How to Pick the Best Travel Stroller
There are plenty of options, whether you want a stroller for
travel pushchair or a lightweight, compact one to bring with you. We've put them to the test to help you select the
best travel stroller for your needs.
The stroller is light and easy to maneuver and is able to drive well on various terrains. It folds down into a tiny bag that fits in the majority of overhead bins on airplanes.
Easy to Fold
The best strollers for travel can fold into a compact size that can easily be placed in overhead bins of planes and trunks of cars. Look for models with a one-hand fold that doesn't require any stooping or struggling. Some models also come with a convenient carry strap that makes it easy to sling the stroller over your shoulder when you're not using it. If you plan to walk for a long time on your travels and need a stroller with a large basket under the seat could be helpful. It can hold large bags for diapers or weekender bags.
The lightweight Babyzen YoYo2 is the most compact stroller we've ever test, weighing just 13.7 pounds and getting into airplane aisles or into overhead bins. It's also smaller than other strollers, making it easier to maneuver through crowds on streets in the city. It's not a good option for jogging or rough terrain, but it's perfect for city life and short outings where you don't have to lug around a bigger stroller.
Another lightweight option is the Nuna Aer+, which packs a full-size stroller into a compact form that's suitable for travel on air. It is compatible with both Nuna infant car seats and Clek infant seat adapters (adapters are sold separately), and has an ample storage compartment. It also provides smooth riding on bumpy surfaces. It's more expensive than the other strollers we evaluated, but it's worth it for parents who use their strollers frequently when traveling.
Some travel strollers offer a more convenient way to transport them, such as the multi-purpose Baby Jogger City Tour 2. This model is easy to move and folds or folded with just one hand. It is compatible with many major car seat brands. The front wheel suspension, swivels, and swivel wheels offer an easy ride across pavements, airports, and cobblestones. The handlebar's height can be adjusted to suit parents of any height.
Contours makes popular stroller models more affordable for travelers. Their stroller weighs less than the light Pockit, but offers solid frame, a robust dual-wheel suspension and the UPF 50+ sun canopy, and plenty of storage space. It features a self-standing fold that is easy to fold down. It also comes with a handy carry bag and strap for carrying.
Easy to Manoeuvre
You should select a travel stroller that is easy to maneuver in all types of terrain. This is especially true if you plan to use your stroller on hikes, or other adventures where you might encounter rough terrain. Pick a stroller with a handlebar that is easy to operate and wheels that are designed to hold the surface. It should also be lightweight and maneuverable enough that you can easily lift and carry it or store it with little effort.
The BabyZen Yoyo2 is a highly rated umbrella stroller made for travel. It's a great option for parents looking for a premium user-friendly product that has features that families want in a travel-friendly, stroller. These include a compact folding mechanism and an extended canopy.
It's a little harder to push than 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 rated stroller. It's more expensive than many of the other travel strollers in our ratings however it has a wide range of features that many parents want in a stroller that travels. It has a straightforward handlebar that is easy to maneuver and is compact enough to fit into the overhead bins on planes.
If you prefer a sleeker style then the Zoe Traveler is a fantastic choice. It's also a top umbrella stroller in our ratings and has an elegant, minimalist design that makes it look like a backpack when it's folded. It's a little smaller than the GB Pockit, but it has more storage space and gets an overall higher score for quality compared to other
compact strollers we've tested.
The Doona is another excellent 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 more expensive than the other options, but it is made of high-quality materials. It also received an excellent rating in terms of ease-of-use. It also includes accessories, such as a rain cover and bags for travel, which other brands require you to purchase separately.
Comfortable Seating
The best travel strollers are designed to provide your child with an enjoyable ride. Look for models that are cushioned and come with a large canopy. They should also recline, which is essential when you intend to use the stroller for naps during your travels. Also, make sure the seat is appropriate to your child's size. Some travel strollers are designed to be as lightweight and compact as possible, but this can be at the expense of the user's comfort.
Luckily, there are plenty of options that offer both design and comfort. For instance the Cybex Coya is a stylish stroller that is light and sturdy. Its aluminum frame will last a lifetime, while its antishock wheels and 5-point padded harness guarantee an easy ride. The Coya also has a large canopy that provides excellent sun protection.
Another option that is worth considering is the Nuna TRVL, which is a sleek and modern stroller designed to make travel with kids as easy as is possible. It features a single-handed folding mechanism that folds easily and is lightweight enough to fit in the trunks of cars or overhead bins on airplanes. It is available with a variety of accessories and customizations like weather shields and sun canopies.
If you're in search of a travel stroller that can double as a stroller for daily use, consider the Uppababy G-Link 2. This large stroller is easy to maneuver and comes with many features that parents appreciate including cup holders, storage compartments, an easy buckle and adjustable shoulder straps. Its spacious seat also reclines and has an enormous UPF 50+ canopy, which has the mesh peekaboo window.
A good option 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 travel often. The compact fold and the maneuverability of this stroller allows you to navigate large cities and airports.
A stroller that is used for travel is one that is comfortable for you and your child. Pick a stroller that has a wide, comfortable seat and can recline to allow for naps on long journeys. The seat should also come with an adequately cushioned leg rest, since this can provide a more comfortable ride. Finally, choose a travel stroller that has a cushioned handle that can be used to carry it when folded.
Convenient Storage
Contrary to the majority of strollers, a few models that are designed for travel feature ultra-compact folds that make them ideal for stowing away in car trunks or crowded overhead bins. They also often weigh less than 10 pounds, making them easy for everyone (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 is still a top pick among parents who do not want to worry about having their stroller checked at the gate every time they fly. This IATA-certified stroller fits in most overhead bins, maneuvers like a dream on the plane, and has various smart features (including the ability to fold with one hand, a large sunshade, a comfortable seat with multi-position recline, spacious undercarriage basket, padded handlebar with wrist strap and an easy, one-step foot brake).
For a budget-friendly option that still feels like a luxury stroller, try the Kolcraft Cloud Plus. It is not the prettiest or the smallest in our review but it has an easy-to-use frame, and lots of innovative features,
Baby Stroller such as the ability to recline and padding for the brake. It also has a large basket underneath the carriage, and a one-handed fold. Additionally, it's eco-friendly and comes in recyclable packaging with a 10-year transferable warranty.
Another top contender is the Bugaboo Butterfly, which has an elongated profile and a plethora of practical features. In our tests, it maneuvered well over different surfaces including shag and wood carpet and its storage basket is big enough for a backpack. The only drawback is that it's heavy (at 17 pounds) and therefore may not fit in the overhead bins of smaller aircrafts.
If you do not have a lot of space to store your stroller, you may be interested in purchasing a bike shed. You can also build an individual nook for it. A garden shed is the perfect location to store a stroller since it's weatherproof and protected from the elements. It's also easily accessible any time you're in need. You can also use an area or shed to store your stroller if it's lost or stolen.