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10 Best Travel Systems: Stroller and Car Seat Combo In 2021

Chicco Bravo Trio Travel System

Convenience is the key to stress-free parenthood. It would be more convenient to use products that simply work. For traveling with your baby, you might want to consider a stroller-car seat travel system.

What Is A Stroller and Car Seat Combo – Travel System?

A travel system is a set of three products sold together in one package. This set is usually a combination of a stroller, an infant car seat, and a car seat base. In most models, the car seat is convertible into a toddler seat. These bundles typically contain products from one brand or manufacturer and often include free accessories. 

You might be wondering why such a product exists when you can buy items separately. The short but sweet answer is “convenience.” Travel systems are sold in combinations to ensure that all parts work together without additional products. This approach will minimize or completely erase incompatibilities among the stroller or the car seat.

Why Is There A Travel System? 

In exchange for a little bit of savings, first-time parents would often get affordable products. But this approach has an unintended side-effect: third-party adapters are needed to use different products together. The money saved in buying affordable products would likely go to buying adapters instead. And even with adapters, there is no 100% guarantee that the setup will work.

Some parents choose to buy products from the same manufacturer and the same brand to avoid this problem. The “same brand” method reduces or eliminates incompatibility problems, reducing many hassles. Still, this could be a tedious process because different models from the same brand might still need third-party adapters.

With this in mind, many stroller brands started to release pre-packaged travel systems with great compatibility. These products are also cheaper and will likely have some freebies attached. Features of the car seat and stroller would often complement each other, providing a more “bang for the buck” experience to customers.

Is It Better Than Buying Separate Products? 

Travel systems have tons of benefits: it includes an infant car seat, plug-in-play, and guaranteed compatibility. Most car seats and stroller will add extra features such as extra cupholders or additional storage. The weight limit is usually around 40 to 55 pounds. And most manufacturers make sure it’s easy to transition into a toddler seat later on.

But because travel systems are three products combined, expect to use a heavy product. It can also take up a huge portion of seat space in the car. You might also find the car seat, the base, or the stroller a bit lacking in features. Products like stroller frames might also be a better option in some cases. A travel system is just of numerous baby traveling aids. And for most people, this option is sufficient.

Are There Other Options?

Yes, there are still other options if you can’t find the best travel system for you. You can choose between stroller frames, baby carriers, or making your own car seat-stroller combinations. Take note: lightweight strollers usually don’t work well with infant car seats.

Stroller Frames

Stroller frames can be a simple solution for people who are within a budget. It acts as a carrier where you can attach car seats, like a makeshift stroller. Because it’s only a stroller frame, it is way cheaper and more lightweight than a stroller or a travel system. The steering experience might also be better due to the light frame. 

However, once the baby outgrows the infant car seat, you might eventually need to get a toddler seat or a regular stroller. The frame might not be able to support the car seat anymore. Stroller frames might be a good option only if you don’t travel a lot with your baby.

Baby Carriers

A baby carrier or a baby sling is a cloth used to strap the baby to the carrier’s body. It doesn’t need strollers and only usable when the baby is old enough to sit up. Often used as “baby carrying,” this is only advisable if the carrier’s body is strong enough to support the additional weight.

DIY Car Seat – Stroller Combination

The traditional option of matching a regular stroller and car seat is always an option. Building your system requires you to find a compatible car seat and stroller. But is worth it if you need a specific stroller feature. For general-purpose use, using a travel system is recommended because it saves time and money.

Things To Consider When Buying A Travel System

Getting the best car seat stroller combo needs a lot of consideration. Even if compatibility is out of the question, you still need to check other factors before purchasing. Knowing if there are any deal-breaking factors is always a must before spending money. Here are some things to consider before purchasing a travel system.

Car And Car Seat Size

Your car should be large enough to use the specific travel system combo that you want to buy. Since travel systems are bulky, this should be the first thing you would consider. If your car is on the smaller side, you might have to look for smaller infant car seat options or use other products like baby carriers.

Terrain Support

Just like buying a regular stroller, knowing the terrain support of a unit is essential. Should you get an all-terrain stroller for nature travels and rough terrains? Or are you using the stroller in urban areas with flat surfaces? Choose your terrain support option based on the purpose of your travel system. 

Quality Of Individual Parts

One of the disadvantages of buying a travel system is when one individual part is subpar to your standards. In this case, the customer is the judge in whether a particular flaw is a deal-breaker or not. If you’re satisfied with each part of the set, then the purchase is worth it.

