How to Pick the Best Travel Stroller
Whether you're looking for a stroller to take on a trip or you're looking for a lightweight, compact stroller to carry around on the go, there are plenty of options. We've gone through all of them to help you pick the ideal stroller for your requirements.
The lightweight stroller glides easily and performs well on a variety of terrains. It folds down into a tiny bag that fits in the majority of overhead bins for airplanes.
Easy to Fold
The best strollers fold into a compact, easy-to-store package that fits into overhead bins on planes and in car trunks. Find models that have a single-hand fold that is able to be completed without any stooping or struggling. Many models also have a handy carry strap that allows you to carry the stroller over your shoulder when not in use. If you're planning to walk for a long time on your travels, a stroller that has an ample basket underneath the seat could be helpful. It can accommodate large bags for diapers or weekender bags.
The lightweight Babyzen YoYo2 is the most compact stroller we test, weighing just 13.7 pounds and easily being able to fit down aisles in airplanes or overhead bins. It's also narrower than most other strollers and makes it easier to maneuver through crowds on city streets. It's not the best option for rough terrain or jogging however it's great for city life and quick outings when you don't want to lug around a bigger
twin stroller.
Another option that is lightweight is the Nuna Aer+, which packs full-size stroller features into a compact design suitable for travel on air. It is compatible with both Nuna infant car seats and Clek infant seat adapters (adapters are available separately) It also has an ample storage compartment. It also offers smooth riding on bumpy surfaces. It's more expensive than the other travel strollers that we tried, but is worth it for parents who use their stroller often while traveling.
Some strollers provide the convenience of transport them, such as the multi-functional Baby Jogger City Tour 2. It is simple to maneuver and folds or unfolded with one hand. It is compatible with many major car seat brands. The front wheel suspension and swivel wheels ensure smooth travel on roads, airports and cobblestones, and its adjustable handlebar height can accommodate parents of all heights.
Contours takes the most popular stroller designs and makes them more affordable for those who travel. Itsy's stroller is lighter than the lighter Pockit but it has an enduring frame, a dynamic dual wheel suspension and an UPF50+ sun canopy and plenty of storage. It also has a self-standing fold that's easy to collapse and is equipped with a convenient carrying bag and strap for carrying.
Easy to Manoeuvre
You should choose a travel stroller that is easy to maneuver in all terrains. This is especially important when you plan to take your stroller on hikes, or other excursions where you may encounter rough terrain. Look for a stroller with an easy-to-use handlebar and wheels that are designed to grip the ground well. It should also be light and maneuverable enough that you can easily lift and carry it or store it with minimal effort.
A good choice is the BabyZen Yoyo2, which is an umbrella stroller with top ratings that's made for travel. It's an excellent choice for parents who are looking for a premium, easy-to-use product that includes features that families want in a
pushchairs travel systems-friendly, stroller. These include an easy folding mechanism that folds down small and an extended canopy.
It's a little harder to push than some of the smaller strollers we have in our reviews, but it handles well over a variety of terrains and is easy to turn. The GB Pockit is another highly-rated stroller. It's more expensive than some of the other strollers in our ratings,
pram pushchair sale (
official site) but it offers many features that many parents want in a travel stroller. It has an easy-to-use handlebar, and is small enough to fit in the overhead bins of airplanes.
If you're looking for a sleeker design, check out the Zoe Traveler. It's also the top-rated umbrella stroller based on our reviews. It has a minimalist and sleek design, which makes it appear like a backpack once folded. It's smaller than the GB Pockit, but it has more storage and earns the highest score in terms of quality than other small travel strollers that we've tried.
The Doona is a fantastic travel stroller, which is FAA approved (with the latch-base) and requires no set-up. It's also sturdy and comfortable enough to use for several children. It's a little more expensive than some of the other options in our ratings, but it's made using high-quality materials and has received a top rating for its user-friendliness. It comes with accessories such as a travel bag and rain cover that other brands require you to buy separately.
Comfortable Seating
The best strollers for travel offer your child an enjoyable experience. Find models with a large canopy and padded seats. They must also recline, which is crucial when you intend to use the stroller for naps on your journey. Be sure that the seat is appropriate for your child's age. Some strollers are designed to be as lightweight and compact as possible However, this could be detrimental to the user's comfort.
There are many options to combine the look and comfort. The Cybex Coya, for example is a stylish stroller which is both lightweight and robust. Its aluminum frame is built to last, and its anti-shock wheels as well as padded 5-point harness ensure a smooth ride. The Coya comes with an extensive canopy that offers great sun protection.
Another option that is worth considering is the Nuna TRVL, which is a sleek and modern stroller that is designed to make travel with children as simple as possible. It features a single-handed folding mechanism and is light enough to fit into trunks of cars and overhead bins of airplanes. It is also available with a variety of accessories and customisation options including weather shields, sun canopies and snack trays.
If you're looking for a travel buggy that can also function as a daily stroller then the Uppababy G-Link 2 is a great option. This large stroller is easy to maneuver and comes with many features that parents appreciate, including cup holders storage compartments, an easy buckle and adjustable shoulder straps. Its spacious seat also reclines and has a large UPF 50+ canopy that has the mesh peekaboo window.
The Bugaboo Butterfly is a good option for families with infant car seats. This stroller is compatible with various infant car seats, making it a convenient option for families that frequently travel. Its compact fold and maneuverability allow you to easily navigate busy airports and cities.
A travel stroller is one that is comfortable for you and your child. Select a stroller with an ample, cushioned seat and can recline to allow for naps on long trips. Seats with well-padded legrests can make for a more comfortable ride. Pick a stroller for travel with a comfortable handle, so you can carry it when folded.
Convenient Storage
In contrast to most strollers, some models designed for
twin pushchairs travel have extremely compact folds that make them ideal to fit into tight car trunks or crowded overhead bins. They are also typically lighter than 10 pounds, which makes them easy for everyone (including children) to carry.
UPPAbaby was among the first to dive into the "travel stroller that doubles as an everyday stroller" category, and its Minu is still a top pick among parents who do not want to risk gate-checking their stroller when they travel. The stroller is IATA-certified and fits in most overhead bins, and can be moved like a dream on the plane, and has a range of smart features (including a one-handed fold, huge sunshade, comfy seat with a multi-position recline and a large undercarriage basket, and a padded handlebar with a wrist strap and an easy, one-step foot brake).
The Kolcraft Cloud Plus is a budget-friendly stroller that feels like a luxurious option. It's not the prettiest nor most compact model we review, but it does have a streamlined frame, easy-to-use controls, and plenty of useful features (including a reclining mechanism as well as a padded foot brake and a large undercarriage basket and a simple, one-handed fold). It's also environmentally friendly and comes in recyclable packaging with 10 years of transferable warranty.
The Bugaboo Butterfly is another strong contender, with its slim profile and a host of convenient features. In our tests, it maneuvered easily over a variety of surfaces including shag and wood carpet, and its bottom storage basket is large enough for a backpack. It's only downside is its weight (at 17 pounds) that could hinder it from fitting into overhead bins of smaller planes.
If you don't have plenty of space for storing your stroller at home, think about buying a bike shed or creating a nook specifically for it. A garden shed is the ideal location to store a stroller since it's weatherproof and protected from the elements. It's also easy to access whenever you require it. A nook or
cheap stroller shed can also be used as a secure location to store your stroller in case it's stolen or lost while you're away.