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Best Travel Systems for Parents Who Want a Car Seat + Stroller Combo

Travel systems—car seat + stroller combos—make getting out with your baby a lot easier., by jen labracio | medically reviewed by holly peretz ot.

When you’re ready to get out the door with your baby, a car seat and a stroller are key. Thanks to the genius who designed the first travel system―an infant car seat that attaches to a stroller―you can make one purchase and get both essentials. 

We’ve weighed feedback from thousands of Babylist families, spoken to several experts and tested dozens of car seat stroller systems over the years, and we think the Chicco Corso LE Modular Travel System is the best travel system for most families. It combines our top infant car seat pick, the KeyFit 35 , with the Corso LE stroller, creating a travel system that’s high-quality, easy to use and competitively priced.

And since we know parents shopping for a travel system often appreciate a good value, we’ve chosen three additional favorites in an affordable, mid-range and luxury price point so you can find the best combo for your budget and your lifestyle.

Why Trust Babylist?

Babylist is the expert in baby; we know baby gear inside and out. We talk with parents face-to-face in our showroom and on our user panels and hear from thousands of people annually via our Best Baby Products survey. We know what items millions of expecting parents are adding to their baby registries. 

I have over half a decade of experience with baby gear of all types, especially car seats and strollers. I’ve tested countless travel system combos both in my role as Babylist’s gear editor and as a mom of two young boys, ages ten and two. I also spoke with many industry and safety experts while writing this guide, including Joe Colella, the Director of Child Passenger Safety at the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association and 2020 Child Passenger Safety Hall of Fame Inductee, pediatrician Kelly Fradin , MD, FAAP and Courtney English , a pediatric occupational therapist. I also talked to a car seat safety expert, Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST) Samantha Taylor of Mama Knows Car Seats . 

I interviewed Babylist Showroom Registry Consultants Tatyanna Hunter Jones and Pateel Markaradi, part of a trained team of experts who work on the Babylist Beverly Hills floor, answering questions daily about baby gear and helping parents-to-be build their baby registries. I also incorporated travel system feedback from thousands of parents through Babylist’s annual Best Baby Products survey of over 6,000 Babylist users and talked to parents at Babylist for their input.

The Best Travel Systems

Best Overall: Chicco Corso LE Modular Travel System

Best Affordable: Graco Modes Nest Travel System

Best Mid-Range: Nuna x Babylist PIPA urbn & TAVO Travel System

Best Luxury: UPPAbaby Aria Infant Car Seat & Vista V2 Stroller Travel System

How We Judged

Ease of use. Most parents choose a travel system for convenience. All of the car seat stroller systems on our list work seamlessly both together and on their own. 

Best of both worlds. Many travel systems on the market offer a great stroller but a not-so-great car seat—and vice versa. We chose car seat stroller systems with the best of the best in both categories.

Features. We focused on features like safety, ease of install, canopies, a multi-position seat, storage and recline options when choosing our best travel system picks. 

Value. Travel systems range from a few hundred dollars to well over a thousand. We factored in cost while making our top choices to provide you with a solid option at any budget. 

Best Overall Travel System

Chicco Corso LE Modular Travel System - Veranda

• Car seat is a parent + safety expert favorite
• Slim car seat, works 3-across in most cars
• Stroller has great maneuverability + many high-end features (for a mid-range price)
• Rear suspension and rubber tires = smooth ride
• Car seat is heavier than some other options
• Stroller handlebar isn’t adjustable
• No snack tray or cup holder included

Most parents choose a travel system for two reasons: convenience and value. Chicco’s Corso Travel System checks both of those boxes—and more.

This travel system includes the KeyFit 35 infant seat, a popular parent and expert favorite and our top pick for best infant car seat . It’s “remarkably easy to install,” according to CPST Taylor, and fits babies of all sizes well. It also has high rear-facing height and weight limits, meaning you’ll be able to rear-face your little one longer than in many other car seats. (This is called “extended rear-facing,” and it’s a term you’ll likely come across as you research car seats.)

“According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), it’s safest for infants and toddlers to ride rear-facing in a car seat for as long as possible,” explains Colella. “This recommendation is based on data showing that rear-facing seats offer better protection in crashes for children from birth through 23 months of age.”

The included stroller is just as praiseworthy. Every time I push it, I forget I’m not maneuvering a stroller that’s double the cost. That’s because of the many premium features like large, foam-filled tires and rear-wheel suspension for a smooth ride, a multi-position reclining seat, an adjustable canopy and footrest and leatherette trim. The seat is modular so you can face your baby toward you or out into the world. And the stroller seat is fully removable, turning it from a full-featured toddler stroller into a lightweight, skeleton frame that’s much easier to manage when you’re using it with just the infant car seat.

There aren’t many downsides to this travel system, especially considering the price. The few I’d note include that the car seat is on the heavier side (just over 10 pounds), which can make a difference when you’re getting it in and out of a car, and is a longer seat front-to-back, so fit could be an issue in more compact cars and/or if your front seat driver or passenger are tall. Speaking of tall folks (I’m 5’10”), the stroller doesn’t have an adjustable handlebar. And the storage basket has a 10-pound weight limit, which is lighter than most and isn’t ideal if you use your stroller for heavier items like groceries.

Real Parent Reviews

“This travel system has been so great, and is holding up well 8 months in. The car seat is really easy to adjust as baby has grown, and is so easy to install. And I love that the 35-pound weight limit means we’ll be able to have her rear-facing for longer. The stroller is the thing that I use the most, and it is one of the best pieces of baby gear we have. It’s super maneuverable and very easy to push one-handed. We walk every day in our city neighborhood with old broken sidewalks and the stroller handles all that terrain beautifully. The stroller can also be used comfortably by people of different heights. I’m 5’5” and my husband is 6’2” and we can both comfortably push the stroller. My husband doesn’t kick the stroller when he’s walking (something that I’ve read can be an issue for tall people with other strollers).” — Kate H

“As a CPST I trust Chicco and all of their products. The ease of the KeyFit35 install is to die for. The car seat also feels comfortable and sturdy. I also love this stroller! The one-hand fold and the sleek design. It looks beautiful with the flower-like wheels and leather handle. It’s also a beautiful color. I would recommend to anyone.” — Patience Mabin

“I get so many compliments on my Corso LE travel system. I love it so much… It is a smooth, stylish ride. My only conundrums are the following: I’m 62 inches tall (5ft 1.75in) and the handlebar is to my chest. I don’t mind it too much, but it would be nice if the handlebars were adjustable. I wish the storage basket supported a bit more weight. I haven’t had any issues yet, but the limit of 10 lbs is always on my mind while food shopping alone…Overall, definitely recommend this stroller. Very easy to fold and store. I love the handle it has, and it’s a great price.” — Ysa

Additional Specs

Best Affordable Travel System

Graco Modes Nest Travel System - Sullivan

• Good value considering safety + features
• Infant car seat is easy to install; also has anti-rebound bar
• Stroller includes bassinet mode
• Child snack tray and cup holder included
• Plastic wheels, no suspension system (rides can be bumpy)
• Self-standing fold only works when toddler seat is forward-facing
• Folding and unfolding take some getting used to

Affordability can be a roadblock with some travel systems. Even mid-priced systems average about $500, and many creep well over that mark. The Graco Modes Nest is our favorite for an affordable pick, coming in at under $400.

Like the Chicco system above, the car seat included with this travel system is a parent favorite from the brand’s SnugFit line, a line of seats known for their ease of install. “The SnugLock arm on the base makes installation in any vehicle an absolute breeze,” says Taylor. The seat weighs under 10 pounds and features an anti-rebound bar (a bar that reduces the movement of the car seat in the event of a crash, adding a layer of safety) and five recline positions for proper installation and a comfortable fit. It also has a high rear-facing weight and height limit.

The standout feature of the Modes Nest stroller is optionality. It’s three strollers in one, working as an infant car seat carrier (you can click the car seat directly onto the stroller frame), a bassinet (called a pram in this case) and a toddler stroller with the ability to flip the seat parent- or forward-facing. The bassinet is a noteworthy addition here. While babies sometimes fall asleep in an infant car seat, AAP safe sleep recommendations say you need to transfer them to a firm, flat sleep space as soon as possible. The bassinet mode in this stroller allows you to stroll safely while your baby snoozes and not worry about moving them from a car seat. The toddler seat also has three different height positions, a nice perk when your baby is parent-facing so you can keep them close. Especially considering the price, these are all impressive (and convenient) features.

The biggest downside of this travel system lies in the stroller. Like many lower-priced options, there isn’t much suspension and the stroller’s wheels are plastic, making for a bumpy ride over anything other than smooth pavement. (More expensive strollers will have foam or air-filled tires.) This wouldn’t be my pick if I lived in a more rural area with dirt or gravel paths or if I was in a big city with uneven sidewalks. Many parents also note that this travel system is a pain to put together. But for the right family, the Modes is a solid choice and a great value.

“The car seat was easy to install and feels very tight and secure with the added Snuglock feature. It easily adjusts its harness height with just the squeeze of a button and the carry bar can be adjusted with one hand as well. The shade cover comes down nice and far and has a very elegant look to it as well….The stroller is very beautiful and customizable. My favorite feature is the HUGE storage basket! That is a must for me…The sun shade on the toddler seat comes down nice and low and the seat reclines in multiple positions. The braking system was easy to push and lift. The stroller frame itself is lightweight and easy to stick in the trunk for an outing. It works very well with the car seat…The main problem I had with the stroller was that it cannot handle going over any type of lip or ledge in the sidewalk. If it hits a bump it jarringly stops and can not glide over it. It then has to be lifted over said bump which is not easy to do since the storage basket collapses and doesn’t give much foot levering support.” — Macai

“I’m tall and this stroller does not have me hunching over. I feel very comfortable pushing it around and the height adjustment on the seat is wonderful. Another bonus is that it is very sturdy and has decent-sized storage underneath. On the downside, sometimes it’s not a smooth action when folding it closed if the wheels are pointing a certain way.” — Jaymills

Best Mid-Range Travel System

Nuna Nuna x Babylist PIPA urbn & TAVO Travel System - Refined

• Baseless infant car seat with a quick, easy install
• Car seat weighs just 7 lbs
• 4-wheel stroller suspension = smooth ride
• Thoughtful stroller features: adjustable handlebar, breathable seat, magnetic buckles
• Car seat has lower height and weight limits compared to many infant seats
• Stroller seat isn’t reversible to be parent-facing
• Child snack tray sold separately

Coming in at just under $700, this travel system is on the pricier side of mid-range but I think worth the extra splurge. It combines a popular car seat and stroller into one beautiful, functional system. “Just stop stressing and get this one,” one Babylist parent commented. (And if you’re stacking it up against other Nuna travel systems, I agree. The urbn also comes paired with the MIXX stroller, but it’s almost double the cost and I don’t think the MIXX’s features warrant that price tag. You can also pair the urbn with the TRVL , the brand’s lightweight stroller, but that combo is better suited for travel—and you can read why later in this guide.)

The infant car seat that’s included in this duo, the urbn, captivates me every time I install it. (You can see the installation for yourself in Nuna’s video .) That’s because it’s completely baseless and doesn’t even require a seat belt; simply push a button on either side of the seat to reveal the built-in lower anchor connectors and then attach them to the anchors in your vehicle’s back seat. That’s it! It’s foolproof and takes just a few seconds. And more so, it’s safe, as a properly installed car seat is a safe car seat. It’s also one of the lightest infant seats on the market, weighing in at seven pounds.

These features mean the urbn is a great seat for any family, but especially if you plan to use your seat on the go in rideshares or taxis. “I love being able to move the car seat in and out of any car without worrying about a base,” one Babylist parent told us.

High points of the TAVO are things parents have come to love about Nuna strollers, including a huge storage basket, four-wheel suspension for a smooth, easy push, an adjustable handlebar and a fairly compact fold considering the stroller’s size. I’m always impressed with Nuna’s attention to the little details that make a big difference. I love the breathability of the all-season seat and the magnetic buckles that make the task of getting your baby in and out of the stroller a bit less arduous.

The urbn does have a lower height and weight limit than many infant car seats, which is something to keep in mind when you’re thinking about your infant seat’s longevity. And the stroller doesn’t have a modular seat, so you won’t be able to parent-face your child unless you’re using the infant car seat attachment.

“After extensive research, this is the set we decided on. It had the most benefits for the price point. The baseless quick install has been a breeze. The stroller is really nice. It feels luxury and well-made and steers like a dream. The only con is that this is not a small, lightweight stroller. It will take up trunk space and it isn’t super light. It is great all around, however. The biggest benefit is that it has a built-in infant lounge position, which means you can use it from birth without the car seat.” — Dana N.

“I naively thought we’d never need a stroller (I could just carry the baby everywhere right?), but now that we have the TAVO I wish we had gotten it so much sooner. It’s a joy to use and makes everything about navigating the world with baby easier. They thought of it all when designing this model. It’s incredibly simple to use and everything about it is so smooth. Took a few tries to get the hang of the baseless car seat install, but now it’s a breeze to install and I love that there’s not a base always taking up a seat in the car.” — Ryan Q.

Best Luxury Travel System

UPPAbaby Aria Infant Car Seat & Vista V2 Stroller Travel System - Jake

• Stroller can fit up to 3 kids (with attachments; sold separately)
• Great suspension and huge storage basket
• Lightest car seat on the market at 6 lbs
• Car seat has anti-rebound panel and load leg
• Stroller has bulky fold
• Car seat is long front-to-back, may be a tight fit in smaller cars

If you have the budget and this stroller and car seat fit your lifestyle, this is my favorite travel system to recommend to parents-to-be who are up for a splurge. It’s similar to the car seat stroller combo I used (and loved) for years with my first son, although at that time the system came with the brand’s first infant car seat, the Mesa—and now that it includes the Aria instead, I love it even more. (But more on that later.)

UPPAbaby’s Vista V2 stroller consistently makes it into our best strollers guide. Almost 30% of the 6,000+ Babylist users who completed our Best Baby Products survey voted it as their favorite stroller—the highest percentage for any stroller on the list—saying it’s “worth every penny” and calling out the stroller’s quality as “amazing.”

The Vista is a pleasure to push. It steers easily with one hand, turns on a dime and takes on rougher surfaces like cracked sidewalks and gravel effortlessly. It also grows along with your family, accommodating two infant car seats, two bassinets and countless other combinations. Other features parents love include the modular seat (so baby can face you or the world), huge storage basket (with a 30-pound weight limit to hold all the things) and adjustable handlebar.

The Aria is just as great. It weighs just six pounds minus the canopy and inserts, the lightest infant car seat on the market and four pounds lighter than the brand’s other infant seat, the Mesa V2 . Even I was surprised at how light it was when I picked it up—and I’ve tested a lot of car seats. Safety features include an anti-rebound panel and a load leg as well as an easy-to-install LATCH system complete with visual indicators that turn red if something’s not right with installation.

Minus the price—this travel system’s obvious downside—know that the Vista V2 is a large stroller that’s not for everyone. (Need something to travel with or a stroller that you can pop in and out of your trunk a few times a day? The Vista probably isn’t for you.) The Aria takes up a bit more room front-to-back than some other seats, a concern if you drive a compact car or need more room in the front seat.

For a slightly more affordable option, check out the UPPAbaby Cruz V2 & Aria car seat stroller combo. The Cruz is more compact than the Vista and doesn’t convert to hold two+ kids, but you’ll save almost $400.

“We’ve been a big fans of UPPABaby strollers so we were excited about this pairing when looking for a travel system for our second baby. I could not be happier with the Aria. It’s SO light—I still can’t believe how much easier it is to carry than the last infant car seat I used. I also wanted a seat that prioritized safety and the Aria more than delivers. It’s also easy to install both with or without the base.” — JL

“So many options for car seats but we choose the V2 and it made sense to have the car seat as well. This was helpful when traveling to the doctors’ appointments on the 1st months. It’s easy to lift and place on frame with no hassle.” — Ellena

“Holy grail of strollers…Bassinet has been amazing for walks & for our baby to sleep during hockey games. The car seat is easy to maneuver from car to stroller which makes shopping & travel super easy! We can’t wait to use the toddler seat & love that this will transition with us when we decide to have a 2nd baby! The stroller is smooth and I can control with one hand when other hand is occupied…Worth every penny.” — Nikki W.

Other Travel Systems We Love

If you’re looking for something more specific in your travel system, like an extra lightweight option or something for jogging, we’ve got you covered. Here are a few more of our favorites. 

Best Lightweight Travel System

Nuna PIPA urbn & TRVL LX Travel System - Cedar

• Compact, lightweight stroller with easy fold
• Baseless infant car seat, weighs just 7 lbs
• Carry bag included
• Car seat has lower height and weight limits compared to other car seats
• Handlebar isn’t adjustable like with other Nuna strollers
• No snack tray available

If you plan on traveling frequently while your baby is an infant, or simply prefer a more lightweight stroller for everyday use, this is my travel system of choice. It includes the urbn, the baseless infant car seat reviewed above, and the TRVL stroller, Nuna’s lightest and most compact stroller. Standout stroller features include a quick, one-handed fold, a compact size (it stands on its own and weighs just over 13 pounds) and a smaller but easily accessed storage basket.

“Assembly was super easy and the quality of the materials and fabric is amazing. The set is compact, lightweight and the stroller is very agile with an effortless push/pull/turn functionality. The stroller’s easy collapse and standalone feature makes life much easier. I am giving it 4 stars and not 5 for the following reasons…Car seat requires rethreading harness which is less than ideal. Handlebar on stroller is not adjustable and when the canopy is pulled back it touches the handlebar, and therefore rubs against your hands. It would be nice if you could adjust the handlebar by being able to move it up, down, or out towards your body to avoid this and also for general height consideration of the person pushing the stroller. The button to secure the car seat in the stroller is very firm and not easy to click back and forth. The storage basket is very small and will not hold a normal-size diaper bag unless you squish it in. Adjusting the straps within the stroller isn’t difficult but the remaining slack dangles and isn’t easily secured. Overall, I think the quality and functionality outweigh some of the cons but its something for Nuna to consider when designing future models.” — Kristina D.

Easiest to Fold Travel System

Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 All-Terrain Travel System - Opulent Black

• Stroller folds with one hand in seconds
• 3-wheel design = easy to maneuver
• Car seat includes anti-rebound bar
• Bulky items/large diaper bags may be difficult to fit in the storage basket
• Stroller seat isn’t modular; only faces outward
• Car seat is heavy and fabric isn’t very breathable

The Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 stroller is a parent favorite and a Babylist bestseller thanks to its agility and unparalleled one-handed fold. This travel system matches it with the brand’s City GO 2 infant car seat.

The GT2’s slim profile and ability to quickly turn corners make it perfect for crowded city streets or suburban sidewalks. You can whip it closed with one hand and carry it up stairs or onto a commuter train no problem—it’s lighter than most full-size strollers. And because of its tight fold, it fits in smaller trunks. The compatible City GO 2 car seat is just as great. You can install it with or without a base (perfect for taxis or ride shares) and it pops right into the stroller.

“We are an NYC family, but also do quite a bit of driving, so we wanted a car seat that could easily pop in and out of the car. The stroller is super easy to fold with the one-pull handle, and we easily carry it up one flight of stairs. It’s not a feather, but it’s not that hard to carry one handed with something else in the other. I wish the stroller bucket was bigger, but we knew going in it wasn’t as big as others.” — AFS1122

Best Travel System for Jogging

Chicco Activ3 Jogging Travel System - Solar

• Easy to access stroller brake and front wheel swivel lock controls
• Oversized treaded tires and good suspension
• Comes with easy-to-install car seat
• Shallow storage basket
• Front wheel needs to be removed for stroller to fold flat, otherwise the fold is bulky

While you can’t jog with your baby until they have strong head and neck control, usually around six to nine months, you can use this stroller with the infant seat attachment to walk with your little one from day one. This is the best choice for an out-of-the-box travel system from the same brand. (There are other jogging-friendly travel systems out there, but most you’ll need to DIY by mixing and matching brands.)

Babylist parents call this car seat stroller combo “amazing” and “in a league of its own.” It includes the easy-to-install KeyFit 30 car seat and the Activ30 jogging stroller. The jogger has something called a Control Console, a unique area near the handlebar that includes a hand-operated parking brake (to keep the foot area clear), a front swivel wheel lock (to keep the stroller steady when you jog with it) and a height-adjustable handlebar. It also folds more compactly than most jogging strollers.

“As a runner the stroller is easy to handle and the car seat is sturdy and stays in place the entire time while running, jogging, walking. I love how easily it folds up and fits in my car. It’s such a well-made product and I feel as though my child is safe and that as a parent makes me feel better.” — Amy C.

How We Chose Our Best Infant Car Seats

We analyzed results from Babylist’s Best Baby Products survey, which polled 6,000 Babylist users and asked them to share the baby products they love the most and why.

We utilized insight from the Babylist editorial team, including me, Gear Editor Jen LaBracio, an expert in the baby space for over six years and a mom of two who has written hundreds of baby gear guides and personally researched and tested hundreds of baby products, including many travel systems.

We interviewed several experts, including Joe Colella, Director of Child Passenger Safety at the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association and 2020 Child Passenger Safety Hall of Fame Inductee and pediatrician Kelly Fradin , MD, FAAP. We also spoke with Courtney English , a Pediatric Occupational Therapist, and Child Passenger Safety Technician Samantha Taylor of Mama Knows Car Seats . 

We talked with Babylist Showroom Registry Consultants Tatyanna Hunter Jones and Pateel Markaradi. They’re part of a trained team of experts who work on our Beverly Hills showroom floor, answering questions daily about baby gear and helping parents-to-be build their baby registries.

We researched information on car seat safety and reviews from several leading car seat experts, including Car Seats for the Littles and The Car Seat Lady , as well as information from the AAP. We also considered the NHTSA’s Ease-of-Use Ratings .

What Is a Travel System?

A travel system is a car seat and a stroller that attach. Just unclip the car seat from its base in the back seat, snap it into the stroller and you’re off—and vice versa. 

Sometimes also referred to as a car seat stroller combo, you can purchase a travel system in two forms:

As a package deal from the same brand (the type of travel systems we’re reviewing here), or

As a “make your own” set that combines a stroller and a car seat from different brands using adapters.

Travel systems from the same brand:

Guarantee that your car seat and stroller will work together—no adapters required.

Eliminate some decision fatigue.

Can be more economical than a DIY version.

Build-your-own travel systems:

Give you more choices and the ability to mix and match brands as you’d like. You’re not locked into one brand for both your car seat and stroller, which means you’ll be able to customize each item to best suit your lifestyle. But…

Not all car seats and strollers work together. And the ones that do often require separate adapters. Check Babylist’s Infant Car Seat and Stroller Compatibility guide to learn more.

Do you need a travel system?

TL;DR: you don’t need a travel system, but you do need a way to get your newborn from point A to point B—and a travel system can help.

Unless your stroller comes with a bassinet attachment or fully reclines and is approved for newborn use, it’s not suitable for your little one until they can sit up unassisted—which usually isn’t until they’re around six months of age (or 25 weeks , if you’re counting). And even if that is the case, you’ll still need to move your infant every time you want to transfer them from the car seat to the stroller (and back again).

Here’s where a travel system comes in. A travel system solves for strolling with your newborn before they’re able to sit up independently. It also means you won’t have to disturb your little one every time you need to make the switch between your car seat and your stroller.

“Parents are shopping for/prioritizing travel systems because they like the convenience of taking baby from stroller to car and vice versa,” says Hunter Jones, a registry consultant in Babylist’s Beverly Hills showroom. “Guests will come in looking for an infant car seat that will click onto the stroller,” Markaradi, another showroom consultant, echoes.

You’ll need a travel system right from birth if you plan on using your car to transport your little one. At around six to nine months old, your baby will learn to sit up independently and will likely want a better view of the world—and then you can use the stroller on its own. And because you can use the stroller from infancy through toddlerhood, it’s the only stroller you’ll need to purchase.

Want to skip the travel system altogether? You have a few other options for newborn transportation.

A stroller frame is a bare-bones frame with the sole job of wheeling around your infant car seat. They’re typically inexpensive but stop being useful once your baby outgrows the infant car seat at about a year old, and most lack some of the nice-to-have features you’ll find on a standard stroller.

You can wear your baby in a baby carrier until they’re old enough to sit up unassisted and graduate to a stroller. But this can be tough on some parents’ backs, and you’ll lose the convenience of the car-seat-to-stroller-and-back-again transfer.

Using a Travel System Safely

Travel systems are safe for newborns, but there are some guidelines to keep in mind.

The AAP’s safe sleep guide recommends against the use of car seats for sleep outside of a car. If your infant falls asleep in their car seat, they should be removed and placed in a crib or bassinet (or other safe sleep space) as soon as possible.

But what if your baby falls asleep in their car seat while you’re driving and is still asleep when you arrive at your destination? According to pediatrician Dr. Fradin, the best practice is to remove them and transfer them to a safe sleep environment.

“However, many parents, myself included, will want the child to finish their nap for a brief period. If you choose to do this to reduce risk be sure the baby is not overheating by removing hats, blankets and ventilating the car. Also, keep the straps snug and place the car seat on the floor under your direct supervision.”

“If babies are in an approved stroller with the car seat properly restrained, I think of it the same as being in a vehicle,” explains Dr. Fradin. “Keep them cool and supervised.”

And since you may be using your infant car seat more frequently than parents who don’t rely on a travel system, keeping in mind what some experts call “the two-hour rule” is recommended.

“Safety experts [say] to limit car seat use to no more than two hours in a 24-hour period,” says English, a pediatric occupational therapist. “This is because research shows that when a baby is positioned in a semi-upright position for longer durations, it can restrict airflow to baby's lungs resulting in breathing issues. Additionally, it puts baby's spine in a stressful position when semi-inclined for longer durations.”

How to Choose a Travel System

Since a travel system includes two products, an infant car seat and a stroller, you need to think through the features of each (and how you’ll use them) both separately and as a pair.

