Expecting? How exciting to have a new baby on the way! Parenting is a journey that starts with small but significant steps: selecting a name, a nursery theme and baby's first wheels. A baby prams stroller will likely be one of your family's most important purchases, because baby prams provide much-needed mobility for babies and their parents alike. And as your new arrival develops and grows, having the right wheels will continue to be important.

Today, you will find an astonishing variety of baby prams and prams strollers on the market. Choosing the right one can definitely be a challenge. Our site is designed to help you find the best baby prams stroller for your own circumstances, and to continue to help as your needs change. As your children grow, you may join the many families who end up owning several strollers to meet their varied and changing requirements. And that's also part of our goal: To be with you at each stage of your baby-wheels journey.

First, we want you to know that there is no "perfect" stroller. Every family has different needs, including where you live and what kind of activities you pursue. There are prams strollers for warm-weather and cold-weather, and so forth. In short, you need to find a prams stroller that is "perfect" for your own particular lifestyle.

We can also say with confidence that you don't have to break the bank to get a great “set of wheels” that meet your needs and budget. Naturally there are high-end prams strollers with lots of bells and whistles, and prices to match, but we can show you some excellent choices that cost well under $200. Look for our "great buy" indicators on strollers that we have identified as offering both value and quality.

And if you're expecting twins or triplets, or if you have several babies who are close together in age, there are prams strollers available for two and even three little bundles of joy.

To sum up, there's plenty to choose from, and we offer plenty of help so you can choose with confidence. With this brief introduction, are you ready to get started?

Newborn Needs

Of course, newborn babies can't sit up, so they need strollers that let them lie flat on their backs. Be sure you don't try to use a non-reclining traditional or umbrella-style stroller before your child is able to sit up without assistance.

There are five different stroller options for little ones:

• Traditional coach pram
• Two in one pram
• Three in one pram
• Three Wheelers
• Travel Systems

We will discuss all of these in more detail in the Types of Prams section of this buying guide.

More about Lifestyle

Are you athletic, wanting to fit in a workout while you're out with your son or daughter? Do you live in the city and rely extensively on public transportation? Is rain protection a necessity, or are you more concerned about the sun's scorching rays? Will you be strolling through snow or on rough roads or grassy fields? These are the kinds of lifestyle considerations you'll want to take into account when picking a stroller.

Now, here’s what these lifestyle considerations suggest:

• For the athletically inclined, or simply for a new mom eager to get back into shape, there are jogging prams.
• And for any kind of rough surface, whether it’s your own driveway or the pathways in your local park; all-terrain prams with large wheels work best. 
• Another lifestyle consideration is how far out into the world you plan to venture with your baby. Frequent air or automobile travelers have a number of different options, including many newer prams strollers that are both lightweight and portable. The other possibilities are travel system prams, which include an infant car seat, a car-seat base for your vehicle, reclining seat and a collapsible chassis into which the car seat can be snapped.

Types of Prams

As you start planning for baby's first outing, you initially need to decide what kind of stroller to buy. Depending on your circumstances, you may want more than one, but many parents get along just fine with a single, carefully-chosen stroller. Here is a list of prams, including the principal advantages and disadvantages of each:

• Traditional "Coach" The four wheeled carriage consists of a deep bassinet-like bed with a canopy allowing your newborn stretch out completely flat at the same time being protected from the outdoor elements while facing you. Traditional baby prams are built on a strong sturdy chassis with great suspension and a nicely padded mattress providing optimum comfort. Although this is the most expensive pram on the market, many believe them to be worth the investment as they are built to last for many generations. As aesthetically pleasing as traditional baby prams may be, you will soon need another form of transportation for your little one because they do not offer a safe upright seated position.
• Two in One Prams Strollers Two in One prams strollers consist of a chassis, a fully-reclining seat and a canopy to protect baby from outdoor elements. The five-point adjustable harness initially is used as a baby pram which allows newborns to lie completely flat and later converts to a prams stroller when the baby is able to be seated in an upright position.
• Three in One Prams Strollers Three in One pram strollers offer the same features as the Two in One except the Three in One includes an attachable bassinette that locks into the chassis. The bassinette typically has more room and some are approved for overnight sleeping. The detachable bassinette enables your sleeping baby to be carried from the pram to the house without interruption. Another benefit of the bassinette is the ability to have baby facing towards you or against you for the world to see. Some brands have compatible infant car seats (sold separately) that fit onto the seat unit converting your three in one into complete travel systems.
• Travel systems Especially designed for airline travel and long-distance family vacations, travel systems combine a chassis, fully reclining seat, infant car seat, car seat base and some models include an attachable bassinette. Both the car seat and bassinette click in and out of the chassis which is very handy when you don’t want to disturb nap time. Although, this complete system may seem a bit expensive initially, they are in fact a very economical purchase saving you hundreds of dollars from having to purchase these items ala carte’. Travel systems can be somewhat bulky, but are great if you plan to cover lots of ground with your baby in tow.
• Three Wheelers: All-Terrain and jogging strollers Known for their rugged look and bicycle-type tires, these three-wheel strollers are great for off-road use. Although not originally designed for city use, these three wheelers are becoming increasingly popular for every day use because of their great maneuverability and lightweight frame. Special jogging models include a front hand brake and a non-swivel or lockable front wheel so you can run with your baby. While some of these strollers are designed to accommodate very young babies, many medical experts recommend that your child be at least 6 months old before you do more than a brisk walk unless. (Several manufacturers offer double and even triple all-terrain or jogging strollers. Talk about a workout!)
• Double and triple pram strollers For twins and other multiple births, or if you have several children who are close together in age, there are plenty of options that allow one person to push two and three babies at once. Double pram strollers are available both side-by-side and tandem-style.

