The 9 Best Travel Strollers for Stress-Free Trips
In a nutshell:
Based on a survey of over 300 new and expectant parents from The Bump community and feedback from our team of independent product testers, we chose the Bugaboo Butterfly Stroller as the overall best travel stroller. In particular, it stood out because of its quick, compact fold, versatile design and ease of use.
Let’s face it: Traveling with little ones can be stressful, whether you’re embarking on a road trip, a flight or even just navigating busy sidewalks in your local area. But, one way to help ensure smooth sailing is to have a top-notch travel stroller on hand. Travel strollers tend to be both lightweight and compact in size, making them easy to push around, transport and pack away, no matter the destination. They’re also a great option to have on hand for older children who may have outgrown a regular stroller but still need a rest during full days of sightseeing.
However, with so many out there to choose from, finding the best travel stroller for your family can be overwhelming—that’s where we come in. Read on to find a breakdown of the best travel strollers on the market, plus, learn about what features to look for and tips to keep in mind as you browse.
To streamline your search for the best travel strollers, we did the bulk of the research for you, so you don’t have to spend hours scrolling online. Here’s how we created this roundup:
- We enlisted the help of 26 independent product testers who took more than two dozen strollers for a test drive with their kids. They then carefully evaluated each option for ease of pushing and steering, folding and unfolding, ease of use, features, style and design, value for money and, of course, safety.
- We surveyed over 300 new and expectant parents in The Bump community for additional insight on the ins and outs of specific pregnancy test brands and products.
- We researched what was being said about these travel strollers in The Bump community forums to better understand what parents liked (and didn’t like) about them.
- We leveraged our familiarity with leading stroller brands and trusted online retailers and combed through dozens of options.
- We considered several factors when sourcing travel strollers, such as open and folded dimensions, weight and capacity. For added convenience, we also looked for options that offered one-handed fold and car-seat compatibility features.
- To see how these products worked for a variety of families, we conducted exhaustive market research, scouring forums and message boards and reading user reviews to find out what parents across the country looked for in a travel stroller.
Editorial integrity is at the heart of everything we publish. Read about how The Bump develops and reviews all articles, including product reviews.
Overall best travel stroller
- Spacious seat
- Padded shoulder strap
- Deep storage basket
- Meets carry-on requirements
- Car seat adaptors sold separately
- Viewing panel could be better, according to The Bump community
Some travel strollers can be light and flimsy, which doesn’t always bode well for growing toddlers. Thankfully, that won’t be the case with the Bugaboo Butterfly. This impressive set of wheels features one of the most spacious seats we’ve seen; as your child grows, you can lower the calf support to accommodate their legs. And when they inevitably fall asleep in the middle of your journey, expect the adjustable seat (which reclines from 111° to 145°) to keep them comfy as they snooze. Our product tester, Mannibell M., was a fan of this, saying: “If baby falls asleep you’re able to recline [the seat] back and make your baby very comfortable. That’s one of the features I love the most.” Other highlights include the UPF 50+ canopy (making it a great option to bring on sun-soaked adventures), the roomy undercarriage basket (which can hold just under 18 lbs) and the shoulder carry strap. All in all, it’s easy to see why Mannibell gave the Bugaboo Butterfly a 5 out of 5 for its features.
When maneuvering this travel stroller, don’t expect to run into any problems—no matter the terrain. Mannibell rated the Bugaboo Butterfly 5 out of 5 for how easy it was to push and steer. “It’s very lightweight, you don’t feel it at all while pushing it. You can steer it in stores, festivals and the streets very easily,” she told us. This results from the stroller’s thin yet sturdy full-suspension wheels, which offer a seamless experience for parents and children.
Last but not least, you’ll appreciate that the stroller’s folded size is as compact as the seat is roomy; it even fits into overhead bins. When out and about, the convenient, quick one-second fold means you’ll be able to collapse it with just one hand. Manibell highly praised this feature, telling us that “when folded, it takes less space than my carry-on luggage.” No wonder it was selected as the best travel stroller in our Best of The Bump awards!