Choosing an infant car seat

An infant car seat faces the rear of a vehicle and is designed specifically for younger babies. Infant car seats can be used from day one until your baby reaches the seat’s maximum height or weight limit (usually anywhere between 30-35 pounds, depending on the specifics of your seat).

As you review infant car seat options, look for a seat that meets these criteria:

Fits your child.

Fits your vehicle.

Can be used consistently and correctly on every ride.

All car seats sold in the US must meet the same strict safety regulations and pass all testing and requirements set forth by the NHTSA. But these three things—how a car seat fits your child, how easy it is to install and how easy it is to use day in and day out—are inextricably linked to a car seat’s safety. You can buy a seat with added safety features, but if it’s tricky to install or doesn’t fit well in your car, none of the extra bells and whistles matter.  

These are the features to think through when shopping for an infant car seat.

Size and weight, including how a seat will fit in your vehicle

A seat’s height and weight minimums and maximums

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren, a way to secure your car seat to your vehicle that uses built-in anchors and straps instead of your vehicle’s seat belt)

Safety features such as an anti-rebound bar, side impact protection and a load leg (a metal pole that extends from a seat’s base to the floor of a vehicle and can help absorb crash forces to a baby’s head and neck)

Ease of cleaning and fabric type

Canopy size

For more information on how to choose an infant car seat, including the features to prioritize and why, safety information, determining car seat fit and our expert-recommended seat picks, check out our Best Infant Car Seats guide.

Choosing a stroller

You’ll be using your stroller longer than your infant car seat. Also, the specific needs and lifestyle of a family often impact the type of stroller they need more so than what infant car seat they choose. Here’s what to think about. 

Evaluate your lifestyle. “Just because one stroller worked for a family member or your bestie doesn’t mean it will be the perfect stroller for you,” stresses Hunter Jones. Think through your lifestyle and your daily needs to help you narrow down a pick.

Think through features. Things like a modular seat, fold, wheel type and suspension, an adjustable handlebar, a storage basket, fabric type and canopy size are features that can affect how you use your stroller day-to-day.

Factor in family size. If you’re planning on having multiple children close in age, you may want to consider a convertible stroller from day one instead of registering for a single stroller and then having to purchase a double shortly after.

Consider safety. Look for a five-point harness, an easy-to-operate brake and a good fit.

Keep cost in mind. Strollers range widely in cost. More expensive models will often have all-wheel suspension, better maneuverability, modular seats, high-end fabrics or the ability to convert to a double, but there are many high-quality, more affordable stroller options, too. It’s all about finding what works for you and for your budget.

How to Choose a Stroller walks you through making a decision step-by-step. You can also consult our Best Strollers guide for a deeper dive into all things strollers and our most-loved product picks.

Once you’ve narrowed down your stroller and car seat options, you can decide if a travel system is the best option for you and which one meets your family’s particular needs.

Jen LaBracio

Senior gear editor.

Jen LaBracio is Babylist’s Senior Gear Editor, a role that perfectly combines her love of all things baby gear with her love of (obsessive) research. When she’s not testing out a new high chair or pushing the latest stroller model around her neighborhood, she likes to run, spin, listen to podcasts, read and spend time at the beach. In her past life, she worked for over a decade in children’s publishing. She lives outside of Chicago with her husband and their two boys, Will and Ben.

The Best Stroller Travel Systems That Parents Say Make Life Easier

Quick summary, how we chose the best travel systems , why trust us, best overall travel system stroller, uppababy vista v2 stroller + mesa infant car seat, best infant travel system stroller, doona infant car seat/stroller, best jogging travel system, graco modes 3 lite dlx travel system, best lightweight travel system stroller, chicco mini bravo plus travel system, best luxury travel system, nuna mixx next + pipa rx travel system, best affordable travel system, evenflo pivot modular travel system, best travel system for multiples, evenflo pivot xpand modular travel system with safemax infant car seat, what to look for in a travel system, should i get a car seat stroller combo, is a car seat/stroller combo safe, what are the different types of travel system strollers.

American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), How to Keep Your Sleeping Baby Safe: AAP Policy Explained , July 2022. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), How to Choose a Safe Baby Stroller , August 2022. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), Shopping for Car Seats: Tips for Parents , February 2020. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Keep Child Passengers Safe on the Road , October 2022. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Car Seats and Booster Seats , 2024. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Carriages and Strollers Business Guidance & Small Entity Compliance Guide , 2024. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Booster Seats Business Guidance and Small Entity Compliance Guide , 2024.

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Doona Baby Car Seat & Travel Stroller

From car seat to stroller in seconds. The latest collection makes a bold and on-trend statement with seven vivid colors, an updated all-black inner...

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Sleek and stylish yet ready for adventure, the Corso® Modular Travel System takes infant and toddler travel to exciting new levels with an easy-to-...

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Find your own pace as a parent with the Britax Willow Brook S+ Baby Travel System. This infant car seat and stroller combo includes the Willow S ba...

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Bring your car seat and stroller together with the Baby Jogger® City Sights® Travel System. It seamlessly pairs the City GO™ 2 Infant Car Seat with...

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The Expedition Race Tec PLUS Jogger offers a premium and personalized jogging experience for all consumers at different heights and jogging satisfa...

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The Graco® Modes™ 3 Lite DLX Travel System gives you 9 ways to ride on a sporty 3-wheel frame, with a one-hand fold and includes the top-rated Grac...

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The Baby Trend® MUV Tango All-Terrain PRO Travel System offers you and your child a premium strolling and riding experience. Parents will love the ...

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First-ride jitters? Gone. With our patented Click Tight technology, you'll install with confidence, every time. Right Size system provides adjustme...

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The top-selling Bravo 3-in-1 Trio Travel System from Chicco combines the full-size Bravo Quick-Fold Stroller with the top-rated KeyFit 30 Infant Ca...

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The Graco Modes Nest2Grow Dlx Travel System grows from a single to double stroller with the included Snug Ride Snug Lock 35 Dlx infant car seat or ...

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Slate Mini Bravo Plus Travel System. Baby and toddler can travel together on this stroller and carrier combo that features an adjustable design to ...

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The Zelia Luxe 5-in-1 Modular Travel System is designed to help you stroll into parenthood with ease. So versatile, you can step out with your baby...

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The Solar Activ3 Jogging Travel System Stroller offers Baby a comfortable and secure ride. Designed with a padded layer for Baby's comfort during ...

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Parenting made simpler? Yup, you read that right! Choosing a travel system means moving from car to stroller (and back) safely, seamlessly, and comfortably. Whether you’re heading out with one kiddo or have several in tow, this pairing will offer quick and easy convenience when your hands are full. Because they’re designed to work together, these stroller and car seat duos are a breeze to set up, separate, and maneuver. With features like lightweight frames, baby-to-toddler convertibility, and compact folding, your little’s travel system will take the stress out of your day-to-day tasks. From the most trusted brands like Graco to chicco to Britax , your errands, road trips, and commutes are about to be sooo much easier. Plus, get FREE shipping on qualifying orders when you spend $49. (And save even more when you shop on our site!)

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Best travel systems to streamline trips with your baby

• Best travel system overall : Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Travel System With SafeMax Car Seat
• Best splurge travel system : Vista V2 Stroller + Mesa Car Seat
• Easiest to use travel system : Chicco Bravo 3-in-1 Trio Travel System
• Best lightweight travel system : Graco Modes Nest Travel System
• Best jogging travel system : BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Travel System with B-Safe Gen2 Infant Car Seat

What to look for when buying a travel system

When you're traveling with your baby, convenience is key. A travel system, which seamlessly combines an infant car seat and stroller, streamlines what you need to bring on a trip or errand. 

With a travel system, the car seat clips into the base installed in your car as well as a stroller frame, making it easier to switch between the two. When you're out, simply lift the car seat from the base and attach it to your stroller without transferring your baby out of the seat. Back at your car, the car seat unclips from the stroller and attaches back into the base. 

Since travel systems don’t require you to unfasten and refasten your baby, they can be immensely helpful in reducing fussiness. They can also be big money-savers, since buying a travel system is often less money than buying each item separately.

How we chose the best travel systems

We used the American Academy of Pediatrics’ (AAP) recommendations for features to look for in a stroller Opens a new window . Per the guidance, all the travel system strollers on this list have: 

Easy-to-operate brakes that lock two wheels

A wide base that won't tip easily

A five-point harness

We also referenced the AAP's guidance on features to look for in an infant car seat Opens a new window . Per the guidance, all the travel system car seat on this list: 

Are rear-facing only

Carry infants up to 22 to 35 pounds

Have a carrying handle

Come with a base that can be left in the car 

We utilized results from the 2022 Best of Baby Center Awards , which polled more than 1,100 parents in the BabyCenter community about their favorite travel system. 

We spoke with two moms on BabyCenter's staff who shared their experiences using one of the travel systems on this list

We utilized BabyCenter's community to find a consensus on which travel systems are best, and the features deemed most important. All of the travel systems on this list received high reviews for: 

Ease of use

Ease of storage

Why trust us?

Best travel system overall, evenflo pivot xpand modular travel system with safemax car seat.

The Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Travel System wins BabyCenter parents over with versatility and a reasonable price. Voted Best Stroller in the 2022 Best of BabyCenter Awards, the Evenflo stroller grows with your child and family. You can buy extra modules to turn it from a single to a double, and choose from 27 different seating configurations to accommodate multiple children of different ages. 

For even more seating options, the included toddler seat converts to a bassinet-style attachment, perfect for taking your newborn on walks. In between strolls, the Pivot folds like a dream and stands by itself. 

The Evenflo SafeMax infant car seat is a worthy companion to the Pivot Xpand. Parents say the padding is comfortable for babies, and love the generous rear-facing weight and height ranges. Compared to other car seats, which top out at 30 pounds and 30 inches, the Evenflo SafeMax can be used until babies are 35 pounds or 32 inches. Parents also appreciate that the SafeMax comes with an integrated anti-rebound bar, a squared-off "handle" that helps absorb and distribute crash forces in the event of a collision. 

You can also buy the Pivot Xpand as a travel system with the LiteMax Opens a new window or SecureMax Opens a new window car seats, but we like the price and features of the SafeMax combination. 

Parents say

"We got the Evenflo pivot xpand system…. when we went to play around with different systems in store, DH drastically preferred the attachment/detachment mechanisms of this system to others."

"I love the evenflo pivot! It’s really easy to use. The car seat is great too. I’m a big evenflo fan in general. I tend to really like their products."

"I love that i can lay my baby down when we go for walks and she’s not all scrunched up! And it’s so easy to put fold the stroller and put it together again. Plus it’s so easy to push- it practically glides."

"Lightweight. Looks nice. The bassinet attachment is clutch if you're out and about and baby can take a nap laying down in it. The storage basket is pretty big and can hold up to 25 lbs. Folds down relatively easily. Lots of configurations so baby can face you or away from you in every attachment."

Weight: 28.5 pounds (stroller); 24 pounds (car seat)

Dimensions: 46 x 25 x 45 inches (stroller); 26.6 x 17.9 x 25.85 inches (car seat)

Weight/height range: Up to 55 pounds and 35 inches (stroller); 4-35 pounds and 17-32 inches (car seat)

Best splurge travel system

Vista v2 stroller + mesa car seat.

Premium in every way, the Vista V2 Stroller + Mesa Car Seat travel system includes two five-star pieces of baby gear: The Uppababy Vista V2 stroller, BabyCenter editors' pick for Best stroller , and Mesa infant car seat, a consistent BabyCenter choice for Best infant car seats.

The Vista V2 handles like a dream, even on bumpy surfaces or around tight corners. Leah Rocketto, Associate Commerce Director for BabyCenter, says it's "shockingly easy to fold and unfold with one hand," as well as the sturdiest stroller she's ever handled: "That thing has been in my car trunk during some bumpy drives, and I've yet to find a ding or scratch." 

If your family grows, you can buy accessories that convert the stroller to a double or triple without compromising performance: "It was easy to add a second seat when my [second] son was born, and while you definitely notice the extra load — and length — while pushing, it's still easy to maneuver and a smooth ride for the kids," says Robin Hilmantel, Senior Director, Editorial Strategy & Growth for Everyday Health Group. 

The Mesa car seat is exceptional in its own right, with a canopy that provides UPF 25+ protection, and an indicator turns from red to green when the car seat's base is correctly installed. "I love that there is a simple way to tell if it's secure and installed correctly," says Leah. 

You can use the V2's bassinet for safe naps or even overnight sleep; it fits into a compatible stand Opens a new window if you want a standalone. 

"I have the Vista and I love it! There's a huge basket underneath, and I love that you can turn your baby to face you or face forward. Also, I love the bassinet and that the stroller works with our car seat."

“Also love the Uppababy Vista V2 Stroller! Perfect for the baby through toddler stage! Nothing better than one purchase to last throughout their lives!"

"I went with the uppa baby vista v2 and Mesa car seat system. It’s expensive but everyone has told me it is worth it. I figured it’s worth it for such a heavily used item that can expand for 2 kids later too!"

Weight: 26.75 pounds (stroller); 20 pounds (car seat)

Dimensions: 61.2 x 41.3 x 36 inches (stroller); 26.5 x 17.5 x 23 inches (car seat)

Weight/height range: Birth-50 pounds (stroller); 4-35 pounds and up to 32 inches (car seat)

Easiest to use travel system

Chicco bravo 3-in-1 trio travel system.

You'll start loving Chicco’s travel system as soon as you install the KeyFit 30 infant car seat, which won the top spot for its category in the 2022 Best of BabyCenter Awards. High-quality installation features include easy-to-read bubble levels that make it easier to install at a newborn-safe angle, and a LATCH-tightening system that requires only a few gentle tugs. 

The included Bravo Quick-Fold stroller is named for its best feature: Reach under the seat, press one button, and the stroller collapses in half. 

You can also use the KeyFit 35 car seat Opens a new window with the Quick-Fold stroller, but it doesn't come bundled as a travel system. 

"We have a Chicco car seat and have been in two wrecks with our baby. In the second crash we got T-boned and the car was totaled. The car seat held up so well even though the frame of the car unhinged!"

"We went with the Chicco Bravo travel system. I love that it has good safety ratings. It also has big sun canopies, and if you have the car seat in the stroller, they overlap to keep your baby covered. I like the basket underneath too."

"I have the Chicco Trio travel system and I think it's definitely worth it. Along with amazing ratings and reviews, it's also nice on the eyes."

"We ended up going with the Chicco Bravo Trio Travel System.. we went to multiple stores and some we felt were flimsy and not sturdy and we liked that one the best."

Weight: 24.9 pounds (stroller); 16.6 pounds (car seat)

Dimensions: 35.2 x 22.8 x 42.7 inches (stroller); 27.5 x 17 x 24 inches (car seat)

Weight/height range: Up to 50 pounds (stroller); 4-30 pounds, up to 30 inches (car seat)

Best lightweight travel system

Graco modes nest travel system.

One of the downsides of travel systems is that they tend to be on the bulky and heavy side. But both pieces of the Graco Modes Nest Travel System are impressively lightweight compared to competitors. The Graco Modes Nest Stroller is 21.9 pounds, while the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite Elite Infant Car Seat weighs a mere 7.5 pounds. 

The lighter weight doesn't compromise the Modes Nest's performance. Parents particularly like that the stroller's toddler seat reclines flat, becoming a newborn-safe pram seat. The Modes Nest stroller also has a unique feature called the Slide2Me Seat, which allows you to adjust the placement of the toddler or infant car seat to bring your baby closer. Other extras on this system: The huge under-seat stroller basket and spacious child's tray. 

If you plan on having more children, the Graco Modes Nest2Grow Travel System Opens a new window comes with a stroller that converts to a double. 

"We went with the Graco Modes Nest Travel System - my 6'3" husband liked that one the best because the height is adjustable for the infant seat and he can feel like the baby is closer to him instead of at his knees. The wheels are rubber which is fine for walks in the suburbs (no sidewalks), and the turning radius is pretty good."

"Baby can face you or away from you whether you're using 5he carrier or the stroller (which can also convert into a pram). Plus, it's height adjustable."

Weight: 21.9 pounds (stroller); 12.3 pounds (car seat)

Dimensions: 38.1 x 27 x 41.8 inches (stroller); 25.5 x 17.5 x 27.5 inches (car seat)

Weight/height range: Up to 50 pounds (stroller); 4-35 pounds, up to 32 inches (car seat)

Best jogging travel system

Bob revolution flex 3.0 travel system with b-safe gen2 infant car seat.

This travel system combines BOB's Revolution Flex 3.0 jogging stroller with the Britax B-Safe Gen2 infant car seat, a truly mighty pairing. The Revolution Flex 3.0 stroller is BabyCenter editors' pick for Best jogging stroller due to its smooth ride even at top speeds. Its air-filled tires travel easily over any terrain, while the swiveling front wheel lets you maneuver around tight corners with ease. Even if you hit a few bumps along the run, your baby won’t feel them thanks to the mountain bike-style suspension. The Revolution Flex 3.0's also has an extra-large canopy that shields babies from the sun, and provides UPF 50+ protection. 

Parents say the Britax B-Safe Gen2 is easy to clip into the stroller and use in the car. They particularly like the high-quality buckles that clasp and unclasp smoothly, and easy-to-tighten premium LATCH connectors. 

BOB recommends jogging only with babies who are 8 months or older. 

"I’ve owned them all and nothing compares to the Bob. Only thing close to a bob is a Thule…. But we love our bob for walks as well as running, get the one with the swivel wheel!"

"Bob Revolution is my absolute favorite stroller! With an adapter it makes for a great travel system…. We choose to use the Bob as our travel system stroller because of our lifestyle...

Lots of kids sports, hiking, and we have a mini-farm. I've also seen tons of them in and around D.C. and other cities. The Bob can go just about anywhere you would want to take baby."

"For my second I got a BOB. And my goodness, even the double size was noticeably and impressively better for steering and handling during jogging. I was able to train for a half marathon with that one. I LOVE my BOB. Is it expensive? Yes. If you can afford a Bob or can find one second hand and run long distances, I have to recommend it."

Weight: 28.5 pounds (stroller); 19.9 pounds (car seat)

Dimensions: 46 x 24.5 x 43 inches (stroller); 26.6 x 17.9 x 25.9 inches (car seat)

Weight/height range: Up to 75 pounds (stroller); 4-35 pounds, up to 32 inches (car seat)

Travel systems can be great for new parents because the stroller and car seats are meant to work together; no guessing required. 

And, as with car seats and strollers, there are certain things you’ll want to keep in mind when finding the best travel system for your family. Some things to consider are:

Size: Most travel systems come with full-sized strollers. Consider how much room you have to store your stroller, whether that’s in a car trunk or closet. Similarly, you want to make sure the car seat will fit in your car, particularly if you have multiple children that require car seats. 

Weight: Full-size strollers and infant car seats tend to weigh a lot. If you have to move the stroller in and out of your car trunk frequently, or get the car seat in and out of your vehicle, you’ll want to make sure you have no problem lifting either.

Terrain: Most strollers are fine on flat pavement or for trips to the store, but if you frequently find yourself jumping sidewalk curbs or strolling through gravel or dirt roads, make sure you choose an all-terrain model. 

Adaptability: If you have more than one child or plan to, you may want a travel system stroller that can hold two or more children. You can add extra seats onto some strollers, use two infant car seats, or buy ride-on benches or boards for an older child. Modular strollers can be a good option: They allow you to add “modules” to fit additional children. 

Storage: The more the better. Look for a spacious under-seat basket as well as numerous handy pockets or other places to store your gear. 

Budget: Travel systems can be found for as low as $200 or as much as $1,500. Note that more expensive does not mean safer: to be sold in the United States, infant car seats must adhere to standards Opens a new window set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), while strollers must follow standards Opens a new window from the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Paying more generally gets you nicer extras: cushier padding, nicer fabrics, premium hardware. 

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Our research

AAP. 2022. American Academy of Pediatrics. How to Choose a Safe Baby Stroller. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/on-the-go/Pages/How-to-Buy-a-Safe-Stroller.aspx [Accessed June 2023]

AAP. 2022. American Academy of Pediatrics. Rear-Facing Car Seats for Infants & Toddlers. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/on-the-go/Pages/Rear-Facing-Car-Seats-for-Infants-Toddlers.aspx [Accessed June 2023]

CPSC. Undated. Consumers Product Safety Commission. Carriages and Strollers Business Guidance & Small Entity Compliance Guide. https://www.cpsc.gov/Business--Manufacturing/Business-Education/Business-Guidance/Carriages-and-Strollers [Accessed June 2023]

NHTSA. Undated. National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards; Child Restraint Systems, Child Restraint Systems-Side Impact Protection, Incorporation by Reference. https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2014/01/28/2014-01568/federal-motor-vehicle-safety-standards-child-restraint-systems-child-restraint-systems-side-impact [Accessed June 2023]

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Jogging Travel Systems

Travel systems.

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Stroller Type

• Compact & Lightweight Travel Systems

A stroller that comes with an infant car seat and infant car seat base included

• Jogging Travel System
• All-Terrain
• Ultra-Compact

Convenience

• Carry Cot Compatible
• Car Seat Compatible
• Expandable Canopy

The stroller can be folded using only one-hand, providing on-the-go convenience

• One-Touch Brakes
• Removable Child's Tray

The Slide2Me™ height-adjustable seat can easily be adjusted to 3 height positions to bring baby closer to you for face-to-face smiles and close-up interactions

• Standing Fold
• Water Repellant Canopy
• Adjustable Footrest
• Infant Pramette Mode
• Reclining Seat

Suspension helps provide a smoother and more comfortable ride for baby

Versatility

• Carry Handle
• Fixed Seating
• Grows with Family
• Locking Front Swivel Wheels

With reversible seating, also known as modular seating, you can attach the seat rear-facing or foward-facing on the stroller. With this versatility, your little can face you or face the world!

• Rubber Tires

Stroller Usage

• Removable Tray
• Front Lock Wheels
• Fixed-Seating

Car Seat Installation

The LATCH system allows you to securely install your car seat by connecting the lower anchor connectors built into your car seat to the lower anchors built into your vehicle. This is an installation method that does not require the vehicle seat belt.

• Level Indicator Tooltip Tooltip Tooltip Tooltip Indicates the correct recline angle during car seat installation. Recline must be upright enough to protect baby during crash and reclined enough so that baby can breathe comfortably Close
• Adjustable Recline
• Adjustable Base
• SnugLock Installation Technology

Carry handle adjusts with one hand to make getting baby in and out easy

Provides an additional layer of rear-facing safety by limiting rotation of the seat and your child in the event of an impact.

Make every outing with your baby special with Graco® travel systems. Our travel system is designed to maximize safety and comfort so you can enjoy your trips with your little one without the hassle. With our matching stroller and car seat combo, we provide both compact stroller and full-size stroller designs that include adjustable systems to make mobility easier for mom or dad. The adjustable base ensures a secure car seat installation in the car so you always have peace of mind when out and about with Graco® travel systems, no trip will ever be too much trouble!

• First Year Products

The best baby travel systems for easy days out

Joie Baby Finiti Pushchair

Mamas and Papas Ocarro

Ickle Bubba Stomp V4

Nuna TRIV Next

Venicci Upline 3in1 + Isofix Base Travel System

Venicci Tinum Edge SE 3in1 Travel System

Kinderkraft EVERYDAY Travel System

Silver Cross Reef pushchair

Bugaboo Fox 5

Cosatto Giggle 3in1 Travel System and Accessories Bundle

Joie Versatrax Travel System

Maxi-Cosi Zelia Luxe 2

Ickle Bubba Altima

BabaBing! Raffi

Dani Dyer 3-in-1 Travel System - Rose Gold Marble

Whether you're off for a walk in the woods or popping into town, the best baby travel system makes getting around with your little one easy peasy. Attach the best car seat to the pushchair frame, and you can move your baby from car to pushchair and back again, without disruption.

In general, a travel system consists of a pushchair that is compatible with a Group 0+ car seat, suitable from birth to the age of 12 months. You can easily attach or detach it from the frame, and it will either clip on top of the pushchair seat component or attach directly to the chassis with the seat component removed.

Travel systems for babies often also come with a carrycot attachment, so you can use the pushchair as a lie-flat pram. It's vital when choosing a pushchair for your baby that they can lie flat in it until they're six months old to support the healthy development of their spine and lungs.

Let's face it, having a baby is one of the most expensive periods of your life, so grabbing good deals for pushchairs and car seats can be a huge help. A travel system can make for a good value way to get everything you need for taking your baby out and about in one bundle.

Best travel systems at a glance: • Best overall baby travel system overall: Joie Finiti With Sprint - Buy now on John Lewis • Best baby travel system for on the go: Mamas and Papas Ocarro - Buy now on Very • Best for a bundle: Ickle Bubba Stomp V4 - Buy now on Amazon UK • Best baby travel system for assemble: Nuna TRIV Next - Buy now on John Lewis

To help you out, we've picked out our favourites. Every year we thoroughly test and review the best new products on the market, including the best travel systems for babies. We can then bring you comprehensive reviews from real parents who've tried out the travel systems in real life. Our annual Mother&Baby Awards also help us bring you the best advice about current products on the market.

The best baby travel systems 2024

1. joie baby finiti pushchair, best overall baby travel system.

John Lewis & Partners

Award: Won Gold in the Mother&Baby Awards 2023

The Joie Finiti with Sprint bundle is suitable from birth up to 22kg, and includes a pushchair, carrycot and car seat with a base. Our tester loved that it was quick and easy to fold and unfold, and the harness on both items was also really easy to use. The Calmi isn't just a carry cot, it can be used in a car and has the security of a car seat, so there's no need to wake your sleeping baby when they're under six months, moving them from cot to car.

With an extendable UPF50+ canopy, the Joie Finiti pushchair has three backrest positions which allows for a lie-flat position, it can also be folded up with just one hand, which is very useful when you're a busy parent with your hands full. Our mum tester said, "from the minute the Joie Finiti travel system and Calmi arrived, I was impressed, arriving in just one box each. Quick and easy to build with informative manuals, the included accessories (a cup holder, rain cover and detachable pram organiser) were a nice surprise to have included as standard. The pram is quick and easy to unfold/fold with no need to double over due to the quick release on the seat."

