Prams and Pushchairs

Product Tests |

Lara Green from Babyworld.co.uk has been testing out prams and pushchairs with a panel of parents. We asked her what points parents should consider when looking to purchase these products.

What should parents look for when buying a travel system?

There are masses of different travel systems and buggies and pushchairs out there. The first thing to do is research. The last thing you want to do really is buy something that doesn’t suit your lifestyle. If you live in a top flat for example or travel a lot on buses and trains you really don’t want to invest in a big bulky travel system because you probably won’t use it. Look at all the options available and pick something that will really suit you?

So parents should think about the size of the system?

During the recent test we did on the site, the panel said the size and the buggy fold was really important. Some had lighter frames and were easier to get around. A lot of buggies have removable seat units so the baby can face you or the other way. A lot of modern options come with a carry cot so you can have them completely flat. Most will last from 0 - 6 months. They can double as a moses basket so that will save you an additional cost as well.

Is it safe to keep babies in their car seat?

Most travel systems will carry a car seat. You can transfer a sleeping child from the car immediately to the pushchair that’s the benefit…[but] you shouldn’t keep your child in the car seat for too long.

Do people go for brands when choosing prams?

I think research is important, it’s quite easy to get carried away with image. It’s important to look at all the features before you buy. There are some really good brands out there… but they might not be the perfect design for you. There are a lot of companies now which do colour swatches, there are buggies which have off-road wheels or wheels for city living, there are lots to choose from.

How long should you have a buggy for?

You should be looking for one which will last you until your baby is a toddler.

What’s the average cost?

They really do vary. A good starting price is around £200. The more expensive models can stretch to £500 plus additional costs for the car seat and any accessories.