Dimensions (open): 36.4" (L) x 17.7" (W) x 40.3" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 17.7" (L) x 9" (W) x 21.3" (H) | Weight: 16.1 lbs. | Capacity: 48.5 lbs. | One-handed fold: Yes | Car seat compatible: Yes
Our product tester says:
“This is honestly the best stroller! It is very lightweight, you do not feel it at all while pushing it. You can steer it in stores, festivals and the streets very easily.”
Our community says:
"This travel stroller has become my go-to. It's so easy to fold, is super light if I need to take it up and down stairs, and is incredibly compact when collapsed given its full size. The basket is quite substantial compared to other competitors, and it fits in nearly every airplane overhead bin." – Laura, mother of one
"I can open it one-handed, it’s super light, folds up compact and meets the carry-on requirements for a flight. It’s good for smooth surfaces and for quick in-and-out errands and travel." – msjaay
Best travel stroller for infants
- Padded shoulder strap
- Easy to maneuver
- Comes in fun colors
- Newborn attachment sold separately
A parent favorite for many reasons, The Babyzen YOYO2 is one of those strollers you probably see everywhere. Whether you intend to use it exclusively as a travel stroller or as an everyday set of wheels, you’ll love how it folds down to a neat size. And when you’re on the go again, it unfolds in a second with just a flick of the wrist (hence its yo-yo name). According to Samantha E., our product tester, this compact stroller was straightforward to steer, rating it 5 out of 5 in this category. “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.” Weighing just under 14 lbs., it isn’t bulky to push. Plus, it can be easily carried in one hand or on your shoulder, thanks to the padded strap “which is great for moving it from car to car or when traveling,” adds Samantha.
Perhaps best of all, this travel stroller can be used from birth through toddlerhood. If your little one is under the 3-month mark, the YOYO Newborn Pack will allow you to start using this set of wheels from day one. While sold separately, it’s packed with newborn-friendly details you’ll love, like the fully collapsible and reclining seat, the secure head support and the extended canopy. Once baby is 4 months or older, they can sit in the YOYO2’s comfortable seat, complete with a reclining backrest and a five-point safety harness. This stroller is suitable for children up to 48.5 Ibs., so can count on it to be by your side for many outings to come. Samantha road-tested the YOYO2 with her 6-month-old and nearly 3-year-old and found it simple to switch between her two tiny passengers. “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,” she told us.
Now let’s get into the features, which Samantha rated 5 out of 5 overall. This compact stroller has a UPF 50+ sun canopy with a window so you’ll be able to keep an eye on your kiddo as you stroll. And while the basket isn’t huge, Samantha said it was big enough “for traveling and quick trips places.” One possible downside is that this stroller is only rear-facing when using the bassinet attachment. “When having the baby in the regular seat, he is facing outwards so I can't see him when pushing him,” Samantha commented. If that aspect is important to you, this may not be the best fit for your family.
Dimensions (open): 17.5" (L) x 14" (W) x 32" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 17.3" (L) x 7.1" (W) x 20.5" (H) | Weight: 13.6 lbs. | Capacity: 48.5 lbs. | One-handed fold: Yes | Car seat compatible: Yes
Our product tester says:
“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.”
Our community says:
"This stroller is easy to fold up. It folds up really small and can be carried without problem. I also think the style and design is nice." – Brittany, mother of one
Best travel stroller for flying with infants
- Versatile, 2-in-1 design
- Easy to assemble and convert
- FAA aircraft approved
- Suitable for newborns
- Low weight capacity
- No one-handed fold
When traveling by plane, you can count on the Doona Car Seat & Stroller to make getting to your destination a bit less stressful. This top-rated travel stroller isn’t your average car seat and stroller combo. The unique all-in-one device converts from a car seat into a stroller and back again, thanks to its wheels that unfold from the bottom of the seat in seconds. For traveling parents, that means lugging one less item of baby gear around, as well as seamlessly transitioning from the sidewalk to a safe and secure seat. “I really loved how easy it was to take my baby out and put him back into the seat,” our product tester, Juanita M., commented. Moreover, she told us that “the harness is very easy to adjust and tighten.” The Doona can be used as an everyday stroller for regular commutes and errands, but also stands out as a great travel stroller for flying. This is because in its car seat mode it’s been approved by the US and European authorities for air travel, meaning you can install the car seat for your child to sit in as you fly on most airlines.
