The Ultimate Guide to the Best Stroller & Car Seat for 2025: Top Picks, Recalls, and Safety Tips
Discover the highest-rated car seats and strollers of 2025, stay updated on the latest recalls (including the Nuna RAVA), and get expert advice on choosing the safest and most convenient gear for your
Fresh off the plane in the Bahamas ✈️🌴 We chose to trade in the big 1st birthday party for a family vacation to celebrate our boy. He won’t remember it—but we definitely will.
As a parent, finding the perfect stroller and car seat can feel overwhelming. There are so many options, each promising safety, convenience, and comfort. After years of navigating busy city streets, airports, and everyday errands with my little one, I’ve narrowed it down to the best options that truly deliver.
Whether you’re looking for something lightweight and portable or long-lasting and ultra-secure, this guide will help you make the right choice for your family.
Convertible vs. Infant Car Seats: Which One Is Right for You?
When selecting a car seat, understanding the difference between convertible and infant seats is key.
🔹 Convertible Car Seats
✔️ Larger & Longer-Lasting – Designed to grow with your child, convertible seats can be used both rear-facing and forward-facing.
✔️ Higher Weight & Height Limits – Many accommodate children from infancy through toddlerhood, making them a long-term investment.
✔️ Stays in the Car – Unlike infant seats, convertibles do not have a detachable carrier, meaning you’ll need to carry your baby separately when getting in and out of the car.
🔹 Infant Car Seats
✔️ Designed for Newborns – Infant seats typically have a maximum weight limit of around 30 lbs and provide the best fit for smaller babies.
✔️ Detachable Carrier – This is a game-changer for sleeping babies! You can easily transport them in and out of the car without waking them up.
✔️ Compatible with Strollers – Many infant seats click into travel systems, making them an excellent choice for families always on the move.
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into my top picks for both a stroller and a car seat that make life easier.
📢 Stay Up-to-Date on Car Seat Recalls
Car seat recalls can happen at any time. Here are trusted resources to check for recalls and stay informed:
• 🔎 NHTSA Recalls Database – Search by brand & model number.
• 📢 CPSC Recall List – Tracks recalls on baby products, including car seats.
• 🏠 [Manufacturer Websites] – Most brands have dedicated recall pages with instructions on what to do. Examples:
What to Do If Your Car Seat Is Recalled:
✔️ Stop using the seat immediately if the recall affects safety.
✔️ Check the recall notice for replacement or repair options.
✔️ Contact the manufacturer – Many offer free repairs, replacement parts, or refunds.
✔️ Register your car seat with the manufacturer to receive future recall notifications directly.
🏆 Best Car Seats for 2025
To see my full 2025 picks with pros/cons, who each is best for, and links, upgrade to Cub Convos Premium.
If you’re looking for a safe and reliable car seat this year, here are some top-rated picks for 2025:
⭐ Best Convertible Car Seat: Britax Boulevard ClickTight
✔️ Superior Safety Ratings – Highly rated for side-impact protection and crash test performance.
✔️ ClickTight Installation – No more struggling with car seat installation!
✔️ Extended Rear-Facing Use – Keeps your child safer for longer.
⭐ Best Infant Car Seat: Nuna PIPA RX
✔️ Lightweight & Easy to Carry – Weighs just 7.6 lbs.
✔️ Rigid LATCH Connectors – Ensures secure installation in seconds.
✔️ Compatible with the Babyzen YoYo Stroller (adapter sold separately).
⭐ Best Rotating Car Seat: Evenflo Revolve360
✔️ 360° Swivel Design – Makes getting your child in and out of the car SO much easier.
✔️ Grows with Your Child – Converts from rear-facing to forward-facing to booster mode.
✔️ Ideal for Parents with Back Pain – No more awkward twisting!
⭐ Best Budget-Friendly Option: Graco 4Ever DLX
✔️ 4-in-1 Design – Converts from infant seat to booster.
✔️ Lasts Up to 10 Years – Covers all your child’s car seat needs.
✔️ Affordable & Reliable – Great for parents who want quality at a lower price point.
