’ll find it easy to use, install, and maneuver.

Get it here: Britax B-Free Premium & B-Safe Gen2 FlexFit+ Travel System

Best car seat stroller combo for travel: Nuna PIPA Urbn + TRVL System

Nuna PIPA Urbn + TRVL System

Nuna PIPA Urbn + TRVL System

If you’re already a fan of Nuna, you know that their products are top notch. If you’re unfamiliar with the brand, it makes some of the safest, most durable, and high-quality car seats, travel strollers , double strollers , and more. Their travel system combo is super lightweight (the car seat is just seven pounds and the stroller is just 13.6 pounds) and it’s easy to maneuver thanks to progressive front- and rear-wheel suspension technology.

  • Dimensions: 32.5 x 20.25 x 44 inches
  • Cross-compatibility: Nuna Pipa
  • Capacity limit: 50 pounds (stroller), 22 pounds (car seat)
  • Weight: 23.6 pounds
  • Color: Caviar, Lagoon, Hazelwood, Droplet Dot Taupe, Rainbow, Curated
  • FAA certified: Yes
  • Price on publish: $800 - $850 (depends on color)
  • Luxury feel
  • Lightweight
  • Easy to fold
  • GREENGUARD Gold certified
  • Can’t use with other Nuna car seats

Nuna is a luxury brand, so it comes with a hefty price tag, but reviewers note you get what you pay for: high quality and solid construction.

Get it here: Nuna PIPA Urbn + TRVL System

Best car seat stroller combo for newborn: UPPAbaby® Cruz V2 + Mesa V2 Infant Travel System

UPPAbaby® Cruz V2 + Mesa V2 Infant Travel System

UPPAbaby® Cruz V2 + Mesa V2 Infant Travel System

Despite its jaw-dropping price tag, this is one of the more popular car seat stroller combos on the market today. UPPAbaby creates quality products that are safe, intuitive for use and that come with a myriad of innovative features. This car seat clicks right onto the stroller, which also comes with a toddler seat that reclines and has a SPF 50 canopy. The storage basket underneath is on the larger side and the handlebar adjusts to your height.

  • Dimensions: 22.75 x 37.5 x 40 inches
  • Cross-compatibility: MESA Infant Car Seat
  • Capacity limit: 50 pounds (stroller), 35 pounds (car seat)
  • Weight: 35.5 pounds
  • Color: Jake, Greyson, Gregory
  • Price on publish: $1,012.13 - 1,059.98 (depends on color)
  • Easy to maneuver
  • Grows with your family
  • Not great on rough terrain

This is one of the more expensive car seat stroller combos on the market, but parents rave about all of its bells and whistles, and how easy it is to maneuver.

Get it here: UPPAbaby® Cruz V2 + Mesa V2 Infant Travel System

Best twin car seat stroller combo: Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Travel System

Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Travel System

Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Travel System

For the price and convenience, this car seat stroller combo is a great option, especially for parents of multiples. It offers 23 configurations to accommodate one or two riders in both forward- or rear-facing modes. You can opt to lay the toddler seat flat, which can encourage your baby to nap, and the anti-rebound bar helps absorb instability to ensure a smooth ride.

  • Dimensions: 26.5 x 39 x 39.25 inches
  • Cross-compatibility: Litemax Infant Car Seat
  • Weight: 30.9 pounds
  • Color: Ayrshire Black, Sabino Gray
  • FAA certified: No
  • Price on publish: $479.99
  • Convenient for multiples
  • Offers 23 configurations
  • Not FAA-certified
  • Can feel bulky

At a reasonable price, this car seat stroller combo offers 23 configurations to accommodate families of all sizes.

Get it here: Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Travel System

Best luxury car seat stroller combo: Nuna PIPA™ Rx + MIXX™ Next Stroller Travel System

Nuna PIPA™ Rx + MIXX™ Next Stroller Travel System

Nuna PIPA™ Rx + MIXX™ Next Stroller Travel System

If budget isn’t a top concern and you’re looking for a car seat stroller combo with a luxury feel, this is a great option. The Nuna PIPA™ Rx + MIXX™ Next Stroller is ultra lightweight, easy to put together, and can be used in four different modes: PIPA™ series infant car seat, bassinet , seat parent facing, or world facing. It folds with one hand and comes with a UPF 50+ canopy that’s water repellent and provides shade for your baby. These products are also both GREENGUARD Gold Certified.