Accessories And Ease Of Use

Specific features such as cupholders and additional storage can only come with accessories. You might have to bear that in mind while choosing, especially when it comes to strollers. As for the ease of use, check if the stroller is easily foldable without too much effort. The infant car seat should be easily unlatched safely in the car seat base and in the stroller seat.

Convenience And Features

Manufacturers would sometimes throw in comfort features to give more value to their products. These features include additional grip in the handle, more storage, decently-sized canopies, etc. But take note that additional comfort features will also add to the last price tag.

Budget

Budget is usually the biggest factor when buying a travel system. Since it is not the only expense in a household, parents should consider how much they want to spend on a travel system. You can expect to spend from $200 and above on a travel system. If an item is not within your budget, seeking other options is better. 

Now that we know what to look out for in a travel stroller, it’s time for product hunting. But if you don’t have the time to do so, we got you covered. Without further ado, here are the ten best travel systems in the market right now.

The 10 Best Stroller Travel System To Buy in 2021

Best Overall Car Seat Stroller Combo:

Chicco Bravo Trio Travel System

Description

Chicco Key Fit 30 Infant Car Seat + Bravo Stroller

The Chicco Bravo Trio is a popular choice due to its reliability and high safety ratings, especially its side impact protection. It is one of the best travel systems: feature-wise and price-wise. This stroller is sufficient for most parents and is considered to be competitively priced at $339.99. With the Chicco bravo trio travel system KeyFit 30 car seat, the product is very comfortable and easy to install. An additional multi-positional reclining backrest is also included to retain utmost comfort.

What makes this certain set a recommended buy is its convenience. Its auto-positioning wheels make transporting the baby in and out of the car easy. You can collapse and fold the stroller with one hand. And because the wheel locks automatically when folded, this product is straightforward to store and won’t fall over. If you and your partner like to take turns pushing, the stroller is adjustable to accommodate different heights.

Using the Chicco Bravo Trio travel stroller on an even surface is great, but it might have a few hiccups on rough terrains. On the other hand, the product also includes cup holders, which are quite small but still handy when you need to use them. Its canopy is not the best one in the world but has big enough coverage.

Travel System Weight: 30 pounds

Product Dimension: 29 x 23.8 x 18.9 inches

Maximum Weight Support:  50 pounds

See more: Chicco Bravo Trio Travel System Review

Chicco Bravo Trio Travel System

What We Like

  • Convenient one-hand fold
  • Cup holders and storage compartments included
  • Belt installation is available
  • Easy to carry around
  • The system comes with a five-point harness
  • Has high stability
  • Adjustable handlebar

What We Don't Like

  • The car seat canopy is faulty
  • Not made with a machine-washable fabric
  • It might not work good on rough terrains

Best Configurable System:

Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System

Description

SafeMax Infant Car Seat and Stroller combo

For people who like to pack light but still have many options, the Evenflo Pivot Modular travel system is a no-brainer. For $279.99, the lightweight frame and six modes are no doubt bang for your buck. Its six modes include carriage mode. The infant car seat has a weight limit of 35 pounds, while the regular stroller has a 50-pound weight limit. Although it has a lightweight frame, it is very sturdy.

The Evenflo Pivot Modular travel system uses the “SafeZone base,” which provides easy and correct installation. It also includes a spacious storage basket, a removable snack tray, and comfortable paddings. Additional features are installed in the handle, making it more ergonomic and, overall, pleasant to use. Unfortunately, the handle doesn’t have height adjustments.

Unfortunately, the Evenflo Pivot Modular travel system is not a great option for rough terrains. The wheels can give a smooth ride on even surfaces, but it’s not great on nature trails. The initial recommendation is to use the stroller in flat places only. You can’t do a one-hand stroll using this system because of the installed weak wheels.

The SafeMax infant car seat weighs about 20.3 pounds without the base, which is not surprising given its numerous modes and safety features. This product is great if you want a simple system that can take a beating and has different modes to choose from.

Travel System Weight: 38.5 pounds

Product Dimension:19.8 x 21.7 x 34.3 inches

Maximum Weight Support:  50 Pounds

 

Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System

What We Like

  • Useful six reversible configurations
  • Shifting from car seat to stroller is easy
  • Stylish and comes in three different colors
  • Designed for both rollover and side-impact
  • Great storage and comfort features

What We Don't Like

  • Weak tires (not for rough terrains)
  • Not the best when it comes to maneuverability
  • Removing the car seat can be challenging

Best For Multiple Children:

UPPABaby Vista V2 Stroller

Description

Vista Stroller with MESA Infant Car Seat and Bassinet Option

UPPAbaby Vista V2 is not just a stylish travel system; it is also great for its expansion options. You can add the RumbleSeat accessory for adding forward-facing or parent-facing options. You can also use the stroller “PiggyBack” option for your little one who wants to rest from walking. If you have twins, the bassinet option is a helpful addition.

