Choosing your first baby pram can feel overwhelming. There are 3 in 1 prams, 9-in-1 systems, travel prams, bassinets and plenty of features you may not even know you need.
The trick? Don’t buy the pram with the longest feature list. Buy the one that fits your everyday life.
1. Think About Your Daily Routine
Before comparing prams, think about where you’ll use yours.
Will you mostly be:
- Walking around the neighbourhood?
- Shopping at local centres?
- Travelling by car?
- Using public transport?
- Walking on grass or uneven footpaths?
Your lifestyle should decide the type of pram you buy.
2. Newborn? Check the Lie-Flat Options
If you’re buying before your baby arrives, make sure the pram is suitable for newborns.
Look for a bassinet or approved lie-flat position and always check the manufacturer’s age and weight recommendations.
A pram that works from newborn through toddlerhood can also save you from replacing it too quickly.
3. 3-in-1 or 9-in-1: What’s the Difference?
This is one of the most common questions for first-time parents.
A 3 in 1 pram generally combines key functions such as a bassinet and stroller, depending on the model.
A 9 in 1 pram offers more configurations and flexibility.
Which should you choose?
Choose 3-in-1: if you want the essentials and a simpler setup.
Choose 9-in-1: if you want more flexibility and one system that can adapt to different situations.
More features aren’t automatically better. Choose the setup you’ll actually use.
4. Don’t Forget Your Car Boot
This is a big one for Australian parents.
A pram can look compact until you try putting it in your boot.
Before buying, check:
Folded dimensions + weight + your available boot space.
If you drive a smaller hatchback, a compact fold may be more important than extra features.
5. Wheels Matter More Than You Think
Your pram won’t only travel through shopping centres.
Think about Australian footpaths, parks, grass and uneven surfaces.
For everyday city use, smaller wheels may be perfectly suitable.
For regular outdoor walks, look for larger wheels and good suspension for a smoother push.
6. Check the Storage Basket
You’ll probably carry more than just your baby.
Nappies, wipes, snacks, bottles, blankets and shopping can quickly add up.
A decent under-seat basket can make everyday trips much easier.
Small feature, big difference.
7. Make Sure the Handle Feels Comfortable
If both parents will use the pram, an adjustable handlebar can be useful.
You shouldn’t have to bend forward or stretch your shoulders while pushing.
If you’re shopping in-store, both parents should try it.
8. Safety Comes First
Looks and features come second to safety.
For Australian prams, check that the product meets the relevant mandatory safety requirements. Product Safety Australia recommends looking for compliance with AS/NZS 2088.
Also check for:
- A secure five-point harness
- Reliable brakes
- Tether strap
- Stable frame
- Clear instructions
- Correct age and weight limits
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for assembly and use.
9. Consider Australia’s Weather
Sunny Australian days mean good sun protection is important.
Look for a canopy that provides useful shade while still allowing airflow.
If you regularly spend time outdoors, weather protection can make outings much more comfortable.
10. Don’t Pay for Features You Won’t Use
It’s easy to assume that the most expensive or feature-packed pram must be the best.
Not necessarily.
Ask yourself:
Will I use this feature regularly?
If you live in an apartment, a lightweight fold may matter more than a huge basket.
If you walk every day, wheels and suspension may matter more.
If you travel frequently, portability may be your priority.
Quick First-Pram Checklist
Before you buy, ask:
✓ Is it suitable for my baby’s age?
✓ Will it fit my car?
✓ Is it comfortable to push?
✓ Can I fold it easily?
✓ Does it have enough storage?
✓ Are the wheels suitable for where I walk?
✓ Does it meet Australian safety requirements?
✓ Will I still find it useful as my baby grows?
Final Word
Your first pram doesn’t have to have every possible feature.
It simply needs to be safe, practical, comfortable and suitable for your lifestyle.
Take a few minutes to think about your car, home, daily walks and baby’s age before you buy. Once you know what you actually need, choosing the right pram becomes much easier.
Smart shopping starts with your lifestyle, not the biggest feature list.
