infant carrier car seat travel system

• Trying to Conceive
• Signs & Symptoms
• Pregnancy Tests
• Fertility Testing
• Fertility Treatment
• Weeks & Trimesters
• Staying Healthy
• Preparing for Baby
• Complications & Concerns
• Pregnancy Loss
• Breastfeeding
• School-Aged Kids
• Raising Kids
• Personal Stories
• Everyday Wellness
• Safety & First Aid
• Immunizations
• Food & Nutrition
• Active Play
• Pregnancy Products
• Nursery & Sleep Products
• Nursing & Feeding Products
• Clothing & Accessories
• Toys & Gifts
• Ovulation Calculator
• Pregnancy Due Date Calculator
• How to Talk About Postpartum Depression
• Editorial Process
• Meet Our Review Board

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

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

Verywell Family / Dera Burreson

Infant car seat and stroller combos (often called travel systems) make toting your baby around safer and more convenient. The best travel systems come with an infant car seat that either converts into a stroller or clicks right into one, allowing you to transition your baby from the car to the stroller without having to wake or unstrap them. When shopping for the right one for your family, consider the travel system’s safety features, weight and height limitations, stroller configuration options (especially if you have multiple kiddos), and overall ease of use.

We’re big fans of travel systems because they help new parents rest easy knowing that the car seat and stroller are designed to work well together, and they’re convenient if you know you’ll be on the go with your baby often. We consulted with car seat experts as well as stroller and car seat safety guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) to determine what makes a high-quality travel system. A board-certified pediatrician on our Review Board also reviewed this article for medical accuracy and integrity regarding car seat and stroller travel systems, safety features, and height and weight limitations.

We used this information to select 25 travel systems to put through rigorous testing at the Verywell Testing Lab in Des Moines, Iowa, assessing the ease of assembly, installation, and use, as well as their portability, design, maneuverability, and overall value. Then, we sent our top picks out to our editors, who have been testing them with their families for the past three months. This real-world test is ongoing, so we’ll be sure to keep this list updated with additional insights as we learn more about the travel systems’ long-term performance. Stroller and car seat combos from brands like Doona, Uppababy, Nuna, and Graco are just a few of the standouts.

• We Also Tested
• How We Tested
• What to Look For

Why Trust Verywell Family

Best overall, uppababy cruz v2 stroller.

• Assembly 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Maneuverability 4.5 /5
• Value 4.5 /5
• Installation 4 /5

Attaching each part is simple

Intuitive assembly

Deluxe design

Car seat and stroller sold separately

Car seat canopy isn’t the most secure

Uppababy is known for its deluxe, user-friendly baby gear, and its Cruz travel system is no exception. Currently, the Uppababy Cruz V2 and Mesa V2 Infant Car Seat & Base are sold separately, but they function as a dynamic travel system that is easy to assemble and install in the car. (In fact, we found that assembly was so intuitive it wasn’t necessary to read the directions.) Since adapters are pre-installed, you simply need to pop on the wheels, detach the car seat from the base, and attach it to the sturdy stroller frame.

Our test revealed that attaching and detaching the Mesa V2 car seat and Cruz V2 stroller is as easy as pushing a button. Plus, attaching the car seat to the base was a breeze, clicking right into place, and an indicator turns green when the level is correctly adjusted. (We appreciated the clear directions for this step.) Installing the base with the LATCH system wasn’t difficult, either—once we figured out how to get the latches to release from each side, it was simple to clip them in. You can also choose to install the car seat without the base by threading a seat belt through the slots. 

We were impressed by the travel system’s thoughtful design and ample padding. The Cruz V2’s spacious cargo area holds a medium-sized diaper bag, and you can also access the cargo from the front of the stroller if desired. However, there’s a bar along the bottom of the back cargo space that can make it awkward to wiggle items in and out. The stroller has the same beautiful, modern look and ergonomic leather handle as other Uppababy strollers, and we liked the car seat’s handle, which can be repositioned to be an anti-rebound bar while driving. We did struggle to keep the Mesa V2’s canopy on securely, though we appreciated that the travel system comes with a rain canopy and a mesh canopy. Folding the stroller had a bit of a learning curve at first, but it wasn’t difficult.

Even with the car seat attached, this travel system felt super lightweight, and it glided smoothly across the various surfaces we tested, like turf and gravel. It was easy and enjoyable to push, and although its large wheels made pulling it up stairs tricky, it was lightweight enough to carry up the stairs if needed.

While it does have a higher price point, the Uppababy Cruz V2 and Mesa V2 provide long-term value and can grow with your child, since the stroller has a reversible toddler seat. The travel system as a whole has a top-tier design, and the parts are simple to attach, detach, and install, making it a clear choice for our top spot.

Stroller Key Specs: Weight: 25.5 pounds | Dimensions: 37.5 x 22.75 x 40 inches (unfolded) | Weight Limit: 10 to 50 pounds

Car Seat Key Specs: Weight: 10 pounds | Dimensions: 17 x 26.5 x 23 inches | Weight/Height Limit: 4 to 35 pounds / 32 inches tall | Cross-Compatibility: Uppababy Vista V2 (without an adapter) and other Uppababy strollers

Best Maneuverability

Nuna mixx next + pipa lite rx.

Pottery Barn Kids

• Assembly 4.5 /5
• Maneuverability 5 /5
• Installation 3.5 /5

Great maneuverability

Car seat easily attaches to the stroller

Ergonomic finger grooves for folding

Installing the car seat and base in the car is tricky

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 overall look.

This car seat/stroller combo particularly wowed us with its maneuverability. Thanks to its suspension, the stroller drove smoothly across several surfaces in our obstacle course and the rubber wheels provided great traction. Even with a fully loaded diaper bag, the travel system was lightweight enough to make turning super easy, but it still felt stable on different surfaces. Plus, the stroller stayed completely still when the brake was engaged.

Attaching the car seat to the stroller was simple, with accessible buttons and levers and a clicking noise when the seat was securely fastened. It was also straightforward to attach the car seat to the base since there’s an indicator that turns green when you’ve attached the clips and set the floor support correctly. Getting the base installed in the car, on the other hand, took some effort. We found that the base clips are best installed one at a time while bracing yourself against the base, which isn’t ideal. Adjusting the base’s height also required a good bit of wiggling.

This Nuna travel system impressed us when it came to its sleek design. In addition to its appealing look, all of the materials felt high-end and thought out in terms of placement. The car seat’s interior was soft and cozy, and the stroller’s canopy had a handy magnetic peekaboo flap. Though the cargo space is narrower than we’d like, it is tall. Finger grooves on the top and bottom of the stroller assist with folding.

At $1,300, this travel system is certainly an investment, and we wish that extras like a snack tray, rain cover, and car seat case were included. However, if you have room in your budget, this stylish travel system is so easy to steer and looks great.

Stroller Key Specs: Weight: 28.5 pounds | Dimensions: 32.8 x 23.8 x 45.5 inches (unfolded) | Weight Limit: NB to 50 pounds

Car Seat Key Specs: Weight: 6.9 pounds | Dimensions: 26.5 x 15 x 23.5 inches | Weight/Height Limit: 4 to 32 pounds / up to 32 inches tall | Cross-Compatibility: Only compatible with Nuna strollers

Best for Cities

Doona car seat and stroller.

• Assembly 4 /5
• Maneuverability 4.8 /5
• Value 3.5 /5
• Installation 5 /5

Simple to take in and out of a car

Easy to carry up stairs

Other options are more versatile

Handlebar can’t be adjusted

If you’re looking to save on space, the Doona Infant Car Seat is a single piece of gear that pulls double duty as a car seat and a stroller. We recommend it for those who live in a city, particularly if you get in and out of cabs or ride shares frequently. To convert the Doona from a stroller into a car seat, engage the brake, push the handlebar up and back, press a button on the top pack of the car seat, then push the frame of the stroller down (with your foot in front of the back wheel) until the wheels tuck into it. It sounds more complicated than it is—it took us just under a minute to do the conversion after we figured it out.

Taking the Doona in and out of the car was more pleasant to do than most other travel systems we tested. When folded, it clicks right into the car seat base, and an indicator on the base turns from red to green when it’s in correctly. To remove it, press a button on the base, push a large piece on the base inward, and pull the Doona towards you. Then comes the best part: You don’t have to grab a stroller out of the trunk. Simply press the button at the top pack of the seat, the wheels swing out, and boom: It's a stroller again.

The LATCH system itself is easy to install with handy clips and release buttons, and a dial helps you raise the seat until it’s at the right height. You also have the option to secure the base by fitting the car’s seat belt into the green clips. Even with a 20-pound weight inside, we were able to lift it up to carry up the stairs, which would come in handy for city parents living in a walk-up apartment or traveling by subway. We were also able to pull it backwards up the stairs. It was smooth to push around (even one-handed), and there are two clearly marked pedals to engage and disengage the brake.

The fabric on the seat and canopy felt nice to the touch, though the canopy didn’t extend too far. (You can purchase sunshades , mosquito nets , and rain covers separately.) The seat, which is padded for impact protection, is covered with a cooling bamboo charcoal fabric that can be removed and washed to clean up messes. When folded, the stroller handle acts as an anti-rebound bar, which is a clever (and helpful) touch. The handlebar’s height can’t be adjusted, though, so it may not be an ergonomic fit for taller adults.

While this is a niche purchase, it’s a unique and highly convenient option for someone who doesn’t want to deal with several pieces of equipment or those who travel around a city often and frequently take cabs and ride shares.

Key Specs: Weight: 16.5 pounds | Dimensions: 39 x 17.3 x 32.2 inches (unfolded) | Weight/Height Limit: 4 to 35 pounds / up to 32 inches tall | Cross-Compatibility: N/A

Best Design

Chicco corso le modular travel system.

• Design 4.9 /5
• Installation 4.5 /5

Roomy cargo space

Attaching the car seat to the base can be done with one hand

Handlebar isn’t adjustable

A well-designed travel system, the Chicco Corso LE Modular Travel System has deluxe features and is easy to use. Right away, we were impressed by the tool-free assembly and thorough instruction manual, though clicking the stroller pieces together required some elbow grease. Removing the stroller’s arm bar and replacing it with the car seat adapter was a cinch, and so was sliding the car seat onto the stroller. We were able to lift the car seat into the base with just one hand (it clicked right into place), but to detach it, we needed two hands: one to press a button, and the other to lift out the seat.

The best travel systems give you the option to install the car seat into the base with a LATCH system or the car’s seat belt. This Chicco travel system has both: If you’re using the LATCH system, the base has handy clips that you slide over some hooks in the seat, then a liquid level shows you if the seat is level. To install the car seat without a base, simply use the car’s lap belt and chest belt for added security.

Above all else, this travel system stands out in the design category. The stroller’s roomy cargo space has separate compartments to hold all of your baby gear, including a diaper bag and bottles, and the clip-on cup holder was a plus. We also liked the canopy, which zips to extend or retract, and you can flip up a flap for extra airflow. The stroller is compact when folded and doesn’t take up all of the room in a trunk, and all of the parts connect and lock into place intuitively. Our only complaints about this travel system’s design are that the stroller’s bumper bar needs to be removed to attach the car seat, and the shoulder strap has to be repositioned each time you buckle your little one in. Also, the handlebar’s height is not adjustable, like the one on the Graco Modes Nest2Grow Travel System .

During our test, this stroller turned beautifully around tight corners, but we struggled to get it over the curb. Though taking the stairs caused quite a bit of noise, we think the ride would be fairly smooth for a baby. Overall, the Chicco Corso LE Modular Travel System scored highly in each category, and at $600, it’s about half the price of some other top models, like the Nuna Mixx Next + Pipa Lite RX Travel System , which retails for $1,300.

Stroller Key Specs: Weight: 18.7 pounds | Dimensions: 34.5 x 24.8 x 42.8 inches (unfolded) | Weight Limit: Up to 50 pounds

Car Seat Key Specs: Weight: 8.5 pounds (10 pounds with base attached) | Dimensions: 28 x 15.5 x 22.5 inches | Weight/Height Limit: 4 to 35 pounds / 32 inches tall | Cross-Compatibility: All Chicco strollers (no adapter needed)

Best Convertible

Graco modes nest2grow travel system.

• Design 4.5 /5
• Maneuverability 3.8 /5

Several configuration and conversion options

Large and easily accessible cargo space

Snack tray and parent cup holder included

Not a portable option

The Graco Modes Nest2Grow Travel System is a great purchase if you’ve got multiple little ones or are planning to expand your family. The travel system alone can be a single toddler stroller, a single infant stroller, or a double stroller for a toddler and infant with the included infant car seat. And, with the purchase of a second stroller seat , it converts into a double stroller with over 15 possible configurations.

During our test, we found the assembly to be fairly straightforward, with our only frustration being that the car seat didn’t stay in place at the lowest car seat height. Detaching the infant car seat simply required the push of a button, but attaching it was a bit trickier—we had to carefully guide the seat into the correct position. Attaching the car seat to the base, on the other hand, was super smooth: The car seat snapped right in and out. There's a very clear level indicator, so you know exactly when the car seat is positioned correctly.

Installing the car seat base into the car with the LATCH system was a breeze. After snapping in the connectors, we simply tightened the straps and checked the indicator to make sure it was level. Once in, it was super secure; so secure, in fact, that detaching the base was a tough task, requiring us to totally unhook the LATCH connectors. If you plan to be moving from car to car frequently, this might not be your best option. 

The stroller is heavy and built like a tank, which poses some challenges. While it’s simple to fold, it has a large footprint (even when folded) and requires a good bit of effort to turn when it’s fully loaded. At the same time, the stroller’s heft makes it feel incredibly sturdy and secure. There are many design features that we appreciated, including a very roomy cargo space that still had ample room after we loaded it up with a full diaper bag. It also had faux leather detailing on the handlebar, which adjusts to two different positions, making it great for caregivers of different heights. The footbrake was easy to engage and release, and the travel system came with a removable cup holder for the adult and a removable snack tray for the kid.

This travel system is at a lower price point than many of our other picks, so it’s reasonable that there are some quirks. If portability isn’t a priority, this travel system gives you a lot for your money with the many conversions to choose from.

Stroller Key Specs: Weight: 36 pounds | Dimensions: ‎43 x 26.4 x 44.5 inches (unfolded) | Weight Limit: Up to 50 pounds

Car Seat Key Specs: Weight: 7.5 pounds | Dimensions: 29 x 18.3 x 16.2 inches | Weight/Height Limit: 4 to 35 pounds / 32 inches tall | Cross-Compatibility: Any Graco car seat (no adapter needed)

Best Assembly

Evenflo shyft dualride.

• Design 4.4 /5
• Value 3.7 /5
• Installation 4.3 /5

No assembly required

Can detach car seat from wheels

Padding is removable and washable

Maneuvering the car seat into the base is finicky

Must be fully installed in the base to detach carrier from wheels

When you welcome a new baby, you likely have a lot of gear to put together. The Evenflo Shyft DualRide comes assembled and ready to go—just unlatch it and pop it open—so you have one less thing to build for your baby. Similar to the Doona, the Evenflo Shyft DualRide is an all-in-one travel system that converts from a stroller to an infant car seat. 

The Shyft’s seat is higher off the ground than the Doona, which is a plus because it helps the carrier stay cleaner. On the other hand, it’s also much heavier than the Doona—the Shyft weighs nearly 13 pounds more—and trickier to maneuver into the car due to its bulkiness. (It would be a better fit for an SUV rather than our editor’s sedan.) Once you’ve hoisted it into the car, though, the Shyft clicks right into the car seat base, which can be installed via the LATCH system or the car’s seat belt. A level indicator and a loud click tell you when the seat is correctly attached to the base. To remove the carrier, all you need to do is pull a white lever on the back, and the car seat is released right away.

Unlike the Doona, you can remove the Shyft’s wheels from the carrier if desired, but oddly, you can only detach the carrier from the wheels when the system is installed in the car seat base—so, if you’re away from your car and want to remove the wheels, you can’t. However, when the wheels are docked, it’s easy to remove the car seat: Simply pull on a lever and shift the carrier forward, and it pops right out. 

The Shyft has no storage area, which is not ideal for parents needing to tote around baby gear. It does come with a detachable cup holder and a storage bag, though. Its handlebar is tall enough that caregivers can push it without hunching over—the Doona’s handlebar may be a little short for adults parents to reach comfortably—and the UPF 50+ canopy is nice and thick without feeling constrictive. The stroller is a “cakewalk” to maneuver, our editors found, and it wheeled through our obstacle course with ease. It was a little tricky to take over sand, but it’s great on turf and pavement. The straps on the no-rethread harness, however, are a total pain to adjust.

One unique design feature of the Shyft is Evenflo’s SensorSafe technology app, which alerts you (via a compatible app) if your child unexpectedly becomes unbuckled, has been in their seat too long, or is left unattended. It also tells you if the car’s temperature is too hot or cold.

Priced at $550, the Evenflo Shyft DualRide costs the same as the Doona, so it’s a matter of assessing each option’s features to determine which is the better fit for your family. Both travel systems steer nicely and cut down on the pieces of gear you have to deal with. But if the ability to detach the carrier from the wheels is important to you, only the Shyft is able to do so. And if a lightweight option is more of a priority, the Doona weighs 13 pounds less and is less bulky, making it a little easier to maneuver in and out of the car.

Key Specs: Weight: 29 pounds | Dimensions: 29 x 19 x 16 (unfolded), 18 x 18 x 31 inches (folded) | Weight/Height Limit: 3 to 35 pounds / 15.7 to 32 inches tall | Cross-Compatibility: N/A

Verywell Family / Tamara Staples

Best Installation

Britax b-free premium & b-safe gen2 flexfit plus travel system.

• Maneuverability 4 /5

Quick assembly

Magnetic peekaboo window

No cup holder or snack tray

Struggling to install a car seat base into your car can be time-consuming (and potentially dangerous), so we love how this one from Britax is quick and simple to install. Beginning with the assembly, this travel system proved itself in our tests: All we had to do was pop in the wheels, canopy, and car seat adapter. 

During our test, we were able to attach the car seat to the stroller and car seat base with just one hand, and detaching was similarly easy, though we required a second hand to depress a lever. Where the travel system really shone was the installation, which took us under two minutes. The base quickly clicked into place thanks to the LATCH system, then we tightened it by pulling on the middle straps. Once installed, the base felt wonderfully sturdy and stable in the car.

Folding the stroller wasn’t intuitive at first, but it was simple once we figured it out, and the loop you pull to collapse serves as a handle when it’s folded. While we liked that the toddler seat reclines, adjusting it was tricky: We needed to push the slider and the straps at the same time, which took some effort. A mid-size diaper bag was a snug fit in the cargo space, though there was room for additional smaller items in the carrying bag attached to the handlebar. The canopy, which attaches to the base with a hook and loop closure, is adjustable and has a mesh peekaboo window that can be held back with the magnetic closure for viewing. 

Unlike most of our other picks, this stroller only has one front wheel, which helped us navigate curbs with ease. The stroller did struggle a bit going over sticks and was heavy to turn, though it turned smoothly overall. It’s $650, which is pricier than some of our other picks, like the Graco Modes Pramette Travel System and Baby Trend Expedition Jogger Travel System (both under $350), but we think this one’s simple installation makes it worth it.

