newborn travel stroller

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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.

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 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

• 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

• 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

• 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.

The Best Travel System Strollers, According to Experienced Moms

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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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The Best Travel Strollers

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

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.

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 .

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.

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 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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

Elise Czajkowski

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

Further reading

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.

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.

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.

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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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

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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

RELATED: The Best Diaper Bags for Two Kids

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 10 Best Travel Strollers for Newborns and Toddlers in 2023 [In-depth Buyer Guide]

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Why Use a Stroller for Travel?

Types of strollers, things to consider with travel strollers, 1. a lightweight travel stroller for everyday use, 2. jog, run, and have fun with this little travel stroller, 3. a lightweight stroller with lots of storage, 4. a lot of lightweight stroller for your buck, 5. a sleek stroller made with recycled fabrics, 1. a cabin-size stroller with plenty to offer, 2. not quite pocket-size, but definitely locker-size, 3. designer stroller with excellent functionality, 4. room for 2 in this compact double stroller, 5. stylish, sleek, and small enough for an overhead locker, the 5 best travel strollers under $500, final thoughts.

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Your child’s stroller is one of the most useful essentials you will ever own. It is somewhere to sit for long distances, somewhere to nap when little legs get tired, and a mobile shopping basket for parents on the move. Nowhere is your stroller more necessary than when you are on vacation. With lots of considerations, our buyer’s guide will help you find the perfect travel stroller for newborns and toddlers.

In this article, you’ll find all the information you need about a travel stroller, what types of travel strollers are on the market, important qualities to look for, as well as a short list of recommended travel strollers if you’re in the market.

Travel strollers are easy to use and offer a comfortable and convenient seat for little legs on the go. With all the basics covered — seat, canopy, basket, and handles — most travel strollers are not designed to replace your super plush, designer-brand travel system, but they will fold up small enough to fit in the trunk of your car or take on an airplane.

They should be affordable and convenient in order to be a must-have for any parent who likes to vacation with the family . A travel stroller offers everything you need when you are away from home.

As any new parent will quickly discover, there are tons of different kinds of strollers for moms and dads to choose from:

Travel Systems

These fully integrated systems offer everything a new parent needs and will last your baby from birth well into their toddler years . Usually comprised of an infant car seat that connects to the stroller with an adapter, as well as a seat unit (and sometimes a bassinet ), these systems offer a variety of forward and rear-facing positions to suit the development of your baby, all in one neat package.

Bottom Line: If you have a big enough vehicle, you will be able to fold and pack the various parts of the system in the trunk of your car, but for small vehicles or air travel, these are big and bulky and not the most practical to take on vacation with you.

Frame Strollers

Frame strollers are more lightweight and compact than regular strollers and simply feature a seat that fits into a variety of different positions on the stroller frame itself. These types of systems allow you to mix and match the car seat, carry cots, and toddler seats to suit your requirements and are useful for growing children.

Bottom Line: Frame strollers are a little bit bulky as no matter how compact the frame may be when folded, the seat unit can still be cumbersome for throwing in the trunk or taking with you on airplanes.

Umbrella Strollers

Compact and easy to use, these basic little strollers are great for keeping in the car or taking with you on vacation . They can close up small but should offer enough padding to be comfortable for your child. They should also have enough extras (like adjustable handles and shopping baskets) to be useful for mom or dad too.

Bottom Line: Umbrella strollers are inexpensive, lightweight, and better suited to babies of 6 months or older, although some will lie flat to use from birth. You will have no worries using these on public transport, and they can be carried over your shoulder with ease.

Full-size Strollers

A full-size stroller is designed to house your baby from birth through to the toddler years and therefore is built to last. Often with 2 smaller front wheels to allow for precise steering  and larger rear wheels to help you handle any terrain, these types of strollers are incredibly durable and easy to use. Padded, comfortable seats will give your baby enough space to grow, and there is usually a ton of storage space for parents to make the most of, too.

Bottom Line: Much like travel systems, full-size strollers can be heavy to lift and bulky even when folded. Most are well suited to the trunk of a car, but you could come unstuck trying to lift the frame and your baby on buses, trains, planes, and other public transport.

Jogging Strollers

Jogging strollers allow mom or dad to get in shape while staying with the baby. With many offering a fixed front wheel, additional hand brake, and a 5-point safety harness to keep baby safe on the go, these types of stroller are great for working out in the park or close to home , and some of the newer generations of jogging strollers may even be able to fold up small enough to take away with you.

Double Strollers

Double strollers come in a wide variety of designs, and if you have twins or 2 children that are close in age, you can opt for a double-frame stroller, travel system, three-wheeler or even an umbrella stroller, depending on your preference. You can also choose whether you would like your children to sit next to each other in a side-by-side stroller or in front of each other with a tandem stroller.

Bottom Line: Unless you manage to find a lightweight and compact double umbrella stroller, most double strollers are too large to be easily carried around on public transport.

The best travel system for you is the one that suits you perfectly. Every family will have their own unique requirements, but you should still consider the following before you buy:

Size and Weight

The lightweight, compact nature of a travel stroller is what sets it apart from any other type of baby-carrying device. Ideally, it will be as small as possible without compromising the space available for your little one to sit in. It needs to be compact enough to fold up small and light enough to be carried (using a strap or by the handle) around airports, down to the beach, and on public transport when you need to.

Bottom Line: Travel strollers are designed to fold up small for the journey but still offer enough space to be comfortable and useful when you get there.

Material and Durability

Your travel stroller may not need to be used daily, but it will need to be strong enough to withstand the rigors of air travel and other public transport. Sturdy steel or aluminum frames are far more durable than plastic ones, so be sure to buy a travel stroller that is made of sterner stuff.

Your travel stroller should be made of nylon or another human-made, rip-proof material. It will also need to be water-resistant to a degree (as not all strollers come with rain covers) and will definitely need to be easy to wipe down to keep it clean and hygienic.

Your Child’s Age

Newborn babies need to lie flat in their strollers, and even between the ages of 3 to 6 months old, it is only recommended that they can be gently elevated in their strollers. A child who is not yet old enough to walk will need a travel stroller that offers some padding and a few more added extras than the most basic of strollers has to offer.

Hot Tip: You should also bear in mind that most travel strollers do not have suspension features, meaning that they can be uncomfortable for young babies to travel in for hours at a time.

Folding and Portability

Of course, part of the reason for purchasing a travel stroller is the fact that you will be able to take it anywhere with you. For this purpose, many smaller, lightweight strollers come complete with a carry strap, handle, or even a case to be tucked away in.

Easy folding mechanisms are also a must , and it’s even more useful if you can operate it one-handed. If you are carrying your child or lots of luggage, you need a stroller that flips open and collapses wherever you are.

Hot Tip: Some teeny tiny travel strollers are designed to fit in their own carry bag. These are better still as you can carry them over your shoulder, leaving both your hands free.

Safety and Comfort

Just because your travel stroller is smaller than your travel system doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be as safe or able. Your travel stroller should have a secure 5-point harness and shoulder straps to keep your little one safe, and the seats should be padded and breathable for comfort.

Hot Tip: You should also check the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure that the stroller you buy is suitable for your baby’s age and that the stroller has passed rigorous safety tests.

How much you pay for your travel stroller is entirely up to you. Most basic strollers are inexpensive and will offer a seat, a shade, 4 wheels, and a small shopping basket. If you are willing to pay upwards of $200, you could grab yourself a stroller that also offers:

• All-terrain wheels and full suspension
• 5-point safety harness with padding
• A fully reclinable seat unit made from breathable, wipeable fabric
• An extendable canopy
• 1-hand folding mechanism
• Carry strap, handle, or even a travel bag
• Adapters for car seat or bassinet to form a travel system if you want to

The most affordable travel stroller in our review is the Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Stroller at $69.99, and the most expensive is the GB Pockit+ Lightweight Stroller at $279.95. If you already have a top-of-the-range stroller system back at home, you may not want to splash out on an expensive travel stroller, but whatever your budget , there are plenty out there to choose from.

The 5 Best Travel Strollers Under $150

Summer 3dlite+ convenience stroller.

This light and convenient stroller is good quality for everyday use and is perfect for trips to the supermarket, days out with the family, and even for taking with you on your next vacation. With a high-end look and feel, this stroller weighs in at just 14 pounds, and the padded carry strap makes it easy to take with you anywhere with you. The one-handed folding mechanism also helps by making light work of folding and opening on the go.

Suitable from birth, the 2Dlite+ has a fully reclining seat that is made from soft yet durable polyester and is padded to provide extra comfort. The oversized canopy with flip-out sun visor will help to keep your child shielded from the sun, and the peek-a-boo windows mean you can check in on your little one even when they are sleeping.

Loaded with premium features, there is an extra large storage basket for keeping your items safe on the go, as well as a parent cup holder, a cell phone holder, a zip-close storage pocket, and a child sippy cup holder. The compact fold with auto-lock makes this super convenient to close and open in transit, and the anti-shock front wheels and lockable rear wheels mean it is as comfortable to push as it is for your baby to sit in.

Bottom Line: The 3Dlite+ travel stroller really is a delight for both parents and babies alike.

Jovial Portable Folding Baby Stroller

This portable travel stroller has an extra slim foldable design and comes complete with its very own carry bag for stowing on planes, trains, and other public transport. Weighing in at just 16.3 pounds and with a super easy open and fold mechanism, using and traveling with this stroller literally is as easy as child’s play!

Suitable for use from birth, the Jovial Portable Folding Baby Stroller has been designed to offer superior stability and unrivaled versatility. This compact stroller could even be used as a jogging stroller for parents that like to stay active while on their travels.

The 5-point seatbelt with its super-secure locking system, combined with the easy-to-use foot pedal, make this an incredibly safe stroller. The retractable overhead canopy can also be pulled forward to protect your little one from the hot sun.

The almost lie-flat seat makes this particular stroller incredibly popular with families on vacation. Let your little baby sleep soundly on the move without having to carry a separate bassinet.

Bottom Line: Compact, lightweight but super usable, this stroller really can accommodate babies of all ages.

Safety 1st Teeny Ultra Compact Stroller

The  Safety 1st Teeny Ultra Compact Stroller  is a lightweight, versatile, foldable stroller that is perfect for the trunk of the car or on vacation. Weighing just 15 pounds, it’s one of the most lightweight strollers on our list, but it’s not compatible as a travel system for a car seat.

Designed for toddlers up to 50 pounds, this stroller offers a super comfy ride for your kids. With an extra-large canopy and pop-out visor to provide shade from the sun and a peek-a-boo mesh window, your little one will stay cool and protected under your watchful eye. The cushioned seat unit has multiple recline positions, and the padded 5-point harness is designed to adjust as your child grows .

For busy parents, this stroller can be pushed using just 1 hand, and the lockable wheels can be activated even when wearing flip-flops. A removable parent cup holder and an easy-access extra-large storage basket make this great for any excursion, and the back pocket provides quick access to your cell phone or wallet.

Bottom Line: You get a lot for your money with the Safety 1st Teeny Ultra Compact Stroller.

Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Stroller

Weighing in at just 11.8 pounds, this lightweight stroller is perfect for families on the go. You can stow it in the trunk of your car for days out and other adventures, or take it on vacation with you. Suitable for babies from 3 months old up to approximately 40 pounds and 40 inches tall, this is a useful little stroller that makes a perfect addition to your essential baby travel kit.

For the comfort of your little one, the seat reclines (although not to lie fully flat), and is padded and wipeable to keep it clean and hygienic. There is also a handy 3-tier extending canopy for maximum sun coverage and peek-a-boo window so you can see what your baby is doing at all times. The 5-point safety restraint system has the scope to grow with your baby and will keep them safe, while the all-terrain wheels and front suspension offer a smooth ride, every time.

Bottom Line: For moms and dads on the move, the Kolcraft Cloud offers a large, easy to access storage basket for holding your shopping and a parent tray with not 1, but 2 drink holders. It also includes a useful extra storage area for keys, wallets, and other everyday essentials.

Century Stroll On 4-Wheel Lightweight Stroller

The Century Stroll On 4-Wheel Lightweight Stroller is an affordable and highly capable travel stroller that works as well at home as it does when you are away. Weighing in at under 15 pounds, this is the perfect foldable stroller for keeping in the trunk of your car or packing for your vacation .

Suitable from birth when purchased with the Century Carry On 35 Infant Car Seat, this is an easy-to-maneuver, fast-fold stroller that offers all the basics as well as a few extra useful features. The multi-position reclining seat allows your little one to sit up or nap, and the padded fabric and 5-point harness make it both comfortable and secure.

The smooth and lockable wheels offer great control  and can even handle more rugged terrain without too much trouble. This stroller even stands up on its own when folded, keeping your hands free for important tasks.

Bottom Line: Lightweight, easy to fold, and self-standing, this is the ideal stroller for busy parents on the go.

Besrey Airplane Stroller

This cute and convenient stroller is so small it can fit into its very own backpack, making it perfect for families traveling by air . With an innovative 2-step folding design, the carry bag measures just 22’’ x 12’’x 11” — just the right size to store in the cabin — meaning you can get to it as soon as you touch down.

Suitable for children between 6 to 36 months and weighing no more than 50 pounds, this stroller does not recline, but it is equipped with a secure 5-point safety belt and protective comfort pads, meaning your baby will be kept comfy and safe along the way.

Weighing in at just 14.4 pounds and featuring a lightweight yet sturdy aluminum frame, this is an excellent buy for parents looking for a second stroller for the trunk of the car or to use on vacations. The overhead canopy will help to keep your little one protected from the sun, and the seat is padded for their comfort. The removable handlebar can be used to attach toys to, or taken away as your child gets older.

Bottom Line: With a one-hand fold mechanism, a large brake, smooth rolling swivel wheels, and a large shopping basket, this stroller is also designed with parent comfort in mind. Travel light on your next family adventure with a stroller that fits into a backpack.

GB Pockit+ Lightweight Stroller

With its ultra-compact and collapsible design, this smart stroller will fit neatly inside most overhead compartments on planes and trains, making it a fantastic alternative to your regular, bulky stroller.

Weighing just 9.5 pounds, pushing and steering this baby is a breeze. The 2-step easy fold mechanism means you can keep one hand free while you close or open it, and it can be quickly lifted and carried using the built-in handle.

Little ones love this stroller, too. With a UPF 50+ canopy to keep them safe from the sun , and a padded, reclining seat, they will be able to nap in comfort wherever you go. The flexible yet durable construction also ensures that the seat unit remains stable no matter how wriggly your toddler may be.

For your own pushing pleasure, this stroller has agile front swivel wheels that will glide effortlessly over indoor and outdoor terrain. The stroller also corners beautifully and for uneven terrain, simply switch the wheel lock to make it easier to handle.

Bottom Line: A quirky, cute-looking travel stroller that can more than hold its own against larger, more expensive strollers and travel systems.

UPPAbaby G-LUXE Stroller

UPPAbaby is one of the biggest names in designer strollers, and the G-LUXE stroller makes it easy to see why. Packed with the functionality of a much larger stroller but without the extra weight , this agile little number is suitable for children from 3 months old to 55 pounds. The hand-level triggers make it easy to fold the G-LUXE using just your hands, and once folded it can even stand on its own — vacation-ready every time.

For the comfort of your baby, the one-handed reclining seat with adjustable footrest is well padded and large enough for naps on the go. The pop-out UPF 50+ sunshade extends way out to help shield your child from the sun, and the seat pad and fabric surround can all be removed for washing. Comfy, clean, and cozy all year round.

For moms and dads who want a more elegant ride, the high-performance 5.75″ wheels are super easy to maneuver, and the one-click brake mechanism will bring you to a gentle stop.

Bottom Line: Designed with both fashion and function in mind, this is a great-looking stroller that ticks all the boxes.

Jeep Destination Ultralight Double Stroller

Suitable for carrying both your babies at 1 time, the Jeep Destination Ultralight Double Stroller is a lightweight, compact-fold double stroller that is perfect for taking away on vacation with you. With a 1- or 2-handed easy fold mechanism with an automatic lock, this double stroller folds up compact, weighs under 29 pounds, and has a convenient strap for carrying.

Made with comfort in mind, both seats recline enough to let your children nap, and the seats are padded and breathable to help keep your kids cool. Peek-a-boo windows allow you keep a watchful eye on your little ones, while the swing-out child bars are convenient for getting your kids in and out of the stroller. The canopies pop-out and have SPF 50 sun visors, offering an exceptional level of sun protection for both of your babies.

For parents, the Jeep Destination is also easy to push, even for a double stroller. While it is not an all-terrain stroller, it is incredibly competent on surfaces like airport terminals and busy city streets . The steering is light and manageable, while the 0-inch back wheels have their very own in-built suspension.

Bottom Line: Lightweight and easy to love, whatever the Jeep Destination lacks in terms of fancy extras, it more than makes up for in terms of practicality and ease of use.

Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Ultra-Compact Travel Stroller

This super light stroller is one of the most compact on the market and is so tiny it fits most overhead bins on an airplane. As petite as it may be, it still can be turned into a travel system with the addition of a car seat, but it is one for city streets as opposed to rugged country hiking.

The cleverly crafted folding mechanism can be opened in seconds with just 1 hand, and the front swivel wheels are lockable for an easier push and smoother ride for both parents and babies.

For napping on the go, the comfortable, padded seat reclines to a near-flat position, and the 5-point harness will keep your child safe and secure. Suitable to use from birth, the Baby Jogger integrates with the Baby Jogger car seat which can be purchased separately.

Padded fabrics that are removable for easy washing will keep your little one comfy on the move, while the under-seat storage basket is just big enough to hold your baby’s essentials. Suitable for children up to 33 pounds, the YOYO+ collapses to 20.5 x 17 x 7 inches. It comes complete with its very own carry bag and strap, making it super easy to take with you everywhere you go.

Bottom Line: Weighing just 14 pounds, this lightweight stroller is super-convenient for your travels and fits in most airline overhead compartments.

Choosing the right travel stroller is vital for ensuring your child’s comfort and safety on the road. It also needs to be as parent-friendly as possible, as well as easy to transport, push, and maneuver, no matter where you are headed.

Before you commit to your next piece of baby gear, consider the advantages over your existing stroller or travel system to find a travel stroller that totally suits you and your little one’s needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a travel stroller.

A travel stroller is a lightweight version of a regular stroller and is usually easier to fold down, making it perfect for travel. Some travel strollers are purpose-built for air travel and will fold down into a carry case or backpack to be carry-on size.

What should I look for in a travel stroller?

Size and weight are 2 of the key considerations with travel strollers along with how compact it can be folded down. You will also need to consider its construction, longevity, price, materials, additional features, and safety.

What type of stroller can I take on a plane?

Airlines usually allow certain types of strollers to be taken into the cabin and these must be lightweight and foldable. Umbrella strollers are great to take on your travels as they fold down compact and usually come with a case for easy carrying. Airlines have different size restrictions for carry-on items, so it’s advisable to check with your airline directly.

Can I take a full size stroller on an airplane?

Most airlines do not allow full-size strollers to be taken into the cabin as they need to be lightweight and foldable to fit in the overhead compartments. Larger strollers can be checked in as hold luggage at the check-in desk or at the gate.

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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

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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Best Strollers

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Best Travel Strollers

Our testers found great models across a range of stroller types. The ideal design depends on your child's age, where you're going, and how you're getting there.

When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more .

Most of the time, a stroller that meets your day-to-day needs isn’t the ideal stroller for travel. A wide handlebar and ultra-sturdy construction may be great for walks through the park, but that extra weight gets cumbersome when you need to lift the stroller in or out of a car or navigate it through a crowded airport.

So if you’ve got a trip coming up, you’ll want a stroller that keeps your little one safe and comfortable but is easy to maneuver.

Best Travel Strollers for Newborns and Infants

Best travel strollers for babies and toddlers, airline travel with a stroller.

Brands market certain models as “travel” strollers, but that’s not a firm category with consistent criteria. The ideal model could actually fall under any of the typical stroller types. It could be a traditional stroller that’s light in weight and slender in width or an umbrella stroller wiith ample storage compartments. And there are caddies and convertible models that lend themselves especially well to travel. The best travel stroller for you will depend on how old your children are and how you’re getting to your destination.

CR’s comprehensive stroller ratings highlight the strong points and drawbacks of a wide range of strollers, carriers, and travel systems for infants and toddlers. We’ve tested strollers from almost 30 brands, including Chicco, Doona, Graco, Mountain Buggy, and Uppababy, and we rate them based on ease of use, maneuverability, and, of course, safety.

Below are a few top-rated strollers of different types to help keep your journeys safe and hassle-free. They appear below in alphabetical order,

If you’re traveling with an infant 6 months old or younger, you’ll need a stroller that fully reclines because your infant is likely to spend a fair amount of time sleeping. The seat should also adjust upright because the child can’t sit up on her own. If you’re traveling by car, you’ll also need an infant car seat. A lightweight car-seat carrier can simplify things. It’s essentially a frame on wheels that can function as a stroller with the car seat but fold up to an especially light and compact size when you transfer to a car. You can also find travel systems that bundle infant car seats with full-fledged strollers, where the car seat can clip into both the stroller and the car, though these are a little bulkier for travel.

For children older than 6 months, including toddlers, you have a wider range of stroller options. You’ll of course want something lightweight and fairly compact (at least when folded). But be sure to also assess the stroller’s storage options, which are especially handy when traveling. You’ll also need a car seat if you’re going to be in a car, though car seats for toddlers don’t typically attach to strollers. So unless you’re road-tripping in your own car (where your car seat will stay put), you may need to carry a car seat separately or arrange for rentals, taxis, or ride shares that include a car seat.

Flying with a baby and stroller takes patience and preparation. The Transportation Security Administration requires that all strollers be physically inspected or X-ray screened, but for the most part, you’ll be able to bring a stroller through security and check it at the gate.

Airlines have different rules about stroller storage on a flight. Whatever the policy, the best strollers for flying may be those that are particularly compact and easily foldable. You can quickly collapse one of these travel-friendly strollers before handing it off for boarding or, if allowed, navigating down the aisle before sliding the stroller under your seat or into an overhead bin.

Remember, overhead bin sizes can vary from plane to plane. Check your airline’s guidelines ahead of a trip so there are no surprises when you board.

See our reviews of the best hard-shell carry-on luggage and packing cubes .

Keith Flamer

Keith Flamer has been a multimedia content creator at Consumer Reports since 2021, covering laundry, cleaning, small appliances, and home trends. Fascinated by interior design, architecture, technology, and all things mechanical, he translates CR’s testing engineers’ work into content that helps readers live better, smarter lives. Prior to CR, Keith covered luxury accessories and real estate, most recently at Forbes, with a focus on residential homes, interior design, home security, and pop culture trends.

Molly Bradley

Molly Bradley is a home and appliance writer at Consumer Reports. Before joining CR in 2023, she managed the editorial team at Digg, and has devoted her career to helping readers navigate the world and make their lives a little easier, elucidating topics in technology and culture. Molly earned a master’s degree in writing from Bennington College and lives in Brooklyn, N.Y., with her cat, Saltine. Follow her on X @mollyguinn .

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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

RELATED: The Best Diaper Bags for Two Kids

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 Best Lightweight Strollers for Travel in 2024

These strollers are perfect for traveling with toddlers and newborns.

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.

In order to find the best lightweight strollers, we reviewed over 30 strollers over the course of the past two years. For this update, we also got hands-on with newer variants of previously tested models as well as newer-to-market options.

Our top picks:

Best Overall Lightweight Stroller

Uppababy minu v2 stroller.

Best Value Lightweight Stroller

Summer infant 3dlite convenience stroller.

Best Lightweight Stroller for Travel

Bugaboo butterfly.

Best Luxe Lightweight Stroller

Joolz aer stroller.

Best Full-Featured Lightweight Stroller

Colugo the compact stroller.

Best Lightweight Double Stroller

Delta children jeep turboglyde side by side double.

Best Lightweight Stroller For Infants Through Preschool

Baby jogger city tour 2 ultra-compact travel stroller.

Lightest of the Lightweight Strollers

Gb pockit air lightweight stroller.

Best Lightweight Stroller Wagon

Evenflo pivot xplore stroller wagon.

Best Ultra-Compact Lightweight Stroller

Cybex libelle.

Our Lab experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute test every type of baby product you can think of from baby toys to top-performing nursery gliders and high chairs . For most, we rated them for key factors including ease of fold, maneuverability (We run them around a track!), stability (We hang weights from the handles) and storage space (We place the same fully packed diaper bag in each basket to see how it fits.)

Why don't parents start with lightweight strollers? Some do. But consider: A lightweight stroller does not roll as smoothly as something with large wheels and a serious suspension system. If your baby is tiny, they will be less jostled and more cushioned when riding in one of the many great full-size strollers or car seat and stroller combos . As your baby gets bigger, they will be just fine in a smaller, lighter-weight stroller. And when you have a preschooler who wants to hop in and out of their stroller, you'll be grateful to have a lightweight one.

After our picks, stick around to learn more about how we test lightweight strollers in and out of the Lab and what to look for when shopping for one. If you are looking for even more options, check out our roundups of the best strollers for travel and the best portable car seats to improve short and long trips with the little ones.

If you're looking for a lightweight stroller you can use every day for several years, consider this top-of-the-line pick, a recent GH Parenting Awards winner. Despite having small wheels, the MINU V2 is great at handling rougher terrain. That's because it has the shock absorption and all-wheel suspension usually found in full-size strollers. This makes it a little over 15 pounds, but our testers still found it lightweight and easy to carry.

Other features we love for your child's comfort: The canopy zips out to provide lots of shade. The seat does not recline fully but it does lean far enough back for comfortable relaxation. Buy the adaptor and you can even snap the MESA car seat onto this. The footrest is adjustable, which is a nice touch.

Parents will appreciate that the storage basket can hold up to 20 pounds of whatever you need to put in there, though the basket is not particularly large. We found that we could fold the whole stroller with one hand and in one quick motion, so you should be able to do it while holding your baby in your other arm. Plus we're suckers for the real-leather trim at the handle and on the bumper bar, the bar that crosses your baby's lap and lets you hang toys to keep them occupied. While there is no cupholder included, there is a parent pocket you can use to hold your cell phone or your reusable shopping bags.

Some assembly is required, and we particularly got caught up trying to attach the canopy correctly, but we found the manufacturer's videos helpful. The good news is that once it's set up, you're good to go, and the no-rethread harness means this is simple to modify as your kid grows. If you want to check this at the airport, consider the travel bag accessory .

This $100 lightweight pick is also one of our best stroller picks. A carry strap on the back makes it easy to sling this over your shoulder if you have to carry it around , for instance, if your toddler insists on walking. If, on the other hand, your self-proclaimed "big kid" really needs a rest, the seat reclines for them.

The basket is fairly wide and open, but note that it can only hold 10 pounds. Likewise, the canopy has a pop-out sun visor but it is not as generous as many others. Those eight tiny wheels are great for maneuvering this through the supermarket — It did great on our obstacle course! — but they would not do well on a rocky trail. We see this as an excellent choice mainly for daily errands, runs to the playground and trips to preschool.

This does include a very small parent pocket (you could fit some dollar bills for the ice cream truck in there, but not much else) and a single cupholder. It's got more than 11,100 five-star reviews on Amazon, with most parents saying it's an easy, affordable choice.

With silky fabric and a fold that literally takes a second, there's a lot to appreciate about this new compact stroller, a winner of one of our GH Family Travel Awards. Kids can take comfort from the tall seat that reclines, the extendable footrest and the giant canopy that blocks the sun.

Both our GH Lab experts and our home testers liked how well this handles. This is another lightweight stroller that has suspension wheels similar to a more deluxe model. We noticed it could fly over New York City sidewalks smoothly. A big selling point is that it folds down quickly into a little rectangle to fit in the overhead compartment of a big airplane. (It might not fit in a small plane, but could be gate-checked.) One note: Buckling a child in requires connecting four pieces, and each makes an audible click — helpful because you know it's connected, but a little loud if your young tot is drowsy.

The Butterfly comes with a rain cover which is super useful. But like other strollers on this list, this one has other accessories sold separately including a cup holder and storage bag that fits on the handles. The Butterfly is so new that there's not yet a travel bag for it, but we suspect the brand will come out with one.

There's a reason this has a price close to a full-size stroller: It has quality construction backed by a lifetime warranty . It also comes with accessories such as a rain cover and travel bag that other brands ask you to buy separately.

The Dutch brand has a patent pending on the seat construction for its ergonomic, supportive design — it's like a little nest that's supposed to conform to a child's body. The seatback is also taller than many, making it able to accommodate a growing preschooler. Testers said that their kid was totally comfortable riding in this for an afternoon, though in the Lab, we found the recline feature a bit cumbersome to implement.

The seat doesn't lay completely flat but it does recline for relaxation. If, for this price, you want to use the AER from birth, you can buy a separate bassinet attachment , then replace the seat with the bassinet for the first six months. They also sell car seat adaptors to turn this into a travel system but note this only fits three brands of car seats: Nuna, Cybex and Clek.

Another GH Parenting Award winner, this pick comes in many fun colors and with a bunch of accessories . Our Lab really liked that the stroller could be folded down with just one hand. We found it easy to turn with the sturdy rubber (not plastic) wheels and liked that it came with a cupholder, raincover and carry backpack, plus a seat-pad layer that could be thrown in the washing machine.

The seat folds nearly flat for naps, but this is still suggested for babies 6 months and up, according to the manufacturer. We like the magnets in the buckle, though it took us a few tries to get used to the harness. Watch the brake while walking since they're placed right by your feet and are easy to accidentally step on.

Double strollers are always going to be heavier than single strollers and to get one under 20 pounds, you have to either lose the canopies or the under-stroller storage.

We chose to lose the basket storage. The Jeep TurboGlyde has four storage pockets on the back of this double, though you don't want to add too much weight or, according to our tests, it will tip backward. Mostly what we loved when testing the TurboGlyde Double is the incredibly small fold and the sun protection , and the price is extremely nice for a travel or errand-running double stroller.

Testers say it is easy to push kids of different weights in this, for instance, a 1-year-old and their 3-year-old sibling. The seats don't recline much, so if you want a double stroller for long outings, look for a full-size double stroller .

If you want a lightweight option that lasts you for years, we like that this deep, padded seat has a near-flat recline that's appropriate for infants and big kids alike . Buy the car-seat adaptor and this is a good lightweight choice for newborns who are able to ride in their car seat atop the stroller seat. They should be able to move out of the car seat and to the regular seat by 6 months.

As parents, we appreciated that this comes with its own carry bag for travel. We found the fold to be super easy; you squeeze a latch at the handle and it collapses down in a few easy seconds. It's not exactly a one-handed fold — our testing showed it to be much easier with two hands — but it is fast. The basket is a fairly standard size, not tiny but not huge, so we'd spring for the add-on parent console that gives you a place to rest your water bottle and hide your phone.

Note: Baby Jogger is a brand that, as the name suggests, started as a company that made strollers for jogging. Now, they make a ton of baby gear that has nothing to do with running for exercise; this stroller is great for running errands, but is not for actual jogs! See or guide to the best jogging strollers for those. We also have a lightweight pick for jogging at the end of this list.

If your number one priority is a stroller that's as featherweight as can be, this weighs just over 10 pounds and the fold is incredibly small . Here's the thing: To get there, it has just a sun visor rather than a full canopy, a small basket and the seat is a really simple sling of fabric. That said, our testers said it's perfect for traveling and for short errands with a toddler.

You almost have to see the folding action to believe it — the wheels turn in so the stroller forms just a thin square. It fits anywhere, including an airplane overhead, under an airplane seat in front of you and maybe even in your diaper bag!

If you like the idea of this small fold but would prefer a larger canopy and a little more of a seat, see the Pockit+ All City version — though it's a bit more expensive and a bit heavier.

Our pick for the best overall wagon stroller also happens to be lightweight — for a stroller wagon. Obviously, nothing with wheels this big is going to be light as air, but the fact that it's a little under 35 pounds makes it a great choice if you'll be lifting your wagon in and out of the car or occasionally taking it up and down steps to the beach or a park.

This stroller wagon can be pushed or pulled. Separate sun-protective canopies let you position them differently for each kid. Each child has a snack tray with a cupholder and there's a generous storage bucket on the back. Stroller wagons are not the best for tired kids, as the seats don't recline, but they are good if you have a lot of stuff to haul and if the kids will be jumping in and out of the wagon.

Our testers say the assembly comes together quickly and the stroller is easy to fold. It works on most terrain (we would stop short of saying all terrain). One tester points out that this, like all strollers, is not totally weatherproof — if it rains, a stroller wagon can collect water in the bottom. But the mesh sides of this model help it dry out and allow for airflow on warm days.

When space is super tight, lightweight strollers don't get much more compact than the Cybex Libelle which, like the Pockit, folds into a rectangle shape. Folded, it measures just 12.6" by 18.9" by 7.9". You will need to use both hands to get it there, while your kid stands next to you or someone else holds your toddler, but in testing, we were able to fold it quickly.

It unfolds fast too — you just unlock it and give it a quick shake to snap it open. It boasts all the functionality you'd want in a lightweight stroller, including easy recline and a UPF 50+ canopy, and it also has a nicely adjusting footrest that can help make this more of a little bed for resting.

This stroller is compatible with the Cybex infant car seat , sold separately if you want to use it from birth.

Thule Spring Stroller

If you like the sporty look of a three-wheeler, we liked testing this stroller with lots of parent-friendly touches . There's a telescoping handle, so if you and your partner are different heights it can adjust.

There's a wrist strap, normally only found on jogging strollers, which gives you a feeling of extra security as you push this along. While it does not fold especially small, it stands up on its own when folded, which makes stashing it anywhere from beside you at a restaurant to inside your foyer a lot easier. And the fold is one of our favorites, you just pull up a lever that's under the seat.

It has a high weight limit, great if you have a Kindergarten kid who still needs a stroller on long outings. Both the canopy and the basket are wide, and the seat reclines nearly flat for naps. All of that adds to the weight, so this comes in a little over 20 pounds — not exactly lightweight, but light for a three-wheeler with all of its features.

Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight Jogging Stroller

Jogging strollers are going to have a bit more weight to them thanks to their big, bike-like tires that keep things smooth as you breeze down your path. The front wheel can lock so that the jogging stroller stays on course.

Because this is crafted with aluminum and a slim design, it comes in under 30 pounds , about the best you can hope for with a stroller meant for running. It doesn't skimp on its nice wide canopy, and it includes both an organizer with a cupholder and a basket underneath.

While the fold is never especially compact with any jogging stroller, including this one, it does fold very easily using just one hand. One note: These are real air-filled tires, so the stroller comes with a pump. Some online users say it's possible for the wheels to puncture and need a tire change.

Babyzen YOYO2 Stroller

Because seat cushions are sold separately from the frame, you can use this excellent lightweight stroller for your newborn. First, you buy this stroller frame, then add the Newborn Pack that makes it safe from birth. It's truly a newborn-friendly lightweight option that does not require you to use your infant car seat with it.

The frame, shown, comes in either black or white and has a shoulder strap for carrying the folded stroller. There's also a bag to use for travel or storage. The separate newborn pack comes in your choice of six colors and includes a mattress, canopy, foot cover and head support. Once your baby is ready to sit up and use a regular seat you'll want to buy one of the $70 Color Packs which provide a seat cushion, canopy and zippered back pocket. It means you can change the color of your stroller and get a fresh new cushion when you transition from infancy to toddlerhood.

