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Choosing the best travel system for your little one doesn’t have to take the better part of your pregnancy. But that also doesn’t mean you should select the first car seat-stroller combo you Google. Instead, you will need to consider which features are the most important to you – such as value, lightweight components, or handling – before you take the next steps.
After you know what you’re looking for, it’s time to explore the options. And, there are plenty of them! There are systems available at almost every price point, strollers with one-handed fold mechanisms, versatile models that pull double or triple duty, and so much more.
What to look for in a travel system
What do you really need in a travel system? If this is your first big-ticket baby purchase, you may wonder why you need a “system” at all. Even though many of these top products have the word travel in the name, you don’t need to wait to use one until your next family vacation. A travel system is a combination infant car seat/carrier and stroller all in one. The two primary parts – the car seat/carrier and stroller – detach for individual use. Not only can you remove the car seat to use, as you would expect, in your car, you can remove it entirely when your tot outgrows the carrier and only needs a stroller.
Safety is a top priority. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) notes that parents should choose a car seat based on the infant’s age, size, and the family’s vehicle. If your child is under 12 months they will need a rear-facing only infant seat or a convertible all-in one seat. Many travel systems come with an infant-only car seat carrier.
Along with the safety of the car seat, you will also need to assess the safety of the stroller component. Make sure the stroller meets the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards. Strollers should have a parking brake, a latching mechanism to prevent unintentional folding, protective parts to stop entrapment or injuries, a restraining system, and components that add stability and structural integrity.
Beyond the safety-related features to look for, you may have some additional requirements that play into your personal preferences. These could include the recline levels of the stroller, parent compartments or cup holders, easy-release car seat-stroller locking systems, easy or one-hand stroller fold, canopies or sun shades, SPF/UPF protective material, all–terrain tires, a lightweight frame, or fashion fabric colors. Also, consider whether it’s important to have a stroller with machine-washable fabric and other care types of factors.
Don’t let the seemingly excessive abundance of travel systems overwhelm you. It’s perfectly possible to narrow down your options to the one travel system that best matches your family’s growing needs. Here are our picks to get you started.
Graco Modes Element LX Travel System
Best One-Hand Fold
This top pick features a reversible seat for the infant car carrier and has an infant-toddler stroller. Includes the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite LX Infant Car Seat.
- Stroller Style
- Infant/toddler stroller
- Car Seat Weight Range
- Rear-facing up to 35 pounds
- Dimensions
- 32″L x 35.5″W x 43.5″H
- Stroller Weight
- 26 pounds
- Brand
- Graco
- One-hand self-standing fold
- Convertible three or five-point harness
- Lightweight
- Storage basket is too shallow for some parents
The Graco Modes Element LX Travel System is a three-in-one option that makes your life easier with convenient features galore. The included Graco SnugRide 35 LX infant car seat provides a seamless transition from the car to just about anywhere else. And don’t worry about packing up and putting everything away. This top pick has a one-hand self standing fold mechanism.
Along with easy folding, the Graco Modes Element has a parent tray with cup holders, a reversible stroller seat that grows with your kiddo, a recline feature, and a convertible three- or five-point harness.
If you have concerns about building a complicated travel system – don’t. This stroller-car seat combo is, “easy it is to put together,” according to one happy parent. This reviewer goes on to add, “everything just snaps. It makes it a very smooth transition from the seat base to the stroller.”
Chicco Bravo Primo Trio Travel System
Best Splurge
The Quick-Fold stroller pairs with the Chicco KeyFit 35 Zip Extended-Use infant car seat for years of use. Features premium details, such as a leatherette plush handle, reversible seat cushion, UPF 50+ canopy, and full mesh panel.
- Stroller Style
- Infant/toddler stroller
- Car Seat Weight Range
- Up to 50 pounds
- Dimensions
- 35.2″L x 22.8″W x 42.7″H
- Stroller Weight
- 27.6 pounds
- Brand
- Chicco
- Shaded UPF 50+ canopy included
- Three-position recline
- Large wheels with all-wheel suspension
Are you looking for a lux line that has plenty of premium features and finishes? The Chicco Bravo Primo Trio Travel System is everything you’ll want and more! With a leatherette plush handle, a quick-fold design, and a reversible seat cushion, this splurge-worthy selection combines form and function into one sweet ride. “I am a mama who appreciates detail to the small little things that matter or are just nice to have. This travel set feels as great as it looks!! I decided to purchase this set after doing further reviews on my old set as far as safety but was pleasantly surprised by the bells and whistles!”, raved one reviewer about the added aesthetics of this travel system.
The KeyFit 35 Zip car seat includes a premium LATCH connector and so much more. You’ll also get a SuperCinch Force Multiplying LATCH Tightener and the seat comes with EPS energy-absorbing foam. The premium picks don’t end at the car seat. The stroller has a three-position recline, a zip-open mesh panel, a pull-out visor, and a shaded UPF 50+ canopy to keep your kiddo cool, comfy, and away from the sun’s damaging rays.
Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System
Most Versatile
The modular frame transitions into six modes for versatile use. Comes with the SafeMax Rear-Facing Infant Car Seat and SafeZone Base.
- Stroller Style
- Infant/toddler stroller
- Car Seat Weight Range
- Up to 35 pounds
- Dimensions
- 34″L x 25.5″W x 47″H
- Stroller Weight
- 38.05 pounds
- Brand
- Evenflo
- Versatile design for multi-mode use
- Easy to move the infant seat from the stroller to the car
- Ergonomic handle
- Some users report squeaky wheels
Multi-tasking is everything to the busy parent. And, this travel system won’t let you down. The Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System scores high points for its versatility. Filled with extras that add convenience, you’ll get an oversized storage basket, ergonomic handle, SafeZone car seat base, and more with this top choice. It has so many features that this parent gushed, “I bought this system for my 4th child, and I wish I had it for all of my children. It is by far my favorite stroller I’ve ever used. It feels luxurious, but for a reasonable price.”
The modular frame features six different modes! This makes it possible to convert the system from infant car seat mode to carriage mode to toddler mode flawlessly. Instead of investing in a new stroller or seat for your kiddo every time they grow into a new stage, you can simply change up this module design to meet your needs.
Not only is this system a top performer in terms of functionality, it’s a safe pick for your baby. The SafeMax Rear-Facing car seat – which features an anti-rebound bar design – was tested for structural integrity at twice the federal crash test standard.
Mompush Ultimate2 Stroller with Bassinet
Best Bassinet Feature
$390 $470 Save $80
The bassinet style of this stroller gives it an old world pram feel. But this doesn’t mean it isn’t packed with modern features – such as a UPF 50+ canopy, omnidirectional wheels, and an all-wheel suspension.
- Stroller Style
- Infant/toddler stroller
- Dimensions
- 36.2″L x 23.2″W x 42.5″H
- Stroller Weight
- 16 kg
- Brand
- Mompush
- Bassinet attachment for extra comfort
- Included rain cover
- UPF 50+ zip-out canopy
- Doesn?t come with an infant car seat
The Mompush Ultimate2 Stroller with Removable Bassinet may not come with an included infant car seat, but it does have plenty of pluses. Comfort is crucial – and this travel system has it in spades. Instead of the traditional car seat/carrier combo, the Mompush model features a detachable bassinet. Yes, this means your kiddo can nap in comfort and you won’t need to disturb them as you move them from the smooth-riding stroller into your home for a nap.
The lightweight metal frame is easy to maneuver and the all-wheel suspension provides a smoother ride for your little one. “The wheels are perfect in any kind of terrain – grass, gravel etc. and it feels stable,” wrote one parent. But that’s not all! The reviewer went on to add, “t’s super easy to set up and fold up too. I also love how classy the design is. Win, win!”
This system also comes with a UPF 50+ sun canopy to shade your baby, a cup holder for your convenience, a rain cover, and additional storage.
Baby Trend EZ Ride 35 Travel System
Best Value
This top value comes with a certified-for-aircraft-travel infant carrier car seat, covered storage, one-hand fold, and a multi-position recline feature.
- Weight Limit
- 35 pounds
- Stroller Weight
- 35 pounds
- One-hand fold
- Extra large storage basket
- Three-position height-adjustable handle for convenience
- Total weight is on the heavier side
The Baby Trend EZ Ride 35 Travel System is a true value that you won’t want to skip. A travel system can seriously cut your baby gear investment down and give you back extra cash to spend on other parts of your parenting budget. If you’re searching for a system that won’t put a dent into your kiddo’s college fund, this is it! “Fantastic deal on a stroller and car seat pairing,” according to one parent who also wrote a glowing review about the style and more, “It’s super cute and fits securely in the stroller. The stroller turns well. Love it!”
Not only is this Baby Trend pick a top value, it comes with a one-hand fold design, features a three-position height-adjustable handle, and reclines into multiple position settings. This adds to your little one’s comfort as you walk, jog, or just stroll around the neighborhood.
The stroller also comes with a snack tray for your child’s treats and a parent console with two cup holders for you. While the added amenities may draw you in, this system isn’t all convenience. It’s also a top pick for safety. The infant car seat comes with plenty of head impact protection, is side-impact tested, and is certified for aircraft travel.
Baby Trend Expedition Jogger Travel System
Best System for Active Parents
$220 $250 Save $30
This travel system is perfect for the parent who jogs, runs, walks, or hikes. With quick-release, all-terrain tires and a front swivel wheel, you can use this stroller just about anywhere.