Stroller Key Specs: Weight: 22 pounds | Dimensions: 44 x 24 x 42 inches (unfolded) | Weight Limit: Newborn to 55 pounds

Car Seat Key Specs: Weight: 11.6 pounds | Dimensions: 26.6 x 17.9 25.9 inches | Weight/Height Limit: 4 to 35 pounds / 32 inches tall | Cross-Compatibility: Select Britax models (with included adapter) and BOB Gear jogging strollers (with adapter)

Best Car Seat

Chicco bravo trio travel system.

Intuitive car seat base installation

Quick, straightforward assembly

Fold isn’t very compact

The car seat is the heart of a travel system, so a good one is a must-have. This Chicco travel system features an infant car seat that attaches to the stroller and car seat base with ease, and in our tests, we appreciated just how intuitive using each part was. 

We snapped all components together in just over five minutes, and it was also quick to attach the car seat to the stroller: After reclining the toddler seat, we clicked in the car seat to attach, then pulled on a lever to take the seat back out. The same goes for attaching the car seat to the base, but you pull on a handle to detach it. A bubble indicator helps you find the right car seat placement.

Similarly, installing the car seat base was a breeze. Since clicking in the latches and pulling the strap to secure the seat was so straightforward, we didn’t even need to refer to the instructions. Plus, the stroller folds quickly with the push of a button and a lift of the handle, which doubles as a carrying handle once it’s collapsed, making it easy to put it into the trunk or storage. It is a bit bulky when folded, though you can remove the snack tray to make it fit in smaller spaces.

This travel system’s aesthetic look is nothing special, but there are some thoughtful design features. The cushioning in the infant car seat and the toddler stroller seat is super soft, and there are conveniently located cup holders for the adult and kid. The cargo area fits a mid-sized diaper bag, though you do have to lift the seatback to access it. When we took the travel system out for a spin, it drove smoothly over most surfaces, but it did struggle to get up curbs and the left wheel felt a bit loose.

If you’re looking to make your life a little easier, consider this Chicco travel system for its simple installation and assembly.

Stroller Key Specs: Weight: 24.9 pounds | Dimensions: 35.2 x 22.8 x 42.7 inches (unfolded) | Weight Limit: Up to 50 pounds

Car Seat Key Specs: Weight: 16.5 pounds | Dimensions: 27.5 x 16.5 x 24 inches | Weight/Height Limit: 4 to 30 pounds / 30 inches tall | Cross-Compatibility: All Chicco strollers (no adapter needed)

Graco Modes Pramette Travel System

• Assembly 3 /5

Canopy has a mesh peekaboo window

Toddler seat turns into infant pramette

Car seat pops right into the stroller

Material on the toddler seat and infant car seat is rough

You’ll get a lot for your money with this 3-in-1 Graco travel system, which functions as an infant car seat carrier, a bassinet, and a toddler stroller (with a few adjustments, the toddler seat converts into a bassinet for younger babies). 

In addition to being very versatile, this travel system also proved to be quite simple to use. It was simple to attach the infant car seat to the stroller once we located the slots, and all we had to do to detach it was push a button on the handlebar, which was doable with just one hand. The car seat also clicked into the base easily—to detach, you’ll need to reach up under the canopy to find the release button. Whether you’re a travel systems expert or a new parent, the instructions clearly illustrate how to install the car seat base via the LATCH system (a little force was required to tighten the belt) or the car’s seat belt.

The travel system’s design is user-friendly with a one-step fold, a reclining toddler seat, and a roomy cargo space that fit a diaper bag and a tote bag during our test. While the handlebar isn’t adjustable, it has a nice foam grip and an attached cup holder and phone holder. The adjustable canopy has a mesh peekaboo window for breathability and visibility. We thought the material on the toddler seat and infant car seat was a bit rough, but the car seat does have a padded backrest. If you prefer softer material, we recommend the Chicco Bravo Trio Travel System .

Even when fully loaded, this travel system maneuvered over curbs and around corners like a dream, and it glided smoothly over various terrains in our obstacle course. For a high-quality, multi-function travel system that looks pricier than it is, we think $330 is a great value.

Stroller Key Specs: Weight: 21 pounds | Dimensions: 34.7 x 25.6 x 42.5 inches (unfolded) | Weight Limit: Up to 50 pounds

Car Seat Key Specs: Weight: 17.2 pounds | Dimensions: 27.5 x 17.5 x 25.5 inches | Weight/Height Limit: 4 to 35 pounds / 32 inches tall | Cross-Compatibility: Any Graco car seat (no adapter needed)

Best Portability

Baby jogger city sights travel system.

• Design 4 /5
• Value 3.8 /5

Easy to attach the car seat to the stroller

Compact fold

Toddler seat can face adult

Not a lot of bells and whistles for the price

The Baby Jogger City Sights Travel System gets its name for a reason: After your little one graduates from an infant car seat to the toddler stroller seat, they can face forwards or backward to take in all of the sights. We found the travel system to be quite user-friendly: The car seat clicked right into the base and could be detached in one step, and after we located the compartment with the LATCH system clips, installing the base into the car was simple. A bubble indicator shows you when the parts are aligned. To attach the car seat to the stroller, we took out the toddler seat, slid on the two adapter pieces, then clicked on the car seat. (It can be removed with the press of a button behind the headrest.) 

We did need to watch a tutorial to figure out how to fold the stroller, but once we did, it was easy. The stroller is ultra-compact when folded, measuring just under a foot tall, so you can toss it into your trunk alongside other gear. In addition to a sleek appearance, this travel system has a vegan leather handlebar and bumper bar, an adjustable canopy, and there is plenty of padding on the seats.

The stroller performed well on most terrains—it was a little bumpy over sticks—and turned nicely. We felt confident pushing it thanks to how smoothly it glides. Though this Baby Jogger travel system doesn’t come with a ton of bells and whistles (cup holders and a snack tray are sold separately), its compact folded footprint is great for those with small trunks or limited storage space, and we loved the way it drives. It’s pricier than other options on our list, but it is more affordable than the Uppababy and Nuna travel systems , which retail for over $1,000.

Stroller Key Specs: Weight: 24.4 pounds | Dimensions: 31.4 x 23.2 x 40.5 inches (unfolded) | Weight Limit: Up to 50 pounds

Car Seat key Specs: Weight: 18 pounds | Dimensions: 28.5 x 17.3 x 26.5 inches | Weight/Height Limit: 4 to 35 pounds / 32 inches tall | Cross-Compatibility: Any Baby Jogger stroller (with adapter) and select strollers by other brands

Best Storage

Graco modes nest travel system.

Several car seat position options

Components are easy to attach/install

Very large cargo area

Loaded stroller takes effort to push

Unfolding the stroller is tricky

The Graco Modes Nest Travel System has ample storage space, which is ideal if you’re packing up for a picnic in the park or need to carry many toys and playdate supplies. The massive cargo hold can fit two or three diaper bags or backpacks, which are easy to access, plus a kid’s snack tray and parent’s cup holder are included with the kit.

Although assembly wasn’t difficult, during our test we did find it necessary to read the instructions. Switching between configurations was pretty effortless, since the car seat snapped into the stroller frame with an audible click, and it clicked right into the car seat base, too. A level on the side indicated when the seat was placed correctly, and there’s also a handy visual guide to show the best placement. To remove it from the base, we pushed a lever at the bottom of the base and pulled the car seat up and out.

The car seat felt stable when secured with the LATCH base and the seat belt, so you have two great options. We needed to consult the manual to install the LATCH system into the car, but after that, it was straightforward to clip in. Our primary critique is that the stroller was difficult to unfold—we needed to unlock the closure latch with one hand and pull the frame up with the other, which is a bit tricky to do all at once.

The Graco Modes Nest Travel System’s overall design looked more upscale than it is. The stroller’s handlebar is wrapped in grippable faux leather, and the metal frame looks and feels solid. We particularly liked that the car seat can be placed at multiple heights when attached to the stroller, and it can also be positioned closer to or farther away from the adult who’s pushing it. 

The stroller’s wheels turned well and it glided nicely over different surfaces, though we needed to exert some effort to push the fully loaded stroller. For the overall ease of use and roomy storage space, $430 is a great value for this stroller, which is available in several colorways.

Stroller Key Specs: Weight: 22 pounds | Dimensions: 38.1 x 26.8 x 41.9 inches (unfolded) | Weight Limit: Up to 50 pounds

Car Seat Key Specs: Weight: 7.5 pounds | Dimensions: 29.1 x 18.3 x 16.2 inches | Weight/Height Limit: 4 to 35 pounds / 32 inches tall | Cross-Compatibility: Any Graco car seat (no adapter needed)

Best Budget

Baby trend expedition jogger travel system.

• Assembly 2.5 /5
• Design 3.6 /5
• Maneuverability 4.3 /5
• Value 4.8 /5
• Installation 4.8 /5

Also functions as a jogging stroller

Car seat attaches to the base easily

Standing fold

Basic design

Attaching the car seat to the stroller is tricky

For parents who are on a budget or don’t plan to use a travel system all too often, the Baby Trend Expedition Jogger Travel System is a great choice. Plus, it doubles as a jogging stroller with just one locking swivel wheel at the front. Its features are more basic than high-end options, but there’s still plenty to love about this affordable travel system.

The stroller comes mostly assembled, so we only needed to pop in the two back wheels and snap on the snack tray. The tray took some effort to attach, but it’s included with your purchase, which is a bonus. Attaching the car seat to the stroller was a bit trickier and it took several people to get it right, largely due to confusing directions and tabs that were hard to unlock. Uniquely, the car seat clicks in over the toddler tray, and though there’s a bungee cord on the side for security, this didn’t feel like the most stable option. 

However, it was a breeze to install the car seat base with the LATCH system, which slid right into place and tightened easily, as well as with a seat belt. Then, the car seat clicked right into the base. We appreciated the simplicity of the car seat: The same button attached it to the stroller and the base, and the handle was positioned just right to help you navigate it into the car. 

When it came to the stroller’s design, we found pluses and minuses. We liked its one-step, standing fold, and the two carrying handles for getting it in and out of the trunk. Other features just fell a bit flat, though. There are handy cup holders and a phone compartment, but both were a bit too small to hold a standard-sized water bottle and an iPhone 12, respectively. The rubber handle has a good grip, but we didn’t love the tire-like feeling. The canopy also didn’t adjust well—it kept coming all the way forward—and the seat material didn’t feel high-quality. However, the toddler seat can recline, which was a plus.

Even with just one front wheel, this stroller maneuvered well. We liked that you have the option to drive the stroller with the front wheel locked or unlocked, and it handled multiple terrains like a champ. It also turned pretty smoothly and had a spot to put your foot on to help you get it up a curb. While this Baby Trend car seat and stroller combo had some quirks, it proved itself when it came to value. Not only is it the most affordable option on our list, but it even gets you a jogging stroller and travel system all in one.

Stroller Key Specs: Weight: 25.5 pounds | Dimensions: ‎47 x 21 x 41 inches (unfolded) | Weight Limit: Newborn to 50 pounds

Car Seat Key Specs: Weight: 15.8 pounds | Dimensions: 16.3 x 14.7 x 26 inches | Weight/Height Limit: 4 to 30 pounds / 30 inches tall | Cross-Compatibility: Select Baby Trend models

Best Sturdy

Britax willow brook travel system.

• Design 4.2 /5
• Value 4.2 /5

Seat belt securing mechanism for installation

Easy to assemble

Stroller feels heavy to push

The Britax Willow Brook car seat and stroller combo is an excellent option if reliability is your top priority. The travel system includes the Britax Willow car seat, the Aspen car seat base, and the Brook baby stroller.

During testing, the sturdiness of this stroller caught our attention right from the beginning. Assembly was a breeze and everything clicked tightly into place and didn’t move, even when shaken. The process was so intuitive that we didn’t even need to read the instruction manual! All components come partially assembled; the stroller wheels, which are clearly labeled front or back, are the only pieces that need to be attached—they pop right into place on the bottom of the stroller frame with no problems. The car and stroller seats seamlessly click into the stroller frame adapters and feel very secure. Both can also be used in front- or rear-facing mode.

Installing the car seat base in the car was just as seamless, thanks to clear instructions, useful indicators, and a few helpful features. For example, the base has recline indicators and is equipped with Britax ClickTight technology, which is a mechanism that locks the seat belt into place when installing the base. During testing, we found this three-step process of opening, threading the seat belt, and closing the mechanism really straightforward, and we liked that it takes the stress out of car seat installation using a seat belt. The base can also be installed via the LATCH system; you’ll find the connectors in the compartment labeled "lower connector storage." The lower connector strap should be secured using the ClickTight system and belt guides on the base and then secured to the vehicle’s lower anchors.

When it comes to design, we love the luxurious fabrics on the Willow car seat and the Brook stroller because they feel soft to the touch and are free of flame-retardant chemicals. The car seat also has an infant insert for extra padding (which is washer and dryer-friendly) and is appropriate for babies 4 pounds and up. You’ll find multiple adjustment points on the car seat (little slits where you can thread through the harness) at the shoulders, hip, and between the legs that can be pulled for a snug or looser fit as your baby grows to the weight limit of 30 pounds. 

We also love that the Brook baby stroller comes with a parent cup holder that’s placed high (right on top of the handlebar), making your drink accessible without bending over. In addition, a snack tray fits onto the front of the stroller seat for your little one’s goodies while on the move. 

The stroller is a little heavy to maneuver. We took it on walks and around an obstacle course, making three-point turns, pushing it around tight corners and on multiple surfaces, including uneven surfaces. While we found it quite easy to pivot, it was strenuous to push it in general. It felt even heavier on surfaces like grass and astroturf, where it moved pretty slowly. Although it was a bit of an effort to push, it turned without difficulty and never felt like it would tip over, demonstrating its sturdiness once again. 

At $450, we think this travel system is a good value considering the impressive car seat features and the simplicity of assembly and installation, which reduces some of the stress of navigating a car seat. While the stroller is slightly more challenging to push around, we love the feeling of safety knowing our little one is in a secure and sturdy stroller. 

Stroller Key Specs: Weight: 22 pounds | Dimensions: 34 x 23.75 x 42 inches (unfolded) | Weight Limit: 4 to 30 pounds

Car Seat Key Specs: Weight: 8.99 pounds | Dimensions: 12 x 9.5 x 12 inches | Weight/Height Limit: 4 to 30 pounds / up to 21 inches tall | Cross-Compatibility: Britax Brook and Brook+, B-Free and B-Lively (with adapters); Bob Gear Wayfinder (with adapters); Nuna Demi Grow Peppe Next, Ivvi Totl (with adapters); UPPAbaby Ridge, Vista 2, Cruz V2 (with adapters); Maxi Cosi Zelia (with adapters); Cybex Eezy S Twist (with adapters).

How We Rated the Best Car Seat and Stroller Travel Systems

4.8 to 5 stars:  These are the best car seat and stroller travel systems we reviewed. We recommend them without reservation.

4.5 to 4.7 stars:  These best car seat and stroller travel systems are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.

4.0 to 4.5 stars:  We think these are great best car seat and stroller travel systems, but others are better.

3.5 to 3.9 stars:  These best car seat and stroller travel systems are just average.

Travel Systems We Also Tested

• Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Travel System : While assembling the stroller is a dream, the travel system as a whole isn't easy to use. Getting the various parts into the proper alignment is challenging, and folding the stroller is not intuitive and requires a good bit of elbow grease. 
• Maxi-Cosi Gia XP 3-Wheel Single Travel System : This travel system doesn't have an intuitive design: Detaching the car seat from the stroller is quite difficult, even with both hands, and the car seat base requires a lot of force to move around. As such, we think the price isn’t justified.
• Cybex Talos S Lux Stroller & Aton 2 Car Seat Travel System : Across the board, this travel system does not feel sturdy and is difficult to use, and the materials feel surprisingly low-quality for the price.
• Baby Trend Muy Tango All-Terrain Pro Travel System : Assembling this stroller is straightforward, but after installing the car seat base with the LATCH system and attaching the car seat, the unit was concerningly shaky.
• Safety 1st Smooth Ride Travel System : Though we like that you can attach the car seat to the stroller without removing the snack tray, this travel system falls short in the design category: The lap buckles are difficult to adjust, the cup holders are shallow and feel flimsy, and the canopy is smaller than most.
• Peg Perego Vivace Stroller and Primo Viaggio 4-35 Lounge Car Seat : This stroller maneuvered exceptionally well and we loved how easy it was to assemble and how seamlessly the car seat attached to the stroller. However, removing the car seat was a different story—we struggled to get it off and it felt really heavy. We were also concerned by how unstable the base and car seat felt when installed using the seat belt.

How We Tested Car Seat and Stroller Travel Systems

We evaluated the best car seat and stroller combos in two stages: a controlled lab test and a long-term test in the real world. First, 11 testers evaluated 23 car seat and stroller travel systems at the Verywell Testing Lab in Des Moines, Iowa. We examined the strollers and car seats individually and then together as a travel system. 

To begin, we assembled the strollers right out of the box, noting whether the assembly was intuitive or complex and if the directions were helpful or confusing. We then assessed each stroller’s design, looking carefully at the feel of the fabric, how intuitive the buckle was to use, and whether they had certain features, such as a footrest, cup holders, an adjustable canopy, a reclining seat, and a reclining handlebar. Next, we placed a diaper bag loaded with baby essentials (the diaper bags weighed between 20 and 30 pounds) into the cargo space and took the stroller for a brisk walk around an obstacle course, navigating it over multiple terrains, around sharp corners, and through narrow spaces, before executing a three-point turn.

Then, we assessed the car seats—each car seat was rear-facing with a weight limit of 30 or 35 pounds—by buckling in a sandbag “baby.” We picked up each car seat, taking note of simplicity, maneuverability, and whether it could be carried with one hand. Next, we attached the car seats to the strollers, noting how the attachments worked, if the car seat popped in easily (or one-handed), whether the sandbag stayed in place, and if the setup felt safe.

Once attached, we adjusted the stroller’s canopy and took note of its roominess and if it provided full coverage. We then repeated the same steps we followed with the stroller, executing a three-point turn and taking it through an obstacle course and over different terrains. Next, we took the travel system up and down stairs to test for stability and then detached the car seats. For the final steps, we used real cars to test the ease of car seat base installation. After installing the bases, we attached and detached the car seats, noting if the process was intuitive, if it would have woken up a baby, and how well the car seat locked into the base.

After our lab test, editors took our top picks home to continue testing them with their own families. They've been testing these travel systems for over three months now, and we'll continue to update this article as we learn more. Additionally, we consulted with Michelle Pratt , Certified Child Passenger Technician and founder of Safe in the Seat, on safety and what to expect from a high-quality travel system.

What to Look for in Car Seat and Stroller Travel Systems

Safety features.

When shopping for a travel system or car seat stroller combo , safety is a primary concern. All car seats on the market have to meet federal car seat standards so they’re safe when used correctly. However, “that ‘when used correctly’ part is the key,” says Pratt. She recommends looking for features that help you use the car seat component correctly every time. “For some families, this means prioritizing the easiest base install. For others, it’s more important to choose a car seat that offers super-simple harness adjustments to accommodate a growing baby,” she says. 

Other safety features to look for include a UPF canopy, stroller wheel locks, a five-point harness, and an anti-rebound bar. Regardless of the features your travel system has, make sure to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when assembling and using it.