City families who tested this for us love how compact the system is. The small footprint of this stroller makes it a breeze to push down a crowded sidewalk, and the stroller takes up little room in a small home. We suggest leaving it set up at home because folding it is a little awkward. It's easy enough to do if you want to put it in the trunk of a car or into the overhead on an airplane, but in everyday life, we'd just leave this little stroller in its open position.

If you do fall in love with the YoYo, it has a unique way of turning into a double stroller by hitching one YoYo to another, or you can have your big kid ride behind with the board attachment . We like that it adapts and changes as your family grows, and it may be more economical than buying a full-size stroller now and a full-size double stroller later.

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How to find the best lightweight stroller for you

Take note that with the advantage of going light, you will find yourself trading off some sturdiness (the wheels will be smaller and lighter weight) and storage (an under-seat basket, if it exists, will be smaller than that on a full-size stroller). That's why it's important to recognize which features matter to you most.

We find sun protection to be a non-negotiable, which is why we're not featuring any of the super-cheap umbrella strollers that have no visor or canopy. When you're shopping for the best lightweight stroller for your family, we recommend you consider the following:

✔️ Physical footprint: Lightweight strollers typically take up a smaller amount of space, but some fold down to be more compact than others. A stroller with a larger storage basket and wide canopy might not fold as small.

✔️ Folding capabilities: Some strollers feature single-hand folding — this comes in handy when you're by yourself and need to carry your baby in one arm while you fold the stroller.

✔️ Canopy size: Some strollers feature an adjustable or extendable canopy and others claim to have an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) to safeguard against the sun.

✔️ Adjustable seat: Check to see if the seat offers multiple reclining positions. The further back a seat folds, the better it might be for a baby under a year old. For any age, a reclined seat is great for tired kids heading home for a nap. But regardless, always make sure to check the age limit and weight limit before you purchase any stroller.

✔️ Wearable features : Some strollers come with a convenient carrying case or strap that you can sling over your shoulder if you want to carry it folded.

How we test lightweight strollers

The Good Housekeeping Institute has reviewed more than 30 strollers over the past two years using a combination of in-Lab and at-home tests with both expert and consumer reviewers. We also asked manufacturers to provide American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) certification to verify that strollers pass ASTM's safety standards.

At our Institute, we perform tests to assess maneuverability, stability, ease of reclining the stroller, ease of getting babies in and out of the seat including buckling and unbuckling the five-point harness, ergonomics for the parents pushing the stroller, storage space (We try placing the same diaper bag in each basket to compare how it fits.) and more, giving each factor a score of 1 to 5.

We also take the strollers outside and push them over varied terrain including pavement, grass, dirt and cobblestone and we make obstacle courses to judge the navigation effort required.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

For well over a century the Good Housekeeping Institute has tested consumer-product claims and made recommendations based on data-rich evaluations.

Our stroller testing and coverage was led by Rachel Rothman , who also oversaw GH's annual Toy Awards and Parenting Awards . Rothman is the mom of three young kids.

Our most recent update was written by contributing writer Jessica Hartshorn who has covered the stroller market for a few decades, most recently for Parents magazine.

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 .

Rachel Rothman was the chief technologist and executive technical director of the Good Housekeeping Institute for over 15 years , overseeing testing methodology, implementation and reporting for all GH Labs. She also managed GH's research division and the analysis of applicants for the GH Seal and all other testing emblems. 

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7 Travel Strollers That Make Vacationing With Kids a Tad Easier

You won’t want to travel without it.

If you buy something from the links on this page, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?

But the holy grail of travel strollers can also be used as an everyday stroller at home. So, instead of having different strollers for different occasions, finding one that fits all your needs is ideal. And that’s totally possible with the strollers you’ll find on this list.

Best Travel Strollers

• Best Overall: UPPAbaby Minu V2 Travel Stroller
• Best Budget: Chicco Presto Self-Folding Compact Stroller
• Best Lightweight: Contours Itsy Ultra-Sturdy Compact Stroller
• Best for Overhead Bins: Babyzen YOYO2 Stroller
• Best Car Seat-Compatible: Doona Infant Car Seat

“Bigger is not necessarily better when it comes to an everyday stroller. Thankfully, lightweight, compact strollers come loaded with features rich in comfort (for both parent and child) and ease of use.” says Chris Ritchie, product manager at Thule and dad of two.“Must-haves on an everyday stroller like one-hand and self-standing fold come standard on the Thule Spring, all in a compact footprint, as well as an oversized canopy, one-hand adjustable handlebar, locking front swivel wheel, and even foam-filled wheels for rolling with ease.”

Travel strollers also make the perfect gifts for baby showers or for parents with young kids who already own an everyday stroller but could use a stroller specifically to travel.

Read on for our top stroller picks, and be sure to scroll to the bottom to check out our top tips for choosing a travel stroller and learn how and why we chose the strollers on our list.

UPPAbaby Minu V2 Travel Stroller

The UPPAbaby Minu is a travel-friendly stroller that feels like a full-size stroller, but it’s significantly smaller and lighter than its relatives the UPPAbaby Vista and Cruz. When folded, it takes up little room and comes with a built-in carry handle as well as a shoulder strap so you can throw it over your shoulder on one side while carrying your baby.

If you want your kiddo to be able to nap in the stroller, an adjustable recline and leg rest make it possible. A large storage basket is the perfect size for bringing along a blanket, diaper bag, snacks, or whatever else you might need on a trip.

The stroller is designed for babies and kids ages 6 months and up, but if you want to use it for your infant, you can purchase the UPPAbaby Mesa V2 Infant Car Seat , which can be directly attached.

While there’s a lot to love about the Minu, the only drawback is that its wheels are plastic. Wheels that are filled with air tend to make for a smoother ride. The Minu does, however, feature front and rear spring-action suspension, which helps.

One of our senior parenting editors, Cat Bowen, adds after her own testing that “the comfort of the handlebar on this model cannot be overlooked. The cushioned, leather-wrapped handlebar is a joy to hold, even on hot days.” She also says that while it's not the best for the tallest members of her family (who hover at just under 7 feet), it's great for most parents between just over 5 feet and about 6-foot-3 inches.

Chicco Presto Self-Folding Compact Stroller

Chicco’s Presto travel stroller is my pick for the best budget stroller, but it doesn’t give budget vibes. It’s not quite on par with a luxury stroller, however, but if that’s not what you’re after, this one is a fantastic option. (Plus, that gifting price point? Yes, please.)

With this stroller, you’ll never have to be without coffee as there are two cup holders — one for you and one for your child. There’s also a three-position reclining seat that can be adjusted with one hand, which truly is a game-changer when you have a tired kiddo and sleep needs to happen immediately.

While the canopy is UPF 50+, after testing this stroller, I wish it covered more square footage to offer more sun protection. But a small canopy is better than no canopy.

I find the one-hand fold to be incredibly easy to use, and once the stroller is folded (which it basically does on its own), a carry bar makes it convenient to grab and be on your way.

If you’re giving the Presto as a gift to a new parent, it can be used from infancy through 50 pounds, so they’ll appreciate the long-term capabilities. Plus, it has a secure, click-in attachment for any Chicco infant car seat. While you do have to buy the car seat separately, adapters are built in, so there really aren’t any accessories you need to purchase.

Contours Itsy Ultra-Sturdy Compact Stroller

Whether you’re on the go in the city, wandering around Target for far too many hours, or hopping on a plane, the Contours Itsy Ultra-Sturdy Compact Stroller fits any type of lifestyle and works great as a regular stroller. It’s lightweight with a one-hand fold feature that fully collapses for storage in seconds.

A removable napper handlebar makes it easy to get your little one in and out of the seat; front wheel suspension with locking wheels gives you better control on bumpy terrain; a one-step parking brake is easy to maneuver; and a UPF 50+ canopy offers some shade, although not a ton.

If you plan on using this stroller on flights, you’ll be happy to know that it fits in an overhead bin, which saves you the trouble of tagging it to go below the plane — not to mention the risk of damage.

Babyzen YOYO2 Stroller

At just 13.6 pounds, it’s probably safe to assume that your diaper bag has been heavier than this insanely lightweight and compact stroller. Babyzen’s YOYO2 stroller is the ultimate stroller to use when traveling by plane as it can fold and unfold with one hand, be carried over your shoulder, and fit in an overhead bin with room to spare. It doesn’t hurt that it’s totally a luxury stroller but for on-the-go.

The stroller isn’t just convenient to travel with, it also grows with your child, making it convenient for life. It’s designed for newborns through toddlers and beyond up to 48.5 pounds with a comfy seat cushion, reclining backrest, and a secure five-point harness. The newborn seat costs extra and comes with a mattress, head support, and a removable Sherpa-lined foot cover.

In addition to the newborn pack, there are several other accessories you can add on, including a cup holder, backpack, parasol, a board for big kids to ride on, and even a mosquito net.

Our test team has been using this stroller for several years, and they have loved the long life of the stroller, the ease of use, and softness of the fabric.

Doona Infant Car Seat

I missed the boat on the Doona with my kids, but I’ve heard nothing but rave reviews from friends about how game-changing it is, so I had to try it out for myself to see what all the hullabaloo is about. And by “try it out for myself,” I mean accompanied a friend on several excursions with her infant and the stroller.

However, several members of our team also have this stroller and say that they can't live without its convenience. It's genuinely a day changer, getting baby around everywhere with no fuss.

Different than the other strollers on this list, the Doona is a car seat with collapsible wheels and a telescoping handle that allows it to turn into a compact stroller. While it doesn’t have a one-hand fold, it is functional and beyond efficient, and it provides a cozy and secure place for babies to ride.

The car seat alone weighs 16.5 pounds, and with the 10.3-pound base, the whole stroller clocks in at 28.8 pounds. That may sound like a lot, but it’s very reasonable considering car seats can be super heavy. It’s also a really safe rear-facing infant car seat option with an anti-rebound bar and three-layer side impact protection.

An adjustable handle allows you to customize the stroller to your height, and it also makes it easy for siblings to push.

Thule Spring Compact Stroller

The Thule Spring has the bells and whistles of a full-size stroller but in a compact frame (to be exact, it’s 30% smaller than traditional three-wheel strollers). Its smaller size and only three wheels take up less trunk space, and it can fit through narrow doorways.

This would be a great gift for someone going to Disney as it’s approved for Disney theme parks. It’s also parent-approved for Disney parks as the seat can fully recline, allowing your kid to take a full-blown nap so you can stay at Disney longer with a child who has actually rested. More sleep equals fewer meltdowns, right? One can dream.

The luxury stroller is impressively well-built and handles like a pro. It can be pushed with one hand without it veering to one side, so it’s a smooth ride for your kiddo and you while pushing.

An adjustable handlebar makes the Spring a fantastic choice for tall parents and there’s plenty of storage space for holding all your things. Compared to the other travel strollers on this list, this one is on the heavier side, but it’s still very manageable and comfortable to travel with.

The stroller doesn’t have a foot bar, so while testing it, I found that it was challenging to lift the stroller over bumps in the road since there was no wear to apply pressure at the back.

Joovy Kooper RS Travel Stroller

In addition to its all-terrain wheels and easy maneuverability, a major perk of Joovy’s Kooper travel stroller is its washable fabric. The fabric is removable and machine washable, so you don’t have to spot clean every time your kid drops food — which, if your child is anything like mine, is constant.

A three-panel, water-repellent canopy provides excellent sun coverage, but it’s the fourth hidden panel that’s really noteworthy, which I discovered when testing the stroller with a kiddo who really, really was not happy with the sun in his eyes. That panel provides UPF 50+ coverage almost all the way to the snack tray. Although the seat doesn’t recline entirely, you can lower it using only one hand, which is huge.

Snacktime doesn’t have to end when it’s stroller time as the stroller features a swing-open snack tray and cup holder. There’s also a mesh cup holder and a zippered pocket built into the back of the stroller for grownups, and a good-sized storage basket on the bottom can hold up to 15 pounds.

If you’re giving this as a gift, the Kooper accommodates a 3-month-old to a child up to 55 pounds, but you can also purchase the Kooper car seat adapter separately to use an infant car seat.

Again, Cat Bowen is a big, big fan of this stroller, loving the fold, but also loving the easy hand holds this stroller has when it's folded that not all travel strollers have.

What to Consider

It’s important to ensure that the stroller's weight is reasonable for you to travel with, especially if you’ll be lifting it into an overhead bin. Most travel strollers weigh between 12 and 30 pounds, so an additional 15 pounds or so can make a difference for some. The weight limit is also something to consider if you plan on using the stroller beyond the toddler years or if you have an older child who often decides that they can’t possibly walk another step when you’re out and about. The average travel stroller can hold somewhere between 50 and 70 pounds, and we've noted weight limits for each stroller.

Not all travel strollers fit into overhead bins, so be sure to check the folded dimensions and compare them to the overhead bin dimensions on standard flights. The fold size is also crucial information to know for your trunk. The last thing you want to deal with is a stroller that doesn’t fit in your car. I’ve been there and ended up getting a new car to accommodate my stroller. (We needed the extra space anyway, but still.)

Storage Size

If your family enjoys visiting amusement parks like Disneyland, museums, or other kid-friendly attractions, you’ll benefit from a travel stroller with enough storage to hold your diaper bag, shopping bags, or whatever else you’ll be bringing along. “Any parent making their way through security or navigating the hustle to their gate, all while keeping their travel companion cozy and happy along the way, needs a lightweight stroller with plenty of storage capacity, an easy one-hand fold, and a comfy recline seat,” Ritchie says. “Because let’s face it when you can roll through the terminal easily while your baby rides with a smile, the flight will be a breeze for both you and your boarding zone.”

How We Tested

Every stroller on this list was chosen based on strollers I have tested with my kids or that come tested by trusted members of our community. I also considered who was manufacturing the stroller and specs I mentioned earlier. Although it wasn’t at the top of my list, I considered aesthetics — because a stroller’s gotta be cute, right?

I spent time pushing my 4-year-old son around the neighborhood in the travel strollers I tested, which he thoroughly enjoyed. I then took the strollers on various excursions to determine the ease of use while on the go.

I spent the most time with the Chicco Presto Self-Folding Compact Stroller, because although it isn’t luxury feeling, it’s simple to use. My son took great pleasure in being wheeled around the grocery store and Target. I only needed a few things, and the storage basket was plenty big. It was a rainy day and the canopy didn’t cover a lot, so it did take a bit of time for it to dry, but that wasn’t much of an issue.

A friend and her toddler joined us at our local aquarium for a few hours, and she used the Joovy Kooper RS Travel Stroller. She commented several times on how smooth it felt to push. Her daughter was a big fan of the snack tray and cup holder, but I think that had more to do with the fact that snacks were involved. She had to wipe down the seat after an apple sauce incident, but it cleaned right up.

The Thule was taken out and about running errands and going about my daily life, and I was impressed at its capability to act like both a travel stroller and a solid, everyday stroller.

Since the Doona is designed for infants, a friend with a 3-month-old tested the stroller for 2 weeks. She found the stroller to be incredibly efficient and easy to use, especially with her older kids in tow, which meant more chaos. She was thrilled with the one-handed fold that turned the stroller into a car seat with little to no effort.

The other strollers on this list have been vetted and tested by members of our team, looking for things like maneuverability, ease of fold, and how well they clean up. We looked at the size of the storage, the cost, and even the brands customer service. These are truly the top of the top.

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11 Best Travel System Strollers

Getting around with your little one is much easier if you have the right stroller. Many parents find a 3-in-1 travel system stroller practical because it includes a stroller and also an infant car seat that doubles as a baby carrier.

A travel system stroller is great because it can be used from the moment you take your newborn home from the hospital until well into toddlerhood.

Based on more than 4,500 Pampers Parents votes, we’ve put together a list of the best travel system strollers. We also cover which features to look out for when comparison shopping, as well as some safety tips for using your new stroller and car seat.

Why Choose a Travel System Stroller

Travel system strollers can adapt as the baby grows, making them particularly appealing to parents who like the idea of a combo product that fulfills different needs.

A travel system stroller typically includes an infant car seat (which sometimes doubles as a carrier), a car seat base, and the main stroller unit, which holds the infant car seat and can convert into a toddler stroller when the time comes.

Here are some pluses of owning a travel system:

It can allow you to move your sleeping baby from the car to the stroller without disturbing her.

Some models have a stroller seat that reclines flat, so it can be used when your infant is 6 months or younger. As your baby gets older, the backrest can be adjusted to a higher, more comfortable position.

Once your baby outgrows the infant car seat, she can continue to use the stroller part of the travel system into toddlerhood.

Even though a travel system stroller can cost more than most standard strollers (some, like the UPPAbaby Stroller, cost over $1,000), you get more bang for your buck because you don’t need to buy an infant car seat, infant stroller, baby carrier , and toddler stroller separately.

The even better news? Pampers Parents recommend several travel system strollers that are around $300 or less.

These are the travel system strollers Pampers Parents chose as their favorites:

1. Chicco Bravo Trio Travel System

Why pick this one? Pampers Parents chose the Chicco Bravo as their absolute favorite travel system. With features like a one-touch braking pedal, all-wheel suspension, swiveling front wheels, and a three-position adjustable padded handle, this stroller has a lot going for it.

The way this travel system works is that the rear-facing infant car seat clicks into either the stroller or the car seat base. The car seat base installs securely and can remain fastened in your car.

Once your baby has reached the maximum weight and height limit of the infant car seat, you can shift to using the stroller seat. However, that also means you’ll have to get a new forward-facing car seat that suits your little one’s bigger size.

