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The Best Travel Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed by Parents & Experts
Lightweight and compact, a travel stroller can help make your next family vacation a little bit easier., by jen labracio, cpst | medically reviewed by holly peretz ot | fact checked by shannon vestal robson.
![travel with stroller Pinterest logo.](https://assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pinit_fg_en_round_red_32.png)
Travel strollers make leaving home with your little one easier and more convenient. Today’s travel stroller is a minimalist’s dream. Most have many of the same high-end features as the best traditional strollers all rolled into a compact, portable package. Many break down to fit in the overhead bin of a plane or can be folded down quickly (and with one hand) and slung over your shoulder. Some parents even use them as their day-to-day stroller.
We’ve folded and unfolded, packed and unpacked and (sweatily) pushed a lot of travel strollers over the years. After conducting our own testing and talking to both travel experts and the real heroes—parents who travel frequently with their babies and toddlers—we think the Joolz Aer+ Lightweight Stroller is the travel stroller you should bring along on your next adventure. It offers a smooth ride over almost any terrain and folds compactly in seconds with just one hand.
And if you want to keep shopping, we also chose six other top picks across more specific categories like the best travel stroller for everyday use, the best choice for planes and our favorite double travel stroller.
Why Trust Babylist?
Babylist is the expert in baby; we know baby gear inside and out. We talk with parents face-to-face in our showroom and on our user panels and hear from thousands of people annually via our Best Baby Products survey. We know what items millions of expecting parents are adding to their baby registries.
In addition to being Babylist’s gear editor, I’ve also been a mom of two boys for over a decade. I’ve traveled with them at every stage both domestically and internationally on airplanes and on several long road trips. I’ve had the opportunity to test dozens of travel strollers in both my professional and personal life, and used those insights to inform my best-of picks. I reviewed travel stroller feedback from thousands of parents through Babylist’s annual Best Baby Products survey of over 6,000 Babylist users. I also spoke with a group of Babylist team members, all parents who travel frequently with their little ones, and picked their brains about the strollers they love and why. And I talked to Kim Militello, a former flight-attendant-turned-Babylist-employee (and a mom of three) about all things travel + kids.
The Best Travel Strollers
Best Overall: Joolz Aer+ Lightweight Stroller
Best for Toddlers: Bugaboo Butterfly Complete Stroller
Best Affordable: Summer Infant 3Dquickclose CS+ Compact Fold Stroller
Best for Everyday Use: UPPAbaby MINU V2 Stroller
Best for Planes: Babyzen YOYO2 Stroller Bundle
Best Double: Zoe The Twin V2
Best Travel System: Nuna PIPA urbn + TRVL Travel System
How We Judged
Suspension and maneuverability. A smooth, easy-to-turn stroller is a better experience for you and your baby, especially when you’re traveling. We ensured all of our picks made strolling as effortless as possible.
Ease of use. All of the strollers on our list are easy and intuitive to use. We focused on fold, size and weight when choosing our best travel strollers because we know from our own experience—and from what we’ve heard from thousands of Babylist parents—that folks prioritize these features when choosing a travel stroller.
Features. We made sure all of our picks had thoughtfully designed features to make you and your baby the most comfortable while you’re away from home like large canopies, good storage, recline options and carry handles.
Value. Travel strollers range from under $100 to over $500. We didn’t limit our best-of picks by price, but we did factor it in while making our top choices so you can be sure you’re spending your money wisely.
Best Travel Stroller Overall
![travel with stroller Joolz Aer + Lightweight Stroller - Sage Green - $449.00.](https://images.ctfassets.net/50gzycvace50/033dd025b69418a1db9837f46cb3c8a78d1c19f6daa61a8fc56d30b62a68f88f/ed0193bfde9d4d892033e51ad2a47a51/033dd025b69418a1db9837f46cb3c8a78d1c19f6daa61a8fc56d30b62a68f88f.png?fl=progressive&fm=jpg&bg=rgb:f9f9f9&w=620&h=620)
Joolz Aer + Lightweight Stroller - Sage Green
- Quick, compact one-handed fold and built-in carry strap
- 4-wheel suspension rides smoothly like a full-size stroller
- Compatible with top-rated car seats + bassinet (sold separately)
- Small storage basket
- Expensive, especially if used infrequently for travel
- Some parents noted a flimsy brake that may not fully engage
I’ve tried many travel strollers over the last decade, and the Joolz Aer+ is the one I come back to again and again. Parents in our Best Baby Product survey highlighted the Aer+ as “lightweight and smooth” and repeatedly called out its compact fold and incredible maneuverability. And Babylist team member and mom of three Amanda pegged it as her all-time favorite travel stroller.
“I’ve brought it on several trips and it’s great quality and extremely light. It fits in the overhead compartment, which makes it great for going through the airport. It is easy to push/handle and you can push it with one hand,” she told us.
Pushing the Aer+ doesn’t feel much different than pushing a larger, more expensive stroller—and that’s one of the main things I love about it. That’s because the Aer+ has four-wheel suspension, an uncommon feature in travel strollers. It glides effortlessly across uneven surfaces like bumpy sidewalks and dirt paths.
Combined with the incredibly easy one-handed fold (after a few tries, it won’t take you more than two or three seconds, ever), the compact design and the comfortable seat that contours to fit your child’s body, this stroller is a great choice for travel and everyday use. (It currently occupies a permanent spot in the trunk of my car in addition to coming along on all trips.)
The Aer+ is newborn-friendly and compatible with Nuna and Clek car seats ( adapters sold separately), so it works if you want to use it from day one. The stroller folds small enough to sling over your shoulder—there’s a carry strap built right in—and tote up and down stairs, on public transportation or anywhere else you need to go. It also comes with a rain cover and travel bag.
The stroller’s biggest con is the basket size, which is small, but it’s still large enough to fit an average-sized diaper bag. You’ll also need to purchase the footrest separately if you want one, which is frustrating for a stroller at this price point.
Real Parent Reviews
“The Aer is an amazing stroller. Like over cobblestone and brick with no trouble and actually the easiest stroller to open or fold one-handed while being wicked lightweight. [My son] also LOVES being in it.” — Babylist Best Baby Products survey parent feedback
“I thought I needed the big fancy stroller everyone has…but after five months I just wanted something more mobile, portable, [and with a] smaller footprint and this has just been the greatest stroller and so much comfier than the other one for my baby.” — Babylist Best Baby Products survey parent feedback
“I live in New York City and have five strollers because it has been so challenging to navigate the streets. Everyone in my area has a different travel stroller so I was hesitant to buy something different but I’m so glad it did. This is the best purchase by far. I wish I would’ve known about this before registering for so many different products. It truly is a one-hand fold, which is great for the train, plane, car and going up and down stairs. It is light, moves with one hand and is sturdy. It’s narrow enough to go down aisles but also roomy for my child. There is an extended shade, which is perfect and there is an air vent so I can see her. I absolutely love it. It has made my life and my child’s life so much easier and SAFER! I purchased the extra foot extension for my one year old which folds with the stroller and the handlebar. In my opinion, it is worth the money.” — Vanessa D.
Additional Specs
Best Travel Stroller for Toddlers
![travel with stroller Bugaboo Butterfly Complete Stroller - Midnight Black - $479.00.](https://images.ctfassets.net/50gzycvace50/857efb2ebd1f3ac8adf2206b04921d7282197c3fa740901ce64248fffb97cb2b/8b264db9db43e7cb6df1494087a38c9a/857efb2ebd1f3ac8adf2206b04921d7282197c3fa740901ce64248fffb97cb2b.png?fl=progressive&fm=jpg&bg=rgb:f9f9f9&w=620&h=620)
Bugaboo Butterfly Complete Stroller - Midnight Black
- Compact, quick, one-handed fold and built-in carry strap
- 4-wheel suspension for a smooth ride
- High backrest = good for older/taller kids
- Highest upright position is still fairly reclined, which can cause kids to slouch or slide down
- A few pounds heavier than our top travel stroller pick
There are two travel strollers I recommend to families regularly: the Joolz Aer+ (which I’ve raved about sufficiently above) and Bugaboo’s newest compact stroller, the Butterfly. This style-forward stroller shares many of the same thoughtful features as the Aer+. It also has a four-wheel suspension system, a huge perk when I pushed it on anything other than smooth pavement and perfect for toting around my larger toddler. While it doesn’t maneuver quite as easily as the Aer+ (and recognize I’m being really nitpicky in saying that), it’s pretty darn close; it moves and turns really well and I was able to steer it with only one hand. The fold is just as impressive; I also did it one-handed, and the Butterfly folds down to about the side of a small bag and will fit in the overhead bin on most airlines. There’s also a built-in carry strap, a must-have for me.
Where the Butterfly differs from the Aer+ is in its backrest. It’s high; my 95th-percent-in-height almost three-year-old still fits perfectly in it. If you’re a parent of a taller or older kid, this feature is noteworthy as it means you’ll be able to use the Butterfly longer. There’s also an almost full recline and a built-in footrest for extra comfort, two more toddler-friendly features. And the sun canopy on the Butterfly is one of the best I’ve seen of all the travel strollers on our list.
The Butterfly is pricey. The storage basket is larger than the Aer+’s but still on the smaller side. And the back wheels are fairly close together. That setup, combined with a handle that doesn’t extend (which is the norm for compact strollers), means that if you’re on the taller side like me (5’10”), you may kick the back of the stroller while you’re walking. And although I wouldn’t consider it heavy, it is one of the heavier travel strollers on our list by about three pounds.
“After using it on multiple flights to places around the world, I’m so happy with this choice! It’s become our go-to stroller over our full-size even for everyday life. When unfolded it definitely feels a little bigger than some of the other FAA-approved travel strollers, but this is great for taller parents and for kids to grow into.” — Theresa A.
“The basket had a high weight capacity for such a compact stroller & the seat back is tall which gives me peace of mind with my 96th percentile tall baby. Overall an amazing stroller and I appreciate that it comes with the rain cover.” — Ysabel E.
Best Affordable Travel Stroller
![travel with stroller Summer 3Dquickclose CS+ Compact Fold Stroller - $99.00.](https://images.ctfassets.net/50gzycvace50/3h4sNhqDqbbQxskjueuE8r/d34b5ba397460891771c576621cc2c5f/71b0P8lN1ZL._SX679_.jpg?fit=pad&fl=progressive&fm=jpg&w=620&h=620)
Summer 3Dquickclose CS+ Compact Fold Stroller
- Lots of features + great functionality for the price
- Opening and closing is fast and easy
- Small wheels + no suspension = a bumpy ride
- Fold isn’t as compact as other travel strollers
- Detachable cup holder and cell phone holder stick out on the sides and are a bit flimsy
If you can’t or don’t want to spend upwards of $500 on a travel stroller, or if you don’t travel frequently enough to justify a higher price tag, Summer Infant’s 3Dquickclose is your best bet. At under $100, this lightweight stroller matches many of the features found on the much higher-priced travel strollers on our list. It’s about 17 pounds, which is only a pound heavier than the Bugaboo Butterfly. Its most noteworthy feature is the fold; it’s quick and one-handed, and there’s a carry strap to make it easy to take on the go.
Performance-wise, the 3Dquickclose lacks a suspension system and has plastic wheels, so you won’t get as smooth of a ride as with more expensive picks. But it still has a ton going for it, especially considering the price. The 3Dquickclose handles well on paved surfaces. It’s easy to push and steer, the recline is adjustable and the fabrics are soft. The storage basket is big enough to tuck away an average-sized diaper bag or a jacket and some snacks, and the canopy provides good shade. One of the best features is infant car seat compatibility. The 3Dquickclose accepts a variety of seats from popular brands like Graco, Chicco and Baby Trend, and there are no adapters needed—just secure the seat with the included strap.
If you’re debating between this stroller and another lower-cost option like an umbrella stroller ( Summer’s 3D Lite Convenience Stroller is a popular umbrella-style pick), I’d choose this one. The 3Dquickclose is more compact, easier to maneuver, can be used from birth and has much better storage and sun coverage, among other things.
“I bought this stroller because it folds down very compact and my car doesn’t have the biggest trunk, but this is sturdy enough to travel on the airplane as well. My kid hates sun in their eyes so the extended canopy is a must. I like that there is a car seat belt that tucks into the stroller for when you need to put an infant car seat on the stroller. The basket is big enough to hold a diaper bag and even another purse or bag. It’s super easy to fold the stroller down and open it back up again, you can quickly do it one-handed. It’s not a cheap feeling stroller, it has a good weight to it but the shoulder strap for carrying it from the car to wherever will help. Main cons are: the seat padding isn’t great so I might see options for additional padding if my kid is gonna sit/sleep in the stroller for longer than an hour or 2, the wheels are plastic whereas I would prefer a stronger material like rubber, and the handrail to push the stroller stays in only one position instead of being able to adjust the angle & height. Overall I definitely recommend this stroller especially for those looking for a compact stroller as this one folds down the most compact that I’ve seen.” — NJ
“Let’s start with the negatives…1. No snack tray for baby…but you can buy it separately. 2. The cup holder and phone holder are very flimsy but they do the job. 3. The storage basket is somewhat large for the size of the stroller, but there is a bar that kind of limits the full access to it. 4. Wheels are plastic. Now to the positives. 1. Super easy installation. 2. Extremely easy to fold and unfold. 3. Super smooth to maneuver. 4. You can lock the front wheels if desired. 5. Looks expensive. 6. LOVE LOVE LOVE the extended sunshade for the baby. 7. The peep window on the sunshade is far back enough that you don’t have to “look for” the baby. 8. I’m short (5 ft) and my husband is average height (5ft 10in) and both of us feel comfortable where the handle height is. 9. The recline is easy to use. 10. The buckles are easy to use and I love that the cover for the crotch strap is wide. 11. You can use your Graco car seat with it. Overall I really really like this stroller. It is small enough to travel with or fit in compact places but large enough to have all the benefits of a full-size stroller. I would tweak it just a tad bit but you honestly can’t beat the price for what you are getting. — Ashley L.
Best Travel Stroller for Everyday Use
![travel with stroller UPPAbaby Minu V2 Stroller - Jake - $399.99.](https://images.ctfassets.net/50gzycvace50/ea67d08cd450d1b0b9aa4b82a8adc2fb758d221afe822304b352aaa172c8df65/21671605b36f319a36be3e0814e60de3/ea67d08cd450d1b0b9aa4b82a8adc2fb758d221afe822304b352aaa172c8df65.png?fl=progressive&fm=jpg&bg=rgb:f9f9f9&w=620&h=620)
UPPAbaby Minu V2 Stroller - Jake
- 4-wheel suspension + large basket = a stroller built for travel & everyday use
- One-handed, compact, self-standing fold
- Includes carry strap and storage bag
- Two separate foot brakes for stop-and-go
- Canopy can be flimsy and become detached
- Heavier and bulkier than other travel strollers
When I became a parent, travel strollers were just what they sounded like: strollers used for travel. Fast-forward a decade and the world of lightweight strollers is something else entirely. UPPAbaby’s Minu is a great example of these advances, a compact stroller that can also be used as an everyday option.
From your neighborhood to your family adventures and everything in between, the Minu offers all the conveniences of a day-to-day stroller in a travel-friendly package. According to many Babylist parents we spoke to, this stroller can do it all.
“We never bought a full-size stroller because [the Minu] met all our needs,” one mom told us. “It’s light, easy to use, and fits overhead on a plane. Our infant carrier was a different brand and still clicked in like a breeze when our girl was little. There are available attachments if you want cup holders and other extras. There are cheaper travel strollers out there, but since getting this one was enough for us to forgo a full size, it provides a great value.”
Babylist team member Cassie, a mom of a toddler and a new baby, agrees. “It’s truly our primary stroller, not just travel. Given what I know about the Minu I often tell my husband I’d likely just get that if I was expecting now, and not also get the Vista.”
A few of my favorite features on the Minu V2 include the one-handed fold, the huge sunshade, the comfy seat with multi-position recline and a roomy, easy-access basket. The spring-action, shock-absorbing all-wheel suspension makes for a smooth ride even over bumpy terrain, so it’s a stroller you can use both in the suburbs and in a city. The Minu stands when folded and features a carry strap and a storage bag for easy transport.
As-is, the Minu works for babies three+ months; that means if you want to use it with your newborn, you’ll need to add the bassinet or an infant car seat plus adapters, which will cost you. And while it folds compactly, it is bulkier than some of the other travel strollers on our list when it’s broken down. It’s also a little heavier, weighing in at about 17 pounds. And the seat back is on the shorter side.
“Amazing stroller. Great for traveling (fits in overhead bin), shopping (takes up minimal trunk space), walks in the park (very smooth ride, even over grass!). Has oversized canopy to block sun and folds with one hand. Bought it for travel, but use it as our primary stroller because I love it so much.” — Jessica
“We love how little this stroller is, and that smaller babies can still fit in the seat. Unfortunately the canopy is not very secure so gets messed up every time we fold it up which is fairly annoying. Other than that, it’s very well designed and we use this 90% of the time over our Vista because it takes up less car space and is easier to fold up. — Jillian Tellez Holub H.
Best Travel Stroller for Planes
![travel with stroller Babyzen YOYO2 Stroller Bundle - Black Frame/Aqua Color Pack - $359.20.](https://images.ctfassets.net/50gzycvace50/99481ff1b15687a4b0595acdb4b53f39731cc6d69428f003a50576a7cd4ac219/f0fa0d5d4e8b064325517f8694ac8b9b/99481ff1b15687a4b0595acdb4b53f39731cc6d69428f003a50576a7cd4ac219.png?fl=progressive&fm=jpg&bg=rgb:f9f9f9&w=620&h=620)
Babyzen YOYO2 Stroller Bundle - Black Frame/Aqua Color Pack
- Compact fold, fits in overhead bin
- Lots of options for customization and accessories (for an additional cost)
- Comfortable, padded seat and straps
- Fold isn’t intuitive; takes some practice
- Shorter seat back, so not a good choice for taller kids
- Narrow storage basket won’t fit average-sized diaper bags
Traveling by plane presents a challenge when your little one still uses a stroller. “Checking a stroller means it goes with the rest of the luggage and no one’s really paying special attention to it,” says Militello. “It goes up and down ramps, gets thrown from one area to the next, and [you have to] pick it up on the carousel.” Gate checking is an option, but many parents still don’t love the idea of letting such an expensive item of baby gear out of their sight.
The YOYO2 folds the most compactly of any of the travel strollers on our best-of list, and will fit easily in the overhead bins on most planes. (PSA: It’s always worth a call to your airline just to be sure.) It’s the stroller of choice for many light-packing parents who don’t want to deal with the hassle (or risk) of gate-checking a stroller when they fly. “[The YOYO] is the best travel stroller and it has been SO easy to travel with overseas and around the country and you can carry it on,” one parent told us in our Best Baby Products survey. “It’s super light, easy to clean and works like a dream.”
It performs like a champ off the plane, too, easily steering through crowds and narrow spaces. It’s also endlessly customizable, a unique feature I really like. You can change out the seat and shade fabrics with a new color pack , add a custom footmuff for cooler temps or a stroller board for an older child and even add a storage bag that uses wheeled support so your stroller won’t tip. And it’s compatible with many popular infant car seat brands.
The fold on the YOYO2 isn’t as intuitive as other travel strollers on our list; there are two steps, and it takes some practice. The canopy is on the shorter side. This travel stroller does come with a rain cover, but all the other extras and custom adds will cost you, which can add up quickly as this stroller is expensive on its own.
“As a mom of four, I always had my hands FULL of various things…so dealing with a huge bulky stroller was NOT IT. I had a big, full-size Nuna at one point. It was a great stroller but it was too much stroller. We got the Yoyo2 and it was a game-changer. It’s so lightweight but still sturdy. It could maneuver through tight spaces like clothing racks at stores or big crowds without any issues. For a lightweight stroller, it even handled various uneven terrain well enough, which was an initial concern. Plus it folds down to be smaller than a carry-on piece of luggage, whereas my big stroller literally took up my entire trunk. Critically, it’s a little tricky to learn how to fold and needs two hands but that wasn’t a deal breaker. It got easier the longer we used it. And while it can handle mildly uneven terrain (think small cracks in sidewalks, gravel roads, etc), if it got any more uneven than that, it was a chore to get it to work.” — Angela
“Fits in airplane cabin. We took it on so many trips!” — Emily
Best Double Travel Stroller
![travel with stroller Zoe The Twinᵛ² - $529.00.](https://images.ctfassets.net/50gzycvace50/5VV0dGToty2ZtgHGiE5UJR/17143b6726e6205149b3e8f3a9aecfc5/ZoeBabyProduct3517_a5aceb14-8919-4301-bcec-9cbdc7d182a12.png?fit=pad&fl=progressive&fm=jpg&w=620&h=620)
Zoe The Twinᵛ²
- Slim frame while still feeling roomy and comfortable (fits Disney size requirements)
- Easily converts to a triple or quadruple stroller with additional seats
- Huge sunshade and storage basket
- Doesn’t roll well on uneven ground or rougher terrain
- Some parents complained about the cup holder on the outside of the frame getting caught in doorways
- Fold isn’t compact
Double strollers often feel big and bulky, even those designed specifically for travel. That’s not the case with Zoe’s The Twin. It’s a delight to open, close and even lift in and out of your car, making it perfect for traveling with two (or more) kids or for times when you don’t want the hassle of a larger stroller.
I was able to open and close the stroller in seconds (and without reading the instruction manual) the first time I tried. Because traveling with kids often involves all of the snacks, I appreciate that this travel double comes with a child snack holder right out of the box. (There’s a parent cup holder included, too.) The stroller weighs about 19 pounds, which is really light for a double. And it’s only 29 inches across, so it fits through standard doorways with ease and is Disney-approved. If you’re traveling with more than two kids, the Twin converts into a stroller for three or even four by adding a triple or a quad seat.
On the cons side, The Twin doesn’t handle well off-road—it’s designed for smooth surface strolling. It also doesn’t accept infant car seats or bassinets, and it doesn’t recline flat, so it’s not a great choice for newborns.
“Had my eyes on this baby since the day I found out I was on my way to 2 under 2! I couldn’t have been happier with this decision. Lightweight, compact when folded, EASY, and so cute…canopy provides sun coverage when necessary, but the best is watching my babies be NEXT to each other and not separated.” — Jordan M
“The stroller is extremely easy to maneuver and the folding feature is the best for storage. Our family takes the Twin everywhere. We have put over 100 miles on it and it still rides like it’s brand new.” — Michaella
“This stroller is super lightweight despite the amount of room, oversized canopy and a large storage basket. My toddlers have plenty of room and enjoy riding in it next to each other. I do wish the wheels were a little better at navigating pavement bumps and cracks, it gets tricky, especially with the added weight of both kids.” — Brie
Best Travel Stroller Travel System
![travel with stroller Nuna PIPA urbn & TRVL LX Travel System - Cedar - $950.00.](https://images.ctfassets.net/50gzycvace50/ba1ff5b495d8c03a92f00afb669ca707a55e8c9755a77548622f3ac93e1a4e15/4fe17257db1b6540506fc5768f9b457d/ba1ff5b495d8c03a92f00afb669ca707a55e8c9755a77548622f3ac93e1a4e15.png?fl=progressive&fm=jpg&bg=rgb:f9f9f9&w=620&h=620)
Nuna PIPA urbn & TRVL LX Travel System - Cedar
- Baseless infant car seat included (no adapters needed)
- Compact, lightweight stroller
- Includes carry bag
- Car seat has lower height and weight limits than others
- No snack tray attachment available
- Stroller handlebar isn’t adjustable like with other Nuna strollers
If you know you’ll be traveling frequently throughout your baby’s first year, you may want to invest in a travel system (a stroller and car seat that attach; here’s more on how to pick a travel system ). This combo is my favorite and what I wish I’d had eight years ago as a new mom living in New York City who didn’t own a car. It combines the ultra-popular TRVL, the brand’s first dive into the lightweight stroller market, with the urbn, a first-of-its-kind car seat.
TL;DR on infant car seat installation: almost all infant seats can be installed without a base, but require a seat belt—along with time and patience. But not the urbn! There’s no base, no seat belt required for installation AND the LATCH system is built right into the seat’s base. This means the seat installs effortlessly and in seconds. I’m blown away every time I try it; you simply press a button on each side of the seat and push to attach it directly to your vehicle’s lower anchors. That’s it. It’s as foolproof as it gets, and especially ideal if you’ll be using your car seat on the go in rideshares or taxis. “I love being able to move the car seat in and out of any car without worrying about a base,” one Babylist parent told us.
The included TRVL stroller is just as great. The two standout features for me are its fold (one-handed, quick and ridiculously easy) and its compact size (it stands on its own and weighs just over 13 pounds.) While not huge, the basket is large enough to hold your essentials + a bit more and is easy to access, and the TRVL’s maneuverability is good enough that you’ll be able to steer easily with one hand.
Keep in mind that the TRVL is on the pricier side and doesn’t have a carry strap, but the maneuverability, suspension and versatility help explain the higher price point. I found it worked as a travel stroller, but also as an everyday stroller, too. There are also lots of thoughtful design details like magnetic buckles, a no-rethread harness and a leatherette bumper bar and handlebar. The urbn car seat has a lower height limit than many infant car seats—not ideal, but not a huge dealbreaker, either.
“I love this travel system. The car seat alone is lightweight and the stroller has many options and is easy to fold down. It’s not light but strongly built so I figure that’s the trade-off.” — Elizabeth R.
“The baseless quick install has been a breeze. Whether he is going in my car, my partner’s, uncle’s, or his grandma’s—no need for a base for quick insert.” — Dana N.
“Love this stroller. So light and easy to push and fold. I was able hold my 20+lb baby, fold this and put it on the X-ray belt without holding up the security line. It’s the closest I’ve come to feeling like superwoman. It also fit comfortably in the overhead bin. Only downside I would say is the storage space underneath as it is a lot smaller than we’re used to with our Nuna Demi Grow.” — Meghan T.
How We Chose Our Best Travel Strollers
We analyzed results from Babylist’s Best Baby Products survey, which polled 6,000 Babylist users and asked them to share the baby products they love the most and why.
We utilized insight from the Babylist editorial team, including me, Gear Editor Jen LaBracio, an expert in the baby space for over six years and a mom of two who has written hundreds of baby gear guides and personally researched and tested hundreds of baby products, including many travel strollers.
We spoke to Kim Militello, a Babylist team member and a mom of three who previously worked as a flight attendant for many years, about traveling with kids (and all of their gear). We also spoke to a group of Babylist team members, all parents who travel frequently with their little ones.
We read customer reviews from hundreds of Babylist users and spoke to parents on our Babylist staff about their real-life product experiences.
Travel Stroller Basics
Some families use a traditional stroller for everything, even traveling. But having a lighter, more nimble travel stroller pays off when you really need it: for airports, narrow city sidewalks, public transportation or just to lighten the load.
Stroller pros and cons
These are some of the pros and cons of using different types of strollers for travel:
Traditional strollers: Everyday strollers typically have convenient features like lots of storage space, adjustable handlebars, cup holders and large canopies. Many also have suspension systems and can accommodate an infant car seat. But they’re heavier and bulkier to fold, which makes using and storing them in tight spaces more difficult (think: narrow doorways, airplane overhead bins or small car trunks).
Umbrella strollers: Bare-boned and exceptionally lightweight, umbrella strollers lack many amenities you find in traditional strollers like adjustable seats and cup holders. They have skimpy canopies, minimal cushioning and seat support and don’t fold small enough to fit in airport storage bins. You also can’t push an umbrella stroller with one hand. Umbrella strollers are good for when you occasionally need a slimmer, fast-fold stroller.
Travel strollers: Also called lightweight or compact strollers, travel strollers strike a balance between traditional and umbrella stroller styles. They’re lighter than the standard stroller, easy to fold and compact in size when collapsed. (Some travel strollers fold in half, called a square fold, while others feature a more compact tri-fold.) Travel strollers have some full-size amenities like large sun canopies and a storage basket and most even have extras like cup holders.
Do I need a travel stroller?
Figuring out the best stroller to use for travel comes down to what type of trade-offs you want to make around budget, space and personal preferences. There’s no right or wrong answer, and what works for one family may not work for another. “We traveled all around the world with the UPPAbaby Vista V2,” Xan, a Babylist team member and mom of two, told us. “With two kiddos, it is the best! It’s the most universal when it comes to traveling on different sidewalks and surfaces and it holds a ton.”
Before you invest in a travel stroller, ask yourself:
How often do I travel, and to what types of destinations?
How much do I want to spend?
Where will I store the stroller when it’s not in use?
Also note that lots of parents find that a travel stroller can work just as well as a full-size option for everyday use; just keep in mind that unless the travel stroller you choose is compatible with an infant car seat or comes with a separate infant kit, you’ll need to wait to use the stroller until your baby is six months old and can sit up unassisted.
What to Look for in a Travel Stroller
A travel stroller should be easy to take with you on trips and be a comfy spot for your little one. Consider these features as you research and shop.
Size and weight. You’re going to be lifting, carrying and storing your travel stroller often, so the stroller’s size and weight are important. Look for one that’s lightweight and manageable. Also pay attention both to the folded and unfolded size of your travel stroller. If you’re planning on using it for an older toddler, also be sure it’s large enough to accommodate them.
Fold. You’ll be folding and unfolding your stroller often while on the go, whether it’s to take it in and out of your car, stash it under a table at a restaurant or store it in the overhead compartment of an airplane. Choose a travel stroller with a quick, easy fold, preferably one you can do one-handed.
Maneuverability. Not all travel strollers are created equally. Some offer much more maneuverability and a better suspension system than others; however, these features often come at a cost. Thinking through how often you’ll be using your travel stroller and what types of terrain you’ll encounter most often can help determine whether or not a more expensive stroller is worthwhile.
Canopy size. Most travel involves at least some, if not a lot, of outdoor time. A large canopy is essential for protecting your little one from the elements, especially the sun.
Comfort and convenience features. Similar to a full-size stroller, look for features that will make you and your little one more comfortable, especially while traveling. Things like an adjustable seat with a full or nearly full recline, an ample storage basket, an adjustable handlebar and easy-to-clean fabrics are all important. And don’t forget a built-in strap or a separate carrying case for easy transport.
Flying with a Travel Stroller
Spend a few minutes in any parenting forum and you’ll likely see a question from an anxious new parent about flying with a baby—and all of their stuff. It’s daunting, and there are a lot of questions to answer. How do you get your stroller from point A to point B when you’re flying? Will it count toward your carry-on and baggage allotment? And what if you need to use your stroller in the airport? Good news: You can pick how you want to travel with your stroller, depending on your needs.
Check the stroller with your baggage. Some parents unload the stroller during check-in and switch to using a baby carrier through the airport instead. “The advantage to this is that you don’t have to carry it with you around the airport if you’re not using it,” says Militello. Pair a front carrier with a backpack-style diaper bag so your hands will be free to deal with other things (like the best travel toys that will make your trip a breeze). Just remember that your stroller will be subject to the same rough treatment as the rest of your checked baggage—no special attention and lots of tossing around. And note that if you have a large stroller, you may be required to check it as baggage anyway. This usually doesn’t count toward your baggage allotment.
Check the stroller at the gate. Want to use the stroller until you board the plane? You can check the stroller with the gate agent—it just needs to be tagged—and then pick it up outside the aircraft door when you arrive. “When you gate check a stroller, it’s handled more with care,” says Militello. “Gate-checked items are usually more fragile and are hand carried from the entrance of the airplane to the bottom of the airplane and vice versa. They’ll deliver your gate-checked item right to the exit of the plane when you get off so you don’t have to to go the luggage carousel and will have immediate access to it once you deboard the plane.” Just remember if you have a connecting flight to catch, waiting for your stroller to be placed on the jet bridge can eat up precious time.
Stow the stroller on the airplane. If your stroller collapses small enough, it can be stored in an overhead bin. Having your stroller with you eliminates the potential for damage and the hassle of waiting for it on the jet bridge or at baggage claim. But strollers count as a carry-on item. “You typically only get one carry-on item, so choose wisely!” Miletello recommends.
