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Pram Finder: Your guide on how to choose the right stroller or pram

We'll walk you through the different types of prams and help you choose the right option for you and your family.

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Monique Law
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Best Baby Stroller & Pram

Best Rated Baby Stroller & Pram Brand: Steelcraft

With top scores for safety features and value for money, Steelcraft has taken out the best baby stroller and pram category. It also rated highly for ease of use and design and style.

Quick facts about strollers and prams

  • Prices range from $100 to $2,000+ depending on the model, brand and features.
  • There are several types available to suit different lifestyles and children of different ages.
  • Prams and strollers should meet the Australian and New Zealand safety standard requirements.

Compare baby strollers and prams

Data updated regularly
Name Product Type Product Dimensions Product More info
UPPAbaby Vista
4 Wheel Stroller
914mm x 653mm x 1,003mm

View details ">
Buy at Kogan
View details
UPPAbaby Cruz
4 Wheel Stroller
940mm x 566mm x 1,030mm

View details ">
Buy at Kogan
View details
GB Pockit
N/A

View details ">
Buy at Amazon
View details
Bugaboo Bee 5
4 Wheel Stroller
N/A

View details ">
Buy at Amazon
View details
Bugaboo Donkey
N/A

View details ">
Buy at Amazon
View details
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What is the difference between a pram and a stroller?

Here in Australia, the terms pram and stroller are often used interchangeably, as they refer to a similar kind of product.

To distinguish them correctly, a pram has a flat bottom and is suitable for younger infants, whereas a stroller is designed for an older toddler to be sitting upright or lying back slightly. Prams are usually more expensive than strollers and are suitable for newborns who need to sleep a lot. Strollers are often more versatile for different lifestyles and allow your older child to be able to see what is going on around them, plus they can get in and out easily if they are already able to walk.

It is possible to buy hybrid models that allow you to change the positioning from pram to stroller as your child grows.

Check out the best prams in Australia for 2019 for more information.

What types are available?

When looking at prams and strollers, there are many types available. The right one for you will depend on your lifestyle, needs and child size.

Four-wheeler pram

With two wheels at the front and two at the back, four-wheeler prams are a sturdy way to walk your baby while they sleep. They can often fold down so you can take them in the car or onto public transport.

Three-wheeler pram

Three-wheeler prams have one wheel in the front and two in the back. They're wider and heavier than a four-wheeler pram. Although they have larger wheels (suitable for different kinds of terrain) and are easier to push, they're more prone to tipping over.

Double pram or stroller

If you have twins or two children close in age, a double pram or stroller may be suitable. They have seating positions either next to each other or one in front of the other. For more information, check out this buying guide for double strollers.

Jogger stroller

This type of stroller is useful for parents who want to run or jog with their baby along the street or at the park. Jogger strollers have larger wheels and better suspension so they are easy to push over different kinds of terrain. They should only be used for infants that are at least six months old.

Umbrella stroller

This lightweight stroller can fold down to put in the car or take on aeroplanes. It has hooked handles and usually a sunshade.

Travel system

A travel system has a car seat that your infant can sit in while in the car, then you can attach it to the pram to move around outdoors. It is easy to clip on and take off so that you have minimal disturbance to your younger child when they are sleeping.

How to compare baby strollers and prams

With so many baby stroller and pram models on the market, it's important you find the right one to suit your specific needs. Take a look at the following key points to consider before purchasing:

How will you use it?

The way you intend to use your pram or stroller should be one of the first things you think about. Do you want to take your child on walks around the park or through shopping centres, or would you like to go for regular jogs while pushing your child? Do you need a model that folds down easily to put into the car or a lightweight option that is useful for travelling? There are options available for all these purposes and you may find that you need one for going on walks from your home and one for travel.

Cost

Prams and strollers can cost anywhere from $100 to $2,000 or more, with the average cost around $500–$600. Lightweight travel strollers are often the cheapest, and four-wheel prams with bassinets are the most expensive. It's important to invest in a quality product that meets safety standards. However, there are plenty of affordable options under $500

If you're looking for a low-cost alternative to carry your baby while out and about, you can also consider a baby sling or wrap.