The travel system is convenient for travelling, or just when out and about day to day, as our mum tester found. She says, "it folds flat with the seat attachment making it quick and easy to put up/pack away if in a rush or in bad weather. The harness is really easy to use on both items and the four various modes this system caters for meant that we could choose the best combination for us for that moment in time. The clever storage pockets built into the Calmi carrycot on both the outside and the inside meant that I was never without a blanket/comforter and could easily and quickly find the items rather than having to rummage in a changing bag." However, our mum tester did note that the canopy could be bigger because when the seat is fully reclined it is not covered by the canopy.

Read our full Joie Finiti review.

• Lightweight to push
• Ample under-seat storage
• Durable suspension
• One hand fold
• Canopy doesn't completely cover the seat when fully reclined
• Two colour choices
• Five-point harness system
• Lockable swivel wheels

2. Mamas and Papas Ocarro

Best baby travel system for on the go.

If the grandparents-to-be are chipping in, or if you've saved hard for a top-of-the-range travel system, we think every penny is well spent on this Mamas and Papas Ocarro travel system. We love the puncture-proof off-road tyres – perfect for rural adventures in style, plus the reversible, lie-flat pushchair seat ensures maximum comfort during snoozes on the move. Our tester said, "I must admit I do love this pram!"

It is easy to use, even when carrying a baby and our mum tester said, "I love the fact that you can put it up and down using just one hand which did make my life easier (especially when caught in the rain)! I like the fact the hood comes down quite far but there's a zip to let some air in and a flap to check on your baby as you're pushing (my previous pushchair didn't have this) which does put your mind at ease, especially the first time you put your baby forward facing! Also, the fact that you can fold the pushchair down with the stroller seat on, and it folds down just as neat as it would without the seat is an added bonus as it saves time when out and about in the car! All in all these little features do make a huge difference!" However, she did note that the basket is not very easy to access, especially if you out larger items in it.

Overall, this is a stylish travel system with some great features. It is easy to use with a one hand fold, and it is also suitable for all terrains which we love. Reviewers commented that it is "extremely well built, unlike the cheaper options. Easy to manoeuvre and good range of accessories."

Read our full Mamas&Papas Ocarro review.

• Choice of colours for all tastes
• One-hand fold for convenience
• Easy to carry when folded making it portable
• Dual suspension for every terrain
• Basket can be difficult to access with larger item
• Lie-back seat
• Large extendable hood
• Puncture-proof tyres
• Reflective wheel rims
• Large easy-to-access basket

3. Ickle Bubba Stomp V4

Best for a bundle.

Rrp: £ 649.00

If you've got a little more to spend on a travel system, you'll want to know you're getting more bang for your buck. The Ickle Bubba Stomp V4 ticks that box, and is sturdy and felt safe, according to our reviewer. It's achingly cool and stylish, yet the highly functional design is also great for parents with differing heights, with a fully adjustable handle. With this travel system, you'll get the carrycot, seat unit, i-Size car seat and Isofix base, raincover, footmuff and changing bag, all included in the price. One of our mum testers said, "You get everything you need from birth until toddler. Secondly, the look and style of the travel system is very trendy. Lastly, the comfort for the baby to me is very important. I found that it was very comfortable for the baby both sleeping and awake.

The it comes to using the travel system, parents found it easy to manoeuvre with one mum, Jo, commenting, "this pushchair was a pleasure to use! It was sturdy and felt safe. It steered well and collapsed relatively easily. It reclined nicely and the sunshade was large enough to provide good cover for my daughter. This was a great feature. I have a dog, and it pushed surprisingly well on grass and pebbles whilst walking her. The handle positioning was easy to adjust and great for my husband who is tall."

However, Eleanor, our mum tester found it hard to fold, saying, "I would change the way it folds down as I found this very difficult. This made me less fond of this product." Reviewers also commented that the hood should come down further to provide more shade.

Overall, testers were impressed and said they would recommend this travel system to other mums based on how easy it is to steer and push, as well as the fact it is lightweight and compact and looks great.

Read our full Ickle Bubba Stomp V4 Special Edition All in One Travel System with Isofix Base review.

• Sturdy for reassurance and safety
• Easy to connect to the car
• Trendy and stylish
• Lightweight and compact once folded
• Some reviewers found it hard to fold down
• 4 seating positions
• Forward or rear-facing
• Puncture proof tyres
• Adjustable handle height

4. Nuna TRIV Next

Best baby travel system for assemble.

The Nuna TRIV Next was awarded Gold for Best Travel System  at the Mother&Baby Awards 2024.

Another travel system that really looks and handles well, the Nuna TRIV Next, was a hit with our tester, who found it easy to assemble and was impressed at how simple it was to change the positions. She commented, "the assembly process of the pushchair was so easy, I was able to assemble the pushchair alone at 40+2 weeks pregnant. I also tried out a few of the different seat positions, and changing to the collapsible carrycot the first time I set it up and I was really impressed with how simple that was to do."

We love that the all-season seat keeps your baby warm in winter and converts to breathable mesh in summer, while the rain cover provides extra protection no matter the weather. This travel system is also compact when folded and will stay standing by itself, which is a huge bonus to many. Our mum tester said, "the one hand fold and unfold has to be my favourite feature as it makes life so much easier when collapsing the pushchair in car parks to put away in the boot, or for storing at home."I have two pushchairs and I find I use this one more as my 'grab-and-go' pram as it's much lighter." Testers were also impressed with the carrycot, noting, "I also love that the carrycot is collapsible, it makes it great for storing in the house or car."

It is important to note that our tester thought it's a good "pushchair for someone who is living in a city and not in the countryside as the suspension isn't good enough for the country." Plus, she "did find the cover of the carrycot hard to get zipped up, it was very stiff and I was concerned that the jolting would wake baby up if they were asleep inside."

This is a great travel system for travelling because it is lightweight and compact and it also works well for city life. Our tester thought, "it all felt very good quality, especially the stylish colour scheme of black, really set off by the brown leatherette handle and front bar."

Read our full Nuna TRIV Next review

• Lightweight and compact for travelling
• Easy to use and simple to assemble
• Looks stylish and feels great quality
• Suspension isn't great, especially for rough terrain
• The cover of the carrycot is stiff to zip up
• Compact fold:  Folds up quickly with one hand and stands on its own, making it simple to use out-and-about as well as store away.
• All-wheel suspension : Spring suspension seat technology, all-wheel suspension and large tough, foam-filled rear wheels mean you're ready for smooth rides.
• Travel system compatible : simply attach any infant carrier to the included post adapter and customise the tilt to baby's needs. It also easily converts to a pram with the included post adapter, compatible with the TRIV series carry cot.

5. Venicci Upline 3in1 + Isofix Base Travel System

Best baby travel system for quick interchanges.

The Venicci Upline 3in1 + Isofix Base Travel System was awarded Silver for Best Travel System  at the Mother&Baby Awards 2024.

If you're looking for a travel system to use in towns or cities, then the Venicci Upline 3in1 + Isofix Base Travel System could be what you're looking for. Our tester thought it was easy to use and folded down really small, even fitting into a small car with room to spare, she commented, "it was really easy to put together with clear instructions and it’s easy and quick to interchange the different components. The pushchair and bassinet are great, folding down nice and small so that they fit easily even in a small car such as a Fiesta, with a bit of room to spare!"

This product has a long lifespan, lasting from birth to four years, and comes with a carrycot, seat unit, car seat (with adapters), changing bag, foot muff, insect netting and rain covers. Our mum tester commented, "one of the real bonuses for us of this Venicci Upline Travel System is that the seat of the pushchair can be used from the newborn age. It is also really handy that the car seat has ISOFIX incorporated into it, so that the car seat can be securely fitted into many a vehicle without the need of a base."

There are so many features that we love about this travel system, however the basket is a bit too small. Our tester noted that the "basket isn’t huge but big enough for a change bag and a couple of coats." Overall, this is a stylish travel system that is ideal for everyday use, mainly in urban areas however our tester commented that "the travel system seems to have large wheels which would make it good for lots of terrains although I have yet to try this."

Overall, our mum tester thought, "really like the look and quality of this travel system. Looks upmarket compared to many other brands and has some unique features, eg attachable nappy bag and flap under the stroller that you can put down when putting items in then lift up to secure them in place. Both the bassinet and stroller attachments are sturdy and car seat is comfortable and safe."

Read our full Venicci Upline 3in1 + Isofix Base Travel System review.

• Modern design and luxurious finish
• Water-repellent fabric
• Large with solid wheels
• Cozy footmuff included
• Adjustable footrest
• Seat unit can be folded in rear and forward-facing position when attached to the frame.
• Carrycot suitable for overnight sleeping
• Quick, one-hand fold
• Additional suspension
• Compact size and lightweight

6. Venicci Tinum Edge SE 3in1 Travel System

Best baby travel system for simplicity.

Award: Won Silver in the Mother&Baby Awards 2023

The Venicci Tinum SE Stylish Black 3in1 travel system won a silver award at the 2023 M&B Awards, and with good reason. One reviewer said she loved the one-hand fold, and how it was compact too, commenting, "it is so easy to fold and unfold the pushchair with one hand and there is no need to remove the seat which is so handy for me."

It has a lightweight frame, easy-to-fold mechanism and modern design, as well as having a pram, car seat and carrycot included, it comes complete with all the accessories needed to make going out and about with your little one as easy as possible. These include a footmuff, changing bag with mat, rain cover and mosquito net. Our mum tester said, "this product is extremely user-friendly. Everything about the pushchair is easy to do, with strong smooth mechanisms. The pushchair seat and bassinet are both really easy to attach and detach. Everything feels great quality."

Perfect for all terrains, our mum tester said, "the nice big chunky wheels make it great for all terrain and it is really smooth to push." However, it doesn't compromise on style with one reviewer adding, "I love the design of the (very sleek and stylish) travel system from Venicci - the glossy black and rose gold are gorgeous, and the foot muff insert lining feels very plush (although too thick for use in the summer!)."

However, some mums were not impressed by the car seat and one mum tester said, "I'd definitely change the car seat. Everything about the pushchair itself it exceptionally well made, easy to use and high quality with many amazing clever features, I love it. The car seat massively lets this down as a travel system because the quality of the car seat just does not match the pushchair at all. It feels cheap, with rough material and is not easy to use."

Overall though, testers were pleased with the quality of the travel system and thought it was comfortable for babies and toddlers. "My daughter seemed very comfortable in this and was well protected from the sun by the extendable hood," while another mum added, "My baby found this push chair comfortable and didn’t seem stressed out when he was in it. I really enjoyed the foot chair feature."

Read our full Tinum SE Stylish Black 3in1 review.

• One-handed folding for easy use
• Looks stylish and is comfortable for your little one
• Big wheels for all terrain
• Some mums struggled at first to attach the car seat to the base
• 360-degree spin front wheels
• Three-position adjustable reclining pushchair seat
• Three-position adjustable footrest

7. Kinderkraft EVERYDAY Travel System

Best baby travel system for easy use.

Rrp: £ 257.09

Award: Won Gold in the Mother&Baby Awards 2022

Kinderkraft EVERYDAY is a multifunctional 3-in-1 baby stroller with a large carrycot (with a handle) and a soft mattress; it has bamboo viscose fibres in the cover for good ventilation and antibacterial properties. Our reviewer loved that it has good suspension and is easy to use on different terrains. Together with the Kiddy Evoluna car seat, this makes a comprehensive travel system and the car seat lies flat, both inside and outside the car. Our mum tester commented, "this is a great pram to use as the bassinet sits higher up than others. This means it is easier to see the baby and also lift them in and out. It has good suspension and is relatively easy to use on different terrains."

The sunshade is excellent and clips on to the hood and base of the bassinet meaning good shade cover. Plus our mum tester, Charlotte, added, "I loved the design feature of the window in the hood of the stroller so I could see baby at all times." Reviewers also loved the added features, commenting, "there is a useful cupholder and also storage pocket within the bassinet for keys/phones etc."

In terms of usability, our reviewers thought this was a comfortable pushchair and our mum tester, Charlotte, said, "the 360 degree wheels made the pushchair really easy to manoeuvre on all terrains including muddy ones!" Mum tester, Louise, also agreed, saying, "The wheels are a good size and it is easy to manoeuvre on different terrains. The wheels are lockable is desired."

Although this travel system is easy to fold, unfortunately, it does not stay folded. Our mum tester noted, "Once folded there is no way of keeping the whole system together in a tight compact way. Instead it opens out when trying to lift it to get in the boot of the car. This makes it extremely difficult to move due to the size and weight of the stroller."

However, overall mums were pleased with this travel system and felt it was good value for money. One mum tester said "the Everyday 3-in-1 stroller is amazing value for money. For the price you get so much all at a great quality. This product sees your little one from birth through to toddler. I loved that the stroller also came with every accessory you could need including a changing bag for mum complete with changing mat, cup holder and bag hooks for the pushchair."

Read our full EVERYDAY 3-in-1 Pushchair review.

• Easy to use and adjust
• Spacious basket for shopping
• Good suspension for different terrains
• Quite heavy
• Doesn't come with anything to hold the stroller in place once folded to keep it compact
• AUTO-LOCK after folding
• All-wheel suspension
• Telescopic handle with 3-step adjustment
• Central foot brake

8. Silver Cross Reef pushchair

Best baby travel system for newborns.

The Silver Cross Reef pushchair is a multi-terrain travel system, which is suitable from newborn to 22kg. Our reviewer thought the system was well-designed and sturdy and loved the one-hand fold, but one downside is its weight. This might be an issue for those who have had a c-section, or struggle moving heavier objects out of a car boot. However, the car seat is very sturdy and comfortable and was a hit with the tester's baby. Our tester said "if you find that you are comfortable with the weight then you would be hard-pressed to find a better travel system out there. It is very well designed, intuitive to use, safe, sturdy, secure, user-friendly and very good to look at."

The travel system is great for all weathers. Or tester, dad Ashley, said, "having a winter baby, one of my main concerns was with insulation and making sure my Princess stays warm in the subzero temperatures. I'm happy to say that the padding of the mattress and the quilting of the wall lining in the cot makes for an extremely cosy interior that stays toasty warm." However, he also added that the carrycot will "cater for the warmest of summer months as well. On the front and back of the cot are little ventilation flaps that can be opened and closed. These give a flow of air through the pram and will keep it cool in the summer. All these features in a cot that is approved for overnight use."

Read our full Silver Cross Reef pushchair review.

• Feels safe and sturdy
• Looks and feels luxurious
• Well-designed and user-friendly
• Features the Genius™ harness system with magnetic buckle
• Sustainable outer fabrics
• Vegan leather handle
• Large, easy-to-access basket with a 5kg capacity
• One-handed fold

9. Bugaboo Fox 5

Best baby travel system for style.

Rrp: £ 1115.00

If you're looking for something that uses sustainable products, then the Bugaboo Fox 5 could be the right travel system for you. It is a versatile and stylish solution for parents seeking a premium pushchair.

Our tester loved its lightweight design, and it seamlessly transitions between a comfortable carrycot for infants and a reversible seat for older children. The Bugaboo Fox 5 features a robust chassis, all-terrain wheels, and adjustable suspension for a smooth ride.

Its modular design and high-quality materials make it a top choice for modern, active parents. Our tester, Ashley, said "it is impeccably well-designed, managing to be both totally functional and stylish. The fact that sustainable products have been used to manufacture it is a huge plus point in this modern age. The suspension system makes the ride silky smooth and coupled with the lightness and quality steering makes it very easy to push and manoeuvre."

While it is a sturdy and safe pram, our reviewers did find it tricky to put together at first and it takes a bit of patience. Our tester also found the brake pedal was a bit small, saying, "If I had one wish, it would be that the brake pedal is ever so slightly bigger but this may simply be down to my clumsy clown shoes."

Overall though, our tester liked the travel system commenting, "the Fox 5 is a brilliant all-rounder with very few drawbacks and definitely value for money."

Read our full Bugaboo Fox 5 review.

• Stylish appearance
• Lightweight but strong
• Brilliant steering and handling
• Fits into the boot without removing the seat
• Can be difficult to first put together
• One-hand fold with a self-standing design
• Reversible seat can extend by 10 cm
• Large puncture-proof wheels & advanced suspension
• Sturdy yet lightweight

10. Cosatto Giggle 3in1 Travel System and Accessories Bundle

Best baby travel system for vibrant design.

One thing about Cosatto products is you can never call them boring. Their fun designs are perfectly eye-catching for parents and kiddies too, and this travel system, the Cosatto Giggle 3in1 Travel System & Accessories Bundle, is no different. The bundle includes the chassis, convertible pram to seat unit, car seat (with adaptors) and raincover. Our tester thought it was brilliant for the price, but would have liked a larger basket and felt the rails scratched too easily. She said, "I am very pleased with my pram. It looks amazing and it is easy to drive."

While it is stylish for life about town, it can handle the rough terrain of the countryside too. Our tester commented, "I have tried it so far on the pavement but went off-road too." Design is a major plus point for Cosatto and our reviewer said, "my little one loves to observe cute foxes inside." However, she did add that the "rails are a little too easy to scratch and the basket could be bigger. "

Overall it is an easy to manoeuvre pram with a great design. Our tester said, "I highly recommend this pram, you can't get a better design at this price. Love it!"

• Three wheels for easy manoeuvrability
• Lightweight chassis
• UPF100+ protection sunshade hood
• Storage basket could be bigger
• Multi-recline duo-directional seat
• Flat-folding lightweight chassis
• Stitched leatherette handle
• Quick-release removable wheels
• 4 position recline

11. Joie Versatrax Travel System

Best baby travel system for excellent storage.

The Joie Versatrax is another stylish travel system, which is free-standing when folded. Appealing to those who are eco-conscious, this travel system is made from 153 recycled bottles. It comprises of a carrycot, infant carrier and stroller, and was easy to push according to our tester. Along with the travel system, you'll get a raincover, bumper bar, cupholder and adapters. Our reviewer said, "I found it really easy to push and liked the colour and materials used, it felt really stylish."

Comfort is a big plus for this pram and our mum tester said, "my son found this buggy really comfortable and had no problems falling and staying asleep in it." Reviewers were also really impressed with the size of the basket, commenting, "the basket is really nice and big so I can fit all of my shopping bags in there when I go to the supermarket. This is a great advantage as I don't always have use of the car so it means I can get more shopping in one trip rather than having to go every day. We often like to take picnics, a blanket, football etc when we go for days out so the big basket is very useful once again."

Reviewers did find that the pram quite hard to adjust and mum tester, Laura, said, "The opening of closing of the pram could be better, easier and less fiddly." They also thought it was quite large which can be problematic when out and about, noting, "the pram is quite wide, and a little tricky to manoeuvre through narrow door ways."

Overall, mum tester, Hannah, was impressed and said, "The pram keeps on surprising and surpassing me - super smooth wheels, huge canopy for extra ventilation, lots comes included - rain cover, cup holder, hidden zip and pocket storage in huge basket! Super elegant black matt frame with brown leatherette and a stylish grey flannel all encompassed seat makes this so trendy and good looking. Handlebar swivels so no need to remove. Easy usability from birth to preschool."

Read our full Joie Versatrax review.

• Comfortable for baby
• Large basket for shopping
• Excellent foldability for quick folding
• Carry handle included
• Not as easy to adjust compared to other prams
• Quite big in size
• Rearward and forward-facing seat
• One-hand, instant flash fold mechanism
• Extendable UPF50+ and water-repellent canopy
• Adjustable calf support
• All-wheel suspension with fake air tyres

12. Maxi-Cosi Zelia Luxe 2

Best stream-lined baby travel system.

The Maxi-Cosi Zelia Luxe 2 pushchair is the perfect 2-in-1 pushchair for cool, relaxed city living. This travel system can fit into a small flat without compromising your baby's comfort, and is suitable for newborn to 4 years. Our mum tester thought, "this would be an ideal pushchair for grandparents or other carers who are not using it all the time." The Maxi-Cosi Zelia 2 pushchair is the second version of the Maxi-Cosi Zelia stroller, which won bronze in the Mother&Baby Awards in 2019. Our testers agreed it was better suited as a second pushchair, as it wasn't as robust as some of the market, and more suited to a city environment.

Despite not feeling as sturdy as other prams , our testers thought it was comfortable to push commenting, "I really loved the Zelia Travel System. It was lovely to steer and push and easy to slot into place." Plus, it is suitable for a wide range of ages and our mum tester said, "I especially like that it is suitable for all ages. I like that I have the option to use it if I were to have another child with the Pebble Plus car seat. This is a bonus as it's so much easier to have it all as one rather than separate car seats and buggies."

Read our full Maxi-Cosi Zelia review.

• Good value for money
• Comfy and cosy for all ages
• A great option as a second pram
• Could be sturdier
• Integrated carrycot
• One-hand fold
• Large basket
• Baby car seat adapters are included

13. Ickle Bubba Altima

Best all-in-one baby travel system.

Another travel system with a one-hand fold, loved by our reviewers, is the Ickle Bubba Altima. Our mum tester, Clare, thought this was a great travel system, saying, "it’s packed full of useful features, like lots of breathable air flow mesh which will keep baby cool, and the unique selling point of being able to fold the pram with the seat unit still in place, in a simple, one-handed action. " Although she did add that it takes a while to get the knack of the one-handed fold.

Suitable from birth up until 22kg, this is a great travel system for longevity and our mum tester commented: "It’s clear that the Altima travel system is centred around functionality, comfort and style. I love the fact that I won’t be forking out for a new model when she outgrows the new born carrycot, but instead I’ll change to the seat unit. From easily switching between parent-facing and world-facing positions to coming with a cosy, padded seat liner, the seat unit has so many great features. Then with its side impact protection, pop-out impact panels and a supportive newborn liner, I felt happy in the knowledge that my newborn baby would be safe in the car seat while on the move. The car seat and ISOFIX base meet all the necessary standards for car seat installation."

Mum tester Clare notes that "with all its useful features at a reasonable price, it feels like the Altima is a great investment." She also adds, "It’s compact and easy to store, which will be a great space saver when parked up in our front room, or while putting it in the car boot."

• Lightweight and easy to manoeuvre
• Compact when folded
• Great for longevity from birth to toddler
• Initially tricky to get to grips with one-hand fold
• One handed fold
• Suitable up to 22kg
• Includes cup holder and rain cover

14. BabaBing! Raffi

Best trending baby travel system.

The BabaBing! Raffi looks stylish, and one reviewer thought that it was amazing quality for the price, saying, "the Raffi Pushchair is perfect for my little one due this year, and such amazing quality for the price." However, this travel system doesn't come with a car seat, which would be an extra cost.

Despite not including a car seat, reviewers were impressed with the number of accessories, as well as the carrycot and seat unit, it also comes with a 2-in-1 raincover, a waterproof footmuff and car seat adapters. One reviewer said, "everything comes with it which makes life so much easier."

The pram is easy to use and it is lightweight making it great for travelling. However it doesn't compromise of sturdiness and our reviewer said, it "has a nice sturdy frame but isn't too heavy. I really love it, and can't wait to use it."

• Easy to use
• Sturdy one-hand fold
• Generous storage basket
• Reasonably lightweight
• Car seat not included as part of the travel system
• Easy one-handed folding
• Forward- and rear-facing seat
• Anti-reflux carrycot with 3-position incline/recline
• 2-in-1 rain and sun cover
• Made with recycled fabrics

15. Dani Dyer 3-in-1 Travel System - Rose Gold Marble

Best baby travel system for a compact fold.

www.very.co.uk

Award: Won Bronze in the Mother&Baby Award2022

The Rose Gold Marble Belgravia Travel System was designed with celeb mum Dani Dyer as part of her Cherish range. Its design adapts as your family grows and includes a bassinet which can attach to the stroller frame for family strolls and fresh air, eventually progressing to the reversible seat. Our mum tester said, "this travel system is amazing. It's so easy to put up and fold with one hand, and switch between seat styles, which is everything you need In a travel system. The fact it all comes as a package and you don't need to worry about finding the correct accessories anywhere else, the box has it all."

Like the Ickle Bubba, it comes with a built-in buggy board for tots, which we love, and detachable wheels for compact storage at home or on the go. It is also really well priced for such a versatile product, and folds down to a compact size, perfect when you have a lot to fit in your boot! Plus our mum tester was impressed with the shopping basket, saying, "the shopping basket being large with zips is a godsend."

However, some reviewers thought it was tricky to assemble, commenting, "I would change the design of the frame to make it more sturdy and easier to unfold (give clearer instructions in the manual if not). This would save even more time when setting up." While many loved the design, saying, "I would choose this travel system above any other because I love the boldness of the design", others felt that it was limiting, adding, " I would choose the pattern to make more gender neutral as I did have a lot of comments when putting my newborn baby boy in the bassinet."

However, it is a practical choice for travel with mum Joanna-Belle, noting, "the fact it folds up so small, means that travelling with a child of any age with all their accessories, is the biggest selling point for me, it can fit in the smallest of car boots with zero effort."

Read our full Dani Dyer Rose Gold Marble Belgravia Travel System review.

• Compact fold, great for small cars
• Larger seat for prolonged use
• In-built buggy board
• Tricky to assemble
• Some parents didn't consider it gender-neutral in design
• Height adjustable push handle
• Multi-position reclining seat with 5-point harness
• 2 position adjustable and extendable leg rest
• 3 position, extendable canopy with viewing window

What to look for in the best travel system

Convenience is the main benefit, as you can transfer your baby to and from a pushchair without removing them from their car seat. This is less disruptive for your child and saves time and stress. A travel system is often more expensive and sometimes bulkier than a standard pushchair, so it's only worthwhile if a car is your main form of transport.

It's important to keep in mind that different travel systems are compatible with different car seats, although there is some crossover. The most important thing about buying the best travel system is to make sure it will fit in your car.

Here are some things to look out for when considering your purchase.