  • Dimensions: 23.75 x 32.75 x 45.5 inches
  • Cross-compatibility: PIPA™ Rx seat
  • Capacity limit: 50 pounds (stroller), 32 pounds (car seat)
  • Weight: 35.9 pounds
  • Color: Droplet Dot Taupe, Caviar Black, Granite Grey
  • Price on publish: $1,200
  • One-hand recline
  • GREENGUARD Gold Certified
  • Car seat can be tricky to install with LATCH system

If it’s within your budget, this luxury car seat stroller combo comes with all the features you’re looking for and it’s a safe, efficient choice.

Get it here: Nuna PIPA™ Rx + MIXX™ Next Stroller Travel System

Best affordable car seat stroller combo: Graco Modes Pramette Travel System

Graco Modes™ Pramette Travel System Stroller, Ontario Blue

Graco Modes™ Pramette Travel System Stroller, Ontario Blue

Most single car seats cost what this car seats stroller combo costs after all is said and done. This Graco travel system offers three functional positions, including a car seat on top, a bassinet on top, and a toddler seat on top (the bassinet converts to a toddler seat for down the line). The car seat is installed using a LATCH system for ultra durability and clicks right onto the base of the stroller with ease. Unfortunately you can’t adjust the handlebar and this product is not FAA-certified.

  • Dimensions: 34.7 x 25.6 x 42.5 inches
  • Cross-compatibility: Any Graco car seat
  • Adjustable handlebar height: No
  • Weight: 38.2 pounds
  • Color: Ontario, Ellington
  • Price on publish: $299.99
  • Three configurations
  • Comes with child’s tray, cup holders, parents cup, and large canopy
  • Not as durable as others

For what you’d pay for a single car seat, you also get a stroller and a comprehensive travel system that works efficiently.

Get it here: Graco Modes Pramette Travel System

Best lightweight car seat stroller combo: Bumbleride Era + Clek Liing Travel System

Bumbleride Era + Clek Liing Travel System - Black / Pitch Black

Bumbleride Era + Clek Liing Travel System - Black / Pitch Black

This luxury car seat stroller combo is lightweight, aerodynamic and as safe as it gets. It rolls smoothly over just about any terrain, from cracked city streets to tree-root-lined sidewalks in the suburbs. It’s made from PFAS-free fabric that’s flame retardant-free and the adjustable handlebar is designed with non-toxic, all-natural cork. I love how easy this stroller is to fold up and how it can stand up straight to save room wherever you store it.

  • Dimensions: 43 x 24.5 x 40.5 inches
  • Cross-compatibility: Clek Liing infant car seat
  • Weight: 36 pounds
  • Color: Black/Pitch Black, Sand/Pitch Black, Olive/Pitch Black, Maritime/Pitch Black,
  • Price on publish: $1,278.99 - $1,358.99 (depends on color)
  • All-terrain
  • Customizable
  • Eco fabric made from 100% recycled PET

Get it here: Bumbleride Era + Clek Liing Travel System

Best car seat stroller combo for city living: Doona All-in-One Infant Car Seat/Stroller

Doona All-in-One Infant Car Seat/Stroller

Doona All-in-One Infant Car Seat/Stroller

City living is no easy feat with a baby in tow, but the Doona All-in-One Infant Car Seat/Stroller makes the process of traveling amidst the hustle and bustle so much more manageable. This single item doubles as both a stroller and a car seat—the stroller folds right up into the car seat and becomes a single unit that you fasten safely into a vehicle. It’s easy to install and easy to transfer from car seat to stroller—simply press the button atop the seat, watch the wheels swing out, and you’re ready to stroll.

