Exploring the benefits of carrycot vs. capsule travel systems for your buggy

Choosing the best buggy set up is a must from the get go, to ensure you love your buggy throughout your young one's journey!  

You may have heard the terms 'carrycot’ and 'travel system’ in your initial search. The choice between a carrycot bassinet and a travel system for your buggy can significantly impact your daily routine and your baby’s comfort. Understanding the distinct advantages and differences between the two systems can help you make an informed decision that best suits your family’s needs and lifestyle. 

Baby Jogger City Elite 2 and City Mini2/GT2 Bassinet

What is a carrycot? 

A carrycot is a compact and portable bassinet which attaches to your buggy, providing a lie-flat surface, much like a traditional pram for your baby when you’re out and about. Carrycots are commonly used until approximately 6 months or until your baby can sit up unassisted. 

ORIGIN Falcon Buggy & Capsule Travel System

What is a travel system? 

A travel system allows you to attach an infant capsule to your buggy, making it super easy and convenient to transfer your baby from the car to the buggy without disruption. Typically used for the first 6 to 12 months, depending on your car seat's weight and height limits, travel systems are a practical solution for on-the-go parents. However, not all capsules are compatible with every buggy, so we recommend checking compatibility with our team. 

Comfort, safety and ergonomics 

Carrycot: Using a carrycot offers significant benefits in terms of comfort and support for your newborn, especially in the early months, when they lack neck control. A flat lying surface is the optimal position for newborns to ensure proper breathing and comfort during extended periods of sleep, which is particularly important in the first six months when your baby spends a lot of time resting. 

With a carrycot, your baby enjoys a spacious, secure and flat surface, similar to a nursery bassinet. This design supports healthy spine and hip development while allowing your baby to stretch and grow comfortably. It also reduces the risk of positional asphyxia, which occurs if a baby’s head falls forward and obstructs breathing. Many carrycots are certified for overnight sleep, ensuring a safe and restful sleep environment—our team is happy to help you confirm any carrycot's overnight certification. 

Carrycots provide a safer, more ergonomic alternative for extended outings, though it’s important to note they should only be used on the buggy, and NOT as a car restraint. 

Paediatricians and child safety experts advise against prolonged periods in car seats due to potential discomfort, restricted breathing, and negative impacts on a baby's developing spine and respiratory system.  

Capsule travel system: This system offers the convenience of transferring a resting baby from the car to the buggy without disruption- great for those quick trips to the supermarket or popping out with bubs in tow. However, since the capsule's primary purpose is to provide a safe and cosy mode of transport for the vehicle, it is recommended to not leave your baby unsupervised or asleep for extended periods in a capsule, at any time. The semi-reclined position and limited space for your baby for an extended period can cause discomfort and increase the risk of positional issues, including a curved spine, which can have long-term effects on your baby's posture and development if they remain in this position for too long. 

Versatility and longevity 

Carrycots are versatile additions to your buggy, providing a cosy and secure space for newborns and infants. Some carrycots are even designed for dual use from on a buggy to a standalone bassinet*; this versatility extends their usability beyond the buggy, offering a comfortable sleeping space for your baby at home or while traveling. A great option for when you’re out and about or on holiday – safe place for your bub to sleep. 

Some brands offer a modular seat function incorporated into the buggy, like the ORIGIN Tui buggy which can convert from bassinet to toddler seat once your baby can sit unassisted. Some brands offer even more versatility such as the Mountain Buggy® carrycot plus™ which offers a recline position for babies who suffer from reflux and also a parent facing seat for when the child gets older.  All these options extends the carrycot’s usability as your child grows which in turn delivers you absolute value for money. 

*Always check with your babycity® team to ensure your carrycot is safe sleep approved. 

While capsule travel systems offer great convenience, they are often a short-term solution designed for the early months of your baby’s life. The longevity of use of the of capsule travel system is determined by your capsule's weight or height limits and your child’s comfort. Which means once your baby outgrows the capsules limits or starts sitting up and preferring a more spacious buggy seat, you will need to not only invest for the next stage car seat, but also transition your child to be sitting in their normal stroller seat. 

Interaction and Bonding 

Both carrycot and capsule travel systems offer a parent-facing position, promoting bonding and interaction between you and your baby during walks. This close proximity allows you to monitor your baby's well-being, make eye contact and respond to their needs promptly. This intimate connection also fosters a sense of security and attachment, which is beneficial for your baby's emotional development. 

At the end of the day, both carrycot and capsule travel systems offer their own unique benefits for you and your baby, each suited to different needs and lifestyles. Capsule travel systems are fantastic for their convenience during car trips and quick errands, while on the other hand, carrycots focus on comfort, versatility and health benefits for your baby in a lie flat position, offering a cosy space for your baby both at home and out and about. 

Ultimately, choosing between the two really comes down to what works best for you and your little one. Consider your day-to-day routines, how you travel and of course – budget!  

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