Most pushchairs come with a standard forward-facing seat, which is great for curious toddlers who want to see the world go by. But if you’ve got a younger baby, or just want to keep a closer eye on your precious cargo, a reversible seat is a brilliant feature. It lets you switch between parent-facing and world-facing depending on your little one’s age or mood - and honestly, being able to chat and coo at them on the go is lovely in those early days.

Then there’s the question of recline options. Some seats have multiple recline positions - including lie-flat - which are fab for napping on the move. Look out for seats with adjustable leg rests too because kids just never stop growing! And if you’re planning for more than one child, some pushchairs even let you add a second seat or ride-on board, which will spare you a whole world of grief from a tired toddler who doesn’t want to walk any more. In short, a pushchair that grows with your family and adapts to your day is always a winner.

Sounds dull – but not to be underrated! When you’re juggling a baby, a changing bag, and maybe even a takeaway coffee, a pushchair that folds down quickly and easily (preferably with one hand!) can feel like a small miracle. Some models even stand upright when folded, which is super handy for tight hallways or storing it neatly in a cupboard. And if you're hopping on and off buses or chucking it in the car boot a lot, you’ll want something that folds down compactly and fits where you need it to.

Weight plays a big part too - there’s no point having a sleek fold if the whole thing feels like lifting a kettlebell! You want a pushchair you can carry up a flight of stairs without too much drama. Also, check if the folding mechanism locks into place - no one wants a buggy springing open at the worst possible moment. Basically, when it comes to folding, you’re looking for smooth, quick, and fuss-free.

Wheels and suspension make a huge difference to your everyday outings. If you’re mostly sticking to pavements and popping around town, then small swivel wheels are great – they’re nippy, lightweight and ideal for dodging through crowds. But if your buggy life involves cobbles, uneven paths, or grassy parks, then go for bigger, chunkier wheels and decent suspension. That smoother ride will help your little one nap better, of course, but it’s also kinder on your wrists and arms as you push.

Puncture-proof tyres are standard on most models but some all-terrain or jogging pushchairs have inflatable tyres for extra cushioning on rougher ground. There’s definitely more faff involved (including checking tyre pressure before you get out of the door) but worth considering if you’re very active.

Suspension is a bit like the pushchair’s shock absorber – and just like in a car, better suspension means a comfier journey due to less vibrations and bumps along the way. Some (more expensive) prams come with all-wheel suspension, which is fab if you know you’ll be taking on some challenging terrain. So, think about where you’ll use your pushchair most, and let the wheels and suspension do the heavy lifting for you!

When you’re juggling nappies, snacks, extra clothes, and shopping bags, as well as your precious passenger, a decent-sized basket under your pushchair is essential. Some are surprisingly roomy, letting you chuck in everything you need for a day out without turning into a pack mule. Just check how easy it is to access – some designs look great but make it tricky to actually reach into the basket, especially if the seat is fully reclined or there's a carrycot attached.

When it comes to accessories, a rain cover and foot-muff are must-haves (because, hello British weather), and a sunshade or UPF canopy are great for sunny strolls. Clip-on toys can provide a welcome distraction if your child is the restless type. We recommend a built-in parent cup holder for that vital caffeine kick on the go, and a phone pocket is surprisingly handy too so you don’t have to fish around in pockets or your bag when a call comes in. If you like to keep everything to hand, we also recommend a buggy organiser - a compact bag which attaches to your stroller, providing convenient storage for essential baby and parent items.

• Rain cover – Goes over pushchair and child to keep them protected from the elements. 

• Footmuff or cosytoes – A soft, insulated cover that zips around your baby to keep them snug in cold weather. 

• Sunshade or parasol – Shields your little one from bright sunlight and harmful UV rays. 

• Changing bag – Attaches to your pushchair and stores nappies, wipes, bottles and more. 

• Toy bar or clip-on toys – Helps to keep your baby entertained during strolls. 

• Car seat adaptor – Lets you attach a compatible infant car seat to your pushchair frame, ideal for quick hops in and out of the car.

• Ride-on board (buggy board) – A standing platform for an older sibling to ride along behind the pushchair. 

• Cup holder – Handy for holding your coffee or water while you're on the go. 

When it comes to comfort, it’s not just about your baby – you’ve got to think about you too!

For your little one, look for a well-padded seat that reclines easily, plus a decent hood for sun and shower protection. A rain cover is also advised for when the heavens really open. A well-padded seat really makes a difference on longer strolls, especially for smaller babies who need a bit of extra cosiness for those all-important naps. Don’t forget to check the quality of the harness too - a soft, secure 5-point harness that’s easy to adjust will keep your baby comfy and safe. Good suspension makes a big difference too - no one wants a bumpy ride, especially when you’ve got a snoozing passenger. For parents, check the handle height - some are adjustable, which is a win if you and your partner are different heights. And if you’ll be pushing for miles, make sure it feels light and easy to steer - your arms (and back!) will thank you.

Thankfully, all prams and pushchairs sold in the UK have to meet strict safety standards – just look for BS EN 1888 mark in the product description (this means it’s passed essential tests for stability, strength, and durability).

Then take a good look at the brakes - ideally, you want a one-touch brake system that’s easy to use and holds firm, even on a slope or hill. Harnesses are just as important - a secure five-point harness (that’s the kind with two shoulder straps, two waist straps and one between the legs) keeps your baby safely in place, even if they’re a wriggler. Check that the straps are adjustable and nicely padded, so they’re comfy as well as secure. If the product page doesn’t give you much to go on, real parent reviews can be gold - they’ll often flag up anything that’s not quite up to scratch.

Caring for and storing your pram properly will keep it looking good and running smoothly for years to come.  

