Reviews say the following about buying a travel system:

  • Avoid buying a used travel system. It may seem like a tempting bargain, but worn mechanisms and potential recall notices should make you wary of buying a used car seat. In addition, car seats come with an expiration date -- that's because over time (experts say about six years) plastic can dry out and degrade, making the car seat susceptible to cracking.
  • Look for a three- or five-point harness on the stroller and car seat. Experts say a three-point belt (around the waist and between the legs) or five-point belt (which also goes over the shoulders) is preferable. Five-point belts are the best option on a car seat.
  • When looking at a travel system, make sure to pay close attention to the wheels. Front and rear swivel wheels are easier to move; larger wheels mean a smoother ride. Some fancier strollers now come with air-filled wheels, but this significantly adds to the cost. In addition, note the wheel brakes. Some have one wheel that can be locked, others have two. No matter how many wheels lock, never leave the stroller unattended with the baby in it.
  • Check the stroller for balance. Make sure the travel system doesn't tip backwards when light pressure is placed on the handlebars, and check for sturdiness and stability (i.e., a wide wheel base with seat mounted low and deep within the frame). This may be more difficult to judge with a car seat/universal frame combination, so make sure to try this out at the store before you make your purchase.
  • Taller parents may want longer or adjustable handlebars for easier pushing. Many of the more popular travel systems are equipped with adjustable bars so that taller parents may push the stroller with as much ease as shorter parents. A tip for effective shopping is for all primary users of the stroller to shop together so that everyone has a chance to test out the handle height.
Sponsored Links

Back to top