12 Best Lightweight Strollers for Families on the Go
Lightweight strollers aren’t just for theme parks and airports anymore. When you’re a parent on the go—whether that means juggling errands around town or traveling via planes, trains and automobiles—the last thing you need is a too-bulky stroller weighing you down. Fortunately, the world of lightweight strollers has come a long way from the flimsy and feature-less umbrella strollers of the past. Now, the best lightweight strollers are easy to push, easy to fold and easy to tote around, while still being durable enough for everyday use.
First things first: What’s classified as a “lightweight” stroller, anyway? Well, they typically weigh under 20 pounds (most average between 13 and 15 pounds). While pretty much all umbrella strollers are lightweight (usually at or around 10 lbs), not all lightweight strollers are umbrella strollers. In addition to the rides with two curved handles and long, umbrella-like folds (the hallmark features of an umbrella stroller), today’s options also include compact strollers with many of the bells and whistles you’ve come to expect from an everyday workhorse stroller, with perks like sun canopies, rain covers, reclinable seats and undercarriage storage compartments.
When looking around for the best lightweight strollers, maneuverability and safety are chiefly important, of course. Here are some other top features to keep in mind:
- Foldability. Consider the size of the stroller when folded as well as how easy it is to set up and break down. A one-handed fold at the press of a button can be a true game-changer when you’ve got your hands full.
- Portability. Many of the best lightweight strollers come with a handy travel case or strap that you can sling over your shoulder or across your body for ultimate travel friendliness. Some even have a bumper bar that can double as a nifty luggage handle when you’re traversing a crowded airport.
- Passenger comfort. A lightweight stroller can be a revolutionary piece of gear for families on-the-go, but only as long as the passengers are happy. Look for options that include oversized canopies or adjustable shades with Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) to shield your little one from the sun, and fully reclinable seats that let napping babies rest comfortably. Some reclining strollers can even accommodate babies younger than 6 months old who don’t have full head and neck control (and therefore shouldn’t sit upright).
Ready to get rolling with your lightweight stroller search? From overhead compartment-contortionists to pocket prams with unbelievable weight capacity, these are our favorite models.
Overall Best Lightweight Stroller
Traveling with baby doesn’t have to be a headache. With the Bugaboo Butterfly Stroller, our Best of Baby award-winner for best lightweight stroller, you can wave bon voyage to the days of wrestling bulky gear that refuses to fold at the airport gate. This stroller folds and unfolds in one second flat, with just one hand. The ultra-compact design is approved by the International Air Travel Association (IATA) as carry-on luggage. Beyond fitting into a plane’s overhead compartment, it can easily stow in your hotel room closet. Better yet, it’s car seat-compatible for your on-the-go convenience (and if you’re strolling with a newborn). It boasts a generous accordion-style canopy, a comfy leg rest and a basket big enough to actually store items as you stroll around town.
Specs at a glance:
- Stroller weight: 16.1 pounds
- Child weight capacity: 50 pounds
- Storage weight capacity: 17.63 pounds
- Folded dimensions: 7.72 x 9.06 x 21.26 inches
- Meets the requirements for carry-on luggage set by the IATA; can fit easily into a plane’s overhead compartment
- Features a one-handed, one-second fold without the need to adjust any part of the stroller
- Comes with a carry strap that makes it easy to tote around when not in use
- Expensive
Best Lightweight Double Stroller
Traveling with two doesn’t have to mean double the weight (or stress), thanks to the Mountain Buggy Nano Duo. Whether your family has siblings or twins, individually adjustable foot rests and lie-flat fabric sling seats make this lightweight double stroller compatible—and comfortable—for two newborns, two toddlers or one of each. A patented tail-free five-point harness all but eliminates any chewing on the straps. And it’s not just a comfy ride for the little ones in tow: The Nano Duo is easy to maneuver, can be steered and unfolded with just one hand, and handles curbs and terrain like a dream. Plus, with a weight of just 20 pounds, the Nano Duo proves that a lightweight double stroller is not an oxymoron.
