Choosing a pushchair for your child is one of the most crucial but perplexing decisions that new parents can make, simply because the choice is so vast, including:

• Traditional backward-facing prams
• Multi-functioning pushchairs /prams and travel systems
• All terrain pushchairs/"three wheelers"
• Flat folding pushchairs
• Umbrella folding pushchairs
• Double pushchairs

The two most important factors to consider are comfort and convenience. Traditionally-built prams and travel systems are robust and comfy, but tend to be heavy and less portable. On the other hand, lightweight pushchairs or strollers offer ultimate transportability but can be a less comfortable ride for your baby being particularly unsuitable for newborns, who need a lie-flat setting and a comfortable padded seat.

Your decision should be influenced by your lifestyle and, where possible, your longer term plans. If you're planning to have more than one child, you will need a tough model that will last a few years. Alternatively, you may choose to buy a cheaper pushchair now and replace it for the next child. Do you use a bus service regularly? Usually buses are licensed to carry a maximum of two occupied pushchairs at a time and when they have reached their quota you will only be able to board with your buggy collapsed. If you travel by train and have to use stairs or escalators to reach the platform, a lightweight pushchair that can be folded easily with one hand will free up the other to hold your child. If you live in an area where you will be walking a lot, either on tarmac pavements or through green spaces, an all-terrain pushchair, usually with three free-moving wheels, will probably be the easiest to steer. Regular car users should opt for a pushchair that, when collapsed, fits comfortably in the boot of the car and still leaves space for the shopping. You might also prefer a travel system that offers the infant carrier for the car attached to the pushchair early on for simplicity and flexibility. If you plan to let your baby sleep for long periods in the pushchair, one that comes with the option of a carrycot will enable your baby to lie flat while sleeping.

The folding mechanism of the pushchair will also be an important factor in your decision. An umbrella folding pushchair will take up less room but has less sturdy suspension which makes the ride less comfortable. A flat folding pushchair tends to cost less and will require more surface area in the boot of your car, but will be more comfortable for your child and will usually enable the seat to lay flat for a newborn. They also offer bigger shopping baskets below than the umbrella folds.

If you choose to buy a pushchair from Kays, there are a number of payment options available in addition to payment by credit or debit card, especially if you'd like to spread the cost a little. A pushchair can be a hefty investment especially if you opt for more expensive brands or a multi-functioning travel system. Choose to pay weekly over 20 weeks (or 52 if you are really planning ahead) and it will cost you no more as the credit will be interest free. Longer credit is available with interest. Kays catalogue can make your life easier by spreading payments at a time when you need every penny for a new family with not only pushchairs and strollers but also a full range of products to kit out the nursery.