While most travel strollers are only recommended for 6-month-olds and up, the Doona is one of the few travel-friendly strollers that can be used with baby from day one without any extra adaptors or attachments. Juanita tested it out with her 3-month-old and found it super supportive. “My baby fit very well in the car seat/stroller. We can see that there’s room for growth when he gets a bit bigger and heavier. [Also,] the headrest gave my baby a lot of support when he napped,” she said, giving the stroller a 5 out of 5 for its features. Just keep in mind that the Doona isn’t suitable for toddlers, so it’s a short-term investment compared to other options in our roundup.
Dimensions (open): 17.4" (L) x 32.3" (W) x 39" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 17.4" (L) x 26" (W) x 22.4" (H) | Weight: 17.2 lbs. | Capacity: 35 lbs. | One-handed fold: No | Car seat compatible: Built-in car seat
Our product tester says:
“It’s useful for someone who doesn’t want to always travel with a stroller and a car seat. This makes it so much easier to take in and out and fits perfectly in a lot of different sized cars.”
Our community says:
"I like the quality, ease of folding and that it's practical." – Jemima*, mother of one
"At a high price, this car seat was absolutely worth it as it also converts to a stroller. It’s comfortable for my baby and I never have to carry it since it can be in stroller mode. I appreciate the minimalistic design." – Leah, mother of one
"I’m petite, so I liked that it didn’t need to be snapped into a stroller that I would fight with folding down." – k_mama91
Best travel stroller for public transport
- Wide recline range
- Newborn-friendly
- Easy to maneuver
- Car seat adaptors sold separately
Whether you use a bus, train or subway as your main mode of transportation, this is the travel stroller for you. When walking with your kiddo, you can extend the leatherette handlebar to your liking for optimal comfort. And if you need to break it down in a hurry—don’t sweat it. This compact stroller can be folded with one hand (ideal for when baby and all your belongings are in the other), for added convenience. Plus, the Metro+ fits into most overhead compartments in planes, so it’s a great addition to excursions outside of the city as well.
One of the highlights of this lightweight stroller is that it caters to infants of all ages without having to purchase any separate attachments. Ultra-plush padding will keep your little one comfy, while built-in newborn nest flaps keep them cozy and secure from day one on. The seat reclines from 95° to 175° for on-the-go rests, and the footrest also flattens to prevent dangling legs during nap time. Even though the travel stroller is compact in size, it’s still equipped with an under-seat storage basket for carrying your diaper bag and more. And with adapters, it’s car seat-compatible, so it can join you on even more adventures to come.
Dimensions (open): 17.3" (L) x 34.3" (W) x 37.8" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 17.3" (L) x 9.8" (W) x 21.3" (H) | Weight: 16.9 lbs. | Capacity: 50 lbs. | One-handed fold: Yes | Car seat compatible: Yes
Our community says:
"I appreciate the size and ease of folding." – Bella*, mother of one
Best lightweight travel stroller
- Easy to fold, according to Mallory
- Comes fully assembled
- Super lightweight
- No detachable handlebar
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. You’ll love how it weighs just 13.4 pounds and has an intuitive one-handed fold (which activates with a push of a button). “I was able to learn how to fold and unfold the stroller in about 30 seconds,” commented our product tester, Mallory P., the mom of a 6-month-old. “The carrier strap allows for a quick and easy pickup and go for over the shoulder. I loved that I didn't have to dig around and find the strap—it was just right there as soon as I folded the stroller,” she added, highlighting its convenience.
This seamlessness wasn’t the only aspect of the Joolz Aer+ that impressed Mallory. She also awarded it a 5 out of 5 for ease of use, ease of pushing and steering, style and design. In particular, Mallory was a fan of how compact this lightweight stroller was. “When folded, this stroller does not take up much space at all and I had a ton of space left in my trunk compared to when I have my other stroller in there. This stroller is super convenient to fold, carry and travel with,” she raved.
Another standout aspect of this lightweight travel stroller is the patented ergonomic seat. It's equipped with an extended backrest and extra support for your little one’s neck and back. Plus, it offers an adjustable recline, which Mallory appreciated. “The recline of the stroller is perfect for naps on the go and was baby-approved by my 6-month-old,” she praised. Together, all of these features give this lightweight travel stroller a luxe feel you would expect from much heavier competitors.