Specs at a glance:
- Stroller weight: 20 pounds
- Child weight capacity: 33 pounds per seat
- Storage weight capacity: 17.6 pounds
- Folded dimensions: 20 x 28.7 x 11 inches
- Made of aircraft-grade lightweight aluminum, making it sturdy without feeling heavy to push or carry
- Features a compact, self-standing fold and a convenient shoulder strap
- Ventilated seats, cool weather seat panels and UPF50+ sun visors all help to protect against the elements
- Expensive
- Accessories like a rain cover and car seat adaptor are sold separately
Best Lightweight Stroller for Travel
Many of the strollers on this list boast a light weight, compact fold and carrying strap for easy transport. But a lightweight stroller that folds down into a roller bag? Now that’s a game-changer. The Silver Cross Jet features a bumper bar that doubles as a luggage handle, allowing you to save your shoulders and wheel it around airports, train stations and the like for ultimate ease in traveling. Plus, it features a super compact, one-motion fold that fits into a plane’s overhead compartment, a UPF5-+ canopy and a magnetic harness buckle to make getting your kiddo in and out a cinch. With this latest iteration, the designers even made the storage basket 20 percent bigger, so you have more room to tuck away your daily essentials. Perhaps best of all, the multi-position recline offers a lie flat option, making it suitable for use from birth. And with the purchase of adapters, this lightweight travel stroller becomes car seat-compatible.
Specs at a glance:
- Stroller weight: 13.6 pounds
- Child weight capacity: 55 lbs pounds
- Storage weight capacity: 11 pounds
- Folded dimensions: 7.08 x 11.81 x 21.65 inches
- A quick, one-handed fold (imperative for getting through security), airline cabin-approved size and protective travel sleeve make the Jet ideal for air travel
- Suitable for newborns without any extras or attachments needed
- Dynamic spring suspension and a footbrake that can be activated even in flip flops
- Locking the stroller into position when unfolded can take some practice
Best Lightweight Umbrella Stroller
The list of complaints is often longer than the list of features when it comes to umbrella strollers, but this lightweight option from Summer changes that. The 3D Lite stroller features parent-loved bonuses such as a parent cup holder, a large storage pocket and a good sized basket, while little ones approve of the oversized canopy (perfect for naps on the go), cozy fabrics and four-position recline. Plus, it features a compact fold with an auto-lock and convenient carry strap.
Specs at a glance:
- Stroller weight: 13 pounds
- Child weight capacity: 50 pounds
- Folded dimensions: 11 x 12 x 42.75 inches
- Adjusting the recline can be done quickly and smoothly with one hand
- A surprise back pocket is perfect for stowing your cell phone, keys and wallet
- Pushing and steering requires two hands
Best Lightweight Travel System Stroller
There’s lots to love about the Nuna TRVL stroller and the Pipa RX car seat on their own—but together, this lightweight travel system makes our hearts explode. Everything about the TRVL stroller makes traveling easier on parents, from folding on its own to a magnetic self-guiding buckle. Plus, it connects to all Nuna PIPA infant car seats without an adaptor—including the PIPA RX, which is one of the lightest infant car seats at just 7.6 pounds and a European belt path, meaning you can install it in a car using only a seat belt. Leather accents, a water repellent UPF50+ canopy, a one-handed push and adjustable calf support are all welcome bonuses on this lightweight stroller. The combination of lightweight and luxe features make this travel system a standout.
