Best Stroller Travel Systems (2020 Guide)—Britax vs Chicco vs Graco
I probably don't need to tell you that baby items are expensive.
And so one of the most challenging things that I faced when registering for my baby shower was picking the most practical items that were not only reasonably priced, but could be multi-functional as well.
One of my girlfriends told me all about her stroller travel system and how it was the way to go if I wanted to conserve my time, energy, and resources.
I had never heard of a travel system before (let’s be honest, all this baby stuff was super new to me), so I decided to do a little investigating.
And what I found was that if you're going to buy a stroller travel system, it should be one of the ones from Britax, Graco, or Chicco.
Benefits of Having a Stroller Travel System
So, what’s so special about a stroller travel system? In our opinion, here are the biggest benefits.
Efficiency. A good stroller travel system eliminates the need to purchase multiple items. You see, when you purchase a travel system, everything centers on the stroller. It will be the only stroller you will need as your baby grows into a toddler.
Compatibility. Your infant car seat will be compatible with your stroller, allowing it to snap into the top portion of it. This way, you have one system that works together.
Ease of movement. If your baby is sleeping in their car seat, there is no need to wake them up by unstrapping them and re-strapping them. You can simply remove the carrier portion of the car seat from its base, and snap it into your stroller and go. Your baby won’t even have to be touched!
Cost effective. It’s actually more affordable to buy a system, than separate pieces. Yes, your baby will grow out of their infant car seat, but not for at least six months to one year. When you wrap the car seat in with the stroller, you get more bang for your buck (and more options).
Safe in cold climates. Many moms wrap their infants up by adding a Bundle-Me around their infant car seat/carrier. By having a stroller travel system, they can move quickly in and out of a car to the stroller (or vice versa) without having to expose them to additional coldness by removing them from their carrier.
Snap & go. As I mentioned before, you literally snap and go. You don’t have to fiddle around with any kind of straps, gizmos, or gadgets. The system is designed to work cohesively to save you lots of time and frustration.
Important Features to Consider
Now that you understand why owning a stroller travel system is a good idea, here are some of the top things to look for when shopping around.
Comfort
Your baby needs to have something comfortable to sit in. A carrier and stroller should have a back rest and a head rest so your baby can remain in a secure but cozy position.
Look for a carrier and stroller that have the ability to change positions so they can face outward or inward since babies’ preferences on how they view the world vary.
Safety
Always consider safety first. Has the infant car seat portion been tested and proved to be effective?
Does it have a strong and sturdy harness and straps?
It should offer a latch and seatbelt fastener feature for convenience and safety.
You also want a stroller that has a wheel lock component when your stroller is not in use.
Durability
Avoid anything that feels flimsy. Nothing should jingle around either when you use it.
You want a strong item that can withstand wear and tear, the weight of your growing child, and that can be pushed in a number of terrains.
This will allow you to possibly even jog or take lengthy walks with your child, rather than purchase another stroller for exercise purposes.
You also want something that is easy to wash and clean in case of accidents or bottle spills.
Design Elements
Does your travel system have ample storage space?
A place for you to store your own items, as well as your baby’s?
Does it have straps that are adjustable and safe?
Look for a system that has a removable tray, a cup holder, and a sun shade since you’re going to be using the stroller portion well into your baby’s toddlerhood.
You're also going to be using each item in the travel system a lot. So, pick out something that has a design aesthetic that you really like looking at, or that matches your nursery theme or colors.
Cost
These travel systems can be expensive, but they don’t have to be. Remember, a travel system should save you money in the long run.
You could easily spend close to a thousand dollars on a travel system, but spending more doesn’t mean you are going to get the best item in this case.
You can get something of high quality for a significantly less price.
Weight
Stroller travel systems can be heavy, big, and bulky.
You want something durable and sturdy, but you don’t want something that you have to man-handle around.
Plus, you want something that is easy for you to lift in and out of your car, so if you are working with a smaller trunk or backseat, look for a stroller system that allows you to remove its tray if you are lacking space, or even pop one of the wheels off easily.
