How to Pick the Best Travel Stroller
There are plenty of options depending on whether you're looking for a stroller for travel or a lightweight, compact one to bring with you. We've put them to the test to help you choose the ideal travel stroller for your requirements.
A stroller that is lightweight, is smooth and easy to drive over different terrains. It folds up into a tiny carrying bag that fits inside the majority of overhead bins found on airplanes.
Easy to Fold
The best travel strollers fold up into small, easy-to-store bags that fits into overhead bins on planes and in car trunks. It is recommended to look for models that fold using only one hand, with no stooping. Some strollers come with a handy strap that lets you easily sling it over your shoulder while you are not using it. If you plan to spend a lot of time walking during your trip it's a good idea to get a stroller with a large undercarriage basket which can accommodate large diaper bags as well as weekender bags.
The light Babyzen YoYo2 is the most compact stroller we've ever tested, weighing just 13.7 pounds and getting into airplane aisles or into overhead bins. It's also narrower than most other strollers and makes it easier to weave through crowds on streets in the city. It's not the best choice for running, rough terrain or for quick excursions.
Another option that's lightweight is the Nuna Aer+, which packs full-size stroller features into a compact design that's suitable for air travel. It is compatible with both Nuna infant car seats and Clek infant seat adapters (adapters are sold separately) It also has a large storage compartment. It also provides a smooth ride over bumpy surfaces. It's a little more expensive than other strollers we tested, but it's worth the price for parents who often use their stroller while traveling.
Some travel strollers make it easier to transport them. One example is the Baby Jogger City Tour 2, which has a versatile design. This stroller has an easy-to-use design that can be folded and unfolded using one hand and is compatible with all major brand car seats. The front wheel suspension, swivels, and swivel wheels provide smooth travel across pavements, airports, and cobblestones. The handlebar height can be adjusted to fit parents of all heights.
Contours makes popular stroller models less expensive for travelers. Itsy's stroller is lighter than the lightweight Pockit however it comes with an extra durable frame, a dynamic dual wheel suspension as well as a UPF50+ sun canopy, and plenty of storage. It has a self standing fold that is simple to collapse. It is also equipped with a convenient carry bag and strap for carrying.
Easy to Manoeuvre
The type of travel stroller you select should be easy to maneuver across all kinds 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. Choose a stroller with an easy-to-use handlebar and wheels designed to grip the ground well. It should also be light and manageable so you can lift it, carry or store it with little effort.
The BabyZen Yoyo2 is a highly rated umbrella stroller designed for travel. It's an excellent option for parents seeking an easy-to-use, high-quality item that offers features that many families would like in a stroller, including a compact fold and an extendable sun canopy.
It's a bit more difficult to push than other smaller strollers, but it handles well in a variety of types of terrain and is easy to turn. The GB Pockit is another highly-rated stroller. It's more expensive than many of the other strollers in our ratings however it has a wide range of features that parents are looking for in a travel stroller. It has a simple-to-use handlebar that's easy to move and is small enough to fit into the overhead bins on airplanes.
If you're looking for a sleeker style, you should check out the Zoe Traveler. It's also a top umbrella stroller in our rankings and has a sleek, minimalist design that looks similar to a backpack it's folded. It's lighter than the GB Pockit, but it offers more storage and an overall higher score for quality than other smaller strollers we've evaluated.
The Doona is a great stroller for travel that is FAA aircraft-approved (with the latch base) and requires zero set-up. It's also durable and comfortable to use with a family of children. It's more expensive than other options, but it is made of high-quality materials. It also got the highest rating for ease of use. It also comes with other accessories, such as a rain cover and travel bag, which other brands make you buy separately.
Comfortable Seating
The best strollers for travel provide your child with a comfortable experience. Find models with a big canopy and padded seats. They must also recline, which is essential when you intend to use the stroller to nap on your journey. Also, ensure that the seat is suitable for your child's age. Some travel strollers may be designed to be as compact and lightweight as possible, however this could compromise the comfort of your child.
There are many options to combine style and comfort. The Cybex Coya, for example is a stylish stroller which is both lightweight and sturdy. Its aluminum frame will last for a long time, while its antishock wheels and padded 5-point harness ensure a smooth ride. The Coya comes with a large canopy for the best sun protection.
Nuna TRVL is another excellent alternative. It is a sleek, modern stroller that is designed to make travel easy for children. It features a one-handed fold mechanism and is lightweight enough to fit in car trunks or overhead bins on airplanes. It can also be purchased with a variety of accessories and customisation more info options, such as weather shields, sun canopies, and snack trays.
If you're looking for a portable stroller that can double as a regular stroller take a look at the Uppababy G-Link 2. This large stroller is easy to maneuver and has many features that parents appreciate including cup holders, storage compartments, an easy buckle and adjustable shoulder straps. Its spacious seat also reclines and features a large UPF 50+ canopy that has a mesh peekaboo window.
A great option for families with infant car seats is the Bugaboo Butterfly. This stroller is compatible with many infant car seats which makes it a great option for families who frequently travel. Its compact fold and mobility let you easily navigate busy airports and cities.
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. The seat should also have an adequately cushioned leg rest, because this will make for an even more comfortable ride. Choose a travel stroller that has a padded handle so you can carry it when folded.
Convenient Storage
Contrary to the majority of strollers, a few models that are designed for travel feature ultra-compact folds that make them ideal for stowing in tight trunks of cars or overcrowded overhead bins. They are usually lighter than 10 pounds and are easy to carry by anyone, even children.
UPPAbaby was one of the first companies to enter the "travel stroller that doubles as a daily stroller" category and its Minu is still the top choice among light-packing parents who don't want to risk checking their strollers at the gate when they fly. This stroller that is IATA-certified can be tucked away in the majority of overhead bins, moves like a dream from the plane, and offers a range of smart features (including the ability to fold with one hand, a 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 is one step).
For a budget-friendly model that still feels like a luxurious stroller, try the Kolcraft Cloud Plus. It is not the most beautiful model nor the smallest of our review but it has an easy-to-use frame, plenty of innovative features, such as a reclining mechanism and padding for the brake. It also has a large basket underneath the carriage, and the ability to fold it with one hand. It's also environmentally friendly and comes with recyclable packaging and the option of transferring a 10-year warranty.
Another top contender is the Bugaboo Butterfly, which has slim lines and a host of convenient features. In our tests, it moved well across a variety of surfaces, including wood and shag carpet, and its bottom storage basket is large enough to be a backpack. It's only downside is its weight (at 17 pounds) which could prevent it from fitting in the overhead bins of smaller planes.
If you don't have lots of space for storing your stroller at home, consider purchasing a bike shed or creating a nook specifically for it. A garden shed, particularly is a fantastic place to store your stroller because it's weather-resistant and shielded from the elements. It's also accessible whenever you need it. You can also use a shed or nook to store your stroller in case it's stolen or lost.