Shopping basket

A big basket is essential! It should be large enough to hold everything you need when you're out with your baby, including the rain cover and your baby changing bag . The basket should be accessible, even when the carrycot is attached, or the pushchair seat is fully reclined.

Seat recline

The recommended sleeping position for babies is flat on their back, so a pushchair seat that reclines fully flat is a must for naps in the pushchair. It should be easy (and quiet!) to adjust with your baby in the seat.

A height-adjustable handlebar ensures the pushchair is comfortable for you, your partner or anyone else who might use it regularly. Check that it's easy to adjust and comfortable to hold.

Is the car seat included in the price, or do you have to buy it separately? Factor in the price of the base, too, and don't forget car-seat adaptors to attach it to the chassis.

Babies shouldn't sit in car seats for more than two hours at a time - we've looked at the research into how long a baby should stay in a car seat - including when it's attached to a pushchair chassis. Choose a travel system with a comfy lie-flat carrycot. Your baby will outgrow it by six months old, so check how bulky it is to store – some are cleverly designed to convert to an upright seat.

Seat direction

A travel system with a reversible seat unit means you can choose which way your baby faces. A parent-facing seat encourages your baby's communication skills, but an inquisitive toddler might prefer to face where they're going. There are regulations and advice on how to keep your baby rear-facing for longer .

Accessories

Some travel systems come with coordinating accessories such as a footmuff or change bag. Think about which ones you actually need and whether they're included in the price.

Fold mechanism

A travel system will be in and out of your car boot. Choose one that's compact and easy to fold, leaving room for shopping or luggage.

The brake should be comfortably positioned and easy to operate without the risk of applying it by accident or scuffing your shoes. Check how reliable it feels and whether it's easy to release.

All-terrain wheels make for easy manoeuvrability on muddy walks. Smaller, solid wheels make light work of city pavements and shiny shop floors. If you're likely to switch between different types of terrain, go for lockable, swivel wheels.

Do I need a baby travel system?

A baby travel system can be convenient has they come with all the travel essentials you need for your baby. They are often good value, however if you buy an ISOFIX car seat to stay in your car, you wouldn't need a travel system that comes with a car seat.

What other things do I need to consider when buying a baby travel system?

Not all infant car seats can be attached to all pushchairs, and you may need to buy adaptors. If you'd prefer an i-Size car seat, which sits your baby in the safer rear-facing position until they are at least 15 months old, you'll need to choose a pushchair frame that's compatible. If you want to keep your child rear-facing in the car beyond 15 months, you'll need an extended rear-facing car seat. However, these are designed to stay in your car, so a travel system isn't an option.

The car seat will either clip on top of the pushchair's seat component or attach directly to the chassis with the seat component removed. Adapters are sometimes required to fix the car seat onto the pushchair or chassis. Check if these are included. If they aren't, find out what the additional cost will be.

What about the pushchair?

A travel system often has a seat component that enables it to be used as a 'normal' pushchair. Many mums use the car seat clipped into the frame when their baby is very young, using the larger seat component as their little one grows. If you intend to keep your newborn in the pushchair for long periods, you will need a travel system with a fully reclining seat component.

Newborns should only remain in car seats for a few hours at a time, as lying horizontally is better for their breathing and healthy spine development. Some travel systems also offer the option of a pram-style carrycot. While this can add expense, the carrycot can double as a Moses basket and portable travel cot.

Can you use a travel system for toddlers?

Only Group 0+ car seats will fit on the travel system. These will be outgrown at around 12-15 months. Most mums will continue to use the travel system with the seat component fitted after that.

For toddlers, a seat that reclines for naps is useful, but it doesn't have to be fully horizontal. Some pushchair seats are reversible, so your baby can face you, to begin with, but face outwards to get a better view of the world as they get older. For older children, you may want to look into the best car seat for 4-year-olds .

How easy is it to fold?

All travel systems fold up so that they can be stowed in a car boot. Try out the folding mechanism in the shop – your 'tricky' might be another person's 'easy'. Consider that you may sometimes need to hold your baby while you fold and unfold the chassis. You'll also have to lift the folded pushchair chassis in and out of the car boot, so consider its weight – anything over 10kg could be a struggle.

How big is your car boot?

Travel systems are more compact than ever, but some models are still pretty bulky to allow for all the extra functionality they offer. Before you buy one, check it fits in your car boot. You can always remove the carrycot or seat unit from the chassis and store it on your back seat. Although, this will limit space in your car for other passengers.

Can I use a second hand travel system?

While it can be perfectly fine to use a second hand travel system, it is not advised to use a second hand car seat unless you are absolutely sure that it has never been in an accident.

It would be advisable to only use second hand if it's from a very close relative or friend.

What is the difference between a 2in1 and 3in1 travel system?

A 3in1 travel system includes a car seat, carry cot and a pushchair all on the same frame, where as a 2in1 would only include the car seat and pushchair.

The bonus to both is that they are interchangeable with a car seat, which can be handy when you're out of the house and don't want to disturb your baby if they fall asleep.

Emily Gilbert  is the Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby and has written for the website and previously the magazine for six years. Specialising in product reviews, Emily is the first to know about all the exciting new releases in the parenting industry.

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11 Best Travel System Strollers

Getting around with your little one is much easier if you have the right stroller. Many parents find a 3-in-1 travel system stroller practical because it includes a stroller and also an infant car seat that doubles as a baby carrier.

A travel system stroller is great because it can be used from the moment you take your newborn home from the hospital until well into toddlerhood.

Based on more than 4,500 Pampers Parents votes, we’ve put together a list of the best travel system strollers. We also cover which features to look out for when comparison shopping, as well as some safety tips for using your new stroller and car seat.

Why Choose a Travel System Stroller

Travel system strollers can adapt as the baby grows, making them particularly appealing to parents who like the idea of a combo product that fulfills different needs.

A travel system stroller typically includes an infant car seat (which sometimes doubles as a carrier), a car seat base, and the main stroller unit, which holds the infant car seat and can convert into a toddler stroller when the time comes.

Here are some pluses of owning a travel system:

It can allow you to move your sleeping baby from the car to the stroller without disturbing her.

Some models have a stroller seat that reclines flat, so it can be used when your infant is 6 months or younger. As your baby gets older, the backrest can be adjusted to a higher, more comfortable position.

Once your baby outgrows the infant car seat, she can continue to use the stroller part of the travel system into toddlerhood.

Even though a travel system stroller can cost more than most standard strollers (some, like the UPPAbaby Stroller, cost over $1,000), you get more bang for your buck because you don’t need to buy an infant car seat, infant stroller, baby carrier , and toddler stroller separately.

The even better news? Pampers Parents recommend several travel system strollers that are around $300 or less.

These are the travel system strollers Pampers Parents chose as their favorites:

1. Chicco Bravo Trio Travel System

Why pick this one? Pampers Parents chose the Chicco Bravo as their absolute favorite travel system. With features like a one-touch braking pedal, all-wheel suspension, swiveling front wheels, and a three-position adjustable padded handle, this stroller has a lot going for it.

The way this travel system works is that the rear-facing infant car seat clicks into either the stroller or the car seat base. The car seat base installs securely and can remain fastened in your car.

Once your baby has reached the maximum weight and height limit of the infant car seat, you can shift to using the stroller seat. However, that also means you’ll have to get a new forward-facing car seat that suits your little one’s bigger size.

The stroller includes a parent tray with two cup holders and a storage compartment as well as a child tray with two cup holders. The stroller’s canopy is fully adjustable, and the backrest reclines for added comfort.

Highlights: The stroller has an innovative fold-and-carry handle with a one-hand, quick-fold feature. The stroller seat and canopy can be removed for cleaning. The infant car seat features removable padding for use with your newborn.

Price * : about $379.99 on Amazon.com

Pampers Parents pros and cons:

Pros: It’s very easy to use and fold up with only one hand.

Cons: It could be lighter, and it would be better if you could have your baby either face forward or backward in the stroller.

2. Graco Fastaction Fold Jogger Click Connect Baby Travel System

Why pick this one? If you’re looking for a travel system stroller that’s also good for jogging, then the Graco Fastaction is for you.

The stroller features three air-filled rubber tires for a smooth ride on any terrain. The front wheel easily locks in place for added stability when jogging. Unlock it for full maneuverability when strolling.

The rear-facing infant car seat easily clicks into both the stroller and the car seat base. Installed in your car, the car seat can recline to four different positions to suit your infant’s need for head and neck support.

Both the stroller and the infant car seat feature canopies, but the stroller’s canopy includes a peek-a-boo window.

Highlights: The stroller features a one-hand folding mechanism, which the manufacturer claims takes one second to operate.

Price * : about $269.99 on Amazon.com

Pros: It’s easy to use, and it folds quickly.

Cons: The stroller is rather bulky and does not fold very compactly. The handle is not adjustable. The wheels need constant refilling.

3. UPPAbaby Full-Size Vista Infant Baby Stroller

Why pick this one? This bundle from UPPAbaby includes three components: a stroller seat, an infant car seat, and a bassinet that attaches to the stroller.

This combo allows for multiple configurations, starting with the bassinet for strolling with your sleeping newborn, the infant car seat for traveling in the car, and the toddler seat, which can be positioned to face forward or backward in the stroller frame once your little one is bigger.

The infant car seat includes a padded insert for a baby that weighs between four and eight pounds.

Keep in mind that once your baby has reached the maximum height and weight limit of the car seat, you’ll have to upgrade to a new one.

The stroller features front and rear shock-absorbing suspension and a one-button telescoping handlebar so that you can adjust it to you or your partner’s height.

When you’re not using the stroller, you can fold it up in one step. However, some Pampers Parents noted that it requires both hands to fold. The stroller stands when folded, which makes it easier to handle and store.

Additional items such as a bassinet storage bag, bassinet bug shield, toddler seat rain shield, and toddler seat bug shield are included.

Highlights: Both the bassinet and the infant car seat feature breathable, moisture-wicking fabric that is also removable for spot cleaning. The storage basket below the stroller can hold up to 30 pounds.

Price * : about $1,199.98 on Amazon.com

Pros: It’s easy to use, made of quality materials, and it can be used to accommodate more children.

Cons: It’s very heavy and very expensive.

4. Baby Trend Expedition Jogger Travel System

Why pick this one? This jogging stroller from Baby Trend features a swiveling and locking front wheel, with all-terrain tires. The wheels can be quick-released for extra-compact storage.

The stroller features a convenient parent tray and a child tray. There is also a large storage basket under the stroller for things like diaper bags and other necessities.

The five-point harness on both the stroller and infant car seat is easy to adjust with one hand, and there is a push-button release.

The car seat base features four positions so that you can adjust the infant car seat to the proper height for your little one. And the infant car seat has a multi-grip handle that is easy to hold and carry when you’re transferring your baby from the car to the stroller base.

Highlights: For easy maneuvering, the push handle is extra wide, ergonomically shaped, and foam padded. The footrest features reflectors to provide better visibility in low-light conditions.

Price*: about $132.99 on Amazon.com

Pros: It’s easy to maneuver over many different terrains with one hand, and it’s affordable.

Cons: The storage basket could be bigger and it isn’t as easy to access when your baby is in the stroller.

5. Evenflo Vive Travel System

Why pick this one? Unlike the other travel system strollers that made the Pampers Parents list, the Evenflo Vive Travel System’s infant car seat has an extended weight rating of up to 35 pounds, so you can use it a bit longer than the other car seats on this list.

Eventually you will have to upgrade to a new car seat, but at least with this product it will be able to happen later.

The stroller’s 13-inch-thick EVA wheels feature shock absorption in the front, which helps make the stroller more stable.

In addition to the storage basket under the stroller base, there is a storage pocket on the back of your baby’s seat.

Highlights: The stroller features a very slim 16-inch fold, so it doesn’t take up too much space in the trunk of your car or when in storage.

Price * : about $106.99 on Amazon.com

Pros: It’s lightweight and it’s easy to move from the car to the stroller.

Cons: The wheels aren’t the best and they tend to be squeaky.

6. Baby Trend Skyline 35 Travel System

Why pick this one? Although it’s not a jogging stroller, the Baby Trend Skyline features three wheels, which can help make it easier to maneuver much like a jogger-style stroller. The rear wheels are lockable for when you need to put on the brakes.

Handy features of this stroller include a handle that is adjustable to your height, and one-handed foldability.

The parent tray includes a covered compartment for storing items you may want to keep secured nearby, but there’s also an extra-large storage basket below the stroller.

The infant car seat of this travel system includes a reversible infant insert and a six-position crotch belt adjustment. The car seat base can be adjusted in four different ways with the push of a button to ensure the infant car seat is level.

Highlights: Both the car seat’s and the stroller’s canopies are made of two panels, but the stroller canopy also includes a peek-a-boo window on the front and mesh windows on the sides.

Price * : about $161.99 on Amazon.com

Pros: The price is affordable and it’s easy to fold up and open.

Cons: The buckle on the infant car seat could be easier to use.

7. Safety 1st Smooth Ride Travel System

Why pick this one? Designed with travel in mind, the Safety 1st Smooth Ride makes it easy to transfer your baby’s car seat to the stroller with its QuickClick technology. Once your baby outgrows the infant car seat, you can continue to use the stroller through toddlerhood, but keep in mind that you’ll have to purchase a new car seat.

Folding the stroller is easy with the one-handed operation. Once folded, it can stand on its own without tipping over.

The rear-facing infant car seat includes head and body inserts for your newborn as well as four adjustable harness heights to help you achieve the perfect fit for your baby.

Highlights: The large stroller canopy features a flip-out visor and a mesh peek-a-boo window.

Price * : about $179.99 on Amazon.com

Pros: The stroller is easy to handle, it’s easy to travel with, and it’s affordable.

Cons: The storage basket could be bigger and the canopy could be more durable.

8. Chicco Viaro Travel System

Why pick this one? The Chicco Viaro Travel System features a lightweight frame and three-wheel maneuverability, making it an appealing option if you travel a lot. The one-handed fold feature makes it even easier to handle when you’re trying to get it in and out of the trunk, and opened up and ready to go quickly.

Like many of the other strollers on this list, it includes a child tray, parent tray, and large storage basket.

The stroller also has a multi-position reclining seat, which will come in handy with your newborn, who requires the head support. There’s also an adjustable canopy and toe-tap brakes on the back wheels.

The infant car seat includes head and body supports. The car seat easily transfers from the car seat base to the stroller base for travel. Once your baby reaches the car seat's maximum height and weight recommendations, you can still keep on using the stroller through toddlerhood, but you’ll have to purchase a new car seat.

Some Pampers Parents noted they would prefer one large front wheel versus the small two-sided front wheel on the stroller for better maneuverability.

Highlights: At just 18 pounds, this is the lightest travel system stroller on our list.

Price * : about $349.99 on Amazon.com

Pros: You’ll love the versatility and portability.

Cons: The handle could be adjustable and it could use better quality wheels.

9. Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System

Why pick this one? The Evenflo Pivot Travel System was designed so that both the stroller seat and infant car seat can face either forward or backward in the stroller frame, depending on your preference. Plus, the stroller seat can be adapted and positioned horizontally as a bassinet-like carriage for strolling with your newborn.

The stroller frame features four large cruiser tires for smoother handling. There is a three-panel canopy; however, the canopy does not have mesh panels or a baby window, which some of the other models on this list offer.

The infant car seat features a four-position recline for your baby’s comfort and a unique ergonomic handle so that it can be carried in the bend of your arm.

The stroller has no child tray or parent tray, which may be a deal-breaker for some.

Highlights: This travel system includes a blanket boot, which keeps your baby’s legs warm in cold weather.

Price * : about $279.99 on Amazon.com

Pros: You’ll like the design without the expensive price tag. There’s the option of changing the direction of the seat.

Cons: It’s difficult to close the stroller with one hand. The front wheels tend to get stuck on certain surfaces.

10. Graco Trax Jogger Travel System

Why pick this one? This jogging stroller from Graco features air-filled rubber tires with suspension for a very smooth ride on a variety of terrains. The single front wheel can lock in place for running, and unlock so that it can swivel for daily strolling.

The one-handed folding feature includes an automatic lock so that the stroller will remain closed and standing when stored. Keep in mind that some Pampers Parents noted that when folded the stroller is awkward to transport.

The stroller also features a safety tether that attaches to your arm as an extra layer of security to ensure the stroller can’t roll away, even when you are running. The baby seat features deluxe padding and multiple positions for your baby’s comfort and safety.

The infant car seat comes with newborn head support. It also has its own expandable canopy. The seat cushion is machine washable.

Use the infant car seat until your baby reaches the maximum weight and height limit. After that, you’ll have to purchase a new car seat. But your baby can continue to use the stroller into her toddler years.

Highlights: The stroller’s expandable canopy not only features a peek-a-boo window but also provides UV 50 sun protection.

Price * : about $201.07 on Amazon.com

Pros: You’ll love the handle adjustability and the superior suspension for jogging.

Cons: The front wheel can be problematic when it comes to steering and maneuvering, and the stroller could be easier to clean.

11. Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Travel System

Why pick this one? The manufacturer of the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Travel System claims you can configure the stroller 22 different ways, including accommodating 2 riders at the same time. This means you can use this stroller with your infant and your toddler simultaneously, for example.

This is how it works: The stroller frame features a unique slide and lock system, which allows for expansion in order to accommodate both the toddler seat and the infant car seat. You can configure each seat to face different directions. The toddler seat can also be configured to be used in infant mode.

This travel system stroller can come in handy if you have a newborn and a toddler and don’t want to commit to buying a double stroller .

Be aware that the infant car seat has a maximum weight and height limit. So, at some point your baby will outgrow it and you’ll have to upgrade to a new car seat. But you’ll be able to use the stroller portion of the travel system into toddlerhood.

The storage basket underneath can expand to over two feet long and is accessible from the front and back.

Highlights: The seat pad can be machine-washed in cold water and placed in the dryer on low. When folded, the stroller can stand on its own even with the toddler seat attached.

Price*: about $322.22 on Amazon.com

Pros: The combination of features, the multiple configurations, and the design without the expense.

Cons: There is no infant tray or parent tray. The wheels tend to make steering tricky and can get stuck sometimes.

Features to Consider When Buying a Travel System Stroller

When it comes to choosing a travel system stroller, here are some important things to consider:

JPMA safety seal. Make sure your stroller and infant car seat combo meets strict U.S. safety standards. It’s worth checking to see if the product has been recalled . Look for a seal on the packaging that shows that the manufacturer participates in the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association’s (JPMA) certification program.

Secure harness. A five-point harness is standard for most strollers and infant car seats. Experts say it’s the safest option because it secures your baby over his shoulders, at the waist, and between the legs. Secured this way, he can’t slide out, fall out, or climb out. The straps should be easily adjustable and easy for you to use, but difficult (or even impossible) for your baby to unfasten himself.

Recline function. This will be important when you’re using the stroller or infant car seat with your newborn. Newborns don’t have the ability to sit up or hold their heads up, so you’ll want to make sure your newborn is in a comfortable reclined position to prevent his head from flopping forward.

Easy-to-open-and-close stroller. Opening or folding a stroller with one hand can be a blessing, especially when you’re holding your baby in your other arm. A stroller that remains upright when folded can also come in handy when storing.

Easy-to-install car seat. Some infant car seats may be easier to install than others. Most feature a LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system in the car seat base, which can make it a lot easier to install. The infant car seat clicks into the base, and it’s easy to remove and attach to the stroller base. If you plan to transfer the car seat from car to car, it can be beneficial to have one that has an easy-to-install car seat base, or you could consider buying an additional car seat base for the other car. To make sure that the car seat is correctly installed, you might consult a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician .

Protective canopy. Being able to keep your baby shaded from the sun and covered in case of bad weather will be important. Canopies come in a range of sizes and styles. Some provide nearly full coverage of the front of the stroller. If that’s the style that interests you, make sure it has mesh panels, which can help keep your baby at a comfortable temperature. You can also consider a model that has a plastic window so that your baby can see out and you can see in. If this feature is not included in the stroller you like, you can often purchase it separately. Most infant car seats will also have a canopy, but these often don’t have the peek-a-boo window features or mesh panels of a stroller’s canopy.

Suitable stroller wheels. Larger wheels make maneuvering the stroller much easier. You’ll want a stroller that has lockable front swiveling wheels, as this makes it easier to go over a variety of terrains. Air-filled tires provide a smooth ride, but need to be pumped up occasionally. Foam-filled tires provide the same smooth ride but don’t need refilling. Many strollers include a suspension system with shock absorbers to make the ride even smoother. It’s best to avoid strollers with tiny plastic wheels as these can make the stroller bounce around a bit.

Roomy storage. Having a large storage basket underneath the stroller can come in handy for stashing your handbag, diaper bag , and any other necessities. Some stroller models may feature dividers or zippered pockets for storing valuables. The basket should be accessible even when the infant car seat is in place or fully reclined. The storage basket should be strong enough so that it doesn’t drag on the ground once filled with your items.

Good brakes. Most strollers have foot-activated brakes that are controlled by either a single foot bar at the rear of the stroller, or a pedal above each of the rear wheels. Some models come with a hand-operated lever near the handlebar.

Comfortable and adjustable handlebars. You may want to look for a stroller with padded handles that can be adjusted to suit your height. Some strollers have two separate handles instead of a single handlebar.

Easy-to-clean fabric and upholstery. Some stroller and infant car seat manufacturers have layered seat fabrics that can be removed as needed. For example, a breathable mesh seat for summer can be layered with a cushioned one for winter. Choose a travel system that is easy to clean. Some include seat covers that are removable and machine washable; others offer stain-resistant fabrics that are easy to wipe down.

Size and fit. Before selecting an infant car seat, it’s a good idea to measure your car’s back seat to ensure the car seat will fit. It’s also smart to check the size of your trunk to ensure the stroller will fit once it’s folded.

Safety Considerations When Using Your Travel System Stroller

Once you’ve chosen the best travel system for you and your baby, here are some safety tips to keep in mind as you use both the car seat and stroller:

Don’t leave your baby alone or unattended in the stroller or in the infant car seat.

Be sure to use your stroller’s brakes to lock the wheels before placing your baby in the stroller, and whenever you have stopped with the stroller.

Always check your automobile’s instruction manual and the infant car seat’s guidelines for information on the safe installation of the infant car seat. Do not use any additional straps that aren’t part of the travel system to install the car seat.

Remember that the safest place for your baby to ride in a car is the back seat, with the infant car seat facing the rear until she’s at least 2 years old or exceeds the manufacturer's maximum weight and height limits. After that you can upgrade to a new front-facing car seat .

Don’t hang heavy items like hand bags, tote bags, or diaper bags from the stroller handles. The weight can cause the stroller to tip backward. Instead use the storage areas under the stroller.

Watch out for your baby’s fingers when using the stroller so she doesn’t get them caught in the wheels or the hinges of the stroller’s folding parts. Also, make sure that your baby can’t reach the brake lever.

After placing your little one in the stroller or the infant car seat, be sure to always use the five-point harness so that she is properly secured whenever she’s riding in the stroller or in the car. The harness straps should be at or under your baby’s shoulders and the chest clip should be at armpit level. You know the harness is tight enough when you can’t pinch any strap fabric at your baby’s shoulders.

Don’t use the car seat or stroller as a substitute for your baby's crib, which is the safest place for your little one to sleep. You might be tempted to allow your baby to finish a nap in the car seat, but doing so can lead to the development of a flat spot on the back of your baby’s head, cause acid reflux or GERD , and affect her breathing.

If you decide to attach toys to the stroller, make sure they’re securely fastened so they won’t fall on your baby. Remove these toys as soon as your baby can sit or reach them.

If your stroller has a cup holder, make sure never to use it for hot drinks, which could accidentally spill on your baby.

In hot weather, don’t leave the stroller in the sun as it can cause the plastic and metal parts to get hot. Check that the stroller isn’t hot before putting your baby inside. The same goes for the infant car seat. If you plan to leave your car in a parking lot for long hours during hot weather, consider covering the car seat with a towel to prevent it from getting too hot. Always check the car seat isn’t hot before placing your baby in it.

Be sure to mail back the warranty card to the travel system stroller’s manufacturer so that you’ll be notified in case there’s a recall.

A travel system can be a wonderful way to move your baby from the car to stroller and back again with ease. And it has the added benefit of being useful once your little one is into her toddler years. We hope that Pampers Parents’ insights have helped make your buying decision a little bit easier.

If you’re still in the process of compiling a baby shower registry , why not add the travel system of your choice to the list?

Recall Notice

Before buying a product, always check that it’s approved and hasn’t been recalled on sites like the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

*Prices are correct at the time of writing.

How We Got These Results

We surveyed thousands of parents in the Pampers Community and asked them to choose the products they love the most, and to share their views on specific products and product categories. Based on the survey responses, we have taken the top product picks and added our own research to create this article. The aim is to help you choose the right product for you and your family. We might receive commissions on purchases made from the links in this article, but the products featured are the Pampers Community’s top choices.

• AAP p. 494,496-498,503-504
• Consumer Reports: Stroller Buying Guide
• Kids Health: Choosing Safe Baby Products: Strollers
• Mayo Clinic: Stroller Safety: Tips for parents

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Best travel systems for newborns: tried and tested by parents

In an effort to help new parents, we've researched and tested the top travel systems on the market. From designer brands like Bugaboo to budget prams and compact folds, here are the best travel systems to buy right now.

By Lucy Cotterill | Last updated Jul 22, 2024

Buying a pushchair for your newborn can feel a little daunting. With so many choices available and lots to consider when it comes to transporting your baby safely from A to B, it can be hard to narrow down your options. 

For new parents, a travel system can make a convenient and practical choice, allowing for seamless transfers from car to pram, as well as relaxed and comfortable strolls with your newborn.

If you've already decided that a travel system is for you, excellent! We’ve spent hundreds of hours researching the products loved by real parents (that includes both Mumsnet users and consumers), tested dozens of prams with our team of parent testers and consulted trusted pushchair experts for the latest up-to-date guidance to bring you a round-up of the very best travel systems to buy right now.

