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Best pushchairs, prams and buggies as tested and reviewed by parents

We've completed rigorous, in-depth testing and combined our results with the knowledge and feedback of real parents to bring you the best pushchairs and prams for newborns and beyond.

By Gemma Wilcock & Laura Westerman | Last updated Feb 27, 2024

Six of the best pushchairs

Choosing the best pushchair or pram for your growing family should be easy, right? But, as anyone who’s been there before will tell you, the world of pushchairs, prams and buggies can be a minefield.

First you'll need to establish what kind of pushchair will suit your needs. Are you looking for a travel system that you can attach a carrycot or baby car seat to? Or are you after a lightweight buggy or umbrella stroller for nipping around the city? A convertible double buggy may be better suited to you if you need to ferry two children around. Or maybe you're in need of a pram that can be fitted with a buggy board to accommodate an extra passenger?

With such a huge range of pushchairs, prams and buggies on the market, we’ve meticulously researched hundreds of models, sought opinion from experts as well as the knowledge and experience of real parents, and undertaken our own in-depth testing with a number of parent testers to help you choose the right pushchair for you and your family.

How we tested the best pushchairs, prams and buggies

We put the pushchairs in this list through their paces in day-to-day life with the help of real parent testers, who scored each one on six key areas: safety, assembly, day-to-day use, aesthetics and value for money. Our parent testers spent weeks with each pram, testing how well it coped in various scenarios such as shopping trips, muddy walks in the park, in the car boot, and on rough terrain.

Using the results from our extensive testing as well as lab test results from consumer champion Which?, reviews from wider consumers and honest recommendations from parents on the Mumsnet forums (home to eight million users per month), we've selected the best prams and pushchairs for all needs and budgets, whether you’re a new parent, a growing family or simply looking for a good stroller to take on your next family holiday.

Best pushchairs, prams and buggies at a glance

  • Best overall pushchair: Nuna Mixx Next | Buy now

  • Best budget pushchair: Maxi-Cosi Zelia S Trio 3-in-1 Travel System | Buy now

  • Best lightweight pushchair for travel: Babyzen YOYO2 | Buy now

  • Best pushchair for newborns: Bugaboo Dragonfly | Buy now

  • Best pushchair for easy fold: Didofy Aster 2 | Buy now

  • Best pushchair for rough terrain: Bugaboo Fox 5 | Buy now

  • Best pushchair for city life: BabyJogger City Tour 2 | Buy now

  • Best all-terrain pushchair: Out n About Nipper V5 | Buy now

  • Best pushchair for storage: Mamas & Papas Ocarro | Buy now

  • Best double pushchair: Mountain Buggy Duet V3 | Buy now

  • Best pushchair with travel system compatibility: BabyStyle Oyster 3 | Buy now

1
Best overall pushchair

Nuna Mixx Next

What we like
  • Suitable from birth

  • Reversible seat with five-position recline

  • Travel system-compatible

  • Easy to manoeuvre over all terrain

  • Good storage basket and pocket

What we don't like
  • Quite heavy

  • Bulky when folded

  • Buckles can be a bit fiddly

Key specs

RRP: £660 | Suitable from: Birth to 22kg (around four years) | Weight: 11.09kg (without canopy, armbar and insert) | Folded dimensions: 42 x 65 x 52.5cm | World-facing: Yes | Parent-facing: Yes | Car seat compatible: Yes | Wheels: Rubber, foam-filled tyres | Carrycot included? No, unless you buy the bundle

What Mumsnet users say
BopaEli · Tried & Tested
I’ve got the Nuna Mixx and absolutely love it! It’s got lots of little features that make it stand out for me so I think that the cost is well worth it.
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Our verdict

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

Flexible and oh-so-trendy, the Nuna Mixx Next is comfort and style rolled into one. It’s the third generation in the range, an update on the Nuna Mixx 2019, which features a new, more compact fold and improved suspension for a smoother ride.

One of the pushchair’s big appeals is the number of options it offers. It can be used as a stroller from birth, with a spacious seat that can be either parent-or world-facing or switched out for a car seat or a carrycot with the included adaptors.

The frame is very sturdy with large rear wheels and improved suspension so it’s a dream to push over all kinds of terrain. This does mean that it's not the most compact of folds, but the Next does fold down smaller than its previous model. It’s easy too – though you do need two hands - so you can quickly get it in and out of your car boot.

The shopping basket holds up to 4.5kg, which is more than enough for a day out shopping or off-roading in the countryside. We also love the handy zip pocket on the back and the seat is padded with a mesh back to keep children comfortable in all seasons.

Read next: How to clean a pram, including tried-and-tested tips from Mumsnetters

2
Best budget pushchair:

Maxi-Cosi Zelia S Trio 3-in-1 Travel System

What we like
  • Excellent value for a complete travel system

  • Seat converts to a lie-flat bassinet for newborns

  • Easy one-handed fold

  • Height-adjustable handlebar

What we don't like
  • Tricky to change seat position with heavier children

  • Wide frame – hard to fit through narrow doorways

  • Straps can be fiddly

Key specs

RRP: £310 | Suitable from: Birth to 15kg (around age four) | Weight: 9.6kg | Folded dimensions: 65 x 36 x 75cm | World-facing: Yes | Parent-facing: Yes | Number of wheels: Four | Car seat compatible: Yes | Extras included: Rain cover and boot cover/apron

What Mumsnet users say
Njh1986 · Recommended
The seat has very high sides even when not in carrycot mode so is snuggly and lovely for DD.
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Our verdict

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Maxi-Cosi Zelia review

For around £300, the Maxi-Cosi Zelia 2-in-1 pushchair offers brilliant value and is one of the cheapest complete travel systems on the market. Despite its price point, it performs well in terms of quality and design.

Its major selling points are its weight – it's sturdy but only weighs 9.6kg so the frame feels light to push, fold and carry; and its two-in-one seat that converts from a newborn bassinet to a regular seat for babies from six months.

This bargain bundle also comes with a rain cover, a boot cover and car seat adapters.

Read next: The best lie-flat car seats for newborns

3
Best lightweight pushchair for travel

Babyzen YOYO2

What we like
  • Super compact when folded

  • Cabin-bag size

  • Lightweight

  • Great for city life and public transport

  • Handy carry strap for travel

What we don't like
  • Fold takes a bit of practice

  • Generally doesn't move well across bumpy terrain

  • Rain cover and footrest not included

  • Small storage basket - but extra storage pocket on sun canopy makes up for this

Key specs

RRP: From £370 | Suitable from: Birth (with newborn pack or bassinet) to 22kg (around four years) | Weight: 6.2kg | Folded dimensions: 52 x 44 x 18cm | World-facing: Yes | Parent-facing: Yes (but only with a newborn pack) | Car seat compatible: Yes | Wheels: PU foam | Carrycot included? No, unless you buy the bundle

What Mumsnet users say
loverofpants · Tried & Tested
We have a YOYO and love it as we travel a lot. My daughter is now 2 and uses it daily. I would highly recommend it.
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LeeMiller · Recommended
I love our Babyzen YOYO. I'm petite and it's the only one I've tried that is light and compact and easy enough to put up and down while also holding a baby (now toddler). We have stairs to leave the flat then have to fold it to get onto busy public transport - anything bulkier or heavier and that wouldn't be manageable alone, whereas the YOYO can go over my shoulder.
See Post
Imohsotired · Tried & Tested
I have a Babyzen and love it. I bought it for travel but ended up using it as my main pram through two babies!
See Post
Our verdict

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Babyzen YOYO review

At just 6.2kg, the Babyzen YOYO2 is an incredibly lightweight buggy and is the ideal pushchair if you live in the city or like to travel. Cabin-bag size, with folded dimensions of just 52 x 44 x 18cm, and approved by most airlines as a carry-on, the YOYO2 is super compact when folded and features a handy strap for easily carrying it on and off the plane.

It’s extremely nippy, especially if you’re navigating small shop aisles or public transport (be that trains or buses), and it offers a smooth and comfortable ride over pavements and paths. The small wheels mean it fares less well on bumpy, uneven terrain like grass and gravel, so this is something to bear in mind if you live in a more rural area.

While we think the buggy really comes into its own with babies aged six months and above, it can be used from birth with a newborn pack (sold separately) - a sort of cocoon that allows you to lay your baby completely flat. The great thing about the newborn pack is that it folds down with the buggy and doesn’t need to be removed if you want to attach an infant car seat. The other newborn option is a bassinet, but this isn’t airline-approved and needs to be removed if you’re using your YOYO2 as a travel system.

In terms of storage, the basket is fairly small (although that’s not really surprising considering the buggy’s diminutive size), but we like that there is an additional pocket integrated into the UPF 50+ sun canopy to store your valuables.

Read next: Can you take a pram on a plane? Everything you need to know about travelling with a pushchair

4
Best pushchair for newborns

Bugaboo Dragonfly

What we like
  • Carrycot can be collapsed with the buggy

  • Generous amount of storage space

  • Rear storage pocket can be detached and hung on the handlebar

  • Huge sun canopy

  • Sliding five-point harness

  • Performs well on most terrain

What we don't like
  • Stiff and clunky recline

  • Tricky to fold and unfold

  • No rain cover included

  • Can’t easily be bumped up kerbs

Key specs

RRP: £695 (£945 with carrycot) | Suitable from: Birth to 22kg (around four years old) | Weight: 7.9-10.4kg | Folded dimensions: One-piece self-standing fold with seat 36 x 52 x 90cm; one-piece self-standing fold with carrycot 32 x 52 x 90cm | World-facing: Yes | Parent-facing: Yes | Car seat compatible: Yes | Wheels: Puncture-free tyres | Carrycot included? No - only as part of a bundle

What Mumsnet users say
Laura, Mumsnet tester · Tried & Tested
I tested the Bugaboo Dragonfly carrycot out with my nephew, who was just seven weeks old at the time. He fell asleep soundly for the entirety of our walk. The carrycot is spacious and the mattress is thick, firm and well padded for newborns. It also comes with an apron that is plush and stays in place perfectly.
See Post
Our verdict

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Bugaboo Dragonfly review

Released in June 2023, the Bugaboo Dragonfly is Bugaboo’s latest pushchair. And it doesn’t disappoint. Designed as a city stroller, it’s smaller than other travel systems on the market, but has a huge 13kg storage capacity thanks to the rear pocket that can be detached from the regular storage basket and hung on the handlebars like a changing bag.

While the Dragonfly is super comfy for toddlers, with harness straps that slide up and down for ease, saving the need for any rethreading, we think this pram performs especially well with newborns.

Tested with a seven-week-old, our parent tester, Laura, found the carrycot to be roomy and well padded with a sun canopy that can be extended quite substantially on sunny days. The sun hood is used for both the carrycot and the regular seat unit.

What really impressed us though is the innovative carrycot design. While the fold can be a bit tricky to master, the beauty of the Dragonfly is that the carrycot can be folded down with the pram, which means you won’t have to remove it when transporting the buggy in your car boot or on public transport. 

Laura says, “The fold isn’t particularly compact, but the fact that [the Dragonfly] can be collapsed with the carrycot (and, of course, the regular seat unit) still in place is, quite frankly, revolutionary. It also doesn’t matter which way the seat faces - the pushchair will fold regardless.”  

Related: The best travel cots, tried and tested

5
Best pushchair for easy fold

Didofy Aster 2

What we like
  • One-handed compact fold at the push of a button

  • Cabin bag-approved

  • Lightweight

  • Flip flop-friendly brake

  • Includes a rain cover, footmuff and cup holder

  • Great if you regularly use public transport

What we don't like
  • Parent-facing only, unless used with a carrycot or car seat

  • Handlebar doesn’t extend to suit different user heights

  • Recline requires two hands to adjust

  • Steering sometimes tricky on uneven ground

  • Cup holder can be reached by a toddler in the seat

Key specs

RRP: £299 | Suitable from: Birth to 22kg (around four years) | Weight: 6.2kg | Folded dimensions: 55 x 47 x 25cm | World-facing: Yes | Parent-facing: Yes - only with carrycot (sold separately) | Car seat compatible: Yes | Wheels: Puncture-free | Carrycot included? No - sold separately

What Mumsnet users say
Beccy, Mumsnet tester · Tried & Tested
Thanks to its compact size, travelling by train with the Didofy Aster 2 was a breeze. To store it in the luggage compartment, DH was able to swiftly fold and lift it while I juggled getting both DC into their seats around the table. Once at our destination, it was very easy to quickly unfold the pushchair to strap our youngest in before leaving the train station.
See Post
Our verdict

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Didofy Aster 2 review

If you’re looking for an affordable and compact solution right from the get-go, the Didofy Aster 2 ticks a lot of boxes as both an everyday pram and a buggy to travel with, fitting seamlessly into car boots and in the overhead luggage compartments on planes.

Tackling public transport with ease, including both trains and buses, as well as effortlessly navigating shop aisles, this pushchair is both nimble and lightweight. Benefitting from an innovative MagicFold design, which means that the Aster 2 can be folded or unfolded at the push of a button, this is a pram you’ll want to have on hand if you live in the city.

It was praised by our parent tester, Beccy, mum of two to a toddler and preschooler, who said that the Aster 2 “revolutionised our family’s outings,” adding “if I had known about the Aster 2 before our first child, I would have bypassed our bulky travel system and opted for this ultra-compact pushchair instead.”

There are some downsides to this buggy though, the main one being that the seat is world-facing only for newborns unless you shell out for the carrycot, which is pricey at £180. Operated by a toggle, the recline is also more fiddly than we would have liked and the handlebar unfortunately isn’t extendable. Minor nitpicks though of an otherwise high-performing all-rounder.

Read next: The best breast pumps parents swear by

6
Best pushchair for rough terrain

Bugaboo Fox 5

What we like
  • Sliding five-point safety harness

  • Advanced suspension for all terrain

  • 10kg underseat basket with hidden pockets and extendable flaps

  • One-handed fold

  • 12 colour combinations

  • Large puncture-proof wheels

What we don't like
  • Same frame is used for the carrycot and seat

  • Footmuff not included

  • Stiff during first assembly

Key specs

RRP: £1,115 | Suitable from: Birth to 22kg (around four years) | Weight: 10.4 to 12.2kg | Folded dimensions: Two-piece compact fold 89 x 53 x 34cm; one-piece self-standing fold 44 x 60 x 90cm | World-facing: Yes | Parent-facing: Yes | Car seat compatible: Yes | Wheels: Puncture-proof | Carrycot included? Yes (bundles with accessories also available)

What Mumsnet users say
Beccy, Mumsnet tester · Tried & Tested
I’ve been a loyal user of Silver Cross products since my first DC was born. I didn’t think I’d convert, but from day one of using the Bugaboo Fox 5, it quickly became apparent that there was no comparison between my older pushchair and this one. 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.
See Post
Our verdict

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Bugaboo Fox 5 review

With large puncture-proof wheels and a bouncy suspension, Bugaboo’s latest offering in the Fox line, the Fox 5, provides an exceptional ride for little ones. Our parent tester, Beccy, put it through its paces on gravel roads, muddy paths and woodland trails, describing it as a “true workhorse” when on the move with her toddler and preschooler.

An upgrade on the popular Bugaboo Fox 3, the Fox 5 boasts more premium detailing as well as a new range of colours and finishes for the ultimate in personalisation. You’ll also now find a one-handed fold, unfold and recline, all of which our tester loved (although the fold took her a few tries to master), as well as an upgraded chassis design, which makes the pram much smoother to navigate and steer than its predecessor. The seat can now extend up to 10cm, making this buggy more accommodating for growing children too.

While it’s a bit fiddly to assemble and with folded dimensions that are better suited to large SUVs than small hatchbacks, the Bugaboo Fox 5 has many small and useful features that our tester appreciated, including a sliding mechanism to easily alter the straps and a large sun canopy that provides more coverage that you see on most pushchairs. Underneath the chassis is a large underseat basket with hidden pockets and extendable flaps, which holds an ample 10kg of storage - more than you’ll see on the Bugaboo Fox 3.

When it comes to newborns, the Fox 5 is unique in that the seat and carrycot don’t come as separate units. We think that some parents may find this impractical, especially as you need to take the carrycot apart then reassemble to form the seat. Despite this, the Bugaboo Fox 5 ticks all the boxes for parents looking for a pram that will tackle the rigours of daily family life as well as different terrain. According to our tester, Beccy, “as a parent who loves outdoor adventures, this is a game-changer.”

Read next: The best pram toys at attach to your pushchair

7
Best pushchair for city life

BabyJogger City Tour 2

What we like
  • Longer age range than most pushchairs

  • Good value for money

  • One-handed fold

  • Seat reclines fully

  • Extendable UPF 50+ canopy

What we don't like
  • The harness can be fiddly

  • Not as smooth a ride as other prams

  • Rain cover not included

  • Not freestanding when folded

Key specs

RRP: £284 | Suitable from: Birth to 22kg (four years) | Weight: 6.5kg | Folded dimensions: 59.5 x 49.5 x 19 cm | World-facing: Yes | Parent-facing: No, unless used with car seat or carrycot | Car seat compatible: Yes | Wheels: Swivel rubber tyres | Carrycot included? No

What Mumsnet users say
Katia2511 · Tried & Tested
I bought the BabyJogger City Tour 2 and I love it. It folds small and compact but not as small as the Yoyo. And you can also buy a bar separately for it if you want to. It is very comfortable to sleep in too; the foot flap can be lifted. I still use it for my nearly three-year-old and he still fits in comfortably.
See Post
Our verdict

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Baby Jogger City Tour (single) review

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Baby Jogger City Tour 2 (double) review

Although ideal for city life and travel, as the name suggests, the BabyJogger City Tour 2 is actually a great option for any family.

Weighing just 6.5kg, it's a super-lightweight buggy that offers plenty of space for a child to grow and could last you around five years, making it great value for money. An upgrade on the original Baby Jogger City Tour, it can be used with a carrycot and baby car seat so it’s suitable from birth with plenty of options for seating your child when you’re on your travels. You do need to buy them separately though.

The Tour has a one-handed fold which locks into position and is compact for storing away whether it’s in your home or your car – although it doesn’t stand up on its own so this may be a problem if you’re short on space.

Unlike many of the pushchairs on our list, the City Tour 2 doesn’t come with a rain cover so you will need to buy that separately. There's also a Baby Jogger City Tour Double buggy if you need to ferry two kids around.

Read next: The best running buggies for active parents

8
Best all-terrain pushchair

Out n About Nipper V5

What we like
  • Handles rough terrain exceptionally well

  • Lightweight design

  • Easy to manoeuvre with a one-handed push

  • Peekaboo window has a handy magnetic cover

  • 360-swivel front wheel

What we don't like
  • Seat is forward-facing only - newborn insert, carrycot or car seat recommended for use with a newborn

  • Non-extendable handlebar with low-quality foam padding

  • Long frame means the buggy struggles in smaller spaces like shop aisles

  • Limited storage

  • Bulky when folded

Key specs

RRP: £425 | Suitable from: Birth to 22kg (approx. four years old) | Weight: 9.8kg | Folded dimensions: 61.5 x 42.5 x 94cm (wheels on); 48 x 29 x 86cm (wheels off) | World-facing: Yes | Parent-facing: Yes - only with carrycot or car seat | Car seat compatible: Yes | Wheels: 3; pneumatic tyres | Carrycot included? No

What Mumsnet users say
Rachel, Mumsnet tester · Tried & Tested
One of this pushchairs best features is it's manoeuvrability, which is by far superior to any other pushchair I’ve used. The steering is so effortless that I was able to do it one-handed.
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Our verdict

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Out n About Nipper V5 review

Sturdy, well made and with excellent steering capabilities, the Out n About Nipper V5 is a high-performing all-terrain buggy that’s ideal if you live in a rural or suburban area.

An upgrade on the Nipper V4, the V5 benefits from a new and improved sun canopy with a handy peekaboo window, new logos and more colour options to choose from. 

It expertly handles bumpy and uneven terrain thanks to its two large rear wheels, swivel front wheel and pneumatic tyres. The all-wheel suspension gives a smooth and comfortable ride for your small passenger.

Our parent tester Rachel says, “I took the pushchair to Broadstairs beach for a day trip with my in-laws. [...] We strolled along the sandy beach, marvelling at how easily the V5 navigated the sand. Inevitably it began pouring with rain so I put on the included rain cover, which was quick and simple to do, and it kept [my daughter] very cosy and dry.”

What lets the Nipper V5 down is the storage basket, which is too small to fit a changing bag, and the handlebar is made of low-quality foam which is easily damaged. We also wouldn’t recommend this buggy for a newborn unless you buy the compatible carrycot or attach a baby car seat

Read next: The best all-terrain prams

9
Best pushchair for storage

Mamas & Papas Ocarro

What we like
  • Can be folded down when seat is forward- or-rear-facing

  • Large hood and basket

  • Deep padded seat, head pillow and chest pads

  • Good storage space

  • Ideal for country living

What we don't like
  • Expensive

  • Not great for public transport

  • Basket can only be loaded from the back

  • Quite heavy

Key specs

RRP: £849 | Suitable from: Birth (with a newborn carrycot or car seat; otherwise six months) to 15kg | Weight: 7.45kg | Folded dimensions: 27 × 46.5 × 65.5cm | World-facing: Yes | Parent-facing: Yes (with newborn carrycot) | Car seat compatible: Yes (only with Maxi-Cosi car seats) | Wheels: Plastic | Carrycot included? No, but it is carrycot-compatible

What Mumsnet users say
Mummyh2016 · Tried & Tested
Bought this pram back in 2017. DD will be three in four months and we still use it now. Would definitely recommend.
See Post
Our verdict

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Mamas & Papas Ocarro review

The Mamas & Papas Ocarro is an all-in-one pushchair that is every bit as stylish as it is practical. Dual suspension and large puncture-resistant wheels means it can handle any terrain well, and the padded seat and head pillow offer maximum comfort for any small passenger.

When it comes to storage, the Ocarro comes up trumps with a large basket that offers plenty of space for when you need to pack the pram up for any off-roading adventures, however it’s worth noting that during testing we found it was only accessible from the back.

The frame is sturdy but that means it’s not the lightest of pushchairs, weighing in at 13.7kg, a fair bit heavier than Baby Jogger City Tour 2, so it may not be ideal for using on public transport. It is easy to fold though and can be done when the seat is world- or parent-facing and is freestanding for easy storage.

The seat is soft and snug, made even more cosy by the memory foam-style insert to provide extra support for newborns. The Ocarro is also travel system-compatible for use with the carrycot and a car seat. While it is a heavy pram, it's a dream to push with wheels that turn smoothly and glide over any terrain, making this a great option for country living.

Read next: The best baby carriers for newborns and beyond

10
Best double pushchair

Mountain Buggy Duet V3

What we like
  • As slim as some single buggies

  • Has both a footbrake and handbrake

  • Individual hoods and footrests

  • Really good storage

  • Suspension and air-filled tyres suitable for all terrain

What we don't like
  • Expensive

  • Footbrake is hard to engage

  • No rain cover included

Key specs

RRP: £709 | Suitable from: Birth to 18kg in each seat (around 4 years) | Weight: 14.5kg | Folded dimensions: 31 x 63 x 89 cm | World-facing: Yes | Parent-facing: Yes, with car seat or carrycot | Car seat compatible: Yes | Wheels: Air-filled tyres | Carrycot included? No

What Mumsnet users say
Lockdownmummy · Tried & Tested
Only 15 months between my two so a double was essential! I have a Mountain Buggy Duet and really like it. Yes it is a bit on the heavy side but not so heavy I can't lift it into the car myself. It is a dream to push and there hasn't been any doorway, shop, etc that I've struggled to fit through. The basket is plenty big enough.
See Post
Our verdict

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Mountain Buggy Duet V3 review

This is one for parents that are expecting twins or their second child and need to find a good double buggy for ferrying their family around. Mountain Buggy Duet V3 is a side-by-side buggy with lots of different configurations for life with two young children.

The seats lie flat so can be used from birth but you can also buy a newborn carrycot or a cocoon if you want to provide extra support. You can also add up to two car seats to the frame. The seat material is cosy and durable, providing plenty of support for young children. It features a secure five-point harness.

Speaking of safety, one of the buggy’s standout features is the two brakes - a footbrake and a handbrake, similar to a bicycle brake set-up - which is great when pushing kids up and down steep hills.

Even though the Duet is a double buggy, it’s the same width as some single strollers so the Duet is great for everyday life, especially with the pram’s suspension and four air-filled tyres that glide over everything from narrow shop aisles to mountain trails. With a basket that can hold up to 10kg and handy zip pockets, you won’t have to worry about leaving newborn essentials at home.

You'll need to buy a rain cover though and the cost of the pushchair could get quite high if you want to buy a newborn carrycot or cocoon too.

11
Best pushchair with travel system compatibility

BabyStyle Oyster 3

What we like
  • One-handed recline

  • Seat lies flat for newborns

  • Compact fold for easy storage

  • Chunky rear wheels that handle off-roading

  • Great for use on public transport

What we don't like
  • Can’t be folded one-handed

  • Carrycot can be tricky to remove from the frame

Key specs

RRP: £599 | Suitable from: Birth (with carrycot) to 25kg in single mode and 15kg in double | Weight: 12.1kg (with one seat) | Folded dimensions: 60 × 28.5 × 70cm | World-facing: Yes | Parent-facing: Yes | Car seat compatible: Yes (with adaptors) | Wheels: Puncture-resistant | Carrycot included? Yes

What Mumsnet users say
Whatelsecouldibecalled · Recommended
I love our Oyster 3. Easy to fold. Folds with pram attached which for me is a bonus. Doesn't take up the whole boot (I have a Kia Sportage so admittedly a big boot but it takes up about half the space) has a lay-flat seat. Light and easy to push. Would highly recommend.
See Post
Our verdict

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full BabyStyle Oyster 3 review

The BabyStyle Oyster 3 is a large well-built travel system that’s designed to last well into the toddler years.

You can buy the pushchair on its own or it's available in three different bundles to suit different budgets, from the Essentials package – which includes a car seat, carrycot, car seat base and adaptors - to the Ultimate, which also includes a bag, parasol, footmuff and much more. The Oyster 3 also comes in a range of stylish colours to suit different tastes.

It doesn’t just look good though. It’s super functional too, with a world- and parent-facing seat that can be folded down in either position. While you can’t do it one-handed, it's light and compact for fitting into a car boot and you have the option to remove the wheels if you need more space.

With a maximum weight of 22kg, it should last a long time although the seat isn’t as spacious as other prams. The extendable handlebar and chunky rear wheels provide a smooth ride and there's a large basket that can fit your shopping bags inside. This is a functional and stylish travel system.

What is the best pushchair and pram to buy?

A travel system that is both stylish and functional, we think the Nuna Mixx Next is the best pushchair to buy right now. With a reversible seat, the option to add a car seat or a carrycot, large wheels for pushing over any terrain and an easy fold, this pram is versatile and easy to use. The sleek design and plentiful storage also make this a great choice for new parents.

Read next: The best buggy boards to buy, as tested by parents

Why do babies need to lie flat in a pram?

To use a pram in the first six months of your baby's life, you'll need the seat to lie completely flat, as recommended by the NHS. A lie-flat pushchair will support your baby's spine and help to keep their airwaves open.

This could be in the form of a seat that fully reclines or a carry cot that can be attached to the frame.

What are the different types of pushchair and pram?

Travel systems  

The best travel systems have an interchangeable seat so you can add a baby car seat or a bassinet onto the frame instead of the regular seat. Some manufacturers sell packages including a car seat, but many don't.

Unlike lightweight buggies or strollers, most travel systems offer a bit more flexibility on how the seat is positioned. You can turn the seat so that it faces you, which means you can see your baby in the pram, or so that it faces outward, so that they can look out as you're walking.

In the early months, it's nice to be able to keep a close eye on your baby when you're outdoors, but as they grow older you might find that they're happier looking out at the world.

Lightweight buggies  

The best lightweight strollers are usually smaller than a complete travel system and more lighter in weight. While some can look quite flimsy, a good buggy can be a lifesaver when your child starts walking but isn’t yet able to cope with longer distances. They’re also great for going shopping, taking on holiday and for busy families who need to quickly get a pram in and out of the car.

Some buggies have seats that can lie flat for newborns, but not all do so it’s important to check this before buying. They’re often considerably cheaper than a travel system, plus they’ll take up less space in your house. The downside is that the wheels can be smaller and the seat can be less padded and lower to the ground, which could make for a bumpier ride for your child.

All-terrain pushchairs

If you like to go off the beaten track or go running, these buggies have been designed to withstand rough terrain. They’ll have a good wheel suspension and robust tyres – either three or four wheels – but they tend to be bulkier, so you’ll need space to store the pram and it won’t be as useful when it comes to wheeling it around narrow shop aisles and getting on and off a bus.

Double buggies 

If you plan to have more than one child, some prams can be transformed from a single pushchair to a double by adding another seat. For families who already have more than one child, you may want to go for a double buggy that already has two seats for ferrying your children around.

Read next: The best baby carriers, wraps and slings

How much do pushchairs and prams cost?

Pushchair prices vary widely depending on make and performance. You can get a lightweight buggy for as little as £50, but for a decent travel system you can pay anywhere from about £300 up to £1000 if you’re after a designer brand with all the bells and whistles.

If you’re set on a high-end design, it may soften the blow to know that they do tend to retain some of their value, so you could look at selling it once you’ve moved out of the pushchair stage. Equally, if you’re not keen on the idea of shelling out hundreds of pounds, it’s worth taking a look at a local reseller or eBay for a good deal on a secondhand pushchair.

dos and don'ts when buying a pushchair

What should I look for when buying a pushchair or pram?

  • Age range: Most pushchairs last up to 22kg which is around age four. However, not all prams can be used from birth unless they have a lie-flat seat or have a carrycot attachment.

  • Lifestyle: Some pushchairs are well designed for public transport, but some definitely aren't. If you use public transport regularly, a compact and lightweight buggy will be your best bet. If you live in the countryside, or think you’ll spend a lot of time on trails and footpaths, you'll want an all-terrain pushchair with a good suspension and robust puncture-proof wheels instead.

  • Fold: Whether you're in the car, on public transport or need to regularly fold your pushchair away for storage, looking for a pram that will quickly and easily fold down. Some lightweight strollers fold down so compactly that they can fit in an overhead cabin luggage on a plane, which is great for holidays.

  • Travel system compatibility: One benefit of a travel system is that, with the right adaptors, you can take your baby car seat out of the car and clip it onto your pushchair. However, most car seats don't have a lie-flat mode, which means newborns can only safely stay in that seat for 30 minutes at a time. If you're planning to attach a car seat, make sure the travel system you choose is compatible with your preferred seat. Car seat adapters cost anywhere between £30 and £60. Most travel systems sell adaptors to fit major car seat brands, but double-check just in case.

  • Adjustable handlebars: A handlebar that can be adjusted will make the pram much more comfortable to push and will come in handy for parents who are different heights.

  • Storage basket: This may be one of the most important features of a pushchair. With all the nappies, bottles, snacks and changes of clothes that come with a baby, it’s almost impossible to travel lightly, especially if you plan to pick up shopping while you’re out. Pram baskets vary, with capacities from around 1kg to 15kg, but no matter how big it is, make sure you can access it easily. Some pushchairs also come with handy storage pockets.

  • Comfort and recline: If you want to ensure your child is comfortable, look for a pram that has padded seats. The angle of the recline is also important for ensuring your child can sit comfortably. Some seats have an infinite recline so you can choose the angle, while others may only have a few options. A seat with a leg rest or support will prevent children’s legs from dangling over the edge of the seat - some are adjustable so you can alter it as they grow.

  • Wheel size: Pushchairs tend to have three or four wheels. Generally bigger wheels are easier to move on rougher terrain, with air-filled tyres better suited for off-roading (but they can puncture). If you want to be able to easily push your pram, swivel wheels move in any direction to make it easier to push. This can make it trickier to navigate over uneven ground, so look for wheels that lock so you have the option to use both.

  • Accessories: What does the pram come with? Accessories can include a cup holder, footmuff and rain cover. Check what it comes with before buying as things like rain covers are essential for keeping your little one dry so you’ll need to factor in the extra cost.

Need more guidance? We have comprehensive buying guides that round up the best travel systems, the best lightweight strollers and the best double buggies to buy. All feature prams that have been tested and recommended by real parents.

For more information on pushchair safety, visit The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA).

How we chose our recommendations

Collect unbiased recommendations from parents

To ensure we find products that can withstand family life, we always look for recommendations from our trusted Mumsnet users on the forums. With 10 million users each month, we know we’re identifying products that have been thoroughly put to the test in everyday situations.

Consult the experts

When compiling our list of recommendations, our trusted and experienced parenting journalists spend hours researching each product category, using a variety of sources to evaluate which products are the best.

This means checking that it is highly recommended by experts and stands up to scrutiny. We consult expert review sites, such as Which?.

Check the products are loved by consumers

Knowing that the real experts are you, the consumer, we make sure to check online reviews on retailers such as Mamas & Papas, Argos, John Lewis and Amazon, to make sure the products are up to scratch. We look out for both negative and positive feedback, considering the quality, safety, value for money and extra features to ensure they performed well across the board.

In-depth testing to put the products through their paces

Finally, we put each one through its paces with the help of real parent testers, during which they test and determine several factors, including: ease of use, sturdiness, storage available, how the recline and brake performs, the quality of accessories, cleanliness, aesthetics and value for money.

Once tests were complete, each parent provided detailed notes, scoring them out of five on how well they performed in each area. When the final scores were in, the products that performed the best were included in our round-ups; best lightweight strollers, best travel systems, and best double buggies. In this guide, you'll find the best ones from those lists that are suitable for newborns and beyond.

About the authors

Gemma Wilcock is a freelance journalist and writer with over 15 years of experience writing for national magazine and online publications, including Prima Baby, Woman's Own and Bella.

She has researched and written baby and child product reviews and round-ups for Mumsnet for over six years - reviewing everything from buggies to baby bouncers. As a mum of two, knows just how important first-hand parenting knowledge and recommendations can be.

Laura Westerman is an editor, writer and Deputy Head of Editorial Content at Mumsnet. With over seven years' experience as a full-time editor, five of which have been spent writing, commissioning and editing product reviews and round-ups, Laura has a keen eye for what parents love and likes nothing more than putting together honest reviews to make parents' lives that little bit easier. 

In addition to her work as a writer and editor, she has also appeared in a number of baby product review videos for Mumsnet's YouTube channel. She is a mum to a one-year-old.

Why you should trust us

We work hard to provide honest and independent advice you can trust and we spend hours scouring the Mumsnet forums and online bestseller lists to find products that real parents rate.

Transparency is really important to us and that's why we're always upfront about where we find our recommendations. We write about products that we feel offer the best value to most parents – the ones that our users would recommend to their own friends and family.