How to Pick the Best Travel Stroller
There are plenty of options, whether you want a stroller to travel with or a lightweight, compact one to take with you. We've tried them all to help you select the ideal travel stroller that suits your needs.
The stroller's lightweight design glides effortlessly and drives well on different terrains. It folds into a tiny carrying bag that fits into most overhead bins on planes.
Easy to Fold
The best travel strollers fold into an easy-to-store, compact package that can be tucked away in overhead bins on planes and in trunks of cars. Look for models with a one-hand fold that can be done without any stooping or struggling. Some strollers have a convenient strap that allows you to effortlessly carry it over your shoulders when it's not in use. If you're planning to walk for a long time during your trip, a stroller that has an enormous basket under the seat can be useful. It can hold large bags for weekender bags or diaper bags.
The lightweight Babyzen YoYo2 is the most compact stroller we tested, weighing only 13.7 pounds and easily getting into airplane aisles or into overhead bins. It's also a bit smaller than other strollers which makes it easier to navigate crowds on streets in cities. It's not the best choice for jogging or rough terrain however it's great for city life and quick excursions when you don't need to carry a larger stroller.
Another option that is lightweight is the Nuna Aer+, which packs a full-size stroller into a compact design that's suitable for air travel. It's compatible with both Nuna and Clek infant car seats (adapters sold separately) and has a spacious storage bin, and provides an easy ride on uneven surfaces. It's more expensive compared to other strollers we tried, but is an excellent choice for parents who use their strollers frequently while traveling.
Some travel strollers offer a more convenient way to transport them, such as the multi-functional Baby Jogger City Tour 2. It is simple to maneuver and can be folded or unfolded with one hand. It is compatible with a variety of major car seat brands. Its front wheel suspension as well as rotating wheels provide an easy ride on roads, airports and cobblestones. Its adjustable handlebar height can accommodate parents of all heights.
Contours makes popular stroller models more affordable for travelers. Their Itsy stroller weighs less than the light Pockit, but offers sturdy frames, a powerful dual-wheel suspension and an UPF 50+ sun canopy and plenty of storage space. It has a self standing fold that is simple to fold. It is also equipped with a convenient carry bag and carrying strap.
Easy to Manoeuvre
It is important to choose a stroller that can be maneuvered easily in all types of terrain. This is especially true in the event that you intend to use your stroller on hikes, or other excursions where you may encounter rough terrain. Find a stroller that has a simple-to-use handlebar and wheels designed to grip the ground well. It should also be lightweight and maneuverable enough that you can easily lift, carry or store it with minimal effort.
The BabyZen Yoyo2 is a highly reviewed umbrella stroller that is designed for travel. It's a great option for parents seeking a top-quality, easy-to-use product that includes features that families want in a stroller designed for travel. They include an easy folding mechanism that folds down small and an expandable canopy.
It's a little more difficult to push than other smaller travel strollers but it's a great choice on all kinds of terrains and is easy turn. Another option that is worth considering is the GB Pockit, which is also a highly-rated stroller. It is more expensive than the other strollers we evaluated however it comes with numerous features that parents look for in a stroller. It has a simple handlebar, and is small enough to click here fit into overhead bins of airplanes.
If you prefer a sleeker design, consider the Zoe Traveler. It's also a top umbrella stroller in our rankings and has a minimalist, sleek design that makes it look similar to a backpack it's folded. It's a little lighter than the GB Pockit, but it has more storage space and gets the highest score for quality than other smaller strollers we've evaluated.
The Doona is a fantastic stroller for travel, that is FAA approved (with the latch-base) and doesn't require any setup. It's also sturdy and comfortable to use with a family of children. It's more expensive than the other options in our ratings but it's built of high-quality materials, and received a top rating for its user-friendliness. It also comes with accessories like a rain cover and bags for travel, which other brands make you buy separately.
Comfortable Seating
The best travel strollers are designed to provide your child with a comfortable ride. Find models that are cushioned and have a well-sized canopy. If you plan to use the stroller as a babysitter during your trip it is essential to recline. Also, ensure that the seat is suitable for your child's size. Some travel strollers are designed to be as lightweight and compact as they can be However, this could be at the expense of comfort.
There are many options to combine style and comfort. The Cybex Coya, for example, is a stylish stroller that is both light and sturdy. Its aluminum frame will last for a long time, while its antishock wheels and 5-point padded harness ensure an enjoyable ride. The Coya also has a huge canopy that provides great sun protection.
Another excellent option is the Nuna TRVL, which is a sleek and modern stroller designed to make travelling with children as simple as is possible. It comes with a one-handed folding mechanism that folds easily and is light enough to fit into trunks of cars and overhead bins on airplanes. It is also available with a wide range of accessories and options for customization like weather shields, sun canopies and snack tray.
If you're seeking a travel buggy that can also function as a daily stroller then the Uppababy G-Link 2 is a excellent choice. This sizable stroller maneuvers smoothly and has all the features parents love, such as cup holders storage pockets, an easy buckle, and adjustable shoulder straps. Its spacious seat reclines, and it comes with a UPF50+ canopy with the ability to peek out through the mesh.
The Bugaboo Butterfly is a good choice for families who have infant car seats. This stroller is compatible for various infant car seats. It's an excellent choice for families that travel frequently. Its compact fold and movability allow you to easily navigate busy airports and cities.
A stroller that is used for travel should be comfortable for both you and your baby. Find a model that has an ample and comfortable seat that can recline to allow napping during long trips. The seat should also feature a an adequately cushioned leg rest because this will make for a more comfortable ride. Choose a travel stroller with a comfortable handle to allow you to carry it when folded.
Convenient Storage
Unlike most strollers, many models designed for travel have extremely compact folds, which make them perfect for stowing away in car trunks or crowded overhead bins. They are also typically lighter than 10 pounds, which makes them a breeze for anyone (including children) to carry.
UPPAbaby was one of the first to dive into the "travel stroller that doubles as a daily stroller" category and its Minu remains the top choice among parents who don't want to risk checking their strollers at the gate when they travel. This stroller that is IATA-certified fits in most overhead bins, moves like a dream from the plane, and comes with an array of innovative features (including a one-handed fold, huge sunshade, comfy seat with multi-position recline, spacious undercarriage basket, padded handlebar with wrist strap and an easy foot brake that only takes one step).
The Kolcraft Cloud Plus is a budget-friendly stroller that feels like a luxurious option. It's not the prettiest or most compact model we review, but it does have a streamlined frame, easy-to-use controls, and lots of clever features (including a reclining mechanism, a padded foot brake and a large undercarriage basket, and a simple one-handed fold). Plus, it's environmentally friendly and comes in recyclable packaging and 10 years of transferable warranty.
The Bugaboo Butterfly is another strong contender, thanks to its slim profile and practical features. In our tests, it maneuvered easily over a variety of surfaces including wood and shag carpet, and its bottom storage basket is large enough to fit in a backpack. The only issue is that it's heavy (at 17 pounds), so it may not fit into the overhead bin of smaller aircrafts.
If you do not have much space to store your stroller, then you might want to consider buying a bike shed. You can also build an individual nook for it. A garden shed is the ideal place to store your stroller since it's weather resistant and protected from the elements. It's also easily accessible any time you're in need. A shed or nook can be a secure spot to stash your stroller in the event that it gets lost or stolen when you're out.