How to Pick the Best Travel Stroller
There are a variety of options to choose from for you to choose from, whether you need a stroller for travel or a lightweight, compact one to take with you. We've tested all of them to help you select the most suitable travel stroller that meets your needs.
A stroller with a light weight that glides smoothly and drives well over different terrains. It folds up into a small bag that fits into the majority of overhead bins on airplanes.
Easy to Fold
The best travel strollers fold into a compact, easy-to-store package that can be tucked away in overhead bins on planes and in trunks of cars. Look for models that fold using one hand, and without stooping. Some models also come with a convenient carry strap that allows you to carry the stroller on your shoulder when not in use. If you plan to do a lot of walking during your trip it's a good idea to get an infant stroller with an ample undercarriage basket that can hold large diaper bags as well as weekender bags.
The lightweight Babyzen YoYo2 is the most compact stroller we test, weighing just 13.7 pounds and being able to fit down aisles of airplanes or into overhead bins. It's also a bit smaller than other strollers, making it easier to maneuver in busy streets. It's not the best option for running, rough terrain, or short outings.
Nuna Aer+ is another lightweight option. It packs all the features of a full-size car seat into a compact air-friendly design. It's compatible with Nuna infant car seats and Clek infant seat adapters (adapters are sold separately) It also has an ample storage compartment. It also provides a smooth ride over bumpy surfaces. It's more expensive than other travel strollers that we evaluated, but it's worth it for parents who use their strollers frequently when traveling.
Some strollers are designed to make it easier to transport them. One example is the Baby Jogger City Tour 2, which has a versatile design. This stroller has an easy-to-use design that can be folded and unfolded using one hand and is compatible with all major brand car seats. Its front wheel suspension as well as rotating wheels provide a smooth ride on pavements, airports, and cobblestones, and its easy-to-use handlebar height adjusts to accommodate parents of all heights.
Contours takes the most popular stroller designs and makes them more affordable for those who travel. Their Itsy stroller weighs less than the light Pockit, but offers a sturdy frame, dynamic dual-wheel suspension and a UPF 50+ sun canopy, and plenty of storage space. It has a self standing fold that is easy to fold down. It is also equipped with a convenient carry bag and strap for carrying.
Easy to Manoeuvre
You should choose a travel stroller that can be maneuvered easily in all kinds of terrain. This is particularly true if you intend to use it for adventures or hikes where you may encounter rough surfaces. Find a stroller that has a simple-to-use handlebar and wheels designed to hold the ground in a secure manner. It should be light and easy to hold so that you can easily lift it, carry, or even store it.
A great option is the BabyZen Yoyo2, which is an extremely rated umbrella stroller specifically designed for use on the road. It's a good option for parents who want an easy-to-use, high-quality product that has features that a lot of families are looking for in a portable stroller, including a compact fold and a sun canopy that extends.
It's a little more difficult to push than other smaller travel strollers however it is able to handle on all kinds of types of terrain and is easy to turn. Another great option is the GB Pockit, which is also a top-rated stroller. It's more expensive than the other strollers we evaluated however it comes with numerous features that parents want in a stroller. It comes with a user-friendly handlebar that is easy to maneuver and is small enough to fit into the overhead bins of airplanes.
If you prefer a sleeker design, consider the Zoe Traveler. It is also the top-rated umbrella stroller according to our evaluations. It has a minimalist and sleek design, that makes it look like a backpack when folded. It's lighter than the GB Pockit, but it has more storage space and gets a better score in terms of quality than other smaller strollers we've tried.
The Doona is another great stroller for traveling that's FAA aircraft-approved (with the latch base) and requires no set-up. It's also sturdy and comfortable enough to use for many children. It's more expensive than other options, but it is constructed of top-quality materials. It also earned a top score in terms of user-friendliness. It also comes with accessories like an umbrella and travel bag, that other brands make you buy separately.
Comfortable Seating
The best travel strollers provide your child with an enjoyable experience. Choose models with a large canopy and padded seats. They must also recline, which is essential for those who plan to use the stroller to nap on your journey. Also, make sure the seat is suitable for the size of your child. Some strollers are designed to be as lightweight and compact as possible however this may come at the expense of comfort.
There are many options to combine design and comfort. For example the Cybex Coya is a stylish stroller that is light and sturdy. The frame made of aluminum will last a lifetime, while its antishock wheels and 5-point padded harness guarantee an easy ride. The Coya features an extensive canopy that offers the best sun protection.
Nuna TRVL is a different option. It is a sleek, innovative stroller designed to make traveling simple for children. It features a single-handed folding mechanism that folds easily and is light enough to fit into trunks of cars and overhead bins of airplanes. It is available with a variety of accessories and Pushchairs & Prams UK customisations, including sun canopies and weather shields.
If you're looking for a travel stroller that can double as a stroller for daily use take a look at the Uppababy G-Link 2. The spacious stroller moves smoothly and has all the features parents love including cup holders and storage pockets, as well as an easy buckle and adjustable shoulder straps. Its spacious seat reclines, and has a large UPF50+ canopy, with an open mesh window.
A great option for families with infant car seats is the Bugaboo Butterfly. This stroller can be used with a variety of infant car seats, making it a convenient choice for families who frequently travel. The compact fold and mobility of this stroller allow you to travel through large cities and airports.
A stroller for travel should be comfortable for you and your child. Look for a model with an ample and comfortable seat that reclines to nap during long journeys. The seat should also feature a an adequately cushioned leg rest as this can make for an extra comfortable ride. Select a stroller that has a padded handle so you can carry it when folded.
Convenient Storage
Many travel-friendly strollers fold up to be so compact that they can be stowed in tight car trunks and crowded overhead bins. They are also typically lighter than 10 pounds, making them easy for everyone (including children) to carry.
The UPPAbaby Minu was among the first strollers that could also be used as a regular stroller. It is still a top choice among parents who are light packers and do not want their stroller to be checked for gate access when they travel. This IATA-certified stroller can be tucked away in the majority of overhead bins, moves like a dream from the plane, and offers various smart features (including the ability to fold with one hand, a large sunshade, a comfortable seat with a multi-position recline and a large undercarriage basket, padded handbar with wrist strap and an easy foot brake that is one step).
For a budget-friendly option that still feels like a luxury stroller, try the Kolcraft Cloud Plus. It's not the prettiest or the smallest model in our review, but it does have a streamlined frame, easy-to-use controls, and plenty of clever features (including a reclining mechanism and a foot brake that is padded and a large undercarriage basket and a straightforward one-handed fold). Additionally, it's eco-friendly and comes with recyclable packaging and the option of transferring a 10-year warranty.
The Bugaboo Butterfly is another strong competitor, with its slim profile and a host of practical features. It's easy to move across different surfaces, like shag and wood, and the bottom storage basket can be used to store a backpack. The only downside is that it's a bit heavy (at 17 pounds) and therefore may not fit in the overhead bins of smaller planes.
If you don't have lots of space for storing your stroller at home, consider purchasing a bike shed or creating a custom nook just for it. A garden shed, particularly, is a great place to store your stroller since it's weatherproof and shielded from the elements. It's also easily accessible whenever you need it. A shed or nook can also be used as a secure spot to stash your stroller in case it is stolen or lost while you're away.