Weight and Height Limitations

Every travel system has height and weight limitations for both the car seat and the stroller. It’s important to make sure your baby fits within these limits for their safety. Plus, keep the limits for the car seat in mind so you’ll know to transition your baby into a larger rear-facing seat when the time comes.

“Infant car seats are designed to be used from birth. This applies to travel systems too,” Pratt says. “Just make sure that the car seat and stroller manuals are both followed carefully.” Since travel systems include regular stroller seats in addition to the car seat, you’ll want to pay close attention to the requirements for that, too. “For example, some stroller seats don’t recline enough for newborns, so there may be age requirements or milestone minimums—such as sitting up—before a baby can use the stroller seat instead of riding in their car seat,” Pratt adds.

Stroller Configuration Options

Many travel systems and car seat stroller combos are designed so that your child can use the stroller as they continue to grow well past the infant car seat stage, while others, like the Doona Infant Car Seat & Latch Base , are strictly for the infant phase. Some of our picks have many conversions, like the Graco Modes Nest2Grow Travel System , which can convert into a double stroller without purchasing a second seat.

Think about what you’d like out of the product to help you narrow down your best options. If you plan to have another baby close in age, a double travel system that can fit an infant and a toddler is a useful choice.

Ease of Use

Loading your kids into the car is hard enough—no one wants to add fighting with complicated baby gear into the mix. When shopping for a travel system, you’ll want to find a stroller that’s simple to set up and break down so you can toss it in the trunk. When it comes to the car seat, you’ll need one that clicks in and out of its base or the stroller without a big fuss. After all, the point of a travel system is to make your life easier!

The type of travel system that’s most convenient for you will also vary based on your lifestyle. “City dwellers with minimal storage space or those who frequently use rideshares may want a small, compact-fold stroller that opens and closes with one hand,” says Pratt. “And suburban families will have a whole different priority list. They may want a stroller that handles a bit rougher terrain or fits in their minivan with the third row up.” Luckily, car seat and stroller combos come in a wide variety of sizes and styles, so there’s one out there that will fit your family’s needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

While there are many benefits, travel systems particularly come in handy if you travel by car with your baby often. These systems consist of a compatible infant car seat, stroller, and car seat base, so they’re designed to work together to make transporting your baby more practical. “It’s so convenient to click an infant car seat into the stroller for quick errands, doctor’s appointments, or neighborhood walks,” says Pratt. “Just be mindful of how much time a baby spends in their car seat outside of the car, and offer lots of breaks.” 

Plus, car seat safety is incredibly important, and it can be helpful to have gear that’s specifically made to go together so you can ensure you’re using the pieces correctly. Some infant car seats are also compatible with other brands’ strollers, but if you’re using different brands, make sure that the pieces are confirmed to be compatible and safe to use together.

A LATCH system—an acronym for Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children—is a common way to secure a child’s car seat without using the vehicle’s seat belts. Typically, LATCH systems are found in car seat bases, and they consist of latches, hooks, and anchors that keep the car seat securely in place at the right height.

After installing a car seat base that has a LATCH system into a vehicle (which can be relatively permanent if you frequently drive the same car), you’ll need to attach the base and the car seat each time you strap your baby into the car. Thankfully, most brands make this process easy and safe, with helpful indicators and clicking sounds letting you know when the car seat is positioned correctly.

Phoebe Sklansky is Verywell Family’s Associate Commerce Editor. As a commerce writer and avid shopper herself, she enjoys helping readers find the best products for their unique needs. After personally testing more than 20 car seats and strollers in our lab and through the streets of New York City, she has become quite an expert on the subject. Her favorite strollers so far are the stylish Uppababy Vista V2 (it has tons of conversion options!) and the lightweight Bugaboo Butterfly for travel. For this article, Phoebe also spoke with Michelle Pratt, Certified Child Passenger Technician and founder of Safe in the Seat, in addition to carefully reviewing guidance from the AAP on car seat safety and stroller safety.

Additional reporting by:

Ashley Ziegler  is a full-time parenting writer, a mom to a 1- and 4-year-old, and she has personal experience in researching and using infant carriers, strollers, and travel systems. Key considerations she focused on when selecting these products include personal experience, safety features, ease of use, and user reviews.

American Academy of Pediatrics. Car Seats: Information for Families .

American Academy of Pediatrics. How to Choose a Safe Baby Stroller .

Car Seat Checkup . HealthyChildren.org

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.

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:

Best Overall Car Seat and Stroller Combo

Doona infant car seat & latch base.

Best Value Car Seat and Stroller Combo

Safety 1st smooth ride travel system.

Best Car Seat and Stroller Combo With Bassinet Mode

Evenflo pivot vizor travel system with litemax infant car seat.

Best Car Seat With a Rebound Bar and Stroller Combo

Britax willow brook s+ travel system.

Best Full-size Car Seat and Stroller Combo

Chicco bravo 3-in-1 trio travel system.

Best Luxury Car Seat and Stroller Combo

Uppababy vista v2 stroller & mesa infant car seat.

Best Lightweight Car Seat Stroller Combo

Nuna pipa urbn + trvl travel system.

Best Car Seat and Jogger Stroller Combo

Baby trend expedition jogger 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

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

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

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?

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.

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 .

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} Product Reviews

The Best L-Shaped Sofas

The Best Above-Ground Pools

The Best Picnic Blankets

The Best Beach Towels on Amazon

The Best Percale Sheets

The Best Portable Air Conditioners

The 15 Best Shampoos for Curly Hair

17 Most Fashionable Sunglasses for Women in 2024

The Best Front-Loading Washing Machines

The Best Beach Towels

The 12 Best LED Face Masks

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market. See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our credit card rating methodology .

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

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

761 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

29 Published Articles 3062 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28

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.

Was this page helpful?

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.

INSIDERS ONLY: UP PULSE ™

Get the latest travel tips, crucial news, flight & hotel deal alerts...

Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter.

We respect your privacy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's privacy policy and terms of service apply.

Related Posts

UP's Bonus Valuation

This bonus value is an estimated valuation calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.

JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser.

mixx™ next + pipa™ urbn travel system

A next-level travel system where innovative safety and first-class luxury features combine into a stylish dream team that raises the bar on living a seamless baby life on the go. The Nuna PIPA urbn reimagines the future of travel with baby. This one-of-a-kind, ultra-lightweight infant car seat weighs only 7 pounds* and installs using the advanced pipaFIX™ rigid latch. This groundbreaking baseless installation feature is integrated into the car seat, allowing for super secure installs in seconds when moving from car to taxi, to rideshare and offering a new generation of journeys. It also features a one-handed, quick release from stroller and vehicle and Nuna’s iconic Sky drape™ for ultimate privacy - so you and baby can navigate life with modern-day ease. Feel free to pack up and go anywhere with the Nuna MIXX next stroller. It delivers a smooth ride you can maneuver with one hand and a convenient variety of riding modes for different ages and stages. The five position recline feature can be adjusted with one hand and offers baby the ultimate in customized comfort options. When done strolling, it packs away with a compact fold no matter which way the seat is facing. It is designed to effortlessly connect with the PIPA urbn to make baby life on the go so much easier. *Without canopy and insert

• MagneTech secure snap™ is a self-guiding magnetic buckle that automatically locks into place
• Four modes: PIPA™ series infant car seat, bassinet, seat parent facing or world facing
• Ring adapter is included for an easy on/off one-click travel system
• Compact fold-away axle™ for a more compact fold
• 2-second steel-reinforced pipaFIX™ rigid latch installation makes set up swift, simple and above all - safe
• Ultralight for on-the-go at just 7 lbs
• Travel with ease with pipaFIX™ or vehicle seat belt- no base needed
• One-handed vehicle and stroller release for quick and easy in-and-outs
• Rear-wheel Free flex suspension™ and front-wheel progressive suspension technology
• Stands when folded
• A one-piece fuss-free, compact fold no matter which way the seat is facing
• All-season seat keeps baby comfy in winter and unsnaps to mesh in summer
• Removable two-piece seat insert grows with baby
• No-rethread harness for easy adjustments
• Tough, rubber foam-filled tires are ready for any terrain
• One-touch, rear-wheel braking system is strong and responsive
• Easy to flip the seat and switch to bassinet or travel system modes
• Quick release five-point harness for secure strolling
• True-flat recline for newborn comfort
• Five position recline easily adjusts with one hand
• Adjustable calf support with integrated footrest promises a comfortable ride
• Super convenient, automatic quick-click fold lock and trolley function when folded
• Height-adjustable pushbar
• Smart and stately dark matte frame with chrome black wheels
• Luxe leatherette accented pushbar and armbar
• UPF 50+ canopy is water repellent and extendable and features a flip out eyeshade, ventilation panel and window
• Two compartment basket including secret zipper pocket
• Cell phone pocket on seat back
• Removable armbar fits kids of all sizes
• Pairs perfectly with all Nuna PIPA™ series infant car seats
• Auto-reclining foot that aids in proper installations in vehicles
• European belt path for vehicle belt installations
• Aeroflex™ foam that is cleverly lightweight, resilient, and minimizes force transferred to baby by absorbing and diffusing energy
• Side Impact Protection for ultimate baby safe keeping
• Five-point harness keeps travels secure
• Sky drape™ pulls down smoothly and attaches quietly with magnets
• Full-coverage UPF 50+ canopy is extendable and features a flip-out eyeshade and XL peek-a-boo window
• From fabric to foam and beyond, each element is smartly sourced to be both flame resistant and contain no added fire-retardant chemicals
• Integrated magnetic buckle holders help keep straps out of the way when buckling baby in
• Head support includes a 2-layer soft surround to accommodate smaller babies
• Infant head support and body inserts feature environmentally friendly Merino wool and TENCEL™ *** branded lyocell fiber blend that is soft, naturally controls moisture, and is environmentally friendly
• Machine washable seat fabrics and inserts
• Luxe leatherette carry handle for stylish journeys
• FAA certified for aircraft use
• All installation types are baseless- no base needed
• Not compatible with PIPA™ series base or RELX™ base
• Set of included anchor guides make it easy to locate and install on the lower anchor bars in vehicle
• GREENGUARD Gold Certified: Products that have achieved GREENGUARD Gold Certification are scientifically proven to meet some of the world's most rigorous third-party chemical emissions standards, and certified to not contribute to indoor air pollution or chemical exposure
• *Refer to instructions for any final adjustments **Weight excludes canopy and infant insert ***TENCEL™ is a trademark of Lenzing AG

Product specifications

Q: can the pipa urbn be installed with a base, q: when will pipa urbn be available as a stand-alone, q: are there other accessories available for the mixx next.

Modern rides, reimagined

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Christina Szalinski

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

Rebecca Gale

Further reading

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.

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.

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.

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.

11 Best Travel System Strollers

Getting around with your little one is much easier if you have the right stroller. Many parents find a 3-in-1 travel system stroller practical because it includes a stroller and also an infant car seat that doubles as a baby carrier.

A travel system stroller is great because it can be used from the moment you take your newborn home from the hospital until well into toddlerhood.

Based on more than 4,500 Pampers Parents votes, we’ve put together a list of the best travel system strollers. We also cover which features to look out for when comparison shopping, as well as some safety tips for using your new stroller and car seat.

Why Choose a Travel System Stroller

Travel system strollers can adapt as the baby grows, making them particularly appealing to parents who like the idea of a combo product that fulfills different needs.

A travel system stroller typically includes an infant car seat (which sometimes doubles as a carrier), a car seat base, and the main stroller unit, which holds the infant car seat and can convert into a toddler stroller when the time comes.

Here are some pluses of owning a travel system:

It can allow you to move your sleeping baby from the car to the stroller without disturbing her.

Some models have a stroller seat that reclines flat, so it can be used when your infant is 6 months or younger. As your baby gets older, the backrest can be adjusted to a higher, more comfortable position.

Once your baby outgrows the infant car seat, she can continue to use the stroller part of the travel system into toddlerhood.

Even though a travel system stroller can cost more than most standard strollers (some, like the UPPAbaby Stroller, cost over $1,000), you get more bang for your buck because you don’t need to buy an infant car seat, infant stroller, baby carrier , and toddler stroller separately.

The even better news? Pampers Parents recommend several travel system strollers that are around $300 or less.

These are the travel system strollers Pampers Parents chose as their favorites:

1. Chicco Bravo Trio Travel System

Why pick this one? Pampers Parents chose the Chicco Bravo as their absolute favorite travel system. With features like a one-touch braking pedal, all-wheel suspension, swiveling front wheels, and a three-position adjustable padded handle, this stroller has a lot going for it.

The way this travel system works is that the rear-facing infant car seat clicks into either the stroller or the car seat base. The car seat base installs securely and can remain fastened in your car.

Once your baby has reached the maximum weight and height limit of the infant car seat, you can shift to using the stroller seat. However, that also means you’ll have to get a new forward-facing car seat that suits your little one’s bigger size.

The stroller includes a parent tray with two cup holders and a storage compartment as well as a child tray with two cup holders. The stroller’s canopy is fully adjustable, and the backrest reclines for added comfort.

Highlights: The stroller has an innovative fold-and-carry handle with a one-hand, quick-fold feature. The stroller seat and canopy can be removed for cleaning. The infant car seat features removable padding for use with your newborn.

Price * : about $379.99 on Amazon.com

Pampers Parents pros and cons:

Pros: It’s very easy to use and fold up with only one hand.

Cons: It could be lighter, and it would be better if you could have your baby either face forward or backward in the stroller.

2. Graco Fastaction Fold Jogger Click Connect Baby Travel System

Why pick this one? If you’re looking for a travel system stroller that’s also good for jogging, then the Graco Fastaction is for you.

The stroller features three air-filled rubber tires for a smooth ride on any terrain. The front wheel easily locks in place for added stability when jogging. Unlock it for full maneuverability when strolling.

The rear-facing infant car seat easily clicks into both the stroller and the car seat base. Installed in your car, the car seat can recline to four different positions to suit your infant’s need for head and neck support.

Both the stroller and the infant car seat feature canopies, but the stroller’s canopy includes a peek-a-boo window.

Highlights: The stroller features a one-hand folding mechanism, which the manufacturer claims takes one second to operate.

Price * : about $269.99 on Amazon.com

Pros: It’s easy to use, and it folds quickly.

Cons: The stroller is rather bulky and does not fold very compactly. The handle is not adjustable. The wheels need constant refilling.

3. UPPAbaby Full-Size Vista Infant Baby Stroller

Why pick this one? This bundle from UPPAbaby includes three components: a stroller seat, an infant car seat, and a bassinet that attaches to the stroller.

This combo allows for multiple configurations, starting with the bassinet for strolling with your sleeping newborn, the infant car seat for traveling in the car, and the toddler seat, which can be positioned to face forward or backward in the stroller frame once your little one is bigger.

The infant car seat includes a padded insert for a baby that weighs between four and eight pounds.

Keep in mind that once your baby has reached the maximum height and weight limit of the car seat, you’ll have to upgrade to a new one.

The stroller features front and rear shock-absorbing suspension and a one-button telescoping handlebar so that you can adjust it to you or your partner’s height.

When you’re not using the stroller, you can fold it up in one step. However, some Pampers Parents noted that it requires both hands to fold. The stroller stands when folded, which makes it easier to handle and store.

Additional items such as a bassinet storage bag, bassinet bug shield, toddler seat rain shield, and toddler seat bug shield are included.

Highlights: Both the bassinet and the infant car seat feature breathable, moisture-wicking fabric that is also removable for spot cleaning. The storage basket below the stroller can hold up to 30 pounds.

Price * : about $1,199.98 on Amazon.com

Pros: It’s easy to use, made of quality materials, and it can be used to accommodate more children.

Cons: It’s very heavy and very expensive.

4. Baby Trend Expedition Jogger Travel System

Why pick this one? This jogging stroller from Baby Trend features a swiveling and locking front wheel, with all-terrain tires. The wheels can be quick-released for extra-compact storage.

The stroller features a convenient parent tray and a child tray. There is also a large storage basket under the stroller for things like diaper bags and other necessities.

The five-point harness on both the stroller and infant car seat is easy to adjust with one hand, and there is a push-button release.

The car seat base features four positions so that you can adjust the infant car seat to the proper height for your little one. And the infant car seat has a multi-grip handle that is easy to hold and carry when you’re transferring your baby from the car to the stroller base.

Highlights: For easy maneuvering, the push handle is extra wide, ergonomically shaped, and foam padded. The footrest features reflectors to provide better visibility in low-light conditions.

Price*: about $132.99 on Amazon.com

Pros: It’s easy to maneuver over many different terrains with one hand, and it’s affordable.

Cons: The storage basket could be bigger and it isn’t as easy to access when your baby is in the stroller.

5. Evenflo Vive Travel System

Why pick this one? Unlike the other travel system strollers that made the Pampers Parents list, the Evenflo Vive Travel System’s infant car seat has an extended weight rating of up to 35 pounds, so you can use it a bit longer than the other car seats on this list.

Eventually you will have to upgrade to a new car seat, but at least with this product it will be able to happen later.

The stroller’s 13-inch-thick EVA wheels feature shock absorption in the front, which helps make the stroller more stable.

In addition to the storage basket under the stroller base, there is a storage pocket on the back of your baby’s seat.

Highlights: The stroller features a very slim 16-inch fold, so it doesn’t take up too much space in the trunk of your car or when in storage.

Price * : about $106.99 on Amazon.com

Pros: It’s lightweight and it’s easy to move from the car to the stroller.

Cons: The wheels aren’t the best and they tend to be squeaky.

6. Baby Trend Skyline 35 Travel System

Why pick this one? Although it’s not a jogging stroller, the Baby Trend Skyline features three wheels, which can help make it easier to maneuver much like a jogger-style stroller. The rear wheels are lockable for when you need to put on the brakes.

Handy features of this stroller include a handle that is adjustable to your height, and one-handed foldability.

The parent tray includes a covered compartment for storing items you may want to keep secured nearby, but there’s also an extra-large storage basket below the stroller.

The infant car seat of this travel system includes a reversible infant insert and a six-position crotch belt adjustment. The car seat base can be adjusted in four different ways with the push of a button to ensure the infant car seat is level.

Highlights: Both the car seat’s and the stroller’s canopies are made of two panels, but the stroller canopy also includes a peek-a-boo window on the front and mesh windows on the sides.

Price * : about $161.99 on Amazon.com

Pros: The price is affordable and it’s easy to fold up and open.

Cons: The buckle on the infant car seat could be easier to use.

7. Safety 1st Smooth Ride Travel System

Why pick this one? Designed with travel in mind, the Safety 1st Smooth Ride makes it easy to transfer your baby’s car seat to the stroller with its QuickClick technology. Once your baby outgrows the infant car seat, you can continue to use the stroller through toddlerhood, but keep in mind that you’ll have to purchase a new car seat.

Folding the stroller is easy with the one-handed operation. Once folded, it can stand on its own without tipping over.

The rear-facing infant car seat includes head and body inserts for your newborn as well as four adjustable harness heights to help you achieve the perfect fit for your baby.

Highlights: The large stroller canopy features a flip-out visor and a mesh peek-a-boo window.

Price * : about $179.99 on Amazon.com

Pros: The stroller is easy to handle, it’s easy to travel with, and it’s affordable.

Cons: The storage basket could be bigger and the canopy could be more durable.

