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 that you can carry around on the go, there are plenty of great options. We've tested them all to help you select the ideal travel stroller that suits your needs.
A lightweight stroller that can be easily walked on and is able to drive over different terrains. It folds down into a small bag that fits inside the majority of overhead bins found on planes.
Easy to Fold
The best travel strollers can fold into a compact package which can be easily put in overhead bins on planes or car trunks. Look for models with a one-hand fold that is able to be completed without any stooping or fumbling. 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 an infant stroller with an ample undercarriage basket that can accommodate large diaper bags and weekender bags.
The lightweight Babyzen YoYo2 stroller is the most compact stroller we tested. Weighing only 13.7 pounds, it's able to easily fit in airplane aisles and 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 best option for jogging or rough terrain however it's great for city life and quick outings when you don't want to carry a larger stroller.
Another option that's lightweight is the Nuna Aer+, which packs full-size stroller features into a compact design suitable for air travel. It's compatible with both Nuna and Clek infant car seats (adapters are sold separately) and has a spacious storage bin, and offers an effortless ride on uneven surfaces. It's a little more expensive than the other travel strollers that we've tested, however it's worth the price for parents who regularly use their stroller while traveling.
Some strollers are designed to help to transport them. One example is the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 with its versatile design. This model features an easy-to-manoeuvre design that can be folded and unfolded in one hand and is compatible with the majority of major car seats. Its front wheel suspension and rotating wheels provide a smooth ride on roads, 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 families. Itsy's stroller is lighter than the light Pockit but has an extra durable frame, a dynamic dual wheel suspension, UPF50+ sun canopy, and plenty of storage. It also features a self-standing fold that's simple to fold down and is equipped with a convenient carrying bag and a strap for carrying.
Easy to Manoeuvre
The type of stroller you select should be easy to maneuver across all kinds of terrain. This is especially true in the event that you plan to use it for hiking or other activities in which you will encounter rough terrain. Select a stroller that comes with an easy-to-use handlebar to use and has wheels designed to be able to grip the surface. It should also be light and easy to maneuver so that you can lift the stroller, carry it or store it with little effort.
The BabyZen Yoyo2 is a highly reviewed umbrella stroller that is specifically designed for use on travel. It's an excellent choice for parents who are seeking a top-quality product that is easy to use and has features that families want in a stroller designed for travel. They include the ability to fold down in a compact manner and an extended canopy.
It's a bit more difficult to push than some of the smaller travel strollers in our reviews, but it's able to withstand a variety of terrains and is easy to turn. The GB Pockit is another highly-rated stroller. It's more expensive than the other strollers that we reviewed but it offers a variety of features that parents are looking for in a stroller. It has a simple handlebar, and is small enough to fit into overhead bins of airplanes.
If you're looking for a sleeker style, you should check out the Zoe Traveler. It's also a top umbrella stroller in our reviews and features a sleek, minimalist design that makes it look similar to a backpack it's folded. It's lighter than the GB Pockit, but it offers more storage and an overall higher score for quality than other compact strollers we've tried.
The Doona is a great travel stroller that's FAA approved for use in aircrafts (with the latch base) and requires zero setup. It's also durable and comfortable enough to use for multiple children. It's a little more expensive than the other options in our reviews however, it's constructed using high-quality materials and has received a top rating for its ease of use. It also includes accessories like a rain cover and travel bag, which other brands make you buy separately.
Comfortable Seating
The best strollers for travel are designed to give your child an enjoyable ride. Find models that are padded and come with a large canopy. They must also recline, which is essential for those who plan to use the stroller to nap during your trip. Also, ensure that the seat is appropriate for the size of your child. Some strollers for travel are designed to be as light and compact as possible, however this could compromise comfort.
There are many options that combine the look and comfort. The Cybex Coya, for example, is a stylish stroller that is lightweight and robust. The frame made of aluminum will last for a long time, and its antishock wheels and 5-point padded harness guarantee an easy ride. The Coya features a large canopy for excellent sun protection.
Another great option is the Nuna TRVL, which is a sleek and innovative stroller that is designed to make traveling with kids as easy as it can be. It comes with a one-handed folding mechanism that folds easily and is light enough to fit into the trunks of cars or overhead bins on airplanes. It can also be purchased with a variety of accessories and options for customization, such as sun canopies, weather shields, and snack tray.
If you're looking for a portable stroller that doubles as a stroller for daily use take a look at the Uppababy G-Link 2. This large stroller is easy to maneuver and has numerous features that parents love such as cup holders storage compartments, an easy buckle, and adjustable shoulder straps. The large seat reclines and it has a UPF50+ canopy that has a peekaboo mesh window.
A great option for families with infant car seats is the Bugaboo Butterfly. This stroller is compatible with many infant car seats and makes it a good choice for families who frequently travel. The compact fold and mobility of this stroller allow you to travel through busy airports and large cities.
A travel stroller 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 come with a well-padded leg rest, as this can make for a more comfortable ride. Make sure you choose a stroller with a padded handle that can be used to carry it when folded.
Convenient Storage
Unlike most strollers, many models designed for travel have extremely compact folds, which make them perfect to fit into tight car trunks or crowded overhead bins. These strollers are typically lighter than 10 pounds and simple to carry by anyone, even children.
UPPAbaby's Minu was among the first strollers that could also be used as an everyday stroller. It's still a popular choice for parents who don't pack a lot and do not want their stroller to get gate-checked when they travel. The stroller that is IATA-certified is easy to maneuver from the plane and fits in most overhead bins. It also comes with a number of smart features, including the ability to fold with one hand as well as a large sunshade. a comfortable seat that can be adjusted to various recline positions.
For a budget-friendly option that still feels like a luxury stroller, consider the Kolcraft Cloud Plus. It's not the prettiest or the most compact in our review, but it has an easy-to-use frame and a lot of smart features, including an adjustable reclining mechanism as well as padding for the brake. It also has a large basket under the carriage as well as a one-handed fold. It's also green, comes in recyclable packaging and comes with an extended warranty of 10 years.
The Bugaboo Butterfly is another strong contender, with its slim profile and useful 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 to be a backpack. The only downside is that it's heavy (at 17 pounds), so it may not fit into the overhead bin of more info smaller planes.
If you don't have a lot of space to store your stroller at home, consider purchasing a bike shed or creating a custom nook just for it. A garden shed is the ideal place to store your stroller, as it's weatherproof and shielded from the elements. It's also easy to access when you need it. You can also use a nook or shed to store your stroller if it's lost or stolen.