Choosing the right gear for your new baby can feel overwhelming. Do you need a car seat, a stroller, and a bassinet? What if you could get them all in one convenient package? That’s the magic of a travel system, but with so many options, how do you pick the right one?
Don’t worry, we’ve done the research for you. We’ve compiled a list of the best stroller and car seat combos on the market. This guide will help you find the perfect travel system to fit your family’s needs, budget, and daily life.
| Product Image | Product Name | Best For | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Baby Trend EZ-Lift Travel System | Budget-friendly Pick | Prices |
 | Graco Modes Pramette Travel Syst | Versatile All-in-one | Prices |
 | Doona Infant Car Seat Stroller | Ultimate On-the-go Convenience | Prices |
 | Baby Trend Expedition Jogger Str | Active Jogging Families | Prices |
 | Safety 1st Smooth Ride Travel Sy | Great Value Option | Prices |
 | Graco Gomax Next Gen Travel Syst | Easy Car Seat Installation | Prices |
 | Graco Outpace LX All-Terrain Str | Smooth Off-road Rides | Prices |
 | Evenflo Shyft Intuiti Travel Sys | Innovative Convertible Design | Prices |
Baby Trend EZ-Lift Travel System
If you’re a new parent looking for a complete travel system that won’t break the bank, the Baby Trend EZ-Lift is practically made for you.
Its standout feature is the one-hand, EZ-lift fold. This is a lifesaver when you’re juggling a diaper bag and your baby. For example, you can easily collapse the stroller and load it into your trunk without ever putting your little one down. The included infant car seat clicks securely into the stroller base, making errands a total breeze.
Beyond the core features, it’s built to last with a sturdy frame and comes in a variety of stylish, modern colors. While it might not have all the bells and whistles of premium brands, its combination of essential functions, reliability, and fantastic value makes it a top contender for budget-conscious families.
Pros:
- 👍 Easy one-handed folding mechanism
👍 Great value for a complete travel system
👍 Car seat clicks securely into stroller without a base
👍 Includes a parent cup holder and a large storage basket
Cons:
- 👎 The stroller can be a bit bulky when folded
👎 Maneuverability isn’t as smooth as higher-end models
👎 The car seat may feel a bit heavy to carry for long periods
Graco Modes Pramette Travel Syst
If you’re a new parent who wants a single, versatile system to get you from the car to a walk and back again, the Graco Modes Pramette Travel System is the perfect all-in-one solution.
Its standout feature is the one-hand, self-standing fold. This means you can collapse the stroller with literally one hand while holding your baby in the other, and it stays standing on its own for easy storage. The reversible seat is another game-changer, allowing your baby to face you for bonding or face the world for exploration, which is perfect for keeping a newborn content on a long walk.
Beyond the big features, it’s built with Graco’s renowned durability and includes a SnugRide infant car seat that clicks in securely. While it’s not the most compact fold, its clever design and everyday practicality make it a top contender for hassle-free parenting.
Pros:
- 👍 One-hand, self-standing fold is incredibly convenient.
- 👍 Reversible stroller seat grows with your child from infancy.
- 👍 Includes a trusted SnugRide infant car seat that clicks in and out easily.
- 👍 Multiple recline positions including a near-flat option for newborns.
Cons:
- 👎 Can be a bit bulky when folded compared to some travel systems.
- 👎 The storage basket is decent, but can be tricky to access when the seat is fully reclined.
- 👎 It’s a robust system, so it’s on the heavier side.
Doona Infant Car Seat Stroller
If you’re a parent-on-the-go who values ultimate convenience, the Doona Infant Car Seat & Stroller is practically made for you. It’s the only car seat you’ll ever need that transforms directly into a stroller in seconds, making it a dream for city dwellers and frequent travelers.
The magic is in its brilliant, all-in-one design. There’s no separate base to install in the car or stroller frame to assemble. For example, you can click it into your car’s seat, drive to the grocery store, and with one simple motion, extend the wheels to instantly have a stroller. This seamless transition eliminates the hassle of moving a sleeping baby between different gadgets.
Beyond the transformation, it’s built with premium, safety-certified materials and has a sleek, modern look. While it has a higher price tag, the sheer innovation and time it saves you make the Doona a standout, all-in-one solution for your baby’s first year.
Pros:
- 👍 The ultimate convenience of a car seat and stroller in one.
- 👍 Perfect for travel, public transit, and quick errands.
- 👍 No separate bases or frames to buy or store.
- 👍 Exceptionally easy to use with a simple, one-hand transformation.
Cons:
- 👎 Higher price point compared to buying items separately.
- 👎 Your child will outgrow it faster than a traditional stroller.
- 👎 The storage basket is quite small for larger shopping trips.
- 👎 It’s on the heavier side for a car seat.
Baby Trend Expedition Jogger Str
If you’re an active parent who needs a stroller that can handle everything from a grocery run to a jogging trail, the Baby Trend Expedition Jogger is your perfect match.
Its key feature is the fantastic 3-in-1 design. It works as a travel system with a compatible infant car seat, a sturdy jogger with a front swivel wheel you can lock for stability, and a everyday stroller. This means you don’t need to buy multiple products. For example, you can lock the wheel for a smooth morning jog, then unlock it to easily maneuver through crowded store aisles later.
Beyond the versatility, it’s built to last with a robust frame and offers great value. While it’s not a tiny umbrella stroller, it folds compactly enough for most car trunks. For parents seeking a durable, all-terrain workhorse that grows with their family, this stroller is a standout choice that delivers on its promises.
Pros:
- 👍 Excellent 3-in-1 versatility as a travel system, jogger, and stroller.
- 👍 Smooth ride on various terrains with an air-filled tires and a lockable front wheel.
- 👍 Great value, often including the infant car seat.
- 👍 Very durable frame that can handle daily wear and tear.
Cons:
- 👎 It’s bulkier and heavier than a standard stroller when folded.
- 👎 The storage basket can be tricky to access with the seat fully reclined.
- 👎 The car seat compatibility is limited to Baby Trend’s own models.
Safety 1st Smooth Ride Travel Sy
If you’re a new parent looking for a simple, all-in-one travel system that won’t break the bank, the Safety 1st Smooth Ride Travel System is the perfect starting point.
Its key feature is the one-hand, standing fold. This means you can collapse the stroller while holding your baby or your grocery bag, which is a huge help when you’re loading the car. The stroller also clicks securely onto the included infant car seat base, so you can move a sleeping baby from the car to the sidewalk without a single jostle.
Beyond the basics, this system is impressively durable for its price, handling daily bumps and curb checks with ease. While it’s not the most lightweight option, its sturdy build and thoughtful features make it a reliable and fantastic value for everyday adventures.
Pros:
- 👍 Excellent value for a complete travel system
- 👍 Extremely easy one-hand fold mechanism
- 👍 Smooth ride and durable construction
- 👍 Car seat attaches to stroller seamlessly
Cons:
- 👎 Heavier and bulkier than some premium models
- 👎 The storage basket is a bit small for larger diaper bags
- 👎 Lacks some high-end features like a one-hand recline
Graco Gomax Next Gen Travel Syst
If you’re a new parent looking for a travel system that makes life simpler from day one, the Graco Gomax Next Gen is perfect for you.
Its one-second, one-hand fold is a true game-changer. Imagine trying to collapse your stroller while holding a grocery bag and your baby; with this, you just lift a lever and it folds itself. The car seat clicks securely into the stroller without any base, making quick errands or switching from car to stroll incredibly smooth.
We also love the thoughtful extras, like the large, easy-access storage basket and the parent tray with a deep cup holder. While it’s not the most compact fold on the market, its robust build and user-friendly features offer fantastic value, making it a reliable and stress-free choice for daily adventures.
Pros:
- 👍 One-hand, self-standing fold is incredibly convenient.
- 👍 Car seat installs in the stroller without the base for ultimate flexibility.
- 👍 Comfortable for baby with a smooth ride on multiple terrains.
- 👍 Ample storage and handy parent cup holders.
Cons:
- 👎 The fold can be a bit bulky for very small car trunks.
- 👎 The stroller is on the heavier side compared to some premium models.
- 👎 The canopy could be a bit larger for full sun coverage.
Graco Outpace LX All-Terrain Str
If you’re an active family who loves exploring beyond the smooth pavement, the Graco Outpace LX is the perfect stroller for you.
Its standout feature is the all-terrain, never-flat tires. These air-filled tires have a solid inner core, so you’ll never get a flat tire while you’re on a trail or a long walk. This means you can confidently push your little one over bumpy grass, gravel paths, or uneven sidewalks without a worry, enjoying a much smoother ride for your baby.
We also love how it folds easily with just one hand. This is a huge help when you’re trying to manage a baby and your gear. Combined with its parent-friendly features like a large storage basket and a multi-position canopy, the Outpace LX is a durable and thoughtfully designed workhorse for daily adventures.
Pros:
- 👍 All-terrain, never-flat tires provide a smooth ride on any surface.