The stroller includes a parent tray with two cup holders and a storage compartment as well as a child tray with two cup holders. The stroller’s canopy is fully adjustable, and the backrest reclines for added comfort.

Highlights: The stroller has an innovative fold-and-carry handle with a one-hand, quick-fold feature. The stroller seat and canopy can be removed for cleaning. The infant car seat features removable padding for use with your newborn.

Price * : about $379.99 on Amazon.com

Pampers Parents pros and cons:

Pros: It’s very easy to use and fold up with only one hand.

Cons: It could be lighter, and it would be better if you could have your baby either face forward or backward in the stroller.

2. Graco Fastaction Fold Jogger Click Connect Baby Travel System

Why pick this one? If you’re looking for a travel system stroller that’s also good for jogging, then the Graco Fastaction is for you.

The stroller features three air-filled rubber tires for a smooth ride on any terrain. The front wheel easily locks in place for added stability when jogging. Unlock it for full maneuverability when strolling.

The rear-facing infant car seat easily clicks into both the stroller and the car seat base. Installed in your car, the car seat can recline to four different positions to suit your infant’s need for head and neck support.

Both the stroller and the infant car seat feature canopies, but the stroller’s canopy includes a peek-a-boo window.

Highlights: The stroller features a one-hand folding mechanism, which the manufacturer claims takes one second to operate.

Price * : about $269.99 on Amazon.com

Pros: It’s easy to use, and it folds quickly.

Cons: The stroller is rather bulky and does not fold very compactly. The handle is not adjustable. The wheels need constant refilling.

3. UPPAbaby Full-Size Vista Infant Baby Stroller

Why pick this one? This bundle from UPPAbaby includes three components: a stroller seat, an infant car seat, and a bassinet that attaches to the stroller.

This combo allows for multiple configurations, starting with the bassinet for strolling with your sleeping newborn, the infant car seat for traveling in the car, and the toddler seat, which can be positioned to face forward or backward in the stroller frame once your little one is bigger.

The infant car seat includes a padded insert for a baby that weighs between four and eight pounds.

Keep in mind that once your baby has reached the maximum height and weight limit of the car seat, you’ll have to upgrade to a new one.

The stroller features front and rear shock-absorbing suspension and a one-button telescoping handlebar so that you can adjust it to you or your partner’s height.

When you’re not using the stroller, you can fold it up in one step. However, some Pampers Parents noted that it requires both hands to fold. The stroller stands when folded, which makes it easier to handle and store.

Additional items such as a bassinet storage bag, bassinet bug shield, toddler seat rain shield, and toddler seat bug shield are included.

Highlights: Both the bassinet and the infant car seat feature breathable, moisture-wicking fabric that is also removable for spot cleaning. The storage basket below the stroller can hold up to 30 pounds.

Price * : about $1,199.98 on Amazon.com

Pros: It’s easy to use, made of quality materials, and it can be used to accommodate more children.

Cons: It’s very heavy and very expensive.

4. Baby Trend Expedition Jogger Travel System

Why pick this one? This jogging stroller from Baby Trend features a swiveling and locking front wheel, with all-terrain tires. The wheels can be quick-released for extra-compact storage.

The stroller features a convenient parent tray and a child tray. There is also a large storage basket under the stroller for things like diaper bags and other necessities.

The five-point harness on both the stroller and infant car seat is easy to adjust with one hand, and there is a push-button release.

The car seat base features four positions so that you can adjust the infant car seat to the proper height for your little one. And the infant car seat has a multi-grip handle that is easy to hold and carry when you’re transferring your baby from the car to the stroller base.

Highlights: For easy maneuvering, the push handle is extra wide, ergonomically shaped, and foam padded. The footrest features reflectors to provide better visibility in low-light conditions.

Price*: about $132.99 on Amazon.com

Pros: It’s easy to maneuver over many different terrains with one hand, and it’s affordable.

Cons: The storage basket could be bigger and it isn’t as easy to access when your baby is in the stroller.

5. Evenflo Vive Travel System

Why pick this one? Unlike the other travel system strollers that made the Pampers Parents list, the Evenflo Vive Travel System’s infant car seat has an extended weight rating of up to 35 pounds, so you can use it a bit longer than the other car seats on this list.

Eventually you will have to upgrade to a new car seat, but at least with this product it will be able to happen later.

The stroller’s 13-inch-thick EVA wheels feature shock absorption in the front, which helps make the stroller more stable.

In addition to the storage basket under the stroller base, there is a storage pocket on the back of your baby’s seat.

Highlights: The stroller features a very slim 16-inch fold, so it doesn’t take up too much space in the trunk of your car or when in storage.

Price * : about $106.99 on Amazon.com

Pros: It’s lightweight and it’s easy to move from the car to the stroller.

Cons: The wheels aren’t the best and they tend to be squeaky.

6. Baby Trend Skyline 35 Travel System

Why pick this one? Although it’s not a jogging stroller, the Baby Trend Skyline features three wheels, which can help make it easier to maneuver much like a jogger-style stroller. The rear wheels are lockable for when you need to put on the brakes.

Handy features of this stroller include a handle that is adjustable to your height, and one-handed foldability.

The parent tray includes a covered compartment for storing items you may want to keep secured nearby, but there’s also an extra-large storage basket below the stroller.

The infant car seat of this travel system includes a reversible infant insert and a six-position crotch belt adjustment. The car seat base can be adjusted in four different ways with the push of a button to ensure the infant car seat is level.

Highlights: Both the car seat’s and the stroller’s canopies are made of two panels, but the stroller canopy also includes a peek-a-boo window on the front and mesh windows on the sides.

Price * : about $161.99 on Amazon.com

Pros: The price is affordable and it’s easy to fold up and open.

Cons: The buckle on the infant car seat could be easier to use.

7. Safety 1st Smooth Ride Travel System

Why pick this one? Designed with travel in mind, the Safety 1st Smooth Ride makes it easy to transfer your baby’s car seat to the stroller with its QuickClick technology. Once your baby outgrows the infant car seat, you can continue to use the stroller through toddlerhood, but keep in mind that you’ll have to purchase a new car seat.

Folding the stroller is easy with the one-handed operation. Once folded, it can stand on its own without tipping over.

The rear-facing infant car seat includes head and body inserts for your newborn as well as four adjustable harness heights to help you achieve the perfect fit for your baby.

Highlights: The large stroller canopy features a flip-out visor and a mesh peek-a-boo window.

Price * : about $179.99 on Amazon.com

Pros: The stroller is easy to handle, it’s easy to travel with, and it’s affordable.

Cons: The storage basket could be bigger and the canopy could be more durable.

8. Chicco Viaro Travel System

Why pick this one? The Chicco Viaro Travel System features a lightweight frame and three-wheel maneuverability, making it an appealing option if you travel a lot. The one-handed fold feature makes it even easier to handle when you’re trying to get it in and out of the trunk, and opened up and ready to go quickly.

Like many of the other strollers on this list, it includes a child tray, parent tray, and large storage basket.

The stroller also has a multi-position reclining seat, which will come in handy with your newborn, who requires the head support. There’s also an adjustable canopy and toe-tap brakes on the back wheels.

The infant car seat includes head and body supports. The car seat easily transfers from the car seat base to the stroller base for travel. Once your baby reaches the car seat's maximum height and weight recommendations, you can still keep on using the stroller through toddlerhood, but you’ll have to purchase a new car seat.

Some Pampers Parents noted they would prefer one large front wheel versus the small two-sided front wheel on the stroller for better maneuverability.

Highlights: At just 18 pounds, this is the lightest travel system stroller on our list.

Price * : about $349.99 on Amazon.com

Pros: You’ll love the versatility and portability.

Cons: The handle could be adjustable and it could use better quality wheels.

9. Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System

Why pick this one? The Evenflo Pivot Travel System was designed so that both the stroller seat and infant car seat can face either forward or backward in the stroller frame, depending on your preference. Plus, the stroller seat can be adapted and positioned horizontally as a bassinet-like carriage for strolling with your newborn.

The stroller frame features four large cruiser tires for smoother handling. There is a three-panel canopy; however, the canopy does not have mesh panels or a baby window, which some of the other models on this list offer.

The infant car seat features a four-position recline for your baby’s comfort and a unique ergonomic handle so that it can be carried in the bend of your arm.

The stroller has no child tray or parent tray, which may be a deal-breaker for some.

Highlights: This travel system includes a blanket boot, which keeps your baby’s legs warm in cold weather.

Price * : about $279.99 on Amazon.com

Pros: You’ll like the design without the expensive price tag. There’s the option of changing the direction of the seat.

Cons: It’s difficult to close the stroller with one hand. The front wheels tend to get stuck on certain surfaces.

10. Graco Trax Jogger Travel System

Why pick this one? This jogging stroller from Graco features air-filled rubber tires with suspension for a very smooth ride on a variety of terrains. The single front wheel can lock in place for running, and unlock so that it can swivel for daily strolling.

The one-handed folding feature includes an automatic lock so that the stroller will remain closed and standing when stored. Keep in mind that some Pampers Parents noted that when folded the stroller is awkward to transport.

The stroller also features a safety tether that attaches to your arm as an extra layer of security to ensure the stroller can’t roll away, even when you are running. The baby seat features deluxe padding and multiple positions for your baby’s comfort and safety.

The infant car seat comes with newborn head support. It also has its own expandable canopy. The seat cushion is machine washable.

Use the infant car seat until your baby reaches the maximum weight and height limit. After that, you’ll have to purchase a new car seat. But your baby can continue to use the stroller into her toddler years.

Highlights: The stroller’s expandable canopy not only features a peek-a-boo window but also provides UV 50 sun protection.

Price * : about $201.07 on Amazon.com

Pros: You’ll love the handle adjustability and the superior suspension for jogging.

Cons: The front wheel can be problematic when it comes to steering and maneuvering, and the stroller could be easier to clean.

11. Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Travel System

Why pick this one? The manufacturer of the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Travel System claims you can configure the stroller 22 different ways, including accommodating 2 riders at the same time. This means you can use this stroller with your infant and your toddler simultaneously, for example.

This is how it works: The stroller frame features a unique slide and lock system, which allows for expansion in order to accommodate both the toddler seat and the infant car seat. You can configure each seat to face different directions. The toddler seat can also be configured to be used in infant mode.

This travel system stroller can come in handy if you have a newborn and a toddler and don’t want to commit to buying a double stroller .

Be aware that the infant car seat has a maximum weight and height limit. So, at some point your baby will outgrow it and you’ll have to upgrade to a new car seat. But you’ll be able to use the stroller portion of the travel system into toddlerhood.

The storage basket underneath can expand to over two feet long and is accessible from the front and back.

Highlights: The seat pad can be machine-washed in cold water and placed in the dryer on low. When folded, the stroller can stand on its own even with the toddler seat attached.

Price*: about $322.22 on Amazon.com

Pros: The combination of features, the multiple configurations, and the design without the expense.

Cons: There is no infant tray or parent tray. The wheels tend to make steering tricky and can get stuck sometimes.

Features to Consider When Buying a Travel System Stroller

When it comes to choosing a travel system stroller, here are some important things to consider:

JPMA safety seal. Make sure your stroller and infant car seat combo meets strict U.S. safety standards. It’s worth checking to see if the product has been recalled . Look for a seal on the packaging that shows that the manufacturer participates in the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association’s (JPMA) certification program.

Secure harness. A five-point harness is standard for most strollers and infant car seats. Experts say it’s the safest option because it secures your baby over his shoulders, at the waist, and between the legs. Secured this way, he can’t slide out, fall out, or climb out. The straps should be easily adjustable and easy for you to use, but difficult (or even impossible) for your baby to unfasten himself.

Recline function. This will be important when you’re using the stroller or infant car seat with your newborn. Newborns don’t have the ability to sit up or hold their heads up, so you’ll want to make sure your newborn is in a comfortable reclined position to prevent his head from flopping forward.

Easy-to-open-and-close stroller. Opening or folding a stroller with one hand can be a blessing, especially when you’re holding your baby in your other arm. A stroller that remains upright when folded can also come in handy when storing.

Easy-to-install car seat. Some infant car seats may be easier to install than others. Most feature a LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system in the car seat base, which can make it a lot easier to install. The infant car seat clicks into the base, and it’s easy to remove and attach to the stroller base. If you plan to transfer the car seat from car to car, it can be beneficial to have one that has an easy-to-install car seat base, or you could consider buying an additional car seat base for the other car. To make sure that the car seat is correctly installed, you might consult a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician .

Protective canopy. Being able to keep your baby shaded from the sun and covered in case of bad weather will be important. Canopies come in a range of sizes and styles. Some provide nearly full coverage of the front of the stroller. If that’s the style that interests you, make sure it has mesh panels, which can help keep your baby at a comfortable temperature. You can also consider a model that has a plastic window so that your baby can see out and you can see in. If this feature is not included in the stroller you like, you can often purchase it separately. Most infant car seats will also have a canopy, but these often don’t have the peek-a-boo window features or mesh panels of a stroller’s canopy.

Suitable stroller wheels. Larger wheels make maneuvering the stroller much easier. You’ll want a stroller that has lockable front swiveling wheels, as this makes it easier to go over a variety of terrains. Air-filled tires provide a smooth ride, but need to be pumped up occasionally. Foam-filled tires provide the same smooth ride but don’t need refilling. Many strollers include a suspension system with shock absorbers to make the ride even smoother. It’s best to avoid strollers with tiny plastic wheels as these can make the stroller bounce around a bit.

Roomy storage. Having a large storage basket underneath the stroller can come in handy for stashing your handbag, diaper bag , and any other necessities. Some stroller models may feature dividers or zippered pockets for storing valuables. The basket should be accessible even when the infant car seat is in place or fully reclined. The storage basket should be strong enough so that it doesn’t drag on the ground once filled with your items.

Good brakes. Most strollers have foot-activated brakes that are controlled by either a single foot bar at the rear of the stroller, or a pedal above each of the rear wheels. Some models come with a hand-operated lever near the handlebar.

Comfortable and adjustable handlebars. You may want to look for a stroller with padded handles that can be adjusted to suit your height. Some strollers have two separate handles instead of a single handlebar.

Easy-to-clean fabric and upholstery. Some stroller and infant car seat manufacturers have layered seat fabrics that can be removed as needed. For example, a breathable mesh seat for summer can be layered with a cushioned one for winter. Choose a travel system that is easy to clean. Some include seat covers that are removable and machine washable; others offer stain-resistant fabrics that are easy to wipe down.

Size and fit. Before selecting an infant car seat, it’s a good idea to measure your car’s back seat to ensure the car seat will fit. It’s also smart to check the size of your trunk to ensure the stroller will fit once it’s folded.

Safety Considerations When Using Your Travel System Stroller

Once you’ve chosen the best travel system for you and your baby, here are some safety tips to keep in mind as you use both the car seat and stroller:

Don’t leave your baby alone or unattended in the stroller or in the infant car seat.

Be sure to use your stroller’s brakes to lock the wheels before placing your baby in the stroller, and whenever you have stopped with the stroller.

Always check your automobile’s instruction manual and the infant car seat’s guidelines for information on the safe installation of the infant car seat. Do not use any additional straps that aren’t part of the travel system to install the car seat.

Remember that the safest place for your baby to ride in a car is the back seat, with the infant car seat facing the rear until she’s at least 2 years old or exceeds the manufacturer's maximum weight and height limits. After that you can upgrade to a new front-facing car seat .

Don’t hang heavy items like hand bags, tote bags, or diaper bags from the stroller handles. The weight can cause the stroller to tip backward. Instead use the storage areas under the stroller.

Watch out for your baby’s fingers when using the stroller so she doesn’t get them caught in the wheels or the hinges of the stroller’s folding parts. Also, make sure that your baby can’t reach the brake lever.

After placing your little one in the stroller or the infant car seat, be sure to always use the five-point harness so that she is properly secured whenever she’s riding in the stroller or in the car. The harness straps should be at or under your baby’s shoulders and the chest clip should be at armpit level. You know the harness is tight enough when you can’t pinch any strap fabric at your baby’s shoulders.

Don’t use the car seat or stroller as a substitute for your baby's crib, which is the safest place for your little one to sleep. You might be tempted to allow your baby to finish a nap in the car seat, but doing so can lead to the development of a flat spot on the back of your baby’s head, cause acid reflux or GERD , and affect her breathing.

If you decide to attach toys to the stroller, make sure they’re securely fastened so they won’t fall on your baby. Remove these toys as soon as your baby can sit or reach them.

If your stroller has a cup holder, make sure never to use it for hot drinks, which could accidentally spill on your baby.

In hot weather, don’t leave the stroller in the sun as it can cause the plastic and metal parts to get hot. Check that the stroller isn’t hot before putting your baby inside. The same goes for the infant car seat. If you plan to leave your car in a parking lot for long hours during hot weather, consider covering the car seat with a towel to prevent it from getting too hot. Always check the car seat isn’t hot before placing your baby in it.

Be sure to mail back the warranty card to the travel system stroller’s manufacturer so that you’ll be notified in case there’s a recall.

A travel system can be a wonderful way to move your baby from the car to stroller and back again with ease. And it has the added benefit of being useful once your little one is into her toddler years. We hope that Pampers Parents’ insights have helped make your buying decision a little bit easier.

If you’re still in the process of compiling a baby shower registry , why not add the travel system of your choice to the list?

Recall Notice

Before buying a product, always check that it’s approved and hasn’t been recalled on sites like the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

*Prices are correct at the time of writing.

How We Got These Results

We surveyed thousands of parents in the Pampers Community and asked them to choose the products they love the most, and to share their views on specific products and product categories. Based on the survey responses, we have taken the top product picks and added our own research to create this article. The aim is to help you choose the right product for you and your family. We might receive commissions on purchases made from the links in this article, but the products featured are the Pampers Community’s top choices.

