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Best Travel Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed by Parents & Experts

Lightweight and compact, a travel stroller can help make your next family vacation a little bit easier., by jen labracio | medically reviewed by holly peretz ot.

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If the thought of trying to wrangle your full-size stroller on your next family adventure feels daunting, it’s time to consider a travel stroller.

Travel strollers make leaving home with your little one a little bit easier and a lot more convenient. Today’s travel stroller is a minimalist’s dream. Most have many of the same high-end features as traditional strollers all rolled into a compact, portable package. Many travel strollers break down to fit in the overhead bin of a plane or can be folded down quickly (and with one hand—win) and slung over your shoulder. Many parents even use them as their day-to-day stroller.

If you’re a family who’s frequently on the go, a travel stroller may be the answer to help lighten your load and simplify your life. We’re sharing Babylist parents favorites and bestselling picks to help you narrow down your search. I also added my own thoughts and picks from the countless travel strollers I’ve tested over the last decade as a mom of two and in my role as Babylist’s Gear Editor.

Babylist’s Top Picks for the Best Travel Strollers

  • Best Travel System: Nuna PIPA urbn + TRVL Travel System
  • Best for Toddlers: Bugaboo Butterfly Complete Stroller
  • Best Budget: Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Stroller
  • Best for Everyday Use: UPPAbaby MINU V2 Stroller
  • Best for Planes: Babyzen YOYO2 6+ Stroller
  • Best Compact: Joolz Aer+ Lightweight Stroller
  • Best Lightweight: Zoe The Traveler
  • Best Value: Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Single Stroller
  • Best for Infants: Mountain Buggy Nano V3 Stroller
  • Best Umbrella: Summer 3D Lite Convenience Stroller

In This Article

How we chose the best travel strollers.

  • Our Top Picks

Which Stroller Is Best for Travel?

What to look for in a travel stroller, how do you travel with a stroller on a plane, babylist’s picks for the best travel strollers, best travel system stroller.

Nuna PIPA urbn & TRVL LX Travel System - Caviar - $950.00.

Nuna PIPA urbn & TRVL LX Travel System - Caviar

  • Baseless infant car seat, installs in seconds
  • Stroller has one-handed fold, weighs 13 pounds
  • Car seat weighs just 7 pounds

What Our Experts Say

If you know you’ll frequently be traveling while your baby is an infant, you may want to invest in a travel system (a stroller and car seat that attach to each other; here’s more on how to pick a travel system ). This combo is the best of the best, and what I wish I’d had when I was a new mom living in New York City seven years ago and didn’t own a car. It combines the ultra-popular TRVL, the brand’s first dive into the lightweight stroller market, with the urbn, a first-of-its-kind car seat.

What’s so special about a baseless car seat? Most infant car seats can be installed without a base, but require a seat belt—along with time and patience. That’s not the case with the urbn. There’s no base to worry about AND the latch system is built right into the seat’s base. I was blown away by how quick and easy this seat was to install. I pressed a button on each side and pushed to attach it directly to my vehicle’s lower anchors—that’s it. It’s about as foolproof as it gets, and especially ideal if you’ll be using your car seat on the go in rideshares or taxis. This is also our pick for best travel car seat .

As for the TRVL stroller, it’s just as great. The two standout features for me were its fold (one-handed, quick and ridiculously easy) and its compact size (it stands on its own and weighs just over 13 pounds. While not huge, the basket is large enough to hold your essentials (and a little more) and is easy to access, and the TRVL’s maneuverability is good enough that you’ll be able to steer easily with one hand.

What’s Worth Considering

The TRVL is on the pricier side and it doesn’t have a carry strap, but the maneuverability, suspension and versatility help explain the higher price point. I found it worked as a travel stroller, but also as an everyday stroller, too. There are also lots of thoughtful design details like magnetic buckles, a no-rethread harness and leatherette bumper bar and handlebar. The urbn car seat has a lower height limit than many infant car seats—not ideal, but not a huge dealbreaker, either.

Additional Specs

Best Travel Stroller for Toddlers

Bugaboo Butterfly Complete Stroller - Midnight Black - $479.00.

Bugaboo Butterfly Complete Stroller - Midnight Black

  • Four-wheel suspension for a smooth ride
  • Fast, easy fold
  • Included footrest and high seat back

There are two travel strollers I recommend again and again to families, and Bugaboo’s newest compact stroller, the Butterfly, is one of them. (The other one is the Joolz Aer+—more on that below!). This style-forward stroller is packed with thoughtful, impressive features, just like the brand’s popular full-size strollers. Two of my favorites (and there are many to choose from!) are the smooth ride and the quick, easy fold. The four-wheel suspension system means the Butterfly rides more like a traditional stroller than a compact one, a huge perk when I pushed it on anything other than smooth pavement and perfect for toting around my larger toddler. It moves and turns easily and I was able to steer it with only one hand, a huge plus. The fold is just as impressive; I also did it one-handed, and the Butterfly folds down to about the side of a small bag. (There’s also a built-in carry strap, a feature I value in any stroller, but especially one designed for travel.)

A few other things I love: it accommodates an infant car seat with adapters, so you can use it from day one, and the seat has a high back for larger kiddos and reclines almost fully for napping on the go. There’s even a footrest built in for extra comfort, another toddler-friendly feature. (My 95th-percent-in-height two-year-old still fits perfectly in it.) And the sun canopy on the Butterfly is one of the best I’ve seen of all the travel strollers on our list.

There’s not much to pick on with this stroller, minus its high price tag. The back wheels on the Butterfly are fairly close together. That setup, combined with a handle that doesn’t extend (which is the norm for compact strollers), means that if you’re on the taller side like me (5’10”), you may kick the back of the stroller while you’re walking. And although I wouldn’t consider it heavy, it is one of the heavier travel strollers on our list by about three pounds.

Best Budget Travel Stroller

Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Stroller - $79.99.

Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Stroller

  • Great value
  • Extremely light—weighs less than 12 pounds
  • Easy fold but not as compact as others on our list

If you’re not looking to spend a lot on a travel stroller or you’re a family who doesn’t travel very often, the Kolcraft Cloud Light is an excellent value for an inexpensive stroller . It boasts lots of thoughtful features, especially considering the stroller’s price. Weight is the standout here—the Cloud Plus weighs less than twelve pounds, making it one of the lightest strollers on our list. The fold is also worth a second look. Although it’s not super compact (the stroller folds in on itself, much like an umbrella stroller, rather than in a tri-fold like many other travel strollers on our list), it’s quick and easy and you can do it with one hand, a feature we always appreciate especially when we’re on the go.

Other features to note include an extendable canopy with a peekaboo window, a parent tray with two drink holders and a large storage basket (it’s one of the biggest on our list).

The seat on the Cloud Plus has multiple positions but doesn’t recline completely flat. It has a lower weight limit than many of the strollers on our list—40 pounds—and doesn’t have much in the way of suspension and shock absorption. The fold is slim but not all that compact.

And remember—this stroller is under $100. It’s not going to compare to travel strollers five times its price in suspension, maneuverability, stability or materials. But, considering the price, it’s a great option if you don’t travel all that much but want a lightweight stroller option when you do.

What Babylist Parents Say

“Easily fits in the trunk of my car.” -Cora

Best Travel Stroller for Everyday Use

UPPAbaby Minu V2 Stroller - Jake - $399.99.

UPPAbaby Minu V2 Stroller - Jake

  • Great for travel + everyday use
  • Roomy storage basket
  • Shock-absorbing suspension for a smooth ride

UPPAbaby was one of the first stroller brands to dive into the “travel stroller that can also be used as an everyday stroller” category, and the Minu does both of these things extremely well. From your own neighborhood to wherever your travel adventures take you and to everything in between, the Minu offers all the conveniences of a day-to-day stroller in a travel-friendly package. A few of my favorite features are the one-handed fold, the huge sunshade, the comfy seat with multi-position recline and a roomy, easy-access basket. The spring-action, shock-absorbing all-wheel suspension makes for a smooth ride even over bumpy terrain, so it’s a stroller you can use both in the suburbs and in a city. The Minu stands when folded and features a carry strap and a storage bag for easy transport.

As-is, the Minu works for babies three+ months; that means if you want to use it with your newborn, you’ll need to add the bassinet and adapters , which will cost you.

The Minu folds compactly but is a little bulkier than some of the other strollers on our list when it’s broken down. It’s also a little heavier, weighing in at about 17 pounds. And the seat back is on the shorter side.

“Amazing stroller. Great for travelling (fits in overhead bin), shopping (takes up minimal trunk space), walks in the park (very smooth ride, even over grass!). Has oversized canopy to block sun and folds with one hand. Bought it for travel, but use it as our primary stroller because I love it so much.” -Jessica

Best Travel Stroller for Flying

Babyzen yoyo2 stroller bundle - black frame/olive.

  • Fits in overhead bin
  • Fast, one-handed fold
  • Options to customize color, add a second rider and more

The YOYO2 was ahead of its time in the world of compact strollers and remains a parent favorite both for travel and for families looking for a smaller, lighter everyday stroller option. This compact favorite fits in the overhead bin and is the stroller of choice for many light-packing parents who don’t want to deal with the hassle (or risk) of gate-checking a stroller when they fly. It performs like a champ off the plane, too, easily steering through crowds and through narrow spaces.

There’s one other unique thing to love here—the custom options. You can change out the seat and shade fabrics with a new color pack , add a custom footmuff for cooler temps, help your older kiddo hitch a ride on the stroller board and even add a storage bag that uses wheeled support so your stroller won’t tip. With adapters that are sold separately, you can also use this stroller with some of the best infant car seats from Nuna and Maxi Cosi, among others.

The YOYO2’s fold isn’t hard, but it’s not quite as easy as some of the other travel stroller picks on our list. (There are two steps, and it takes a little getting used to.) The canopy is on the shorter side. This travel stroller does come with a rain cover, but all the other extras and custom adds will cost you. (And this stroller is on the pricier side to begin with.)

“Fits in airplane cabin. We took it on so many trips!” -Emily

Best Compact Travel Stroller

Joolz aer + lightweight stroller - stone grey.

  • One-handed fold and compact carry
  • Comfy, contoured seat

I’ve tried a LOT of travel strollers in my day, and the Joolz Aer+ is the one I come back to again and again. Pushing it doesn’t feel much different than pushing much larger, much more expensive strollers—and that’s one of the things I love about it. The Aer+ has four-wheel suspension, a feature that’s not very common in travel strollers, so it maneuvers easily and glides smoothly even across uneven surfaces like bumpy sidewalks and dirt paths. That combined with the ridiculously easy one-handed fold, the compact design and the comfortable seat that contours to fit your child’s body makes this stroller a great choice for travel and for everyday use. (It currently occupies a permanent spot in the trunk of my car.)

The Aer+ is newborn-friendly and compatible with Nuna and Clek car seats (adapters sold separately), so it works if you want to use it from day one. The stroller folds small enough to fit in an overhead bin or to sling over your shoulder (carry strap included) and tote up and down stairs, on public transportation or anywhere else you need to go. It also comes with a rain cover and travel bag included.

The Aer+ is on the pricier side, but if you’re planning on using it for travel and for everyday, then the cost doesn’t seem as daunting. I also wish it came with a footrest instead of having to purchase one separately.

“It’s so easy to push and steer and SO easy to fold with just one hand. We use it as a travel stroller and often as our everyday stroller as well.” -Jennifer

Best Lightweight Travel Stroller

Zoe the traveler.

  • One-handed fold
  • Extended canopy, full recline

Lightweight, compact and travel-ready are the three features that come to mind when I think of The Traveler from Zoe. This aluminum-frame stroller is light enough for easy portability but durable enough to handle lots of different adventures. I love the one-handed fold and that it’s small enough to fit in an overhead bin if you don’t want to wrangle with gate checking your stroller on your next trip. There are lots of high-end features like an extended canopy, adjustable footrest and a near-flat recline. And don’t forget one of the best parts: The Traveler folds in seconds with one hand and stands on its own.

The Traveler isn’t compatible with any car seats so you won’t be able to use it with younger babies. There are also no straps or backpack included; if you want those, you’ll have to pay extra to add them on. And while it shines on smooth pavement, it’s not great on bumpy or uneven terrain.

Need a double travel stroller? Zoe’s The Twin+ is a great choice. It weighs under 20 pounds and fits through standard doorways but is comfortable and roomy enough for two children up to 45 pounds each. The fold is quick, easy and compact and the stroller is Disney-approved. And it can expand to a triple or a quad stroller with additional seats.

Best Value Travel Stroller

Baby jogger city tour 2 single stroller - jet.

  • Same one-handed fold Baby Jogger full-size strollers are known for
  • 3 ways to ride: infant car seat, bassinet or toddler seat
  • Padded seat with added depth

Travel strollers can get expensive. If you don’t want to spend $500+ on one, but you travel frequently and want a reliable option, the City Tour 2 is a great mid-priced pick.

Baby Jogger strollers are known (and loved) for their easy, one-handed fold—and this travel stroller is no exception. The City Tour 2 folds into a 19-by-23-inch rectangle and automatically locks closed. You can carry it by the handle or tuck it away in the included tote bag carryall while your little one explores. The stroller has a deep, padded seat and adjustable calf support to keep your kiddo comfortable. Plus, a huge UV 50+ sun canopy provides shade.

There’s suspension system in the frame isn’t great, making for a bit of a bumpy ride. Some parents wish the tote bag carryall had backpack straps for easier transport rather than a shoulder strap.

“I love that I can carry, open and fold it with one hand. It’s easy to maneuver and the only stroller I own. Perfect for city living!” -Amie

Best Infant Travel Stroller

Mountain buggy nano v3 stroller.

  • Comes with universal car seat adapter
  • Full recline seat
  • Ventilated backrest for airflow

The Mountain Buggy Nano stroller is the best of both worlds—a travel stroller that can also act as a travel system . Unlike most travel strollers, this one comes equipped with a universal car seat adapter so you can pop in your infant seat and be on your way with your newborn in tow. (You can also purchase the Cocoon Carrycot separately if you prefer a bassinet option.)

The Nano is lightweight and compact enough to fit easily into many carry-on luggage units on planes and trains or in a trunk, and the travel bag has a handle and strap for portability. The narrow width and front-wheel swivel makes it good for use on city streets or other tight spaces and the seat features a full recline perfect for naps.

There’s no suspension system and no peekaboo window. You need to use two hands to fold the Nano. (Although it’s still really easy.)

“It folded up so small that it fit on the plane as a carryon but it also handled really well on european cobblestone” -Nikki

Best Umbrella Stroller for Travel

Summer 3d lite convenience stroller.

  • Easy to maneuver
  • Umbrella-style fold is bulky

Umbrella strollers used to be the norm in the compact stroller category. That’s changed over the last five years or so, but if you still prefer one for travel, the Summer 3D Lite should be on your list.

The 3D Lite is a great all-around travel stroller. It’s light (about 13 pounds), features a simple, compact fold and a built-in carry strap, has a seat that lays nearly flat and boasts an ample storage basket. The ride isn’t super cushy, but it’s not all that bumpy, either. And at well under $100, it’s an incredible value for a stroller with this many great features.

Since this is an umbrella stroller, you won’t find the compact tri-fold that parents love so much about many travel strollers.

“It is so easy to travel with - we used it on a cruise ship, in various airports, and for all our daily errands.” -Jeanine

Also Worth a Look…

The world of compact travel strollers has exploded recently, flooding the market with lots of options. Here are a few other travel strollers worth a look:

  • The Bumprider Connect 3 Stroller ($599.99) is totally unique. It features a magnetic lock system that allows you to join two or more strollers together. It’s pricey, though, especially if you need more than one.
  • Evenflo Gold’s Otto ($199.99) is a competitively priced self-folding, lightweight stroller with a high weight limit (55 pounds) and a two-position adjustable footrest.
  • The Inglesina Quid ($299.00) fits in an overhead bin and offers thoughtful features like a self-standing fold, an extendable canopy and a large flap on the hood that fully retracts for ventilation on warm days. The Quid weighs in at only 13 pounds.
  • We analyzed results from Babylist’s Best Baby Products survey, which polled 6,000 Babylist users and asked them to share the baby products they love the most and why.
  • We utilized insight from the Babylist editorial team, including Gear Editor Jen LaBracio, an expert in the baby space for over six years and a mom of two who has written hundreds of baby gear guides and personally researched and tested hundreds of baby products, including many travel strollers.
  • We reviewed customer reviews from hundreds of real Babylist parents.

Some families use a traditional stroller for everything, even traveling. But having a lighter, more nimble travel stroller pays off when you really need it: for airports, narrow city sidewalks , public transportation or just to lighten the load.

Here are some of the pros and cons of using different types of strollers for travel:

  • Traditional stroller: Everyday strollers typically have convenient features like lots of storage space, cup holders and trays, and large canopies. Some may also have all-terrain wheels and accommodate an infant car seat. But they’re heavier and bulkier to fold, which makes using and storing them in tight spaces more difficult (think: narrow doorways, airplane overhead bins, small car trunks).
  • Umbrella stroller: Bare-boned and exceptionally lightweight, umbrella strollers often lack many amenities you find in traditional strollers like adjustable seats and cup holders. They have skimpy canopies, minimal cushioning and seat support and don’t fold small enough to fit in airport storage bins. You also can’t push an umbrella stroller with one hand. Umbrella strollers are good for when you occasionally need a slimmer, fast-fold stroller.
  • Travel stroller: Sometimes also called a lightweight stroller, travel strollers strike a balance between traditional and umbrella stroller styles. They’re lighter than the standard stroller, easy to fold and compact in size when collapsed. (Some travel strollers fold in half, called a square fold, while others feature a more compact tri-fold.) Travel strollers have some full-size amenities like large sun canopies and a storage basket and most even have extras like cup holders.

Figuring out the best stroller to use for travel often comes down to what type of trade-offs you want to make around budget , space and personal preference.

  • Some traditional strollers offer a compact fold that’s great for travel, but the stroller weighs a ton.
  • Umbrella strollers tend to be affordable but require two hands for pushing and only offer a vertical fold.
  • Compact travel strollers are light, portable and easy to steer but come at a cost.

Before you invest in a travel stroller, think through:

  • How often you travel
  • How much money you want to spend
  • Where you’ll be storing your stroller when it’s not in use

Also note that lots of parents find that a travel stroller can work just as well as a full-size option for everyday use; just keep in mind that unless the travel stroller you choose is compatible with an infant car seat or comes with a separate infant kit, you’ll need to wait to use the stroller until your baby is six months old and can sit up unassisted.  

A travel stroller should be easy to take with you on trips and be a comfy spot for your little one, especially since your child will probably spend more hours in it while traveling than at home. Consider these features as you research and shop:

  • Size and weight. You’re going to be lifting, carrying and storing your travel stroller often, so the stroller’s size and weight is important. Look for one that’s lightweight and manageable. Also pay attention both to the folded and unfolded size of your travel stroller. Hoping to If you’re planning on using it for an older toddler, also be sure it’s large enough to accommodate them.
  • Fold. There’s also a lot of folding and unfolding a stroller during travel, whether it’s to take it in and out of your car, stash it under a table at a restaurant or storing it in the overhead compartment of an airplane. Choose a travel stroller with a quick, easy fold, preferably one you can do one-handed.
  • Maneuverability. Not all travel strollers are created equally. Some offer much more maneuverability and a better suspension system than others; however, these features often come at a cost. Thinking through how often you’ll be using your travel stroller and what types of terrain you’ll encounter most often can be helpful in determining whether or not a more expensive stroller is worthwhile.
  • Canopy size. Most travel involves at least some, if not a lot, of outdoor time. A large canopy is essential for protecting your little one from the elements, especially the sun.
  • Comfort and convenience features. Similar to a full-size stroller, look for features that will make you and your little one more comfortable, especially while traveling. Things like an adjustable seat with a full or nearly full recline, an ample storage basket, an adjustable handlebar and easy to clean fabrics are all important. And don’t forget a built-in strap or a separate carrying case for easy transport.

Bringing a stroller with you on trips can seem daunting. How do you get it from point A to point B when you’re flying ? Will it count toward your carry-on and baggage allotment? And what if you need to use your stroller in the airport? Good news: You can pick how you want to travel with your stroller, depending on your needs. Here are the choices:

  • Check the stroller with your baggage: Some parents unload the stroller during check-in and switch to using a baby carrier through the airport instead. Pair a front carrier with a backpack-style diaper bag so your hands will be free to deal with other things (like the toys that will make your trip a breeze ). Note that if you have a large stroller, you may be required to check it as baggage anyway. This usually doesn’t count toward your baggage allotment.
  • Check the stroller at the gate: Want to use the stroller until you board the plane? You can check the stroller with the gate agent—it just needs to be tagged—and then pick it up outside the aircraft door when you arrive. (Just remember if you have a connecting flight to catch, waiting for your stroller to be placed on the jet bridge can eat up precious time.)
  • Stow the stroller on the airplane: Some travel strollers fold up so small they fit in a backpack and can be stored in an overhead bin. Having your stroller with you eliminates the hassle of waiting for it on the jet bridge or at baggage claim (or losing it).

Some other air-travel tips to keep in mind:

  • If you check the stroller with baggage, you do run the risk of damage. If you’re not using a travel stroller bag, ask the agent at check-in for a plastic bag to cover and protect it during transport.
  • If you’re taking the stroller through security, it will need to be folded and put through the X-ray machine. Don’t stuff the undercarriage basket until after security.
  • If your checked stroller doesn’t come out with the suitcases at baggage claim, check the oversized luggage area. It may have been set aside there (this may also be where your travel crib is, if you checked one).

Do you need a travel stroller bag?

How you plan to use your travel stroller will affect whether or not you need a travel stroller bag.

If you plan on flying with your stroller then you’ll probably want to use a travel stroller bag, especially if you don’t plan on stowing your stroller in the overhead compartment of the plane (either because you don’t want to or because it won’t fit). A checked stroller, even one that’s gate checked, may get tossed around quite a bit while in transit, so you’ll want a travel stroller bag to keep it protected.

If you’re not planning on flying much with your stroller or if you’re simply using your travel stroller as a more lightweight day-to-day option, then a travel stroller probably isn’t a must-have.

Some travel strollers come with a travel bag while others require you to purchase one separately, so check with your particular brand. There are generic travel stroller bags that may work, too.

Jen LaBracio

Senior gear editor.

Jen LaBracio is Babylist’s Senior Gear Editor, a role that perfectly combines her love of all things baby gear with her love of (obsessive) research. When she’s not testing out a new high chair or pushing the latest stroller model around her neighborhood, she likes to run, spin, listen to podcasts, read and spend time at the beach. In her past life, she worked for over a decade in children’s publishing. She lives outside of Chicago with her husband and their two boys, Will and Ben.

light weight travel stroller

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The Best Travel Strollers

The two travel strollers we recommend, the Uppababy Minu V2 and the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller, standing next to each other.

By Elise Czajkowski

A good travel stroller can make the difference between a jaunty vacation and a miserable slog.

We researched dozens of travel strollers, tested seven on a variety of trips involving planes, trains, buses, and cabs, and concluded that the Uppababy Minu V2 is the best option to keep parents and tots happy. Unlike most travel strollers, you’re sacrificing very little in comfort and maneuverability with the Minu V2—which is why many people find it’s also the ideal everyday stroller.

If you’re looking for a lighter, simpler option, the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller is a great budget pick.

Everything we recommend

light weight travel stroller

Uppababy Minu V2

The best travel stroller.

This comfortable, sturdy travel stroller handles bumpy streets better than the competition and is easy to fold one-handed. Many parents love it for everyday use as well.

Buying Options

Budget pick.

light weight travel stroller

Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller

Simple and sturdy.

This less-expensive option handles rough terrain well and offers the best on-the-go napping option of all the strollers we tested.

What we looked for

Being able to quickly collapse or unfurl the stroller is crucial when traveling.

We prioritized strollers that are easy to steer one-handed over bumpy surfaces and around tight turns.

A travel stroller should be small enough to store easily, whether in a closet or a packed car trunk.

You shouldn’t need to look at the manual to relearn how to use your stroller each time you pull it out.

Neither the Minu V2 nor the City Tour 2 Stroller is compatible with any of the picks in our guide to infant car seats ; if that’s a must, the Mountain Buggy Nano (2020+) is another good option . And if putting your stroller in an overhead compartment is a priority, we recommend the Babyzen Yoyo2 Stroller .

The Uppababy Minu V2 has many features that allow it to function as a full-size stroller, including an underseat basket that holds up to 20 pounds, a simple recline option that’s good for napping, and a handy backseat pocket for storing odds and ends. Its one-hand fold is impressively simple, and of the travel strollers we tested, it has the easiest harness to adjust and the most-intuitive brakes. It also has a large, zip-out sun canopy with UPF protection. You can use it—without attachments—with children as young as 3 months, or with Uppababy’s bassinet or select car seats with newborns. A kid doesn’t officially outgrow it until they reach 50 pounds—which is often grade-school age. But at 17 pounds, it’s heavier than our budget pick.

The Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller isn’t quite as simple to fold, recline, or buckle as the Minu V2, but it has the most comfortable handlebar of the travel strollers we tested, a decent canopy with UV protection, and a good amount of underseat storage (though it is harder to access than the Minu V2’s). Its large, adjustable footrest, long seat, and deep recline make it the best stroller that we tested for on-the-go naps, even for older kids (it fits kids up to 45 pounds). At 15.1 pounds, it’s a couple of pounds lighter than the Minu V2 and, unlike that stroller, comes with a travel bag.

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, how we picked and tested, our pick: uppababy minu v2, budget pick: baby jogger city tour 2 stroller, other good travel strollers, the competition.

I’ve been writing about strollers for Wirecutter for more than a year, and I’ve tested dozens of strollers from 16 brands in that time. For this 2023 update to our guide to travel strollers, I researched more than a dozen popular models and tested seven with my 1-year-old son.

My husband and I brought these strollers on international flights, regional trains, and local buses, and we loaded them in and out of cabs and cars of various sizes. Other Wirecutter parents tested strollers on their summer trips, and I badgered people around my neighborhood about their experiences with travel strollers.

This article builds on the work of writer Sonjia Hyon, who logged 130 miles testing nine travel strollers for an earlier version of this guide.

For many families, a travel stroller will never be necessary; for others, it may be the only stroller they ever need. In general, travel strollers are smaller and lighter than full-size strollers and fold down to fit easily in many forms of transportation.

If you don’t travel regularly, or you’re mostly visiting people who have a spare stroller, you can forgo one entirely and rely on carriers and car seats. On the other hand, I know plenty of parents who use a travel stroller as their everyday go-to; it’s a particularly good option for anyone who is living in a small space or has to carry a stroller up and down steps on a regular basis.