  • Dimensions: 39 x 17.5 x 32.2 inches
  • Cross-compatibility: Doona Infant Car Seat
  • Capacity limit: 35 pounds
  • Weight: 16.5 pounds
  • Color: Blush Pink, Desert Green, Racing Green, Flame Red, Greyhound, Midnight Edition, Nitro Black, Racing Green, Royal Blue
  • Price on publish: $550
  • Folds into a car seat
  • Difficult to maneuver

You can’t beat this product’s offerings for city living, including its safety features and accessibility.

Get it here: Doona All-in-One Infant Car Seat/Stroller

How to maintain and clean a car seat stroller combo

Maintaining and cleaning a car seat stroller combo can help ensure its safety, durability, and longevity. Be sure to read the car seat’s manufacturer’s manual, which usually has guidance on how to clean and maintain both the seat and the stroller. Regularly inspect the items for signs of wear, damage, or loose parts, as they can become compromised over time. Be sure to promptly clean spills and stains and remove fabric covers when necessary, many of which are machine washable.

Car seat installation options

When installing a car seat, there are several options available to ensure proper and secure installation. Here are some common car seat installation options.

Seat belt installation

Perhaps the most common method, the seat belt installation involves securing the car seat using the seat belt system that exists in your vehicle. Be sure to follow the car seat manufacturer's instructions so you use the appropriate securement to attach the car seat safely to your car. Check that the seat belt is locked in place according to your vehicle's instructions, either by using a locking retractor or locking clip.

LATCH installation

Many modern vehicles and car seats are now equipped with what’s known as the LATCH system. This consists of lower anchors and tether anchors built into the vehicle. To install a car seat using the LATCH system, locate the lower anchors in the vehicle seat and attach them to the car seat's lower anchor connectors. Tighten the straps to secure the car seat in place. If your car seat has a top tether strap, attach it to the tether anchor in the vehicle and tighten it to provide additional stability.

Vehicle installation systems

Some vehicles may have built-in car seat installation systems or features designed to facilitate easier and more secure installation. These systems may include proprietary connectors, guides, or indicators that help ensure proper positioning and alignment of the car seat. Check your vehicle's owner's manual for information about any specific car seat installation systems or features available.

Professional installation services

Not sure how to install the car seat? You can always seek out assistance from a certified child passenger safety technician (CPST)—trained professionals who can provide expert guidance and assistance with car seat installation. Your local fire or police department may offer this service and many car seat manufacturers offer free or low-cost car seat inspection and installation services conducted by CPSTs.

Safety guidelines for car seat stroller combos

Safety guidelines for car seat stroller combos are essential to ensure the safe transportation of your child. When using a car seat stroller combo, follow the key safety guidelines below as recommended by Gary Kirkilas , DO, a pediatrician and spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

Choose a safe car seat stroller combo

Be sure to do your research to confirm the car seat meets or exceeds safety standards set by regulatory agencies such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the AAP. For secure installation, key features to look for include a five-point harness system, side-impact protection, and compatibility with your vehicle's LATCH system.

Install the car seat correctly

Follow the car seat manufacturer's guidelines as well as your vehicle's owner's manual to ensure proper installation of the car seat in your vehicle. Use either the seat belt or the LATCH system to secure the car seat according to the manufacturer's specifications.

Check the harness fit

Dr. Kirkilas notes that the harness should be at or below your baby’s shoulders—right around their nipple line. It should be so snug that you can’t pinch any excess material at the shoulders.

Use stroller safely

Make sure the car seat is properly attached to the stroller—this is often confirmed with a click. Follow the stroller manufacturer's instructions and avoid overloading the stroller with heavy bags or items that can cause it to tip over.

Regularly inspect equipment

Every now and then, inspect both the car seat and the stroller for loose screws, frayed straps, or other issues that may affect safety. If anything looks damaged, discontinue use and contact the manufacturer.

Follow age and weight limits

Age, weight, and height limits are in place for a reason. Transition to a different car seat or stroller when your baby outgrows the size or weight limits specified by the manufacturer.

How we selected the best car seat stroller combo

I combed through hundreds of reviews to find the best car seat stroller combos in every category. Here’s what I looked for when it came to the chosen travel systems in this story.

