If the thought of trying to collapse or fold your full-size stroller on your next family adventure feels scary, then it’s time to consider the best compact stroller for travel while you are on the go.
No doubt, that travel strollers make leaving home with your little one a tiny bit easier and much more convenient. In this scenario, a travel stroller is a minimalist’s dream. Because most have a plethora of similar high-end functions as traditional strollers all rolled into a portable, compact package. Some travel strollers can even be used as a day-to-day stroller too, as well as many of them break down to fit in the overhead bin of a plane or may be folded down rapidly and slung over your shoulder.
If you’re a parent with kids who are frequently on the go, a compact travel stroller may be the answer to help lighten your load and simplify your life.
Which Stroller Model is Best for Travel?
Most people use a traditional stroller for everything, even for traveling purposes. Fortunately, having a lightweight, more nimble compact travel stroller pays off when you really need it: especially for public transportation, narrow city sidewalks, airports or just to lighten the load.
Here we are going to break down some of the brighter and darker sides of using different types of strollers for travel:
Traditional stroller:
Everyday baby strollers typically have beneficial functions such as cup holders and trays, lots of storage space, and large canopies. Maybe some strollers also have all-terrain wheels and accommodate an infant car seat. In contrast, they’re very heavier in weight and bulkier to fold, which makes using and storing them in tight spaces more problematic: such as in small car trunks, narrow doorways, and airplane overhead bins.
Umbrella stroller:
Exceptionally lightweight, umbrella strollers often lack various luxuries as you easily find in traditional strollers such as cup holders and adjustable seats. Moreover, they have minimal cushioning, skimpy canopies, and seat support and don’t fold modestly enough to fit in airport storage bins. Umbrella strollers are a great choice for when you occasionally need a slimmer, fast-fold stroller. Also want to say that you can’t push an umbrella stroller with one hand.
Travel stroller:
Travel strollers, also known as lightweight strollers, are a middle ground between full-size strollers and umbrella strollers. They are lighter than most strollers, easy to fold and take up less space when folded. (Some travel strollers fold in half, which is called a “square fold,” and others fold into three smaller pieces, called a tri-fold.) Travel strollers also have accessories like cup holders and huge sun canopies in addition to standard features like a storage basket and a place to put your child’s belongings.
Figuring out what kind of stroller you want to use for travelling often comes down to what kinds of trade-offs you are willing to make with your budget, space, and personal preferences. Some classic strollers have a compact fold that is ideal for travel, but the stroller is extremely heavy. Umbrella strollers tend to be cheap, but you need two hands to push them and they only fold vertically. Compact travel strollers are light, easy to carry, and easy to steer, but there is a cost.
When deciding which stroller is best for you and your family, think about how often you travel, how much you want to spend, and where you’ll store the stroller when it’s not in use. Also, a lot of parents find that a travel stroller works just as well as a full-size one for everyday use. Just remember that unless the travel stroller you choose is compatible with an infant car seat or comes with a separate infant kit, you won’t be able to use it until your baby is six months old and can sit up without help.
Do You Need a Stroller Bag for Travel?
How you plan to use your travel stroller will determine whether or not you need a travel stroller bag.
If you plan to fly with your stroller, you’ll probably want to use a travel stroller bag, especially if you don’t plan to store your stroller in the plane’s overhead compartment (either because you don’t want to or because it won’t fit). Even a stroller that is checked at the gate may get tossed around quite a bit while in transit, so you’ll need a travel stroller bag to protect it.
If you don’t plan to fly with your stroller often or if you’re just using your travel stroller as a lighter option for day-to-day use, you probably don’t need a travel stroller.
Check with the company that makes your travel stroller to see if it comes with a travel bag or if you need to buy one separately. There may also be generic travel stroller bags that work.
How we choose the Best Compact Strollers?
We asked thousands of real Babcare families about the products they love most. We combined the best goods they recommended with our own research and expert opinion to bring you this guide to the best compact strollers.
