Joybuy Insights

Buying a pram: What parents should look for in travel systems, travel strollers and accessories

A pram needs to do more in everyday life than simply look good. It should suit where you live, how you transport it in the car, your child’s age and the storage space available. Similar product names and marketing claims can also make it harder to compare models.

As Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I focus on the key buying criteria that matter in practice. This can help you avoid common buying mistakes – from choosing a travel system that’s too heavy to buying a travel stroller that won’t fit in your boot.

Common pram-buying misconceptions

1. ‘From birth’ doesn’t always mean the same thing

A model described as a pram from birth may require a carrycot, a fully flat recline or compatibility with an infant car seat. So check:

  • Is a carrycot included?
  • Can the backrest recline fully or far enough?
  • Is an infant car seat included, or is there just an adapter?
  • Are there age and weight limits for each seat unit?

A pram with carrycot is generally suitable for the early lying-down stage. A pram with infant car seat can be handy for short journeys, but it won’t necessarily offer every other type of use.

2. Compact doesn’t automatically mean lightweight

A small folded size makes a pram easier to store, but tells you little about how much it weighs to carry. A compact pram can still have a heavy frame. If you’ll be carrying it up stairs, taking it on the train or loading it into the car regularly, three details are especially important:

  • Pram weight
  • Folded dimensions
  • Whether it has a carry handle or transport bag

A lightweight travel stroller weighing 5,5 kg is very different to carry from a travel system weighing more than 18 kg in total.

3. Large wheels won’t solve every problem

Large wheels and suspension can help on uneven paths. But a wide frame may be awkward in narrow shops or on public transport. Consider the combination of wheel size, manoeuvrability, width and parking brake – not just one marketing claim.

What to check before you buy

How long you’ll use it and its weight limit

Many models are listed as prams up to 22 kg. This refers to the maximum weight of the child, and shouldn’t be confused with the total weight in the shopping basket. Never exceed the weight limit, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions on seat position and harness use.

With a pushchair, it’s also worth checking whether the backrest reclines, whether there’s a footrest and how to adjust the 5-point harness. Only models specifically approved for running or use with inline skates are suitable for those activities.

Folded size and everyday practicality

Before you buy, measure:

  1. The boot opening and available space in your car
  2. The space available in your hallway, cellar or home
  3. The width of doors and lifts
  4. The weight with the seat or carrycot unit attached

A pram set with a carrycot, pushchair seat and adapter can be versatile, but it needs more storage space than a travel stroller.

Safety and care features

Before every journey, check that all the locks are engaged and the harness is adjusted correctly. Useful features include:

  • an easy-to-reach parking brake,
  • an adjustable handlebar,
  • a removable, washable cover,
  • a sun canopy with a ventilation panel,
  • a shopping basket with a suitable weight limit.

UV protection ratings such as UV 50+ are product specifications set by the manufacturer. They don’t replace general sun protection and shouldn’t be interpreted as a medical guarantee of protection.

Our picks for different family needs

Best for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
hauck Combo Stroller Move N Care Set

hauck Combo Stroller Move N Care Set

Why it suits this family: This set includes a frame, carrycot, pushchair seat and car seat adapter, making it suitable for several stages of your child’s development.

How it helps you avoid a common pitfall

The specifications state that it can be used up to 22 kg and folds down to 73 × 61 × 34 cm. This makes it easier to get a realistic idea of how long you can use it and how much storage space you’ll need.

Key benefits and features

The carrycot, pushchair seat and adapter are included; according to the product information, the covers can be washed at 30 °C.

Best for: Buyers looking for premium quality
Chicco Travel Stroller WE Black

Chicco Travel Stroller WE Black

Why it suits this family: This travel stroller is designed for families who need a lightweight option that folds down small for days out.

How it helps you avoid a common pitfall

It folds down to 59 × 21,5 × 46,5 cm and weighs 5,5 kg. If you’re flying, check your airline’s current hand luggage rules as well.

Key benefits and features

One-handed folding, a transport backpack, a fully adjustable backrest and stated suitability from birth up to 22 kg.

Best for: Specific needs and frequent use
Kikka boo Stroller Board with Seat Ally XL Black

Kikka boo Stroller Board with Seat Ally XL Black

Why it suits this family: This buggy board with seat is designed for families whose older child sometimes needs a place to sit on longer walks.

How it helps you avoid a common pitfall

The specifications state a minimum age of 15 months, a maximum weight of 20 kg and adjustable adapters. Check that it’s compatible with your pram before you buy.

Key benefits and features

360-degree swivel wheels, a seat with a 2-point harness, three seat heights and eight height settings for the adapter.

Best for: Families short on storage space
Chicco Seety Stroller Etna Black

Chicco Seety Stroller Etna Black

Why it suits this family: This manoeuvrable city pram is designed for frequent trips around town and easy storage.

How it helps you avoid a common pitfall

Its stated weight of 7 kg, one-handed folding and integrated carry handle help tackle common transport problems. Still, check the dimensions against your available storage space.

Key benefits and features

Adjustable backrest, reversible seat, sun canopy with UV 50+ protection and rain cover included.

Toys for days out

For children aged three and over, battery-free pull-back dinosaur cars can be a simple addition to indoor and outdoor play. The Dinosaur Pull-Back Car Toys Set includes six vehicles with a pull-back mechanism and needs no batteries or charger.

Important: Although the product information says the toys are suitable from age two, it also warns that they contain small parts and should not be given to children under 36 months. The stricter warning should therefore guide your buying decision. Use the toys only under supervision, and never point them towards anyone’s face or eyes. Shop pull-back dinosaur cars

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and fully comply with the safety regulations in force in the EU.

Frequently asked questions about prams

How long can you use a pram for?

It depends on the model and its weight limit. Some travel systems are designed for use from infancy up to 22 kg. The limits for the carrycot, pushchair seat and harness are what matter. Stop using the pram if your child exceeds the permitted weight or can climb out of the seat unaided.

Which is better for travelling: a travel system or a travel stroller?

A travel system offers more features, but is usually heavier and bulkier. A travel stroller is often a better choice for air travel, public transport and small car boots. Always check the relevant airline’s requirements before booking a flight, as airlines may have different rules for folded size and weight.

How do you care for a pram day to day?

Regularly remove sand and dirt from the wheels and joints. Wipe the frame with a damp cloth and follow the care instructions for the fabrics. Check the brakes, harness, locks and wheels before each use. If you notice unusual movement, cracks or damaged fixings, stop using the pram until you’ve found out what’s wrong.