How to Pick the Best Travel Stroller
If you're looking for a stroller that you can use on your travels or you're looking for a lightweight compact stroller to carry around on the go, there are plenty of great options. We've put them all to the test to help you pick the ideal travel stroller to meet your requirements.
A stroller that is lightweight, can be easily walked on and is able to drive across various terrains. It folds down into a small bag that fits inside the majority of overhead bins found on planes.
Easy to Fold
The best travel strollers can fold into a compact unit that is easily placed in overhead bins of planes and car trunks. Look for models that fold using only one hand, with no stooping. Some strollers come with a convenient strap that allows you to effortlessly carry it over your shoulders when you are not using it. If you're planning to walk often on your travels, a stroller that has an ample basket underneath the seat could be helpful. It can hold large diaper bags or weekender bags.
The light Babyzen YoYo2 stroller is the most compact stroller we test. It weighs just 13.7 pounds, it will easily fit into airplane aisles and overhead bins. It's also smaller than other strollers making it easier to maneuver in city streets. It's not the ideal choice for running, rough terrain, or for quick excursions.
Another option that's lightweight is the Nuna Aer+, which packs a full-size stroller into a compact design suitable for air travel. It's compatible with both Nuna and Clek infant car seats (adapters are sold separately) and has a spacious storage bin, and provides an effortless ride on bumpy surfaces. It's a little more expensive than other travel strollers we tested, but it's well worth the cost for parents who often use their stroller while traveling.
Certain strollers for travel make it easier to transport them. One example is the Baby Jogger City Tour 2, which has a versatile design. It is simple to maneuver and can be folded or folded with just one hand. It is compatible with many major car seat brands. Its front wheel suspension and swivel wheels ensure smooth travel on airports, pavements, and cobblestones. Additionally, its easy-to-use handlebar height adjusts to accommodate parents of all sizes.
Contours takes popular stroller designs and makes them more affordable for travelers. Their stroller weighs less than the light Pockit however it has sturdy frames, a powerful dual-wheel suspension as well as the UPF 50+ sun canopy, and plenty of storage space. It also has a self-standing fold that's simple to fold, and it comes with a convenient carrying bag and strap for carrying.
Easy to Manoeuvre
The type of travel stroller you select should be easy to maneuver on all types of terrain. This is especially important if you intend to use it for adventures or hikes in which you will encounter rough terrain. Look for a stroller with a simple-to-use handlebar and wheels that are designed to be able to grip the ground. It should also be lightweight and easy to maneuver so you can lift it, carry 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 a top-quality user-friendly product that has features that a lot of families would like to have in a stroller that is travel-friendly. It has the ability to fold down in a compact manner and an extended canopy.
It's a bit more difficult to push than some of the smaller strollers we have that we have reviewed, however it is able to handle a variety of terrains and is easy to turn. Another option that is worth considering is the GB Pockit, which is also a highly-rated stroller. It's more expensive than some of the other strollers we've reviewed however, it comes with an array of features that many parents want in a stroller that travels. It has a simple handlebar and is compact enough to fit into the overhead bins of airplanes.
If you prefer a sleeker design, check out the Zoe Traveler. It's also a top umbrella stroller in our ratings and has an elegant, minimalist design that makes it look like a backpack when it's folded. It's also a bit lighter than the GB Pockit but it has more storage space and scores an overall higher score for quality than other small travel strollers we've tested.
The Doona is another excellent travel stroller that's FAA aircraft-approved (with the latch base) and requires here zero installation. It's also durable and comfortable enough for multiple children. It's more expensive than the other options, but it is made of high-quality materials. It also earned the highest rating in terms of ease-of-use. It comes with accessories, such as a travel bag and rain cover that other brands require you to purchase separately.
Comfortable Seating
The best strollers for travel are designed to give your child a comfortable ride. Look for models with a large canopy and padded seats. If you plan to use the stroller for napping on your journey, it is important that they recline. Also, make sure the seat is appropriate to your child's size. Some strollers are designed to be as light and compact as possible, however this could result in a loss of comfort.
There are many options that combine the look and comfort. For instance the Cybex Coya is a stylish stroller that is light and durable. Its aluminum frame is built to last, and its anti-shock wheels as well as padded 5-point harness ensure a smooth ride. The Coya also has a huge canopy that offers an excellent sun protection.
Another great option is the Nuna TRVL, which is a sleek and modern stroller that is designed to make travel with children as simple as is possible. It has a one-handed fold mechanism and is light enough to fit into car trunks or overhead bins on airplanes. It comes with a variety of accessories and customizations such as weather shields and sun canopies.
If you're in search of a travel stroller that doubles as a stroller for daily use take a look at the Uppababy G-Link 2. The large stroller is easy to maneuver and has all the features parents love like cup holders storage pockets, an easy buckle, and adjustable shoulder straps. Its spacious seat reclines, and it has a UPF50+ canopy with an open mesh window.
A great option for families with infant car seats is the Bugaboo Butterfly. This stroller is compatible with various infant car seats and makes it a good option for families who frequently travel. The compact fold and the maneuverability of this stroller will allow you to maneuver through large cities and airports with ease.
A travel stroller must be comfortable for both you and your baby. Find a model that has an expansive and comfortable seat that can recline to nap during long journeys. Legrests that are well-padded can make for an even more comfortable ride. Finally, choose a travel stroller that has a cushioned handle that you can use to carry it when folded.
Convenient Storage
Many strollers designed for travel fold to a size that allows them to be stowed in tight car trunks or overcrowded overhead bins. These strollers are typically lighter than 10 pounds and are easy to carry by anyone, including children.
UPPAbaby's Minu was among the very first travel strollers that could be used as a regular stroller. It is still a top choice among parents who are light packers and do not want their stroller get gate-checked when they travel. This IATA-certified stroller is easy to get from the plane and can fit in most overhead bins. It also comes with numerous smart features, including a one-handed folding mechanism, a large sunshade and a comfortable seat with several recline positions.
The Kolcraft Cloud Plus is a budget-friendly stroller that is a luxurious option. It's not the prettiest or the smallest model in our review, but it comes with sleek frame, easy-to-use controls, and a variety of clever features (including a reclining mechanism, a padded foot brake, a large undercarriage basket, and a simple, one-handed fold). It's also eco-friendly, comes in recyclable packaging, and comes with a 10-year warranty.
The Bugaboo Butterfly is another strong competitor, with its slim profile and useful features. In our tests, it moved well over different surfaces including shag and wood carpet and its bottom storage basket is big enough to be a backpack. The only downside is that it's a bit heavy (at 17 pounds), so it may not fit in the overhead bin of smaller planes.
If you don't have plenty of space for storing your stroller, think about purchasing 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 easy to access whenever you need it. A nook or shed can be a secure place to store your stroller in case it is lost or stolen when you're away.