Firstly, take the time to give it a regular wipe-down, especially after muddy walks or snack-heavy outings. Use a damp cloth with mild soap to clean the frame, and remove the seat fabrics if they’re machine washable (always check the label!). Make sure wheels are free of dirt and grit, and give them a quick spin to check they’re still gliding nicely. A little maintenance goes a long way - a squirt of WD 40 silicone spray can help keep moving parts working quietly and easily, while providing protection from rust.

When it comes to storing your pram or pushchair, dry and clean is the name of the game. Avoid leaving it in damp garages or sheds where mould can creep in, and always fold it away when not in use to save space and protect it from knocks. Try to steer clear of extreme temperatures – freezing cold make make plastic parts brittle, while excessive heat can warp materials and fade fabrics. If you're storing a pushchair long term - say, between babies - give it a deep clean, make sure it's completely dry, and pop it in a breathable cover or bag to keep the dust off.

When it comes to newborns, comfort and support are absolutely key - so the best pram for those precious early months is one that lets your baby lie completely flat. This position helps with healthy spine and lung development, and also means they can snooze comfortably on the go. If your budget can afford it, look for a pram that comes with a carrycot attachment - they’re snug, supportive and often beautifully padded inside. Some models have breathable fabrics or ventilated panels to help regulate your baby’s temperature. Even better, if your budget stretches to a smooth suspension system, their sleep is a lot less likely to be disturbed when you go over any rough terrain. Once your child can sit up unaided, you can use the main pushchair seat with the chassis so they can see the world around them – while still have the option to recline for a nap.

Some pushchairs are suitable from birth, but not all - it depends on the model and the type of seat it comes with. To be newborn-friendly, a pushchair needs to recline fully flat or include a carrycot/bassinet attachment. Newborns need to lie flat to support healthy spine and lung development, so unless the seat can provide that, it's not suitable for the earliest months. It’s a good idea to always check the product details - if it says ‘suitable from birth’, you’re good to go! If not, you’ll need a separate pram or carrycot until your baby can sit up unaided (usually around 6 months).

The difference between a pram and a stroller mostly comes down to the age of the child it’s suitable for and how the seat is designed: 

• Pram: Designed for newborns and young babies. It has a flat, bassinet-style bed where the baby can lie completely flat, which is ideal for supporting healthy development in those first few months. Dedicated prams are usually a bit bulkier and sturdier, but many pushchairs can be converted into a pram by adding a bassinet. 

• Stroller: Also called a buggy, this is made for older babies and toddlers who can sit up by themselves. It has an upright seat (usually with a reclining option) and is generally lighter and more compact, making it great for travel or quick trips. 

Travel systems are popular with new parents because they’re super convenient when it comes to getting about and can cover you from newborn through to toddler stage. You usually get a chassis (the frame), a carrycot (bassinet) and a car seat that you can swap in and out as your baby grows. Newborns need to lie flat to support healthy spine and lung development - and, of course, they spend a large amount of time sleeping! A carrycot is great for napping on the go, while the car seat will clip onto the pushchair frame using adaptors, with no need to wake them up when you switch into (or out of) the car. The main pushchair infant seat is suitable from when they can sit up unaided (approx. 6 months old), and will take them all the way to 22kg (approx. 4 years), so the long-term use and all-in-one functionality often makes a travel system great value overall.

That said, travel systems can be a bit bulkier and more expensive than a standard pushchair setup, so it’s all about your lifestyle. If you’re mostly walking everywhere or using public transport, you might prefer something lighter and more compact. But if you're car-heavy and want that quick-click-and-go freedom, a travel system can be a real win.

There are brilliant twin-friendly pushchair options out there, including side-by-side and tandem designs. Side-by-sides are great because both babies get the same view and space, which can make things feel fairer (and a bit easier when they start bickering!). But they are wider, so you’ll want to check it fits through your front door or favourite café entrance. Tandem prams, where one child sits in front of the other, are a bit slimmer and can feel easier to manoeuvre through tight spaces, but the seating arrangement means one child gets less of a view - and a bit less legroom.  

When it comes to newborn twins, you’ll need a model that lets you switch between carrycots, seats and car seats, giving you a flexible setup that grows with your little duo. To fit that criteria, you might want to check out the Out n About Nipper Double V5 Pushchair or My Babiie MB33 Tandem Pushchair.

When it comes to how much you should spend on a pram, it really depends on your lifestyle, budget and how often you’ll be using it. You can find reliable, safe pushchairs starting from around £100-£200, especially if you’re after something simple for occasional use or short journeys. These budget-friendly options often include the basics: a sturdy frame, comfortable, reclinable seat, and enough features to get you from A to B without a fuss.

Mid-range prams, usually in the £300-£700 bracket, tend to offer features such as better suspension, adjustable handles, and compatibility with car seats and carrycots. You’ll often get more durable materials and thoughtful extras, like bigger storage baskets and multiple recline positions. These are ideal if you’ll be using your pram daily and want something that can handle different terrains, growing stages, and your evolving needs as a parent.

At the top end (£800+), you’re looking at premium prams with luxury finishes, high-end fabrics, and super smooth manoeuvrability. These are often travel systems, with all the bells and whistles included - from bassinets and car seat adaptors to parent-facing seats and designer styling. They’re a big investment, but if you're planning multiple children or expect to get a lot of mileage from your pram, it could be worth it.

Most parents-to-be start shopping for a pram around the second trimester, often between 20 and 28 weeks of pregnancy. By this stage, you’ve usually had your mid-pregnancy scan, your bump is growing, and you're feeling more confident about planning ahead. It’s a sweet spot - early enough to take your time researching, testing out models, and waiting for any sales, but not so late that you’re waddling through the store in the final weeks!