- Most Stylish Compact Stroller: Colugo The Compact Stroller
- Best Overall Runner-Up: Uppababy Minu
- Best Compact Stroller for Everyday Use: UPPAbaby MINU V2 Stroller
- Best Travel Design: Joolz AER Premium Baby Stroller
- Best Compact Stroller for Infants: Mountain Buggy Nano V3
- Best Budget Compact Stroller: Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Stroller
- Best Compact Stroller for Travel: Silver Cross Jet Super Compact Stroller
- Best Lightweight Compact Stroller: GB Pockit+ All-City Stroller
- One Compact Stroller, Three Ways to Ride: Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Ultra-Compact Travel Stroller
- Fast Fold, Very Versatile Compact Stroller: Nuna TRVL Easy Fold Compact Stroller
- Best Umbrella Compact Stroller: Summer 3D Lite Convenience Stroller
- Best Luxury Compact, Lightweight Stroller: Babyzen YoYo2
- Best Compact Lightweight Stroller for Babies: Ergobaby Metro+
1. Most Stylish Compact Stroller: Colugo The Compact Stroller
It’s never been more exciting to travel. Colugo’s lightweight, compact stroller packs a lot of functionality and good looks into a small package, making it ideal for travelling.
The Compact’s small size is just the beginning of what makes it so appealing. This lightweight stroller weighs just 16 pounds, making it simple to load into and remove from car trunks and plane overhead compartments. It’s also quite simple to control and move around, unlike many other compact strollers. Built-in carry strap, no-puncture tires, large basket, and easy one-handed fold are just a few of the features that make this stroller convenient and practical. (There is also a backpack for transportation.) The seat back reclines completely, making for convenient napping on the road, and the fabric is removable and washable. The stroller is easy and smooth to move around. Finally, who doesn’t adore a spotted leopard?
Stroller Weight – 16 lbs
Folded Dimensions – 17” x 24” x 10”
Age Range – From 6 months up to 55 lbs
What’s Important to Consider
There is no way to attach a car seat, and some taller parents have complained of stubbed toes on the stroller frame due to the fixed height of the handlebar. If you want to start using the stroller as soon as the baby is born, you’ll need to buy the Infant Kit separately. Same goes for the Parent Organizer, which gives you a zippered storage pouch and a cup holder.
Pros
- Quick one-handed, compact fold (fits in overhead bins)
- Built-in carry strap
- Fun colors and prints
- Roomy basket for strage on the go
Cons
- Fixed height of the handlebar
2. Best Overall Runner-Up: Uppababy Minu
The Uppababy Minu’s lightweight design and compact fold make it a close second to the Nuna in terms of portability. At first appearance, it appears to be quite similar to previous Uppababy models, however, its one-handed fold (for which it received 4.8 out of 5) allows it to be folded down to a size that fits in an airplane overhead bin (though your airline may still ask you to gate-check). We also gave it a 4.8 since once folded, it can be carried over the shoulder using the included comfortable strap.
The Minu appears to be a relaxing ride for infants, with a soft seat that reclines far for naps and a full UPF 50+ sun cover with a mesh window for breathability (and peeking). The calf rest on the original Minu model was not adjustable, and the five-point harness had to be rethreaded for different users of different heights. However, the leather handlebar is just as plush and stylish as the Nuna’s, and the under-seat storage area is just slightly smaller. Our tests showed that the stroller was easy to maneuver, however it did feel a little heavier than the Joolz AER. During the durability drop test, a rod from the canopy became dislodged; nonetheless, it was simple to reattach it to its proper location.
Stroller Weight – 14.75 pounds
Folded Dimensions – 12″ H x 22.5″ L x 20.25″ W folded, 41″ H x 31″ L x 20.5″ W unfolded
Age Range – Birth (with kit sold separately) to 50 pounds
Pros
- Compact and easy to carry
- Padded, reclining seat
- Full sun canopy
Cons
- Smaller under-seat storage (in original model)
- Unfolding process takes getting used to
3. Best Compact Stroller for Everyday Use: UPPAbaby MINU V2 Stroller
The Minu provides the comforts of a regular stroller in a lightweight, portable design, making it ideal for use anywhere from your own neighbourhood to the farthest reaches of your travels and anywhere in between. This stroller has a variety of great characteristics, including the ability to fold with one hand, a large sunshade, a comfortable seat that can be reclined in many positions, and a roomy basket that can be accessed with ease.