- Weight Limit
- Up to 30 pounds
- Stroller Weight
- 41 pounds
- All-terrain tires to make walks and hikes easier
- Easy to fold
- Push-button height adjustable base
- While it goes forward easily, may have some difficulty making turns
Do you have concerns about a bulky travel system making it hard for you to go for your morning jog? You won’t need to invest in a separate stroller with the Baby Trend Expedition Jogger Travel System. This model was made to move. The all-terrain tires provide a smooth ride over the grass, gravel, dirt roads, or just about anywhere else you plan to jog, walk, or hike. And the lightweight steel frame won’t weigh you down as you push baby alone! If price is an issue, you won’t need to stress, “I ordered this jogging stroller when my son was one since we talk daily walks and I wish I would have got it sooner! It’s amazing for the price. Super smooth.”
This Baby Trend top pick also includes a five-point safety harness on the stroller and an EZ Flex-Loc Infant car seat that holds kiddos four through 30 pounds. The LATCH equipped car seat base is height adjustable, with a four-position push-button mechanism and comes with EPS energy-absorbing foam for extra head protection.
Graco FastAction Fold Jogger Travel System
Best Easy-Connect Car Seat and Stroller
This lightweight pick fits with the included Graco SnugRide 35 Infant Car Seat, has a locking front swivel wheel, and has a padded multi-position recliner for older babies and toddlers.
- Stroller Style
- Infant/toddler stroller
- Car Seat Weight Range
- Up to 35 pounds
- Dimensions
- 40″L x 24″W x 42″H
- Stroller Weight
- 38 pounds
- Brand
- Graco
- One-hand fold
- Click Connect one-step car seat connection mechanism
- Reflectors for late day outdoor traveling visibility
- Front wheel could stick after repeated use
Another top choice for parents who are on-the-move, the Graco FastAction Fold Jogger Travel System is ideal for active families! Yes, this system is made to move. But it does so much more. If convenience is crucial, and when isn’t it, you’ll love the Click Connect Technology. Graco’s Click Connect allows you to easily secure the infant car seat to the stroller. This eliminates the need to position, pull, and push a complex set of parts just to put the system together.
Your ability to quickly get baby into the stroller is matched with the ease of getting them out. “The Graco carriage and car seat combination is a great idea for use with a newborn. Falling asleep in the car and being moved to the carriage without awakening is a must for the new mother.” As you can see from this review, you won’t need to worry about waking your kiddo from their mid-day nap just to switch from the stroller to the car or vice-versa.
The convenience and features don’t stop at Click Connect. This jogger system also includes Graco’s FastAction one-hand, one-second fold mechanism, a locking front swivel wheel for added stability, and a padded reclining seat.
Century Stroll On 3-Wheel 2-in-1 Lightweight Travel System
Best Eco-Friendly System
The lightweight system includes the Century Carry On 35 car seat, has a compact fold, and features an adjustable canopy. As part of Century’s Happy Planet Collection, this value priced pick’s fabric components are made from recycled materials.
- Stroller Style
- Infant/toddler stroller
- Dimensions
- 43″L x 24.38″W x 40″H
- Stroller Weight
- 15 pound
- Brand
- Century
- Fabric parts made from recycled materials
- Compact fold
- Light 15-pound weight
- Stroller seat pad isn?t machine washable
The Century Stroll On 3-Wheel 2-in-1 Lightweight Travel System is, as the name implies, a lightweight travel system that combines the best of car seat and stroller use into one top product. Century’s system sets itself apart from others as part of the brand’s Happy Planet Collection. Instead of an all-new makeup, the fabric components are made from recycled materials! This is the perfect addition for any eco-conscious family.
Along with the Earth-friendly aspect of this travel system, the stroller features a self-standing compact fold design that can minimize the amount of trunk space it takes up. If you’re wondering if the compactness is really as good as promised in real life, take it from a parent who has first-hand experience, “So far, we love it! It is lightweight and small. Fits in our small car better than the other ones we’ve tried. The carseat and stroller work together beautifully.”
Do you need a travel system?
Will a simple stroller or basic frame do? Or, do you really need a full travel system? These systems have benefits galore, including convenience, comfort, safety, and style!
You have enough baby gear as-is. Why separate the carrier, car seat, an umbrella stroller, and a more heavy-duty stroller into separate picks? A travel system combines these into one pretty package. Not only does this give you a high level or versatility in terms of use, it also saves you time, money, and the energy you would otherwise spend selecting each of the individual items.
While you certainly can invest in separate pieces, there is no guarantee that a car seat and stroller from two different manufacturers (or even the same manufacturer!) will work together. This means you won’t have the ability to seamlessly transition from the car to the sidewalk, park path, airport terminal walkway, or anywhere else you want to stroll. Without an easy transition option, you may have to wake up your sleeping baby or put your kiddo in an uncomfortable position – at least for a minute or two.
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