How to choose the best carrycot pushchair for your newborn 

What is a carrycot pushchair ? 

A carrycot pushchair comes with a removable carrycot that fits into a standard pushchair frame. Unlike a seat pushchair, which is often positioned at an angle and is primarily for older toddlers, carrycot pushchairs allow newborns to lie flat during strolls. As your new baby can't sit upright or hold their head up yet, this set-up provides a safer and more supportive environment for them.   

Factors to keep in mind before shopping    

Before you start shopping around for a pushchair, think about what you enjoy doing the most and what you hope to do with your new baby. Also, take into account how many kids you have now, or if you plan to have more in the future. This will help you find the perfect pushchair to fit your lifestyle.   

Your lifestyle: All-terrain vs city living   

Where will you be taking this pushchair? If you love getting out into nature, opt for a model that's made for all terrains, such as the Bugaboo Fox 5. Its advanced wheel suspension and extra-large, puncture-proof wheels are designed for smooth strolls and restful naps, wherever you're heading.

For city dwellers, you might consider a pushchair that's more lightweight and compact. For example, the Bugaboo Dragonfly pairs comfort with a patented design that folds with one hand without removing the carrycot or seat. Unfolding is just as simple, so you can easily hop on and off public transport with your baby in tow.    

The size of your family 

Carrycot pushchairs aren’t only for parents of one. There are double or twin pushchairs with a carrycot that can accommodate families with multiple children. For example, the Bugaboo Donkey 5 Duo is perfect for siblings of different ages, with versatile configurations for a seat and a carrycot. For twins, the Bugaboo Donkey 5 Twin can fit either two carrycots, two seats, or one carrycot and one seat side by side. These double prams are slimmer than you might think, measuring just 74 cm wide to fit through standard doorways easily. And if a third child is riding along, add a Bugaboo comfort wheeled board.

If you have one child for now but plan to expand your family later, the Bugaboo Donkey 5 Mono arrives in the box as a single carrycot pushchair with an extra side luggage basket, so you can enjoy more storage for your essentials. It can convert into a double later if you have another baby on the way.  

What to look for in a carrycot pushchair 

Safety and durability 

Start by checking that a pushchair has been rigorously tested and built to meet the highest quality and safety standards. Also, look for pushchairs made with high-quality, easy-to-care materials to ensure longevity with your family.

Bugaboo offers a 4-year warranty for all new pushchairs when you buy on Bugaboo.com or register your pushchair with us. As part of our commitment to building a sustainable future, our pushchairs are engineered and tested beyond industry standards to keep going for generations. They’re crafted with premium materials in safe and fair conditions at our award-winning factory. Most Bugaboo fabrics are easy to clean and even machine-washable. We’re also introducing low-carbon and recycled materials to reduce our products’ footprint by 47% by 2026 — without compromising quality.

Comfort 

Look for carrycots that offer ergonomic designs with padded and breathable fabrics to prevent overheating, especially if you live in a hotter region. Adjustable canopies that offer protection from the sun, wind, or rain can keep your newborn comfortable during naps.

For example, Bugaboo carrycots are spacious and come with a soft, aerated mattress to give your baby next-level comfort all year round. They also feature a mesh breezy panel which helps your baby stay cool in summer. You can close the panel and extend the extra-large canopy for a cosy cocoon on colder days.  

Maneuverability 

Easy steering is a must-have for any pushchair. Whether you're navigating curbs or weaving through tight spaces, you need a pushchair that's smooth to manoeuvre and easy to push with one hand. This frees you up when you have lots to juggle or another child to keep entertained. .  

Easy to transport  

For families that are constantly on the move, you might choose a pushchair that's more lightweight and easy to fold. This makes moving between locations simpler, especially with your newborn in tow. If you're a parent who relies on driving, remember to check that your pushchair's dimensions can fit into your car's boot.   

Adaptability 

Pick a pushchair that can transition into a regular seat when your baby has outgrown the carrycot — they're usually around 6-9 months old, but they have to be able to sit up unsupported. Both the Bugaboo Fox 5 and Bugaboo Dragonfly are future-proof and can easily convert to a seat pushchair when your baby becomes an active toddler.

Spacious storage 

Newborns come with plenty of essentials, so having room for everything while you're on the go is a must. All Bugaboo baby prams feature generous underseat storage, starting from 10 kg to carry all you need. The Bugaboo Donkey 5 Mono even includes a side luggage basket and lets you carry up to 20 kg. If you need more space, add an extra organizer or bag.  

Accessories 

Look for a carrycot pushchair that is compatible with a wide range of extra essentials and accessories. This may be a newborn inlay for warmth and protection, a cup holder to keep drinks within reach while on the go, or a stand to let your child rest in their favourite carrycot at home. . 

A carrycot pushchair for every family   

Designed to let your baby lie flat, a carrycot pushchair provides the secure, cosy support they need from day one. When selecting a pushchair, think about your lifestyle, the number of children you have, and essential features like safety, comfort, and ease of manoeuvrability. Whether you're navigating busy city streets or off-road paths, the right pushchair will help you create lasting memories on every journey with your new arrival.