Side by Side:

Allow both children to sit side by side to enjoy the ride equally and encourage interaction. They typically convert from fully reclining baby prams for newborns to upright prams strollers for kids up to 3 or 4 years old. Most recent designs have options for forward or rear facing seating and also have independent reclining seats; which is great if your babies are different ages, the older child can sit up while the newborn lies flat.

Tandem:

While tandem prams strollers offer more maneuverability through doorways or grocery-store aisles and along busy sidewalks, the issue soon arises of who gets to ride in front. Tandem prams place the babies front-to-back, one in front of the other. You might find some tandem strollers have "stadium seating," placing the baby in the rear higher up so both kids can enjoy the view. If your babies are different ages, you'll find some tandem baby stroller models that let one seat recline fully for a newborn while the older child sits up.

Safety First!

Keeping your baby safe and secure is "job one." Ensure your prams stroller has all the safety features you need, and make certain you understand how to use them. Safety features to consider:

• Stability: Baby prams and strollers should provide both stability and a smooth ride. The stroller should have a wide wheel base to prevent tipping. If there's a storage basket, it should be low on the stroller frame, just above the rear wheels.
• Restraint System: An integrated safety belt and crotch strap that will keep your child from slipping out. You want buckles that will be easy for you to operate but challenging for small hands to undo. You want strength, durability and adjustability, so you can achieve a continuing snug fit as your baby grows. Some strollers have five-point harnesses, much like those used on car seats, which do even more to keep your baby from falling out if the stroller tips or worse yet, climbing out during a moment of parental inattention.
• Rear-facing installation: Young infants in baby strollers should be positioned facing the person pushing the stroller, so they can keep an eye on their precious cargo. The ability to face the car seat of a travel system toward the rear of the car is also a necessity if you are travelling with a young infant.
• Fully reclining seats: Fully reclining seats are a must for baby prams and strollers used for newborn babies up to three months.
• Parking Brakes: It's important to have easy to operate brakes. For an extra margin of safety, the parking brake should lock two wheels.
• Locking parts: Moving parts should lock in place in oder to prevent accidental folding or collapsing.
• Closed leg holes: Reclining strollers for newborns or young infants must have leg holes that close, so your baby can't slip through. Options include fabric or mesh shields and hinged, molded footrests that can be raised to clamp over the leg holes.
•  One-handed opening/folding mechanisms: Make sure opening and closing the prams stroller is easy to do with one hand for times when you need to hold your baby and open or close the stroller at the same time. 
• Reflectors or reflective trim: Reflectors are another important safety feature. But even if your pram virtually glows in the dark, stay well away from traffic at twilight or after dark. You can't be too careful with your precious cargo!
• Canopies: Protecting your baby from sunlight and rain or snow is also a must. Canopies come in many different variations, ranging from a fabric square hung between two wires to pull-down weather shields that protect almost the entire front of your stroller. Reversible canopies offer protection whether the sun or wind is behind or ahead of you. It's helpful to have a viewing port on top so you can keep an eye on your baby even when the canopy is fully deployed. (Note that some strollers are set up for special-situation weather covers, even mosquito netting, which can be purchased as accessories.)

Basic prams safety:

• Always read the instructions provided by your baby stroller manufacturer and consider these basic safety guidelines.
• Never leave baby unattended, keep an eye on your baby at all times. 
• Keep little ones at a safe distance when you fold or unfold the stroller to prevent pinched fingers. 
• Make sure your parking brakes are on when stopping. 
• Maintain your prams stroller regularly. Ensure are nuts and bolts are tightly fastened and replace any missing or worn parts. 
• Use the safety belt or harness to restrain children every time he or she is in the stroller. 
• Always check the manufacturer’s maximum weight limit to avoid injuries. 
• Check manufacturer’s age and weight requirements. 
• Make sure you hear a "click" when installing bassinets, seat attachments and infant car seat to the chassis, to ensure that each component is safely locked. Refer to the manufacturer’s instruction manual as your guide for correct installation.
• Don't hang any bags on stroller handlebars. They can cause tipping.
• Make sure the pram frame is properly locked to avoid the stroller from collapsing.
• Never use a bassinet as a car seat.
• Always return the stroller warranty card so you can be notified of a recall.

