A travel system -- which is comprised of a stroller, an infant car seat and a leave-in-car base -- means you can travel through life with baby that much easier. Currently, a number of travel systems are rolling out new models with improved designs, and manufacturers are paying more attention to all the components of a travel system. It's important that each piece of the travel system perform well on its own, and that the travel system work efficiently as a whole. Our top picks in the travel system category have a price range of $160 to $250, and have features similar to more expensive models.


Graco Spree Travel System 7E01JON3

The Graco Spree Travel System is ideal for parents on a budget. For just under $160, the Graco Spree Travel System (in the Jonelle pink floral pattern) includes a stroller, infant car seat and leave-in-car base. The stroller is lightweight, folds with one hand, and locks automatically to prevent it from unfolding. The stroller has plenty of storage, including parent and child snack/drink trays. We like the multiposition reclining seat and five-point harness that converts to a three-point harness. If we could change anything, we'd put larger, pneumatic wheels on the stroller, but at this price point, we're satisfied with the stroller as is. The system includes the SnugRide infant car seat with a removable infant head support, adjustable five-point harness and machine washable cover. If you're in the market for a travel system, but want to stay on a budget, then the Graco Spree Travel System is a safe bet.

Graco Spree Travel System 7E01JON3

Evenflo Aura Elite Travel System

For about $180, Evenflo Aura Elite Travel System is a study in style and comfort. It is a matching infant car seat and stroller set, and we particularly like the stroller's handle system. Although it isn't height-adjustable, the handle has a one-hand steering feature we find innovative and easy to use. The stroller is large, but still retains a convenient appeal. We like the Aura Elite stroller's one-hand fold with automatic lock. We applaud Evenflo for completing some minor stroller redesigns, such as a child tray that now retracts (and doesn't hit the ground) as the stroller folds. The seat covers are removable and machine washable and the stroller can be reclined. A suspension system ensures a smooth ride. The Evenflo Embrace Infant Car Seat and a leave-in-car base round out this travel system. The car seat must be used with the base when in a vehicle. The car seat's five-point harness has a handy buckle system and provides a comfortable fit for infants weighing 5 to 22 pounds.


Compass T730 Travel System

At a price tag of about $230, the Compass T730 Travel System is a solid performer. It includes a stroller/infant car seat combo that offers more luxury than a basic model, but without the high price tag of an import. The S330 Stroller is lightweight, easy to steer and weighs just 14 pounds. Like more expensive models, it has a reclining seat, plenty of storage and an innovative, adjustable handle; the stroller's handle can be adjusted for distance and for height. The stroller has a one-hand fold, but we find it takes two hands to properly unfold it. The Compass T730 Travel System comes with the Compass I-410 Infant Car Seat and leave-in-car base. The car seat cannot be used in a vehicle without the base. The car seat has an EPS foam liner and deep side wings for improved side impact protection.


Baby Trend Galaxy Shuttle Travel System 1981CT

For about $200, the Baby Trend Galaxy Shuttle Travel System includes a full-size stroller, infant car seat and leave-in-car base. Overall, the set is functional and attractive. The stroller has a handbrake, tether strap and large tires for a smooth ride. We like the padded seat and multiposition recline, as well as the stroller's storage capacity. The stroller folds easily, but doesn't automatically lock into a folded position. The Baby Trend Galaxy Shuttle Travel System comes with a Flex-Loc Infant Car Seat and a leave-in-car base. Despite some difficulties releasing the car seat from the base, the duo works well. Unlike some infant car seats, the Baby Trend Flex-Loc Infant Car Seat can be used without the base. If you're looking for a functional, attractive travel system, this one's a winner.

Combi Savona Travel System

Combi Savona Travel System

The Combi Savona Travel System is an eye-catching car seat/stroller combination priced at $200. We like the set's rip-stop nylon fabric. This durable material is easy to keep clean and stands up to plenty of wear and tear. The stroller is easy to fold, but a bit more difficult to open. We like the stroller's height-adjustable handle, but would prefer additional height options. Also, we think larger wheels would be helpful, but overall, this stroller performed as expected. The Combi Savona Travel System's infant car seat works well and comes with a leave-in-car base.