Keep these other tips in mind:
If you check the stroller with baggage, you do run the risk of damage. If you’re not using a travel stroller bag, ask the agent at check-in for a plastic bag to cover and protect it during transport.
If you’re taking the stroller through security, it will need to be folded and put through the X-ray machine. Don’t stuff the undercarriage basket until after security.
If your checked stroller doesn’t come out with the suitcases at baggage claim, check the oversized luggage area. It may have been set aside there. (This may also be where your travel crib is, if you checked one.)
Do you need a travel stroller bag?
How you plan to use your travel stroller will affect whether or not you need a travel stroller bag. If you plan on flying with your stroller and want to check it with your luggage or at the gate, then you’ll probably want to use a travel stroller bag. Look for a padded option to help protect your stroller in case it gets dropped or tossed around. If you’re not planning on flying much or if you’re using your travel stroller as a day-to-day option, then a travel stroller probably isn’t a must-have. Some travel strollers come with a travel bag while others require you to purchase one separately, so check with your particular brand. There are generic travel bags that may work, too.
Jen LaBracio,
Senior gear editor, cpst.
Jen LaBracio is Babylist’s Senior Gear Editor and a Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST). When she’s not geeking out over car seats, testing out a new high chair or pushing the latest stroller model around her neighborhood, she likes to run, do all things Peloton, listen to podcasts, read and spend time at the beach. In her past life, she worked for over a decade in children’s publishing. She lives outside of Chicago with her husband and their two boys, Will and Ben.
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The 15 Best Travel Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
We tested the best travel strollers on the market for maneuverability, design, durability, and portability.
![travel with stroller travel with stroller](https://www.travelandleisure.com/thmb/u_r1N3HojUoKLukJ0zv9uR-sRCg=/75x75/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/chris-abell-af3f53365fd24ca58a5e56e55ac0f12f.jpg)
In This Article
- Our Top Picks
- Others We Liked
Our Testing Process
- Tips for Buying
Frequently Asked Questions
You may also want.
- Why Trust T+L
Travel + Leisure / Phoebe Cheong
If you're traveling with a child under 4 years old or so, you need a stroller. But your everyday stroller might not be ideal for packing into trains, planes, and automobiles or for bringing in and out of a hotel. If you plan to travel even somewhat often with your little ones, you might want to invest in a travel stroller, which is typically smaller and more scaled-back with a collapsible frame. Many travel strollers fold multiple ways to reduce the length, width, and height, while others fold one way into a narrow but still-long piece. In the end, you want your travel stroller to be comfortable and safe for your child while folding up into a very compact, easy-to-carry package.
We tested more than 32 travel strollers from top brands such as Uppababy, Nuna, and Babyzen. We measured and weighed them, then spent eight and a half hours in our New York City lab putting them all through the wringer, looking at each stroller's maneuverability, design features, durability, and portability. We then sent them out into the real world to be used by families like yours to guarantee stroller longevity and functionality.
Best Overall
Joolz aer+ baby stroller.
It folds up into an extremely compact, easy-to-carry package that is great for storing at home or on flights.
The seat can only be hand-washed and air-dried.
The Joolz Aer+ looks great, rolls smoothly, and features plenty of padding for the little rider sitting in it. It wowed us right out of the box and was one of the quickest strollers to assemble with just a quick-snap connection to a secure and stable stroller. While the Aer+ is about one pound lighter than earlier models, it is still the same size and features all of the perks parents look for in a high-quality stroller. The roomy shopping basket can hold up to 11 pounds, the canopy is adjustable, and the seat reclines to multiple settings to help keep your little one comfortable as they grow.
Throughout our tests, we tossed the stroller off of a counter to see how it held up and it remained in impeccable condition with little to no scratching and no major breaks or rips. Even when fully loaded up, the wheels moved smoothly and limited turbulence as they are designed to absorb shock from pebbles, rocks, and other rough terrain. We could easily collapse the stroller down using only one hand — which is perfect for use when flying — and it can once again be assembled with just the click of a button. At just over 13 pounds, it's also easy to carry, so you can transport this stroller just about anywhere life takes you.
The Details: 13.2 pounds | 41.5 x 32.7 x 17.7 inches assembled | 8.5 x 21 x 17.7 x inches folded | 50-pound weight limit
Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph
Travel + Leisure / Phoebe Cheong
Best Overall, Runner-up
Nuna trvl lightweight stroller.
Not only does it roll well, but the one-handed folding process was the smoothest of all the strollers we tested.
It's not especially small when folded and is a little unwieldy to carry.
During testing, when we pressed the buttons to collapse and fold the Nuna Trvl, it felt like some spring-loaded mechanism started the process for us and made it easier. That's the kind of helpful detail any parent or caretaker appreciates. And that folding process was quick, easy, and doable with one hand. The Trvl isn't quite as light as some of the other strollers, however, and it has no strap for carrying over the shoulder (although the bumper bar turns into a handle for carrying when the stroller is collapsed). It's also not clear whether the Nuna Trvl will fit in all airplane overhead compartments; It was a tight squeeze when we placed it in ours, with the wheels sticking out a bit.
The Trvl has a lot of great design features, including an adjustable leg rest and simple, adjustable reclining system for your baby. The strap clasp is magnetic to save a little time, and the canopy has a peekaboo window and good ventilation. The bottom storage basket is also on the larger side for a travel stroller and can comfortably fit a backpack. The stroller gilded beautifully over each surface we tried; there was no difference between rolling over the smooth hardwood and the shag carpet, and it handled gravel without issue. And it held up just fine in the durability test.
The Details: 15.4 pounds | 41 x 26 x 20.5 inches assembled | 11 x 27.25 x 20.25 inches folded | 50-pound weight limit
Travel + Leisure / Claire Cohen
Best Budget
Kolcraft cloud plus stroller.
It comes with a tray for baby's food and drink but is still extremely lightweight and easy to fold.
There isn't a ton of space in the undercarriage for storage.
Strollers are unnervingly expensive; many new parents experience sticker shock when they first see those price tags. The Kolcraft Cloud Plus is not. And while it's not the prettiest of the bunch (there's some loud branding), it folds easily — it can even be done one-handed with a little effort and coordination. We love that unfolding can also be done one-handed.
The Cloud Plus doesn't fold down quite as small as most every other one we're testing; the shape is somewhere between an umbrella and normal travel stroller. It's very lightweight, which we love, but since it doesn't fold small enough to fit in an overhead bin and doesn't have a strap or handle, it's not as portable as other options.
This stroller is the only one we tested with a tray for the baby's food and drink; the tray is removable if you're looking to save space. There are also two small cup holders for the adults, though our travel mug did not fit in them. The storage basket can fit a small backpack. The recline system is pretty easy to use and goes back three-fourths of the way to horizontal, and the canopy is good but not great. Same goes for the seat padding.
It rolled well on smooth surfaces, though there was some resistance on the carpet and a lot more on the grave. But we were able to push it through, and the stroller is light enough that when the wheels aren't rolling you can still keep moving. It's not the smoothest ride, but passable. The tray came unclasped during the durability test, but there was no actual damage. Overall, the price-to-performance ratio of the Cloud Plus is so good that it's an excellent budget option.
The Details: 11.8 pounds | 38 x 27 x 18 inches assembled | 10 x 33 x 17.5 inches folded | 50-pound weight limit
Travel & Leisure / Phoebe Cheong
Best for Warm Weather
Gb qbit+ all city stroller.
The back is made from breathable mesh to allow for airflow.
The handlebar isn't adjustable and the stroller is a bit heavier than other options.
The GB Qbit+ All City reminded us of the Nuna Trvl, but at a significantly cheaper price. The only areas the stroller fell short of the Nuna model are the canopy, which is not especially nice or expansive, and the fact that it's slightly harder to carry since it's a little heavier and has no actual carrying strap. That said, there's plenty to love about the Qbit. One-handed folding is smooth, and buckling and unbuckling the straps is easy. The seat is nicely padded, the entire back is made of breathable mesh to keep your child from overheating. The leg rest is simple to maneuver and goes all the way flat. The seat also reclines almost all the way back so that your baby can take a comfortable snooze. The included bumper bar comes off and on easily, and the handlebar looks and feels nice. There's enough storage for a backpack, too. As for maneuverability, it rolled great on all our testing surfaces and made crisp, tight turns. If you want something similar to and almost as good as the Nuna Trvl, this is your travel stroller.
The Details: 17.6 pounds | 41 x 24 x 17 inches assembled | 10.5 x 23 x 16.5 inches folded | 54.8-pound weight limit
Best Folding
Uppababy minu v2 stroller.
It folds up far more compactly than other UPPAbaby models.
The canopy sticks out a bit when the stroller is folded.
The Minu has a lot of the features familiar to UPPAbaby devotees — unstructured rear storage pouch, locking clasp to keep the stroller folded, excellent canopy — but unlike the brand's G-Luxe and G-Link models, this one is not an umbrella stroller. We actually think that makes for a better travel stroller. The Minu folds up more easily than other UPPAbaby models and far more compactly than an umbrella model. The fold can be done with one hand, but keep in mind the canopy needs to be tucked in once it's folded. A padded carrying strap easily fits over the shoulder. When carried, the Minu isn't the lightest or smallest option on our list, but it's portable enough and fits fine in an overhead compartment.
The Minu's seat back reclines nicely and easily for naps, and the handlebar feels good on the palms. The canopy's magnetic mesh window is handy and easy to keep open, and the sun shade for keeping the brightness out of your baby's eyes is one of the best we saw in our tests. The seat's padding is ample, though we'd like it if the leg rest were adjustable. We did appreciate the sizable bottom storage basket.
In terms of maneuverability, the Minu performed fine. It didn't make quite as tight turns as the Joolz or Nuna, and it felt a bit heavier to push, but it handled the gravel really well. A canopy rod popped out of place when we pushed the stroller off the table, but we were able to fix it pretty easily. Overall, while the stroller is expensive, it's not the priciest on the list and is worth it for the well-crafted features.
The Details: 14.75 pounds | 41 x 31 x 20.5 inches assembled | 12 x 22.5 x 20.25 inches folded | 50-pound weight limit
Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
Best for Cities
Babyzen yoyo2 stroller.
It's very well-padded, folds up into a tidy package, and has a convenient carrying strap.
The clips and buckles can be hard to maneuver.
Folding the Babyzen Yoyo 2 took two hands and, while not difficult, was a little more involved a process than with some other strollers. Unfolding is pretty easy, except we noticed our feet getting caught in straps a few times. While folding and unfolding were slightly disappointing, we love how portable this stroller is. It folds up very small and has a comfortable padded shoulder strap as well as a metal bar for easy carrying. And it fits easily into an overhead storage bin so it's a great option to consider when flying with a baby .
The Yoyo 2 has nice features, too. The seat padding is especially cushy, and the seat reclines three-fourths of the way back to horizontal (though the recliner is a bit tricky to figure out). There's also a pocket in the back and a decent storage basket underneath that can fit a small bag. The canopy is good, though we'd prefer the peekaboo window to be mesh instead of plastic.
This stroller especially stands out for its handling. We were able to maneuver this stroller through the safety cones with such ease, we could really see this stroller being helpful at a crowded grocery store or airport.
The Details: 14.7 pounds | 41 x 28.8 x 17 inches assembled | 8 x 20 x 16 inches folded | 40-pound weight limit
Best Double
Uppababy g-link v2 stroller.
It folds more easily and rolls more smoothly than we expected from a stroller this size.
It doesn't fold down very small, and unfolding it could be easier.
For such a large contraption, this double stroller folds with surprising ease. We were even able to do it one-handed with a little effort, which none of us expected. Unfolding is a little trickier, as it takes some force to unhook the locking clasp. As a double stroller, the G-Link 2 is not the most compact package when folded. Plus, it's an umbrella structure, so this one probably isn't fitting in many overhead bins. Carrying it was a little unwieldy, as should be expected with a double stroller, but there is a helpful handle, and the stroller is lighter than it looks. You can actually wheel it along when it's folded instead of carrying it, but it's not easy, and it bumped into us when we did so.
We like the canopies on the G-Link 2: quality material and good coverage. There are little storage pockets behind each seat, and it comes with a cup holder. You can also fit a purse or very small backpack in the undercarriage basket. The seats have generous padding, which extends to form a sort of calf rest for the riders. The straps buckle easily and have different height options; the seat backs have two recline positions and are super easy to adjust.
The stroller rolled well over all the surfaces, even the gravel, and it made much tighter turns than we anticipated. We also like that there are no wheels in the middle of the frame (as most double umbrella strollers have), which makes it easier to push without kicking the wheels or frame. Finally, it showed no damage after our durability tests.
The Details: 21.8 pounds | 41 x 25 x 28.25 inches assembled | 14 x 40 x 17.5 inches folded | 55-pound weight limit per seat
Cybex Libelle Compact Stroller
It's a modern-looking stroller that's easy to move.
It lacked some of the features we'd have liked to see at its price.
The Cybex Libelle Stroller looks sleek and is easy to fold down into an easy-to-store size. Unfolding this stroller is incredibly easy — perfect for families on the go. The wheels of this stroller turn more easily than some other styles and provides a smooth ride over most surfaces.
Due to its simplistic design, this stroller doesn't have extra pockets or cupholders, but its lightweight and compact style makes this a great option for traveling since the stroller can fit in the overhead bins of most airplanes. Just be aware that this model does not include a carrying strap, so if you plan to walk for long periods of time with the folded stroller, you'll have to carry it by its medal frame.
It handled pretty well over the smooth hard surfaces with no noticeable hiccups, but it struggled a bit on the gravel.
The Details: 13.7 pounds | 41 x 20 x 20 inches assembled | 8 x 22 x 14 inches folded | 55-pound weight limit
Best Maneuverability
Bugaboo butterfly stroller.
It takes next to no effort to push this stroller over terrains of all types.
The instructions have pictures rather than words, so they’re a bit unclear.
From sharp turns to steep curbs to rocky terrain, the Bugaboo Butterfly Seat Stroller easily traverses it all. Built with advanced four-wheel suspension and a lightweight frame, we loved how little effort it took to push the stroller, even with one hand. The wheels seemed to absorb bumps and shock well, keeping the seat stable and the baby in place.
We were equally impressed with the stroller’s packing and traveling capabilities. Weighing in at just over 16 pounds and boasting a compact size when folded down, the Butterfly is easy to carry and even hoist in the air to stow in a plane’s overhead bin. It’s also simple to assemble, and it remained perfectly intact and undamaged after we dropped it.
Other useful features of this stroller include a Velcro rain cover, seat cover, spacious under-seat basket, padded handlebar with a wrist strap, reclining mechanism, and an easy-to-use foot brake.
The Details: 16.1 pounds | 36.4 x 17.7 x 40.3 inches assembled | 17.7 x 9.1 x 21.3 inches folded | 48.5-pound weight limit
Best for Air Travel
It easily fits in overhead bins and is a high-quality, durable option.
At 14.6 pounds, it's one of the heavier strollers we tested.
The Cybex Coya is a stylish and durable stroller that families will be happy to use for their daily activities and while traveling. It folds up quickly and easily slides into airplane overhead bins for easy access as you board and de-board. The comfortable seat padding is removable for cleaning and the canopy comes down for sun and rain protection. The five-point harness is also incredibly easy to adjust and the seat itself reclines to be almost flat. Pair that with the adjustable leg rest and you have the perfect spot for your youngster to nap on the go.
We also love the cushioned handlebar that adds some extra comfort when pushing the stroller and the zippered pocket in the back of the canopy where you can store your phone or wallet for convenience. The cargo area is also a great size considering the overall compact nature of this stroller and easily fit our packed diaper bag . After our toss test, the stroller is still in great condition, although we do recommend investing in a dust bag if you're nervous about bumps and scratches while traveling.
The Details: 14.6 pounds | 38.2 x 17.3 x 31.1 inches assembled | 7.1 x 17.3 x 20.5 inches folded | 55-pound weight limit
Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim
Best Compact
Contours itsy.
Once folded, this is about the size of a large grocery bag.
Parents of older, larger children may not find it as useful.
If you like to live your life simply, the compact and convenient Contours Itsy may be the stroller for you. Right out of the box, it’s already nearly fully assembled — all you have to do is snap the bumper bar into place, which takes almost no effort. On top of that, it’s a no-frills option, so there’s no cup holder or oversized basket to weigh it down, take up space, or make things complicated.
We did, however, love features like the secure bumper bar, easy-to-use harness, canopy with UV 50 sun protection, and padding on the crotch strap, which makes the stroller look comfortable. They also appreciated the small size of the foot rest, basket, and entire stroller in general, because it made using and transporting it a breeze.
When it was time to stow the stroller away (or pack it up for travel), we got a kick out of just how tiny it folds up — in its simplest form, it’s not much larger than a grocery bag. It’s also ultra-lightweight and easily folds with just one hand.
The Details: 12.3 pounds | 32 x 39 x 18.2 inches assembled | 11 x 22 x 11 inches folded | 40-pound weight limit
Best Comfort
Baby jogger city tour 2 stroller.
This rolls smoothly on various terrains, making it comfortable for riders and pushers.
It did not fit in our overhead bin and isn't easy to fold one-handed.
Folding this stroller was pretty simple, though not quite as smooth as it was with some of the others. The unfolding process was a little finicky as well and took some practice. So what do we like about the Baby Jogger City Tour 2? The price is reasonable, it performed solidly on most of our tests, and it maneuvered exceptionally well over all surfaces. We noticed little perceptible difference between its rolling over the shag carpet and smooth wood surface, and while other strollers struggled a bit on the gravel, this one navigated it with ease.
In terms of portability, the City Tour 2 doesn't feel bulky and has a good hand carrying handle. We would have liked to see a shoulder strap, however, and it did not fit in our overhead bin. The seat back has a lot of recline, and the drawstring to pull and push the seat forward and back is easy to use. The seat has good structure and good padding; the straps work well and can be adjusted to different height levels. There's lots of leg room and adjustable calf support for the baby, and the canopy has a peekaboo window and goes up and down smoothly. We'd have appreciated some more storage space; you can't fit a backpack anywhere. When we pushed the City Tour 2 off a table, we did notice that a small foam pad came off, though we couldn't even figure out where it came from, and it did not structurally damage the stroller.
The Details: 14 pounds | 40 x 26 x 20 inches assembled | 7 x 22.5 x 19.5 inches folded | 45-pound weight limit
Best Umbrella
Uppababy jordan g-luxe stroller.
The umbrella folding feature is more straightforward to use than other folding models.
The button/ring-pull combination for folding it is a bit finicky and has to be timed perfectly.
The first thing to note here is that umbrella strollers only fold one-dimensionally, so the result is narrow but long…like an umbrella. The other strollers on this list fold down via multiple joints and in multiple directions for a smaller and more squarish package; neither is necessarily better, but you'll want to decide what you want before buying a travel stroller.
This particular UPPAbaby model is a bit tricky to fold because the handle/ring combination used to do so is finicky and has to be timed perfectly. Once you get that, the folding is smooth, but the whole button-and-ring thing is a little annoying. As with most UPPAbaby products, however, the G-Luxe's features are pretty nice. There's an included cup holder that fits a travel mug easily, and the canopy is expansive with extra sun shade (there is no peekaboo window, however). The leg rest for the child is easy to adjust, and the straps feature a five-point harness and adjustable height levels. The seat padding is substantial without looking bulky, and the recline system, while only providing two settings, is exceptionally easy to use. The unstructured (perhaps too unstructured) pocket behind the seat is pretty spacious and in a good location, but the storage basket at the bottom of the stroller isn't particularly big.
The G-Luxe maneuvers well, with good tight turns, though it rattled noticeably over the gravel. It held up well during our durability tests and sustained no damage.
The Details : 16.5 pounds | 42.5 x 23.5 x 18.5 inches assembled | 15 x 41 x 11.75 inches folded | 55 pounds weight limit
Best Lightweight
Zoe the traveler.
It's one of the lightest options on this list.
The attachable snack tray is sold separately.
If you're heading off on a family trip and looking for a simple, lightweight travel stroller, this minimalistic design will do the trick. It's incredibly easy to assemble and takes just a few minutes to click the wheels and bumper bar into place. It also comes with a parent cupholder and back pocket to help keep your hands free throughout your journey. We did note that the cargo area is the perfect size for a small tote bag or purse, but it may not be large enough to fit diaper bags or weekender bags .
We love that this stroller comes with a removable seat liner that can be thrown in the washing machine after a trip to keep clean and fresh. The canopy can also be unzipped to expand and it has a peek-a-boo feature on top so you can check on your child without stopping. This stroller is also easy to push around on every type of terrain — especially around tight corners. The stroller is light enough to lift up stairs, but we do recommend you use two hands when carrying down the stairs. When it's time to disassemble the stroller, simply press a button on the handlebar and bend the stroller forward. It’s so easy we didn’t even need instructions to figure out how to do it. You can even fold and unfold this one-handed, perfect for on-the-go travels.
The Details : 13 pounds | 41 x 30 x 18 inches assembled | 22 x 19 x 10 inches folded | 45 pounds weight limit
Most Adjustable
Thule shine.
The leg rest and handlebar are adjustable, providing comfort for parents and passengers.
It can be hard to turn on sharp corners.
For such a compact stroller, the Thule Shine has plenty of storage, an expandable canopy with UPF 50+ protection , a reclining seat, and adjustable leg rests — everything you need for a busy parent and growing youngster to travel comfortably. We love the fast assembly of this stroller and the security of knowing everything clicks together when positioned and popped in correctly. There is an adjustable handlebar that is super easy to figure out, an extra rain canopy that you can pack and bring with you, and it is so easy to fold down. The harness does need to be clipped in a specific order before it can be fully buckled, which might become difficult with a fussy child, but we did find the seat to be comfortable and loved that it was extremely adjustable.
During our tests, it only suffered minimal scuffing and we never felt as though it would tip or fall while maneuvering through an obstacle course. We were able to fold the stroller with just one hand, but it was difficult to get it fully locked into the travel position without using two hands. It does stand upright once folded, so you can pop it down quickly for storage, whether you're coming back home and stashing it in a closet or boarding a plane. The stroller also fits easily into car trunks, but is most suitable for gate checking and is not likely to fit in overhead airplane bins. Overall, the stroller felt durable and was light enough that most parents would be able to carry it when needed. We felt like it would last through at least a couple of kids should your family use it multiple times, which is perfect for growing families.
The Details : 21.6 pounds | 35 x 42 x 20 inches assembled | 13 x 27 x 20 inches folded | 49 pounds weight limit
Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples
Other Travel Strollers We Liked
Some of the travel strollers we tested did not make our list of recommendations. They all had positive attributes, but a few things held them back.
Summer Infant 3DLite : This is a decent budget option, but the price-to-performance ratio was just not quite as good as the Kolcraft Cloud Plus.
Doona Infant Car Seat and Latch Base : The easy-to-maneuver pick collapses into a car seat but the use case for this is too specific to pay as much as it costs, and many other stroller frames can fit a car seat.
Gb Pockit Air All Terrain : This one is incredibly light and folds easily, but there are basically zero features.
Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Stroller : While this is a sleek and stylish option, i t's not easy to carry, and the canopy adjustment makes a lot of noise, which could wake up a sleeping baby.
Munchkin Sparrow : The lightweight design is smart and thoughtful, but everything from the canopy to the storage bin is simply too small.
Once we fully assembled all strollers in our New York City testing lab, we measured their height, length, and width, both fully opened and fully folded down. We also weighed each one, since weight is a particularly important aspect if anyone will be carrying the stroller during a trip. Then after carefully reading instructions, we repeatedly folded and unfolded each stroller. We took copious notes to record whether the folding process was intuitive and easy to execute. We considered how difficult it would be to do with a baby in one arm or with a whiny toddler pulling at our legs.
While each stroller was in its most compact setup, we tested it for portability. Is it easy to pick up? Comfortable to carry? Are there good handles and straps? Is it compact enough to fit in an airplane overhead bin (we constructed our own makeshift one according to standard airline measurements using a storage rack and a box). We recorded all this and more.
Next we carefully examined each stroller for included features. We looked for seat reclining and cushioning, cup holders, baskets and other storage space, canopy cover for protection from the weather, seat cushioning and reclining, and more. We tried the features out and took detailed notes on whether they were functional and helpful. We also practiced buckling and unbuckling the straps.
Then we put 25-pound sandbags in every stroller. We wheeled them forward and backward over hard floor, carpet, and gravel. We practiced U-turns and pivots and even wheeled them through a miniature obstacle course of cones. We also noted how well the brakes worked and if they were easy to engage.
Finally, we gave all of the strollers a durability test. We dropped each one from waist height and then pushed each off of a table slightly higher than that. We examined each after the falls to see if there was any damage.
After completing our lab tests, we sent each stroller out to real families to use these strollers over a period of six months to really put them to the test. Throughout the testing period, we asked how each stroller was holding up in terms of durability, comfort, portability, and more and updated our findings here.
Tips for Buying a Travel Stroller
Consider the types of travel strollers.
Not all travel strollers are designed with the same priorities in mind. Some may emphasize a lightweight and packable style while others are focused on maneuverability or durability. There are umbrella strollers, that are best for toddlers, but light enough for travel; jogging strollers with advanced suspension for smooth rides; and even full-sized strollers that may not seem best for air travel, but often include great features like storage compartments and padded seats when portability is less of an issue. When it comes to selecting the best travel stroller for your family, think about portability and convenience, but don't forget about comfort and bonus accessories to make your trip a smooth and unforgettable experience.
Pay attention to folded size
The biggest difference between a regular stroller and a travel stroller is that a travel stroller should pack up more compactly. You'll want it to fit easily into car trunks or train/airplane compartments without taking up much space. The Joolz Aer , our top pick, folds down to 8.5 (height) x 21 (length) x 17.75 (width) inches. That's a good guide for a stroller that will fit nicely into the aforementioned compartments.
Look for storage space and additional features
Just because your travel stroller might be a smaller and more scaled-down version of your everyday stroller, you shouldn't have to suffer from a lack of convenience. Good travel strollers still offer some storage space for small bags, toys, snacks, etc. Remember, you can always add a drink caddy for both your stroller and luggage. The seat for your baby should be padded and comfortable and able to recline; keep an eye out for a canopy that offers good coverage and buckles and straps that are easy to use. So, while compact folding and good portability are what make a travel stroller a travel stroller, be sure to look closely at the other features a stroller does (or does not) include.
Prioritize comfort and safety
At the end of the day, your stroller needs to be safe and comfortable for your child. Check for good, padded seats that recline. Make sure the straps don't look like they'd cut into your baby's shoulder or chest, and take note if there are leg rests. Note if the wheels can handle different surfaces well enough to keep the stroller from shaking and rattling too much.
Can I carry a travel stroller on board a flight?
If you can fit it in the overhead, you can bring it on board. If you have an umbrella model or are using your regular (non-travel) stroller, your best bet is to gate check it. But many travel strollers fold down so compactly that they fit easily into an overhead bin. In general, carry-on luggage should be 45 linear inches (22 x 14 x 9 inches) or less. You can reference the FAA website for more guidance.
What's the difference between a travel stroller and a regular stroller?
In short, a travel stroller is lighter than an everyday stroller and folds down far smaller. This means that the frames are usually thinner and have several folding joints, and the wheels will be smaller and less suited for rough terrain. Storage space, cup holders, and other accessories will usually be kept to a minimum. But a good travel stroller should give you everything you really need and even function well enough to be used every day — all while folding down nice and small and being easy to carry or pack away.
Traveling with a toddler? You're going to need a lot more than a travel stroller to help things go smoothly — or at least as smoothly as traveling with kids can be. These items will make your next trip a little easier, whether you're taking a road trip or flying internationally.
Graco Contender Slim Convertible Car Seat : This lightweight car seat is great for families who are traveling with lots of luggage — it weighs only 16 pounds and doesn't feel as bulky to carry around as other options. Installation only takes about 15 minutes.
Stokke JetKids BedBox : Kids can ride on this spacious suitcase through the airport (a lifesaver for little ones who get bored while traveling), then turn it into a footrest or bed on the plane. It also comes in multiple colors and can be decorated with stickers.
Why Trust Travel + Leisure
Chris Abell is the Associate Editorial Director at Travel + Leisure , and he is a parent and frequent traveler. He's owned the Uppababy G-Luxe and the Joolz Aer, and he helped design and execute the testing for all the strollers on this list. Chris and commerce updates editor Hillary Maglin worked with a team of other editors and parents to test these strollers in our New York City lab space.
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The Best Travel Strollers
![travel with stroller Toddler filling black Joolz Aer with fruit.](https://www.usnews.com/object/image/00000185-7d47-dfff-a1f5-7f479f1e0000/joolzaerlifestyle1.jpg?update-time=1672844320437&size=responsive640)
Courtesy of Joolz
The Joolz Aer is the best overall travel stroller on the market.
When traveling with babies and toddlers , having the right gear – especially an easy-to-maneuver travel stroller – is essential. If you're in the market for a stroller you can take on the plane, train and beyond, read on to find the best option for your family as recommended by parents.
The Top Travel Strollers of 2023
Best overall travel stroller: joolz aer, best umbrella stroller for travel: uppababy minu v2, best double stroller for travel: uppababy g-link 2, best travel stroller for big kids: evenflo pivot xplore all-terrain stroller wagon, best travel stroller for infants: doona car seat & stroller, best travel system stroller: nuna trvl stroller, best budget travel stroller: summer 3dlite convenience stroller.
Looking for more information on how to select your ideal travel stroller? Consult the FAQ section at the bottom of this page.
(Note: All stroller dimensions are listed in order of length by width by height.)
![travel with stroller Joolz Aer in taupe against white background.](https://www.usnews.com/object/image/00000185-7d47-dfff-a1f5-7f479ed60000/edited-joolzaer2.jpg?update-time=1672844340371&size=responsiveFlow640)
Folded dimensions: 21 x 17.7 x 8.5 inches Stroller weight: 13.4 pounds Minimum child age: 6 months Maximum child weight: 50 pounds
When it comes to quality travel strollers, the Joolz Aer is the best investment you can make. Not only does this stroller's lightweight and compact design make it easy to store in the overhead compartment of a plane, but it also opens and closes with a one-handed motion – an essential feature for multitasking parents. Little ones travel comfortably and safely thanks to a five-point harness, extended seatback and adjustable recline, as well as a rain cover. Available in six modern colors – from sage green to taupe – the Joolz Aer also comes with a stroller bag. Parents rave about this travel stroller, with some noting they prefer it to the highly rated BABYZEN YOYO2.
The Joolz Aer is designed for babies 6 months and older; it can be used from birth with select infant car seats, secured by a car seat adaptor you'll need to purchase separately.
Price: $449 or less Shop now: Amazon | buy buy Baby | Nordstrom | Joolz
![travel with stroller UPPAbaby MINU V2 in gray against white background.](https://www.usnews.com/object/image/00000185-7d47-dfff-a1f5-7f47a16a0000/edited-uppababyminu-gray.jpg?update-time=1672844405092&size=responsiveFlow640)
Courtesy of UPPAbaby
Folded dimensions: 12.5 x 20.3 x 23 inches Stroller weight: 16.9 pounds Minimum child age: 3 months Maximum child weight: 50 pounds
If you're looking for an umbrella-style stroller for travel, consider the UPPAbaby MINU. Its latest model, the V2, features a swift, one-handed setup; a five-point harness; an adjustable recline and foot rest; an extendable canopy with UPF 50+ protection; and a vented peekaboo window. It's also equipped with a generously sized storage basket that can hold up to 20 pounds of additional items. While the MINU is recommended for babies at least 3 months old, you can use this even sooner with UPPAbaby's Mesa Infant Car Seat and adaptors, or with adaptors for other car seats.
Terry Ward, a Florida-based travel writer and co-founder of Florida Beyond , still raves about this travel stroller, which her kids recently outgrew. "I loved the MINU so much that it became my go-to stroller at home, too," she says, adding that it has a great resale value. "I sold it for more than half of what I bought it for after three years – these strollers are really in demand."