One of the most appealing features of the UPPAbaby Vista V2 is its support for multiple passengers. This car seat stroller combo can become a double stroller by installing an additional car seat. This is one of the best travel systems if you have multiple children to bring with you on your travels.

A large storage basket is also added to complement this feature. When it comes to maneuverability, the new suspension mechanism is a good addition. Another great thing about this product is its attention to detail. From adjustable handlebar, self-standing fold, both parents and baby can use the product comfortably.

Keep in mind that the more toddlers are added, the heavier it would be to use the travel system. And the total weight and size get heavier once you add infant car seats to the stroller. If you need a stroller that can accommodate two toddlers, this is the one for you.

Travel System Weight: 27 pounds

Product Dimension:36 x 25.7 x 39.5 inches

Maximum Weight Support:  50 Pounds

See more: UPPAbaby Mesa Review

UPPABaby Vista V2 Stroller

What We Like

  • Expansion to accommodate triplets
  • The product uses a no-rethread harness
  • A wide array of compatible accessories
  • Excellent canopy protection and coverage
  • Has adjustable handlebar

What We Don't Like

  • Very expensive, especially for first-time parents
  • It gets heavier with more car seats in the stroller
  • The folded size is enormous and bulky

Best For Jogging:

Baby Trend Expedition Jogger Travel System

Description

3-Wheel Jogger with EZ Flex-Loc Infant Car Seat

Having both stroller and car seat in one package is already a good deal. But getting the two products below $200 is very lucky. For parents who like jogging and are financially restricted would love the Baby Trend Expedition. This product is one of the easiest systems to maneuver in on the list.

The Baby Trend Expedition is a compact and lightweight system but packs power and ease of maneuverability. It has air-filled suspension tires to cushion up bumps on rougher terrains, which is good for a jogging stroller. Additionally, the EZ-Flex 5-point harness enables a rear-facing position for newborns. Together with the EPS energy-absorbing foam, this car seat stroller combo is safe and comfortable.

Baby Trend comes with a one-hand fold mechanism. As a jogging stroller, it has an ergonomically shaped foam installed in the handle. An additional convenience to this is the convenient parent tray, two cup holders, and a decent storage basket.

But to achieve this, there are compromises in other areas. One of these compromises is the low-quality buckles, which is not the easiest to use. The base included is hard to install, making it a pain in the neck if you have multiple cars. Transferring a napping baby from the car seat base to the stroller is quite the challenge since the infant car seat itself is a bit heavy.

Travel System Weight: 41 pounds

Product Dimension: 44 x 46 x 22 inches

Maximum Weight Support:  50 pounds

 

Baby Trend Expedition Jogger Travel System

What We Like

  • Cost-friendly; yet safe and sturdy
  • Very easy to maneuver
  • Compact and lightweight
  • Snappy fold and unfold mechanism
  • Supports different terrains
  • Effortless Installation

What We Don't Like

  • The stroller is exceptionally light, but the car seat can be heavy to lift
  • Not the best adjustments for the car seat buckle
  • The front wheel can be wobbly when not in “jogging mode.”

Best For Easy Folding:

Graco FastAction Fold Sport Click Connect Travel System

Description

Graco SnugRide 35 Infant Car Seat and FastAction

The Graco FastAction Fold Sport Click Connect Travel System is for parents who need an easy-to-fold stroller and car seat combo. You only need to pull the red strap using one hand to fold the stroller. As for its car seat, you can detach and attach it to the car seat within seconds. For its reasonable price of $251.99, this travel system is an excellent tool of convenience. The rear-facing option can support up to 35 pounds, while its maximum weight support is at 50 pounds.

With the three adjustable modes, you get a car seat carrier, a bassinet, and a toddler stroller for the price of one. The travel system stroller can stand by itself when folded, and the infant car seat snaps snugly in both the car seat base and the stroller. Although there aren’t many accessory options, the decently large storage basket makes up for the stroller’s shortcomings. You can’t go wrong with this stroller if convenience is what you’re looking for.

Unfortunately, there are some caveats when buying this car seat and stroller combo. So far, a notable one is its finicky front wheel, which is reported to lock on its own when used in rougher terrains. And even if the folding mechanism is superb, its difficult installation can become a dealbreaker. For an easy-to-install Graco alternative, you might want to consider Graco Snugride compatible car seat models instead.

