When it comes to transitioning a 5-month-old from an infant seat into something more accommodating, many parents find themselves in a bit of a dilemma. The idea of combining a car seat with a stroller for convenience is appealing but not always straightforward. Here's what you need to know about your options.

First off, if you're looking for convertible car seats that click into strollers, unfortunately, they don't exist. Convertible car seats are designed to stay within vehicles due to their larger size and focus on safety. However, there are alternatives that can meet both your needs for safety and ease of use.

If your little one is maxing out their current infant seat, consider moving them to a regular stroller. At 5 months, most infants are big enough to comfortably sit in the main part of a stroller. The stroller's recline feature can provide adequate support if your child isn't completely steady sitting up.

For parents interested in a seat that offers easier mobility between cars without a conventional base, some car seats connect to the LATCH system much like a seatbelt, allowing for quick and secure installation. This feature can be especially useful if you need to frequently switch the car seat between different vehicles.

The Chicco Fit 360 is one of the few models with a rotating seat design that fits into a base, though its large size can make it cumbersome to transport. Separate bases are available, but this can add to the cost.

When choosing the right stroller or car seat for your child, especially around the 5-month mark, it's important to ensure they aren't outgrowing their current seat prematurely. Check that all extra padding is removed and the straps are adjusted properly for a secure fit.

If you're ready to explore stroller options or need guidance on transitioning your child to a forward-facing seat, remember to prioritize compatibility with your lifestyle. Whether that involves multiple car seats for different vehicles or a versatile stroller system, the key lies in balancing convenience and child safety.

In conclusion, while convertible car seats for strollers aren't an option, adequately researching and finding a setup that suits your needs is possible. Make sure your stroller suits your child’s current size and assess your requirements for ease of use and frequency of mobility.