The Best Umbrella Strollers
Whether you’re looking for a lightweight everyday stroller for urban living or need a travel-friendly backup to take on the road, an umbrella stroller is a great choice.
Sure standard size strollers are great but they can be heavy and bulky. So after a few months with baby in tow, you may start to crave a second lightweight stroller to bring on vacation or for quick errand runs. And that’s where the umbrella stroller comes in handy. Compact and lightweight, an umbrella stroller folds vertically and is a convenient option for air travel, family days out at a theme park or zipping around the city streets.
Ready to start your search? Below find top tips on what to look for then browse our picks for the best umbrella stroller that’ll be your family’s go-to travel companion.
Wondering what makes an umbrella stroller different to a standard model? An umbrella stroller is designed to be lightweight and compact. Umbrella strollers typically weigh under 20 pounds (with most weighing less than 15 pounds); Whereas, traditional strollers can weigh over 35 pounds, depending on the features. Umbrella strollers take their name from the vertical folding mechanism, which mirrors that of an umbrella. When folded you’ll be left with a narrow package that looks similar to a closed umbrella. These strollers are designed for portability and convenience, making them a popular choice for parents who need a stroller for quick trips, travel or navigating through crowded city streets. That said, an umbrella stroller won’t have all of the tricked-out features you’d find in a travel system, like a roomy storage basket or a bassinet attachment. And, for the most part, they’re not a suitable mode of transportation for infants under 4 months old.
Before purchasing an umbrella stroller, take a moment to consider your family’s lifestyle and needs. While there are many basic models available, some umbrella strollers have extra features like cup holders, snack trays and reclining seats. Below find a few factors that will help guide your search.
- Lightweight frame. The whole point of an umbrella stroller is that it’s lightweight and easy to grab and go. Umbrella strollers range in weight from 10 to 20 lbs. Super-lightweight options are fine for occasional use, but if you’re going to use it daily consider a slightly heavier stroller as it may be better equipped.
- Compact fold: A simple and compact fold is a key characteristic of an umbrella stroller. The best umbrella strollers can be folded with one-hand and some options are even small enough to fit in an overhead airplane luggage bin.
- Weight capacity and age range. Pay particular attention to the manufacturer’s age and weight guidelines when selecting an umbrella stroller. Most umbrella strollers don’t offer enough head and neck support for young infants, so always take your child’s age and stage into consideration before making a purchase.
- Built-in storage basket. Granted, umbrella strollers don’t have ample storage space but it’s important to have somewhere to safely stash your essentials. And don’t be tempted to sling a packed diaper bag on the stroller handles! According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), hanging items from the handles of a stroller can cause it to tip backward. If the stroller has a basket for carrying things, be sure it is placed low and near the rear wheels.
- Canopy. A retractable canopy is a must-have feature in any stroller. On sunny days, a canopy will keep your little one safely in the shade and keep the light out of their eyes.
The best umbrella strollers are lightweight, compact and easy to fold. Below find seven tried and tested options that’ll get you (and baby) from point A to point B.
Overall best umbrella stroller
- Lightweight
- Single-handed fold
- Large storage basket
- Handles are fixed in a high position
Voted the top umbrella stroller in this year’s Best of The Bump awards, Summer Infant 3D Lite+ meets the mark in terms of style, features and value for money. The aluminum frame is lightweight yet sturdy enough to hold baby’s weight and glide smoothly over the sidewalk. Our product tester found it a dream to steer, saying “it was super smooth riding and pushing even with my baby inside. I also tried with stuff in the storage compartment and [it was] still super smooth and easy to maneuver.” Speaking of the storage compartment, this stroller has a roomy basket underneath the seat. According to our tester it’s big enough to accommodate a decent-sized diaper bag and a light blanket. “It was easy to access right underneath the stroller seat, and nothing was falling out either,” our tester explained. It took a minute to find the open-and-close mechanism, but once located using it is “a piece of cake.” Simply push down to pop open the stroller then fold it down with one hand. It folds down to a long yet narrow package that’s easy to grab and go thanks to a built-in carry handle. Our product tester used it for solo errands and found it easy to store in the trunk of a small car: “I laid it flat in the trunk and still had space for other stuff such as groceries and what not,” she noted. Other great features we love include: a padded, fully reclining seat, an oversized canopy with a pull-out sun visor, a cup and phone holder and anti-shock wheels. For years, parents have raved about the 3D Lite as one of hands-down best umbrella strollers around—and we can see why.
