What is a Travel System?
A Travel system is suitable from birth, and normally consists of 2 or 3 items; a pushchair and a car seat, and sometimes a carrycot is included in the system too. A travel system is a good value way of buying the essential equipment you will most certainly need for transporting your baby easily and safely.
2 in 1 Travel System
A 2 in 1 Travel System includes a pushchair and a Group 0/0+ infant car seat. The pushchair is normally suitable from birth to approximately 3 years. The car seat included with the system is normally a group 0+ car seat, this means it is suitable from birth to approximately 12 months.
When you purchase a travel system package the car seat is compatible with the pushchair in the package, and is able to connect to the seat or chassis of the pushchair. This is very useful when baby is very young, as you can simply lift the car seat out of the car, and connect it straight onto your pushchair frame without disturbing your baby.
3 in 1 Travel System
A 3 in 1 Travel system includes a pushchair, Group 0/0+ infant car seat and a carrycot. These 3 items are suitable from birth. With the 3 in 1 system, as well as the infant car seat which connects to the pushchair chassis, a carrycot is also included which will fit on to the pushchair chassis to create a lay-flat pram. Sometimes the car seat and carrycot require adapters to fit onto the pushchair chassis, so double check the package you are purchasing includes these if required.
It is advised that a completely lay-flat position is best for newborn and very young babies, which is why a carrycot can be very useful, they can also be used as temporary beds when baby is very young....handy for when your visiting friends or travelling.
There are 2 different types of carrycots normally available in travel systems:
Hard CarrycotsFits onto the chassis of the pushchair (some require adapters to do this), with the removal of the pushchair seat unit. They are very sturdy and have a hard outer shell, and normally come with a mattress and hood. Suitable from birth to approximately 6 months. |
Soft Carrycots / Soft CotsIs normally fitted onto the seat of the pushchair through securing it with straps. They are made of a soft and comfy material, which usually zips up around baby. They normally have carry handles for easy transporting. Suitable from birth to approximately 6 months. |
Important points to consider when purchasing a travel system
- Check the group 0/0+ car seat that comes with it fits safely in your car-this is the single most important aspect of buying a travel system. It needs to be easy to get in and out of the car and off and on the pushchair, and easy to secure at all times. You’ll be using it as an infant carrier too, so check you can carry it comfortably.
- Check whether accessories such as rain covers and footmuffs are included in the price, these will come in handy especially in the winter months.
- Keep in mind how much space you have for storage at home and in your car. Travel systems can be heavy and bulky, not very practical if you live in a small flat.