Specs at a glance:
- Stroller weight: 13.6 pounds
- Car seat weight: 7.6 pounds
- Child weight capacity: 50 pounds (stroller); 32 pounds (car seat)
- Folded dimensions: 11 x 24 x 20.25 inches
- Folds on its own with the push of a button, and stands independently when folded
- The stroller seat sits up higher, allowing for easier access to the large storage basket
- The PIPA’s full-coverage and ventilated Dream Drape is perfect for naps on the go
- Must be gate-checked when traveling on an airplane
Best Lightweight Jogging Stroller
Jogging strollers need to be sturdy enough to handle terrain while still light enough to not slow you down, and the Joovy Zoom360 achieves that tricky balancing act. A shock absorbing suspension, extra-large air-filled tires and locking and swiveling front tires ensure the ride is smooth for even the littlest of passengers. Throw in a one-handed fold and a weight of just 26.25 pounds, and hitting the pavement (or any terrain) has never been easier.
Specs at a glance:
- Stroller weight: 25.7 pounds
- Child weight capacity: 75 pounds
- Folded dimensions: 34 x 25 x 19 inches
- Weather is a non-issue, thanks to the large sun-safe, weather-resistant canopy and included rain cover
- Keys, phones and drinks all stay organized thanks to zippered pockets found right by the handlebar
- Little ones can sit nearly upright to take in the scenery
- Fold isn’t super-compact and can take up a fair amount of trunk space
Best Compact Lightweight Stroller
It simply doesn’t get smaller than the gb Pockit Air All Terrain stroller. This lightweight stroller is known as the world’s smallest folding stroller, squeezing down to the size of a handbag and weighing just 10.6 pounds, making it ideal for city dwellers and travel lovers alike.
Specs at a glance:
- Stroller weight: 10.3 pounds
- Child weight capacity: 55 pounds
- Folded dimensions: 11.8 x 7.1 x 13.8 inches
- Double wheels help for better maneuverability, no matter the terrain
- Is airplane hand luggage compliant, fitting easily into the overhead bin
- Breathable mesh fabric will keep your little one cool and comfortable; a separate inlay can be added for days when you need extra warmth
- The sun visor offers little coverage
- The seat doesn’t recline, which is not ideal for naps on the go
Best Lightweight Stroller for Toddlers
The Joolz Aer is light on weight but heavy on impressive features, making it one of the best lightweight strollers we’ve encountered, and toddler-friendly to boot. Weighing just 13.4 pounds with an intuitive one-handed fold (only requires the push of a button) and a compact size (that fits into most overhead airplane bins), this stroller is easy to tote around both near and far. But a patented ergonomic seat that features an extended 21.6 inch’ backrest (great for taller children), adjustable recline and extra support for your little one’s neck and back give this lightweight stroller a luxe feel you would expect from much heavier counterparts. It’s a winner amongst parents and toddlers (and infants ages 6 months+).
Specs at a glance:
- Stroller weight: 13.4 pounds
- Child weight capacity: 50 pounds
- Storage weight capacity: 11 pounds
- Folded dimensions: 21 x 17.7 x 8.5 inches
- An automatic transport lock keeps it in position and an elastic shoulder strap makes the carry a breeze
- Comes fully assembled, with an included rain cover and travel pouch
- The extended seat back, recline and 50 pound weight capacity make this stroller one that’ll grow with your child over the years
- Joolz Aer with carrycot offers a solution for parents with a newborn
- Expensive
Best Lightweight Stroller for Babies
Most lightweight strollers are recommended from 6 months of age and older, but the Ergobaby Metro+ caters to babies of all ages. Ultra-plush padding (the thickest of any compact stroller) will keep baby comfy, while built-in newborn nest flaps keep baby cozy and secure from day one on. The seat reclines flat for naps, and the footrest also flattens to prevent dangling legs during nap time. And though the stroller is compact in size, it still boasts a large under-seat storage basket for carrying around your diaper bag and more. What’s more, with adaptors, it’s car seat-compatible.