The UPPAbaby MINU V2 is available in five color variations and features a stylish full-grain leather bumper bar and handlebar.
Price: $449.99 or less Shop now: buy buy Baby | UPPAbaby
![travel with stroller UPPAbaby G-LINK 2 in black against white background.](https://www.usnews.com/object/image/00000185-7d47-dfff-a1f5-7f47a0ec0000/edited-uppababyg-link-black.jpg?update-time=1672844432750&size=responsiveFlow640)
Folded dimensions: 40 x 20 x 14.5 inches Stroller weight: 22.3 pounds Minimum child age: 3 months Maximum child weight: 55 pounds per seat
If you have twins or two stroller-age kiddos and need a tandem stroller for travel, the UPPAbaby G-LINK 2 is a solid choice. Available in charcoal and black, this highly rated double stroller offers two UPF 50+ canopies and independent, multiposition reclining seats. Like the UPPAbaby MINU, this one is a cinch to set up and maneuver, and it features an easy-to-access storage basket that accommodates up to 10 pounds. There's also a sturdy cup holder for that must-have caffeine boost.
Reviewers note that the G-LINK 2 is surprisingly compact given its double capacity, and that it's also ideal for tall toddlers.
Price: $349.99 or less Shop now: Amazon | buy buy Baby | UPPAbaby
![travel with stroller Evenflo Pivot Xplore All-Terrain Stroller Wagon in "Adventurer" pattern against white background.](https://www.usnews.com/object/image/00000185-7d47-dfff-a1f5-7f47a0b10000/edited-pivot-xplore-product-2-evenflo.jpg?update-time=1672844488529&size=responsiveFlow640)
Courtesy of Evenflo
Folded dimensions: 23 x 27.5 x 37.5 inches Stroller weight: 34.7 pounds Minimum child age: 6 months Maximum child weight: 55 pounds per seat
Another great travel stroller for two kids or older kids (up to age 5) is the Evenflo Pivot Xplore All-Terrain Stroller Wagon, which has two seats and can be used as a wagon or a stroller depending on your needs and destination. Its all-terrain wheels make it ideal for navigating any landscape – from cobblestone streets to sandy beaches – and a large storage basket and cup holders allow you to easily pack additional travel necessities. "It's basically a portable U-Haul for anything else you're dragging along," says Ward, who upgraded to the Xplore when her kids outgrew the UPPAbaby MINU. It also has an adjustable canopy for protection from the elements.
Price: $399.99 or less Shop now: Amazon | buy buy Baby | Evenflo | Target
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![travel with stroller Doona Car Seat & Stroller shown in three different set-ups, against white background.](https://www.usnews.com/object/image/00000185-7d85-d8d9-a58f-7dbd94f00000/doona-1.jpg?update-time=1672848184414&size=responsiveFlow640)
Courtesy of Doona
Folded dimensions: 23.6 x 17.3 x 26 inches Stroller weight: 17.2 pounds Minimum child age: None; can be used from birth with infant insert Maximum child weight: 35 pounds
When it comes to travel strollers, nothing quite compares to the Doona Car Seat & Stroller, which is exactly what it sounds like: a (genius) car seat and stroller in one. Aside from its magical ability to transform from a car seat to a stroller and vice versa in seconds, this travel stroller features a five-point harness, an adjustable handlebar and removable textiles for easy (inevitable) washing. It is Federal Aviation Administration aircraft-approved to fit in most overhead bins and comes in a variety of colors.
Angela Burks of La Vida Mom loves how easy it is to travel with the Doona Car Seat & Stroller. "I like that I don't have to worry about getting an additional car seat for a car service or rental when I arrive at the airport," she says. Another bonus? It doesn't require a car seat base.
The only downsides of this travel stroller are that your child will outgrow it when they hit 35 pounds in weight and/or 32 inches in height, and its hefty price tag given these limitations.
Price: $550.99 or less Shop now: Amazon | Doona | Target
![travel with stroller Close-up of Nuna brand infant stroller, Walnut Creek, California, August 15, 2021. (Photo by Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images)](https://www.usnews.com/object/image/00000185-7dba-d46e-a5bf-fdfb1d000000/nuna-stock.jpg?update-time=1672851626646&size=responsiveFlow640)
Getty Images
Folded dimensions: 24 x 20.25 x 11 inches (without arm bar) Stroller weight: 13.6 pounds (without canopy and arm bar) Minimum child age: None; can be used from birth with infant car seat Maximum child weight: 50 pounds
If you're looking for a travel system stroller that'll grow with your baby, you can't beat the Nuna TRVL Stroller. The Nuna PIPA series car seat clicks right into the stroller – no adaptors necessary – and can then be removed when your little one is old enough to sit upright in the stroller seat. This luxury stroller features a five-point harness with magnetic technology, a multiposition reclining seat, adjustable calf support, a removable and adjustable arm bar, and a UPF 50+ canopy. Like some of the other travel strollers on this list, this product easily opens and closes with a one-handed motion and comes with a carrying bag. It is also certified GREENGUARD Gold and free of harmful chemicals.
Price: $500 or less Shop now: Nordstrom | Nuna
![travel with stroller Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller in black against white background.](https://www.usnews.com/object/image/00000185-7d47-dfff-a1f5-7f47a0010000/summer3dlite-2-summer.jpg?update-time=1672844528466&size=responsiveFlow640)
Courtesy of Summer
Folded dimensions: 42 x 11.5 x 12.5 inches Stroller weight: 13 pounds Minimum child age: 6 months Maximum child weight: 50 pounds
You get what you pay for in many situations, but parents say they're impressed with the Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller given its cheap price tag, noting it has seamlessly navigated bumpy streets in Europe , Disney theme parks and other family vacation destinations. This easy-to-assemble travel stroller features a carry strap (useful for schlepping it when not in use), five-point safety harness, four reclining positions, and an adjustable and removable canopy. It also has a storage basket and cup holder, and comes in four colors.
Price: $99.99 or less Shop now: Amazon | Walmart | Summer
[Read: The Top Kids Luggage .]
How to travel with a stroller and car seat
Perhaps the easiest way to travel with a stroller and car seat is to invest in the two-in-one Doona Car Seat & Stroller , which can be used for children up to about 35 pounds and stored in the overhead bin of a plane. However, other travel stroller systems can also ease the burden of all that gear – especially for those traveling with infants. Here's how to travel with a stroller and car seat in the following situations:
If your baby is in an infant car seat: Simply attach a compatible infant car seat to your everyday or travel-specific stroller and wheel your baby through the airport. When you arrive at the gate, check your car seat and stroller free of charge. (Children 2 and younger can fly for free as lap children on most airlines.) If you'd like to purchase a seat for your baby and bring your car seat on the plane – recommended by the FAA and American Academy of Pediatrics – you'll need to ensure it is FAA-compliant . Alternatively, you can wear your baby in a carrier and use the car seat and/or stroller for storage.
If your baby is not in an infant car seat: If your child is somewhere between an infant and a toddler but no longer uses an infant car seat at home, you can technically get by without a car seat since they can ride through the airport in a stroller or carrier and then sit on your lap during the flight if they are younger than 2. However, you'll need to rent or borrow a car seat when you arrive at your destination.
If you have a toddler older than 2: Children are not legally required to have a car seat for air travel, though it's still recommended by the FAA and AAP (and you will likely need one when you get to your final destination anyway). It's easiest to wheel your child in the travel stroller and transport your FAA-compliant car seat by simply carrying it (not preferable, of course) or using one of the following assists:
- Travel cart: Most luggage carts (including the ones offered at the airport) cannot go through security, so look for a foldable travel cart – this one by HÖLM is a good option – that can easily be placed on the security screening belt and then used to transport your belongings to the gate.
- Car seat luggage strap: Strap the car seat to your carry-on bag with a heavy duty luggage strap like this one .
- Car seat backpack: You can free up your hands by wearing a car seat backpack .
If your toddler won't sit in the stroller: Use your stroller as a travel cart instead – strap the car seat and anything else you can get on there. Once you get to the gate, you can either check your car seat (typically free of charge) or bring it with you on board.
Travel Stroller FAQ
Deciding whether you need a travel stroller is an entirely personal decision. Some people are content to travel with the stroller they use at home, while many prefer travel strollers since they are typically less bulky than their everyday counterparts.
No, a stroller can typically be checked at the gate free of charge and picked up on the jet bridge post-flight. It's always best to review your airline's stroller policies before flying, however.
Yes. Simply put it on the X-ray belt with the rest of your belongings.
The Joolz Aer and Doona Car Seat & Stroller can fit in most overhead bins. However, it may be easier to gate check your stroller (typically for free) so you have less to carry on to the plane.
While a stroller bag is not required, it can be useful for protecting your stroller from potential dirt and damage if it needs to be checked at the gate, as well as storing additional items – think: diapers (which can double as extra padding), wipes and other small essentials. Some travel strollers come with a branded stroller bag, but if you'd like a different option, check out these highly rated bags:
- Zohzo Stroller Travel Bag
- J.L. Childress Gate Check Travel Bag
- Gate Check PRO Stroller Bag
Disney World requires that both single and double strollers do not exceed 52 x 31 inches (length by width) when fully assembled. Below are the best strollers for Disney World that meet these requirements (listed with unfolded dimensions in inches):
- Joolz Aer : 32.7 x 17.7
- UPPAbaby MINU V2 : 35.5 x 20.3
- UPPAbaby G-LINK 2 : 27.5 x 28.5
- Doona Car Seat & Stroller : 32.3 x 17.4
- Nuna TRVL Stroller : 32.5 x 20.25
- Summer 3D Lite Convenience Stroller : 27 x 18
The UPPAbaby strollers and Nuna TRVL Stroller are especially ideal for Disney parks since they offer UPF 50+ canopies for protection from the sun. Wagons are prohibited entirely.
Why Trust U.S. News Travel
Amanda Norcross used her personal experience as a frequently traveling mom, as well as her research skills and conversations with other parents, to determine which travel strollers are truly the best. She first traveled with her infant in a front carrier before transitioning to the Joolz Aer , which she's successfully used on multiple flights with her growing toddler.
You might also be interested in:
- The Top Diaper Bag Backpacks
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![travel with stroller Two kids in the pool smiling at the camera at Woodlock Resort.](https://www.usnews.com/object/image/00000185-11ae-d56e-ab95-5deeaa610000/1-intro-pool-woodloch-resort.jpg?update-time=1671039154796&size=responsive640)
Tags: Travel , Travel Gear
World's Best Places To Visit
- # 1 South Island, New Zealand
- # 4 Bora Bora
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The Best Travel Strollers
![travel with stroller Elise Czajkowski](https://cdn.thewirecutter.com/wp-content/media/2022/10/elise-czajkowski-1.jpg?auto=webp&quality=60&crop=1:1&width=50)
By Elise Czajkowski
A good travel stroller can make the difference between a jaunty vacation and a miserable slog.
We researched dozens of travel strollers, tested seven on a variety of trips involving planes, trains, buses, and cabs, and concluded that the Uppababy Minu V2 is the best option to keep parents and tots happy. Unlike most travel strollers, you’re sacrificing very little in comfort and maneuverability with the Minu V2—which is why many people find it’s also the ideal everyday stroller.
If you’re looking for a lighter, simpler option, the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller is a great budget pick.
Everything we recommend
![travel with stroller](https://d1b5h9psu9yexj.cloudfront.net/55278/Uppababy-Minu-V2_20230823-144642_full.jpeg)
Uppababy Minu V2
The best travel stroller.
This comfortable, sturdy travel stroller handles bumpy streets better than the competition and is easy to fold one-handed. Many parents love it for everyday use as well.
Buying Options
May be out of stock
Budget pick
![travel with stroller](https://d1b5h9psu9yexj.cloudfront.net/57324/Baby-Jogger-City-Tour-2-Stroller_20230823-144904_full.jpeg)
Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller
Simple and sturdy.
This less-expensive option handles rough terrain well and offers the best on-the-go napping option of all the strollers we tested.
What we looked for
Being able to quickly collapse or unfurl the stroller is crucial when traveling.
We prioritized strollers that are easy to steer one-handed over bumpy surfaces and around tight turns.
A travel stroller should be small enough to store easily, whether in a closet or a packed car trunk.
You shouldn’t need to look at the manual to relearn how to use your stroller each time you pull it out.
Neither the Minu V2 nor the City Tour 2 Stroller is compatible with any of the picks in our guide to infant car seats ; if that’s a must, the Mountain Buggy Nano (2020+) is another good option . And if putting your stroller in an overhead compartment is a priority, we recommend the Babyzen Yoyo2 Stroller .
The Uppababy Minu V2 has many features that allow it to function as a full-size stroller, including an underseat basket that holds up to 20 pounds, a simple recline option that’s good for napping, and a handy backseat pocket for storing odds and ends. Its one-hand fold is impressively simple, and of the travel strollers we tested, it has the easiest harness to adjust and the most-intuitive brakes. It also has a large, zip-out sun canopy with UPF protection. You can use it—without attachments—with children as young as 3 months, or with Uppababy’s bassinet or select car seats with newborns. A kid doesn’t officially outgrow it until they reach 50 pounds—which is often grade-school age. But at 17 pounds, it’s heavier than our budget pick.
The Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller isn’t quite as simple to fold, recline, or buckle as the Minu V2, but it has the most comfortable handlebar of the travel strollers we tested, a decent canopy with UV protection, and a good amount of underseat storage (though it is harder to access than the Minu V2’s). Its large, adjustable footrest, long seat, and deep recline make it the best stroller that we tested for on-the-go naps, even for older kids (it fits kids up to 45 pounds). At 15.1 pounds, it’s a couple of pounds lighter than the Minu V2 and, unlike that stroller, comes with a travel bag.
The research
Why you should trust us, who this is for, how we picked and tested, our pick: uppababy minu v2, budget pick: baby jogger city tour 2 stroller, other good travel strollers, the competition.
I’ve been writing about strollers for Wirecutter for more than two years, and I’ve tested dozens of strollers from 16 brands in that time. For a 2023 update to our guide to travel strollers, I researched more than a dozen popular models and tested seven with my 1-year-old son.
My husband and I brought these strollers on international flights, regional trains, and local buses, and we loaded them in and out of cabs and cars of various sizes. Other Wirecutter parents tested strollers on their summer trips, and I badgered people around my neighborhood about their experiences with travel strollers.
This article builds on the work of writer Sonjia Hyon, who logged 130 miles testing nine travel strollers for an earlier version of this guide.
For many families, a travel stroller will never be necessary; for others, it may be the only stroller they ever need. In general, travel strollers are smaller and lighter than full-size strollers and fold down to fit easily in many forms of transportation.
If you don’t travel regularly, or you’re mostly visiting people who have a spare stroller, you can forgo one entirely and rely on carriers and car seats. On the other hand, I know plenty of parents who use a travel stroller as their everyday go-to; it’s a particularly good option for anyone who is living in a small space or has to carry a stroller up and down steps on a regular basis.
Travel strollers have increasingly replaced umbrella strollers as the go-to lightweight, foldable option for travelers, which became clear when we noticed brands discontinuing their umbrella strollers and making travel models instead. They are primarily distinguished by their fold; a travel stroller collapses into a more compact, suitcase shape while umbrella strollers fold into a long, golf bag shape. This extra convenience comes at a cost; travel strollers are generally much pricier. All of the so-called budget travel strollers we tested in 2023 were more expensive than the priciest model we considered for our guide to umbrella strollers .
![travel with stroller Three travel strollers folded up and resting next to each other.](https://cdn.thewirecutter.com/wp-content/media/2023/08/travelstrollers-2048px-6939.jpeg?auto=webp&quality=75&width=1024)
You do, of course, have to make some compromises. The travel strollers that fold the most compactly are likely to be the hardest to fold; the lightest strollers do not maneuver as well as heavier options. And all lack some features that many parents love in their full-size strollers, such as large storage baskets, reversible toddler seats, and adjustable handlebars.
If you’ve already purchased a full-size stroller that you like and are looking to add a travel stroller, you may want to look first at options from the same brand. Stroller manufacturers keep many things consistent across their lines, so you’ll find that elements like the type of brake, the style of the buckle, and the feel of the handlebar are familiar. For instance, the Uppababy Cruz V2 and Minu V2 share the same harness that’s easy to adjust and buckle, which I consider to be one of the most important elements in a good stroller.
![travel with stroller Nine of the travel strollers we tested standing side by side.](https://cdn.thewirecutter.com/wp-content/media/2023/08/travelstrollers-2048px-6698.jpeg?auto=webp&quality=75&width=1024)
More travel strollers are available now than when we began testing in 2018, as high-end brands have begun to offer more luxe options. We began our 2023 research by looking at the updated models of our three past picks—the Uppababy Minu V2 has replaced the original Minu, the Babyzen Yoyo2 Stroller has replaced the Yoyo+ Stroller, and the Mountain Buggy Nano (2020+) has replaced the original Nano. We also read online reviews for dozens of strollers to determine other good options to test. Based on our research, we determined that a good travel stroller is:
Easy to push and maneuver: Because a travel stroller needs to perform in a variety of environments inside and outside, we prioritized strollers that are easy to push on uneven terrain and able to maneuver through tight spaces. We only tested strollers that could be pushed and steered one-handed. I took seven strollers home and tested them several times in different conditions, including over cobblestones and uneven streets, in and out of subways, and up and down stairs. I also put them through a test course in our Long Island City, New York office, using sandbags in the toddler seat to test maneuverability and the one-handed push.
Easy to fold and unfold: A travel stroller needs to be easy to quickly fold and unfold; ideally, you should be able to collapse or unfurl a stroller while holding a squirming baby or kicking toddler. In my testing, I timed how long it took to fold and unfold each stroller and if it required one or two hands.
Easy to carry and stow: The stroller should fold down to a compact size; some even get small enough to fit into the overhead compartment on an airplane. We didn’t prioritize that ability, since different airlines and planes have different requirements, and it may be up to individual flight crews to decide if you can put a stroller in the overhead bin. We weighed each stroller ourselves, and the ones we tested ranged from 13 to 17 pounds, a close enough number that it didn’t end up being a major factor in our decision making. We also looked for strollers that have a shoulder strap or travel bag for carrying.
We liked to see that strollers had an option for clicking in an infant car seat, though neither of our picks are compatible with our best infant car-seat picks .
We also looked for a reclining seat, an easily adjustable harness, a decent-size canopy for sun protection, and an accessible underseat storage basket. I tested how easy it was to clean up food messes by smearing jam and whipped cream on all of the strollers and seeing how hard it was to remove stains with just baby wipes or fabric cleaner. Where small children go, messes follow—that’s why we devoted an entire article to how to clean a stroller .
![travel with stroller The Uppababy Minu V2, our pick for best travel stroller.](https://cdn.thewirecutter.com/wp-content/media/2023/08/strollers-2048px-02174-1.jpg?auto=webp&quality=75&width=1024)
The Uppababy Minu V2 is an exceptionally comfortable travel stroller for children and parents. It’s similar to the previous version of the Minu, which was our top pick for years, but it improves on that model with a simpler-to-adjust harness, a bigger sun canopy, and an adjustable footrest.
I found that it was sturdy enough to maneuver on bumpy cobblestone streets, light enough for one person to haul up short flights of stairs with a child buckled in, and simple enough to fold one-handed and throw in the back of a car. It has a comfortable handlebar, ample underseat storage, a large canopy with UPF protection , and a harness that adjusts quickly and intuitively.
![travel with stroller A folded Uppababy Minu V2 standing up on its own.](https://cdn.thewirecutter.com/wp-content/media/2023/08/strollers-2048px-02192.jpg?auto=webp&quality=60&crop=3:2&width=150)
It has a fantastic one-handed fold. The Minu V2 is the only one of our picks with a one-handed fold—you slide a lever and push a button simultaneously on the handlebar, push the whole thing forward, and the stroller collapses onto itself. The unfold is also fairly simple; undo a latch on the side and pull up on the handlebar, and it all flings open. The stroller stands up pretty well on its own when folded. In our tests, we found that it took less than 10 seconds to fold or unfold the stroller.
It’s easy to carry. The Minu V2 includes a carry handle and a shoulder strap, so it’s easier to pick up for short hauls than our other pick. (Though at 17 pounds, it’s not particularly comfortable to tote around for long periods.) Uppababy also sells a travel bag that lets you access the TravelSafe program , an additional two-year warranty added onto the original product warranty that offers replacements for parts damaged during air travel.
The harness is simple. The simple plastic buckle is easy to close and open. I find the Uppababy’s harness straps to be the easiest to use of any strollers I’ve tested because the shoulder and waist straps are permanently connected (on other strollers, including the city tour 2, our budget pick, they can separate). This does mean wiggling your child’s arms in and out of the straps, which some parents find more taxing. The harness straps are also the easiest to adjust of any that we tested; simply slide the strap up and down along the back of the child’s seat to change the height, and pull on the ends of the straps to tighten or loosen.
The recline and incline function on the seat is straightforward. You simply pull down a buckle to recline and pull up on two straps to incline. It does take some effort to incline with a toddler in the seat, but none of the travel strollers that we tested were any easier.
The brakes are intuitive and easy to engage, even when you’re barefoot. Like the Uppababy Cruz V2 , a pick in our guide to full-size strollers , the Minu V2 has two brake pedals—a red to lock and a green to unlock—that are easy to engage and, based on their position, allow you to see from a distance if the stroller is locked.
It can be used for a long time and has plenty of storage. With an additional attachment, the Minu V2 can be used with the Uppababy bassinet as well as several infant car seats , making it a good option for newborns, and it can fit a child as young as three months without any accessories. The seat can hold a child up to 50 pounds, the maximum of the travel strollers we tried, and the underseat storage basket can hold up to 20 pounds, the most of any travel stroller we tested, making it popular as an everyday stroller, with good reason. It lacks some of the best features of the larger, more expensive Uppababy Cruz V2 —a reversible toddler seat, a storage basket that can handle a grocery haul, an adjustable handlebar—but it’s narrower, lighter, and faster to fold.
![travel with stroller View of the storage pocket on the Uppababy Minu V2, showing sippy cup and a pair of sunglasses in it.](https://cdn.thewirecutter.com/wp-content/media/2023/08/strollers-2048px-02619.jpg?auto=webp&quality=60&crop=3:2&width=150)
The canopy, seat fabric, and underseat basket can be removed for hand-washing. In our cleaning tests, it was hard to get stains out of the green fabric of our stroller; even after using a stain remover, we could see dark splotches on the seat.
Uppababy strollers come with a two-year limited warranty and an extra year if you register your stroller within three months of purchasing.
Flaws but not dealbreakers
The first Minu V2 that we tested held up well for several weeks of travel—and then, one day it refused to fold. We contacted Uppababy, which said this is not a known issue (although we found a few online complaints of a similar issue with the original Minu) and that anyone with this problem would be issued a new frame immediately; our replacement stroller has held up just fine so far. Given Uppababy’s reputation for good strollers, we’re fairly confident that we simply got a lemon.
At nearly 17 pounds, the Minu V2 is the heaviest of the strollers we tested. It’s also one of the largest when folded, meaning it may need to be gate-checked when boarding a plane. (Though it is larger than almost all airlines’ official requirements for on-board luggage, it may fit in the overhead bins on larger airplanes.) In our travels, it required some careful, Tetris-like finagling to squeeze it into a hatchback alongside our luggage, although one tester was able to fit it behind the driver’s seat of a sedan.
Like all of the travel strollers we tested, it sometimes requires a little shoving to get it to collapse fully. And because of the way the canopy is attached, it sometimes felt flimsy, and it occasionally popped off the frame on one side when unfolding or carrying the stroller up stairs with a child inside.
Weight: 17.3 pounds Frame dimensions: 20.5 by 36 inches (WL) Folded size: 20.5 by 23 by 13 inches (WLH) Child weight, height limit: 50 pounds, 40 inches Storage basket weight limit: 20 pounds Car seat compatibility with an adapter: Uppababy Mesa; Maxi-Cosi Mico Max 30 Infant Car Seat, Mico NXT Infant Car Seat, Mico AP Infant Car Seat, and Mico Max Plus Car Seat; Nuna Pipa, Pipa Lite, Pipa Lite Lx, Pipa Lite R, Pipa Rx, and Pipa Lite Rx; the Cybex Aton, Aton 2, Aton Q, and Aton M Second child adaptability: ride-along board available for purchase Wheel diameter: front wheels 5 inches, rear wheels 6.5 inches Included accessories: bumper bar Add-on accessories: cup holder , travel bag , parent organizer , bassinet , ride-along board , snack tray , rain shield , and basket cover
![travel with stroller The Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller, our budget pick for best travel stroller.](https://cdn.thewirecutter.com/wp-content/media/2023/08/strollers-2048px-02205.jpg?auto=webp&quality=75&width=1024)
If you’re willing to sacrifice a one-handed fold, an easily accessible storage basket, and a notably easy-to-buckle harness, the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller is a remarkably solid and maneuverable stroller for its price. It handles bumpy streets and cobblestones without complaint, and I found the handlebar’s height and material more comfortable than those on the other less-expensive options we tested.
The City Tour 2 Stroller also has a large adjustable footrest that allows a young toddler to lie almost completely flat; paired with its built-in UV 50+ sun canopy, it’s a great option if on-the-go naps are a priority. For many parents, the best thing about this stroller is that it doesn’t feature anything too noteworthy or fussy; it’s a simple stroller that just works.
The fold is simple, but it requires two steps and both hands. Slide a lever and push a button to fold down the handlebar, then pull up on a strap on the inside of the seat to collapse the whole thing. (If you have the adjustable footrest up, you need to put it down for maximum compactness.) To unfold, undo a latch on the side and click it all into place. In our testing, it took about 10 seconds to fold the stroller (including lowering the footrest) and about 7 seconds to unfold.
The buckle has five pieces but stays together well. The shoulder and waist straps on each side click together, which allows you to simply slide your child’s arm through the shoulder straps rather than attach five separate pieces. One tester found that these pieces tended to separate when her toddler was getting out of the stroller, requiring her to clip them again the next time. But the straps remain snug once buckled. Reclining and inclining the seat is simple—pinch a clamp and pull down on the seat to recline, then pinch the same clamp and push up to incline. As with all of the travel strollers we tested, inclining can be a challenge with larger children.
The underseat basket can easily hold a day’s worth of stuff. The underseat basket holds 15 pounds—not as much as our top pick, but more than most of the strollers we tested.
![travel with stroller A person carrying the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller in the travel bag.](https://cdn.thewirecutter.com/wp-content/media/2023/08/strollers-2048px-02237.jpg?auto=webp&quality=60&crop=3:2&width=150)
The seat fabric of the City Tour 2 Stroller can be machine washed; other parts should be hand-washed. In our cleaning tests, we found that food wiped easily off of the black fabric, and any lingering smudges disappeared with stain remover. Unfortunately, we can’t say if this was due to the dark color or the fabric itself, but this stroller comes only in black or gray (you can also buy a blue-green, special-edition model that’s about $60 more) while the Minu V2 comes in many colors.
It also comes with a travel bag, which adds another layer of protection if you’re gate-checking a bag or putting the stroller away for long-term storage.
Baby Jogger strollers come with a lifetime warranty for manufacturer defects on the frame, and a one-year limited warranty on the fabrics. And though it doesn’t offer the same sort of TravelSafe program as Uppababy, the company said they “are always willing to help our customers where we can with damaged goods.”
The canopy can be hard to unfurl. The peekaboo window is secured with Velcro, which means it could wake up a sleeping child when undone. (The peekaboo flap can also be held open with a button.) The single brake pedal must be pushed up from the bottom to unlock, which is tricky if you’re barefoot or in open-toe shoes; the Minu V2’s two pedals are easier to use. And though the City Tour 2 Stroller does come with a travel bag, the stroller itself doesn’t feature a shoulder strap for carrying.
The seat’s most upright position is somewhat reclined. As with other Baby Jogger strollers that we’ve tested, the seat is never fully upright, which can be frustrating for a bigger kid who wants to look around (or a parent who doesn’t want a toddler to nap). The harness can be a challenge to adjust—the waist straps in particular take some time—and to change the height of the shoulder strap, you need to rethread the straps through the back of the toddler seat, which can’t be done with a child in the stroller. Unlike the Minu V2, the back of the seat doesn’t have a pocket for small items.
The stroller does not stand on its own when folded. It always needed to be propped against a wall or laid down flat. And I found that I sometimes smashed my hand when pushing down to make sure that it was folded as compactly as possible. The stroller also doesn’t have a mechanism for the whole stroller to stay attached to itself when folded; if you grab the handlebar when the stroller is folded, it will pull away from the body.
![travel with stroller A folded Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller lying down flat.](https://cdn.thewirecutter.com/wp-content/media/2023/08/strollers-2048px-02221.jpg?auto=webp&quality=75&width=1024)
At 5 foot 2, one tester found it was difficult to fold the handlebar down and needed to stabilize the stroller by putting her foot on the underseat basket for leverage; at 5 foot 7, I didn’t have the same issue.
Weight: 15.1 pounds Frame dimensions: 20 by 39 inches (WL) Folded size: 20 by 22.5 by 9.5 inches (WLH) Child weight, height limit: 45 pounds, 40 inches Storage basket weight limit: 15 pounds Car seat compatibility with an adapter: Baby Jogger City Go Infant Car Seat, City Go 2 Infant Car Seat, and City Go Air Infant Car Seat; Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35 Elite and SnugRide SnugLock 35 Platinum Second child adaptability: stroller cannot be adapted; City Tour 2 Double Stroller is also available, but we have not tested it yet Wheel diameter: front wheels 5 inches, rear wheels 6 inches Included accessories: travel bag Add-on accessories: belly bar , parent console , and weather shield
If you need or want to travel with a car seat: The Mountain Buggy Nano (2020+) is equipped with a universal car seat adapter—a genius feature that all stroller companies should adopt. Not only can you use many infant car seats with the nano—including any of our infant car seat picks —but it works with lightweight toddler car seats and convertible travel car seats like the Cosco Scenera Next Convertible Car Seat , which we recommend as the best convertible car seat for travel .
But the canopy rests against the handlebar when closed, making the stroller uncomfortable to push for long periods, especially in the heat. It also has finicky harness straps that never felt tight enough and a brake that’s easy to trip accidentally.
If a stroller that fits in most overhead compartments is crucial: Consider the Babyzen Yoyo2 Stroller , which has the smallest fold of any of the strollers we tested. It meets the International Air Transport Association standards for carry-on bags, and I’ve seen people putting it in the overhead bins on several flights—even though at 17.3 inches wide, it is wider than the official width limit of 14 inches on many airlines. The fabric was also the easiest to wipe clean of every stroller we tested.
But its multistep folding mechanism is frustrating; it involves pushing a button and pulling a handle underneath the seat, which means crouching down and feeling around for the right spots. It’s also difficult to push and steer in a hurry; in our tests, it veered off course easily when pushing one-handed. And the front tires had a tendency to spin uncontrollably after hitting a bump, creating a drag that took a few seconds to correct.
This is not a comprehensive list of everything we tested in previous iterations of this guide; it only includes strollers that are still available for sale.
The 16-pound Bugaboo Butterfly is well made and easy to maneuver, but multiple testers said they found the handlebar uncomfortable to push, particularly on hills. I also found that I sometimes struggled to get it unlocked and unfolded in a hurry—an important feature of a travel stroller.
At about $500, the nearly 16-pound Nuna Trvl is the most expensive travel stroller that we tested, and it has some excellent features, including the simplest fold we saw on any travel stroller. But it is very large when folded with the belly bar attached, and when the canopy is closed, it covers the handlebar, making it uncomfortable to push.
The dual handlebars of the Summer Infant 3Dlite Convenience Stroller , our umbrella stroller pick , make it nearly impossible to push one-handed—an important feature if you’re traveling by yourself and need your other hand for carrying other items. If you don’t mind using two hands and relying on a simpler but less maneuverable stroller than those recommended in this guide, you can save money by using an umbrella stroller over a travel model.