Dimensions (open): 17.7" (L) x 32.7" (W) x 41.5" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 17.7" (L) x 21" (W) x 8.5" (H) | Weight: 13.4 lbs. | Capacity: 50 lbs. | One-handed fold: Yes | Car seat compatible: Yes
Our product tester says:
“When testing out the Joolz Aer stroller I was very impressed with the ease of pushing and steering. The stroller itself is very lightweight and feels so smooth and light to push. The tires and steering held up great when pushed over gravel. The durability and quality of the stroller far exceeded my expectations.”
Our community says:
"Folds like a dream and so lightweight. Comfortable for baby but also for something so small it feels sturdy. The wheels/ride is smooth as long as the terrain is pretty flat." – Freya*, mother of one
"I’m obsessed with our travel stroller! It’s the Joolz Aer, and it’s so compact but so durable that we use it for everything." – ccmrc143
Best travel stroller and car seat combo
- Seamless steering
- Baseless car seat
- Self-guiding magnetic buckle
- High price point
- Heaviest option on our list
Planning a cross-country road trip or a short city break? Or maybe you’re just looking for a travel system you can depend on daily? Whatever the case, this travel stroller and car seat combo is sure to check all of the boxes on your list. With this bundle, you’ll receive the Nuna TRVL stroller and the Nuna PIPA urbn car seat which connect without adaptors—just one of the ways it’ll make your life more seamless when you’re on the go.
Let’s start off with the stroller: The TRVL is super-lightweight and a breeze to push through crowded areas, whether in the grocery store, the airport, the park or anywhere in between. This results from the progressive suspension and swiveling front wheels which work together to ensure a smooth ride. Our product tester Troy M., the mom of a 5-month-old, couldn’t get over how easy it was to push. “This baby glides! So smooth. Even on grass (at the park with slight inclines and uneven ground) I was able to chase my toddler while pushing the stroller, no problem. Very light to push even with a full baby bag in the basket! Steering is seamless. I had no issue redirecting or pivoting in crowded stores while shopping,” she praised. The stroller also boasts a simple one-handed fold, which Troy was also a fan of. “It unfolds just as easily as it folds. Just a quick flick of the wrist and it's up,” she remarked.
This compact stroller is paired with the PIPA urbn, the only baseless infant car seat with a rigid latch system that installs in two seconds flat. Its innovative technology lets you quickly and securely install the car seat in a taxi, rideshare or rental car. “I love the fact that it's baseless because it takes the hassle out of switching vehicles,” confirmed Troy. But that’s not all—this travel system is packed with premium features, ranging from a no-rethread harness with a magnetic buckle to a water-repellent UPF 50+ canopy with an extra-large peek-a-boo window. What’s not to love?
Dimensions (open): 32.5" (L) x 20.2" (W) x 44" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 24" (L) x 20.2" (W) x 11" (H) | Stroller weight: 13.6 lbs. | Car seat weight: 7.6 lbs. | Capacity: 50 lbs. | One-handed fold: Yes | Car seat compatible: Yes (car seat included)
Our product tester says:
“It practically folds itself! Loooooove this feature as it makes for loading with one hand struggle-free! It's a simple slide and squeeze of 2 buttons on the handlebar (like most other strollers) and it simply collapses into the most compact size I've ever seen a stroller fold into.”
Our community says:
"I like it because I can collapse it and open it with one hand and it's very lightweight. I also really like the brake system. You push down on it to release as well as break." – talldecafcappuccino
Best compact travel stroller
- Padded carry strap
- Spacious basket
- No assembly required
- Tricky to fold at first, according to Kareene
While it may be small in size, this compact stroller from Cybex offers the best of both worlds. “The features are great and unique for a compact travel stroller; it has the same features of a full-size stroller,” raved our product tester, Kareene A., mom of a 5-month-old and a 3-year-old. These features include the extendable sun canopy (with a window), the near-flat seat recline and the secure, easy-to-use harness, to name a few. Specifically, Kareene was a fan of the adjustable leg rest, commenting on how she could convert it to meet both her toddler and baby’s needs accordingly. Even with all those impressive details, the clever design weighs just under 13 pounds and has a narrow footprint, making it a dream to travel with, whether you’re headed down the block or abroad.
Kareene praised this compact stroller’s versatility, saying, “the stroller was easy to use. It fits narrow spaces and fits perfectly in the plane aisle. I tried it on different terrains (wood floors, concrete, trail, and grass) and it handled pretty well.” It’s easy to see why she awarded the stroller a 5 out of 5 across multiple categories, including ease of pushing and steering, ease of folding and unfolding and overall ease of use. “Compared to another compact travel stroller, this one is slightly smaller, which I appreciate. The stroller is light so it's easy to carry around and easy to load into the car as well,” Kareene remarked. It can also stand up when folded, for extra convenience.
As you cruise with the Cybex Coya, your little one can rest comfortably, thanks to the breathable, ergonomic seat with a near-flat recline. Then, when it’s time to move, you’ll be able to unfold it and adjust the harness quickly and singlehandedly. Once you get the hang of it, you can count on it to fold in seconds. Lastly, you’ll love that this compact travel stroller is equipped with an easily accessible basket that holds up to 11 pounds, further proving that just because it’s small doesn’t mean you’ll miss out on full-size features.
Dimensions (open): 31.1" (L) x 17.3" (W) x 38.2" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 20.5" (L) x 17.3" (W) x 7.1" (H) | Weight: 12.4 lbs. | Capacity: 48 lbs. | One-handed fold: Yes | Car seat compatible: Yes
Our product tester says:
“I would recommend this stroller. I love that it's geared for a compact travel stroller, but can definitely be an everyday stroller. The features are great and unique for a compact travel stroller; it has the same features of a full-size stroller.”
Best full-size travel stroller
- Reversible seat
- Easy to push, according to Julie
- High weight capacity
- Car seat adaptors sold separately
- Tricky to fold at times, according to Julie
Just because you’re opting for a travel stroller doesn’t mean you’ll have to miss out on the benefits of a full-size model. Case in point: The Inglesina Electa Stroller. While its dimensions are similar to the average everyday stroller, it still offers the convenience of a travel-friendly design. Namely, it can be opened and closed with one hand—making it a great option for families often on the move. “It’s definitely nicely compact when folded,” our product tester, Julie W., mom of a 4-month-old, told us. However, she added that “it does fit in the trunk of my car [but there’s] not much space for anything else”—which is something to keep in mind if you have a smaller vehicle.
Weighing only 19 lbs., the Inglesina Electa is super lightweight compared to other full-size options. As a result, Julie found it extremely easy to push and steer, rating it a 5 out of 5 in this category. “This stroller gilded everywhere. With other strollers, I’m always hesitant to go anywhere without a paved path—but this one glides across grass, dirt and rocks. My baby always stayed in place while pushing her through the uneven surfaces,” she raved.
This lightweight stroller is decked out with plenty of thoughtful details, including (but not limited to) an adjustable handlebar, a UPF 50+ canopy, a rain cover and a leg rest. The Inglesina Electa is also compatible with a bassinet attachment (sold separately) which Julie tested with her infant. “My baby used the bassinet for a few nights but quickly grew out of it due to no fault of the product, she just turned over at a young age and is a big baby. [That said,] it’s definitely suitable for overnight sleep,” she told us. Moreover, you’ll appreciate that the seat is reversible, meaning you can set it up rear-facing with baby and then switch it to forward-facing as they get older.
Dimensions (open): 37.8" (L) x 19.7" (W) x 42.1" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 29" (L) x 19.7" (W) x 11.8" (H) | Weight: 19 lbs. | Capacity: 55 lbs. | One-handed fold: Yes | Car seat compatible: Yes
Our product tester says:
“I’d definitely recommend this to a parent who often goes on walks or trips with their baby. It will make the experience so much better by not having to worry about if there is a paved path at every location.”
Best affordable travel stroller
- Affordable price point
- High weight capacity
- Roomy storage basket
- Disney Park-approved
- Seat doesn’t recline
- Tricky to push on rough surfaces
- Small cup holders
Last up on our list is an option that’s light on your wallet and the scale, making it one of the best travel strollers you can score on a budget. Weighing just under 13 lbs., the Kolcraft Cloud is among the lightest options on our list—plus, it’s equipped with all-terrain front and back wheel suspension. As a result, expect it to be simple to maneuver and steer, whether you’re pushing a young infant or an older toddler. Like many of its top competitors in the travel stroller category, it also folds and unfolds easily with just one hand for optimal convenience.
While you’re on the move, you can ensure your kiddo will be comfy and secure, due to the reclining seat and five-point safety harness. When the sun’s out, use the three-tier extendable canopy for maximum coverage and easily check on them via the peek-a-boo window. Other features you’ll appreciate include how it self-stands when folded and the storage basket that’s roomy enough to fit a small backpack. The Kolcraft Cloud is also one of the few travel strollers with a removable tray for your little one’s food and drink, making it a great option for on-the-go days or theme park visits. Oh, and did we mention that it’s Disney Park-approved? Score!
Dimensions (open): 17.6" (L) x 29.9" (W) x 41.7" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 18" (L) x 12" (W) x 34" (H) | Weight: 12.8 lbs. | Capacity: 50 lbs. | One-handed fold: Yes | Car seat compatible: No
Our community says:
"Inexpensive and does the job. It also folds compact and has a good-sized storage basket." – Alexandra, mother of one
*Note: Some names have been changed due to privacy requests.
Travel Strollers Comparison Chart
Overall best travel stroller | Best travel stroller for infants | Best travel stroller for flying with infants | Best travel stroller for public transport | Best lightweight travel stroller | Best travel stroller and car seat combo | Best compact travel stroller | Best full-size travel stroller | Best affordable travel stroller | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Overall Best Bugaboo Butterfly Seat Stroller | Babyzen YOYO2 Stroller | Doona + Car Seat & Stroller | ERGO Baby Metro+ Compact City Stroller | Joolz Aer+ Lightweight Stroller | Nuna PIPA urbn + TRVL Stroller & Car Seat Travel System | Cybex Coya Compact Lightweight Stroller | Inglesina Electa Stroller | Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Stroller | |
Price | $$ | $$ | $$$ | $ | $$ | $$$$ | $$ | $$$ | $ |
Dimensions (open) | 36.4" (L) x 17.7" (W) x 40.3" (H) | 17.5" (L) x 14" (W) x 32" (H) | 17.4" (L) x 32.3" (W) x 39" (H) | 17.3" (L) x 34.3" (W) x 37.8" (H) | 17.7" (L) x 32.7" (W) x 41.5" (H) | 32.5" (L) x 20.2" (W) x 44" (H) | 31.1" (L) x 17.3" (W) x 38.2" (H) | 37.8" (L) x 19.7" (W) x 42.1" (H) | 17.6" (L) x 29.9" (W) x 41.7" (H) |
Dimensions (folded) | 17.7" (L) x 9" (W) x 21.3" (H) | 17.3" (L) x 7.1" (W) x 20.5" (H) | 17.4" (L) x 26" (W) x 22.4" (H) | 17.3" (L) x 9.8" (W) x 21.3" (H) | 17.7" (L) x 21" (W) x 8.5" (H) | 24" (L) x 20.2" (W) x 11" (H) | 20.5" (L) x 17.3" (W) x 7.1" (H) | 29" (L) x 19.7" (W) x 11.8" (H) | 18" (L) x 12" (W) x 34" (H) |
Weight | 16.1 lbs. | 13.6 lbs | 17.2 lbs. | 16.9 lbs. | 13.4 lbs. | 21.2 lbs. | 12.4 lbs. | 19 lbs. | 12.8 lbs. |
One-handed fold | |||||||||
Carry strap | |||||||||
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Finding the best travel stroller for your family starts with taking a few different factors into consideration. As you browse, consider the following:
- Your child’s age and size. Will you be traveling with a newborn? Taking trips with multiple kids? Hitting Disney with an older toddler? Your child’s age and size will be a major factor in deciding which travel stroller is best. A travel stroller that’s car seat-compatible can be a lifesaver for parents with an infant, while models with a higher weight limit and more spacious seat will work well for those with older toddlers.
- Your travel style. Are you a family that loves exploring big cities? Are you packing up the car for a road trip? Or do you simply need a stroller to help you swiftly navigate the airport? Considering your travel needs and style will help prioritize the features you’re looking for in a travel stroller.
