How to Pick the Best Travel Stroller
If you're looking for a stroller to use while you travel or you're looking for a lightweight compact stroller to carry around on the go, there are plenty of great options. We've put them all to the test to help you pick the ideal travel stroller to meet your needs.
A stroller that is lightweight, is smooth and easy to drive across various terrains. It folds into a teeny-tiny carrying bag and fits into the majority of overhead bins on airplanes.
Easy to Fold
The most effective strollers for travel can be folded into a compact unit that can easily be stored in overhead bins on planes or trunks of cars. It is recommended to look for models that fold with only one hand, with no having to bend. Some strollers come with a handy strap that allows you to effortlessly carry it over your shoulders when it's not in use. If you're planning to walk a lot on your travels, a stroller with an ample basket underneath the seat can be useful. It can hold large bags for weekender bags or diaper bags.
The light Babyzen YoYo2 is the most compact stroller we've ever test, weighing just 13.7 pounds and being able to fit down airplane aisles or into overhead bins. It's also narrower than most other strollers and makes it easier to navigate crowds on city streets. It's not the ideal choice for running, rough terrain, or quick outings.
Another option that is lightweight is the Nuna Aer+, which packs a full-size stroller into a compact design that's suitable for travel on air. It's compatible with Nuna infant car seats and Clek infant seat adapters (adapters are sold separately), and has a spacious storage compartment. It also provides an easy ride on bumpy surfaces. It's more expensive than other travel strollers that we tried, but is an excellent choice for parents who use their stroller often while traveling.
Some travel strollers offer a more convenient way to transport them, like the versatile Baby Jogger City Tour 2. This stroller has an easy-to-use design that folds and unfolded using one hand and is compatible with the majority of major car seats. The front wheel suspension and the swivel wheels guarantee a smooth ride on airports, pavements, and cobblestones. Its convenient handlebar height adjusts to accommodate parents of all heights.
Contours makes popular stroller models more affordable for travelers. Itsy's stroller weighs less than the light Pockit but it has an enduring frame, dynamic dual wheel suspension and a UPF50+ sun canopy as well as plenty of storage. It also features a self-standing fold that's simple to fold, and it comes with a convenient carry bag and carry strap.
Easy to Manoeuvre
It is important to choose a stroller that is easy to maneuver on all terrains. This is especially true if you intend to use it for adventures or hikes where you might encounter rough surfaces. Choose a stroller that has an easy-to-use handlebar to use and wheels designed to be able to grip the surface. It should also be lightweight and manageable so you can lift it and carry it or store it without much effort.
The BabyZen Yoyo2 is a highly reviewed umbrella stroller that is specifically designed for use on travel. It's a great choice for parents looking for an easy-to-use, high-quality product with features that many families are looking for in a portable stroller, such as compact folding and a sun canopy that extends.
It's a little more difficult to push than other smaller travel strollers but it's a great choice on all kinds of types of terrain and is easy to turn. The GB Pockit is another highly-rated stroller. It is more expensive than the other strollers we evaluated however it comes with a variety of features that parents look for in a stroller. It has an easy-to-use handlebar and is compact enough to fit in the overhead bins of airplanes.
If you prefer a sleeker design, consider the Zoe Traveler. It's also a top-rated umbrella stroller in our ratings and has a minimalist, sleek design that looks almost like a backpack when it's folded. It's heavier than the GB Pockit, but it has more storage and earns a better score for quality than other smaller strollers we've evaluated.
The Doona is a fantastic stroller that is FAA approved (with the latch-base) and doesn't require any setup. It's also sturdy and comfortable to use with multiple children. It's a bit more expensive than some of the other choices in our reviews however, it's constructed with high-quality materials and was awarded a top score for its ease of use. It also includes accessories, such as a rain cover and travel bag, that other brands require you to purchase separately.
Comfortable Seating
The best strollers for travel are designed to provide your child with a comfortable ride. Look for models with a large canopy and comfortable seats. They must also recline, which is important for those who plan to use the stroller for naps on your journey. Additionally, be sure that the seat is suitable for your child's age. Some strollers for travel are designed to be as compact and lightweight as they can, but this could result in a loss of the comfort of your child.
There are many options to combine style and comfort. The Cybex Coya, for example is a stylish stroller which is lightweight and durable. The frame made of aluminum will last for a long time, while its antishock wheels and padded 5-point harness ensure an enjoyable ride. The Coya comes with an enormous canopy that provides the best sun protection.
Nuna TRVL is a different option. It is a sleek, innovative stroller designed to make traveling easy for children. It comes with a one-handed folding mechanism and is light enough to fit into car trunks or overhead bins on airplanes. It is available with a range of accessories and customizations such as weather shields and sun canopies.
If you're looking for a portable stroller that doubles as a regular stroller, consider the Uppababy G-Link 2. This spacious stroller is simple 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 comes with an enormous UPF 50+ canopy, which has a mesh window that peeks out.
The Bugaboo Butterfly is a good choice for families who have infant car seats. This stroller can be used with a variety of infant car seats and makes it a good option for families that frequently travel. The compact fold and the maneuverability of this stroller allow you to travel through busy airports and large cities.
A stroller for travel must be comfortable for both you and your baby. Choose a stroller with an expansive and comfortable seat that can recline to nap during long journeys. The seat should also come with an adequately cushioned leg rest, since this can provide a more comfortable ride. Also, you should choose a travel stroller with a padded handle that can be used to carry it when folded.
Convenient Storage
Many strollers that are designed for travel fold so small that they can be stored in trunks of cars and overcrowded overhead bins. They also often weigh less than 10 pounds, which makes them easy for everyone (including children) to carry.
UPPAbaby was among the first brands to venture into the "travel stroller that doubles as a daily stroller" category and its Minu is a top pick among parents who don't want to risk having their stroller checked at the gate every time they fly. The stroller that is IATA-certified is easy to maneuver from the plane and fits in the majority of overhead bins. It also has numerous smart features, including a one-handed folding mechanism as well as a large sunshade. a comfortable seat with various recline positions.
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, website but it has an elegant frame, simple controls, and lots of useful features (including a reclining mechanism as well as a padded foot brake, a large undercarriage basket and a simple fold that only requires one hand). It's also environmentally friendly and comes in recyclable packaging and has an extended warranty of 10 years.
The Bugaboo Butterfly is another strong competitor, with its slim profile and many useful features. In our tests, it swung easily over a variety of surfaces, including wood and shag carpet, and its bottom storage basket is big enough for a backpack. It's only downside is its weight (at 17 pounds) which could prevent it from fitting into overhead bins of smaller planes.
If you don't have a lot of space for storing your stroller at home, consider purchasing a bike shed or making a nook custom for it. A garden shed, in particular, is a great place to store your stroller since it's weatherproof and protected from the elements. It's also easily accessible when you need it. You can also use an area or shed to store your stroller in the event that it's stolen or lost.