Top-notch features

In addition to durability, ease of use, and convenience, I also looked for car seat stroller combos that have additional features like folding mechanism, maneuverability, large storage baskets, cup holders, and adjustability. If a stroller was compatible with multiple car seats, that was a big plus.

Expert advice

I reached out to Dr. Kirkilas, who was able to provide me with expert insight about what to look for in a car seat stroller combo.

Customer reviews

In addition to speaking to real parents to find out which worked best for them, I also combed through hundreds of reviews from other parents who have purchased and used the car seat stroller combos. I paid close attention to feedback about durability, ease of use, safety, and overall satisfaction.

Checked for recalls

Before featuring any car seat stroller combo, I checked to make sure there weren’t any recent recall alerts issued by the manufacturer.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Is it better to buy a car seat and stroller combo.

If you plan to be on the go often with your baby in tow, a car seat and stroller combo might be the best option, as it allows you to seamlessly transition your child from the car to the stroller without needing to transfer them between different seats or devices. Daniel Ganjian, MD, FAAP , board certified pediatrician at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California, explains that this option is more convenient, affordable, and might offer the most flexibility.

Can you mix and match strollers and car seats?

While it is possible to mix and match strollers and car seats, compatibility among different brands and models may vary. When mixing and matching, Dr. Ganjian recommends considering several factors to ensure a safe and secure fit, namely, that the two products are compatible, that you don’t have to purchase any adapters or accessories, any safety considerations that may be at play, as well as weight and size limits.

Is a parent-facing stroller worth it?

Whether you choose a parent- or front-facing stroller is really up to personal preference. While parent-facing strollers allow for close interaction and monitoring, they may limit your child's view of the surrounding environment, which may become an issue as your child gets into the toddler years and shows interest in the world around them. Some children may prefer facing forward to explore new sights and sounds. The cons of a parent-facing stroller, according to Dr. Ganjian, are they tend to offer less legroom for baby as they grow and they may not be ideal for bigger babies.

What car seat transitions into a stroller?

The Doona is great at transforming into a stroller, according to Dr. Ganjian, who used it for his own child. “The only problem is that it is heavier than a traditional car seat so you will need to use more strength,” he says. “It is not a good option for people who have a bad back.”

Why do you need a car seat adapter for strollers?

A car seat adapter for a stroller helps securely attach a compatible car seat to the stroller’s frame, creating a travel system that easily transitions between car and stroller, notes Dr. Ganjian.

The information presented here is created independently from the TIME editorial staff. To learn more, see our About page.

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Maclaren Atom Style Set Travel System- Super Lightweight, Ultra-Compact Stroller, Fits On Airplane's Overhead Storage. Car Seat Compatible. Loaded with Accessories. Multi-Position Reclining Seat

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Maclaren Atom Style Set Travel System- Super Lightweight, Ultra-Compact Stroller, Fits On Airplane's Overhead Storage. Car Seat Compatible. Loaded with Accessories. Multi-Position Reclining Seat

About this item.

  • The lightest compact fold on the market. The simple 2D fold beats the competition on basic weight at 10.8lb, carrying capacity at 55lb and newborn age suitability. Designed to fit in the overhead compartment on British airways.
  • Comfy and perfect for travel. The extendable, waterproof and UPF 50+ hood includes a window and air vents. The roomy multi-position reclining seat converts into a newborn Safety System. The durable mesh fabric is machine washable.
  • Smart product for active parents. The Atom style set includes a premium wind-resistant Raincover, shoulder pads, Jockey strap, embroidered seat liner and storage bag. Other accessories sold separately.
  • Transforms into a travel system with the Atom car seat Adapters. Compatible with top selling infant car seats from Britax, Concord, Cybex and Maxi-Cosi; adaptors sold separately.
  • Tested to extremes. Built into every Maclaren stroller is our global safety standard. To safeguard your investment, register with Maclaren within 60 days of purchase to receive the Sovereign Lifetime Warranty.
  • Size: ages 0 - 60 months

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gb Pockit+ All-Terrain, Ultra Compact Lightweight Travel Stroller with Canopy and Reclining Seat in Night Blue, 10.6 pounds