Specs at a glance:
- Stroller weight: 16.9 pounds
- Child weight capacity: 50 pounds
- Folded dimensions: 17.3 x 9.84 x 21.3 inches
- Features a height adjustable handlebar—a rarity amongst lightweight strollers
- Has a seat back pocket to keep your smaller personal items nearby
- A spring suspension helps ensure a smooth ride, even over sidewalk bumps and curbs
- At nearly 17 pounds, it’s on the heavier side
- Some users say it’s difficult to fold and unfold
Best Lightweight Stroller for Newborns
Newborns are often happiest when strolling in a bassinet or infant car seat (both of which cater to their teeny-tiny size), but it’s rare to find a lightweight stroller that’s compatible with both. Enter the Uppababy MINU V2, which allows you to click in either with a convenient set of adaptors. (And it doesn’t just connect with the Uppababy Mesa car seat; it’s also compatible with certain Maxi Cosi, Nuna and Cybex models.) Other newborn-friendly features include a 20-pound capacity storage basket (plenty of space for all of the diapers, wipes, bottles and more) and shock-absorbing wheels that make the ride as bump-free as possible.
Specs at a glance:
- Stroller weight: 16.9 pounds
- Child weight capacity: 50 pounds
- Folded dimensions: 12 x 20.25 x 23 inches
- Keeps littles extra comfy with a multi-position recline and adjustable leg rest
- Folding takes just one hand and one step
- The zip-out, extendable canopy offers UPF50+ protection to keep that fresh newborn skin out of the sun
- The adaptors for the infant car seat and bassinet are sold separately, as is the bassinet
- At nearly 17 pounds, it isn’t the lightest stroller available
Best Affordable Lightweight Stroller
Looking for a stroller that’s both light on pounds and price? Enter the Kolcraft Cloud, which weighs in at just 9.5 pounds and costs under $50. Even at that affordable price point, the Cloud comes with several impressive features that are sure to please both parents and kiddos alike: The extended sun canopy and hood offer a solid amount of sun coverage, a parent cup holder comes standard and front-swivel wheels make it easy to maneuver (even in tight spaces). A fun bonus: It meets all Disney size requirements.
Specs at a glance:
- Stroller weight: 9.5 pounds
- Child weight capacity: 40 pounds
- Folded dimensions: 10 x 9.5 x 42.5 inches
- The fabric in the back rolls up to expose a breathable mesh (perfect for hotter days), and then doubles as a head rest for your little one
- Extended sun canopies are hard to come by at this price point, and Kolcraft’s is significant in size
- The handles are padded and the front wheels are shock-absorbing
- The storage basket is not very large
- The seat does not recline
Best Luxury Lightweight Stroller
For those looking to invest in a top-quality lightweight stroller (with ride-on capabilities for older children), the Babyzen YoYo2 is worth every penny. It folds down to one of the smallest, most compact sizes we’ve come across and meets most airline size requirements for carry on luggage. It unfolds in one swift motion (perfect for exiting taxis, trains and the like). It can be used from day one with your newborn with either the cocoon-esque newborn pack, bassinet attachment or infant car seat clipped in, guaranteeing maximum use. But where this luxe lightweight stroller really shines is its wheels: Pushing the YoYo2 is better described as gliding, and the ride is as smooth as its much heavier and larger counterparts. We’d be remiss if we didn’t point out that the frame comes in two colors, and the fabric seat is available in 9 different colors, making this a stylish as well as practical choice.
Specs at a glance:
- Stroller weight: 13.7 pounds
- Child weight capacity: 48.5 pounds
- Storage weight capacity: 11 pounds
- Folded dimensions: 20.5 x 17.3 x 7.1 inches
- Constructed from aluminum alloy, stainless steel and fiberglass-reinforced plastics, this is a lightweight stroller that’s designed to last
- A plush reclining seat, double storage spots (both under and on the rear of the seat) and anti-UV and waterproof fabric help the YoYo2 outperform its competitors
- A Hytrel elastomer suspension makes this stroller a dream to push and maneuver
- The newborn pack and bassinet are extra
- Doesn’t come equipped with any cup holders
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