How to Pick the Best Travel Stroller
There are many options available, whether you want an ideal stroller for your travels or a lightweight, compact one to take with you. We've put them all to the test to help you choose the ideal stroller for your requirements.
The stroller's lightweight design glides effortlessly and performs well on a variety of terrains. It folds down into a tiny carrying bag that fits into the majority of overhead bins for airplanes.
Easy to Fold
The best strollers for travel can fold into a compact unit that can easily be stored in overhead bins of planes and trunks of cars. You should look for models that fold using only one hand, with no stooping. Some strollers come with a handy strap that lets you effortlessly carry it over your shoulder while you are not using it. If you plan to spend a lot of time walking on your travels, it's helpful to find an infant stroller with a large undercarriage basket that can hold large diaper bags as well as weekender bags.
The lightweight Babyzen YoYo2 stroller is the most compact stroller we've tested. Weighing just 13.7 pounds, it's able to easily fit into airplane aisles 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 jogging or rough terrain but it's ideal for city living and quick outings when you don't want to lug around a bigger stroller.
Another option that is lightweight is the Nuna Aer+, which packs full-size stroller features into a compact design suitable for air travel. It's compatible with both Nuna and Clek infant car seats (adapters are sold separately) and has a spacious storage bin, and offers an effortless ride on uneven surfaces. It's more expensive than other travel strollers we tested, but it's worth the price for parents who regularly use their stroller while traveling.
Some strollers provide a more convenient way to transport them, for instance the multi-purpose 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, swivels, and the swivel wheels give you an easy ride over pavements, airports and cobblestones. The handlebar height can be adjusted to suit parents of all heights.
Contours takes popular stroller styles and makes them more affordable for those who travel. Itsy's stroller is lighter the lightweight Pockit however it comes with an extra durable frame, dynamic dual wheel suspension and UPF50+ sun canopy, and plenty of storage. It also has a self-standing fold that's easy to fold down, and it comes with a convenient carrying bag and a strap for carrying.
Easy to Manoeuvre
You should select a travel stroller that can be maneuvered easily in all types of terrain. This is especially important in the event that you intend to use your stroller for hikes or other excursions where you may encounter rough surfaces. Find a stroller that has a simple-to-use handlebar and wheels designed to hold the ground in a secure manner. It should also be lightweight and easy to maneuver so that you can easily lift and carry it or store it without much effort.
A great option is the BabyZen Yoyo2, which is an extremely rated umbrella stroller designed for travel. It's a good choice for parents looking for an easy-to-use and high-quality product that has features that a lot of families want in a travel-friendly stroller, including the ability to fold down small and a sun canopy that extends.
It's a bit more difficult to push than other strollers with smaller wheels however it is able to handle on all kinds of terrains and is easy turn. Another option that is worth considering is the GB Pockit, which is also a rated stroller. It's more expensive than the other strollers that we reviewed, but it has many features that parents are looking for in a stroller. It has a simple handlebar and is small enough more info to fit in the overhead bins of airplanes.
If you like a sleeker look, the Zoe Traveler is a great choice. It's also the highest-rated umbrella stroller, based on our reviews. It's sleek and minimalist design which makes it appear like a backpack once folded. It's also lighter than the GB Pockit but it has more storage space and gets the highest score for quality compared to the other strollers that we've tested.
The Doona is a fantastic stroller that is FAA approved (with the latch-base) and requires no set-up. It is also sturdy and easy to use with a number of children. It's more expensive compared to other options, but it is made of high-quality materials. It also got an excellent score in terms of user-friendliness. It also comes with accessories, such as rain covers and a travel bag, which other brands require you to purchase separately.
Comfortable Seating
The best travel strollers are designed to provide your child with a comfortable ride. Look for models with a wide canopy and comfortable seats. If you intend to use the stroller as a napper on your travels it is essential that they recline. Additionally, be sure that the seat is appropriate for your child's age. Some travel strollers may be designed to be as compact and lightweight as they can be, but this can compromise comfort.
Luckily, there are many choices that provide both design and comfort. For example, the Cybex Coya is a stylish stroller that is light and durable. Its aluminum frame is constructed to last, and its anti-shock wheels and padded 5-point harness ensure a comfortable ride. The Coya also comes with a large canopy that offers great 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 possible. It features a single-handed folding mechanism and is light enough to fit into trunks of cars and overhead bins of airplanes. It is also available with a range of accessories and customisation options like weather shields, sun canopies, and snack trays.
If you are seeking a travel buggy that can also be used as an everyday stroller, then the Uppababy G-Link 2 is a excellent choice. This large stroller is easy to maneuver and has many features that parents appreciate, including cup holders storage compartments, an easy buckle and adjustable shoulder straps. The spacious seat reclines and comes with large UPF 50+ canopy with a mesh window that peeks out.
A good choice for families with infant car seats is the Bugaboo Butterfly. This stroller is compatible with many infant car seats, making it a convenient choice for families who frequently travel. Its compact fold and movability allow you to easily navigate busy airports and cities.
A stroller that is used for travel should be comfortable for both you and your infant. Select a stroller with a wide, comfortable seat that can recline to allow for naps on long trips. The seat should also feature a an adequately cushioned leg rest because this will make for an even more comfortable ride. Choose a travel stroller with a cushioned handle, so you can carry it when folded.
Convenient Storage
Unlike most strollers, many travel-friendly models have ultra-compact folds that are ideal to fit into tight trunks of cars or overcrowded overhead bins. These strollers are typically lighter than 10 pounds and are easy to carry by anyone, even children.
The UPPAbaby Minu was among the first travel strollers that can be used as a regular stroller. It is still a top choice among parents who don't pack a lot and do not want their stroller to get gate-checked when they fly. This IATA-certified stroller can fit in almost all overhead bins, maneuvers like a dream off the plane, and offers various smart features (including the ability to fold with one hand, a huge sunshade, comfy seat with a multi-position recline, a spacious undercarriage basket, padded handbar with wrist strap and an easy foot brake that is one step).
For a budget-friendly option that still feels like a luxurious stroller, try the Kolcraft Cloud Plus. It is not the most beautiful model nor the smallest of our test, but it does have an easy-to-use frame, plenty of clever features, including a reclining mechanism and a padded brake. It also has a large basket under the carriage as well as an easy fold with one hand. It's also environmentally friendly and comes in recyclable packaging and comes with a 10-year warranty.
The Bugaboo Butterfly is another strong contender, with its slim profile and many practical features. In our tests, it swung well across a variety of surfaces including shag and wood carpet and its bottom storage basket is large enough for a backpack. It's only downside is its weight (at 17 pounds) that could hinder it from fitting into overhead bins of smaller planes.
If you don't have enough space to store your stroller, you may want to consider buying a bike shed. You can also design an area specifically for it. A garden shed, particularly is a great spot to store your stroller because it's weather-resistant and is protected from the elements. It's also easy to access whenever you require it. A shed or nook can also be used as a secure location to store your stroller in case it gets stolen or lost when you're out.