How to Pick the Best Travel Stroller
There are a variety of options to choose from depending on whether you're looking for an ideal stroller for your travels or a lightweight, compact one to bring with you. We've put them all to the test to help you choose the best travel stroller for your requirements.
A lightweight stroller that is smooth and easy to drive across different terrains. It folds into a compact bag that fits in the majority of overhead bins on planes.
Easy to Fold
The best travel strollers fold up into a compact, easy-to-store package that can be tucked away in overhead bins on planes and in car trunks. Find models that have one-hand folds that is able to be completed without any stooping or fumbling. Many models also have a handy carry strap that makes it simple to carry the stroller over your shoulder when you're not using it. If you plan to spend a lot of walking on your travels, it's helpful to find the stroller that has a large undercarriage basket which can accommodate large diaper bags as well as weekender bags.
The light Babyzen YoYo2 stroller is the most compact we tested. It weighs just 13.7 pounds, it will easily fit into aisles of airplanes and overhead bins. It's also a bit smaller than other strollers, making it easier to maneuver in busy streets. It's not the ideal choice for running, rough terrain or short outings.
Nuna Aer+ is another lightweight option. It packs all the features of a full-size car seat in a compact, air-friendly design. It's compatible with both Nuna and Clek infant car seats (adapters sold separately) It also has a large storage bin, and offers an effortless ride on bumpy surfaces. It's more expensive than the other strollers we tried, but is worthwhile for parents who frequently use their stroller when traveling.
Some strollers are designed to help to transport them. One example is the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 with its versatile design. This model features an easy-to-manoeuvre design that folds and unfolded with one hand and is compatible with all major brand car seats. The front wheel suspension, swivels and swivel wheels offer smooth travel across pavements, airports, and cobblestones. The handlebar height can be adjusted to meet the needs of parents of all heights.
Contours makes popular stroller models more affordable for those who travel. Itsy's stroller is lighter the lighter Pockit but it has a more durable frame, a dynamic dual wheel suspension, an UPF50+ sun canopy, and plenty of storage. It features a self-standing fold that is simple to collapse. It is also equipped with a convenient carry bag and a strap for carrying.
Easy to Manoeuvre
You should select a travel stroller that is easy to maneuver in all terrains. This is especially important when you plan to use it for adventures or hikes where you may encounter rough surfaces. Select a stroller that comes with a handlebar that is simple to use and wheels designed to be able to grip the surface. It should be lightweight and easy to handle so you can easily lift, carry, or even store it.
An excellent option is the BabyZen Yoyo2, which is an umbrella stroller with top ratings that's designed for travel. It's an excellent choice for parents who are looking for a premium, easy-to-use product that includes features that many families desire in a stroller that is travel-friendly. It has an easy folding mechanism that folds down small and an extended canopy.
It's a bit more difficult to push than the smaller travel strollers that we have reviewed, however it handles well over various terrains and is easy to turn. The GB Pockit is another highly-rated stroller. It's more expensive than many of the other travel strollers in our rankings however it has many features that parents are looking for in a travel stroller. It has a simple handlebar and is compact enough to fit into overhead bins of airplanes.
If you prefer a sleeker style then the Zoe Traveler is a great option. It's also the top-rated umbrella stroller based on our ratings. It has a minimalist and sleek design, that makes it look like a backpack once folded. It's also a bit lighter than the GB Pockit but it has more storage space and gets a higher score for quality than the other small travel strollers we've test.
The Doona is another great stroller for traveling that's FAA aircraft-approved (with the latch base) and doesn't require any set-up. It is also sturdy and easy to use with a family of children. It's more expensive than the other choices in our ratings however, it's constructed of high-quality materials, and earned a top rating for its ease of use. It includes accessories like an umbrella and a rain cover, which other brands require you to buy separately.
Comfortable Seating
The best strollers for travel offer your child a comfortable experience. Choose models with a wide canopy and comfortable seats. If you intend to use the stroller as a napper during your trip, it is important to recline. Also, ensure that the seat is suitable for your child's size. Some travel strollers are designed to be as light and compact as is possible However, this could 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 robust. Its aluminum frame is constructed to last, while its anti-shock wheels and padded five-point harness ensure a comfortable ride. The Coya comes with a large canopy for great sun protection.
Another excellent option is the Nuna TRVL, which is a sleek and innovative stroller that is designed to make traveling with kids as easy as is possible. It comes with a one-handed folding mechanism and is light enough to fit into trunks of read more 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 looking for a buggy for travel that can also be used as a stroller for the day, then the Uppababy G-Link 2 is a excellent choice. This sizable stroller maneuvers smoothly and comes with all the features parents love like cup holders, storage pockets, an easy buckle, and adjustable shoulder straps. The spacious seat reclines and it comes with a UPF50+ canopy with the ability to peek out through the mesh.
A good choice for families with infant car seats is the Bugaboo Butterfly. This stroller can be used with a variety of infant car seats. It's a great option for families who frequently travel. Its compact fold and movability allow you to easily navigate through busy airports and cities.
A stroller for travel must be comfortable for you and your child. Choose a model that has a large, padded seat that reclines to allow naps on long trips. Seats with well-padded legrests can make for more comfort during your ride. Select a stroller that has a padded handle to allow you to carry it when folded.
Convenient Storage
Unlike most strollers, many travel-friendly models have ultra-compact folds that make them ideal for stowing in tight car trunks or crowded overhead bins. These strollers are typically lighter than 10 pounds and simple to carry by anyone, even children.
UPPAbaby was among the first brands to venture into the "travel stroller that doubles as an everyday stroller" category and its Minu is a top pick among light-packing parents who do not 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 fits in most overhead bins. It also has a number of smart features, including the ability to fold with one hand, a large sunshade and a comfortable seat with multiple recline positions.
For a budget-friendly option that still feels like a luxurious stroller, consider the Kolcraft Cloud Plus. It's not the prettiest model or the most compact in our test, but it does have an easy-to-use frame and a lot of innovative features, such as an adjustable reclining mechanism as well as a padded brake. There's also a huge basket under the carriage as well as an easy fold with one hand. It's also environmentally friendly and comes in recyclable packaging and the option of transferring a 10-year warranty.
The Bugaboo Butterfly is another strong contender, thanks to its slim profile and useful features. It's easy to move on various surfaces, like shag and wood, and the storage basket at the bottom can hold a backpack. The only issue is that it's heavy (at 17 pounds), so it may not fit into the overhead bin of smaller planes.
If you don't have plenty of space to store your stroller at home, consider purchasing a bike shed, or creating a custom nook just for it. A garden shed, particularly, is a great place to store your stroller since it's weatherproof and shielded from the elements. It's also easily accessible whenever you need it. A shed or nook could be a secure place to store your stroller in the event that it gets lost or stolen while you're away.