Navigating parenthood with a newborn brings immense joy, but also new challenges, especially when traveling. A travel system, combining an infant car seat, base, and stroller, offers a seamless solution for parents on the go. Imagine effortlessly moving your sleeping baby from the car to the stroller without disruption. These systems eliminate the need for extra adapters, offering convenience and peace of mind. Some innovative designs even feature car seats that convert directly into strollers. As your child grows, many travel system strollers can adapt for toddler use, offering long-term value.
Choosing the right travel system is crucial. It needs to be user-friendly for everyone – parents, grandparents, and caregivers alike. Essential features include easy maneuverability across various terrains and robust safety measures like reliable brakes, protective UV canopies, and secure five-point harnesses.
To guide you in this important decision, we’ve rigorously tested 23 of the top-rated travel systems in both controlled lab settings and real-world scenarios with our own families. Our evaluation focused on key aspects: assembly, stroller design, car seat installation ease, overall functionality, and value for money. Because travel systems represent a significant investment, we are committed to helping families find durable and worthwhile options.
Our Top Picks for Infant Travel Systems
- Easiest to Use: UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller
- Best Mid-Range: Britax Grove Modular Stroller
- Best for a Smooth Ride: Graco Outpace LX Travel System
- Best Luxury: NUNA RX Car Seat Travel System
- Best Budget: Graco Modes Pramette Travel System
- Best for City Use: Doona Convertible Infant Car Seat Stroller System
- Best Handling: Chicco Corso LE Modular Travel System
- Best Jogging Stroller: BOB Gear Wayfinder Pack
- Best Lightweight Car Seat: Bugaboo Fox 5 Bassinet and Stroller
- Best Convertible: Graco Modes Nest2Grow Travel System
Easiest to Use
UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller
PHOTO: Amazon
Why We Like It
The UPPAbaby Cruz V2 travel system excels in user-friendliness. Assembly is minimal – simply attach the wheels to the nearly pre-assembled stroller. Its premium leather handlebar and adjustable seatback cater to both parent and child comfort. A spacious cargo area accommodates a medium diaper bag, though a central bar might limit very bulky items.
Maneuverability: This lightweight stroller is remarkably easy to push across diverse terrains. While steps posed a slight challenge due to larger tires, its light weight made lifting it manageable. The toddler seat’s high weight capacity ensures longevity, adapting as your child grows.
Car Seat Installation: The infant car seat seamlessly attaches to both the base and stroller with a reassuring click, confirming secure installation. Removal is equally simple with a button push. A level indicator on the base turns green when correctly leveled, enhancing safety assurance. The no-rethread harness simplifies adjustments, and storage pockets for harness buckles are a thoughtful addition.
But Take Note
While a higher-end option, the Cruz V2 includes extras like rain and bug canopies, and a sunshade. However, the infant seat canopy could be more secure. The stroller folds in half for easier transport.
The Details:
- Stroller weight: 35 lbs.
- Car seat weight: 10 lbs. (seat), 19 lbs. (with base)
- Stroller dimensions: 22.75 x 37.5 x 40 in.
- Car seat weight/height limits: 4–35 lbs., up to 32 in.
PHOTO: Parents
PHOTO: Parents
PHOTO: Parents
Best Mid-Range
Britax Grove Modular Stroller
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PHOTO: Britax
Why We Like It
The Britax Grove Modular Stroller stands out for its “easy breezy” usability. Testers praised its quick, under 10-minute setup and user-friendly features like a lumbar cushion and one-handed fold. This mid-range option balances convenience and quality effectively.
Maneuverability: Despite its medium size, the Grove handles like a compact stroller, especially when navigating turns. Its substantial wheels confidently tackle bumps, even without suspension, performing well on both turf and concrete. The stroller feels light yet robust, maintaining quality handling even with the car seat attached.
Car Seat Installation: Britax’s ClickTight technology simplifies car seat base installation. Threading the seatbelt through the easily opened base compartment, buckling, and closing ensures a secure fit. All Britax infant seats are compatible, clicking in and latching out with ease.
But Take Note
The stroller features dual brakes on each rear wheel without color indicators, which may be slightly less intuitive. Both brakes must be engaged for complete immobilization; single brake application allows slight turning.
The Details:
- Stroller weight: 24 lbs.
- Car seat weight: 9.3 lbs. (seat); 10 lbs. (base)
- Stroller dimensions: 37 x 42 x 23.5 in.