The Zoe the Traveler is only 13 pounds and has some nice features, including a parent cup holder, but it didn’t maneuver as well as I’d like. I struggled to push it off the subway, and it nearly tipped forward from a small, uneven bump in the sidewalk. It was also one of the hardest strollers to unfold.
We tested the 11-pound Zoe XL1 Best in 2018 (which has since been renamed The Tour+) and dismissed it after finding it harder to push and maneuver than other travel strollers we tested. It would frequently stop suddenly, causing the parent to pitch forward.
The 9.5 pound GB Pockit Air All-Terrain and the 13-pound GB Pockit+ All-City were dismissed because they didn’t feel sturdy.
The Kolcraft Cloud Plus Stroller was dismissed because it did not feel durable, was challenging to maneuver, and didn’t have a working lock.
This article was edited by Rachel Hurn and Kalee Thompson.
Meet your guide
![travel with stroller](https://cdn.thewirecutter.com/wp-content/media/2022/10/elise-czajkowski-1.jpg?auto=webp&quality=60&crop=1:1&width=150)
Elise Czajkowski
Elise Czajkowski is a freelance writer and editor covering strollers for Wirecutter.
Further reading
![travel with stroller Highway sign indicating meltdown ahead in half mile.](https://cdn.thewirecutter.com/wp-content/media/2023/06/20230609_Traveling-with-little-kids-can-be-tough_3x2.jpg?auto=webp&quality=60&crop=3:2&width=150)
Traveling With Little Kids Can Be Tough. The Right Gear Can Help.
by Kerry Davis McGuinness
From compact car seats and cribs to portable blackout shades and white noise machines, the right tools for travel can lead to less fuss—and more fun.
![travel with stroller Three of our top picks for the best travel car seats, shown side by side.](https://cdn.thewirecutter.com/wp-content/media/2023/04/infantcarseats-2048px-6576-3x2-1.jpg?auto=webp&quality=60&crop=3:2&width=150)
The Best Travel Car Seats
by Christina Szalinski and Rebecca Gale
After testing 17 lightweight, portable car seats, we have five good options for infants, toddlers, and big kids to recommend.
![travel with stroller Our three picks for best stroller wagon, shown side by side in front of a pink background.](https://cdn.thewirecutter.com/wp-content/media/2024/03/strollerwagons-2048px-09209-3x2-1.jpg?auto=webp&quality=60&crop=3:2&width=150)
The Best Stroller Wagons
by Liz Iversen
Got kids and gear you need to schlep to the soccer field, the beach, or the neighborhood block party? A stroller wagon might be for you.
![travel with stroller The Thule Spring stroller and the Uppababy Cruz V2 stroller, shown side by side.](https://cdn.thewirecutter.com/wp-content/media/2023/04/strollers-2048px-9936-3x2-1.jpg?auto=webp&quality=60&crop=3:2&width=150)
The Best Full-Size Strollers
by Elise Czajkowski
We considered more than 100 full-size strollers to determine the best ones to transport your kids and all of their stuff. These are the top five.
The 8 Best Travel Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
Make your trip comfortable and fun for all with these top picks
![travel with stroller travel with stroller](https://www.tripsavvy.com/thmb/ugYl_lCuZU0zW4KuL9HvCP8A9Hs=/72x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/DSC00412-5b73daf7c9e77c0057ca2198.jpg)
We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .
TripSavvy / Conor Ralph
A lightweight, collapsible travel stroller is a must-have accessory for parents on the move. There are many options to choose from, with the right stroller depending on your specific requirements. If you’re planning on traveling locally, a stroller that packs away into the trunk of your car may suffice; but if you're traveling overseas, you may prefer one that complies with airline carry-on restrictions. If you’re buying for a newborn, a fully reclining seat is necessary, while car seat compatibility is another factor.
We tested nearly two dozen strollers in our lab and rated each on their design, portability, maneuverability, durability, and overall value.
Final Verdict
Product selection, how we tested.
- Others We Tested
- What To Look For
Why Trust TripSavvy
Best overall, nuna trvl lightweight stroller.
- Design 4.8 /5
- Portability 4.2 /5
- Maneuverability 5 /5
- Durability 5 /5
- Value 4.7 /5
Convenient one-handed fold
Suitable for newborns
Handles a variety of terrain with ease
Potentially unwieldy when removing from overhead bin
Our testers loved this stroller. "It was one of the best, if not the best, in the entire test," one tester concluded. But it's also one of the most expensive. The top marks begin with the fold and unfold, which was easy to do with practice. "Whoa! It folds for you! With alacrity," one tester reported. Our testers also liked smart features including easy and full reclining positions, good ventilation, a mesh window in the canopy, a big storage compartment, and a magnetic strap clasp.
But what really set this one apart from others was the smoothness of its ride. "It glides like a dream on every single surface," a tester reported. "There was no difference between the smooth hardwood and tile and the shag carpet. The gravel was also incredibly easy to maneuver, with little to no jolting or bumping up and down."
The nitpick our testers found was that it wasn't the easiest to fit in the overhead bin space, and our testers were concerned it could flop open when retrieving it at the end of a flight. Sure, this stroller is expensive. But if you've got the budget, this was one of the best of the batch.
Weight: 15.4 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 11 x 27.3 x 20.3 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 41 x 26 x 20.5 inches | Seat Dimensions: 10 x 13 inches
Best Overall Runner-Up
Gb qbit+ all city stroller.
- Portability 4 /5
- Maneuverability 4.9 /5
User friendly
Solid handling
Long lasting
Canopy could be improved
Gb's QBit+ All-City stroller scored nearly as high as the Joolz AER in our lab test but cost less. In particular, the QBit+ did best in our durability, maneuverability, and foldability tests. Folding requires pressing two buttons, but our testers could do it with one hand. "Locking it when unfolding takes a second, but overall it was really good," a tester noted. The QBit+ also passed our maneuverability tests with flying colors. And there was no damage to it during our durability tests.
Our testers noted that while the canopy has coverage and a mesh peekaboo window, it doesn't go down very far. It also didn't score best in our portability test since it did not come with a carrying strap. "We wouldn't want to carry it folded for long periods of time," a tester reported. But, for the cost, our testers thought the QBit+'s other features more than made up for it. "This stroller would be great as a regular stroller—not just for travel," a tester said.
Weight: 17.6 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 10.5 x 23 x 16.5 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 41 x 24 x 17 inches | Seat Dimensions: 9 x 13 inches
Best Budget
Summer infant 3dlite stroller.
- Design 3.5 /5
- Portability 4.5 /5
- Maneuverability 4.6 /5
- Value 3.5 /5
Budget-friendly
Cushioned handlebar
Ample storage space
Not the best for frequent fliers
What's better than a reliable, easy-to-operate, and durable travel stroller? Well, one that checks all these boxes without breaking the bank. The 3Dlite is that stroller. Though a bit bumpy over uneven terrain, it performed quite well in the maneuverability test and suffered no damage despite being dropped multiple times from several heights. A convenient carry handle makes porting around this mid-weight option relatively painless—but you'll have to gate-check it as it didn't fit in our simulated overhead bin.
Our testers would have liked to see improved features, namely a canopy that offers more coverage and a shoulder strap with padding. But, if you won't be traveling by plane much, the 3Dlite is a solid pick that will get the job done.
Weight: 13.6 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 10.5 x 42 x 12 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 43 x 24 x 18 inches | Seat Dimensions: 6 x 13 inches
Best Double
Uppababy g-link v2 stroller.
- Assembly 4.9 /5
- Design 5 /5
- Portability 4.4 /5
Opens and closes well
Solid canopy
Excellent handling
Heavy (somewhat expected in a double)
Some details could be improved
For those with twins, friends, or siblings close in age, our testers like the G-Link V2 Double Stroller best. Our testers liked how easy the fold is, noting it can be done with one hand (although unfolding was a bit tougher). They also liked how easy it was to recline the stroller and that the recline had two positions. It also maneuvered skillfully. "The shag carpet was pretty easy with little drag or resistance," one tester noted. "The gravel impressed me, too; it was relatively smooth and barely bumpy." Another tester liked that there were no wheels in the middle of the frame (like most double umbrella strollers have). "It makes it easier to push without kicking the wheels or frame," they noted.
While our testers reported they'd liked to have seen windows in the canopy and pads on the shoulder straps, overall, they scored this stroller very well.
Weight: 21.8 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 14 x 40 x 17.5 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 41 x 25 x 28.3 inches | Seat Dimensions: 10 x 11 inches
Best Sun Shade
Uppababy g-luxe stroller.
- Design 4.5 /5
- Portability 3.9 /5
- Maneuverability 4.7 /5
- Value 4.5 /5
Solid portability
Loaded with functional extras
Supports itself in the collapsed position
Operating takes practice
Not great for packing into small places
An adequate sunshade is an important feature for many caregivers. The G-Luxe stroller offers loads of extra shade with its oversized canopy. But that's not the only feature our testers loved about this stroller. They also enjoyed the large cupholder, which fits travel mugs; how easily the footrest worked; the location of the pocket behind the seat; its padding; and the five-point harness with an adjustable shoulder strap.
Folding was a bit tricky and annoying at first with a handle and ring combo, but once you get it, the folding is smooth, our testers reported. While the stroller wasn't very small when folded, our testers did like the strap. "It feels light when you sling the strap over your shoulder, and it's nice that it will leave your hands free to carry more things," one tester noted. It performed well in the maneuverability test. Bonus: This stroller can stand on its own when folded.
Weight: 16.5 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 15 x 41 x 11.8 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 42.5 x 23.5 x 18.5 inches | Seat Dimensions: 9 x 11 inches
Best Lightweight
Kolcraft cloud plus stroller.
Amazon
- Design 3.9 /5
- Portability 3 /5
- Maneuverability 4.2 /5
- Durability 4.5 /5
- Value 4.8 /5
Works well (once you figure it out)
Only option with a tray
Portability is not great
If you're looking for a lightweight budget option, we like the Kolcraft Cloud Plus for its foldability, durability, and overall value. You're not going to get all the bells and whistles with this stroller. But you will get a functional item at a much more reasonable price than others on this list. Our testers liked how easy it was to fold and unfold, noting that this could be achieved with one hand (with some strength and coordination). The Kolcraft didn't have the smoothest ride, but our testers could push it through gravel even if the wheels stopped spinning because of its lightness.
You will sacrifice a few things with this option—mainly portability. While the stroller is one of the lightest we tested, it does not come with a case, strap, or handle. It also didn't fold down small enough to put in an overhead bin, meaning you'll need to check it at the gate if you fly with it, but our testers were impressed with the durability of the stroller. Overall, we view this as the Honda Accord of the batch. Does it have the performance and features of the more expensive models on this list? No. Is it great value, and will it get you—and, more importantly, your little one—from location A to B? Absolutely.
Weight: 11.8 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 10 x 33 x 17.5 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 38 x 27 x 18 inches | Seat Dimensions: 9 x 13 inches
Most Maneuverable
Baby jogger city tour 2 stroller.
- Maneuverability 4.8 /5
Comfort features for the rider
Great value for its cost
Not as convenient for air travel
Our testers raved about the maneuverability of the City Tour 2. "The maneuverability on the Baby Jogger is exceptional," one tester said. "There was little perceptible difference between shag carpet and smooth wood and tile surfaces. And while other strollers struggled a bit on the gravel, this stroller navigated it with ease."
While the maneuverability of this one is stellar, there's a lot more to it than just that. The folding and unfolding were relatively easy. Our testers loved the recline, structure, and padding. They also liked small touches like extra legroom and adjustable calf support. While the storage space was minimal and there was no cupholder, our testers liked the functionality of the canopy and that it has a window.
One issue: It didn't fit in the overhead bin space, so checking it at the gate is necessary. But overall, our testers thought it was a solid performer for the stroller's price.
Weight: 14.5 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 7 x 22.5 x 19.5 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 40 x 26 x 20 inches | Seat Dimensions: 9 x 13 inches
Best Portability
Babyzen yoyo2 stroller frame.
- Design 4.4 /5
- Portability 5 /5
Excellent padding
Easy to stow
Solid over rough terrain
Not intuitive for folding and unfolding
For the best portability, our testers liked the Babyzen Yoyo2. It's not the lightest stroller we tested (but it's on the lighter side). And it's not the most compact (but it's close). But its compact size, relatively lightweight, plush and comfy shoulder strap, and metal bar handle combined to make this the overall best for portability.
Our testers also liked the canopy window, back pocket, basket underneath for boosted storage, and how easily it fits in the overhead bin space. They also liked how well it was handled. "There was minor resistance on the gravel, but it was smoother than many other strollers over the bumpier surface," one tester noted. "It maneuvers well for back and forth and changing directions."
Weight: 14.7 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 8 x 20 x 16 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 41 x 28.8 x 17 inches | Seat Dimensions: 9.5 x 12.5 inches
To make traveling as seamless as possible with a young companion, you'll want a travel stroller that's easy to fold and unfold, carries comfortably from place to place, and handles well over various surfaces. The Nuna Trvl Lightweight Stroller has all this plus top-notch durability. If you're looking for something affordable and lightweight, we also recommend the Kolcraft Cloud Plus Stroller .
Our editors and testers tapped into prior knowledge of strollers and stroller brands and conducted internet research to select products. Once a group of products was set, we whittled the list down based on the strengths and price of each stroller to get a range of functions and price points.
All products mentioned in this roundup were tested in our Brooklyn, New York lab. Products were tested for the following attributes: folding/unfolding, design, portability, maneuverability, and overall value. We also weighed and measured each stroller.
We followed the instructions to fold and lock each stroller and then unfold it. We rated it based on how easy these actions were and if they could be achieved with one hand. The design was ranked based on the stroller's extra features and how well (or not) those features worked. We were looking for things like adjustable handle heights, reclining positions, storage space, and canopies, among other things.
For portability, we folded each stroller into its most compact state and carried it around our testing lab, up and down stairs. We also created a simulated overhead bin space using a baker's rack. Maneuverability was tested with a traffic cone obstacle course in our lab and on different surfaces including hardwood, tile, shag carpet, fake grass, and gravel.
Durability was tested by dropping the folded strollers from waist height and from on top of a table. Lastly, the overall value was rated based on the cost of the stroller and how it performed in the tests compared to others.
Other Travel Strollers We Tested
Doona : We liked that this was the one stroller tested that also works as a car seat. It also performed very well in the maneuverability test, as one tester noted being able to maneuver through the cones one-handed. However, it was tough to fold and unfold (we had to watch a video to figure it out). Overall, our testers concluded that it was a specific product, and while it was good, it wasn't great enough to make our top picks.
Cybex Libelle Stroller : The Cybex Libelle Stroller was another good, just not great performer. It was fine in our tested categories and will get the job done. Our testers just liked the other ones listed above better. Our testers particularly liked how easy it was to fold and unfold.
Jeep Scout Double : Folding the Jeep Scout Double was not intuitive and took some figuring out. "Once you get used to it, it does get easier, but it's not very intuitive," concluded one tester. While this one falls into the budget range, our testers didn't care for it.
Mountain Buggy Nano V3 Stroller : The Mountain Buggy Nano V3 Stroller was lightweight and compact. It also did well in the maneuverability test on turns and with one hand. But this one had some quirks, like a reverse folding canopy and an unfolding process that was counterintuitive enough to keep it off our favorites list.
Jovial Portable Folding Stroller : Overall, the Jovial Portable Folding Stroller wasn't a super strong performer in our lab tests. It did fine—just nothing to put it over the top. The folding and unfolding took some effort. The handlebar was a bit low, and the canopy felt somewhat flimsy. And it struggled on the gravel during our maneuverability test.
Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Stroller : Waking a sleeping baby is a big no-no. And while the Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Stroller had some features our testers liked (folding and unfolding, excellent maneuverability, and good reclining), it was loud, particularly the canopy. "It just didn't impress across the board for the price," one tester concluded.
Colugo The Compact Stroller : The Colugo Compact Stroller checked many boxes. It can be folded and unfolded with one hand. It has padded shoulder straps. And it was pretty good at maneuvering and handling turns. But it performed poorly on gravel. And the buckles for the straps hurt our testers' hands. Plus, the canopy's performance deteriorated throughout the test.
What to Look For in Travel Strollers
If you're buying a travel stroller, you're after one that'll be lighter and more compact than your everyday model. Look for high-tech materials that are sturdy without adding extra weight. You'll find materials such as aluminum, polyester, and plastic are popular. Anything less than 15 pounds for an individual model is an excellent place to start, which applies to all the picks on our list. Fully collapsible models can be carried on board airlines, and weight restrictions for these are uncommon but not entirely nonexistent. Check your airline's requirements and restrictions before your trip.
A comfortable child on vacation is a happy child on vacation—so you'll want a stroller that will keep your child at ease during long days of sightseeing and exploring. Look for reclining seats, adjustable canopies, and padded harnesses. Keep in mind that features that add comfort often add weight. Consider a more minimalist design if you're planning to use a travel stroller primarily to get from point A to B or will be loading and unloading frequently. On the other hand, if you're road-tripping to natural or attraction parks , you and your little rider will appreciate those added comfort items.
Extra Features
Sure, you can go bare-bones with a stroller that's little more than a nylon sling chair on wheels, but you may also want features like cup holders or a rack underneath to hold larger bags. Your ideal travel stroller fits the specific needs of your family and the type of trip you have in mind. That extra storage space could save you from carrying another bag or two, which could turn a potentially stressful event into a relaxing and fun outing, depending on where you're headed.
The best travel stroller to take on a plane is one that fits in the overhead bin space, is lightweight, and is one that you feel comfortable using. When in doubt, check the folded dimensions of the stroller, matching it with the overhead bin space of the plane you'll be flying on.
You don't need a separate travel stroller. But if you do a lot of traveling—whether that's flights or road trips with your kids —we recommend having a travel-specific stroller. Many of the ones we suggested could double as your everyday stroller.
Jess Macdonald is a travel expert and has been writing for TripSavvy since 2016. She has honed her skills as a freelance writer specializing in travel, scuba diving, and wildlife conservation. She's also a mom of two who has traveled extensively (both at home and overseas) with her kids.
Nathan Allen is the Outdoor Gear Editor at TripSavvy. While not a parent himself, he's learned the importance of having a good travel stroller after spending a month road-tripping the Western US and Midwest with his four-month-old niece.
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Best Strollers
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Best Travel Strollers
Our testers found great models across a range of stroller types. The ideal design depends on your child's age, where you're going, and how you're getting there.
When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more .
Most of the time, a stroller that meets your day-to-day needs isn’t the ideal stroller for travel. A wide handlebar and ultra-sturdy construction may be great for walks through the park, but that extra weight gets cumbersome when you need to lift the stroller in or out of a car or navigate it through a crowded airport.
So if you’ve got a trip coming up, you’ll want a stroller that keeps your little one safe and comfortable but is easy to maneuver.
Best Travel Strollers for Newborns and Infants
Best travel strollers for babies and toddlers, airline travel with a stroller.
Brands market certain models as “travel” strollers, but that’s not a firm category with consistent criteria. The ideal model could actually fall under any of the typical stroller types. It could be a traditional stroller that’s light in weight and slender in width or an umbrella stroller wiith ample storage compartments. And there are caddies and convertible models that lend themselves especially well to travel. The best travel stroller for you will depend on how old your children are and how you’re getting to your destination.
CR’s comprehensive stroller ratings highlight the strong points and drawbacks of a wide range of strollers, carriers, and travel systems for infants and toddlers. We’ve tested strollers from almost 30 brands, including Chicco, Doona, Graco, Mountain Buggy, and Uppababy, and we rate them based on ease of use, maneuverability, and, of course, safety.
Below are a few top-rated strollers of different types to help keep your journeys safe and hassle-free. They appear below in alphabetical order,
If you’re traveling with an infant 6 months old or younger, you’ll need a stroller that fully reclines because your infant is likely to spend a fair amount of time sleeping. The seat should also adjust upright because the child can’t sit up on her own. If you’re traveling by car, you’ll also need an infant car seat. A lightweight car-seat carrier can simplify things. It’s essentially a frame on wheels that can function as a stroller with the car seat but fold up to an especially light and compact size when you transfer to a car. You can also find travel systems that bundle infant car seats with full-fledged strollers, where the car seat can clip into both the stroller and the car, though these are a little bulkier for travel.
For children older than 6 months, including toddlers, you have a wider range of stroller options. You’ll of course want something lightweight and fairly compact (at least when folded). But be sure to also assess the stroller’s storage options, which are especially handy when traveling. You’ll also need a car seat if you’re going to be in a car, though car seats for toddlers don’t typically attach to strollers. So unless you’re road-tripping in your own car (where your car seat will stay put), you may need to carry a car seat separately or arrange for rentals, taxis, or ride shares that include a car seat.
Flying with a baby and stroller takes patience and preparation. The Transportation Security Administration requires that all strollers be physically inspected or X-ray screened, but for the most part, you’ll be able to bring a stroller through security and check it at the gate.
Airlines have different rules about stroller storage on a flight. Whatever the policy, the best strollers for flying may be those that are particularly compact and easily foldable. You can quickly collapse one of these travel-friendly strollers before handing it off for boarding or, if allowed, navigating down the aisle before sliding the stroller under your seat or into an overhead bin.
Remember, overhead bin sizes can vary from plane to plane. Check your airline’s guidelines ahead of a trip so there are no surprises when you board.
See our reviews of the best hard-shell carry-on luggage and packing cubes .
Keith Flamer
Keith Flamer has been a multimedia content creator at Consumer Reports since 2021, covering laundry, cleaning, small appliances, and home trends. Fascinated by interior design, architecture, technology, and all things mechanical, he translates CR’s testing engineers’ work into content that helps readers live better, smarter lives. Prior to CR, Keith covered luxury accessories and real estate, most recently at Forbes, with a focus on residential homes, interior design, home security, and pop culture trends.
Molly Bradley
Molly Bradley is a home and appliance writer at Consumer Reports. Before joining CR in 2023, she managed the editorial team at Digg, and has devoted her career to helping readers navigate the world and make their lives a little easier, elucidating topics in technology and culture. Molly earned a master’s degree in writing from Bennington College and lives in Brooklyn, N.Y., with her cat, Saltine. Follow her on X @mollyguinn .
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Thule Shine
Mountain buggy terrain, maxi-cosi mara xt ultra compact, chicco bravo le cleartex quick fold, uppababy minu v2, baby jogger city sights, bugaboo dragon fly seat, britax grove, britax brook+, peg perego booklet 50 travel system, peg perego ypsi travel system.
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American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), How to Keep Your Sleeping Baby Safe: AAP Policy Explained , July 2022. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), How to Choose a Safe Baby Stroller , August 2022. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), Shopping for Car Seats: Tips for Parents , February 2020. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Keep Child Passengers Safe on the Road , October 2022. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Car Seats and Booster Seats , 2024. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Carriages and Strollers Business Guidance & Small Entity Compliance Guide , 2024. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Booster Seats Business Guidance and Small Entity Compliance Guide , 2024.
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These are the 10 best travel strollers for your next trip
![travel with stroller Tarah Chieffi](https://thepointsguy.com/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fthepointsguy.global.ssl.fastly.net%2Fus%2Foriginals%2F2023%2F06%2FIMG_0160-scaled.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
Editor's Note
Traveling with babies and children requires bringing a lot of extras along for the journey — and one essential you often can't travel without while the kids are little is a stroller. With so many options, choosing which stroller to buy for travel can be enough to make your wheels fall off (that's a stroller joke, by the way).
Large strollers offer all the bells and whistles but may be too heavy, too large or just plain inconvenient to lug around an airport or onto a plane. They can also be challenging to maneuver in your travel destination.
Compact or umbrella strollers may work better for flying, as they're often lightweight and small enough to fold up quickly and easily. In fact, some of these strollers designed for travel will even fit in the overhead bin on your plane.
However, the smaller design can make it tricky to find something comfortable enough for your child or baby to sit in for extended periods of time or to handle the rough terrain at some destinations. In other words, there are trade-offs when you pick the best travel stroller for your family.
Related: When to bring a stroller on a trip (and when to leave it behind)
As parents and frequent travelers, we've tested some of the top-rated travel strollers on the market to help you find the perfect stroller for your family. With those road-tested miles logged, here are the best travel strollers that passed the test and a few tips for your next trip.
Babyzen Yoyo2
![travel with stroller](https://thepointsguy.global.ssl.fastly.net/us/originals/2022/09/BABYZEN-YOYO2-Stroller.jpg?width=3840)
- Best for: Parents who need a compact stroller that can fit in the airplane overhead bin
- Weight: 13.6 to 14.5 pounds
- Size when folded: 20.5 inches by 17.3 inches by 7.1 inches
- To buy: Babyzen Yoyo2 , $449
Why Babyzen Yoyo2 is a good travel stroller
The Babyzen Yoyo2 is accepted by most airlines as cabin baggage when folded. Despite its small stature, this stroller is built for long-lasting use beyond just travel, making it especially apt for families living in small spaces in need of one easy-to-maneuver stroller that can do it all.
When you add on the optional newborn pack ($180), the Babyzen Yoyo2 can be used from birth on. With a substantial sun protection factor of 50-plus for its canopy, plus a gradual recline, an under-seat storage bag that supports up to 11 pounds, a zipper pocket and a padded shoulder strap for carrying the stroller when folded, the Yoyo2 is as durable and comfortable closed as it is open.
It's not the most budget-friendly option on this list, especially if you purchase extras like the newborn pack. Unless you purchase the newborn pack, however, the stroller doesn't fully recline for babies ages 0 to 6 months.
TPG senior aviation business reporter David Slotnick is a big fan of this stroller when he flies with his family, sharing, "It folds up small enough to go in the overhead bin and is super lightweight and durable. Every single time the flight attendants are surprised by how compact it is."
![travel with stroller](https://thepointsguy.global.ssl.fastly.net/us/originals/2022/09/GB-Pockit.jpg?width=3840)
- Best for: Families who need a stroller that folds up small but can handle lots of use
- Weight: 10.4 pounds
- Size when folded: 11.8 inches by 7.1 inches by 13.8 inches
- To buy: GB Pockit , $149.99 (regularly $199.95)
Why GB Pockit is a good travel stroller
The GB Pockit has been named the world's most compact stroller by the Guinness Book of World Records, folding up in just two easy steps. Don't let its small size fool you. It still has a weight capacity of up to 55 pounds and can handle a bumpy sidewalk as well as it handles the moving walkway at the airport.
Although the no-frills GB Pockit doesn't come with all the extra bells and whistles (which is why it folds up so easily), it does have a mini sun canopy, an adjustable harness and a small storage space underneath the seat.
The GB Pockit is designed for babies 6 months and older, so parents of newborns will have to wait a bit to use this small-but-mighty stroller.
Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller
![travel with stroller](https://thepointsguy.global.ssl.fastly.net/us/originals/2022/09/Summer-3Dlite-Convenience-Stroller.jpg?width=3840)
- Best for: Families who need a budget-friendly travel stroller
- Weight: 13 pounds
- Size when folded: 14 inches by 10 inches by 42 inches
- To buy: Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller , $71.53 (regularly $99.99)
Why Summer 3Dlite is a good travel stroller
Budget-savvy parents will likely be immediately drawn to the price of the Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller , but that's far from the only thing to love about this lightweight stroller.
The 3Dlite has a full canopy, anti-shock front wheels and a four-position recline that almost lies flat. It can hold kids who weigh up to 50 pounds, and the storage basket underneath can hold up to 10 pounds of baby travel necessities .
Speaking of extras, this affordable stroller comes with a cup holder, a velcro pocket and a carry strap too. One thing it doesn't come with — adjustable handles. Parents on the taller side may not find this stroller comfortable for long periods of time.
Like similar lightweight strollers, the 3Dlite is made for babies 6 months and older, so parents of newborns will have to wait to use this stroller.
![travel with stroller](https://thepointsguy.global.ssl.fastly.net/us/originals/2022/09/Joolz-AER.jpg?width=3840)
- Best for: Families in the market for a comfortable, lightweight travel stroller
- Weight: 13.23 pounds
- Size when folded: 21 inches by 17.7 inches by 8.5 inches
- To buy : Joolz Aer+ , $449
Why the Joolz Aer+ is a good travel stroller
The Joolz Aer+ folds up in one second with just one hand, which is ideal for anyone holding additional luggage (or a child) in their arms. When folded, the stroller easily slides into most airlines' overhead storage bins.
The seat is lightweight but made to be especially comfortable for kids. The foldable seat provides support and cushion for the child's neck and back in all positions of reclining, and the sides conform to the body for additional comfort and support.
The included sun hood provides UPF 50+ sun protection, and there is a large storage basket underneath. Joolz does offer add-on products like a cup holder, footboard and car seat adapters, but you must purchase those separately.
Although the stroller is adjustable, it's designed for kids 6 months and up (the stroller has a 49-pound maximum weight limit) and doesn't fully recline. If you plan to use this stroller with a newborn, you can buy a newborn carrycot ($219) to use for babies.
UPPAbaby Vista V2
![travel with stroller](https://thepointsguy.global.ssl.fastly.net/us/originals/2023/07/UPPAbaby-Vista-V2_Amazon.jpg?width=3840)
- Best for: Parents who want a high-end stroller that can expand with their growing family
- Weight: 27 pounds
- Size when folded: 25.7 inches by 17.3 inches by 33 inches
- To buy: UPPAbaby Vista V2 , $1,299
Why the UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a good travel stroller
The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a luxe travel stroller that can grow with your child. The standard bundle comes with a stroller frame, a toddler seat, an infant seat and base and a bassinet, so you can begin using the stroller as soon as you bring your baby home and up until they reach 50 pounds. This stroller folds in one easy step and can stand on its own when folded.
The UPPAbaby Vista V2 can be further configured to seat up to three children, with the addition of a rumble seat and/or ride-along board. In addition to being versatile, the UPPAbaby Vista V2 provides a smooth ride with spring-action all-wheel suspension, comes with a UPF 50+ sunshade and holds all of your travel essentials in the oversized storage basket that can hold up to 30 pounds of baby gear.
TPG's vice president of marketing and communications chose the UPPAbaby Vista V2 as her first travel stroller. "We are expecting our first baby in just a few short weeks and decided to go with the UPPAbaby Vista V2 for our stroller because we live in NYC and wanted something that is durable, long-lasting and able to convert to multiple combinations," she shared. "This stroller rolls like butter and the storage basket is incredible spacious. It comes with a bassinet and toddler seat, but I love that there are also a ton of accessories you can purchase separately to make the stroller meet your needs," she added.
Related: The best baby travel products according to TPG readers
It's not the lightest or smallest stroller on this list, but the multitude of use options, durability, and thoughtful details like full-grain leather accents, a rain cover and multiple color options make it a great choice if you want a do-it-all stroller that you can use for the long haul.
Doona Car Seat & Stroller
![travel with stroller](https://thepointsguy.global.ssl.fastly.net/us/originals/2022/09/Doona-Infant-Car-Seat.jpg?width=3840)
- Best for: Parents of newborns who want an all-in-one stroller solution
- Weight: 16.5 pounds
- Size when folded: 23.6 inches by 17.3 inches by 26 inches
- To buy: Doona Car Seat & Stroller , $650
Why the Doona is a good travel stroller
The wheels of the Doona Car Seat & Stroller snap up to transform it from a stroller into a car seat, making it ideal for globetrotters who are always on the move. Having this one-of-a-kind product ensures you won't need to figure out a car seat plan when arriving at your destination or lug extra gear around the airport.
There are certainly cheaper strollers out there, but when you consider that you are getting a stroller and car seat for one price, the Doona is a surprisingly economical choice.
The Doona looks sharp with faux-leather detailing and sleek black fabric and performs well with an extendable handlebar, canopy shade and a storage bag that attaches to the handlebar. You can purchase a larger storage bag, sunshade and travel bag separately.
The Doona is suitable for babies and kids weighing between 4 and 35 pounds and can only be used as rear-facing, so your baby is likely to outgrow this stroller more quickly than other travel strollers. For the newborn stage, though, it doesn't get much better than the convenient, compact Doona.
