How to Choose a Pushchair, Buggy or Stroller - an advice guide

Buying a travel system, pushchair, buggy or stroller

If you are thinking about what type of pram or pushchair to buy, you will need to keep in mind three important considerations: your needs, your baby's needs and your general lifestyle.

You and your lifestyle If you use public transport regularly, or have steps leading to your home, a lightweight and compact folding pram or pushchair would be best.

If you use a car, check the size of your car boot and compare it with the folded dimensions of the pram or pushchair you are thinking about buying. Do remember that, even if you have a car, you will still need to transport your baby around town in a pram or pushchair on foot. You may consider a multi-function travel system that is a baby car seat and pushchair in one.

If you walk a lot, choose a sturdy model with lockable wheels. Swivel wheels make a pushchair easy to manoeuvre, while fixed wheels make handling easier over rough surfaces. Some pushchairs offer both a fixed and swivel wheel option. However you travel, make sure you choose the correct handle height for both you and your partner - some models have adjustable handle heights.

If space is at a premium at home it would be better to opt for a pram or pushchair that allows the seat unit to fold. Your baby's needsNewborn babies need to lie back, so you will require a pram, a pushchair/carrycot combination, or a pushchair with a lie-back facility. Some models have fully reversible seat units so your baby can face you.

Consider also where your newborn baby will sleep: in a Moses basket, crib, cot or carrycot. This will also help you decide on what type of pram or carrycot to buy. Buying your first pram or pushchairThree-in-one pram and pushchair combinationsThese models combine a carrycot and convertible two-in-one pushchair and are suitable for transporting newborn babies to toddlers. Your baby can sleep in the carrycot for the first few months.

Different models combine some or all of the following features:

Fixed or swivel wheels - large wheels available on some models Reversible seat unit - faces forward or faces you Easy to fold up using one hand only More traditional in appearance Larger wheeled chassis offers better suspension Seat unit adjusts to the flat position Shopping basket or tray Co-ordinating accessories

Two-in-one pram and pushchair combinationThe convertible pushchair combines the classic comfort of a pram with the versatility of a pushchair. Suitable for newborn babies to toddlers, different models combine some or all of the following features:

Reversible seat unit - faces forward or faces you Adjusts from lie-flat pram to a pushchair suitable for toddlers Fixed or swivel wheels - large wheels available on some models Co-ordinating fabric hood and boot to create a traditional pram look Removable washable covers Easy to fold up using one hand only 

A typical pushchair has either a lie-back seat unit or a reclining bucket seat and is usually suitable for newborn babies to toddlers.

Different models have a combination of the features below:

A number of lie-back positions including full lie-back or incline Reversible seat unit that can face forwards or towards you Lightweight and easy to use Folds flat for easy storage Free standing when folded Fixed or lockable swivel wheels Adjustable foot rest Shopping tray or basket Bumper bar Carry handle for use on public transport Can be used with an infant carrier as part of a fully-flexible travel system

Three-wheeler pushchairsYou can choose from two types of three-wheelers, both of which are suitable for newborn babies if they have a fully reclinable seat or cot seat.

All terrain pushchairs are designed specifically for the roughest terrain and/or jogging, but are equally comfortable in everyday use - very much the Land Rover of the buggy world.

City pushchairs are designed for everyday use about town.

Different models have a combination of the features below:

Hood, foot muff, basket and PVC covering Removable accessories that are machine washable Pneumatic tyres for a comfortable ride Quick release wheels Folds flat for easy storage Lie-back facility Carry bag for transporting the pushchair

Travel systems - from car seat to pushchairThese include either a carrycot, pushchair and car seat, or a pushchair and car seat, and are suitable for babies from birth. Some car seats can be used for babies up to 13kg/29lbs (approximately 9-12 months); simply attach it to the chassis of the pushchair.

Different models have a combination of the features below:

A number of lie-back positions including full lie-back or incline Lightweight and easy to use Bumper bar for older babies Fixed or lockable swivel wheels Wheel suspension Adjustable foot rest Shopping tray or basket

Buggies and strollersBuggies and strollers are lightweight, versatile and simple to use. They're ideal for shopping, travelling and holidays, and most can be used for newborn babies.

Different models have a combination of the features below:

A number of lie-back positions including full lie-back or incline Adjustable foot rest Lockable swivel wheels Lightweight frame Compact when folded Carry handle making it easy to use on public transport Shopping basket Hood Doubling up - if you have more than one childIf you have twins, or small children who are close in age and weight, double buggies and tandems are ideal.TandemsA tandem pushchair has one seat in front of the other and offers a practical solution to transporting your baby and toddler together. They are suitable for babies from birth onwards and some are suitable for twins.

Different models have a combination of the features below:

A number of lie-back positions including full lie-back or incline Independent, multi-position reclining seats Independent adjustable foot rests Bumper bar for older babies Lockable swivel wheels Removable washable covers Padded liners Shopping basket Double buggiesFor carrying two babies, or a baby and toddler, side by side. Some are suitable for babies from birth and different models have a combination of the features below:

A number of lie-back positions including full lie-back or incline Independent, multi-position reclining seats Lockable swivel wheels Umbrella fold for easy storage Optional carrycot  Accessories for your pram, pushchair or buggyMost of our department stores stock a range of accessories that will help you make the most of your pram, pushchair or buggy - wherever you are.

Changing bag A convenient way to neatly store everything you need to take your baby visiting. Most bags come with a PVC changing mat, pockets for soiled items and insulated pockets.

Sun parasol Helps protect your baby from harsh sunlight.

Foot muff Ideal in cold weather - keeps your baby snug and warm while you are out and about. Some foot muffs convert to pram quilts and liners.

Head support cushion Specially designed to give young babies extra support and comfort in pushchairs, car seats and bouncing chairs.

PVC coverall In wet weather, these protect carrycots and prams with soft, fabric outers. Must not be used indoors.

PVC hood and apron Protect your baby from top to toe in bad weather. Do not use indoors or in hot weather to prevent overheating or risk of suffocation. Looking after your pram or pushchairYour pram or pushchair will perform better and last longer when it is looked after. The instruction leaflet provided with your pushchair will tell you how to keep it in prime condition. And you'll find more information on travel systems in our guide to car seats and car safety.