How to Pick the Best Travel Stroller
Whether you're looking for a stroller that you can take on a trip or you're looking for a lightweight compact stroller to carry around, there are plenty of alternatives. We've put them to the test to help you choose the ideal stroller to meet your needs.
The stroller's lightweight design glides effortlessly and is able to drive well on various terrains. It folds down into a compact bag that fits inside the majority of overhead bins found on airplanes.
Easy to Fold
The best strollers for travel can fold into a compact package that is easily put in overhead bins on planes or trunks of cars. It is recommended to look for strollers that fold with only one hand, with no stooping. Many models also have a handy carry strap that makes it simple to sling the stroller over your shoulder when not in use. If you're planning to walk often on your travels and need a stroller with an ample basket underneath the seat can be useful. It can accommodate large diaper bags or weekender bags.
The light Babyzen YoYo2 stroller is the most compact we tested. Weighing 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 busy streets. It's not the best choice for running, rough terrain or quick outings.
Nuna Aer+ is another lightweight alternative. It packs full-size features in a compact, air-friendly design. It is compatible with both Nuna infant car seats and Clek infant seat adapters (adapters are sold separately) It also has an ample storage compartment. It also offers an easy ride on bumpy surfaces. It's more expensive than other strollers that we've tested, however it's worth it for parents who often utilize their stroller for travel.
Some travel strollers offer a more convenient way to transport them, for instance the multi-functional Baby Jogger City Tour 2. This model features an easy-to-manoeuvre design that folds and unfolded with one hand, and is compatible with all major brand car seats. The front wheel suspension, swivels, and swivel wheels offer smooth travel over pavements, airports and cobblestones. The handlebar's height can be adjusted to meet the needs of parents of any height.
Contours make popular strollers more affordable for those who travel. Their Itsy stroller weighs less than the light Pockit however it has a sturdy frame, dynamic dual-wheel suspension, an UPF 50+ sun canopy and plenty of storage space. It also features an auto-standing fold that is easy to collapse and comes with a convenient carry bag and a strap for carrying.
Easy to Manoeuvre
It is important to choose a stroller that is easy to maneuver in all types of terrain. This is especially important if you intend to use your stroller for adventures or hikes where you may encounter rough surfaces. Choose a stroller that has an easy-to-use handlebar to use and has wheels designed to hold the surface. It should be light and easy to carry so you can easily lift, carry, or store it.
An excellent option is the BabyZen Yoyo2, which is a top-rated umbrella stroller that's specifically designed for use on the road. It's an excellent choice for parents who are looking for a premium product that is easy to use and has features that a lot of families would like to have in a stroller that is travel-friendly. These include an easy folding mechanism that folds down small and an extended canopy.
It's a bit more difficult to push than other smaller travel strollers but it's a great choice on a variety types of terrain 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 some of the other travel strollers in our ratings however it has a wide range of features that many parents want in a travel stroller. It has a simple-to-use handlebar that's easy to move and is small enough to fit in the overhead bins on airplanes.
If you prefer a sleeker look and a sleeker design, the Zoe Traveler is a fantastic choice. It is also the top-rated umbrella stroller based on our evaluations. It's a minimalist and sleek design, which makes it look like a backpack when folded. It's heavier than the GB Pockit, but it has more storage space and gets a better score for quality compared to other compact strollers we've tested.
The Doona is another excellent stroller for travel that is FAA aircraft-approved (with the latch base) and doesn't require any installation. It is also sturdy and easy to use with multiple children. It's a bit more expensive than the other options in our rankings, but it's made with high-quality materials and earned a top rating for its user-friendliness. It also comes with other accessories, such as an umbrella and travel bag, which other brands make you buy separately.
Comfortable Seating
The best travel strollers are designed to provide your child with a comfortable ride. Choose models with a wide canopy and comfortable seats. They should also recline, which is crucial for those who plan to use the stroller for napping on your journey. Be sure that the seat is appropriate for your child's age. Some travel strollers are designed to be as lightweight and compact as they can be however this may be detrimental to the user's comfort.
There are many options that combine style and comfort. For instance the Cybex Coya is a stylish stroller that is lightweight and robust. The frame made of aluminum will last for a long time, while its antishock wheels and 5-point padded harness guarantee an easy ride. The Coya also has a huge canopy that offers excellent sun protection.
Another excellent option is the Nuna TRVL, which is a sleek and innovative stroller that is designed to make travel with children as simple as possible. It comes with a single-hand fold mechanism, and is light enough to fit into trunks of cars or overhead bins on planes. It comes with a range of accessories and customizations such as sun canopies and weather shields.
If you're in search of a travel stroller that can double as a regular stroller, consider the Uppababy G-Link 2. This large stroller is easy to maneuver and comes with numerous features that parents love, including cup holders and storage compartments, as well as an easy buckle and adjustable shoulder straps. The spacious seat reclines and it has a UPF50+ canopy with the ability to peek out through the mesh.
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 maneuverability make it easy to navigate busy airports and cities.
A stroller that is used for travel is one that is comfortable for you and your child. Choose a stroller with an expansive and comfortable seat that can recline for napping on long trips. Legrests that are well-padded can make for a more comfortable ride. Finally, choose a travel stroller with a comfortable 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 stored in trunks of cars and overcrowded overhead bins. These strollers are often lighter than 10 pounds and simple to carry by anyone, even children.
UPPAbaby was one of the first to dive into the "travel stroller that doubles as an everyday stroller" category and its Minu is still an excellent choice for parents who do not want to worry about gate-checking their stroller when they travel. This IATA-certified stroller can be tucked away in the majority of overhead bins, moves like a dream off the plane, and comes with various smart features (including folding with one hand, large sunshade, a comfortable seat with a multi-position recline, a spacious undercarriage basket, and a padded handlebar with wrist strap and an easy foot brake that only takes one step).
For a budget-friendly model that still feels like a luxury stroller, consider the Kolcraft Cloud Plus. It's not the most beautiful model nor the most compact in our test, but it does have an easy-to-use frame, and lots of clever features, including a reclining mechanism and a padded brake. It also has a large basket underneath the carriage, and the ability to fold it with one hand. Plus, it's environmentally friendly and comes read more in recyclable packaging with a 10-year transferable warranty.
The Bugaboo Butterfly is another strong contender, with its slim profile and practical features. In our tests, it swung well over different surfaces including shag and wood carpet, and its bottom storage basket is big enough to be a backpack. The only drawback is its weight (at 17 pounds), which may prevent it from fitting in the overhead bins of smaller planes.
If you don't have plenty of space for storing your stroller at home, consider purchasing a bike shed or creating a nook specifically for it. A garden shed, in particular is a great spot to store your stroller as it's weatherproof and is protected from the elements. It's also accessible whenever you need it. You can also make use of an area or shed to store your stroller in case it's lost or stolen.