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 bring with you. We've tested each one to help you pick the ideal travel stroller that meets your needs.
A stroller with a light weight that is smooth and easy to drive across various terrains. It folds up into a compact bag that fits into most overhead bins on airplanes.
Easy to Fold
The most effective strollers for travel can be folded into a compact package which can be easily placed in overhead bins on planes or trunks of cars. Look for models with a single-hand fold that doesn't require any stooping or straining. Some models also come with a convenient carry strap that makes it simple to carry the stroller on your shoulder when not in use. If you're planning to do a lot of walking during your trip it's a good idea to get an infant stroller with a large undercarriage basket which can accommodate large diaper bags as well as weekender bags.
The light Babyzen YoYo2 stroller is the most compact we tested. Weighing only 13.7 pounds, it will easily fit into aisles of airplanes and overhead bins. It is also narrower than other strollers, making it easier to maneuver through crowds on city streets. It's not the ideal choice for jogging, rough terrain or for quick excursions.
Another lightweight option is the Nuna Aer+, which packs a full-size stroller into a compact form that's suitable for travel on air. It is compatible with both Nuna infant car seats and Clek infant seat adapters (adapters are available separately) It also has an ample storage compartment. It also offers smooth riding on bumpy surfaces. It's a bit more expensive than other strollers that we've tested, however it's worth the price for parents who frequently use their stroller while traveling.
Some travel strollers offer a more convenient way to transport them, such as the multi-functional Baby Jogger City Tour 2. This model is simple to maneuver and can be folded or unfolded using just one hand. It is compatible with all major car seat brands. The front wheel suspension, swivels, and swivel wheels provide an easy ride over pavements, airports and cobblestones. The handlebar height can be adjusted to meet the needs of parents of any height.
Contours make popular strollers more affordable for those who travel. Itsy's stroller weighs less than the lightweight Pockit however it comes with a more durable frame, a dynamic dual wheel suspension and a UPF50+ sun canopy and plenty of storage. It also has a self-standing fold that's simple to fold, and it is equipped with a convenient carrying bag and a strap for carrying.
Easy to Manoeuvre
The type of travel stroller you pick should be easy to maneuver on all types of terrain. This is especially true in the event that you intend to use your stroller on hikes, or other excursions where you may encounter rough surfaces. Pick a stroller with a handlebar that is simple to use and has wheels designed to be able to grip the surface. It should be lightweight and easy to handle so you can easily lift it, carry, or even store it.
The BabyZen Yoyo2 is a highly rated umbrella stroller designed for travel. It's a great option for parents seeking a top-quality product that is easy to use and has features that a lot of families would like to have in a stroller designed for travel. These include the ability to fold down in a compact manner and an expandable canopy.
It's a bit more difficult to push than the smaller travel strollers in our reviews, but it is able to handle a variety of terrains and is easy to turn. Another option that is worth considering is the GB Pockit, which is also a top-rated stroller. It's more expensive than other strollers we evaluated, but it has numerous features that parents are looking for in a stroller. It has a simple handlebar and is compact enough to fit in the overhead bins of airplanes.
If you're looking for 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 makes it look similar to a backpack it's folded. It's lighter than the GB Pockit, but it has more storage and earns the highest score for quality than other smaller strollers we've evaluated.
The Doona is another great stroller for traveling that's FAA approved for aircraft use (with the latch base) and requires no setup. It's also durable and comfortable enough to use for multiple children. It's more expensive compared to other alternatives, but it's made of high-quality materials. It also earned a top rating in terms of ease-of-use. It also comes with other accessories, such as a rain cover and bags for travel, which other brands make you buy separately.
Comfortable Seating
The best strollers for traveling provide your child with an enjoyable experience. Look for models with a wide canopy and padded seats. If you intend to use the stroller for napping on your travels it is crucial to recline. Also, ensure that the seat is suitable for the size of your child. Some strollers for travel are designed to be as compact and light as they can, but this can compromise the comfort of your child.
There are a variety of options that combine style and comfort. For example the Cybex Coya is a stylish stroller that is light and sturdy. Its aluminum frame is built to last, and its anti-shock wheels as well as padded 5-point harness ensure a smooth ride. The Coya features an enormous canopy that provides the best sun protection.
Another excellent option is the Nuna TRVL, which is a sleek and innovative stroller designed to make traveling with children as simple as is possible. It has a one-handed folding mechanism that folds easily and is lightweight enough to fit in car trunks or overhead bins on airplanes. It is available with a wide range of accessories and customisations, including sun canopies and weather shields.
If you're in search of a travel stroller that doubles as a daily stroller, consider the Uppababy G-Link 2. This large stroller is simple to maneuver and comes with numerous features that parents love including cup holders, storage compartments, an easy buckle and adjustable shoulder straps. Its spacious seat also reclines and features an enormous UPF 50+ canopy, which has a mesh peekaboo window.
The Bugaboo Butterfly is a good choice for families who have infant car seats. This stroller is compatible for a variety of infant car seats. It's a great option for families that travel frequently. The compact fold and maneuverability of this stroller allows you to travel through large cities and airports with ease.
A travel stroller must be comfortable for you and your baby. Select a stroller with an ample, cushioned seat that reclines to allow naps during long journeys. The seat should also come with an adequately cushioned leg rest, since this can provide a more comfortable ride. Make sure you choose a stroller with a comfortable handle that you can use to carry it when folded.
Convenient Storage
Many travel-friendly strollers fold up so small that they can be carried in small trunks of cars and overcrowded overhead bins. They typically weigh less than 10 pounds, making them easy for everyone (including children) to carry.
UPPAbaby was among the first companies to enter the "travel stroller that doubles as a daily stroller" category, and its Minu is an excellent choice for light-packing parents who don't want to risk gate-checking their stroller when they fly. This stroller that is IATA-certified fits in most overhead bins, maneuvers like a dream from the plane, and offers an array of innovative features (including folding with one hand, massive sunshade, a comfy seat with multi-position recline, spacious undercarriage basket, and a padded handlebar with a wrist strap, and a simple, one-step foot brake).
For a pushchairsandpramsuk budget-friendly model that still feels like a luxurious stroller, consider the Kolcraft Cloud Plus. It's not the prettiest nor most compact model we review, but it does have 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 one-handed fold). It's also eco-friendly and comes in recyclable packaging, and comes with a 10-year warranty.
Another option is the Bugaboo Butterfly, which has an elongated profile and a variety of useful features. It was easy to maneuver on different surfaces like shag and wood, and the bottom storage basket can accommodate 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 don't have plenty of space to store your stroller at home, think about buying a bike shed or creating a custom nook just for it. A garden shed is the ideal location to store a stroller, since it's weatherproof and protected from the elements. It's also accessible any time you're in need. A shed or nook could also serve as a safe location to store your stroller in the event that it is stolen or lost when you're out.