- Car seat weight/height limits: 4–30 lbs., up to 32 in.
PHOTO: Parents
PHOTO: Parents
PHOTO: Parents
Best for a Smooth Ride
Graco Outpace LX Travel System
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PHOTO: Graco
Why We Like It
The Graco Outpace LX Travel System defies expectations of bulky, hard-to-maneuver travel systems. Its exceptional handling of bumps and terrains ensures a remarkably smooth ride, attributed to Graco’s “ComfiTech” suspension – a wavy bar that absorbs shock. Rubber tires further enhance cushioning across surfaces. Its affordability is equally impressive.
Maneuverability: Ideal for tight spaces and urban environments, this stroller is surprisingly agile. Testers noted its tight turns and effortless navigation over gravel, carpet, and turf.
Car Seat Installation: Car seat installation is straightforward. Reclining the stroller and removing the snack tray allows the car seat to attach seamlessly to the bumper bar. Detachment is equally easy with a button press.
But Take Note
Assembly was somewhat challenging, taking over 25 minutes and requiring manual consultation. The cupholder depth is also limited, potentially unsuitable for taller water bottles.
The Details:
- Stroller weight: 19 lbs.
- Car seat weight: 7 lbs. (seat), 11 lbs. (with base)
- Stroller dimensions: 32 x 25 x 39 in.
- Car seat weight/height limits: 4–30 lbs., up to 30 in.
PHOTO: Parents
PHOTO: Parents
PHOTO: Parents
Best Luxury
NUNA RX Car Seat Travel System
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PHOTO: Courtesy of Nordstrom
Why We Like It
The Nuna RX Car Seat Travel System, featuring the Nuna Mixx Next stroller and Pipa RX car seat, offers luxury with a sleek design, premium feel, and exceptional maneuverability. Lightweight with soft, durable fabrics, it grows with your child.
The stroller arrives fully assembled, unfolding easily. While the cargo area is diaper bag-compatible, a slightly larger size would be preferable. Luxury touches include a leather handle, magnetic buckle holders, adjustable handlebar, and no-rethread harnesses. The UPF 50+ water-repellent canopy has a sunshade, ventilation panel, and peek-a-boo window.
Maneuverability: The suspension system and rubber tires provide a smooth ride with excellent traction. Its lightweight nature enhances maneuverability. It folds with the toddler seat, and a one-touch brake adds security.
Car Seat Installation: The car seat is remarkably light at just over 7 pounds, simplifying carrying and transitions. Attaching and detaching from the base and stroller is easy, often one-handed. Both infant and toddler seats can face forward or backward on the stroller.
But Take Note
Car seat base installation was more challenging than others tested, taking around 30 minutes and requiring manual and video guidance to master the LATCH system at a specific angle.
The Details:
- Stroller weight: 28.5 lbs.
- Car seat weight: 7.6 lbs. (seat); 25.4 lbs. (with base)
- Stroller dimensions: 23.75 x 32.75 x 45.5 in.
- Car seat weight/height limits: 4–32 lbs., up to 32 in.
- Stroller age/weight limit: Birth to 50 lbs.
Best Budget
Graco Modes Pramette Travel System
PHOTO: Amazon
Why We Like It
The Graco Modes Pramette Travel System is a top budget-friendly choice, offering a smooth ride and ample storage. Despite its affordability, it features nice fabric, a spacious cargo area, phone and cup holders, a reclining toddler seat, and an adjustable canopy.
Maneuverability: This lightweight stroller glides smoothly and is easily lifted over curbs, even with a 20-pound child and diaper bag. Wheels perform well around corners and curves.
Car Seat Installation: LATCH system car seat base installation is simple. The infant car seat is secure and lightweight at about 10 pounds. Attaching to the base is straightforward, while detaching requires a slightly trickier button (under the canopy). Seat attachment to the stroller is easy with a secure click.
But Take Note
Stroller assembly and toddler seat detachment were slightly challenging, requiring two hands for seat buttons. The handlebar is not adjustable, and one-handed folding isn’t possible.
The Details:
- Stroller weight: 20.9 lbs.
- Car seat weight: 9.8 lbs. (seat only)
- Stroller dimensions: 23.5 x 34.5 x 44.75 in.
- Car seat weight/height limits: 4–35 lbs., up to 32 in.