Travel strollers have increasingly replaced umbrella strollers as the go-to lightweight, foldable option for travelers, which became clear when we noticed brands discontinuing their umbrella strollers and making travel models instead. They are primarily distinguished by their fold; a travel stroller collapses into a more compact, suitcase shape while umbrella strollers fold into a long, golf bag shape. This extra convenience comes at a cost; travel strollers are generally much pricier. All of the so-called budget travel strollers we tested in 2023 were more expensive than the priciest model we considered for our guide to umbrella strollers .

Three travel strollers folded up and resting next to each other.

You do, of course, have to make some compromises. The travel strollers that fold the most compactly are likely to be the hardest to fold; the lightest strollers do not maneuver as well as heavier options. And all lack some features that many parents love in their full-size strollers, such as large storage baskets, reversible toddler seats, and adjustable handlebars.

If you’ve already purchased a full-size stroller that you like and are looking to add a travel stroller, you may want to look first at options from the same brand. Stroller manufacturers keep many things consistent across their lines, so you’ll find that elements like the type of brake, the style of the buckle, and the feel of the handlebar are familiar. For instance, the Uppababy Cruz V2 and Minu V2 share the same harness that’s easy to adjust and buckle, which I consider to be one of the most important elements in a good stroller.

Nine of the travel strollers we tested standing side by side.

More travel strollers are available now than when we began testing in 2018, as high-end brands have begun to offer more luxe options. We began our 2023 research by looking at the updated models of our three past picks—the Uppababy Minu V2 has replaced the original Minu, the Babyzen Yoyo2 Stroller has replaced the Yoyo+ Stroller, and the Mountain Buggy Nano (2020+) has replaced the original Nano. We also read online reviews for dozens of strollers to determine other good options to test. Based on our research, we determined that a good travel stroller is:

Easy to push and maneuver: Because a travel stroller needs to perform in a variety of environments inside and outside, we prioritized strollers that are easy to push on uneven terrain and able to maneuver through tight spaces. We only tested strollers that could be pushed and steered one-handed. I took seven strollers home and tested them several times in different conditions, including over cobblestones and uneven streets, in and out of subways, and up and down stairs. I also put them through a test course in our Long Island City, New York office, using sandbags in the toddler seat to test maneuverability and the one-handed push.

Easy to fold and unfold: A travel stroller needs to be easy to quickly fold and unfold; ideally, you should be able to collapse or unfurl a stroller while holding a squirming baby or kicking toddler. In my testing, I timed how long it took to fold and unfold each stroller and if it required one or two hands.

Easy to carry and stow: The stroller should fold down to a compact size; some even get small enough to fit into the overhead compartment on an airplane. We didn’t prioritize that ability, since different airlines and planes have different requirements, and it may be up to individual flight crews to decide if you can put a stroller in the overhead bin. We weighed each stroller ourselves, and the ones we tested ranged from 13 to 17 pounds, a close enough number that it didn’t end up being a major factor in our decision making. We also looked for strollers that have a shoulder strap or travel bag for carrying.

We liked to see that strollers had an option for clicking in an infant car seat, though neither of our picks are compatible with our best infant car-seat picks .

We also looked for a reclining seat, an easily adjustable harness, a decent-size canopy for sun protection, and an accessible underseat storage basket. I tested how easy it was to clean up food messes by smearing jam and whipped cream on all of the strollers and seeing how hard it was to remove stains with just baby wipes or fabric cleaner. Where small children go, messes follow—that’s why we devoted an entire article to  how to clean a stroller .

The Uppababy Minu V2, our pick for best travel stroller.

The Uppababy Minu V2 is an exceptionally comfortable travel stroller for children and parents. It’s similar to the previous version of the Minu, which was our top pick for years, but it improves on that model with a simpler-to-adjust harness, a bigger sun canopy, and an adjustable footrest.

I found that it was sturdy enough to maneuver on bumpy cobblestone streets, light enough for one person to haul up short flights of stairs with a child buckled in, and simple enough to fold one-handed and throw in the back of a car. It has a comfortable handlebar, ample underseat storage, a large canopy with UPF protection , and a harness that adjusts quickly and intuitively.

A folded Uppababy Minu V2 standing up on its own.

It has a fantastic one-handed fold. The Minu V2 is the only one of our picks with a one-handed fold—you slide a lever and push a button simultaneously on the handlebar, push the whole thing forward, and the stroller collapses onto itself. The unfold is also fairly simple; undo a latch on the side and pull up on the handlebar, and it all flings open. The stroller stands up pretty well on its own when folded. In our tests, we found that it took less than 10 seconds to fold or unfold the stroller.

It’s easy to carry. The Minu V2 includes a carry handle and a shoulder strap, so it’s easier to pick up for short hauls than our other pick. (Though at 17 pounds, it’s not particularly comfortable to tote around for long periods.) Uppababy also sells a travel bag that lets you access the TravelSafe program , an additional two-year warranty added onto the original product warranty that offers replacements for parts damaged during air travel.

The harness is simple. The simple plastic buckle is easy to close and open. I find the Uppababy’s harness straps to be the easiest to use of any strollers I’ve tested because the shoulder and waist straps are permanently connected (on other strollers, including the city tour 2, our budget pick, they can separate). This does mean wiggling your child’s arms in and out of the straps, which some parents find more taxing. The harness straps are also the easiest to adjust of any that we tested; simply slide the strap up and down along the back of the child’s seat to change the height, and pull on the ends of the straps to tighten or loosen.

The recline and incline function on the seat is straightforward. You simply pull down a buckle to recline and pull up on two straps to incline. It does take some effort to incline with a toddler in the seat, but none of the travel strollers that we tested were any easier.

The brakes are intuitive and easy to engage, even when you’re barefoot. Like the Uppababy Cruz V2 , a pick in our guide to full-size strollers , the Minu V2 has two brake pedals—a red to lock and a green to unlock—that are easy to engage and, based on their position, allow you to see from a distance if the stroller is locked.

It can be used for a long time and has plenty of storage. With an additional attachment, the Minu V2 can be used with the Uppababy bassinet as well as several infant car seats, making it a good option for newborns, and it can fit a child as young as three months without any accessories. The seat can hold a child up to 50 pounds, the maximum of the travel strollers we tried, and the underseat storage basket can hold up to 20 pounds, the most of any travel stroller we tested, making it popular as an everyday stroller, with good reason. It lacks some of the best features of the larger, more expensive Uppababy Cruz V2 —a reversible toddler seat, a storage basket that can handle a grocery haul, an adjustable handlebar—but it’s narrower, lighter, and faster to fold.

View of the storage pocket on the Uppababy Minu V2, showing sippy cup and a pair of sunglasses in it.

The canopy, seat fabric, and underseat basket can be removed for hand-washing. In our cleaning tests, it was hard to get stains out of the green fabric of our stroller; even after using a stain remover, we could see dark splotches on the seat.

Uppababy strollers come with a two-year limited warranty and an extra year if you register your stroller within three months of purchasing.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

The first Minu V2 that we tested held up well for several weeks of travel—and then, one day it refused to fold. We contacted Uppababy, which said this is not a known issue (although we found a few online complaints of a similar issue with the original Minu) and that anyone with this problem would be issued a new frame immediately; our replacement stroller has held up just fine so far. Given Uppababy’s reputation for good strollers, we’re fairly confident that we simply got a lemon.

At nearly 17 pounds, the Minu V2 is the heaviest of the strollers we tested. It’s also one of the largest when folded, meaning it may need to be gate-checked when boarding a plane. (Though it is larger than almost all airlines’ official requirements for on-board luggage, it may fit in the overhead bins on larger airplanes.) In our travels, it required some careful, Tetris-like finagling to squeeze it into a hatchback alongside our luggage, although one tester was able to fit it behind the driver’s seat of a sedan.

Like all of the travel strollers we tested, it sometimes requires a little shoving to get it to collapse fully. And because of the way the canopy is attached, it sometimes felt flimsy, and it occasionally popped off the frame on one side when unfolding or carrying the stroller up stairs with a child inside.

Weight: 17.3 pounds Frame dimensions: 20.5 by 36 inches (WL) Folded size: 20.5 by 23 by 13 inches (WLH) Child weight, height limit: 50 pounds, 40 inches Storage basket weight limit: 20 pounds Car seat compatibility with an adapter: Uppababy Mesa; Maxi-Cosi Mico Max 30 Infant Car Seat, Mico NXT Infant Car Seat, Mico AP Infant Car Seat, and Mico Max Plus Car Seat; Nuna Pipa, Pipa Lite, Pipa Lite Lx, Pipa Lite R, Pipa Rx, and Pipa Lite Rx; the Cybex Aton, Aton 2, Aton Q, and Aton M Second child adaptability: ride-along board available for purchase Wheel diameter: front wheels 5 inches, rear wheels 6.5 inches Included accessories: bumper bar Add-on accessories: cup holder , travel bag , parent organizer , bassinet , ride-along board , snack tray , rain shield , and basket cover

The Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller, our budget pick for best travel stroller.

If you’re willing to sacrifice a one-handed fold, an easily accessible storage basket, and a notably easy-to-buckle harness, the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller is a remarkably solid and maneuverable stroller for its price. It handles bumpy streets and cobblestones without complaint, and I found the handlebar’s height and material more comfortable than those on the other less-expensive options we tested.

The City Tour 2 Stroller also has a large adjustable footrest that allows a young toddler to lie almost completely flat; paired with its built-in UV 50+ sun canopy, it’s a great option if on-the-go naps are a priority. For many parents, the best thing about this stroller is that it doesn’t feature anything too noteworthy or fussy; it’s a simple stroller that just works.

The fold is simple, but it requires two steps and both hands. Slide a lever and push a button to fold down the handlebar, then pull up on a strap on the inside of the seat to collapse the whole thing. (If you have the adjustable footrest up, you need to put it down for maximum compactness.) To unfold, undo a latch on the side and click it all into place. In our testing, it took about 10 seconds to fold the stroller (including lowering the footrest) and about 7 seconds to unfold.

The buckle has five pieces but stays together well. The shoulder and waist straps on each side click together, which allows you to simply slide your child’s arm through the shoulder straps rather than attach five separate pieces. One tester found that these pieces tended to separate when her toddler was getting out of the stroller, requiring her to clip them again the next time. But the straps remain snug once buckled. Reclining and inclining the seat is simple—pinch a clamp and pull down on the seat to recline, then pinch the same clamp and push up to incline. As with all of the travel strollers we tested, inclining can be a challenge with larger children.

The underseat basket can easily hold a day’s worth of stuff. The underseat basket holds 15 pounds—not as much as our top pick, but more than most of the strollers we tested.

A person carrying the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller in the travel bag.

The seat fabric of the City Tour 2 Stroller can be machine washed; other parts should be hand-washed. In our cleaning tests, we found that food wiped easily off of the black fabric, and any lingering smudges disappeared with stain remover. Unfortunately, we can’t say if this was due to the dark color or the fabric itself, but this stroller only comes in black (you can also buy a blue-green, special-edition model that’s about $100 more) while the Minu V2 comes in many colors.

It also comes with a travel bag, which adds another layer of protection if you’re gate-checking a bag or putting the stroller away for long-term storage.

Baby Jogger strollers come with a lifetime warranty for manufacturer defects on the frame, and a one-year limited warranty on the fabrics. And though it doesn’t offer the same sort of TravelSafe program as Uppababy, the company said they “are always willing to help our customers where we can with damaged goods.”

The canopy can be hard to unfurl. The peekaboo window is secured with Velcro, which means it could wake up a sleeping child when undone. (The peekaboo flap can also be held open with a button.) The single brake pedal must be pushed up from the bottom to unlock, which is tricky if you’re barefoot or in open-toe shoes; the Minu V2’s two pedals are easier to use. And though the City Tour 2 Stroller does come with a travel bag, the stroller itself doesn’t feature a shoulder strap for carrying.

The seat’s most upright position is somewhat reclined. As with other Baby Jogger strollers that we’ve tested, the seat is never fully upright, which can be frustrating for a bigger kid who wants to look around (or a parent who doesn’t want a toddler to nap). The harness can be a challenge to adjust—the waist straps in particular take some time—and to change the height of the shoulder strap, you need to rethread the straps through the back of the toddler seat, which can’t be done with a child in the stroller. Unlike the Minu V2, the back of the seat doesn’t have a pocket for small items.

The stroller does not stand on its own when folded. It always needed to be propped against a wall or laid down flat. And I found that I sometimes smashed my hand when pushing down to make sure that it was folded as compactly as possible. The stroller also doesn’t have a mechanism for the whole stroller to stay attached to itself when folded; if you grab the handlebar when the stroller is folded, it will pull away from the body.

A folded Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller lying down flat.

At 5 foot 2, one tester found it was difficult to fold the handlebar down and needed to stabilize the stroller by putting her foot on the underseat basket for leverage; at 5 foot 7, I didn’t have the same issue.

Weight: 15.1 pounds Frame dimensions: 20 by 39 inches (WL) Folded size: 20 by 22.5 by 9.5 inches (WLH) Child weight, height limit: 45 pounds, 40 inches Storage basket weight limit: 15 pounds Car seat compatibility with an adapter: Baby Jogger City Go Infant Car Seat, City Go 2 Infant Car Seat, and City Go Air Infant Car Seat; Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35 Elite and SnugRide SnugLock 35 Platinum Second child adaptability: stroller cannot be adapted; City Tour 2 Double Stroller is also available, but we have not tested it yet Wheel diameter: front wheels 5 inches, rear wheels 6 inches Included accessories: travel bag Add-on accessories: belly bar , parent console , and weather shield

If you need or want to travel with a car seat: The Mountain Buggy Nano (2020+) is equipped with a universal car seat adapter—a genius feature that all stroller companies should adopt. Not only can you use many infant car seats with the nano—including any of our infant car seat picks —but it works with lightweight toddler car seats and convertible travel car seats like the Cosco Scenera Next Convertible Car Seat , which we recommend as the best convertible car seat for travel .

But the canopy rests against the handlebar when closed, making the stroller uncomfortable to push for long periods, especially in the heat. It also has finicky harness straps that never felt tight enough and a brake that’s easy to trip accidentally.

If a stroller that fits in most overhead compartments is crucial: Consider the Babyzen Yoyo2 Stroller , which has the smallest fold of any of the strollers we tested. It meets the International Air Transport Association standards for carry-on bags, and I’ve seen people putting it in the overhead bins on several flights—even though at 17.3 inches wide, it is wider than the official width limit of 14 inches on many airlines. The fabric was also the easiest to wipe clean of every stroller we tested.

But its multistep folding mechanism is frustrating; it involves pushing a button and pulling a handle underneath the seat, which means crouching down and feeling around for the right spots. It’s also difficult to push and steer in a hurry; in our tests, it veered off course easily when pushing one-handed. And the front tires had a tendency to spin uncontrollably after hitting a bump, creating a drag that took a few seconds to correct.

This is not a comprehensive list of everything we tested in previous iterations of this guide; it only includes strollers that are still available for sale.

The 16-pound Bugaboo Butterfly is well made and easy to maneuver, but multiple testers said they found the handlebar uncomfortable to push, particularly on hills. I also found that I sometimes struggled to get it unlocked and unfolded in a hurry—an important feature of a travel stroller.

At about $500, the nearly 16-pound Nuna Trvl is the most expensive travel stroller that we tested, and it has some excellent features, including the simplest fold we saw on any travel stroller. But it is very large when folded with the belly bar attached, and when the canopy is closed, it covers the handlebar, making it uncomfortable to push.

The dual handlebars of the Summer Infant 3Dlite Convenience Stroller , our umbrella stroller pick , make it nearly impossible to push one-handed—an important feature if you’re traveling by yourself and need your other hand for carrying other items. If you don’t mind using two hands and relying on a simpler but less maneuverable stroller than those recommended in this guide, you can save money by using an umbrella stroller over a travel model.

The Zoe the Traveler is only 13 pounds and has some nice features, including a parent cup holder, but it didn’t maneuver as well as I’d like. I struggled to push it off the subway, and it nearly tipped forward from a small, uneven bump in the sidewalk. It was also one of the hardest strollers to unfold.

We tested the 11-pound Zoe XL1 Best in 2018 (which has since been renamed The Tour+) and dismissed it after finding it harder to push and maneuver than other travel strollers we tested. It would frequently stop suddenly, causing the parent to pitch forward.

The 9.5 pound GB Pockit Air All-Terrain and the 13-pound GB Pockit+ All-City were dismissed because they didn’t feel sturdy.

The Kolcraft Cloud Plus Stroller was dismissed because it did not feel durable, was challenging to maneuver, and didn’t have a working lock.

This article was edited by Rachel Hurn and Kalee Thompson.

Meet your guide

light weight travel stroller

Elise Czajkowski

Elise Czajkowski is a freelance writer and editor covering strollers for Wirecutter.

Further reading

Highway sign indicating meltdown ahead in half mile.

Traveling With Little Kids Can Be Tough. The Right Gear Can Help.

by Kerry Davis McGuinness

From compact car seats and cribs to portable blackout shades and white noise machines, the right tools for travel can lead to less fuss—and more fun.

Three of our top picks for the best travel car seats, shown side by side.

The Best Travel Car Seats

by Christina Szalinski and Rebecca Gale

After testing 17 lightweight, portable car seats, we have five good options for infants, toddlers, and big kids to recommend.

Our three picks for best stroller wagon, shown side by side in front of a pink background.

The Best Stroller Wagons

by Liz Iversen

Got kids and gear you need to schlep to the soccer field, the beach, or the neighborhood block party? A stroller wagon might be for you.

An umbrella stroller with a book and snacks in the seat.

The Best Umbrella Stroller

by Elise Czajkowski

An umbrella stroller should be hassle-free and inexpensive enough to buy as a spare to store at Grandma’s house.

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The 15 Best Travel Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We tested the best travel strollers on the market for maneuverability, design, durability, and portability.

light weight travel stroller

In This Article

  • Our Top Picks
  • Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

  • Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Phoebe Cheong

If you're traveling with a child under 4 years old or so, you need a stroller. But your everyday stroller might not be your best bet when you hit the road: today's models are big with lots of storage space, wide canopies, and large wheels for challenging terrain. Not ideal for packing into trains, planes, and automobiles or for bringing in and out of a hotel. If you plan to travel even somewhat often with your little ones, you might want to invest in a travel stroller.

So, what is a travel stroller? A travel stroller is a smaller, more scaled-back stroller with a collapsible frame that can be folded up tightly. Many travel strollers fold multiple ways to reduce the length, width, and height; some, like umbrella strollers, fold one way into a narrow but still-long piece. In the end, you want your travel stroller to be comfortable and safe for your child while folding up into a very compact, easy-to-carry package.

We tested more than 32 travel strollers from top brands such as Uppababy, Nuna, and Babyzen. We measured and weighed them, then spent eight and a half hours in our New York City lab putting them all through the wringer, looking at each stroller's maneuverability, design features, durability, and portability. We then sent them out into the real world to be used by families like yours to guarantee stroller longevity and functionality.

Best Overall

Joolz aer+ baby stroller.

 Amazon

  • Design 4.6 /5
  • Portability 4.9 /5
  • Maneuverability 4.9 /5
  • Durability 5 /5
  • Value 4.6 /5

It folds up into an extremely compact, easy-to-carry package that is great for storing at home or on flights.

The seat can only be hand-washed and air-dried.

The Joolz Aer+ looks great, rolls smoothly, and features plenty of padding for the little rider sitting in it. It wowed us right out of the box and was one of the quickest strollers to assemble with just a quick-snap connection to a secure and stable stroller. While the Aer+ is about one pound lighter than earlier models, it is still the same size and features all of the perks parents look for in a high-quality stroller. The roomy shopping basket can hold up to 11 pounds, the canopy is adjustable, and the seat reclines to multiple settings to help keep your little one comfortable as they grow.

Throughout our tests, we tossed the stroller off of a counter to see how it held up and it remained in impeccable condition with little to no scratching and no major breaks or rips. Even when fully loaded up, the wheels moved smoothly and limited turbulence as they are designed to absorb shock from pebbles, rocks, and other rough terrain. We could easily collapse the stroller down using only one hand — which is perfect for use when flying — and it can once again be assembled with just the click of a button. At just over 13 pounds, it's also easy to carry, so you can transport this stroller just about anywhere life takes you.

The Details: 13.2 pounds | 41.5 x 32.7 x 17.7 inches assembled | 8.5 x 21 x 17.7 x inches folded | 50-pound weight limit

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Travel + Leisure / Phoebe Cheong

Best Overall, Runner-up

Nuna trvl lightweight stroller.

  • Design 4.8 /5
  • Portability 4.2 /5
  • Maneuverability 5 /5
  • Value 4.7 /5

Not only does it roll well, but the one-handed folding process was the smoothest of all the strollers we tested.

It's not especially small when folded and is a little unwieldy to carry.

During testing, when we pressed the buttons to collapse and fold the Nuna Trvl, it felt like some spring-loaded mechanism started the process for us and made it easier. That's the kind of helpful detail any parent or caretaker appreciates. And that folding process was quick, easy, and doable with one hand. The Trvl isn't quite as light as some of the other strollers, however, and it has no strap for carrying over the shoulder (although the bumper bar turns into a handle for carrying when the stroller is collapsed). It's also not clear whether the Nuna Trvl will fit in all airplane overhead compartments; It was a tight squeeze when we placed it in ours, with the wheels sticking out a bit.

The Trvl has a lot of great design features, including an adjustable leg rest and simple, adjustable reclining system for your baby. The strap clasp is magnetic to save a little time, and the canopy has a peekaboo window and good ventilation. The bottom storage basket is also on the larger side for a travel stroller and can comfortably fit a backpack. The stroller gilded beautifully over each surface we tried; there was no difference between rolling over the smooth hardwood and the shag carpet, and it handled gravel without issue. And it held up just fine in the durability test.

The Details: 15.4 pounds | 41 x 26 x 20.5 inches assembled | 11 x 27.25 x 20.25 inches folded | 50-pound weight limit

Travel + Leisure / Claire Cohen

Best Budget

Kolcraft cloud plus stroller.

  • Design 3.9 /5
  • Portability 3 /5
  • Maneuverability 4.2 /5
  • Durability 4.5 /5
  • Value 4.8 /5

It comes with a tray for baby's food and drink but is still extremely lightweight and easy to fold.

There isn't a ton of space in the undercarriage for storage.

Strollers are unnervingly expensive; many new parents experience sticker shock when they first see those price tags. The Kolcraft Cloud Plus is not. And while it's not the prettiest of the bunch (there's some loud branding), it folds easily — it can even be done one-handed with a little effort and coordination. We love that unfolding can also be done one-handed.

The Cloud Plus doesn't fold down quite as small as most every other one we're testing; the shape is somewhere between an umbrella and normal travel stroller. It's very lightweight, which we love, but since it doesn't fold small enough to fit in an overhead bin and doesn't have a strap or handle, it's not as portable as other options.

This stroller is the only one we tested with a tray for the baby's food and drink; the tray is removable if you're looking to save space. There are also two small cup holders for the adults, though our travel mug did not fit in them. The storage basket can fit a small backpack. The recline system is pretty easy to use and goes back three-fourths of the way to horizontal, and the canopy is good but not great. Same goes for the seat padding.

It rolled well on smooth surfaces, though there was some resistance on the carpet and a lot more on the grave. But we were able to push it through, and the stroller is light enough that when the wheels aren't rolling you can still keep moving. It's not the smoothest ride, but passable. The tray came unclasped during the durability test, but there was no actual damage. Overall, the price-to-performance ratio of the Cloud Plus is so good that it's an excellent budget option.

The Details: 11.8 pounds | 38 x 27 x 18 inches assembled | 10 x 33 x 17.5 inches folded | 50-pound weight limit

Travel & Leisure / Phoebe Cheong

Best for Warm Weather

Gb qbit+ all city stroller.

  • Portability 4 /5

It reminds us of the very top-tier travel strollers, but its price is meaningfully lower.

The handlebar isn't adjustable and the stroller is a bit heavier than other options.

The GB Qbit+ All City reminded us of the Nuna Trvl, but at a significantly cheaper price. The only areas the stroller fell short of the Nuna model are the canopy, which is not especially nice or expansive, and the fact that it's slightly harder to carry since it's a little heavier and has no actual carrying strap. That said, there's plenty to love about the Qbit. One-handed folding is smooth, and buckling and unbuckling the straps is easy. The seat is nicely padded, the entire back is made of breathable mesh to keep your child from overheating. The leg rest is simple to maneuver and goes all the way flat. The seat also reclines almost all the way back so that your baby can take a comfortable snooze. The included bumper bar comes off and on easily, and the handlebar looks and feels nice. There's enough storage for a backpack, too. As for maneuverability, it rolled great on all our testing surfaces and made crisp, tight turns. If you want something similar to and almost as good as the Nuna Trvl, this is your travel stroller.

The Details: 17.6 pounds | 41 x 24 x 17 inches assembled | 10.5 x 23 x 16.5 inches folded | 54.8-pound weight limit

Best Folding

Uppababy minu v2 stroller.

  • Assembly 3.8 /5

It folds up far more compactly than other UPPAbaby models.

The canopy sticks out a bit when the stroller is folded.

The Minu has a lot of the features familiar to UPPAbaby devotees — unstructured rear storage pouch, locking clasp to keep the stroller folded, excellent canopy — but unlike the brand's G-Luxe and G-Link models, this one is not an umbrella stroller. We actually think that makes for a better travel stroller. The Minu folds up more easily than other UPPAbaby models and far more compactly than an umbrella model. The fold can be done with one hand, but keep in mind the canopy needs to be tucked in once it's folded. A padded carrying strap easily fits over the shoulder. When carried, the Minu isn't the lightest or smallest option on our list, but it's portable enough and fits fine in an overhead compartment.

The Minu's seat back reclines nicely and easily for naps, and the handlebar feels good on the palms. The canopy's magnetic mesh window is handy and easy to keep open, and the sun shade for keeping the brightness out of your baby's eyes is one of the best we saw in our tests. The seat's padding is ample, though we'd like it if the leg rest were adjustable. We did appreciate the sizable bottom storage basket.

In terms of maneuverability, the Minu performed fine. It didn't make quite as tight turns as the Joolz or Nuna, and it felt a bit heavier to push, but it handled the gravel really well. A canopy rod popped out of place when we pushed the stroller off the table, but we were able to fix it pretty easily. Overall, while the stroller is expensive, it's not the priciest on the list and is worth it for the well-crafted features.

The Details: 14.75 pounds | 41 x 31 x 20.5 inches assembled | 12 x 22.5 x 20.25 inches folded | 50-pound weight limit

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best for Cities

Babyzen yoyo2 stroller.

  • Assembly 3.5 /5
  • Design 4.5 /5
  • Portability 5 /5
  • Maneuverability 4.5 /5

It's very well-padded, folds up into a tidy package, and has a convenient carrying strap.

The clips and buckles can be hard to maneuver.

