How to Pick the Best Travel Stroller
Whether you're looking for a stroller that you can use while you travel or you're looking for a lightweight compact stroller that you can carry around There are plenty of options. We've tested all of them to help you pick the best stroller for your needs.
A stroller with a light weight that glides smoothly and drives well over different terrains. It folds into a compact bag that fits in the majority of overhead bins on planes.
Easy to Fold
The most effective strollers fold up into small, easy-to-store bags that can be tucked away in overhead bins on planes as well as in trunks of cars. You should look for models that fold using one hand, and without having to bend. Some models also come with a convenient carry strap that allows you to sling the stroller over your shoulder when you're not using it. If you're planning on walking for a long time on your travels and need a stroller with an enormous basket under the seat is a good idea. It can hold large diaper bags or weekender bags.
The light Babyzen YoYo2 stroller is the most compact we test. It weighs just 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 in city streets. It's not the best 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 air travel. It's compatible with both Nuna and Clek infant car seats (adapters sold separately), has a spacious storage bin, and a smooth ride on bumpy surfaces. It's more expensive compared to other strollers we tested, but is worth it for parents who use their strollers frequently when traveling.
Some travel strollers allow for easier transport of them. One example is the Baby Jogger City Tour 2, which has a versatile design. It has a simple design that folds and unfolded in one hand and is compatible with most major brand car seats. The front wheel suspension, swivels, and swivel wheels offer smooth travel over airports, pavements and cobblestones. The handlebar's height can be adjusted to fit parents of any height.
Contours makes popular strollers more affordable for travelers. Their Itsy stroller weighs less than the light Pockit however it has solid frame, a robust dual-wheel suspension, the UPF 50+ sun canopy and plenty of storage space. It also features an auto-standing fold that is easy to fold, and it comes with a convenient carrying bag and carry strap.
Easy to Manoeuvre
You should choose a travel stroller that can be maneuvered easily in all types of terrain. This is especially important in the event that you intend to use your stroller on hikes, or other adventures where you might encounter rough surfaces. Select a stroller that comes 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, carry or store it with little effort.
A great option is the BabyZen Yoyo2, which is an umbrella stroller with top ratings that's designed for travel. It's an excellent option for parents seeking an easy-to-use, high-quality item with features that many families want in a travel-friendly stroller, such as compact folding and an extendable sun canopy.
It's a bit more difficult to push than some of the smaller strollers in our ratings, but it is able to handle a variety of terrains and is easy to turn. The GB Pockit is another highly-rated stroller. It's pricier than some of the other travel strollers we've reviewed however, it comes with a wide range of features that parents would like in a stroller that travels. It has a simple-to-use handlebar that's easy to maneuver and is small enough to fit into 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 reviews and features a minimalist, sleek design that looks almost like a backpack when it's folded. It's also a bit lighter than the GB Pockit but it has more storage space and gets an overall higher score for quality than other strollers that we've tried.
The Doona is a fantastic stroller that is FAA approved (with the latch-base) and requires no setup. It's also durable and easy to use with a number of children. It's more expensive compared to other options, but it is made of high-quality materials. It also earned a top rating in terms of ease-of-use. It also comes with other accessories like a rain cover and travel bag, that other brands make you buy separately.
Comfortable Seating
The best travel strollers are designed to give your child a comfortable ride. Look for models with a big canopy and padded seats. If you plan to use the stroller as a babysitter on your travels, it is important to recline. Be sure that the seat is suitable for your child's age. Some travel strollers may be designed to be as compact and light as they can, but this could compromise comfort.
There are many alternatives that offer design and comfort. The Cybex Coya, for example is a stylish stroller that is lightweight and robust. Its aluminum frame is constructed to last, and its anti-shock wheels and padded 5-point harness ensure a comfortable ride. The Coya also has a large canopy that offers an excellent sun protection.
Nuna TRVL is another excellent alternative. It is a sleek, modern stroller that is designed to make travel easy for children. It comes with a one-handed folding mechanism and is light enough to fit into trunks of cars and overhead bins of airplanes. It comes with a wide range of accessories and customizations such as sun canopies and weather shields.
If you're looking for a buggy for travel that can also be used a daily stroller then the Uppababy G-Link 2 is a good choice. This spacious stroller is simple to maneuver and comes with many features parents enjoy such as cup holders and storage compartments, as well as an easy buckle, and adjustable shoulder straps. Its spacious seat also reclines and features a large UPF 50+ canopy, which has a mesh window that peeks out.
A great 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 who frequently travel. Its compact fold and mobility allow you to easily navigate through busy cities and airports.
A stroller for travel must be comfortable for both you and your baby. Find a model that has a spacious and padded seat that can recline to allow napping during long trips. Seats with well-padded legrests can offer an even more comfortable ride. Also, you should choose a travel stroller that has a cushioned handle that you can use 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 typically weigh less than 10 pounds, which makes them a breeze for anyone (including children) to carry.
UPPAbaby was one of the first to dive into the "travel stroller that doubles as a daily stroller" category, and its Minu is still the top choice among light-packing parents who do not want to risk having their stroller checked at the gate every time they travel. The stroller that is IATA-certified is easy to maneuver off the plane and fits into most overhead bins. It also comes with many clever features, such as the ability to fold with one hand, a large sunshade and an incredibly comfortable seat with various recline positions.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly stroller that still feels like a luxurious stroller, check out the Kolcraft Cloud Plus. It's not the most beautiful model nor the smallest of our review but it has an easy-to-use frame, and lots of smart features, including an adjustable reclining mechanism as well as an padded brake. It also has a large basket underneath the carriage, and a one-handed fold. It's also eco-friendly and comes in recyclable packaging, and comes with 10 years of warranty.
The Bugaboo Butterfly is another strong contender, with its slim profile and many practical features. In our tests, it moved easily over a variety of surfaces, including wood and shag carpet and its storage basket is large enough to fit in a backpack. The only issue is that it's a bit heavy (at 17 pounds), so it may not fit into the overhead bin of smaller airplanes.
If you don't have a lot of space for storing your stroller at home, consider purchasing a bike shed or creating a custom nook just for it. A garden shed, particularly is a fantastic place to store your stroller since it's weatherproof and get more info protected from the elements. It's also easily accessible whenever you need it. You can also use an area or shed to store your stroller in case it's stolen or lost.