What's in the box

  • Raincover, infant comfort pack, seat liner, storage bag

From the manufacturer

Maclaren Atom Style Set

Atom Style Set

Introducing the Atom Style Set - a smart product for a smarter generation - designed with thoughtful standards for modern travel. The Atom Style Set is super lightweight and small enough to travel in the overhead cargo of airplanes. This one-stop shop stroller will take any traveler to the far corners of the galaxy and back. Designed to meet the needs of families across space and time: car seat compatibility for the smallest of passengers, a multiple seat recline for curious explorers and super lightweight and compact flat fold for jet setters. The style set is suitable for new-born babies and children up to 25kg/55lb and its fully loaded with key accessory essentials, including a Raincover, Infant Comfort Pack, Reversible Seat Liner and Storage Bag - ready to roll right out of the box.

Atom Style Set Features

Atom style set accessories, maclaren services, product description.

Introducing the Atom style set - a smart product for a smarter generation - Designed with thoughtful standards for modern travel. The Atom style set is super lightweight and small enough to travel in the overhead cargo of airplanes. This One-Stop Shop stroller will take any traveler to the far corners of the Galaxy and back. Designed to meet the needs of families across space and time: car seat compatibility for the smallest of passengers, a multiple seat recline for curious explorers and super lightweight and compact fold for jet setters. The style set is fully loaded with key accessory essentials, including a raincover, infant comfort pack, seat liner and storage bag - ready to roll right out of the box.

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Strollers Compatible with Nuna PIPA Series Infant Car Seats

Strollers Compatible with Nuna PIPA Series Infant Car Seats

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Which strollers fit the Nuna PIPA? You have dozens of choices! 

Nuna PIPA car seats  are compatible with all Nuna strollers, as well as strollers from many other top brands, including Baby Jogger, Babyzen, BOB, Bugaboo, Bumbleride, Stokke, UPPAbaby, Thule and more. Scroll to the bottom of this page for a collection of strollers compatible with the Nuna PIPA series.

See this  Nuna PIPA comparison  to learn about the differences between each model.

You won't need to purchase car seat adapters to use a Nuna PIPA car seat with Nuna strollers . Adapters are included with your purchase of the Nuna MIXX Next, Nuna TRIV Next, Nuna Demi Grow or Nuna PEPP Next strollers, and no adapters are required for the Nuna TAVO Next or TRVL Series stroller.

For all other brands, you'll need to purchase car seat adapters (typically $30-$50) to attach the Nuna PIPA to your stroller. 

*Please note, the Stokke PIPA is not compatible with any strollers other than Stokke strollers and would not be considered part of the PIPA Series Infant Car Seats.

Which strollers are compatible with Nuna PIPA?

Here are the strollers compatible with the seven Nuna PIPA models, along with links to the car seat adapters you'll need:

  • Nuna Demi Grow, MIXX Next, MIXX, TRIV, TRIV Next, TRVL, TRVL lx, TAVO, TAVO Next, PEPP and PEPP Next (with included adapters)
  • Agio Z4 /  YPSI  (with adapter )
  • Baby Jogger City Sights (with adapter )
  • Babyzen YOYO+ and YOYO2 (with   adapter )
  • BOB Revolution Flex 2.0 and Rambler ** (with adapter )
  • BOB Alterrain and Alterrain Pro (with adapter )
  • Bugaboo Ant (with adapter )
  • Bugaboo Donkey models (with   mono   or   twin   adapter)
  • Bugaboo Fox models and Lynx (with   adapter )
  • Bugaboo Cameleon3 (with  adapter )
  • Bugaboo Bee3, Bee5 and Bee6 (with   adapter )
  • Bugaboo Butterfly (with adapter )
  • Bumbleride Era (with adapter )
  • Bumbleride Indie and Speed (with   adapter )
  • Bumbleride Indie Twin (with   adapter  or  twin adapters )  - not suggested for use with PIPA or PIPA RX models
  • Cybex Gazelle S (with included adapters)
  • Guzzie&Gus Oxygen (without adapters)
  • Joolz Aer (with adapter )
  • Joolz Geo2 (with upper or lower adapter )
  • Joolz Day3, Day+ (with adapter )
  • Joolz Hub, Hub+ (with adapter )
  • Mima Xari (with   adapter )
  • Mima Zigi (with   adapter )
  • Silver Cross Coast (with upper adapter or lower adapter )
  • Silver Cross Jet (with adapter )
  • Silver Cross Wave (with   upper adapter   or   lower adapter )
  • Silver Cross Comet (with adapter )
  • Silver Cross Dune / Reef (with adapter )
  • Stokke Xplory*, Trailz* and Scoot* (with   adapter )
  • Thule Urban Glide 1 or 2 Single and Urban Glide 1 or 2 Double (with   adapter)
  • Thule Urban Glide 3 Single or Urban Glide 4-wheel (with adapter )
  • Thule Urban Glide 3 Double (with adapter )
  • Thule Sleek (with adapter)
  • Thule Spring (with adapter )
  • Thule Shine (with adapter )
  • UPPAbaby VISTA, VISTA V2, CRUZ, and CRUZ V2 (with   ring adapter  or post adapters )
  • UPPAbaby MINU and MINU V2 (with   adapter )
  • Valco Baby Trend Ultra and Trend 4 Stroller (with adapter)
  • Valco Baby Trend Duo Double and Slim Twin Double Stroller (with adapter)
  • Veer Cruiser All-Terrain Wagon (with adapter )
  • Veer Cruiser XL All-Terrain Stroller (with adapter)
  • Veer &Roll / &Jog (with adapter )
  • Venice Child Maverick (with included adapters)

* not compatible with PIPA Lite versions

** not compatible with PIPA Lite RX

Which double strollers are compatible with Nuna PIPA?

Several double strollers, including tandem strollers and side-by-side strollers, are compatible with the Nuna PIPA series of car seats.

Looking for a stroller that can convert from single to double, allowing you to accommodate your toddler in a stroller seat and your newborn in a Nuna car seat? See our post about convertible strollers that grow with your family .

Here are the double strollers compatible with the seven Nuna PIPA models, along with links to the car seat adapters you'll need. 

  • Nuna Demi Grow* (with included adapters)
  • Agio Z4/ YPSI* (with   adapter  and double adapters )
  • Bugaboo Donkey* (with   mono   or   twin   adapter)
  • Bumbleride Indie Twin** (with   adapter  or twin adapters )
  • Cybex Gazelle S* (with included adapter, or add a second set when using with twins)
  • Joolz Geo2* (with   upper   or   lower adapter )
  • Silver Cross Coast* (with   upper adapter   or   lower adapter )
  • Silver Cross Wave* (with   upper adapter   or   lower adapter )
  • Thule Urban Glide Double (with   adapter)
  • Thule Sleek* (with  adapter )
  • UPPAbaby VISTA* (with   ring adapter  or   post adapters ; upper and lower adapters also needed for many double configurations)
  • Veer Cruiser All-Terrain Wagon (with   adapter )
  • Veer Cruiser XL All-Terrain Wagon (with adapter)

* Can be used with two Nuna car seats for twins.

**  Bumbleride does not  recommend using the Nuna PIPA or PIPA RX infant seat with the Indie Twin

Nuna PIPA Compatible Strollers Video

Watch the video below for a look at more than 25 top strollers that are compatible with the Nuna PIPA series, including strollers from Nuna, UPPAbaby, Peg-Perego, Babyzen, Bugaboo, Bumbleride, BOB, Thule and more!

Strollers that Fit the Nuna PIPA Series

Shop below for strollers and adapters compatible with the Nuna PIPA series!

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Six Candidates Running For Three Seats On Moscow City Council

September 10, 2023 Evan Ellis News

Moscow voters will have several contested elections to decide this fall.

The candidate filing period for seats up for a vote this year in Idaho ended on Friday.

Six candidates are running for three Moscow City Council seats.  Incumbents Sandra Kelly and Drew Davis are running for re-election.  Bryce Blankenship, Joe Campbell, Evan Holmes and Nathan Tupper are also running for city council.  The top three vote getters in November will earn Moscow City Council seats.  Councilwoman Maureen Laflin is not running for re-election.