Look for something that is made out of aluminum so it’s easy to lift, especially if you live in the city and need to go in and out of various forms of transportation regularly.
Ease of Use
Stroller systems should be easy to use. Moms and dads should be able to pretty much do it with one hand.
You should not have to place your infant on the ground or have to put down other items that you are holding in order to place or remove your baby from the stroller.
You also want to make sure the stroller is compatible with you! This way, it will be easier for you to use.
You don’t want your legs and feet to hit the wheels when you walk!
Best Stroller Travel Systems
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1. Graco Aire3 Click Connect
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2. Chicco Bravo Trio
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3. Baby Trend EZ Ride
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4. Safety 1st Smooth Ride
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5. Britax B-Agile 35
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Another terrific stroller travel system is the Graco Aire3 Click Connect (click here to check the price on Amazon), which a lot of moms swear by.
Graco is definitely a name many moms feel that they can trust, and this is a common item that they receive for their baby shower and are very pleased with its quality and function.
What You Get
The system includes a three wheel stroller, an infant car seat, and an infant car seat base.
Like the Britax system, it just makes financial sense to bundle together all of your essential items together, rather than buy them separately.
You’ll save a bunch on shipping as well.
Safety
The Click Connect car seat is highly rated and is extremely safe.
It boasts a side-impact head support, a strong harness that is adjustable, and a padded seat for shock absorbing purposes.
The stroller also has adequate straps to secure your baby in, and has a built in suspension system so you can be guaranteed a safe and smooth ride, wherever you walk with it.
It also has a locking feature to utilize when you’re not in motion.
Parents also love how it has an internal zipped compartment so they can stow their keys, wallet, and other personal belongings safely.
Features
The stroller is super lightweight (it weighs less than 21 pounds) and is very easy to maneuver because it has three wheels, which swivel and get through tiny areas with ease.
There is a special parent’s center within the stroller so you don’t have to carry an additional bag if you don’t want to.
It boasts zippered storage space, two large cup holders, and an extra-large storage space below, and is able to accommodate a toddler up to about 50 pounds.
The stroller also has an extra-large canopy to shield your baby from rain, sun, or other harsh weather.
With the Graco Aire3, you also get an infant car seat and base, which can accommodate a rear facing baby up to 35 pounds (and beginning at newborn weight, around four pounds).
The car seat snaps easily into its base in the car, and easily into the stroller (or vice versa), much like the Britax.
Testimonials
Many parents remark about how comfortable they believe the stroller is and how easy the system is to use in conjunction with one another.
Parents also agree that the stroller was easy to assemble and it is very stable and durable.
In fact, some parents were even concerned about how light it was, but were amazed at its agility and steadiness. It was very easy to lift, carry, and break down to put back in a car.
The extra-large canopy also kept their babies completely dry if they were caught in a downpour.
All in all, you get a lot of “bang” for your buck with this system.
The Chicco Bravo Trio (click here to check the price on Amazon) is another travel system that has a loyal following among many moms.
The Chicco Bravo Trio is in a slightly higher price range than the Britax and Graco, but it's also highly rated and extremely easy and efficient to use.
Plus, Chicco is another major brand name in the baby world, so you can ensure you are getting a great system.
And, you'll probably love all the adorable prints and designs that the set comes in (and also the unique stroller frame, which you don’t get with the other systems).
What You Get
Like with the Britax and Graco, you will receive three things items with this Chicco system.
You will get a stroller, an infant car seat/base, and a frame that carries the car seat carrier portion.
You can purchase a tray for the stroller for an additional $30 or so, which is recommended.
The stroller has an all-wheel suspension, so you get a steady ride that makes strolling a snap.
Safety
The infant car seat on this Chicco is rated highly for safety.
It has a one-pull, design safety harness and lots of padding so even the smallest of babies remain comfortable and in position.
Its shell is also lined with energy absorbing foam, so in case you ever are in an accident, it will take the trauma of impact off of your baby.
One of the better safety features on the car seat is its spring loaded leveling foot, so you are guaranteed a perfect, safe ride every time.