These are just a few of the great features that can be found on this stroller, which is ideal for both trips to the grocery store and trips to the beach. Even on rough terrain, you can enjoy a comfortable ride thanks to the all-wheel suspension’s spring action and shock absorption. When folded, the Minu can stand on its own, and it comes with a bag for transporting and storing.
Stroller Weight – 14.8 lbs
Folded Dimensions – 11.5” x 20.5” x 23”
Age Range – From 3 months up to 50 lbs
What’s Important to Consider
As it is, the Minu is good for babies who are at least 3 months old. If you want to use it with a newborn, you’ll need to pay for the From Birth Kit.
Pros
- Great choice for travel + everyday use
- Roomy storage basket
- Shock-absorbing suspension for a smooth ride
Cons
- We didn’t found any drawback
4. Best Travel Design: Joolz AER Premium Baby Stroller
The fact that pushing the Joolz Aer is not much different than pushing other strollers that are considerably larger and far more expensive is one of the things that we enjoy most about it. It includes four-wheel suspension, which is a characteristic that is not very commonly found in travel strollers, the Aer is easy to control and glides smoothly even over rough areas. The Aer’s comfy seat, which can be adjusted to match your child’s body, the huge storage basket, and the simple one-handed fold make it ideal for both trips and daily use.
The Aer can accommodate a newborn and is suitable for use with the Nuna, Cybex, and Clek car seats (adapters supplied separately), and it can be folded to the point where it may be stored in an airplane’s overhead compartment. There’s a rain cover and a carry bag included with your purchase.
Stroller Weight – 13.4 lbs
Folded Dimensions – 21” x 17.7” x 8.5”
Age Range – From 6 months up to 50 lbs
What’s Important to Consider
The Aer is more expensive than some other options, but if you expect to use it for both trips abroad and everyday life, the whole price will seem more reasonable.
Pros
- Sleek canopy and seat design
- Comfortable carrying strap
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Calf-rest sold separately
- Buckle can be annoying
5. Best Compact Stroller for Infants: Mountain Buggy Nano V3
The Mountain Buggy Nano stroller offers parents the best of both worlds by serving as both a travel stroller and a travel system in one convenient package. This one is different from the rest since it has a place to attach a car seat, meaning you can take your newborn on the go without having to carry around an extra car seat. (The Cocoon Carrycot is also available for purchase independently if you’d rather use a bassinet.)
The Nano is lightweight and small enough to fit in most carry-on luggage compartments on airplanes and trains or in a trunk, and the included travel case features a handle and strap for convenience. The seat fully reclines, making it ideal for naps, and the compact width and swiveling front wheels make it useful for navigating city streets and such compact spaces.
Stroller Weight – 13 lbs
Folded Dimensions – 20” x 12” x 22”
Age Range – From birth up to 44 lbs
What’s Important to Consider
It doesn’t have a suspension system or a peekaboo window. Folding the Nano requires the use of both hands. (Although it’s still quite simple.)
Pros
- Comes with universal car seat adapter
- Full recline seat
- Ventilated backrest for airflow
Cons
- Folding process required both hands
6. Best Budget Compact Stroller: Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Stroller
If you don’t plan on spending a lot of money on a travel stroller or you are a family that doesn’t travel very often, the Kolcraft Cloud Light is a fantastic value that has a lot of features that were thoughtfully designed, especially when considering the price of the stroller. One of the lightest strollers on our list, the Cloud Plus comes in at less than twelve pounds, making it a standout in this category. Likewise, you should give the fold a second look. Although it’s not the most compact option (the stroller folds in on itself like an umbrella stroller rather than in a tri-fold like many other travel strollers on our list), but it’s simple to collapse and unfold and requires just one hand, which is great for when you’re in a rush.
Additional features worth mentioning include an extensible canopy that has a peekaboo window, a parent tray that has two drink holders, and a large storage basket (it’s one of the largest on our list).
Stroller Weight – 11.8 lbs
Folded Dimensions – 18” x 12” x 34”
Age Range – From 6 months up to 40 lbs
What’s Important to Consider
The seat of the Cloud Plus can be adjusted to a number of different angles, although it does not lie fully flat. It has less suspension and less shock absorption than the other strollers on our list, and it can only hold up to 40 pounds. This fold is narrow but not particularly compact.
Pros
- Great value
- Very light – weighs less than 12 pounds
- Simple folding mechanism but not as compact as others on our list
- Comes with trays for child and grownup
Cons
- Loud branding on handle
- Too big for overhead bins
- No carrying strap
7. Best Compact Stroller for Travel: Silver Cross Jet Super Compact Stroller
Many strollers may be folded up into a small space and/or come with a carrying strap, making them convenient to take with you wherever you go. But a compact stroller that folds up into a rolling bag? Definitely a game-changer. Traveling with the Silver Cross Jet is a breeze because to the bumper bar’s dual function as a luggage handle, which allows you to avoid straining your back and shoulders by simply rolling the stroller through airports, railway stations, and anywhere.
Furthermore, the Jet is perfect for flight travel because it can be folded with one hand (a necessity for going through security), fits in airoplane cabins, and comes with a safe carrying case. This lightweight stroller can accommodate a newborn without any additional accessories, and it can grow with your child up to 55 pounds with its adjustable footrest and multiple reclining seat positions. A storage basket that can hold up to 11 pounds, dynamic spring suspension, and a footbrake that can be used even when wearing flip-flops are also great features.
Stroller Weight –13.6 lbs
Unfolded Dimensions – 35.43” x17.7” x 39.5”
Age Range – Recommended for birth up to 55 lbs
What’s Important to Consider
It could take a little bit of practise before you get the hang of locking the stroller into position after unfolding it.
Pros
- Fits in airplane cabin space
- Multi-position reclining seat
- Simple, quick one-hand fold
- Converts into a travel system (with adapters)
- Special-edition luxe accents and fabrics
Cons
- Very easy but folding process needs practice
8. Best Lightweight Compact Stroller: GB Pockit+ All-City Stroller
Frequent fliers, please pay attention. In terms of foldability, the Pockit stroller is unparalleled. (The Guinness Book of World Records recognized it as the smallest folded stroller in the world, therefore it really is the case!) It’s compact enough to stow away in an airplane’s overhead bin, beneath a seat, in a tote bag, or even a large diaper bag. It folds in two easy steps and stands upright when not in use. Moreover, its design works with a wide range of baby car seat brands and includes a little recline for added comfort.
This ultra-compact travel stroller is your best bet if you have a family that travels regularly, especially by air; but, it’s not the best option for day-to-day use because it’s not very spacious.
Stroller Weight – 10.1 lbs
Folded Dimensions – 11.8” x 7.1” x 13.8”
Age Range – Birth and up with infant car seat, 6+ months without and up to 55 lbs
What’s Important to Consider
The Pockit has a small storage basket, and the canopy is even more compact than the storage basket. Not having a strap or carrying case isn’t a deal breaker because of how easily it fits into a handbag or other bag. Practice is also needed for disassembling the stroller.
Pros
- World’s smallest folded stroller
- Extremely lightweight
- Stands up when folded
- Tiny storage basket and no recline
- Suspension makes ride smooth
Cons
- Heavier than other options
- Canopy could be bigger
9. One Compact Stroller, Three Ways to Ride: Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Ultra-Compact Travel Stroller
The one-handed foldability of Baby Jogger strollers is one of the brand’s most recognizable and coveted features, and this travel stroller is no exception. The City Tour 2 can be folded into a 19-by-23-inch rectangle that closes and locks on its own. You can carry it by the handle or put it in the tote bag carryall that comes with it while your child goes exploring. To ensure that your child is as comfortable as possible while riding in the stroller, it features a plush, well-padded seat as well as calf support that can be adjusted. In addition, there is a massive sun canopy that blocks UV rays to the extent of 50+.
This upgraded version of the best-selling City Tour can accommodate a bassinet attachment (called a Carry Cot) and is compatible with the Baby Jogger City GO and the Graco Click Connect car seats with the use of appropriate adapters, making it an excellent option for parents in search of a lightweight stroller suitable from birth.
Stroller Weight – 14 lbs
Folded Dimensions – 19” x 7” x 23”
Age Range – From 6 months up to 45 lbs
What’s Important to Consider
The frame’s suspension isn’t very good, so riding it can be a bit uncomfortable. For more comfortable transport, some parents would prefer a backpack strap design for the tote bag carryall.