Folding the Babyzen Yoyo 2 took two hands and, while not difficult, was a little more involved a process than with some other strollers. Unfolding is pretty easy, except we noticed our feet getting caught in straps a few times. While folding and unfolding were slightly disappointing, we love how portable this stroller is. It folds up very small and has a comfortable padded shoulder strap as well as a metal bar for easy carrying. And it fits easily into an overhead storage bin so it's a great option to consider when flying with a baby .

The Yoyo 2 has nice features, too. The seat padding is especially cushy, and the seat reclines three-fourths of the way back to horizontal (though the recliner is a bit tricky to figure out). There's also a pocket in the back and a decent storage basket underneath that can fit a small bag. The canopy is good, though we'd prefer the peekaboo window to be mesh instead of plastic.

This stroller especially stands out for its handling. We were able to maneuver this stroller through the safety cones with such ease, we could really see this stroller being helpful at a crowded grocery store or airport.

The Details: 14.7 pounds | 41 x 28.8 x 17 inches assembled | 8 x 20 x 16 inches folded | 40-pound weight limit

Best Double

Uppababy g-link v2 stroller.

  • Assembly 4.9 /5
  • Design 5 /5
  • Portability 4.4 /5

It folds more easily and rolls more smoothly than we expected from a stroller this size.

It doesn't fold down very small, and unfolding it could be easier.

For such a large contraption, this double stroller folds with surprising ease. We were even able to do it one-handed with a little effort, which none of us expected. Unfolding is a little trickier, as it takes some force to unhook the locking clasp. As a double stroller, the G-Link 2 is not the most compact package when folded. Plus, it's an umbrella structure, so this one probably isn't fitting in many overhead bins. Carrying it was a little unwieldy, as should be expected with a double stroller, but there is a helpful handle, and the stroller is lighter than it looks. You can actually wheel it along when it's folded instead of carrying it, but it's not easy, and it bumped into us when we did so.

We like the canopies on the G-Link 2: quality material and good coverage. There are little storage pockets behind each seat, and it comes with a cup holder. You can also fit a purse or very small backpack in the undercarriage basket. The seats have generous padding, which extends to form a sort of calf rest for the riders. The straps buckle easily and have different height options; the seat backs have two recline positions and are super easy to adjust.

The stroller rolled well over all the surfaces, even the gravel, and it made much tighter turns than we anticipated. We also like that there are no wheels in the middle of the frame (as most double umbrella strollers have), which makes it easier to push without kicking the wheels or frame. Finally, it showed no damage after our durability tests.

The Details: 21.8 pounds | 41 x 25 x 28.25 inches assembled | 14 x 40 x 17.5 inches folded | 55-pound weight limit per seat

Cybex Libelle Compact Stroller

  • Durability 4.6 /5

It's a modern-looking stroller that's easy to move.

It lacked some of the features we'd have liked to see at its price.

The Cybex Libelle Stroller looks sleek and is easy to fold down into an easy-to-store size. Unfolding this stroller is incredibly easy — perfect for families on the go. The wheels of this stroller turn more easily than some other styles and provides a smooth ride over most surfaces.

Due to its simplistic design, this stroller doesn't have extra pockets or cupholders, but its lightweight and compact style makes this a great option for traveling since the stroller can fit in the overhead bins of most airplanes. Just be aware that this model does not include a carrying strap, so if you plan to walk for long periods of time with the folded stroller, you'll have to carry it by its medal frame.

It handled pretty well over the smooth hard surfaces with no noticeable hiccups, but it struggled a bit on the gravel.

The Details: 13.7 pounds | 41 x 20 x 20 inches assembled | 8 x 22 x 14 inches folded | 55-pound weight limit

Best Maneuverability

Bugaboo butterfly stroller.

  • Assembly 4.8 /5
  • Design 4.9 /5
  • Portability 4.5 /5

It takes next to no effort to push this stroller over terrains of all types.

The instructions have pictures rather than words, so they’re a bit unclear.

From sharp turns to steep curbs to rocky terrain, the Bugaboo Butterfly Seat Stroller easily traverses it all. Built with advanced four-wheel suspension and a lightweight frame, we loved how little effort it took to push the stroller, even with one hand. The wheels seemed to absorb bumps and shock well, keeping the seat stable and the baby in place. 

We were equally impressed with the stroller’s packing and traveling capabilities. Weighing in at just over 16 pounds and boasting a compact size when folded down, the Butterfly is easy to carry and even hoist in the air to stow in a plane’s overhead bin. It’s also simple to assemble, and it remained perfectly intact and undamaged after we dropped it.

Other useful features of this stroller include a Velcro rain cover, seat cover, spacious under-seat basket, padded handlebar with a wrist strap, reclining mechanism, and an easy-to-use foot brake. 

The Details: 16.1 pounds | 36.4 x 17.7 x 40.3 inches assembled | 17.7 x 9.1 x 21.3 inches folded | 48.5-pound weight limit

Best for Air Travel

  • Assembly 4.7 /5

It easily fits in overhead bins and is a high-quality, durable option.

At 14.6 pounds, it's one of the heavier strollers we tested.

The Cybex Coya is a stylish and durable stroller families will be happy to use for their daily activities and while traveling. It folds up quickly and easily slides into airplane overhead bins for easy access as you board and de-board. The comfortable seat padding is removable for cleaning and the canopy comes down for sun and rain protection. The five-point harness is also incredibly easy to adjust and the seat itself reclines to be almost flat. Pair that with the adjustable leg rest and you have the perfect spot for your youngster to nap on the go.

We also love the cushioned handlebar that adds some extra comfort when pushing the stroller and the zippered pocket in the back of the canopy where you can store your phone or wallet for convenience. The cargo area is also a great size considering the overall compact nature of this stroller and easily fit our packed diaper bag. After our toss test, the stroller is still in great condition, although we do recommend investing in a dust bag if you're nervous about bumps and scratches while traveling.

The Details: 14.6 pounds | 38.2 x 17.3 x 31.1 inches assembled | 7.1 x 17.3 x 20.5 inches folded | 55-pound weight limit

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Compact

Contours itsy.

Buy Buy Baby

  • Assembly 5 /5
  • Maneuverability 4 /5

There’s almost no assembly required.

Parents of older, larger children may not find it as useful.

If you like to live your life simply, the compact and convenient Contours Itsy may be the stroller for you. Right out of the box, it’s already nearly fully assembled — all you have to do is snap the bumper bar into place, which takes almost no effort. On top of that, it’s a no-frills option, so there’s no cup holder or oversized basket to weigh it down, take up space, or make things complicated. 

We did, however, love features like the secure bumper bar, easy-to-use harness, canopy with UV 50 sun protection, and padding on the crotch strap, which makes the stroller look comfortable. They also appreciated the small size of the foot rest, basket, and entire stroller in general, because it made using and transporting it a breeze.

When it was time to stow the stroller away (or pack it up for travel), we got a kick out of just how tiny it folds up — in its simplest form, it’s not much larger than a grocery bag. It’s also ultra-lightweight and easily folds with just one hand. 

The Details: 12.3 pounds | 32 x 39 x 18.2 inches assembled | 11 x 22 x 11 inches folded | 40-pound weight limit

Best Comfort

Baby jogger city tour 2 stroller.

  • Maneuverability 4.8 /5

The price is reasonable considering how solidly it performed on all our tests.

It did not fit in our overhead bin and isn't easy to fold one-handed.

Folding this stroller was pretty simple, though not quite as smooth as it was with some of the others. The unfolding process was a little finicky as well and took some practice. So what do we like about the Baby Jogger City Tour 2? The price is reasonable, it performed solidly on most of our tests, and it maneuvered exceptionally well over all surfaces. We noticed little perceptible difference between its rolling over the shag carpet and smooth wood surface, and while other strollers struggled a bit on the gravel, this one navigated it with ease.

In terms of portability, the City Tour 2 doesn't feel bulky and has a good hand carrying handle. We would have liked to see a shoulder strap, however, and it did not fit in our overhead bin. The seat back has a lot of recline, and the drawstring to pull and push the seat forward and back is easy to use. The seat has good structure and good padding; the straps work well and can be adjusted to different height levels. There's lots of leg room and adjustable calf support for the baby, and the canopy has a peekaboo window and goes up and down smoothly. We'd have appreciated some more storage space; you can't fit a backpack anywhere. When we pushed the City Tour 2 off a table, we did notice that a small foam pad came off, though we couldn't even figure out where it came from, and it did not structurally damage the stroller.

The Details: 14 pounds | 40 x 26 x 20 inches assembled | 7 x 22.5 x 19.5 inches folded | 45-pound weight limit

Best Umbrella

Uppababy jordan g-luxe stroller.

  • Portability 3.9 /5
  • Maneuverability 4.7 /5
  • Value 4.5 /5

The recline system is particularly easy to use, and the stroller stands well on its own when folded.

The button/ring-pull combination for folding it is a bit finicky and has to be timed perfectly.

The first thing to note here is that ​​umbrella strollers only fold one-dimensionally, so the result is narrow but long…like an umbrella. The other strollers on this list fold down via multiple joints and in multiple directions for a smaller and more squarish package; neither is necessarily better, but you'll want to decide what you want before buying a travel stroller.

This particular UPPAbaby model is a bit tricky to fold because the handle/ring combination used to do so is finicky and has to be timed perfectly. Once you get that, the folding is smooth, but the whole button-and-ring thing is a little annoying. As with most UPPAbaby products, however, the G-Luxe's features are pretty nice. There's an included cup holder that fits a travel mug easily, and the canopy is expansive with extra sun shade (there is no peekaboo window, however). The leg rest for the child is easy to adjust, and the straps feature a five-point harness and adjustable height levels. The seat padding is substantial without looking bulky, and the recline system, while only providing two settings, is exceptionally easy to use. The unstructured (perhaps too unstructured) pocket behind the seat is pretty spacious and in a good location, but the storage basket at the bottom of the stroller isn't particularly big.

The G-Luxe maneuvers well, with good tight turns, though it rattled noticeably over the gravel. It held up well during our durability tests and sustained no damage.

The Details : 16.5 pounds | 42.5 x 23.5 x 18.5 inches assembled | 15 x 41 x 11.75 inches folded | 55 pounds weight limit

Best Lightweight

Zoe the traveler.

  • Design 3.5 /5

The removable seat liner is machine washable.

The attachable snack tray is sold separately.

If you're heading off on a family trip and looking for a simple, lightweight travel stroller, this minimalistic design will do the trick. It's incredibly easy to assemble and takes just a few minutes to click the wheels and bumper bar into place. It also comes with a parent cupholder and back pocket to help keep your hands free throughout your journey. We did note that the cargo area is the perfect size for a small tote bag or purse, but it may not be large enough to fit diaper bags or weekender bags.

We love that this stroller comes with a removable seat liner that can be thrown in the washing machine after a trip to keep clean and fresh. The canopy can also be unzipped to expand and it has a peek-a-boo feature on top so you can check on your child without stopping. This stroller is also easy to push around on every type of terrain — especially around tight corners. The stroller is light enough to lift up stairs, but we do recommend you use two hands when carrying down the stairs. When it's time to disassemble the stroller, simply press a button on the handlebar and bend the stroller forward. It’s so easy we didn’t even need instructions to figure out how to do it. You can even fold and unfold this one-handed, perfect for on-the-go travels.

The Details : 13 pounds | 41 x 30 x 18 inches assembled | 22 x 19 x 10 inches folded | 45 pounds weight limit

Most Adjustable

Thule shine.

  • Design 4.2 /5
  • Durability 4.8 /5

Assembly is quick and easy, perfect for first-time parents.

It can be hard to turn on sharp corners.

For such a compact stroller, the Thule Shine has plenty of storage, an expandable canopy with UPF 50+ protection, a reclining seat, and adjustable leg rests — everything you need for a busy parent and growing youngster to travel comfortably. We love the fast assembly of this stroller and the security of knowing everything clicks together when positioned and popped in correctly. There is an adjustable handlebar that is super easy to figure out, an extra rain canopy that you can pack and bring with you, and it is so easy to fold down. The harness does need to be clipped in a specific order before it can be fully buckled, which might become difficult with a fussy child, but we did find the seat to be comfortable and loved that it was extremely adjustable.

During our tests, it only suffered minimal scuffing and we never felt as though it would tip or fall while maneuvering through an obstacle course. We were able to fold the stroller with just one hand, but it was difficult to get it fully locked into the travel position without using two hands. It does stand upright once folded, so you can pop it down quickly for storage, whether you're coming back home and stashing it in a closet or boarding a plane. The stroller also fits easily into car trunks, but is most suitable for gate checking and is not likely to fit in overhead airplane bins. Overall, the stroller felt durable and was light enough that most parents would be able to carry it when needed. We felt like it would last through at least a couple of kids should your family use it multiple times, which is perfect for growing families.

The Details : 21.6 pounds | 35 x 42 x 20 inches assembled | 13 x 27 x 20 inches folded | 49 pounds weight limit

Other Travel Strollers We Liked

Some of the travel strollers we tested did not make our list of recommendations. They all had positive attributes, but a few things held them back.

Summer Infant 3DLite : This is a decent budget option, but the price-to-performance ratio was just not quite as good as the Kolcraft Cloud Plus.

Doona Infant Car Seat and Latch Base : The easy-to-maneuver pick collapses into a car seat but the use case for this is too specific to pay as much as it costs, and many other stroller frames can fit a car seat.

Gb Pockit Air All Terrain : This one is incredibly light and folds easily, but there are basically zero features.

Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Stroller : While this is a sleek and stylish option, i t's not easy to carry, and the canopy adjustment makes a lot of noise, which could wake up a sleeping baby.

Munchkin Sparrow : The lightweight design is smart and thoughtful, but everything from the canopy to the storage bin is simply too small. 

Once we fully assembled all strollers in our New York City testing lab, we measured their height, length, and width, both fully opened and fully folded down. We also weighed each one, since weight is a particularly important aspect if anyone will be carrying the stroller during a trip. Then after carefully reading instructions, we repeatedly folded and unfolded each stroller. We took copious notes to record whether the folding process was intuitive and easy to execute. We considered how difficult it would be to do with a baby in one arm or with a whiny toddler pulling at our legs.

While each stroller was in its most compact setup, we tested it for portability. Is it easy to pick up? Comfortable to carry? Are there good handles and straps? Is it compact enough to fit in an airplane overhead bin (we constructed our own makeshift one according to standard airline measurements using a storage rack and a box). We recorded all this and more.

Next we carefully examined each stroller for included features. We looked for seat reclining and cushioning, cup holders, baskets and other storage space, canopy cover for protection from the weather, seat cushioning and reclining, and more. We tried the features out and took detailed notes on whether they were functional and helpful. We also practiced buckling and unbuckling the straps.

Then we put 25-pound sandbags in every stroller. We wheeled them forward and backward over hard floor, carpet, and gravel. We practiced U-turns and pivots and even wheeled them through a miniature obstacle course of cones. We also noted how well the brakes worked and if they were easy to engage.

Finally, we gave all of the strollers a durability test. We dropped each one from waist height and then pushed each off of a table slightly higher than that. We examined each after the falls to see if there was any damage.

After completing our lab tests, we sent each stroller out to real families to use these strollers over a period of six months to really put them to the test. Throughout the testing period, we asked how each stroller was holding up in terms of durability, comfort, portability, and more and updated our findings here.

Tips for Buying a Travel Stroller

Consider the types of travel strollers.

Not all travel strollers are designed with the same priorities in mind. Some may emphasize a lightweight and packable style while others are focused on maneuverability or durability. There are umbrella strollers, that are best for toddlers, but light enough for travel; jogging strollers with advanced suspension for smooth rides; and even full-sized strollers that may not seem best for air travel, but often include great features like storage compartments and padded seats when portability is less of an issue. When it comes to selecting the best travel stroller for your family, think about portability and convenience, but don't forget about comfort and bonus accessories to make your trip a smooth and unforgettable experience.

Pay attention to folded size

The biggest differentiator between a regular stroller and a travel stroller is that a travel stroller should pack up more compactly. You'll want it to fit easily into car trunks or train/airplane compartments without taking up much space. The Joolz Aer , our top pick, folds down to 8.5 (height) x 21 (length) x 17.75 (width) inches. That's a good guide for a stroller that will fit nicely into the aforementioned compartments.

Remember storage space and other features

Just because your travel stroller might be a smaller and more scaled-down version of your everyday stroller, you shouldn't have to suffer from a lack of convenience. Good travel strollers still offer some storage space for small bags, toys, snacks, etc. Remember, you can always add a drink caddy for both your stroller and luggage. The seat for your baby should be padded and comfortable and able to recline; keep an eye out for a canopy that offers good coverage and buckles and straps that are easy to use. So, while compact folding and good portability are what make a travel stroller a travel stroller, be sure to look closely at the other features a stroller does (or does not) include.

Prioritize comfort and safety

At the end of the day, your stroller needs to be safe and comfortable for your child. Check for good, padded seats that recline. Make sure the straps don't look like they'd cut into your baby's shoulder or chest, and take note if there are leg rests. Note if the wheels can handle different surfaces well enough to keep the stroller from shaking and rattling too much.

If you can fit it in the overhead, you can bring it on board. If you have an umbrella model or are using your regular (non-travel) stroller, your best bet is to gate check it. But many travel strollers fold down so compactly that they fit easily into an overhead bin. In general, carry-on luggage should be 45 linear inches (22 x 14 x 9 inches) or less. You can reference the FAA website for more guidance.

In short, a travel stroller is lighter than an everyday stroller and folds down far smaller. This means that the frames are usually thinner and have several folding joints, and the wheels will be smaller and less suited for rough terrain. Storage space, cup holders, and other accessories will usually be kept to a minimum. But a good travel stroller should give you everything you really need and even function well enough to be used every day — all while folding down nice and small and being easy to carry or pack away.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Chris Abell is the Associate Editorial Director at Travel + Leisure , and he is a parent and frequent traveler. He's owned the Uppababy G-Luxe and the Joolz Aer, and he helped design and execute the testing for all the strollers on this list. Chris and associate commerce editor Hillary Maglin worked with a team of other editors and parents to test these strollers in our New York City lab space.

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light weight travel stroller

Related Articles

Best travel stroller 2024: lightweight buggies for holidays

The best travel strollers are lightweight, compact and easily maneuverable here are our top picks

A family walking through an airport terminal with one of the best travel strollers

  • 1. Best overall
  • 2. Best flexible option
  • 3. Best lightweight option
  • 4. Best adaptable option
  • 5. Best compact option
  • 6. Best small option
  • 7. Best affordable option
  • 8. Best comfortable option
  • 9. How we test

Lizzie Wilmot

Best travel strollers 2024: Jump Menu

travel stroller

00. T3's top 3 ↴ 01. Best overall : BABYZEN YOYO2 02. Best flexible option : Silver Cross Zest 03. Best lightweight option : Joie Aire Pact Lite 04. Best adaptable option : Silver Cross Jet 05. Best compact option : Ickle Bubba Globe Ultra Compact 06. Best small option : GB Pockit+ Stroller 07. Best affordable option : Red Kite Baby Push Me 2U 08. Best comfortable option : Chicco Echo 09. How we test

The best travel strollers are essential for long flights and trips away. If you’ve ever tried to cram a large pram into a car boot or stash a pushchair on a plane, you know exactly how important they are! Your child may only be in a pushchair for a few short years, but if you have one that’s heavy, awkward and cumbersome, it can feel like an eternity.

Whether you’re an aspiring jetsetter or simply like to have a buggy at the ready, a quality lightweight travel stroller that’s compact and easy to maneuver is a must (as well as one that’s comfortable for a baby or toddler…of course). Lightweight buggies come into their own for trips around town (when your child decides to walk you can push them one-handed), for journeys on public transport and of course, on holiday… especially if you’re flying or hiring a small car.

Of course, if you're planning on travelling soon you'll want to make sure you're using the  best suitcase or the best carry-on luggage , but for the best travel strollers, keep reading for our top picks to buy today.

Lizzie Wilmot

Lizzie is T3's Home Staff Writer, also covering style, living and wellness. She works closely with Bethan Girdler-Maslen, T3's Home Editor, ensuring all the latest Home news, trends and recommendations are covered. Outside of T3, Lizzie can be found mooching around Bath, attempting (or at least trying to) a new DIY project or spending time with family and friends.

The top three

BABYZEN YOYO2

The best overall travel stroller 

The BABYZEN YOYO2 is a lightweight pushchair perfect for frequent users, especially as it’s one of the more comfortable and study designs with lots of extras. 

Read more below

Silver Cross Zest

The best flexible travel stroller

The Silver Cross Zest folds into a long, thin shape, making it perhaps more preferable for driving holidays than flying…at least not for stashing in the cabin. Coming in at a diminutive 5.8kg, this stroller isn’t the cheapest, but we bet you’ll use it way beyond your holiday.

Joie Aire Pact Lite

The best lightweight travel stroller

If you’re in the market for a lightweight holiday buggy or an extra for short trips around town, Joie’s Pact Lite ticks lots of boxes. At 5.5kg, it’s both physically and financially lightweight.

Best travel stroller 2024 ranking

Why you can trust T3 Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test .

The best travel stroller overall

T3 Award

1. BABYZEN YOYO2

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

The BABYZEN YOYO2 is a lightweight pushchair perfect for frequent users, as it’s one of the more comfortable and study designs with lots of extras. It weighs 6.2kg, which is pretty light, but more featherweight alternatives are out there. Designed for city living and everyday errands, it’s suitable for children from six months and up to a maximum weight of 22kg, is designed to by comfy, with a removable and washable seat pad and 5-point harness, 4-wheel suspension and multi-position reclining seat for dreamy naps. 

Parents will like that it’s one-hand folding, unfolding and driving capabilities, shoulder strap and shopping basket and for holiday makers, this one comes with a UPF 50+ sun protection canopy and fits into most overhead plane storage when folded (H52 x W44 x D18cm).

  • Back to the top ⤴

2. Silver Cross Zest

The Silver Cross Zest folds into a long, thin shape, making it perhaps more preferable for driving holidays than flying…at least not for stashing in the cabin. Unlike some travel buggies, this one if built to last, including accommodating toddlers up to 25kg, who can get incredibly tired and grumpy about walking anywhere. The seat is padded but roomy and reclinable in a few positions, and there’s a 5-point safety harness as you would expect. A fully extendable ventilated UPF50+ hood, rain cover and basket has got you covered in all conditions, while the aluminium chassis helps the Zest weigh in at a diminutive 5.8kg. This stroller isn’t the cheapest, but we bet you’ll use it way beyond your holiday.

3. Joie Aire Pact Lite

If you’re in the market for a lightweight holiday buggy or an extra for short trips around town, Joie’s Pact Lite ticks lots of boxes. The forward-facing pushchair has a flat reclining seat that can be used from birth (technically) but lots of parents like parent-facing buggies at the beginning. That aside, the buggy reclines flat and has other reclining positions to keep napping youngsters comfy, and has an extendable canopy with visor for protection from the elements as well as all-wheel suspension. The Pact Lite is Joie's easiest, quickest and most compact folding chassis and comes with a carry strap for easy travelling. One handed fold, it’s designed to be free standing for easy storage – a godsend if you have a small hallway or use public transport. And at 5.5kg it’s both physically and financially lightweight.

The best adaptable travel stroller

Silver Cross Jet

4. Silver Cross Jet

The Jet ultra-compact stroller weighs in at 5.9kg and folds small enough to be a piece of cabin luggage at 90cm x 45cm x 96cm and can even be wheeled along like a little suitcase. It has an ergonomic seat for better baby comfort, with wider front wheels and improved suspension providing the best ride yet. The standout design features softly textured weave fabrics, with a tan leatherette handle and bumper bar and stylish matt black chassis. Suitable from birth up to 15kg, Jet has a soft padded lie-flat seat, multi-position recline and adjustable calf support to keep babies and toddlers comfortable, as well as a fully extendable UPF50+ hood with an air-flow ventilation system and pop-out sun visor to keep them cool and safe. The flip-flop-friendly brakes are easy to use, while the lockable front swivel wheels and suspension provide a smooth ride for baby. It’s not the cheapest option for a short holiday, but with so many features it would be handy option for short trips at home too.

The best compact travel stroller

Ickle Bubba Globe Ultra Compact Travel Stroller

5. Ickle Bubba Globe Ultra Compact Travel Stroller

Ickle Bubba’s Globe is designed for tiny travellers who like first class touches, like leatherette handles and an adjustable leg rest. Weighing in at 6.4kg and costing not-too-much, it’s a good middle-of-the-road package an folds to a dinky 45 x 55 x 25cm, making it easy to stash in overhead lockers on planes and trains. Like other offerings, the stroller is travel system compatible (meaning you can buy into the brand), and it has lots of room for holiday souvenirs, with a storage basket and handy pouch for essential items. A hood viewing window means you can keep an eye on your little one without disturbing them, while a full length protective rain over has got you covered for all weather scenarios. There’s a one handed 3 position seat recline feature and front and rear suspension for a smoother ride for toddlers, as well as a large extendable UPF 50 hood to protect from harmful sun rays and ventilated roll up fabrics to keep them cool, making the stroller a great choice is you’re holidaying somewhere sunny.

The best small travel stroller

GB Pockit+ Stroller

6. GB Pockit+ Stroller

If you’re after a lightweight stroller, why not choose the most compact out there? The lightweight gb Gold Pockit+ is the world's smallest folding stroller, which in only two steps can fold into a 34 x 20 x 42 cm handbag-shaped package. With the ability to switch from pushing to carrying in seconds, the Pockit is travel stroller perfect for places with lots of steps, or can be easily stashed on a boat, bus, or the corner of an atmospheric café, plus it’s free-standing. Despite its size, the buggy is suitable for kids from 6 months to 17kg (approx. 4 years). It’s well priced, but you’ll need to buy extras like a sub shield or rain cover.

The best affordable travel stroller

Red Kite Baby Push Me 2U

7. Red Kite Baby Push Me 2U

If you only want a buggy for one holiday you don’t want to spend much, this is where Red Kite’s Baby Push Me 2U stroller comes in. It’s cheaper than a round of all-day breakfasts at the airport and has a surprising number of handy features despite its bargain status. Suitable from 6 months, the buggy offers two positions to sit or lie back, lockable swivel wheels and a removable canopy which is handy if you’re going somewhere sunny. There’s also a shopping basket and rain cover for all eventualities. At 5.6kg the buggy isn’t the lightest out there, but it does boast an extra deep seat, which is brilliant for older babies and toddlers who fancy a break from all that arduous walking.

The best comfortable travel stroller

Chicco Echo

8. Chicco Echo

Chicco is a trusted brand and its Echo stroller offers plenty of comfort and decent looks for less than £70/$100. Compared to other budget options, this buggy shows attention to detail, with an embroidered seat and ritzy wheels as well as a fully reclining backrest with four options and an adjustable leg rest to make sure your bundle of joy is comfortable. At 8.5kg this stroller isn’t the lightest of travel buggies, but it is one of the better-looking options. Suitable from birth to 22kgs, and is very affordable, giving it longevity and plenty of bang for its buck.

How we test

There are more lightweight and compact buggies than ever that are designed to make navigating customs (and most important Duty-Free) a breeze, while being easy to fold and stow in the hold, or even squeezed into the overhead lockers, without breaking into the sort of sweat you’d expect from an adventure holiday somewhere on the equator. 

Unfortunately, we can't always take every single one on holiday to see how they perform (unless someone wants to start a GoFundMe for us and this vital research), but we can test them out in more everyday situations.

We'll test these travel strollers on trips to the supermarket, shopping centre, and city centres, some of the most demanding and stressful locations known to parenthood. This, of course, involves taking the strollers on trains, buses and cars, so it does give us a great idea of how they perform. We'll also check if they're easy to fold, if they're comfortable for baby, and how practical they are.

How to choose the best travel strollers

Weight vs comfort: Like sports cars, some pushchairs are as light as possible at the cost of creature comforts and one that’s super stripped-back may not suit everyone. So consider how much padding your little one likes (especially if they’re a light sleeper) as well as features like whether the pushchair is parent or world-facing (not all buggies are both) and whether they have multiple reclining positions. If your child likes a little nap on the go, you will not want a buggy that doesn’t recline!

Age: It sounds obvious, but it’s important to consider whether lightweight buggies are suitable for the age of your baby. Some with less padding are only designed for babies aged six months or one or over, for example.

The weather: If you’re buying a light buggy for use in the UK, you’re going to want a rain cover and a sun cover (well, if you’re feeling optimistic). Not all buggies, especially the lightweight ones, come with rain covers, and they can cost quite a lot, so it’s worth noticing whether they come fitted as standard when budgeting. Similarly, the very lightest designs can sometimes have no hood or sun canopy, or one that’s incredibly small. So if you’re shopping for a light buggy for a holiday in the sun, this is a factor that you’ll want to look at carefully. 

Parental extras: Lightweight buggies seldom come with extras like cup holders but you might want to check the size and sturdiness of a buggy’s shopping basket as this can be a curse or saviour if you use a buggy frequently. 

Size: As well as being light, some buggies are designed to fold up incredibly small. This is great if you’re a frequent flier, use public transport or have a small car, but this feature can make some models more expensive, so if you’re not bothered, you might want to pass. Similarly, folding mechanisms vary massively, and you need to find one that’s easy for you and suitable for your needs. If you can, we recommend trying before you buy.

Vanity: Like with cars, sometimes looks matter almost as much as practicality. Some buggies look better than others and come in a rainbow of colours. So whether you want a fun one for a holiday vibe or have a favourite colour, you may as well pick one you like the look of as you’ll probably be using it a lot.

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Lizzie is T3's Home Staff Writer, also covering style, living and wellness. She works closely with Bethan Girdler-Maslen, T3's Home Editor, ensuring all the latest news, trends and recommendations are covered. Outside of T3, Lizzie can be found mooching around Bath, attempting (or at least trying to) a new DIY project or spending time with family and friends.

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11 Best Strollers for Travel in 2024

Whether you're going to grandma's or Disney World, we've got wheels that will make taking your kid a breeze.

best baby strollers

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Our experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute have reviewed over 30 strollers over the course of the past five years and for this story, we pulled ones that can fit in tiny spaces (some, in the airplane overhead) and ranked the ease of carting around and stowing each stroller.

Our top picks:

Butterfly

Best Overall Travel Stroller

Bugaboo butterfly.

3D Mini

Best Value Travel Stroller

Summer infant 3d mini.

City Tour 2

Best Lightweight Travel Stroller

Baby jogger city tour 2.

Car Seat to Stroller

Best Travel Stroller for a Newborn

Doona car seat to stroller.

The Compact

Best Travel Stroller for Flying

Colugo the compact.

Sparrow

Best Compact Travel Stroller

Munchkin sparrow.

MINU V2

Best Travel Stroller That Holds An Infant Car Seat

Uppababy minu v2.

The Twin+

Best Double Travel Stroller

Zoe the twin+.

Liteway

Best Umbrella Stroller for Travel

Chicco liteway.

TRVL

Best Travel Stroller for Frequent Travelers

Whether you want your travel stroller to last for years or just need one inexpensive set of wheels to get you through a specific journey, there is something for you on this list, and something for any kid from birth to age 6 (plus a double stroller , if you're taking two). A lightweight stroller will help you tackle the toddler years with your sanity intact. Plus, these travel strollers have an additional focus on being compact and folding quickly (we gave them all a try!) so you can move like a travel ninja.

At the end of our story we've got a shopping guide that can help you narrow down which features are most important to you, along with more on how we test strollers. And if you bring baby with you on your morning run, consult our guide to the best jogging strollers .

We called this a "first-rate folding stroller" when we named this a Good Housekeeping 2023 Family Travel Award winner. The real key is it doesn't sacrifice comfort for compactness , so expect the usual Bugaboo high-quality fabric, deep seat, real sunshade (no skimping on sun protection here!) and extendable leg rest, just in a more tiny, adorable form that's perfect for travel.

One tester mom of a toddler geeked out about the fold, specifically. "The button to fold it is on the handle, so you just push down and collapse it quickly. Our regular stroller requires ducking down and pushing a lever," she said. "Also, the glide of the Butterfly is comparable to much larger strollers. I can push my son uphill easily, with one hand!"

Another note about that fold: The folded stroller can stand up by itself, great if you need it to sit a minute while you get your kid in the car or otherwise tend to things. You don't need to lean it anywhere. But some users note that unfolding the Butterfly takes some finesse and practice — you shake it out and need it to lock in place before you can set your kid inside.

If you're only taking one big vacation and don't plan to travel often, you might want a no-drama lightweight stroller that won't set you back more than a hundred bucks. This little 3D Mini might cost the same as checking a piece of luggage each way, and at just 11 pounds it's easy to handle on a trip .

The basket is small — an average-size diaper bag is too big to fit down there — but there's a zippered parent console that holds two drinks. It's got a reasonable sunshade, and the seat can lean back. There's no seat padding, nor is there springy suspension for the five-inch plastic wheels. It's built for the convenience of getting toddlers and young preschoolers around flat pedestrian areas, and it does that just fine.

The 3D mini folds long, to the size of a traditional umbrella. (Get it? That's why they call this style an "umbrella stroller.") It doesn't stand up when folded — like with umbrella, you have to prop it against a wall or a car, or lay it down, say in your car's trunk, or carry it in one hand, which is made easy by its light weight.

Not only does this weigh less than 15 pounds but its robust wheels — made of molded rubber, not plastic — can tackle a sandy beach path. Our tester did just that, saying, "We took the risk and rolled this along a nature trail in Puerto Rico and it did great! It was hot that day and so we preferred this to putting the 1-year-old in an infant carrier ." The City Tour 2 is smooth-rolling on city streets, too. It's fully featured with a deep seat that reclines almost flat, a comfy calf rest plus a wide sun-protective canopy.

The fold is easy and starts with squeezing a button on the handle. But when folded this is not as small as some others; it can stand when folded but will not fit in an airplane overhead. It comes with a carry bag that makes it easy to gate-check at the airport. The handle sits just under 40 inches tall, making it a little tough for tall parents to push.

Nothing else comes close to being an ideal car seat and stroller combo for travel with a newborn. The Doona is an infant car seat for a vehicle, then you pop the wheels down to stroll with it .

No need to travel with both a car seat and a stroller since this is a two-in-one. If your travels include ride share vehicles or various family members' cars you'll be happy to have this innovative gear that doesn't have you shifting your infant from one seat to another. The car seat is also FAA-Approved for aircraft travel . "Now I tell every mama that she needs this," says one tester who started traveling with her baby in the Doona at 2 months old.

It's got a sunshade (though you can buy an extension for total protection from bugs, rays and rain) and its telescoping handle adjusts to different heights. It does not have any basket storage, but Doona sells a compatible storage bag or you can hang your own from the handle. Because it's only for toddlers up to 35 pounds and 32 inches tall, most families outgrow it by their child's second birthday.

"I found it totally worth it for the first two years of each of my three kid's lives," says Good Housekeeping Institute's former Chief Technologist Rachel Rothman . "It is just that versatile and useful for trip sanity!" Note that it does come with a LATCH-compatible car-seat base but it can also be strapped in using seatbelts if you are traveling without the base.

RELATED: Doona Car Seat and Stroller Review

Lots of the choices on our list are great for flying because of their fold and compact size. But if you fly often — as in to and from grandparents four or five times a year — we like that the Compact can be carted around several ways.

It's important because a kid is in and out of their stroller all the time in the airport. Use the carry strap on the back to sling this over your shoulder when you're on a moving walkway, say, with one arm holding your kid. Or put the stroller in the included backpack-style bag so it's easy to carry your kid and wear the stroller on your back as you step onto the plane, where the stroller can fit in most overhead bins. (If the flight crew says the overheads are full, the bag makes it easy to gate-check.)

When we named this a Good Housekeeping Parenting Award winner, we called out some of the other great features: a more generous basket than most compact strollers, so you can fit the diaper bag; a parent cupholder (because caffeine ); and a rain cover in case it's pouring when you step outside. Our one issue is that you can only buy direct from the brand, and sometimes it's sold out. Also, this is not a choice for a newborn; your baby has to be at least 6 months old to ride in this.

It's all about the fold! The Sparrow folds into the neatest little 15" x 14" rectangle and tucks into its own carry case. Not only will it fit in an airplane overhead but we can imagine a bunch of other travel scenarios for this: tucked into a drawer in your hotel room or cruise-ship cabin, at your feet as you ride the train around Disneyland, on your shoulder while you hold your child and ride an escalator.

To get that small it has a lot of flexible joints and tiny wheels. Also, this weighs less than 13 pounds. The combination can make the Sparrow feel more rickety than others on our list. It performed well enough rolling around smooth New York City sidewalks but, especially if you have a lightweight baby inside, it bounces over cracks, bumps and curbs. Fortunately, if you're mostly steering this through airports or through a theme park, you should be good to go.

A few other notes: The handle is low (not great for tall parents) but the seat is high (so a toddler is not leg-draggingly close to the ground). The basket is tiny and blocked by two bars, so it can't hold very much, maybe just a stroller blanket and water bottle. The tiny sunshade is minimal.

Another Parenting Award winner, we've said this is "a perfect balance between a convenient compact and a sturdy full-size stroller." We feel it deserves a spot on the list of best travel strollers, too, because it's also able to hold an infant car seat if you need that — either the UPPAbaby Mesa or any other brand (be sure to buy the correct adaptor for your brand).

If you use this in an airport you will have to gate-check it; it won't fit in the plane's overhead. But its small, self-standing fold means it takes up very little room in your home or hotel room. You get all the bells and whistles of a full-size stroller including a generous sun canopy, leatherette bumper bar you can use to hang a few toys and a basket that can hold up to 20 pounds. Tall parents will appreciate that the handle sits over 40 inches from the ground.

Taking two on your travels? We've called this stroller "the best double stroller for Disney" based on testers' real-world experiences. It meets the Disney park size requirements but weighs less than 20 pounds so it's not too tough to schlep on and off transport, plus it stands up when folded so it's easy to set it down and pick it up again without having to lean the stroller on something.

Each seat has a large canopy (so important for long, sunny outings!), separate reclines so either kid can lean back when needed and bumper bars for toys and to help keep preschoolers from leaping out if they spot Mickey. The handle height works for tall parents but the basket is pretty small and tucked way under the seats. The Twin+ comes with one parent cupholder and the brand sells travel-savvy accessories, such as stroller carry straps and a storage bag, separately.

Little travelers who are a bit older, age 2 and up, do well with an umbrella-style stroller like this one that gives them a place to sit when they need a break but does not cost parents much cash. Mesh sides provide airflow when you're visiting warm places and rear suspension provides a smoother ride than other, cheaper umbrella-style models.

The handle style is two grab handles versus one long bar, and because this is umbrella-style, it has a long, thin fold that has to be rested on the ground or against something. You engage the fold with your foot rather than your hand, kicking up near the basket and stepping down on a lever at the side. The seat cushion is machine washable and it comes with a parent cupholder. It's best for toddlers and older; there is no good place to attach toys for a baby nor does this take an infant car seat.

If travel is a big part of your lifestyle, don't skimp on anything — this comfy, well-made compact stroller comes with a long list of amenities including a carry bag, a magnetic buckle so you can quickly snap your baby in place, plus a no-rethread harness so it's easy to adjust the shoulder-strap height as your child grows.

You can use the TRVL from birth until your child weighs 50 pounds (which is often about age 6) and you can use it with the lightweight Nuna Pipa infant car seat without needing any extra adaptor (the car seat rests against the bumper bar).

All-wheel suspension helps this roll more like a full-size stroller. The underseat basket can't hold as much as a few other picks on this list. But fans of the TRVL rave about the fold, which can be executed with just one hand while you hold your baby in your other arm. When folded it stays standing up on its own. Note, however, that it's just a few inches too big to fit in an airplane overhead bin, so plan to gate-check this stroller.

Evenflo Gold Otto

Otto

If you love the idea of a self-folding stroller that collapses at the touch of a button while you're holding your baby in your arms, this model does just that and at a nice price, too. Getting in and out of vehicles is easy because the Otto, when folded, can be carried by its bumper bar. You can use an Evenflo car seat with this without any separate adaptor, and the molded-rubber wheels have suspension in the front.

There is a gap between the seat and the canopy that lets airflow in but also allows a kid to squirm around and see you, which can either be a pro or con. We noticed online reviewers writing that the wheels squeak, which we did not experience in our Lab tests but seems to be an issue during real-world use. This model comes with a parent cupholder. Note that the Otto is heavier than most of the other single strollers on our list but still weights less than 20 pounds.

How we test the best travel strollers

a good housekeeping expert tests to find the best travel strollers

We test both in the Good Housekeeping Institute Labs and in real-world conditions to assess how strollers work for families who are traveling.

In the past five years we've tested more than 30 strollers with an eye to what is easy for travel, looking at a dozen factors including stroller weight, ease of fold, size of stroller when folded, whether it comes with a travel bag, size of the sunshade and basket, whether the seat can recline for rest and more. We roll strollers along varied terrain and time how long it takes to assemble strollers out of the box.

What to look for when shopping for a travel stroller

line break

First your dose of reality: There are some things you will not get in a travel stroller that you would get in a big, full-size stroller. A compact travel stroller won't have a huge basket because it must fold down small. It won't have large, heavy wheels either, which means it will not roll as smoothly as a stroller with air tires. Expect small, nimble wheels on a compact frame — that's a travel stroller.

Here are the features you'll want to consider:

✔️ Just how tiny do you need it to fold? If you want to roll your stroller right onto the plane and throw it in the overhead bin, look for a travel stroller that promises to fit up there. The International Air Transport Association suggests that carry-on luggage not be larger than 22'' x 18'' x 10".

✔️ A carry bag makes a nice backup plan if you're flying. If your stroller is supposed to fit in the overhead but the plane is too crowded, having a carry bag lets you easily gate-check it. Plenty of families, including many of our Lab experts, just plan on using gate-check to begin with. You roll your child to the gate, wait until boarding, then fold and bag the stroller and have airline personnel put a tag on it so you can pick it up on the jet bridge when the plane lands, allowing you to stroll your child to baggage claim.

✔️ Check the Disney Park requirements , if you're going there. Unfolded, your stroller should be no larger than 31 inches wide and 52 inches long for a day at one of the parks (which means no stroller wagons ).

✔️ Pay attention to age grading. If your infant is still only a few months old, they will be potentially unsafe and uncomfortably upright in a stroller for ages 6 months+. If you'll be traveling with a newborn, look for a travel stroller that works from birth. Sometimes that means using one that can hold your infant car seat. Also, always check with your pediatrician so you know your baby's current weight and height, and read the requirements specific to your stroller to ensure it's appropriate. If you have to wait a few months to use the stroller, you can consider traveling with your infant in a baby carrier .

✔️ What happens when it folds? We like a stroller that can stand while folded, because you can set it and forget it while you deal with other travel and packing hassles. However, sometimes an umbrella fold, which is long and skinny, is nice for road trips when you have a tightly packed car. You can almost always wedge an umbrella stroller in there! Watch videos online to see how travel strollers fold down and how you are expected to carry them in their folded position.

✔️ We like a canopy. We're nuts about sun protection (see our best sunscreens for kids ) and that's why all of our picks have at least some sunshade. We do not recommend one of the ultra-cheap sling-type strollers lacking any sun visor. But not all canopies are equal: Some extend far out, some have mesh panels for ventilation and many large canopies have peekaboo windows that let you easily peer down and see how your baby is doing. Some sunshades make noise as you move them in and out and some are silent. Finally, some are made of UPF 50+ sun-blocking fabric, which is preferable.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

line break

For more than a century the experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute have been dedicated to helping consumers make safe and sound choices when purchasing items for their home and family.

This list was written by contributing writer Jessica Hartshorn who has followed the juvenile-products industry for decades, most recently for American Baby magazine and Parents magazine.

Coverage of travel strollers and much other gear for little ones was overseen by former Chief Technologist & Executive Technical Director Rachel Rothman , a 15-year veteran of the Institute and mother of three kids ages 6 and younger. Both experts have tested travel strollers in the Lab and on trips with their own family, and they lean into consumer testers for additional feedback and opinions.

Headshot of Jessica Hartshorn

Jessica (she/her) is a freelance writer with several decades of experience writing lifestyle content and evaluating home and parenting products. A mom of two teens and two cats, her previous work can be seen in American Baby and Parents .

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The 9 Best Travel Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Make your trip comfortable and fun for all with these top picks

light weight travel stroller

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

TripSavvy / Conor Ralph

A lightweight, collapsible travel stroller is a must-have accessory for parents on the move. There are many options to choose from, with the right stroller depending on your specific requirements. If you’re planning on traveling locally, a stroller that packs away into the trunk of your car may suffice; but if you're traveling overseas, you may prefer one that complies with airline carry-on restrictions. If you’re buying for a newborn, a fully reclining seat is necessary, while car seat compatibility is another factor.

We tested nearly two dozen strollers in our lab and rated each on their design, portability, maneuverability, durability, and overall value.

Final Verdict

Product selection, how we tested.

  • Others We Tested
  • What To Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, nuna trvl lightweight stroller.

  • Design 4.8 /5
  • Portability 4.2 /5
  • Maneuverability 5 /5
  • Durability 5 /5
  • Value 4.7 /5

Convenient one-handed fold

Suitable for newborns

Handles a variety of terrain with ease

Potentially unwieldy when removing from overhead bin

Our testers loved this stroller. "It was one of the best, if not the best, in the entire test," one tester concluded. But it's also one of the most expensive. The top marks begin with the fold and unfold, which was easy to do with practice. "Whoa! It folds for you! With alacrity," one tester reported. Our testers also liked smart features including easy and full reclining positions, good ventilation, a mesh window in the canopy, a big storage compartment, and a magnetic strap clasp.

But what really set this one apart from others was the smoothness of its ride. "It glides like a dream on every single surface," a tester reported. "There was no difference between the smooth hardwood and tile and the shag carpet. The gravel was also incredibly easy to maneuver, with little to no jolting or bumping up and down."

The nitpick our testers found was that it wasn't the easiest to fit in the overhead bin space, and our testers were concerned it could flop open when retrieving it at the end of a flight. Sure, this stroller is expensive. But if you've got the budget, this was one of the best of the batch.

Weight: 15.4 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 11 x 27.25 x 20.25 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 41 x 26 x 20.5 inches | Seat Dimensions: 10 x 13 inches

Best Overall Runner-Up

Gb qbit+ all city stroller.

  • Portability 4 /5
  • Maneuverability 4.9 /5

User friendly

Solid handling

Long lasting

Canopy could be improved

Gb's QBit+ All-City stroller scored nearly as high as the Joolz AER in our lab test but cost less. In particular, the QBit+ did best in our durability, maneuverability, and foldability tests. Folding requires pressing two buttons, but our testers could do it with one hand. "Locking it when unfolding takes a second, but overall it was really good," a tester noted. The QBit+ also passed our maneuverability tests with flying colors. And there was no damage to it during our durability tests.

Our testers noted that while the canopy has coverage and a mesh peekaboo window, it doesn't go down very far. It also didn't score best in our portability test since it did not come with a carrying strap. "We wouldn't want to carry it folded for long periods of time," a tester reported. But, for the cost, our testers thought the QBit+'s other features more than made up for it. "This stroller would be great as a regular stroller—not just for travel," a tester said.

Weight: 17.6 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 10.5 x 23 x 16.5 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 41 x 24 x 17 inches | Seat Dimensions: 9 x 13 inches

Best Budget

Summer infant 3dlite stroller.

  • Design 3.5 /5
  • Portability 4.5 /5
  • Maneuverability 4.6 /5
  • Value 3.5 /5

Budget-friendly

Cushioned handlebar

Ample storage space

Not the best for frequent fliers

What's better than a reliable, easy-to-operate, and durable travel stroller? Well, one that checks all these boxes without breaking the bank. The 3Dlite is that stroller. Though a bit bumpy over uneven terrain, it performed quite well in the maneuverability test and suffered no damage despite being dropped multiple times from several heights. A convenient carry handle makes porting around this mid-weight option relatively painless—but you'll have to gate-check it as it didn't fit in our simulated overhead bin.

Our testers would have liked to see improved features, namely a canopy that offers more coverage and a shoulder strap with padding. But, if you won't be traveling by plane much, the 3Dlite is a solid pick that will get the job done.

Weight: 13.6 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 10.5 x 42 x 12 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 43 x 24 x 18 inches | Seat Dimensions: 6 x 13 inches

Best Double

Uppababy g-link v2 stroller.

  • Assembly 4.9 /5
  • Design 5 /5
  • Portability 4.4 /5

Opens and closes well

Solid canopy

Excellent handling

Heavy (somewhat expected in a double)

Some details could be improved

For those with twins, friends, or siblings close in age, our testers like the G-Link V2 Double Stroller best. Our testers liked how easy the fold is, noting it can be done with one hand (although unfolding was a bit tougher). They also liked how easy it was to recline the stroller and that the recline had two positions. It also maneuvered skillfully. "The shag carpet was pretty easy with little drag or resistance," one tester noted. "The gravel impressed me, too; it was relatively smooth and barely bumpy." Another tester liked that there were no wheels in the middle of the frame (like most double umbrella strollers have). "It makes it easier to push without kicking the wheels or frame," they noted.

While our testers reported they'd liked to have seen windows in the canopy and pads on the shoulder straps, overall, they scored this stroller very well.

Weight: 21.8 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 14 x 40 x 17.5 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 41 x 25 x 28.25 inches | Seat Dimensions: 10 x 11 inches

Best Sun Shade

Uppababy g-luxe stroller.

  • Design 4.5 /5
  • Portability 3.9 /5
  • Maneuverability 4.7 /5
  • Value 4.5 /5

Solid portability

Loaded with functional extras

Supports itself in the collapsed position

Operating takes practice

Not great for packing into small places

An adequate sunshade is an important feature for many caregivers. The G-Luxe stroller offers loads of extra shade with its oversized canopy. But that's not the only feature our testers loved about this stroller. They also enjoyed the large cupholder, which fits travel mugs; how easily the footrest worked; the location of the pocket behind the seat; its padding; and the five-point harness with an adjustable shoulder strap.

Folding was a bit tricky and annoying at first with a handle and ring combo, but once you get it, the folding is smooth, our testers reported. While the stroller wasn't very small when folded, our testers did like the strap. "It feels light when you sling the strap over your shoulder, and it's nice that it will leave your hands free to carry more things," one tester noted. It performed well in the maneuverability test. Bonus: This stroller can stand on its own when folded.

Weight: 16.5 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 15 x 41 x 11.75 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 42.5 x 23.5 x 18.5 inches | Seat Dimensions: 9 x 11 inches

Best Lightweight

Kolcraft cloud plus stroller.

 Amazon

  • Design 3.9 /5
  • Portability 3 /5
  • Maneuverability 4.2 /5
  • Durability 4.5 /5
  • Value 4.8 /5

Works well (once you figure it out)

Only option with a tray

Portability is not great

If you're looking for a lightweight budget option, we like the Kolcraft Cloud Plus for its foldability, durability, and overall value. You're not going to get all the bells and whistles with this stroller. But you will get a functional item at a much more reasonable price than others on this list. Our testers liked how easy it was to fold and unfold, noting that this could be achieved with one hand (with some strength and coordination). The Kolcraft didn't have the smoothest ride, but our testers could push it through gravel even if the wheels stopped spinning because of its lightness.

You will sacrifice a few things with this option—mainly portability. While the stroller is one of the lightest we tested, it does not come with a case, strap, or handle. It also didn't fold down small enough to put in an overhead bin, meaning you'll need to check it at the gate if you fly with it, but our testers were impressed with the durability of the stroller. Overall, we view this as the Honda Accord of the batch. Does it have the performance and features of the more expensive models on this list? No. Is it great value, and will it get you—and, more importantly, your little one—from location A to B? Absolutely.

Weight: 11.8 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 10 x 33 x 17.5 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 38 x 27 x 18 inches | Seat Dimensions: 9 x 13 inches

Most Maneuverable

Baby jogger city tour 2 stroller.

  • Maneuverability 4.8 /5

Comfort features for the rider

Great value for its cost

Not as convenient for air travel

Our testers raved about the maneuverability of the City Tour 2. "The maneuverability on the Baby Jogger is exceptional," one tester said. "There was little perceptible difference between shag carpet and smooth wood and tile surfaces. And while other strollers struggled a bit on the gravel, this stroller navigated it with ease."

While the maneuverability of this one is stellar, there's a lot more to it than just that. The folding and unfolding were relatively easy. Our testers loved the recline, structure, and padding. They also liked small touches like extra legroom and adjustable calf support. While the storage space was minimal and there was no cupholder, our testers liked the functionality of the canopy and that it has a window.

One issue: It didn't fit in the overhead bin space, so checking it at the gate is necessary. But overall, our testers thought it was a solid performer for the stroller's price.

Weight: 14.5 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 7 x 22.5 x 19.5 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 40 x 26 x 20 inches | Seat Dimensions: 9 x 13 inches

Best Portability

Babyzen yoyo2 stroller frame.

  • Design 4.4 /5
  • Portability 5 /5

Excellent padding

Easy to stow

Solid over rough terrain

Not intuitive for folding and unfolding

For the best portability, our testers liked the Babyzen Yoyo2. It's not the lightest stroller we tested (but it's on the lighter side). And it's not the most compact (but it's close). But its compact size, relatively lightweight, plush and comfy shoulder strap, and metal bar handle combined to make this the overall best for portability.

Our testers also liked the canopy window, back pocket, basket underneath for boosted storage, and how easily it fits in the overhead bin space. They also liked how well it was handled. "There was minor resistance on the gravel, but it was smoother than many other strollers over the bumpier surface," one tester noted. "It maneuvers well for back and forth and changing directions."

