Pram and Stroller Buying Guide

'Travel systems', '3-in-1 pushchairs', 'active strollers'... if you're getting ready to welcome a new addition to your family, you've probably already seen these phrases mentioned, but you might not fully understand what they mean. This pram and stroller buying guide is here to solve that and will explain everything you need to know about pushchairs and buggies. You'll be able to choose a pram or stroller that's not only great for your baby, but for you too.

Active Strollers

Active strollers tend to look a little different from what you may imagine when you think of a pram. Unlike other types of pushchair that have 4 wheels, active strollers usually only have 3 wheels — 2 at the back, and 1 at the front. Three-wheeled prams are a bit more streamlined than other prams, which make them ideal for navigating across more rugged terrain. Although active strollers aren't hard wearing enough to be classed as 'all terrain prams', they can handle rougher, more uneven ground easier than other buggies. This makes them good for taking on forest walks, for taking on a jog around the park, or for taking on a day trip to the beach. If you like to live an active, on-the-go lifestyle, 3-wheeled active strollers could be the ideal choice for you.

Travel Systems

If you're looking for excellent value, look no further than travel systems. The term 'travel system' describes prams that can be transformed into different styles to suit your baby. The system will grow with your child, allowing you to use the same pushchair from birth right through until your child is preschool age and a confident walker — so there's no need to purchase new buggies as your baby develops.

Travel systems often advertise themselves as '3-in-1' prams. This means they have 3 separate 'tops' that click into the same base: a car seat, a lie-flat pram and a stroller seat. In many cases, a travel system car seat can be used from birth until your baby reaches 13 kg, while the stroller seat can be used up until around 22 kg. Many travel systems also allow for the 5-point harness to be converted to a 3-point harness, which allows your child more movement as they grow.

Lightweight, Foldable Buggies

Lightweight buggies are the appropriate choice for toddlers who don't require many of the features of full prams anymore, such as lie-flat recline positioning. Many use the easy umbrella fold, which can be done with just one hand (with a little practice, of course), so you can keep hold of your little one while you pack away the buggy. Features like this are a major help when they're at the adventurous stage and want to run off and explore.

There are many advantages of folding pushchairs — they take up little room in the car, you can take them on holiday and you can carry them around easily if your child would rather walk than be pushed. Many foldable buggies feature lightweight aluminium frames and tend to weigh around 8.5 kg - much lighter than the 13 kg weight of other prams!

Double Prams

Whether you're expecting twins or you have older children at home, a double pram takes a lot of the hassle out of making sure two children are safe and secure while you're out and about. There are two types of double pram that are very popular:

The first is the active double pram, which is styled in a very similar to way to single active prams, with a streamlined design and a narrower front and wider back. It features 2 cosy seats, with one situated behind the other. If you're very active and love spending time walking or jogging, these prams for two children are perfect.

The second type of double pram features 2 seats positioned next to each other. They tend to be quite wide, which makes them more difficult to manoeuvre, but they do have advantages — both children have an excellent view of their surroundings and the pram's structure facilitates communication while they're in the pram.

Additional Features and Accessories

Depending on your own preferences and requirements, you may like to look for a stroller or pram that comes with extra features and accessories. These make life a little easier, and make day trips a little more comfortable and enjoyable for your new baby. Here are just some of the features that are available with some styles of pram on the market:

* Under-pram baskets — excellent for those times you need to pick up some shopping when you're out and about, or for keeping essential baby things in, like soothers, cloths and spare nappies.

* Cup holders — some prams feature a 'parent shelf' that includes cup holders for that much-needed coffee. You can stay hydrated better while pushing the pram.

* Multi-position recline — when your child is in the in-between toddler stage, a multi-position recline means they can be lowered down to sleep, or sat up to look at their surroundings.

* Weather protection — foot muffs fit over the bottom of the stroller seat to keep your baby's feet warm in the winter, and rain covers can be attached to keep them happy and dry.

* Peek-a-boo window — peek-a-boo windows on the rear of the stroller canopy allow you to keep an eye on your little ones, without having to stop and check on them.

Remember to choose your pram from a reputable brand. By opting for a notable brand, you can be sure that your pram meets safety standards to give you the peace of mind that your child will be safe and secure while you're out on the move. Check out brands such as Britax, Chicco and Graco. These are all reputable brands and are available at The Toy Store.