Key Summary
- Tips on the major things to think about like your car boot size, lifestyle, and number of little ones to guide you to which pram works best for your family
- Single, double, tandem, jogging, and travel prams each have their own strengths (and quirks!)
- Safety first - all our prams meet Australian standards, but the magic happens when you use them properly
- Test before you invest - folding, lifting, and manoeuvring in-store can save you buyer's remorse later
Standing in front of a wall of prams and strollers feeling completely overwhelmed? You're definitely not alone! With so many wheels, handles, and folding mechanisms staring back at you, choosing the right one can feel like rocket science. Don't worry though - we're here to help you cut through the confusion and find the pram that'll actually work for your real life.
What's the difference between a pram and a stroller?
The age-old question that stumps even seasoned parents! While some people use the terms interchangeably, there are actually some handy differences worth knowing about.
The main difference? Prams are all about that lie-flat comfort for tiny babies, while strollers are designed for sitting-up explorers who want to see the world. Many modern options actually do both - converting from pram mode to stroller mode as your little one grows!
When to buy a pram
Prams are brilliant for newborns up to 6 months who need that flat, cozy surface since they can't sit up yet. Look for one with a bassinet attachment or a seat that fully reclines - your little one will thank you for the comfort!
When to buy a stroller
From 6 months onwards, strollers are your go-to for bubs who can hold their head up and sit independently. They're lightweight, upright, and ready for all your adventures together.
What should I look for in a baby or toddler pram?
Here are the biggies to consider:
1. Safety
All our prams meet Australian safety standards, but here's what every pram must have:
- 5-point safety harness for your bub
- Clear safety warnings and care instructions
- Adult wrist tethers (use them!)
- Balanced structure to prevent tipping
- Red-coloured brake that actually works and stays out of little hands' reach
- Passed rigorous testing for impact, strength, and stability.
Check out the Australian Government’s Product Safety Guidelines. for more details.
Tip - even the best safety features only work when used correctly. That harness needs to be snug, and those tether straps belong around your wrist!
2. Your budget
Prams range from around $99 for basic models to thousands for all the bells and whistles. Having a budget helps narrow your choices! Here are some questions to think about:
- How often will I actually use this pram?
- Do fancy materials and aesthetics matter to me?
- Can I live without certain features to save money?
- Will this pram need to survive multiple children?
3. Your lifestyle
Your daily life should totally drive your choice here.
Urban dweller with smooth footpaths and shopping centers? A smaller, nimble option will suit you beautifully. Rural life with hills, grass, and questionable paths? You'll want those big rear wheels that can handle anything.
Will you use it:
- On ainly suburban settings like shops and footpaths?
- For regular off-road adventures on dirt, grass, or sand?
- Running in the future?
- For frequent car trips requiring easy folding and lifting?
4. Your little one's age
Think about:
- Do I need lay-flat options for a newborn?
- Will this pram grow with my bub through toddler years?
5. Your car size
Nothing's worse than falling in love with a pram only to discover it won't fit in your boot!
Small boot = smaller pram. Bigger vehicle = more options for larger, feature-packed models.
Think about:
- Does it actually fit in my boot when folded?
- Can I physically lift it into the car?
- Is it compatible with your baby capsule?
We are the experts when it comes to dimensions and pram compatibility, so use our chat, or come in and let’s talk.
6. How it folds
The fold needs to feel right for you - especially if you're juggling a million things and need one-handed operation!
Think about:
- Is it actually easy to fold?
- Will I need to fold it for home storage?
Some fold in one piece, others need disassembly. Definitely test this in-store if possible!
7. Adjustability
This matters more for some families - tall parents often need adjustable handle heights, while your growing bub needs adjustable backrests, footrests, and harness heights for comfort.
8. Three wheels or four wheels?
Three wheels: Easier to manoeuvre, better for rough terrain, but usually forward-facing only with no double options.
Four wheels: More stable with more seating configurations and potential tandem conversion but can be trickier to manoeuvre on bumpy surfaces.
9. Storage space and accessories
Think about your real needs - grocery runs, daycare bags, or sibling scooters all need space! Pricier prams often have more accessories available but check if other brands' accessories might work too.
Additional things to consider when buying a pram
Canopy - Your bub's personal sun umbrella and cozy hideaway. Look for good coverage and peek-a-boo windows.
Rain cover - Weather insurance for your daily adventures! The best ones go on quickly and actually fit properly.
Comfort - padding, seat recline, and good suspension make the difference between smooth sailing and a wonky experience.
Practicality - Consider stairs and storage space. Beautiful but impractical won't work long-term.
What are the different types of prams?
Single pram
Single prams work beautifully for one-child families or when siblings are spaced apart. Some fold flat in one piece, others need disassembly.
The good stuff:
- Under-seat storage basket
- Baby capsule compatibility for easy car-to-pram transfers
- Huge range to choose from.
The trade-off:
- Can't convert to tandem (though tandem prams can work as singles)
Double prams
Double pram seating works brilliantly for twins or close-in-age siblings.
The good stuff:
- Storage basket included
- Each seat reclines independently
- Usually fold in one piece
The trade-offs:
- Wide design makes navigating shops, cafes, and narrow paths tricky
- Can be heavy even before adding two little ones
- May struggle with public transport
Tandem pram
Tandem prams can be used with just one seat or two - ideal for growing families!
The good stuff:
- Same width as single prams but with stacked seating
- Multiple seating combinations (facing you, forward, or backwards)
- More manoeuvrable than doubles in tight spaces
- Four-wheel stability
The trade-offs:
- Longer design makes doorways tricky
- Usually need disassembly for car storage
Running or jogging prams
Three-wheeled running or jogging prams are built for active parents and rough terrain.
The good stuff:
- Brilliant for regular runners and rough terrain
The trade-offs:
- Not suitable for newborns - wait until at least 6 months when your bub has good core, neck, and head strength
- Check with your GP before hitting the trails!
Shop running prams at Baby Bunting (link to be inserted)
Compact or travel prams
Lightweight, one-piece compact strollers that fold down to fit into tiny spaces- great for travel and quick trips.
The good stuff:
- Super lightweight and compact
- One-piece folding
- Some fit in airplane overhead compartments (check airline rules!)
The trade-offs:
- Smaller storage area
- Smaller wheels mean less manoeuvrability
How do you use and maintain a pram safely?
Using your pram correctly from day one keeps it rolling smoothly for years. Simple things like not overloading the basket and checking wheel locks regularly make all the difference. Remember - not every pram suits every adventure. Your everyday stroller might handle park paths beautifully but isn't designed for morning jogs!
The Final Word
Pram shopping can feel overwhelming, but you're already on the right track by doing your research. Trust your instincts about what feels right for your family's lifestyle and remember that the best pram is simply the one that makes your daily adventures easier and more joyful.