As a parent, you quickly learn what baby gear essentials truly simplify life and what just adds to the clutter. After navigating parenthood with a few kids, I’ve become quite discerning about what makes a stroller and travel system truly worthwhile. Gone are the days of bulky, cumbersome travel systems that feel like navigating a tank. Today’s parents need versatility, ease of use, and something that adapts to their growing child. That’s where the Graco Modes Click Connect Travel System Davis comes into play.
When I was introduced to the Graco Modes Stroller, I was immediately intrigued. The promise of a system that could seamlessly transition through different stages of my baby’s early years was exactly what I was looking for. Assembling it straight out of the box was surprisingly straightforward, even in my late stages of pregnancy! Mostly, it involved clicking pieces into place and attaching the wheels – simple and hassle-free.
The most satisfying part of the setup? Definitely snapping on the parent drink console. Seriously, every stroller should come standard with this! This parent tray isn’t just basic; it includes a small covered storage compartment and two deep cup holders – a lifesaver for those essential parent beverages and small items you need within reach.
One of the first things that impressed me was how compactly the frame folds. It becomes incredibly slim, taking up minimal space in the car trunk or for storage at home. Even with the stroller seat attached (which is remarkably sturdy and well-made), the folded size remains impressively manageable. The fabric is another highlight – soft to the touch with an attractive pattern, ensuring baby’s comfort and a stylish look for parents.
From the moment my youngest, B, arrived weighing just over 7 pounds, she fit securely and comfortably in the Graco SnugRide infant car seat that comes with the Davis travel system. Just weeks after she was born, we attended a church event for new parents. The convenience of simply lifting the infant car seat out of the car and clicking it directly into the stroller frame was a game-changer.
Effortlessly compact fold of the Graco Modes Click Connect Travel System for easy storage and transport.
The Click Connect™ technology truly lives up to its name. It’s a single-step process that provides a reassuringly secure attachment of the infant car seat to the stroller frame. This eliminates any fumbling or second-guessing, giving you confidence that your baby is safely secured.
Another fantastic feature, especially for families with multiple caregivers, is the adjustable handlebar. This thoughtful addition allows parents, grandparents, siblings, or anyone pushing the stroller to adjust the height for comfortable strolling, regardless of their size.
And speaking of convenience, let’s talk about the two cup holders on the handlebar. Yes, two! If you have more than one child, you understand the necessity of having a designated spot for your drink and your little one’s sippy cup.
The versatility of the Graco Modes Davis system truly shines with its multiple riding options. The stroller seat can be configured to be rear-facing (parent-facing) or forward-facing, both when attached to just the frame or when used as a complete stroller system. This adaptability ensures the stroller grows with your child’s developmental stages and preferences.
Switching between configurations is a breeze. With a simple squeeze of a button and a handle rotation, the stroller and frame fold up compactly thanks to the one-hand fold mechanism. This feature is invaluable for busy parents juggling a baby and other tasks.
Versatile 3-in-1 configurations of the Graco Modes Click Connect Travel System showcasing infant car seat carrier, infant stroller, and toddler stroller modes.
Essentially, the Graco Modes Travel System Davis functions as three strollers in one:
- Infant car seat carrier + frame: Perfect for newborns and quick trips, allowing you to transfer the car seat from car to stroller effortlessly.
- Infant stroller (with seat in frame): Provides a comfortable and secure stroller for younger babies, with the option to recline the seat.
- Toddler stroller: Accommodates older children up to 50 lbs, offering both parent-facing and forward-facing options.
The seat locks securely in both directions, giving you the flexibility to have your baby face you for interaction or face outwards to explore the world around them.
Parents will also appreciate the exceptionally large storage basket underneath the stroller seat. It’s genuinely spacious enough to accommodate a large diaper bag, shopping purchases, or anything else you need to bring along on your outings. Even with a fully loaded diaper bag, access remains easy, and older siblings can even help with reaching items stored underneath. This generous storage is a lifesaver, especially during longer outings or family trips.
The impressively large storage basket of the Graco Modes Click Connect Travel System, easily accommodating a large diaper bag.
Initially, like many newborns, B wasn’t always a fan of the car seat. However, with a pacifier and a soft blanket, she quickly learned to relax and even fall asleep in it. The Graco SnugRide infant car seat is designed to hold infants from 4 up to 35lbs and up to 32″ in height. Installation in the car is also simplified thanks to the InRight™ LATCH system, making car seat base installation and removal straightforward for quick transitions to and from the stroller.
For using the stroller with an infant without the car seat, the stroller seat reclines completely flat, creating a proper carriage-like environment suitable for newborns.
When we had the opportunity to care for our older cousin, Logan, we also tested the Graco Modes Davis as a toddler stroller. The removable and pivoting child’s tray and armrests made it incredibly easy to get her in and out of the stroller and provided a convenient surface for toys and snacks. For older toddlers, the tray and armrests can be completely removed to streamline the stroller even further.
Logan, used to being in a stroller facing her parents, loved facing forward and observing her surroundings. However, the option to rear-face even older children is valuable for minimizing overstimulation when needed.
One minor challenge I encountered was that folding the stroller compactly with the toddler seat in the forward-facing position was a little less streamlined. However, this is a small trade-off for the overall versatility and features. The seat also features a 3-position leg adjustment for customized comfort as your child grows.
Safety is paramount, and the Graco Modes Davis includes a 5-point harness for secure restraint for younger children. As your child grows, this harness can be easily converted to a 3-point harness, adapting to their developmental stage. The toddler stroller mode is designed to hold children up to 50 lbs, extending the stroller’s usability for years.
You have a choice between two stroller versions within the Graco Modes line: the traditional stroller with two front wheels and a sportier version with a single set of front wheels. Personally, I find the sportier, three-wheel configuration strollers easier to maneuver, especially in tight spaces, but both offer excellent functionality.
Graco Modes Travel System, Davis
Graco Modes Sport Click Connect Travel System, Lunar Rock
For parents who already own a Graco Click Connect car seat, you also have the option to purchase just the stroller frame separately, offering even more flexibility and cost-effectiveness.
Honestly, trying to find significant drawbacks to the Graco Modes Click Connect Travel System Davis is challenging. The only minor points I could identify are the slightly less compact fold with the forward-facing toddler seat and that the cup holders might not accommodate all extra-large cup sizes. However, these are very minor considerations compared to the overwhelming benefits and features this travel system offers. The advantages far outweigh any minor inconveniences.
Specifications:
| Feature | Stroller (Unfolded) | Stroller (Folded) | Infant Car Seat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 21.05 lbs | 21.05 lbs | 7.5 lbs |
| Length | 21.14″ | 22.0″ | 30.7″ |
| Width | 27.5″ | 27.50″ | 18.7″ |
| Height | 41″ | 18″ | 15.6″ |
Overall, we’ve been incredibly happy with the Graco Modes Stroller, a true three-in-one system. Its exceptional functionality and adaptability mean it can be used from the newborn stage all the way up to a 50-pound child (around 7 years old in our experience!).
Once your child outgrows the infant car seat, or if you are considering a convertible car seat down the line, I highly recommend checking out the Graco 4Ever seat, which I’ve reviewed separately. It’s designed to accommodate newborns through to 10-year-olds, offering extended usability and value.
In conclusion, the Graco Modes Click Connect Travel System Davis is a fantastic choice for parents seeking a versatile, easy-to-use, and long-lasting travel system. Its 3-in-1 design, user-friendly features, and thoughtful details make it a standout option in the market, simplifying life for parents at every stage of their child’s early years. Consider the Graco Modes Davis if you’re looking for a reliable travel system that truly grows with your family.