It also has a latch management system, but also a seat belt safety feature for cars without latch capability (always check your car before making any kind of purchase to see which safety system you have).
The stroller has a wheel lock feature and swivel wheels for quick and safe reactions.
All positions are able to be maintained because they lock and are sturdy while holding your infant or car seat carrier.
Features
The stroller on this Chicco is made from aluminum, so you’ll get something that is very lightweight to lift, load, and push.
It also boasts a one-hand pack up so you can tend to your baby in the other. By lifting up on a strap in the stroller, its wheels swivel and turn into position, allowing you to easily close everything up and place it in your vehicle.
You can put your baby in multiple positions, including recline, which is great when nap time arrives and you’re still out and about.
Parents can even utilize the large storage basket on the bottom even when the baby is put in a recline position.
Like with the Britax and Graco, you have a place to put cups and your personal belongings, and there is ample space to carry everything needed to tend to a baby or toddler.
One of our friends that used this system actually always had a heavy wool blanket that she kept stored in the basin, and there was still ample room for a diaper bag and other accessories.
The system works cohesively by allowing you to snap the carrier/car seat in and out of position.
There’s no hassle, no fiddling around with buttons or gadgets. You just snap and go!
Testimonials
Even though the Chicco stroller travel system is on the higher price end, parents rave about its high quality design, the smoothness of the transitions, and how versatile the positioning in the stroller is.
Some moms that use this system call it, “The Holy Grail” of strollers.
Parents also love is sleek design, and how they can simply plop their carrier into the frame during the transition stage between infant and baby.
All in all, parents are willing to pay a bit more for this successful and helpful system.
#3. Baby Trend EZ Ride
Baby Trend’s EZ Ride stroller system (click here to check the price on Amazon) will make your life much easier.
Highly reviewed for quality and comfort, the system is also ultra-convenient for busy moms who are always on the go.
What You Get
The system boasts an infant car seat suitable for newborns to babies, a base to be used in the car, and a stroller to be used in all terrains.
Safety
In order to remain fully safe, an infant can ride in the system’s car seat until they are about 30 pounds and 30 inches long.
It can be installed using the latch method and is suitable for rear-facing babies. The set has a soft head support which can be used in the car or in the stroller, ensuring your baby is placed in the proper position.
The stroller can support about 50 pounds and it boasts five point safety harness straps to keep your baby securely in place.
In order to remain safe, the system locks a carrier into place and keeps it steady whether sitting in the car or on top of the stroller.
Features
One of the best features of the travel system is its one hand fold.
Many moms have bags and other items in their hands (not to mention a child), so a simple fold is what is needed to get in and out of a car with ease.
The stroller also has a large storage basket which helps when shopping or when your diaper bag needs to be stowed away.
The stroller also reclines in multiple positions, so you can ensure your baby can sit upright to take in a clear view, or lay back and nap when tired. Its handle is also adjustable to make pushing your baby around a comfortable experience for you as well.
It has a peek-a-boo window on its large canopy, which will shield your baby from the elements, but also allow them to see out.
Testimonials
Moms who have made this purchase not only like the stroller because it’s easy and convenient to use, but it’s also perfect for jogging.
So, it allows them to use it for virtually any aspect of their life.
Some moms who have utilized the system feel that the car seat base can be difficult to adjust at times.
However, the anchor system (and when the baby is put in place) tends to weigh it down and hold it more securely in its spot.
Also, the adjustable handle (which is fine to remain upright) needs to be adjusted in order to fit in certain cars, so it’s wise to measure the seat and compare it with the measurements of your car’s height and entry space.
The Baby Trend EZ Ride stroller system has many useful features and benefits.
Designed with nothing but convenience in mind, the stroller and car seat will get you where you need to go safely, in style.
#4. Safety 1st Smooth Ride
The Smooth Ride Travel System from Safety 1st (click here to check the price on Amazon) makes taking your baby out and about a breeze.
Loaded with features and functions, the system works cohesively and will be your go-to baby item for your little one’s first year of life.
What You Get
When you purchase the system, you receive everything you need for transport-from a base, to an infant carrier, to a stroller. All items are compatible with each other.
