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Choosing a pushchair travel system (linked webpage)
Choosing the perfect pushchair for your family is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a parent. Whether you choose a travel system bundle for its initial convenience and cost savings or a separate frame for your pram and travel system and a compatible car seat for maximum adaptability, there's plenty to consider.
Luckily, this handy guide will help you make the best decision to meet your needs and lifestyle.
What is a travel system?
A travel system is an infant pushchair that is able to take the baby car seat and some carry an infant carrycot. Parents with newborns will appreciate this option since they can easily move their baby's sleeping infant from the car into the pushchair.
A great travel system will fit comfortably into your car, and then click onto the pushchair frame to provide a seamless journey for your child. It's a good choice since you'll only need to make one major purchase to celebrate the arrival of your baby. It also helps you save money.
There are many kinds of travel systems available, from budget-friendly options to high-end brands such as JANE or TYPO. A lot of them come with a matching changing bag that is a perfect match and car seat accessories and If you're looking to make things easier, there are travel system bundles that come with everything you require in one purchase. This is the best way to make sure the components are in sync. Don't waste time searching for an automobile seat that is functional and then figuring out that you'll need adapters!
What are the seat recline options?
If you opt for an option that includes a carrycot, then ensure that the seat of the pushchair is fully reclined to ensure your baby is able to sleep comfortably and is in the recommended lie-flat position for respiratory and spinal development. Consider whether the handlebar can be adjusted to make it comfortable for you, your spouse or anyone who may use frequently.
Most 'from birth' pushchairs include a reversible seat so that you can choose the position of your child's seat, either facing you (to encourage their communication skills) or facing the world, to encourage their curiosity and allow them to see where they are going. Some travel systems come with a reversible seat unit that is attached directly to the frame of the pushchair without having to take it off. This allows you to easily transfer your child from the car to the stroller, and vice versa.
Not all infant car seats work with all pushchairs. Some travel systems come with all the adaptors needed included in the box. Others may require you purchase adaptors on your own. Review the product's specifications, or ask your local retailer.
How do I get around it?
If you're in search of a travel system that can transport your baby from the car to the pushchair, then back again, make sure the pushchair chassis isn't too heavy and you have enough space in your boot to accommodate the carrycot. Carrycots can be easily attached and are lightweight. They're best for newborns less than 6 months old. They should be used in conjunction with an upright pushchair. This allows the baby to sit in a fully reclining position, which is beneficial for their spinal development as well as lung development.
It's important to note that the majority of brands have designed them to function as a unit. You can be assured that everything will fit and function well. Buying everything together is convenient and usually costs less than buying items separately. It's an enormous benefit to be able to transfer your baby's sleepy body from the car seat to the stroller for a trip to the nursery or to shop without causing disturbance to them. Travel systems are worth the cost.
How easy is it to attach an automobile seat or a carrycot?
The majority of pushchairs 'from birth' can click on to a 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 recommended lie-flat position.
After the baby has outgrown their car seat (usually until the age of 18 months) the majority of travel systems can also be used with a stroller and will therefore last longer as your child develops. A majority of travel systems come with a separate stroller, but certain models, such as the Doona and the Evenflo Shyft DualRide, have a one-piece design so that the car seat unfolds into a pushchair, and then back again to go into the vehicle's base.
If you decide to use a car seat or carrycot on your pushchair, be certain to read the manufacturer's instructions carefully and be sure to adhere to their weight, age, and size restrictions. Also, be sure to check if your pushchair and car seat has been recalled as part of a safety recall.
Many pushchairs have additional accessories that can help enhance your experience, such as the footmuff can protect your child from the elements, whereas a parasol, made from SPF/UPF 50+ fabrics, can keep them shady when it's sunny. Some models also come with an inflatable ride-on board, which is perfect for toddlers who are ready to take on the world themselves but need a little helping hand.
What is the weight limit?
A pushchair travel system is typically designed to accommodate babies until a certain age and weight. It's dependent on the car seat/pushchair combination that you select and your lifestyle. It is therefore crucial to examine these specifications carefully. It's also important that you check the brakes on your selected model. They should be strong and easy to operate.
Many brands include infant seat adaptors in their travel system packages. This allows you to attach the car seat of your baby onto the frame of the stroller. This makes the whole process of going out and about with a baby much faster and less complicated. It also ensures that when your baby is no longer in their carrycot and car seat they can still use the stroller along with you. This is a great choice for families who are busy and have lots of things to accomplish each day.
How do you make it easy for you to fold?
There are a variety of folds that are available on pushchairs. Some are actually one-handed with a simple press of a button. Others require two hands or just a couple of steps, yet they can be very compact when folded. Some models are able to stand up when folded, making it simple to carry. This type of design is ideal for those who live in a city, or commute, and need to make the transition from a car to a pushchair seamless or in the case that you have a tiny boot and need something that folds up to fit into it.
Some travel system pushchairs, depending on the model can be utilized as early as birth by adding a car seat or carrycot. They are usually allowed to be used in the cabin of flights and are ideal for parents that like to do lots of travelling as a family.
The most cost-effective choice is to buy a car seat and the pushchair. The bundle is typically created by the brand and comprises of a pushchair and car seat that are designed to work together. Alternatively, some pushchairs will specify which car seats they're compatible with and you can purchase a separate seat (though it may require adaptors for car seats). MFM Editor Gemma's pick of the best lightweight travel system is the Babyzen YOYO because of its innovative features and a stunning one-second fold.
What does it look Like?
A travel system bundle is a great option to purchase a pushchair and car seat together and also enjoy the benefits of comfort, security and, often, a cost savings. These bundles are put together by retailers or brands with each component carefully selected to work seamlessly. This means you won't need to do a lot of research on which car seat will work with your dream pushchair or searching on the internet for a compatible footmuff or changing bags.
They usually consist of a pushchair frame that is suitable for the group 0+ car seat, and typically include a carrycot or a seat unit which can be used front-facing or rear-facing, depending on your preference (or the rules, as rear-facing in the car is advised up to 15 months). Some are even able to be converted into a tandem twin if you are expecting more than one child.
A travel system is practical if you're likely to be doing a lot of walking and driving with your child, as it means you can transfer them from the car to pushchair and back without disturbing them or having to find a safe place to park. They also can save space in the trunk of your car making it easier to get to shops or go on a school run.