• AAP p. 494,496-498,503-504
• Consumer Reports: Stroller Buying Guide
• Kids Health: Choosing Safe Baby Products: Strollers
• Mayo Clinic: Stroller Safety: Tips for parents

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The best travel strollers to take on holiday

Hauck Travel N Care Stroller

John Lewis & Partners Everyday Stroller

Mamas and Papas Airo Pushchair

Graco Myavo Compact Stroller

BABYZEN YOYO²

Silver Cross Zest Stroller

Cosatto Woosh 3

Ergobaby Metro+

Bugaboo Butterfly

Joie Baby Tourist Signature Pushchair

Hauck Lightweight Pushchair Sport 

Whether you're jetting off for some sun or just planning a family staycation this summer, you're probably wondering how to travel with a pushchair for your baby without overloading your car or exceeding your luggage allowance, but this is where the best travel strollers can help. Leave your pushchair at home and invest in the best travel strollers to make your journey a whole lot easier.

Robust enough to cope with cobbled streets and sandy beaches but light enough to carry up a flight of stairs, a lightweight stroller is also more compact, so it'll take up minimal space. Some can even fit into the overhead compartment on a plane. They're the ultimate convenient travelling companion.

Best travel strollers at a glance:

• Best travel stroller overall: Hauck Travel N Care Stroller, £129.95 • Best for taking as cabin luggage: Joolz Aer+ buggy, £429 • Best travel stroller with one-hand fold: Graco Myavo Compact Stroller, £129.99 • Best travel strollers to grow with them: Bugaboo Butterfly, £377.10

While travel system prams can be more suitable to everyday life, a travel stroller can be a lot more practical than having to take all the sections of a travel pram so you can pack more holiday essentials.

The best travel strollers 2024

1. hauck travel n care stroller, best travel stroller overall.

Rrp: £ 149.95

Description

The Hauck Travel N Care Stroller was awarded Gold for Best Lightweight Buggy/Stroller  at the Mother&Baby Awards 2024.

The Hauck Travel N Care Stroller is a budget-friendly yet premium option for parents on the go. Setting it up is a breeze with its simple assembly, and the intuitive one-handed fold mechanism makes it an amazing time-saver for busy parents, which we loved. Testers also found this stroller lightweight which makes it great for travelling.

While the Hauck Travel N Care Stroller boasts many impressive features, including an adjustable footrest, removable/washable covers, and ample storage basket, some users have noted that the canopy could be extended further to provide more extensive coverage from the sun, especially during intense sunlight hours and when travelling in sunny locations. That said, it is easy to clean so it won't matter too much about melting ice-creams or any unfortunate travel sickness.

Deputy Digital Editor for Mother and Baby, Stephanie Spencer, said: "Really compact and easy to open, especially if you’re on your own! I like that you can sling it over your shoulder easily, too. It’s a very nice looking stroller, lies quite flat for naps and the sun shade covers right over, probably more so than other strollers I’ve used so extra shading in the sun. Had the olive green colour, which is lovely and am aware it comes in other nice colours too. The basket below is a good size. It’s smooth to push along, too. Overall, very pleased with this product and would definitely recommend it."

Read our full Hauck Travel N Care Stroller review.

• Lightweight
• One-handed folding
• Large storage
• Easy to clean
• The hood could extend more

2. John Lewis & Partners Everyday Stroller

Best for a city break.

www.johnlewis.com

The John Lewis & Partners Everyday Stroller was awarded Silver for Best Lightweight Buggy/Stroller  at the Mother&Baby Awards 2024.

The John Lewis & Partners Everyday Stroller offers convenience and practicality. We loved the look of this travel pram, which gives style at an affordable price point. But testers also noted that it is easy to collapse, which is what you need when travelling, as well as being lightweight so it is convenient to transport even when folded.

We found this pram was amazing for city living and smooth pavements but struggled a little on more uneven terrain. So, if you are looking for something that looks great for a city break, this is an ideal choice.

Our dad tester, Chris, said: "Being easy to both collapse and fold open, it’s become our preferred choice for when we decide to take shorter walks to get out of the house. It’s also proven to be an invaluable failsafe for those situations where one of us has ‘forgotten’ that the pram is in the boot of whichever car they happen to have driven off to work in, meaning we don’t have to carry baby far on the way to nursery."

Read our full John Lewis & Partners Everyday Stroller review.

• Easy to collapse
• Suitable on smooth pavements but does not handle uneven terrain very well

3. Joolz Aer

Best for taking as cabin luggage.

www.joolz.com

The Joolz Aer was awarded Bronze for Best Lightweight Buggy/Stroller  at the Mother&Baby Awards 2024.

With a width of just 44cm, the lightweight Joolz Aer can be taken straight onto the plane and popped into the overhead locker which we love and it is a real plus for a travel stroller, especially with a carry handle to make carrying it even easier. Plus, even better the stroller is available in three colours, including refined Black, and it is made from recycled plastic bottles rescued from our oceans so it is kind to the environment too.

The large, extended hood offers UPF 50 sun protection to keep your baby safe, and also has ventilation to keep your little one cool. Its robust construction and premium feel make it suitable for both urban and rural walks, accommodating children comfortably while being easy to manoeuvre for parents of varying heights, although the reclining transition is not very smooth and reviewers thought this could be improved.

The Aer's compact fold and integrated shoulder strap make taking this pram out quite literally a walk in the park. It fits into car boots effortlessly and still leaves ample space for other essentials like trikes, scooters and shopping. We loved that despite its lightweight design, the stroller maintains a high-quality feel.

Our trusted reviewer said: "We bought this buggy when I was eight months pregnant for our 2.5-year-old and I just wish we had got it sooner. It's so lightweight yet feels sturdy. It collapses small enough so it can be stored easily and is also great for restaurants as it again goes down so easily so you have more room. We can't recommend this buggy enough, but it's worth every penny."

Read our full Joolz Aer buggy review

• Narrow design
• Fits in the overhead compartment
• Made from sustainable materials
• Good Ventilation in the hood
• Comfortable seat
• Seat recline could be smoother

4. Mamas and Papas Airo Pushchair

Best for travelling abroad.

www.mamasandpapas.com

Super-slim and perfect from birth and for growing toddlers, the Airo pushchair is perfect for navigating tight spaces. Not only is it Mamas & Papas' lightest ever pushchair, but the stroller can even be worn as a backpack when your little one would prefer to toddle on their own, which we think makes it the perfect travel stroller.

Testers liked that it folds with one hand and is solid and sturdy, thanks to the unique dual-sided wheel lock. With adjustable positions for your baby, a bumper bar, and a quick-fit five-point harness, testers loved that you can be safe in the knowledge that your little one is comfy and secure. Plus it is cabin friendly so can be carried onto the plane, yet despite being compact, it has great under seat storage. Some reviewers did note that the seat is smaller than on other strollers and so may not be as comfortable for larger toddlers.

Mother&Baby Editor, Maria Martin, said : "Myself and my 1-year-old have been testing the Airo out for about 15 months. The pushchair has served us well as a light compact travel assistant that's come in useful when boarding aeroplanes and also when out on busy city day trips. It folds down to a compact size and is super lightweight. We've been able to fit this into every car boot possible, and the under-seat storage compartment is big enough for snacks, water bottles, hats, etc. We added a couple of buggy clips too, which have helped attach a change bag whilst on the move. "I love that the seat can lie completely flat and that the Airo can be used with a sun-shield/insect net (sold separately) – handy when nap times are calling, but home is nowhere in sight."

Read our full Mamas & Papas Airo review

• Cabin-friendly
• Decent storage despite its compact size
• Easy one-hand fold
• Some found the seat smaller than most

5. Graco Myavo Compact Stroller

Best travel stroller with one-hand fold.

gracobaby.eu

With an automatic, one-handed fold, the Graco Myavo is compact and lightweight, which makes it easy to take on the go, just what you need when travelling with a little one. We like that it has the option of a three- or five-point harness system to keep your little one secure and a detachable bumper bar to make it easier to put them in and take them out. Additionally, the UPF50+ canopy provides amazing comfort and protection from UV rays, enhancing the stroller's appeal and making it a fantastic option for parents planning a holiday.

Testers liked the compact design and integrated folding lock which ensures hassle-free transportation and storage, plus they noted it fits easily into car boots, leaving ample space for other essentials. While it can be folded one-handed, testers found that the mechanism for the one-handed fold can be tricky to use at first, and also commented that their child sometimes slid down in the seat.

However, the Graco Myavo still excels in usability and build quality. Its smooth manoeuvrability over various terrains and easy recline feature makes it a practical choice for everyday use.

Our Product & Lifestyle writer, Samantha Ball, said: "It's a brilliant compact design, incredibly easy to use and lightweight enough to carry. My daughter was actually happy to stay sat in the stroller and I loved that she felt comfortable enough to stay sat in it, as she would normally try to climb out. The Graco Myavo is definitely a great travel stroller, and the one-handed fold alone was enough to impress me."

Read our full Graco Myavo review

• One-handed fold
• Lightweight design
• Large storage basket
• The one-handed lock feature can be tricky to use at first

6. BABYZEN YOYO²

Best travel stroller for newborn and beyond.

Becoming one of the go-to for many mums and dads, this versatile stroller wears a few different hats, it’s easy to take around cities and can be picked up when catching the underground or bus. Plus, it's also easy to take on an aeroplane and can be popped into the overhead lockers.

Testers really liked that the lightweight YOYO2 incorporates Hytrel elastomer suspension on all four wheels, meaning it is a very comfortable ride for your tots. BABYZEN also uses their patented Soft Drive system, eliminating the need to lock the front wheels on rough terrain for easier manoeuvrability so you can steer with one hand if needed. We also liked that the seat feels well-padded. 

It is worthwhile noting that the price is just for the frame so if you want a colour pack then you need to pay extra, which disappointed some reviewers. There's also the option to add a newborn pack which means you can use the stroller from birth.

Our Group Editor Maria Martin tested out the BABYZEN YOYO² : "This stroller is a game changer – I just love how sturdy it feels while static or on the move. It’s comfortable for my little one and folds into a cabin baggage size, keeping all straps in place. Its lightweight feature is impressive, making it all too easy to get in and out of my car boot."

Read our full review of the BABYZEN YOYO² .

• Fits most airline cabin baggage restrictions
• Four-wheel suspension for all terrains
• Price is for frame only, the colour packs are an additional £60-£80

7. Joie Pact

Best travel stroller with lie-flat seat.

www.argos.co.uk

If you're a frequent flyer looking for a practical travel pushchair, the Joie Pact might just be it. Impressively light, a doddle to fold, and seriously compact, we love that it even comes with its own storage bag and has an integrated carrying strap. It is also compatible with some models of Joie car seats which makes it even more convenient when travelling.

Reviewers really liked the all-wheel suspension which ensures a smooth ride for your baby on all types of terrain and we love the lie-flat seat, which is suitable from birth. However, there was some criticism about the back rest which doesn't fully rise and could be more comfortable.

Overall testers were impressed and said the stroller was good quality and they like how compact it is so it doesn't take up too much room in the boot of the car.

One verified reviewer said: "I bought this as I need to travel by train with my 5-month-old. I can fold and unfold it with ease with one hand, whilst holding my baby. It's extremely lightweight, and the strap is great for carrying it. It feels of good quality and will grow with my baby. It's perfect for travelling with and folds up very small to fit the boot of a car."

• Comes with a convenient carry strap
• Includes its own storage bag
• Compatible with certain models of Joie car seats
• The backrest doesn't fully rise

8. Silver Cross Zest Stroller

Best premium travel stroller.

The Zest pushchair from Silver Cross is bursting with features to make everyday strolls a breeze, plus with fun designs we think it is really stylish too. It is one of the lightest travel prams on the market, perfect for parents who need something light yet robust and great for family holidays with little ones.

The lie-flat seat and adjustable drawstring recline let you find the most comfortable position for your little one and adjust their seating position without disturbing their nap and testers liked the extendable UPF 50+ hood which keeps your little one shaded on sunny days, plus also has an air-flow mesh panel to keep them cool and dry.

While the stroller is easy to manoeuvre and easy to carry when needed, reviewers found that it is difficult to push on tough terrains due to the suspension which could be improved. However we like this stroller for travelling because it helps with keeping cool in the heat and the hood provides great protection.

Customer review: " I bought this pushchair for my five-month-old baby to take on holiday, and it was perfect. Light and cool in the heat, the hood comes far enough over the baby to get them out of the sun and has a UV protection of SPF 50.

"The only drawback, which wasn't really a problem for us but if you rely on the under-pushchair storage, then it can be difficult to access when the baby is in the pushchair and lying down, and unlike the bigger, more expensive ones, it's not really an all-terrain pushchair, although it moves perfectly over hard ground. Otherwise, it's a great little pushchair."

• Fun designs
• Easy to manoeuvre
• Convenient to carry
• Suspension across all terrains could be improved

9. Cosatto Woosh 3

Best travel stroller for design.

Rrp: £ 229.95

This pushchair ticks every box when it comes to the perfect holiday pushchair! Sleek and sporty, it's light enough to lift without thinking twice, but robust enough to tackle any terrain, thanks to all-round suspension and lockable swivel wheels. We like the one-hand fold which is convenient when travelling and we also thought the designs were fun and stylish, plus kids will love them too. Personally, we love the dinosaur design.

With comfort in mind, reviewers were impressed by the fully reclinable seat, adjustable leg rest and extra-large hood. Plus, we love that parents have been thought about too with the included cup holder so you can keep hydrated on the go. There is a large storage bag to put shopping or all those baby or travelling essentials.

Some reviewers thought it was heavier than other strollers, and they were disappointed that the foot muff is not included and has to be to bought separately. Overall though they were impressed and loved the design, convenience and comfort of this stroller.

One customer said: "My son naps really well in this and loves the bright colours and bold pattern – we tried one with a dragon design. It's smooth and sturdy to push, even on potholed streets. The hood offers excellent coverage. I love the large basket, valuables pouch and matching rain cover, cleverly stowed beneath the seat. Overall, it's a little heavy, but I can forgive that for such a robust and reliable runaround."

• Lots of fun designs to choose from
• Includes cup holder for on-the-go
• Foot muff not included which disappointed some reviewers who had to buy one separately

10. Ergobaby Metro+

Best sturdy travel stroller.

The Metro + will keep your precious cargo comfy, whether you're in Barcelona or Bromley, thanks to smooth suspension and puncture-proof tyres. We love that the seat has plush padding, as well as an adjustable leg rest and faux-leather handlebars, which make the stroller perfect for smaller or taller parents.

This is a lightweight stroller and easily fits on buses, tubes, trains and planes, weighing just 7.8kg. Reviewers also commented that it is compact when folded and can even fit in the footwell of a car. However, while the stroller feels strong the shopping baskets do not feel as secure which bothered some reviewers. Nevertheless the sleek, streamlined design is still impressive and makes this a great choice for adventures.

A trusted reviewer said: "After a lot of research, we picked the metro based on sturdiness, weight, large sun canopy and tyre size. We brought on holidays and are really happy with the product. The stroller feels much heavier than 6kg - more towards 7kg but does fold up pretty compact."

Read our full Ergobaby Metro+ review

• Sleek, streamlined design
• The compact fold can even fit in car footwell
• Adjustable handlebar
• Shopping baskets could be more secure

11. Bugaboo Butterfly

Best travel stroller to grow with them.

www.bugaboo.com

Bugaboo is always popular and the Bugaboo Butterfly is impressively compact, plus we like the one-second fold which is great for travelling but also for day to day city life. Parents were impressed with how easy it is to set up and open and they liked that it is really lightweight, plus because it is compact it doesn't take up much room in the boot of the car, which is extremely handy because we all know how much stuff you need to pack when away with children.

While it might be small and light, you can still put up to 8kg in the basket, which is perfect for a shopping trip. Unfortunately, the Bugaboo Butterfly is not suitable for newborns so you will need an alternative travel buggy for those early days, but it is suitable from 6 months and can hold a weight of 22kg. For travelling there is a shoulder strap to make carrying it much more convenient, plus it can be carried onto the plane as hand luggage.

We also love that this is compatible with various Bugaboo accessories, which is great for parents who have already purchased accessories for a Bugaboo pram.

One verified reviewer said: "Loving my new Butterfly. I opened the box, and you simply push in two buttons with one hand and the whole thing pops right open. It also closes that easily as well. It is lightweight and so compact. It has a comfortable shoulder strap so it's easy to carry for trips or even just to take up less room in the trunk when you have other baby stuff to haul around. I got green, which is the prettiest colour for our sweet little boy. The car seat adapter is easy to add to the stroller, and his Nuna Air car seat just pops right on. I love this stroller and how it can grow with our little boy for several years to come."

Read our full Bugaboo Butterfly review

• Compatible with certain car seats
• It comes with a convenient carry strap
• Easy and compact fold
• Not suitable for newborns

12. Joie Baby Tourist Signature Pushchair

Best travel stroller for hands-free folding.

www.boots.com

Suitable from birth, with a flat reclining seat, this tiny traveller is proof that big things can come in small packages, with three different modes to choose from including a carry cot, infant carrier and forward facing option. Reviewers liked that it offered multi-position recline to help your little one sleep soundly when out and about.

Weighing just under 6kg, the Tourist offers easy hands-free folding, as well as a handy carry strap and a storage bag which is great for travelling through airports or on planes, but also on buses and trains. For every day trips out to the shops, or day trips with the family, there is a roomy basket for all your essentials which we love.

Some testers found the harness is not that easy to use and can be fiddly so suggest it could do with improvement, but they liked the lockable front wheel for tough terrain and were impressed with the lie flat option making it suitable from birth. It is a great stroller to see you through from the newborn days right through the toddler years.

