How to Pick the Best Travel Stroller
Whether you're looking for a stroller that you can use on your travels or want a lightweight, compact stroller to carry around on the go There are a lot of great choices. We've put them all to the test to help you select the best travel stroller to meet your requirements.
The stroller's lightweight design glides effortlessly and performs well on a variety of terrains. It folds down into a tiny carrying bag that fits into most overhead bins on airplanes.
Easy to Fold
The best strollers for travel can fold into a compact unit that can easily be stored in overhead bins of planes or trunks of cars. Find models that have one-hand folds that doesn't require any stooping or struggling. Some strollers have a convenient strap that allows you to easily carry it over your shoulder while you are not using it. If you're planning on walking a lot during your trip, a stroller that has a large basket under the seat can be useful. It can be used to store large bags for diapers or weekender bags.
The light Babyzen YoYo2 is the most compact stroller we tested, weighing just 13.7 pounds and getting into aisles in airplanes or overhead bins. It's also a bit smaller than other strollers and makes it easier to navigate crowds on streets in the city. It's not the ideal choice for running, rough terrain, or short outings.
Another lightweight option 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 are sold separately), has a spacious storage bin, and offers a smooth ride on uneven surfaces. It's more expensive compared to other strollers we tested, but is worth it for parents who use their stroller often when traveling.
Some strollers provide an easier way to transport them, such as the multi-functional Baby Jogger City Tour 2. This stroller has an easy-to-use design that folds and unfolded in one hand, and is compatible with most major brand car seats. Its front wheel suspension as well as swivel wheels ensure a smooth ride on airports, pavements, and cobblestones, and its adjustable handlebar height can accommodate parents of all sizes.
Contours make popular strollers more affordable for those who travel. Their Itsy stroller weighs less than the lighter Pockit and has sturdy frames, a powerful dual-wheel suspension, a UPF 50+ sun canopy, and plenty of storage space. It also features a self-standing fold that's easy to fold down and comes with a convenient carry bag and strap for carrying.
Easy to Manoeuvre
The type of stroller you pick must be able to maneuver on all types of terrain. This is particularly true in the event that you plan to use it for hikes or adventures where you may encounter rough surfaces. Pick a stroller with an easy-to-use handlebar to use and wheels designed to grip the surface. It should also be light and maneuverable enough that you can easily lift the stroller, carry it or store it without much effort.
An excellent option is the BabyZen Yoyo2, which is an extremely rated umbrella stroller designed for travel. It's a great option for parents who want an easy-to-use, high-quality product that has features that a lot of families want in a travel-friendly stroller, including compact folding and a sun canopy that extends.
It's a bit harder to push than other smaller travel strollers however it is able to handle in a variety of terrains and is easy to turn. Another great option is the GB Pockit, which is also a top-rated stroller. It's pricier than some of the other travel strollers in our ratings however, it comes with many features that parents would like in a travel stroller. It has a simple handlebar and is compact enough to fit into the overhead bins of airplanes.
If you like a sleeker look then the Zoe Traveler is a great choice. It's also a top umbrella stroller in our reviews and features an elegant, minimalist design that makes it look similar to a backpack it's folded. It's lighter than the GB Pockit, but it has more storage space and gets an overall higher score for quality than other compact strollers we've tested.
The Doona is another excellent stroller for traveling that's FAA approved for aircraft use (with the latch base) and doesn't require any setup. It's also sturdy and easy to use with a number of children. It's more expensive than the other alternatives, but it's made of high-quality materials. It also received an excellent score in terms of user-friendliness. It includes accessories like an umbrella and a rain cover, which other brands require you to purchase separately.
Comfortable Seating
The best strollers for traveling provide your child with an enjoyable experience. Make sure you choose models that are padded and have a well-sized canopy. If you plan to use the stroller as a babysitter on your travels it is crucial to recline. Also, make sure the seat is suitable to your child's size. Some strollers are designed to be as light and compact as they can be, but this could 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. The frame made of aluminum is built to last, and its anti-shock wheels and padded five-point harness ensure a smooth ride. The Coya also has a huge canopy that provides excellent sun protection.
Another great option is the Nuna TRVL, which is a sleek and modern stroller designed to make travel with children as simple as possible. It features a single-handed folding mechanism that folds easily and is light enough to fit into trunks of cars and overhead bins on airplanes. It comes with a wide range of accessories and customizations such as sun canopies and weather shields.
If you're looking for a travel buggy that can also function as a stroller for the day, then the Uppababy G-Link 2 is a great option. The large stroller is easy to maneuver and has all the features parents love like cup holders storage pockets, an easy buckle and adjustable shoulder straps. The large seat reclines and has large UPF 50+ canopy, which has a mesh peekaboo window.
A good 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 that frequently travel. The compact fold and the maneuverability of this stroller will allow you to maneuver through busy airports and large cities.
A stroller that is used for travel is one that is comfortable for you and your child. Look for a model with an expansive and comfortable seat that can recline to nap during long journeys. The seat should also have an adequately cushioned leg rest as this can make for an even more comfortable ride. Select a stroller that has a padded handle to allow you to carry it when folded.
Convenient Storage
Many travel-friendly strollers fold up to be so compact that they can be carried in small trunks of cars and overcrowded overhead bins. They typically weigh less than 10 pounds, which makes them easy for anyone (including children) to carry.
UPPAbaby was among the first brands to venture into the "travel stroller that doubles as a daily stroller" category and its Minu is still an excellent choice for light-packing parents who do not want to risk having their stroller checked at the gate every time they travel. The stroller is IATA-certified and fits in most overhead bins, maneuvers like a dream from the plane, and comes with an array of innovative features (including a one-handed fold, massive sunshade, a comfy seat with a multi-position recline, a spacious undercarriage basket, padded handlebar with wrist strap and an easy foot brake that is one step).
The Kolcraft Cloud Plus is a budget-friendly stroller, but it feels like a luxurious option. It is not the most beautiful model nor the smallest of our review but it has an easy-to-use frame, and lots of clever features, including the ability to recline and padding for the more info brake. It also has a large basket underneath the carriage, and a one-handed fold. It's also environmentally friendly and comes with recyclable packaging and 10 years of transferable warranty.
The Bugaboo Butterfly is another strong contender, with its slim profile and a host of convenient features. In our tests, it swung well across a variety of surfaces, including wood and shag carpet and its storage basket is big enough to fit in a backpack. The only issue is that it's heavy (at 17 pounds) and therefore may not fit in the overhead bin of smaller airplanes.
If you don't have lots of space to store your stroller at home, consider buying a bike shed or creating a nook specifically for it. A garden shed is the perfect place to store your stroller, as it's weatherproof and shielded from the elements. It's also easily accessible whenever you require it. A shed or nook could also serve as a safe spot to stash your stroller in case it is lost or stolen when you're away.