Be sure to check out our FAQs further down this page for tips and tricks on what to consider before buying a travel system too.

Best travel systems at a glance

Best overall travel system: Nuna Mixx Next | From £660

Best budget travel system: Maxi-Cosi Zelia³ Luxe | From £250

Best travel system for a newborn and toddler: Oyster 3 | From £559

Best versatile travel system: Venicci Tinum Edge | From £690

Best all-terrain travel system: Mamas & Papas Ocarro | From £899

Best travel system for rough terrain: Bugaboo Fox 5 | From £1,115

Best travel system for a growing family: UPPAbaby Vista V2 | From £879

Best travel system for easy fold: Joie Versatrax | From £289

Best travel system for design: BabyStyle Egg 3 | From £879

Best travel system for country living: Cybex Priam | From £1,000

Best lightweight travel system: Nuna Triv Next | From £600

Best travel system for city living and travel: Bugaboo Dragonfly | From £695

1. Best overall travel system: Nuna Mixx Next

Pushchair price: £660 | Latest deals from John Lewis

Bundle price: From £1,000 | Latest deals from John Lewis 

Tested by parents: Read our full Nuna Mixx review

Suitable from: Birth to 22kg | Orientation: Parent-facing and world-facing | Car seat compatible: Yes | Folded dimensions: H42 x W60 x D76cm | Weight: 13.1kg | Basket capacity: 4.5kg | Extras included: Rain cover, footmuff and car seat adaptors 

What we like

Offers good longevity

Accessible storage basket

Comfortable and well-padded seat

Easy to steer 

Machine-washable covers

Easy to switch between parent- and world-facing modes

One-handed five-position recline

Height-adjustable handlebar

What we don't like

Two hands needed to fold

Sun hood is a little noisy to extend

What Mumsnet users say

"I love it. Especially the huge basket which has been used for fairly large shops and the occasional stroppy toddler" - recommended by Mumsnet user, Dyra

“ Also a Nuna Mixx fan here! I live in the countryside so find the larger wheels helpful but if you are based in a city, you may not need such a big pram. I used the car seat adapters a lot in the first few months to nip in and out of places” - rated by Mumsnet user Rose2108  

Our verdict

An upgrade to the incredibly popular Nuna Mixx , the Nuna Mixx Next exudes comfort and style at every turn, with some significant improvements that have proven to be a huge hit with Mumsnet users and consumers alike. It can be used with a Nuna carrycot (without needing adapters) or with compatible car seats from Nuna, Maxi Cosi or Cybex using the car seat adapters included in the box.

Thanks to the comfortable seat, easy manoeuvrability, excellent storage and large all-terrain wheels, it easily takes our top spot as the best travel system you can buy today. It’s also worth mentioning that the Nuna Mixx Next is a Which? Best Buy and one of the top-scoring pushchairs in their lab tests.

While slightly heavier than the original model, improvements to the folding mechanism mean the Nuna Mixx Next now folds in upon itself, resulting in a more compact fold that’s around 16cm shorter than its predecessor. It conveniently self-stands, so you don’t need to worry about it getting the chassis dirty as you move it in and out of your car, although it's not a particularly portable travel system for public transport. The Nuna Mixx Next also has more durable rubber wheels than the original Mixx, with improved wheel suspension that can even tackle tricky terrain such as gravel or snow .  

It’s easy to steer (even one-handed), manoeuvres well around tight corners and obstacles, and tackles kerbs with ease. The leatherette handlebar also offers a choice of heights between 106cm and 115cm, making it easy to achieve a comfortable and natural hold for both petite and tall parents. We love the green and red indicators on the brake pedal that provide quick visual reassurance that the brake is engaged - ideal when you’re travelling around a busy urban environment.

Suitable from birth using the lie-flat recline, the Nuna Mixx Next has a comfortable all-season and machine-washable seat with a removable cosy padded liner and a mesh back for breathability during the warmer summer months. The included rain cover offers good protection from the elements on wet days and, although it's a little noisy to extend, the UPF 50+ hood with a viewing window provides good coverage from the sun. It’s even water-repellent, so if an unexpected downpour comes your way, your baby will still stay warm and dry. 

We love how the five-point harness can keep your baby safe and secure but converts to a more convenient three-point harness as your baby grows. If your child tends to nod off on their travels, you’ll also appreciate the one-handed, five-position recline, allowing you to switch from upright to lie flat quickly and easily. The two-handed fold on the Nuna Mixx Next does require some force, but once folded, the pushchair sits relatively compact - although if using it with the carrycot you’d need to remove this first. 

When it comes to storage, the Nuna Mixx Next has an underseat basket with a 4.5kg capacity, which isn’t as generous as the likes of the UPPAbaby Vista V2 , but is easy to access from all directions and provides plenty of space for your newborn essentials . It can even be split into two distinct compartments using the interior wall if required. 

Read next: The best baby carriers, wraps and slings

Latest deals from trusted retailers

2. best lightweight travel system: maxi-cosi zelia³ luxe.

Pushchair price: £250 | Latest deals from Mamas and Papas

Bundle price from £349 | Latest deals from John Lewis

Tested by parents: Read our full Maxi-Cosi Zelia review (previous model)

Suitable from: Birth to 22kg | Orientation: Parent- and world-facing | Car seat compatible: Yes | Folded dimensions: H53 x W62 x D81cm | Weight: 10.7kg | Basket capacity: 10kg | Extras included: Rain cover and boot cover/apron

Value for money

Lightweight

The seat converts to a lie-flat bassinet

Easy one-handed fold

Compact when folded

Height-adjustable handlebar 

Rear-wheel suspension

Tricky to change seat position with a heavier child

Wide frame – hard to fit through narrow doorways

Straps can be fiddly and tricky to adjust 

Quite heavy 

Struggles a little on rough surfaces like gravel and sand

Two-handed fold

"The seat has very high sides even when not in carrycot mode so is snuggly and lovely for my daughter" - recommended by Mumsnet user, Njh1986

The Maxi-Cosi Zelia³ Luxe pushchair may have one of the lowest price tags of all the travel systems on our list, but it's still up there in terms of both design and quality. 

While the original Maxi-Cosi Zelia (now discontinued) was only suitable for babies up to 15kg, the Zelia³ Luxe offers greater longevity, lasting until your baby weighs 22kg, which is approximately four years old. While slightly heavier than the original model, the shopping basket capacity has also doubled (from 5kg to a whopping 10kg) providing valuable additional storage space for your changing bag or other essentials during a day out with your baby.

One of the major selling points of the Maxi-Cosi Zelia³ Luxe is the 2-in-1 seat that quickly converts into a newborn bassinet without the need to purchase a separate carrycot - ideal for those who are limited in storage space at home. Our parent tester loved this feature stating, “It saves space in the house and it means the carrycot doesn't become obsolete once your baby is sitting.” Weighing 10.7kg, it’s also a more lightweight option than some of the multi-terrain models such as the Mamas and Papas Ocarro (see below). 

The lie-flat bassinet is suitable from birth and can easily be transformed into a pushchair seat when your baby reaches six months. With a comfortable padded inlay, it offers plenty of space and support for your child as they grow. Alternatively, the Maxi-Cosi Zelia³ Luxe can be used with a compatible Maxi-Cosi car seat, such as the Mumsnet-recommended Maxi Cosi Pebble Plus (using adapters) for a convenient transition between your car and the street.

Described as a compact, urban stroller, the Maxi-Cosi Zelia³ Luxe is easy to steer and handles pavements and kerbs with ease, however it may struggle off-road, such as on gravel, mud or sand. It’s also worth noting that while the handlebar height is adjustable, this is only by a small margin, so if you’re particularly tall you may find this pram less comfortable to push. 

We like the significant coverage provided by the sun hood and, thanks to the viewing window, you can discreetly check on your baby without waking them if they nod off during your journey. 

The fold requires two hands, but this is relatively straightforward to do. The pushchair clips together for compact storage and can self-stand. There’s also an in-built carry handle which can help distribute the weight should you need to carry it up and down the stairs. 

We love the improvements to the basket when compared to the original Maxi-Cosi Zelia, which although a little trickier to access when being used in bassinet mode, offers plenty of storage space, with a discreet pocket inside to stash valuable items such as your keys and phone. 

Read next: Our in-depth Didofy Stargazer review

3. Best travel system for a newborn and toddler: BabyStyle Oyster 3

Price: RRP £559 | Latest deals from John Lewis

Bundle price from £979 | Latest deals from John Lewis 

Tested by parents: Read our full BabyStyle Oyster 3 review

Suitable from: Birth to 22kg | Orientation: Parent- and world-facing | Car seat compatible: Yes | Folded dimensions: H57.5 x W37.5 x L72 cm | Weight: 11.7kg | Basket capacity: 3kg | Extras included: None

One-handed recline (this can be done in parent- or world-facing mode)

Lie-flat seat for smaller babies

Puncture-free tyres

Compact fold

Adjustable handlebar

Can be used with a buggy board

Carrycot is tricky to remove

Covers are not machine-washable

Storage basket could be bigger 

No extras included

"The Oyster was probably one of the most compact travel systems we found" - recommended by Mumsnet user, Anaesthetist83

“ I have the Oyster 3 and love it. It’s lightweight but sturdy and so easy to fold, my son always looks really comfortable. We didn’t use the carrycot part, the pram lies completely flat from birth so I didn’t feel we needed it” - rated by Mumsnet user Thetangleteaser

“ We have the full Oyster 3 bundle and it's great :) went for the Caviar/mirror colour and think it's very stylish” - rated by Mumsnet user Skywalkersweetie

If you're looking for a travel system to suit your growing family, then the Which? Best Buy BabyStyle Oyster 3 should be top of your list. This large, well-built pram is designed to last well into toddlerhood. With a choice of seven different colourways, it looks beautiful too.

With a maximum child weight of 22kg, which is around age four, this pushchair is suitable from birth, with a lie-flat seat, supportive head hugger and one-handed three-position recline. To use as a travel system, you can attach the Oyster 3 carrycot (sold separately) which offers a more spacious and comfortable lying position over longer durations with your newborn. For an easy transition straight from the car, car seats such as the Maxi-Cosi Pebble Plus can also be clipped onto the main chassis using the Oyster 3 car seat adapters (sold separately). 

Compared to the original Oyster and Oyster 2 pushchairs, the Oyster 3 has had a major overhaul. Not only is it lighter with bigger wheels for improved handling, but it also boasts a more spacious seat, including a pop-out footrest and an adjustable harness that can better accommodate your child as they grow. 

It’s worth noting that, as a result of the seat changes, it’s a little bigger than the previous model, but for convenience it now has a more compact fold, which can be triggered with the seat attached in both parent- and world-facing modes. You do need to use both hands to operate this, however the fold is smooth and simple, with a handy clip that prevents the chassis from springing open. While we wouldn’t recommend carrying the Oyster 3 regularly, there’s even an integrated carry strap for convenience should you need to. 

The Oyster 3 has a soft padded handlebar that’s adjustable between 101cm and 111.5cm, making it easy to adapt to parents of varying heights. Thanks to the all-round suspension, the four puncture-free tyres also offer a really smooth ride for your baby. 

Our parent tester rated the tight turning circle and a slim base, which made the Oyster 3 convenient for use on public transport and she found it performed well on urban terrains such as pavements and kerbs. Like many travel systems, it struggles more on bumpier or uneven ground, but there is the option to lock the front wheels - helpful when navigating across sand or mud.

Whatever the weather, the Oyster 3 can protect your baby from the elements. We rate the large UPF50+ sun hood with an extendable section to provide additional coverage when the seat is fully reclined. It also has a ventilation window which can keep your baby cool on warmer days. Unlike many pushchairs, the elasticated rain cover for the Oyster 3 (included with the travel system) is straightforward to fit should the weather take a sudden turn for the worse.

The storage basket is easy to access from all directions, and although more than adequate for most newborn essentials , the 3kg maximum capacity is relatively small when compared to the UPPAbaby Vista V2 or Nuna Mixx Next. That said, we love the inclusion of a discreet zipped storage pocket situated beneath the footrest - ideal for safely housing your keys and phone.

Read next: The best double buggies, as tested by parents

4. Best versatile travel system: Venicci Tinum Edge

Price: RRP £700 | Latest deals from Argos

Bundle price from £900 | Latest deals from Kiddies Kingdom

Suitable from: Birth to 22kg (approx 4 years) | Orientation: Parent and world-facing | Car seat compatible: Yes - car seat included  Folded dimensions: H41 x W58 x D63cm  | Weight: 12kg | Basket capacity: Not specified | Extras included: Carrycot, car seat, footmuff, changing bag, changing mat, rain cover and adapters

Stylish design

Easy to fold/unfold 

Comes with lots of accessories

Comfortable height-adjustable handlebar 

Spacious shopping basket

Large sun hood

Easy to switch between parent and world facing  

Harness and straps tricky to adjust 

Bulky and heavy

Brakes require some force

The seat is not particularly padded

“ I have the Venicci Tinum and love it. It is great to push on all terrain and managed much better than my friend’s Silver Cross when we went on a woodland walk - the bumping of her pram meant we had to turn back! I’m still using it with my 16-month-old forward-facing and I’m pregnant again and intend on keeping it to use as our single pram when my new baby is born” - recommended by Mumsnet user BabyBabyBaby123  

“I have a Venicci Tinum. Really like it and find it's good on different surfaces, including woodland. The downside is that the basket underneath is not as big as some other makes/models. However, it's generally big enough for our needs” - rated by Mumsnet user ThePaperTrail

While you may be less familiar with the name, Italian brand Venicci is one of the leading suppliers of quality pushchairs , officially launching in the UK back in 2011. If you’re looking for a versatile option, the Venicci Tinum Edge travel system makes an excellent choice, with a stylish and practical design combined with lots of additional accessories that make travelling with your baby a breeze.

With a reversible lie-flat seat, the Venicci Tinum Edge is suitable from birth to 22kg. The full bundle includes the Tinum carrycot and car seat, as well as a footmuff, rain cover, mosquito net, coordinating changing bag, changing mat and car seat adapters, meaning you’ve got pretty much everything you need to head out on travels with your baby in tow - whatever the weather may bring.

With some enhancements to the original Tinum, the Tinum Edge features a panoramic ventilation system to help keep your baby cool on sunnier days. It’s now easier to steer, even one-handed, tackling varied terrain well and navigating up and down kerbs without the need to exert too much effort despite its relatively heavy frame. 

While the sideless seat isn’t as padded or cushioned as the Nuna Mixx or BabyStyle Oyster 3 , it has three different recline positions and can be used both world- and parent-facing depending on your preferences, or easily swapping between the two. It’s worth noting that although the straps are adjustable as your child grows, this is a manual process and can fiddly. That said, the integrated hood is quiet to operate and provides good sun coverage, with a handy viewing window that helps you keep a reassuring eye on your toddler when world-facing. 

If you’re a taller or petite parent or sharing the travel system with your partner of a different height, you’ll love the adjustable handlebar height on the Venicci Tinum, which can be adjusted with one hand between 90 and 104cm - a far greater range than some other travel systems on the market. 

The basket is a generous size and includes a zippable compartment for your valuables. While it’s stiff to operate, the centrally located brake is large and easily accessible - reassuring when travelling in busier surroundings.

Read next: The best pram toys for newborns

5. Best all-terrain travel system: Mamas & Papas Ocarro

Pushchair price: £899 | Latest deals from Mamas & Papas

Bundle price from £949 | Latest deals from Mamas & Papas

Tested by parents: Read our full Mamas & Papas Ocarro review

Suitable from: Birth to 22kg | Orientation: Parent- and world-facing | Car seat compatible: Yes | Folded dimensions: H33.5  x W59 x D77.5 cm | Weight: 13.6kg | Basket size: 3kg | Extras included: Rain cover and bumper bar

Dual suspension

One-handed fold 

Tackles off-road terrain well 

Chunky, puncture-resistant tyres

Padded seat with pillow and chest pads

Reflective trim on wheels

A reassuring wrist strap on the handlebars 

Large hood with ventilation 

The basket can only be loaded from the back 

Heavy to carry

Stiff five-point harness

"Absolutely love my Ocarro! It’s sturdy but easy to manoeuvre, well padded for a comfy baby, massive basket and can be folded one-handed (even with my baby in a sling!). Versatile as it’s slim enough for buses or shops aisles but with all-terrain wheels it can go anywhere ” - recommended by Mumsnet user Blueroses99

“Love our Ocarro! It is pretty heavy to lift when you have got it all folded up but I got used to lifting it in and out of the boot pretty quickly. I’ve used it on some pretty bumpy terrain and my baby has seemed comfy enough. 11 months in and I still love it and it looks like new still, so yes would recommend it!” - tried and tested by Mumsnet user DreamingofThailand

If you’re living in a more rural setting or enjoy heading on outdoor adventures with your baby in tow, you’ll need an all-terrain travel system that can navigate across a variety of surfaces with ease. 

The Mamas & Papas Ocarro is a luxury, all-terrain pushchair designed for both comfort and stability. A Which? Best Buy, the Ocarro achieved an impressive score in lab testing and it’s also compatible with several Which? Best Buy car seats too, including the Maxi-Cosi Pebble Pro.

Available alone or in bundles of varying sizes depending on your needs, the eight-piece combination pack offers excellent value for money, including the pushchair, adapters, carrycot, cupholder, footmuff, changing bag, Cybex car seat and even an ISOFIX base. 

While it weighs over three kilograms heavier than some of the travel systems we tested such as the Maxi-Cosi Zelia³ Luxe its robust frame, dual suspension and large all-terrain wheels ensure it can handle almost every terrain completely fuss-free,  from pavements and kerbs to woodland, sand and grass. While it’s narrow enough to fit through most doorways and manoeuvres well, it’s fairly heavy and bulky, so less suited to travel or for those looking for a lightweight stroller for public transport. 

Thanks to the padded lie-flat seat with a supportive head hugger (or the Ocarro carrycot if you prefer), the Ocarro is suitable from birth and can see your child through to approximately four years old. The seat is also fully reversible, so you can easily switch between reassuring eye contact for your baby in parent-facing mode to the world-facing mode for your curious toddler who wants to take in their surroundings.

The soft and comfortable leatherette handlebar is a stylish addition, however it’s worth noting that, unlike the height flexibility on the Venicci Tinum and BabyStyle Oyster 3 , it can only be raised by a small margin - between 100.5 to 105cm. The brake also requires a fair bit of force and isn't particularly easy to operate wearing sandals or flip-flops. 

We love the one-handed fold - something rarely seen in a multi-terrain pushchair. It can be folded with the seat attached in either direction and self-stands for convenience when folded, but it does take up a lot of space in your car. If you have a particularly small boot, you may find it easier to remove the seat first and store it as two separate pieces.   

The sturdy and robust canopy hood with stylish metallic trim is definitely worth a mention. It offers excellent coverage for sunny days but can also be pushed back entirely to improve visibility.

While still large enough to house a changing bag, the 3kg basket on the Ocarro is actually on the small side compared to our other best travel system recommendations such as the Bugaboo Fox 5 and Nuna Mixx Next. It needs to be loaded from the back and is less accessible when using the carrycot as this sits at a relatively low height. That said, thanks to the clever catches on the Ocarro chassis, you can also conveniently stash your changing bag over the handlebar without it slipping down.

Read next: Our full UPPAbaby Ridge review

6. Best travel system for rough terrain: Bugaboo Fox 5

Pushchair price: £1,115 | Latest deals from John Lewis

Bundle price from £1,395 | Latest deals from John Lewis

Tested by parents: Read our full Bugaboo Fox 5 review

Suitable from: Birth to 22kg (around four years) | Orientation: Parent-facing and world-facing | Car seat compatible: Yes | Folded dimensions: Two-piece compact fold 89 x 53 x 34cm; one-piece self-standing fold 44 x 60 x 90cm | Weight: 10.4 to 12.2kg | Basket capacity : 9kg | Extras included: None (but bundles are available)

Sliding five-point harness

Advanced suspension for tackling bumpy terrain

9kg under-seat basket with hidden pockets and extendable flaps

One-handed fold

12 fabric colours to choose from

Large puncture-proof wheels

Height adjustable handlebar 

What we don’t like

The same frame is used for the carrycot and seat

Footmuff not included

Stiff when first assembled

Assembly takes some time 

“A true workhorse, the Bugaboo Fox 5 tackles any terrain you throw at it, from muddy paths to gravel roads and even woodland trails. We tested them all. And as a parent who loves outdoor adventures, this is a game-changer” - MNHQ parent tester, Beccy

“ Bugaboo Fox! LOVEEEEEE ours - looking at buggies now for boot space at 15 months and none of them are as nice to push or use 😂” - rated by Mumsnet user FTM2022SS  

Released in March 2023, the Bugaboo Fox 5 is the much-awaited and updated version of the Fox 3, which has a great reputation for tackling varied terrain.

The Bugaboo Fox 5 offers some big improvements to Fox’s much-loved design. It manoeuvres better than its predecessor, offers more storage capacity and has a higher seat and bassinet. It also has an easier-to-operate and more compact one-handed fold, with an extendable footrest and canopy to help adapt to your child’s needs as they grow.

We like the large puncture-proof wheels and bouncy suspension, which provide a comfortable ride for both newborns and toddlers. The pushchair performed exceptionally well on different terrain, including muddy paths, gravel roads and woodland trails, when our parent tester, Beccy, put it through its paces.

Although the fold took time for her to master, Beccy found the one-handed fold and unfold invaluable when out and about with her two children. The handlebar can be adjusted between 92 and 108cm so it’s easy to find the most comfortable setting for your height. 

The generous 9kg storage basket with extendable flaps also adds to the appeal, with plenty of space to house a changing bag or your baby’s essentials. It is quite bulky when folded though, which means it might not be ideal if you have a small car boot.

The seat is easy to recline (almost a bit too easy, so approach with caution) and thanks to the large sun canopy, your baby will be safely shielded from the sun’s glare on bright sunny days. 

While this buggy offers comfort in spades for newborns, the Fox 5 is unique in that the seat and carrycot come as one unit, which some parents may find impractical. Switching from the carrycot to the seat is quite fiddly (requiring the removal of the hood and swapping out the base), however you may only need to do this once and not until your baby reaches six months.

Read next: The best running buggies

7. Best travel system for storage: UPPAbaby Vista V2

Bundle price from : £879 | Latest deals from John Lewis

Suitable from: Birth to 22kg | Orientation: Parent and world facing | Car seat compatible: Yes | Folded dimensions: H48 x W66 x D84cm | Weight: 13kg | Basket capacity: 13.6kg | Extras included: Rain cover, carrycot, mosquito cover

Excellent storage with a huge basket

Easy to steer and manoeuvre 

Tackles rough terrain well

Includes carrycot for newborns 

Simple one-handed recline

Hood provides excellent coverage

What we don’t like  

Heavy and bulky when folded

Seat quite thin with minimal padding

What Mumsnet users say 

“I loooooooooooooooved my Vista. Was brilliant in every way” rated by Mumsnet user MartinMartinMarti

“I have the Vista and totally love it. Really sturdy and fab on all terrains, we have used it everywhere & never had any bother. My son is almost three and I'm about to have our second and can't wait to get even more use out of it. I'm tall & liked the height of the Vista. Yes, it is expensive but if you divide it up by cost per use it's good value!” - recommended by Mumsnet user Jem1979

“I adore my Vista. Yes, it’s a bit of a beast but it was so useful when we lived in a city and I didn’t drive. The undercarriage had plenty of room for the weekly shop plus all the day-to-day kid kit, and when we travelled by train to visit relatives we shoved all the luggage under there. Would defo recommend it” - tried and tested by Mumsnet user RoseAndGeranium

Our verdict 

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full UPPAbaby Vista V2 review

Suitable from birth when used with the included carrycot, or from six months as a standalone pushchair, the UPPAbaby Vista V2 can see you through until your child reaches 22 kg (around four years). The spacious seat offers plenty of room for your growing child and can be placed in both directions - opting for parent-facing when your baby is younger before switching to world-facing when they want to explore their surroundings. 

An upgrade from the original UPPAbaby Vista, Vista 2 has seen some big improvements to the pushchair seat. While Which? lab testing felt that the padding was on the thin side, UPPAbaby has extended the height of the backrest and provided a longer footrest to better accommodate your child as they grow. The sun hood now has a ventilated extension panel for enhanced sun coverage and the five-point safety harness is now fully adjustable without needing to be rethread, although this does create some hanging excess.

Whilst the pushchair is only suitable from the age of six months, the UPPAbaby Vista V2 comes with a newborn carrycot included in the cost. It’s also compatible with the UPPAbaby Mesa i-Size Infant Car Seat or with brands such as Maxi-Cosi and Cybex if you purchase separate car seat adapters.

For parents, the handlebar offers some height adjustment (between 101 and 108cm), allowing you to tailor the experience to each parent. The one-handed recline is easy to operate, with a choice of six different positions and a fully adjustable leg rest that can support your child as they grow. That said, the seat fabric is much less padded than travel systems such as the Nuna Mixx Next and BabyStyle Oyster 3 , so it’s better suited to short journeys than full days exploring with your baby.

The flip-flop-friendly brake has colour indicators for peace of mind, offering quick visual reassurance that the brake has been properly engaged. When you’ve reached your destination, folding the Vista 2 away requires two hands due to its weight, however it clips together once folded for secure and compact storage.

We love the enhancements to the sun hood, with a large UPF50+ canopy that provides extensive shade coverage. It has an expandable section that can keep your baby protected from the sun’s rays even when fully reclined. The mesh viewing window is also a great feature, allowing you to check on your baby while they nap without the risk of disturbing them.

By far the most impressive feature on the Vista 2, however, is the shopping basket - the biggest shopping basket we’ve seen. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 basket can hold a significant 13.6kg, which is a big plus point when you’re stocking up on the best nappies at the supermarket. The basket is four times greater than that of the Oyster 3, although the chassis does run through the middle, so it requires a bit of spacial awareness when storing larger items. We love that it’s accessible from all directions as well as the smaller pockets for stashing your valuables.

