How to Pick the Best Travel Stroller
There are a variety of options to choose from depending on whether you're looking for a stroller for travel or a compact, lightweight one to carry around. We've put them all to the test to help you select the best travel stroller for your needs.
The lightweight stroller glides easily and is able to drive well on various terrains. It folds up into a tiny carrying bag that fits into the majority of overhead bins for airplanes.
Easy to Fold
The best strollers for travel can fold into a compact package that can easily be stored in overhead bins of planes and trunks of cars. Look for models that fold using only one hand, with no stooping. Some strollers come with a convenient strap that allows you to easily sling it over your shoulder when it's not in use. If you plan to do a lot of walking on your travels it is advisable to choose an infant stroller with a large undercarriage basket that can accommodate large diaper bags as well as weekender bags.
The light Babyzen YoYo2 is the most compact stroller we've tested, weighing just 13.7 pounds and being able to fit down airplane aisles or into overhead bins. It's also smaller than other strollers which makes it easier to weave through crowds on streets in the city. It's not the best choice for running, rough terrain or short outings.
Another lightweight option is the Nuna Aer+, which packs full-size stroller features into a compact design that's suitable for travel on air. It's compatible with both Nuna and Clek infant car seats (adapters are sold separately) and has a spacious storage bin, and an effortless ride on uneven surfaces. It's a little more expensive than other travel strollers we've tested, but it's well worth the cost for parents who often use their stroller while traveling.
Some travel strollers offer an easier way to transport them, like the versatile Baby Jogger City Tour 2. This model is easy to maneuver and can be folded or unfolded using just one hand. It is compatible with all major car seat brands. The front wheel suspension, swivels and swivel wheels provide an easy ride 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. Itsy's stroller is lighter the light Pockit but it has an enduring frame, a powerful dual wheel suspension, an UPF50+ sun canopy and plenty of storage. It features a self-standing fold that is easy to fold. It also comes with a handy carry bag and carrying strap.
Easy to Manoeuvre
The type of travel stroller you choose must be able to maneuver across all kinds of terrain. This is especially true in the event that you intend to use your stroller on hikes or other activities where you could encounter rough surfaces. Find a stroller that has a simple-to-use handlebar and wheels that are designed to hold the ground in a secure manner. It should also be lightweight and easy to maneuver so you can lift it, carry or store it with minimal effort.
A great option is the BabyZen Yoyo2, which is an extremely rated umbrella stroller made for travel. It's a great choice for parents who are looking for a high-quality, easy-to-use product that includes features that a lot of families would like to have in a stroller that is travel-friendly. These include an easy folding mechanism that folds down small and an expandable canopy.
It's a little harder to push than some of the smaller strollers in our reviews, but it's able to withstand a variety of terrains and is easy to turn. Another great option is the GB Pockit, which is also a top-rated stroller. It's more expensive than the other strollers that we reviewed, but it has many features that parents want in a stroller. It has a simple handlebar, and is small enough to fit in the overhead bins of airplanes.
If you prefer a sleeker style, the Zoe Traveler is a great option. It is also the top-rated umbrella stroller according to our evaluations. It has a sleek and minimalist design, that makes it look like a backpack once folded. It's smaller than the GB Pockit, but it has more storage space and gets the highest score for quality compared to other small travel strollers that we've tested.
The Doona is a fantastic travel stroller, which is FAA approved (with the latch-base) and requires no setup. It's also sturdy and suitable for families with a family of children. It's more expensive than some of the other options in our reviews, but it's made using high-quality materials and has earned a top rating for ease-of-use. It also includes accessories like an umbrella and travel bag, which other brands make you buy separately.
Comfortable Seating
The best strollers for travel are designed to provide your child with an enjoyable ride. Look for models with a big canopy and padded seats. If you plan to use the stroller as a napper on your travels it is essential to recline. Be sure that the seat is appropriate for your child's age. Some travel strollers may be designed to be as light and compact as they can, but this can compromise comfort.
Luckily, there are plenty of choices that provide both fashion and comfort. The Cybex Coya, for example is a stylish stroller that is both lightweight and durable. The frame made of aluminum is built to last, and its anti-shock wheels as well as padded 5-point harness ensure a smooth ride. The Coya has an extensive canopy that offers the best sun protection.
Another option that is worth considering is the Nuna TRVL, which is a sleek and unique stroller designed to make travel with kids as easy as is possible. It features a single-handed folding mechanism and is lightweight enough to fit in trunks of cars and overhead bins on airplanes. It is also available with a range of accessories and options for customization including weather shields, sun canopies and snack tray.
If you're looking for a portable stroller that can double as a daily pushchair stroller take a look at the Uppababy G-Link 2. The large stroller is easy to maneuver and comes with all the features that parents appreciate like cup holders storage pockets, an easy buckle, and adjustable shoulder straps. The large seat reclines and has a large UPF 50+ canopy, which has a mesh peekaboo window.
A great option for families with infant car seats is the Bugaboo Butterfly. This stroller is compatible with a variety of infant car seats. It's an excellent choice for families who travel often. The compact fold and the maneuverability of this stroller allows you to maneuver through large cities and airports with ease.
A stroller that is used for travel should be comfortable for you and your child. Pick a stroller that has a large, padded seat that can recline to allow for naps on long trips. Legrests that are well-padded can provide 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
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 also often weigh less than 10 pounds, making them a breeze for anyone (including children) to carry.
UPPAbaby was among the first to dive into the "travel stroller that doubles as a daily stroller" category, and its Minu remains a top pick among parents who do not want to risk gate-checking their stroller when they travel. This IATA-certified stroller is simple to move off the plane and fits into most overhead bins. It also has a number of clever features, such as a one-handed folding mechanism, a large sunshade and a comfortable seat with multiple recline positions.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly stroller that is still a luxury 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 and a lot of clever features, including a reclining mechanism and a padded brake. There's also a huge basket under the carriage as well as the ability to fold it with one hand. It's also eco-friendly, comes in recyclable packaging and has a 10-year warranty.
The Bugaboo Butterfly is another strong contender, with its slim profile and many convenient features. It was easy to maneuver on various surfaces, including shag rug and wood and the storage basket at the bottom can hold a backpack. The only downside is that it's heavy (at 17 pounds), so it may not fit into the overhead bins of smaller planes.
If you don't have lots of space for storing your stroller at home, think about purchasing 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 weatherproof and is protected from the elements. It's also accessible at any time you require it. You can also use a nook or shed to store your stroller if it's stolen or lost.