8. Chicco Viaro Travel System

Why pick this one? The Chicco Viaro Travel System features a lightweight frame and three-wheel maneuverability, making it an appealing option if you travel a lot. The one-handed fold feature makes it even easier to handle when you’re trying to get it in and out of the trunk, and opened up and ready to go quickly.

Like many of the other strollers on this list, it includes a child tray, parent tray, and large storage basket.

The stroller also has a multi-position reclining seat, which will come in handy with your newborn, who requires the head support. There’s also an adjustable canopy and toe-tap brakes on the back wheels.

The infant car seat includes head and body supports. The car seat easily transfers from the car seat base to the stroller base for travel. Once your baby reaches the car seat's maximum height and weight recommendations, you can still keep on using the stroller through toddlerhood, but you’ll have to purchase a new car seat.

Some Pampers Parents noted they would prefer one large front wheel versus the small two-sided front wheel on the stroller for better maneuverability.

Highlights: At just 18 pounds, this is the lightest travel system stroller on our list.

Price * : about $349.99 on Amazon.com

Pros: You’ll love the versatility and portability.

Cons: The handle could be adjustable and it could use better quality wheels.

9. Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System

Why pick this one? The Evenflo Pivot Travel System was designed so that both the stroller seat and infant car seat can face either forward or backward in the stroller frame, depending on your preference. Plus, the stroller seat can be adapted and positioned horizontally as a bassinet-like carriage for strolling with your newborn.

The stroller frame features four large cruiser tires for smoother handling. There is a three-panel canopy; however, the canopy does not have mesh panels or a baby window, which some of the other models on this list offer.

The infant car seat features a four-position recline for your baby’s comfort and a unique ergonomic handle so that it can be carried in the bend of your arm.

The stroller has no child tray or parent tray, which may be a deal-breaker for some.

Highlights: This travel system includes a blanket boot, which keeps your baby’s legs warm in cold weather.

Price * : about $279.99 on Amazon.com

Pros: You’ll like the design without the expensive price tag. There’s the option of changing the direction of the seat.

Cons: It’s difficult to close the stroller with one hand. The front wheels tend to get stuck on certain surfaces.

10. Graco Trax Jogger Travel System

Why pick this one? This jogging stroller from Graco features air-filled rubber tires with suspension for a very smooth ride on a variety of terrains. The single front wheel can lock in place for running, and unlock so that it can swivel for daily strolling.

The one-handed folding feature includes an automatic lock so that the stroller will remain closed and standing when stored. Keep in mind that some Pampers Parents noted that when folded the stroller is awkward to transport.

The stroller also features a safety tether that attaches to your arm as an extra layer of security to ensure the stroller can’t roll away, even when you are running. The baby seat features deluxe padding and multiple positions for your baby’s comfort and safety.

The infant car seat comes with newborn head support. It also has its own expandable canopy. The seat cushion is machine washable.

Use the infant car seat until your baby reaches the maximum weight and height limit. After that, you’ll have to purchase a new car seat. But your baby can continue to use the stroller into her toddler years.

Highlights: The stroller’s expandable canopy not only features a peek-a-boo window but also provides UV 50 sun protection.

Price * : about $201.07 on Amazon.com

Pros: You’ll love the handle adjustability and the superior suspension for jogging.

Cons: The front wheel can be problematic when it comes to steering and maneuvering, and the stroller could be easier to clean.

11. Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Travel System

Why pick this one? The manufacturer of the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Travel System claims you can configure the stroller 22 different ways, including accommodating 2 riders at the same time. This means you can use this stroller with your infant and your toddler simultaneously, for example.

This is how it works: The stroller frame features a unique slide and lock system, which allows for expansion in order to accommodate both the toddler seat and the infant car seat. You can configure each seat to face different directions. The toddler seat can also be configured to be used in infant mode.

This travel system stroller can come in handy if you have a newborn and a toddler and don’t want to commit to buying a double stroller .

Be aware that the infant car seat has a maximum weight and height limit. So, at some point your baby will outgrow it and you’ll have to upgrade to a new car seat. But you’ll be able to use the stroller portion of the travel system into toddlerhood.

The storage basket underneath can expand to over two feet long and is accessible from the front and back.

Highlights: The seat pad can be machine-washed in cold water and placed in the dryer on low. When folded, the stroller can stand on its own even with the toddler seat attached.

Price*: about $322.22 on Amazon.com

Pros: The combination of features, the multiple configurations, and the design without the expense.

Cons: There is no infant tray or parent tray. The wheels tend to make steering tricky and can get stuck sometimes.

Features to Consider When Buying a Travel System Stroller

When it comes to choosing a travel system stroller, here are some important things to consider:

JPMA safety seal. Make sure your stroller and infant car seat combo meets strict U.S. safety standards. It’s worth checking to see if the product has been recalled . Look for a seal on the packaging that shows that the manufacturer participates in the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association’s (JPMA) certification program.

Secure harness. A five-point harness is standard for most strollers and infant car seats. Experts say it’s the safest option because it secures your baby over his shoulders, at the waist, and between the legs. Secured this way, he can’t slide out, fall out, or climb out. The straps should be easily adjustable and easy for you to use, but difficult (or even impossible) for your baby to unfasten himself.

Recline function. This will be important when you’re using the stroller or infant car seat with your newborn. Newborns don’t have the ability to sit up or hold their heads up, so you’ll want to make sure your newborn is in a comfortable reclined position to prevent his head from flopping forward.

Easy-to-open-and-close stroller. Opening or folding a stroller with one hand can be a blessing, especially when you’re holding your baby in your other arm. A stroller that remains upright when folded can also come in handy when storing.

Easy-to-install car seat. Some infant car seats may be easier to install than others. Most feature a LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system in the car seat base, which can make it a lot easier to install. The infant car seat clicks into the base, and it’s easy to remove and attach to the stroller base. If you plan to transfer the car seat from car to car, it can be beneficial to have one that has an easy-to-install car seat base, or you could consider buying an additional car seat base for the other car. To make sure that the car seat is correctly installed, you might consult a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician .

Protective canopy. Being able to keep your baby shaded from the sun and covered in case of bad weather will be important. Canopies come in a range of sizes and styles. Some provide nearly full coverage of the front of the stroller. If that’s the style that interests you, make sure it has mesh panels, which can help keep your baby at a comfortable temperature. You can also consider a model that has a plastic window so that your baby can see out and you can see in. If this feature is not included in the stroller you like, you can often purchase it separately. Most infant car seats will also have a canopy, but these often don’t have the peek-a-boo window features or mesh panels of a stroller’s canopy.

Suitable stroller wheels. Larger wheels make maneuvering the stroller much easier. You’ll want a stroller that has lockable front swiveling wheels, as this makes it easier to go over a variety of terrains. Air-filled tires provide a smooth ride, but need to be pumped up occasionally. Foam-filled tires provide the same smooth ride but don’t need refilling. Many strollers include a suspension system with shock absorbers to make the ride even smoother. It’s best to avoid strollers with tiny plastic wheels as these can make the stroller bounce around a bit.

Roomy storage. Having a large storage basket underneath the stroller can come in handy for stashing your handbag, diaper bag , and any other necessities. Some stroller models may feature dividers or zippered pockets for storing valuables. The basket should be accessible even when the infant car seat is in place or fully reclined. The storage basket should be strong enough so that it doesn’t drag on the ground once filled with your items.

Good brakes. Most strollers have foot-activated brakes that are controlled by either a single foot bar at the rear of the stroller, or a pedal above each of the rear wheels. Some models come with a hand-operated lever near the handlebar.

Comfortable and adjustable handlebars. You may want to look for a stroller with padded handles that can be adjusted to suit your height. Some strollers have two separate handles instead of a single handlebar.

Easy-to-clean fabric and upholstery. Some stroller and infant car seat manufacturers have layered seat fabrics that can be removed as needed. For example, a breathable mesh seat for summer can be layered with a cushioned one for winter. Choose a travel system that is easy to clean. Some include seat covers that are removable and machine washable; others offer stain-resistant fabrics that are easy to wipe down.

Size and fit. Before selecting an infant car seat, it’s a good idea to measure your car’s back seat to ensure the car seat will fit. It’s also smart to check the size of your trunk to ensure the stroller will fit once it’s folded.

Safety Considerations When Using Your Travel System Stroller

Once you’ve chosen the best travel system for you and your baby, here are some safety tips to keep in mind as you use both the car seat and stroller:

Don’t leave your baby alone or unattended in the stroller or in the infant car seat.

Be sure to use your stroller’s brakes to lock the wheels before placing your baby in the stroller, and whenever you have stopped with the stroller.

Always check your automobile’s instruction manual and the infant car seat’s guidelines for information on the safe installation of the infant car seat. Do not use any additional straps that aren’t part of the travel system to install the car seat.

Remember that the safest place for your baby to ride in a car is the back seat, with the infant car seat facing the rear until she’s at least 2 years old or exceeds the manufacturer's maximum weight and height limits. After that you can upgrade to a new front-facing car seat .

Don’t hang heavy items like hand bags, tote bags, or diaper bags from the stroller handles. The weight can cause the stroller to tip backward. Instead use the storage areas under the stroller.

Watch out for your baby’s fingers when using the stroller so she doesn’t get them caught in the wheels or the hinges of the stroller’s folding parts. Also, make sure that your baby can’t reach the brake lever.

After placing your little one in the stroller or the infant car seat, be sure to always use the five-point harness so that she is properly secured whenever she’s riding in the stroller or in the car. The harness straps should be at or under your baby’s shoulders and the chest clip should be at armpit level. You know the harness is tight enough when you can’t pinch any strap fabric at your baby’s shoulders.

Don’t use the car seat or stroller as a substitute for your baby's crib, which is the safest place for your little one to sleep. You might be tempted to allow your baby to finish a nap in the car seat, but doing so can lead to the development of a flat spot on the back of your baby’s head, cause acid reflux or GERD , and affect her breathing.

If you decide to attach toys to the stroller, make sure they’re securely fastened so they won’t fall on your baby. Remove these toys as soon as your baby can sit or reach them.

If your stroller has a cup holder, make sure never to use it for hot drinks, which could accidentally spill on your baby.

In hot weather, don’t leave the stroller in the sun as it can cause the plastic and metal parts to get hot. Check that the stroller isn’t hot before putting your baby inside. The same goes for the infant car seat. If you plan to leave your car in a parking lot for long hours during hot weather, consider covering the car seat with a towel to prevent it from getting too hot. Always check the car seat isn’t hot before placing your baby in it.

Be sure to mail back the warranty card to the travel system stroller’s manufacturer so that you’ll be notified in case there’s a recall.

A travel system can be a wonderful way to move your baby from the car to stroller and back again with ease. And it has the added benefit of being useful once your little one is into her toddler years. We hope that Pampers Parents’ insights have helped make your buying decision a little bit easier.

If you’re still in the process of compiling a baby shower registry , why not add the travel system of your choice to the list?

Recall Notice

Before buying a product, always check that it’s approved and hasn’t been recalled on sites like the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

*Prices are correct at the time of writing.

How We Got These Results

We surveyed thousands of parents in the Pampers Community and asked them to choose the products they love the most, and to share their views on specific products and product categories. Based on the survey responses, we have taken the top product picks and added our own research to create this article. The aim is to help you choose the right product for you and your family. We might receive commissions on purchases made from the links in this article, but the products featured are the Pampers Community’s top choices.

• AAP p. 494,496-498,503-504
• Consumer Reports: Stroller Buying Guide
• Kids Health: Choosing Safe Baby Products: Strollers
• Mayo Clinic: Stroller Safety: Tips for parents

Review this article:

Read more about best baby products.

• Health and Safety
• Travel Gear
• Feeding & Nursing products
• Nursery Gear
• Infant activity
• Pregnancy Gear
• Baby Activities & Play

Join a World of Support

through Pregnancy and Parenthood.

TRACK WITH TOOLS

LEARN WITH EXPERTS

GET REWARDED

Where You Already Belong

Doona x Vashtie Limited Edition Discover now »

Free shipping on all orders over $75

Shop now, pay later with Klarna Learn more »

All-black design: Doona Midnight Collection Discover now »

Doona Car Seat & Stroller

• Discover Doona +
• Safety features

Accessories

• Spare parts

Doona Collections

Doona + Classic Collection

Doona + Midnight Edition

Doona + Vashtie Limited Edition

• Discover Liki

Liki Series

Liki Trike S3

Liki Trike S5

Midnight Edition

Vashtie Limited Edition

• Discover SensAlert
• Tips for proper use
• Download the Doona app

Child car seat alert solution

• Doona accessories
• Liki accessories

Liki Helmet

Liki Rain Cover

Doona Rain Cover

Doona’s world

Parenting tips.

• Spotted with

The best stroller alternative is actually a tricycle

How to choose the right baby stroller

Flying with a car seat

The safest position for an infant car seat

Where do we ship to?

Choose a location for accurate availability, pricing & delivery times.

• Netherlands
• United States
• Rest of the world

Can’t find your location?

Sorry, we don’t ship directly to you yet. Select 'Rest of the World' to find your nearest Doona distributor, or choose a supported location.

Doona + Car Seat & Stroller

Fully integrated all-in-one travel system.

The revolutionary system is designed to provide a safe and practical solution for life on-the-go, allowing you to easily move from car seat to stroller in seconds. From running errands to traveling by car, train, or plane, Doona is the ideal solution for exploring the world with an infant, with freedom and flexibility.

Choose your edition

SHOP NOW - $ 550.00

• Infant Insert
• Head Support
• Vehicle Seat Protector

Classic Collection

SHOP NOW - $ 650.00

• Black Infant Insert
• Black Head Support
• Midnight Essentials Bag
• Black Handlebar Cover
• Black aluminum profile

Doona x Vashtie

Limited edition.

• Exclusive Essentials Tote Bag
• Vashtie Handlebar Cover
• Vashtie Hand-written Canopy
• Vashtie Signature keychain

Held to the highest safety standards

Standards & certifications

Our products go through strict internal and external tests and all mandatory certification processes to assure the highest levels of safety. With its unique hybrid functionality, Doona has been tested to meet the strictest US & EU standards for car seats, strollers and hand-held carriers.

Wherever you go

The ideal companion for any journey, whether it's handling daily errands on public transport or embarking on global adventures. doona provides comfort and convenience for both parent and child..

On the go with public transport

Hop on and off public transport safely and conveniently, with easy installation of Doona, even without the base.

Perfect for travel

Certified and approved for air travel, so you can take it from car to plane to train and back again.

Errands with ease

Moving from car seat to stroller in seconds makes errands like supermarket shopping or doctor appointments easy!

SAFETY AND COMFORT

Ergonomic support

Designed in collaboration with global engineering, safety, and medical experts to mimic a natural fetal position, supporting the baby's spine during the developmental stage. with additional padding for newborns, it ensures the highest levels of safety and comfort..

READY TO GO

Ease of use

Experience ultimate convenience with doona as it seamlessly transitions from car seat to stroller in seconds. crafted with durable materials, this innovative solution is ready to use straight out of the box. beyond its seamless transformations, it also frees up extra trunk space, making it a practical and efficient choice for your life on-the-go..

Discover Doona Midnight Edition

it’s all about the bold, elevated details

Doona x Vashtie limited edition

Award winning innovations.

Doona has won numerous global awards for innovation and design.

Included LATCH base

Safety, simplicity, mobility. the doona latch base allows you to have them all. its secure click-in and click-out mechanism make life on-the-go easy..

for every occasion

Winter Cover

Essentials Bag

Doona Travel Bag

Doona + Handlebar Cover

Snap-on Storage

Padded Travel Bag

Wheel Covers

Stay connected & follow us on our global adventures # doona

@tailsofamermaid

@twobabesonebarn

@ice_novacaine

@cassyldaa_

@chaimaelahbichi

@instaminaa

• Baby Products
• Car Seats & Accessories

Add to your order

• No Additional Cost: You pay nothing for repairs – parts, labor, and shipping included.
• Coverage: Plan starts on the date of purchase. Drops, spills and cracked screens due to normal use covered for portable products and power surges covered from day one. Malfunctions covered after the manufacturer's warranty.
• Easy Claims Process: File a claim anytime online or by phone. Most claims approved within minutes. We will send you an e-gift card for the purchase price of your covered product. In some instances, we will replace or repair it.
• Product Eligibility: Plan must be purchased with a product or within 30 days of the product purchase. Pre-existing conditions are not covered.
• Terms & Details: More information about this protection plan is available within the “Product guides and documents” section. Simply click “User Guide” for more info. Terms & Conditions will be available in Your Orders on Amazon. Asurion will also email your plan confirmation with Terms & Conditions to the address associated with your Amazon account within 24 hours of purchase.

Return this item for free

You can return this item for any reason: no shipping charges. The item must be returned in new and unused condition.

• Go to Your Orders to start the return
• Print the return shipping label

2 Year Baby Protection Plan

Image Unavailable

• To view this video download Flash Player

Baby Trend Ally Newborn Baby Infant Car Seat Carrier Travel System with Harness and Extra Cozy Cover for Babies Up to 35 Pounds, Gray Magnolia

Purchase options and add-ons, about this item.

• EPS energy-absorbing foam for superior side impact head protection|5-point safety harness with easy one-hand harness adjustment and push-button release|Cozy Cover provides extra warmth and comfort|One-hand easy-access seat release|Adjustable 2-panel canopy|4-position push-button height adjustable base|LATCH equipped base|Weight: 4~35 lbs|Height: up to 32"

Frequently bought together

Similar items that may deliver to you quickly

From the manufacturer

Baby trend ally 35 infant car seat.

(Cozy Cover not available on all models)

The Baby Trend Ally 35 Infant Car Seat provides the latest innovations in safety, design and comfort. This infant car seat has a 35 pound maximum infant weight rating and comes equipped with a deluxe seat pad and reversible infant insert.

For added security, Ally 35 is engineered with higher, deeper side wings with EPS foam for optimal side impact protection. Other safety features include a 5-point safety harness with one-hand adjustment, a 4-position height adjustable base with dual bubble level indicators and a 6-position crotch belt adjustment.

Anti-Rebound Protection

Carrying handle provides anti-rebound protection in forward position.

Adjustable 2-panel canopy.

5-Point Safety Harness

5-point safety harness with easy one-hand harness adjustment and push-button release.

Cozy Cover provides extra warmth and comfort (not available on all models).

4-position height adjustable base with dual bubble level indicators

FAA Certified for travel

Meets and Exceeds Federal Safety Standards

With over 30 years of car seat manufacturing experience, Baby Trend offers safety and performance you can trust for your smallest passengers.

Product Description

We spend a lot of time in our vehicles. From grocery store runs to daycare pickups, we venture around town on a daily. Baby Trend Ally 35 Car Seat allows you to complete errands with the comfort of knowing your little one is safe and sound right behind you. Easily install this versatile car seat base into your vehicle using the included LATCH hook attachment system or seat belt. The smooth bottom base protects your upholstery, so you don't have to worry about accidental wear and tear. Recommended for use with children 4 to 35 pounds, ensure base installation is secure prior to adding a car seat. Featuring EPS energy-absorbing foam, this high-quality car seat adds superior side impact head protection. The secure 5-point adjustable safety harness has easy 1-hand adjustment and release to offer maximum safety and security. With a deluxe seat pad and cozy car seat cover, the Baby Trend Ally 35 Car Seat Carrier offers only the best for your most precious rider.

