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In this guide
A travel system is a pushchair, a baby car seat and the adaptors that let the car seat click straight onto the pushchair frame. It means a sleeping baby can go from the car to the pavement without being woken, which is why so many parents put one at the top of their list.
What's in a travel system
Most bundles include some or all of these:
- A chassis (the frame and wheels), which you keep for years.
- A carrycot or a seat that lies completely flat, for the newborn months.
- A pushchair seat for when your baby can sit up, usually from around six months.
- An infant car seat and the adaptors that fix it to the frame.
- Sometimes an ISOFIX base, which stays in the car so the seat clicks in and out.
Check exactly what's included before you compare prices. A cheaper bundle without the base or carrycot can end up costing more once you add them.
What to look for
A flat lie for newborns. Young babies should lie flat for longer walks, so look for a carrycot or a seat unit that goes fully flat.
The fold, and the boot. Fold it in the shop or watch a video, and measure your boot. A pushchair that won't fit in the car is a daily frustration.
Weight and handling. If you'll be lifting it onto buses or up steps, every kilo counts. Big wheels and good suspension matter more on rough pavements and parks.
Car seat safety standard. Look for a car seat approved to R129 (i-Size), the current standard. Check the seat is listed as compatible with your car before you buy.
Car seat time. Most manufacturers advise keeping time in a car seat to around two hours at a stretch, so a travel system works best for short hops rather than long walks.
Tip: if you're adding a travel system to your gift list, turn on group gifting so several people can chip in towards it.
