Best travel systems for newborns: tried and tested by parents

Tested by parents: Read our full Nuna Mixx review (older model)

An upgrade to the incredibly popular Nuna Mixx, the Nuna Mixx Next exudes comfort and style at every turn, with some significant improvements that have proven to be a huge hit with Mumsnet users and consumers alike. It can be used with a Nuna carrycot (without needing adapters) or with compatible car seats from Nuna, Maxi Cosi or Cybex using the car seat adapters included in the box.

Thanks to the comfortable seat, easy manoeuvrability, excellent storage and large all-terrain wheels, it easily takes our top spot as the best travel system you can buy today. It’s also worth mentioning that the Nuna Mixx Next is a Which? Best Buy and one of the top-scoring pushchairs in their lab tests.

While slightly heavier than the original model, improvements to the folding mechanism mean the Nuna Mixx Next now folds in upon itself, resulting in a more compact fold that’s around 16cm shorter than its predecessor. It conveniently self-stands, so you don’t need to worry about it getting the chassis dirty as you move it in and out of your car, although it's not a particularly portable travel system for public transport. The Nuna Mixx Next also has more durable rubber wheels than the original Mixx, with improved wheel suspension that can even tackle tricky terrain such as gravel or snow.  

It’s easy to steer (even one-handed), manoeuvres well around tight corners and obstacles, and tackles kerbs with ease. The leatherette handlebar also offers a choice of heights between 106cm and 115cm, making it easy to achieve a comfortable and natural hold for both petite and tall parents. We love the green and red indicators on the brake pedal that provide quick visual reassurance that the brake is engaged - ideal when you’re travelling around a busy urban environment.

Suitable from birth using the lie-flat recline, the Nuna Mixx Next has a comfortable all-season and machine-washable seat with a removable cosy padded liner and a mesh back for breathability during the warmer summer months. The included rain cover offers good protection from the elements on wet days and, although it's a little noisy to extend, the UPF 50+ hood with a viewing window provides good coverage from the sun. It’s even water-repellent, so if an unexpected downpour comes your way, your baby will still stay warm and dry. 

We love how the five-point harness can keep your baby safe and secure but converts to a more convenient three-point harness as your baby grows. If your child tends to nod off on their travels, you’ll also appreciate the one-handed, five-position recline, allowing you to switch from upright to lie flat quickly and easily. The two-handed fold on the Nuna Mixx Next does require some force, but once folded, the pushchair sits relatively compact - although if using it with the carrycot you’d need to remove this first. 

When it comes to storage, the Nuna Mixx Next has an under seat basket with a 4.5kg capacity, which isn’t as generous as the likes of the UPPAbaby Vista V3, but is easy to access from all directions and provides plenty of space for your newborn essentials. It can even be split into two distinct compartments using the interior wall if required. 

Read next: The best lightweight strollers and buggies

Tested by new mum, Alice: Read our full Ickle Bubba Atom travel system review

The Ickle Bubba Atom travel system is a genuinely budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on practicality, offering a full travel system with car seat and base for around £400.

Our parent tester Alice used the Atom over eight weeks with her newborn son, testing the 6-piece bundle alongside the Cirrus i-Size car seat and ISOFIX base. What really stands out is how straightforward it is to switch the car seat between cars and the pram, helping simplify busy day-to-day routines. “It’s definitely lighter than other car seats we’ve used, which makes it easier to take in and out of the car and to transfer between cars with the ISOFIX base,” she says.

The pushchair is designed with simplicity in mind. Weighing 9kg, it feels lighter and more manageable than many travel systems, particularly for urban use. Its standout feature is the compact fold, which works with the lie-flat to seat unit still attached in both lie-flat (carrycot) mode and upright seat mode. This removes the need for a separate carrycot and makes storage and transport far more straightforward than bulkier models.

Storage is fairly practical too. The underseat basket isn’t the largest, with a 3kg capacity, but it has a flexible design with one side that can be pulled down, making it much easier to slide in a changing bag or shopping without awkward lifting. There aren’t additional pockets or built-in storage on the pushchair itself, but both the 6-piece and 9-piece bundles include a cup holder as well as a compact cross-body changing bag and mat to help cover the essentials.