Customer review: "I purchased Joie Tourist for my one-year-old baby girl. I switched from a massive and heavy pushchair to a light one; it's so easy to use and can be folded and unfolded with one hand. It fits everywhere, and the design is lovely. I would recommend it."

• Harness could do with improving

13. Hauck Lightweight Pushchair Sport 

Best travel stroller for affordability.

Hauck's Sport stroller is the ideal travel companion, not only for public transport but for travelling too. The Hauck Sport has an easy and compact fold that will fit in most car boots, so getting where you need to be is simple with very little hassle.

Our reviewers thought its lightweight frame makes it easy to push around, which is great when out and about every day or on holiday. Plus the basket underneath has enough space for all your essentials. Testers did note that the wheels could be improved because they are a bit small. But for an affordable stroller this is a great option and we liked that it is strong and durable to withstand travelling and every day use.

Review: "I was pleasantly surprised about this stroller. Considering how little it costs, it really does do the job! I bought it to take on holiday with me, and it was easy to fold, super light and worked absolutely fine. It doesn't have any fancy features, but you really can't expect them for the price. I'd recommend this product."

• Easy to fold
• Extremely lightweight
• Wheels could be improved

What to consider when buying the best travel strollers

Carry strap: Some lightweight pushchairs have shoulder straps or storage bags to make them easy to carry. Think about whether this is a feature you actually need.

Folding mechanism:  Folding and unfolding your pushchair should be easy and intuitive, even when you're holding your baby. One that's freestanding when folded will take up less space in your accommodation when it's not in use.

Pocket:  Somewhere to stash your valuables is a handy feature in a holiday stroller. Check that it's big enough to hold your purse, phone and keys.

Wheels:  Some lightweights have adjustable wheels that can handle different types of terrain. Lockable swivel wheels are ideal for manoeuvring between shiny shop floors or hotel lobbies and rougher ground. If you're heading for the beach, choose all-terrain wheels with good suspension.

Brake:  The brake should be easy to apply and release. Check that it's flip-flop-friendly!

Hood:  This protects your baby from the wind and sun – a must-have in a holiday pushchair. It should extend far enough to give full coverage of your baby's body, not just her face, even when the seat is fully reclined.

Fabric:  Sun lotion, sand and ice cream are a sticky combination, so check that the pushchair fabric is easy to clean. Also, if you're heading somewhere warm, a pushchair with breathable fabric will help keep your baby cool on a very hot day.

Seat recline:  For babies under six months, choose a pushchair with a seat that reclines flat. For older babies, check that the seat reclines far enough for comfy naps on the go and that the seat is easy (and quiet!) to adjust when your baby nods off in the pushchair. The upright seat position should be at the right angle for a toddler to see everything around her without straining forward.

Harness and buckles:  Look for a five-point harness that's easy to adjust, fasten and undo, as you're likely to be popping your child in and out of a holiday pushchair more frequently than usual. Check that inquisitive fingers won't be able to undo it!

Shopping basket:  The bigger, the better! A large storage basket should hold everything you need for a day out and more. Is there plenty of space for buckets and spades, plus beach towels and sun cream?

How we chose the best travel strollers

With several mums on the team, Mother&Baby is best placed to find the best travel strollers as used and tested in real life by our own babies. Plus, we have a huge panel of real mums who test products every year for the annual  Mother&Baby Awards , meaning we get to find out the best award-winning products that have been put through their paces thoroughly and independently by our readers.

Awards testers are asked to score the product they are reviewing in four areas: usability, design, quality and value for money. Each product is scored out of 10 with each of these areas in mind, and the final score determines which products make the coveted bronze, silver and gold spots in that product category.

Find out more about how we test and what considerations we take into account in our testing process.

For the essential products, our annual  Mother&Baby Awards  shortlist the top products tested, and you can find full reviews from our mum testers provided on the product page. Thousands of our mum and dad testers have been putting these carriers and slings through their paces all year round and reporting back to help us coordinate this list of the best carriers out there.

Our shopping experts have also done their research to find the best travel strollers that have the best specifications with excellent reviews. So, which travel strollers came out on top?

Do you need a travel stroller?

Lightweight travel strollers are the perfect holiday pushchair if your existing buggy feels too cumbersome to travel with. But they're not just for holiday use – lots of parents replace their baby's first pushchair with a lightweight stroller once their baby starts walking, especially when a light, manoeuvrable pushchair is a practical choice. There are compromises to be made, though, and not all are suitable from birth.

How light do you need it to be?

A pushchair is considered lightweight if it is 7kg or less, but some weigh nearly half this! A very light pushchair will inevitably be less robust, so think about just how light you need it to be – will you be lifting it on and off trains with your baby strapped in, or carrying it with your baby in your arms when boarding a plane?

How compact do you need it to be?

When folded, most lightweight pushchairs are compact enough to fit into a standard car boot without taking up all the space. Others are designed to fold even more compactly. Check that it's freestanding when folded, too.

Emily Gilbert   is the Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby and has written for the website and previously the magazine for six years. Specialising in product reviews, Emily is the first to know about all the exciting new releases in the parenting industry.

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The 20 Best Travel Strollers of 2024

A high-quality, compact stroller with user-friendly features can simplify travel and keep children comfortable on away-from-home adventures.

Whether you’re looking to accommodate a newborn, stow your stroller in the airplane overhead compartments, or find a practical solution that won’t break the bank, we’ve done all the research for you. Read on for our all-star list of the 20 best travel strollers of 2024:

Table of Contents

The Winning Lineup

High-end (over $400)

• High-end winner : UPPAbaby Minu
• Best for overhead bin : Joolz AER
• Best self-folding : Nuna TRVL
• Most user-friendly : Bugaboo Butterfly Seat Stroller
• Best for urban transit : Silver Cross Jet 3
• Best travel system : Doona Infant Car Seat and Stroller

Mid-priced ($200–400)

• Mid-priced winner : Baby Jogger City Tour 2

Most compact fold: Cybex Libelle

• Most versatile for newborn travel : Ergobaby Metro+
• Best newborn-ready : Mountain Buggy Nano V3
• Best all-terrain : Baby Jogger City Mini GT2
• Best for warm weather : GB Qbit+ All City
• Best color options : Inglesina Quid
• Best side-by-side double stroller : UPPAbaby G-LINK 2
• Best tandem double stroller : Joovy Caboose Too Ultralight

Budget-friendly (under $200)

• Budget-friendly winner : Kolcraft Cloud Plus
• Lightest weight : GB Pockit Air
• Best all-around umbrella-style : UPPAbaby G-LUXE
• Lightest umbrella-style : Summer Infant 3D Lite Convenience
• Best self-folding budget pick : Evenflo Gold Otto

Detailed Buying Guide

Here’s the skinny on all our top picks, including whether they fit in the overhead compartment on most airplanes. We’ve used the International Air Transport Association ‘s max dimensions of 22” by 18” by 10” as our guideline, but be sure to check with your airline before heading to the airport.

High-end stunners: The best travel strollers over $400

High-end winner: UPPAbaby Minu V2

• Approximate price: $450
• Weight: 16.9 pounds
• Folded dimensions: 23” long by 20.3” wide by 12.5” high
• Open dimensions: 35.5” long by 20.3” wide by 41” high
• Does it fit in the overhead?: No
• Suspension: All-wheel
• Stroller seat age and weight range: 3 months to 50 pounds
• Under-seat storage capacity: 20 pounds!

The Minu features a one-handed folding mechanism, an included storage bag, a handy carrying strap, an extra-large sun canopy, adjustable recline and leg support, and luxe leather accents. Parents can purchase adapters to attach a car seat, infant bassinet, or standing ride-along board, all available separately. A supportive stroller seat, a seat-back pocket to hold small essentials, and a whopping 20-pound storage basket limit (the highest on our list!) make the Minu perfect for strolling all day long.

For more reasons why we love this stroller, read our complete review .

Best Aesthetics: Joolz AER

• Weight: 13.4 pounds
• Folded dimensions: 20.9” long by 17.7” wide by 9.1” high
• Open dimensions: 32.7” long by 17.7” wide by 41.5” high
• Does it fit in the overhead?: Yes
• Stroller seat age and weight range: 6 months to 50 pounds
• Under-seat storage capacity: 11 pounds

The AER boasts a one-handed fold, a carrying strap, and an included rain cover and travel bag. It’s compatible with car seats and with a bassinet with the purchase of adapters. Parents love its adjustable recline, protective sun canopy, and extended seat-back. Read our full Jooz Aer review .

Best self-folding: Nuna TRVL

• Approximate price: $500
• Weight: 13.6 pounds (not including sun canopy or arm bar)
• Folded dimensions: 24” long by 20.25” wide by 11” high
• Open dimensions: 32.5” long by 20.25” wide by 44” high
• Under-seat storage capacity: 10 pounds

The TRVL folds automatically with the touch of a button and attaches to Nuna car seats without adapters. It has a magnetic harness buckle, adjustable recline and calf support, an included carry bag, and a water-repellant canopy.

Most user-friendly: Bugaboo Butterfly Seat Stroller

• Weight: 16.1 pounds
• Folded dimensions: 21.3” long by 17.7” wide by 9.1” high
• Open dimensions: 36.4” long by 17.7” wide by 40.3” high
• Stroller seat age and weight range: 6 months to 48.5 pounds
• Under-seat storage capacity: 17.6 pounds

The Butterfly folds and unfolds in one swift movement, using one hand only. It has a carrying strap, a reclinable seat, an adjustable leg rest, an extendable canopy, an included rain cover, and machine-washable fabrics. Parents can attach a car seat with the purchase of adapters.

Best for urban transit: Silver Cross Jet 3

• Weight: 13.6 pounds
• Folded dimensions: 21.7” long by 11.8” wide by 7.1” high
• Open dimensions: 35.4” long by 17.7” wide by 39.5” high
• Suspension: Front-wheel
• Stroller seat age and weight range: Newborn to 55 pounds

The Jet 3 has a trolley mode that allows parents (and kids!) to pull it like a suitcase on wheels through subway tunnels or train stations. Parents can purchase adapters to attach a car seat or place their newborn right in the stroller seat. The Jet 3 has a magnetic buckle, adjustable recline and footrest, a one-handed fold, a pop-out sun canopy, and an included travel sleeve.

Best travel system: Doona Infant Car Seat and Stroller

• Approximate price: $550
• Weight: 17.2 pounds
• Folded dimensions: 26” long by 17.4” wide by 22.4” high
• Open dimensions: 32.3” long by 17.4” wide by 39” high
• Does it fit in the overhead?: No, but babies can sit in the Doona in flight if they have their own plane seat.
• Suspension: None
• Stroller seat age and weight range: 4 to 35 pounds (infants only)
• Under-seat storage capacity: None

The Doona is an infant car seat with stroller wheels that unfold from underneath. It comes with a car seat base, a vehicle seat protector, ergonomic newborn inserts, and a water-resistant canopy.

Mid-priced gems: The best travel strollers between $200 and $400

Mid-priced winner: Baby Jogger City Tour 2

• Approximate price: $250
• Weight: 14 pounds
• Folded dimensions: 23” long by 19.6” wide by 7” high
• Open dimensions: 37.8” long by 19.6” wide by 39.5” high
• Stroller seat age and weight range: 6 months to 45 pounds
• Under-seat storage capacity: 15 pounds

At a reasonable price, the City Tour boasts a one-handed fold, adjustable calf support, an extendable UPF 50+ canopy, a padded seat, machine-washable fabrics, an included carry bag, and a near-flat recline for peaceful naps on the go. Baby Jogger car seats attach with separately purchased adapters, as does a compatible standing glider board.

• Approximate price: $330
• Weight: 13.7 pounds
• Folded dimensions: 18.9” long by 12.6” wide by 7.8” high
• Open dimensions: 28.7” long by 20.5” wide by 40.9” high
• Stroller seat age and weight range: 6 months to 55 pounds

The Libelle requires two hands and multiple steps to collapse, but it has the smallest fold on our list. Purchase includes adapters to attach Cybex brand car seats. The Libelle features machine-washable materials and an adjustable recline and calf support.

Most versatile for newborn travel: Babyzen YOYO2

• Approximate price: $399
• Folded dimensions: 20.5” long by 17.3” wide by 7.1” high
• Open dimensions: 33.8” long by 17.3” wide by 41.7” high

The YOYO2 is compatible with several car seats, a classic bassinet accessory, and a soft newborn pack with a flat mattress that stays attached even with the stroller’s compact fold. The YOYO2 has a safety wrist strap, a water-repellant canopy, an adjustable recline, a zippered storage pocket, a padded shoulder strap, and an included carrying bag. Read our full Babyzen Yoyo2 review as well as how it compares to the Joolz Aer and Ergobaby Metro+.

Best newborn-ready: Mountain Buggy Nano V3

• Approximate price: $220
• Weight: 13 pounds
• Folded dimensions: 20.1” long by 21.1” wide by 11.8” high
• Open dimensions: 33.1” long by 21.1” wide by 38.6” high
• Suspension: Rear-wheel
• Stroller seat age and weight range: Newborn to 44 pounds

The Nano boasts a sling-style, newborn-ready seat with a lie-flat recline, a one-handed fold and unfold, a convenient carry handle and shoulder strap, an included travel bag, an extendable sun hood, and a seat-back panel for extra warmth on brisk days. An innovative tail-free harness system eliminates messy straps, and an adapter for various car seats comes with purchase.

The best strollers that fit in the overhead bin of an airplane

Best all-terrain: Baby Jogger City Mini GT2

• Approximate price: $280
• Weight: 20 pounds
• Folded dimensions: 31.5” long by 24.5” wide by 9.8” high
• Open dimensions: 41.3” long by 25.6” wide by 43.1” high
• Stroller seat age and weight range: Babies who can sit unassisted to 65 pounds

The City Mini ’s all-terrain tires are perfect for off-road destinations. It’s compatible with an available bassinet or piggyback board, and it includes adapters for Baby Jogger brand car seats. Key features include an adjustable handlebar, a hand-operated parking brake, a one-handed folding mechanism, adjustable leg support, a near-flat recline, a UPF 50+ sun canopy, and machine-washable fabrics.

Best for warm weather: GB Qbit+ All City

• Approximate price: $380
• Folded dimensions: 22.8” long by 16.9” wide by 10.6” high
• Open dimensions: 33” long by 17” wide by 41.7” high
• Does it fit in the overhead?: No (less than an inch too long!)

GB’s Qbit+ has a cool and breathable mesh seat back, a one-handed fold, a large sun canopy, an adjustable footrest, and a completely flat recline. It comes with a rain cover and car seat adapters. Read our review of the GB lineup here.

Most vibrant: Inglesina Quid

• Approximate price: $300
• Folded dimensions: 22.8” long by 18.3” wide by 6.8” high
• Open dimensions: 30” long by 18.3” wide by 40.6” high
• Under-seat storage capacity: 6.6 pounds

Parents who are tired of the muted tones of modern strollers will love the Quid , which comes in three solid hues and two bright, colorful patterns. This stroller has a one-handed unfolding mechanism, an adjustable recline and leg rest, a large sun canopy, a handy carrying handle, and low-light safety reflectors.

Best side-by-side double stroller: UPPAbaby G-Link 2

• Weight: 22.3 pounds
• Folded dimensions: 40” long by 20” wide by 14.5” high
• Open dimensions: 27.5” long by 28.5” wide by 42” high
• Stroller seat age and weight range: 3 months to 55 pounds each

The G-Link 2 is a double umbrella-style stroller with independently reclining seats, two sun canopies, two seat-back storage packets, a convenient carrying handle, and an included parent cup holder.

Best tandem double stroller: Joovy Caboose Too Ultralight

• Approximate price: $320
• Weight: 23.5 pounds
• Folded dimensions: 45.3” long by 21.3” wide by 10” high
• Open dimensions: 38” long by 21.3” wide by 42” high
• Stroller seat age and weight range: 3 months to 45 pounds each
• Under-seat storage capacity: 5 pounds

With the option to attach a car seat or change the back seat to a standing platform, the Caboose Too Ultralight is great for siblings of different ages. A car seat adapter, parent organizer, and child snack tray come with purchase. Additional features include an adjustable recline and a large sun canopy that covers both seats. Read our Joovy triple caboose review here.

Budget-friendly picks: The best travel strollers under $200

Budget-friendly winner: Kolcraft Cloud Plus

• Approximate price: $80
• Weight: 12.8 pounds
• Folded dimensions: 34” long by 18” wide by 12” high
• Open dimensions: 31.3” long by 18” wide by 39” high
• Stroller seat age and weight range: Babies who can sit unassisted to 50 pounds

The Cloud Plus is a full-featured steal with a one-handed fold, a reclining seat, an ample sun canopy. It also includes a parent tray with cup holders and a child tray. It cannot accommodate a car seat.

Read our full review of the Cloud Plus here.

Lightest weight: GB Pockit Air

• Approximate price: $199
• Weight: 10.4 pounds
• Folded dimensions: 19.6” long by 14” wide by 7.3” high
• Open dimensions: 28” long by 17.5” wide by 39.8” high

The Pockit Air is the lightest stroller on our list. It has a small sun visor, no reclining capability, and a three-point harness instead of the classic five-point system, but its 10.4-pound frame saves serious weight for frequent travelers.

Best umbrella-style: UPPAbaby G-Luxe

• Approximate price: $160
• Weight: 16.3 pounds
• Folded dimensions: 41.8” long by 19.2” wide by 12” high
• Open dimensions: 28.8” long by 18.8” wide by 43” high
• Stroller seat age and weight range: 3 months to 55 pounds

The G-Luxe is a souped up umbrella stroller with a removable parent cup holder, an extendable sunshade, a one-handed fold, an over-the-shoulder strap, and a multiposition recline.

