How to Pick the Best Travel Stroller
There are a variety of options to choose from for you to choose from, whether you need an ideal stroller for your travels or a lightweight, compact one to take with you. We've put them all to the test to help you pick the ideal stroller for your needs.
The stroller is light and easy to maneuver and is able to drive well on various terrains. It folds up into a small bag that fits into most overhead bins on planes.
Easy to Fold
The best strollers fold into a compact, easy-to-store package that can fit into overhead bins on planes as well as in car trunks. Look for strollers that fold with one hand, without having to bend. Some strollers have a convenient strap that allows you to easily carry it over your shoulder when not in use. If you're planning to do a lot of walking during your trip, it's helpful to find the stroller that has a large undercarriage basket that can accommodate large diaper bags and weekender bags.
The light Babyzen YoYo2 stroller is the most compact we test. Weighing just 13.7 pounds, it can easily fit in airplane aisles and overhead bins. It is also narrower than other strollers making it easier to maneuver in busy streets. It's not a good option for jogging or rough terrain but it's ideal for city life and short outings when you don't want to lug around a bigger stroller.
Another lightweight option 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 sold separately) It also has a large storage compartment. It also offers smooth riding on bumpy surfaces. It's more expensive than other strollers we tested, but it's well worth the cost for parents who frequently use their stroller while traveling.
Some strollers are designed to help to transport them. One example is the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 that has a flexible design. This model features an easy-to-manoeuvre design that folds and unfolded with one hand, and is compatible with the majority of major car seats. The front wheel suspension, swivels and the swivel wheels give you smooth travel across pavements, airports, and cobblestones. The height of the handlebar can be adjusted to suit parents of all heights.
Contours takes the most popular stroller designs and makes them more affordable for those who travel. Their Itsy stroller weighs less than the lightweight Pockit and has a sturdy frame, dynamic dual-wheel suspension and the UPF 50+ sun canopy, and plenty of storage space. It has a self standing fold that is easy to fold. It is also equipped with a convenient carry bag and strap for carrying.
Easy to Manoeuvre
It is important to choose a stroller that is easy to maneuver in all types of terrain. This is especially important if you intend to use it for adventures or hikes in which you will encounter rough surfaces. Pick a stroller with an easy-to-use handlebar to use and has wheels designed to grip the surface. It should also be lightweight and easy to maneuver so that you can easily lift, carry or store it with minimal effort.
The BabyZen Yoyo2 is a highly rated umbrella stroller specifically designed for use on travel. It's a good option for parents seeking an easy-to-use, high-quality item with features that many families would like in a stroller, such as the ability to fold down small and a sun canopy that can be extended.
It's a bit more difficult to push than other strollers with smaller wheels however it is able to handle 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 other strollers that we reviewed, but it has many features that parents want in a stroller. It has an easy-to-use handlebar, and is small enough to fit into overhead bins of airplanes.
If you prefer a sleeker look and a sleeker design, the Zoe Traveler is a great choice. It's also a top umbrella stroller in our ratings and has a minimalist, sleek design that looks similar to a backpack it's folded. It's also a bit lighter than the GB Pockit but it has more storage space and earns a higher score for quality than other strollers that we've tried.
The Doona is a great stroller for travel that is FAA approved for aircraft use (with the latch base) and doesn't require any installation. It's also sturdy and comfortable enough to use for several children. It's a little more expensive than the other options in our rankings, but it's made of high-quality materials, and was awarded a top score for its user-friendliness. It also includes accessories like rain covers and a travel bag, that other brands make you buy separately.
Comfortable Seating
The best travel strollers give your child a comfortable experience. Choose models with a large canopy and comfortable seats. If you plan to use the stroller for napping during your trip, it is important that they recline. Also, make sure the seat is suitable for the size of your child. Some strollers are designed to be as compact and lightweight as possible, however 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 light and robust. The frame made of aluminum will last a lifetime, while its antishock wheels and 5-point padded harness ensure an enjoyable 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 unique stroller that is designed to make travel with kids as easy as it can be. It has a one-handed fold mechanism and is lightweight enough to fit into car trunks or overhead bins on airplanes. It is also available with a variety of accessories and customization options, such as sun canopies, weather shields, and snack trays.
If you are looking for a travel buggy that can also function as an everyday stroller, then the Uppababy G-Link 2 is a good choice. This spacious stroller is simple to maneuver and comes with numerous features that parents love such as cup holders and storage compartments, as well as an easy buckle, and adjustable shoulder straps. The large seat reclines and comes with a large UPF 50+ canopy with a mesh window that peeks out.
A good choice for families with infant car seats is the Bugaboo Butterfly. This stroller is compatible for many infant car seats. It's an excellent choice for families who frequently travel. Its compact fold and movability make it easy to navigate busy airports and cities.
A travel stroller should be comfortable for you and your child. Find a model that has a spacious and padded seat that can recline to allow napping during long trips. The seat should also come with an adequately cushioned leg rest as this can make for an extra comfortable ride. Also, you should choose a travel stroller with a comfortable handle that can be used to carry it when folded.
Convenient Storage
Many strollers designed for travel fold to a size that allows them to be stored in trunks of cars and overcrowded overhead bins. They typically weigh less than 10 pounds, making them easy for everyone (including children) to carry.
UPPAbaby was one of the first to dive into the "travel stroller that doubles as a daily stroller" category and its Minu is the top choice among light-packing parents who do not want to risk having their stroller checked at the gate every time they fly. This IATA-certified stroller is easy to get from the plane and fits into the majority of overhead bins. It also has many innovative features, like a one-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 is still a luxury stroller, try the Kolcraft Cloud Plus. It's not the prettiest nor most compact model we review, but it does have a streamlined frame, easy-to-use controls, and lots of clever features (including the ability to recline as well as a padded foot brake as well as a huge undercarriage basket and a simple one-handed fold). It's also environmentally friendly and comes in recyclable packaging with 10 years of transferable warranty.
The Bugaboo Butterfly is another strong contender, with its slim profile and convenient features. In our tests, it moved well over different surfaces, including wood and shag carpet and its storage basket is big enough for a backpack. It's only downside is its weight (at 17 pounds) that could hinder it from fitting into the overhead bins of smaller planes.
If you don't have plenty of space to store your website stroller at home, consider buying a bike shed or creating a nook specifically for it. A garden shed, particularly, is a great place to store your stroller as it's weather-resistant and is protected from the elements. It is also easily accessible whenever you need it. You can also make use of a shed or nook to store your stroller in the event that it's stolen or lost.