Thule Chariot Double Jogging Stroller
![travel with stroller](https://thepointsguy.global.ssl.fastly.net/us/originals/2023/07/Thule-Chariot-Double-Jogging-Stroller_AMAZON.jpg?width=3840)
- Best for: Families who need a stroller for outdoor adventures
- Weight: 32 pounds
- Size when folded: 34.2 inches by 31.5 inches by 14.7 inches
- To buy: Thule Chariot Double Jogging Stroller , $1,349.95
Why Thule Chariot Double Jogging Stroller is good for travel
The Thule Chariot Double Jogging Stroller may not immediately strike you as a travel-friendly stroller option, but if your travels include hiking, biking or camping (skiing and jogging kits can be purchased separately), you'll be glad to have multi-sport trailer and stroller along for the ride.
As far as trailers and strollers go, the Thule Chariot is top-of-the-line. It folds up smaller than similar strollers, has independently-reclining seats for napping on the go, adjustable suspension for a smooth ride no matter the surface, adjustable ventilation and a large storage basket.
Because of its design, you'll have to gate-check the Thule Chariot when you fly, but TPG's senior director of engineering Mitchell Stoutin believes the stroller's larger size is one of the biggest benefits. "It can double as a 'napping cave' or even a luggage cart in the airport, but the real reason I bought it is because I wanted to do a car seat-free trip with my kids," he said.
When he flew to Sitka, Alaska, with his family, he brought along the bike trailer attachment and rented bikes to use on the island. "Even while towing the kids behind the bike during a downpour, both kids stayed dry and warm," Stoutin shared. "The Thule enabled us to take a different kind of vacation with our kids."
Baby Jogger City Mini GT2
![travel with stroller](https://thepointsguy.global.ssl.fastly.net/us/originals/2023/07/Baby-Jogger-City-Mini-GT2_Amazon.jpg?width=3840)
- Best for: Families looking for a stroller that they can use for the long haul
- Weight: 22 pounds
- Size when folded: 25.6 inches by 11.2 inches by 33 inches
- To buy: Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 , $329 (regularly $399.99)
Why the Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 is a good travel stroller
The Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 is a top-tier stroller with a mid-tier price. While not the lightest or smallest on this list, it is made to last. Stoutin, who has had this stroller for six years and used it with three kids, shared that it still functions perfectly.
The City Mini GT2's durability is thanks to its "forever air" rubber tires that never need to be inflated and all-wheel suspension, making it swift and nimble no matter the terrain. It's also highly customizable with an adjustable handlebar and the ability to add an infant car seat, pram, glider board, parent console and child tray (all sold separately).
This stroller folds up quickly and easily with a one-hand fold and keeps your baby comfortable with a near-flat reclining seat and adjustable calf support. There's also a large under-seat basket that holds up to 10 pounds.
The City Mini GT2 can be used with a newborn, using the Baby Jogger infant car seat (sold separately) or the included car seat adapters, and all the way through the toddler stage with an impressive maximum weight limit of 65 pounds.
Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller
![travel with stroller](https://thepointsguy.global.ssl.fastly.net/us/originals/2023/07/Joovy-Kooper-X2-Double-Stroller_Amazon.jpg?width=3840)
- Best for: Parents of multiple kids who need a lightweight, compact stroller
- Weight: 28 pounds
- Size when folded: 26 inches by 30.3 inches by 12.8 inches
- To buy: Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller , $429.99 (regularly $459.99)
Why the Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller is good for travel
Finding a side-by-side double stroller that meets your needs is no simple task, but the Joovy Kooper X2 ticks all the boxes. It has wide, comfortable, adjustable seats for your kids but is slim enough to easily fit through doorways. It folds up easily with one hand and stands on its own when folded. Also, the must-have extras like snack trays, shade canopies and multiple storage spaces are all included.
The seats and shade canopies adjust independently so you can accommodate your children when nap time arrives, and the under-stroller storage basket holds up to 22 pounds (because more kids always means more stuff). If you have a theme park trip in the future, the Joovy Kooper X2 meets Disney World and Disneyland's stroller size requirements .
Each seat is designed to hold a child up to 50 pounds, but it is not compatible with infant car seats, so you can't start using it until your child is at least 3 months old.
Nuna PIPA urbn + TRVL Stroller and Car Seat Travel System
![travel with stroller](https://thepointsguy.global.ssl.fastly.net/us/originals/2023/07/Nuna-PIPA-urbn-TRVL-Stroller-and-Car-Seat-Travel-System_Nordsstrom.jpg?width=3840)
- Best for: City dwellers who need a stroller system that can go from sidewalk to car to airplane seamlessly
- Weight: 13.6 pounds
- Size when folded: 24 inches by 20.25 inches by 11 inches
- To buy: NUNA PIPA urbn + TRVL stroller and car seat travel system , $900
Why the NUNA is a good travel stroller
The PIPA urbn + TRVL system from NUNA is one of the most lightweight and easy-to-use travel systems on the market. The included infant car seat has a baseless latch installation system, so you can use it in a cab, ride-hailing vehicle or airplane seat as easily as you can use it in your own car.
With the car seat removed, the stroller base folds with one hand to a super-compact size that makes it easy to carry. You can even utilize the included carry bag or remove the wheels for an even smaller folded size if necessary.
TPG's director of marketing, Caroline English, uses the NUNA with her child at home and on the road. "It's great on smooth surfaces and can do a full 360-degree turn on a dime," she said. "Also, the folding is incredible. On a recent trip to Cape Cod, we could fold it up small enough to bring into restaurants and carry it around easily," she added.
The NUNA also comes with a UPF 50+ shade canopy, leather-like accents and a storage basket. Once your baby has outgrown the PIPA urbn car seat, the TRVL stroller's toddler seat can be used for children up to 50 pounds.
Tips for flying with a travel stroller
![travel with stroller](https://thepointsguy.global.ssl.fastly.net/us/originals/2022/02/GettyImages-a0071-000368.jpg?width=3840)
Where and how to check your stroller when flying
Some airlines require you to check your stroller at the gate; others have rules about checking it at the ticket counter if it's greater than a certain weight.
It's more convenient to take your travel stroller to the gate, as your little one can ride (or nap) in it until you board. If you prefer to check it earlier, though, you can do so at the ticket counter and use a baby carrier to get your baby or toddler through the airport.
Before you get to the airport, make sure you check the regulations for the airline that you're flying so you're adequately prepared for what's to come. Some compact strollers are designed to fit in overhead bins, but whether they will be allowed on board depends on the stroller, the airline and ultimately the flight attendants.
Related: 21 airline stroller policies around the world
Preventing damage
When checking your stroller either at the gate or the ticket counter, it's best to take a few photos before traveling. That way, if the stroller arrives damaged, you may have an easier time proving a claim. Each airline has its own rules about what is eligible for a claim, and some, like Southwest, do not cover any type of damage, only loss.
To reduce the chances of damage, cover your stroller with a storage bag when you check it. One may come with your stroller when you purchase it, depending on which model you choose. You can also order a cover for your car seat and/or travel stroller on Amazon.
Unfortunately, you should also always have a backup plan at your destination in case your stroller is lost or damaged, as this can and does happen. It is also a good reason to consider some of the smaller and/or less expensive strollers for travel unless you have a true need for a more robust model.
Make note of a website for stroller rentals in your destination in case you need to resort to plan B. Also, don't rule out a quick trip to a local Walmart or Target, where available. Airline baggage claim offices also sometimes have basic strollers available for use in the case of delayed or damaged strollers.
Getting through security
You will typically be asked to fold up the stroller and place it on the belt when going through TSA checkpoints. If your stroller is not foldable or won't fit on the belt, it may not be the best for travel through the airport — but security can do a visual or physical inspection of it when they deem it necessary.
Bottom line
Picking the right travel stroller greatly depends on your situation. There's no perfect one for all scenarios and situations, so you need to prioritize what matters the most for your trips. Do you want it to fit in the overhead bin? Do you want it to be economical so it's not a huge hit if it is lost or damaged on your trip? Do you want it to be the most comfortable option for your baby for those trips when they will be spending long periods of time in the stroller?
The most compact stroller may not be the best stroller for rugged terrain, and a stroller designed for a newborn may not be the best choice once your child is older.
Once you've figured out what you need and want to prioritize, you can more easily decide which travel stroller on this list best fits your budget, travel preferences and family.
Additional reporting by Lori Zaino.
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Best Travel Strollers: 9 Picks, Tested and Reviewed by Parents
![travel with stroller travel with stroller](https://time.com/shopping/static/950c6466e8444b878402940ee799a752/ca7ff/a-walk-in-the-park.jpg)
Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we may earn a commission from our partners’ links. This content is created by TIME Stamped, under TIME’s direction and produced in accordance with TIME’s editorial guidelines and supervised by TIME’s editorial staff. Learn more about it .
Traveling is a beloved pastime for millions, leading to treasured memories in different places, experiencing new cultures, seeing a family member who lives far away, or riding that roller coaster you had always wanted to ride. Thanks to all the ingenious products available today, you don’t have to set aside your passion for traveling just because you have kids. As long as you have the right tools, traveling with kids can be much easier.
At the top of that list, a quality travel stroller. That’s why I spoke to globetrotting parents to get their recommendations on the best travel strollers available today. Read on for those picks, plus everything you need to know about choosing the best travel stroller for your family.
Our top picks for the best travel strollers
Best full travel system travel stroller: doona infant car seat and stroller.
![Doona Convertible Infant Car Seat/Compact Stroller System with Base in Nitro Black at Nordstrom Doona Convertible Infant Car Seat/Compact Stroller System with Base in Nitro Black at Nordstrom](https://time.com/shopping/static/f91db6b8abdefab424bde67506eb5384/24f4c/f91db6b8abdefab424bde67506eb5384.jpg)
Doona Convertible Infant Car Seat/Compact Stroller System with Base in Nitro Black at Nordstrom
The doona is the ultimate all-in-one car seat and stroller combo for travel..
“My family used the Doona for our girls when they were infants as it was the two in one travel solution of a stroller and car seat in one and is FAA approved,” shares Jennifer Saxton , a mom and the Founder and CEO of Tot Squad , an online parenting marketplace. The Doona is a car seat that can safely be buckled into a car that also has fold-out legs with wheels and an adjustable handle to transform it into a stroller in seconds, making it the perfect all-in-one travel system for on-the-go.
Specifications:
- Stroller weight: 16.5 pounds
- Child weight limit: 35 pounds
- Folded dimensions: 28 inches x 18 inches x 19 inches
- Unfolded dimensions: 39 inches x 17 inches x 32 inches
- Carry bag: No
- Price at publication: $550
What we like:
- No need to bring along a car seat
- FAA approved for use on an airplane
What we don’t like:
- On the heavy side if you need to carry it anywhere
The bottom line: The Doona is the ultimate all-in-one car seat and stroller combo for travel.
Best travel stroller for toddlers: uppababy minu v2 stroller.
![UPPAbaby Minu V2 Stroller in Greyson at Nordstrom UPPAbaby Minu V2 Stroller in Greyson at Nordstrom](https://time.com/shopping/static/5afbefffc5b17642a819beff2aa1d424/d46ba/5afbefffc5b17642a819beff2aa1d424.jpg)
UPPAbaby Minu V2 Stroller in Greyson at Nordstrom
We have loved our Uppababy Minu. While it’s a little bigger than other travel strollers, our son has always been tall for his age. The recline allows him to nap while on the go. He is now 4 and 45 inches tall and still naps comfortably,” shares mom Carissa Cummings. “The wheels are also sturdy enough to handle the cobblestones of Europe, and it fits in the overhead bin. Uppababy also makes a nice backpack bag for it.” If your kids are tall, this stroller is an A+ pick. “My kids are now 7 and 5 (and in the 99% for height) and they still took turns riding in it on a recent trip to Denmark and Norway,” adds mom Megan Harrington. “10/10 recommend!”
- Stroller weight: 16.9 pounds
- Child weight limit: 50 pounds
- Folded dimensions: 11.5 inches x 20.3 inches x 23 inches
- Unfolded dimensions: 35.5 inches x 20.3 inches x 41 inches
- Carry bag: sold separately
- Price at publication: $450
- Easy-to-use one-handed fold
- UPF 50+ sunshade
- Multiple seat positions for different age and size children
- Not as compact as some of the other picks
The bottom line: Whether your toddler is average height, tall, or growing fast, they will be comfortable in this stroller.
Best travel stroller for infants: babyzen yoyo2.
![BabyZen Yoyo2 BabyZen Yoyo2](https://time.com/shopping/static/089083e7b49dea8ab50305d8114b262f/23d4e/089083e7b49dea8ab50305d8114b262f.jpg)
BabyZen Yoyo2
For the travel stroller that will grow with your baby from their youngest, the BabyZen Yoyo2 can’t be beat. Simply add the newborn pack or bassinet at purchase and you’re good to go for years. “We got a BabyZen Yoyo for both our kids. We found it to be sturdy enough to use both as an everyday stroller and as a travel stroller,” shares Perez-Fransius of Bébé Voyage . “I love how easily and compactly it folds. We've definitely had it under the table in a crowded restaurant and stored it in our very full coat closet. And it lasts from infancy all the way up until kids are approximately 5 years old, so definitely worth the investment considering how long you can use it for.”
- Stroller weight: 13.7 pounds
- Child weight limit: 48.5 pounds
- Folded dimensions: 20.5 inches x 17.3 inches x 7.1 inches
- Unfolded dimensions: 41.7 inches x 33.8 inches x 17.3 inches
- Carry bag: Included, backpack sold separately
- Price at publication: starting at $499
- Lots of ways to customize as your kids grow
- Easy to maneuver with one hand
- Fits easily in overhead bin
- Once you start adding features it gets really pricey
The bottom line: This high-quality stroller will grow with your baby from infancy, though it’s certainly an investment.
Best double travel stroller: joovy kooper x2 double stroller.
![Joovy Kooper X2 Joovy Kooper X2](https://time.com/shopping/static/34b5d2ae3350f70bfc900a76db73f1e5/be5ed/34b5d2ae3350f70bfc900a76db73f1e5.jpg)
Joovy Kooper X2
The bottom line: the joovy kooper x2 has everything parents look for in a travel stroller, just doubled..
“The Joovy Kooper X2 has been great for our twins!” says Sheetal Patel, a parent of four. “It’s easy to fold, lightweight, and I can push it with one hand while keeping track of our other two kids or pulling a suitcase.” Add in tons of storage space on the bottom and trays that fold with the stroller and you’ve got a surefire winner.
- Stroller weight: 28 pounds
- Child weight limit: 99 pounds
- Folded dimensions: 26 inches x 30.3 inches x 12.8 inches
- Unfolded dimensions: 31.7 inches x 30.3 inches x 41.3 inches
- Price at publication: $430
- Attached pockets and cup holders for storing valuables
- Reasonably priced for a double stroller
- Self-standing fold
- Not the smoothest ride on terrain that isn’t flat
Best budget travel stroller: GB PockIt Air All Terrain Travel Stroller
![GB PockIt Air All Terrain Travel Stroller GB PockIt Air All Terrain Travel Stroller](https://time.com/shopping/static/b7ea5c500e17d62bf2574cb156bb8de4/be5ed/b7ea5c500e17d62bf2574cb156bb8de4.jpg)
GB PockIt Air All Terrain Travel Stroller
“A lot of our community members love the GB Pockit because it folds down small enough to fit in a tote bag and is very lightweight while still being sturdy,” Perez-Fransius says. “I would definitely consider that one to be a top pick, especially if you go between baby wearing and using a stroller.” The lowest profile version, the Air All Terrain, is guaranteed to fit in an overhead bin and doesn’t break the bank. “I used this exclusively with my first child for airplane travel (fits right under the airplane seat or overhead bin so you don’t have to check it!) and typically kept it in the car for quick errands and outings since it was so compact and easy to open,” adds Elizabeth Mitchell Kadar, writer, children's product expert, and mom of three.
- Stroller weight: 10.4 pounds
- Child weight limit: 55 pounds
- Folded dimensions: 11.8 inches x 7.1 inches x 13.8 inches
- Unfolded dimensions: 28 inches x 17.5 inches x 39.8 inches
- Price at publication: $150
- Very simple but does the job
- Incredibly light for carrying
- Not as many comfort features
The bottom line: Sturdy and reliable for less than half the price of most of my other picks.
Best travel stroller for cities: mountain buggy nano stroller.
![Mountain Buggy Nano Stroller Mountain Buggy Nano Stroller](https://time.com/shopping/static/36dfa03e1cdf78e092f53bb05e5bbf9c/be5ed/36dfa03e1cdf78e092f53bb05e5bbf9c.jpg)
Mountain Buggy Nano Stroller
“This stroller has been through Europe airports and cobblestones, frequented NYC at least twice a year—it’s great for a rush hour-packed subway car—and been to spots in central and North America. The wheels are lasting forever,” says mom Alisa Brenner. “Plus it works with all infant car seats! I know 5 is probably too old for a stroller now, but I take it on all our trips as it’s so compact and just more enjoyable. We did a tour of German castles this summer and I can’t imagine carrying my kid up the roads that much.”
- Stroller weight: 13 pounds
- Child weight limit: 44 pounds
- Folded dimensions: 21 inches x 12 inches x 20 inches
- Unfolded dimensions: 33 inches x 21.2 inches x 38.5 inches
- Carry bag: Yes
- Price at publication: $220
- Comes with a universal car seat adapter
- Has an attached carry handle and shoulder strap
- Sun shade is small
The bottom line: Regardless of the city or country you’re in, this stroller is perfect for those tight spaces and busy streets.
Best all-terrain travel stroller: thule urban glide 2 jogging stroller.
![Thule Urban Glide 2 Jogging Stroller Thule Urban Glide 2 Jogging Stroller](https://time.com/shopping/static/5e954881d37df71a914455c32515894b/a4440/5e954881d37df71a914455c32515894b.jpg)
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Thule Urban Glide 2 Jogging Stroller
“We’re active people and this stroller’s big tires ensure you’re ready for any terrain, even off-road. We just did Italy and this was a huge factor with all the cobblestones. It will even gently go up and down steps,” says parent Ted Hoz. “I like to run on vacation and bringing one of the kids with me isn’t uncommon. And at nap time, the seat back can recline very quickly without removing the child. The rear tires pop on and off super easily and it folds down into a more compact form than you’d expect.”
- Stroller weight: 25.3 pounds
- Child weight limit: 75 pounds
- Folded dimensions: 34.2 inches x 27.2 inches x 13.3 inches
- Unfolded dimensions: 41.1 inches x 27.2 inches x 40 inches
- Price at publication: $520
- Huge wheels are game for anything you have planned
- Also comes in a double
- Doesn’t fold as small as the other travel strollers, but definitely sturdier
The bottom line: While not a traditional travel stroller, the Thule Urban Glide can handle any activity you have planned.
Best umbrella travel stroller: chicco liteway stroller.
![Liteway Umbrella Stroller - Moon Grey | Chicco Liteway Umbrella Stroller - Moon Grey | Chicco](https://time.com/shopping/static/36a813bf34efd8f71e850c7064eaa776/5c8f1/36a813bf34efd8f71e850c7064eaa776.jpg)
Liteway Umbrella Stroller - Moon Grey | Chicco
If you’re doing more road-tripping than flying, an umbrella stroller may be the more functional pick than one of the other travel strollers on this list—it folds into a long, narrow package instead of a flat(ish) rectangular one, meaning it can take up less space in the trunk of a car or even tucked at the feet of a little one’s car seat. And when it comes to umbrella strollers, you can’t go wrong with the Chicco Liteway. It has a sturdier construction and more storage space than most umbrella strollers, in addition to a reasonable price tag.
- Stroller weight: 17.2 pounds
- Child weight limit: 40 pounds
- Folded dimensions: 46 inches x 10 inches x 11.75 inches
- Unfolded dimensions: 35 inches x 19 inches x 40 inches
- Price at publication: $110
- Roomy storage basket
- A larger sun shade, as umbrella strollers go
- Individual handles (a hallmark of umbrella strollers) make it tricky to steer with one hand
The bottom line: A quality, low-priced pick for road-trippers.
Best travel stroller for everyday use: bombi bēbee lightweight stroller.
![Bombi Bēbee Lightweight Stroller Bombi Bēbee Lightweight Stroller](https://time.com/shopping/static/e9a02b426d2c8352ec540d57b880b016/b74b1/e9a02b426d2c8352ec540d57b880b016.jpg)
Bombi Bēbee Lightweight Stroller
I recently flew with my two-year-old using this stroller and it was a breeze. The one-handed fold is one of the best I’ve seen; we gate checked the stroller and I was able to lift him out, hold him in one arm and fold the stroller and place it to the side with the other hand while barely breaking stride before getting on the plane. This is also the stroller we take on daily walks with the dog and the wheels have held up great, even after a mad dash through the airport on that recent trip.
- Stroller weight: 16 pounds
- Folded dimensions: 21 inches x 20.75 inches x 10.5 inches
- Unfolded dimensions: 33 inches x 18 inches x 40 inches
- Price at publication: $200
- Stylish and functional for everyday use
- Made from eco-friendly materials
- Not a ton of storage space
The bottom line: Functional and sturdy enough to use as your everyday stroller and also a breeze to travel with.
How we selected the best travel strollers.
To come up with my list of the best travel strollers, I consulted the people who would know best (hint, it’s the same folks who know about the best baby bibs , high chairs , and kids bikes ): the parents who use them. Specifically, I consulted with members of the Bébé Voyage community of traveling parents, who were eager to discuss the strollers that they love and why. From there, I looked for patterns in their feedback to determine the stroller that best fit each category.
What to look for when shopping for a travel stroller
Below are important factors experts consider when shopping for a travel stroller.
“For most people, the most important factor when considering a travel stroller is how compactly it folds and if it will fit in the overhead bin on most standard flights,” says Marianne Perez-Fransius, the co-founder and CEO of Bébé Voyage , an online community for traveling parents. “Always check what the dimensions are when the stroller is folded and how easy it is to fold down at the door of the plane.”
“For some, weight considerations are important: either what the weight of the stroller is (many prefer lighter weight strollers) and/or what the max load weight of the stroller is (especially for those with older or bigger children),” Perez-Fransius says. These two measurements don’t always correlate directly, so check both. While I can’t recommend it officially, especially for a stroller that has some wear and tear, many of the parents I spoke to noted that they have continued to use their favorite travel stroller even after their child surpassed the weight limit.
Durability and Storage
Are you an amusement park family? Museum frequenters? National park aficionados? The types of activities your family likes to do while traveling are going to dictate how durable of a stroller you will need and how much storage space it will need to have.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Is a travel stroller worth it.
If you do a lot of traveling, I think so. The most prominent features of travel strollers, in comparison to regular strollers, are that they are lightweight and fold into small, compact packages. Regular strollers, and most of those that are sold as part of travel systems, are large and heavy—and if they do fold, can still take up tons of space. Plus, many of the travel strollers on this list can do double-duty as your everyday stroller, making them well worth the investment. A kids smartwatch on the other hand? That’s up to you.
What is the difference between a travel system and a stroller?
A travel system is a car seat and a stroller that are sold together. The car seat is fully mountable on the stroller without any extra accessories and the stroller can also be used on its own once the child is big enough. Travel systems also typically come with a car seat base for use in the car. A stroller, on the other hand, is just a stroller: some are compatible with attaching car seats, while others are not.
What is the best stroller to take on a plane?
Fitting in the overhead bin on a plane was one of the biggest considerations I made when selecting the best travel strollers. Many of the strollers on this list will do just that, and the parents I spoke to agree that the Babyzen Yoyo2 and GB PockIt will fit in the overhead bin anywhere you go, while the Uppababy Minu, Mountain Buggy Nano and Bombi Bēbee likely will if the bins aren’t too packed. That said, gate checking is always an option.
What stroller folds the smallest?
Of all the travel strollers on our list, the GB PockIt Air All Terrain folds the smallest, with the Babyzen Yoyo2 coming in second.
The information presented here is created by TIME Stamped and supervised by TIME editorial staff. To learn more, see our About page .
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The Best Travel System Strollers Offer Convenience To Busy Families
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From the time your little one makes their debut, you’ll need a way to transport them—both by car and by foot. The best travel system strollers streamline this purchase and decision-making process for new parents by combining a compatible infant car seat and stroller into one tidy package, so you always have the necessary baby gear at hand whether you’re traveling to the pediatrician’s or on a family vacation.
The best travel system strollers combine a safe and easy-to-install car seat with a highly ... [+] maneuverable stroller.
These travel systems make it a cinch to move your newborn from a vehicle to stroller-mode and back again, allowing families to navigate public transportation, grocery shopping and trips together much more easily. Bringing your baby along on adventures allows families to enjoy more time together. “Kids are portable,” points out Dr. Beth Ebel, professor of pediatrics at the University of Washington and president of the Washington Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics. “Congrats to you for traveling with your child.”
To choose the best travel system strollers, I consulted with pediatricians, car seat safety experts, newborn gear consultants and parents while also carefully considering the Vetted team’s testing of dozens of strollers, as well as my personal experience as a mother to two. These are the best travel system strollers for families. After reading this story, you may want to also consider the tested best travel strollers or the best tested jogging strollers as your baby gets a little bigger.
- Best Travel System Stroller Overall: Britax Willow Brook Travel System
- Best Upgrade Travel System Stroller: Nuna Pipa Urbn + Trvl System
- Best Value Travel System Stroller: Chicco Mini Bravo Sport Travel System
- Best Travel System Stroller For Newborns: Uppababy Vista V2 And Mesa Infant Car Seat
- Best Travel System Stroller For Everyday Use: Doona Car Seat And Stroller
- Best Jogging Travel System Stroller: Bumbleride Speed Jogging Stroller And Clek Liing Travel System Car Seat Set
- Best Travel System Stroller For Multiples: Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Travel System
Best Travel System Stroller Overall
An ideal, affordable car seat-stroller combo for newborns, britax willow brook travel system.
I’m a freelance writer and editorial consultant with nearly a decade of experience testing and writing about gear, mostly in the outdoor and parenting spaces. I write regularly for REI Co-op, UltraSignup, The Ness Well, and others. When I’m not writing, you can find me jogging around my Seattle neighborhood, or chasing after my toddler.
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Car seat child weight limits : 4 to 30 pounds (or up to 32 inches tall) | Seat weight : 9 pounds| Stroller weight : 22 pounds | Stroller dimensions : 34 x 23.75 x 42 inches (unfolded) | Attachment style : Click and go | FAA certified : Yes
The Britax Willow Brook Travel System combines the convenience of a travel system with the leading-edge safety features for which Britax car seats are known. The car seat is simple to install and includes the brand’s ClickTight technology. Install it using the car’s LATCH system to lock the base into place with a satisfying click or use your vehicle’s seatbelts to secure. There are adjustment points at the baby’s hips, shoulders and between the legs to get the perfect fit. The infant insert is machine washable, which is convenient.
The Willow car seat snaps right into the coordinating Brook stroller without an adapter. I love that the seat is reversible, so you switch from parent-facing to forward-facing with an easy release feature. The whole thing folds up in a single step and fits into most trunks and hatchbacks. This isn’t the lightest of travel strollers, but it is lighter than other full-size picks. It also includes other perks ideal for everyday use like a roomy cargo basket, water-resistant canopy and a built-in parent cup holder and snack tray for kiddos. The set is extra affordable given that it includes the stroller, infant car seat and base all in one for about $450.
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Best Upgrade Travel System Stroller
A lighter and more premium model, nuna pipa urbn and trvl system.
Car seat child weight limits : 4 to 22 pounds (or up to 29 inches tall) | Seat weight : 7 pounds (without canopy or insert) | Stroller weight : 13.6 pounds | Stroller dimensions : 32.5 x 20.25 x 44 inches (unfolded) | Attachment style : Click and go | FAA certified : Yes
Sometimes luxury is about ease and that’s certainly the case with our upgrade pick the Nuna Pipa Urbn TRVL System. This travel system combines the lightest car seat (7 pounds) and the lightest stroller (13.6 pounds) in our lineup, while still boasting the safety features and plush appointments for which we’ve come to expect from Nuna. It’s ideal for frequent travelers, as well as those living in cities, because the car seat safely installs without a base, making things easier for those who use cabs or public transportation frequently.
Our Vetted tester of the Nuna Pipa Urbn car seat found assembly a bit challenging with the seat, but install without the base fairly straightforward, but she did need to apply some force. Our testers of the TRVL stroller have all raved about the way it folds with the press of a button, getting them into the car, plane or train much faster. Use the stroller until your child hits about 50 pounds, but they might grow out of the car seat faster than you’d prefer with a weight maximum of 22 pounds or 29 inches in height, whichever comes first. We appreciate a number of the small details like the progressive front and rear-wheel suspension that make it easy to wheel around airports and city streets to the soft, merino wool head and infant inserts. Yet, it’s worth noting that this travel system costs significantly more than many competitors—and about double that of our overall choice.
Best Value Travel System Stroller
A solid choice that comes with one of our favorite car seats, chicco mini bravo sport travel system.
Car seat child weight limit : 4 to 22 pounds (or up to 30 inches tall) | Seat weight : 9.5 pounds | Stroller weight : 19.6 pounds | Stroller dimensions : 35.8 x 20.8 x 41.5 inches (unfolded)| Attachment style : Click and go with included adapter | FAA certified : Yes
Paying a fortune doesn’t necessarily equate to getting a safer car seat given that all car seats must meet U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards . Instead, you’re often paying more for extra features or higher-end fabrics. If you’re looking for a safe, affordable, highly maneuverable travel setup, the Chicco Mini Bravo Sport Travel System, which pairs the Chicco Mini Bravo Sport Stroller with the top-rated KeyFit Infant Car Seat, checks the boxes—all for $330.
This popular infant car seat accommodates little ones from 4 to 22 pounds and up to 30 inches tall. Caregivers love that the seat features an easy-to-use harness, an infant insert for babies between 4 and 11 pounds and a canopy with UPF 50+ material. The seat weighs just shy of 10 pounds—another perk when you want to prioritize getting out and about from the start.
The KeyFit 30 attaches to the Chicco Mini Bravo Sport Stroller with an adapter. Even with this added accessory, families rave about how easy it is to pair the car seat and stroller, as well as to remove the seat and install it in the car, where a bubble-level indicator helps you find the correct placement using the included base. When it’s time to pack the stroller away, the whole thing folds in half with the push of a button and the lift of a handle. You can carry the stroller—which weighs just shy of 20 pounds—using that same handle.
Best Travel System Stroller For Newborns
An adaptable setup with a stroller you'll use for years.
Pottery Barn Kids
Uppababy Vista V2 And Mesa V2 Travel System Bundle
Car seat child weight limits : 4 to 35 pounds (or up to 32 inches tall) | Seat weight : 9.9 pounds | Stroller weight : 20 pounds (frame only) | Stroller dimensions : 36 x 25.7 x 39.5 inches (unfolded) | Attachment style : Click and go | FAA certified : Yes
This trio of a travel system from Uppababy comes with the brand’s Mesa infant car seat, a stroller and a bassinet for safer newborn sleep while on the move. The option to stroll baby in a bassinet is a plus, especially in those newborn days when pediatricians recommend that babies avoid long rides in car seats. “When traveling in the car, pediatricians recommend that babies spend no more than about two hours at a stretch in the seat,” Ebel says. “They don’t breathe as well when they’re scrunched up [in the car seat]. On a long trip, pull over for a break, and take your baby out of the seat so they can stretch, nurse and get changed.”
While we’re tagging this travel system as best for newborns, it’s also a highly adaptable setup that can be used into toddlerhood and even if another sibling comes along. The Uppababy Vista V2 converts into a double stroller with the addition of a second seat. The Vista V2 is a bit wider than some picks and the second seat doesn’t accommodate as much weight as other doubles (up to 35 pounds), but it’s also among the smoothest-rolling strollers out there thanks to its all-wheel suspension. It folds easily, offers a large storage area and the Mesa clicks in without an adapter (select other car seats also work with the right adapter). It’s heavier to carry with one hand than the Nuna TRVL but doable. The Mesa infant seat can also be installed to a car without its base.