In day-to-day use, this makes a real difference. Alice regularly used it on public transport and for short car journeys, finding it easier to handle than heavier systems like the Mamas & Papas Ocarro 2 or UPPAbaby Vista V3, both of which are significantly bulkier and require more space.

The Cirrus car seat itself is i-Size compliant, with reassuring side-impact protection and a sturdy feel once installed. While Alice did find the sunshade coverage limited and the shoulder padding a little thin, these were minor drawbacks in the context of the overall package.

At this price point, the Atom offers impressive value — a lightweight, easy-to-use travel system that covers all the essentials without the higher price tag of more premium models, making it a smart choice for parents starting out.

Read next: The best 360 spin car seats

Tested by mum of two, Laura: Read our full iCandy Orange 4 review

The iCandy Orange 4 is a well-built and adaptable travel system designed for growing families. With a maximum child weight of 25kg—around age four—it’s built to last and its ability to convert into a double or twin pushchair makes it a practical option for parents planning ahead.

Aesthetically, it maintains iCandy’s sleek and premium feel, available in six neutral colourways with interchangeable Colour Splash canopies in shades like Pistachio, Fossil and Rose. Parent tester Laura, who tried the Fossil Grey version, described it as looking “sophisticated yet chunky,” with a breathable seat fabric and a plush fur liner that adds a touch of luxury.

Performance-wise, the Orange 4 has been refined from its predecessors, featuring puncture-proof wheels and a four-wheel suspension system that delivers a smoother ride across different terrains. The seat reclines with a simple one-handed mechanism, making adjustments easy while the handlebar can be set to five different positions, catering to parents of varying heights.

Another thoughtful touch is the adjustable carrycot and seat height, which, when used with elevators, can bring your baby closer. The pushchair also folds with the seat still attached, which is a definite convenience compared to some bulkier models that require more disassembly.

One of the Orange 4’s biggest strengths is its versatility. With 30+ configurations, it transitions seamlessly from a single to a double or twin stroller making it a worthwhile investment for families planning for a second child. As a travel system, it’s compatible with car seats, such as the iCandy Cocoon Car Seat, and includes adapters for added ease. The carrycot is spacious and well-padded, offering a comfortable, lie-flat space for newborns, which is ideal for longer outings. Storage is another plus—the extra-large 64-litre basket can hold up to 10kg, providing plenty of room for shopping, changing bags, or even a scooter.

Compared to previous models, the Orange 4 has seen some useful upgrades. The suspension is softer, the seat recline is more intuitive, and the breathable (and interchangeable) sun canopy is now water-repellent. Other refinements include integrated changing bag clips, a pop-up harness, a removable zip carry bag on the seat unit, and an integrated Ride-On-Board—a great addition for an older sibling who wants to hop on for a ride.

However, no pushchair is without its flaws. Laura found the five-point harness a little frustrating to use, as the shoulder and waist straps must be connected before clipping them into place. When dealing with a wriggly toddler, especially in bad weather, this can be fiddly and time-consuming. Additionally, at 12.1kg, the pushchair is quite heavy, which can make it tricky to lift into car boots or carry when folded. That said, given its versatility and durability, the weight is somewhat expected.

 Read next: The best double buggies, as tested by parents

Tested by new mum, Tina: Read our full Cosatto Wow 3 travel system review

While Cosatto is best known for its bold designs, the Cosatto Wow 3 travel system also delivers when it comes to practicality and everyday usability. Parent tester Tina used the Wow 3 Everything Bundle daily for three months with her newborn, putting it through its paces on pavements, public transport, grass and gravel to see how it performs in real family life.

Designed to take you from birth through to around four years old, the Wow 3 offers a reversible seat that can be parent- or world-facing, along with a lie-flat carrycot for newborns. The Everything Bundle is particularly appealing if you want a true all-in-one setup, as it includes the Acorn 2 i-Size car seat and Rotating Family Base (that are also available to purchase separately), the carrycot, Ultimate Footmuff, rain covers, Ultimate Changing Bag and universal car seat adapters – meaning you’re well equipped from day one without needing to purchase multiple extras separately.

