Even though it’s our third go-around, figuring out baby gear is always overwhelming. Even in just a couple of years, so many products change or improve! So, I turned to our Instagram community for insight into all things infant. After hundreds of parents responded, here are the top recommendations we received for infant car seats. Then, we did a deeper dive to understand the pros and cons of each and share it all below.
Nuna Pipa Lite lx + Pipa Series Base
Pros:
Looks and feels luxurious
Incredibly lightweight
Numerous safety features
Includes canopy to protect baby from light and sun
FAA certified
Naturally flame-resistant
Cons:
Quite fiddly to assemble
Canopy is too large to fit easily under handle
Straps aren’t fully padded
Can’t adjust straps with one hand
Pros:
Easy install
Nice harness adjustment
Naturally flame-resistant fabric
Side Impact Protection
Hideaway canopy with UPF 25+
Chemical-free
Cons:
Higher price
Heavier to carry
Pros:
Two in one—don’t have to pack both a car seat and stroller
Super simple to convert between the car seat and stroller
The compact size makes it great in stores and restaurants
Cons:
Had trouble using it without base depending on various car models. Even a seat belt extension didn’t work in a few cars we tried
Not great for taller people as the handle doesn’t adjust high enough
Zelia 5-in-1 Modular Travel System
Pros:
Suitable from birth
Small when folded
Large shopping basket
Extendable hood
Cons:
Handle extends but doesn’t tilt
The fold can be fiddly