Product information

Technical details, additional information, warranty & support, compare with similar items, videos for this product.

Click to play video

Baby Trend Ally Newborn Baby Infant Car Seat Travel System

Watch THIS - Baby Trend Car Seat Installation & Features

Enhance Your Babys Ride with Comfort Car Seat Review

Trisha Hall

Looking for specific info?

Customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the quality and weight of the infant toddler car seat. For example, they mention it's sturdy, easy to carry and that it'll fit their infant.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers are satisfied with the quality of the infant toddler car seat. They mention that it is very nice, sturdy, and beautiful. Some say that the foot cover is nice.

"I love the style and color. This car seat is very sturdy and infant ready!" Read more

"Bought to bring our twins home really sturdy , instructions r there to show installation n all.. really comfy" Read more

"It looks even better then the picture ! I love it" Read more

" Very nice and soft" Read more

Customers find the infant toddler car seat lightweight and easy to carry.

" Lightweight and so easy to wipe off/clean" Read more

"...PROS: it’s light .CONS: very uncomfortable for Newborns it’s cheaply made. It’s Hard to unlatch the car seat from the car...." Read more

"...but it really is as soon as I put my son in he falls asleep , not to heavy either easy to carry" Read more

Reviews with images

• Sort reviews by Top reviews Most recent Top reviews

Top reviews from the United States

There was a problem filtering reviews right now. please try again later..

• Amazon Newsletter
• About Amazon
• Accessibility
• Sustainability
• Press Center
• Investor Relations
• Amazon Devices
• Amazon Science
• Start Selling with Amazon
• Sell apps on Amazon
• Supply to Amazon
• Protect & Build Your Brand
• Become an Affiliate
• Become a Delivery Driver
• Start a Package Delivery Business
• Advertise Your Products
• Self-Publish with Us
• Host an Amazon Hub
• › See More Ways to Make Money
• Amazon Visa
• Amazon Store Card
• Amazon Secured Card
• Amazon Business Card
• Shop with Points
• Credit Card Marketplace
• Reload Your Balance
• Amazon Currency Converter
• Your Account
• Your Orders
• Shipping Rates & Policies
• Amazon Prime
• Returns & Replacements
• Manage Your Content and Devices
• Recalls and Product Safety Alerts
• Conditions of Use
• Privacy Notice
• Consumer Health Data Privacy Disclosure
• Your Ads Privacy Choices

• Product Reviews
• Stroller & Car Seat Reviews

Best Stroller-Car Seat Combos and Travel Systems

The logistics of getting a newborn from point A to point B can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re a first-time parent. That’s why many folks fill their baby registry with travel gear designed to make the task simpler. (Think: A stroller , car seat or carrier .) While each of the items mentioned above can be used individually, transferring a fussy newborn from a stroller to a car seat and back again can be an added stress you simply don’t need. The good news? Travel system strollers can be a saving grace.

A travel system—also known as a stroller-car seat combo—is simply a stroller and car seat designed to be used together. A car seat-stroller combo lets you easily clip the seat into a stroller frame, so you can transfer your sleeping baby from the car to the outside world without waking them up. Genius! There are a few factors to consider when choosing this type of transport system. To help you narrow down the options we’ve selected seven of the best car seat and stroller combos, so you can find one that works for your lifestyle and budget.

The Benefits of a Stroller and Car Seat Combo

While travel system strollers aren’t an absolute must, they do offer a couple key benefits. If your family takes frequent trips in the car, you can relax knowing that if baby happens to doze off, you don’t need to wake him when you reach your destination—simply lift the car seat from its base and click it into the stroller frame, and you and your sleeping babe are ready to roll.

The other major upside to travel systems is that you only have to buy one stroller that’ll see you and your child from birth through the toddler years. Newborns can’t ride in a regular stroller seat until they can sit up on their own (usually around 6 months), so if you don’t opt for a travel system, you’ll have to hunt for a stroller with a seat that fully reclines or stick with a baby carrier. Plus, buying a car seat-stroller combo instead of purchasing the gear separately can save you some money.

Stroller Travel System Types

There are different types of stroller-car seat combos available, including:

• Three-wheel travel systems. These are narrower and more compact than other travel system strollers, making them ideal for city-dwellers who need to navigate crowded spaces on a daily basis.
• Four-wheel travel systems. Sturdier than their three-wheeled counterparts, four-wheel travel systems are best for strolling over uneven terrain. Their wider profile means more storage space and a durable construction, but they tend to be bulkier than those with just three wheels.
• Jogger travel systems. These are designed for parents who want to take their little ones with them on the running trail. The larger wheels ensure a smooth ride (even over rough terrain), and the streamlined design makes jogging travel systems easy to steer.
• Double travel systems. Expecting twins, or have two kiddos very close in age? Double travel system strollers allow you to easily transport both babies, and can be customized to fit your family’s needs depending on the ages of your children.

What to Consider When Choosing a Stroller-Car Seat Combo

A stroller travel system is a big investment, so it’s important to find the right fit for your family. Below find a few factors to consider while browsing stroller and car seat combos.

• Height and weight limit. Travel systems include a rear-facing infant car seat and a stroller. Each item has its own height and weight limit, outlined by the manufacturer. Always double check these guidelines to make sure that the stroller-car seat combo is safe for your child to use.
• Additional safety features. All car seat and stroller combos are subject to strict federal safety standards and are safe when used appropriately. With that said, some options have additional features designed to keep your little one safe and secure. For example, some infant car seats have load leg or anti-rebound bar features that absorb energy in the event of a crash. Other elements to look for include a five-point safety harness, brakes that lock the stroller wheels and a UPF sun canopy.
• A lightweight car seat. Travel systems are designed for convenience, meaning the car seat section should be lightweight with an easy to grip carry handle.
• Configuration options. Most car seat-stroller combos offer multiple configuration options, so you can use them long after the newborn stage.

Stroller Travel System Comparison Chart

Best stroller car seat combos.

Get ready to click and go. Here are some of the best travel systems on the market right now, including a few options that have been put to the test by our product reviewers—aka new parents just like you!

Overall best car seat and stroller combo

• Four wheel suspension
• Multiple configurations
• LATCH base with bubble indicators
• High price point
• Infant car seat sold separately

First up is the UPPAbaby Vista V2 stroller and the Mesa Max car seat . Pegged as the top stroller-car seat combo in this year’s Best of The Bump awards , this dynamic duo is as good as it gets. Why? The stroller itself includes a bassinet attachment that can be used from birth as well as a toddler seat that accommodates children over 3 months. All-wheel suspension makes for a comfortable ride and a large under-seat basket has enough space for a diaper bag , plus any other supplies you may need. Better yet, it’s compatible with the new and improved Mesa Max car seat (sold separately). This infant car seat hits the mark in terms of safety thanks to a base with an anti-rebound bar and a load leg. It’s also incredibly easy to install and use with the Vista V2 stroller. Our product tester noted that the “the car seat was easy to click into the frame” and remarked upon the “smooth transition” when transferring her sleeping baby from the car to the stroller. Looking for an all-in-one travel bundle? Try the UPPAbaby VISTA V2 and MESA V2 travel system out for size.

Dimensions (open): 36" (L) x 25.7" (W) x 39.5" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 17.3" (L) x 25.7" (W) x 33.3" (H) | Stroller weight: 26.6 lbs. | Stroller capacity: 50 lbs. | Car seat weight: 9.9 lbs. | Car seat capacity: 4 to 35 lbs. | Car seat height limit: 32"

“When baby fell asleep in the car seat I was able to detach the other seat and place the car seat right inside!”

Best versatile car seat and stroller combo

• Six configurations
• Lightweight stroller frame
• No adapters needed
• Handlebar isn’t adjustable

The Evenflo PivotSuite travel system is a super-versatile option for modern family life. It offers six modes of travel: infant car seat mode, lay-flat carriage mode and toddler seat mode, each with a forward- and rear-facing option. Our product tester was a big fan of the carriage configuration saying “my baby felt safe and snug in the bassinet and it seemed to do well over bumps too in that position.” A particularly cool feature is the Pivot's built-in adapter that allows you to transition from infant mode to a toddler seat with a simple flip motion, no extra parts or tools required. Our tester vouched for the ease of switching modes and said: “The stroller is super easy to convert from a normal toddler seat, to reclining, to the bassinet option.” Plus, it can be folded in parent or forward-facing mode with the toddler seat still attached. (Trust us, this is a major win!) Meanwhile, the included Litemax car seat has an anti-rebound bar for baby’s safety as well as an easy to grip carry handle.

Dimensions (open): 39" (L) x 25.8" (W) x 40.5" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 19.5" (L) x 26" (W) x 40" (H) | Stroller weight: 26.8 lbs. | Stroller capacity: 55 lbs. | Car seat weight: 8.7 lbs. | Car seat capacity: 35 lbs. | Car seat height limit: 32"

“Having a car seat that is easily attached to the stroller frame is such a great feature and the stroller itself is worth the money in my opinion, it's a great stroller with so many cool features.”

Best lightweight car seat and stroller combo

• Lightweight design
• One-handed fold and unfold
• Auto-recline feature
• Lower height and weight limit than other options

Nuna TRVL Stroller weighs under 14 pounds, making it one of the lighter options on the market. It comes with the PIPA urbn car seat, which at 7.6 pounds won’t add much weight to the system. Aside from being lightweight, this pick earned a spot among the best car seat and stroller combos thanks to its impeccable steering system and baseless car seat attachment. As the name suggests, the TRVL is a travel-friendly stroller that’s incredibly compact and portable. One-handed steering provides exceptional maneuverability, and as our product tester put it “this baby GLIDES!” Meanwhile, a self-guiding magnetic buckle on the five-point harness makes it easy to safely strap your little one in. But the clever features don’t stop there. The PIPA urbn is the only baseless infant car seat with pipaFIX rigid latch that can install in two seconds flat, and it’s feather-light to boot. This was a huge bonus for our product tester “because it takes the hassle out of switching vehicles,” especially if you’re a two car family. Aside from the top-notch safety features and practical design, this travel system looks and feels luxurious. According to our tester, “the leather really makes it look sleek and high-end” and the neutral color palette was an added bonus. Sounds like a winner to us.

Dimensions (open): 32.5" (L) x 20.25" (W) x 44" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 24" (L) x 20.2" (W) x 11" (H) | Stroller weight: 13.6 lbs. | Stroller capacity: 50 lbs. | Car seat weight: 7.6 lbs. | Car seat capacity: 4 to 22 lbs. | Car seat height limit: 29"

“I would most certainly recommend this travel system for the storage space alone! But also for the convenience.”

Best budget-friendly car seat and stroller combo

• One-hand standing fold
• Car seat clicks into place
• Cup-holder and parent tray
• Plastic tires

Searching for the best car seat and stroller combo on a budget? Look no further than the FastAction Fold Sport Click Connect by Graco . Lightweight yet sturdy, the stroller can be folded with a single hand in one second flat. A lockable front wheel makes it easy to maneuver through crowded streets and the compact frame meets Disney size requirements. It also has a cushy reclining seat, a roomy storage basket and an expandable sun canopy with a peekaboo window. The travel system comes with the SnugRide Click Connect 35 infant car seat that clicks onto the stroller frame in one simple step, no adapters needed! The car seat has a removable infant body support that cradles your baby's head and neck for added comfort and safety. It also weighs less than 8 pounds and the base is super-easy to install in your car thanks to a nifty level indicator.. All that for under $350? Bargain.

Dimensions (open): 40" (L) x 25" (W) x 42" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 16" (L) x 25" (W) x 28" (H) | Stroller weight: 21.4 lbs. | Stroller capacity: 50 lbs. | Car seat weight: 7.5 lbs. | Car seat capacity: 4 to 35 lbs. | Car seat height limit: 32"

Best jogging car seat and stroller system

• Air-filled tires
• Adjustable handlebar
• Car seat snaps into place without adapters
• No cup-holder

The BOB Gear Revolution Flex 3.0 Travel System is a great option for fitness-loving parents. The stroller features mountain-bike-style suspension and air-filled tires that glide over gravel, grass, running trails and uneven pavement. It may be streamlined but this design doesn’t skimp on storage, the stroller has six pockets (including a spot for your cell phone) and a roomy cargo basket underneath the seat. The bundle includes the Britax B-Safe Gen2 Infant Car Seat that slides into place on the frame and is easily removed using the one-press release lever. The car seat employs SafeCell technology, which acts as a crumple zone absorbing crash energy away from your little passenger. A UPF 50+ canopy keeps them shielded from the elements while you stroll. And the base can be installed in your vehicle in three simple steps. Keep in mind that, as with all jogging strollers , you won’t be able to actually run with baby until they’re able to sit in the regular stroller seat.

Dimensions (open): 46" (L) x 25" (W) x 45" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 38" (L) x 25" (W) x 16" (H) | Stroller weight: 28 lbs. | Stroller capacity: 75 lbs. | Car seat weight: 10.9 lbs. | Car seat capacity: 4 to 35 lbs. | Car seat height limit: 32"

Best all-terrain car seat and stroller system

• All-wheel suspension
• Car seat has anti-rebound bar
• Accessories sold separately

The best car seat and stroller combo is often one that meets your individual needs. So if you like to wander off the beaten track, you’re going to need an all-terrain transport system. Introducing the City Mini GT2 by Baby Jogger: A travel system that meets the mark in terms of safety and performance. Forever-air rubber tires will never go flat and all-wheel suspension provides a smooth ride over any terrain. While an adjustable handlebar and hand-operated parking brake make it easy to push and steer. A reclining seat and an adaptable calf support panel also offer an added layer of comfort for your little one, so they can sit back and enjoy the ride. The stroller frame comes with the City GO 2 Infant Car Seat, which easily clicks into place and can be installed in any car, even without a car seat base, thanks to the taxi-safe belt path. Perfect for country living or urban life, this stroller-car seat combo is one of the best out there.

Dimensions (open): 41.3" (L) x 25.6" (W) x 43.1" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 10" (L) x 25.5" (W) x 31.8" (H) | Stroller weight: 22.4 lbs. | Stroller capacity: 65 lbs. | Car seat weight: 10.6 lbs. | Car seat capacity: 4 to 35 lbs. | Car seat height limit: 32"

Best hybrid car seat and stroller combo

• Incredibly lightweight
• Built-in car seat
• Low weight limit
• Not suitable for tough terrain

Last up on our list of the best stroller-car seat combos is a hybrid option by Doona. The all-in-one travel system is the first (and only) infant car seat that converts to a stroller with the press of a button. Once activated integrated wheels pop out of the base and the carry handle flips up to function as a handlebar. Genius! Initially unsure, our product tester did a complete 180 after taking the Doona for a spin: “At first I was concerned about how this was going to work because it’s a two in one. But I was very surprised at how efficient it was.” Lightweight and compact, this pick is certified for air travel and in car-seat mode it can be used with or without the LATCH base. The best part? You can switch to stroller mode without having to unbuckle baby from the car seat.

Dimensions (open): 17.4" (L) x 32.3" (W) x 39" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 17.4" (L) x 26" (W) x 22.4" (H) | Stroller weight: 17.2 lbs. | Stroller capacity: 35 lbs.| Car seat weight: N/A | Car seat capacity: 35 lbs. | Car seat height limit: 32"

“I really loved how easy it was to take my baby out and put him back into the seat. The harness is very easy to adjust the height and tighten; he feels and looks very comfortable.”

How We Chose the Best Stroller Car Seat Combos

We get it—parenting requires a lot of gear, and it can be hard to find the best fit for your family. To streamline your decision-making process, The Bump editors did extensive research, leveraging our familiarity with leading baby brands and relying on our own experiences as parents, narrowing the field to only the most popular, reliable and innovative stroller-car seat combos available today. We read user reviews to get the low-down on how these products work for families, and typically don’t consider anything with less than an average four-star rating. With the help of real parents, we also tested a selection of travel systems and assessed them for ease of use, adaptability, value for money and, of course, safety.

We also follow the safety recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics and look for certifications and seals of approval from key organizations, such as JPMA. Interested in learning more about our editorial process? Read about how our team develops and reviews all articles here .

Plus, more from The Bump:

The Best Strollers

Your Age-by-Age Guide to Strollers: What to Get When

Best Infant Car Seats

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Next on Your Reading List

SCROLL TO SITE

SCROLL TO CURRENT LIST

• Accessories

Best Infant Carrier Car Seats For 2022

Finding the right infant car seat carrier can be an agonizing decision especially for new parents. Designed for easy transition from the car to the stroller without unstrapping or disturbing a potentially sleeping baby, an infant car seat is an essential whether it’s your first or fourth child. Unlike a convertible car seat , an infant car seat is portable and does not strap directly into the seat. It also can double as a carrier or rocker, and most can click into a stroller with a complementary system or an adapter. In the car, the infant car seat latches onto a base installed in the vehicle. Many parents opt to purchase multiple bases that fit all their vehicles. Infant car seats also are designed to be installed without a base using seat belts.

There are many factors to consider when selecting the right seat, including vehicle size, safety, ease-of-use and compatibility with stroller systems. Budgets also play a huge factor in the search, with some of the infant car seats costing as much as an entire travel system combined. Price should also be considered given the short amount of time infant car seats can be used. 

All infant car seats are rear-facing only and meet or exceed safety requirements set by the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration.

• Cybex Aton 2 Sensorsafe : Best for Small Cars
• Doona Infant Car Seat And Latch Base : Best for Frequent Travelers
• PegPerego Primo Viaggio 4-35 Lounge : Best for Lie-Flat
• Britax B-Safe Gen2 : Best for Ease-of-Use

At only 25 inches in length, the Cybex Aton 2 Sensorsafe is an inch or two shorter than the most popular infant car seats on the market, making it ideal for fitting into vehicles lacking second-row legroom. The nine-pound seat offers several notable safety features, including a sensor built into the chest clip of the carrier (requires use of vehicle’s OBD II port) that can send an alert to the parents’ phone if the ambient temperature has become too hot or too cold. The alert also acts as a reminder that the baby is in the vehicle. It also is equipped with linear side impact protection extenders that can be used when installed in outboard seats to reduce the collision forces by 25% and a load leg to help mitigate rebound in the event of a collision. Its relatively narrow 17.25-inch width makes it a good contender for parents who need to accommodate other car seats, and its 12-way recline will make it easier to find a level position when using the base. 

• Compact size
• Built-in sensor
• 12 recline positions
• Heavy carrier 
• Not FAA approved
• Linear side impact protectors can’t be used in middle seats

Parents trapsing through airports and frequently hopping in and out of Ubers will get a lot of mileage out of this all-in-one infant carrier seat and stroller because it eliminates the need to store and lug around a bulky separate stroller base. It would also be a good choice for urban dwellers who use public transportation as their primary mode of transport.  The Doona is the only combo stroller-infant car seat available in the U.S. market, and can deploy its retractable wheels by releasing its latch. But integrating the wheels with the infant car seat carrier does have drawbacks. The product weighs 16.5 pounds on its own, which is on-par or lighter than many strollers on the market, but the added weight of a baby may make it difficult for some parents to lift out of the vehicle—especially as the baby grows—which can make conversion into a stroller awkward (especially in inclement weather) because you may need to place the car seat on the ground to deploy the wheels. Its compact design also means you lose underneath storage for diaper bags, toys, or other overflows. On the other hand, the wheels tucked cleverly under the carrier means there’s no worry about fitting a clunky stroller base in the cargo hold, freeing up that space for groceries, luggage, and loads of other baby gear.