Age range: 6+ months | Dimensions (open): 27" (L) x 18" (W) x 43" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 10" (L) x 12" (W) x 43" (H) | Weight: 13 lbs. | Capacity: 50 lbs.
“The value of this stroller for the price it is going for is such a steal. It is an amazing price for the quality, compact-ability and many great features you are getting. This stroller could definitely be priced a little more and still be worth the value!”
Best compact umbrella stroller
- Compact fold
- Shoulder strap
- Lightweight
- Bassinet and newborn pack sold separately
- High price point
YOYO². It’s suitable from birth when used with the bassinet attachment and is easily adapted to accommodate older infants with the 6+ color pack. In fact, our product tester used the stroller with her baby and almost 3-year-old toddler: “Adjusting strap heights from toddler to baby is pretty simple, and something that can be done when my toddler wants to go in it vs our 6 month old.” But the real standout feature is the lightweight, collapsible frame. The YOYO² stroller folds and unfolds in a moment, and when folded it’s small enough to fit in most overhead airplane luggage bins. Plus, a shoulder carry strap makes it easy to take on the move. “I think the design is sleek and pretty simple. When folded up and worn with the strap, it doesn't look bulky or like it is even a stroller,” gushed our product tester. A reclining seat and smooth suspension on all four wheels make for a comfortable ride. And while it’s not the best option for tough terrain, it’s an ideal choice for urban life. “The stroller was easy to move around stores and in and out of places. When moving the stroller up and down on a curb, it was very lightweight with a baby in it.” Other aspects we love include a large sun canopy with a peekaboo window, a five-point safety harness, and a zip pocket on the hood.
Age range: 0+ months (with bassinet) 6+ months (with seat) | Dimensions (open): 41.7" (L) x 33.8" (W) x 17.3" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 20.5" (L) 17.3" (W) x 7.1" (H) | Weight: 13.7 lbs. | Capacity: 48.5 lbs.
“I loved how compact and light it is when folded. It comes with a strap to make it easy to carry on your shoulder, which is great for moving it from car to car or when traveling.”
Best car seat compatible umbrella stroller
- Folds with one hand
- Vertical free-standing fold
- Adjustable handle height
- Heavier than other options
Next up on our list of the best umbrella strollers is the Diono Flexa Luxe. While it falls on the heavier side, it has many of the same features found in a regular size stroller. It comes with car seat adapters—compatible with Nuna, Maxi-Cosi & Cybex—so you can create your very own travel system. The cushy seat reclines to a lie-flat position that is safe for newborns and the calf-rest can be adjusted for a comfortable ride. A roomy canopy shields your little one from the elements. All-around suspension and double back wheels make navigating crowded sidewalks a breeze. And the telescopic handles can be raised or lowered to suit your height. The best part? A free-standing vertical fold allows the stroller to stand upright for storage in small spaces like an apartment closet or hallway.
Age range: 0+ months | Dimensions (open): 41.34" (L) x 20.67" (W) x 26.18" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 44.09" (L) x 14.57" (W) x 13.58" (H) | Weight: 18.2 lbs. | Capacity: 50 lbs.
Best umbrella stroller for travel
- Incredibly lightweight
- UPF 50+ sun visor
- Airplane carry-on compliant
- Lacks suspension
- Small storage basket
Because they’re lightweight and compact, all umbrella strollers are good for travel. But some additional features can make a travel umbrella stroller great. Do its dimensions allow it to fit in the overhead compartment on a plane? Does it weigh less than 15 pounds? How compact is it folded up? All important things to consider when looking for the best umbrella stroller for travel. If you’re packing for a trip and serious about traveling light, the Good Baby Pockit Air All-Terrain is an excellent choice. At under 11 lbs. it’s one of the lightest umbrella strollers on our list and folds up into the size of a handbag. (There are two fold size options: one for everyday use and a smaller fold for travel) Better yet, it meets all the requirements for airplane hand luggage. The double wheels were built to easily navigate airport terminals or city streets. Plus, the seat is made with a breathable mesh fabric so your kiddo doesn’t overheat on even the hottest of days (there’s a padded inlay for when the weather turns cool).