Pros
- Lighter than most others
- Same one-handed fold Baby Jogger full-size strollers are known for
- Easy to push and turn
- 3 ways to ride: infant car seat, bassinet or toddler seat
- Padded seat with added depth
- Reclines for comfortable napping
Cons
- Folding does take two hands to complete
- No strap for hands-free carrying
- Under-seat storage could be bigger
10. Fast Fold, Very Versatile Compact Stroller: Nuna TRVL Easy Fold Compact Stroller & Carry Bag
The well-known and respected brand Nuna has successfully entered the market for travel strollers, and it does not fall short in any way. Whether you’re on a short trip or a long flight, the TRVL is the perfect stroller to have with you because it’s lightweight, compact, and quick to fold.
The foldable design and compact size of this stroller are its two most prominent qualities. It can be folded with one hand; just press the button on the handlebar and push the stroller away from you as well as watch the stroller do the rest. (Another advantage is that the stroller can stand on its own even when it is folded.) It’s one of the lighter compact strollers we’ve reviewed, coming in at a little over 13 pounds for the complete thing.
The basket is not enormous, but it is big enough to contain your necessities (and a little bit more) and it is simple to get into it. Additionally, the TRVL’s maneuverability is good enough that you will be able to control it effortlessly with one hand. The stroller can be used without any further attachments or modifications once your child can sit up on their own (often about six months), and it is compatible with the brand’s PIPA range of baby car seats.
Stroller Weight – 13.6 lbs
Folded Dimensions – 24” x 20.25” x 11”
Age Range – From 6 months up to 50 lbs
What’s Important to Consider
The TRVL’s price tag may seem expensive at first, but when you factor in its agile handling, comfortable ride, and adaptability, you can see why. Magnetic buckles, a no-rethread harness, and a leatherette bumper bar and handlebar are just some of the other clever design features.
Pros
- Quick, one-handed fold
- Attractive design
- Roomy storage compartment
- Compatible with NUNA infant car seats
Cons
- Expensive
11. Best Umbrella Compact Stroller: Summer 3D Lite Convenience Stroller
When it comes to transporting their child, some parents favour the convenience of an umbrella stroller for international trips. If you count yourself among them, the Summer 3D Lite is definitely something you need to look at.
The 3D Lite is an excellent choice for parents looking for a compact stroller for their travels. It weighs only approximately 13 pounds, folds up quickly and easily, has a seat that almost completely reclines, and comes with a large storage basket. Other features include an integrated carry strap, a simple folding mechanism, and a virtually flat-lying seat. If you’re looking for a high-quality stroller for your child, this one comes in at a price that’s well under $100 and is a steal.
Stroller Weight – 13 lbs
Folded Dimensions – 10” x 12” x 43”
Age Range – From 6 months up to 50 lbs
What’s Important to Consider
Since it’s an umbrella stroller, it doesn’t fold as small as a tri-fold, which is a feature many parents desire about travel and compact strollers.
Pros
- Great value
- Easy to maneuver
- Umbrella-style fold is bulky
- Adjustable canopy with flip-out sun visor
- 4-position recline
Cons
- It doesn’t fold as small as a tri-fold
12. Best Luxury Compact, Lightweight Stroller: Babyzen YoYo2
The Babyzen YoYo2 is an excellent option for parents who want a lightweight and compact stroller without sacrificing quality. It has one of the smallest folded dimensions we’ve seen (20.5″ x 17.3″ x 7.1″), and it opens up quickly and easily (perfect for exiting taxis, trains, and the like). Whether you use the bassinet attachment, the infant car seat, or the cocoon-like newborn pack, your baby will get the most usage out of it from day one. The wheels of the YoYo2 are what make this high-end lightweight stroller so impressive; pushing one is more like gliding, and it has the same smooth ride as strollers that are considerably heavier and larger.
You can take your YoYo everywhere you go, as its compact fold allows it to be considered carry-on luggage by most airlines. This durable and lightweight stroller is made from aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, stainless steel, and fiberglass-reinforced plastics. The YoYo2 improves upon the industry standard in every conceivable way, with features including a comfortable reclining seat, dual storage spaces (both under and on the rear of the seat), and anti-UV and waterproof fabric.
This is a fashionable and useful option, with a frame that comes in two colors and a cloth seat that can be customized in nine different colors. This stroller is very easy to push and maneuver due to the Hytrel elastomer suspension.
Stroller Weight – 13.6 lbs
Folded Dimensions – 20.5” x 17.3” x 7.1”
Age Range – Supports children up to 40 lbs
What’s Important to Consider
Both the newborn pack and the bassinet are optional add-ons. This ultra-lightweight stroller does not come with any cup holders of any kind built into the design.
Pros
- Fits in overhead bin
- Anti-UV and waterproof fabric
- Fast, one-handed fold
- Customizeable cloth seat in 9 different colors
Cons
- It does not come with any cup holders
13. Best Compact Lightweight Stroller for Babies: Ergobaby Metro+
The majority of lightweight strollers don’t recommend using them until the baby is at least six months old, however the Ergobaby Metro+ can accommodate infants as young as three months. Ultra-plush padding, which is the thickest of any compact stroller’s padding, will keep the baby comfortable, and built-in newborn nest flaps will keep the baby warm, secure, and comfortable from the very first day. Even though it’s a compact stroller, there’s plenty of room for things like a diaper bag and other necessities in the under-seat basket.
Unique among ultralight strollers, the Ergobaby Metro+ has a handlebar that can be adjusted for your height. This foldable stroller has plenty of room for your belongings under the seat, plus a handy seat-back pocket for easy access to your phone, keys, and other small essentials. A flat recline allows for comfortable naps, and a foldable footrest eliminates the risk of dangling feet.
A spring suspension helps maintain a smooth ride, especially over bumps and curbs that are seen on sidewalks. Car seat compatibility can be achieved by using the appropriate adaptors.
Stroller Weight – 16.9 lbs
Folded Dimensions – 9″ L x 17″ W x 21″ H
Age Range – Supports children up to 49 lbs
What’s Important to Consider
It weighs approximately 17 pounds, making it one of the heaviest options. According to the experiences of several customers, it is a bit difficult to fold and unfold.
Pros
- Grows with baby, no accessories needed
- Lightweight and compact design
- Fits in most overhead bins
- Fully recline + Adjustable leg rest
Cons
- Simple, but folding mechanism needs practice
How We Rated the Best Compact Strollers
4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best compact strollers we tested. We recommend them without reservation.
4.5 to 4.7 stars: These compact strollers are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.
4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great compact strollers, but others are better.
3.5 to 3.9 stars: These compact strollers are just average.
3.4 and below: We don’t recommend compact strollers with this rating; you won’t find any on our list.
What to Look for in a Compact Stroller
How you choose a compact stroller for traveling will depend on the needs of your child or children, how you plan to travel, and what you want to do when you get to your destination. However, we do believe that there are some necessities and some nice-to-haves that every stroller should have.
Safety Standards
Dr. Orajiaka warns us that “head injuries, fractures, lacerations, and skin friction or rubs” are just some of the ailments that might happen “if safety is not highly considered.” These things can happen if the child isn’t buckled in properly, if the brakes aren’t put on when the stroller is left unattended by an adult, if the child’s foot gets caught in the footrest, if the stroller isn’t strong enough, or if extra items tip the stroller over. Because of this, you should pay great attention to and adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended ages and weights for using the product.
If your baby is younger than the stroller’s minimum age requirement, check to see if you can add a bassinet or an adapter for your infant car seat. When traveling with a newborn, many parents and caregivers like to use the Doona stroller, which folds up into a car seat. In the lab test, we found that it didn’t seem worth the price to use for such a short time, when a stroller you can use for years can cost much less.
A sun canopy isn’t really a short-term safety feature, but Dr. Orajiaka thinks it’s very important for children’s health in the long run.
“I value them,” she says. “It can keep your child safe from the sun and other bad weather. Children younger than 6 months old can’t use sunscreen yet, so this is another way to protect them.”