Lightest umbrella-style: Summer Infant 3D Lite Convenience

• Approximate price: $100
• Folded dimensions: 43” long by 12” wide by 10” high
• Open dimensions: 27” long by 18” wide by 43” high

Of the umbrella-style strollers on our list, the 3D Lite is the lightest in weight. It reclines for naps and includes a removable canopy, a cup holder, a rear storage pocket, and a carrying strap.

Best self-folding budget pick: Evenflo Gold Otto

• Weight: 18 pounds
• Folded dimensions: 21.2” long by 21.1” wide by 13.6” high
• Open dimensions: 33.5” long by 21.1” wide by 40.5” high

The Gold Otto folds automatically with the touch of a button. It features an oversized sun canopy, an adjustable footrest, a multiposition recline, an included cup holder, and a zippered storage pocket. It accommodates Evenflo car seats.

The Final Verdict: Finding the Best Travel Stroller

No matter which features matter most to you, we hope our round-up helps simplify your search. We think you can’t go wrong with the UPPAbaby Minu , the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 , and the Kolcraft Cloud Plus .

Whichever travel stroller you choose, make sure you strap your youngster in securely and cherish those beautiful memories adventuring with your family!

*Some links in this post are affiliate links that support this site at no extra cost to you. Rest assured we only review what we personally use and/or have extensively researched!

With a background in medicine as a licensed physician assistant, Christy is a freelance writer and mom of two young kids. As someone who loves to ski, run, and hike, she most cherishes introducing her son and daughter to the beautiful outdoors and spending time with her precious family.

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• 【Engineering Mechanics Design & SUV Shockproof Design】 This reversible newborn foldable pram greatly improve load bearing and shock absorption with triangle frame. Effectively protect babies from harm and danger. The baby travel carriage can be used in all road situation with SUV shockproof design: front wheel spring shock and rear wheel spring shock. The stroller can be stopped immediately with equipped brake button.
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• 【Aluminum Alloy Material & Good-quality Cotton Material】 This infant high landscape pushchair is made of thick, environmentally friendly, safety aluminum alloy materials with excellent texture. This baby carriage is made of breathable sweat-absorbing, soft and dirt-resistant good-quality cotton.
• 【One-button Folding & Small Size After Folding】 This reclining baby buggy can be easily folded in one button and after folding, the size is small and it can be easily carried around.

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The 4 best travel cribs for babies and toddlers in 2024.

Finalize your decision with one of these four travel cribs.

The Best Travel Cribs

Courtesy of Guava Family

The Guava Lotus Travel Crib is so compact, you can wear it like a backpack.

There are an increasing number of travel cribs on the market these days, and nearly all of them are touted to have a lightweight design and an easy setup, which makes it overwhelming to choose the right one for your pint-sized travel partner.

Taking into consideration key factors like safety, comfort and convenience for travel – as well as recent consumer reviews, expert recommendations and our own experiences – we've chosen the best travel cribs for babies and toddlers.

Best Overall: Guava Lotus Travel Crib

• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓

Best Lightweight: BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light

• Best Budget: Graco Pack 'n Play On the Go Playard

Best for Toddlers: hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed

Note: All travel crib dimensions are listed in order of length by width by height.

Highlights:

• Especially convenient for air travel, the Guava Lotus Travel Crib can be worn like a backpack in an included carrying case with padded straps, then checked as a bag.
• The Guava Lotus is GreenGuard Gold Certified , which means its emission levels are even lower (and better) than industry standards.
• It doubles as a bassinet and playard featuring a zippered door for easy access to your baby.

Setup: The Guava Lotus is easy to set up. The sturdy aluminum frame's hinges swiftly snap in place with the touch of a button. Once the frame is assembled, a fabric cover with mesh sides can be zipped on before you place the included waterproof mattress with a sheet (which is not included) inside. Then the mattress is secured to the frame via a buckle on each corner. When it's time to take the crib down, you don't have to disassemble the entire thing – another reason to love this option.

YouTube tutorial: Guava Lotus Setup | Guava Lotus Teardown

Maintenance: The mattress is easy to wipe down, and the crib's fabric portion is machine-washable.

"I've taken this crib all across the world over the past three years, and it still looks as good as new. We initially bought this crib because we were wary of using hotel cribs during COVID. We quickly fell in love with it and still bring it on every trip we take. Additionally, we purchased the optional sun shade, which came in handy on beach trips in our daughter's infant days." – Tamiz Ahmed , co-founder of Poppylist

Courtesy of BabyBjörn

• If you're specifically looking for something lightweight, meet your match: The BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light is one of the lightest travel cribs on the market.
• The crib comes with a mattress and carrying bag.
• All materials meet OEKO TEX Standard 100, Class 1 standards for baby products – meaning the crib permeates low levels of chemicals and is also free from as many as 350 harmful chemicals, making it safe for a baby's skin and curious mouth.

Setup: The frame of the BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light is assembled in one swift motion. Next, the mattress is placed inside and secured to the crib's legs. When it's time to put the crib away, the mattress and crib frame easily fold down.

YouTube tutorial: BabyBjörn Travel Crib Setup | BabyBjörn Travel Crib Teardown – Option 1 | BabyBjörn Travel Crib Teardown – Option 2

Maintenance: The mattress can be wiped down with a damp cloth, and both the mattress cover (which can be zipped off) and the other fabric on the crib are machine-washable.

Best Budget: Graco Pack 'n Play on the Go Playard with Bassinet

Courtesy of Graco

• This crib comes with a full-size bassinet insert that folds with the playard when it's time to transport or put away the crib.
• The crib also has a toy bar with soft toys to amuse your curious baby.
• A carry case is included with this crib.

Setup: First, hit the crib's push buttons to assemble the frame. Once the four rails are locked, you can push the crib floor down before placing the mattress inside. Finally, secure the mattress straps (on the bottom) to the playard. To disassemble, you'll reverse the process almost exactly: Unfasten the mattress straps, remove the mattress, pull the tab at the bottom of the crib and – using the push buttons – fold the crib down.

YouTube tutorial: Graco On the Go Playard Setup and Teardown

Maintenance: The crib can be wiped down with mild soap and water, while the carry bag is machine-washable.

" The Graco Pack n Play On the Go Playard offers all the bells and whistles of other travel cribs, but at a far more affordable price ($80 vs. $150-$300). In particular, the removable bassinet is a game-changer during those early weeks of parenthood. My family used it during our first two weeks home with our daughter, and I appreciated that it provided a safe sleep space but didn't require me to bend over and stress my sore body. After that, we moved it to my mom's house and, even though it's super easy to fold and store, she keeps it out because it doesn't take up a lot of space." – Leah Rocketto , Associate Commerce Director at What to Expect

Courtesy of hiccapop

• Long and tall bumpers ensure your little one won't roll off the bed.
• It inflates with an included electric pump and rolls up into an included carry bag.
• The bed comes with a lifetime satisfaction guarantee and top-notch customer service.

Setup: The setup for this toddler travel bed is similar to that of a traditional air mattress – simply use the included electric pump to inflate the bed frame with rails and a mattress pad.

YouTube tutorial: hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed Setup and Teardown

Maintenance: The hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel bed can be wiped down with soap and water.

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Guava Lotus vs. Baby Björn

When choosing the best travel crib to purchase, the final decision for many buyers often comes down to the Guava Lotus Travel Crib and BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light since they're so similar.

If you're undecided between the two, see which crib wins in the following categories:

Your decision may ultimately come down to the type of traveler you are. If you frequently travel (especially by plane), the Guava Lotus is the best choice.

Guava Lotus vs. Newton Travel Crib

Many people also compare the Guava Lotus with the Newton Travel Crib, a newcomer to the travel crib market. The Newton Travel Crib mimics the Guava Lotus almost exactly, but here are some key differentiators (and the reasons we ultimately recommend the Guava Lotus instead):

• Price: At $299, the Newton Travel Crib is about $50 more than the Guava Lotus.
• Weight: The Newton Travel Crib is also 2 pounds heavier than its predecessor, weighing in at 17 pounds.
• Setup: While the Newton Travel Crib is easy to set up, many buyers say that disassembly is difficult.

Travel Crib Accessories

When purchasing a travel crib, think about the other essentials your baby will need for restful naps and nights in your destination – especially since they'll be in an unfamiliar environment. These might include:

Room-darkening curtains: If your little one is accustomed to sleeping in a pitch-black room at home, you'll want to ensure your hotel room or vacation rental bedroom is as dark as possible. There are a few ways to do this:

• Use foil and duct tape:  It won't look pretty, but covering the windows with foil and duct tape is a cost-effective option.
• Invest in a Slumberpod:  The highly rated  SlumberPod  ($180) is essentially a tent that goes over the travel crib, ensuring total darkness for a peaceful night's rest. For a cheaper alternative, check out the  Dofilachy Blackout Cover  on Amazon.
• Buy portable blackout curtains:  Purchase a set of curtains that won't take up too much space in your luggage. These  portable blackout curtains from Amazon Basics  are highly rated and come with a storage bag.

White noise machine: Even if you already have a white noise machine you plan to pack, you might consider buying an additional, more portable option to use in tandem with it – especially if you'll be in a small space with older siblings who stay up later. U.S. News editors say they've had good experience with both the Yogasleep Hushh Portable Sound Machine (also useful for stroller rides) and this option by Magicteam .

Portable fan:  A small battery- or USB-powered fan is a useful accessory when traveling with little ones – you can attach it to the travel stroller and car seat on hot days and secure it to the travel crib on warm nights. There are a variety of affordable, well-rated stroller fans on Amazon, including this adjustable option by AMACOOL .

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Amanda Norcross is a family travel expert who regularly travels with her toddler. Shortly after she found out she was pregnant, she excitedly bought the Guava Lotus Bassinet Kit & Travel Crib and – despite its hefty price tag – never regretted it once.

You might also be interested in:

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• How to Get Your Child a Passport
• The Best Family Vacations in the U.S.
• The Best Spring Break Family Destinations
• The Best Family Travel Insurance

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Tags: Travel , Travel Gear , Family Vacations

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• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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The Ultimate Packing List for Flying With a Baby

This is how to survive hours in the air with your little one.

In This Article

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• Packing Checklist

Tips for Packing

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Travel + Leisure / Alli Waataja

As a mom of two, I know from personal experience that the thought of flying with a small baby can be terrifying. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do it. Travel is one of the greatest gifts you can give your children. I first flew with my daughter from South Africa to the United Kingdom when she was just shy of four months old. With family in both countries, it’s a journey we’ve done multiple times since. I soon learned that the key to making the experience as stress-free as possible for all involved (parents, baby, fellow passengers, and airline crew!) is planning and preparation. Consider your little one’s needs carefully, and then think about how you can meet them 35,000 feet above ground. 

From getting them to sleep to keeping them entertained, here are our packing essentials for flying with a baby, defined here as a child under a year old. This list haa been carefully chosen according to my own experience as well as that of two experts: Dr. Natalie Prevatt — an NHS pediatric travel, tropical medicine consultant, and the lead clinician at the Children’s Travel Doc — and veteran flight attendant Samantha Sharpe. 

Packing Checklist for Flying With a Baby

This is by no means an exhaustive list. I haven’t included many of the most obvious, day-to-day items that you most likely already have and keep in your baby bag anyway, from diapers to wet wipes and burp cloths. There are some things, like pacifiers and bottles, that your baby will have a specific preference for and these should remain unchanged before a trip (there are enough variables up in the air without worrying about whether your baby will accept a new teat type, for example.) You also won’t need everything on this list. Tailor your choices to align with your particular routine, destination, flight length, and airline rules and regulations.

Sleep and Entertainment

• Best Infant Headphones: Alpine Muffy Noise Reduction Earmuffs
• Best Tablet: Amazon Fire 7 Kids Tablet
• Best Inflatable Bed: Flyaway Kids Bed
• Best Teething Toy: Lamaze Mortimer the Moose Clip & Go
• Best Book: Priddy Books First 100 Words
• Best Noise-Free Toy: The First Years Stack & Count Stacking Cups

Food and Drink

• Best Portable Bottle Warmer: Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Portable Bottle Warmer
• Best Formula Dispenser: LotCow Portable Powder Dispenser
• Best Travel Cup: Munchkin Miracle 360 Trainer Sippy Cup  
• Best Snack Container: Bentgo Kids Chill Lunch Box

Strollers and Carriers

• Best Baby Wrap: KeaBabies Baby Wrap Carrier 
• Best Baby Carrier: Ergobaby 360 Cool Air Mesh Carrier  
• Best Lightweight Stroller: Babyzen YoYo2 Stroller

Accessories

• Best Breastfeeding Cover: Copper Pearl Multi-use Nursing Cover
• Best Travel Blanket: Everyday Kids Car Seat Blanket
• Best Changing Pad: Kopi Baby Portable Diaper Changing Pad
• Best Packing Cubes: Remobia Hicol TSA-approved Diaper Bag Organizer Set  
• Best Sunscreen: Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Mineral Sunscreen

Getting a baby to sleep can be hard enough at home, let alone on a noisy airplane. If I have just one tip, it’s to enquire well in advance about booking a baby bassinet. If they can’t be reserved, arrive early enough at the airport to give yourself a good chance of being allocated one. For long-haul flights, paying for a separate seat to use with your car seat is another option, although Dr. Prevatt advises that babies should not sleep in an upright position for more than a few hours since it can affect their oxygen levels. When it comes to entertainment, opt for noise-free, mess-free toys without too many pieces to potentially lose.

Best Infant Headphones

Alpine muffy noise reduction earmuffs.

Both my children loved the sound of the airplane engine and at night, its low vibration worked just as effectively as a sound machine for getting them to sleep. However, if your baby needs a quiet environment to drift off or if you’d like to avoid overstimulation while waiting to board in the bright and busy airport, infant headphones are a good idea. 

These ones from Alpine Muffy are designed to protect the sensitive hearing of little ones up to 36 months old. I love that the extra soft, adjustable headband is made from non-slip elastic to avoid exerting pressure on Baby’s delicate fontanelle, and that they’re proven to reduce noise to just 23 decibels. They’re super light, easy to clean, and come in a convenient travel pouch with a choice of colors ranging from Olive Green to Pink.

Best Inflatable Bed

Flyaway kids bed.

I hesitated including this category because most airlines allow children under two to fly at a significantly discounted rate if they sit on their parent’s lap. For this reason, purchasing an extra seat just so you can use an inflatable bed may seem excessive. But, for long flights when baby bassinets can’t be booked in advance, having a guaranteed place to sleep may well be worth it. 

Inflatable beds are not allowed by every airline, and those that do permit them often accept certain brands only. I love the Flyaway Kids Bed because it takes the guesswork out of your purchase, with a full list of approved and at-the-stewardess’-discretion airlines on its website. It inflates relatively quietly in just 90 seconds to create a full, secure bed that serves the dual purpose of preventing toys rolling onto the floor. It’s relatively compact by travel bed standards but will still take up about three pounds of your precious carry-on allowance.

Best Teething Toy

Lamaze mortimer the moose clip & go.

Traveling with a baby is one thing. Traveling with a teething baby is a whole different ball game. You’ll want to pack teething gel and possibly (if recommended by your doctor), some infant Tylenol. A toy with chewable elements for soothing sore gums is another lifesaver, both for your baby and your fellow passengers. 

When I took my daughter on a 11-hour flight at 18 months, she was cutting several teeth simultaneously. The Mortimer the Moose Clip & Go from Lamaze was her go-to comforter. She loved chewing on his textured, easy-to-clean antlers and tail rings, while his brightly colored crinkling and jingling hooves helped provide distraction from her discomfort. When she finally drifted off, multi-use Mortimer also doubled as a plushy for cuddling.

First 100 Words

A tray table is key to many methods of entertaining a wide-awake baby, whether you’re helping them play with stickers and stacking toys or using it as a tablet stand. Takeoff and landing can therefore be tricky — not only does the tray table have to be stowed, but this is the time babies are most likely to be affected by changes in cabin pressure and most in need of distraction.

Books are a great option during these times: they’re mess- and noise-free, have no moving parts to roll away while the seatbelt signs are on, and are easy to grab before stowing your bag in the overhead bin. My kids loved Roger Priddy’s First 100 Words long before they were able to talk. It’s got big, bright, colorful images of familiar items ranging from pets to food and more than 35 flaps for keeping baby engaged. It’s also travel-sized with sturdy board pages.

Best Noise-Free Toy

The first years stack up cup toys.

The first time I flew with a baby, one of my greatest sources of anxiety was disturbing or upsetting other passengers. I quickly learned that you can’t always control how much noise your baby makes; but you can make sure their toys are quiet. If they’re interactive and simple enough for the baby to use with minimal assistance, all the better. 

Stacking cups punch way above their weight in this category. My kids loved this simple set from The First Years. Both of them could be entertained for an amazing amount of time by nesting the cups and taking them apart again, using them to build towers, or playing hide-and-seek with some small object placed underneath them. A sturdy clip keeps the cups neatly together and when you reach your destination, small holes transform them into fun beach or bath toys.

Best Tablet

Amazon fire 7 kids edition tablet.

In an ideal world, we’d be able to keep our little ones entertained without resorting to screen time. But trust me, if there’s ever a time and place to relax the rules, a couple of hours into a long-haul flight is it. When all else fails or I simply need a break, I let Paw Patrol (in my daughter’s case) or Thomas the Tank Engine (in my son’s) take over. 

The Amazon Fire 7 Kids Tablet is the smallest and most portable of Amazon’s tablets made especially for kids. It comes in a virtually indestructible kid-proof case with a built-in stand for your airplane tray table. A Parent Dashboard allows you to filter age-appropriate content and purchases. It also includes a subscription to Amazon Kids+. Choose 16 or 32 GB of storage and relax knowing that for the first two years, any device that breaks will be replaced free of charge.

