How to Choose a Travel Stroller

Think about a lightweight, foldable stroller if your travels are frequent or if you stroll around the park frequently. They're extremely easy to fold and fit easily into buses, trunks, planes, and trains.

The Nuna Trvl is compact and fits into the overhead bins of many planes. It's also super easy to assemble and has excellent features, including the simple, adjustable seat.

Easy to Assemble

As its name suggests, this stroller was designed to be easy to assemble and use. The frame pops open and folds in one hand, and the seat reclines in two different positions. It also comes with a bumper bar that comes off and on with ease, and the handlebar looks and feels good as well. However, the absence of storage space means parents will need to carry a large diaper bag or delicately drape it over the handle (against the advice of a professional).

This lightweight stroller makes sharp turns and rolls effortlessly on any surface. It has larger foam filled rubber wheels than some of the other models we have tested. This provides it with more bounce and stability. Some parents have complained that the tires are flimsy.

The stroller is small enough to fit in the overhead bins of many planes and weighs under 13 pounds. Its minimalist design means it has few extra options, but it's an excellent choice for frequent passengers. It's important to remember that strollers that fold up are considered "carry-on" baggage and could need to be checked when your airline has strict baggage restrictions.

If you're a frequent traveler it may make sense to invest in a stroller with more sophisticated features and a higher price point. These higher-end strollers typically have more storage options including large underseat bins, and are simpler to put together and disassemble. Many of these strollers also have adjustable harnesses, along with other safety features you may not find on less basic models. Check with your airline to find out what their policies on strollers and follow them to the letter. It's also important to read the user's manual for your stroller, particularly any sections that cover safety. Be sure to know how to properly use the straps and secure them. Be sure to supervise your child and only use the stroller at a safe pace. This will reduce the risk of injuries if the stroller is accidentally tipped over or steers off-course.

Easy to Fold

One of the key features of a good stroller is the fact that it folds into an easy-to-manage compact package. Some models do this well, such as the light JOOVY TRVL which folded down in just four seconds during our testing and can stand up when folded. This makes it easy to store and carry in the trunk or closet.

The UPPAbaby MINU V2 is another stroller that folds up easily and weighs less than 17 pounds and comes with an ample underseat storage basket that can accommodate a large backpack or diaper bag. The footrest that is reversible can also be used as a handle to fold the stroller. This feature was great in our tests, however, it left the stroller at risk of being damaged by airlines when one of our editors forgot to keep it closed when checking it with her flight. The baggage handler ripped the footrest off, and the UPPAbaby warranty will not cover damages caused by the airline.

Most of the travel strollers we tested unlike umbrella strollers, use joints and hinges in order to fold into a more squared package. For instance the UPPAbaby G-Luxe folds in three seconds and then stands up after it's folded, but its button/ring combination is finicky and requires you to time it precisely.

Think about how the stroller could be locked in its closed, compacted position. Certain models require you to pull down a lever or handle near the rear wheels while others have red straps that need to be connected. It's a good idea check the owner's manual for specifics on the locking mechanism for each model and how it works.

If you happen to encounter a stroller that's difficult to close, try using a product like baby oil or WD-40 for lubricating the joints and connections. If this doesn't work then you should contact the manufacturer or a stroller service. However, don't force it; forcing a stroller to close that's not designed to be closed could cause damage or injuries to you or your child.

Easy to carry

No matter if you're planning a full day of running errands or a family vacation, it's important to have access to your stroller. Travel strollers are compact and light, making them easy to transport and carry. They can be tucked away in your car, or in a closet at home. Some models include a storage bag to make transporting and protecting them easier.

Think about how you will utilize the stroller before deciding on one. Do you want it to accompany you on your travels or be used for road trip visits, or be used regularly in the city? The answer to this question will aid in narrowing your choices. If you'll be traveling with a child, look for a stroller that is car seat-compatible to save yourself time and stress. Consider a model that has a larger rear-seat for more comfort and legroom, especially if you have children.

A good travel stroller should be light and compact enough to fit in the overhead bins of airplanes, but make sure to check with your airline prior to you buy to ensure it is in line with their dimensions and regulations. A lot of airlines will gate-check strollers if they're too large to fit in the cabin. Others will take them to the hold if they exceed their baggage allowance.

If you'll be using your travel stroller frequently opt for a model with wheels that are smaller and more durable than the ones on traditional strollers. The smaller wheels are easier to maneuver, and are less likely to be damaged or punctured. You might also want to consider adding some wheel covers for additional protection.

If you're taking your stroller to the beach or other public areas in which it's unattended, you should invest in a lock to secure it. It's also recommended to attach an umbrella that you can carry with you on your stroller for sun protection. You can also clip a utility tote onto the handlebar for shopping without hands or to carry an aloe vera bottle. A set of carabiners at the front of your stroller will let you keep water bottles and snacks close to hand.

Easy to store

The best travel pushchair travel strollers can be easily maintained and stored. To keep your stroller clean and ready for use, begin by vacuuming all surfaces to get rid of any loose dirt and dust. If there are stains, using a damp cloth soaked in mild detergent and warm water ought to be able to remove them. For hard-to-reach areas brushing with a toothbrush could be useful. A damp cloth is enough for parts that are not made of fabric, like the handlebars and wheels. It's important to grease these moving parts to avoid corrosion.

Some strollers such as the chit chat lightweight stroller, include a parent tray for personal items as well as one or more cup holders, making it easier to keep your essentials on-the-go. Some models also come with a complete tray for parents, with a slot for a laptop or tablet. These features not only aid parents in keeping their lives well-organized, but they reduce stress during long trips.

Another important aspect to consider when choosing a stroller for travel is the capacity to fold and fit easily in small spaces, like an overhead bin on airplanes or on public transportation. This is why many parents prefer a stroller that can fold up and fit into its own bag rather than needing to be checked at the gate with baggage.

When evaluating strollers for storage space, be sure to think about the space you have at home, too. If you're only blessed with a little space, a smaller stroller could be the Best Travel Stroller option. If you plan to use the stroller on a lot of trips that require it to be carried by public transport or car and a larger stroller with more storage space and performance for everyday use may be a better choice.

Some strollers are available as part of an overall travel system that also includes a car seat. They can be purchased for the same price or less than buying the products separately. While this is an excellent option but it's important to keep in mind that the quality of the stroller in these bundles is often considered to be lower than standalone models. This is why we suggest considering these options as a last option.