Read next: The best baby carrier backpacks to buy

8. Best travel system for easy fold: Joie Versatrax

Pushchair price: £289 | Latest deals from Boots

Bundle price from £665 | Latest deals from John Lewis 

Suitable from: Birth to 22kg | Orientation: Parent and world facing | Car seat compatible: Yes | Folded dimensions: H81.5 x W64.5 x D36.5cm | Weight: 11.8kg | Basket capacity: 4.5kg | Extras included: Cup holder

One-handed recline 

Easy to fold

Reversible seat

Tackles a variety of terrain

Comes with a cup holder and carry strap

Large shopping basket 

No locking catch 

Removing the car seat can be a little tricky

“ We have it and I love it! It’s really easy to put up/fold down, baby seems to be comfy and it's really smooth to push” - recommended by Mumsnet user Amipreg1  

“ I have had the Versatrax from newborn and love it. It folds really easily and fits in the boot of my Mini. I haven’t noticed a bumpy ride, either when using the carrycot or the actual pram. I found it easy to put the carrycot on and off when he was tiny and I clipped the car seat onto the frame which was harder to get on and off. Now that I use the actual seat it looks lovely and I love that you can have it facing both ways” - tried and tested by Mumsnet user Tealandteal

“ I have the Versatrax and really like it. Giant basket, folds easily forward- and rear-facing, easy to manoeuvre on most terrain. I think it is really good value for money” - rated by Mumsnet user Clicheinaqashqai  

If a quick and easy fold is high on your travel system wish list, then the Joie Versatrax is certainly worth a look. Suitable from birth to four years old and sold as part of a travel system bundle for under £700, it offers excellent value for money. As a Which? Best Buy, the Versatrax also scored highly in their lab tests, with a quick and easy fold that can be triggered with the seat attached in either direction. 

Mumsnet users praise this travel system for its effortless fold. This can even be done one-handed - ideal if you’re out and about with your baby and toddler in tow. Once folded, the Verstrax sits relatively compact and can self-stand. 

The pushchair is heavy though, and while we wouldn’t recommend carrying it far, the integrated carry strap can spread the load for simple transportation to and from your car. If we’re being really critical, we would have loved a locking catch to hold the chassis securely in place when folded. 

The Joie Versatrax is suitable from birth thanks to its lie-flat seat, but you can also buy the Joie Ramble XL carrycot for extra-comfy strolls with your newborn. The Versatrax is also compatible with a variety of Joie infant car seats, including the i-Gemm and i-Snug , both of which clip to an ISOFIX base in your car (sold separately) to meet the enhanced i-Size car seat safety regulations . 

Unclipping the carrycot is quick and simple to do, however some reviewers have found the car seat trickier to detach due to the simultaneous lift and press of a release button. The pushchair seat is comfortable and roomy for your baby and, although a little fiddly, the strap length can be adjusted child to your child as they get taller. The seat itself is a little thin, but it has good padding across the back and harness, with a removable bumper bar for your baby to grab on to as they get bigger. 

Thanks to the all-wheel suspension, the Versatrax is easy to steer across most surfaces, with a relatively small turning circle and the ability to be pushed one-handed. The heavy design makes kerbs a bit more of an effort and, while not an all-terrain pushchair, the lockable front wheels are a big help when tackling rough terrains such as gravel and mud. The handlebar can also be adjusted to a comfortable height for each user and sandal wearers can rejoice as the brake is even flip-flop-friendly. 

We love the shopping basket on the Versatrax (which at 4.5kg is about average for a travel system of this size). It’s easy to access from all directions even when the pushchair seat is fully reclined, and has an internal pocket to keep smaller items close to hand. 

Read next: The best 360 spin car seats

9. Best travel system for design: Babystyle Egg 3

Pushchair price: £879 | Latest deals from John Lewis

Bundle price from £1499 | Latest deals from John Lewis

Suitable from: Birth (with carrycot) to 25kg | Orientation: Parent- and world-facing | Car seat compatible: Yes | Folded dimensions: H71 x D32 x W59cm | Weight: 15.3kg | Basket capacity: 3kg | Extras included: Rain cover

Good longevity with a high maximum weight of 25kg

Can be converted to a double for twins

Highly manoeuvrable and easy to steer

Three-position recline

Easy to adjust the harness 

Tackles varied terrain 

The car seat requires some strength to remove 

Basket is shallow

Need to remove the seat before folding 

Car seat adapters not included 

“ I love my Egg. The suspension is great for all types of terrain: woods, pavement, bumpy roads, etc. My baby is happy in it since she was a newborn. Although it’s heavy, the size is not too big for getting onto the bus or train. My car is a small KIA RIO, and it fits alright. With its adjustable height, it suits both petite (me) and tall (husband) really well” - recommended by Mumsnet user Indoinuk

“ We absolutely love it. It is a very sturdy pushchair but very compact for walking around shops and using on public transport. We mainly use ours for walking along pavements although it has worked absolutely fine for use on country roads and even off-road in the local woodland. It is an expensive travel system, however that is really shown in the quality of it. My [child] is almost four years old and has been used extensively in that time but it still looks and feels brand new.“ - rated by Mumsnet user stormelf  

If you want a travel system that really stands out from the crowd, you’ll love the unique and stylish design of the newly launched Egg 3.

An upgrade from the original Egg stroller, the new Egg 3 travel system features some exciting improvements. The new design has a larger-sized seat which not only sits slightly higher on the chassis but also has a taller back and an easy-adjust harness to support your child as they grow, plus it has a larger, extendable sun canopy with magnets for the viewing window and easy one-pull, five-point harness system.  

Built with practicality in mind, the Egg 3 also has an increased basket size (compared to the original model) and the ability to self-stand when folded - preventing any unwanted damage to the handlebar or chassis when you’re packing it away. And if that's not enough, the wheels on the Egg 3 are also slightly larger, helping it perform better across more challenging terrain compared to its predecessor. 

With a distinctive design, this stylish pushchair is suitable for babies from six months through to an impressive 25kg, which could be up to five years of age - the highest capacity travel system we’ve featured. For younger babies, however, you’ll need to attach the carrycot, which comes with a sustainable, chemical-free soft cushioned mattress suitable for up to nine months, or clip on the aptly named Egg Shell car seat . It’s worth noting though that car seat adapters aren’t included, so you’ll need to factor this in as an extra when considering the overall purchase price. 

With a robust and sturdy design, the Egg 3 weighs in at a substantial 15.5kg - over 5kg heavier than the heaviest travel system on our list - which may be off-putting to some. Despite its weight, it’s surprisingly easy to steer, with a small turning circle and the ability to be steered one-handed, even across grass, gravel and mud. The four-wheel suspension tackles kerbs with ease, without jolting or waking your baby. 

Unlike the BabyStyle Oyster 3 and Nuna Mixx Next which can fold with the seat attached in either direction, the carrycot or pushchair seat need to be fully removed from the frame before you can fold it away. Once folded, the frame sits relatively compact and self stands without taking up too much space in your car. 

While it's on the higher end of the price scale for a travel system, this is certainly noticeable in its modern and stylish design, with great attention to detail including a height adjustable leatherette handlebar and matt chassis. 

Unlike some travel systems which have wheels that can look plasticity, the tri-spoke design on the Egg3’s puncture-free tyres is quite the opposite. They even leave a unique egg-shaped tread - a novel but lovely touch. There’s even an easily accessible flip-flop-friendly brake which uses only the base of your foot, so no squishing your toes in the process.

The basket capacity could be bigger considering the pushchair’s size, with a 3kg capacity which can fill quickly due to its shallow design, however it does come with concealed storage compartments to store smaller items like your phone or purse.

10. Best travel system for country living: Cybex Priam 

Pushchair price: £820 | Latest deals from John Lewis

Bundle price from £1700 | Latest deals from Mamas & Papas

Suitable from: Birth to 22kg | Orientation:  Parent facing or world facing | Car seat compatible: Yes | Folded dimensions: 43 x 60 x 95cm | Weight: 13.6kg | Basket capacity: 5kg | Extras included: Rain cover and car seat adaptors

Suitable for varied terrain

Adjustable handlebar height 

A removable bumper bar for easy placement 

Heavy and bulky

Significant initial assembly

The slim narrow seat could be outgrown quite quickly 

Doesn’t lock once folded

Less suitable for public transport  

“ Priam. Such a great pram, we love it. Well made and sturdy, good for country walks.” recommended by Mumsnet user Anewhoo

“ I have it and really love it so far. The carrycot is really spacious and has zips to provide mesh ventilation on the sides. You can also clip the car seat in (we have Cloud Z). The manoeuvrability is absolutely brilliant - you can turn it in really tight spaces. When folded it’s pretty compact. We do have to pop a wheel off when putting it into the boot (we have Seat Ibiza) which isn’t really an issue as they just click in/out. Honestly, I’ve not got any cons so far apart from it being expensive but you get what you pay for and I’m very happy with it” - rated by Mumsnet user Nat4392

The robust Cybex Priam comes well regarded amongst Mumsnet users and online reviewers. Thanks to its sturdiness, it’s a popular choice for parents living in a more rural or countryside setting. An updated version of the original Priam from 2019, the 2022 edition offers several big improvements including a one-handed adjustable harness, revised seat design and a carrycot that sits higher up on the chassis.  

Due to the lie-flat recline, the Priam 2022 is suitable from birth through to 22kg, but the seat is narrow so you may find your child outgrows it sooner than age four. The seat can be used parent- or world-facing and, to ensure a comfortable ride for your baby, you can switch between four different recline positions and three leg rest positions.

As a travel system, the Priam 2022 can be combined with the spacious Cybex Priam Lux carrycot (suitable until around nine months of age) or the Cybex Cloud T i-Size baby car seat using the included adapters - ideal when moving your newborn to and from the car. 

While it's not an all-terrain pushchair, the Cybex Priam 2022 handles the majority of surfaces well with the exception of sand. Its weighty design is less suited to public transport but can navigate well around pavements and kerbs, as well as tackle trickier terrain such as gravel and grass with relative ease. The handlebar height can be set between 99 and 109cm and is easy to adjust when switching between parents or caregivers.

The fold has several steps, but is relatively straightforward, folding to a compact size that won’t exhaust all the space in your boot. At 13.6kg, however, it’s quite bulky to lift and one of the heavier travel systems on our list. 

We love the large central brake pedal which is quick and easy to operate. The included rain cover is simple to install and the generously sized sun hood offers more than adequate sun protection, although you may find the sideless design of the seat can let through some glare. Thanks to the magnetic viewing window, you can keep a close eye on your baby even when the seat is world-facing. 

We’re less keen on the storage basket’s slanted design, which feels restrictive in terms of space, despite its 5kg capacity. That said, you will find some additional small pockets of storage on the back of the seat - a great way to keep your phone close to hand.

11. Best lightweight travel system: Nuna Triv Next 

Pushchair price: from £600 | Latest deals from Mamas and Papas

Bundle price from £1,100 | Latest deals from Mamas and Papas

Suitable from: Birth to 22kg | Orientation: Parent facing or world facing | Car seat compatible: Yes | Folded dimensions: 36 x 59 x 66cm | Weight: 9.2kg | Basket capacity: 4.5kg | Extras included: Rain cover 

Large basket 

Adjustable handlebar height

Smooth on varied terrain 

Large sun hood 

Can’t be folded one-handed

The hood can be noisy when pulled out

“I absolutely love it! It's been perfect for us. The fold is so quick and easy, and my little girl is always really comfortable in it, very decent-sized shopping basket underneath reclines flat for naps, it also handles some rough terrain (bumpy grass, rougher pebbly floors etc) but does not huge ditches or anything.” - tried and tested by Mumsnet user MamaMiaOhDear

The second Nuna pram featured in our round-up of the best travel systems is the Nuna Triv Next - another Which? Best Buy that achieved the highest lab score of all the products on this list. An upgrade from the original Nuna Triv, the latest edition comes with an even lighter frame and updated wheels for improved handling across varied terrain. 

Suitable from birth to 22kg, the pushchair can be used parent-facing or world-facing, and reclines to one of four different positions, including a lie-flat option for newborns. Alternatively, you can combine the chassis with the comfortable padded Nuna Triv Series carrycot or the Nuna Triv car seat when travelling with a younger baby.

Despite weighing just 9.2kg, the Nuna Triv Next performs surprisingly well over rough terrain thanks to the robust rear wheel suspension, with the ability to navigate across gravel and woodland areas without any significant bumping. We love the five different height options on the leatherette handlebar, allowing for a safe and comfortable hold for parents of different heights. 

Whilst the relatively simple fold does require two hands, the result is a compact and lightweight pushchair that’s easy to carry thanks to the locking clasp and integrated carry handle. As a result, Triv Next is a practical choice for those travelling regularly on public transport. 

The generously sized sun hood can be a little noisy to extend, but is also water-repellent (ideal for those scattered showers) and provides good shade coverage, with a viewing window for discrete checks on your baby while they nap. We love the spacious 4.5kg storage basket which has elasticated sides and can be accessed from all directions, along with the extra zipped storage pocket to the rear of the seat. 

12. Best travel system for city living: Bugaboo Dragonfly 

Pushchair price: £695 | Buy now from Kiddies Kingdom

Bundle price from £945 | Buy now from Bugaboo

Tested by parents : Read our full Bugaboo Dragonfly review

Suitable from: Birth to 22kg | Orientation: Parent- and world-facing | Car seat compatible: Yes | Folded dimensions: One-piece self-standing fold with seat 36 x 52 x 90cm; one-piece self-standing fold with carrycot 32 x 52 x 90cm | Weight: 7.9-10.4kg | Basket capacity: 10kg plus extra 2.5kg when rear pocket is placed on handlebar | Extras included: Integrated carry strap; Parasol+ attachment clip

Carrycot can be collapsed with the buggy

Excellent storage

Rear storage pocket can be detached and hung on the handlebar

Freestanding when folded

Huge sun canopy with extra extension for sunny days

Sliding, easy-to-adjust five-point harness

Stiff and clunky recline

Takes time to master the fold

No rain cover included

"My daughter enjoys a ride in the Bugaboo Dragonfly and has fallen asleep in the toddler seat multiple times. She likes gripping onto the bumper bar when on the move, and the number of recline angles on the seat means she always sits or lays comfortably" - parent tester, Laura

A great option for those travelling around an urban environment on foot, the Bugaboo Dragonfly is designed specifically for city life. With a relatively lightweight frame, this buggy is much lighter than many other travel systems (with the exception of the Nuna Triv Next and Maxi-Cosi Zelia 2). 

Released in June 2023, the Bugaboo Dragonfly features a sliding harness, large extendable sun canopy, leather grip height-adjustable handlebar and huge storage basket with a rear storage pocket that detaches from the basket to be hung on the handlebars like a changing bag .

While the claim of a one-handed fold is debatable, the pushchair can self-stand once folded, making it easier to carry and store at home or on public transport. It also folds down with the carrycot attached - the first of its kind and a game-changer in the newborn days.

Thanks to its light frame, the Bugaboo Dragonfly is agile and easy to manoeuvre, with a small turning circle that makes it ideal for navigating through crowded city streets or narrow shop aisles.

Its large brake pedal is easy to engage. Parent tester, Laura, says, "The brake is one of the easiest I've used and holds effectively. You simply press the brake down with your foot to engage and disengage it, and this can even be done barefoot or with flip-flops."

As you may expect, however, the Bugaboo Dragonfly doesn’t fair quite so well as other travel systems on uneven ground and struggles in particular when it comes to bumping up kerbs.

What is a travel system?

A travel system is a pushchair that allows you to remove the seat or carrycot and replace it with a baby car seat .

Tailored specifically to newborn babies, a travel system can be bought as a standalone pushchair or as part of a bundle, either a 2-in-1 travel system, featuring a pushchair and carrycot, or a 3-in-1 travel system which also has a baby (Group 0+) car seat.

With the ability to attach a Group 0+ car seat (suitable from birth to 12 months), a travel system allows you to move your baby seamlessly from car to pram without disturbing them. The carrycot accessory is a convenient lie-flat option for your newborn that allows your baby to sleep while on the go, ensuring clear airways and healthy hip and spine alignment at all times. 

The size and weight of traditional travel systems (and in many cases the hefty price tag) means they're not for everyone, so it’s important to consider your lifestyle and habits when making your choice.

How we chose and tested the best travel systems

Over 100 hours of research and testing

Tested with real parents

Consumer-recommended

To ensure we're only recommending the very best travel systems, we first looked to the Mumsnet forums , home to 10 million users a month, to get the lowdown on the travel systems real parents rate and would recommend to others.

We then branched out to the wider web, collated reliable and honest consumer feedback from retail sites and bestseller lists. We also spoke to pushchair and baby travel experts from trusted organisations such as the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) as well as local NCT groups. 

To round out our research, we consulted the views of consumer champion Which? to discover how each travel system performed in their impartial lab testing environment.

Finally, wherever possible, we tested the travel systems ourselves, using a comprehensive testing and scoring system to highlight the best-performing products across the board. Specifically, we tested for safety and stability, assembly, ease of use, comfort, cleaning, materials and value for money. 

What is the difference between a pram, a pushchair, a buggy and a travel system? 

The terms are often used interchangeably, but there are some key differences between a pram, pushchair, buggy and travel system.

Pram: A pram is a lie-flat travel solution, with a bassinet-style carry cot that allows your baby to lie in a more natural sleeping position. Prams are generally tailored towards newborns and young babies, suitable up to the age of around six months. 

Pushchair: Pushchairs offer additional flexibility as your child grows. Once they can sit up unaided (from around six months), your baby may transition from a pram to a pushchair, with the ability to sit more upright and visually explore their surroundings. With modern designs, many pushchairs now offer a lie-flat option that also makes them suitable from birth.

Buggy: The phrase buggy is often used as a catch-all phrase to describe a variety of products, but most commonly refers to a lightweight stroller that offers practical short-term travel solutions. A buggy tends to be less feature-rich and less able to tackle varied terrain, but is often cheaper and easier to store, with an umbrella fold or compact designs that can be stashed out of sight when not in use. 

Travel system : A travel system is a versatile choice and a practical option for parents who will be regularly switching between their car and travelling on foot. Parents can choose between a 3-in-1 travel system or a 2-in-1 travel system depending on their preference. In addition to a pushchair, a 2-in-1 travel system bundle includes a carrycot, which can be clipped onto the chassis as a lie-flat solution for newborns till around six months of age. 3-in-1 travel systems also include a car seat and will often require adapters to link to the main frame of the pushchair. 

Do I need a travel system?

Because travel systems can be bulky and expensive, it’s worth checking whether or not you actually need one.

If you often travel by car, a travel system will save you time and energy when out and about with your baby as you'll be able to easily remove and attach a car seat.

With a parent-facing carrycot attachment, and sometimes even the main seat unit itself, you'll also be able to lie your child completely flat, which will ensure that they are safe and secure at all times.

If you rarely use a car, or if you know you’ll be on and off public transport daily, then a lightweight buggy may be a more suitable option.

Some lightweight pushchairs, such as the Bugaboo Dragonfly can, however, be used as a travel system, which may just give you the best of both worlds.

Read next: The best car sun shades for babies

Should babies lie flat in a pram?

To be suitable from birth, your pram or pushchair seat needs to recline into a ‘lie flat’ position - as close to 180 degrees as possible. This is because an upright seat can actually restrict your baby’s airways and reduce the amount of oxygen in their bloodstream due to the position of their head and neck. 

Some pushchairs are only suitable for use from six months and, as such, require the addition of a carrycot or car seat to be suitable from birth. It’s worth remembering that your baby should not be kept in a car seat for longer than two hours at a time, and should be removed at the earliest opportunity once you’ve reached your destination. 

Video: how to choose the best travel system

How much do travel systems cost.

Prices range from £250 to over £1,000 and most come as part of a bundle, which could save you money in the long run.

More expensive models may come with a multitude of added extras – think footmuffs, buggy boards and general customisable features – but this will, of course, increase the cost.

Read next: How to clean a pram

What should I look for when buying a travel system? 

Here are some important questions to ask yourself when considering which travel system is right for you: 

What does the price include and what is my budget? First up, how much are you willing to spend on your travel system? Consider what elements you will benefit from the most before deciding between a 2-in-1 bundle with a carrycot, or a 3-in-1 bundle with a carrycot and car seat. Some travel systems can be purchased for under £400, but for more luxury designs or bundles with more accessories, you can easily spend £1,000 or more. 

What is the weight limit? What is the maximum weight capacity for the pushchair? The vast majority of travel systems can accommodate children up to 22kg (approximately four years) however some stop at 15kg, so it’s worth checking the specifications with care. 

How easy is it to attach a carrycot or car seat? Does this require adapters and if so, are they included? Can this be done one-handed? If you’re going to be out and about on your own with your baby, it’s important you can attach and remove the car seat and carrycot without assistance. 

What are the seat recline options? How many recline settings does the pushchair element of the travel system offer, and is there a lie-flat option suitable for use with your newborn? Can the recline be triggered one-handed and with your baby already in the seat? Some travel systems have back recline options only, whereas others can adjust the angle of the footrest too - a helpful feature when travelling with older babies and toddlers. 

Can the seat be switched between parent- and world-facing? Most parents prefer to use their pushchair in parent-facing mode initially, enabling good eye contact and helping you keep a close eye on your baby whilst travelling. As your baby gets older, however, they may become curious about exploring their surroundings, so switching to world-facing can provide them with a better view. If your travel system pushchair has a viewing window in the hood, this can be helpful to allow regular checks that your baby is calm and content. 

Is it roomy enough? As well as the weight limits, it's important to consider the style, size and shape of the seat. Some travel systems such as the Cybex Priam are quite narrow and may be outgrown sooner than their specification suggests.

Does it have a five-point harness? How secure is the harness and is it padded for a comfortable fit? It’s also worth considering how easy it is to adjust the harness height as your baby grows. On some travel systems, this will be a simple, one-handed adjustment, while others will require some rethreading. 

How easy is it to fold? Can the fold be achieved one-handed and if not, how many steps are involved? Does the seat need to be removed beforehand? Is the process fairly intuitive or is it a case of practice makes perfect? It’s also worth considering whether the fold requires physical strength - something which will be even more important if you’re recovering from a c-section .

How compact is the fold? What are the dimensions of the pushchair once folded? Will it fit into the boot of my car or on public transport and does it have a safety clasp to hold it securely in place once folded?

How easy is it to push and steer? How easy is the pushchair to steer and can it cope with varied terrain? It’s worth considering the type of surfaces you will be travelling on most regularly. For city dwellers, most travel systems can navigate across pavements and down kerbs with ease, whereas you may need an all-terrain pushchair if you’re planning on taking your travel system to the beach or local woods. 

How heavy is it to carry? How much does the travel system weigh and are you able to lift this yourself, whether that’s to and from the car or onto public transport? Some travel systems include an integrated carry handle and while it's not something you’ll want to use regularly, this can help distribute the weight when carrying up and down the stairs at home. 

Is the handle height adjustable? Is the handlebar height fixed, or can this be adjusted to suit the parent? Most travel systems offer some handlebar adjustment, but to what margin will depend upon the brand. If you are particularly petite or tall, it's worth checking the lowest and highest height settings to ensure it’s comfortable to push. 

What's the brake like? How easy is the brake to trigger and is it flip-flop friendly? Some central brakes can disrupt your strides when walking quickly but are easier to access if you need to stop in an emergency. If you regularly wear sandals and flip-flops, you’re best to look for brakes that don’t require lifting up with the top of your foot to release. 

How big is the storage basket? One of the biggest variations between travel systems is the size of the storage basket, with our choices ranging from a 3kg capacity to over 13kg. As well as the capacity, you should look at the size and shape of the basket, whether it can be accessed from multiple angles, and whether it is still accessible when used with the carrycot. Some travel systems also offer additional storage such as pockets on the back or footrest. 

Does it come with a rain cover? We can always rely on the British weather to treat us to an unexpected downpour so an included rain cover is a handy accessory to protect your baby from the elements. If it’s not included, how much do they cost to buy as an optional extra? How easy is the rain cover to attach and can this be done quickly when the heavens open? 

Will the sun hood provide enough protection? Is it extendable? On warmer days, it’s important to keep the sun out of your baby’s face where possible. A good travel system will have a large sun hood or canopy, ideally with UPF50+ protection and an extendable section that provides coverage even when the seat is fully reclined. 

How easy is the travel system to clean? What fabric is the seat of your travel system made from? Can the covers be removed for easy cleaning, or is it spot clean only? 

What does it look like? Does it come in colours I like? While it's not the most important factor, the overall look and feel of your travel system is still something to consider, as you’ll want to feel confident when out and about with your baby. What colour choices are available? Is it a modern or traditional design? Do the fabrics and chassis look high quality and luxurious? 

Can I convert it to a double buggy or fit a buggy board? If you’re planning on growing your family, it’s worth considering whether the travel system could be easily converted to a double buggy , or whether a buggy board can be attached to the back. The latter is a great option for toddlers who may tire easily when walking on foot, whilst still encouraging some independence. 

What are the wheels like? What are the wheels made from and are they puncture-free? 

Can it handle off-roading? Does the travel system pushchair have any built-in suspension to tackle more off-road terrains? For more lightweight travel systems that don’t claim to be all-terrain, it’s worth looking for a lockable front wheel, as this can provide greater resistance against gravel and mud. 

How easy is it to assemble and take apart? Finally, for the flatpackphobes amongst us, how easy is it to get started with your travel system? Does it require any significant assembly before use and if so, how intuitive is it and are the steps easy to follow? Some travel systems also feature convertible carrycots, so if you are repelled by the prospect of following an instruction manual, you may want to opt for a design with a separate stand-alone carrycot

Travel system safety advice from RoSPA

We spoke to Nick Lloyd, Acting Head of Road Safety at The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), for some safety advice when buying a travel system:

Always buy from a reputable shop or website. Don’t try to get a cheap deal as you don’t know if you’ll be buying the real branded item or a copy

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to fit and use the travel system

Don’t leave your baby in the car seat for more than two hours (30 minutes if your child is a low birth weight or has medical problems). This can cause fatalities

Read next: Can you take a pram on a plane? Everything you need to know about travelling with a pushchair

About the author

Lucy Cotterill is a mum of two and Content Writer at Mumsnet, specialising in baby/child product reviews and round-ups. Having written product reviews on her own blog Real Mum Reviews since 2012, Lucy loves to research and explore the pros and cons of baby products, scrutinising reviews and consumer feedback to help parents make confident purchases that benefit their families.  