In daily use, Tina found the Wow 3 to strike a good balance between size and sturdiness. It’s slim enough to manage buses and busy high streets, yet robust enough to cope with parks, uneven pavements and even festival terrain. Steering is generally smooth and confidence-inspiring, although it’s not designed as an extreme all-terrain pram and can feel less forgiving on very rough gravel.

The adjustable handlebar makes it comfortable for parents of different heights, while the sturdy chassis and secure pedal brake add reassurance when stopping on slopes or loading up the basket. While it sits at the premium end of the market, the Wow 3 stands out for its distinctive design, generous bundle options and versatility, making it a strong choice for families who want something a little different that still works hard day to day

Read next: The best pram toys for newborns

If you live in a more rural setting or simply love outdoor adventures with your baby, you’ll need a travel system that can take you from city pavements to woodland walks without compromise. The Mamas & Papas Ocarro 2 is exactly that- a luxury all-terrain pushchair that balances comfort, style and durability, making it one of the most versatile options in our guide.

Building on the success of the award-winning Ocarro, the Ocarro 2 introduces thoughtful upgrades designed to make family life on the go even easier. The overnight-sleep-approved carrycot offers flexibility for travel, while the plush lie-flat pushchair seat now comes with a removable newborn liner and soft head-hugger so your little one is snug and supported from birth. Parents will also appreciate the larger, easy-access basket, built-in tether strap, and the clever one-hand fold and carry feature, ideal when juggling baby, bags, and car keys all at once.

Of course, the Ocarro 2 retains the features that made the original a firm favourite. Expect large, robust multi-terrain wheels with four-point suspension that glide across pavements, kerbs, grass, sand and woodland paths, plus superior materials and premium finishes for a pushchair that looks as good as it feels. The height-adjustable handlebar, integrated chest pads, five-point harness and UPF50+ extendable sun canopy with ventilation panels are all still here, as is the much-loved one-handed fold that allows you to collapse it in one piece or two compact parts to suit your car boot space.

Available as a standalone pushchair or as part of a variety of bundle options, the Ocarro 2 offers excellent value if you’re looking for a complete travel system. Bundles can include everything from the carrycot and footmuff to changing bag, car seat (from brands like Cybex, Maxi-Cosi and BeSafe) adapters, ISOFIX base and more, depending on your family’s needs.

The Ocarro 2 is a little heavier and bulkier than most lightweight city strollers, so it’s less suited to regular public transport or tight storage spaces. But if you want a pushchair that will see your child from newborn to around four years old in comfort, and handle every kind of adventure along the way whilst carrying all your essentials like a changing bag, groceries and your phone and purse, it’s a standout choice..

Read next: Our full UPPAbaby Ridge review

Tested by mum of two, Beccy: Read our full Bugaboo Fox 5 review

The Bugaboo Fox 5 Renew is a premium travel system that builds on the strengths of the original Fox 5, which we’ve already tested in depth. When reviewing the original model, mum of two and parent tester Beccy praised its balance of performance and practicality, saying: “Not only is it excellently built, sturdy, and stylish, it’s also lightweight, manoeuvrable and easy to fold and store at home and in the boot.” Those core qualities remain very much intact with the Renew model.

Designed to handle everything from busy city streets to countryside paths, the Fox 5 Renew’s ultra-smooth four-wheel suspension and large puncture-proof wheels make it a confident all-terrain option from birth. As a travel system, it’s particularly appealing thanks to Bugaboo’s flexible bundle choices. Parents wanting just the essentials can opt for the Complete Pushchair Bundle, while those looking for a more comprehensive setup will appreciate the Ultimate Newborn Bundle, which includes a wider range of accessories for added comfort and convenience in the early months.

The included carrycot makes the Fox 5 Renew suitable from birth, while the reversible seat unit grows with your child and offers both parent- and world-facing positions. Practical features such as the generous 10kg under-seat basket, adjustable handlebar and easy fold make it well suited to everyday family life. While it doesn’t offer the smallest one-piece fold with the seat attached, it can be folded into two parts once the seat is removed, helping it fit more easily into smaller car boots.

What sets the Fox 5 Renew apart from the original is its increased focus on sustainability, with recycled aluminium, recycled fabrics and bio-based materials contributing to a lower environmental impact. Combined with thoughtful updates like the breathable PureBreeze™ mattress and new nature-inspired colourways, the Fox 5 Renew feels like a refined evolution rather than a complete overhaul.

Read next: The best running buggies

Tested by new mum, Emma: Read our full UPPAbaby Vista V3 review

The UPPAbaby Vista V3 is the latest in the brand’s popular travel system range, combining style, versatility, and practicality. With improved suspension and large, puncture-proof tyres, it delivers a smooth ride across city streets and country paths alike.

Suitable from birth with the included overnight-approved carrycot, it transitions seamlessly to the toddler seat from six months up to around age four. The seat is roomy, with a higher backrest, longer footrest, and an extendable canopy to keep growing children comfortable. Families can also adapt it into a double or add a buggy board for siblings, making it a future-proof option.

During testing, our parent tester and new mum, Emma, loved how spacious the Vista V3 feels: “The carrycot is spacious enough for our little one, Oscar, whilst giving a safe and comfortable place for him to lay. The built-in sunshade within the carrycot cover is so clever and easy to pop out when needed. The stroller feels sturdy and safe, with good suspension - even walking in our rural village over uneven paths, our son is always secure and sleeps without a hassle.”

The real standout, though, is storage. The Vista V3 boasts the biggest under seat basket on the market, holding up to 13.6kg and accessible from all sides. While the central chassis bar means you’ll need to angle in bulkier items, it still outshines rivals like the Bugaboo Fox 5, which maxes out at 9kg. For parents who don’t want to juggle bags, it’s a genuine game-changer.

Yes, it’s on the heavier side and requires a two-handed fold, but with its huge basket, long-term versatility, and premium finish, the Vista V3 more than earns its title as the best travel system for storage.

Read next: The best baby carrier backpacks to buy

If you want a travel system that really stands out from the crowd, you’ll love the unique and stylish design of the newly launched Egg 3.

An upgrade from the original Egg stroller, the new Egg 3 travel system features some exciting improvements. The new design has a larger-sized seat which not only sits slightly higher on the chassis but also has a taller back and an easy-adjust harness to support your child as they grow, plus it has a larger, extendable sun canopy with magnets for the viewing window and easy one-pull, five-point harness system.  

Built with practicality in mind, the Egg 3 also has an increased basket size (compared to the original model) and the ability to self-stand when folded - preventing any unwanted damage to the handlebar or chassis when you’re packing it away. And if that's not enough, the wheels on the Egg 3 are also slightly larger, helping it perform better across more challenging terrain compared to its predecessor. 

With a distinctive design, this stylish pushchair is suitable for babies from six months through to an impressive 25kg, which could be up to five years of age - the highest capacity travel system we’ve featured. For younger babies, however, you’ll need to attach the carrycot, which comes with a sustainable, chemical-free soft cushioned mattress suitable for up to nine months, or clip on the aptly named Egg Shell car seat. It’s worth noting though that car seat adapters aren’t included, so you’ll need to factor this in as an extra when considering the overall purchase price. 

With a robust and sturdy design, the Egg 3 weighs in at a substantial 15.5kg - over 5kg heavier than the heaviest travel system on our list - which may be off-putting to some. Despite its weight, it’s surprisingly easy to steer, with a small turning circle and the ability to be steered one-handed, even across grass, gravel and mud. The four-wheel suspension tackles kerbs with ease, without jolting or waking your baby. 

Unlike the BabyStyle Oyster 3 and Nuna Mixx Next which can fold with the seat attached in either direction, the carrycot or pushchair seat need to be fully removed from the frame before you can fold it away. Once folded, the frame sits relatively compact and self stands without taking up too much space in your car. 

While it's on the higher end of the price scale for a travel system, this is certainly noticeable in its modern and stylish design, with great attention to detail including a height adjustable leatherette handlebar and matt chassis. 

Unlike some travel systems which have wheels that can look plasticity, the tri-spoke design on the Egg3’s puncture-free tyres is quite the opposite. They even leave a unique egg-shaped tread - a novel but lovely touch. There’s even an easily accessible flip-flop-friendly brake which uses only the base of your foot, so no squishing your toes in the process.

The basket capacity could be bigger considering the pushchair’s size, with a 3kg capacity which can fill quickly due to its shallow design, however it does come with concealed storage compartments to store smaller items like your phone or purse.

Read next: The best baby carriers, wraps and slings

The robust Cybex Priam comes well regarded amongst Mumsnet users and online reviewers. Thanks to its sturdiness, it’s a popular choice for parents living in a more rural or countryside setting. An updated version of the original Priam from 2019, the 2022 edition offers several big improvements including a one-handed adjustable harness, revised seat design and a carrycot that sits higher up on the chassis.  

Due to the lie-flat recline, the Priam 2022 is suitable from birth through to 22kg, but the seat is narrow so you may find your child outgrows it sooner than age four. The seat can be used parent- or world-facing and, to ensure a comfortable ride for your baby, you can switch between four different recline positions and three leg rest positions.

As a travel system, the Priam 2022 can be combined with the spacious Cybex Priam Lux carrycot (suitable until around nine months of age) or the Cybex Cloud T i-Size baby car seat using the included adapters - ideal when moving your newborn to and from the car. 

While it's not an all-terrain pushchair, the Cybex Priam 2022 handles the majority of surfaces well with the exception of sand. Its weighty design is less suited to public transport but can navigate well around pavements and kerbs, as well as tackle trickier terrain such as gravel and grass with relative ease. The handlebar height can be set between 99 and 109cm and is easy to adjust when switching between parents or caregivers.

The fold has several steps, but is relatively straightforward, folding to a compact size that won’t exhaust all the space in your boot. At 13.6kg, however, it’s quite bulky to lift and one of the heavier travel systems on our list. 

We love the large central brake pedal which is quick and easy to operate. The included rain cover is simple to install and the generously sized sun hood offers more than adequate sun protection, although you may find the sideless design of the seat can let through some glare. Thanks to the magnetic viewing window, you can keep a close eye on your baby even when the seat is world-facing. 

We’re less keen on the storage basket’s slanted design, which feels restrictive in terms of space, despite its 5kg capacity. That said, you will find some additional small pockets of storage on the back of the seat - a great way to keep your phone close to hand.

Read next: The best all-terrain prams

Tested by mum, Alice: Read our full Nuna Triv Next review

The second Nuna pram featured in our round-up of the best travel systems is the Nuna Triv Next - another Which? Best Buy that achieved the highest lab score of all the products on this list. An upgrade from the original Nuna Triv, the latest edition comes with an even lighter frame and updated wheels for improved handling across varied terrain. 

Suitable from birth to 22kg, the pushchair can be used parent-facing or world-facing, and reclines to one of four different positions, including a lie-flat option for newborns. Alternatively, you can combine the chassis with the comfortable padded Nuna Triv Series carrycot or the Nuna Triv car seat when travelling with a younger baby.

Despite weighing just 9.2kg, the Nuna Triv Next performs surprisingly well over rough terrain thanks to the robust rear wheel suspension, with the ability to navigate across gravel and woodland areas without any significant bumping. We love the five different height options on the leatherette handlebar, allowing for a safe and comfortable hold for parents of different heights. 

Whilst the relatively simple fold does require two hands, the result is a compact and lightweight pushchair that’s easy to carry thanks to the locking clasp and integrated carry handle. As a result, Triv Next is a practical choice for those travelling regularly on public transport. 

The generously sized sun hood can be a little noisy to extend, but is also water-repellent (ideal for those scattered showers) and provides good shade coverage, with a viewing window for discrete checks on your baby while they nap. We love the spacious 4.5kg storage basket which has elasticated sides and can be accessed from all directions, along with the extra zipped storage pocket to the rear of the seat. 

Read next: The best cabin-approved strollers to take on the plane

Tested by Mumsnet editor, Laura: Read our full Bugaboo Dragonfly review

A great option for those travelling around an urban environment on foot, the Bugaboo Dragonfly is designed specifically for city life. With a relatively lightweight frame, this buggy is much lighter than many other travel systems (with the exception of the Nuna Triv Next and Maxi-Cosi Zelia 2). 