Nuna RAVA Recall: What You Need to Know
In December 2024, Nuna issued a voluntary recall for over 600,000 RAVA car seats manufactured between July 16, 2016, and October 25, 2023.
🚨 What’s the Issue?
The recall addresses a potential problem with debris, such as crumbs or dirt, entering the front harness adjuster area. This can prevent the harness from tightening properly, posing a safety risk.
Affected Models:
• Nuna RAVA car seats with a plastic harness adjuster button manufactured during the specified dates.
How Nuna Responded
Despite the recall, Nuna’s customer service was excellent. I received an immediate update with clear instructions on how to get my seat upgraded. They provided a remedy kit that included:
✅ A new seat pad designed to prevent debris from affecting the harness adjuster.
✅ A cleaning kit with step-by-step instructions to ensure the harness mechanism functions properly.
Because of their timely response and proactive support, I still highly recommend Nuna as a trusted brand.
🏆 Best Strollers for 2025 (and Why They Earned Top Ratings)
Choosing the right stroller can make or break your day-to-day as a parent. From crowded city sidewalks to quick errands and family trips, here are my top-rated strollers for 2025—and the reasons they stand out.
⭐ Best Travel Stroller: Babyzen YoYo2
Why It’s Top-Rated:
• Ultra-compact design that folds small enough to fit in overhead airplane bins.
• Smooth maneuverability, even with one hand.
• Lightweight frame (13 lbs) makes it ideal for parents on the go.
Why I Personally Love it:
This stroller has been a game-changer when it comes to traveling with my little one. It allows me to focus on making memories rather than struggling with heavy gear.
Best For: Families who travel frequently or live in cities with limited space.
⭐ Best Everyday Stroller: Uppababy Vista V2
Why It’s Top-Rated:
• Versatility: can be a single stroller or easily convert to a double.
• High-quality suspension system for smooth rides.
• Large storage basket (a lifesaver for errands).
Best For: Parents who want one stroller to grow with their family.
⭐ Best Lightweight Stroller: Bugaboo Butterfly
Why It’s Top-Rated:
• Weighs only 16 lbs, but still sturdy and supportive.
• One-second fold for easy in-and-out of the car.
• Comfortable seat padding + adjustable recline.
Best For: Parents who want a compact option without sacrificing comfort.
⭐ Best All-Terrain Stroller: Thule Urban Glide 2
Why It’s Top-Rated:
• Air-filled tires + suspension handle gravel, grass, and trails with ease.
• Lightweight jogging stroller design with superior control.
• Adjustable handlebar for comfort across different heights.
Best For: Active families who love outdoor walks, runs, or hikes.
⭐ Best Budget-Friendly Stroller: Graco Modes Pramette
Why It’s Top-Rated:
• Converts from infant pramette to toddler stroller.
• Easy to fold and store, with decent storage space.
• Affordable without cutting corners on safety.
Best For: Families who want a reliable, versatile stroller under $300.
👉🏾 Why Ratings Matter:
Each of these strollers earned top marks because they balance safety, ease of use, durability, and parent convenience. I always consider recall history, crash-test data (when available for travel systems), and long-term usability—so you’re not just buying what’s trendy, but what truly works in real life.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right car seat and stroller is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent. Safety, ease of use, and comfort all play a huge role in ensuring both peace of mind and a smooth experience for you and your little one.
While recalls, like the one from Nuna, can be concerning, I always emphasize the importance of how a company responds—and Nuna’s quick and transparent approach reinforces my trust in their brand. This is why staying informed, registering your gear, and keeping up with recalls is essential for any parent.
No matter which car seat or stroller you choose, the key is to find what works best for your lifestyle. Whether you’re a frequent traveler needing a compact solution, a budget-conscious parent looking for longevity, or someone who prioritizes ease of installation, there’s a perfect option for every family.
By staying proactive and informed, you can confidently navigate parenthood knowing that your child is riding safely and comfortably.
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Looking forward to sharing more with you soon! Stay safe, stay informed, and keep enjoying this incredible parenting journey.
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Kelly-Ann Smith,
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner | Founder of Cub Convos @cubconvos