• Doesn’t require a separate stroller base
• Great for airports and airplanes
• Easy to install without a base
• Heavy to carry with the baby strapped in
• No storage under stroller
• Stroller is rear-facing only

While all babies benefit from the comfort of lying flat, it’s especially important for premature and newborn infants with delicate organs. The PegPerego is one of only two infant car seats that offer a reclining carrier that adjusts to a lie-flat position in the stroller to keep a napping baby comfortable during long walks (the other is the Cybex Cloud Q). The carrier is equipped with several collision impact force mitigators, including integrated side-impact “kinetic pods,” an anti-rebound bar and load. It also features an infinitely adjustable knob (rather than multiple fixed positions) along with the weight-based level indicator to help caregivers find the appropriate recline angle to keep the carrier level to the ground as the infant grows. It’s also suitable for babies up to 32 inches, which is a couple inches more than some competitors. But that means it’s longer than most. At 31-inches, the Viaggio 4/35 Lounge’s length may limit in which vehicles or seat position the carrier can be used, but it also seems to enable the baby to lay the flattest when in the vehicle.

• Infinitely adjustable knob 
• Multiple collision impact force mitigators 
• Massive, ventilated canopy hood
• Heavy carrier
• Exceptionally long

Britax has historically been one of a handful of infant car seats awarded five stars in nearly all categories of NHTSA’s Ease-of-Use ratings , and it’s is consistently among the top-rated infant car seats by Consumer Reports and Baby Gear Lab.  The available FlexFit model uses an additional layer of side-impact protection and features Euro belt guides for seat-belt installation without the base, and the optional FlexFit+ model includes an anti-rebound bar. Because all models are suitable for babies between four and 35 pounds and up to 32 inches, parents may get a few more months of use out of it before switching to a convertible car seat. However, its warranty isn’t as long as some competitors and at 10.9 pounds, it slightly on the heavier side. Still, it’s well-designed with usability in mind, which is why all adjustable parts are an attention-grabbing bright red color.

• Very high NHTSA “Ease of Use” ratings
• Fits wide range of infants
• Highly recommended
• No load leg
• Not as sleek as competitors

Methodology

In order to determine the best infant car seat for your vehicle, we considered the products most accessible to the widest swath of consumers in the U.S., which also includes performance, price and value. We also considered a broad range of end-user ratings and evaluations by multiple testers.

Selecting the right infant car seat carrier goes beyond compatibility with strollers and may vary depending on the vehicle and travel style of the buyers. Forbes Wheels evaluated infant car seat carriers based on dimensions, weight, safety features and user reviews to help select these products. 

For partnership inquiries please reach out to us at [email protected]

• Car Seats /

The 9 Best Infant Car Seats of 2024

According to car seat experts and thousands of parents., by jen labracio | fact checked by rebekah kimminau.

An infant car seat is one of the most important items of baby gear that you’re going to need as a new parent. If you plan on ever taking your little one along in your car, a car seat is a must-have—and if you’re driving home from the hospital, most hospitals won’t discharge you without a car seat (though that can be an infant car seat, a convertible car seat —it just has to fit your infant).

But there are a myriad of car seat brands and countless different models of seats, a long list of intimidating terminology you’ve likely never heard before and what can feel like some pretty weighty safety factors to consider. The decisions may feel daunting: is an all-in-one stroller best for you? Do you also want a jogging stroller ? Figuring out the best infant car seat for your family (and your budget) feels like a big, stressful decision—and rightfully so.

We’ve consulted real parents, our own team of baby gear experts and a Child Passenger Safety technician (CPST) to help you figure out what you need to know about infant car seats across a range of budgets and styles to make the best—and most informed—decision.

Read This First

• An infant car seat is a car seat that’s made specifically for younger babies.
• Infant car seats always face the rear of a vehicle.
• The majority of infant car seats attach to a base. The base stays installed in your car and the seat clicks in and out. Some infant car seats can be used without the base; in that case, you’ll use your vehicle’s seat belt or built-in connectors called LATCH to install the seat and keep it in place.
• Infant car seats can be used from day one until your baby reaches the seat’s height OR weight maximum, which for most seats is anywhere between 30-35 inches or 30-35 pounds.
• All infant car seats sold in the US must pass the same federal safety standards.
• Bookmark the Infant Car Seat Gear Glossary ; it breaks down all the technical car seat terminology you may want to learn about while doing your research like LATCH, anti-rebound, load leg and more.

Babylist’s Picks for the Best Infant Car Seats

• Best Overall: Chicco KeyFit 35 Infant Car Seat
• Best More Affordable Overall: Graco SnugRide SnugFit35 Infant Car Seat
• Easiest to Install: Nuna Pipa Rx Infant Car Seat with Relx Base
• Best Lightweight: UPPAbaby Aria Infant Car Seat
• Best Affordable: Evenflo Litemax DLX Infant Car Seat with SafeZone Load Leg Base
• Best Infant Car Seat Stroller Combo: Doona Infant Car Seat & Stroller
• Best with Extra Safety Features: Clek Liing Infant Car Seat
• Best for Small Cars: Evenflo Gold SecureMax Smart Infant Car Seat
• Longest Lasting: Chicco Fit2 Infant & Toddler Car Seat

In This Article

• How We Chose the Best Infant Car Seats
• Our Top Picks

What Is an Infant Car Seat?

Do i need an infant car seat, infant car seat features.

• Frequently Asked Questions

Best Infant Car Seat Overall

Chicco KeyFit 35 Infant Car Seat - Onyx

• Parent and car seat safety expert favorite
• Slim profile, works well three-across
• Good LATCH install but tough to install with seat belt

What Our Experts Say

From excellent safety features to ease of use, the KeyFit 35 is a fan favorite. It’s an upgrade to the also popular KeyFit 30 , with the same look and feel—but the KeyFit 35 has the added benefit of accommodating your baby even longer. The KeyFit35 works up to 35 pounds and 32 inches, versus 30 pounds and 30 inches with the KeyFit 30, which means you can safely rear-face your little one even longer.

The base of this seat is simple to install and has just one tightener in the middle that pulls it securely in place. A built-in, easy-to-read level indicates when it’s been correctly positioned—plus you’ll always hear the trusty “click” sound when the carrier is properly inserted into the base.

Other much-loved features include an anti-rebound bar (to prevent extra movement in the event of a crash), a no rethread harness, a removable, washable cover and a narrow profile that can work well in smaller cars or three across. The KeyFit adapter works on most strollers, so you can go from the car to running errands without disrupting your little one’s snooze.

What’s Worth Considering

Installation without the base can be tricky (not ideal if you plan on using your seat in ride shares or for air travel), and getting the right fit for some infants can be challenging.

If you’re in the market for a GREENGUARD Gold Certified car seat (which means that the product is certified for low chemical emissions), check out the KeyFit 35 Zip ClearTex Infant Car Seat . The fabric contains no added chemicals. But there’s another huge bonus of this seat: it’s one of the easiest to clean infant car seats around. The seat pad zips off in seconds and is machine washable.

What Babylist Parents Say

“Safe, easy to use, highly recommended by Consumer Reports, affordable.” -Claire M.

Additional Specs

Best More Affordable Infant Car Seat Overall

Graco SnugRide SnugFit 35 Infant Car Seat - Gotham

• Popular + well-priced pick for Babylist families
• Anti-rebound bar and good side impact protection
• Headrest + harness adjust together

Part of Graco’s SnugFit line, this rear-facing infant car seat is easy to install and another popular pick among Babylist families, all at an affordable price point.

There are more than a few things to love about this seat. The headrest and harness can be adjusted together while your child is in the seat, making getting just the right fit much less of a struggle than with other similar car seats. There’s also a low weight limit (four pounds, which is great if you’re bringing home a preemie or a smaller baby), four recline positions, and extra protection built in to help absorb impact in case of a crash, including an anti-rebound bar, a nice perk at this price point.

If you’re willing to spend a bit more, check out the same seat’s DLX model. Upgrades include a one-hand adjustable handle, better head support and side impact protection and a five-position adjustable base, among other features.

There’s also the brand’s SnugRide 35 Lite LX seat, which weighs a little over a pound less than the SnugFit 35.

“We bought this for our newest baby and I couldn’t be happier with it. Love all the features and the feel of the fabric. Great car seat.” -Niki

Easiest to Install Infant Car Seat

Nuna Pipa Rx Infant Car Seat with Relx Base - Granite

• Rigid LATCH for quick, secure install
• Lightweight
• Modern design + extra safety features

When it comes to car seat safety, a properly installed car seat equals a safer car seat. Which is one of the (many) reasons we love the Nuna Pipa Rx. With a super secure, foolproof installation system that takes just seconds, you can feel confident that this car seat is safely anchored to your vehicle in the event of a crash.

Quick pause for a car-seat-safety-nerd moment. The Nuna Pipa Rx is one of very few seats on the market that uses something called rigid LATCH to connect the car seat’s base to a vehicle. (LATCH stands for Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren, a way of securing a car seat to a vehicle.) “Rigid” means that the metal connectors that protrude from the Pipa’s base attach directly to the metal lower anchors of your vehicle—no straps or hooks involved. Why is this a big deal? Because rigid LATCH connections are the most secure, meaning your car seat will move the least in the event of a crash. Rigid LATCH also makes for a fast, easy and foolproof installation—and a properly installed car seat equals a safer car seat.

For added safety, a fold-down stability leg, which extends from the base of the seat to the floor, is designed to absorb impact in an accident. Parents also rave about the quality materials and the extendable Sky drape canopy that provides full coverage from the elements, as well as the many different strollers the seat is compatible with the use of an adapter. For those who frequently take ride-shares or taxis, the Pipa Rx is a breeze to install in any car without the base.

When it comes to cleaning, it’s a pain to remove the seat cover for the Pipa because you have to unthread the harness. Some parents also find the magnet closures on the canopy tricky to maneuver.

Looking for an even lighter seat? The Nuna Pipa aire rx + Pipa Relx Base clocks in at only 6.2 pounds without its canopy and inserts, but it will cost you more.

“We absolutely love our Pipa Rx! What sold me were the extra safety features (anti-rebound bar and load leg) as well as the fact that it’s lightweight! It truly makes such a difference. It’s beautifully made and I love that they use high-quality materials without flame retardants. I couldn’t recommend this car seat more!” -Laura D.

Best Lightweight Infant Car Seat

UPPAbaby Aria Infant Car Seat - Jake

• Lightest car infant car seat on the market
• Extra safety features
• Easy installation

UPPAbaby’s newest addition to their car seat lineup does not disappoint and is our top pick if you’re prioritizing weight (and safety) when shopping for an infant car seat. Weighing in at just under six pounds without the canopy and inserts, the Aria is the lightest infant car seat on the market. Why is that important? For about a year, you’re going to be doing a lot of lugging around your baby + their car seat: up and down from the floor, in and out of the car and more. It’s not easy on your arms, shoulders or back, and even a few extra pounds can make a huge difference. This seat’s weight plus the ergonomically designed handle make all of this schlepping just a little bit easier.

Safety-wise, this seat shines. There’s an anti-rebound panel and a load leg, both of which help with stability, energy absorption and forward rotation in the event of a crash. The seat is GREENGUARD Gold Certified and free of fire-retardant chemicals. And it’s also super easy to install thanks to LATCH and visual indicators that turn red if something’s not right.

We also love the smart, thoughtful features throughout. It’s a narrow seat, so it works well in more compact back seats. The canopy is huge, and the no-rethread harness makes fit adjustments easy. The seat comes with two infant inserts, one that goes under baby’s bottom and one for behind the back; they help with positioning, support and fit for the first few months. The European belt path makes using the seat without its base simple and secure. There’s venting built right into both the canopy and the bottom of the seat itself. And the Aria works with both the Vista and Cruz strollers without any adapters.

If you want to use the Aria as part of a travel system, you’ll need to stick to UPPAbaby strollers—the seat isn’t compatible with other stroller brands. (You’ll also need to add adapters if you want to use it with UPPAbaby’s Minu or Ridge strollers.) The seat has a slightly lower height and weight limit than some other infant car seats.

Best Affordable Infant Car Seat

Evenflo Litemax DLX Infant Car Seat with SafeZone Load Leg Base - Sawyer Gray

• Features load leg for extra support
• Works for very small babies

The LiteMax is our clear favorite for an infant car seat that’s both extremely safe and extremely affordable. The load leg, a safety feature often found in much more expensive seats like the Nuna Pipa or Clek liing, is an impressive addition considering the seat’s price. This seat is also one of the lighter on our list and has the lowest weight allowance on the market at three pounds (with physician’s approval, per Evenflo ), making it a great choice if you’re bringing home a preemie or a smaller baby. Other features to love include an adjustable headrest, no rethread harness and LATCH install.

It can be a little tricky to get a safe, secure install with this seat so be sure you read the directions carefully. Evenflo also offers one-on-one video installation support with a certified car seat tech (US and Canada only), free of charge.

Looking for an even more affordable seat? Check out the entry-level model of this seat, the LiteMax 35 . There’s no load leg, but at a little over $100, it’s still a reliable, safe option and a really good deal.

“This car seat is SO much lighter and easier to transport my infant in and out of the car… and that makes a big difference when your child is 18 pounds at 3 months old! Installing was fairly easy, the angle indicator was easy to read and the adjustable base with load leg makes me feel as though my son’s weight is evenly distributed and the car seat is secure in place. The look is sleek and I love that the cover says it’s machine washable, since some seats are spot clean only. My favorite feature is how easy it is to thread and loosen the harness to get my son in and out easily from the seat, compared to another name brand you had to really tug/pull to tighten effectively. Overall, we love it and think it’s a fabulous, light weight seat and would recommend for a budget friendly option!” -Cgolzer

Best Infant Car Seat and Stroller Combo

Doona infant car seat & stroller - grey hound.

• Car seat + stroller hybrid
• Perfect for city dwellers and frequent travelers
• Will need a second stroller as your child grows

The Doona is the first of its kind: an infant car seat that instantly transforms into a stroller with the click of a button. When it’s time to get in the car, stroller legs and wheels pull up and fold under the car seat.

Why is this a big deal? It makes the Doona the ultimate, all-in-one system for frequent travelers. It’s also ideal for city dwellers who need to quickly get in and out of public transportation, parents who live in an apartment complex and have a long way to walk between their apartment and their car or if you’re in and out of the car a lot dropping off older siblings and don’t want to disturb your sleeping baby.

Once your child outgrows this rear-facing car seat, you won’t be able to use the stroller anymore. The sleek design doesn’t have any storage space for a diaper bag (or anything else, really). Most babies tend to outgrow it sooner than other infant car seats. And the handle on the Doona is fairly low, so it can be awkward to push if you’re taller.

After years of dominating the market, there’s finally a competitor in sight: The Evenflo Shyft DualRide . Like the Doona, the Shyft is a car seat and a stroller all rolled into one. But there are some key differences between the two. You can use the Shyft for babies as small as three pounds (the Doona’s weight minimum is four pounds), a nice perk if you have a preemie or smaller baby. The seat on the Shyft detaches from the wheels, so you can use it as a standard infant car seat carrier, which isn’t an option with the Doona. And there’s an integrated SensorSafe technology that alerts you if the seat’s chest clip comes unbuckled, the temperature is too hot or cold, your baby is seated too long or if you’ve left your baby behind accidentally.

“Since we don’t own a car and live in a city this stroller is perfect as it allows us to easily take Uber/Lyft or use friends/family cars without having to take both a carseat and stroller. Perfect for navigating small restaurants and stores as well as travel.” -Francesca

Best Infant Car with Extra Safety Features

Clek clek liing infant car seat.

• Packed with safety features
• Slim profile, works well in small cars
• Eco-friendly fabrics

One of the most common anxieties for new parents is around car seat safety. If you’re looking for an infant seat with all of the safety extras, the Clek Liing shines. Like the Nuna Pipa, the Ling uses rigid LATCH, ensuring the tightest (and easiest) installation and minimizing the chances your seat will shift in the event of a crash. A metal load leg built into the base reduces crash forces. You’ll also be able to choose from 7 different seat recline positions (15 degrees) after the seat is installed. This is important because it helps you achieve the best positioning for your little one regardless of the angle of your vehicle’s seat, ensuring they’re in the proper (and safest) position.

The Liing is also a great pick if you have a small car of if you’re looking to fit multiple car seats across your back seat. It’s compact front-to-back and one of the narrower options in the world of infant car seats.

What else do we love about the Liing? There’s a giant canopy that provides almost full coverage with SPF 100+ protection. There’s also a two-stage infant insert that gives snug support for newborns, GREENGUARD Gold Certification and three eco-friendly fabric options.

There’s no getting around the price of this car seat—it’s expensive. But it’s built to last. The Liing has a nine-year expiration date so you can definitely use it for multiple kiddos.

Clek also makes a baseless infant car seat in this same product line called the Liingo . The built-in LATCH connectors attach the seat directly to your vehicle, so there’s no need for a base. It’s a great seat if you’re a city family who relies on rideshares or taxis often or if you’re a family who travels frequently.

“This car seat is chemical free and one of the top, safest car seats on the market.” -Nichol

Best Infant Car Seat for Small Cars

Evenflo gold securemax smart infant car seat - onyx black.

• Slim profile + compact design
• Sensor technology for real-time updates

Finding a compact car seat that works well in a smaller vehicle can be daunting, but Evenflo Gold’s SecureMax seat checks all the boxes. At only 16 inches across, it’s the narrowest seat on our list, making it ideal if you have a smaller car of if you need to fit multiple car seats across your vehicle’s back seat. It’s fairly lightweight (just under 11 pounds), fits a wide range of children and is fairly easy to install.

The safety features of this car seat are also impressive. It features a load leg, something we always look for and appreciate even more at this price point. It also has SensorSafe, a technology that connects to an app on your phone to alert you of unsafe conditions like if your child becomes unbuckled or is left behind in the car. And the seat has been side-impact and rollover tested. Other pros include a no-rethread harness and a large canopy.

You can install the seat without the base, but there’s no European belt path. Some parents say the SensorSafe app can sometimes be buggy.

“We love our Evenflo Gold car seat! It is so easy to install, comfortable for our baby, and the sensory feature gives us a sense of ease. It came recommended by a friend and we are so happy with it.” -Krysten M.

Longest Lasting Infant Car Seat

Chicco fit2 infant & toddler car seat.

• Lasts roughly twice as long as most infant car seats
• Narrow; works well three-across
• Good choice for city families

Infant car seats excel at convenience, especially if you’re using them as part of a travel system or with a compatible stroller. The ability to seamlessly transfer your baby between the car and the stroller is huge, as is being able to use the seat without its heavy base in a rideshare or for travel. The downside? Most babies outgrow their infant car seats around one year old, if not even sooner. You’ll then have to move onto a convertible car seat, and while there are some lighter seats on the market, they’re nowhere near as light as most infant seats—and they don’t click into a stroller, either. They’re also much more difficult to install.

