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 carry around. We've put them to the test to help you select the best travel stroller for your requirements.
A stroller that is lightweight, is smooth and easy to drive across different terrains. It folds into a tiny carrying bag that fits in most overhead bins on planes.
Easy to Fold
The best strollers fold up into a compact, easy-to-store package that can be tucked away in overhead bins on planes and in car trunks. It is recommended to look for strollers that fold with one hand, and 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 walk often on your travels, a stroller that has a large basket under the seat can be useful. It can be used to store large diaper bags or weekender bags.
The lightweight Babyzen YoYo2 stroller is the most compact we test. It weighs just 13.7 pounds, it will easily fit into aisles of airplanes and overhead bins. It's also narrower than most other strollers which makes it easier to weave through crowds on city streets. It's not the best option for rough terrain or jogging however it's great for city life and quick excursions when you don't need to carry around a larger stroller.
Nuna Aer+ is another lightweight option. It packs features of full-size into a compact, air-friendly design. It's compatible with both Nuna and Clek infant car seats (adapters are sold separately) and has a spacious storage bin, and provides an easy ride on bumpy surfaces. It's a little more expensive than the other travel strollers we've tested, but it's worth the price for parents who regularly use their stroller while traveling.
Some travel strollers offer a more convenient way to transport them, for instance the versatile Baby Jogger City Tour 2. This model features an easy-to-manoeuvre design that folds and unfolded in one hand, and is compatible with all major car seats. The front wheel suspension, swivels and the swivel wheels give you an easy ride over pavements, airports and cobblestones. The handlebar height can be adjusted to meet the needs of parents of any height.
Contours takes popular stroller designs and makes them more affordable for travelers. Their Itsy stroller weighs less than the light 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 a strap for carrying.
Easy to Manoeuvre
The type of travel stroller you choose must be able to maneuver across all kinds of terrain. This is especially true when you plan to take your stroller on hikes, or other adventures where you might encounter rough terrain. Look for a stroller with a simple-to-use handlebar and wheels designed to be able to grip the ground. It should also be lightweight and easy to maneuver so you can lift it and carry it or store it with minimal effort.
The BabyZen Yoyo2 is a highly reviewed umbrella stroller that is designed for travel. It's a good option for parents who want an easy-to-use, high-quality item that has features that a lot of families are looking for in a portable stroller, such as compact folding and a sun canopy that can be extended.
It's a little more difficult to push than other smaller strollers, but it handles well on a variety terrains and is easy turn. Another option that is worth considering is the GB Pockit, which is also a highly-rated stroller. It is more expensive than other strollers we evaluated however it comes with a variety of features that parents want in a stroller. It has a simple-to-use handlebar that's easy to maneuver and is small enough to fit into the overhead bins on airplanes.
If you're looking for a sleeker design, consider the Zoe Traveler. It's also a top-rated umbrella stroller in our reviews and features a sleek, minimalist design that looks like a backpack when it's folded. It's a little lighter than the GB Pockit, but it offers more storage and a better score for quality compared to other compact strollers we've evaluated.
The Doona is another excellent stroller for travel that is FAA approved for aircraft use (with the latch base) and requires zero set-up. It's also sturdy and comfortable enough for several children. It's a little more expensive than some of the other options in our reviews however, it's constructed of high-quality materials, and received a top rating for its user-friendliness. It includes accessories like an umbrella and a rain cover, which other brands require you to buy separately.
Comfortable Seating
The best strollers for traveling provide your child with an enjoyable experience. Look for models with a big canopy and comfortable seats. They should also recline, which is essential when you intend to use the stroller for napping on your journey. Also, ensure that the seat is appropriate for your child's age. Some travel strollers are designed to be as light and compact as possible However, this could be detrimental to the comfort of your child.
There are plenty of options that offer both design and comfort. For instance, the Cybex Coya is a stylish stroller that is lightweight and durable. Its aluminum frame is built to last for a long time, while its antishock wheels and padded 5-point harness ensure a smooth 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 that is designed to make travelling with children as simple as possible. It has a one-handed fold mechanism and is lightweight enough to fit into car trunks or overhead bins on planes. It is available with a wide range of accessories and customizations like weather shields and sun canopies.
If you're looking for a travel buggy that can also be used a daily stroller then the Uppababy G-Link 2 is a great option. The spacious stroller moves smoothly and comes with all the features parents love including cup holders storage pockets, an easy buckle, and adjustable shoulder straps. Its spacious seat also reclines and comes with large UPF 50+ canopy that has the mesh peekaboo window.
The Bugaboo Butterfly is a good option for families with infant car seats. This stroller is compatible for a variety of infant car seats. It's a great choice for families who travel often. The compact fold and maneuverability of this stroller will allow you to maneuver through large cities and airports with ease.
A stroller for travel must be comfortable for you and your child. Choose a model that has a large, padded seat that can recline to allow naps during long journeys. The seat should also come with a well-padded leg rest, since this can provide an extra comfortable ride. Select a stroller with a cushioned handle so you can carry it when folded.
Convenient Storage
Contrary to the majority of strollers, a few travel-friendly models have website ultra-compact folds that are ideal to fit into tight car trunks or crowded overhead bins. They are usually lighter than 10 pounds and easy to carry by anyone, even children.
UPPAbaby was among the first companies to enter 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 checking their strollers at the gate when they travel. The stroller that is IATA-certified is easy to get off the plane and fits into the majority of overhead bins. It also has a number of smart features, including a single-handed folding mechanism with a large sunshade, as well as an incredibly comfortable seat with several recline positions.
The Kolcraft Cloud Plus is a budget-friendly stroller, but it feels like an expensive option. It's not the prettiest or the smallest of our test, but it does have an easy-to-use frame and a lot of smart features, including an adjustable reclining mechanism as well as padding for the brake. It also has a large basket under the carriage and the ability to fold it with one hand. Additionally, it's eco-friendly and comes in recyclable packaging with 10 years of transferable warranty.
Another strong contender is the Bugaboo Butterfly, which has slim lines and a variety of useful features. It's easy to maneuver on various surfaces, like shag and wood, and the bottom storage basket can be used to store a backpack. The only issue is that it's heavy (at 17 pounds) and therefore may not fit in the overhead bins of smaller airplanes.
If you do not have a lot of space to store your stroller, then you might be interested in purchasing a bike shed. You can also build an individual nook for it. A garden shed, in particular is a great spot to store your stroller since it's weather-resistant and shielded from the elements. It's also easy to access whenever you need it. You can also use an area or shed to store your stroller if it's stolen or lost.