Baby strollers have evolved into modern conveniences. Strollers are categorized according to utility, so whether you are shopping for standard, doubles, triples, stand on, jogging or travel systems there is a variety of models to accomplish almost any desire.
The standard stroller – The better ones have height adjustable handles, 3 or 5 point harness for safety and accessories to convert into travel systems or for use with 3-in-1 car seat systems. Most frames weigh in between 22 – 25 lbs. but can get as high as 35 lbs. Accessories are available for these strollers to help shield baby from the elements. Prices can range from as low as twenty dollars to over a thousand dollars. You do get what you pay for in the stroller world.
Light weight Strollers – These are really convenience strollers, built for portability and typically weigh in at around 10 – 12 lbs. They are easy to fold and some can carry up to 55 lbs. Some types of light weight strollers are configured as a car seat stroller frame, which means they are designed to carry baby car seats. Parents use these to move from car to stroller in quick easy moves. The main convenience feature is the ability to fold and open quickly and easily using one hand.
Travel systems – In most cases these are standard strollers fitted with necessary accessories to accommodate traveling between car and stroller or stroller to airline seat.
They usually are a combination of a standard stroller of quality, plus a baby seat with base that buckles securely to an auto seat. The Stokke Xplory tops the list as the premier travel system; designed to vary utility as baby grow and needs change.
Jogging Strollers – Very maneuverable outdoors and can traverse terrain such as sand and rocky surfaces, where standard stroller wheels would fail. As the name implies it is best used for jogging with baby and offers a very smooth ride. Jogging strollers come in single and double seats. They are usually setup in a side by side or tandem configuration. Side by side give babies equal access to a good view, while tandem maneuvers best in close quarters, like aisles, a sidewalk, or while in line at a store. They are a little heavier usually at about 20 lbs for singles and 35 lbs for doubles with 16 ” air inflated wheels for greater comfort over uneven terrain.
Doubles and Triples, Stand-on Stroller – As the name indicate these are for carrying multiple children. Some of the very well thought of designs include tandem stand on strollers, where the older kid stands on a platform between the parent and the actual stroller. It is safe and fun way for older kids to travel while out on a long walk. On some stand-on strollers an adjustable padded rear seat (remember the rumble seat…ok; too long ago) gives the older kid a seating break if legs get too tired from standing. These strollers can weigh between 40 – 50 lbs and some of the better triples like the Peg Perego Newport carry a maximum weight of 135 lbs.
By: Anna Myers
One of the most essential items that parents will need is a travel system for their baby. Chicco travel systems allow parents to ensure their children are safely secured and comfortable. There are many different types of travel systems on the market, but there are several items that should be taken into consideration when choosing the right travel system for your child.
First, you need to make sure that you choose a travel system that is appropriate for your child’s age. A duo system is often the best choice for this purpose. This type of system will be suitable for your child from birth up through age three. A baby carrier/car seat can be fitted directly into the stroller. This allows you to be sure your child is safely secured in the car when you are on the road, while also providing you with a secure and comfortable transportation option in the stroller for taking walks with your child. Chicco travel systems feature a stroller that is lightweight as well as opens easily with just one hand. This is an essential feature for parents who are commonly weighted down trying to juggle baby as well as other equipment.
In addition, the large seat features a backrest that can be adjusted to multiple positions. The leg rest is also adjustable. This type of flexibility allows you to be certain that your child is always comfortable, whether going along for the ride or taking a rest. The stroller also features front wheels that swivel and lock. You will never have to worry that the stroller will suddenly begin to roll when the brake is set. To ensure your child is comfortable year around, Chicco travel systems also include a summer/winter hood. For newborns, there is an insert pillow which can be removed as your child grows. The adjustable canopy provides a cozy and safe haven for baby. There is also a leg cover to complete your child’s comfort.
As parents know, wherever baby goes, a large amount of equipment must go as well. To help make matters a little bit easier, the stroller also has a large storage area along with a storage tray near the adjustable handle. Baby will be able to dine in style on the go with the detachable bumper tray.
Everything your baby needs to travel in style is contained in Chicco travel systems. Parents as well as children will be delighted with the wide range of features.
By: J. McKay
Mothers often say that a travel cot has been the most useful piece of baby equipment they have purchased. What would I every do without it! One of the main reasons why mothers say this is because travel cots are so versatile. Not just a travel cot, many of them double as a playpen, perfect for that unexpected overnight stay at a friends or parents, excellent as a bedside cot to keep your baby near you for the first six months and I have seen them on the beach to keep baby safe and so they can’t eat the sand!
So which Baby Travel Cot should you choose for your needs:-
1) The largest size deluxe baby travel cots come complete with a bassinet. The bassinet can be removed when baby starts crawling and the mattress moved to the base. In this position the travel cot is suitable for babies up to 2yrs of age or until they can climb out.
Some of the deluxe versions come complete with nightlight, music and a vibrating mattress to soothe baby to sleep with a mobile of soft toys to keep baby amused. A changing table is also included in some models which slots securely on the top of the travel cot to change babies nappies. They are extremely easy to assemble and fold away in seconds into the provided carrybag. The full sized travel cots are the heaviest at around 10kg and are probably not ideal if you are going camping or taking baby on a holiday abroad.
2) The full sized Baby Travel Cots are also available without the bassinet and other extras suitable for use from birth up to 2yrs or when your toddler climbs out. Without the bassinet they are slightly lighter than the deluxe version although still double as an excellent playpen, bedside cot for the parents or grandparents. Optional luxury mattresses are available if you are not happy with the one provided. It appears to be quite hard although baby doesn’t seem to notice and sleeps well on the standard mattress.
3) There is also a petite travel cot version with a bassinet which is an excellent alternative if space is a priority although this will only last your baby until he or she is approx. 3 months.
4) If you are going camping, on holiday abroad or just havn’t got the space to take a full sized travel cot with you, there are a number of smaller lightweight pop up or tent like travel cots available. These styles will usually only last your baby for a few months or until they start crawling. It really depends how active they become as I have read reports that an active baby can roll the pop up travel cot over unless it is fixed to the ground with pegs.
The pop up style travel cots are excellent for the younger baby and come complete with a mattress and some are very lightweight weighing in as little as 1kg.
Choose the travel cot which suits your current needs and upgrade as your baby grows, don’t be caught out when that unexpected invite to a wedding or visit means you are not prepared. Your baby will very happy to travel with you and be secure in the travel cot of your choice.
By: Jenny Read