Welcoming a newborn into the world brings a long list of decisions for new parents—and one of the biggest is choosing the right pushchair, pram, or buggy. It’s more than just a means of transport. The right pushchair makes everyday life easier, ensures your baby’s comfort, and supports safe and stress-free outings from day one.
Whether you're strolling through your local park, hopping in and out of the car, or heading off on a family holiday, this guide will help you choose the perfect setup for your lifestyle, with insights into the types of buggies we offer at BabyDoc Shop, Ireland’s trusted baby store.
Pushchair vs. Pram vs. Lightweight Stroller – What’s the Difference?
Let’s start with the basics. These terms are often used interchangeably, but they do have distinct meanings that can help guide your decision:
- Pram/buggy: Best for newborns, a pram or buggy comes with a lie-flat carrycot, keeping baby snug and flat in those early months. It’s often used in the first six months before transitioning to a more upright seat.
- Pushchair: A pushchair is more versatile, often suitable from birth (if it reclines flat) through to toddlerhood. It usually has a seat unit that can recline and sometimes reverse, allowing baby to face you or look out at the world.
- Lightweight stroller: Generally refers to lighter, more portable strollers. These are ideal for toddlers or quick outings, and many are perfect for travel due to their compact fold and easy handling.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Pushchair or Pram
1. Your Lifestyle & Routine
Your daily life plays a big role in determining the best option. If you’re living in a city or using public transport often, you’ll benefit from a compact, lightweight pushchair with a one-hand fold. For families who spend time outdoors or in rural areas, an all-terrain pushchair with larger wheels and strong suspension is essential for bumpy paths.
2. Suitability for Newborns
Not all pushchairs are suitable from birth. Babies must lie completely flat for at least the first few months to support healthy spine and lung development. Check if the seat reclines fully flat, or if the pushchair includes a carrycot or car seat that supports a lie-flat position.
3. Travel System Compatibility
A travel system is a pushchair frame that allows you to attach an infant car seat directly onto it. This is especially convenient when baby falls asleep in the car—you can move them onto the pushchair frame without waking them. Many systems also include a carrycot and toddler seat, giving you everything in one package.
We offer a wide range of travel systems at BabyDoc Shop, including brands like Cybex, iCandy, Uppababy, and Bugaboo, all carefully selected for Irish families.
4. Size, Weight, and Fold
A bulky pushchair may offer excellent features, but it needs to be practical for your home and transport. Check dimensions—will it fit in your hallway, car boot, or lift? A lightweight buggy is a lifesaver if you’re lifting it in and out regularly.
Also, try folding and unfolding the buggy—some offer one-hand or one-second folding systems that are incredibly helpful when you’re holding your baby.
5. Safety Features
Make sure your chosen pushchair meets European safety standards. Look out for:
- Five-point harness: Keeps your child securely fastened.
- Reliable brakes: Easy to access and lock firmly.
- Strong, stable frame: A wide wheelbase offers extra stability and reduces the chance of tipping.
6. Handlebar Adjustability
If you're sharing the pushchair between parents, an adjustable handlebar is a back-saver. It allows you to set the height to suit whoever is pushing, ensuring comfort for taller or shorter parents alike.
7. Storage and Accessories
Look for a spacious basket under the seat for nappies, shopping, or baby essentials. Some pushchairs come with handy extras like cup holders, sun canopies, or rain covers. These details make a big difference in day-to-day use.
8. Budget
There’s a wide price range when it comes to pushchairs. While budget options are available, a slightly higher investment in a durable, long-term system like a travel system or convertible pram can actually save money in the long run.
Types of Pushchairs and Prams Available at BabyDoc Shop
We stock a wide selection to match every stage, budget, and lifestyle.
Standard Pushchairs
These are suitable from birth if they offer a lie-flat recline and are often used well into the toddler years. They’re sturdy, offer good storage, and many are travel system compatible.
Example: UPPABABY VISTA V3 – offers great suspension, reversible seat, and a compact fold.
Travel Systems
A travel system typically includes a pushchair frame, an infant car seat, and sometimes a carrycot. It's ideal for seamless transitions between car and stroll.
Example: Cybex Balios S Lux Travel System – stylish, practical, and comes with one of the safest car seats on the market.
Lightweight Strollers
Perfect for travel or popping into town, these are designed for ease. They’re not always suitable from birth unless used with a newborn pack or lie-flat seat.
Example: Bugaboo Butterfly– incredibly compact, easy to carry, and airline cabin approved.
All-Terrain Pushchairs
Built for outdoor lovers, these buggies offer large wheels and advanced suspension for a smooth ride on rough surfaces.
Example: iCandy Peach 7 All Terrain Storm– tough, reliable, and surprisingly lightweight for an all-terrain model.
Double and Twin Buggies
Designed for two children—either twins or a baby and toddler. Available in side-by-side or tandem seating.
Example: Bugaboo Donkey 5 Duo – expands effortlessly from single to double and offers excellent manoeuvrability.
Top Tips from the BabyDoc Experts
- Try before you buy: If you can, visit a showroom or shop to see how the buggy feels to push and fold.
- Don’t forget about storage: A big under-seat basket is a game-changer on day trips and shopping runs.
- Check compatibility: If you already have a car seat, make sure it fits your chosen frame.
- Think long-term: Choose a pushchair that can grow with your baby—many go up to 3 or 4 years of age.
- Consider your future plans: If you're planning a second baby soon, a single-to-double buggy could save you time and money later.
FAQs – Your Pushchair Questions Answered
When can I use a pushchair for a newborn?
You can use a pushchair from birth if it offers a lie-flat position or comes with a carrycot or compatible infant car seat.
Do I need a carrycot?
A carrycot offers a flat and comfortable sleep space for baby and is great for longer walks or naps. Yes it is essential and highly recommended for the first few months.
Are travel systems worth it?
Yes, especially for parents who drive frequently. Being able to move your baby between car and buggy without waking them is incredibly convenient.
Is a lightweight buggy enough from birth?
Most aren’t unless they offer a newborn pack or full lie-flat seat. Lightweight buggies are best from 6 months onward, unless stated otherwise.
What’s the most space-saving option for city life?
Compact travel strollers like the Bugaboo Butterfly or Joie Parcel LX are excellent for urban living and often fit in overhead storage compartments on planes.
Final Thoughts – What’s Right for You?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to choosing a pushchair or pram—it all comes down to how you live, where you go, and what works for your growing family.
Whether you're a city parent looking for a lightweight buggy, or you need an all-in-one travel system to keep up with your busy routine, BabyDoc Shop has a wide range of thoughtfully selected options to help you navigate parenthood in comfort and style.
Explore our collections today and find the perfect buggy for your little one:
From your baby's first journey home to their very first steps, we’re here to help you every step of the way.