Cup Holders and Big Wheels

Just as cars and SUVs compete on the basis of cup holders and wheel sizes, so do today's pram strollers. While some of these amenities may not be strictly necessary, they definitely can make strolling even more pleasant. Here are some things to look for.

• Rain covers: Plastic sheaths cover the pram stroller to ensure baby doesn't get wet from the rain. 
• Sun shades: These sun shades easily attach to the prams strollers providing ventilation while protecting babies from harmful sun rays.
• Insect Net: Keep bugs away with insect netting made of fine mesh coverings to protect baby while allow a clear view and fresh air.
• Trays, cup holders and storage baskets: Many pram strollers come with attachable trays and drink holders for you and your child and some have a compartment for keys, cell phone and other parental necessities. Another feature that definitely comes in handy for an afternoon stroll is storage baskets. They should be roomy and accessible underneath the pram stroller. Ideally, you want one that is big enough to hold a diaper bag and a small parcel or two. (Never hang bags on your stroller's handlebars.)
• Travel bags for your pram stroller: Travel bags make it easier for you to take collapsible baby prams or prams strollers everywhere you go, particularly convenient for airline travel. 
• Cushions and padding: Removable headrests and padding for added support.. 
• Adjustable cushioned handlebars: Comfort features you will appreciate, especially if your prams stroller will be pushed by people of different heights. After all, you want to stand up straight when you’re out strolling with the new scion of your family!
• Oversized wheels: Make it easier to negotiate rough roads and curbs. Whatever size the wheels, check for solid construction by making sure all wheels sit on the floor uniformly when your baby is on board.

Details, Details

Once you've zeroed in on a pram type and compiled a list of features you consider "must-haves," it's time to discuss some other purchase details.

Price: Not the only factor

As we noted earlier, price isn't the be-all and end-all of your pram selection. You will quickly find that there is a wide price range for strollers and prams, from under $100 to over $1000.

In some respects, you get what you pay for. More expensive prams strollers are usually made of lighter-weight, higher-grade aluminum, which makes them easier to lift and wrestle in and out of vehicles. From the baby's perspective, the seat is more comfy and there is more back support. Top-of-the-line prams strollers often feature larger, shock-absorbing wheels, which mean easier pushing for the parent and a smoother ride for junior.

High-priced prams strollers also have more amenities, including adjustable handles and reversible seats, so your baby can face either forward or toward you. And they tend to be durable enough to be passed along from one child to the next.

However, higher cost doesn't always mean higher quality. In fact, many tests have shown that many economical strollers prove to perform as well or better than some of the higher-priced prams. In some cases, you're paying more for trendiness, clever marketing and features that you don't really need. Depending on where and how much you'll use your pram; a lower-priced pram stroller may actually meet your needs more effectively. On the other hand, if you will be strolling more often and in all kinds of weather, you should plan to spend at least enough (in the $250 range) for a good-quality traditional stroller.

In our budget-conscious era, watch for sales and specials, including the ones we have identified on this site.

Certification

Look for a certification sticker indicating that the prams stroller you are considering meets standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and that its manufacturer participates in the certification program run by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA). While these programs are voluntary and uncertified strollers may be perfectly safe, it makes sense to choose the certified model if two competing strollers are otherwise equal.

Return policies and warranties

While most manufacturers and retailers have warranties that cover poor workmanship and inherent defects, all warranties aren't the same. If the manufacturer insists that you ship the stroller back for repair, you will be left without wheels while the work is being done. We recommend that you purchase your stroller from a website, catalog or store that offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Because many new families buy their stroller well in advance, you also want to ask about the seller’s return policy. A flexible or longer-term return policy can be a definite advantage. Also, be sure to save all the packaging until you're sure you are going to keep the stroller you purchased.

Ready, Set, Stroll!

OK, are you pumped up, primed and prepared to choose your baby’s prams stroller? We suggest you start by picking some promising pram types and linking out to available models to see exactly what's out there. Go back and forth between the buying guide and the various pram strollers you're considering until that "perfect" choice seems to be emerging.

If at all possible, even if you plan to buy online, visit a store or two and take the models you are considering out for a spin. If two people will be sharing stroller duty, both of you should participate in the tryout. Especially if your heights differ by more than an inch or two, adjustable handles will allow each of you to stand tall when you're pushing the stroller.

During your test drive, be sure to try real-life activities, including braking, opening/closing and carrying the pram stroller. Assuming you can "borrow" the floor model briefly, it's a good idea to be sure the stroller will fit in your trunk or SUV storage space when folded. Also, check to see that the frame feels solid, not loose, and that the wheels are rolling smoothly.

Most of all take your time and don't be swayed by things that have little to do with your baby's comfort and safety. Sure, a bright color or a cute model name can grab your attention, but they're not mission-critical. Instead, focus on finding the “wheels" that will work best for your family’s lifestyle and provide your precious baby a safe, secure and comfortable environment for getting out into the world.

Done right, your purchase will give you and your child years of happy strolling. Go for it!