Meet the Chicco Fit2: a safe, versatile seat that lasts twice the amount of time as most infant car seats thanks to its two-stage infant and toddler design, taking most families up through their little one’s second birthday. This seat is packed with features we love, but longevity is at the top of this list. It shines for city families who don’t own a car and need a stroller-compatible seat and who want to put off having to lug around a convertible car seat for as long as possible. It’s also ideal if you travel often with your baby. 

Don’t fit into either of these categories? You still may want to give this seat a look. It’s narrow, so it works well in small cars and in three-across situations, and features side impact protection and machine-washable fabrics. It’s also easy to install correctly (and quickly) thanks to a leveling foot, bubble levels and a LATCH tightener.

The Fit2 is heavy, weighing in at just over twenty pounds. (That’s over twice as much as some infant car seats on our list.) It’s also a long seat front-to-back.

Other Infant Car Seats Worth a Look

• If you own a Bugaboo stroller, you’ll want to check out their collab with popular car seat brand Nuna. The Bugaboo Turtle Air By Nuna is a lightweight car seat designed to be compatible exclusively with Bugaboo strollers. (Some will require adapters, sold separately, and others do not.) It’s beautifully designed, sleek and safe.
• And speaking of Nuna, while this infant car seat is not yet available on its own (you can currently purchase it only as a part of a travel system), the Nuna urbn is turning heads in the car seat world since its release in early 2023. It’s a baseless infant car seat with a rigid LATCH system built right in. Why is that a big deal? It makes installation about as easy as it gets. It’s also an ideal seat for city dwellers who are frequently using rideshares or for families who travel often as there’s no base to lug around.
• Baby Jogger, known and loved for their amazing one-handed fold stroller (among other things) also makes car seats. The City GO 2 Infant Car Seat features an anti-rebound bar, is easy to install and is on the lighter side. It attaches to all Baby Jogger strollers.

How We Chose Our Best Infant Car Seats

• 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 infant car seats.
• We consulted a Child Passenger Safety technician (CPST) and researched information on infant seat safety and reviews from several leading car seat experts, including Car Seats for the Littles and The Car Seat Lady, as well as information from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
• We reviewed customer reviews from hundreds of real Babylist parents.

An infant car seat is a seat made specifically for infants and younger babies. These five-point harness seats always face the rear of the car and are designed to attach to a base. The base stays installed in your car and the seat clicks in and out, making it easy to get your baby into and out of your car.

Other types of car seats:

• Convertible car seats : These grow-with-your-child seats transform from rear-facing car seats for babies and toddlers to forward-facing seats for older children up to about 65 pounds. Some convertible seats can be used from birth, but they’re not designed to be easily popped out of your car and are much too heavy to be carried around so you’ll lose some of that convenience factor if you decide to use a convertible seat from day one. (More on that below.) Here are our top-rated convertible car seats .
• Booster car seats : For kids at least four years old and at least 40 pounds, boosters do just what the name implies—boost your child up higher in your car’s seat. This ensures that your car’s regular lap and shoulder belts cross over your child’s body at the correct points to securely hold them.

If you plan to take your baby in the car, you’re going to need a car seat. Whether you choose an infant car seat or a convertible is a matter of personal preference.

Purchasing a convertible car seat means one less piece of baby gear you’ll need to research and buy. Convertibles also have a much longer lifespan than infant seats; many will take you from the baby days well into the preschool years, and some even through elementary school. But while it may seem like purchasing a convertible car seat would be the most efficient, there are a few distinct advantages to using an infant car seat instead.

• Convertible car seats are heavy, bulky and time-consuming to uninstall and reinstall. If your baby will be riding in multiple vehicles, transferring an infant car seat is much easier—just be sure to purchase an additional car seat base so you can quickly click the infant car seat into the backseat base and go.
• It’s easier to transfer a sleeping baby from the car to the stroller (or the other way around) if you’re using an infant car seat that’s compatible with your stroller. This is doable if you purchase a travel system —a car seat and a stroller from the same brand that attach to each other—or create your own set using adapters (we also have a guide to infant car seat and stroller compatibility ). It’s also much easier to click your infant seat, baby in tow, in and out of your car since it attaches to a base that’s permanently installed.

From no-rethread harnesses and adjustable headrests to load legs and anti-rebound bars, there is no shortage of features to consider when you’re researching infant car seats.

Infant car seat safety features

Every car seat sold in the US must meet the same federal safety standards set forth by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration . While each individual state may have its own guidelines around car seats (many states, for example, now require that children under the age of two ride in a rear-facing seat), any seat sold in the US must meet the same benchmarks around safety and installation. You can be reassured that spending less money on a car seat doesn’t mean it’s any less safe .

Here are some safety features to consider:

• Anti-rebound bar: In the event of a crash, a car seat will move toward the point of impact. An anti-rebound bar reduces the movement of a car seat as it moves back into your vehicle’s back seat. It halts the rebound and causes the seat to come to a stop sooner than it would have without the anti-rebound bar.
• European belt path vs. American belt path: A belt path is how you’ll install your car seat when you’re not using a base. (Think for travel, ride shares, etc.) Both belt paths start by routing your car’s lap belt over your baby’s lap area. A European belt path wraps the belt around the back of the infant seat for extra protection. Car seat safety experts recommend the European belt path as it allows for a more secure installation and decreases crash forces.
• LATCH: LATCH stands for Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children. The LATCH system is an alternate way to secure your car seat that uses built-in anchors and tethers rather than your vehicle’s seat belt. The system consists of two lower anchors found in the seat crack of your car that clip or hook onto two lower attachments on your car seat and a tether anchor behind the back seat that clips onto a tether hook found on the back of your car seat. LATCH is not available in every seating position, so you’ll need to consult your vehicle manual. Both LATCH and seat belt installations are safe, but in most cases are not to be used at the same time. There are also LATCH weight limits that you need to be aware of before utilizing this system to install your seat.
• No-rethread harness: As your baby grows, you’ll need to adjust your seat’s shoulder straps to accommodate the correct fit. A no-rethread harness means you’ll be able to move the straps up and down without having to manually reroute them through the back of the seat.
• Safety indicators: Some car seats come with built-in leveling systems and indicators to signal they’ve been correctly installed. (Most safety issues with car seats stem from them not be installing correctly. Here’s info on how to get a safe install .)
• Stability leg (load leg): A stability leg, also called a load leg, helps to reduce the amount of force on a car seat and reduce the rebound of a seat in the event of a crash.
• Safety extras: Some car seats include additional shock absorption, padding and higher quality materials.

A safety note on new versus used car seats. Used car seats might be damaged and may not be up to snuff when it comes to current safety regulations. While we recommend new car seats, if you do end up selecting a used car seat, get it from someone you trust. Be sure to look up the seat’s expiration date and research if that particular car seat model has ever been recalled . If the seat is dirty, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s strict rules around how to clean it . Each car seat has a specific set of rules about how to clean it while maintaining its safety and integrity.

Infant car seat convenience features

While they don’t impact the safety of your seat, convenience features are also important to think through when you’re deciding on an infant car seat.

• Canopy: A canopy is the extendable piece of fabric found at the top of a car seat. Canopies extend and retract to provide shade, protection from the elements and privacy for your baby.
• Ease of cleaning. Babies are messy. Not all car seats have removable seat fabric for cleaning, and of those that do, some are easier to pop out and wash than others.
• Fabric: Besides looking for a style of fabric that matches your taste, consider its durability and how easy it’ll be to wash when messes happen. You also may want to consider an infant car seat with GREENGUARD Gold Certification , a certification that means both the item and its manufacturing process was tested and reviewed for over 10,000 chemical and VOC emissions.
• Fit.: Car seats range in size and shape. The way a car seat fits in your specific vehicle is both a convenience feature (especially if you’re on the taller side or prefer to recline your seat) and a safety feature (a safe car seat is one that fits properly in your car’s back seat and can be secured properly).
• Peekaboo window: A peekaboo window is a small opening found in the fabric of a car seat canopy. It’s often made of mesh or another type of sheer fabric and lets you get a quick peek at what your little one is up to without having to retract the canopy or sneak around the side of the seat.
• Stroller compatibility : You can snap infant car seats into many strollers or stroller frames. You can buy a prearranged set, like a travel system, or mix and match brands as long as they are compatible via car seat adapters .

For more details about car seats, read our How to Choose a Car Seat guide.

Infant Car Seat Frequently Asked Questions

How long do babies stay in infant car seats.

Infant car seats can be used from day one until your baby reaches the seat’s maximum height or weight limit (usually anywhere between 30-35 pounds, depending on the specifics of your seat).

The “or” is important to remember here. It means that even if your child falls within the height limits of your infant car seat, but has outgrown the seat’s weight limit, it’s time to make the switch to a convertible , and vice versa. Most babies outgrow their infant seat around one year of age or so, but it can also happen much sooner, depending on your baby’s growth.

Where is the best place to put an infant car seat?

The middle of your vehicle’s back seat is statistically the safest place to install your child’s car seat. That’s because many crashes involve a side impact, so a middle position will help to avoid direct impact.

However, not all vehicles allow for a car seat in every spot that has a seat belt. Always check your specific vehicle’s owner’s manual prior to installation. The Safe Kids’ Ultimate Car Seat Guide Installation Tips is a great resource for car seat installation.

Can my baby sleep in an infant car seat?

Yes, babies can fall asleep in an infant car seat, but it’s important to then transfer them to a safe sleep space like a crib or a bassinet, as the AAP recommends against the use of car seats for sleep outside of a car. The AAP also advises that babies have a break from the car seat every 90 minutes.

When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This keeps it 100% reader supported and free of ads or sponsorships. Thanks for your support!

Car Seats and Strollers

The stroller and car seat 411.

Let me start by saying that the world of car seats and strollers can be totally overwhelming (there are literally hundreds of choices). But don’t worry, we’ll guide you through it — w00t!

In the first three months of life (give or take), your baby will not have head or neck control, which limits where and how you can place them. A regular stroller seat, for example, won’t work until your babe is about 4-6 months (depending on the recline of the seat).

To remedy this, you can attach an infant car seat to most types of strollers, which turns the whole thing into what’s called a “travel system.” This term doesn’t mean it’s made for travel, per se, it simply means that you can pop your infant car seat on top of the stroller – and off ye’ go.

Many higher-end strollers come with a bassinet attachment (or the option to buy one). This also solves the problem, but you can’t (obviously) use your bassinet as a car seat. Bassinets are especially popular in big cities and other places where you’re getting around on foot more than by car.

Generally speaking, the most important thing to know before you buy anything is that compatibility is very important. That is, infant car seats fit onto strollers using adapters — and all car seats do not fit with all strollers.

Example: let’s say you fall in love with the sleek Nuna Pipa infant car seat that you would like to use with the Britax stroller your sister handed down to you: it’s not going to work! Many people fall into this trap and get stuck with pieces that are incompatible. Does this mean you have to buy everything as a package? No, not necessarily, but you do have to be cognizant of your choices. Let’s step through it ~

Starting with: Infant Car Seats →

So grateful a friend told me about this list- total life saver! Thank you for all your hard work contributing to this! Very appreciated!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

WHAT THEY'RE SAYING

I just wanted to send a quick HUGE ‘thank you’ for your weekly updates. Our baby is 2 weeks old today and your email today about sleep was so reassuring and good to read. I usually wait eagerly to see your emails in my inbox because I know it will a) make me feel not so insane and b) be really helpful advice that trumps all the other crazy stuff people are telling me to do. Can’t get enough!

New parents unite!

Join 450k parents already receiving "crib notes".

Get practical advice and pro-tips for pregnancy, postpartum and parenting.

• The Real Lowdown on Pregnancy
• Preparing for Birth
• Postpartum Survival Strategies
• Breastfeeding, Newborn Sleep Solutions and more

Get a weekly email with practical advice and insights as your baby grows.

• Infant Sleep Solutions
• Babyproofing
• Starting Solids
• Pumping at Work and more

I hate spam too and offer easy, 1-click unsubscribe

Hi there - Welcome to the fold.

Bearing and raising kids is hard, but we're here to simplify everything. Unlike most sites, we offer an ad-free, sponsor-free environment, so you always know you’re getting a full dose of honesty.

If you want to noodle around on our site, our 3 most popular articles are:

• The Realities of Postpartum
• Managing Toddler Tantrums

And, if you haven't already, find us Facebook and Instagram .

Thanks for joining and we'll talk soon!

Spread the love!

We haven't taken any money from sponsors or investors.

Help us grow by inviting people that will love Lucie's List as much as you do.

You and the people you invite will get a FREE copy of our Baby Registry Cheatsheet!

Subscribe For Special Offers and Promotions

Free Shipping on All Orders!

• Travel Systems
• Activity Products
• Smart Steps
• Infant Car Seats
• Convertible Car Seats
• Harness Booster Car Seats
• Booster Car Seats
• Standard Strollers
• All-Terrain Strollers
• Modular Strollers
• Jogging Strollers
• Double Strollers
• Stroller Wagons
• Other Strollers
• 4 Wheel Standard Stroller Travel Systems
• 3 Wheel Standard Stroller Travel Systems
• All-Terrain Stroller Travel Systems
• Modular Stroller Travel Systems
• Jogging Stroller Travel Systems
• Double Stroller Travel Systems
• Classic Playards
• Classic Playards with Changer
• Playards with New Born Napper and Changer
• Premium Playards with New Born Rocking Napper and Changer
• Twin Playards with New Born Rocking Nappers and Changer
• High Chairs
• Potty Seats
• Activity Centers
• 3 Wheel Strollers
• 4 Wheel Strollers
• Sit N' Stand® Strollers
• Sit N' Stand® Double Strollers
• Double Jogging Strollers
• Lightweight Strollers
• Snap-N-Go® Strollers

Login to my account

Enter your e-mail and password:

New customer? Create your account

Lost password? Recover password

Recover password

Enter your email:

Remembered your password? Back to login

Create my account

Please fill in the information below:

Already have an account? Login here

You are eligible for free shipping!

Your cart is empty

Passport Cargo Stroller Travel System with EZ-Lift™ PLUS Infant Car Seat - Black Bamboo (Target Exclusive)

This product is available exclusively at our retail partner, see description for where to buy., available accessories.

Product Details

Where to buy.

Available Exclusively at Target

Download Product Instruction Manual - Stroller

Download Product Instruction Manual - Infant Car Seat - English

Infant Car Seat Base: Compatible Infant Seat

• Optimal storage solutions with a large storage pouch integrated on the back of seat
• Comfort Cabin with UPF 50+ sun protection canopy, plush fabrics and padding,
• Handle with removable leatherette cover for comfort and differing grip options
• Parent tray with two cup holders and center compartment
• Spacious basket with rear and front access
• Quick, easy and compact one-hand center fold
• Includes the lightweight, just 7.5 pounds, EZ-Lift PLUS infant car seat
• Car seat includes innovative Side Grip for ergonomic carrying
• The handle bar of the EZ-Lift can be used as an anti-rebound bar in forward position, which helps prevent rotation in the event of a rear collision
• Car seat includes base with recline flip foot and bubble level indicator
• Car seat is certified for air travel and meets and exceeds federal safety standards

Description

Day trips just became a lot easier with the Passport Cargo Travel System by Baby Trend! Innovative storage solutions allow for quick and easy access to your most essential belongings. A large integrated storage pouch on the back seat of the stroller and front and rear access basket provides the ultimate in convenience for the busy family. The parent tray includes two cup holders and center compartment.

Recommended Use

• Stroller: Birth ~ 50 lb
• Car Seat: 4 ~ 30 lb and up to 29.5"

Refund Policy

THE FOLLOWING IS FOR ONLINE PURCHASES FROM BABYTREND.COM ONLY

Clearance Items

All Clearance items can only be returned within 7 days of purchase. All clearance items are sold through our Closeouts category section. Only items within the Closeouts category are consider as Clearance items. For order inquiries please email us at [email protected] . Please provide your name, order number and the date you placed the order. Baby Trend does not accept returns of items purchased through any third-party, including its retail partners. Baby Trend does not accept returns of any items that have been used for any period. You MUST request and receive a Returns Authorization number (RA#). Returns without a RA# will NOT be accepted. All returned items must be returned new and unused in the original packaging & return shipping costs are the responsibility of the purchaser. Please use a package delivery service able to track and/or insure your return items. A 25% restocking fee will apply and will be deducted from the refund amount. A refund of the merchandise value, tax less the restocking fee will be refunded upon receipt and confirmation. Original shipping charges, if any, will not be refunded. By placing an order on babytrend.com , you are accepting the terms of this return policy.

Regular Priced Items

Returns for regularly priced items are accepted within 30 days of purchase from the babytrend.com website. Baby Trend does not accept returns of items purchased through any third-party, including its retail partners. Baby Trend does not accept returns of any items that have been used for any period. You MUST request and receive a Returns Authorization number (RA#). Returns without a RA# will NOT be accepted. All returned items must be returned new and unused in the original packaging & return shipping costs are the responsibility of the purchaser. Please use a package delivery service able to track and/or insure your return items. A 25% restocking fee will apply and will be deducted from the refund amount. A refund of the merchandise value, tax less the restocking fee will be refunded upon receipt and confirmation. Original shipping charges, if any, will not be refunded. By placing an order on babytrend.com, you are accepting the terms of this return policy.

Returns for exchange are accepted within 30 days of purchase from the babytrend.com website for item with equal or lesser value ONLY. Return without RA# will NOT be accepted. You MUST request and receive a Returns Authorization number (RA#). Returns without a RA# will NOT be accepted. All returned items must be returned new and unused in the original packaging & return shipping costs are the responsibility of the purchaser. Please use a package delivery service able to track and/or insure your return items. Baby Trend does not accept returns of any items that have been used for any period. A replacement item will NOT be shipped before the original item has been received and confirmed. By placing an order on babytrend.com, you are accepting the terms of this return policy.

You may also like

Recently viewed.

Free Shipping

Free shipping on all orders

100% Satisfaction Guarantee

We guarantee customer satisfaction

Top-notch Support

We stand behind our products

Secure payments

100% Secure Payments

Baseless Car Seat Installation: How to Keep Baby Safe In Taxis and Ubers

Choosing the correct car seat for your baby is one of the first big decisions parents make..

B efore your baby is even born, you likely spent hours researching which car seat to buy. You chose one you believe will be easy to use and will keep your baby safe and secure. But did you think about how much time you will spend in other people’s cars?

This story contains affiliate links; A Girls Guide to Cars may earn a commission from sales generated by links in this story. So, shop away!

If you live in a city where you will use taxis or rideshare services like Uber and Lyft or you travel  to areas where you will use them, you’ll want to consider buying an infant car seat you can install without a base.

Installing a baseless car seat is simple, but you need to be sure you have it right before letting the driver know you’re ready to roll. These tips will turn you into a pro.

Pick the right seat for baseless car seat installation

When it comes to bucket-style infant seats there are three major types: standard, with a base that install with a seatbelt or to LATCH anchors; baseless or European belt path style that use only the seatbelt to install; and LATCH installed infant carriers which use rigid guides to clip onto LATCH anchors. Most infant carriers come with bases for convenience sake; these not only make it easier to install the baby bucket – just drop the seat into the base and listen for the click.

All child passenger car seats require seat belt installation since not every seat has LATCH anchors and tethers, and some older cars don’t have them at all.

And, some parents prefer an infant carrier with a base for the ease of installing the seat into the base, and other features such as anti-rebound bars and swivel bases that make installation easy.