Safety
Rear-facing infants can ride in the car seat when weighing 4-35 pounds.
The carrier has four harness heights to grow with your baby and keep them safe, and the unit boasts side impact protection in case of an accident.
It also comes with extra newborn support that includes a head and body insert to keep your bundle safely in place.
Features
The stroller’s wheels are very agile and are able to be maneuvered with ease.
It has flip flop brakes, so it’s simple to park, but also helps it remain steadily in place.
It has an extra-large canopy for maximum coverage and a special flip out visor for privacy during nap time.
Babies can also peek out the large window cut into the design of the canopy to take in sights and settings, but also to receive maximum air flow. The stroller also accommodates parents’ items by providing trays to hold personal possessions and smaller items for your baby.
It has an extra-large storage basket also serves as a spot to hold bags or other extra items en route, while boasting a lift and fold design that is quick and painless, allowing for moms to have their hands free when they need them the most.
Its quick click system snaps in and out of the car seat base and stroller effortlessly.
The carrier’s reclining seat design is idea to keep your baby feeling comfortable and cradled.
Testimonials
Parents who have purchased the travel system feel they made the right choice, mainly because all the items are so conveniently designed.
They work fabulously and with little effort.
At first glance, some parents felt that the stroller wasn’t going to be strong or sturdy enough, but have had just the opposite remarks after using it.
They also feel the restraints were easy to use and could be adjusted in an instant, unlike other leading carriers on the market.
Overall, the Smooth Ride makes strolling and traveling easy.
The system comes with everything you want and need in a carrier and stroller, with high functioning and smooth maneuverability for all members of the family to use.
Rounding out our list of the best stroller travel systems is the Britax B-Agile 35 (click here to check the price on Amazon).
One of our friends actually turned us on to the Britax B-Agile 35, who used it for both of her children and absolutely swears by it.
This system is of very high quality and the utmost comfort (sometimes we wish we could curl up in the car seat!)
It might not the cheapest travel system on the market, but it is rated one of the highest. Safety is very important to a lot of moms, so many are willing to pay a higher price.
It is also loaded with high functioning features that are sure to give you and your baby a pleasant and easy travel experience.
What You Get
Within this Britax travel system, you will receive an infant car seat, a car seat base, and a stroller.
If you purchased these items solo, you would pay $80 alone just for the base.
Financially, it just makes sense to wrap all the items into one purchase/system.
Safety
The set includes an impact absorbing base that has a safe center installation. This will help you make sure your base is installed correctly and snugly.
You may have heard horror stories about putting in a car seat base, but this one is very easy for to do!
The car seat also has full side impact protection in case you are ever in an accident with your infant.
The stroller has strong and sturdy straps to use when you tote around your baby, and it can accommodate your growing toddler.
The stroller can handle about 55 pounds, so you should be good for quite some time.
Features
A lightweight system, you never have to worry about straining yourself when toting your baby around (it only weighs 16 pounds).
The Britax B-Agile 35 boasts a one-hand, quick-fold design, so you can hold your baby in one hand and stow your stroller in another.
It also has a five point harness system to strap your baby in the stroller safely.
There is also a recline feature if your baby needs to nap, and it moves easy to an upright position for the years when your baby has turned into a toddler.
The stroller also has a 3-wheel design with a front swiveling wheel, so you can get wherever you need to go (even the tightest spaces) with ease.
Finally, this Britax system allows for a click and go method, making it literally a snap to move back and forth between the car and stroller.
Testimonials
There are a lot of moms who swear by this system.
They say it made traveling with an infant a no-brainer and they rave about how they were able to navigate around using only one hand to snap and fold.
Most parents also agree it was very easy to put together, and the base took them little time at all to put in their car.
They also like how easy the stroller was to push but it wasn’t flimsy at all.
Wrapping Up
Don’t just buy any old car seat or stroller.
Seriously consider a cohesive system that is easy for you to lift, push, and stow as your baby grows from an infant to a toddler.
Each of these travel stroller systems come highly recommended by parents around the globe, and you are sure to find one out of the five that best fit your budget and baby needs!