Elsewhere in Latah County the race for Juliaetta Mayor has three candidates.  Mayor Richard Groseclose is being challenged by Jeff Lohman and Eric McDowell.

No one filed for mayor and a council post in Onaway.

IMAGES

  1. chicco cortina together travel system car seat compatible double

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  2. Stroller and Car Seat Compatibility: Find the perfect combo (2020 Updated)

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  3. Chicco Mini Bravo Plus Baby Stroller and Car Seat Travel System Combo

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  4. The 8 Best Stroller and Car Seat Combos of 2021

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  5. Top 5 Best Car Seat Stroller Combos of 2019

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  6. Evenflo Folio3 Stroller Jogger Travel System w/ LiteMax 35 Car Seat

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COMMENTS

  1. The 13 Best Car Seat and Stroller Travel Systems of 2024, Tested and

    The Nuna Mixx Next + Pipa Lite RX Travel System drives like a dream and has an impressive sleek and modern design. The travel system includes the brand's Pipa Lite RX infant car seat, PIPA series base, and Mixx Next stroller, which is pretty simple to assemble, though some fiddling around was required during our test as several parts were nicely hidden by fabric to enhance the stroller's ...

  2. The 5 Best Stroller and Car Seat Combos

    The UPPAbaby Cruz v2 Combo is an excellent stroller to combine with an infant car seat. It includes a smaller and relatively lightweight frame and easy car seat attachment. Plus, it is compatible with many top car seat brands that click to attach. The Cruz folds easily and is light enough for most parents to lift and carry.

  3. 9 Best Car Seat and Stroller Combos, Tested by Experts

    Watch Next. The best car seat stroller combos from brands like Chicco, Graco, Nuna, Safety 1st and Baby Trend, travel systems tested by parents and experts for safety.

  4. Infant Car Seat and Stroller Compatibility

    Twinᵛ². Here are the infant car seats you can use with the Twinᵛ² stroller. In order for the car seat to safely click into the stroller, you'll need an adapter, which can be found in the adapter link next to each infant car seat brand. Note: this adapter is not compatible with the older Twin model.

  5. Best Stroller and Car Seat Combos

    For instance, the Chicco Mini Bravo Plus stroller and the Chicco KeyFit 30 Car Seat retail for about $200 each, but the Chicco Mini Plus travel system, which includes both, costs around $380. It ...

  6. The 9 Best Car Seat and Stroller Combos, Tested by Parents

    The best car seat and stroller combos are safe, easy to use, well-designed, and maneuver well. ... UPPAbaby Vista V2 stroller, this car seat is compatible with that as well. While this travel ...

  7. Best Travel System Strollers of 2024, Reviewed

    Best Travel System for Multiples. Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Travel System with SafeMax Infant Car Seat. $480. Learn More. Amazon. When it comes to traveling with a baby — whether it's a big road trip or just a few quick errands around town — convenience is everything. And nothing is more convenient than a travel system.

  8. The 12 Best Stroller & Car Seat Travel Systems [2023]

    Evenflo Pivot Vizor Travel System. Some travel systems are designed to make long days and travel easier. Others are designed for walks around the block. This model by Evenflo is designed for both. The system is sleek and easy to maneuver, making it perfect for any occasion.

  9. The 5 Best Travel Car Seats of 2024

    The best infant car seat for travel. If you're a frequent traveler, the Chicco KeyFit 35 is easier than most infant car seats to install securely without its base. $184 from Amazon. The Chicco ...

  10. Best Stroller and Car Seat Combos

    Travel systems bundle together a stroller and a compatible car seat. The car seat clips into the stroller to function as the seat, and it can pop easily into and out of a car seat base, making for ...

  11. Best Travel Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed by ...

    Best Travel System: Nuna PIPA urbn + TRVL Travel System. Best for Toddlers: Bugaboo Butterfly Complete Stroller. Best Budget: Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Stroller. Best for Everyday Use: UPPAbaby MINU V2 Stroller. Best for Planes: Babyzen YOYO2 6+ Stroller. Best Compact: Joolz Aer+ Lightweight Stroller.