Best Travel System Stroller For Cities
A fully integrated car seat and stroller system, doona car seat and stroller.
Car seat child weight limits : 4 to 35 pounds (or up to 32 inches tall) | Seat and stroller weight : 17 pounds | Stroller dimensions : 32.3 x 17.4 x 39 inches (unfolded) | Attachment style : Integrated | FAA certified : Yes
There’s a reason people can’t stop talking about the Doona Car Seat and Stroller: It takes the concept of a travel system to the next level with a fully integrated car seat and stroller, so the transition from the car to the pavement is completely seamless. When it’s time to load into the car (or the airplane seat), the Doona stroller wheels fold up beneath the car seat; and then, once you’re ready to stroll, they deploy just as easily with the push of a button. As with the Britax Willow, Nuna Urbn and Uppababy Mesa, the Doona can be installed with or without its base, making it a prime pick for city adventures and airline travel.
Caregivers and our testers tend to love how easy it is to switch from car seat to stroller mode and back again, especially since you can do so while your little one is snoozing. The car seat, and thus the stroller, are made for young babies, however, so this travel system cannot transition you into toddlerhood with an additional seat or bucket seat. It maxes out at 35 pounds or 32 inches in height, whichever comes first for your baby.
Best Jogging Travel System Stroller
A streamlined, sturdy pick for active families, bumbleride speed jogging stroller & clek liing travel system car seat set.
Car seat child weight limits : 4 to 35 pounds (or up to 32 inches tall) | Seat weight: 9 pounds | Stroller weight : 26 pounds | Stroller dimensions : 47 x 25 x 35-46 inches (unfolded) | Attachment style : Click and go | FAA certified : Yes
While you can’t jog with your baby straight away (it’s generally considered safe once they are strong enough to control their necks around 6 or 8 months old), a sturdy running stroller that integrates an infant car seat can make sense for active families accustomed to trail walks and adventurous outings. The Bumbleride Speed Jogging Stroller and Clek Liing Travel System Car Seat Set combines two leading brands into a performance-packed pick.
Many jogging stroller travel systems try to be too many things at once—lightweight, aerodynamic, sturdy and safe, but this pairing does just that with its all-wheel suspension tires (including its 16-inch rear wheels) that roll smoothly over tree roots and sidewalk breaks. The stroller also comes equipped with reflective elements to help you stand out to cars, a spacious, UPF-rated canopy and fabrics certified by Oeko-Tex. The Clek Liing clicks into place on the Bumbleride stroller with an adapter that’s included in this package, and it can be used in vehicles with or without its rigid LATCH base. Customers love the safety features on the slim Clek Liing infant seat, including a metal load leg for use with the base that helps prevent rotation in the event of a crash. Other perks on the stroller include a one-handed, quick-release design, seven recline positions, upright standing fold and a sunshade with mesh windows for airflow.
Best Travel System Stroller For Multiples
An easier way to carry twins, evenflo pivot xpand modular travel system.
Car seat child weight limits : 4 to 35 pounds (or up to 32 inches tall) | Seat and stroller weight : 30.9 pounds | Stroller dimensions : 39 x 26.5 x 39.25 inches (unfolded) | Attachment style : Click and go | FAA certified : No
When you’re dealing with more than one little one, you’re likely always looking for ways to simplify. While there are a number of terrific twin strollers on the market, not all of them are designed to carry two car seats at once the way the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Travel System does. It’s a flexible, modular stroller that offers up to 23 configurations by combining the two infant seats, two toddler seats or the infant car seat and toddler seat at different heights in parent-facing and forward-facing modes. It also adjusts and grows with your children. For example, the stroller’s canopies adjust upward to accommodate taller toddlers. While it can also be used for a baby plus a toddler, some users report the setup feeling a bit bulky when they loaded it up with an infant and a larger toddler.
The Evenflo Pivot Xpand also allows babies to lie flat: Simply recline the stroller seat, raise the footrest and voilà, you’ve got a bassinet on wheels. The Lite Max Infant Car Seat offers a generous weight range on par with competitors and includes preferred safety features like an anti-rebound bar and side-impact protection—at an under $500 price. That said, it is a more budget-conscious model, so it lacks smoothness in some instances with reviewers reporting some stickiness to the fold and to the seat reclines.
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The writers and editors at Forbes Vetted spend many hours researching and reporting on products for babies and kids. We have extensive experience reviewing the best products for babies, including the best convertible car seats , stroller wagons and double strollers . To report this story, I spent time researching the best and most popular travel system strollers. I also spoke with baby gear consultants and car seat safety experts on what to look for when shopping for these items. I also interviewed parents and caregivers to gather their firsthand experiences with specific models and considered Vetted’s existing testing notes strollers.
How We Chose The Best Travel System Strollers
To choose the best travel system strollers, I consulted with pediatricians, car seat safety experts and baby gear consultants. I scoured the internet for the latest, top-performing models to meet a diverse range of needs—from families moving in and out of rideshares to active types wanting to jog with their little ones.
To whittle down the list, I carefully considered various attributes like safety features, maneuverability, compatibility, portability, weight and height ranges and extras like cup holders, baskets and so on. The travel system strollers in this guide are the best available on the market today.
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The 10 Best Travel Strollers for Newborns and Toddlers in 2023 [In-depth Buyer Guide]
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Table of Contents
Why use a stroller for travel, types of strollers, things to consider with travel strollers, the 5 best travel strollers under $150, the 5 best travel strollers under $500, final thoughts.
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Your child’s stroller is one of the most useful essentials you will ever own. It is somewhere to sit for long distances, somewhere to nap when little legs get tired, and a mobile shopping basket for parents on the move. Nowhere is your stroller more necessary than when you are on vacation. With lots of considerations, our buyer’s guide will help you find the perfect travel stroller for newborns and toddlers.
In this article, you’ll find all the information you need about a travel stroller, what types of travel strollers are on the market, important qualities to look for, as well as a short list of recommended travel strollers if you’re in the market.
![travel with stroller Family Traveling With Stroller](https://upgradedpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Family-Travel-Stroller.jpg?auto=webp&disable=upscale&width=1200)
Travel strollers are easy to use and offer a comfortable and convenient seat for little legs on the go. With all the basics covered — seat, canopy, basket, and handles — most travel strollers are not designed to replace your super plush, designer-brand travel system, but they will fold up small enough to fit in the trunk of your car or take on an airplane.
They should be affordable and convenient in order to be a must-have for any parent who likes to vacation with the family . A travel stroller offers everything you need when you are away from home.
As any new parent will quickly discover, there are tons of different kinds of strollers for moms and dads to choose from:
Travel Systems
These fully integrated systems offer everything a new parent needs and will last your baby from birth well into their toddler years . Usually comprised of an infant car seat that connects to the stroller with an adapter, as well as a seat unit (and sometimes a bassinet ), these systems offer a variety of forward and rear-facing positions to suit the development of your baby, all in one neat package.
Bottom Line: If you have a big enough vehicle, you will be able to fold and pack the various parts of the system in the trunk of your car, but for small vehicles or air travel, these are big and bulky and not the most practical to take on vacation with you.
Frame Strollers
Frame strollers are more lightweight and compact than regular strollers and simply feature a seat that fits into a variety of different positions on the stroller frame itself. These types of systems allow you to mix and match the car seat, carry cots, and toddler seats to suit your requirements and are useful for growing children.
Bottom Line: Frame strollers are a little bit bulky as no matter how compact the frame may be when folded, the seat unit can still be cumbersome for throwing in the trunk or taking with you on airplanes.
Umbrella Strollers
Compact and easy to use, these basic little strollers are great for keeping in the car or taking with you on vacation . They can close up small but should offer enough padding to be comfortable for your child. They should also have enough extras (like adjustable handles and shopping baskets) to be useful for mom or dad too.
Bottom Line: Umbrella strollers are inexpensive, lightweight, and better suited to babies of 6 months or older, although some will lie flat to use from birth. You will have no worries using these on public transport, and they can be carried over your shoulder with ease.
Full-size Strollers
A full-size stroller is designed to house your baby from birth through to the toddler years and therefore is built to last. Often with 2 smaller front wheels to allow for precise steering and larger rear wheels to help you handle any terrain, these types of strollers are incredibly durable and easy to use. Padded, comfortable seats will give your baby enough space to grow, and there is usually a ton of storage space for parents to make the most of, too.
Bottom Line: Much like travel systems, full-size strollers can be heavy to lift and bulky even when folded. Most are well suited to the trunk of a car, but you could come unstuck trying to lift the frame and your baby on buses, trains, planes, and other public transport.
Jogging Strollers
Jogging strollers allow mom or dad to get in shape while staying with the baby. With many offering a fixed front wheel, additional hand brake, and a 5-point safety harness to keep baby safe on the go, these types of stroller are great for working out in the park or close to home , and some of the newer generations of jogging strollers may even be able to fold up small enough to take away with you.
Double Strollers
Double strollers come in a wide variety of designs, and if you have twins or 2 children that are close in age, you can opt for a double-frame stroller, travel system, three-wheeler or even an umbrella stroller, depending on your preference. You can also choose whether you would like your children to sit next to each other in a side-by-side stroller or in front of each other with a tandem stroller.
Bottom Line: Unless you manage to find a lightweight and compact double umbrella stroller, most double strollers are too large to be easily carried around on public transport.
The best travel system for you is the one that suits you perfectly. Every family will have their own unique requirements, but you should still consider the following before you buy:
Size and Weight
The lightweight, compact nature of a travel stroller is what sets it apart from any other type of baby-carrying device. Ideally, it will be as small as possible without compromising the space available for your little one to sit in. It needs to be compact enough to fold up small and light enough to be carried (using a strap or by the handle) around airports, down to the beach, and on public transport when you need to.
Bottom Line: Travel strollers are designed to fold up small for the journey but still offer enough space to be comfortable and useful when you get there.
Material and Durability
Your travel stroller may not need to be used daily, but it will need to be strong enough to withstand the rigors of air travel and other public transport. Sturdy steel or aluminum frames are far more durable than plastic ones, so be sure to buy a travel stroller that is made of sterner stuff.
Your travel stroller should be made of nylon or another human-made, rip-proof material. It will also need to be water-resistant to a degree (as not all strollers come with rain covers) and will definitely need to be easy to wipe down to keep it clean and hygienic.
Your Child’s Age
Newborn babies need to lie flat in their strollers, and even between the ages of 3 to 6 months old, it is only recommended that they can be gently elevated in their strollers. A child who is not yet old enough to walk will need a travel stroller that offers some padding and a few more added extras than the most basic of strollers has to offer.
Hot Tip: You should also bear in mind that most travel strollers do not have suspension features, meaning that they can be uncomfortable for young babies to travel in for hours at a time.
Folding and Portability
Of course, part of the reason for purchasing a travel stroller is the fact that you will be able to take it anywhere with you. For this purpose, many smaller, lightweight strollers come complete with a carry strap, handle, or even a case to be tucked away in.
Easy folding mechanisms are also a must , and it’s even more useful if you can operate it one-handed. If you are carrying your child or lots of luggage, you need a stroller that flips open and collapses wherever you are.
Hot Tip: Some teeny tiny travel strollers are designed to fit in their own carry bag. These are better still as you can carry them over your shoulder, leaving both your hands free.
Safety and Comfort
Just because your travel stroller is smaller than your travel system doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be as safe or able. Your travel stroller should have a secure 5-point harness and shoulder straps to keep your little one safe, and the seats should be padded and breathable for comfort.
Hot Tip: You should also check the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure that the stroller you buy is suitable for your baby’s age and that the stroller has passed rigorous safety tests.
How much you pay for your travel stroller is entirely up to you. Most basic strollers are inexpensive and will offer a seat, a shade, 4 wheels, and a small shopping basket. If you are willing to pay upwards of $200, you could grab yourself a stroller that also offers:
- All-terrain wheels and full suspension
- 5-point safety harness with padding
- A fully reclinable seat unit made from breathable, wipeable fabric
- An extendable canopy
- 1-hand folding mechanism
- Carry strap, handle, or even a travel bag
- Adapters for car seat or bassinet to form a travel system if you want to
The most affordable travel stroller in our review is the Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Stroller at $69.99, and the most expensive is the GB Pockit+ Lightweight Stroller at $279.95. If you already have a top-of-the-range stroller system back at home, you may not want to splash out on an expensive travel stroller, but whatever your budget , there are plenty out there to choose from.
1. A Lightweight Travel Stroller for Everyday Use
Summer 3dlite+ convenience stroller.
This light and convenient stroller is good quality for everyday use and is perfect for trips to the supermarket, days out with the family, and even for taking with you on your next vacation. With a high-end look and feel, this stroller weighs in at just 14 pounds, and the padded carry strap makes it easy to take with you anywhere with you. The one-handed folding mechanism also helps by making light work of folding and opening on the go.
Suitable from birth, the 2Dlite+ has a fully reclining seat that is made from soft yet durable polyester and is padded to provide extra comfort. The oversized canopy with flip-out sun visor will help to keep your child shielded from the sun, and the peek-a-boo windows mean you can check in on your little one even when they are sleeping.
Loaded with premium features, there is an extra large storage basket for keeping your items safe on the go, as well as a parent cup holder, a cell phone holder, a zip-close storage pocket, and a child sippy cup holder. The compact fold with auto-lock makes this super convenient to close and open in transit, and the anti-shock front wheels and lockable rear wheels mean it is as comfortable to push as it is for your baby to sit in.
Bottom Line: The 3Dlite+ travel stroller really is a delight for both parents and babies alike.
2. Jog, Run, and Have Fun With This Little Travel Stroller
Jovial portable folding baby stroller.
This portable travel stroller has an extra slim foldable design and comes complete with its very own carry bag for stowing on planes, trains, and other public transport. Weighing in at just 16.3 pounds and with a super easy open and fold mechanism, using and traveling with this stroller literally is as easy as child’s play!
Suitable for use from birth, the Jovial Portable Folding Baby Stroller has been designed to offer superior stability and unrivaled versatility. This compact stroller could even be used as a jogging stroller for parents that like to stay active while on their travels.
The 5-point seatbelt with its super-secure locking system, combined with the easy-to-use foot pedal, make this an incredibly safe stroller. The retractable overhead canopy can also be pulled forward to protect your little one from the hot sun.
The almost lie-flat seat makes this particular stroller incredibly popular with families on vacation. Let your little baby sleep soundly on the move without having to carry a separate bassinet.
Bottom Line: Compact, lightweight but super usable, this stroller really can accommodate babies of all ages.
3. A Lightweight Stroller With Lots of Storage
Safety 1st teeny ultra compact stroller.
The Safety 1st Teeny Ultra Compact Stroller is a lightweight, versatile, foldable stroller that is perfect for the trunk of the car or on vacation. Weighing just 15 pounds, it’s one of the most lightweight strollers on our list, but it’s not compatible as a travel system for a car seat.
Designed for toddlers up to 50 pounds, this stroller offers a super comfy ride for your kids. With an extra-large canopy and pop-out visor to provide shade from the sun and a peek-a-boo mesh window, your little one will stay cool and protected under your watchful eye. The cushioned seat unit has multiple recline positions, and the padded 5-point harness is designed to adjust as your child grows .
For busy parents, this stroller can be pushed using just 1 hand, and the lockable wheels can be activated even when wearing flip-flops. A removable parent cup holder and an easy-access extra-large storage basket make this great for any excursion, and the back pocket provides quick access to your cell phone or wallet.
Bottom Line: You get a lot for your money with the Safety 1st Teeny Ultra Compact Stroller.
4. A Lot of Lightweight Stroller for Your Buck
Kolcraft cloud plus lightweight stroller.
Weighing in at just 11.8 pounds, this lightweight stroller is perfect for families on the go. You can stow it in the trunk of your car for days out and other adventures, or take it on vacation with you. Suitable for babies from 3 months old up to approximately 40 pounds and 40 inches tall, this is a useful little stroller that makes a perfect addition to your essential baby travel kit.
For the comfort of your little one, the seat reclines (although not to lie fully flat), and is padded and wipeable to keep it clean and hygienic. There is also a handy 3-tier extending canopy for maximum sun coverage and peek-a-boo window so you can see what your baby is doing at all times. The 5-point safety restraint system has the scope to grow with your baby and will keep them safe, while the all-terrain wheels and front suspension offer a smooth ride, every time.
Bottom Line: For moms and dads on the move, the Kolcraft Cloud offers a large, easy to access storage basket for holding your shopping and a parent tray with not 1, but 2 drink holders. It also includes a useful extra storage area for keys, wallets, and other everyday essentials.
5. A Sleek Stroller Made With Recycled Fabrics
Century stroll on 4-wheel lightweight stroller.
The Century Stroll On 4-Wheel Lightweight Stroller is an affordable and highly capable travel stroller that works as well at home as it does when you are away. Weighing in at under 15 pounds, this is the perfect foldable stroller for keeping in the trunk of your car or packing for your vacation .
Suitable from birth when purchased with the Century Carry On 35 Infant Car Seat, this is an easy-to-maneuver, fast-fold stroller that offers all the basics as well as a few extra useful features. The multi-position reclining seat allows your little one to sit up or nap, and the padded fabric and 5-point harness make it both comfortable and secure.
The smooth and lockable wheels offer great control and can even handle more rugged terrain without too much trouble. This stroller even stands up on its own when folded, keeping your hands free for important tasks.
Bottom Line: Lightweight, easy to fold, and self-standing, this is the ideal stroller for busy parents on the go.
1. A Cabin-size Stroller With Plenty To Offer
Besrey airplane stroller.
This cute and convenient stroller is so small it can fit into its very own backpack, making it perfect for families traveling by air . With an innovative 2-step folding design, the carry bag measures just 22’’ x 12’’x 11” — just the right size to store in the cabin — meaning you can get to it as soon as you touch down.
Suitable for children between 6 to 36 months and weighing no more than 50 pounds, this stroller does not recline, but it is equipped with a secure 5-point safety belt and protective comfort pads, meaning your baby will be kept comfy and safe along the way.
Weighing in at just 14.4 pounds and featuring a lightweight yet sturdy aluminum frame, this is an excellent buy for parents looking for a second stroller for the trunk of the car or to use on vacations. The overhead canopy will help to keep your little one protected from the sun, and the seat is padded for their comfort. The removable handlebar can be used to attach toys to, or taken away as your child gets older.
Bottom Line: With a one-hand fold mechanism, a large brake, smooth rolling swivel wheels, and a large shopping basket, this stroller is also designed with parent comfort in mind. Travel light on your next family adventure with a stroller that fits into a backpack.
2. Not Quite Pocket-size, but Definitely Locker-size
Gb pockit+ lightweight stroller.
With its ultra-compact and collapsible design, this smart stroller will fit neatly inside most overhead compartments on planes and trains, making it a fantastic alternative to your regular, bulky stroller.
Weighing just 9.5 pounds, pushing and steering this baby is a breeze. The 2-step easy fold mechanism means you can keep one hand free while you close or open it, and it can be quickly lifted and carried using the built-in handle.
Little ones love this stroller, too. With a UPF 50+ canopy to keep them safe from the sun , and a padded, reclining seat, they will be able to nap in comfort wherever you go. The flexible yet durable construction also ensures that the seat unit remains stable no matter how wriggly your toddler may be.
For your own pushing pleasure, this stroller has agile front swivel wheels that will glide effortlessly over indoor and outdoor terrain. The stroller also corners beautifully and for uneven terrain, simply switch the wheel lock to make it easier to handle.
Bottom Line: A quirky, cute-looking travel stroller that can more than hold its own against larger, more expensive strollers and travel systems.
3. Designer Stroller With Excellent Functionality
Uppababy g-luxe stroller.
UPPAbaby is one of the biggest names in designer strollers, and the G-LUXE stroller makes it easy to see why. Packed with the functionality of a much larger stroller but without the extra weight , this agile little number is suitable for children from 3 months old to 55 pounds. The hand-level triggers make it easy to fold the G-LUXE using just your hands, and once folded it can even stand on its own — vacation-ready every time.
For the comfort of your baby, the one-handed reclining seat with adjustable footrest is well padded and large enough for naps on the go. The pop-out UPF 50+ sunshade extends way out to help shield your child from the sun, and the seat pad and fabric surround can all be removed for washing. Comfy, clean, and cozy all year round.
For moms and dads who want a more elegant ride, the high-performance 5.75″ wheels are super easy to maneuver, and the one-click brake mechanism will bring you to a gentle stop.
Bottom Line: Designed with both fashion and function in mind, this is a great-looking stroller that ticks all the boxes.
4. Room for 2 in This Compact Double Stroller
Jeep destination ultralight double stroller.
Suitable for carrying both your babies at 1 time, the Jeep Destination Ultralight Double Stroller is a lightweight, compact-fold double stroller that is perfect for taking away on vacation with you. With a 1- or 2-handed easy fold mechanism with an automatic lock, this double stroller folds up compact, weighs under 29 pounds, and has a convenient strap for carrying.
Made with comfort in mind, both seats recline enough to let your children nap, and the seats are padded and breathable to help keep your kids cool. Peek-a-boo windows allow you keep a watchful eye on your little ones, while the swing-out child bars are convenient for getting your kids in and out of the stroller. The canopies pop-out and have SPF 50 sun visors, offering an exceptional level of sun protection for both of your babies.
For parents, the Jeep Destination is also easy to push, even for a double stroller. While it is not an all-terrain stroller, it is incredibly competent on surfaces like airport terminals and busy city streets . The steering is light and manageable, while the 0-inch back wheels have their very own in-built suspension.
Bottom Line: Lightweight and easy to love, whatever the Jeep Destination lacks in terms of fancy extras, it more than makes up for in terms of practicality and ease of use.
5. Stylish, Sleek, and Small Enough for an Overhead Locker
Baby jogger city tour 2 ultra-compact travel stroller.
This super light stroller is one of the most compact on the market and is so tiny it fits most overhead bins on an airplane. As petite as it may be, it still can be turned into a travel system with the addition of a car seat, but it is one for city streets as opposed to rugged country hiking.
The cleverly crafted folding mechanism can be opened in seconds with just 1 hand, and the front swivel wheels are lockable for an easier push and smoother ride for both parents and babies.
For napping on the go, the comfortable, padded seat reclines to a near-flat position, and the 5-point harness will keep your child safe and secure. Suitable to use from birth, the Baby Jogger integrates with the Baby Jogger car seat which can be purchased separately.
Padded fabrics that are removable for easy washing will keep your little one comfy on the move, while the under-seat storage basket is just big enough to hold your baby’s essentials. Suitable for children up to 33 pounds, the YOYO+ collapses to 20.5 x 17 x 7 inches. It comes complete with its very own carry bag and strap, making it super easy to take with you everywhere you go.
Bottom Line: Weighing just 14 pounds, this lightweight stroller is super-convenient for your travels and fits in most airline overhead compartments.
Choosing the right travel stroller is vital for ensuring your child’s comfort and safety on the road. It also needs to be as parent-friendly as possible, as well as easy to transport, push, and maneuver, no matter where you are headed.
Before you commit to your next piece of baby gear, consider the advantages over your existing stroller or travel system to find a travel stroller that totally suits you and your little one’s needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a travel stroller.
A travel stroller is a lightweight version of a regular stroller and is usually easier to fold down, making it perfect for travel. Some travel strollers are purpose-built for air travel and will fold down into a carry case or backpack to be carry-on size.
What should I look for in a travel stroller?
Size and weight are 2 of the key considerations with travel strollers along with how compact it can be folded down. You will also need to consider its construction, longevity, price, materials, additional features, and safety.
What type of stroller can I take on a plane?
Airlines usually allow certain types of strollers to be taken into the cabin and these must be lightweight and foldable. Umbrella strollers are great to take on your travels as they fold down compact and usually come with a case for easy carrying. Airlines have different size restrictions for carry-on items, so it’s advisable to check with your airline directly.
Can I take a full size stroller on an airplane?
Most airlines do not allow full-size strollers to be taken into the cabin as they need to be lightweight and foldable to fit in the overhead compartments. Larger strollers can be checked in as hold luggage at the check-in desk or at the gate.
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The Best Car Seat and Stroller Combos for Traveling Near and Far
Move your newborn seamlessly from the car to the stroller with these editor-tested travel systems.
In This Article
- Our Top Picks
- Other Notable Travel Systems
- Our Testing Process
Our Experts
- Factors to Consider
- Safety Tips
Parents / Dera Burreson
A travel system—an infant carrier, base, and a compatible stroller—allows a seamless transition from a vehicle to the sidewalk, so you don’t have to wake up your sleeping baby (or needlessly annoy an awake one). The infant car seat attaches directly to the stroller without additional accessories. Some travel systems are one unit, meaning the infant car sea t converts directly into a stroller. Once your child outgrows their infant carrier, you can often use the stroller for their toddler years or pass the entire system down to a younger sibling.
Car seat and stroller combinations should be user-friendly for parents, grandparents, babysitters, and others who may watch your child. Additionally, the strollers should maneuver effortlessly on different terrains and have safety features, such as brakes, UV canopies, and five-point harnesses.
To find the best travel systems, we tested 23 highly rated models in our testing lab and at home with our own children. We looked at assembly, stroller design, ease of installation in and out of vehicles, and function. Additionally, we considered value because travel systems can be costly, and we want families to find an option that lasts.
Easiest to Use
Uppababy cruz v2 + mesa v2 infant travel system, why we like it.
In terms of ease of use, the Uppababy Cruz travel system is hard to beat. The stroller arrived nearly assembled in the box—all we had to do was pop on the wheels. The sleek, full-grain leather handlebar and seatback are adjustable to accommodate both kids and parents. The large cargo area easily holds a medium-sized diaper bag, although a bar runs through the middle, making it difficult to have anything bulky and large.
Maneuverability : The stroller is lightweight and easy to push on all terrain. We only had trouble getting it up steps due to the large tires, but it was light enough to be picked up and carried. It’s also worth noting that the toddler seat has a high weight capacity, so this can grow with your child as they get older.
Car Seat Installation : We tested Attaching the car seat to the base or stroller is seamless and makes a loud clicking sound, so you know it's installed all the way. Taking the car seat out of the base or stroller is also simple with the push of a button. A level indicator on the base turns green when it’s leveled correctly, giving you peace of mind your baby is secure. The no-rethread harness is simple to adjust, and there are storage pockets for harness buckles.
But Take Note
Though it’s on the pricier side, it comes with several extras: a rain canopy, a mesh canopy to keep bugs away, and an extendable sun shade for super sunny days. Unfortunately, we had difficulty getting the canopy on the infant seat to stay securely in place. On the plus side, the stroller folds in half for easier portability.
The Details:
- Stroller weight: 35 lbs.
- Car seat weight: 10 lbs. for car seat, 19 lbs. with base
- Stroller dimensions: 22.75 x 37.5 x 40 in.
- Car seat weight/height limits: 4–35 lbs., up to 32 in.
Best Mid-Range
Britax grove modular stroller.
According to one of our testers, everything about this stroller felt “easy breezy.” It’s almost effortless to use, from a less-than-10-minute installation to comfort touches like a lumbar cushion to a one-handed fold.
Maneuverability: The Britax Grove is a medium-sized stroller, but our testing found that it takes turns more like a compact stroller. Its generously sized wheels are large enough to take bumps in stride, even without suspension, and the stroller handled turf and concrete like a pro. The stroller felt light, solid, and high-quality while pushing with the car seat in place.
Car seat installation: The car seat base features Britax ClickTight technology, meaning you can install it in a vehicle by threading the seatbelt through the base compartment (which conveniently opens), buckling it, and then snapping it back to close. This installation method is the easiest of all the car seat bases. All Britax infant seats work with a simple click-in and latch-out method.
The only thing we didn’t love about this stroller is that it has two brakes, one on each back wheel, and they don’t have color indicators to show which is engaged. You have to press both brakes to keep the stroller entirely in place. If you press one, the stroller won't roll away from you, but it will turn.
- Stroller weight: 24 lbs.
- Car seat weight : 9.3 lbs. seat; 10 lbs. base
- Stroller dimensions: 37 x 42 x 23.5 in.
- Car seat weight/height limits: 4–30 lbs., up to 32 in.
Best Luxury
Nuna rx car seat travel system.
Courtesy of Nordstrom
With a sleek and aesthetically pleasing design, the Nuna Mixx Next + Pipa RX Travel System feels high-quality, grows with your child, and maneuvers like a dream. It’s a lightweight travel system with soft, comfortable, and durable fabrics.
The stroller came fully assembled—we only had to glance at the instructions to figure out how to unfold it, which was easy. The cargo area holds a diaper bag , but we wish it were a little bigger. Details like a leather carrying handle , magnetic buckle holders to keep straps out of the way, an adjustable handlebar, and no-rethread harnesses are all great touches. Plus, the UPF 50+ canopy is water-repellent, featuring an extendable sun shade, a flip-out eyeshade, a ventilation panel, and a peek-a-boo window to see your baby.
Maneuverability : The stroller's suspension system gives it a smooth ride, and the rubber wheels have good traction. An overall lightweight feel makes it extremely easy to maneuver no matter where you are. We love how it still folds with the toddler seat and the one-touch brake that keeps the stroller securely in place.
Car Seat Installation : The car seat is impressively light at just over 7 pounds, making it a breeze to carry and move from the base to the stroller. Attaching the car seat to the base and stroller—as well as detaching it from both—was simple, and we could do it one-handed with the press of a button. You can also adjust the infant seat or toddler seat to face forward or backward in the stroller.
The car seat base was trickier to install in a vehicle than other combos we tested. Installing the base took about 30 minutes, and we had to consult the manual and instructional videos to figure it out. Ultimately, we discovered that you have to be at a particular angle to use the LATCH system successfully, and overall, this was more difficult than many other options we tested.
- Stroller weight: 28.5 lbs.
- Car seat weight: 7.6 lbs. without base; 25.4 lbs. with base
- Stroller dimensions: 23.75 x 32.75 x 45.5 in.
- Car seat weight/height limits: 4–32 lbs., up to 32 in.
- Stroller age/weight limit: Birth to 50 lbs.
Best Budget
Graco modes pramette travel system.
The Graco Modes Pramette is one of the most inexpensive travel systems on the market. It offers a smooth ride and plenty of storage space . The fabric is nice, and the spacious cargo area holds enough items for babies and parents. We appreciate extra features like a phone holder, cup holder, reclining toddler seat, and adjustable canopy.
Maneuverability : This lightweight stroller has an excellent glide. It rolls smoothly over various terrains and is easy to lift over curbs, even with a 20-pound child and a diaper bag in the cargo space. The wheels operated efficiently around corners and through curvy "roads" in the lab.
Car Seat Installation : Installing the car seat base into the vehicle using the LATCH system is simple. The infant car seat felt secure and fairly lightweight at just about 10 pounds. Attaching the car seat to the base is straightforward, while detaching it is slightly more tricky (the button is under the canopy). But the seat pops right in and out of the stroller and makes a clicking sound to let you know it’s secure.
We had a little trouble assembling the stroller and detaching the toddler seat. The buttons on either side of the stroller seat require two hands to push down. Also, the handlebar doesn’t adjust, and we can’t fold the stroller one-handed.
- Stroller weight: 20.9 lbs.
- Car seat weight: 9.8 lbs. without base
- Stroller dimensions: 23.5 x 34.5 x 44.75 in.
- Car seat weight/height limits: 4–35 lbs., up to 32 in.
- Stroller age/weight limit: Up to 50 lbs.
Best for City Use
Doona convertible infant car seat stroller system.
The Doona is a one-piece stroller and car seat. The car seat converts into a stroller in seconds , with fold-down legs and a pull-out handlebar. It’s a convenient space saver and ideal for people who often use ride-shares or public transportation. We also recommend it for families who just want (or need) something quick and simple for in-and-out trips from the car to the next destination.
