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 compact, lightweight one to take with you. We've put them all to the test to help you pick the ideal travel stroller to meet your needs.
The stroller's lightweight design glides effortlessly and performs well on a variety of terrains. It folds down into a tiny carrying bag that fits into the majority of overhead bins on airplanes.
Easy to Fold
The best travel strollers can fold into a compact package which can be easily placed in overhead bins of planes and trunks of cars. Choose models that feature a one-hand fold that can be done without any stooping or struggling. Some strollers come with a handy strap that lets you easily sling it over your shoulder while it's not in use. If you're planning to walk often during your trip, a stroller with a large basket under the seat can be useful. It can hold large bags for weekender bags or diaper bags.
The lightweight Babyzen YoYo2 stroller is the most compact stroller we've test. Weighing 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 weave through crowds on city streets. It's not a good option for rough terrain or jogging but it's ideal for city living and quick outings when you don't want to lug around a bigger stroller.
Another option that's lightweight is the Nuna Aer+, which packs a full-size stroller into a compact design suitable for air travel. It is compatible with both Nuna infant car seats and Clek infant seat adapters (adapters are available separately) It also has a large storage compartment. It also offers an easy ride on bumpy surfaces. It's a bit more expensive than the other travel strollers that we've tested, however it's worth the price for parents who regularly use their stroller when traveling.
Some strollers come with a more convenient way to transport them, such as the multi-purpose Baby Jogger City Tour 2. This model is easy to maneuver and folds or unfolded using just one hand. It is compatible with many major car seat brands. The front wheel suspension, swivels and swivel wheels offer smooth travel across pavements, airports, and cobblestones. The height of the handlebar can be adjusted to meet the needs of parents of any height.
Contours makes popular strollers more affordable for travelers. Their stroller weighs less than the lighter Pockit, but offers solid frame, a robust dual-wheel suspension, a UPF 50+ sun canopy and plenty of storage space. It also has an auto-standing fold that is easy to fold and comes with a convenient carrying bag and strap for carrying.
Easy to Manoeuvre
You should choose a travel stroller that can be maneuvered easily in all types of terrain. This is particularly true if you intend to use your stroller for adventures or hikes where you might encounter rough surfaces. Pick a stroller with a handlebar that is simple to use and wheels designed to hold the surface. It should be light and easy to handle so it is easy to lift, transport, or store it.
A good choice is the BabyZen Yoyo2, which is an extremely rated umbrella stroller specifically designed for use on the road. It's a good option for parents who want an easy-to-use, high-quality product with features that many families want in a travel-friendly stroller, including a compact fold and a sun canopy that extends.
It's a bit more difficult to push than other strollers with smaller wheels but it's a great choice in a variety of terrains and is easy to turn. The GB Pockit is another highly-rated website stroller. It's pricier than some of the other travel strollers in our ratings, but it offers many features that parents are looking for in a stroller for travel. It has a simple handlebar and is small enough to fit in the overhead bins of airplanes.
If you like a sleeker appearance then the Zoe Traveler is a great option. It's also a top umbrella stroller in our reviews and features a minimalist, sleek design that makes it look similar to a backpack it's folded. It's also a bit lighter than the GB Pockit but it has more storage space and scores the highest score for quality compared to the other strollers that we've tried.
The Doona is a great stroller for travel, that is FAA approved (with the latch-base) and doesn't require any setup. It's also durable and comfortable to use with a family of children. It's more expensive than other alternatives, but it's made of high-quality materials. It also earned the highest score in terms of user-friendliness. It also includes accessories, such as rain covers and a travel bag, that other brands require you to purchase separately.
Comfortable Seating
The best travel strollers are designed to provide your child with an enjoyable ride. Look for models that are padded and have a well-sized canopy. They must also recline, which is essential when you intend to use the stroller for naps on your journey. Also, make sure the seat is appropriate to your child's size. Some travel strollers may be designed to be as compact and light as they can, but this could result in a loss of comfort.
Luckily, there are plenty of choices that provide both fashion and comfort. The Cybex Coya, for example is a stylish stroller that is lightweight and robust. The frame made of aluminum will last a lifetime, while its antishock wheels and 5-point padded harness guarantee an easy ride. The Coya comes with an enormous canopy that provides the best sun protection.
Another option that is worth considering is the Nuna TRVL, which is a sleek and modern stroller that is designed to make travelling with children as simple as is possible. It comes with a one-handed folding mechanism that folds easily and is light enough to fit into car trunks or overhead bins of airplanes. It comes with a range of accessories and customizations such as weather shields and sun canopies.
If you're looking for a buggy for travel that can also function as a daily stroller then the Uppababy G-Link 2 is a great option. This large stroller is simple to maneuver and comes with many features that parents appreciate including cup holders, storage compartments, an easy buckle, and adjustable shoulder straps. The large seat reclines and features a large UPF 50+ canopy, which has a mesh window that peeks out.
The Bugaboo Butterfly is a good option for families with infant car seats. This stroller is compatible for various infant car seats. It's an excellent choice for families who frequently travel. Its compact fold and maneuverability make it easy to navigate through busy airports and cities.
A travel stroller is one that is comfortable for you and your child. Choose a model that has an ample, cushioned seat that can recline to allow for naps on long trips. Seats with well-padded legrests can make for a more comfortable ride. Choose a travel stroller with a comfortable handle, so you can carry it when folded.
Convenient Storage
Contrary to the majority of strollers, a few travel-friendly models have ultra-compact folds that are ideal for stowing in tight car trunks or crowded overhead bins. They also often weigh less than 10 pounds, which makes them easy for everyone (including children) to carry.
UPPAbaby's Minu was among the very first travel strollers that could be used as an everyday stroller. It's still a popular choice for parents who pack light and don't want their stroller to be checked for gate access when they travel. This IATA-certified stroller is easy to get from the plane and fits in the majority of overhead bins. It also comes with many smart features, including a single-handed folding mechanism with a large sunshade, as well as a comfortable seat with multiple recline positions.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly stroller that still feels like a luxury stroller, consider the Kolcraft Cloud Plus. It is not the most beautiful model nor the smallest of our test, but it does have an easy-to-use frame, and lots of clever features, including the ability to recline and padding for the brake. There's also a huge basket under the carriage as well as a one-handed fold. Plus, it's environmentally friendly and comes with recyclable packaging and a 10-year transferable warranty.
Another strong contender is the Bugaboo Butterfly, which has a slim profile and a plethora of practical features. In our tests, it moved well over different surfaces, including wood and shag carpet and its bottom storage basket is large enough for a backpack. The only issue is that it's heavy (at 17 pounds) and therefore may not fit in the overhead bins of smaller aircrafts.
If you don't have plenty of space for storing your stroller at home, think about buying a bike shed or making a nook custom for it. A garden shed, specifically, is a great place to store your stroller because it's weather-resistant and is protected from the elements. It's also easily accessible whenever you need it. You can also use a nook or shed to store your stroller in case it's lost or stolen.