How to Pick the Best Travel Stroller
If you're looking for a stroller that you can use on your travels or a light, compact stroller to carry around on the go There are plenty of alternatives. We've put them to the test to help you pick the ideal travel stroller for your needs.
The stroller's lightweight design glides effortlessly and performs well on a variety of terrains. It folds up into a tiny carrying bag that fits into most airplane overhead bins.
Easy to Fold
The best travel strollers can be folded into a compact unit that can easily be stored in overhead bins of planes and trunks of cars. Choose models that feature a single-hand fold that doesn't require any stooping or fumbling. Many models also have a handy carry strap that makes it easy to carry the stroller on your shoulder when not in use. If you plan to walk for a long time on your travels, a stroller with an ample basket underneath the seat can be useful. It can hold large diaper bags or weekender bags.
The lightweight Babyzen YoYo2 is the most compact stroller we tested, weighing just 13.7 pounds and easily getting into aisles of airplanes or into overhead bins. It's also narrower than most other strollers and makes it easier to weave through crowds on streets in the city. It's not the ideal choice for running, rough terrain or quick outings.
Another option that's lightweight is the Nuna Aer+, which packs full-size strollers into a compact form that's suitable for travel on air. It's compatible with both Nuna and Clek infant car seats (adapters sold separately) It also has a large storage bin, and offers a smooth ride on bumpy surfaces. It's more expensive than other strollers we tried, but is worth it for parents who frequently use their stroller while traveling.
Some strollers provide the convenience of transport them, such as the multi-functional Baby Jogger City Tour 2. This model is simple to maneuver and folds or unfolded with one hand. It is compatible with a variety of major car seat brands. Its front wheel suspension and swivel wheels ensure an easy ride on roads, airports and cobblestones. Additionally, its easy-to-use handlebar height adjusts to accommodate parents of all heights.
Contours make popular strollers more affordable for travelers. Itsy's stroller is lighter the lightweight Pockit but has a more durable frame, a powerful dual wheel suspension, a UPF50+ sun canopy, and plenty of storage. It also has a self-standing fold that's easy to fold down, and it comes with a convenient carry bag and carry strap.
Easy to Manoeuvre
The type of stroller you select must be able to maneuver on all types of terrain. This is particularly true when you plan to use it for adventures or hikes in which you will encounter rough terrain. Pick a stroller with a handlebar that is simple to operate and wheels that are designed to grip the surface. It should also be light and easy to maneuver so that you can easily lift the stroller, carry it or store it with minimal effort.
The BabyZen Yoyo2 is a highly popular umbrella stroller specifically designed for use on travel. It's a great option for parents who are looking for a high-quality product that is easy to use and has features that many families desire in a stroller designed for travel. It has a compact folding mechanism and an extendable canopy.
It's a bit more difficult to push than other strollers with smaller wheels however it is able to handle in a variety of types of terrain and is easy to turn. The GB Pockit is another highly-rated stroller. It's more expensive than many of the other travel strollers we've reviewed however, it comes with a wide range of features that many parents want in a stroller that travels. It has a simple-to-use handlebar that is easy to maneuver and is small enough to fit in the overhead bins of planes.
If you like a sleeker appearance then the Zoe Traveler is a fantastic choice. It's also a top-rated umbrella stroller in our ratings and has an elegant, minimalist design that makes it look almost like a backpack when it's folded. It's also lighter than the GB Pockit more info but it has more storage space and earns a higher score for quality compared to the other strollers that we've tested.
The Doona is a great stroller that is FAA approved (with the latch-base) and requires no set-up. It's also durable and comfortable enough to use for many children. It's a little more expensive than some of the other options in our rankings, but it's made using high-quality materials and has was awarded a top score for ease-of-use. It includes accessories like bags for travel and a rain cover 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. Find models that are padded and come with a large canopy. They should also recline, which is crucial if you plan on using the stroller to nap during your trip. Additionally, be sure that the seat is suitable for your child's age. Some strollers are designed to be as compact and light as they can be, but this can compromise the comfort of your child.
There are many options that offer both design and comfort. The Cybex Coya, for example is a stylish stroller which is both lightweight and sturdy. Its aluminum frame will last a lifetime, while its antishock wheels and 5-point padded harness ensure an easy ride. The Coya comes with an enormous canopy that provides excellent sun protection.
Nuna TRVL is another great option. It is a sleek and innovative stroller that is designed to make travel simple for children. It has a one-handed fold mechanism and is light enough to fit into the trunk of a car or overhead bins on planes. It is available with a range of accessories and customizations such as 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. The spacious stroller moves smoothly and comes with all the features that parents love, such as cup holders storage pockets, an easy buckle and adjustable shoulder straps. Its spacious seat also reclines and has an enormous UPF 50+ canopy, which has a mesh peekaboo window.
The Bugaboo Butterfly is a good option for families with infant car seats. This stroller is compatible for various infant car seats. It's a great option for families who travel often. The compact fold and mobility of this stroller allow you to travel through busy airports and large cities.
A stroller that is used for travel should be comfortable for both you and your child. Look for a model with a spacious and padded seat that reclines to nap during long journeys. The seat should also have a well-padded leg rest, because this will make for an extra comfortable ride. Make sure you choose a stroller with a padded handle that can be used to carry it when folded.
Convenient Storage
Contrary to the majority of strollers, a few models that are designed for travel feature ultra-compact folds that make them ideal to fit into tight trunks of cars or overcrowded overhead bins. They typically weigh less than 10 pounds, making them a breeze for anyone (including children) to carry.
UPPAbaby's Minu was one of the first strollers that could also be used as a regular stroller. It is still a popular choice for parents who pack light and do not want their stroller be checked at the gate when they fly. This IATA-certified stroller can fit in almost all overhead bins, maneuvers like a dream off the plane, and has an array of innovative features (including the ability to fold with one hand, a massive sunshade, a comfy seat with a multi-position recline, a spacious undercarriage basket, padded handbar with a wrist strap and an easy foot brake that is one step).
For a budget-friendly model that still feels like a luxury stroller, check out the Kolcraft Cloud Plus. It is not the prettiest or the most compact in our review, but it has an easy-to-use frame, and lots of clever features, including the ability to recline and an padded brake. There's also a large basket under the carriage and a one-handed fold. It's also environmentally friendly and comes in recyclable packaging, and comes with an extended warranty of 10 years.
The Bugaboo Butterfly is another strong contender, thanks to its slim profile and a host of practical features. In our tests, it swung well across a variety of surfaces, including wood and shag carpet and its bottom storage basket is large enough for a backpack. Its only flaw is its weight (at 17 pounds) which could prevent it from fitting into the overhead bins of smaller planes.
If you don't have plenty of space for storing your stroller, 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, as it's weather resistant and protected from the elements. It's also accessible when you need it. A shed or nook can also be used as a secure location to store your stroller in case it is lost or stolen when you're away.