Maneuverability : Overall, we’re impressed with how easily this stroller maneuvers despite its 17-pound weight. It offers a gentle glide on most terrains, although its lack of suspension made us dubious of how it would perform on a rocky or bumpy surface. The size is small and narrow , so navigating crowded spaces and tight spots isn’t challenging. While the stroller is comfortable and straightforward to clean, it doesn’t feature any sort of storage basket or cup holder, and the seat does not recline.
Car Seat Installation: We initially had difficulty figuring out how to attach and detach the seat from the base. You have to click a button on the base, which isn’t intuitive but becomes less complicated each time. We were in the same situation when learning to release the wheels; once you know how to operate, it’s simple.
The Doona can be a little awkward to use because the handlebar is so low, and it doesn’t grow with your child as much as some other options—you’ll need to buy another stroller once your child reaches the weight limit of 35 pounds.
- Stroller/car seat weight: 17 lbs.
- Stroller dimensions: 17.3 x 23.6 x 26 in.
- Car seat and stroller weight/height limits: 4–35 lbs., up to 32 in.
Best Handling
Chicco corso le modular travel system.
The Chicco Corso travel system boasts a sleek design, convenient extra features, and a stroller that maneuvers easily on almost any terrain. The trendy design with mixed colors and leather accents stands out and includes several convenient features like a parent cup holder, a removable handlebar for kids, and an extendable canopy for full sun coverage. Plus, the spacious cargo area holds a lot of stuff.
We appreciate the stroller’s simple one-handed fold that “can be done with a baby on your hip at the same time,” one tester noted. The stroller grows with your child, with a comfortable toddler seat that faces forward or backward, and you get a lot for the price.
Maneuverability: This travel system moves seamlessly with a loaded car seat and full cargo space. It maneuvers surprisingly well on almost every surface; we only had a minor issue when going over a crumbling sidewalk.
Car Seat Installation: Installing the car seat base into the vehicle using the LATCH system only took a few minutes. We had no problem attaching and detaching the car seat to the base with one hand, and throughout the process, each piece felt sturdy and secure.
One thing to note is that this combo requires a separate piece to click the car seat into the stroller. While this attachment comes with your purchase, you’ll need two hands to put the car seat and stroller together and connect the car seat and base.
- Stroller weight: 18.7 lbs., 24.8 lbs. with toddler seat
- Car seat weight: 10 lbs. for seat, 18.5 lbs. with base
- Stroller dimensions: 34.5 x 24.8 x 42.8 in.
- Stroller age/weight limit: 50 lbs.
Best Jogging Stroller
Bob gear wayfinder pack.
The BOB Gear Wayfinder Pack is comfortable to use as an everyday stroller, but it’s also ideal for joggers and runners, thanks to special features. For instance, the stroller has a hand brake, wrist strap , Velcro-shut mesh peekaboo window, an adjustable canopy, and more (like a parent cup holder). The cargo area zips to prevent anything from spilling out during jogs and runs, too.
Maneuverability: For as heavy-duty as this jogging stroller is, it was downright effortless to maneuver, even with the front swivel wheel locked, which our testers, who are long-time runners, attested is unusual for a jogging stroller. The stroller maneuvered through turns and over every surface with ease, and the suspension kept the ride smooth , even on gravel. One key feature joggers will appreciate is that although the locked wheel will keep the stroller in a straight line, it can move left or right to weave through a crowd if necessary.
Car Seat Installation: The car seat with the base is heavy, at nearly 20 pounds, and we struggled to snap it into the base. Beyond installation, the entire unit felt secure and didn’t wiggle.
You may have to take the fabric off to adjust the car seat straps, which can be challenging (and time-consuming). Also, folding this stroller is more tedious because of its many features meant for maximum durability.
- Stroller weight: 31.1 lbs.
- Car seat weight: 9.3 lbs. for car seat, 10.2 lbs. for base
- Stroller dimensions: 28.1 x 24.11 x 16.9 in.
Best Lightweight Car Seat
Bugaboo fox 3 bassinet and stroller.
The Bugaboo Fox 5 Stroller is compatible with the impressive Bugaboo Turtle Air by Nuna car seat (sold separately). We tested this car seat with the Bugaboo Fox 5 and found the travel system thoughtful, simple, and lightweight. The stroller is also lightweight yet sturdy and has just the right space in the under-storage basket, snack tray, and cup holder. Although it is a larger stroller, so you’ll want to check that you have the space to accommodate it if you need to store it indoors.
Maneuverability: Our tester could wheel the Bugaboo around with one hand, taking sharp turns and sailing through doorways as smooth as butter . With cargo in the seat and basket, it still turned on a dime on all terrains. The brakes are also very easy to engage, so immediately stopping is doable.
Car Seat Installation: We are currently finalizing our testing of the compatible Bugaboo Turtle Air by Nuna car seat and recline base. Installation requires adapters, but the company includes them with this bundle. A color-coded chart on the reclining base specifies which position your baby should be in based on their current weight, with easy options to switch it up as needed. Installing the car seat base does require a few steps, per the product manual, but once it’s in, the base is very secure.
Converting the bassinet to a seat is a challenge and requires two adults. Our testers admitted that they actually broke out into a sweat doing it. The good news, however, is that the transition is only a one-time thing, so once you finish it, you’re done with that task. Despite the claim that it’s a one-handed fold, we also found that reality requires two hands to complete the job.
- Stroller weight: 22.97 lbs.
- Car seat weight: 7.06 lbs. for car seat
- Stroller dimensions: 36.6 x 23.6 x 41.3 in.
- Car seat weight/height limit s: 4 to 32 lbs., 15.7 to 32.6 in.
Parents / Jessica Juliao
Best Convertible
Graco modes nest2grow travel system.
The Graco Modes Nest2Grow is a three-in-one travel system , with the stroller transforming into an infant car seat carrier, infant pramette, and toddler stroller. We love the useful features, like an expandable cargo area ideal for a whole-day excursion. (This is particularly useful for city dwellers who walk to the store). We also appreciate the included cup holders for parents and kids and a snack tray. There’s also some adjustability: you can move the seat up or down to your preferred height, and though the fabric does feel a little scratchy, it looks pricier than it is.
Maneuverability: The stroller glides smoothly over different terrains and is surprisingly easy to lift up stairs. Without a child inside, the stroller feels lightweight. The stroller folds, so you can put it in your vehicle’s trunk or store it out of sight, but you’ll need two hands to fold it.
Car Seat Installation : With some guidance from the manual, installing the car seat was mostly simple, but we had some difficulty assembling the stroller. We had no trouble installing the car seat base into the vehicle using the LATCH system (though it also feels secure with a seat belt installation). Additionally, we encountered zero issues when attaching and detaching the car seat and toddler seat into and from the stroller. At just 7.5 pounds, this car seat is very lightweight , so it’s a great option if you plan to carry it around often.
The stroller is a little heavy to push, especially with a child inside the infant seat, and it’s on the larger side for a stroller.
- Stroller weight: 21.96 lbs.
- Car seat weight: 7.5 lbs.
- Stroller dimensions: 38 x 26.77 x 41.85 in.
Parents / Tamara Staples
Parents / Leticia Almeida
Other Notable Car Seat and Stroller Combos
We also tested the following car seat and stroller combinations, and while they did not make our final list of recommendations, we found them worth mentioning.
- Chicco Bravo Trio Travel System : The Chicco Bravo is a straightforward stroller that offers value and ease of use. Unfortunately, it doesn’t push as smoothly on concrete surfaces as the other strollers we tested, and it had one loose wheel.
- Baby Jogger City Sights Travel System : While this travel system had some nice features, like great maneuverability and a sleek design, it lacked any additional bells and whistles that would justify its price tag.
- Baby Trend Expedition Jogger Travel System : Unlike most car seat and stroller combos, this Baby Trend doesn’t “click” into the stroller but attaches over a child tray, so it does come with a bit of a learning curve. It’s a basic stroller meant for rugged terrain.
- Evenflo Shyft: The Evenflo Shyft is an infant car seat that converts into a stroller. However, you can’t use the stroller as a standalone version past the infant car seat stage, so we felt that there were more functional options for the price point.
Our Testing Process
Parents editors, staff, and real parents tested 23 car seat and stroller combinations in our testing lab and real-life situations over time, reassessing results at two-month and six-month intervals. We tested each car seat both as a standalone car seat and in combination with the stroller and assessed the following attributes:
- Ease of Assembly: We assembled each stroller, if necessary, noting what pieces we required attachment and if the process was effortless or challenging.
- Vehicle Installation: We timed how long it took to install the car seat base into the car using the seat belt or LATCH system, paying attention to how simple it was to click the car seat into the base and remove it. We noted whether these things could be done one-handed and if doing so jostled the seat enough to wake a sleeping baby.
- Stroller Installation: To assess how the car seat worked with its stroller, we examined whether the seat popped effortlessly into the stroller and if the process required one or two hands.
- Design: We considered the weight, features, adjustability, and size of the car seats and strollers.
- Maneuverability: We walked the strollers on different terrains in the lab and real world, including concrete, grass, rocks, and more. We wanted to know if strollers felt stable or shaky and how they maneuvered up and down steps or curbs.
- Ease of Cleaning: Testers followed the manufacturers’ cleaning directions for the car seats and cleaned each at least once during the testing period.
- Value: At the end of the initial testing period, we asked testers if they felt their travel system was worth the cost or overpriced. We wanted to know if they would pay the price tag—or more—or on sale.
We consulted the following experts on safety tips and features to keep in mind when choosing a car seat and stroller combination:
- Petra Stanton, car safety seat installer and trainer at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, Florida
- Kelly Moriarty, Injury Prevention Coordinator at Novant Health in Charlotte, North Carolina
Factors to Consider When Buying a Stroller Car Seat Combo
Along with personal factors, such as your budget and any brand preferences, we found it helpful to consider the following when choosing a stroller and car seat combo:
- Age, Weight, and Size Limits: Most car seat-stroller combinations have a weight limit of 35 pounds (but check your brand’s specific limits). “Keep in mind that your child may be ready to transition into a larger car seat in the first year of life, so look at the stroller and decide how convenient it will be to use the stroller after the child outgrows the car seat,” adds Stanton. “Thinking ahead is the key here.” If the travel system has a detachable infant car seat, you can use the stroller for older infants without an infant car seat, surpassing the average 35-pound limit.
- Stroller Size and Portability : In general, most parents want a stroller that is fairly compact, easy to store when not in use, narrow enough to fit through most doorways, and portable enough to be taken almost anywhere. Bulky, large strollers may quickly feel inconvenient. On the other hand, a larger stroller that can convert after the infant car seat stage offers longevity for older children, too. Consider how you’ll use the stroller, such as quick in-and-out trips for school pickups, navigating public transport, or using it for travel.
- Maneuverability: A stroller shouldn’t be difficult to push, so look for features to enhance maneuverability, such as a suspension system and durable tires. These features make a difference once you add a child’s weight (and potentially their car seat) to the seat.
- Installation: Remember the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) safety guidelines when installing the infant car seat base into your vehicle. You can use either the seat belt or LATCH system, but regardless of the method you choose, tightly secure the car seat and allow for zero wiggle room. Remember that infants should ride in a rear-facing car seat for as long as possible until they max out on height or weight. If you are unsure of how well you installed the seat or experienced an issue, don’t hesitate to consult a professional. “Find a local nationally certified car seat technician in your area,” suggests Stanton. “The list of technicians can be found on cert.safekids.org . If there are none in your area, look for technicians who offer virtual education.”
Is Buying an Infant Car Seat and Stroller Together Worth It?
Travel systems are very convenient for families and caregivers who are often on the go. Think about how often you’ll need to click your car seat into a stroller. If you plan on running many errands with your baby or taking them out a lot, a travel system can save you time and energy. If you don’t plan on doing this, it’s not necessary—you can just purchase a separate car seat and stroller.
How to Use Infant Car Seats and Strollers Safely
Don’t assume that learning to use your car seat and stroller is intuitive. “Read the manual that comes with it to make sure you are using the products correctly, from strapping the child in properly to correctly installing the carrier in your car,” Moriarty urges. If you need additional help, many parenting products feature a scannable QR code to pull up a digital manual on your phone.
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind:
- Ensure the stroller fits you: A stroller and car seat should fit your baby, but they’ll also need to fit you to adhere to ergonomic standards and keep your own back and body healthy. “Make sure the stroller is a good height and that you are able to operate it comfortably,” says Moriarty. A car seat that attaches and detaches from the base and stroller with just one hand makes it much simpler for caregivers with their hands full. If these processes require two hands, it may not be the best option, especially if you have more than one child.
- Know how to use all the safety features: Since car seat safety is the biggest priority, “ease of car seat installation is one of the main points to look for,” Moriarty says. An improperly installed car seat may not work in a crash or a sudden stop. The same goes for the stroller: check for features like brakes that lock with clear visual indicators, “click-in” car seat installation, and level indicators. You’ll also want to check for any potential safety hazards, like buttons or levers little fingers could get pinched in.
- Keep your baby properly harnessed: All travel systems or car seat stroller combinations in the U.S. will come with a full five-point harness. Our safety experts recommend keeping your baby harnessed even when using the car seat outside of the vehicle.
- Avoid sleeping and strolling: Don’t completely replace the stroller seat with the car seat, our experts advise. Whenever possible, your baby should sleep in a car seat while strolling. “Car seats are for riding in cars, not all-day stays,” Stanton warns. “While it’s easy to keep the baby sleeping in the car seat, it may not be the safest choice. Safe sleep research shows that babies are safest in their empty beds on their backs.” If you want your baby to nap safely while on the go, opting for a travel system with a bassinet attachment might be beneficial.
- Register your car seat stroller combo: Lastly, now that parenting product safety regulations are updated frequently, registering your car seat and stroller is always a good idea to get notifications about any safety recalls. For recall notices, you can also check the Consumer Products Safety Commission’s (CPSC) site .
Chaunie Brusie, RN, BSN , is a labor and delivery nurse turned health and parenting writer and a mother of five. She has written extensively on parenting products, including car seats and strollers and their combination use. Although not a primary pick on our list, Chaunie’s favorite travel system was the Baby Trend jogger, primarily because she pretended to be a jogger down her rural dirt roads in her prime baby-rearing days.
Car Seats: Information for Families . American Academy of Pediatrics. 2024.
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The Best Travel Strollers for Families On the Go
- By Cory Kessler Updated On January 04, 2023
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Traveling with kids can be very fulfilling but also very stressful. Navigating airports, train stations, or trying to pack a vehicle with all of the necessary items can be a difficult process, especially if you're working with bulky items like jogging strollers . But what if you could simplify the process? If you're a frequent traveler, you'll definitely want to check out travel strollers.
Travel strollers are lightweight, compact, and specifically designed to fold and maneuver easily in tight spaces. The best travel strollers offer accessories and features to make your life easier on the go. In this article, we'll give you a list of our top picks for travel strollers plus highlight some of the most important things you need to know when shopping for a travel stroller. We'll also answer some of the common questions people have.
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The Best Travel Strollers - Our Top Picks
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- Best Overall Travel Stroller: Joolz AER Premium Baby Stroller
- Best Travel Stroller for Flying: Babyzen YoYo 2 Stroller
- Best Lightweight Travel Stroller: Coolkids Lightweight Travel Stroller
- Best Compact Travel Stroller: gb Pockit Air All Terrain
- Best Double Travel Stroller: Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller
- Best Travel Stroller for Toddlers: Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Baby Stroller
- Best Budget Travel Stroller: Summer Infant 3D Mini Convenience Stroller
- Best Umbrella Travel Stroller: Pamo babe Travel Stroller
- Best Travel Stroller for Infants: Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System
- Best Folding Travel Stroller: Evenflo GOLD Otto Self-Folding Stroller
Best Overall Travel Stroller - Joolz AER Premium Baby Stroller
![travel with stroller Joolz AER Premium Baby Stroller](https://content.active.com/Assets/Active.com+Content+Site+Digital+Assets/Kids/Best+Travel+Strollers/Joolz+AER+Premium+Baby+Stroller.jpg)
- Dimensions: 32.7" x 17.7" x 41.5"
- Weight: 13.4 lbs.
- Age range: Baby to toddler
- Weight limit: 50 lbs.
CHECK PRICE
When we're talking about the best travel stroller, we have to be picky. There are a lot of really good travel strollers out there with unique designs and features, but only one can be the best. For us, the Joolz AER Premium baby stroller stands out above the rest.
The Joolz AER has all the elements of a good travel stroller. It is compact, it is lightweight, has a one-handed folding mechanism, and is easy to maneuver in tight spaces. But where this stroller stands out is its patented seat design for safety and comfort, big storage space underneath, and the included rain cover and travel bag.
What We Like
- Significant storage space
- Included rain cover and travel bag
- Lifetime-warranty
What We Don't Like
- No cup holders for parents
- No bumper bar
BUY: Joolz AER Premium Baby Stroller
Best Travel Stroller for Flying - Babyzen YoYo 2 Stroller
![travel with stroller Babyzen YoYo 2 Stroller](https://content.active.com/Assets/Active.com+Content+Site+Digital+Assets/Kids/Best+Travel+Strollers/Babyzen+YoYo+2+Stroller.jpg)
- Dimensions: 33.8" x 17.3" x 41.7"
- Weight: 13.6 lbs.
- Age range: Newborn to toddler
- Weight limit: 48.5 lbs.
Airports are stressful for everyone, but lugging around all of the stuff you need for your child can be an extra burden. With the Babyzen YoYo 2, you'll get a very compact, lightweight, and easy-to-use stroller that can take some of the stress off your mind.
This stroller is an average size when unfolded, but the folding design fits neatly into storage bins on most airplanes. It also has a storage basket that can hold up to 11 pounds so you can throw some of your carry-on baggage underneath for easy access.
- Storage basket can hold up to 11 lbs.
- Machine washable material
- Small enough to fit in overhead bins
- No accessories included
- Not car seat compatible
BUY: Babyzen YoYo 2 Stroller
Best Lightweight Travel Stroller - Coolkids Lightweight Travel Stroller
![travel with stroller Coolkids Lightweight Travel Stroller](https://content.active.com/Assets/Active.com+Content+Site+Digital+Assets/Kids/Best+Travel+Strollers/Coolkids+Lightweight+Travel+Stroller.jpg)
- Dimensions: 30" x 17" x 39"
- Weight: 14 lbs.
- Weight limit: 33 lbs.
Sometimes it is good to have a travel stroller on hand to keep in your car when you're shopping or running errands with your little one. The Coolkids lightweight stroller is a great option for everyday use.
This stroller may not have all of the bells and whistles of higher-end travel strollers, but it does have an XL canopy with a peekaboo window and one of the easiest folding mechanisms on our list. Even better, the T-shaped bumper becomes a pull handle when it is folded so you can pull the stroller like a suitcase.
- T-shaped bumper that becomes a pull handle
- Rolls like a suitcase when folded
- One-handed fold and unfold mechanism
- Lower weight capacity
- Minor assembly required
BUY: Coolkids Lightweight Travel Stroller
Best Compact Travel Stroller - gb Pockit Air All Terrain Stroller
![travel with stroller gb Pockit Air All Terrain](https://content.active.com/Assets/Active.com+Content+Site+Digital+Assets/Kids/Best+Travel+Strollers/gb+Pockit+Air+All+Terrain.jpg)
- Dimensions: 28" x 17" x 39.8"
- Weight: 10.4 lbs.
- Age range: 6 months to 5 years
- Weight limit: 55 lbs.
All travel strollers are compact relative to other types of strollers, but some make an extra effort to have a small footprint. The gb Pockit is an ultra-compact travel stroller that weighs just over 10 pounds but is strong enough to hold your child up to 55 pounds.
You will be hard-pressed to find a stroller that is as functional as the gb Pockit while being this small. Another unique quality of the gb Pockit Air is that its wheels are graded for all terrains so you won't have to worry about going through the grass at the park or over broken pavement.
- UPF 50+ protection from the canopy
- 2-step fold and unfold
- Can be steered with one hand
- Seat does not recline
- Wheels may be too small for some stone surfaces
BUY: gb Pockit+ Ultra Compact Travel Stroller
Best Double Travel Stroller - Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller
![travel with stroller Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller](https://content.active.com/Assets/Active.com+Content+Site+Digital+Assets/Kids/Best+Travel+Strollers/Joovy+Kooper+X2+Double+Stroller.jpg)
- Dimensions: 31.69" x 30.31" x 41.34"
- Weight: 28 lbs.
- Age range: Baby and up
- Weight limit: 99 lbs.
If you have ever traveled with multiple kids then you likely know how convenient a double stroller can be. And while they are naturally larger than other travel strollers, some double strollers are still relatively compact.
The Joovy Kooper X2 is our pick for the best double travel stroller. With the Joovy Kooper you'll get a 28-pound stroller that can hold two kids comfortably with a weight capacity of 99 pounds. This stroller has an iron frame so it is very durable and the seat fabric is removable and machine washable. It also has a good bit of storage underneath.
- 15-lb. storage space underneath
- Removable seat fabric is machine washable
- Durable iron frame
- Not a good option for infants
- 28 lbs. is fairly heavy
BUY: Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller
Best Travel Stroller for Toddlers - Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Baby Stroller
![travel with stroller Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Baby Stroller](https://content.active.com/Assets/Active.com+Content+Site+Digital+Assets/Kids/Best+Travel+Strollers/Ergobaby+Metro$!2b+Compact+Baby+Stroller.jpg)
- Dimensions: 34.2" x 17.3" x 37.7"
- Weight: 21 lbs.
- Age range: 0-4 years
Most good strollers are made to grow with your child. Some brands are able to do this better than others, but if you're looking for a travel stroller that operates at its best for toddlers, the Ergobaby Metro+ is what you're looking for.
This stroller has an adjustable footrest so your child can get comfortable, and an adjustable handlebar for you to choose your hand position while you're pushing the stroller. The canopy has UPF 50 protection, and it has ultra-padded seats.
- Car seat compatible
- Adjustable footrest and handlebar
- Ultra padding in the seats
- Unfolding can be difficult with one hand
BUY: Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Baby Stroller
Best Budget Travel Stroller - Summer Infant 3D Mini Convenience Stroller
![travel with stroller Summer Infant 3D Mini Convenience Stroller](https://content.active.com/Assets/Active.com+Content+Site+Digital+Assets/Kids/Best+Travel+Strollers/Summer+Infant+3D+Mini+Convenience+Stroller.jpg)
- Dimensions: 31.25" x 18.5" x 39"
- Weight: 11 lbs.
- Age range: 6 months to Toddler
- Weight limit: 45 lbs.
As you can see from our list, the price ranges for travel strollers go up to several hundred dollars. For the most part, you can expect to get what you pay for with travel strollers, but if you're looking for a good option that is budget-friendly, we found a gem.
The Summer Infant 3D mini convenience stroller has all of the basic features you need in a good travel stroller. This stroller folds to a nice, compact size, and only weighs 11 pounds. It doesn't have a storage basket underneath, but it has dual cup holders for parents plus storage pockets on the back.
- Dual-parent cup holders
- Budget-friendly
- Parent storage pockets
- Wheels may not be durable
- No basket for storage underneath
BUY: Summer Infant 3D Mini Convenience Stroller
Best Umbrella Travel Stroller - Pamo babe Travel Stroller
![travel with stroller Pamo babe Travel Stroller](https://content.active.com/Assets/Active.com+Content+Site+Digital+Assets/Kids/Best+Travel+Strollers/Pamo+babe+Travel+Stroller.jpg)
- Dimensions: 17.7" x 23.6" x 39.4"
- Weight: 15 lbs.
Many travel strollers fold into a rectangular shape similar to carry-on luggage so they can fit in overhead compartments on airplanes. But airplanes aren't the only mode of transportation for frequent travelers, so another option is the umbrella stroller.
Umbrella strollers fold in a vertical shape that looks like a folded umbrella. Our favorite umbrella travel stroller is the Pamo babe travel stroller. It is lightweight with a 50-pound weight range so you'll be able to use it well into toddlerhood. Plus this stroller has moisture-proof seat material that can weather the elements. And, of course, it folds to a nice vertical shape that is only 9 inches wide.
- Moisture-proof seat material
- XL adjustable canopy
- Folds vertically
- Umbrella strollers can be difficult to fold
- Plastic, cheap wheels
BUY: Pamo babe Travel Stroller
Best Travel Stroller for Infants - Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System
![travel with stroller Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System](https://content.active.com/Assets/Active.com+Content+Site+Digital+Assets/Kids/Best+Travel+Strollers/Evenflo+Pivot+Modular+Travel+System.jpg)
- Dimensions: 34" x 26.5" x 41.5"
- Weight: 20 lbs. (stroller only) 38 lbs. (stroller and car seat)
- Weight limit: 50 lbs. (stroller), 35 lbs. (car seat)
Infants have a lot of needs. Traveling with an infant can be overwhelming because of all the stuff you'll have to bring to make sure your baby is comfortable and settled. If you've experienced this, then give the Evenflo Pivot modular travel system a try.
This is a travel stroller and car seat combo package that can give you everything you'll need for your baby in one system. The stroller has six modes, including a bassinet mode if you want to park it and let your infant nap lying down. There is also an oversized storage basket underneath big enough for diaper bags so you're not carrying everything on your back.
- Car seat, stroller combo
- 6 modes including bassinet
- Oversized storage basket
- Some key accessories are sold separately
- Only some models have removable, washable pads
BUY: Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System
Best Folding Travel Stroller - Evenflo GOLD Otto Self-Folding Stroller
![travel with stroller Evenflo GOLD Otto Self-Folding Stroller](https://content.active.com/Assets/Active.com+Content+Site+Digital+Assets/Kids/Best+Travel+Strollers/Evenflo+GOLD+Otto+Self-Folding+Stroller.jpg)
- Dimensions: 33.5" x 21.13" x 40.5"
- Weight: 18 lbs.
- Age range: Toddler
We know that all travel strollers fold. But some of the folding mechanisms you'll find on travel strollers are more difficult than they seem, particularly when they auto-lock because it can be difficult to unlock and unfold with one hand. But the Evenflo GOLD Otto is in a league of its own.
This stroller has a self-folding mechanism. All you have to do is press the button under the handlebar and the stroller will fold down. Plus, it is immediately self-standing so you can truly move your hand away after pressing the button without worrying about the stroller falling over.
- Self-folding mechanism
- Infant car seat compatible
- Bumper bar becomes a handle when folded
- Only 2 adjustment levels on the back and footrest
- Not compatible with other brand car seats
BUY: Evenflo GOLD Otto Self-Folding Stroller
How to Choose the Best Travel Stroller
Safety features.
As you know, your child's safety is the highest priority when shopping for a travel stroller. Different brands have their own safety features, but generally speaking, you want a stroller that has a five-point harness, some form of bumper bar, a canopy that can get your kid out of the sun, and shock-absorbing wheels.
Other safety features are available and good to have, but these should be your baseline.
Strollers come in all shapes and sizes. Travel strollers are typically lighter and more compact than other types of strollers, so there may not be as much storage space on some models as you are used to.
The important thing to balance when you're traveling is your child's comfort and getting a stroller that is as compact as possible. You probably won't notice the difference between an 11-pound stroller and a 13-pound stroller, but if one is much smaller than the other your child may not be as comfortable.
Most strollers have an age recommendation and a weight recommendation. The most important thing to remember about the age recommendation is that at different stages your child can sit in different positions. For example, your infant should not be sitting in a forward-facing position.
Once your child can comfortably sit in a forward-facing stroller without their car seat, the age recommendation matters less than the weight limit.
Weight Limit
The weight limit recommendation on strollers is one of the most important specifications to note. Using a stroller after your child is over the weight limit recommendation can compromise the safety features and make the stroller less comfortable.
However, kids grow at different speeds so if your toddler is still under the weight limit then you can feel safe continuing to use the stroller.
FAQs About Travel Strollers
Are travel strollers worth it.
If you're planning on traveling, yes, travel strollers are worth it. They are easy to fold, easy to carry, and easier to maneuver in tight spaces like airports or trains.
What is the best stroller to take on a plane?
The best stroller to take on a plane is a compact travel stroller that will fit in the overhead compartment when folded. However, many airlines will offer to check your stroller at the gate for free so it will be waiting for you when you get off the plane.
Can you use a travel stroller for everyday use?
Yes, you can use travel strollers for everyday use, but you may find some travel strollers are not as durable as full-sized or jogging strollers. But there are high-quality travel strollers that will stand up to everyday use.
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Can I Bring a Stroller on a Plane? Your Ultimate Guide to Flying with Baby Gear
Are you planning to fly with your little one and wondering, "Can I bring a stroller on a plane?"
- Airlines are required by the FAA to allow strollers on planes or gate-check them, with some size and weight restrictions
- Check with your airline for specific guidelines
- 75% of parents bring strollers when flying with their baby or young child
- Choose a lightweight, compact stroller for easier air travel
- Gate-checking strollers help avoid damage and provides convenience
Know the Rules: FAA Regulations and Airline Policies
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), airlines are required to allow strollers to be checked at the gate or carried on the plane, as long as they meet the size and weight restrictions. However, airlines may have their own guidelines, so it's important to check beforehand. As Samantha Brown, Travel Expert, advises, " Traveling with a stroller can be a lifesaver for parents, but it's important to check with your airline beforehand to ensure you're following their specific guidelines. "
Picking the Perfect Plane-Friendly Stroller
In a survey conducted by BabyCenter, 75% of parents said they brought a stroller on a plane when traveling with their baby or young child. To make your journey easier, opt for a lightweight, compact stroller that meets airline requirements. Many brands offer travel-friendly options that fold down small enough to fit in overhead bins or under the seat in front of you.
To Carry On or Gate-Check? That Is the Question!
When it comes to bringing your stroller on board, you have two options: carrying it on the plane or gate-checking it. Carrying it on can be convenient if your stroller meets the size restrictions and your airline allows it. However, if you prefer to gate-check your stroller, be sure to bring a durable travel to protect it from potential damage during the flight.
The Advantages of Gate-Checking Your Stroller
Gate-checking your stroller has several benefits:
- Avoids the risk of damage during baggage handling
- Provides easy access to your stroller upon arrival
- Frees up space in the cabin, making for a more comfortable flight
Insider Tips for a Stress-Free Stroller Experience
As a travel journalist and parent, I've learned a few tricks to make flying with a stroller more manageable:
- Arrive early: Give yourself plenty of time to navigate security and check your stroller if needed.
- Document the condition of your stroller: Take photos before your flight to have proof of its condition in case of damage.
- Use stroller accessories: Invest in a travel bag, rain cover, and other stroller accessories to make your journey more convenient.
- Practice folding and unfolding: Become familiar with your stroller's folding mechanism to save time and avoid frustration at the airport.
- Consider a stroller rental: If you're unsure about bringing your own stroller, explore stroller rental options at your destination.
Additional Tips for a Smooth Flight with Your Stroller
Here are some more tips to ensure a hassle-free flight with your stroller:
- Check stroller weight limits: Airlines may have weight restrictions for strollers. Make sure your stroller complies with these limits to avoid any issues at the airport.
- Label your stroller: Attach a luggage tag with your name, address, and phone number to your stroller. This helps airport staff identify your stroller in case it gets misplaced.
- Keep essentials handy: If you plan to gate-check your stroller, pack a small carry-on bag with essentials like diapers, wipes, and snacks, as you won't have access to your stroller during the flight.
- Be courteous to fellow passengers: When boarding or deplaning, try to be mindful of other passengers by folding and stowing your stroller as efficiently as possible.
Understanding International Travel Regulations
If you're traveling internationally, be aware that stroller regulations may vary depending on the destination. Research the specific regulations for the country you're visiting to ensure a smooth journey. Also, consider any additional requirements, such as car seat compatibility or the use of public transportation, when choosing a stroller for international travel.
Traveling with a Stroller: Success Stories
Many parents have successfully traveled with their strollers, making family vacations more enjoyable and less stressful. One mom shared her experience: "I was nervous about flying with my stroller, but it turned out to be a lifesaver. I gate-checked my stroller, and it was waiting for me when I landed. It made navigating the airport and my destination so much easier."
