How to Pick the Best Travel Stroller
There are a variety of options to choose from, whether you want an ideal stroller for your travels or a lightweight, compact one to bring with you. We've put them all to the test to help you select the ideal travel stroller for your requirements.
A lightweight stroller that can be easily walked on and is able to drive across different terrains. It folds up into a small bag that fits in the majority of overhead bins found on airplanes.
Easy to Fold
The best strollers fold up into a compact, easy-to-store package that fits into overhead bins on planes and in car trunks. You should look for models that fold with one hand, without having to bend. Some also have a convenient carry strap that allows you to sling the stroller over your shoulder when you're not using it. If you're planning to spend a lot of time walking during your trip, it's helpful to find an infant stroller with an ample undercarriage basket that can hold large diaper bags and weekender bags.
The lightweight Babyzen YoYo2 stroller is the most compact stroller we test. Weighing just 13.7 pounds, it can easily fit in airplane aisles and overhead bins. It's also a bit smaller than other strollers, making it easier to maneuver through crowds in city streets. It's not the ideal choice for running, rough terrain or short outings.
Another option that's lightweight is the Nuna Aer+, which packs full-size strollers into a compact form 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 provides an effortless ride on uneven surfaces. It's a little more expensive than other travel strollers we've tested, but it's worth the price for parents who regularly use their stroller when 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. This model features an easy-to-manoeuvre design that can be folded and unfolded using one hand and is compatible with most major brand car seats. The front wheel suspension and rotating wheels provide smooth travel on airports, pavements, and cobblestones. Additionally, its adjustable handlebar height can accommodate parents of all heights.
Contours makes popular strollers less expensive for travelers. Their Itsy stroller weighs less than the light Pockit however it has solid frame, a robust dual-wheel suspension as well as an UPF 50+ sun canopy and plenty of storage space. It also has a self-standing fold that's simple to collapse, and it comes with a convenient carrying bag and a strap for carrying.
Easy to Manoeuvre
The type of travel stroller you pick should be easy to maneuver on all types of terrain. This is particularly important if you plan to use your stroller on hikes or other adventures where you might encounter rough surfaces. Select a stroller that comes with a handlebar that is easy to use and wheels designed to hold the surface. It should be lightweight and easy to handle so you can easily lift, carry, or even store it.
An excellent option is the BabyZen Yoyo2, which is an extremely rated umbrella stroller made for travel. It's a great option for parents who want an easy-to-use and high-quality product with features that many families are looking for in a portable stroller, including compact folding and a sun canopy that can be extended.
It's a little harder to push than some of the smaller strollers in our ratings, but it is able to handle a variety of terrains and is easy to turn. The GB Pockit is another highly-rated stroller. It's pricier than some of the other strollers in our rankings however, it comes with many features that parents are looking for in a stroller for travel. It comes with a user-friendly handlebar, and is small enough to fit in the overhead bins of airplanes.
If you're looking for a sleeker style, you should check out the Zoe Traveler. It's also a top-rated umbrella stroller in our ratings and has a minimalist, sleek design that makes it look almost like a backpack when it's folded. It's heavier than the GB Pockit, but it offers more storage and the highest score in terms of quality than other compact strollers we've tested.
The Doona is another excellent stroller for travel that is FAA approved for use in aircrafts (with the latch base) and doesn't require any set-up. It's also durable and comfortable enough for several children. It's a bit more expensive than the other options in our ratings however, it's constructed using high-quality materials and has was awarded a top score for its ease of use. It comes with accessories such as bags for travel and a rain cover, which other brands require you to purchase separately.
Comfortable Seating
The best strollers for traveling give your child the comfort of. Look for models that are padded and come with a large canopy. They should also recline, which is crucial when you intend to use the stroller for napping on your journey. Additionally, be sure that the seat is suitable for your child's age. Some travel strollers are designed to be as light and compact as they can be, but this can come at the expense of the user's comfort.
There are many options to combine style and comfort. The Cybex Coya, for example, is a stylish stroller that is both lightweight and sturdy. The frame made of aluminum will last for a long time, and its antishock wheels and 5-point padded harness ensure a smooth ride. The Coya has an extensive canopy that offers great sun protection.
Nuna TRVL is another excellent option. It is a sleek and innovative stroller designed to make traveling easy for children. It comes with a one-handed folding mechanism and is light enough to fit into the trunks of cars or overhead bins of airplanes. It comes with a range of here accessories and customisations, including sun canopies and weather shields.
If you're in search of a travel stroller that can double as a stroller for daily use take a look at the Uppababy G-Link 2. 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 has a large UPF50+ canopy that has an open mesh window.
A good option for families with infant car seats is the Bugaboo Butterfly. This stroller can be used with a variety of infant car seats, making it a convenient option for families who frequently travel. The compact fold and mobility of this stroller will allow you to maneuver through busy airports and large cities.
A stroller for travel is one that is comfortable for you and your child. Pick a stroller that has a wide, comfortable seat that reclines to allow naps during long trips. Seats with padded legrests provide an even more comfortable ride. Make sure you choose a stroller with a comfortable handle that you can use to carry it when folded.
Convenient Storage
In contrast to most strollers, some models that are designed for travel feature ultra-compact folds that are ideal for stowing in tight trunks of cars or overcrowded overhead bins. They typically weigh less than 10 pounds, making them a breeze for anyone (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 an excellent choice for light-packing parents who do not want to worry about gate-checking their stroller when they fly. This stroller that is IATA-certified can fit in almost all overhead bins, and can be moved like a dream on the plane, and comes with a range of smart features (including folding with one hand, huge sunshade, comfy seat with multi-position recline, spacious undercarriage basket, padded handlebar with a wrist strap and an easy foot brake that only takes one step).
For a budget-friendly model that still feels like a luxury stroller, consider the Kolcraft Cloud Plus. It's not the prettiest nor most compact model we review, but it comes with sleek frame, easy-to-use controls, and lots of clever features (including a reclining mechanism as well as a padded foot brake and a large undercarriage basket and a simple fold that only requires one hand). Plus, it's environmentally friendly and comes with recyclable packaging and a 10-year transferable warranty.
The Bugaboo Butterfly is another strong contender, with its slim profile and many convenient features. In our tests, it moved well over different surfaces including shag and wood carpet, and its bottom storage basket is large enough for a backpack. Its only flaw is its weight (at 17 pounds) which could prevent it from fitting into the overhead bins of smaller planes.
If you do not have a lot of space to store your stroller, you may want to consider buying a bike shed. You can also design a custom nook 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 accessible at any time you require it. You can also make use of a shed or nook to store your stroller if it's stolen or lost.