Car Seat and Stroller Combo — Pros and Cons
Car seat stroller combo belong to 3-in-1 componentized systems, where baby’s cradle, stroller block and car seat are placed on one chassis. Such models are a real catch for parents who value functionality and rationality. In the majority of cases, these cross-functional strollers have car seats for newborns aged 0+ (from birth to 20–28 pounds (1–1,5 years)). As child gets older and weights from 20 to 79 pounds, you’ll have to purchase a separate car seat.
Advantages of Car Seat Stroller Combo
The main advantage of car seat stroller combo is long working lifespan (from baby’s birth to 3–4 years) and additional comfort in the shape of car seat for parents who often drive in their car with a baby. Construction of a componentized stroller is notable for reliability, durability and functionality.
Cross-functional car seat stroller combo is usually equipped with large-sized rubber wheels, has a great shock absorption system, high mobility and stability.
As written here, complete package of 3-in-1 componentized strollers include:
- Comfortable and space-saving detachable cradle
- Detachable stroller block with adjustable backrest and hood
- Full-fledged car seat for newborns, designed for kids from birth to the age of 1,5 years maximum
For the first six months the cradle is used, which is alternated with a comfortable «stroller». These types of strollers are the best option for parents with an active lifestyle who often travel with their kid. The car seat has a convenient handle for carrying and is fixed in the car by standard rear seat belts. It can also be placed on the front seat, if there is no airbag or it is deactivated. Chubby babies might need cross-functional car seat for 9–36 kg earlier than 1,5 years old age.
The advantages of car seat stroller combo:
- Rational use. Purchasing cross-functional 3-in-1 model solves three problems at once. When going for a short walk or to the nearest store there is no need to attach a bulky stroller block, just fix the car seat on the frame.
- Safe and flexible use. The stroller has strong chassis, secure mounting of blocks and other elements. The strolling block can be set up in front of or with its back to mum.
- Light weight in comparison with classical baby strollers, compactness. Almost all cross-functional models fit easily into an elevator or doorways. When folded they take up minimum space, which make them easily fit in the trunk.
Disadvantages of 3-in-1 Car Seat Stroller Combo
3-in-1 cross-functional car seat stroller combos have the following disadvantages:
- Such models are quite expensive (while at the same time, when buying three separate means: stroller with a cradle, stroller for walks and car seat, the combined price is higher than the price of a cross-functional stroller).
- Highly placed stroller block makes some parents worry about the child’s safety as he can fall out of the stroller (in reality, the only disadvantage in this case is child’s inability to get into the stroller on his own, the safety issue is solved with the help of five-spot belts and push bumper with divider).
- The mobility, maneuverability and manageability of a car seat stroller combo are a bit lower than in the stroller models with small castor wheels.