- The stroller’s size and weight. These are key considerations when selecting a travel stroller. Many feature ultra-compact folds that make them ideal for stowing away in packed car trunks or crowded overhead bins. Likewise, travel strollers are often incredibly lightweight (some as light as 10 pounds), which is ideal for whoever ends up carrying it around.
- The recline. If you’re planning for naps on the go, select a travel stroller with a near-flat or fully flat recline. Reminder: Fully flat refers to 180°—like a bassinet—whereas near-flat can refer to a range of angles, typically from 90° to 180°.
- The canopy. When brands design strollers as lightweight and compact as possible, it often comes at the expense of other features, such as the canopy. Be sure to check how far the canopy extends and if it offers UPF protection.
- The storage. Storage on travel strollers is often lacking, but many newer options are increasing the capacity of their under-seat baskets and creating easier access points. A solid storage option on a travel stroller is a plus for toting around any baby and toddler essentials.
- How it folds and unfolds. When you’re out and about with your hands full, you’ll want a travel stroller that collapses (and opens) quickly and easily. There are several travel strollers that not only feature one-handed folds and unfolds, but even collapse down in as little as a second.
Picking the best travel stroller for the job will certainly make trips easier—as will these handy tips for flying with a stroller in tow:
- Call your airline. Even if your travel stroller claims to fit in the overhead bin, it’s worth calling your airline to double-check their dimension requirements and policies.
- Decide how you want to check your stroller. Most airlines let you check your stroller for free, either at check-in (meaning you’d navigate the airport without it; potentially a plus, if you’re planning to put baby in a carrier) or at the gate (meaning you’d be able to stroll baby through the airport and right up to the plane).
- Practice folding and unfolding. Most likely, you’ll need to remove your child and collapse the stroller to go through airport security. Practicing this at home can make for a less stressful transition in the security line.
- Bring a protective bag. Even if you’re planning on bringing your travel stroller as a carry-on, take a protective bag (most stroller brands offer one as an accessory) to protect your stroller from damage from other luggage, which will ultimately extend its longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth buying a travel stroller?
Yes, a travel stroller is worth the investment in most cases. Of course, it will come in handy if you and your family travel regularly—whether that be on planes and trains or cars. But, even if you’re out and about in your own neighborhood it can be a game-changer. For example, if you live in a busy city and often use public transportation, a travel stroller’s flexibility, lightweight and compact size will be easier to manage than a typical full-size model. That being said, you don’t have to fall into either of these categories to prefer the convenience of a travel stroller; their versatility is appealing to many parents, and you can even use it as your full-time set of wheels.
Can travel strollers be carried on board a flight?
Most travel strollers have been designed with air travel in mind and can be taken on board a flight once they’ve been folded compactly. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), carry-on baggage should be no larger than 22 inches long, 18 inches wide and 10 inches deep including features like wheels and handles. If your travel stroller meets those requirements when folded—as well as any weight restrictions the airline may enforce—you should be able to board with it as one of your carry-on items. If it’s larger than these dimensions, however, you will probably have to check it at the gate before your flight.
What’s the difference between a travel system and a travel stroller?
Though they both have “travel” in their names, a travel system stroller and a travel stroller can be quite different. The former refers to a stroller with adaptors that allow parents to replace the seat with a car seat. If you’re in and out of the car a lot, it can save you time and effort, as you won’t have to unclip baby from their car seat.
On the other hand, the best travel strollers are lightweight, compact and easy to fold and maneuver. Some may have similar features to travel systems, but these options are largely streamlined to offer optimal convenience for families on the move.
About the writer:
Emma O’Regan-Reidy is an editor for The Bump. She specializes in writing e-commerce content about the latest and greatest in pregnancy, postpartum and parenting. O’Regan-Reidy has researched an array of topics, from prenatal vitamins and postpartum pads to the best non-wifi baby monitors, toddler learning towers and everything in between. With over a three-year career in digital media, O’Regan-Reidy has written dozens of articles on baby gear, aiming to create engaging, helpful content that informs new and seasoned parents.
Plus, more from The Bump:
International Air Travel Association, Passenger Baggage Rules
The Bump May 2023 Survey. Editors conducted a survey of 300 new and expectant parents from among The Bump community, and asked whether they used a travel stroller and what type and brand they used.
Learn how we keep our content accurate and up-to-date by reading our medical review and editorial process.
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