  12. Best Car Seat Stroller Combos 2024

    Britax B-Free Premium & B-Safe Gen2 FlexFit+ Travel System - Clean Comfort Black. Albee Baby. $749.99 $599.99. Britax is well known for both their car seats and their strollers, so it's no ...

  13. Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System with LiteMax Infant Car Seat with

    FLEXIBLE INFANT TRAVEL SYSTEM: The Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System is a car seat and stroller combo featuring the SafeMax Rear-Facing Infant Car Seat and SafeZone Base with anti-rebound bar, infused with parent-and child-friendly accessories. VERSATILE and LIGHTWEIGHT: This car seat and stroller combo features a modular frame with 6 modes.

  14. Car seat and Stroller Sets & Travel System Strollers : Target

    reg $179.99 Sale. Baby Trend EZ Ride PLUS Travel System with EZ-Lift 35 Infant Car Seat - Carbon Black. Add to cart. $469.99. Britax Willow Brook S+ Baby Travel System. Add to cart. $251.99. Baby Trend Expedition Race Tec Jogger Travel System - Ultra Gray. Add to cart.

  15. Maclaren Atom Style Set Travel System- Super Lightweight, Ultra-Compact

    Transforms into a travel system with the Atom car seat Adapters. Compatible with top selling infant car seats from Britax, Concord, Cybex and Maxi-Cosi; adaptors sold separately. Tested to extremes. Built into every Maclaren stroller is our global safety standard.

  16. Car Seat Compatibility Guide

    Some stroller and car seat brands can be mixed and matched, while other travel systems can only be created with the same brand. And while some car seats connect directly to strollers, others require the purchase of a car seat adapter. Use this guide to determine which car seats are compatible with your stroller.

  17. Stroller & Infant Car Seat Compatibility Chart

    Baby Jogger strollers are compatible with a variety of infant car seats from many different brands to create a travel system. Download this compatibility chart to determine which car seat adapter you need to pair your infant car seat with your Baby Jogger stroller. Car seat brands include: Graco, Britax, Chicco, Clek, Cybex, Maxi-Cosi, Nuna ...

  18. Strollers Compatible with Nuna PIPA Series Infant Car Seats

    Which strollers fit the Nuna PIPA? You have dozens of choices! Nuna PIPA car seats are compatible with all Nuna strollers, as well as strollers from many other top brands, including Baby Jogger, Babyzen, BOB, Bugaboo, Bumbleride, Stokke, UPPAbaby, Thule and more.Scroll to the bottom of this page for a collection of strollers compatible with the Nuna PIPA series.

  19. Car Seat Trade-in Event : Target

    Go by Goldbug Duo Head Support And Strap Cover Set - For Car Seat Stroller Bouncer - Gray Ticking Stripe - 2pc. Add to cart. $37.55. ... Baby Trend EZ Ride PLUS Travel System with EZ-Lift 35 Infant Car Seat - Carbon Black. Baby Trend EZ Ride PLUS Travel System with EZ-Lift 35 Infant Car Seat - Carbon Black. Add to cart.

  20. Child Passenger Safety Check Locations

    You can click the car seat icons, zoom in/out, or click the window icon on the top left of the map to show the location listing. The full list also displays below the map. Is Responsive. Embed Code. Organization Last Name First Name Address City State Zip Phone; 509 Security Forces: Stagnolia: Beth: 1031 Vandenberg Ave., Ste. 502B:

  21. NSM

    Your Story Matters to Us. For more than 30 years, National Seating & Mobility has been providing unparalleled products and services meeting mobility and accessibility needs, no matter how simple or complex. We are committed to providing 360-Degree Complete Mobility Solutions, always striving to help our clients move through life with confidence.

  22. Six Candidates Running For Three Seats On Moscow City Council

    Moscow voters will have several contested elections to decide this fall. The candidate filing period for seats up for a vote this year in Idaho ended on Friday. Six candidates are running for three Moscow City Council seats. Incumbents Sandra Kelly and Drew Davis are running for re-election. Bryce Blankenship, Joe Campbell, Evan Holmes and ...