First time mom here and I’m deep in stroller/travel system research and honestly pretty overwhelmed. I’m having a baby girl in November and trying to be practical about what I actually need vs what’s overkill.
I’m pretty budget conscious and totally fine buying a stroller secondhand, then pairing it with a new compatible infant car seat if that makes sense. My main goals are something that lasts into toddler years, works for everyday use like errands and walks, and has some versatility. A bassinet/pramette option or carry cot for the newborn stage would be a big plus.
I’m also trying to think ahead but not get carried away. This is my first baby and while I THINK I’d like 2–3 kids eventually, I don’t want to make decisions based on that yet. So I’m stuck on whether it’s worth investing in a stroller system that converts to a double or if that’s just unnecessary for now.
The other thing I’m debating is whether it actually saves money to do a used stroller frame + new car seat combo vs just buying a travel system bundle. And then separately if it makes more sense to just get one solid everyday stroller now and deal with a lightweight/travel stroller later if we end up flying a lot.
I’ve been looking at Graco Modes Nest2Grow, Graco Pramette, Graco Modes Nest Joie Nutmeg/Rue, Chicco Bravo, Mockingbird, but I’m open to anything honestly. I’ve dabbled into looking at premium brands like UPPAbaby and Nuna but I can’t quite justify those price tags unless someone can really explain the difference in value. Just want real opinions from people who’ve been through it, what you bought, what you wish you did differently, what actually mattered day to day!