Lucy has personal experience of researching, buying and using travel systems with her own children, as well as completing several tried and tested pushchair reviews over the years.

Originally from a HR background with a degree in Business Studies, Lucy developed a real passion for blogging and writing when her children were young, going on to write for several online publications including US parenting site Pregistry and the Evening Standard. 

When she’s not manically tapping the keys of her laptop, Lucy loves nothing more than to cosy up with her Kindle and enjoy the latest thriller, or compete in Nintendo Switch rallies with her daughters aged six and 10.

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ASIA , CITY GUIDES , EUROPE , RUSSIA · March 12, 2019 Last Updated on March 16, 2024

TOP 5 THINGS TO DO IN MOSCOW, RUSSIA

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Moscow is one of those cities which instantly makes you feel alive and surprises you at every turn. I first visited the capital of Russia in September 2017 and returned again the same month in 2018 as I loved it so much!  

Whilst St Petersburg is an incredibly beautiful city, I firmly believe no visit to Russia can truly be complete unless you have seen it’s glittering jewel of the city called Moscow Russia.

Although you can fly into Moscow directly, each time I have taken the high-speed Sapsan train from St Petersburg to Moscow. The journey takes about 3 hours and the benefit is you get to view the beautiful & unspoiled Russian countryside on the way.

As soon as I stepped outside the Moscow train station I instantly felt what can only be described as a physically “electric” vibe.

Moscow is alive and buzzing with energy and I knew it was going to be an experience like nowhere else in the world! Let’s take a look at my top 5 must-see experiences which I enjoyed and would recommend to any traveler in Moscow!

RED SQUARE MOSCOW RUSSIA

There is absolutely no feeling that quite compares to the experience of standing in the middle of the Red Square , which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

I remember visiting there on my first evening, so the first time I saw this historic place was when it was all lit up. This is the time when Red Square is at it’s finest with the red stars glowing atop the Kremlin and State Historical Museum.

The GUM department store is also lit up with stunning lights all over its exterior and St Basil’s at the other end of the square beckoning you to come closer!

During the day it is a different but no less magical experience. You will be able to view the Kremlin where President of the Russian Federation works, see Lenin’s mausoleum and view the impressive Spassky clocktower, with its bells regularly chiming.

Kazan Cathedral has been recently restored and regularly holds religious services. There are always locals and tourists walking around the square and plenty of tour groups meet here so it’s a very safe area and provides a myriad of photo opportunities.

UNDERGROUND ART GALLERY IN THE MOSCOW METRO

Only a couple of hours after I first arrived in Moscow, I was able to explore the stunning Moscow metro stations with my tour group.

Stalin had a vision that the stations of the metro should be decorated to resemble the “palaces of the People”. The Metro here is decorated in the traditional Soviet-style, with each station showcasing a unique perspective and story.

The decorations and symbols were designed to showcase the achievements of the Soviet Union.

With around 7 million people traveling on the metro through Moscow daily, this transportation system is one of the busiest in the world. Wandering through the stations you can expect to find with chandeliers, marble, statues of heroes and mosaic artworks so detailed, that it’s hard to believe you’re not in a museum!

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Some of the most beautifully decorated stations are:

Ploshchad Revolyutssi Station (Revolution Square station)

This is one of the most popular metro stations and the closest to Red Square. There are over 70 bronze statues depicting a cross-section of the population from peasants to workers, soldiers, and artists.

Novoslobodskaya Station

With a concept of emulating an underground crypt, the beautiful Novoslobodskaya Station is decorated with stained glass panels.

Built-in 1952, the Soviet artist Pavel Korin designed all 32 glass panels which are incredibly vibrant and definitely works of art!

Komsomolskaya Station

Definitely one of my favorites and one of the prettiest metro stops, Komsomolskaya looks like the interior of a palace!

Decorated with mosaics and in a baroque style, it was built in 1952 to honor military leaders of the Soviet Union.

Related:  City Guide to St Petersburg, Russia

One of the most decadent and artistically designed department stores I’ve ever seen, GUM is world-famous for its stunning architecture, dining options, and shopping.

Although there are quite a few department stores in Moscow, this is my favorite and it’s ideally placed next to Red Square.

Try to visit here in the evening as well so you can view the outside all lit up with fairy lights, it’s a magical experience!

One of the things I adore about visiting GUM is the fact they regularly update their interior decorations to match the seasons. Russia is also world-renowned for its high-quality ice cream and GUM has plenty of little ice cream stands to serve up this dessert as you’re wandering around!

With plenty of designer shops, cafes & restaurants, it’s a great place to stop by for an hour or two between tours.

BOLSHOI THEATRE OF RUSSIA MOSCOW

If you used to be a ballet dancer like myself or simply adore culture, then a visit to see the ballet at the Bolshoi Theatre is an unmissable experience!

The premier Ballet theatre company, the Bolshoi is very popular with both the locals and tourists. In 2017 I booked in to see “Etudes” and it was an enchanting experience.

The interior of the theatre is mesmerizing with a massive chandelier and the quality of the ballet performances are second to none. As ballet is so entrenched in the country’s culture, I found a lot of the locals were also attending the performance.

One day I hope to return to see either The Nutcracker or Swan Lake, as music in these ballets is by the famous Russian composer, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky.

ST BASIL’S CATHEDRAL

I’m saving the very best until last! St Basil’s Cathedral is by far my most treasured memory of my time in Moscow and all of Russia to date.

In fact, when I first stepped on to Red Square and turned towards this magnificent Cathedral, I had tears well up in my eyes. Seriously, there is no feeling like seeing St Basil’s Cathedral in real life and experiencing the emotions that spring from within.

No matter what time of the day you witness this iconic Russian landmark, you are guaranteed to have your breath taken away.

And you are also going to want to take photos too! Out of all the Russian Orthodox Churches, I have visited this is the most memorable, with its colorful onion domes, unique design, and frescoes.

During my second visit to Moscow (which was my first visit to Russia as an independent traveler) I was able to take a tour of the inside of St Basil’s. The Cathedral dates back to 1555 and was built by Ivan the Terrible. If you’re interested in history & artifacts, the Russian Orthodox religion or curious about Russian culture then I certainly recommend this tour.

Even learning about the story of Saint Vasily (Basil) the Blessed (whom the Cathedral was named after) is so intriguing and brings a whole new layer to the tour experience. Tickets can be purchased at a ticket window to the left of the Cathedral entrance for 500 rubles.

WHERE TO STAY 

My recommendation.

During my visit to Moscow in 2017, I stayed at the Hilton Leningradskaya . It’s a few steps out from Red Square, but I really enjoyed my experience.

The quality of the accommodation, service from staff and hotel dining options were great. When I return to Moscow again, this is the hotel I would choose to stay at as an affordable option.

My Dream Hotel

Situated just outside of the main gate to Red Square, the Four Seasons Moscow is such an opulent hotel that it makes it onto my wish list.

I enjoyed cocktails at the hotel’s Moskoyovka Bar which overlooks the Red Square entrance and they have an amazing selection of drinks here.

The Hotel is in a prime location and is so extravagantly designed that I dream about staying here one day!

WHERE TO EAT 

Varenychna №1.

If you’re interested in traditional Russian cuisine in a family-friendly restaurant setting, then this is the place to visit! Varenychna is a chain of restaurants very affordably priced and I found one wandering down Nikolskaya Street next to Red Square.

Try the pelmeni with meat which are the softest, yummiest dumplings I’ve ever had! I visited here once on my first Moscow trip and came back twice on my second visit!

An Italian grand café located in GUM with a balcony overlooking the red square, Café Bosco is a must-see whether you’re after:

• cup of coffee

There’s a phenomenal selection of wine, fine desserts, and their ice cream is well-loved.

Even if you aren’t able to sit down for a meal, try one of their ice cream cones at one of their stalls throughout GUM.

Café Pushkin

This place is on my wishlist and I’m hoping I can manage this on my third visit! Café Pushkin is world-renowned for its menu, service stunningly opulent interior.

If you’d like to visit for dinner then please try to book, there is always a line of people waiting for a table during the evening – I’ll be booking in advance for my visit.

Also, if you’re after a takeaway option then there’s also their Patisserie with fine cakes and pastries.

Located in a Baroque-style building on Tversky Boulevard, Café Pushkin has a well-earned reputation worldwide for fine dining in a romantic setting.

Moscow is not for the faint-hearted – it’s a bustling world city that will open your eyes to the beauty of Russia and ensure you leave cast within its spell.

I remember watching the sunrise on my last morning there last year from my hotel room and wishing I could stay just a day or two longer.

If you’re going to visit the Russian capital, my main tip would be to try to immerse yourself in discovering as much as you can of this country’s Russian culture. From the main landmarks to religious sites, testing out the local cuisine and experiencing their offerings of the fine arts from music to ballet.

There is so much inspiration to be found in Moscow Russia and you will also find your heart opens to this incredible country as well.

We hope that this article has inspired you to visit Moscow, Russia. If you have any questions about the destination or have your own travel tips to share please leave these in the comments below.

Want to share your own travel tips by guest writing for We Are Travel Girls? Go to our Contribute page for guidelines and to submit your article.

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Read More City Guides

• City Guide to St Petersburg, Russia
• An Insiders Guide To Sydney
• 10 Things You Won’t Want To Miss In Lisbon
• A New Yorkers Guide To New York

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We Are Travel Girls Contributor Lauren Harding  of TheWanderingAesthete.com Connect with Lauren  Instagram  | Pinterest  | Facebook

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You’ll Also Love

March 12, 2019 at 3:45 pm

Great article about beautiful Moscow! ?

Lauren Harding says

March 13, 2019 at 6:05 pm

Thank you so much!

March 15, 2019 at 1:00 am

In the past year I’ve learned a lot about Russia and it’s not such a scary place as the movies would lead you on to believe. I’d love to visit one day.

March 17, 2019 at 2:52 am

Hi Mike, it’s an absolutely incredible place and the people there were very welcoming and friendly! Hope you can visit there one day, I can’t wait to return to Russia, hopefully this time during the snow-time!

Marcel says

March 17, 2019 at 11:46 am

Great fotos combined with a lovely very authentical and informative text. Congratulations Dear Lauren! I also liked your Blog about St. Petersburg. So it was a nice surprise to find this here now (by receiving the newsletter from this page). Keep on the great work & best wishes. ??❤️?✨

March 18, 2019 at 1:54 am

Hi Marcel, thank you so much! Really happy you enjoyed it, I loved my time in Russia and hope this inspires more people to visit!

Avishek Datta says

April 5, 2019 at 1:38 am

very elaborate and well written. will carry on the details mentioned in ur articles about places to visit during my trip in June 2019. Did u visit or hv written about Kazan and Nizhny Novgorod. Thank u so much.

August 29, 2019 at 6:25 am

Hi Avishek, Thanks so much for the feedback and hope you enjoyed your visit there! Unfortunately I didn’t get to explore those places, I’ve only visited Moscow and St Petersburg. But I hope to return to Russia again and explore new places there! Thanks, Lauren

Vladislav says

May 31, 2023 at 5:50 am

In Moscow, you can do a lot of things, for example, go to the Vanilla spa. There you can relax and unwind with a massage session

Vasily says

July 4, 2023 at 5:48 am

The sixth point I would write to visit the Barbie spa salon. A really worthwhile place to stay. Masseuses will make a good massage, you can smoke a hookah and drink alcohol

Vanessa Rivers says

July 17, 2023 at 2:24 pm

Thanks for reading and for your trip! -Vanessa, WATG Co-Founder

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Female solo travel in Russia | Top Tips and safety

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Female solo travel in Russia can seem a little scary at first, especially if you aren’t used to travelling alone.

In general, Russia is a relatively safe country for travellers, including solo female travellers.

It’s especially safe if you’re travelling as a tourist to large cities, (such as Moscow, St. Petersburg, Vladivostok, or if you are doing the Trans-Siberian train route.

Female solo travel in Russia

Travelling solo in Russia is something that has intrigued me for a while, I had built up quite the imaginary picture of the world’s largest country.

In my mind, it is a beautiful but bureaucratic land of imposing Stalinist architecture and stern, humourless people. It both fascinated and daunted me at the same time.

I travelled alone from Tallinn to St Petersburg by train and then onto Moscow to give myself a travel challenge.

Is it safe to travel to Russia alone?

Getting myself around Russia was a fabulous and yet ever so slightly overwhelming experience. When you solo travel as a female you are wholly reliant upon yourself.

There’s no one to check ‘Is this the right train? Is this grey looking soup edible? Will the train guard ever return with my passport?

You have to survive on your street smarts, common sense and frankly, unshakeable faith in humanity, especially as a solo female traveller. It’s one of the best travel life lessons going.

Is Russia safe to travel?

Another reassuring thing for female solo travellers is that as of July 1, 2014, there is a large presence of tourist police in Moscow.

This is a tourist initiative of the local authorities to improve the image of the city.

The police aim to provide support to foreign tourists in the Russian capital.

It consists of special security patrols and information in English for foreign tourists visiting the city.

Travelling to Russia is as safe as visiting any other European country. Of course, petty crimes such as pickpocketing are still very common, which is no different from any other tourist destination.

Take the usual travel safety precautions and exercise caution in crowds. Also, be careful not to fall for any common travel scams or obvious tourist traps.

We actually talk about travel scams on my weekly podcast – Travel Goals. Subscribe now and catch up on all episodes.

Female travel in Russia

Despite having almost no common sense, even after over 15 years of solo travel, I managed to travel solo in Russia without incident.

Admittedly there were several challenges and difficulties, but nothing that was too overwhelming.

If you are thinking of taking the plunge travelling to Russia then I would seriously consider booking an  organised Russia trip.

Especially if you are new to travelling or travelling alone. This isn’t because travelling is dangerous, it’s that travelling in Russia can be tricky if you aren’t used to travelling.

This is about convenience and taking the hassle out of your travels. Especially as travelling to Russia includes added complications like applying for a tourist visa.

If you do want a travel challenge and solo travel to Russia, I have compiled a little list of solo travel top tips.

This is so that you can get around Russia hassle-free and have the solo travel adventure you deserve.

From visas to vodka, here are my top tips for female solo travel in Russia.

Apply for a Russian Visa through a specialist agency

Before you book your solo Russia trip, you will need to first sort out things like a Russia Visa, where you plan to visit in Russia and where you will be staying?

Travelling to Russia is definitely not suitable for ‘on a whim’ style of travelling.

There is a fair bit of admin and paperwork to get through before you set foot in the country. You definitely need to check the visa requirements of your home home country before booking your trip

Since 2019, St. Petersburg can be visited with free E-VISA, unless you are travelling by train. Which is kind of annoying?

If you are a UK citizen planning to travel to Russia, then you will need to apply for a tourist visa before you travel.

Russian Tourist visa for UK

For British citizens, You’ll need to get a visa from the  Russian Embassy  before you travel.

Current processing times, according to the UK GOV website , are up to 20 business days for standard service, or up to 3 business days for urgent service.

I’m not going to lie, applying for a Russian visa can be a bit of an ordeal. I would strongly advise applying for your visa through a specialist agency such as  Real Russia .

They will guide you through the process and check for any mistakes in your paperwork before sending you off to Russia Visa application centre to submit biometric data, (scanned fingerprints). 

If like me you aren’t exactly a ‘details person’, then I would totally enlist the help of professionals.

Pay attention to your personal items

Big cities in Russia tend to be quite safe, I never felt unsafe at any point wandering the tourist areas of St Petersburg and Moscow.

As a solo female traveller, I followed the usual precautions and stuck to well lit, public areas.

You will find lots of police officers patrolling streets, in metro stations and security guards manning the doors of shopping centres.

Keep your valuables safe

That said, when travelling alone, it’s always smart to make sure you keep your valuables safe.

To keep your valuables secure, I recommend taking an anti-theft backpack with you. Check out my City Break Packing Guide for more information.

Make sure to not leave purses/phones/expensive sunglasses out on show unless you want to make a pickpocket’s day.

Also be sure you carry around your passport, in case you are asked to produce it by local authorities.

Walking alone at night in Russia

Ladies, whilst public areas in Russian cities are largely safe, it’s not generally a good idea to be mildly intoxicated when walking alone at night.

No matter where you travel, always trust your gut, be aware of your surroundings and maybe consider not wearing earbuds while walking around in a city at night.

When I was in St Petersburg I got a bit ‘carried away’ with the vodka when I was out having some Pelmeni, [Russian Dumplings].

I found myself wandering around, humming Bonnie Tyler, before then stumbling upon a late-night cat café.

It’s not often I find myself in a Russian city at midnight with a cat on my head, but at least I was safely inside and having a sobering black coffee.

I don’t want to be a killjoy, just go easy on the booze if you are going to walking alone after dark.

You want to be fully aware of your surroundings, rather than drunkenly convincing yourself that you could successfully scale a lamppost.

• Get decent travel insurance

Having comprehensive  travel insurance  for your solo Russia trip is an absolute must.

Check out World Nomads for insurance designed for travellers. You can get travel insurance for durations of 1 week to a year with World Nomads.

Their cover includes a huge amount of eventualities and medical support should you get sick on your travels.

Trust me, it’s scary to get sick when travelling alone, so the last thing you need is not having decent travel insurance when things go wrong.

Why risk travelling without insurance when you can get peace of mind at a reasonable cost?

Those medical bills abroad can add up significantly guys, make sure to cover yourself for those  travel fails .

Navigating Russian Metro systems

The metro systems of Moscow and St Petersburg are fast, efficient and cheap ways of travelling around the city.

For female travellers, the metro systems in St Petersburg and Moscow are probably one of the safest parts of the city, day or night.

Brightly lit, plenty of security personnel and cameras, never short of people. Take the usual precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

However, be aware that signs in the stations are only in Cyrillic, this can cause quite a bit of confusion when attempting to navigate the metro system as a solo traveller.

This is where a Russian phrasebook, Google translate app, or basic knowledge of the Russian alphabet would come in super handy.

I managed to get myself lost multiple times whilst trying to get across Moscow via metro.

The upside was that I got to see many of the spectacularly decorated stations, almost like underground, hidden art spaces in a busy commuter environment.

Beware rip off taxi drivers in Russia

It’s important to always be aware of taxi scams and overpriced taxis as a female solo traveller.

People can take advantage when you are travelling alone, so you need to be on your guard.

When I arrived in St Petersburg my Russia Travel guide stated that a taxi to my hostel should cost around 300 Rubles.

At this point, it was midnight, I was very cold, hungry and tired. Approaching a taxi that was right outside of the station, I was informed that a taxi to my hostel was 1500 Rubles.

I knew this wasn’t the case and as I walked away the irate taxi driver started shouting varying amounts.

I no longer felt comfortable getting in their taxi, so I used Google maps to navigate my way to the hostel. It was thankfully only a 20-minute walk.

Avoid taxi scams

Russia isn’t the only place this has happened; many European taxi drivers have also quoted me outrageous amounts for journeys I know are around 5 minutes by car.

The key here is to do a little research on distances between the airport/train station/bus station and where your accommodation is.

This way you can roughly calculate how much a cab should cost and you won’t get ripped off.

Be careful what you photograph in Russia

There are many beautiful government buildings and uber-cool structures in Russia. If you are a travel photography fan , it’s a fantastic place to visit.

As a solo traveller, I revel in the challenge of getting solo snaps in new destinations.

be aware that there may be photography restrictions in place, especially if the building is used for military or security purposes.

Tourists have been imprisoned and fined for taking innocent snaps of official buildings if in doubt, don’t post to Instagram girls.!

Don’t be afraid to talk to people when solo travelling

Solo   Travelling is all about making connections, meeting interesting locals and bonding with other travellers.

Whilst Russians can come across as a bit brusque, I found waitresses, hostel staff and bar staff were happy to chat with me about their country and to recommend local places of interest.

It’s important to te prepared for all sorts of weird and wonderful encounters and travel fails , when on travelling alone.

One travel fail that I had in Russia was when I spent around an hour hunting for a particular restaurant, in -20 conditions.

Making friends when travelling

When I finally got there, it became clear that it was the wrong restaurant and it was full.

The disappointment on my frozen little face must have been evident as a man got up and said I could have his table.

I thought this meant that he was leaving the table but as I sat down he said, ‘Hi I’m Stan. So! What should we order?’

That is the short story of how I ended up going on an accidental dinner date with a divorce lawyer in Moscow.

Overall, I didn’t have any negative experiences travelling solo in Russia. Of course, I faced the usual travel hiccups.

Namely, getting lost, missing metro stops, accidentally spilling coffee on my laptop, airport delays and angry taxi drivers insisting that a 5-minute ride was 1500 Rubles.

However, I never felt unsafe at any point. Part of me is sure that this is due to my ridiculous over-optimism and faith that everything ‘will probably be alright’.

When you solo travel you should always exercise some caution but it shouldn’t stop you from attempting an adventure or talking to strangers.

Keep your wits sharp, your belongings safe and get out there with a sense of ‘badass babe on a mission to explore’ and you’ll be just fine

Always cooperate with Russian train guards

I travelled from Tallinn to St Petersburg by train on what I can only describe as a ‘Soviet throwback’ train.

For those of you who are used to trains with plug sockets, Wi-Fi and fuss-free travel, prepare yourselves for a wholly different experience.

First off, I had some difficulty locating my carriage and indeed seat. No one on the train, including the guards, spoke English.

So I played a train version of musical chairs for the first 30 minutes looking for where I was supposed to sit.

Next up comes the passport checking, the train guard will scrutinize your tickets and passport before taking it away.

Getting the train in Russia

Ladies, this is not the time to panic and start demanding to know where your passport is going?

You are no longer in Kansas doll, this is Russia and if the train guards take your passport, you just have to roll with it. It will be making its way back to you at some point.

On my six-hour journey, I counted 3 passport checks and two rounds of sniffer dogs coming through the carriage.

As a solo traveller. it’s important to comply with the request of passports, documentation checks and bag checks.

It’s a level of security that you might not be familiar with but is pretty normal in Russia.

Safety travel tips for Russia

Whilst solo female travel is generally safe, there are still a few safety tips you should keep in mind.

Here are some of my top tips for travelling in Russia and staying safe as a female traveller.

• Be aware of your surroundings when walking around at night.
• Pay attention to your belongings in crowded areas.
• Always carry your passport and visa information
• If you encounter any travel problems contact your Consulate or Embassy.
• Make sure your hotel or accommodation has registered your passport

I would really recommend solo travelling to Russia. It’s a fantastic experience and is challenging enough to test you, without being overwhelming.

Woud you solo travel to Russia? Let me know in the comments below.

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Planning your trip to Russia

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• Get the best destination recommendations from  TripAdvisor

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Portia Jones has spent years traversing the globe and having many misadventures. She now works as a freelance travel journalist and is a Lonely Planet guidebook author and hosts the Travel Goals Podcast. She specialises in adventure travel, destination guides and city breaks. Her work has appeared in The Times, National Geographic, Wanderlust Magazine and the Independent. She can normally be found hiking, swimming outdoors in icy waters, or drinking coffee in bougie cafes.

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Meeting Russian Women: Top 5 Locations

• Posted on August 3, 2019 June 1, 2020
• by Kings of Russia
• 7 minute read

Russia, and by extension the post-Soviet countries, are absolutely massive. There are hundreds of cities with lots going on in different places, making a lot of opportunities for meeting Russian women across the entire country .  Making a Top 5 is difficult because there are so many factors to take into account. We have hotness, accessibility, volume, quality, fun factor, safety, diversity vs homogeny, logistics.

If I had to pick 5 for meeting Russian girls generally, I would filter for the larger base cities to get a feel of the different regions while not being overwhelmed by the “Russian-ness” or “Otherness” of it all. Outside large capital cities, the English levels get drastically lower and the overall energy has a small-town vibe with strong social ties. Once you get some experience traveling and have some language skills, the smaller cities and towns may be an option to explore.

Moscow for Meeting Russian Women

Moscow is massive. It has a 17 million+ metro population, is in the heart of European Russia and connects the rest of the Eastern Slavic and Eurasian world. It’s expensive, huge and for some, could be stressful, but if I had to pick a place to go to and meet Russian girls, Moscow is the clear #1 choice for me. English levels are decent, amenities are 1st world, the girls are generally hot and there’s always something to do.

You know you’re in Russia when you’re in Moscow, but you also don’t feel totally homesick because it does draw influence from the West but not in a tacky way. You’ll find plenty of English speaking girls here and the city has upgraded its English sign infrastructure since FIFA. A benefit of Moscow is to test the waters to see if you’re even into Russian or Slavic girls. There’s a lot of hype regarding them, but asides from beauty, some men simply have a hard time “clicking” with these kinds of girls.

Moscow is very much like London and New York with dozens of ethnicities and cultures clashing. You can meet girls from all over Eurasia, from Georgia to Kazakhstan. Diversity, volume, quality and a wide array of activities makes Moscow an easy choice.

St. Petersburg for Meeting Russian Women

Some guys simply don’t like Moscow and want something a little more familiar. Thanks to Peter the Great, we have the most European city in Russia with reminiscences of Venice and Amsterdam. Saint Petersburg looks less Russian and more European in the center. It’s no surprise since many Italian architects were responsible for advising and creating the concept of Saint Petersburg. The population is generally western focused and places a big premium on culture and the arts.

A lot of the girls in Saint Petersburg are doing something pertaining to culture, art or some sort of creative endeavor. You’ll find technical and business girls as well but everything seems to serve the cultural image of Russia in some way. This makes for meeting some pretty strange personalities, where a lot of the girls have specific intellectual and artistic interests.

