What is a Travel System and Why is it a Great Option?

What is a Travel System and Why is it a Great Option?

When it comes to essential baby gear, a travel system tops the list for many parents. Combining the convenience of a stroller with the safety of an infant car seat, a travel system allows you to easily transition your baby from car to stroller without disturbing them. But as practical as a travel system is, it’s also important to understand its limitations and when to opt for other options to ensure your baby’s safety and comfort.

What is a Travel System?

A travel system consists of a stroller and an infant car seat that work together as one cohesive unit. The car seat clicks directly onto the stroller frame, transforming it into a fully functional stroller with minimal effort. This design allows you to move your sleeping baby from car to stroller without waking them, making life easier when you're on the go.

Why a Travel System is a Great Option

Travel systems are favored by many parents because of their convenience and practicality. Here’s why they’re a smart choice:

1. Ease of Transition
   The main appeal of a travel system is its ability to seamlessly transition your baby from the car to the stroller without waking or disturbing them. This is particularly useful for infants who tend to fall asleep in the car, allowing you to continue your journey or errands without interruption.

2. Cost Efficiency
   Travel systems often come bundled, offering a stroller and car seat at a lower price than purchasing them separately. This makes them an economical choice for new parents looking to get the most out of their investment.

3. Safety and Compatibility
   Travel systems are designed to ensure the car seat and stroller fit together securely, providing a safe environment for your baby. This integrated design reduces the risk of improper installation, which can be a concern when using separate products.

4. Long-Term Use
   A travel system grows with your child. Initially, you use the infant car seat with the stroller frame. As your child grows, you can transition to using the stroller seat, making it a long-lasting investment.

Not All Travel Systems Include a Car Seat

While some travel systems are sold as complete packages, including both the stroller and car seat, others may only include the stroller. However, many high-quality strollers, like the iCandy Peach 7 and iCandy Orange 4, come with car seat adapters that allow you to easily attach top-brand car seats like Maxi Cosi, Nuna, and Cybex to the stroller frame. This flexibility gives you the freedom to choose the car seat that best fits your needs while still enjoying the convenience of a travel system.

The Importance of Using a Lie-Flat Unit or Bassinet

While a travel system is incredibly convenient, it’s important to be aware of its limitations—especially when it comes to your baby’s safety. Car seats, though safe for use in vehicles, are not designed for prolonged use outside of the car.

Car Seat Safety Guidelines:

• Limited Use Time: Experts recommend that babies should not spend more than two hours at a time in a car seat. Extended periods in a car seat can put undue pressure on your baby’s developing spine and restrict their airways, potentially leading to breathing difficulties.

• Lie-Flat Units for Longer Outings: For longer days out, it’s essential to use a lie-flat unit or bassinet that allows your baby to stretch out fully. Unlike car seats, which keep babies in a semi-upright position, lie-flat units support proper spinal alignment and allow for unrestricted breathing. This is crucial for newborns, whose bodies are still developing.

• Plan for Extended Car Journeys: If you’re planning a long car journey, it’s important to schedule regular stops to take your baby out of the car seat and allow them to stretch out. This not only helps prevent discomfort but also ensures your baby’s well-being during the trip.

iCandy Strollers: The Best of Both Worlds

The iCandy Peach 7 and iCandy Orange 4 strollers offer the best of both worlds—convenience and safety. While they easily convert into a travel system with the included car seat adapters, they also accommodate a lie-flat unit or bassinet, ensuring your baby stays safe and comfortable during longer outings.

• Included Car Seat Adapters: Both the Peach 7 and Orange 4 come with adapters that fit Maxi Cosi, Nuna, and Cybex car seats, allowing you to create a customized travel system. This means you can enjoy the convenience of a travel system without sacrificing compatibility with your preferred car seat brand.

• Versatile and Safe: For longer outings, simply switch out the car seat for the lie-flat unit or bassinet. This flexibility ensures that your baby is always in the safest possible position, whether you’re running a quick errand or spending the day out and about.

Final Thoughts

A travel system is a must-have for parents who value convenience and ease of use, but it’s important to remember that car seats should only be used for short periods. For longer outings, always opt for a lie-flat unit or bassinet to ensure your baby’s safety and comfort. With iCandy’s Peach 7 and Orange 4 strollers, you get the ultimate in flexibility and peace of mind, knowing that your little one is safe and secure, no matter where your journey takes you.