- 👍 Extremely easy one-handed fold makes storage and transport simple.
- 👍 Huge storage basket is perfect for diaper bags and shopping trips.
- 👍 Car seat compatible with Graco infant seats for a full travel system.
Cons:
- 👎 On the heavier side, which can be tricky for frequent car lifting.
- 👎 The large frame might be bulky for smaller car trunks.
- 👎 Doesn’t stand on its own when folded, so it needs to lean against something.
Evenflo Shyft Intuiti Travel Sys
If you’re a new parent who values smart, modern design that simplifies your daily routine, the Evenflo Shyft Intuiti Travel System is practically made for you.
The standout feature is its one-hand, two-second fold. Imagine you’re loading the stroller into the car with a diaper bag on your shoulder and your baby in your other arm; with the Shyft Intuiti, you just press a button and lift the handle to fold it effortlessly. No struggling or putting anything down is a huge win for busy parents on the go.
Beyond the clever mechanics, the entire system feels incredibly sturdy and well-made. The car seat clicks securely into the stroller base with a satisfying sound, giving you real peace of mind. It’s a fantastic, all-in-one solution that truly makes travel with an infant feel more manageable and less stressful.
Pros:
- 👍 The one-hand, two-second fold is a true game-changer for convenience.
Cons:
- 👎 It’s on the heavier side compared to some other travel systems.
Buyer’s Guide: 3 Key Factors to Consider
Compatibility and the Travel System Ecosystem
Not all car seats click into all strollers, even from the same brand. Before you buy, confirm that the specific car seat and stroller models are designed to work together seamlessly. Opting for a certified “travel system” is the safest bet, ensuring a secure connection and one-handed functionality.
Longevity and Adaptability
Think beyond the newborn stage. Many combos include an infant car seat that your child will outgrow quickly. Look for a stroller that can adapt, either by accepting the infant car seat *and* having a permanent seat that reclines flat for a newborn. This “all-in-one” stroller approach can save you from buying multiple single-purpose products.
Weight and Daily Maneuverability
You’ll be lifting the car seat in and out of the car constantly. Be honest about what weight you’re comfortable handling. Also, consider the stroller’s folded dimensions and weight—will it fit easily in your trunk? Test the stroller’s maneuverability with one hand; you’ll often need the other for holding keys, a diaper bag, or another child.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How long can my baby safely use an infant car seat?
A1: Infant car seats are typically outgrown by height or weight, not age. Most have a limit of 30-35 pounds or until the baby’s head is within one inch of the top of the shell. Always follow your specific seat’s manufacturer guidelines.
Q2: Can I use the stroller without the car seat attached?
A2: Absolutely. All high-quality travel system strollers come with their own permanent seat that reclines. The car seat attachment is for convenience with newborns. Once your child has better head and neck control, you’ll primarily use the stroller’s built-in seat.
Q3: Are these combos difficult to install?
A3: Modern car seats are designed for easier installation. Most use a latch system, and many feature clear level indicators. However, it’s crucial to read the manual thoroughly and get a certified car seat technician to check your installation to ensure it’s 100% secure.
Q4: Is it worth investing in a more expensive combo?
A4: Often, yes. A higher price point typically buys you better construction, lighter-weight materials, smoother maneuverability, and added features like larger canopies or one-handed folding. It’s an investment in daily convenience and long-term durability.
Q5: What’s the main advantage of a travel system combo?
A5: The biggest advantage is convenience. It allows you to move a sleeping baby from the car to the stroller without unbuckling and disturbing them. It streamlines errands and outings, making life with a newborn significantly easier.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
After thorough evaluation, the UPPAbaby VISTA V2 remains the top-tier choice for 2024, with its relevance extending well into 2025. For parents seeking unparalleled durability, a smooth ride, and the flexibility to grow with their family (including accommodating multiple children), it’s the ultimate investment. If your priority is a lightweight, compact, and more budget-friendly option that doesn’t sacrifice essential features, the Chicco Bravo Trio is an exceptionally strong and reliable alternative.
Pros:
- 👍 Unmatched convenience of moving a sleeping baby from car to stroller.
- 👍 Guaranteed compatibility and a secure connection between components.
- 👍 Often more cost-effective than buying a car seat and stroller separately.
- 👍 Streamlines your baby gear, reducing clutter and simplifying travel.
Cons:
- 👎 Infant car seats have a limited lifespan (typically 1-2 years).
- 👎 The entire system can be bulkier and heavier than standalone options.
- 👎 The initial investment for a high-quality system can be significant.