Travel System Weight: 29 pounds

Product Dimension:31 x 24.5 x 42 inches

Maximum Weight Support:  50 Pounds

See more: Graco Snugride Snuglock 35 Review

Graco FastAction Fold Sport Click Connect Travel System

What We Like

  • Three adjustable modes
  • The infant car seat is easy to attach and detach from the stroller seat base
  • One-handed fold mechanism
  • Includes a self-stand option

What We Don't Like

  • Quite bulky compared to other options
  • It might not be usable in tight spaces.
  • Finicky front wheels

Best For Budget:

Safety 1st Smooth Ride Travel System

Description

Safety 1st onBoard 35 LT infant car seat and Monument 2 stroller

Finding a good product at a low price is quite a challenge. At low price points, you often get what you pay for. But that’s not the case for the Safety 1st Smooth Ride Travel System. For as low as $159.99, you can get a decent number of features even at low prices. This is a reasonable price, considering its weight limit of 50 pounds in stroller mode and 35 pounds in car seat mode.

Just like the Graco FastAction Fold, it uses a one-hand fold mechanism. But it doesn’t have the multi-mode option in which the latter has. The stroller and the car seat are easy to lift, making moving in and out of the car more convenient. With its compact size, you can travel with it without worrying about Federal and ASTM safety standards. It also features a separate child and parent tray and an in-built canopy.

Although it is reasonably sturdy, the Safety 1st Smooth Ride travel system is not suitable for strolling in rough terrains. It has a plastic wheel, which might not support bumpy areas. Its narrow seat might also cause problems, so avoid going to uneven areas when using this stroller.

Travel System Weight: 32 pounds

Product Dimension: 19.7 x 17.7 x 31.5 inches

Maximum Weight Support:  50 Pounds

Safety 1st Smooth Ride Travel System

What We Like

  • The best car seat stroller for value
  • Relatively easy to fold
  • Lightweight yet sturdy
  • Airport-friendly
  • Easy to clean
  • Large storage basket

What We Don't Like

  • Narrow car seats
  • The latches can be annoying
  • The plastic wheels aren’t for all terrains

Best For Versatility:

Graco Modes Click Connect Travel System

Description

SnugRide SnugLock 35 Infant Car Seat Stroller Combo Modes

The Graco Modes Click Connect can be considered the most versatile travel system. It doesn’t have five configurations that the Evenflo Pivot Modular system has, but it still gives the user three travel system stroller options to choose from, in addition to being a lightweight model. It also provides ten riding options, which is excellent for customized needs. This travel system can support up to 50 pounds, while the infant car seat alone has a maximum weight recommendation of 35 pounds with rear-facing mode.

With a price tag of $299.99, the Graco Modes Click Connect Travel System is one of the most affordable car seat stroller combos. It is exceptionally lightweight at 21 pounds but comfortable enough for the passenger to enjoy an undisturbed nap. Being a Graco product, the car seat supports Click Connect and Graco SnugRide. In addition, there are convenient features like the canopy, parent tray, and the one-hand fold that will make your life easier by tons.

This system comes with a four-wheel design, which is not ideal for bumpy terrains. Its wheels are also very squeaky, so you might have to bring some oil to lubricate the gears. And with its features and configurations, the company made some obvious budget cuts on the stroller’s overall build quality, specifically its plastic wheels. Its storage basket is decent but needs a bit more space.

Travel System Weight: 21 pounds

Product Dimension:27.5 x 27.5 x 41 inches

Maximum Weight Support:  50 Pounds, 35 pounds (car seat)

See more: Graco Snugride Snuglock 35 Review

See more: Graco Modes Travel System Review

Graco Modes Click Connect Travel System

What We Like

  • Lightweight: under 30 pounds
  • The car seat is easy to attach and detach to the stroller
  • Can recline to a flat angle
  • Three different stroller modes
  • Tons of convenience addons

What We Don't Like

  • The materials used not the best build quality
  • Squeaky wheels
  • Not the greatest when it comes to maneuverability

Best Lightweight Option:

BRITAX B-Lively Travel System

Description

BRITAX B-Safe 35 Infant Car Seat + Britax B Lively stroller

This stroller seat combination includes both a good B-Lively Stroller and the B-safe 35 infant car seat. Although there are other lighter travel system stroller systems, it doesn’t have the maneuverability, compactness, and ease of folding that this system offers. Because the product is made of steel, the B-Lively can support up to 55 pounds.

