How to Pick the Best Travel Stroller
Whether you're looking for a stroller that you can use while you travel or want a lightweight, compact stroller to carry around on the go, there are plenty of choices. We've tested them all to help you pick the most suitable travel stroller that suits your needs.
A stroller with a light weight that can be easily walked on and is able to drive across different terrains. It folds down into a tiny carrying bag that fits in the majority of overhead bins found on airplanes.
Easy to Fold
The most effective strollers for travel can fold into a compact package that is easily placed in overhead bins of planes and trunks of cars. Choose models that feature one-hand folds that doesn't require any stooping or struggling. Some strollers have a convenient strap that allows you to easily sling it over your shoulders when it's not in use. If you plan to walk a lot during your trip, a stroller with an enormous basket under the seat is a good idea. It can hold large bags for weekender bags or diaper bags.
The light Babyzen YoYo2 stroller is the most compact stroller we've tested. Weighing only 13.7 pounds, it's able to easily fit into airplane aisles and overhead bins. It's also narrower than most other strollers which makes it easier to navigate crowds on city streets. It's not a good option for jogging or rough terrain, but it's perfect for city living and quick outings where you don't have to carry a larger stroller.
Nuna Aer+ is another lightweight alternative. It packs full-size features into a compact air-friendly design. It's compatible with both Nuna and Clek infant car seats (adapters sold separately), has a spacious storage bin, and provides a smooth ride on bumpy surfaces. It's more expensive than other travel strollers that we evaluated, but it's an excellent choice for parents who frequently use their stroller when traveling.
Some strollers come with an easier way to transport them, such as the multi-functional Baby Jogger City Tour 2. It is simple to maneuver and folds or unfolded with one hand. It is compatible with all major car seat brands. The front wheel suspension and rotating wheels provide smooth travel on pavements, airports, and cobblestones, and its convenient handlebar height adjusts to accommodate parents of all sizes.
Contours makes popular strollers less expensive for travelers. Their Itsy 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 a self-standing fold that's simple to fold and comes with a convenient carrying bag and carry strap.
Easy to Manoeuvre
The type of travel stroller you select should be easy to maneuver over all kinds of terrain. This is especially true in the event that you plan to use your stroller for adventures or hikes where you may encounter rough surfaces. Find a stroller that has a user-friendly handlebar and wheels designed to grip the ground well. It should also be lightweight and maneuverable enough that you can easily lift the stroller, carry it or store it with minimal effort.
A great option is the BabyZen Yoyo2, which is an extremely rated umbrella stroller specifically designed for use on the road. It's an excellent choice for parents who are looking for a premium user-friendly product that has features that families want in a travel-friendly, stroller. It has the ability to fold down in a compact manner and an expandable canopy.
It's a little more difficult to push than other smaller travel strollers however it is able to handle in a variety of types of terrain and is easy to turn. Another great option is the GB Pockit, which is also a highly-rated stroller. It's more expensive than the other strollers that we reviewed, but it has numerous features that parents are looking for in a stroller. It comes with a user-friendly handlebar and is small enough to fit into the overhead bins of airplanes.
If you're looking for a sleeker design, consider the Zoe Traveler. It's also a top umbrella stroller in our rankings and has a minimalist, sleek design that makes it look almost like a backpack when it's folded. It's a little smaller than the GB Pockit, but it offers more storage and an overall higher score in terms of quality than other small travel strollers that we've tested.
The Doona is another great travel stroller that's FAA aircraft-approved (with the latch base) and requires no set-up. It's also durable and easy to use with multiple children. It's a little more expensive than the other choices in our reviews, but it's made with high-quality materials and earned a top rating for its ease of use. It also includes accessories like an umbrella and travel bag, that other brands require you to purchase separately.
Comfortable Seating
The best strollers for traveling provide your child with a comfortable experience. Make sure you choose models that are cushioned and with a spacious canopy. They should also recline, which is essential for those who plan to use the stroller to nap during your travels. Also, make sure the seat is suitable for your child's size. Some travel strollers are designed to be as light and compact as possible, but this can come at the expense of comfort.
Luckily, there are many alternatives that offer fashion and comfort. For instance, the Cybex Coya is a stylish stroller that is light and sturdy. Its aluminum frame is built to last, while its anti-shock wheels and padded 5-point harness ensure a comfortable ride. The Coya also has a huge canopy that offers an excellent sun protection.
Another excellent option is the Nuna TRVL, which is a sleek and innovative stroller designed to make traveling with children as simple as it can be. It comes with a one-handed folding mechanism that folds easily and is lightweight enough to fit in trunks of cars and overhead bins on airplanes. It can also be purchased with a wide range of accessories and customisation options like sun canopies, weather shields and snack trays.
If you're looking for a portable stroller that can double as a daily stroller take a look at the Uppababy G-Link 2. This large stroller is easy to maneuver and has many features that parents appreciate such as cup holders, storage compartments, an easy buckle and adjustable shoulder straps. The large seat reclines and comes with a large UPF 50+ canopy that has the mesh peekaboo window.
The Bugaboo Butterfly is a good choice for families who have infant car seats. This stroller is compatible with many infant car seats which makes it a great option for families that check here frequently travel. Its compact fold and maneuverability allow you to easily navigate through busy airports and cities.
A stroller that is used for travel is one that is comfortable for you and your child. Choose a stroller with a spacious and padded seat that can recline for napping on long trips. Seats with padded legrests provide a more comfortable ride. Select a stroller with a cushioned handle, so you can carry it when folded.
Convenient Storage
Many strollers that are designed for travel fold to be so compact that they can be stored in car trunks and crowded overhead bins. They typically weigh less than 10 pounds, which makes them easy for anyone (including children) to carry.
UPPAbaby's Minu was among the very first travel strollers that could also be used as a regular stroller. It's still a top choice among parents who pack light and do not want their stroller be checked for gate access when they travel. This stroller that is IATA-certified fits in most overhead bins, and can be moved like a dream on the plane, and offers a range of smart features (including folding with one hand, massive sunshade, a comfy seat with multi-position recline, spacious undercarriage basket, and a padded handlebar with a wrist strap, and an easy foot brake that is one step).
If you're looking for a budget-friendly stroller that still feels like a luxurious stroller, consider the Kolcraft Cloud Plus. It's not the prettiest or the smallest of our review, but it has an easy-to-use frame and a lot of smart features, including a reclining mechanism and padding for the brake. It also has a large basket under the carriage as well as the ability to fold it with one hand. It's also environmentally friendly and comes in recyclable packaging and the option of transferring a 10-year warranty.
Another option is the Bugaboo Butterfly, which has a slim profile and a host of convenient features. It was easy to maneuver across different surfaces, including wood and shag rug, and the bottom basket can accommodate a backpack. The only drawback is that it's heavy (at 17 pounds), so it may not fit into the overhead bin of smaller aircrafts.
If you don't have a lot of space for storing your stroller at home, think about buying a bike shed or making a nook custom for it. A garden shed is the perfect place to store your stroller, as it's weatherproof and protected from the elements. It's also accessible whenever you require it. You can also make use of a shed or nook to store your stroller if it's lost or stolen.