Age range: 6+ months | Dimensions (open): 28" (L) x 16.5" (W) x 40.4" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 7.1" (L) x 11.8" (W) x 13.8" (H) | Weight: 10.3 lbs. | Capacity: 55 lbs.
Best reclining umbrella stroller
- One-hand recline
- Removable, washable fabrics
- All-wheel suspension
- Heavier than other options
When you have a tuckered out kiddo in tow, a reclining stroller is a must. And while some of the plush, adjustable seats of higher-end strollers look tailor-made for naptime, several reclining umbrella strollers get the job done too. The G-Luxe from UPPAbaby is a standout. Not only does it have a one-handed recline, it also has key features like an extendable canopy, a storage basket that can hold up to 10 pounds and a carry strap. It even stands up on its own once folded. And all-wheel suspension and an easy-to-operate foot brake guarantee a smooth ride, while your little one snoozes.
Age range: 3+ months | Dimensions (open): 28.8" (L) x 18.8" (W) x 43" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 19.2" (L) x 12" (W) x 41.8" (H) | Weight: 16.3 lbs. | Capacity: 55 lbs.
Best affordable umbrella stroller
- Affordable price point
- Extendable sun canopy
- Super-lightweight
- Low weight limit
Sometimes you just need a no-frills substitute, something you can toss in the trunk for a day trip. But a cheap umbrella stroller doesn’t have to skimp on quality. No umbrella stroller should cost the earth, but one that’s under $50? Yes, please. Meet the Kolcraft Cloud, a super lightweight umbrella stroller routinely praised by parents for being a great value for the money. A storage basket, five-point safety harness and an extra large canopy add to its appeal. And a one-step fold makes opening and closing the stroller easy as can be. Shock-absorbing wheels roll nicely over the sidewalk, but don’t expect to take this pick over sand or grass.
Age range: | Dimensions (open): 28.5" (L) x 18" (W) x 38.25" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 10" (L) x 10" (W) x 42.5" (H) | Weight: 9.5 lbs. | Capacity: 40 lbs.
Best double umbrella stroller
- Carry handle
- Compact fold for a double stroller
- Reclining side-by-side seats
- Heavier than standard umbrella strollers
Double strollers often carry the weight of being bigger, bulkier and generally unwieldy in the world of baby gear—but the UPPAbaby G-Line busts this stereotype. It’s the best umbrella stroller for eliminating some of the biggest pain points of double strollers: Each seat reclines independent of the other and each passenger gets their own canopy. Because it has four sets of wheels like a traditional stroller, rather than the six found on most sets of doubles, maneuvering a double-wide load is still easy. And, yes, it’ll fit easily through a standard door frame, leaving six inches to spare.
Age range: 3+ months | Dimensions (open): 27.5" (L) x 28.5" (W) x 42" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 40" (L) x 20" (W) x 14.5" (H) | Weight: 22.3 lbs. | Capacity: 55 lbs. per seat
With hundreds of options on the market, choosing the right stroller for your family can feel just about as daunting as buying a car. To streamline your decision-making process, our goal is to do the bulk of the research for you, so you don’t have to spend hours scrolling through online retailers. We do this by considering a list of criteria when sourcing strollers, including size, weight, folding mechanism, bonus features and, last but definitely not least, safety. This way you can count on getting the best bang for your buck, while also having a dependable stroller that will meet your family’s needs.
To decide which umbrella strollers are the best options on the market, we leverage our familiarity with leading baby brands to make sure items are from reliable manufacturers. We read user reviews to get the low-down on how these products work for families, and typically don’t consider anything with less than an average four-star rating. And since many of us are also parents, we rely on our writers’ and editors’ experience using these products with their own families.
To make sure we’re highlighting products that are safe and effective, we follow the safety recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics and look for certifications and seals of approval from key organizations.
Interested in learning more about our editorial process? Read about how our team develops and reviews all articles here.
Plus, more from The Bump:
American Academy of Pediatrics, How to Choose a Safe Baby Stroller, August 2022
Consumer Product Safety Commission, New Stroller Standard, September 2015
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