One of the main strengths of the Britax B-Lively system is its weight and size when folded. It folds and unfolds with its “click and go” mechanism, which is easy to use. Because it is compact, B-safe 35 car seat and the B-Lively stroller can fit in any car and can also be used on planes.

Even with the light frame, the product has good side impact protection and an impact-absorbing base. The storage basket is also a pleasant thing to use. And with the infinite recline angle, you can rest assured that your little one is comfortable.

Unfortunately, there were a lot of cuts done to keep the product as lightweight as possible. One of the notable compromises is the lack of accessories, such as a child tray, cup holders, and UV protection. This is quite a disadvantage because the canopy included isn’t that good either.

Travel System Weight: 30 pounds

Product Dimension: 33 x 23 x 40 inches

Maximum Weight Support:  55 Pounds

See more: Britax B Lively Stroller Review

See more: Britax B-Safe 35 Review

BRITAX B-Lively Travel System

What We Like

  • “Click and go” one-handed fold mechanism
  • Unlimited recline angles
  • Lightweight
  • Compact when folded, with self-stand
  • Intuitive storage access

What We Don't Like

  • Lack of accessories
  • The canopy is not that good

Best For Splurge:

UPPABaby Cruz V2 Stroller

Description

MESA Infant Car Seat and UPPABaby Cruz V2

The UPPABaby Cruz V2 is one of the best car seat stroller combos in the market right now if you have the money to splurge. This travel system stroller comes with the MESA Car seat, which can support up to 35 pounds alone. Its one-hand reclining goes smoothly. You can adjust the seat without stopping to make sure that you’re not bothering your little one napping. But with the price of $1,269.98, this item is a splurge.

Convenience and quality are possibly the biggest strength of the Cruz V2. its wheels have a good suspension which makes all bumps in the road unnoticeable. Its maneuverability score is quite high due to its smooth performance and several recline modes that you can change in seconds.

Additionally, the car seat is made with good fabric, which ensures the utmost comfort for your little one. It comes with two bug shields, a bassinet carrier, and rain protection. The Cruz V2 system stroller will stand on its own when folded.

Both the item and the price tag attached to it are heavy. The stroller without the car seat weighs 25.5 pounds. This is also considering that other lightweight options can use below $500. But if you have the money to space, the Cruz V2 is the best travel system stroller companion you can have. Keep in mind that there are cheaper options without the bassinet and the car seat. A child tray is also available but needs to be purchased separately.

Travel System Weight: 76.8 pounds

Product Dimension: 61.2 x 41.3 x 36 inches

Maximum Weight Support:  50 Pounds

UPPABaby Cruz V2 Stroller

What We Like

  • Roomy storage basket
  • Good front wheel suspension
  • Smooth ride and travel
  • Convenient one-hand fold with locking mechanism
  • Made with high-quality materials
  • Stylish and sturdy

What We Don't Like

  • Very expensive
  • Heavy
  • Known for front-wheel deterioration

Best For Style And Comfort:

Nuna Tavo Stroller And Pipa Lite LX Travel System

Description

Pipa Lite LX infant car seat and Nuna Tavo Stroller

PIPA Lite LX is one of the best infant car seats from Nunababy. That’s why the company decided to pair it with one of their most popular stroller: the Nuna TAVO. For the price of $799.95, this stylish travel system supports a weight limit of a total of 50 pounds.

Since this travel system is made with Merino Wool, the fabric itself feels luxurious. And because this fabric is machine washable, you can make sure that you always have a clean car seat. A one-handed reclining backrest can go with four angles. Both its back wheels and front wheels are made with chrome, making the whole build pretty and functional.

Do take note that this car seat and stroller combo uses rethread harness, which can be inconvenient as your little one starts to grow more. The car seat is also very bulky, making it not optimal for compact cars. You can’t also use this on public transport since you can’t install the car seat without the base.

Travel System Weight: 30 pounds

Product Dimension: 42.5 x 22 x 35.6 inches

Maximum Weight Support:  50 pounds

See more: Nuna Tavo Review

See more: Nuna Pipa Lite Review

Nuna Tavo Stroller And Pipa Lite LX Travel System

What We Like

  • Made with merino wool
  • Snug seat with full recline
  • Luxurious feel
  • Easy to use fold-ability
  • Has additional download leg
  • Canopy has a good coverage

What We Don't Like

  • Uses rethread harness
  • Can’t be used on taxis or Uber
  • Bulky when installed

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