But if you will use rideshares and taxis regularly, infant seats that install using the European belt path method may be best. This allows you to stretch the shoulder part of the seat belt behind the infant car seat and secure it through a special “belt path” on the back. That gives the car seat two spots where the seat belt holds it in rather than just one.

Read More: What You Need to Know About Car Seat Safety

Practice makes perfect when it comes to baseless car seat installation.

Don’t let the first time you install a car seat with no base be when you need to. Practice makes perfect. Try installing the seat — both with and without the baby in it — before you travel. Practice before you go, more than once.

Practice installing the seat on both the center of the back seat and the sides. Studies have shown that the center position in the back seat can be up to 43 percent safer for baby. But some center seats bump out a bit, which can make installation tricky.

What is the right installation? One that you feel confident is secure. So go with what you feel most comfortable.

Read More: 5 Important Car Seat Safety Tips

How to install a car seat with no base.

Here are the steps to baseless car seat installation:

• Place your car seat, rear-facing, on the vehicle seat.
• Pull out the seat belt; thread the lap section across the seat and across baby’s feet; secure the belt to the car seat using the the lap belt guides on either side of the car seat; push the buckle into receptor on the vehicle’s seat.
• Pull the shoulder belt portion around the back of the car seat, making sure it lies flat. Seats with a European belt path have an additional belt guide on the back of the seat; secure the shoulder belt in to the guide.
• Pull down on the shoulder belt to activate the locking mechanism.
• Push on the car seat and pull on the safety belt to tighten your installation. The seat should not move more than one inch if you try to wiggle it.
• Double-check that the seat is level.

Read More: Best Family Cars to Buy When Baby Makes 3

Some of our favorite baseless infant car seats.

There are four we really like: Doona, Nuna Pipa Urbn, Chico KeyFit 35 and Britax B-Safe Gen2. The Chicco KeyFit 35 stands out for its reliability and ease of use. The Doona car seat impresses with its all-in-one design, seamlessly transforming into a stroller. Finally, the Nuna Pipa urbn offers a lightweight and stylish option with top-notch safety features.

Chicco KeyFit 35

The Chicco KeyFit35 is an outstanding baseless infant car seat that offers a range of impressive features. One of its notable strengths lies in its easy installation process, ensuring a secure fit in your vehicle every time. Additionally, the Chicco KeyFit35 is compatible with a wide range of strollers, allowing for seamless transitions between car rides and strolling adventures. Safety is paramount, and this car seat delivers with its included base is a rebound bar, providing an extra layer of protection.

We know how heavy infant seats can get, but the Chicco KeyFit wins in this category, coming in at a mere 10 lbs. It is notably lightweight, making it a breeze to carry and handle. It’s important to note that the Chicco KeyFit35 has a weight limit of 4-35 lbs. and a height limit of 32″. The Chicco KeyFit35 remains a popular choice due to its user-friendly installation, compatibility, safety features, and lightweight design.

Find it here for $245.

Doona Car Seat & Stroller

The Doona Car Seat and Stroller is an incredibly popular all-in-one travel system that has captured the hearts of many new parents. Its popularity often leads to high demand, making it challenging to acquire at times. Trust this as someone who tried to get one for my baby when she was little. However, its exceptional features make it well worth the effort.

Installing the Doona is a breeze in various vehicle types, ensuring convenience and peace of mind. Despite its compact size as a travel system, it doesn’t compromise on impact protection, offering robust safety features. It’s important to note that the Doona has weight and height limits of 4-35 lbs. and 32″, respectively. It is relatively heavier at 17 lbs. compared to other options, but the Doona’s versatility and convenience outweigh this factor for many parents.

It’s worth noting that the Doona falls into a higher price range ($550), making it a more expensive choice. However, its popularity, ease of installation, compact design, and impressive safety features make it a top contender among all-in-one travel systems for parents.

Find it here for $550.

Nuna Pipa Urbn

The Nuna Pipa Urbn is another highly sought-after infant car seat known for its exceptional safety features. Installing the Nuna Pipa Urbn using just the LATCH connectors is a breeze, thanks to its anchor guides that provide easy and secure installation in any vehicle. But it can also be installed using a seat belt if you don’t want to stick your fingers into the seat bight of a taxi or Uber to find out where the LATCH anchors are.

What sets this infant car seat apart is its incredibly lightweight design, making it effortless to carry and handle. The built-in latch system adds an extra layer of convenience. It’s important to note that the Nuna Pipa Urbn has a height limit of less than 29 inches and a weight limit of 4-22 lbs, which may be a consideration for families looking for a seat that will grow with their child.

Even though it falls in a higher price range, its safety features, easy installation, lightweight design, and the brand’s reputation make it an appealing choice for parents who prioritize the utmost protection for their little ones.

Find it here for $900, and other Nuna baseless infant car seats here .

Britax B-Safe Gen 2

We’ve long been Britax fans for the brand’s dedication to safety. And the B-Safe infant seat also works in tandem with Britax’s strollers and other gear. Add to that the washable covers and multiple fabric designs, and you have a lot of options to fit your lifestyle.

It’s worth noting that the B-Safe accommodates babies 4 – 35 lbs, and up to 32″ in height.

Also worth noting is that all that the B-Safe infant car seat weighs in at just over 11 lbs., something to consider for parents traveling without a stroller (the base weighs 9 lbs.).

Get it here for $269.

Checklist for a Baseless Car Seat Installation

You’ve practiced installation and you’re ready for your first trip. Here are a few last-minute hints to be sure the baseless car seat installation goes smoothly.

• Have your infant buckled into the car seat and ready to go. Remember that the same rules apply as in your own car, so be sure the child is securely strapped in without any poofy coats or unsafe car seat add-ons.
• Going in a taxi? Tell the driver to start the meter while you install. This will relieve some of the “rushed” feeling and allow you to put your full attention on the install without the driver getting frustrated.
• Perform the above mentioned installation instructions.
• Before you shut the door to the car make sure the seat is tight (no more than one inch of wiggle in any direction), level (check your car seat manual to see what the visual on the car seat should look like), and that the seat belt is locked.
• Never shut the door until the car seat is fully installed. This signals to the driver that you are ready to go!

We are big believers in traveling with babies, and raising kids who travel well. Happy  travels with your baby !

Have a thought or comment? Share it with us on social media! You can find us on   Instagram ,   Facebook ,   Twitter   and   LinkedIn . And be sure to sign up for our   email newsletter !

• Moscow Tourism
• Moscow Hotels
• Bed and Breakfast Moscow
• Moscow Holiday Rentals
• Flights to Moscow
• Moscow Restaurants
• Moscow Attractions
• Moscow Travel Forum
• Moscow Photos
• All Moscow Hotels
• Moscow Hotel Deals
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Holiday Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travellers' Choice
• Help Centre

Stroller or baby carrier ? - Moscow Forum

• Europe    
• Russia    
• Central Russia    
• Moscow    

Stroller or baby carrier ?

• United Kingdom Forums
• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Holiday Rentals
• Central Russia forums
• Moscow forum

We are planning a trip to moscow ( st. P’berg) next month with a 1.5 yr old . Intend to do a lot of sightseeing and walking around the city.

What would be more recommended ? A baby carrier or stroller?

Thanks for suggestions!

I think the umbrella stroller will be more convenient for you. And it is quite accessible for the use of public transport.

I would bring a collapsible stroller much easier than carrying a child around. If stairs you can rely on the kindness of strangers to lend you a hand.

Yes, COLLAPSIBLE! This is what I was trying to say, but my English failed me!!! THANKS! And, yes, local folks are usually quite helpful if the rails/ramps do not work for you...and also to give you a hand getting on and off buses, etc.

A matter of personal preference, probably - but I'd go with the carrier (provided it's something outdoorsy like a Kelty or a Deuter Kid Comfort, not babybjorn cangaroo type). But then again, my kids were used to sleeping in a backpack. Still, a longer day out can get pretty tiring - for you, not for the baby.

Maybe consider a stroller/ car seat combo? Adds flexibility for moving around (can always get a cab)...

Thank you for your suggestions !!!

We decided to go with our collapsible stroller - yoyo . And agreed , while navigating the metro stairs can be be a bit uncomfortable - its manageable with a light weight stroller n two pairs if arms ☺️

The carrier wouldve been a great option if the kid was less than 1 yr old- because we ended up walking quite a bit . Not to mention the general inability of a toddler to not be ok with being strapped in for long pds of time .

Thanks again for the helpful suggestions

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• Train Booking Moscow to St. Peter 29 March 2024
• Union Pay debit card 27 March 2024
• Russian trying to book a hotel in Jerusalem 14 March 2024
• Dual Citizen Arrested in Russia 12 March 2024
• about clothes 27 February 2024
• NOTE - border crossing from Finland into Russia closed 09 February 2024
• Snow boots in Red Square 04 February 2024
• Travelling to Moscow & Murmansk with toddle in winter 02 February 2024
• Anyone traveling from London to Moscow this week ? 27 January 2024
• Booking accommodation 11 January 2024
• Traveling friends (Designers preferred) :) 05 January 2024
• Are shops and things closed during Christmas and New Week ? 15 December 2023
• Traveling to Eastern Russia 17 November 2023
• Travel to russia september 2023 tips welcome 17 October 2023
• Moscow to St Petersburg train or air?? 32 replies
• How do you purchase Bolshoi Ballet tickets at a great price? 2 replies
• Just Go Russia Tour Company 43 replies
• Moscow 2013 World Athletics 5 replies
• 3 days in Moscow - Where to stay and what to do? 7 replies
• The Sleeper Train St Petersburg > Moscow 13 replies
• Select-a-room.com Are they legitimate? 3 replies
• New Sapsan Express Train from Moscow to St Petersburg 18 replies
• Best area to stay in Moscow 29 replies
• Moscow New Years Eve for 2011/2012 6 replies

Moscow Hotels and Places to Stay

• Where can I get initial answers to ANY question?

• Moscow Tourism
• Moscow Hotels
• Moscow Bed and Breakfast
• Moscow Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Moscow
• Moscow Restaurants
• Things to Do in Moscow
• Moscow Travel Forum
• Moscow Photos
• All Moscow Hotels
• Moscow Hotel Deals
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Child car seat - Moscow Forum

• Europe    
• Russia    
• Central Russia    
• Moscow    

Child car seat

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Central Russia forums
• Moscow forum

Oh means i cant put seat belt and take it. Good learning. Tx

I know it is little consolation, but now we have some VERY good advice for folks who indicate they are traveling with smaller children...

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• Train Booking Moscow to St. Peter Mar 29, 2024
• Union Pay debit card Mar 27, 2024
• Russian trying to book a hotel in Jerusalem Mar 14, 2024
• Dual Citizen Arrested in Russia Mar 12, 2024
• about clothes Feb 27, 2024
• NOTE - border crossing from Finland into Russia closed Feb 09, 2024
• Snow boots in Red Square Feb 04, 2024
• Travelling to Moscow & Murmansk with toddle in winter Feb 02, 2024
• Anyone traveling from London to Moscow this week ? Jan 27, 2024
• Booking accommodation Jan 11, 2024
• Traveling friends (Designers preferred) :) Jan 05, 2024
• Are shops and things closed during Christmas and New Week ? Dec 15, 2023
• Traveling to Eastern Russia Nov 17, 2023
• Travel to russia september 2023 tips welcome Oct 17, 2023
• Moscow to St Petersburg train or air?? 32 replies
• New Sapsan Express Train from Moscow to St Petersburg 18 replies
• New year's in moscow 8 replies
• Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour 5 replies
• How do you purchase Bolshoi Ballet tickets at a great price? 2 replies
• Select-a-room.com Are they legitimate? 3 replies
• Weather Moscow and St. petersburg in May 8 replies
• Night train to St Petersburg 3 replies
• ATM Access 12 replies
• Visa needed if on layover at Moscow Airport??????? 15 replies
• Where can I get initial answers to ANY question?

Flying with Multiples?

• Long Flights & Toddlers
• Preventing Drops (Cups, Hats, Etc)
• Flying Safely with Toddlers
• Kindle Fire for Toddlers
• A Celiac Abroad
• Nima Gluten Sensor Review
• Nima Tips: Getting a Good Food Sample
• Flying with Multiples (Long Haul)
• Triple Stroller Guide
• CARES Harness for Aircraft

Moscow with a Baby or Toddler – Logistics

Want to travel to Moscow but you don’t know where to start? Already have a trip planned but your concerned about getting around the city? Here’s our favorite tips in regards to visas, airports, and getting around Moscow with a baby or toddler. Looking for activities with kids instead? Click here .

Getting to Russia

Most visitors to Russia need a visa to enter the country. You can check here to see if your exempted from needing one, but please always check with your local Russian Embassy or Consulate, as visa requirements change regularly. Since most of our readers are from the United States, this section will provide some more detail about the process for Americans applying for visas to Russia.

As of 2018, Americans generally can get either a single entry, double entry, or three year multiple entry visa for Russia. You will usually need to fill out an application form, obtain a letter of invitation (from either a travel agency, hotel, tour company, or Russian citizen), and then submit your application, passport, and letter to the nearest Russian Embassy or Consulate. We always found it easier to obtain visas with the help of a visa agency, such as ILS or other related companies.

Airports and Getting Into Moscow

Moscow is a huge city and is served by four international airports. Most likely, you will arrive at either Sheremetyevo ( SVO ) or Domodedovo ( DME ). After arrival, we have discovered several options to get into the city:

Playroom at Domodedovo Airport

• Taxi or Private Car (90 minutes to 3 hours): Generally it will cost between $50 and $150 for a private car transfer into the city, cheaper options may be available, but quality can vary. If you use a Taxi, some options include Uber , Yandex Taxi , or Gett Taxi . They have excellent mobile apps and are generally of good quality in our experience. We prefer to use them for intercity trips instead of airport transfers due to cost. Private Car hire is also possible, and there are several companies that offer this option. If you are booking with a travel agency, they may be able to arrange something for you. When traveling with children, we often use this option if we have a lot of luggage. If you need child car seats in your taxis, you can also look at Lingo Taxi and Detskoe Taxi .
• Bus: There is bus service to the airports, but we do not recommend it for first time visitors to Russia, as it can be easy to get on the wrong bus. We generally use buses for inter-city transportation only.

Getting Around Moscow

Moscow is a very walkable for such a large city. The city center is full of historic sites that you will want to see and walking is the easiest way to get to them. There are some very wide roads in Moscow and you will notice that many crosswalks are actually underground. Many areas have tunnels that connect a large amount of streets and sites, particularly near the Kremlin. The only problem with walking in Moscow with a baby or toddler are the perehods if you have a stroller. If you are using a baby carrier, you will find the city is easy to walk between the major sites.

Moscow Metro Logo

The Moscow Metro is iconic. Not only is it the easiest way to get around the city, most of the stations are sites themselves. Many metro stations are heavily adorned with many types of art and chandeliers. Moscow has been adding signs with Latin characters and English translations to help tourist navigate the city. You can get to most destinations with only one transfer. The hardest part about using the metro in Moscow with a baby or toddler is that most stations require using long escalators. This can make using a stroller challenging. There are usually stairs involved when transferring stations.

If you are riding during peak times, do not be surprised when a Muscovite steps up to help. It is expected that passengers will give up seats to the elderly, handicapped, or children. If a passenger stands up as you board and you have a baby or toddler, then that seat is for you and you will be expected to take it. Likewise if you are a healthy-looking male traveling with your family, you will be expected to give up your seat in a car without empty seats.

Buying a Ticket

You will need to get a ticket at either an automated machine or cashier. At the machines you may buy a single or double ride ticket (these tickets also cost more than higher multiple tickets). At the cashier, you can buy any number of rides or monthly, quarterly, or yearly metro passes. All tickets are usable on the metro and bus system.

Troika Card

A Troika card has been extremely useful. This is a hard plastic card that can be used for metro and bus rides, in addition to paying for several other locations in the city. The card is cheap (approximately $1) and is simply loaded with Russian rubles either in cash or via credit card. Discounted fares are automatically taken from your card when you enter the metro, bus, etc and touch it to the ticket terminal. You may purchase these at any Metro cashier. For more details on the metro and the current prices, visit their official website (Russian) . A current map of the metro is here .

Moscow has a large bus and train system that serves the entire city and outlying regions. The buses can be very useful in Moscow with a baby or toddler because they are easy to ride with a stroller. Often, travel by bus can be quicker than travel by metro depending on the destinations involved. Many of the bus stops in the center of the city now have electronic signs indicating the next bus arriving and an estimated arrival time for the next several buses. Apps such as Yandex Maps or Google Maps are often able to provide you with the specific bus and stops that you need and have been very helpful to us.

Yandex/Uber/Gett/Taxis

Moscow has a very active taxi market. We have had great success with Uber, Yandex.Taxi, and Gett – but many other options also exist in the city. Be sure to have the apps downloaded prior to your arrival for the best experience.

Moscow Pair, Infant Son Die In Crash Driver Of Truck That Ran Into Them Will Be Charged With Vehicular Manslaughter

Only hours after having their family Christmas photographs taken, a young Moscow, Idaho, couple and their infant son were killed Sunday night when a pickup truck hit their station wagon near New Meadows.

The Idaho State Police identified the family as Dennis M. Barnett, 21, formerly of New Meadows; his wife, Kristina L. Barnett, 20, of Moscow; and their 6-month-old son, Justin Wyatt Barnett.

The pickup driver, Douglas G. Dixon, 36, of New Meadows, was arrested for drunken driving. ISP Cpl. Tim Davidson said Dixon will be charged with driving under the influence of alcohol, three counts of vehicular manslaughter and one felony count of leaving the scene of an accident.

According to Davidson, the Barnetts were traveling southbound on U.S. Highway 95 in their 11-year-old Chevrolet station wagon shortly after 9 p.m. They were going to visit Dennis Barnett’s parents in New Meadows, according to family friend Claudia Childress.

Dixon was westbound on Circle C Lane and failed to stop at a stop sign at the highway intersection. His 1995 Chevrolet pickup slammed into the Barnetts’ station wagon. The family members died at the scene.

The state police said Dixon, uninjured, fled but was found at the nearby home of his brother.

Davidson said Dennis and Kristina Barnett were not wearing seat belts. The infant was in a belted child seat, but it was in the front seat. Most child car seat manufacturers recommend that the seats be buckled into a car’s back seat for safety.

ISP said Dixon wasn’t wearing a seat belt, either, but his truck’s air bag was triggered by the crash.

The three bodies were taken to Heikkila Funeral Chapel in McCall. Services haven’t yet been arranged.

Childress said the deaths devastated members of Moscow’s Church of the Nazarene, where the young family had attended services Sunday morning.

Kristina Barnett grew up in Moscow, the daughter of farmers Don and Dianna Olson. She attended Logos Christian School in Moscow, graduating in 1994. She met her husband at Lewis-Clark State College in Lewiston, and the couple was married a year ago. Dennis Barnett was working the harvest for his father-in-law, Childress said. Dennis Barnett grew up in New Meadows, where his parents reportedly run a cattle and logging operation.

The tragedy was even more shocking, Childress said, because Dennis Barnett’s sister was killed in a crash in the same area two years ago.

, DataTimes MEMO: Cut in Spokane edition

Unleashing the power of career readiness programs

As the new school year begins, local juniors and seniors in the Greater Spokane area find themselves standing at the precipice of their future.