- Stroller age/weight limit: Up to 50 lbs.
PHOTO: Parents
PHOTO: Parents
PHOTO: Parents
Best for City Use
Doona Convertible Infant Car Seat Stroller System
Why We Like It
The Doona Convertible Infant Car Seat Stroller System is a unique one-piece solution, seamlessly transforming from car seat to stroller in seconds. Its fold-down legs and pull-out handlebar make it ideal for city living, ride-sharing, and public transport. It’s perfect for quick trips and space-saving convenience.
Maneuverability: Despite its 17-pound weight, the Doona maneuvers easily, offering a smooth glide on most surfaces. Its narrow profile is excellent for crowded spaces and tight corners. While easy to clean, it lacks storage and seat recline features.
Car Seat Installation: Initial attachment and detachment from the base requires learning a non-intuitive button operation, which becomes simpler with practice. Wheel release also has a learning curve but becomes straightforward.
But Take Note
The low handlebar may be less comfortable for taller users, and its limited 35-pound weight capacity means needing a separate stroller as the child grows.
The Details:
- Stroller/car seat weight: 17 lbs.
- Stroller dimensions: 17.3 x 23.6 x 26 in.
- Car seat and stroller weight/height limits: 4–35 lbs., up to 32 in.
PHOTO: Parents
PHOTO: Parents
PHOTO: Parents
Best Handling
Chicco Corso LE Modular Travel System
PHOTO: Amazon
Why We Like It
The Chicco Corso LE Modular Travel System offers a blend of style, features, and exceptional handling across terrains. Its trendy design, parent cup holder, removable child handlebar, and extendable sun canopy are notable features. A spacious cargo area adds practicality.
Its one-handed fold simplifies storage, even with a baby in arms. The stroller adapts as your child grows with a reversible toddler seat, providing long-term value.
Maneuverability: This system handles seamlessly even with a car seat and full cargo. It maneuvers well on most surfaces, with only minor issues on uneven sidewalks.
Car Seat Installation: LATCH system car seat base installation is quick. Attaching and detaching the car seat to the base is easy and secure.
But Take Note
It requires a separate adapter to connect the car seat to the stroller. While included, two hands are needed to assemble the car seat and stroller and to connect the car seat and base.
The Details:
- Stroller weight: 18.7 lbs., 24.8 lbs. (with toddler seat)
- Car seat weight: 10 lbs. (seat), 18.5 lbs. (with base)
- Stroller dimensions: 34.5 x 24.8 x 42.8 in.
- Car seat weight/height limits: 4–35 lbs., up to 32 in.
- Stroller age/weight limit: 50 lbs.
PHOTO: Parents
PHOTO: Parents
PHOTO: Parents
Best Jogging Stroller
BOB Gear Wayfinder Pack
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Why We Like It
The BOB Gear Wayfinder Pack functions well as an everyday stroller and excels as a jogging stroller, equipped with features like a hand brake, wrist strap, peekaboo window, adjustable canopy, parent cup holder, and a zip-close cargo area for secure jogging.
Maneuverability: Despite its heavy-duty build, it maneuvers effortlessly, even with the front swivel wheel locked—unusual for jogging strollers. It handles turns and surfaces easily, with suspension ensuring a smooth ride even on gravel. The locked wheel maintains a straight line but allows for weaving through crowds.
Car Seat Installation: The car seat and base are heavy, nearly 20 pounds, and snapping it into the base can be difficult. However, once installed, the unit feels secure.
But Take Note
Adjusting car seat straps may require fabric removal, which is challenging. Folding is also more complex due to its robust jogging features.
The Details:
- Stroller weight: 31.1 lbs.
- Car seat weight: 9.3 lbs. (seat), 10.2 lbs. (base)
- Stroller dimensions: 28.1 x 24.11 x 16.9 in.
- Car seat weight/height limits: 4–30 lbs., up to 32 in.
PHOTO: Parents
PHOTO: Parents
PHOTO: Parents
Best Lightweight Car Seat
Bugaboo Fox 5 Bassinet and Stroller
PHOTO: Bugaboo
Why We Like It
The Bugaboo Fox 5 Stroller, compatible with the lightweight Bugaboo Turtle Air by Nuna car seat (sold separately), creates a thoughtful, simple, and lightweight travel system. The stroller is sturdy yet light, with well-sized storage and accessories. While larger, consider indoor storage space.
