Prams, buggies and strollers. If you’ve got a baby on the way, you’ll no doubt have your eye on one. But how do you know which is the best stroller or which is the best pram? It can be a minefield. And with such a big investment you definitely don’t want to end up making the wrong decision!
But don’t worry, help is at hand! By answering just a few simple questions, you can get an idea of which pushchair, pram, travel system or stroller is right for you.
Think of it as a big investment for your family
Pushchairs are one of the top items you’ll need for your baby, but they don’t come cheap. They often cost hundreds of pounds. But trust us, the right buggy or pram is worth every penny. You’ll use them pretty much daily, and often for years. And if you have more children, you can end up using a buggy for as long as a family car.
Rather than thinking of a buggy as a high-cost item, think of it as an investment instead. But with such a significant investment, you want to make sure you get it right. So, let’s start with some simple questions.
What’s the difference between a pram and buggy?
For starters, it’s a good idea to get clear on exactly what we mean by strollers, prams and buggies.
- Pramsare suitable for babies (usually newborns) and those up to six months of age. With prams, your baby lies flat in a bassinette, which is great for napping, but they’re not suitable for older babies who can sit up. Genuine prams are pretty rare these days, with travel systems mostly replacing them.
- Buggies are suitable for older babies that can sit-up unsupported and for toddlers. They typically have three or four wheels and an upright seat that faces forwards or that can be switched around to face front or back. Pushchairs tend to be sturdy, with plenty of storage space beneath the seat. You can also fold them down when you need to transport or stow them away.
- Travel systems are versatile chairs that can fit a range of different seats and that combine the benefits of a pram and a buggy. 2-in-1 travel systems fit a bassinette and a buggy seat, meaning they can be used from birth into the toddler years and beyond. 3-in-1 travel systems can fit car seats as well (often via a separate attachment), making them even more adaptable.
- Strollers are similar to pushchairs but tend to be lighter, less bulky and fold-up smaller. They’re typically used for older toddlers and children and for shorter walks.
Which pram of pushchair is right for me?
When it comes to making the right investment in a buggy, pram or stroller, there are some simple questions that can help. Here goes.
How old is your child?
When you need a pushchair for a newborn baby, a travel system is likely your best choice. Your newborn can lie flat in the bassinette attachment (also called a carrycot), and once they’re old enough to sit up, you can switch the bassinette out for an upright seat. Most travel systems are suitable for newborns and children up to 15 - 25kg, or heavier, meaning they can last well into your child’s younger years.
If your child is older and enjoys walking on trips and only needs occasional stints in a pushchair, a stroller may be a better choice. Strollers are typically smaller, lighter, and less expensive than buggies and travel systems. And if you only need an occasional pushchair that’s easy to transport, they’re a great option.
What’s your price range?
Different pushchairs are made to suit different budgets. Although you should treat them as an investment, a good way to narrow down your choices it to set a price range before you begin looking.
How much space do you have available?
Pushchairs and travel systems can take up a lot of room. If you’re considering one, make sure it will fit in your home or the boot of your car when folded down.
Do you have any other children?
If you have twins, triplets or even quadruplets, you can buy pushchairs with multiple seats to accommodate them all. This can also be useful if you have both a baby and a toddler, or if you plan to have more children.
Will you need to fold and carry a chair regularly?
If you live in a flat above the ground floor, otherwise plan to carry your buggy often, or regularly use public transport, lighter-weight models and those that fold easily are more suitable options.
Would you like to run while pushing a buggy?
For keen runners, you can buy jogging pushchairs that are lightweight but designed to cope with the rigours of running. You can also find pushchairs made for off-road walking and running with larger wheels suited to rougher terrain.
Jogging pushchairs will often be a three wheeler pushchair, rather than the more conventional four wheeler travel system system (though there are some jogging pushchairs that have four wheels and some non-jogging pushchairs that have three).
What other features would you like?
Buggies, travel systems and strollers come with a range of added features and options. We recommend spending the time to research these and deciding on which you would want. A large amount of storage space below the seat is great for shopping for instance, whilst we advise you opt for a model with a sun hood and a rain cover to protect your little one from the elements.
Find your perfect buggy or stroller with Online4Baby
Start your search for your ideal pushchair with our range of prams, buggies, travel systems and strollers available at Online4Baby. You’ll find prices to suit any budget.
Sources:
https://www.madeformums.com/reviews/buyers-guide-to-buggies/
Leave a Comment: