How to Pick the Best Travel Stroller
There are a variety of options to choose from for you to choose from, whether you need an ideal stroller for your travels or a compact, lightweight one to take with you. We've tested each one to help you pick the best stroller for your needs.
A stroller that is lightweight, glides smoothly and drives well across different terrains. It folds up into a small bag that fits into most overhead bins on airplanes.
Easy to Fold
The best travel strollers fold down into an easy-to-store, compact package that fits into overhead bins on planes as well as in car trunks. Find models that have a one-hand fold that can be done without any stooping or struggling. Some strollers come with a convenient strap that allows you to easily carry it over your shoulder while not in use. If you're planning to walk for a long time during your trip, a stroller with an ample basket underneath the seat could be helpful. It can be used to store large bags for weekender bags or diaper bags.
The light Babyzen YoYo2 stroller is the most compact stroller we test. It weighs just 13.7 pounds, it will easily fit into aisles of airplanes and overhead bins. It's also narrower than most other strollers which makes it easier to maneuver through crowds on streets in the city. It's not the best option for jogging or rough terrain, but it's perfect for city life and short excursions when you don't need to carry around a larger stroller.
Another lightweight option is the Nuna Aer+, which packs full-size stroller features into a compact design that's suitable for air travel. It's compatible with Nuna infant car seats and Clek infant seat adapters (adapters are available separately) It also has a large storage compartment. It also provides a smooth ride over bumpy surfaces. It's more expensive than other travel strollers that we evaluated, but it's worth it for parents who use their strollers frequently when traveling.
Some strollers come with the convenience of transport them, such as the versatile Baby Jogger City Tour 2. This model is easy to maneuver and folds or folded with just one hand. It is compatible with all major car seat brands. Its front wheel suspension and rotating wheels provide a smooth ride on roads, airports and cobblestones, and its easy-to-use handlebar height adjusts to accommodate parents of all heights.
Contours makes popular stroller models less expensive for travelers. Itsy's stroller is lighter than the lighter Pockit however it comes with a more durable frame, a dynamic dual wheel suspension, a UPF50+ sun canopy as well as plenty of storage. It also has 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 over all kinds of terrain. This is especially important if you plan to use your stroller for hikes or other adventures where you might encounter rough surfaces. Pick a stroller with a handlebar that is easy to operate and wheels that are designed to hold the surface. It should also be lightweight and easy to maneuver so you can lift it the stroller, carry it or store it with little effort.
The BabyZen Yoyo2 is a highly popular umbrella stroller made for travel. It's a great option for parents seeking an easy-to-use, high-quality product that has features that a lot of families would like in a stroller, such as the ability to fold down small and a sun canopy that extends.
It's a bit more difficult to push than other smaller travel strollers, but it handles well on all kinds of types of terrain and is easy to turn. The GB Pockit is another highly-rated stroller. It's pricier than some of the other strollers in our rankings, but it offers an array of features that many parents want in a stroller for travel. It has a simple handlebar and is compact enough to fit into overhead bins of airplanes.
If you prefer a sleeker design, consider the Zoe Traveler. It's also the highest-rated umbrella stroller, based on our evaluations. It has a sleek and minimalist design, that makes it look like a backpack when folded. It's also a little lighter than the GB Pockit but it has more storage space and scores an overall higher score for quality than other strollers that we've tested.
The Doona is a great stroller for travel, that is FAA approved (with the latch-base) and requires no setup. It's also durable and comfortable enough for many children. It's more expensive than some of the other options in our ratings, but it's made with high-quality materials and earned a top rating for its ease of use. It comes with accessories such as an umbrella and a rain cover that other brands require you to buy separately.
Comfortable Seating
The best strollers for travel provide your child with a comfortable experience. Find models that are cushioned and come with a large canopy. If you intend to use the stroller as a babysitter on your travels it is crucial that they recline. Also, ensure that the seat is appropriate for your child's age. Some strollers for travel are designed to be as compact and lightweight as they can, but this could result in a loss of the comfort of your child.
Luckily, there are plenty of options that offer both style and comfort. The Cybex Coya, for example, is a stylish stroller that is lightweight and sturdy. Its aluminum frame is constructed to last, and its anti-shock wheels as well as padded 5-point harness ensure a comfortable ride. The Coya also has a large canopy that provides an excellent sun protection.
Nuna TRVL is another excellent option. It is a sleek, innovative stroller designed to make traveling easy for children. It has a one-handed fold mechanism and is light enough to fit in trunks of cars or overhead bins on planes. It is available with a variety of accessories and customizations such as weather shields and sun canopies.
If you're in search of a travel stroller that can double as a stroller for daily use, consider the Uppababy G-Link 2. This large stroller is simple to maneuver and comes with many features parents enjoy, including cup holders storage compartments, an easy buckle and adjustable shoulder straps. Its spacious seat also reclines and has a large UPF 50+ canopy, which has the mesh peekaboo window.
The Bugaboo Butterfly is a good option for families with infant car seats. This stroller is compatible with many infant car seats. It's an excellent choice for families who travel often. Its compact fold and maneuverability let you easily navigate through busy cities and airports.
A stroller for travel is one that is comfortable for you and your child. Pick a stroller that has an ample, cushioned seat that can recline to allow for naps on long trips. Seats with padded legrests provide an even more comfortable ride. Choose a travel stroller with a cushioned handle, so you can carry it when folded.
Convenient Storage
Unlike most strollers, many travel-friendly models have ultra-compact folds that are ideal to fit into tight trunks of cars or overcrowded overhead bins. They are usually lighter than 10 pounds and simple to carry by anyone, even children.
UPPAbaby was among the first companies to enter the "travel stroller that doubles as a daily stroller" category, and its Minu is still the top choice among parents who don't want to risk checking their strollers at the gate when they travel. The stroller is IATA-certified and easy to maneuver off the plane and fits into the majority of overhead bins. It also has many innovative features, like a one-handed folding mechanism, a large sunshade and an incredibly comfortable seat with various recline positions.
The Kolcraft Cloud Plus is a budget-friendly stroller that feels like a luxury option. It's not the prettiest nor most compact model in our review, but it does have a streamlined frame, easy-to-use controls, and plenty of useful features (including a reclining mechanism as well as a padded foot brake as well as a huge undercarriage basket and a straightforward fold that only requires one hand). It's also eco-friendly, comes in recyclable packaging, and comes with an extended warranty of 10 years.
Another top contender is the Bugaboo Butterfly, which has slim lines and a host of convenient features. It's easy to maneuver on different surfaces including wood and shag get more info rug, and the bottom basket can be used to store a backpack. Its only flaw is its weight (at 17 pounds) which could prevent it from fitting into overhead bins of smaller planes.
If you don't have lots of space for storing your stroller, think about buying a bike shed or making a nook custom for it. A garden shed is the perfect place to store a stroller, since it's weather resistant and protected from the elements. It's also accessible whenever you need it. A nook or shed can be a secure place to store your stroller in the event that it gets lost or stolen when you're away.