Maneuverability: Testers could maneuver the Bugaboo one-handed, navigating turns and doorways effortlessly. It handles all terrains well even with cargo, and brakes are highly responsive.
Car Seat Installation: The Bugaboo Turtle Air by Nuna car seat and recline base (testing ongoing) require adapters (included). The reclining base has a color-coded chart for baby weight positions. Base installation requires a few manual steps but is secure once set up.
But Take Note
Bassinet-to-seat conversion is challenging, requiring two adults. However, it’s a one-time task. Despite claims of one-handed folding, it often needs two hands.
The Details:
- Stroller weight: 22.97 lbs.
- Car seat weight: 7.06 lbs. (seat only)
- Stroller dimensions: 36.6 x 23.6 x 41.3 in.
- Car seat weight/height limits: 4 to 32 lbs., 15.7 to 32.6 in.
- Stroller age/weight limit: Birth to 50 lbs.
Best Convertible
Graco Modes Nest2Grow Travel System
PHOTO: Amazon
Why We Like It
The Graco Modes Nest2Grow Travel System is a versatile 3-in-1 system, converting to an infant car seat carrier, pramette, and toddler stroller. Features include an expandable cargo area, parent and child cup holders, and a snack tray. The seat height is adjustable, and the fabric, while slightly scratchy, appears high-quality.
Maneuverability: The stroller glides smoothly on various terrains and is easy to lift up stairs. It feels lightweight without a child. It folds for storage but requires two hands.
Car Seat Installation: Car seat installation is mostly simple with manual guidance, although stroller assembly was slightly harder. LATCH base installation is easy and secure. Car seat and toddler seat attachment/detachment is seamless. The car seat is light at 7.5 pounds.
But Take Note
The stroller can feel heavy to push with a child, especially in the infant seat, and is relatively large.
The Details:
- Stroller weight: 21.96 lbs.
- Car seat weight: 7.5 lbs.
- Stroller dimensions: 38 x 26.77 x 41.85 in.
- Car seat weight/height limits: 4–35 lbs., up to 32 in.
PHOTO: Parents
PHOTO: Parents
PHOTO: Parents
Other Notable Car Seat and Stroller Combos
We also tested other combinations that, while not top picks, are worth considering.
Our Testing Process
Parents editors, staff, and real parents tested 23 car seat and stroller combinations in labs and real-life situations, reassessing at two and six-month intervals. We assessed:
- Ease of Assembly: Noted required pieces and assembly difficulty.
- Vehicle Installation: Timed base installation using seat belt or LATCH, ease of car seat click-in/removal, and one-handed operation.
- Stroller Installation: Evaluated car seat and stroller compatibility and ease of attachment.
- Design: Considered weight, features, adjustability, and size.
- Maneuverability: Tested on various terrains (concrete, grass, rocks) and assessed stability and curb handling.
- Ease of Cleaning: Followed manufacturer directions and cleaned each at least once.
- Value: Assessed if the travel system was worth the cost.
Our Experts
We consulted safety experts for stroller car seat combo selection: (Experts list as in original article).
Factors to Consider When Buying a Stroller Car Seat Combo
Consider these factors when choosing a travel system:
- Age, Weight, and Size Limits: Check weight limits, typically 35 lbs for infant car seats. Strollers can be used longer as toddler strollers.
- Stroller Size and Portability: Choose a manageable weight and easy folding for storage and transport.
- Maneuverability: Look for suspension and durable tires for smooth pushing.
- Installation: Follow AAP guidelines for car seat base installation using seat belt or LATCH, ensuring a tight fit. Infants should be rear-facing as long as possible. Consult certified technicians at cert.safekids.org if needed.
Is Buying an Infant Car Seat and Stroller Together Worth It?
Travel systems are convenient for active families needing to frequently move car seats to strollers. If this is not a frequent need, separate purchases are possible.
How to Use Infant Car Seats and Strollers Safely
Always read manuals for proper use.
Safety Tips:
- Ensure Stroller Fits You: Handlebar height should be comfortable to prevent back strain.
- Know Safety Features: Understand brake operation, car seat click-in, and level indicators.
- Proper Harnessing: Always use the five-point harness, even outside the car.
- Avoid Sleeping and Strolling: For naps during strolls, use a bassinet attachment.
- Register Your Combo: Register for recall notifications and check the CPSC site.
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