Size and Weight
It’s up to you to decide how big and heavy a stroller you want. If you only plan to take short trips with your travel stroller, you can choose one that is compact and lightweight but tends to lack other features. This could mean that the stroller can’t recline for naps, that the wheels don’t have suspension, or that it doesn’t have a bumper bar or a full sun canopy. On the other hand, if you want all the features you seek in an everyday stroller, you will probably end up with something a little heavier that doesn’t fit as well in car trunks and overhead compartments. Keep in mind that even though some travel strollers can fit in the overhead compartments of planes, some airlines may still ask you to gate-check your stroller on a full flight.
Strollers with wider bases are safer because they are less likely to collapse over, according to Dr. Orajiaka.
Easy to Use
In our opinion, some of the travel strollers we tried needed a technical instruction and an advanced degree just to fold up properly. Others were easy to fold up, but the harness buckles were too hard to use without hurting our fingers. Trying to do either of those things with a crying baby or a screaming toddler in the middle of an airport would be a lot harder, so we only included strollers that were easy to use, sometimes even with one hand. If you buy a stroller and don’t know how to use it, you should send it back and try something else. There are so many choices out there that you’ll find one that works for you.
Another important aspect of usability is manoeuvrability. If you are travelling with luggage or walking in a place you don’t know well, you will be glad that the stroller can handle bumps, turns, and crowds.
Style and Comfort
When it comes to comfort, think about how both the child riding in the stroller and the adults pushing it feel. For children, you should think about padding, foot and calf rests, seats that can be reclined, and harnesses that can be adjusted. For adults, the handle height should be comfortable, and the stroller should feel light when you push it and when you pick it up to store it (or take it up stairs!). You may also want accessories like cup holders, storage pockets, and a lot of space under the seat so that you and your child can reach everything you need.
At last, getting a stroller you like doesn’t just have to be about what other people see. If you take this on trips with your family, it will end up in family photos, so you’ll be able to look at it for a long time.
What makes a stroller compact and lightweight?
Lightweight strollers, also known as travel strollers, are ideal for parents who are constantly on the move because of their compact size and small weight (often 24 pounds or less).
Compact like an umbrella stroller, but with more room for storage and comforts, lightweight strollers are the best of both worlds. Their simple designs make them easy to fold up, so you can carry them upstairs or store them.
They are perfect for public transportation or quick trips around a city. Even though they aren’t always as sturdy as a regular stroller and may not have storage space or padding, their small size and light weight are worth it when you’re out and about.
Plus, lightweight strollers are usually easier to move with one hand, which is helpful when your hands are full of things like a phone, keys, and shopping bags.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you get on a plane with a stroller?
Most airlines let you check one stroller free of charge at the ticket counter as part of your checked luggage. This is the best thing to do with strollers that are too big to take on a plane.
If your stroller is small enough and light enough to be a carry-on, you can check it at the gate. There is space in the airplane’s overhead bin for some compact strollers.
There are different rules for each airline, so check the baggage limits before you fly.
What strollers lie completely flat?
Strollers for babies under 6 months usually lay completely flat. For babies this age, the safest and most comfortable option is a stroller that fully reclines, since they aren’t strong enough to sit up or hold their head up.
Options include umbrella strollers and strollers that combine a car seat and a stroller (travel systems). Some jogger strollers lay flat, but babies can’t ride in them until they are at least 6 months old.
What baby stroller is the smallest?
With a weight of 9 1/2 pounds, the gb Pockit is the lightest and smallest stroller on our list of top picks. This model can be folded up to a size of 12 x 7 x 20 inches, making it easy to carry. It’s compact enough to fit in suitcases and backpacks of any size. Straps can be bought to turn it into a backpack.
Is my stroller TSA-approved?
Yes. You can bring your stroller through security. Most of the time, they will ask you to take your child out of the stroller and fold it down so it can go through the scanner. Sometimes, they can use a metal detector or look at it by hand. As you move through the airport, it’s best not to have too many loose items in your stroller.
How can I keep my stroller safe when I fly?
Most airlines let you check your stroller for free at the gate, so it will be put on the plane with more care than regular checked luggage. You can buy a stroller bag to protect it if you want to.
Bottom Line
There are a lot of best compact stroller models that are good for traveling and easy to store when not in use. Quality options are easy to fold up and carry, but they are also strong enough to handle rough terrain.
Use this list to find out more about what the different strollers have to offer. Make your choice based on what criteria or features are most important for your needs.