How to Pick the Best Travel Stroller
There are plenty of options, whether you want an ideal stroller for your travels or a compact, lightweight one to bring with you. We've tested them all to help you pick the ideal travel stroller that suits your requirements.
The lightweight stroller glides easily and drives well on different terrains. It folds up into a tiny bag that fits in the majority of overhead bins on airplanes.
Easy to Fold
The best travel strollers fold down into an easy-to-store, compact package that can fit into overhead bins on planes and in car trunks. You should look for strollers that fold with one hand, without stooping. Some strollers come with a convenient strap that allows you to easily sling it over your shoulders when it's not in use. If you're planning to do a lot of walking during your trip, it's helpful to find the stroller that has a large undercarriage basket that can hold large diaper bags and weekender bags.
The light Babyzen YoYo2 is the most compact stroller we've ever tested, weighing just 13.7 pounds and easily getting into aisles in airplanes or overhead bins. It's also smaller than other strollers which makes it easier to maneuver through crowds on streets in cities. It's not the ideal choice for running, rough terrain or quick outings.
Nuna Aer+ is another lightweight option. It packs full-size features in a compact, air-friendly design. It's compatible with Nuna infant car seats and Clek infant seat adapters (adapters are sold separately) and comes with a large storage compartment. It also offers an easy ride on bumpy surfaces. It's more expensive than other strollers we tested, but is worthwhile for parents who frequently use their stroller when traveling.
Some strollers provide the convenience of transport them, for instance the multi-functional Baby Jogger City Tour 2. This model is easy to maneuver and can be folded or unfolded using just one hand. It is compatible with all major car seat brands. Its front wheel suspension and swivel wheels ensure an easy ride on pavements, airports, and cobblestones. Its easy-to-use handlebar height adjusts to accommodate parents of all heights.
Contours takes popular stroller styles and makes them more affordable for families. Their Itsy stroller weighs less than the lighter Pockit, but offers solid frame, a robust dual-wheel suspension as well as a UPF 50+ sun canopy, and plenty of storage space. It also has a self-standing fold that's simple to fold down, and it comes with a convenient carrying bag and a strap for carrying.
Easy to Manoeuvre
The type of stroller you pick must be able to maneuver over all kinds of terrain. This is especially true when you plan to use your stroller for hiking or other activities where you might encounter rough surfaces. Choose a stroller with an easy-to-use handlebar and wheels 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 a top-rated umbrella stroller that's specifically designed for use on the road. It's a great option for parents who are looking for a high-quality, easy-to-use product that includes features that a lot of families would like to have in a stroller designed for travel. It has an easy folding mechanism that folds down small and an expandable canopy.
It's a bit more difficult to push than some of the smaller strollers in our reviews, but it's able to withstand a variety of terrains and is easy to turn. Another option that is worth considering is the GB Pockit, which is also a highly-rated stroller. It's pricier than some of the other travel strollers we've reviewed however it has many features that many parents want in a travel stroller. It has a simple handlebar and is compact enough to fit into overhead bins of airplanes.
If you like a sleeker look, the Zoe Traveler is a great choice. It's also a top-rated umbrella stroller in our rankings and has an elegant, minimalist design that makes it look like a backpack when it's folded. It's also a little lighter than the GB Pockit but it has more storage space and gets a higher score for quality than other smaller strollers we've tested.
The Doona is another excellent travel stroller that's FAA approved for aircraft use (with the latch base) and requires no installation. It's also sturdy and suitable for families with a family of children. It's a little more expensive than the other options in our rankings however, it's constructed with high-quality materials and was awarded a top score for its ease of use. It comes with accessories such as bags for travel and a rain cover that other brands require you to purchase separately.
Comfortable Seating
The best travel strollers are designed to provide your child with a comfortable ride. Choose models with a big canopy and padded seats. They must also recline, which is crucial for those who plan to use the stroller to nap during your travels. Also, ensure that the seat is appropriate to your child's size. Some travel strollers are designed to be as light and compact as is possible however this may come at the expense of comfort.
There are many options to combine the look and comfort. The Cybex Coya, for example is a stylish stroller which is both light and sturdy. The frame made of aluminum is built to last, while its anti-shock wheels and padded five-point harness ensure a smooth ride. The Coya comes with an enormous canopy that provides the best sun protection.
Nuna TRVL is a different alternative. It is a sleek, modern stroller that is designed to make travel easy with children. It comes with a single-hand fold mechanism and is light enough to fit in trunks of cars or overhead bins on airplanes. It can also be purchased with a variety of accessories and customization options including sun canopies, weather shields and snack tray.
If you're looking for a travel stroller that can double as a daily stroller take a look at the Uppababy G-Link 2. This spacious stroller is easy to maneuver and has many features that parents appreciate, including cup holders and storage compartments, as well as an easy buckle, and adjustable shoulder straps. Its spacious seat reclines, and it has a UPF50+ canopy with a peekaboo 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 which makes it a great option for families who frequently travel. The compact fold and the maneuverability of this stroller will allow you to travel through large cities and airports.
A stroller that is used for travel must be comfortable for both you and your child. Look for a model with a spacious and padded seat that can recline to nap during long journeys. Seats with padded legrests offer a more comfortable ride. Pick a stroller prams for travel that has a padded handle, so you can carry it when folded.
Convenient Storage
Contrary to the majority of strollers, a few models that are designed for travel feature ultra-compact folds, which make them perfect to fit into tight 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's Minu was among the first travel strollers that could be used as an everyday stroller. It is still a favorite among parents who pack light and do not want their stroller to be checked for gate access when they travel. The stroller is IATA-certified and easy to get from the plane and fits in the majority of overhead bins. It also has a number of innovative features, like the ability to fold with one hand with a large sunshade, as well as a comfortable seat with several recline positions.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly stroller that still feels like a luxury stroller, try the Kolcraft Cloud Plus. It is not the prettiest or the most compact in our test, but it does have an easy-to-use frame, and lots of clever features, including the ability to recline and an padded brake. It also has a large basket under the carriage and a one-handed fold. It's also green and comes in recyclable packaging and has 10 years of warranty.
Another top contender is the Bugaboo Butterfly, which has an elongated profile and a variety of useful features. It was easy to maneuver on various surfaces, like shag and wood, and the bottom basket can be used to store 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 much space to store your stroller, you may want to consider buying a bike shed. You can also design a custom nook for it. A garden shed, particularly is a great spot to store your stroller since it's weather-resistant and is protected from the elements. It is also easily accessible whenever you need it. You can also use a nook or shed to store your stroller if it's stolen or lost.