How to Pick the Best Travel Stroller
Whether you're looking for a stroller that you can use on your travels or a light, compact stroller to take on the go There are plenty of great choices. We've put them all to the test to help you choose the ideal stroller for your needs.
A stroller with a light weight that is smooth and easy to drive across various terrains. It folds down into a compact bag that fits in most overhead bins on planes.
Easy to Fold
The best travel strollers can fold into a compact unit that can easily be put in overhead bins on planes or trunks of cars. Choose models that feature a single-hand fold that is able to be completed without any stooping or straining. Some also have a convenient carry strap that allows you to carry the stroller on your shoulder when not in use. If you're planning to spend a lot of walking during your trip it's a good idea to get a stroller with a large undercarriage basket which can hold large diaper bags as well as weekender bags.
The light Babyzen YoYo2 stroller is the most compact we test. Weighing just 13.7 pounds, it can easily fit into aisles of airplanes and overhead bins. It's also smaller than other strollers, making it easier to maneuver in busy streets. It's not the best option for running, rough terrain, or quick outings.
Another option that is lightweight is the Nuna Aer+, which packs full-size strollers into a compact design suitable for travel on air. It's compatible with Nuna infant car seats and Clek infant seat adapters (adapters are available separately), and has a large storage compartment. It also provides a smooth ride over bumpy surfaces. It's more expensive than other strollers we tried, but is an excellent choice for parents who frequently use their stroller while traveling.
Some strollers come with the convenience of transport them, like the multi-purpose Baby Jogger City Tour 2. This model is easy to maneuver and can be folded or unfolded with one hand. It is compatible with a variety of major car seat brands. The front wheel suspension and the swivel wheels guarantee an easy ride on pavements, airports, and cobblestones. Its easy-to-use handlebar height adjusts to accommodate parents of all sizes.
Contours takes the most popular stroller designs and makes them more affordable for travelers. Their stroller weighs less than the light Pockit however it has a sturdy frame, dynamic dual-wheel suspension, an UPF 50+ sun canopy and plenty of storage space. It also features an auto-standing fold that is easy to fold down and comes with a convenient carrying bag and carry strap.
Easy to Manoeuvre
The type of stroller you choose should be easy to maneuver across all kinds of terrain. This is especially important if you plan to use your stroller for hikes or other excursions where you may encounter rough surfaces. Choose a stroller that has an easy-to-use handlebar to use and wheels designed to hold the surface. It should also be light and maneuverable enough that you can lift and carry it or store it without much effort.
An excellent option is the BabyZen Yoyo2, which is an umbrella stroller with top ratings that's designed for travel. It's a great choice for parents who are looking for a high-quality, easy-to-use product that includes features that many families desire in a stroller that is travel-friendly. They include a compact folding mechanism and an extended canopy.
It's a little more difficult to push than other smaller strollers however it is able to handle on all kinds of types of terrain 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 rankings however it has an array of features that parents are looking for in a travel stroller. It has a simple-to-use handlebar that's easy to move and is compact enough to fit into the overhead bins of planes.
If you prefer a sleeker style, you should check out the Zoe Traveler. It is also the top-rated umbrella stroller based on our reviews. It's a sleek and minimalist design, which makes it appear like a backpack once folded. It's also a bit lighter than the GB Pockit but it has more storage space and earns an overall higher score for quality compared to the other small travel strollers we've tested.
The Doona is another excellent stroller for traveling that's FAA aircraft-approved (with the latch base) and requires no installation. It's also durable and comfortable enough for multiple children. It's more expensive compared to other alternatives, but it's constructed of top-quality materials. It also earned the highest rating for ease of use. It comes with accessories such as bags for travel and a rain cover, which other brands require you to buy separately.
Comfortable Seating
The best strollers for travel are designed to provide your child with a comfortable ride. Look for models with a wide canopy and padded seats. They should also recline, which is crucial when you intend to use the stroller for naps on your journey. Be sure that the seat is suitable for your child's age. Some strollers are designed to be as compact and light as possible, however this could compromise comfort.
Luckily, there are plenty of alternatives that offer fashion and comfort. For example the Cybex Coya is a stylish stroller that is lightweight and robust. The frame made of aluminum is built to last, and its anti-shock wheels as well as padded 5-point harness ensure a comfortable ride. The Coya also comes with a large canopy that provides an excellent sun protection.
Nuna TRVL is another great option. It is a sleek, innovative stroller that is designed to make travel easy for children. It has a one-handed fold mechanism and is lightweight enough to fit into trunks of cars or overhead bins on airplanes. It can also be purchased with a wide range of accessories and options for customization like weather shields, sun canopies, and snack tray.
If you're looking for a portable stroller that can double as a stroller for daily use take a look at the Uppababy G-Link 2. This spacious stroller is easy to maneuver and has numerous features that parents love including cup holders and storage compartments, as well as an easy buckle and adjustable shoulder straps. The spacious seat reclines and has a large UPF50+ canopy, with an open mesh window.
The Bugaboo Butterfly is a good choice for families who have infant car seats. This stroller is compatible with many infant car seats and makes it a good option for families that frequently travel. The compact fold and mobility of this stroller allows you to navigate large cities and airports with ease.
A stroller that is used for travel should be comfortable for you and your child. Find a model that has a spacious and padded seat that reclines to allow napping during long trips. The seat should also have a well-padded leg rest, since this can provide a more comfortable ride. Finally, choose a travel stroller that has a cushioned handle that can be used to carry it when folded.
Convenient Storage
Many travel-friendly strollers fold up to be so compact that they can be carried in small car trunks or overcrowded overhead bins. They also often weigh less than 10 pounds, making them easy for anyone (including children) to carry.
UPPAbaby's Minu was one of the very first travel strollers that could be used as a regular stroller. It is still a favorite among parents who are light packers and do not want their stroller to get gate-checked when they travel. This IATA-certified stroller fits in most overhead bins, moves like a dream off website the plane, and offers a range of smart features (including a one-handed fold, massive sunshade, a comfy seat with a multi-position recline and a large undercarriage basket, padded handbar with a wrist strap, and an easy, one-step foot brake).
The Kolcraft Cloud Plus is a budget-friendly stroller, but it feels like an expensive option. It's not the prettiest or the smallest model in our review, but it does have sleek frame, easy-to-use controls, and a variety of useful features (including a reclining mechanism as well as a padded foot brake, a large undercarriage basket and a simple one-handed fold). It's also eco-friendly and comes in recyclable packaging and comes with a 10-year warranty.
Another strong contender is the Bugaboo Butterfly, which has a slim profile and a host of convenient features. In our tests, it swung easily over a variety of surfaces including wood and shag carpet, and its bottom storage basket is large enough for a backpack. The only drawback is its weight (at 17 pounds) that could hinder it from fitting in the overhead bins of smaller planes.
If you do not have much space to store your stroller, you may be interested in purchasing a bike shed. You can also create a custom nook for it. A garden shed is the perfect location to store a stroller, as it's weatherproof and protected from the elements. It's also easily accessible at any time you require it. You can also use an area or shed to store your stroller in the event that it's stolen or lost.