Should I Get a Doona or Regular Infant Car Seat?

Noodling over whether to splurge for the Doona or get a regular car seat and snap it into your stroller base is not uncommon in NYC. On one hand, having a stand alone travel system is super convenient for those quick trips. But is it worth it?

We say the Doona is absolutely worth it for some parents, but may not fit the bill for others. It’s a matter of where and when you’re traveling, your budget, and your car situation. 

Wondering if it’s right for you? Read on. 

Who Should Be Team Doona

For those looking for the ultimate in easy, the Doona is a wonder. With the push of a button, the wheels pop out of the stroller and voila! You’re cruising down the city street. For quick taxi and Uber trips around the city, it’s a snap.

Baby’s Age & Travel Plans

To be sure the Doona’s the right choice for you, look at your baby’s age and your travel plans. As we said, if you’re using the Doona to get from here to there for short trips, or if you have longer trips and your baby’s over 6 months, it definitely fits the bill.

But, for parents of a baby under six months, if you’re set on the Doona, you’ll have to be a bit more mindful when traveling and make sure your baby’s not using the seat for more than two hours. Longer than that and your baby’s neck is likely to get tired making it possible for their head to drop in a way that cuts off their airway.

You should always have an alternative lie-flat option for children under 6 months, as this is the ideal position for development and safety.

Budget

The Doona is of course a bit more pricey than other infant car seats, thanks to the convenient wheels. But the benefit of having those wheels adds about $100 to the cost of the car seat. You also want to be aware that the Doona will last you about a year (like all infant car seats): Roughly until your baby reaches 35 lbs or 32 inches.  

But with that in mind, if it’s in budget and the Doona serves your lifestyle well, go for it! If not, don’t worry. An infant car seat snapped onto your stroller does the same thing!

Car Situation

Lastly, there’s the uniquely NYC issue of “do you have a car?” For those who answer yes, the Doona can be a good choice, as it comes with a base that you can install in your car which you can just tuck the wheels and click the car seat in when it’s time to drive. 

If you don’t then you can use the Doona (installing it into an Uber or Taxi using the “seat belt method”), but you’ll leave the base at home in a closet. 

How To Who Should Opt for A Regular Car Seat 

For some, choosing the best infant car seat and stroller combo turns on other factors, such as whether it’s baseless (great for those without a car), or whether it lies flat itself.

Travel Plans

If your little one is really little (newborn to six months) and don’t yet have their head and neck control, and you expect extended trips where you’re on-the-go, you may want to opt for the car seat + stroller combo. 

You should find an option that allows for a lie-flat position, whether through the car seat itself, or the stroller. For example, you can choose a car seat like the Cloud T or Cloud G by Cybex which offer a lie-flat option. Alternatively, you can ensure your stroller itself has a lie-flat option so when not in the actual car, you can have your baby resting safely. 

If you are doing the car seat + stroller option, we say travel with a lightweight stroller rather than your primary. Choose something that folds small and is light, but has a lie-flat option (like the Minu V3 or Joolz Aer2, for instance).

And the good news is, whereas your car seat can only be used for about a year, the stroller wheels will keep on going for years go come. 

Budget

Infant car seats are available at a range of prices. First, double check what car seats are compatible with your stroller(s). In our mind, it’s most important for your car seat to work with your lightweight stroller, as this is the most likely one you’ll travel with. 

Car Situation

Also, if you don’t have a car and don’t want to spend extra on a car seat with a base, you may be better served with a baseless car seat like the Liingo along with your lightweight stroller.

Choosing the Right Gear at Babesta

As we always say, there are trade offs when choosing the right gear for your family, meaning the Doona may be spot on for one family, as a lightweight stroller + car seat combo may be for another. 

Consider your child’s age, travel plans, budget and car situation before settling on the best choice. 

At Babesta we can help you see what both options look like and talk through the different scenarios so you are comfortable with your final decision. You don’t have to lose your cool shopping for baby gear. Babesta’s got your back!

Frequently Asked Questions

Should my baby sleep in the car seat?

No. Your baby should only sleep in safe-sleep approved areas such as the crib, bassinet, or travel crib. If your baby falls asleep elsewhere, as soon as you notice, move them to a safe-sleep space. 

As we mentioned in the article, a baby should not be in the car seat sit-up position for over two hours at a time before they have head and neck control. The worry is that the baby’s head will drop and cut off their breathing. 

Is the Doona safer with or without the base?

As long as it’s installed correctly, the Doona is equally safe with and without the base. The base is convenient for your own car, as once it’s installed, you can just snap the Doona into it. If you’re traveling in a taxi or Uber, just be sure to use the seatbelt method, securing the Doona by threading the seatbelt through the belt paths and setting the handle in the anti-rebound position.

Is the Doona allowed on flights?

Yes, you can take the Doona on flights, as it’s certified for air travel by the FAA. Install it using the 2 point aircraft seat belt. Keep in mind, though, you’ll have to purchase a seat for your little one!