How to Pick the Best Travel Stroller
There are plenty of options, whether you want an ideal stroller for your travels or a lightweight, compact one to take with you. We've tried each one to help you choose the ideal stroller for your needs.
A stroller with a light weight that glides smoothly and drives well across various terrains. It folds into a teeny-tiny bag that fits in most airplane overhead bins.
Easy to Fold
The best travel strollers fold down into an easy-to-store, compact package that can be tucked away in overhead bins on planes as well as in trunks of cars. Choose models that feature a single-hand fold that is able to be completed without any stooping or straining. Some also have a convenient carry strap that makes it simple to sling the stroller over your shoulder when you're not using it. If you plan to do a lot of walking during your trip it is advisable to choose an infant stroller with a large undercarriage basket that can hold large diaper bags and weekender bags.
The light Babyzen YoYo2 stroller is the most compact stroller we tested. Weighing only 13.7 pounds, it can easily fit into aisles of airplanes and overhead bins. It is also narrower than other strollers, making it easier to maneuver around crowds in busy streets. It's not the best option for running, rough terrain or for quick excursions.
Nuna Aer+ is another lightweight alternative. It packs features of full-size 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 offers an effortless ride on uneven surfaces. It's more expensive than the other travel strollers we tested, but it's well worth the cost for parents who regularly use their stroller while traveling.
Some strollers come with the convenience of transport them, for instance the multi-functional Baby Jogger City Tour 2. This model features an easy-to-manoeuvre design that can be folded and unfolded in one hand, and is compatible with the majority of major brand car seats. The front wheel suspension, swivels and swivel wheels offer an easy ride across pavements, airports, and cobblestones. The handlebar height can be adjusted to suit parents of all heights.
Contours takes popular stroller designs and makes them more affordable for families. Itsy's stroller is lighter the lighter Pockit but has an enduring frame, a dynamic dual wheel suspension as well as an UPF50+ sun canopy and plenty of storage. It also has an auto-standing fold that is easy to fold, and it is equipped with a convenient carrying bag and a strap for carrying.
Easy to Manoeuvre
The type of travel stroller you choose should be easy to maneuver over all kinds of terrain. This is especially true when you plan to use it for hikes or adventures where you may encounter rough terrain. Look for a stroller with a user-friendly handlebar and wheels designed to grip the ground well. It should be lightweight and easy to handle so you can easily lift, carry, or store it.
The BabyZen Yoyo2 is a highly popular umbrella stroller specifically designed for use on travel. It's a great option for parents looking for a premium product that is easy to use and has features that families want in a stroller designed for travel. It has an easy folding mechanism that folds down small and an extendable canopy.
It's a bit more difficult to push than other smaller travel strollers but it's a great choice on a variety terrains and is easy to turn. The GB Pockit is another highly-rated stroller. It's more expensive than many of the other strollers we've reviewed however it has many features that parents are looking for in a stroller for travel. It has an easy-to-use handlebar, and is small enough to fit in the overhead bins of airplanes.
If you like a sleeker look then the Zoe Traveler is a great option. It's also the highest-rated umbrella stroller according to our reviews. It's minimalist and sleek design, which makes it look like a backpack once folded. It's heavier than the GB Pockit, but it has more storage space and gets a better score for quality than other smaller strollers we've evaluated.
The Doona is a fantastic stroller for travel, that is FAA approved (with the latch-base) and doesn't require any setup. It's also durable and easy to use with a number of children. It's more expensive than the other alternatives, but it's constructed of top-quality materials. It also earned an excellent rating for ease of use. It comes with accessories such as a travel bag and rain cover that other brands require you to buy separately.
Comfortable Seating
The best strollers for travel are designed to give your child a comfortable ride. Choose models with a wide canopy and comfortable seats. They must also recline, which is important if you plan on using the stroller for naps during your travels. Also, ensure that the seat is appropriate to your child's size. Some strollers for travel are designed to be as compact and lightweight as they can, but this can compromise the comfort of your child.
Luckily, there are plenty of alternatives that offer design and comfort. The Cybex Coya, for example is a stylish stroller that is both light and durable. The frame made of aluminum will last a lifetime, while its antishock wheels and 5-point padded harness guarantee a smooth ride. The Coya also has a huge canopy that offers an excellent sun protection.
Another option that is worth considering is the Nuna TRVL, which is a sleek and innovative stroller that is designed to make travel with kids pram uk as easy as it can be. It features a single-handed folding mechanism and is light enough to fit into car trunks or overhead bins of airplanes. It is also available with a wide range of accessories and customisation options including sun canopies, weather shields and snack tray.
If you're looking for a portable stroller that can double as a regular stroller, consider the Uppababy G-Link 2. This spacious stroller is easy to maneuver and comes with numerous features that parents love, including cup holders storage compartments, an easy buckle, and adjustable shoulder straps. The spacious seat reclines and has a large UPF50+ canopy, with a peekaboo mesh window.
A great option for families with infant car seats is the Bugaboo Butterfly. This stroller is compatible with many infant car seats and makes it a good choice for families who frequently travel. The compact fold and maneuverability of this stroller will allow you to travel through large cities and airports.
A travel stroller must be comfortable for both you and your infant. Pick a stroller that has an ample, cushioned seat that can recline to allow naps during long trips. The seat should also have an adequately cushioned leg rest as this can make for a more comfortable ride. Finally, choose a travel stroller with a comfortable handle that can be used to carry it when folded.
Convenient Storage
Unlike most strollers, many models that are designed for travel feature ultra-compact folds that are ideal for stowing in tight car trunks or crowded overhead bins. They also often weigh less than 10 pounds, making them easy for anyone (including children) to carry.
UPPAbaby was one of the first brands to venture into the "travel stroller that doubles as an everyday stroller" category, and its Minu remains a top pick among light-packing parents who don't want to risk having their stroller checked at the gate every time they travel. The stroller that is IATA-certified is easy to maneuver from the plane and can fit in the majority of overhead bins. It also has many clever features, such as a single-handed folding mechanism with a large sunshade, as well as a comfortable seat with various recline positions.
For a budget-friendly model that is still a luxury stroller, check out the Kolcraft Cloud Plus. It's not the most beautiful model nor the smallest in our review, but it has an easy-to-use frame and a lot of innovative features, such as an adjustable reclining mechanism as well as an padded brake. There's also a huge basket under the carriage and an easy fold with one hand. Plus, it's environmentally friendly and comes in recyclable packaging and a 10-year transferable warranty.
Another option is the Bugaboo Butterfly, which has slim lines and a plethora of practical features. It was easy to maneuver on various surfaces, including wood and shag rug, and the bottom storage basket can be used to store a backpack. The only issue is that it's heavy (at 17 pounds), so it may not fit into the overhead bins of smaller airplanes.
If you do not have enough space to store your stroller, you might think about purchasing a bike shed. You can also build an area specifically for it. A garden shed is the perfect location to store a stroller since it's weatherproof and shielded from the elements. It's also easily accessible whenever you need it. A nook or shed can also serve as a safe location to store your stroller in case it is lost or stolen when you're away.