I personally don’t find the girls as attractive as their Muscovite counterparts but I do know men who clearly prefer Saint Petersburg over Moscow. There are hot girls to be found but more average and strange hipster girls. It’s like Putin ordered anyone remotely left-wing or hipster to take a train to Saint Petersburg so they can scribble in their notebooks. Part of it is the fashion sense, the other part the general appearance (tattoos, piercings and weird hair are more prevalent here), and the other part is simply mentality.

The English levels are fair, amenities are OK. Be careful about the water; do not drink from the tap, as you’ll get stomach issues. I think Saint Petersburg feels a bit more rundown than Moscow. You’ll see a lot more graffiti, punk attitude, strange or severely retro fashions, but despite the aggressive exterior, the people have a live and live attitude. Compared to Moscow, Saint Petersburg takes it easy, and really does try and emulate the vibe of Venice or Amsterdam.

The Ukraine is going through a strange transformation. The Kievan Rus’ were the founders of what we know as Russia today and the Ukrainians and Russians had close relations prior to the scourge of Communism. Kiev is one of the oldest cities founded by the Eastern Slavs.

It is extremely historic, has its own middle sized city charm and the girls are no less attractive than Moscow while also being a cheaper city in general. English is now widespread due to the westernizing influence, though I’d argue this precise westernizing influence is what’s destroying Ukrainian girls, turning them into their Czech and Polish counterparts.

You will find more scammers and green card dreamers here, and while the girls are pretty, they’re also more conniving. The femme fatale that Westerners are warned about of those “devious Russian girls” should not be taken lightly in Ukraine.

Ukrainians are ‘warmer’ than Russians and have a more of an ‘enjoy life’ attitude, because well, it might all be over tomorrow. Despite conditions, Ukrainians don’t seem dour. They have strong social cohesion and seem to be able to keep on trucking. This gives Ukrainians a strong and persistent mentality.

That said, if you find the right girl, you will be very happy. Ukraine is a great place to find a long term relationship. You’ll find slutty girls and fast sex depending on where you look, but in general the quality girls, like most of Eastern Europe require time and commitment. Many guys prefer Kiev over Russia due to its lack of visa requirements and lower cost of living making it easier to stay longer term.

Minsk for Meeting Russians

The Belarusians, relative to the cosmopolitan Russians and the sneaky Ukrainians are more laid back and provincial. English gets significantly worse here, though the westernizing influence is creeping into Belarus as well. Girls are friendly and have a more “small town” vibe in general. The most promiscuous ones are, not surprisingly, the most Western and not the most attractive.

If your Russian ability is better and you don’t mind the sleepy boring city feel, Minsk is also recommended for trying to find a long term relationship. The visa can become an issue and there’s lots of Soviet era bureaucracy the government proudly retains, though it’s been slowly liberalizing.

Belarusians have a pretty ‘distinct’ Slavic look so staying a while you’ll start to see the same “type” of girls. Staying here a while may be an exercise in patience as everything is slower, bureaucratic and pretty much Soviet. While the girls appear broke, somehow they are always flying out on trips to the Mediterranean, Western Europe and Dubai. Sponsorship seems to be big here, so if your intent is to game, screen carefully for girls expecting more.

Prague for Meeting Russian Women

Despite being in Central Europe, lots of Russians study, work in, and live in Prague. If you don’t want to deal with visa issues, political conditions, language blocks or the like, Prague has its fair share of East Slavic girls. They’ll stand out right away relative to their Czech counterparts.

Czech girls can be confused for East Slavic girls but there’s something in the mentality, in the wiring that makes me think: “she’s Russian”. The dress may be similar, but the East Slavic girl walks and acts differently. Czech girls have a more Western attitude vibe while the Russians are unashamed of being feminine. You’ll find nice girls and scammers alike, so keep your screening skills sharp, but generally, Russians in Prague are on business or students. To get to Prague they have to do a bit more than scam their way through life.

Czechs are the land of the Bohemians, so it’s no surprise they’ll have that “strange” vibe, whether it’s hipster aesthetic or just something that makes you think you saw a Rammstein filming. Some Russians flock to this, but I’ve noticed it’s more of a Czech thing.

Russian girls in Prague may also be up for more adventure as they’re not in their hometowns, are technically foreigners themselves, and are in a dirty Disney wonderland where sex is everywhere.

Meeting Russian Women Online

As an added bonus, we always advocate the idea of pipelining prior to any trips and being on the ground in order to bring the most success.

Our go-to for meeting Russian women whether in Russia or other countries and cities as mentioned above in Russian Cupid . Our most recommended dating app, Russian Cupid offers members both high-quality and quantity of Russian women all across the globe.

Conclusion on Meeting Russian Women

Naturally, there are many more cities that could be discussed, but I’d say once you get the hang of Eastern Europe, if you’re interested in seeing more, you can branch out gradually. The biggest issue is language. If you’re serious about traveling around, picking up Russian language skills will help, and the chances of scamming go down.

The other issue in Eastern Europe is after the capital and 2nd biggest cities, the population sizes begin to cut off dramatically. You can go from a few million to a few thousand to even less. At this point you won’t have as many options and unless you’re comfortable being in a long term relationship working on something outside game, won’t have much to do in these small towns.

The mindset is also much more traditional and provincial, so a foreigner strutting through a 75,000 city may be met with both interest and caution, depending on how you like to be.

Interested in more topics on the Motherland, read our comparison of  Moscow vs St. Petersburg .

Related Topics

• dating in russia
• meeting russian women
• st. petersburg

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Best Places To Meet Girls In Moscow & Dating Guide

If you are looking for the best places to meet girls in Moscow and a dating guide we have got all the info that you desire. From spots to pick up single women in your area to online dating sites to the best romantic date ideas you can find it all here.

Table of Contents

• 1 Nightclubs & Pick Up Bars
• 2 Meet Moscow Girls During The Day
• 3 Chat With Girls Online
• 4 Moscow Dating Guide
• 5 Day Date Ideas
• 6 Tips For Tourists & Expats

We will begin with the best nightclubs and pick up bars to meet single Moscow girls, most guys do prefer to try and hook up after dark so it is the logical starting point. Day game and online dating will both follow the singles nightlife, they can work very well here if you know the right places and ways to use them.

Once you know where to try and meet some sexy ladies our dating guide section will cover the spots to show them a good time. There are plenty of romantic restaurants, cocktail bars, and fun activities that you can do to entertain your dates, but of course the timing of your visit may cut some of the outdoor activities off the list.

Meet Moscow Girls During The Day

Do you speak any Russian? If so then you might be able to pick up girls in Moscow during the day, if not it will be pretty hard. Most of the single women here don’t speak much English and day game is all about having a chat to get to know each other.

If you don’t know any of the local language just approach confidently, speak slowly, and only say the words that need to be said. If you start rambling with long sentences they will get confused quickly and probably want to get away from you.

When the weather is nice Gorky Park and the surrounding area will probably be the best area for day game. Since most of the year things can be pretty dreadful here when the sun is out many sexy girls near you will be also so take advantage of that.

Cafes near Kuznetzky are another good place for day game, and if you are here during the winter hit up shopping malls like:

• Evropeyskiy

You can always try to pick up women from other countries at the various tourist attractions in the city center as well, if the weather is nice these streets will be packed. Plus there are many museums here like the Tretyakov Gallery or Pushkin Museum which can be fine places to meet single women in your area as long as you approach them respectfully.

Chat With Girls Online

We aren’t sure if mail order brides originated in Russia or not but they certainly were popular here. There are so many single girls in Moscow who want to date foreign men and an online dating site like Russian Cupid is the easiest way for you to contact them.

You can use it while you are in the country to set up a date for tonight, or you can log on weeks before you come and start to get some dates lined up. There is even a built in translator on this dating site so it can make communicating a lot easier.

You may walk up to a sexy lady on the street who has no confidence in her English and have no way to get anything going with her. However if you message that same woman on Russian Cupid she probably will reply and may be up to meet you for a date or could already be down to hook up.

Online dating is very popular in this country, this is the top dating site people use, and it can really speed up the process for meeting singles for serious relationships or getting laid.

Moscow Dating Guide

That covers your best places and ways to meet single girls near you and now our Moscow dating guide will become the focus. Once again many of the best date spots in the city will be located in the center, staying in this area will make for a much smoother transition from finishing up a date to heading back to your place.

We have a nice list of romantic restaurants and cocktail bars for a date in Moscow, the fine dining is towards the top and the bar settings are at the bottom of the list:

• Oblomov at 1-Y Monetchikovskiy Pereulok, 5
• Expedition at Pevcheskiy Pereulok, 6
• Steak It Easy at New Arbat Ave, 21
• Torro Grill at White Square, BC, Lesnaya Ulitsa, 5B
• Goodman at Okhotny Ryad St, 2
• 45 Bar & Café at Gogolevsky Bulvar, 2
• Romantic at Kutuzovsky Ave, 2/1
• True Cost Projektor at Slavyanskaya Sq., 2/5
• Strelka at Bersenevskaya Naberezhnaya, 14/5
• Ugolek at Bol’shaya Nikitskaya Ulitsa, 12
• Noor at Tverskaya St, 23/12

After dinner go party in the nightlife or take her to a show at the Bolshoi Theater . You could also go see a comedian at the StandUp Store or Stand Up Club #1 .

Day Date Ideas

When planning a date during the day the weather will play a major factor. If you are here during the summer and it is nice out then you definitely will want to try to do something outside like take a walk around:

• Arbat Street
• Sparrow Hills
• Apothecary Garden

Plus Luzkhov Bridge is one of the more romantic places in the city. If the weather is colder your options will be more limited. Try to get into museums and landmarks like:

• The Kremlin
• Saint Basil’s Cathedral
• Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts
• Tsaritsyno Museum Reserve
• State Tretyakov Gallery
• Armoury Chamber

For something less touristy do some rock climbing at BigWall Climbing Centre at Bumazhny Proezd 19.

Tips For Tourists & Expats

Lastly we want to give some travel and dating tips for tourists and new expats to this city. We have hit on the main one multiple times, but you really want to stay in the city center.

There is a very distinct ring structure here and most of the touristy places listed on this page are right at the center of the rings. So are many of the trendiest clubs and bars, plus many of the best date spots. It will cost more to stay there, but you will save yourself a lot of time and money on transportation by being centrally located.

If you can’t afford a hotel in the city center make good use of the metro and you can find a map at that link. As far as prices go you currently get around 75 rubles per dollar and this is a pretty expensive city, expect to see lots of rich Russian guys who spend a lot of money on a night out.

This leads to many gold diggers and prostitutes being around, some will tell you that it is easier to find a good woman for a serious relationship over in Saint Petersburg . Plus that city is a lot cheaper and there is less competition from the local guys.

The dating culture in Moscow can be pretty tough for tourists, particularly if you don’t speak the local language. Why is a hot girl going to hook up with you if you can’t communicate when there are so many well off locals who roll up to a club in a BMW and get bottle service or buy her nice shoes and dresses?

Remember that Russian women like confident men, you need to approach with confidence, nice guy game may not be the best here. Be a bit cocky, show that you have some money to spend, and take a lot of shots if you want to  get laid. This is pretty much the same game advice we give in all of our European dating guides .

Another important thing to point out is that the best months of the year to visit would be from May through October when the weather is nicer. If you like freezing cold temperatures then any time will be fine, but most probably prefer some sun to be out.

Enjoy Dating Moscow Girls

This city gives off conflicting reports from guys who visit that are hoping to hook up. Some will tell you that it is a gold mine loaded with sexy girls near you who have incredible bodies and want to get laid with foreign men.

Others will tell you that it is full of gold diggers, prostitutes, and that if you don’t speak Russian or spend a lot of money you have no chance. We aren’t sure how it will play out for you, but there certainly is a lot of potential to get laid here.

To maximize your chances don’t forget to use Russian Cupid to set up dates before you arrive or to find single women in your area to take out tonight or this weekend. That wraps up our best places to meet girls in Moscow and the dating guide, enjoy your time here.

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A Gentleman in Moscow: What to expect from the Paramount+ series? Explored

A Gentleman in Moscow promises to be a fascinating story about a Russian Count banished to a hotel for life. The story is set against the backdrop of the Bolshevik Revolution. Ewan McGregor plays Count Alexander Rostov, a charming and well-mannered gentleman, punished to a life of confinement, in times of social and political upheaval.

The upcoming Paramount+ TV with Showtime series also stars Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Johnny Harris, Leah Harvey, and Beau Gadson in prominent roles. The eight-part mini-series will be released on Friday, March 29, 2024, with new episodes every week.

Which book is A Gentleman in Moscow based on?

The series is based on a 2016 novel of the same name by Amor Towles and revolves around a Russian count put under house arrest in a hotel attic. The book was among the New York Times bestsellers when it was released and received favorable reviews.

It was on the bestseller list for over 40 weeks, received wide critical praise, and was featured in several Best Books of the Year lists.

What is A Gentleman in Moscow TV mini-series about? Plot explored

It is set in Moscow, around the Bolshevik Revolution, when Alexander Rostow is arrested for writing counter-revolutionary poems. By the courtesy of a few powerful friends, he is spared from execution. But he is condemned to life imprisonment inside a hotel.

Count Rostow is a man of strong belief. He is always composed and is a perfect gentleman. Rostow spends decades in this hotel but never loses his refined manners. His time in the grand Hotel Metropol leads to interesting encounters and charming conversations.

This unique setting is aided by the themes of freedom and hope and is told through intriguing characters, captivating scenes, and smart dialogues.

What to expect from A Gentleman in Moscow TV mini-series?

The show looks visually stunning in the trailer, with elements of suspense, drama, comedy, and political intrigue. Here's what fans can expect from the series.

1) Suspense

The Russian Revolution was one of the most important events in the history of the world. It marked an end to the reign of the Romanovs and the beginning of socialist rule under Vladimir Lenin.

The revolution flipped the country's politics, not just with the hammer and sickle, but also with gunpowder and bullets. The powerful lost power, and the aristocracy became a symbol of vulgar opulence, class oppression, and corruption.

The story about a noble aristocrat set in that era is bound to give the audience elements of suspense. One wrong move or word can become a matter of life and death.

2) Playful relationships (young girl helping him escape the hotel)

The trailer also featured Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Beau Gadson, Leah Harvey, etc, as characters who would encounter Rostow in his imprisonment. The unusual relationships the protagonist builds with the people around him will be a source of interest for the viewers.

The trailer showed a young girl helping Rostow escape from the hotel. Would they succeed or end up in front of a firing squad?

3) Plot twist (Entry of the actress)

Mary Elizabeth Winstead plays Anna Urbanova, an actress who 'stars in bad movies', as said by one of the characters in the trailer. She catches Rostow's attention upon her arrival at The Metropol Hotel . The diva and the prisoner incite steamy stares and flirtatious exchanges. During his confinement at the Metropol, her presence stir things around.

4) Meaning and Symbolism

"They can take away everything, but they can't take away who you are."

When a nation adopts a new ideology and undergoes a socio-political transition, new symbols of unity are simultaneously created. This story, spanning over three decades primarily, revolves around the protagonist's struggle to preserve his identity against those who want to erase it.

What happens when the world you were born into becomes nothing more than a memory? In A Gentleman in Moscow, Amor Towles uses subtle moments of clever comedy to elevate the humane drama. The trailer promises to be an honest attempt to bring the brilliant book to life .

A Gentleman in Moscow will be released on Paramount+ on March 29, 2024.

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Belarus broadens visa-free travel for 35 European countries

FILE - Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko attends a meeting of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council of the Eurasian Economic Union at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia, on May 8, 2024. Dozens of Nobel Prize laureates are calling in an open letter on Belarus’ authoritarian President Alexander Lukashenko to free all the country’s political prisoners, following the release this month of 18 who are seriously ill. (Evgenia Novozhenina/Pool Photo via AP, File)

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TALLINN, Estonia (AP) — Belarusian authorities on Wednesday expanded visa-free travel for residents of 35 European countries, including members of the European Union and the United Kingdom, as part of authoritarian President Alexander Lukashenko’ s efforts to improve relations with the West.

The Belarusian Foreign Ministry said Lukashenko has approved temporary visa-free travel for citizens of European nations arriving by rail or road, describing the move as a reflection of the country’s “openness and peacefulness.”

The new rules, which become effective Friday and last until the end of the year, allow European travelers to stay in Belarus for 30 days without visas. They broaden the existing visa-free regime for residents of European countries arriving by plane.

Lukashenko, who marks 30 years in power on Saturday, has ruled the ex-Soviet country of 9.5 million with an iron fist, relentlessly suppressing dissent and winning the nickname of “Europe’s last dictator” in the West. His isolation deepened after a brutal crackdown on protests that followed his re-election in an August 2020 presidential vote that the opposition saw as a sham.

More than 35,000 people have been arrested and thousands were beaten in police custody, triggering the EU and the U.S. sanctions that badly hurt Belarus’ Soviet-style economy.

Valery Karbalevich, an independent political analyst, said the Belarusian authorities’ decision to expand visa-free travel for Europeans reflected an attempt by Lukashenko to reach out to the West as he prepares to seek a seventh five-year term in next year’s election.

“Lukashenko is trying to return to his policies of balancing between the West and Russia because he doesn’t want to hold the 2025 election in a ‘besieged fortress’ and wants the West to recognize its result,” Karbalevich said.

Lukashenko has survived the protests thanks to political and economic support from his main sponsor and ally, Russia, but in an apparent attempt to reduce his dependence on Moscow he recently signaled a desire to mend ties with the West.

Earlier this month, the Belarusian leader promised to release prisoners who were detained amid the post-election protests and are now seriously ill. So far 18 political prisoners have been released, including Ryhor Kastusiou , an opposition party leader who is suffering from a severe form of cancer.

Some were freed under an amnesty while others were pardoned. Those who were pardoned had to publicly admit their guilt.

Belarus’ Viasna human rights group counts about 1,400 political prisoners in the country, including its founder, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Ales Bialiatski . Of those, more than 200 people are seriously ill and require medical care, Viasna said.

The United States and the European Union have welcomed the release of some political prisoners but called on Belarus to free all those jailed during the 2020 protests.

Ukraine-Russia war: Threats to UK 'alive and well' in Ukraine; US intercepts Russian and Chinese bombers

Russia and China have held joint air patrols near Alaska, prompting US and Canadian defence command to intercept four bombers. Meanwhile, Bashar al Assad, the Syrian president, is in Russia to meet Vladimir Putin. Submit your question on the war for our specialists to answer.

Thursday 25 July 2024 21:59, UK

• US and Canada intercept Russian and Chinese bombers flying near Alaska
• Threats to UK 'alive and well' in Ukraine - defence expert
• Syrian president on surprise visit to Moscow to meet Putin
• Russian drone fragments found on NATO soil
• Former US and Russian officials 'holding Ukraine talks' | Russia open to peace talks while Zelenskyy remains in power
• Everything you need to know on the war this week
• Your questions answered: Could internal dissent lead to Putin's removal from power? | Has the West been honest about Ukraine's failures?
• Live reporting by Katie Williams

Ask a question or make a comment

That brings an end to our live coverage of the Ukraine war for this evening.

Before we go, here's a brief round up of the day's events:

• Controversial Syrian president Bashar al Assad travelled to Moscow for a meeting with Vladimir Putin , in which the pair discussed the Ukraine war and the situation in the Middle East, the Kremlin said;
• The US and Canada intercepted Russian and Chinese military aircraft flying in international airspace near Alaska, the North American Aerospace Defence Command reported. Russia's defence ministry said the bombers were carrying out joint air patrols.
• Meanwhile, after two more nights of Russian attacks on Ukraine, Romania's defence ministry said it found fragments of a Russian attack drone in a rural village near the Danube river and the country's border with Ukraine this morning. A NATO spokesperson said there was no evidence that its territory was intentionally targeted;
• Russia said senior US and Russian officials have been holding unofficial diplomatic talks on Ukraine , with the Kremlin later claiming it was open to negotiations with Kyiv about ending the conflict on the condition it was given more details about Ukraine's preparedness for such discussions.

You can scroll through the blog below to catch up on the full day's updates.

Ukrainian professional boxer Oleksandr Usyk says he has cried about the war in his country behind closed doors.

Usyk, the first undisputed heavyweight champion in almost 25 years, said it was "hard" to see the recent Russian attack on Okhmatdyt children's hospital in Kyiv.

"Yes [I cry], because it's children, it's not soldiers, it's not a big person. They are 10 years, six, 15 - it's only the start of life. But for these people it's the last. It's hard for me," he said, in an interview with Sky News.

Usyk was speaking at the departure of 50 vehicles from London to Kyiv as part of the ULEZ scrappage scheme. The vehicles will be used to support humanitarian and medical needs in Ukraine.

A Moscow court has ordered the arrest of one of its senior defence ministry staff on suspicion of abuse of power, according to Russian state news agencies.

Andrei Belkov, who heads the ministry's military construction company, is the latest in a string of high-ranking ministry officials to be detained this year.

The company builds bases, hospitals, schools and other facilities for the military, according to its website.

Mr Belkov's boss, former Russian deputy defence minister Timur Ivanov, was also arrested in April on suspicion of taking bribes.

Russia won't be able to keep up its offensive attacks in the long term because its "capabilities are not limitless", a Ukrainian commander has said.

Oleksandr Pivnenko, commander of Ukraine's National Guard, said he believes Russian forces "will not be able to conduct active assaults in many directions" after the next several weeks and will move to being "on the defensive".

"The enemy's offensive capabilities are not limitless, considering the losses they suffer," he said in an interview with Ukrainian outlet Ukrinform.

Mr Pivnenko said Ukraine's military needed to use the time until Russia scales down its attacks to form divisions "and prepare them".

But he warned there would be no "radical" change or any major imminent breakthrough by Kyiv's troops, with forces continuing to look for Russia's "weak points" and "bypass the strong ones".

Russia is planning to slow YouTube speeds on desktop computers in the country by up to 70% in a bid to penalise the video-sharing site, a senior politician has said.

YouTube is one of just a few social media sites still available in Russia, after Moscow blocked other popular apps such as Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

Since the 2022 Russian invasion, the Google-owned company has blocked a host of Russian channels and removed thousands of videos related to the war - including some pro-Kremlin content.

Alexander Khinshtein, a Russian politician in the State Duma lower house of parliament, said the "degradation" of YouTube was a "forced step" against a company he claims "continues to believe it can violate and ignore our legislation with impunity".

He said speeds could drop by 40% by the end of this week and 70% by the end of next week.

Russia has repeatedly fined YouTube for failing to take down content Russia considers illegal or undesirable.

The threat of US sanctions on Russian financial institutions is hampering its ability to secure what it needs for the war against Ukraine, the US treasury secretary has said.

Janet Yellen said Russian revenues had also been hindered by other sanctions and a price cap on Russian oil exports.

The US, UK and other Western nations responded to Moscow's invasion of Ukraine with widespread sanctions targeting high-value areas of Russia's economy, including finance, energy and trade.

Some have targeted members of Vladimir Putin's inner circle, as well as Russian firms linked to the conflict.

A cyber attack by Ukraine's military intelligence agency is causing disruption across Russia, according to Ukrainian media reports.

Sources have told the Kyiv Independent, Suspilne and the New Voice of Ukraine that the seemingly large-scale attack, which has disrupted banking and telecommunications in the country, is now in its third day.

The attack was also affecting Russia's VK social media network and some payment systems,  reports suggested.

Ukraine's military intelligence agency (HUR) has not posted anything official about the attack on its Telegram channel.

By Ivor Bennett , Moscow correspondent

Vladimir Putin has met Bashar al Assad in Moscow, after a surprise visit from the Syrian president that was announced by the Kremlin this morning.

Footage shared on Telegram by the Russian president's press service showed the two leaders smiling and shaking hands, before sitting down and chatting through their respective interpreters.

"I am very glad to see you," President Putin could be heard gushing to his guest.

Russia has been a key ally for President Assad during the Syrian civil war, helping him regain control over the country following an uprising that began in 2011.

But why is he in Moscow now?

Read the full story here ...

Threats to Britain from Russia's invasion of Ukraine are "alive and well" and "no longer a distant possibility", the head of the UK's defence review has said.

Former NATO chief Lord Robertson is leading a "root and branch" review of the UK's armed forces, launched by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, to assess the defence challenges the country faces.

Speaking in the House of Lords today, he pointed to the "depraved conduct" of Russian forces as an example of what was at stake and said it was vital that the UK's military was strong enough to deter any threat.

"We need to recognise... that the threats to our country and our citizens are no longer theoretical. They are no longer a distant possibility," Lord Robertson said.

"They are alive and well in Ukraine today, where Vladimir Putin's Russia has brutally invaded and sought to occupy a peaceful, neighbouring independent nation-state.

"Anybody who needs reminding of what the stakes are in the world today need only look at the depraved conduct of Putin's occupiers in those parts of the Donbas and Crimea that they presently and temporarily occupy."

During a debate on the subject, Lord Stirrup said the UK should not put off increasing defence spending, saying that Mr Putin would "not wait upon our pleasure".

"I suppose we could send him a note saying: 'Dear Vladimir, we know that you're a dire threat to the peace and security of Europe, but would you mind holding off until we get the books straight?' I doubt that he would pay attention," he said.

A peace settlement in the Ukraine war cannot be achieved without Russia and China at the table, Czech President Petr Pavel has said.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been eyeing a second Ukrainian peace summit in November after hosting representatives from 92 countries at the first summit in Switzerland last month aimed at outlining a roadmap for future peace efforts.

Russia was not invited, and said discussing any plans for peace in its absence was a waste of time. China was also absent.

The Ukrainian president said earlier this month that Russia should attend the second meeting if it goes ahead.

Mr Pavel said another summit was "desirable" - but he told Czech news agency CTK that the negotiations would not make sense without Moscow's participation.

"Without Russia and China at the table, there really won't be any peace negotiations," he said.

He also said Beijing should use its status as an "important global player" to urge Russia to move towards peace in the conflict.

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