As Dr. Prevatt points out, the low level of humidity on board makes it especially important to keep your baby hydrated. Remember that breast milk, formula, and baby food are exempt from standard liquid limitations . Sharpe confirms that cabin crew will never impose restrictions on breastfeeding at any stage of the flight unless there’s an emergency. And flight attendants can always provide warm water for heating bottles, although it’s best to avoid asking during busy meal services. Consider investing in a portable warmer for full independence. Finally, snacks are great for both sustenance and entertainment.

Best Portable Bottle Warmer

Tommee tippee travel baby bottle warmer.

 Amazon

Whatever stage your baby’s at and whether they take formula, bottled breastmilk, cow’s milk, or even puréed food in a jar or pouch, it’s likely they prefer their food served at body temperature. This isn’t as simple to achieve on a plane as it is at home, because the commercial convection ovens used to heat adult meals are impractical for warming baby food. 

This is where the beautifully simple Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Portable Bottle Warmer comes in. It doesn’t require electricity or any other external heating source — instead, it consists of an insulated, stainless steel flask with a leak-proof lid and sturdy plastic sheath. Simply pour boiling water from the flask into the upturned sheath and sit your bottle or pouch inside to warm up. The warmer fits compactly into your bag and can be refilled as needed by the cabin crew.

Best Formula Dispenser

Lotcow portable powder dispenser.

Flying with a formula-fed baby can seem daunting, simply because of the extra time and effort required to get your crying child what they need as quickly as possible. The key to minimizing stress for everyone is advance preparation. Instead of bringing your regular formula tub with you and attempting to measure out powder in the cramped confines of your seat, use a portable powder dispenser like this one from LotCow. 

Made from BPA-free plastic, the dispenser consists of four separate moisture-proof and leak-free containers that stack together to create a conveniently packable cylinder measuring roughly seven by three inches. Each one holds about two ounces of milk powder that can be tipped into baby's bottle in seconds. On shorter flights, you could even use some of the layers for storing snacks.

Best Travel Cup

Munchkin miracle 360 trainer cup.

Starting at six months, babies should be offered a drink of water with every meal. This is especially important on a flight, where low humidity levels can cause dehydration even in adults. Some children master the art of drinking out of a proper cup quicker than others, but if yours (like mine) ends up soaked every time, you’ll want a sippy cup for travel.

I loved the Munchkin Miracle 360 Trainer Sippy Cup so much the first time around that I sought it out for my second child even after moving countries. First, it’s truly leak-free, with a soft plastic valve that fits all the way over the top. It’s also spoutless, which means babies can drink from anywhere around the rim in a way that protects their dental health and encourages normal muscle development. The handles fit little hands perfectly and it’s easy to clean on the go.

Best Snack Container

Bentgo kids chill lunch box.

If your baby is old enough for solid foods, there’s good news. Packing a snack box not only ensures they’ll be full even if they don’t like whatever baby meal is served on the flight; it’s also one of the very best ways to keep them entertained. Bento boxes help with this by providing spaces for lots of different foods for maximum interest. 

The Bentgo Kids Chill Lunch Box stands out for its quality construction, leak-proof clip-and-seal design, and choice of bright, baby-friendly colors. It offers four compartments of varying sizes for everything from cereal to fruit pieces or sandwich fingers and (best of all), an optional, built-in ice pack that fits underneath the food tray to keep contents fresh and safe to eat even after hours in the air. When you get to your destination, it’s dishwasher and microwave safe.

Before you travel, it’s important to decide how you’ll be transporting baby through the airport. It’s often a long walk, sometimes with connecting buses or trains, so keeping your little one safely secured and supported is crucial. A baby carrier is a great option for navigating crowds with minimal fuss while keeping your hands free. You can also take your stroller all the way to the airplane door. If you plan on doing this, Sharpe recommends investing in one that fits into the overhead bin rather than having it checked to avoid unnecessary delays at the other end. Alternatively, she says, the Doona X stroller doubles as a car seat that can be used on board.

Best Baby Wrap

Keababies baby wrap carrier.

My daughter was born in South Africa, where wraps like the KeaBabies Original Wrap Carrier are one of the most popular and traditional methods for hands-free baby carrying. Although it took me a few tries to perfect the art of tying the wrap correctly (definitely something to master before you fly), she loved its womb-like closeness. It’s great not only for getting babies from point A to B in the airport, but also as a way of comforting them or getting them to sleep onboard. 

Consisting of a single length of stretchy, sturdy fabric, the KeaBabies wrap offers just the right amount of elasticity to hold and support your baby securely, while distributing weight evenly to minimize strain on your back and shoulders. It’s one-size-fits-all can be worn by mom or dad with zero adjustment, is safe from birth, and packs away compactly when not in use.

Best Baby Carrier

Ergobaby 360 cool air mesh carrier.

Although wraps like the KeaBabies one are technically suitable for children up to 36 months of age, I found that both of my kids were too heavy for me to carry in this way by the time they were around nine months old. The natural next step is a soft carrier like the ergobaby 360 Cool Air Mesh Carrier, which is designed for use from 4 to 48 months (up to 45 pounds.) 

The ergobaby 360 stands out for its award-winning design, which allows you to switch between four comfortable and safe carrying positions: on the front of your body facing inwards, on the front facing outwards, on the hip, or on your back. When forward facing, the baby’s hips are held in the “M” position to protect against hip dysplasia. Breathable mesh keeps them from overheating, while padded shoulder straps and a wide waistband save your back and shoulders.

Best Lightweight Stroller

Babyzen yoyo2 stroller.

Although you can use any stroller all the way up to the airplane door and then have it checked separately, the Babyzen YoYo2 with a newborn pack (suitable for babies zero to six months) is one of the few that folds compactly enough to fit in the overhead bin. It can be folded and unfolded with one hand, which is a lifesaver when trying to juggle your baby, diaper bag, and passport simultaneously.

It also tips the scales at just 14.5 pounds. This lightweight compactness makes it ideal not only for air travel, but also for exploring your destination because it fits just as easily into an overhead bin or taxi trunk. The stroller includes a five-point harness, a comfortable one-inch, lie-flat mattress, and UPF 50+, water-repellent fabric. You can also attach the YoYo2 bassinet and later, the six+ color pack for older babies over six months.

We’ve covered the main areas of traveling with a baby, but what about the easy-to-overlook accessories that make all the difference? These range from breastfeeding covers (Sharpe recommends researching whether your destination has any modesty laws that may make this a particularly important choice) to sunscreen (Dr. Prevatt points out that children under the age of 15 are especially at risk of skin cancer if allowed to burn which can occur while waiting on a hot airport concourse.) Look for accessories that make life easier by simplifying essential tasks, whether that’s changing a diaper or finding what you need in your carry-on.

Best Breastfeeding Cover

Copper pearl cover canopy.

While I’m a firm believer that women should be able to breastfeed wherever they like without having to cover up, there is something especially intimidating about doing so in a confined space surrounded by perfect strangers. The Copper Pearl Multi-use Cover is made from lightweight, stretchy, and breathable fabric that provides full coverage without feeling restrictive for either of you. 

I particularly like that the opening is wide enough to allow you to easily view your baby (my son refused to drink if he couldn’t make eye contact) and check for a correct latch. The cover also comes in super handy on vacation as a car seat or stroller cover, takes up virtually no space in your diaper bag, and comes in an endless choice of gorgeous watercolor-style prints.

Best Travel Blanket

Everyday kids car seat blanket.

If your baby already has a favorite blanket, then that’s the one to take on your flight. But if, like mine, they’re ambivalent about which blanket they use as long as they’re warm, the plush fleece Everyday Kids Car Seat Blanket could be a useful option especially if you plan on bringing your car seat on board or if you end up with a bassinet that has a five-point harness. Safety features for the latter vary, but I’ve flown with at least one airline where this was the case.

The blanket has universally spaced notches that align with most five-point harness straps, keeping it secured to the car seat or bassinet so that it doesn’t end up on the less-than-sterile airplane floor every time Baby kicks. The swaddling style is easily unwrapped, too, so that you can prove your little one is securely fastened during turbulence without waking them up.

Best Changing Pad

Kopi baby portable changing pad.

While you’re definitely going to need your regular, full-size baby bag to carry everything you need for the flight, a portable changing pad like this wipe-clean one from Kopi Baby makes all the difference when it comes to the Olympic sport that is attempting to change a diaper in the tight confines of an airplane bathroom. 

When folded away, it measures just 7.5 x 11.5 inches and resembles a regular clutch bag. But when opened up, it reveals a full-size changing mat with a built-in pillow and three mesh pockets with enough space to store up to five diapers as well as other essentials from rash cream to diaper bags. I especially love the smart wet wipes pocket, which features an opening that dispenses wipes for one-handed convenience, even when the pad is folded.

Best Packing Cubes

Remobia hicol tsa-approved diaper bag organizer set.

Organization is the key to minimizing stress when flying with small children. After all, there’s nothing worse than trying to juggle a screaming baby while rooting around helplessly in your bag for an item that has somehow disappeared just as you need it. Enter the Remobia Hicol Organizer Set, a collection of five packing cubes designed especially for parents. 

They’re made from sturdy, transparent TPU plastic, making it easy to see at a glance what they contain. The various sizes lend themselves to categorizing your diaper bag contents (one for spare clothes, one for snacks, one for medicines and so on), while the fact that they’re both waterproof and easy to wipe clean prevents unnecessary mess. They’re TSA-approved for convenience through security and nest inside each other neatly when not in use.

Best Sunscreen

Aveeno baby sunscreen.

Aveeno 

Sunscreen may seem like an odd item to include on this list since there’s no chance of sunburn in the airport or on the plane. However, many airports in hot countries lack covered walkways from the plane to the terminal. It’s also easy to forget to apply sunscreen once you leave the airport in the chaos of clearing customs and collecting luggage. 

Additionally, bringing sunscreen with you guarantees access to a brand you know and trust, and can test on your baby’s skin for sensitivity prior to travel. I recommend packing a travel-sized mineral sunscreen like this one from Aveeno for on-the-go protection. At three fluid ounces, it complies with TSA restrictions and is especially formulated for babies (doctor’s advice recommended for those under six months), using naturally sourced zinc oxide to provide hypoallergenic, fragrance-free SPF 50 protection.

Try not to overpack

There are a lot of items on this list, and many more besides that will be part of your everyday baby routine — from bottles and pacifiers to burp cloths and diaper cream. Remember that you don’t need all of them. Think carefully about which are most relevant for your baby, your flight (duration, time of day, and number of layovers), and unique situation (are you flying alone, or will you have someone to help juggle baby and luggage?) Then, try to limit your packing to the things that you’re most likely to actually use, because flying with a baby is overwhelming enough without having to keep track of or carry a ton of extra gear. 

Consider the flight time

When packing your diaper bag, tailor its contents according to the length of your flight, making sure you have enough diapers, wipes, milk, and snacks to last the duration with a few extras in case of any unexpected delays. If it’s a long flight, prioritize snacks that don’t need refrigeration and consider ways to increase the entertainment value of each one (e.g., individually wrapping some items so they’re fun to open together or cutting sandwiches into quirky shapes.)

When booking your flight, bear in mind departure and arrival times. If you can, choose an overnight flight or one that coincides with your baby’s longest sleep period (I know these are not always the same thing!) And remember: when flying with a baby, if you can stretch your budget to get the most direct route, the extra expense will be well worth it. Layovers shouldn't be too long or so short that you end up having to run to catch the next flight. Minimize stress, wherever possible. 

Prepare for the unexpected

While it’s important to try and resist the temptation to pack everything including the kitchen sink (see our first tip), you should also prepare for a few worst-case scenarios. In my personal experience, these could range from being vomited on mid-flight (pack an extra shirt for yourself and at least two spare changes for baby) to your perfectly well infant suddenly developing a high fever. Dr. Prevatt suggests packing a basic first aid kit with essentials your baby might need since airline medical kits are minimal and not packed with infants in mind. 

She also frequently hears from breastfeeding moms who haven’t wanted to wake their sleeping baby to feed and therefore end up struggling with engorgement. She recommends learning to express by hand in advance or, if you have space in your carry-on, packing a portable breast pump. Meanwhile, Sharpe says that she often sees parents struggle due to not packing enough snacks and activities. If there’s one thing she’d recommend leaving at home to make space for these essentials, it’s a bulky inflatable baby bed.

According to Dr. Prevatt, it’s theoretically safe for a healthy baby to fly from the first day of life. However, most airlines only allow babies to fly from seven days old because it takes a week for the ductus to close (completing the transition from a fetal to an infant heart). If there is anything wrong with a baby’s heart, it most often presents in the first seven days of life. Up in the ai and, away from medical care is not where you want to be should any such issue arise. Premature babies or those with known conditions may require medical clearance to fly.  

Dr. Prevatt notes that the greatest risk of flying with a newborn is to the mother rather than the baby. To avoid postpartum deep-vein thrombosis (DVT), women who have given birth in the last two months should book an aisle seat so that they can perform leg exercises and walk freely around the cabin. Having your baby on your lap puts extra compression on your thigh veins, so take turns with your travel partner if you can. And even if you’re not breastfeeding, abstain from alcohol and caffeine and be sure to drink extra water since dehydration increases risk of DVT.

Babies under two years old are allowed to fly on your lap or in an approved infant car seat. Dr. Prevatt points out that although there have been very few reported injuries caused by an infant sitting on their caregiver’s lap rather than in a car seat, it is still recommended to use a car seat for safety since it is a moving vessel. Policies vary slightly between airlines ( British Airways only accepts forward-facing seats, whereas American Airlines allows seats to be installed in the direction appropriate for the size of the child, for example) so check with yours in advance.  

You should remember that to guarantee being able to use an infant car seat onboard, you must book a separate seat for your baby — a much more expensive option than having them on your lap. Dr. Prevatt also notes that small babies must not stay in an upright position for more than a few hours since it can affect their breathing — so on longer flights, you’ll need to be prepared to cradle them in your arms for hours at a time or use an airline bassinet.  

A bassinet is an absolute godsend, especially on an extended or overnight flight. My daughter spent most of her first 11-hour flight sleeping peacefully in hers. However, the availability of these bassinets is limited because they can only be fixed to the bulkhead. And while some airlines allow you to book them in advance, others assign them on a first come, first served basis which means that you should always be prepared for the possibility of not getting one.

My top tip? Attempt to book a baby bassinet. If that’s not possible, turn up to the airport early in the hope of being assigned one. If that fails, ask if there happens to be an available seat that you can use for your car seat (you should bring one anyway, since a child must still be restrained on car rides in foreign countries and relying on your own is safer than renting). If there is, you may be allowed to use it without having to pay extra. If not, the car seat will be checked for you, typically free of charge, and baby can sleep in your arms.

There are pros and cons to both approaches. A stroller is useful because you can stash items in the basket, it saves you from having to carry your baby (especially great if they fall asleep while waiting at the airport), and you can use it all the way up to the airplane door. Here, Sharpe says, it will be loaded into the plane’s cargo hold by the ground handling agents. In theory, it should be waiting for you near the door when you disembark at the other end, too. 

However, Sharpe points out that occasionally there can be a miscommunication and strollers end up in the oversized baggage pickup area or at the luggage carousel with the other bags, leaving you stranded with no easy way to carry Baby through the airport. I have also waited for quite a while to have the stroller delivered to the correct place, which can be very stressful if you have a short transfer window. To limit the chances of this happening, Sharpe recommends having check-in staff put a note on your booking and re-iterating this to the flight attendants and ground staff on both ends of your journey. Alternatively, investing in a stroller that fits into the overhead compartment eliminates these issues completely. 

Having experienced my fair share of stroller delivery issues, I would recommend checking your stroller in with your luggage for use at your destination and using a baby carrier to transport your little one from check-in to airplane. The many pros outweigh the one obvious con (having to bear their weight all the way), and include being much more mobile in a crowded airport, having both hands free for your other luggage and passport checks, and giving Baby the comfort of being held close to your body in an unfamiliar and overwhelming new environment.

Sharpe says that parents are often unaware that normal liquid restrictions do not apply to breast milk and formula. TSA states that both of these substances are considered medically necessary liquid and put no restriction on the amount you can bring on board. This applies to juice, too. You just need to remove these items from your carry-on bag to be screened separately at security. However, be aware that TSA rules only apply in the United States. Sharpe points out that at Heathrow Airport in London, for example, you may bring aboard up to 2 liters each of baby food and milk as long as it’s stored in a clear, transparent container or bag. Check airport and airline rules carefully before flying to avoid any confusion.

The change in cabin pressure during take-off and landing affects babies’ ears in the same way it does adult ears — by sucking the eardrum backwards or forwards. However, Dr. Prevatt says that this is more painful for babies (and in fact, 20 percent of children experience a pain so severe that an adult would not be able to put up with it) because the Eustachian tubes that connect the mouth and ears are so much smaller.  

This makes it much harder for babies to equalize effectively, a problem compounded by the fact that they can’t understand how to do so. Swallowing is the easiest way to help them equalize. Therefore, it’s important to breast or bottle feed during take-off and landing. I recommend bringing a pacifier as well in case your baby refuses to drink in the strange environment that is a noisy, cramped airline seat. As a breastfeeding mom, I can confirm that getting a good latch can be tricky because both you and your baby will have to wear a seat belt during take-off and landing, making cradling them in the usual way a little awkward.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Jessica Macdonald has been writing about travel gear for more than 10 years and has flown with both of her children many times since they were four months old. She sought the expert opinion of Dr. Natalie Prevatt, a children's travel medicine consultant and the lead clinician at the Childrenstraveldoc , which offers remote telephone consultations to prepare pregnant mothers and children for travel. Samantha Sharpe also provided invaluable insight from her perspective as a former nanny and flight attendant who previously worked for Qatar Airways and now flies for one of the UK’s largest airlines.

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