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How to Choose the Right Travel System: 10 Questions Every First-Time Parent Should Ask

Posted on by Mandy Ruck
17
Aug

Feeling Overwhelmed? Here’s How to Choose the Best Travel System for Your Baby

From boot space to baby naps on the go — here’s everything you need to consider before picking your perfect pram setup.

Welcome to the (Wonderful, Slightly Overwhelming) World of Baby Gear

If you’re expecting your first baby — congratulations! 🍼

There’s nothing quite like the buzz of preparing for your new arrival. But when it comes to choosing a travel system, it can suddenly feel like you need a PhD in pushchairs. With so many options out there (carrycots, car seats, chassis, wheels, adaptors… help!), it’s no wonder parents feel overwhelmed.

At Bumps n Babies, we help new parents every day pick the perfect travel system for their lifestyle, budget, and growing family. The good news? You don’t need to know everything — you just need to ask the right questions.

Let’s walk you through them 👇

10 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Choosing a Travel System

1. How big is your car boot?

It might sound obvious, but not all prams fit into all boots — especially if you have a smaller hatchback, or share a car with a partner. Some travel systems fold compactly (like the Nuna TRVL or Oyster4), while others take up a bit more room, especially with the carrycot.

📏 Top Tip: Measure the width, depth, and height of your boot before shopping, and bring that info with you to our store — we’ll help you match it up.

2. Will you be using public transport or walking a lot?

Live in a city or rely on buses and trains? You’ll want something lightweight, easy to fold, and quick to manoeuvre. Models like the Oyster 4 or Uppababy Cruz offer great urban functionality without compromising on comfort.

💡 Look for: one-handed fold, compact chassis, swivel wheels, and a decent brake system.

3. Do you need the carrycot to be suitable for overnight sleeping?

If you stay away from home regularly (visiting grandparents, weekends away, or even just long days out), an overnight-approved carrycot can be a game changer.

🛏️ Some brands like Silver Cross and iCandy offer carrycots that meet British safety standards for overnight sleep — perfect for naps on the go or emergency sleepovers.

4. Are you tight on storage space at home?

Flat-living or small hallways? Think about how much room your travel system will take up when folded. Some prams can stand upright when folded, which is ideal for storing behind a door or in a cupboard.

Space-saving stars include the MeeGo Milano, Egg 3, or iCandy

5. Do you plan on having more children close in age?

Futureproofing can be smart. Some systems — like the iCandy Peach or Orange, Egg 3, Silver Cross Wave or Uppababy Vista — convert from single to double with ease. Even if baby number two is a few years away, this could save you money in the long run.

👶 Tip: Ask us in-store about “convertible” systems and what accessories you might need later.

6. What’s your budget — and are you open to bundles?

Travel systems can range from £300 to over £1,500, depending on features and brand. Many of our bestselling options come as bundles, including the car seat, carrycot, adaptors, raincover, footmuff, changing bag — and more!

💸 Bundles = better value, less decision fatigue.

Most brands offer exceptional value bundles to suit every budget and need.

7. Will you be doing a lot of travel (UK breaks, flights, etc.)?

Planning holidays or weekends away? You might want a travel system that folds up small, fits in an overhead locker (in some cases), or is super light to carry.

✈️ Consider pairing a compact pram like the Nuna TRVL with a base + infant car seat like the Nuna PIPA URBN — ultra travel-friendly!

8. Do you want a travel system that’s super stylish, practical, or both?

Let’s be honest — you’ll be pushing this around daily, and it’s okay to want something that turns heads and performs. Brands like Egg 3, iCandy, and Silver Cross blend luxe styling with top-tier functionality.

💅 From rose gold chassis to eco-fabrics and leatherette handles, we’ve got options for every aesthetic.

9. Are you tall, short, or do you and your partner vary in height?

If one of you is tall and the other petite, an adjustable handlebar is non-negotiable. Most good systems offer this, but some are better than others for tall parents (👋 check out iCandy and Uppababy for high handle positions).

Try before you buy — test how it feels to push and steer.

10. What kind of terrain will you be on most often?

If you’ll be pounding pavements and weaving through shops, a lightweight, nippy stroller is ideal. But for dog walks, countryside strolls or uneven paths, look for larger wheels, good suspension, and all-terrain tyres.

🌲 Top picks for rough terrain: iCandy Peach7, Egg 3, Oyster 4

Your Travel System Checklist

Here’s a quick recap to screenshot or save:

  • 🚗 Will it fit in my car boot?
  • 🚉 Will I use public transport?
  • 🛏️ Do I need overnight sleeping in the carrycot?
  • 📦 How much home storage do I have?
  • 👶 Is it futureproof for more children?
  • 💸 What’s my budget — and do I want a bundle?
  • ✈️ Will I travel often with baby?
  • 🎨 Do I care more about style, function, or both?
  • 📏 Is it comfortable for me to push?
  • 🏞️ What kind of terrain will I be on most?

Travel Systems We Love at Bumps n Babies

Here are a few of our favourites from the brands we proudly stock:

  • Nuna Mixx Next – Sleek, smooth, and brilliant for city life
  • Egg 3 – Stylish and luxurious with amazing functionality
  • iCandy Peach 7 – A top all-rounder with futureproofing built in
  • Silver Cross Reef – Elegant, eco-conscious and great for overnight sleeping
  • Uppababy Vista V3 – Ideal for growing families and rougher terrain
  • Oyster 4 – Compact and clever for small cars and busy parents
  • Cosatto Wow XL – Bold, fun designs and value-packed bundles

👉 Come into store to test drive them all — you’ll be amazed how different they can feel!

🧡 Final Thoughts: Don’t Panic, Just Ask

Choosing a travel system doesn’t have to be stressful. At Bumps n Babies, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you’re just browsing or ready to buy, our friendly team knows each system inside out — and we love helping parents find their perfect fit.

📍 Pop in-store, bring your boot measurements, ask all the questions — and let’s make this fun!

Mandy Ruck