Stroller weight and size

The weight of prams and strollers can vary greatly depending on their size and additional features. Lightweight prams are generally easy to push, although a heavier pram should not require too much effort if it has good wheel suspension. Lightweight models are easier to lift it up and down stairs, or take it in and out of a car. Check that the folded-down size can fit easily into your car as well as the storage space you have at home. If you don't need to transport or store your pram, you can consider heavier prams and models that don't fold.

How many children do you have?

Most strollers are suitable for one child, but if you have twins or two children close to the same age and size, you can invest in a double stroller to accommodate both of them.

Chid's size and weight

The pram or stroller that you choose should match your child's age and weight, or be adjustable. Prams with a bassinet are suitable for newborn babies, whereas a jogger stroller is not. Check the maximum weight especially if you're buying a double stroller, as it's not safe to exceed the maximum weight recommendation.

Design

The design of prams and strollers has come a long way over the past few decades. You can now find many different colours and styles. A model that has larger wheels works better over different kinds of terrain, but you'll need to check that it has a sturdy frame under the material cover.

You can also look for the following additional features to make transporting your child more convenient:

  • Reversibility. Some prams are reversible, so you can have your baby facing towards you or away from you.
  • Storage. Leaving the house with your child always means carrying baby products and travel accessories. A stroller or pram that has a travel bag or storage tray on the bottom will allow you to bring those essential items with you and leave your hands free.
  • Cup holder. Like to grab a fresh juice on your morning walk? A cup holder is also useful for you to keep your hands free but have quick access to your drink. Just be careful not to have hot liquids that could spill onto your baby.
  • Reclining seat. If you would like your toddler to sleep while out in their stroller, you can choose a model that has a reclining seat to make them more comfortable during their nap.
  • Weatherproof cover. While some models will come with a sunshade cover, you may need to purchase a weatherproof cover to protect your child from wind and rain.

Five stroller and pram safety tips

When buying a new pram or stroller, you should check that it meets the Australian and New Zealand safety standard requirements. It is compulsory for new strollers to have a wrist strap, which stops it from rolling away unexpectedly.

The pram should have at least one parking brake with brakes that work efficiently. The wheels should be solid and steering should be easy and natural. A strong frame keeps your child more secure from accidents and there should be a harness – the most effective way of restraining your child is with a five-point harness.

Here are 5 more tips for using your pram or stroller safely:

  1. Use the harness at all times and ensure it fits your child correctly.
  2. Put the brakes on when you aren't moving and double-check locking devices are in place.
  3. Don't hang bags or personal items on the handles in case it tips over while your child is inside.
  4. Take the lift where possible rather than escalators or stairs.
  5. Do not leave your child unattended or allow them to climb on the pram or stroller.

Best rated baby stroller & pram brand award breakdown

Total Score Overall rating Value for Money Design & style Ease of use Safety features
Steelcraft 8.36 4.57 4.43 4.47 4.47 4.57
UPPAbaby 8.31 4.68 4.36 4.55 4.55 4.45
Other 8.15 4.46 4.22 4.39 4.44 4.44
Baby Jogger 7.98 4.33 4.35 4.4 4.33 4.35
Mountain Buggy 7.93 4.35 4.3 4.35 4.48 4
Redsbaby 7.85 4.24 4.08 4.32 4.44 4.4
Valco Baby 7.85 4.24 4.35 4.12 4.41 4.41
Bugaboo 7.82 4.27 3.98 4.32 4.34 4.27
Mother's Choice 7.82 4.26 4.11 4.16 4.37 4.11
Kmart 7.61 4.04 4.27 4.02 4.24 4.18
Target 7.29 3.89 4.08 3.72 4.03 4.14
Data: Finder Retail Brand Survey, 2020, Kantar. Metric out of 5 stars unless indicated. Methodology and more info. Kantar logo

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