Choosing a buggy for your baby feels like a really big decision. With so many different brands and styles on the market it really is difficult to know where to even begin looking. The sales staff in each store are brilliant at their jobs but you might fear that you will make a quick decision without giving it enough thought. 

These days most buggies come as part of a “travel system”. They function as so many different things and come in a variety of impressive packages. Many of them will include a bassinet or carry-cot which is used from birth and a seat which can be used from about six months or when your baby can lift their head well. This seat can usually be forward or rear facing depending on your preference. Many of them will also come with a car seat, rain cover and a basket for underneath.

There is no denying the fact that for many people appearance is a huge factor in this decision. This is a functional piece of equipment but it is also something that will be by your side for a huge part of the day every day. It’s understandable that you might want it to be to your taste. There may be a particular colour or material you gravitate towards. 

The price of travel systems really does vary. You can get a more basic but very functional system for €300 or you could spend over €1000 for another brand. There is also a huge market for selling travel systems second hand when they are in great condition. 

Safety is a good place to start. This is the first mode of transport for your baby. It is where they will be carried around supermarkets, public transport and through a variety of different weather conditions. When doing your research ensure that you cover all of the safety features. Does the brand have a proven track record for safety? Does it stand the test of time in terms of different ground surfaces and weather? Is it easy to repair if the wheel gets a puncture or the fabric tears? These are important questions to consider. 

Have you considered that you may have more children in the near future? Many new travel systems offer the function of adding on different attachments to transform a single buggy into a double buggy. If this is a possibility for you it may be worth considering a brand that has that option. If you don’t require a double it will function perfectly as a single travel system. If you have an older toddler or child you might consider a buggy board and this could be a question to ask when you are thinking about purchasing a particular system. Can a buggy board be attached easily and can they show you how to do it? Anything to make life easier. 

Your lifestyle is another important factor. Many travel systems are designed with wheels that are great for bumpy country roads while others can fold up really tight making them ideal for travelling. The car that you drive every day may also dictate the style or model you end up choosing. If it doesn’t fit into the boot of your car when folded up it won’t be suitable to take with you if you are driving somewhere. This could be a practical nightmare. If you do not drive you may need to choose a style that has a big under basket as you may need it to fit a food shop and large packets of nappies for example. 

There are a huge variety of brands and styles on the market and there will be something that ticks the boxes for your family.