How to Pick the Best Travel Stroller
Whether you're seeking a stroller to use on your travels or want a lightweight compact stroller that you can carry around on the go, there are plenty of alternatives. We've put them all to the test to help you pick the best travel stroller to meet your needs.
A stroller with a light weight that is smooth and easy to drive over different terrains. It folds down into a compact bag that fits in the majority of overhead bins found on airplanes.
Easy to Fold
The best travel strollers can be folded into a compact package that can easily be put in overhead bins on planes or trunks of cars. Find models that have a one-hand fold that is able to be completed without any stooping or struggling. Many models also have a handy carry strap that makes it easy to sling the stroller over your shoulder when you're not using it. If you're planning on walking for a long time during your trip, a stroller that has a large basket under the seat is a good idea. It can be used to store large bags for weekender bags or diaper bags.
The light Babyzen YoYo2 is the most compact stroller we tested, weighing just 13.7 pounds and fitting down airplane aisles or into overhead bins. It's also narrower than most other strollers which makes it easier to weave through crowds on streets in cities. It's not the best option for jogging, rough terrain or quick outings.
Nuna Aer+ is another lightweight alternative. It packs all the features of a full-size car seat into a compact, air-friendly design. It is compatible with both Nuna infant car seats and Clek infant seat adapters (adapters are available separately) and comes with a large storage compartment. It also provides an easy ride on bumpy surfaces. It's more expensive compared to other strollers we tried, but is worth it for parents who use their strollers frequently while traveling.
Some travel strollers offer the convenience of transport them, such as the multi-functional Baby Jogger City Tour 2. This model is simple to move and folds or folded with just one hand. It is compatible with many major car seat brands. The front wheel suspension, swivels and swivel wheels provide smooth travel over pavements, airports and cobblestones. The handlebar's height can be adjusted to fit parents of any height.
Contours make popular strollers more affordable for those who travel. Their Itsy stroller weighs less than the lightweight Pockit, but offers solid frame, a robust dual-wheel suspension, a UPF 50+ sun canopy and plenty of storage space. It features a self-standing fold that is easy to fold. It also comes with a handy carry bag and strap for carrying.
Easy to Manoeuvre
The type of travel stroller you select must be able to maneuver over all kinds of terrain. This is particularly important if you plan to use your stroller on hikes, or other adventures where you might encounter rough surfaces. Look for a stroller with an easy-to-use handlebar and wheels designed to be able to grip the ground. It should also be lightweight and manageable so that you can lift and carry it or store it without much effort.
An excellent option is the BabyZen Yoyo2, which is a top-rated umbrella stroller that's made for travel. It's an excellent choice for parents who are looking for a high-quality product that is easy to use and has features that families want in a stroller designed for travel. They include an easy folding mechanism that folds down small and an expandable canopy.
It's a little more difficult to push than some of the smaller strollers we have in our reviews, but it handles well over various terrains and is easy to turn. Another great option is the GB Pockit, which is also a rated stroller. It is more expensive than the other travel strollers we rated however it comes with a variety of features that parents want in a stroller. It has an easy-to-use handlebar, and is small enough to fit in the overhead bins of airplanes.
If you prefer a sleeker style and a sleeker design, the Zoe Traveler is a great option. It is also the top-rated umbrella stroller, based on our reviews. It has a sleek and minimalist design which makes it appear like a backpack when folded. It's a little heavier than the GB Pockit, but it has more storage and earns an overall higher score for quality compared to other small travel strollers that we've tried.
The Doona is a great travel stroller, which is FAA approved (with the latch-base) and requires no set-up. It's also durable and comfortable enough for several children. It's a little more expensive than some of the other options in our reviews but it's built with high-quality materials and earned a top rating for its ease of use. It also comes with other accessories like a rain cover and bags for travel, which other brands make you buy separately.
Comfortable Seating
The best strollers for traveling offer your child an enjoyable experience. Look for models that are cushioned and have a well-sized canopy. If you intend to use the stroller as a napper on your journey it is crucial that they recline. Also, make sure the seat is appropriate for the size of your child. Some strollers are designed to be as light and compact as they can be, but this can come at the expense of comfort.
Luckily, there are many alternatives that offer design and comfort. The Cybex Coya, for example is a stylish stroller that is both light and sturdy. Its aluminum frame is constructed to last, while its anti-shock wheels and padded five-point harness ensure a comfortable ride. The Coya has an enormous canopy that provides the best sun protection.
Another great option is the Nuna TRVL, which is a sleek and innovative stroller that is designed to make travel with children as simple as is possible. It comes with a single-hand fold mechanism and is light enough to fit in car trunks or overhead bins on airplanes. It can also be purchased with a variety of accessories and customisation options including sun canopies, weather shields, and snack trays.
If you're looking for a travel stroller that can double as a regular stroller take a look at the Uppababy G-Link 2. This sizable stroller maneuvers smoothly and comes with all the features parents love, such as cup holders, storage pockets, an easy buckle and adjustable shoulder straps. The spacious seat reclines and it has a UPF50+ canopy, with a peekaboo mesh window.
A great option here for families with infant car seats is the Bugaboo Butterfly. This stroller is compatible with various infant car seats which makes it a great choice for families who frequently travel. Its compact fold and mobility let you easily navigate through busy cities and airports.
A stroller for travel must be comfortable for both you and your child. Choose a stroller with an expansive and comfortable seat that reclines for napping on long trips. Legrests that are well-padded can make for more comfort during your ride. Finally, choose a travel stroller that has a cushioned handle that can be used to carry it when folded.
Convenient Storage
Many travel-friendly strollers fold up to a size that allows them to be stowed in tight trunks of cars and overcrowded overhead bins. These strollers are often lighter than 10 pounds and simple to carry by anyone, including children.
UPPAbaby was one of the first brands to venture into the "travel stroller that doubles as a daily stroller" category and its Minu is a top pick among light-packing parents who do not want to risk checking their strollers at the gate when they travel. The stroller is IATA-certified and fits in most overhead bins, maneuvers like a dream from the plane, and has an array of innovative features (including a one-handed fold, large sunshade, a comfortable seat with multi-position recline, spacious undercarriage basket, and a padded handlebar with wrist strap and an easy foot brake that is one step).
The Kolcraft Cloud Plus is a budget-friendly stroller that feels like an expensive option. It's not the prettiest nor most compact model in our review, but it has sleek frame, easy-to-use controls, and a variety of smart features (including the ability to recline, a padded foot brake as well as a huge undercarriage basket and a simple, one-handed fold). It's also eco-friendly, comes in recyclable packaging and comes with a 10-year warranty.
Another strong contender is the Bugaboo Butterfly, which has a slim profile and a plethora of practical features. In our tests, it maneuvered well over different surfaces, including wood and shag carpet and its bottom storage basket is large enough to fit in a backpack. It's only downside is its weight (at 17 pounds) that could hinder it from fitting into overhead bins of smaller planes.
If you do not have much space to store your stroller, you might want to consider buying a bike shed. You can also create an individual nook for it. A garden shed is the ideal location to store a stroller, since it's weather resistant and protected from the elements. It's also accessible any time you're in need. 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 out.