Another parent said, "I invested in a compact travel stroller, and it made all the difference. It was easy to fold and fit in the overhead bin, so I didn't have to worry about it getting damaged."
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of stroller is best for air travel?
A lightweight, compact, and easily foldable stroller is ideal for air travel. Many brands offer travel-friendly options that meet airline requirements.
Can I bring a stroller and car seat on a plane?
Yes, you can usually bring both a stroller and a car seat on a plane. Check with your airline for specific guidelines and restrictions.
Do airlines charge for strollers?
Most airlines do not charge for checking a stroller, either as checked baggage or at the gate. However, it's essential to confirm with your airline before your flight.
How do I protect my stroller when flying?
Use a durable travel bag to protect your stroller from potential damage during the flight. You can also take photos of your stroller before your flight to have proof of its condition in case of damage.
Can I use my stroller at the airport?
Yes, you can use your stroller in the airport until you reach the boarding gate. At the gate, you can either carry it on the plane or gate-check it, depending on your airline's guidelines and your stroller's size.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the key to a successful flight with a stroller is preparation and research. By understanding the rules and regulations, choosing the right stroller, and following our insider tips, you'll be well-equipped for a stress-free journey with your little one. So pack up that stroller and get ready to create unforgettable family memories!
- Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). (n.d.). Traveling with Children .
- BabyCenter. (n.d.). Survey Results: Traveling with a Baby or Toddler .
- Samantha Brown. (n.d.). Travel Expert .
7 Best Portable Car Seats for Babies, Toddlers and Big Kids
We prioritized lightweight car seats for travel by plane, rental car and rideshare.
![7 Best Portable Car Seats for Traveling with the Whole Family 7 best portable car seats for traveling with the whole family](https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/ghi-portablecarseats-1675114988.png?crop=0.502xw:1.00xh;0.250xw,0&resize=640:*)
We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.
![Car Seat Stroller Car Seat Stroller](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1673555733-414cbAJduzL._SL500_.jpg?crop=1xw:1.00xh;center,top&resize=980:*)
Best Overall Portable Infant Car Seat
Doona car seat stroller.
![TurboBooster 2.0 TurboBooster 2.0](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1708370471-71KoOQAvVL.jpg?crop=0.700xw:0.700xh;0.149xw,0.210xh&resize=980:*)
Best Value Portable Booster Seat
Graco turbobooster 2.0.
![Scenera NEXT Scenera NEXT](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1673555823-5d425461-b5fd-4221-8401-0f17952ce3a6.9231c380f48a3d9bfddc063a2d7aa537.jpg?crop=1xw:1.00xh;center,top&resize=980:*)
Best Portable Convertible Car Seat
Cosco scenera next.
Aside from requiring a lot more gear, traveling with kids can be quite stressful, and in between packing your luggage and investing in a travel stroller , there's little mental energy for anything else. Fortunately, our experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute Parenting Lab have been testing car seats for decades, including the best convertible car seats , rotating car seats and the best booster seats . We test based on safety features, functionality, ease of use and value. Our picks are based on tests done in-Lab by our experts, evaluations from our consumer testers and extensive research.
Head to the end of this guide to find more information on how we test, whether or not you should use a car seat on a plane, what to look for when shopping for the best portable car seats and more. Looking for more to make traveling with kids as easy as possible? Check out our favorite outdoor-ready stroller wagons , the best lightweight strollers and top-rated double strollers .
The Doona car seat is our pick for the best overall car seat and stroller combo and it's one of our past Parenting Award winners. A dedicated fan following backs it up; see its more than 13,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. The Doona makes it easy to switch between car seat and stroller mode in seconds even with your baby strapped inside. In short, you don't need a separate infant car seat and a stroller, because this is both.
"It's the easiest stroller to maneuver through airport security and around an airport terminal," says one tester who's a mom of two young kids. It goes into a rideshare vehicle using the seat belt (no stroller to put in the trunk!). It's also FAA-approved for use in an airplane cabin and fits on most economy airplane seats, which are often about 17 inches wide.
Rachel Rothman , the Good Housekeeping Institute's former Chief Technologist and a mom of three, is a fan of this for travel. But it's important to note that, as well as being pricey, the Doona is only for rear-facing use and for toddlers up to 35 pounds. Toddlers outgrow it typically at age 2. But if you'll travel a lot in those first two years — even if it's just catching Ubers around town — you'll be grateful for the Doona.
Big kids need a bit of help ensuring that the seatbelt is hitting their body just right, so this backless booster gives them that extra height. It's also exceptionally small, lightweight and easy to travel with; you might even keep several in your car's trunk for when you're carpooling other kids.
Because it's backless, it doesn't offer as much support as a highback booster (for that, see the Peg Perego on this list). It is okayed for ages 4 and up as long as they weigh at least 40 pounds and could be great for a quick trip when you don't want to lug something large. This fits into a tote bag!
With its two hideaway cupholders, machine-washable seat cushions and padded armrests, this tucks a lot of features into a (really!) affordable seat. It's no surprise that it has more than 22,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. While it isn't airline-approved — all booster seats require a shoulder belt, which you won't find on an airplane — its compact size makes it incredibly simple to slide into your overhead bin to later use in taxis, Ubers or other vehicles once you get to your destination.
For a little more money there's a TurboBooster LX version that works with LATCH; nice if you'll be keeping this in one car for a length of time.
Got enough to carry already? At 10 pounds, this is the best lightweight convertible car seat for traveling and it won't break the bank. Five harness heights and three buckle locations help customize the seat to your baby or toddler's size, though it's the kind of harness you have to rethread each time you need to change it.
The Scenera can be installed rear-facing for babies and toddlers and forward-facing for preschoolers up to 40 pounds but lacks the cushioning and other comforts, like a recline mechanism, we've come to enjoy in an everyday toddler car seat . Still, with its deep bucket seat, this will keep your tiny passenger comfy enough and car seat compliant when you're traveling and in and out of other people's vehicles. It's especially great as a rear-facing travel option for 2- and 3-year-olds who have outgrown an infant car seat.
You can remove both the cupholder and seat pad for washing. The seat pad can even go in the dryer. The brand claims that three of these seats fit across a back seat and our tests were able to validate that in certain vehicles. It can be installed with the LATCH system or a seatbelt. It's approved for airplane seats and like our best overall pick it fits on most economy seats.
Peg Perego Viaggio Flex 120
![Viaggio Flex 120 Viaggio Flex 120](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1673556916-screen-shot-2023-01-12-at-3-52-53-pm-1673556795.png?crop=0.9982174688057041xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)
Kids who are at least age 4 and who weigh 40 pounds or more will appreciate the comfort of this belt-positioning booster seat just as much as parents will appreciate its ability to fold down to a fraction of its size.
The Flex 120 has an exceptionally large weight range, functioning for kids up to — you guessed it — 120 pounds. While it's a bit pricier than some other booster options, its ability to compact down makes it perfect for folding up and storing in a bag that you can then gate-check, or even fit into the overhead bin while in-flight. Note that no belt-positioning booster is certified for use in an airplane cabin because they're meant to be used with a car's shoulder belt, not an airplane lap belt. The big kids who fit this are good to use the airplane belt anyway! This is perfect for use in a rideshare, taxi or a far-off relative's vehicle when you land.
Customize this booster to your child by adjusting the headrest, upper backrest, side wings and seat. In addition to being an easy portable car seat, this is another great choice for grandparents or other caregivers who only occasionally drive big kids around because it so easily fits into a car's trunk when not in use.
Graco 4Ever DLX
![4Ever DLX 4Ever DLX](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1624989144-51avNqkcqdL._SL500_.jpg?crop=1xw:1.00xh;center,top&resize=980:*)
This is larger and heavier than any of our other choices. However, this is the most portable all-in-one car seat that grows with your little one from a rear-facing infant car seat to a backless booster, from 4 to 120 pounds .
Its versatility means that it may be the only car seat you ever have to buy, and if you travel infrequently, you could manage to tote this on a few trips and avoid buying something separate just for travel. It is certified to work on an airplane seat with the harness (so, up to 65 pounds), but it's about 3 inches wider than many economy airplane seats so the fit isn't great; one Reddit user said they put it in the window seat and then just accepted squeezing themselves into the middle-seat position.
While testing, we appreciated how easy this car seat was to install and use, making it pretty difficult to mess up due to user error. We also love how highly adjustable it is, with a six-position recline and a no-rethread harness with 10 possible heights. The easy-to-remove washable seat pads make it simple to clean up after your little one. If you're taking it with you into a rideshare and can't use the LATCH installation system, there's an integrated belt lock off on the back of the seat that helps make seat belt installation as simple as possible.
WAYB Pico Travel Car Seat
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This is a pricey option that has a fan following with frequent travelers who travel with a preschooler. It folds down into its own carrying case, which can be worn as a backpack, so you can easily get it through the airport and store it in a hotel. It's got a five-point harness and is meant for kids up to 50 pounds. The brand says it's for kids as young as 2 but because rear-facing is safest and this only faces forward, we would not recommend using it for a child until they are at least age 3, preferably 4.
The Pico does not have side-impact protection and other safety features we want on an everyday car seat, but for travel we agree that this has portability appeal. It also gets knocked in reviews for not being comfortable for long car rides if your child likes to nap, but again, we're putting it on this list for on-the-go families who are in "something is better than nothing" mode, even for short train, bus or van rides.
Our experts appreciate how lightweight this seat is (8 pounds), and that it easily fits even on the smallest economy airplane seat (it's FAA-approved). The seat can either be installed using the LATCH system or the seatbelt in a car or airplane.
Nuna PIPA urbn + TRVL Stroller
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If you're a city family that doesn't even own a car, there's a big reason to love the PIPA portable infant car seat: It's built to be installed without a base and is exceptionally easy to move between vehicles, including rideshares like Uber.
It's got a built-in rigid LATCH system or alternatively you can use the back seat seatbelt. Plus, the PIPA urbn only weighs 7 pounds, making it one of the lightest infant car seats we know of and an easy one to carry from place to place. The stroller, too, is lightweight at just under 14 pounds and can be folded down using just one hand. The car seat is built to ride on top of the stroller, to get them both through an airport, and we named it our favorite lightweight travel system .
The infant car seat does not have a high weight limit, however. Your baby will outgrow it when they hit 22 pounds or are 29 inches tall, whichever comes first. For some that can mean by their first birthday. But the stroller will stay useful through the preschool years since it has a weight limit of 50 pounds. The car seat is airline-approved and will fit on most economy cabin seats.
How we test the best portable car seats
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The Good Housekeeping Institute's engineering and parenting pros have reviewed dozens of car seats over the past five years, including portable car seats . Our Lab experts work with parents to test these car seats on a variety of vehicles of different brands and sizes to ensure that you can find the right car seat for your family.
Each car seat we consider has passed Federal Safety Standards. We perform tests both in the Lab and at home to evaluate each product's safety, ease of installation, stability, ease of adjustments, stroller compatibility and portability. To accomplish this, we set up each car seat in a variety of vehicles and strollers. We evaluate how easy it is to secure the harness as well as how difficult it is to install the car seats. For portable car seats we pay special attention to whether they can be installed without a LATCH system and if they are approved for use in an airplane cabin.
What to look for when shopping for a portable car seat
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Whether you're going on a trip or often take your child places in a rideshare vehicle, if you need a portable car seat you should consider these things:
✔️ Height and weight limits : All car seats come with minimum and maximum height and weight specifications. To ensure proper seatbelt placement and optimal security, make sure your child fits within those ranges. Once they meet the maximum in either height or weight, it's time to switch. If you have an adjustable car seat that transitions to a booster look at the labels on the car seat, check the user manual or contact the manufacturer so you know when it's time to switch modes.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) can help you determine the right kind of car seat for your child based on their age, weight and height. That will help you figure out if you can use an infant car seat or if you need a convertible car seat and if you're ready to move on to a booster car seat for travel.
✔️ Weight : The lightest car seats are often the most portable. We get especially excited when we find any that are less than 15 pounds, though a few on our list are heavier than that.
✔️ Easy cleaning : Regardless of age, spills happen. Luckily, like many other car seats, most portable seats offer removable machine-washable seat covers and padding.
✔️ Design : Traditional car seats have a ton of padding, robust side-impact protection and extra features that are important for every day but might be overkill for short trips. The best design for a portable car seat is a slim, streamlined one.
✔️ Ease of installation : Since you will be re-installing the car seat each time you put it in a new car or aircraft, it's important to find a car seat that is so easy to install it won't take more than a few minutes. The easiest car seats for traveling can be installed without a car seat base.
✔️ State laws : Before you bring your car seat across state lines, check state laws to be sure you'll be compliant. Often children through age 7 must be in a child-restraint seat. But if you're heading to Florida for Disney World, the laws there only apply to children through age 5.
Should you bring a car seat on the plane?
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While it is not mandatory to strap your little one into a car seat on an airplane, many parents opt to do so since it can be both a safer and more comfortable for everyone . It's recommended to do so for children under age 2 by the FAA and AAP. Note: For your child to ride in a car seat, you'll need to buy them their own plane ticket so they're guaranteed to have the space. If your baby under age 2 is flying as a free "lap baby" you are not guaranteed space for your car seat.
Before you bring a car seat onboard, check that it has an FAA-approved sticker. It's also a good idea to bring along your car seat manual to help ensure that you're properly installing the seat on the aircraft. There are helpful videos on YouTube, too, that show how to buckle a car seat in with a lap belt. (This one from the FAA shows how to install a forward-facing car seat on a plane .) Watch some before your trip!
The average airline seat is about 17 inches wide and measures 30 inches from the back of the seat to the seat in front of you — but size can vary depending on which airline you are flying. Because of this, it's best to pick a narrow, compact car seat. Infant car seats fit better than most convertible car seats, though we find that the Cosco choice on our list generally fits well.
For those who are traveling with a car seat who don't plan to use it while on the plane, many airlines will check the car seat or booster seat for free at the check-in desk or at the gate. It might be a good idea to purchase a travel bag to fit it in, to help avoid damage.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Lab pros and journalists at the Good Housekeeping Institute provide expert reviews and advice on everything a parent needs, including portable car seats.
This article was overseen by Rachel Rothman , former Chief Technologist & Director of Engineering at the Institute, who was trained in mechanical engineering and applied mathematics. As a mom to three kids, she personally used many of our recommended products.
In her former role as Parenting & Pets Reviews Analyst, Jamie Spain brought years of experience to the Institute and wrote the first iteration of this story. It has since been updated by contributing writer Jessica Hartshorn who has followed the car-seat market for 25 years, previously for Parents magazine and American Baby magazine. She's also a mom of two.
Jamie (she/her) is a parenting and pets reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute , where she spends her time testing, researching and writing about pet and family products. Prior to starting at GH in 2021, she worked at BuzzFeed and People , covering a combination of product reviews and lifestyle content. She's a graduate of Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and psychology and a master’s degree in journalism.
Jessica (she/her) is a freelance writer with several decades of experience writing lifestyle content and evaluating home and parenting products. A mom of two teens and two cats, her previous work can be seen in American Baby and Parents .
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The Best Travel Accessory: Your Kids
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24 countries in 24 months, over 200 flights, all with a baby! Sounds dreadful, right? Keeping an airborne baby calm, packing extra stuff, and lugging around a car seat doesn’t exactly spell “ideal vacation.” But Mona Hovaizi has shattered this idea by taking her 24-month-old baby to 24 countries! Remarkably, Hovaizi isn’t a full-time traveler; she’s a working dentist and business owner who has managed to turn what many describe as trying into some of the best experiences of her life. Through Little Feet Big Journey (LFBJ), Hovaizi demystifies travel for young families, showing that you don’t have to choose between your passions and parenthood.
Background
Hovaizi's dual life as a dedicated dentist and passionate traveler reflects her fascination with global cultures from a young age.
“Since childhood, I have been obsessed with seeing the world., I spent countless hours researching and reading about cultures, religions, and societies, and the more I learned, the more I realized how small my world was. As far away as these places seemed, it blew me away that a flight could make them suddenly real and tangible. The more I traveled, the more I realized that people are inherently the same deep down. My mother’s phrase, ‘we are all citizens of Earth,’ became a guiding principle. This drove my passion for travel and motivated me to introduce my son to the world.”
As of this article’s publishing, her passion for travel has taken Hovaizi to all 7 continents and 49 countries.
Birth of Little Feet Big Journey
The idea for LFBJ sparked when Hovaizi’s friends frequently sought her out for advice on traveling with their own babies. She decided to create a platform to share her hard-won cache of travel knowledge.
“I understand not everyone shares the same passion, but for those who do—or even those planning their first trip or road trip with a baby—I’ve gathered valuable tips and tricks to make family adventures, big or small, enjoyable.”
Despite the cautionary tales about life changing forever after having a baby, Hovaizi was determined to keep doing what she loved. She discovered that with the right mindset, it’s entirely possible and can, at times, be easy.
“Our realities are in our own hands, and many of our limitations are self-made,” says Hovaizi, crediting her dad for ingraining this concept in her.
She encourages parents to live the life they want and watch how children adapt, rather than adapting to the supposed constraints of parenthood.
The Power of Mindset
Hovaizi repeatedly hears the same reasons for avoiding travel from parents with young kids: “They’re too young to remember,” “My baby can only handle a short flight,” “There’s so much extra stuff to take,” “I can’t do what I want when on vacation with a baby,” “It’s overwhelming.”
Hovaizi assuages these fears by sharing her own experiences. She’s proof that traveling with little ones can be not just feasible, but also enriching. Her advice: plan a vacation you will enjoy, and remember that children adapt, especially when exposed to new environments early.
“I believe in simplicity, open-mindedness, and positive thinking. The mind is a powerful tool, and we can train it. Every problem has a solution, and by avoiding over-complicating situations, we prevent fears from controlling us. I’m not a full-time traveler, but I’ve taken my son all around the world, and this was made possible entirely due to my mindset—embracing calmness and flexibility. Your thoughts become your reality.”
Balancing Travel with Work
Hovaizi’s ability to travel extensively while working full-time is a testament to both her mental approach and a supportive work environment.
“When you see families posting travel content on social media, it’s easy to think their lives are different from ‘normal’ families. That’s not true for us. My husband and I both have full-time jobs, so balancing travel, parenting, and work has been challenging. I’m fortunate to have always worked at dental practices that allow me to create my own schedule, Lumiere Dental Spa in Quincy, MA, and Advanced Dental Care in Quincy, IL. As cliché as it sounds, when I tell myself something is possible, it somehow always comes together. By believing it’s our truth, we find ways to make it happen despite obstacles.”
Future Aspirations
Hovaizi hopes LFBJ will inspire parents to set out on journeys big or small with their little ones, equipped with the mindset and resources to liberate themselves from the confines of home. Whether it’s a local grocery run or a spice market on a different continent, she wants parents to feel confident about traveling with kids.
Soon, Hovaizi will unveil a new product aimed at solving the biggest challenges parents face when traveling with children, ensuring that whether exploring a nearby restaurant or an entirely new continent, families can enjoy their adventures to the fullest.
See more at: https://www.instagram.com/littlefeetbigjourney/
www.littlefeetbigjourney.com
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Bugaboo Butterfly - 1 Second Fold Ultra-Compact Stroller - Lightweight & Compact - Great for Travel - Forest Green
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- ONE SECOND FOLD & UNFOLD - The smart and easy 1 second folding system which offers a true fold & go experience with just one free hand.
- EASY TO CARRY - Only weighing 16.1 lbs and offers multiple carrying modes to effortlessly take it with you by the integrated carry strap or leg rest.
- SMALL TO STORE - Ultra compact fold for easy storing at home or on the go. It's also travel certified (IATA compatible) and can fit into overhead compartments in most airlines and train travel.
- GROWING TODDLER - Designed specifically with growing babies in mind (Up to 50 lbs). The Bugaboo Butterfly features an extra spacious seat with high backrest and extra padded inlay.
- ADD ACCESSORIES - Compatible with most Bugaboo accessories. Use them to add comfort, convivence or stylize your stroller in new ways.
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The smart and easy 1-second fold system
offers a true fold & go experience, requiring only one hand.
Designed for portability
at just 15.4 pounds, it offers multiple carrying options, making it effortless to bring along using the integrated carry strap or leg rest.
Ultra-compact
4-wheel suspension & extra-large underseat basket (17.6 pounds).
Large and super comfortable seat
(up to 48.5 pounds). Almost fully flat one-hand recline for quality nap time.
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Bugaboo Butterfly Bumper Bar Stroller Accessory!
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My honest review if this is worth it
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Customers say
Customers like the ease of use, comfort, appearance, quality and smoothness of the stroller. They mention that it's very easy to use, fold, set up and break down, and that it is comfortable for travel. They appreciate the foot rest design and the elite sun shade. Customers also mention that the strollers rides very smooth.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers find the stroller very compact, easy to carry for trips, and saves car space. They also say it fits in the overhead bin on the airplane and is light to carry. Customers also mention that the strollers rides smooth yet can fit in tight spaces.
"...I would highly recommend this for those looking for a compact but high-end stroller. We're looking forward to using it for plane travel soon." Read more
"Best compact stroller ever! It fits in the floorboard space of the back (as well as in the trunk of a small car). Easy open and close! Light weight...." Read more
"...The bottom basket is a great size and holds everything you need. Handling is comfortable and easy...." Read more
"...So easy, comfortable, durable and convenient. It fits in the over head bin the airplane making it so helpful during travel...." Read more
Customers find the stroller easy to fold. They mention it's compact, and can be folded with one hand. Some say it'll take all day to fold, but it'd be easy to open in a second.
"... Easy open and close ! Light weight. The ride is smooth but doesn't handle uneven pavement well...." Read more
"...It's comfortable for travel as it folds easily and fits anywhere...." Read more
"This is a wonderful stroller, folds with one hand ! Huge cap! Everything comes off and can be washe!" Read more
"Amazing stroller. It's light, easy of folding " Read more
Customers are satisfied with the quality of the stroller. They mention that it is well-designed, sturdy, and has a high-quality feel and look. Some say that it's a perfect stroller for airplane travel.
"We love this stroller. So easy, comfortable, durable and convenient. It fits in the over head bin the airplane making it so helpful during travel...." Read more
"This is a wonderful stroller , folds with one hand! Huge cap! Everything comes off and can be washe!" Read more
" Amazing stroller . It's light, easy of folding" Read more
"...other than that, this is a really good , convenient, and comfortable stroller for baby." Read more
Customers like the comfort of the stroller. They mention that their baby is very comfortable in it, and it's spacious. They also appreciate the foot rest and that it'll fit anywhere. The ride is smooth, and the strollers is comfortable to push for both parents. The stroller feels luxurious, and has a great recline for nap time.
"...The ride is smooth and it's comfortable to push for my husband (6'0") and I (5'8")...." Read more
"... Handling is comfortable and easy . Not good on rough terrain, even the smallest cracks in the cement will give you issues. For us it's perfect." Read more
"We love this stroller. So easy, comfortable , durable and convenient. It fits in the over head bin the airplane making it so helpful during travel...." Read more
"...other than that, this is a really good, convenient, and comfortable stroller for baby ." Read more
Customers find the stroller easy to use. They say it's less cumbersome, convenient, and comfortable. They also mention that the car seat adapter is easy to add to the strollers.
"...Love, love, love that the straps naturally stick up. Makes putting him in so easy since in not fishing under him for straps...." Read more
"We love this stroller. So easy, comfortable, durable and convenient . It fits in the over head bin the airplane making it so helpful during travel...." Read more
"...It was easy to put together as only the seat padding was needed to put through straps, so it came assembled in the box...." Read more
"We love this stroller. Has amazing features including the one handed hold and size of the stroller...." Read more
Customers like the smoothness of the stroller. They say the wheels roll smoothly, it steers like a dream, and it has easy maneuverability.
"...Bottom line is it's a versatile, lightweight compact stroller that rides smooth yet can fit in tight spaces...." Read more
"...'s the same with this because I really do like it and the wheels are smooth and controlled .Update 6/19..." Read more
"...This by far is the best stroller ever!!!! The wheels roll so smooth , I also love the harness it has 5 of them my 2 year escapes all the time from my..." Read more
Customers like the value of the stroller. They say it's worth the price, and a reasonable travel stroller that does the job perfectly. Some mention that it gets used to, but it'll be worth it to figure out.
"...I would highly recommend this for those looking for a compact but high-end stroller . We're looking forward to using it for plane travel soon." Read more
"...We can’t recommend this enough. So worth the $$ " Read more
"...interested in the babyzen yoyo2 but went with this one because it was cheaper , included a foot rest, and was REALLY only one hand/one sec fold...." Read more
"I did like this stroller, but it's just too pricey . Also, it mostly did work for convince but sometimes has trouble folding it with one hand...." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the appearance of the stroller. They mention that it's beautiful, stunning, and well designed. They also appreciate the large sunshade and the thoughtful design. Overall, customers recommend this stroller for toddlers and kids 2 and up.
"...This one works really well for her! The footrest is also really nice to have so she can prop up her tired legs...." Read more
"...keeping the stroller because I need it for travel, but definitely looks very chic and is light weight...." Read more
"...It’s compact, attractive, lightweight, has a large sunshade and a decent sized storage...." Read more
"...Nuna trvl is definitely right there with it. It’s beautiful and I would have loved it as the wheels are definitely a little better than the bugaboo..." Read more
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IMAGES
COMMENTS
Key Takeaways. Flying with car seats and strollers can be stressful, but they provide safety and comfort for your child during the flight. Car seats should be FAA-approved and fit within airplane seat dimensions. Strollers must fold small enough to fit in overhead compartments. Checking car seats and strollers is simple at the ticket counter or ...
Travel strollers make leaving home with your little one easier and more convenient. Today's travel stroller is a minimalist's dream. Most have many of the same high-end features as the best traditional strollers all rolled into a compact, portable package. Many break down to fit in the overhead bin of a plane or can be folded down quickly (and with one hand) and slung over your shoulder.
Overall, the price-to-performance ratio of the Cloud Plus is so good that it's an excellent budget option. The Details: 11.8 pounds | 38 x 27 x 18 inches assembled | 10 x 33 x 17.5 inches folded ...
The Top Travel Strollers of 2023. Best Overall Travel Stroller: Joolz Aer. Best Umbrella Stroller for Travel: UPPAbaby MINU V2. Best Double Stroller for Travel: UPPAbaby G-LINK 2. Best Travel ...
The best travel strollers for airplanes, whether you are carrying it on or gate checking, have a one-hand fold, since you can fold your stroller and hold your baby at the same time. For decades parents have been flying with strollers, typically choosing the best lightweight umbrella stroller for air travel. Umbrella strollers are great for ...
June 2024. A good travel stroller can make the difference between a jaunty vacation and a miserable slog. We researched dozens of travel strollers, tested seven on a variety of trips involving ...
Weight: 21.8 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 14 x 40 x 17.5 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 41 x 25 x 28.3 inches | Seat Dimensions: 10 x 11 inches. TripSavvy / Conor Ralph. The 7 Best Travel Cribs of 2024, Tested and Reviewed.
Cybex pushed the travel-stroller category when it came out with a Pockit stroller that folds into a neat square. The latest version is the Libelle which, when folded, is just 12.6" x 7.9" x 18.9".
1. Babyzen YOYO2 Stroller. The Babyzen Yoyo2 - my top pick for the best stroller for airplane travel. In my opinion, the Babyzen YOYO2 is the best travel stroller for flying. The easy one-hand fold brings this 13.6 pound travel stroller down to folded dimensions of 20.5 x 17.3 x 7.1 inches.
Best Luxury: Nuna TRVL Stroller. Best Double: Uppababy G-Link V2. Best Budget: Munchkin Sparrow. Best for Car Travel: Baby Jogger City Tour 2. Best for Trains and Buses: Babyzen YOYO2. In our New ...
We've tested strollers from almost 30 brands, including Chicco, Doona, Graco, Mountain Buggy, and Uppababy, and we rate them based on ease of use, maneuverability, and, of course, safety. Below ...
Enter the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Travel System: This multiple-friendly stroller-car seat combo includes the brand's full-size Pivot Xpand stroller with the SafeMax Infant Car Seat. It has an impressive number of possible configurations, and for parents of twins or two under 2, it's a must-have.
The Best Travel Strollers. Searching for the best travel stroller available today? We considered over 50 popular competitors and purchased 11 top strollers for intense side-by-side testing for this review. Finding a great travel stroller for travel or commuting can be more challenging than it looks. We can help!
Best Travel Stroller Overall: Joolz Aer+. Best Value Travel Stroller : Colugo Compact Stroller. Best Travel System Stroller: Doona Infant Car Seat And Stroller. Best Travel Stroller For Everyday ...
Best for: City dwellers who need a stroller system that can go from sidewalk to car to airplane seamlessly. Weight: 13.6 pounds. Size when folded: 24 inches by 20.25 inches by 11 inches. To buy: NUNA PIPA urbn + TRVL stroller and car seat travel system, $900.
Nordstrom. $399.99. buy on amazon. We have loved our Uppababy Minu. While it's a little bigger than other travel strollers, our son has always been tall for his age. The recline allows him to ...
Best Value Travel System Stroller: Chicco Mini Bravo Sport Travel System. Best Travel System Stroller For Newborns: Uppababy Vista V2 And Mesa Infant Car Seat. Best Travel System Stroller For ...
The stroller travel system comes with the Baby Jogger City Go 2 Car Seat, which features a one-hand adjustable headrest with no-rethread harness, a quiet canopy and even a taxi guide loop for easy ...
CYBEX Eezy S + 2 Stroller. With a full flat recline and adjustable leg rest, the CYBEX Eezy S+2 travel stroller can be used from birth. It is also compatible with CYBEX infant car seats. The CYBEX Eesy S+2 is similar in size to many others at 16.8 pounds, but folded dimensions are slightly larger at 23" x 17.7" x 20".
The 5 Best Travel Strollers Under $500 1. A Cabin-size Stroller With Plenty To Offer Besrey Airplane Stroller. This cute and convenient stroller is so small it can fit into its very own backpack, making it perfect for families traveling by air. With an innovative 2-step folding design, the carry bag measures just 22'' x 12''x 11 ...
Best Budget: Graco Modes Pramette Travel System at Amazon ($300) Jump to Review. Best for City Use: Doona Convertible Infant Car Seat Stroller System at Amazon ($550) Jump to Review. Best Handling ...
Best Budget Travel Stroller: Summer Infant 3D Mini Convenience Stroller. Best Umbrella Travel Stroller: Pamo babe Travel Stroller. Best Travel Stroller for Infants: Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System. Best Folding Travel Stroller: Evenflo GOLD Otto Self-Folding Stroller.
What type of stroller is best for air travel? A lightweight, compact, and easily foldable stroller is ideal for air travel. Many brands offer travel-friendly options that meet airline requirements.
Safest portable car seats for travel with babies, 2-year-old toddlers or big kids traveling by airplane and Uber. ... The Doona makes it easy to switch between car seat and stroller mode in ...
3. Joovy Caboose Ultralight Graphite Stroller. The Joovy Caboose Ultralight Graphite Stroller is a sit and stand stroller, making it an ideal double stroller for anyone traveling with a toddler and a baby. If, like mine, your toddler likes to frequently get in and out of the stroller, this is the perfect solution.
24 countries in 24 months, over 200 flights, all with a baby! Sounds dreadful, right? Keeping an airborne baby calm, packing extra stuff, and lugging around a car seat doesn't exactly spell ...
UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller/Full-Featured Stroller with Travel System Capabilities/Toddler Seat, Bumper Bar, Bug Shield, Rain Shield Included/Greyson (Charcoal Mélange/Carbon Frame/Saddle Leather) 4.8 out of 5 stars 580
Delta Children Clutch Ultra Compact Lightweight Travel Stroller. Ideal for airplane travel, the Delta Children Clutch is a lightweight foldable stroller that folds up to a size of 15 x 19.7 x 5.9 inches and weighs 12 lbs. If you are looking for a small compact stroller for toddlers, this is it!