Released in June 2023, the Bugaboo Dragonfly features a sliding harness, large extendable sun canopy, leather grip height-adjustable handlebar and huge storage basket with a rear storage pocket that detaches from the basket to be hung on the handlebars like a changing bag.

While the claim of a one-handed fold is debatable, the pushchair can self-stand once folded, making it easier to carry and store at home or on public transport. It also folds down with the carrycot attached - the first of its kind and a game-changer in the newborn days.

Thanks to its light frame, the Bugaboo Dragonfly is agile and easy to manoeuvre, with a small turning circle that makes it ideal for navigating through crowded city streets or narrow shop aisles.

Its large brake pedal is easy to engage. Parent tester, Laura, says, "The brake is one of the easiest I've used and holds effectively. You simply press the brake down with your foot to engage and disengage it, and this can even be done barefoot or with flip-flops."

As you may expect, however, the Bugaboo Dragonfly doesn’t fair quite so well as other travel systems on uneven ground and struggles in particular when it comes to bumping up kerbs.

Tested by mum of two, Mirain: Read our full Maxi-Cosi Oxford Premium Bundle review

The Maxi-Cosi Oxford Premium Bundle is a fully loaded travel system designed to make life easier for new parents. It includes a pushchair with seat and carrycot, matching accessories (changing bag, footmuff, rain cover, and more), the Pebble 360 Pro car seat, and the FamilyFix 360 Pro ISOFIX base, which swivels to make getting your baby in and out of the car much easier.

Mum of two Mirain tested it for three months with her six-month-old and toddler, and was impressed by how comfortable and user-friendly it was. She loved the high-quality carrycot mattress, fully reclining seat, and how compactly the pushchair folded — all without removing the seat, even in parent- or world-facing mode.

“It looks sleek and stylish, folds easily, and fits into a medium car boot,” she says. “The fold is a huge time-saver.”

There were a few minor niggles: the pushchair was tricky to lift over curbs, the fold requires two hands, and the car seat took some getting used to when fitting onto the ISOFIX base — but Mirain said it got easier with time.

Overall, the Oxford Premium Bundle offers great value, solid performance, and all the essentials for getting out with a baby (or two). Maxi-Cosi also offers simpler options in the same range — the Oxford 9-Piece Select Bundle and the Oxford Essentials Bundle.

Tested by new mum, Ash: Read our full Cybex Talos S Lux travel system review

The Cybex Talos S Lux is a practical all-terrain travel system that feels just as comfortable on everyday errands as it does on rougher ground, making it a great fit for mixed routines.

Parent tester Ash used the Talos S Lux over a month with her newborn and toddler, testing it on pavements, park paths, buses, trains and car journeys. What stood out most was the ride quality. Thanks to puncture-proof tyres and all-round suspension, it handled everything from gravel to cobbles with impressive ease. “This pram is great on cobbled streets- any terrain really,” she says. Her partner even nicknamed it the “Rolls Royce” of travel systems.

For a robust all-terrain model, it also feels surprisingly practical day to day. Ash praised the smooth steering, high adjustable handlebar, generous shopping basket and thoughtful details like mudguards and responsive suspension, while the extendable XXL UPF50+ canopy offered what she described as “great coverage”.

One important point to note is that while the Talos S Lux functions as a travel system, the Cybex Cot S Lux carrycot and compatible infant car seat (such as the Cybex Aton B2 i-Size) are sold separately, as are the car seat adapters. That does push up the overall cost compared with bundles that include everything upfront such as the Ickle Bubba Atom travel system. That said, Ash found the adapters simple to use, attaching and removing with “just one big button”, and the flexibility to use the chassis with both carrycot and car seat adds to its long-term versatility.

There are a few compromises. Ash found the carrycot release a little fiddly, and the fold takes time to master. Because the frame doesn’t stand when folded, it can also pick up scratches when loaded into a car.

That said, if you want a travel system that can handle mixed terrain without sacrificing comfort or everyday usability, the Talos S Lux is easy to recommend. It has a premium price tag, but the performance and versatility help justify it.