Weight: 14.7 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 8 x 20 x 16 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 41 x 28.8 x 17 inches | Seat Dimensions: 9.5 x 12.5 inches

To make traveling as seamless as possible with a young companion, you'll want a travel stroller that's easy to fold and unfold, carries comfortably from place to place, and handles well over various surfaces. The Nuna Trvl Lightweight Stroller has all this plus top-notch durability. If you're looking for something affordable and lightweight, we also recommend the Kolcraft Cloud Plus Stroller .

Our editors and testers tapped into prior knowledge of strollers and stroller brands and conducted internet research to select products. Once a group of products was set, we whittled the list down based on the strengths and price of each stroller to get a range of functions and price points.

All products mentioned in this roundup were tested in our Brooklyn, New York lab. Products were tested for the following attributes: folding/unfolding, design, portability, maneuverability, and overall value. We also weighed and measured each stroller.

We followed the instructions to fold and lock each stroller and then unfold it. We rated it based on how easy these actions were and if they could be achieved with one hand. The design was ranked based on the stroller's extra features and how well (or not) those features worked. We were looking for things like adjustable handle heights, reclining positions, storage space, and canopies, among other things.

For portability, we folded each stroller into its most compact state and carried it around our testing lab, up and down stairs. We also created a simulated overhead bin space using a baker's rack. Maneuverability was tested with a traffic cone obstacle course in our lab and on different surfaces including hardwood, tile, shag carpet, fake grass, and gravel.

Durability was tested by dropping the folded strollers from waist height and from on top of a table. Lastly, the overall value was rated based on the cost of the stroller and how it performed in the tests compared to others.

Other Travel Strollers We Tested

Doona : We liked that this was the one stroller tested that also works as a car seat. It also performed very well in the maneuverability test, as one tester noted being able to maneuver through the cones one-handed. However, it was tough to fold and unfold (we had to watch a video to figure it out). Overall, our testers concluded that it was a specific product, and while it was good, it wasn't great enough to make our top picks.

Cybex Libelle Stroller : The Cybex Libelle Stroller was another good, just not great performer. It was fine in our tested categories and will get the job done. Our testers just liked the other ones listed above better. Our testers particularly liked how easy it was to fold and unfold.

Jeep Scout Double : Folding the Jeep Scout Double was not intuitive and took some figuring out. "Once you get used to it, it does get easier, but it's not very intuitive," concluded one tester. While this one falls into the budget range, our testers didn't care for it.

Mountain Buggy Nano V3 Stroller : The Mountain Buggy Nano V3 Stroller was lightweight and compact. It also did well in the maneuverability test on turns and with one hand. But this one had some quirks, like a reverse folding canopy and an unfolding process that was counterintuitive enough to keep it off our favorites list.

Jovial Portable Folding Stroller : Overall, the Jovial Portable Folding Stroller wasn't a super strong performer in our lab tests. It did fine—just nothing to put it over the top. The folding and unfolding took some effort. The handlebar was a bit low, and the canopy felt somewhat flimsy. And it struggled on the gravel during our maneuverability test.

Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Stroller : Waking a sleeping baby is a big no-no. And while the Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Stroller had some features our testers liked (folding and unfolding, excellent maneuverability, and good reclining), it was loud, particularly the canopy. "It just didn't impress across the board for the price," one tester concluded.

Colugo The Compact Stroller : The Colugo Compact Stroller checked many boxes. It can be folded and unfolded with one hand. It has padded shoulder straps. And it was pretty good at maneuvering and handling turns. But it performed poorly on gravel. And the buckles for the straps hurt our testers' hands. Plus, the canopy's performance deteriorated throughout the test.

What to Look For in Travel Strollers

If you're buying a travel stroller, you're after one that'll be lighter and more compact than your everyday model. Look for high-tech materials that are sturdy without adding extra weight. You'll find materials such as aluminum, polyester, and plastic are popular. Anything less than 15 pounds for an individual model is an excellent place to start, which applies to all the picks on our list. Fully collapsible models can be carried on board airlines, and weight restrictions for these are uncommon but not entirely nonexistent. Check your airline's requirements and restrictions before your trip.

A comfortable child on vacation is a happy child on vacation—so you'll want a stroller that will keep your child at ease during long days of sightseeing and exploring. Look for reclining seats, adjustable canopies, and padded harnesses. Keep in mind that features that add comfort often add weight. Consider a more minimalist design if you're planning to use a travel stroller primarily to get from point A to B or will be loading and unloading frequently. On the other hand, if you're road-tripping to natural or attraction parks , you and your little rider will appreciate those added comfort items.

Extra Features

Sure, you can go bare-bones with a stroller that's little more than a nylon sling chair on wheels, but you may also want features like cup holders or a rack underneath to hold larger bags. Your ideal travel stroller fits the specific needs of your family and the type of trip you have in mind. That extra storage space could save you from carrying another bag or two, which could turn a potentially stressful event into a relaxing and fun outing, depending on where you're headed.

The best travel stroller to take on a plane is one that fits in the overhead bin space, is lightweight, and is one that you feel comfortable using. When in doubt, check the folded dimensions of the stroller, matching it with the overhead bin space of the plane you'll be flying on.

You don't need a separate travel stroller. But if you do a lot of traveling—whether that's flights or road trips with your kids —we recommend having a travel-specific stroller. Many of the ones we suggested could double as your everyday stroller.

Jess Macdonald is a travel expert and has been writing for TripSavvy since 2016. She has honed her skills as a freelance writer specializing in travel, scuba diving, and wildlife conservation. She's also a mom of two who has traveled extensively (both at home and overseas) with her kids.

Nathan Allen is the Outdoor Gear Editor at TripSavvy. While not a parent himself, he's learned the importance of having a good travel stroller after spending a month road-tripping the Western US and Midwest with his four-month-old niece.

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Parents / Jhett Thompson

Any parent who has dared to travel alone with a small child knows how essential it is to have a high-quality stroller. A stroller can make or break a trip through the airport, and it really comes in handy when rushing through security and to a gate. But standard strollers are often too bulky for air travel —or they’re just too nice to risk handing over to the baggage handlers—which is why having a dedicated travel stroller can make all the difference. We tested more than 40 compact strollers in our labs to find you the very best to take on your next trip.

In early December 2023, Bugaboo and the Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a voluntary recall of the Bugaboo Dragonfly, a standard stroller that is not on this travel stroller list. When in parent-facing mode, the seat of this stroller may be unfolded incorrectly so that it the back rest is at a negative incline, posing an injury risk for infants. The recall is only for 1,200 Dragonfly strollers purchased in the U.S. and Canada before June 27, 2023. For a list of recalled serial numbers and instructions for getting a replacement seat, visit the CPSC or Bugaboo.com . We've tested the strollers on this list in our lab and at home, updating it immediately if our long-term testers discover any damage or possible risks to children.

Before selecting a travel stroller, you should make sure it’s durable, portable, maneuverable, lightweight, and worth your money (these strollers range in price from $100 to $500). Plus, it should be comfortable and practical to use when you get to your destination. We assembled, wheeled, turned, pushed, dropped, and folded each stroller to find which met our standards. We also spoke to Betty Choi, M.D., a pediatrician and mother of two, to get her insight into what qualities to look for in a stroller. 

Finally, to make this list of the best travel strollers, we made sure that most of these would be easy to use with one hand, so that parents carrying a bag or baby would be able to maneuver it throughout their journey with one less thing to worry about. 

Our Favorites

  • Best Overall: Bugaboo Butterfly
  • Best Overall Runner-Up: GB Qbit+ All City

Best Budget: babyGap Classic Stroller

  • Best Comfort: Uppababy Minu V2
  • Best Luxury: Nuna TRVL Stroller
  • Lightest: Contours Itsy
  • Best Double: Uppababy G-Link 2
  • Best for Air Travel: Munchkin Sparrow
  • Best for Car Travel: Baby Jogger City Tour 2
  • Best for City Travel: Babyzen YOYO2

Best Overall: Bugaboo Butterfly Stroller

Why We Like It: A spacious, padded seat, generous cargo space, and excellent maneuverability all fold up into carry-on size. 

But Take Note: Be sure to fold up the footrest if you check this on a plane, as it’s not as durable as the rest of the stroller. 

Some high-end strollers are just charging you for the label, but others, like the Bugaboo Butterfly, really do deliver in terms of quality, convenience, and extra features for your money. It doesn’t just look good. It truly impressed us in all of our tests, as well as in the real world, when our editor took it for a spin to Puerto Rico and back. Note: The Butterfly is not the model Bugaboo recently recalled because of a seat issue .

While it’s a very compact stroller, when opened, it offers plenty of seating space for your baby or toddler. As part of the very quick assembly process, you attach fabric padding to this seat for extra comfort, not to mention easier cleaning. The sun canopy extends fully with a zip-open mesh segment, giving baby protection and a cool breeze. And speaking of which, that machine-washable fabric didn’t make a toddler very hot when he sat in it on his tropical vacation. Unlike a lot of other travel strollers, this model doesn’t sacrifice cargo space to get it down to travel size. The back of the under-seat basket is spring loaded, so you can push it down to stuff a backpack or diaper bag inside, and it will pop back up to secure the contents. It’s also got a fully extendable footrest, which doubles as a handle when the stroller is folded up. Unfortunately, when our editor wound up checking this stroller on her flight, she left this footrest/handle out, and baggage handlers managed to snap the thing right off. (Bugaboo offers a four-year warranty, but it won’t cover airline damage.) The footrest appears to be more vulnerable to breakage than the rest of the frame, which looks and feels thicker and more solid. 

To avoid that kind of airline mishap, you can also fit this little guy into most overhead compartments as your carry-on. That is, after you take advantage of its simple folding process—which we weren’t exactly able to do one-handed at first, just because the two buttons at the handlebar were a bit hard to press, but we still loved how swiftly it shrunk down into itself. There’s a strap for lugging it around hands-free on your shoulder, and at 16 pounds, that’s pretty doable for most parents used to playing pack mule, for short distances, at least.

The Butterfly moved like butter over various surfaces in the lab, even rocks and fake grass, taking sharp turns with very little effort, too. The small wheels mean this isn’t exactly a rugged, all-terrain stroller, and a baby will get a bit jostled if you’re going over gravel or cobblestones in your travels, but since it’s so light you’ll both get through those tough surfaces just fine!

The Details:

  • Size open: 36.42 x 17.72 x 40.31 inches
  • Size folded: 17.72 x 9.06 x 21.26 inches
  • Weight: 16 pounds

Best Overall Runner-Up: gb Qbit+ All City Stroller

Why We Like It: This is an incredibly comfortable stroller that maneuvers smoothly and folds up easily. 

But Take Note: It’s heavier than some others we tested and doesn’t have a shoulder strap. 

This travel stroller landed near the top in our testing because it’s comfortable, easily maneuverable, portable, and durable—which are some of the most important criteria when shopping for a travel stroller. We found this stroller to be easy to close and fold with one hand, by pressing down on the two buttons. The shoulder straps are comfortably padded and meet at a buckle that we didn't mind in the lab, though it later proved a bit tricky in the real world when we wrangled an impatient child into it. It features a padded seat that reclines nearly all the way back, revealing breathable mesh at the top, so kids can comfortably nap while in transit. With the adjustable footrest in the straight-out position, this is also suitable for a newborn, if you’d rather leave the car seat and adapter at home. Keep in mind that the canopy provides pretty good coverage, but doesn’t extend as far as the Nuna TRVL or the Uppababy Minu V2. 

This stroller has enough storage space to hold a medium-size backpack, which also makes it useful during travel. With all-wheel suspension, it maneuvered easily over different terrain like gravel, wood, and carpet in the lab. In fact, we barely noticed a difference when transitioning from carpet to gravel. Though it drives comfortably, keep in mind that the handlebar isn’t adjustable, and it doesn’t come with a cup holder.

A huge point in the Qbit’s favor is that at $380, it’s about $70 less than the Bugaboo Butterfly and the Uppababy Minu V2. But it’s also a bit heavier than some of the others we tested, doesn’t have a shoulder strap, and might not fit in all overhead compartments. 

  • Size open: 33 x 17 x 42 inches 
  • Size folded: 17 x 10 x 23 inches 
  • Weight: 17.6 pounds
  • Age range: Birth up to 55 pounds

Parents / Conor Ralph

Parents / Phoebe Cheong

Why We Like It: It’s got the convenience and price of an umbrella stroller, but it doesn’t feel rickety and it looks so cute.

But Take Note: The light-colored fabrics may not stay in pristine condition for long.

Umbrella strollers are no one’s favorite mode of conveyance, as they typically sacrifice style and comfort for cost and the ability to collapse into a small package that you won’t care terribly about breaking or losing. But in our testing, we were able to find a few that we genuinely liked for reasons beyond their near disposability. This model from Gap, made by Delta Children, surprised us by not just looking cute. The gray-and-white striped fabric—very Gap!—is part of its appeal, however, and it’s made from recycled water bottles. (It also comes in pink-and-white stripes, black camo, and navy camo.) 

This inexpensive stroller has some thoughtful features: The canopy fully shades a child, though it doesn’t have a peekaboo window. It reclines enough for a toddler’s nap, but does not have a footrest. The five-point harness buckles at three points, has removable padding, and doesn’t have to be rethreaded to adjust. The two handles have faux leather covers that feel good to hold, and it comes with a fabric caddy to hold the grown-up’s small belongings, a water bottle, and a cup or bottle for the kid as well. You can squeeze a diaper bag into the cargo area—it’s about the size you expect from an umbrella stroller. Our one concern about the design is that we’re not sure how long the whiter parts of the fabric will stay looking white. 

We were truly surprised by how good it felt to push this stroller around on different terrain, given that it doesn’t have fancy shock absorption or other luxury features. There was none of the telltale rattling of an umbrella stroller, and it’s so lightweight that we could manage stairs and curbs without much inconvenience. 

To fold, you lift a lock in the back, push a lever on the bottom right side, and push the whole thing forward. We found the lock that keeps it folded is a bit finicky, and could totally see someone breaking a nail unlocking it one day, so watch out for that. Still, it has a well-placed strap for carrying and weighs only 15 pounds. We can imagine it being a great second stroller that you can take on trains, pack in the trunk, and even gate-check on planes. 

  • Size open: 20.7 x 31.50 x 42.9 inches
  • Size folded: 12 x 44 x 11 inches
  • Weight: 15 pounds

RELATED: The Best Baby Pool Floats for Safe Splashing in the Sun

Best Comfort: UPPAbaby MINU V2 Stroller

Why We Like It: Plush padding, a sun shade, and an almost-flat recline make this perfect for stroller naps.

But Take Note: It’s too large for many overhead compartments, and you may want to buy a separate travel bag to protect it when flying.

For a comfortable ride for both parent and baby, the Uppababy Minu V2 is one of your best bets. It’s one of a few on this list (like the Bugaboo Butterfly, for example) that could serve as your only stroller, too. Stroller naps are essential when traveling—it buys grown-ups so much more sightseeing time!— and this spacious seat reclines pretty far and features extra padding to make those naps last longer. They’ll stay cool, too, because that canopy unzips to an almost horizontal level for great sun coverage, with a mesh peekaboo window for extra air flow. For the adult behind the wheels, there’s a padded leather handle bar that doesn’t adjust but is at a good height for tall and short people alike. Though it doesn’t come with a cup holder or caddy, there is a pocket behind the seat where you can stash a water bottle and phone, and the storage basket is large and spacious, holding up to 20 pounds, which makes it easy to tote a backpack or diaper bag. 

You and your kiddo might even remain comfortable when navigating bumpy ground, thanks to four-wheel suspension, or weaving in and out of crowds, as we found it took sharp turns easily (even one-handed!). And when it’s time to get in the car, walk up stairs to a train, or get on the plane, this ride folds up quickly. We found it did take a little practice (and for some, two hands) to press the two buttons on the handle to trigger the folding process, but then it collapses down on its own. 

It stays upright when folded, and you can pick it up by a handle or the attached padded strap. But beware that it weighs about 17 pounds and it probably won’t fit in overhead compartments of smaller planes. You may also want to invest in Uppababy’s travel bag , because it includes insurance against damage to the stroller by the airline, once you enroll in the TravelSafe program. 

  • Size open: 35.5 x 20.3 x 41 inches
  • Size folded: 12.5 x 20.3″ x 23 inches (with bumper bar)
  • Weight: 16.9 pounds

Best Luxury: Nuna Trvl Lightweight Stroller

Why We Like it: It easily reclines and maneuvers smoothly. 

But Take Note:  The bumper bar can be a pain to take on and off when you're in a hurry.

Here’s a peek inside our testing process: It’s kind of great for editors who are in the market for these products ourselves. We were all heart eyes when we beheld the Nuna TRVL, and one of us immediately called it to take home for long-term testing. This is a luxurious travel stroller whose comfort, functionality, and efficiency rival that of an everyday stroller. It had one of the smoothest rides out of any of the strollers we tested—we felt no difference when traversing hardwood, tile, and shag carpet. The seat is easy to recline with one hand and an adjustable calf rest adds extra comfort. Because it does not go all the way flat, this stroller on its own is inappropriate for a newborn, but if you purchase a Nuna Pipa car seat, you won’t need an adapter for it. The leatherette on the handle and bumper bar is both attractive and nicely cushioning. We love that the water repellant, UPF 50+ canopy provides shade with the option to open multiple mesh windows. 

Besides the fact that it just looks good, the real wow factor with the TRVL is that it actually folds itself for you with just the push of a button. It also fits into the overhead bin of most planes. Its under-seat compartment is large enough to fit a backpack or diaper bag, so it’s a great option if you’re carrying multiple other bags for your trip. There’s no shoulder strap, but the bumper bar works as a great handle when the stroller is folded—which is a good thing because the hassle of removing and reattaching that bar is one of our main complaints about the stroller in the real world. While it comes with its own travel bag, it digs into your shoulders after a long walk through the airport. Though the brand says that the TRVL weighs 13.6 pounds, that’s not counting the canopy and arm bar, which make it actually 15.4 pounds. That’s lighter than the other luxury strollers on this list but heavier than, say, the Contours Itsy and the Munchkin Sparrow.

You also can’t ignore that while this is one of the most comfortable, maneuverable, and well-designed strollers we tested, it’s one of the most expensive. 

  • Size open: 20.5 x 26 x 41 inches
  • Size folded: 20.25 x 27.25 x 11 inches
  • Weight: 15.4 pounds
  • Age range: Birth (with car seat) to 50 pounds

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Lightest: Contours Itsy Lightweight Stroller

Why We Like It: Not only is it light, but it folds up one-handed into something you could fit in a backpack.

But Take Note: It lacks storage space and doesn’t recline, and we suspect bigger kids won’t find it super comfy.

For many of us, when we say we want a travel stroller, we don’t want all the bells and whistles and aren’t looking to replace our everyday wheels. What we really want is the very lightest, most compact stroller that can take our kid from point to point, and then all but disappear until the next time we need it. That is what the Contours Itsy is. It is possibly the lightest stroller we’ve ever used, and with just one hand, we could pack it up into the size of a grocery bag and lift it—still one-handed!—into an overhead compartment. And we could probably even do that while holding a wiggly toddler!

This is a very inexpensive stroller, at just $170 at this writing, so you’re not getting luxury. But you are getting a stroller with a safe five-point harness, a removable bumper bar, and suspension in the front wheels to help it navigate some minor city bumps. There’s a UPF 50+ canopy with a very breezy mesh window in the back, and it will shade most toddlers, though we wish it extended just a tad further so that shorter kids could get its full benefit. The seat has a bit of a footrest, but it does not recline. It does not fit a full-size diaper bag in the cargo space, and there are no cup holders or caddies. All of that takes up space, and that’s not what the Itsy is here for!

After putting together a whole lot of strollers over the course of many tests, we really appreciated that this came right out of the box fully assembled. All that was left to do was attach the bumper bar. Folding it is almost just as effortless, with just the press of one button!

The stroller didn’t maneuver quite as smoothly as some of the other compact strollers in our test—it was even beat out by the cheaper babyGap Classic—and we got a bit annoyed by the way the single brake takes a good push to engage, and it also caught on the stairs when we were pulling it up and down. Another downside is that it’s got a lower weight capacity (40 pounds) than many other strollers and doesn’t look very comfortable for bigger kids. Still, at this price, you’ll be happy that it’s going to achieve the exact thing you want it to do.

  • Size open: 32 x 18.20 x 39 inches
  • Size folded: 10.5 x 11 x 22 inches
  • Weight: 12.3 pounds

Best Double: Uppababy G-Link V2 Stroller

Why We Like It: With padded, adjustable straps and a compact build, this umbrella stroller is comfortable and easy to maneuver with two kiddos.

But Take Note: Since it’s naturally larger than the single options, you’ll have to gate-check it on the plane.

Traveling with two children requires a special type of stroller—one that can keep both content enough to stay put, and maybe even handle a bumpy ride while they're strapped in. That’s why we love the Uppababy G-Link 2, it’s a sizable double stroller that maneuvers with the lightweight ability of a single stroller. It has all the features that make a parent’s life easier, like a cup holder, storage pockets, easy buckle and adjustable shoulder straps. Two extendable UPF 50+ sun shades and adjustable recline make it cozy for the kids, too. Four sets of wheels (instead of the six of some other double models) make it easy to turn and maneuver, and our testers found that it did so with ease over different types of terrain.  

This stroller excelled in our comfort and maneuverability tests, but it lacked in terms of portability. Despite the larger size, it’s still easy to fold up with one hand and can stand up when folded. Since it holds two children, it’s not as compact as some of the others, so you’ll definitely have to gate-check it. Although it has a handle, it does not have a shoulder strap, so there’s no hands-free carrying option, either. Still, when you’re traveling with more than one child, you’re probably going to keep them strapped in for as long as possible.

  • Size open: 28.25 x 25 x 41 inches 
  • Size folded: 17.5 x 40 x 14 inches
  • Weight: 22 pounds

RELATED: The Best Double Strollers We Tested Loaded With Kids

Parents / David Carr

Best for Air Travel: Munchkin Sparrow Stroller

Why We Like It: It’s got one of the most compact folds and comes with its own carrying bag.

But Take Note: There’s basically no canopy or storage area on this stroller.

You may giggle a little upon seeing the Munchkin Sparrow in person for the first time—it’s as silly and bird-like as the name implies. And like its namesake bird, this is no fancy showpiece. This is the stroller for the person whose top priority is being able to fold it into a teeny-tiny carrying bag and pop it into the overhead bin with zero arguments from any flight attendants. 

Like the Contours Itsy, the super-compact size of this means it arrives in the box fully assembled. You place the wheels side up, press two little buttons on the handle, and it pops right open. It folds back just the same, too. And then it fits in the very conveniently included carrying bag. 

It’s a few ounces heavier than the Contours and slightly more expensive, and we find that what it passes off as a shade canopy is kind of insulting. (Maybe your kid will get shade at noon.) There’s only the merest hint of a cargo space, too. We were unimpressed by how it handled curbs and bumpy surfaces. On the other hand, the seat is a bit bigger than the Itsy, and the stroller can hold a kid until they weigh 55 pounds. Still, parents who frequently fly solo with a kid, or not-solo with multiple children, might be quite relieved to have an option like this for their journeys.

  • Size open: 39 × 18.5 × 28 inches
  • Size folded: 15 x 14 x 6.25 inches
  • Weight: 12.8 pounds

Best for Car Travel: Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller

Why We Like It: Exceptional maneuverability, easy to recline seats, and padded straps make this a comfortable ride for parents and baby, but it packs up small to fit in the trunk of a car.

But Take Note: It does not fit in an overhead bin, and not everyone loves its utilitarian look.

For a stroller that maneuvers well and compacts into a small, convenient package that slides easily into a trunk or backseat, try the Baby Jogger City Tour 2. This easy-to-use stroller is built to keep babies and toddlers happy: It reclines far and has padded shoulder and crotch straps, plus the built-in, solid footrest can withstand the kicks of those bigger riders. The canopy goes down nicely to provide lots of coverage, with a peekaboo window to check on your kiddo. 

Though you have to push two buttons, you can fold and unfold it with one hand. Once folded, tote it by the attached strap or use the included carrying bag. Though it doesn’t fit into an overhead bin, it’s a great option for packing on car trips. It takes up considerably less room than a standard stroller would—which is particularly convenient when packing a crowded car. 

In testing, the City Tour 2 was up there with our top picks in terms of maneuverability over bumps and around tight turns. It looks and feels sturdier than most of the ultra-compact options, but it weighs less than 15 pounds. This stroller doesn’t look luxe, or even very cute, but many caregivers who know the mess, wear, and tear kids can inflict on a stroller will call that a plus.

The Details :

  • Size open: 20 x 26 x 40 inches 
  • Size folded: 19.5 x 7 x 22.5 
  • Weight: 14.5 pounds
  • Age range: Newborn (with car seat) up to 45 pounds

RELATED: 9 Best Potty-Training Seats and Chairs for Toddlers

Best for City Travel: Babyzen YOYO2 Stroller

Why We Like It: This folds up into a really small, convenient package, and handles city streets so well.

But Take Note: You need two hands to fold it up, and it’s not great on rougher terrain. 

Strollers are incredibly bulky when you live in a small apartment, so it’s important for city dwellers to find one that won’t take up too much space when not in use. And if you’re visiting a city on vacation, you’ll feel the same. This option from Babyzen is great for city life because it’s incredibly portable and folds up into a small, convenient package you can stash just about anywhere. It’s also more narrow than most, so it can weave through the crowds on sidewalks. This is why it’s been dominating the streets of Brooklyn for the past few years. 

Of course the stroller’s key feature is how small it is, both narrow when in use and compact when fully folded. But its seat is surprisingly roomy and nicely padded for a child, even if it’s lacking an extended footrest. The storage area is small, too, though we like that it’s easily accessible. Those are some of the sacrifices necessary for its folding size. Folding is not a one-handed process, but unfolding is. A padded shoulder strap allows for hands-free carrying of this 14 pound stroller, so you can get up and down those subway stairs, or in and out of buses, while carrying your kid. It fit nicely into the mock overhead bin in our test, too.

We emphasize that this is a city stroller because while it was so good at weaving in and out of cones in our obstacle course, it wasn’t so great on rough surfaces. Another drawback is the price. When you’ve purchased the frame and its “color pack”—that’s the canopy and the fabric that goes over the seat, which the brand unfortunately sells separately —it ends up costing between $400 and $470, depending on your color choice. You can choose between the 0+ color pack, which is suitable for newborns lying flat, and the 6+ color pack made for 6 months old and up, and both of these are machine washable. (You can also buy a bassinet , but that won’t fold up with the rest of the stroller like the newborn back does.) We find this separate fabric system a little confusing, but it does make it quite nice if you want to switch up the colors for a second child, or even if you’re buying it second-hand.

  • Size open: 33.80 x 17.3 x 41.7 inches
  • Size folded: 20.5 x 17.3 x 7.1 inches
  • Weight: 13.7 pounds

Best With Car Seat: Doona Convertible Infant Car Seat Stroller System

Why We Like It: This car seat with wheels saves you the step of switching from one set of wheels to another.

But Take Note: Your kid will outgrow it quickly.

When we first tested this funny stroller in 2022, we swore we were never going to tell readers you should spend more than $500 on something you might be using for less than a year. Since then, we have had so, so many city (and some suburban) parents tell us that they love their Doonas and didn’t regret the purchase for an instant, that we had to give it a second chance. After all, it isn’t just a stroller. It’s more of a car seat that grew legs and wheels. And for those few months in which your baby fits into an infant car seat, it’s actually a really streamlined way to travel.

When it's in stroller mode, the baby faces you (like they would in an infant seat attached to a stroller), but they'll be much lower to the ground than you’d typically keep an infant. Still, the handle reaches high enough that it’s comfortable for adults to push. And compared to most car seat travel systems, this is a really smooth, easy ride. What’s more, if you wind up having to take stairs on your journey, you can fold up the wheels (while the baby’s still in it!) and carry it as you would any car seat. (The combined weight of a baby plus the seat’s 17 pounds isn’t exactly going to be light, but it’s doable.) 

Inside, your baby is snug and certifiably safe in a typical car seat harness, surrounded by fabric that’s breathable and machine washable. And you don’t have to remove them from that cozyness when it’s time to get in the car. Instead, you’ll have two hands free to collapse the whole thing down into a car seat. It comes with a LATCH car seat base you can leave in your car. But Doona’s whole concept is even more attractive to people who wind up taking taxis, car services, or friends’ cars in between places where they’ll be walking a lot. 

Because it’s less of a stroller than a car seat, there are a few things missing here. For one, the canopy isn’t very big, though you can purchase a more complete sunshade separately . And for another, it has zero storage. You’ll just have to carry that diaper bag, or delicately drape it over the handle (against expert advice, mind you) and hope it doesn’t tip the whole thing over. 

Back to the question of whether this is worth your investment. Infant car seats can cost anywhere from $100 to $500, so if you were already going to spring for the high-end models, you could consider this a reasonable amount to spend on a two-for-one item (especially when most infant car seats are in the $300 range). Many parents we know also either resold their Doonas, or passed them along to friends and family members, because in such a short period of time, they saw little wear and tear. If you consider this a kind of short-term heirloom, or the start of a Sisterhood of the Traveling Stroller, it may be worth your money.

  • Size open: 17.4 x 32.3 x 39 inches
  • Size folded: 17.4 x 26 x 22.4 inches
  • Weight: 17 pounds
  • Age range : Birth to 35 pounds (or 32 inches tall)

Parents / Dera Burreson

Smoothest Ride: Silver Cross Jet 3 Super Compact Stroller

Silver Cross

Why We Like It: It maneuvers like a dream over various terrain, and we loved rolling it like a suitcase folded up.

But Take Note: It’s sorely lacking in storage space.

We’ve tested a lot of Silver Cross strollers in the past year, and most wound up being very pretty to look at, but not much else. We were happy to discover that the Jet 3 broke the mold. This is a luxury stroller you can fit in most overhead compartments and also enjoy pushing around town. In testing, it was smooth as silk, maneuvering through our obstacle course and over grass and gravel. We didn’t even mind bumping it up and down stairs! And when it’s folded up, we got a real kick out of how much it looks and feels like a fancy rolling carry-on bag, as the leatherette bumper bar becomes the handle.

Silver Jet doesn’t skimp on looks—and you can even spend an extra $50 to get the black version with rose-gold details, which is to say, this is for parents and caregivers who want to look good too. On a more practical level, we’re fans of the magnetic buckle on the five-point harness. The seat reclines completely flat, and there’s an adjustable footrest. Unlike most travel strollers, you can use this from birth, letting the baby lie flat and pulling up this bit of stretchy fabric up and over the footrest to make it resemble a mini bassinet. The canopy is generous, though not quite as much as the Uppababy Minu V2. The one true and unmissable design flaw here is the cargo area, which is difficult to access and would barely fit a diaper bag. 

Folding this stroller takes two hands to get it into its most compact position. It comes with a protective travel cover that has a pocket into which you can store the bumper bar when it’s time to stash the whole thing into the trunk or your overhead bin. It doesn’t fold as small as the Yoyo2 or the Munchkin Sparrow, but it’s more compact than the Bugaboo Butterfly and the Nuna TRVL, which are priced about the same.

  • Size open: 35.43 x 17.7 x 39.5 inches
  • Size folded: 7.08 x 11.81 x 21.65 inches
  • Weight: 13.6 pounds
  • Age range : Birth to 55 pounds

Our Testing Process

To find the best travel strollers available, we evaluated each product to assess a number of attributes like design, portability, maneuverability, and durability. To start, we weighed and measured each stroller to determine how compact it is when folded compared to how large it is when expanded. Next, we assessed how easy the stroller is to fold. When traveling with a child, parents often have to maneuver through an airport, security line, or plane aisle while holding a baby, so we wanted to find the strollers you can fold with one hand. We assessed the individual features of each stroller's design, like adjustable handle height, seat level, canopies, storage, and cup holders. To evaluate portability, we folded up each stroller and tried to pick it up, carried it up and down stairs, and lifted it over our heads into an overhead compartment. We observed handle placement and took note of overall convenience. To test maneuverability, we wheeled the stroller around cones, over hard floor, carpet, fake grass, and gravel. Lastly, we dropped the strollers multiple times from shoulder height and knocked them off a table to evaluate durability. We considered what shape the strollers were in to start with and observed any dents, scratches, or changes to function after putting them through our durability test. 

We also spoke to board certified pediatrician Betty Choi, M.D. , author of “Human Body Learning Lab,” to get a better sense of the safety requirements to consider when buying a travel stroller.

Other Notable Travel Strollers

  • Gb Pockit Air All-Terrain : This stroller is easy to fold and surprisingly maneuverable, but it lacks some of the additional features that are important for a comfortable ride. It has little storage and no padding, and its canopy is all but ineffective. Its tiny size impressed us, though!
  • Chicco Liteway : This is a great lightweight umbrella stroller for the price, and it’s a decent alternative to the babyGap Classic on this list. It’s really just a matter of aesthetics. 

Factors to Consider

Size and weight.

Travel strollers should be lightweight and small, above all else, in order to be useful to families on the road. But how light and how small is an individual decision.

“While the lightest strollers will be easier to carry, the tradeoff might be other features like storage space and seat comfort,” Dr. Choi tells us. “Therefore, the best travel stroller depends on where the family is going to use it and how many kids will be riding the stroller.”

Whether you’re traveling by car, train, or plane, travel strollers will need to be packed at some point. Before selecting a travel stroller, assess what type of travel you plan to do. If you plan to travel by plane, make sure the travel stroller can either fit in an overhead bin or withstand abuse by baggage handlers. If you choose the former, make sure it’s light enough to lift over your head. For car trips, you can go slightly bigger, but make sure the stroller can fit in your trunk or passenger seat. 

Portability

Portability is particularly important when selecting an efficient travel stroller. If you plan to travel alone, assess whether or not the stroller can be folded and carried with one hand. When collapsed, does it easily lock? In addition to the folding system, make sure to look out for handles, carrying straps, or bags. Portability is one of the key differences between a standard stroller and a travel stroller, so be sure to keep it top of mind when considering which product is best for you. 

Comfort and Design

Although most travel strollers aren’t as big, luxurious, and plush as a standard stroller, they should still be comfortable. Naps are usually taken on-the-go when traveling, so it’s important to find a stroller that your little one will feel comfortable sleeping in. If you’ll be traveling in different types of weather, assess whether or not the stroller has a sun canopy or mesh window to encourage air flow. 

“Young children, especially those with fair skin, are prone to sunburns,” Dr. Choi reminds us. “Consider the size of the canopy and how much shade it can provide for your child.”

For your own comfort, note whether or not the stroller has storage or cup holders, both of which could make your life easier when bustling through a busy airport or train station. Make sure the handlebar is at an appropriate height so you can easily push it without hunching over. 

Like most kids’ gadgets, strollers can come with a hefty price tag. The strollers we tested ranged in price from $110 to $500. If you’re purchasing a travel stroller as your main stroller, you might be inclined to spend a bit more and invest in a product that has extra features. If you’re purchasing a streamlined second stroller for occasional use, a more budget-friendly option might be better suited to you. 

How to Use a Travel Stroller Safely 

Strap in securely .

Operate a travel stroller with the same level of care and consideration as any other baby gear you use. Before using the stroller, read the user manual, particularly instructions related to safety. Be sure to understand the strap system, and always double check that your child is securely strapped into the harness straps according to the manufacturer’s instructions. 

Use the Brake

If your stroller has removable wheels, make sure that they are securely installed before using it. Whenever the stroller is parked, always use the brakes to ensure it doesn’t roll away. 

Store Bags Properly

According to the AAP , heavy items like diaper bags or backpacks should always be stored under the stroller, rather than hanging from the handlebar. When heavy bags hang from the handlebar it can cause the stroller to tip or flip, which could cause injury. “To prevent tipping, the base of the stroller should be wide, and the seat should be low to the ground. While it can be tempting to hang your diaper bag on the handlebars, this weight can cause the stroller to tip over. That's why it's important to consider the size of the basket under the stroller,” adds Dr. Choi.

Keep Weight and Age in Mind

Before selecting a travel stroller, always check age and weight limits, and make sure that they will remain in that range for the entire time you plan to use the stroller. “Make sure the stroller is made for your child's age, weight, and height. Babies are usually too young for travel strollers because they need more neck and head support than older infants and children,” said Dr. Choi.

Your Questions, Answered

Is a travel stroller worth buying.

If you travel frequently, a travel stroller can make the experience much more efficient and convenient. “Because families need to carry extra snacks, clothes, and other supplies while traveling with kids, a portable stroller can help lighten the overall luggage load,” Dr. Choi says. “If a stroller folds easily and feels light, it may help conserve your energy for carrying all of the other important things.”

Can you use a travel stroller every day?

Depending on the type of travel stroller you choose, you can absolutely use it every day. Though they are often smaller and less luxurious than a standard stroller, most travel strollers still perform the basic functions that any stroller should. If you’re looking for a stroller that has a lot of extra features and a big storage area, opt for something larger. 

Can I take my stroller on the plane?

Many travel strollers are small enough to take on a plane. That means, they’re perfect for air travel. If you plan to take a stroller on a plane, make sure you select one that folds up quickly and easily into one compact, lightweight package. Always check with your airline for specific carry-on sizes for your flight. And since flights are always making last-minute requests for people to gate check, you may want to come prepared with a storage bag to protect your stroller, just in case.

Laura Denby is a freelance product reviewer and food, home, and lifestyle writer. She has been testing and reviewing products for the past five years, and creates thoroughly tested, comprehensive product reviews for sites like Food & Wine, VeryWell Family, Real Simple, and Better Homes & Gardens. She is also the mother to an active 1-year-old, whom she travels with monthly.

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The 9 Best Travel Strollers for Stress-Free Trips

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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.

How We Tested and Chose the Best Travel Strollers

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.

The Best Travel Strollers to Shop

Overall best travel stroller.

Bugaboo Butterfly Seat 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.”

light weight travel stroller

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

Babyzen YOYO2 Stroller

  • 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.”

"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

Doona + Car Seat & Stroller

  • 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.”

"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

Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Baby Stroller

  • Wide recline range
  • Newborn-friendly

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

"I appreciate the size and ease of folding." – Bella*, mother of one

Best lightweight travel stroller

Aer+ Lightweight 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.”

"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

Nuna PIPA urbn + TRVL Stroller & Car Seat Travel System

  • 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.”

"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

COYA Compact Lightweight Travel Ready Stroller in Chrome

  • 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

Inglesina Electa Stroller

  • Reversible seat
  • Easy to push, according to Julie
  • High weight capacity
  • 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

Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Stroller, Slate Grey

  • Affordable price point
  • 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

"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

How to pick the best travel stroller for your trip.

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.

Tips for Flying With a Travel Stroller

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:

The Top Airplane and Car Toys for Toddlers on the Go

Standout Stroller Accessories, From Rain Covers to Snack Trays

6 Best Travel Car Seats for Your Next Trip

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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American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), How to Keep Your Sleeping Baby Safe: AAP Policy Explained , July 2022. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), How to Choose a Safe Baby Stroller , August 2022. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), Shopping for Car Seats: Tips for Parents , February 2020. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Keep Child Passengers Safe on the Road , October 2022. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Car Seats and Booster Seats , 2023. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Carriages and Strollers Business Guidance & Small Entity Compliance Guide , 2023. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Booster Seats Business Guidance and Small Entity Compliance Guide , 2023.

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10 Best Lightweight Travel Strollers In 2024

By  Jennifer Ward

Value for Money

Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Ultra-Compact Travel Stroller

Key Features

  • Ultra-lightweight travel stroller 
  • Front-swivel wheels   
  • Adjustable calf support    

Best Budget

Kolcraft  Cloud Plus Lightweight

  • Ultra-lightweight  
  • Reclinable seats     
  • One-hand and self-standing fold      

Writers Choice

 Gb Pockit Lightweight Stroller  best lightweight travel stroller

  • Ultra-compact folding
  • Standing Fold         
  • Lockable swivel wheels 

Nowadays, traveling with babies or running errands with toddlers has become easy because of amazing lightweight  travel strollers . I have a knack for exploring, and apart from that have to visit all the way to Florida, to my mothers’ once a year. I am also a mother of three; I often need to carry two of them on a stroller. Instead of a bulky and full-sized stroller, to me, a lightweight travel stroller is more convenient. 

Parents around my neighborhood often ask me which lightweight stroller to buy for traveling? Here I have included a list of outstanding strollers that are available in the market and relevant information to guide you through so that you can buy the best one that suits you.     

See Also: Best double travel Stroller

  • Travel strollers   
  • Things that bother      
  • Use a travel bag  

First, let’s check out different types of strollers for travel:   

Different Types of Stroller

Traditional strollers    .

The traditional strollers are bulky and take much space for storage. Some of the traditional strollers are compatible with car seats, bassinet, or baby cots. Reclining seats, swivels wheels, an ample storage space, child tray, etc., gives the baby maximum comfort. But the traditional strollers do not compactly fold and are heavy to travel with it.   

Umbrella strollers   

The umbrella strollers are light in weight and easy to fold into a small version. The strollers have comfortable padded seats, swivel wheels, a large canopy, single-tap fold, carry straps or handle, etc. The Umbrella stroller has most of the features that are suitable for travel.    

Travel strollers   

The travel strollers feel like the weight of feathers. These strollers have reclinable seats, a sturdy frame, a comfortable handlebar, a storage basket, and yet fold into a compact shape. For easy travel, the strollers have a carry handle or a carry strap so that you can keep your hands free.   

Different brands have included unique features for a lightweight stroller. Let’s look at some of the best lightweight travel strollers.  

1. Baby Jogger City Tour 2

Baby Jogger City  Tour 2-Ultra Compact Travel Stroller

You can tour the world with your infant with Baby Jogger’s Ultra-Compact Travel Stroller. This iron-made stroller comes with a large and spacious seat, adjustable leg rest, and a substantial canopy that is too large in this lightweight travel stroller category. 

  • Adjustable calf support     
  • A carry bag to easily carry the stroller     
  • Non-adjustable handlebar     

Why we love it      

  • Ultra-lightweight travel stroller:  Baby Jogger City Tour stroller is designed for traveling overseas with ease. The stroller compactly folds, and it is lightweight makes it easier to carry with hands.      
  • Front-swivel wheels:  For a smooth ride, the front swivel wheels are added to the stroller. Moreover, the front wheels have a latch to brake and stop the stroller for parking.     
  • Adjustable calf support:   The calf support of the stroller can be adjusted to support your baby’s little feet. The feet of infants will be able to reach the leg rest, which will keep their feet from hanging.   
  • A carry bag to easily carry the stroller:  After folding the stroller, you can carry it in a bag included in the box. The carry bag protects the frames from any scratches and makes it easier to carry with other baggage.    

Things that bother      

  • Non-adjustable handlebar :  The handlebar cannot be adjusted according to the height of the parents.    

2. Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Stroller

Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight

The Kolcraft Cloud Plus is a  Disney-approved lightweight stroller . A sleek and compact Cloud Plus stroller can accommodate a baby up to 50 lbs.  

  • Reclinable seats.     
  • One-hand and self-standing fold.      
  • Large storage basket       
  • Not fit for infant car seats.      
  • Ultra-lightweight:  The Cloud Plus stroller from Kolcraft weighs only 11.8 pounds. The stroller compactly folds and makes it convenient to carry the stroller for day-long trips.  
  • Reclinable seats:  The seat of the stroller is reclinable at multiple positions to offer the best comfort to the baby. The seats are reclinable to a near flat position on which the baby can relax or take a short nap.    
  • One-hand and self-standing fold:  For road trips or flights, an easily foldable stroller is convenient. You can fold the stroller with one hand, and the folded stroller will stay standstill without any support. The self-standing feature of the stroller can be stored in a small space easily.    
  • Large storage basket :  For long day trips or picnics, the stroller has a spacious storage basket to carry baby essentials, towels, toys, etc. You can carry your groceries in the storage basket along with other things.  Moreover, the storage basket is easily accessible from the front and back.  
  • Not fit for infant car seats: Unfortunately, car seats cannot be attached to this stroller.   

3. Gb Pockit Lightweight Stroller     

Gb Pockit Lightweight Stroller Blue     

The Pockit stroller from Gb has been named as the most compact stroller in 2014 Guinness World Records, yet it can accommodate a maximum weight limit is 55 lbs. The innovative two-step folding enables you to travel with this stroller on a plane or in the car.   

  • Ultra-compact folding mechanism.     
  • Standing Fold.         
  • Lockable swivel wheels.     
  • Breathable seat   
  • Small canopy      
  • Ultra-compact folding mechanism:  This stroller can be folded and reduced into the shape of a handbag. The folded stroller is easily storable in a car trunk at any place without any excess space. Moreover, it is a hand luggage compliant stroller, which is beneficial when you travel by plane.    
  • Standing fold : This lightweight stroller is foldable while standing. The pushing button is present on the handles, and pushing them folds the stroller. A manual lock keeps the folded stroller folded and lets it stand by itself.    
  • Lockable swivel wheels: The stroller has a parking brake on the rear wheels. The wheels rotate 360 degrees, making it easier to take turns in a narrow alley.    
  • Breathable seat:  The seat of the stroller is made of breathable mesh fabric. During summer days, the babies won’t get sweaty as air can easily pass through the seats.    
  • Small canopy:  The stroller has a sun visor which only provides shade to the head of the baby. The baby will stay exposed to the sun or rain with this canopy.    

4. Summer Infant 3Dlite Convenience Stroller      

Summer Infant 3Dlite Convenience-Stroller Black Silver Frame

The Summer Infant stroller is incredibly lightweight and comfortable for travel. Trendy and easy to maneuverable Infant 3D lite stroller is a convenient travel companion. It folds compact comes with carrying straps to carry it anywhere you like.   

  • Lightweight for everyday travel.      
  • Shockproof and lockable wheels.      
  • Reclinable seat with 5-point harness.     
  • Compact fold
  • Complex brake system     
  • Lightweight for everyday travel:  The stroller is lightweight and comfortable to move around every day for parents. Traveling, shopping all becomes easier with this stroller.    
  • Shockproof and lockable wheels:   The dual wheels of the stroller are easy to maneuver on all surfaces. The front wheels are shock resistant, and the rear wheels are lockable for parking. Just a simple press activates the brake of the wheels.    
  • Reclinable seat with 5-point harness:   The seat of the stroller has internal padding that supports the baby’s back and is reclinable at 4 positions. The 5-point harness will keep the baby safe at any reclinable position.   
  • Compact fold : The stroller is easy to fold and allows it to store in a small place. Auto folding lock activates as you fold the stroller. It is also easily portable with a carry strap given on the stroller.    
  • Complex brake system:   Although the brakes are easy to use, you need to turn on the brakes individually on both the rear wheels.    

5. Summer Infant 3Dmini Convenience Stroller     

Summer Infant 3Dmini Convenience Stroller

Consider going for an outdoor picnic on this Summer Infant 3Dmini Convenience Stroller. It is lightweight and has a durable frame for travel-time. It folds compact and comes with a canopy with a flip-out sun visor to protect your baby from the sun’s harmful rays .

  • Travel-friendly.     
  • Auto-lock and anti-shock front wheels     
  • Canopy with pop-out sun visor.    
  • Multiple positions reclinable seats   
  • No adjustable leg rests. 
  • Travel-friendly:   The stroller is light in weight and can be compactly folded to travel. You won’t feel the burden of this stroller when you are traveling, and padded seats ensure the infant’s comfort.     
  • Auto-lock and anti-shock front wheels:   The stroller has double wheels on both the rear and front. These wheels aid in moving through the rough surfaces and curves quickly. The front wheels’ anti-shock function offers you total control over rough terrain like an all-terrain Stroller . The auto-lock will provide safety if you forget to lock the wheels manually. While traveling, hands usually don’t stay free. In those times, the auto-lock feature may come handy.      
  • Canopy with pop-out sun visor:  The canopy is extendable and gives ample coverage. You can open the whole canopy on hot summer days or snow days. 
  • Multiple positions reclinable seats:   For the comfort of the baby while traveling, the stroller is designed with reclinable seats. Recline the seats as needed to provide a cozy feeling to your baby.    
  • No adjustable leg rests:  The leg rest is not adjustable. It does not offer extra comfort for your baby’s feet.  

6. Dream on Me Lightweight Stroller      

Dream On Me Coast Stroller Rider

Dream on Me is a compact, lightweight stroller that can be folded like a book and dismantled to make it a scooter or a rider. Furthermore, it has a button to adjust the height of the stroller. A versatile stroller for convenient travel.   

  • Convertible to a rider, scooter, and stroller.     
  • A guard rail support     
  • One-hand Fold.   
  • Soft ride wheels     
  • No canopy for sun protection.     
  • Convertible to a rider, scooter, and stroller:  The stroller offers 3 ways of usability. Dismantling the parts is easy and allows your child to use it as a rider, scooter, and stroller when needed. The stroller has a connector which makes it possible to use the stroller in various ways.      
  • A guard rail support:  The kids move a lot when they are above 6 months without knowing the danger. To protect from losing balance, sturdy rail support is designed at the front of the stroller. The guard rail is padded to prevent hurting tiny hands and feet.    
  • One-hand fold:  The stroller has handled with a folding button to fold the stroller in seconds. When folded, the stroller folds like a book and eases the stroller’s carrying on stairs or in any narrow area.    
  • Soft ride wheels:   The stroller has single swivel wheels on both the rear and front for effortless moving. The soft ride wheels require less effort for pushing the stroller.    
  • No canopy for sun protection:  The stroller does not come with a full-fledged sunshade or a canopy to protect your baby from the sun. Your baby may be exposed to the sun.   

7. Chicco Liteway Stroller          

Chicco Liteway Stroller

Chicco’s Liteway is a travel-friendly lightweight stroller. It folds compact and comes with an extendable canopy, adjustable leg rest, and a padded reclinable seat for the comfort of the baby.   

  • Reclinable seats   
  • One tap brake     
  • Canopy with a peek-a-boo window  
  • Compact fold   
  • Not suitable for infant car seats.      

Why we love it        

  • Reclinable seats:   The seat of the stroller is reclinable at 4 positions. The seats are padded and have enough space to give a comfortable space to the babies.    
  • One tap brake:  The stroller has brakes on the rear wheels for parking. Both the rear wheels have brakes and are activated with a single tap with a toe. 
  • Canopy with a peek-a-boo window:    A canopy helps shade infants’ eyes from the harsh sun. This stroller has a canopy with a peek-a-boo window to give you a view of your baby while you are pushing the stroller.    
  • Compact fold :  The lightweight stroller folds compactly and auto-locks to fit it inside a car boot. You can carry it with the handle for convenience or push it with the handle.  
  • Not suitable for infant car seats : The frames of the stroller are not designed to install car seats.    

8. UPPABaby Minu V2

UPPABaby Minu V2

UPPABaby Minu V2 is the 2022 edition and second generation of the sturdy UPPAbaby Minu, an ultra-compact stroller that can be used right from birth. The stroller is both bassinet and car seat compatible making it a 3-in-1 system. It’s a very lightweight stroller, weighing only 16.9 lbs.  

  • Compact and lightweight 
  • One-step fold  
  • All-wheel suspension 
  • UPF 50+ canopy protection 
  • Roomy basket 
  • No Sun Visor  
  • Compact and lightweight: The Minu V2 stroller folds so compactly, allowing you to carry it on the shoulder when it’s not in use. It’s a very lightweight stroller weighing just 16.9 lbs.  
  • One-step fold:  The minu v2 stroller is known for its easy folding mechanism. Not only does the stroller fold compactly, but it can also be folded with one step using one hand. The stroller can be folded even with the bassinet attached to it. 
  • All-wheel suspension:  The front and rear wheel of the Minu V2 comes with advanced wheel suspension. This creates a smooth and comfortable strolling experience for you and your baby.  
  • UPF 50+ canopy protection:   To protect the baby from the sun’s harmful rays, the Minu V2 stroller has an extendable canopy with a peekaboo window. For extra protection, the canopy comes with UPF 50+ sun protection.  
  • Roomy basket: The stroller comes with a big roomy basket that can carry up to 20 lbs. The basket easily accommodates all necessities of the baby and even your day-to-day grocery shopping.  
  • No sun visor: even though the stroller comes with a large and oversized canopy, it doesn’t come with a sun visor which would be an excellent addition to the stroller.   

9. BABY JOY Lightweight Stroller       

BABY JOY Lightweight Stroller

BABY JOY Lightweight Stroller is a lightweight and easy-to-fold stroller that is convenient for traveling. The seats have the capacity of 50 lbs. easily. The canopy is made of 300D Oxford to give protection against sunlight and rain. A perfect lightweight stroller for traveling with your loved little one!  

  • Swiveling front wheels     
  • Large storage space      
  • 5-Point harness    
  • Adjustable canopy    
  • Not suitable for infant car seats
  • Swiveling front wheels:   The dual front wheels of the stroller are swivel wheels. For riding the stroller in the straight line, the wheels can be locked by engaging the locks.  
  • Large storage space: The storage basket is huge to carry the baby’s belonging, toys, and some of the groceries at the same time. The basket is easily accessible from the back.  
  • 5-Point harness:  The baby will stay safe on the fully padded seats because of the safety harness. The 5-point safety harness keeps the baby secure when asleep or awake.    
  • Adjustable canopy:   The canopy of the stroller is large and expandable to give the proper shade to the baby. It opens in two folds and protects the baby from direct exposure to the sun.   
  • Not suitable for infant car seats:   No car seat will be attachable to this stroller.    

10. Mountain Buggy Nano Stroller        

Mountain Buggy Nano Stroller

Super lightweight, only weighs 13 lbs., super-compact folded, this Mountain Buggy Nano Stroller is very convenient to carry and push around. Moreover, it supports car seats, a rare feature in the lightweight stroller category!     

  • Ultra-compact fold  
  • Car seat compatible    
  • Large canopy   
  • Large storage basket    
  • Front swivel wheel  
  • Fixed leg rest.  
  • Ultra-compact fold: The stroller folds into a nano version and makes it easier to carry for traveling. It has a two-step folding process. The first fold is done at the joint of the canopy, and then the seat is folded. The folding requires both hands but is done in very little time.     
  • Car seat compatible : This stroller chassis is compatible with car seat without any seat adapters. You can travel with your newborn on this stroller on a car seat or a carrycot.  
  • Large canopy:   The canopy opens in three portions to protect from the intense UV rays. The canopy compliments the reclined position of the seats so that the baby does not get sunburned.    
  • Large storage basket:  A big storage basket is placed at the bottom of the seat of the stroller. On the vast space of the basket, you can keep baby’s food bags, diaper bags, and some toys. 
  • Front swivel wheel:  The front wheels are swivel wheels allowing a 360-degree rotation when passing through a curb. The wheels smoothly rotate to pass the curbs without giving a bumpy feel.    
  • Fixed leg rest:  The leg rest stays fixed; it’s not adjustable to offer comfort for the baby.  

When do You Need a Lightweight Travel Stroller?   

You need a lightweight stroller for outdoor picnics, long day trips, or for traveling from one place to another for a short time. A lightweight stroller is a balance of a traditional full-sized stroller and umbrella stroller. Babies comfortable on the padded and reclinable seat will receive sun protection from the canopy and a smooth ride from no-flat wheels. Usually, the lightweight travel stroller folds compactly to fit in the car boot or on the plane’s overhead compartment.   

What to Look For In a Lightweight Travel Stroller?   

A compact, lightweight stroller is an advantage for parents. It makes their everyday chores easier as babies can stay with them without any discomfort. So before buying a travel stroller, You have to know what to look for in a stroller and make sure the stroller has the following features:    

  • Light in weight   
  • Compact and easy fold   
  • Comfortable and adjustable seats  
  • Easily lockable wheels  
  • Spacious storage basket   

How To Fly With a Stroller?   

If you fly a lot, you need to find an air-travel-friendly stroller. Take note that different airlines have different rules and regulations for carrying baggage, including a stroller. Below find some of the things to consider while flying with a stroller.   

Check-in the stroller as baggage  

Parents prefer to fold the stroller for light travel and use a baby carrier to carry their baby to the airport. If you are carrying a large stroller, you have to check that with your baggage. In that case, you can carry the diaper bag in backpack style so that you can keep both hands free for other work.  

Gate-check the stroller  

You should gate-check the stroller at the gate if you intend to use it until you board the plane. The gate agent will tag the stroller for security purposes. As you prepare to onboard, you can give the stroller to staff to store them with your baggage.    

If you have a connecting flight, waiting for the delivery of the stroller can waste a lot of precious time.   

Onboard with stroller   

Some strollers compactly fold into a small version that you can accommodate inside an overhead storage area. If your stroller meets the regulation of traveling airlines, then you can carry the stroller with you. As you are on board, fold the stroller and store them for ease of movement.  

Use a travel bag  

If you check your stroller with your luggage, there’s a good chance it’ll get damaged. Cover the stroller with a plastic bag or use a stroller cover bag to keep it safe while being transported. 

Final Thoughts 

I prefer to travel with lightweight travel strollers for the convenience it brings. The best travel strollers are lightweight, easily collapsible for a compact fold, sturdily built, and comfortable for your baby. Most of all, these strollers are easy-to-use, smoothly maneuverable, and super convenient, which made me use a lightweight travel stroller for running errands. Hope you find the one from the list that suits your need.

FAQ   

Should i opt for a single-wheel or double-wheel travel stroller.

A single-wheel stroller is comfortable to ride on cityscapes. If you want to ride rough terrains, a double-wheel stroller makes it easier to maneuver.  

How can I help protect my stroller when flying? 

Using a stroller bag will provide protection to the stroller and save it from scratches when flying or traveling.  

Can you use a lightweight travel stroller for everyday use?

A lightweight stroller is mostly used for traveling as it has some limited features. You can use a lightweight travel stroller for everyday use if it satisfies your all requirements.

Is a stroller considered a carry-on? 

Strollers are considered as assisting vehicles. So, they don’t fall under carry-on luggage allowance and are allowed to fly for free.

Amazon Disclaimer: I research, test, review, and recommend the best products. My content is intended for informational and educational purposes only. If you buy something through links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Stroller Insider is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Joie Tourist Stroller Review

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Joie Tourist Lifestyle

'An incredibly lightweigh pushchair with a first-class folding mechanism - ideal for holidays and travel use.'

One-handed folding mechanism

Adjustable handle

Lightweight

Seat a little uncomfortable

Why you can trust GoodtoKnow. Our experienced Consumer Editor & parent reviewers spend hours testing products to help you make the best choice. Find out how we test and review products.

Charlotte Duck

Hollie Bond and her one-year-old Margot tested out the Joie Tourist stroller to see if it was worthy of its travel-inspired name. In our buying guide to the  best travel strollers , we named this best travel pushchair for taking on a plane because it's stylish, light enough to carry, and easy to fold.

The Joie Tourist stroller is very easy to assemble. ‘I put it together in about five minutes while looking after my busy one-year-old,' said our tester Hollie. 'There are easy-to-follow instructions, but it’s so intuitive you don’t really need them.’ Once assembled, it is a super lightweight pushchair that would be ideal for parents going on holiday with their toddler or wanting something for daily use if they have a small car.

The Joie Tourist has an ‘amazing’ one-handed mechanism to fold it up and down. ‘You can hold your baby or toddler while collapsing and unfolding the pushchair easily,’ added Hollie. It's compact when folded and has a nifty carry handle. Other features include a decent-sized shopping basket, multi-recline positions and an adjustable handle which Hollie - whose husband is tall - particularly appreciated.

While comfortable for the pusher, Hollie struggled with the recline positions and thought the seat a little hard. She also thinks you’d have to invest in a footmuff in winter and a sunshade in summer as the hood doesn’t provide a huge amount of protection. In terms of value, this is a great mid-range option that would suit parents who want a light pushchair that's also compact and easy to get in and out of a car.

The Joie Tourist pushchair, one of the best travel strollers

VIEW AT JOHN LEWIS | £200.00

Stroller weight: 5.92kg | Age Range: Birth to three years  | Price: £200.00

Hollie’s first impression of the Joie Tourist was how light it is. At only 6kg, it’s perfect for taking off on an overseas holiday and you’ll have no worries about lifting it on and off the airport carousel, or in and out of the car boot. As well as its weight, Hollie was impressed by its size. ‘It’s quite a tall buggy (107cm in height), which is a real bonus for our family as my husband is very tall and we’ve struggled in the past to find pushchairs with high enough handles for him to comfortably push,’ she said. ‘The handle is easily adjustable too, so I could put it back to the right height for me very quickly.’

But the standout feature of the Joie Tourist is its brilliant, one-handed folding mechanism, which Hollie described as ‘by far the best I’ve seen on a buggy’. You simply squeeze and slide two buttons on the handle with one hand and the pushchair concertinas down into a three-way fold. To open it out again is just as simple. When it’s folded down, it’s compact enough to fit in a small car’s boot (with space for extra bags) and it has a carry handle so you can move it about when folded down very easily.

Comfort and features

The Joie Tourist uses straps and a buckle to keep children in place. The buckle is easy to click into place and the straps over the shoulder are nice and comfortable thanks to some very soft, spongy pads. The length can still be adjusted easily as the pads have poppers so you can remove them before changing the length of the straps. There’s also the option to have calf support in two positions. ‘As Margot is still quite young and has little legs I used the support in the horizontal position, but it’s good to know I can easily set it down for when she has longer legs,’ said Hollie. The wheels are pretty standard for a travel buggy but if they were any bigger you’d sacrifice how light it is.

One of the features Hollie didn’t like was the shape and design of the seat. The buggy has multi-position-recline options, however, while it’s great that it lies flat for naps, she found that it didn’t go up vertical enough. ‘There’s a simple drawstring to change the seat back position, but, however hard I tried, I could not get the back up straight enough for Margot to be comfortable when she was awake,’ she said. ‘She’s a very inquisitive girl so likes to see what’s going on and so was pulling forward a lot of the time rather than sitting back against the seat.’

Another slight gripe was the seat seemed quite hard and didn’t have particularly deep sides to it, so it isn’t the cosiest option. In terms of storage, the Joie Tourist's basket is average-to-good, but bigger nappy bags and handbags are quite hard to fit through the opening, so you’d want to have several smaller bags with you to make the most of the under-buggy basket.

Value for money

The Joie Tourist costs around £200. ‘There are much cheaper options out there and this feels like a middle of the market sort of price and product to me,’ said Hollie. ‘In terms of how the pushchair looks and feels, I’d say it’s a good mid-range travel option.’ She’d recommend this to busy parents who want a really light pushchair to take on holidays or days out. ‘Anyone who struggles to lift heavy baby products, or who has a small car, will love how light and compact this is and how easy it is to use one-handed,’ she added. It’s a chic-looking stroller, coming in a lovely soft grey, and the adjustable handle is comfy too so ticks the box for style-conscious parents.

If you're undecided on the best travel stroller for your needs, you might also be interested in our Silver Cross Clic review – it's our best buy overall in our buying guide. And do check out our other baby product reviews , whether you’re shopping for specific items of baby equipment or preparing for a new arrival.

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Charlotte Duck is an award-winning lifestyle and parenting journalist who writes who regularly writes for Tatler, the Evening Standard, Yahoo, and Hello Magazine about everything from royal hairstyles to fixed-rate mortgages. She was previously Kidswear Editor at M&S and worked in-house at Boden but, while she loves writing about beautiful children's clothes, she has three children who refuse to wear them. 

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The 8 Best Travel Strollers for Dads Navigating Airports and City Streets

These are the ones that’ll make your life easy and your kids happy.

Butterfly Stroller

Best Overall Travel Stroller

Bugaboo butterfly stroller.

QBit+ All-City Stroller

Comfiest Stroller

Gb qbit+ all-city stroller.

Classic Stroller

Best Budget Stroller

Babygap classic stroller.

Itsy Lightweight Travel Stroller

Easiest Stroller to Carry

Contours itsy lightweight travel stroller.

G-Link V2 Stroller

Best Stroller for Twinning

Uppababy g-link v2 stroller.

YOYO2 Stroller

Best Stroller for City Dwellers

Babyzen yoyo2 stroller.

Jet 3 Super Compact Stroller

Smoothest Handling Stroller

Silver cross jet 3 super compact stroller.

Infant Car Seat and Stroller

Best Stroller for Flying with Infants

Doona infant car seat and stroller.

Thankfully, my wife and I come prepared. The Bugaboo Butterfly travel stroller is a godsend when running around with small humans . It opens quickly and easily, it’s light and portable, and it holds kids up to fifty pounds. That means even though my two-year-old daughter is usually the one hitching the ride, when my five-year-old son’s legs get tired (or a sibling rivalry inevitably rears its head), he can hop in there, too.

All of which is to say that when the Koenig clan finally does arrive at the gate, all four of us are in relatively good spirits—even the two year old. The Bugaboo is a great get, but there are a number of other travel strollers out there that could be a good match for you and yours. Read our full breakdown of the varieties we’ve tested and reviewed.

The Butterfly is aptly named, as it feels like it is actually floating over the ground, even when on grass and gravel. The seat must be especially comfortable, because my two year old surely would have let me know in no uncertain terms were it not. The cargo space on the Bugaboo is good enough for emergency drinks, snacks, Mom’s bag, and Dad’s travel hoodie.

Opening and closing the Butterfly is a cinch, and with Irish blood on both sides, my kids appreciate the sun canopy as well. The stroller is small enough to keep as a carry-on, but if you do decide to check it, be sure to fold up the footrest so it doesn’t get damaged in transit.

There’s not much to dislike about the All-City stroller, and that includes its price point, which is a good chunk less than the Bugaboo’s (right in the $300 range, depending on when and where you shop).

This is a stroller with comfortable padding in the seating area and folding mechanisms that won’t induce public meltdowns (from dads, not toddlers). It’s also rather maneuverable and has a silky ride that is really impressive. The only bona fide knock against it is that at 17.6 pounds, it’s pretty bulky, and without a shoulder strap, heaving it around is a real workout.

For an item that costs around $100, the Classic Stroller from babyGap can take a beating. That’s a pleasant surprise for those of us dads who tend to hulk out on things from time to time. (Hi, it’s me. I’m the problem, it’s me.)

This stroller also has a comfortable seat with a five-point harness and a sun canopy overhead with a peekaboo window so you can keep an eye on Junior. The only thing not to like about it is that the folding lock on the bottom-right side takes a little getting used to, which might annoy impatient dads... Not that I know anyone like that.

The most minimalistic of the strollers on this list, the Contours Itsy Lightweight Travel Stroller reminds me of something my wife says every time I float the idea of buying a new car. She points out the window at the old beater in our driveway and says, “Does it still roll?”

This stroller has no cupholders and limited storage space. It also doesn’t recline, which might be an issue for bigger kids. But it does, in fact, still roll—rather smoothly at that. And at just 12.3 pounds and $170, this will be a sensible option for many.

Before I had kids, I used to think I wanted twins. What a sweet and innocent child I was. One kid at a time has been plenty for me, and for those dads in the trenches with twins, you have my respect.

For you guys, the Uppababy G-Link V2 Stroller is a very solid choice. I think of it as the Cadillac of travel strollers—comfortable, smooth, and (obviously) rather large. It’s actually too big to keep as a carry-on, so be prepared to check it. But realistically, there is very little not to like here.

Since I’m a full-fledged suburban dad now, car seats are my current worry. But I lived in cities for twenty years of my life, so I am very sympathetic to space concerns. The best travel stroller out there for the urban denizens among us needs to be small and easy to maneuver—enter the Babyzen YOYO2.

This zippy little thing is great for weaving through armies of commuters on busy city sidewalks. It also folds up teeny, and at 13.7 pounds, it’s an easy carry with a padded shoulder strap. The only downside is that it’s not fond of rough surfaces, which is not really a big deal as long as you avoid New York City potholes.

You know that feeling when you’re cutting wrapping paper and the scissors begin to glide? That’s how it feels to push the Silver Cross. It’s also got a five-point harness and an adjustable footrest, plus it fully reclines. The sun canopy is workable if not the largest I’ve seen.

A fun trick is that this stroller folds into a little rolling-suitcase-looking thing—the leather-wrapped bumper bar turns into the handle. The main drawback here is that cargo space is at a bare minimum. The Silver Cross Jet 3 is best thought of as the roadster of travel strollers.

Traveling with infants—and really doing anything with infants, now that I say it out loud—has an added degree of difficulty. Gently put: You’re going to want all the help you can get. That’s why I like this entry from Doona. It doubles as a car seat and stroller, so it gets high marks for versatility. It is also ready right out of the box for newborns (many other strollers need to be adapted for kids under six months). And, best of all, for you cosmopolites out there, it’s approved by both U.S. and European authorities for air travel.

The one issue with this stroller is that its max weight capacity is thirty-five pounds, so your child will likely outgrow it quickly. But it’s great to save for a second kid or to share with friends.

What to Consider When Buying a Travel Stroller

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Don’t just trust our picks; see how we graded them.

Movement When you’re pushing around one, two, or (godspeed) three-plus kids, you want the stroller to make it easy on you. If you’re in the city, you only need it to be good on sidewalk asphalt and epoxied airport floors. If you’re in the burbs, gravel and dirt might come into the equation.

Weight When it’s folded up, you want it to be easy to handle. This is especially true for carry-on strollers.

Storage Everyone in the family has essentials: Baby’s snacks, Dad’s drink, Mom’s in-flight melatonin. A good stroller gives you space for all of it.

Ease of use Is it difficult to fold? Does it fit in an overhead bin? Is the carry-strap sufficient for its size? Stuff like this is important.

Versatility This is critical when you’ve got multiple kids and the older ones like to campaign for stroller privileges. What is the weight limit? Also, if a stroller can recline, it’ll be more comfortable for bigger kids.

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Best Lightweight Strollers

Top-rated strollers under 15 pounds that save you time, space, and hassle during quick errands or long road trips

Lightweight strollers are an ideal choice for traveling with babies and toddlers.

By Keith Flamer

Updated by Daniel Bortz

A bulky stroller can be a drag in the car, on an airplane, or in a crowded mall—not to mention on busy city streets. But a lightweight stroller can lighten your load.

“At CR, we consider a stroller lightweight and compact when it’s under 15 pounds and easy to carry,” says Joan Muratore, the engineer who oversees stroller testing at Consumer Reports. “You should be able to carry it in one hand and your child in the other. And it won’t take up your entire car trunk space .”

Some of the traditional and umbrella strollers, as well as car-seat carriers, that we’ve tested fit this description: In our stroller ratings , you’ll find umbrella strollers as light as 11 pounds and traditional strollers starting at 10 pounds. On the other end of the spectrum? Bulkier strollers weigh as much as 34 pounds.

While these lighter strollers are easy to lift, carry, fold, and stow—and most meet strict Disney theme park requirements—they do have limits. Some may feel flimsy, and their small wheels can make them more difficult to maneuver. Most aren’t car-seat compatible, and few accommodate babies who can’t sit up on their own. (For infants, consider a lightweight single car-seat carrier stroller .)

The best lightweight strollers are anything but lightweight performers in our tests. CR engineers put strollers through their paces in our labs and on the grounds outside our Yonkers, N.Y., headquarters to assess which ones are safe, maneuverable, and easy to use. They use each stroller the way parents do, but with weights simulating a child—up to 30 pounds for maneuverability and 40 pounds for safety—and push each model through an S-curve test course, steering them on pavement between cones, up and down curbs, and over obstructions including grass, mulch, and tree roots.

Our stroller ratings feature a wide range of options, from brands such as Graco, Joovy, Maclaren, Mountain Buggy, Uppababy, and more. Refer to our stroller buying guide as you shop, and if you have multiple young kids, see our guide to the best double strollers .

Here are six lightweight (but solid) strollers, listed alphabetically by category, that will take a load off when you’re out and about.

Best Lightweight Umbrella Strollers

Summer Infant 3D Lite

CR’s take: At just 12 pounds, this low-priced, compact Summer Infant umbrella stroller is a steal. This safe umbrella stroller is a top-notch choice for traveling with a child of 6 months or older, up to 50 pounds. The seat reclines, which is great for on-the-go naps. It’s easy to fold, unfold, and carry thanks to its convenient shoulder strap. It comes with a cup holder, extra-large undercarriage storage, and a small seatback pocket.

UPPAbaby G-Lite

CR’s take: The 11-pound Uppababy G-Lite self-stands when folded, a plus for stashing in your hallway or closet. Its restraint system is one of the highlights of this model: The buckle is easy to open and close, and smooth and easy to adjust for fit. The seat fabric/cover is removable and machine-washable. This model features a large canopy and carry strap for easy transport. Its maneuverability is very good—the stroller feels light (if a bit wobbly to some testers) and is a bit tough to navigate on rougher surfaces.

Best Lightweight Traditional Strollers

Baby Jogger City Tour™ 2

CR’s take: The Baby Jogger City Tour 2 is small and lightweight and earns strong marks across the board in CR’s tests. This 14-pound folded stroller should easily fit under an airplane seat or in an overhead bin when it’s in its included carry bag. Our testers find that the stroller is responsive and sturdy for its size. It has an easy one-hand fold. The basket is midsized but shallow (it holds a diaper bag and not much else). One caveat: Despite its name, this model is not suitable for jogging or running because it lacks a fixed or lockable front wheel, an essential feature to prevent the stroller from tipping or swerving while jogging.

Mountain Buggy Nano

CR’s take: The Mountain Buggy Nano is a great choice for travel. This compact, 13-pound stroller comes with its own carrying bag and reportedly fits in an overhead compartment for air travel. It’s car-seat-compatible, too. Our testers give this model’s ease of use and maneuverability strong ratings. There’s limited storage, but that might be a worthwhile sacrifice for the convenience. One thing to note: The instruction manual is largely pictorial and can be hard to decipher. We found instructional videos on Mountain Buggy’s website to be much clearer and more helpful.

Best Lightweight Car-Seat Carrier Strollers

Chicco KeyFit Caddy

CR’s take: The Chicco KeyFit Caddy offers parents click-and-go ease. Chicco’s KeyFit and KeyFit 30 infant seat just snap right in, no adapter needed. At 11 pounds, the small carrier stroller moves into and out of your car trunk with ease. (The car seat will add some extra weight, of course.) When folded, it’s self-standing. With an adjustable handle, it’s very maneuverable for a car-seat carrier, despite its small wheels. The large basket offers good accessibility, aided by front zippers. There’s also a parent console, with cup holders.

Graco Snugrider Elite

CR’s take: Running errands just got easier. The Graco Snugrider Elite tosses a lifeline to parents who’d otherwise find themselves buckling and unbuckling a newborn into and out of seats all day. As the top-rated car-seat carrier stroller in CR’s tests, this model alleviates much of the baby travel-and-transfer hassle. Parents can just click the infant car seat onto the lightweight frame (14 pounds) and go, even if your baby is sleeping. This stroller’s ease of use and safety are stellar, and it has very good maneuverability. There are some limitations, though: It lacks one-touch brakes and adjustable handles, and it doesn’t stand when folded. But it does meet Disney theme park requirements. Note that once your baby outgrows the infant car seat, you’ll need a new stroller.

Consumer Reports is an independent, nonprofit organization that works side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. CR does not endorse products or services, and does not accept advertising. Copyright © 2023, Consumer Reports, Inc.

Best Lightweight Strollers

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6 best all-terrain strollers for making off-road adventures a walk in the park

We took these off-road buggies for countryside walks and city rides, article bookmarked.

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Generally speaking, the bigger the tyre, the smoother the ride

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Whether you’re an outdoorsy family, ready for adventure, or just need something that can handle the daily dog walk – we’ve tracked down the best all-terrain pushchairs for woodland walks and sandy strolls.

As the name suggests, an all-terrain buggy will handle rough routes – whether that’s inner-city bumpy pavements, muddy country dirt tracks, or even snow. However, this comes at a price, and most of these models will take up more room and be heavier than those with more limited functionality.

Generally speaking, the bigger the tyre, the smoother the ride. Four-wheel models offer better stability (important if your dog tends to pull on the lead ), while three-wheelers are a little nippier. Suspension helps to absorb bumps in the road, giving your little one a much smoother ride, and hi-tech materials will help to keep them protected in all weather conditions.

Prices vary, and while many include helpful extras such as rain covers or footmuffs , others need to be purchased separately – something worth factoring in when making your decision.

Having thoroughly researched the market, we’re confident these are the best all-terrain buggies for every occasion. Whether your focus is finding one to grow with your family or that is suitable for exercising with , we’ve found the best off-road models for a range of budgets.

Related stories

How we tested the best all-terrain strollers.

With the help of our discerning 11-month-old, and energetic french bulldog, we tested a range of all-terrain and off-road buggies, over a period of six weeks. We put them through their paces in the countryside and on long dog walks across the marshes (as well as on shorter inner-city trips).

We were looking to see how easy they were to put together, how smooth the ride was, and how easy each was to fold and unfold with our hands full. We also checked them out in different weather conditions. Finally, there was a car boot test, to see just how much space each took up when not in use.

The best all-terrain strollers for 2024 are:

  • Best all-terrian stroller overall – Mamas & Papas ocarro all-terrain pushchair: £899, Mamasandpapas.com
  • Best value for money all-terrain stroller – Ickle Bubba stomp V4 all terrain travel system: From £509.95, Pramworld.co.uk
  • Best lightweight all-terrain stroller – Bugaboo fox 3: £602.10, Bugaboo.com
  • Best for multi-wheel functionality – iCandy peach all-terrain: £599, Icandyworld.com
  • Best all-terrain stroller for growing families – Joolz geo3: £1,079, Joolz.com
  • Best all-terrain stroller for jogging – Thule urban glide 2 jogging stroller: £686.24, Amazon.co.uk

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Mamas & Papas ocarro all-terrain pushchair

  • Best : All-terrian stroller overall
  • Weight : 13.7kg
  • Number of wheels : Four
  • Suitable from : Birth
  • Stylish and sturdy
  • Generous hood
  • Puncture-proof tyres

Looking for a buggy that can handle rough rides and look good while doing so? Mamas and Papas has it covered with this stylish specimen.

The hood is huge, easily sheltering your little one from the elements, and the seat fully reclines for snoozing on the go. It also has puncture-proof tyres and lockable front wheels for greater stability. But what we loved most of all was that it can be folded with the seat attached, whether front or rear facing – which is one of those things you don’t realise is important, until you have kids yourself.

It’s undoubtedly well-made – we felt proud when pushing it around – and it folds down nice and small for an all-terrain model. In short, we were impressed, finding everything intuitive, from the initial setup, to the adjustable handlebar. There are eight stylish colourways to choose from, too.

Ickle Bubba stomp V4 all terrain travel system

Ickle Bubba stomp V4 all terrain travel system.jpg

  • Best : Value for money all-terrain stroller
  • Weight : 16.5kg
  • Loved the fabric colours
  • Easy to assemble

For those with budget at the forefront of their mind, Ickle Bubba offers excellent value for money, with various bundles offering every extra you’ll ever need. You wouldn’t know it was a cost-effective solution to look at it, though, with a choice of stylish silver or bronze chassis and various fabric colours.

It was easy to assemble and smooth to manoeuvre – that said, it doesn’t feel quite as well-made as more expensive models on test, and can be a little rattly at times, particularly over the roughest terrain. It was easy enough to fold, however, for it to take up the least space, the seat does need removing first, which would be tricky with your little one in tow. All in all, we thought this was a solid choice, given the price.

Bugaboo fox 3

Bugaboo fox 3.jpg

  • Best : Lightweight all-terrain stroller
  • Weight : 9.9kg
  • Smooth ride
  • Lightweight and portable

Luxurious and sturdy, at just 9.9kg Bugaboo’s fox 3 is a well-made pushchair, offering solid all-terrain functionality, without unnecessary weight.

The brand describes this model as having a “fingertip push”, and we can confirm the four-wheel suspension did make the fox 3 a notably smooth ride (and easy on our arms). Tyres are puncture-proof and our mini tester didn’t seem phased by any bumps when out and about. Like all models in the range, the bits you need to manoeuvre — handlebars, levers to fold, etc — are highlighted in white, making locating the relevant bits dead easy (even for the sleep-deprived parent). There are also 12 colourways to choose from – so, you’re sure to find one to suit.

If you have stairs to contend with or know you’ll be lifting it in and out of the car, yet still want something that can tackle rough terrain, this lightweight model is unbeatable.

iCandy peach all-terrain

iCandy.jpg

  • Best : For multi-wheel functionality
  • Weight : 15.09kg
  • Number of wheels : Three or four
  • Well-considered high-spec materials
  • SPF 50 canopy

If you can’t decide between a three- or four-wheel buggy, the iCandy peach all-terrain offers both options, enabling you to switch between the two. It’s a very handsome model, made with well-considered high-spec materials to withstand the elements, and comes with a five-year warranty.

However, we couldn’t give this heavy model top marks, as it does take up a lot of space, and can’t be folded with the seat attached. We also found it the most complicated (and time-consuming) to assemble.

That said, there’s lots of clever, thoughtful touches, such as an SPF 50+ canopy with multi-position mesh ventilation, a large basket for stashing all the baby gear, and car seat adaptors. The deep, comfy seat is also fairly high, so, we’d be happy wheeling this one up to the table and feeding our little one lunch in it. It’s also available as a double or twin model for larger families. If space allows, it’s a beautiful buggy that is sure to last.

Joolz geo³.jpg

  • Best : All-terrain stroller for growing families
  • Weight : 13kg
  • Designed to grow with your family
  • Enormous basket
  • Weather-proof
  • Comfy and cosy

This release from Joolz feels like the Rolls Royce of buggies. Designed to grow with your family, it can easily be turned into a twin model, and folds with the seat attached.

There’s so much to love, including an enormous basket (the largest on the market), bouncy four wheel suspension, a built-in LED light for dark mornings, and a generous water-repellent/sun-proof hood. It’s the perfect height to wheel straight up to the table, and the smooth, single-motion fold couldn’t be easier. Even the setup is made fun, with a dedicated playlist that kicks off with Black Eyed Peas “Let’s get it started” – we don’t want to brag but we had the buggy set up before track four ended.

Our mini tester was equally impressed, looking snug as a bug in her deep, padded seat while appreciating the toy hanger loops on the bumper. The large ventilation areas were also a relief during the hot weather.

This is also an ethical choice, with a tree planted on your behalf with every purchase. For the ultimate peace of mind, it comes with a lifetime guarantee (ideal if you plan on having more children). Impressive stuff.

Thule urban glide 2 jogging stroller

Thule urban glide 2 jogging stroller.jpg

  • Best : All-terrain stroller for jogging
  • Weight : 11.5kg
  • Number of wheels : Three
  • Suitable from : Birth with a bassinet or six months + with normal seat
  • Confident and capable design

Active, outdoorsy parents need look no further, as this three-wheel model is made with jogging in mind. It’s reassuringly well-made, and, thanks to large 16in back wheels (and a lockable front swivel wheel), we felt confident running over rough terrain with our little one in tow. The adjustable handlebar brake makes it easy to switch between parents of differing heights while out and about, or slow down when going downhill.

It is possible to use from birth if you purchase the additional bassinet (however, jogging isn’t recommended until your child is at least six months old). Otherwise, the front-facing seat is reclinable for snoozing, and it comes with ample storage space. The fold was easy and intuitive (even with one hand) but, to save space, you’ll want to remove those chunky back tyres.

Practical, stylish and ready for adventures, the Thule is a great option if space is less of a concern, and you don’t plan to use it around the city too much.

All-terrain strollers FAQs

What are the benefits of all-terrain strollers, compared to ordinary strollers.

If you and your family love the outdoors, an all-terrain stroller is the perfect companion to ensure no one in your family is held back from adventure. Designed to handle a range of terrains such as gravel, dirt, and uneven trail routes, these strollers mean business, thanks to the introduction of more rugged wheels, sturdy and durable frames, and a robust suspension system. In a nutshell, they’re ready to go, wherever the adventure takes you. 

The verdict: All-terrain strollers

We think every buggy in this round-up serves a clearly defined end use. Joolz’s geo stroller is a great option if you’re a twin parent or considering a second child in short succession. However, for us, the Mamas and Papas ocarro comes out on top, as it packs up smaller and is cheaper, too, while still achieving a quality push, made with premium materials.

Want more inspiration? Check out our round-up of the best running buggies

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Graco Modes Nest2Grow: Travel System Review

Marina S

Graco Modes Nest2Grow recently had the opportunity to try out the Graco® Nest2Grow™ Travel System, and I must say, it has been a game-changer for my family. With its versatile design and convenience features, this travel system has truly impressed me.

From the moment I set up the Graco® Nest2Grow™ Travel System, I was impressed by its ease of assembly and user-friendly design. The stroller’s smooth maneuverability and comfortable seating options made outings with my child a breeze. I particularly appreciated the ample storage space and adjustable features that catered to my child’s comfort needs. While there were some minor drawbacks, such as maneuverability with two children in the stroller, overall, this travel system met and exceeded my expectations.

Graco Modes Nest2Grow: Versatile Design and Functionality

Graco Modes Nest2Grow

Unmatched versatility in design and functionality is offered by the Graco® Modes™ Nest2Grow™ Travel System in Ren. With 10 different riding options, this travel system effortlessly transitions from infant to toddler stages, providing optimal comfort and safety at every phase of your child’s growth. The system’s innovative Slide2Me seat and reversible stroller seat allow for customizable height positions and facing options, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable ride for both parent and child. Whether you need an infant car seat carrier, carry cot, toddler stroller, or double stroller, this system has you covered, making it a practical and adaptable choice for growing families.

Graco Modes Nest2Grow: Stylish and Practical Design

Graco Modes Nest2Grow

Not only excelling in style, but also in practicality, is the Ren design of the Graco® Modes™ Nest2Grow™ Travel System. The neutral tones and modern aesthetic of the system effortlessly complement various fashion preferences, making it a fashionable accessory for any outing. The attention to detail in the design, from plush fabrics to thoughtful padding, ensures that your child travels in comfort and style. Additionally, the one-hand fold mechanism of the stroller makes it easy to collapse and store, even when you’re juggling a baby and other items. The system’s maneuverability is smooth and effortless, providing ease of navigation in various terrains and environments.

Enhanced Safety and Convenience Features

Graco Modes Nest2Grow

Safety and convenience are prioritized by the Graco® Modes™ Nest2Grow™ Travel System with its array of features. The included Graco SnugRide 35 Lite Elite Infant Car Seat offers ease of installation and a secure fit, providing peace of mind during car rides and transitions. The Click Connect technology ensures a snug connection with the base and stroller, enhancing the overall safety of the system. Ample storage space, including an expandable storage basket, allows you to carry essential items like diapers, bottles, and snacks with ease. Adjustable features such as the multi-position recline, adjustable leg rest, and extendable canopy cater to your child’s comfort preferences, ensuring a pleasant travel experience for both parent and child.

  • The Graco Modes Nest2Grow Travel System is incredibly versatile, offering 10 riding options that adapt from infant to toddler stage, ensuring a long-term investment.
  • Comes with the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite Elite Infant Car Seat, providing an easy transition from car to stroller and ensuring safety for infants from 4-35 lb and up to 32″.
  • Features ample storage space with an expandable storage basket, making it easy for parents to carry all essentials for both baby and personal items.
  • Maneuverability can be challenging when used as a double stroller, especially with a heavier child in the front, making tight turns difficult.
  • The stroller lacks a parent console, requiring additional purchases for convenient storage of personal items while on the go.
  • The headrest padding in the car seat doesn’t comfortably fit all baby head positions, which might require adjustments against the recommended setup.

In conclusion, the Graco® Nest2Grow™ Travel System has proven to be a reliable and practical choice for families on the go. Its versatility, comfort, and affordability make it a standout option in the market. I highly recommend this travel system to parents looking for a convenient and stylish solution for their everyday adventures with their little ones.

Questions & Answers:

Question: Is the Graco Modes Nest2Grow Travel System easy to fold and transport?

Answer: Absolutely! This travel system features a one-hand fold mechanism, making it super easy to collapse and store, even when you’re holding your baby. It’s designed for convenience on the go.

Question: Can the stroller seat face both ways?

Answer: Yes, it can! The stroller seat is reversible, allowing your baby to face you or the world around them. This feature ensures your child enjoys the ride at every stage of their growth.

Question: How does the Graco Modes Nest2Grow handle different terrains?

Answer: The stroller is designed to navigate smoothly over various terrains, providing a comfortable ride for your baby. However, some reviewers note that maneuverability could be improved when the stroller is in double mode and fully loaded.

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Joolz AER+ Lightweight & Compact Travel Stroller - Portable One-Hand Fold Design - Ergonomic Seat for Infant & Toddler (up to 50 lb) - XXL Sun Hood - Stroller for Airplane -Travel Pouch - Forest Green

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Joolz AER+ Lightweight & Compact Travel Stroller - Portable One-Hand Fold Design - Ergonomic Seat for Infant & Toddler (up to 50 lb) - XXL Sun Hood - Stroller for Airplane -Travel Pouch - Forest Green

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  • Leatherette, Polyester
  • FROM BIRTH to TODDLER: The Joolz Aer+ lightweight stroller is ideal for children aged 6 months to 4 years, supporting up to 50 lbs, featuring an ergonomic, adjustable seat for comfort and growth, compact design (weighing only 13.2 lbs) and smooth maneuverability, making it excellent for active families.
  • COMFORT, STYLE & ADAPTABILITY: The Joolz Aer+ stroller features easy one-handed folding, a pre-assembled setup, a large 11 lb basket to carry on all your baby essentials, all-terrain suspension wheels, and an ergonomic high handlebar to reduce back strain, combining convenience with comfort.
  • ULTIMATE PORTABILITY & TRAVEL SYSTEM: The Joolz AER+ stroller travel system offers easy transportation and compact storage. Its shoulder strap and travel pouch, easy folding mechanism, airplane compatibility (17.7 x 21 x 8.5 Inches), and prioritizes comfort and safety for both quick trips and longer journeys summer adventures.
  • SAFETY 1st: The Joolz Aer+ pram features a 5-point click & go buckle and adjustable harness for optimal safety, with a patented seat design for enhanced child protection. It includes a spacious seat with a large canopy, offering UPF 50+ protection and extra ventilation to shield against UV rays. Designed for comfort in any weather, it's ideal for every journey, busy airports and holidays.
  • SUSTAINABLE & GUARANTEED: The Joolz Aer+ baby stroller, crafted from 100% high-quality recycled fabrics, combines durability with eco-conscious design. This stylish stroller comes with a 10-year transferable warranty and reusable packaging. Easy to maintain with hand-washable fabrics, it's a perfect choice for a sustainable lifestyle across generations.

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Joolz AER+ lightweight stroller

Product Description

AER+

Ultra large sun hood

Offers both protection (UPF 50+) & extra ventilation.

It contains a 5-point click & go buckle and a harness with adjustable straps.

Wheel design

Providing 4-wheel suspension for a smooth ride.

Reclinable ergonomic seat

Use the seated position to make sure your little one won’t miss a thing. And when the tiredness kicks in, you can easily switch to the relax position.

Spacious basket

Which can hold up to 11 Ibls.

AER+

What's in the box?

The box contains one complete & amazing Joolz AER+ with a travel pouch.

Can I bring my Joolz AER+ as a cabin luggage?

Yes, the Joolz AER+ can be stored away in the overheard compartment due to its compact design and can be stored in small spaces. *Luggage restrictions differ per airline. If in doubt, we recommend that you call the airline directly before traveling.

Is this Joolz AER+ suitable for newborns?

The buggy is suitable for children that cans sit unaided. Usually after 6 months old, but in addition you can add the AER+ carrycot on the stroller and then it is suitable for newborns.

What are the measurements of the Joolz Aer+ seat?

Unfolded: L: 32.7 in x W: 17.7 in x H: 41.5 in

Folded: L: 21 in x W: 17.7 in x H: 8.5 in

How much can I transport in the shopping basket of the Joolz Aer+?

The shopping basket between the wheels can hold up to a maximum weight of 11 Ibs.

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This is the best stroller I have ever used!!

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Customers say

Customers like the quality, ease of use, smoothness, comfort, appearance and weight of the stroller. They mention that it's well built, easy to handle, maneuver and that it rides smooth. They appreciate the nice textiles and canopy coverage. Customers also appreciate the weight, ease folding and compactness.

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Customers find the stroller lightweight, easy to travel with, and the best compact travel stroller. They also say it's easy to fold and toss in the car.

"...So far it seems to be a great stroller, light weight , great look, and sturdy...." Read more

"...stroller that we could invest in and met the needs of: durability, lightweight , airplane overhead sized, and comfy for the kiddo...." Read more

"...The Joolz Aer+ is lightweight , strong, comfortable, great maneuverability, easy to fold and unfold, accepts my Nuna car seat (with adaptor), fits in..." Read more

"This stroller is all you need for traveling. Lightweight , sturdy, and so sleek. Love everything about it!" Read more

Customers find the stroller easy to fold and carry. They say it has a true one-hand fold and is convenient to travel with. Some customers also mention that the strollers is smooth to push and fold.

"...only keep the joolz aer+ since it's as comfortable but more easy to fold and carry ." Read more

"...is lightweight, strong, comfortable, great maneuverability, easy to fold and unfold , accepts my Nuna car seat (with adaptor), fits in the airplane..." Read more

"...It’s super easy to fold , fits in overhead bin on airplane, handles well and drives smooth. It also folds back nicely for naps on the go...." Read more

"...I can push my 35lb toddler in the Joolz one handed no problem. True one hand fold , great quality, cushy seat, nice textiles, great canopy coverage..." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the quality of the stroller. They mention that it's well built, strong, and has good wheels. Some say that it is a great product and is well worth the money spent.

"...It has very good wheels , it's comfortable for my toddler, it's easy to handle and the size of the basket is very convenient since a backpack fits..." Read more

"...we wanted a stroller that we could invest in and met the needs of: durability , lightweight, airplane overhead sized, and comfy for the kiddo...." Read more

"...The Joolz Aer+ is lightweight, strong , comfortable, great maneuverability, easy to fold and unfold, accepts my Nuna car seat (with adaptor), fits in..." Read more

"This stroller is all you need for traveling. Lightweight, sturdy , and so sleek. Love everything about it!" Read more

Customers find the stroller compact and easy to use. They say it fits in their smaller hatchback, the overhead bin, and the TSA buckets. They also say it's lightweight, takes up minimal trunk space, and can fit in front of a carseat.

"...for my toddler, it's easy to handle and the size of the basket is very convenient since a backpack fits Perfectly in it...." Read more

"...invest in and met the needs of: durability, lightweight, airplane overhead sized , and comfy for the kiddo. This met all the needs and more...." Read more

"...and unfold, accepts my Nuna car seat (with adaptor), fits in the airplane overhead compartment , and it is beautiful!" Read more

"...It’s super easy to fold, fits in overhead bin on airplane , handles well and drives smooth. It also folds back nicely for naps on the go...." Read more

Customers find the stroller easy to handle, convenient, and lightweight. They say the wheels make navigating very easy over pavement, small gravel, and dirt. Customers also mention that the strollers is easy to set up and fast to maneuver.

"...It has very good wheels, it's comfortable for my toddler, it's easy to handle and the size of the basket is very convenient since a backpack fits..." Read more

"...recommend this stroller for anyone looking for a compact and easy to use stroller !" Read more

"...The stroller is easy to operate , smooth and travel friendly!No clicking noise, solid one hand open/close, and 5 point harness...." Read more

"...Pros:The folding!! So easy and smooth.The canopy!!..." Read more

Customers find the stroller very comfortable for their children. They mention it has a soft and smooth seat, nice textiles, and a great canopy. They also say it feels different at first use and is incredible light weight.

"...It has very good wheels, it's comfortable for my toddler , it's easy to handle and the size of the basket is very convenient since a backpack fits..." Read more

"...needs of: durability, lightweight, airplane overhead sized, and comfy for the kiddo . This met all the needs and more...." Read more

"...The Joolz Aer+ is lightweight, strong, comfortable , great maneuverability, easy to fold and unfold, accepts my Nuna car seat (with adaptor), fits in..." Read more

"...True one hand fold, great quality, cushy seat , nice textiles, great canopy coverage in general but esp for a travel stroller...." Read more

Customers like the smoothness of the stroller. They say it's easy to use and convenient, and it rides smoothly. Some say that there isn't much of a suspension, but it'll still ride well on brick and cobblestone. Overall, most are satisfied with the maneuverability and the lightweight design.

"...The Joolz Aer+ is lightweight, strong, comfortable, great maneuverability , easy to fold and unfold, accepts my Nuna car seat (with adaptor), fits in..." Read more

"...easy to fold, fits in overhead bin on airplane, handles well and drives smooth . It also folds back nicely for naps on the go...." Read more

"...The stroller is easy to operate, smooth and travel friendly!No clicking noise, solid one hand open/close, and 5 point harness...." Read more

"...Pros:The folding!! So easy and smooth .The canopy!!..." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the appearance of the stroller. They mention that it has a great look, the seat is larger and more elegant, and the textiles are nice.

"...So far it seems to be a great stroller, light weight, great look , and sturdy...." Read more

"...(with adaptor), fits in the airplane overhead compartment, and it is beautiful !" Read more

"This stroller is all you need for traveling. Lightweight, sturdy, and so sleek . Love everything about it!" Read more

"...True one hand fold, great quality, cushy seat, nice textiles , great canopy coverage in general but esp for a travel stroller...." Read more

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light weight travel stroller

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IMAGES

  1. Babyjoy Lightweight Baby Stroller Foldable Travel Stroller for Airplane

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  2. Evenflo Aero2 Ultra Lightweight Double Stroller, Lark

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  3. Costway Folding Lightweight Baby Toddler Umbrella Travel Stroller w

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  4. Baby Lightweight Stroller Aluminum Umbrella Stroller Travel Foldable

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  5. Amazon.com : AODI Lightweight Reversible Baby Stroller, Infant Toddler

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  6. Contours Bitsy Compact Fold Single Stroller, Lightweight, Airline and

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VIDEO

  1. Tired of Bulky Strollers? Meet the Smallest Portable Foldable Lightweight Stroller! #strollers

  2. Light Weight Travel Wheel Chair-Curewell Surgicals Secunderabad 9032834822

COMMENTS

  1. Best Travel Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed by ...

    Best Travel System: Nuna PIPA urbn + TRVL Travel System. Best for Toddlers: Bugaboo Butterfly Complete Stroller. Best Budget: Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Stroller. Best for Everyday Use: UPPAbaby MINU V2 Stroller. Best for Planes: Babyzen YOYO2 6+ Stroller. Best Compact: Joolz Aer+ Lightweight Stroller.

  2. The Best Lightweight Strollers for Travel in 2024

    Best Lightweight Stroller for Travel Bugaboo Butterfly. Shop at Amazon. Shop at Amazon. Read more. 4. Best Luxe Lightweight Stroller Joolz AER Stroller. $449 at Amazon. $449 at Amazon. Read more. 5.

  3. The 2 Best Travel Strollers of 2024

    The Best Travel Strollers. After we completed a new round of testing in 2023, Uppababy's Minu V2 travel stroller remains our top pick. We have a new budget pick: the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 ...

  4. The 15 Best Travel Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

    Overall, the price-to-performance ratio of the Cloud Plus is so good that it's an excellent budget option. The Details: 11.8 pounds | 38 x 27 x 18 inches assembled | 10 x 33 x 17.5 inches folded ...

  5. Best travel stroller 2024: lightweight buggies for holidays

    Best travel strollers 2024: Jump Menu. (Image credit: TripSavvy) 00.T3's top 3 ↴01. Best overall: BABYZEN YOYO2 02. Best flexible option: Silver Cross Zest 03. Best lightweight option: Joie Aire ...

  6. 11 Best Strollers for Travel in 2024, Tested by Experts

    Best Lightweight Travel Stroller Baby Jogger City Tour 2. $195 at Amazon. $195 at Amazon. Read more. 4. Best Travel Stroller for a Newborn DOONA Car Seat to Stroller. $550 at Amazon.

  7. The 9 Best Travel Strollers of 2024

    But overall, our testers thought it was a solid performer for the stroller's price. Weight: 14.5 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 7 x 22.5 x 19.5 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 40 x 26 x 20 inches | Seat Dimensions: 9 x 13 inches. TripSavvy / Conor Ralph. The 9 Best Travel Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed.

  8. The 12 Best Travel Strollers, Tested by Parents

    Best for Car Travel: Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller. Amazon. Buy on Amazon $310 Buy on Target $260 Buy on Walmart $250. Why We Like It: Exceptional maneuverability, easy to recline seats, and ...

  9. gb Pockit+ All-Terrain, Ultra Compact Lightweight Travel Stroller with

    MAMAZING Lightweight Baby Stroller, Ultra Compact & Airplane-Friendly Travel Stroller, One-Handed Folding Stroller for Toddler, Only 11.5 lbs, Grey 4.6 out of 5 stars 147 2 offers from $179.99

  10. Evenflo GOLD Otto Self-Folding Stroller, Baby Carriage, Lightweight

    This item: Evenflo GOLD Otto Self-Folding Stroller, Baby Carriage, Lightweight Compact, Gravity Fold, Automatic, Fits Infant Car Seat, Carriages, Light Travel Strollers $199.99 $ 199 . 99 Get it as soon as Saturday, May 11

  11. 9 Best Travel Strollers of 2024

    Best compact travel stroller. Cybex Coya Compact Lightweight Stroller at Bloomingdale's, $549.95 Jump to Review. Best full-size travel stroller. Inglesina Electa Stroller at Bloomingdale's, $599 Jump to Review. Best affordable travel stroller. Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Stroller at HSN, $89.99 Jump to Review.

  12. Our favorite travel strollers 2023: Compact and lightweight

    If travel isn't stressful enough, adding a baby or child to the mix adds a whole new level of complexity. But, having a lightweight, compact and foldable stroller helps to ensure your travels ...

  13. Best Travel System Strollers of 2024, Reviewed

    Stroller Specs: Weight: 39.2 lbs. Dimensions: ‎34 x 25.75 x 41 inches Weight Limit: Up to 50 lbs. Car Seat Specs: Weight: 11.49 lbs. Dimensions: ‎25.5 x 17.2 x 21.25 inches Weight/Height Limit: 4 lbs. to 30 lbs. or 32 inches, whichever comes first. landonandmaddie. "Graco Modes 3 Lite DLX travel system!

  14. Amazon.com: Lightweight Stroller For Travel

    Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Easy Fold Compact Toddler Stroller and Baby Stroller for Travel, Large Storage Basket, Multi-Position Recline, Convenient One-hand Fold, 13 lbs - Slate Gray. 1 Count (Pack of 1) 11,419. 3K+ bought in past month. $7199.

  15. 10 Best Lightweight Travel Strollers In 2024

    1. Baby Jogger City Tour 2. View on Amazon. You can tour the world with your infant with Baby Jogger's Ultra-Compact Travel Stroller. This iron-made stroller comes with a large and spacious seat, adjustable leg rest, and a substantial canopy that is too large in this lightweight travel stroller category.

  16. 11 best lightweight strollers for hassle-free and compact travel with

    Best compact stroller overall - Joolz aer+: £449, Joolz.com. Best for air travel - Babyzen yoyo2: £430, Babyzen.com. Best for taller parents - Ergobaby metro + deluxe: £310.99, Amazon.co ...

  17. Nuna

    Compact & Lightweight Strollers. Sort By. triv™ next. from $700.00. trvl™ lx. from $550.00. trvl™. from $450.00. trvl™ lx + pipa™ urbn travel system.

  18. Joie Tourist travel stroller review by real parents and babies

    published 6 May 2022. Hollie Bond and her one-year-old Margot tested out the Joie Tourist stroller to see if it was worthy of its travel-inspired name. In our buying guide to the best travel strollers, we named this best travel pushchair for taking on a plane because it's stylish, light enough to carry, and easy to fold.

  19. The 8 Best Travel Strollers for Dads 2024

    Contours Itsy Lightweight Travel Stroller. $170 at Amazon. $170 at Amazon. Read more. Best Stroller for Twinning UPPAbaby G-Link V2 Stroller. $350 at Amazon. $350 at Amazon. Read more.

  20. Amazon.com: Light Weight Travel Strollers

    Amazon.com: light weight travel strollers. Skip to main content.us. Delivering to Lebanon 66952 Choose location for most accurate options All. Select the department you ...

  21. Joie Tourist Pushchair

    super strength materials. We use only high-quality materials in creating your gear: like aero-grade aluminum, super-strength steel and undiluted plastics. Meet the tourist 3-in-1 compact pushchair that features a one-hand auto-fold and weighs a featherweight 6.6kg making it the perfect travel pushchair.

  22. Best Lightweight Strollers

    Best Lightweight Traditional Strollers. Baby Jogger City Tour™ 2. CR's take: The Baby Jogger City Tour 2 is small and lightweight and earns strong marks across the board in CR's tests. This ...

  23. Strollers

    Babyjoy Double Stroller Foldable Baby Twin Lightweight Travel Stroller Infant Pushchair Black. 87 4.5 out of 5 Stars. 87 reviews. Save with. Shipping, arrives in 2 days. Monbebe Lynx 6 in 1 Modular Travel System Stroller and Infant Car Seat, Leaf. Best seller. Add. Now $199.07.

  24. Best all-terrain strollers 2024

    Best value for money all-terrain stroller - Ickle Bubba stomp V4 all terrain travel system: From £509.95, Pramworld.co.uk Best lightweight all-terrain stroller - Bugaboo fox 3: £602.10 ...

  25. Amazon Best Sellers: Best Lightweight Baby Strollers

    gb Pockit Air All Terrain Ultra Compact Lightweight Travel Stroller with Breathable Fabric in Velvet Black. 5,892. 6 offers from $133.57. #4. Dream On Me Lightweight And Compact Coast Rider Stroller With One Hand Easy Fold, Adjustable Handles And Soft Ride Wheels, Grey. 2,991. 5 offers from $64.64. #5.

  26. Prams, Strollers & Pushchairs

    lightweight pushchairs Travel friendly under 8 kg; doubles 2 seaters for growing families; travel systems Infant car seat included; ... lightweight double stroller. Add to Cart. versatrax™ trio . Pram, infant carrier and carry cot. Add to Cart. litetrax™ pro . 3in1 easy fold stroller ...

  27. Graco Modes Nest2Grow: Travel System Review

    Comes with the Graco SnugRide 35 Lite Elite Infant Car Seat, providing an easy transition from car to stroller and ensuring safety for infants from 4-35 lb and up to 32″.

  28. Joolz AER+

    Contours Itsy Ultra-Sturdy Compact Fold Lightweight Travel Toddler Stroller and Baby Stroller with Easy Carry Handle, Large UPF 50+ Sun Canopy, Storage Basket - Black.