As a new parent (or parent-to-be), you may be feeling a little overwhelmed about all of the items you need to purchase. One of the most expensive pieces are baby prams. They really are an essential parenting tool that you should do your research on before making a purchase. I urge you to consider at length what your requirements are and what your budget is before you decide which baby stroller to buy.
Safety - Does the pram comply with your country's Standard laws? For example, in Australia it is called the Australian Standard and it means it has been tried and tested for safety before being able to be sold to consumers. Does it have a 5 point harness to keep your child from climbing out? As they get older, this is a necessity. A basket that has easy access is not only very handy (especially when baby is sleeping) but will also stop you from loading up the handle bars with bags and shopping, which will reduce the risk of tipping, particularly jogger prams.
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Budget - So, how much do you have to spend? Remember, the pram does not need to be expensive but it does need to be safe and comfortable (for baby and also for you to push). Decide on your budget before you head out to the shops. Do not be temped by expensive, shiny prams, especially travel systems. I know of so many people who did not need the bassinet piece they paid 0s for. If you feel you need this added extra, then look at a possible cheaper option. You can buy flat inserts that will fit in many prams. I personally have a Valco Cocoon which I have used in a 3 wheeler Valco and also a Strider 4 wheeler. Perfect for a newborn and much cheaper than the bassinet. Prices for prams and strollers start as low as AU, going up to AU,000. Stay focused!
Build and Structure - Weight, size and the wheels are all very important factors. How big and accessible is your boot? You will obviously need to be able to lift the pram into your boot easily, especially after giving birth! Do you want 3 or 4 wheels? Jogger prams are very popular with people who enjoy exercising with baby, while plenty of 4 wheelers have off road wheels for introducing baby to the great outdoors. If you will only be "driving" your baby stroller on a footpath or in a shopping centre on a smooth surface, then small wheels will be fine. Some people find large wheels cumbersome and unnecessary. Others have their pram with off road wheels plus a smaller baby stroller for quick trips to the shops.
Some baby prams are reversible so you can gaze at your newborn in awe or have them turned outwards to face this spectacular world that is so new to them.
Accessories and Extras - How many children to you have or plan on having? A toddler seat or toddler board may be a necessity if your children are (or are going to be) close in age. You may cross this bridge when you come to it and invest in a double pram / twin pram. Me - I am going to try a baby sling or front baby carrier for my next one...
Covers for baby prams - they should fit properly so I recommend getting the same brand as your pram, or try before you buy. There is nothing worse than rain or shade covers that flap about. Actually, yes there is, muslin wraps on the pram. Very annoying.
There are so many other optional extras and only you can decide what you really do need. Drink holders, pram hooks, woolly liners, head inserts for newborns, toy bars, boot cover and parasols (what the?!), just to name a few. Maybe wait until the baby has arrived and you have been out in the pram a few times. You will know then what is a necessity and what could have potentially been a waste of money.
So, get out there and test drive some of the popular brands - Steelcraft, Bugaboo, Love n Care, Phil & Teds, Mountain Buggy, Valco, Maclaren, Mother's Choice. Write down what your wants and desires are, and do your research online so you can make an informed decision once you are in the baby shop. Make sure to check online as you may even find your baby stroller of choice much cheaper, and now is a great time to be saving some money.
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