Choosing a pushchair cheap Travel System

Selecting the right pushchair for your family is among the most important decisions you'll make as a parent. If you decide to go with a travel system bundle for its initial convenience and cost savings or a distinct frame for your running pram and a compatible car seat to ensure maximum flexibility There's plenty to consider.

This helpful guide will help make the right decision to meet your needs and lifestyle.

What is a travel system?

A travel system is a stroller that has the capacity to accommodate a car seat for your baby and some come with carrycots. It's a great option for parents with young children as it means you can easily transfer your baby from the car to the pushchair without disturbing them - ideal for those short trips out to nip to the shops or do a nursery run.

A quality travel system can be tucked into your car and then attach to the frame of the pushchair to ensure a smooth journey for your baby. It's also a convenient option as it means you only need to make one big purchase in the process of getting ready for your new baby and will usually reduce your expenses too.

There are a variety of types of travel systems available, from budget-friendly options to premium brands like JANE or TYPO. Many will come with a matching coordinating changing bag as well as car seat accessories. And if you're really looking to make things easier, there are travel system bundles that contain everything you need in just one purchase. This is the best prams way to be sure that all of the components work - no searching to find a car seat that's compatible and finding out you'll need additional adaptors too!

What are the seat recline options?

If you choose to purchase an option that includes a carrycot, then ensure that the seat of the pushchair is fully reclined to ensure your baby is comfortable to sleep and is in a lying flat position for spinal and respiratory development. It is also important to think about whether the handlebar is adjustable in height to ensure it is comfortable for you and your companion or anyone else who might use it regularly.

Most 'from birth' pushchairs have a reversible seat unit so that you can decide the position of your child's seat, either facing you (to encourage their communication skills) or in a world-facing position to stimulate their curiosity and allow them to know where they are going. Some travel systems have an reversible seat unit that clips directly to the frame of the pushchair without needing to take it off. This lets you effortlessly transfer your baby from the car into the stroller and reverse the process.

Make sure the car seat you choose is compatible with your pushchair as not all infant car seats can be connected to all pushchairs without additional adaptors. Some travel systems include all the adaptors you need in the box, however others may require them to be purchased separately. Check the product details, or ask your local retailer.

How easy is it to manoeuvre?

If you're looking for a travel system to transport your baby from car to pushchair, then back again ensure that the pushchair chassis isn't too heavy, and you have enough space in your trunk to fit a carrycot. Carrycots are easily attached and are lightweight. They're best for newborns less than 6 months old and should be used 3 in 1 pram conjunction with a pushchair that is lying flat. This allows the baby to sit in a reclining position which is good for their spinal development as well as lung development.

If you choose to purchase a travel system bundle or pick and mix the components yourself it's important to keep in mind that the majority of them are designed to work together as a unit by the brands. You can be assured that everything will perform well. Buying everything in one place is convenient and almost always works out cheaper than purchasing items separately. Also, being capable of moving your sleepy newborn from car seat to stroller for the nursery run or nipping into shops without disrupting them is a major benefit. Travel systems are worth the expense.

How easy is it attaching a car seat or a carrycot?

Most 'from birth' pushchairs can be connected to a compatible baby car seat or carrycot for simple transitions from your car to the street. This is perfect for infants, allowing them to sleep in the preferred position of lying flat.

When the baby is outgrowing their car seat (usually up to the age of 18 months) the majority of travel systems can also be used with a stroller seat, meaning that they will last longer as your child develops. A lot of travel systems come with an additional stroller seat, however some, like the Doona and the Evenflo Shyft DualRide, have an all-in-one design that allows the car seat unfolds into a pushchair, and then unfolds again to fit into the base of your car.

Whether you choose to use a car seat or carrycot on your pushchair, make sure to read the manufacturer's instructions carefully and adhere to their weight, age, and size restrictions. Verify whether the car seat or pushchair have been recalled for safety reasons.

Many pushchairs have additional accessories that can enhance your experience, for example a footmuff can help protect your baby from the elements, while a parasol, made from SPF/UPF 50+ fabric, can keep them shady when it's sunny. Some pushchairs also have a ride-on board, perfect for toddlers who are ready to tackle the world themselves but need assistance.

What is the weight limit?

A pushchair will generally accommodate children up to the maximum weight and age. It's contingent on the car seat/pushchair combo that you pick and also on your lifestyle. So it's crucial to examine the specifications carefully. It's also important that you check the brakes on your chosen model. They should be strong and easy-to-operate.

Many brands offer infant seat adaptors as part of their travel system packages. This lets you easily clip the car seat of your infant onto the frame of the stroller. This makes the entire process of going out and about with a newborn much quicker and simpler. This ensures that your baby can use their stroller after they grow out of the car seat and carrycot. This is an excellent option for families with busy lives and lots to do daily.

How do you fold?

There are a range of fold types available on pushchairs car seats - some are completely one-handed, with a simple press of one button. Others require two hands or a few steps, but they manage to fold very compactly. Some models even stand when folded which makes it simple to carry around. This sort of design is perfect if you live in the city or commute and want to make the transition from a car to a pushchair an effortless process or if you have a small boot and need a model that folds down to fit into it.

Depending on the model, travel system pushchairs can be used from birth by adding an infant car seat. These are typically accepted to be used in the cabin on flights and are ideal for parents who travel a lot with their family.

The most affordable option is to purchase an automobile seat that is paired with a pushchair. The bundle is created by the manufacturer, and it consists of the car seat and the pushchair that are designed to work together. Alternatively, some pushchairs will indicate which car seats they are compatible with, and you can then purchase a seat separately (though it may require adaptors for car seats). MFM Editor Gemma's choice for the most lightweight travel system is the Babyzen YOYO because of its innovative features and amazing one-second fold.

What does it look like?

A travel system bundle offers ease of use, security and savings. The bundles are created by retailers or brands. All the parts are carefully selected for compatibility. This means you don't have to do a lot of research on which car seat will work with your ideal pushchair or search on the internet for a footmuff or changing bag that fits the style.

These pushchairs are usually comprised of a frame that can fit into the car seat group 0+, and also includes a carrycot or seat unit, that can be used either forward-facing or facing the parent based on your preference and the rules (rear-facing is recommended for cars until 15 months). Some can even be transformed into a tandem or twin if you are expecting more than one child.

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