Buying a buggy, pram, pushchair, stroller or baby travel system is a major purchase
so consider your own specific needs carefully before you buy

If your baby is newborn check that the equipment is suitable. Some buggies and pushchairs will not be appropriate for new babies.

Bear in mind that your needs will change as your child gets older. If you are buying a pram for a newborn think ahead, look at the models that include pushchair units so the equipment grows with your child.

If you are buying a pushchair or stroller for a toddler bear in mind that your little one may feel like walking some times. Check the weight of the pushchair incase you have to carry it.

If you have to get on and off buses regularly you need a pushchair that folds down and opens up easily and isn't too heavy to carry.

If you may do a lot of serious walking there are a selection of good all terrain 3 wheeler pushchairs available now. If you decide against an all terrain pushchair then make sure the equipment you buy has good suspension.

If you are going to be loading your pushchair in to your car boot check the size of the equipment when it's folded down and make sure it will fit. Consider the weight of the pushchair, remember you have to lift it in to the boot and you will be leaning forward holding the pushchair's weight.

Check the size of the pushchair when it is in use and when it is folded down and make sure this fits in with your needs.

Check the weight of the pushchair and consider whether you will need to carry it or lift it when it is folded down.

If you are buying a pushchair, stroller or buggy check what sort of harness it has. Look for a model with a five point safety harness which has straps which go over baby's shoulders, round baby's middle and between baby's legs for maximum security.

Check the height of the handle to make sure it's comfortable for you to push.

Does the model you are interested in have swivel wheels? If so is it possible to lock the wheels if you want to? Some people feel that swivel wheels are fantastic and give extra maneuverability but others think they are awkward, if you have the choice to lock the swivel wheels you have the best of both worlds.

Check what you get included in the price. Travel Systems come with an infant carrier (baby car seat) and a pushchair that fit on to the same chassis but be careful when you buy what you think is a pram. Check the chassis is included as some models are sold in separate pieces.

Check the manufacture and quality carefully. Babies are expensive, bless them, but a pushchair must be safe and able to withstand a lot of use so don't automatically go for the cheapest model, it has to last and you won't save money if you have to replace it. On the other hand if you have a toddler and you are buying a buggy for grandma and grandad to keep at their house it won't be used much and your little one is already walking so you can buy smartly.

Check the guarantee carefully and make sure you know what kind of damage and faults are part of the agreement.

It may sound obvious but while magazines and shops will sell, sell, sell to their hearts content and tell you what they think you need the people who really do know are the mums and dads who have used the products.

Internet shopping means you can check out the weight, features and ease of use of your chosen pushchair before you commit yourself. Check when you order so you understand the returns policy, different shops have different guidelines.