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The 15 Best Travel Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

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

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying

You May Also Want

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Phoebe Cheong

If you're traveling with a child under 4 years old or so, you need a stroller. But your everyday stroller might not be ideal for packing into trains, planes, and automobiles or for bringing in and out of a hotel. If you plan to travel even somewhat often with your little ones, you might want to invest in a travel stroller, which is typically smaller and more scaled-back with a collapsible frame. Many travel strollers fold multiple ways to reduce the length, width, and height, while others fold one way into a narrow but still-long piece. In the end, you want your travel stroller to be comfortable and safe for your child while folding up into a very compact, easy-to-carry package.

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

Best Overall

Joolz aer+ baby stroller.

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

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Travel + Leisure / Phoebe Cheong

Best Overall, Runner-up

Nuna trvl lightweight stroller.

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

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Claire Cohen

Best Budget

Kolcraft cloud plus stroller.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel & Leisure / Phoebe Cheong

Best for Warm Weather

Gb qbit+ all city stroller.

The back is made from breathable mesh to allow for airflow.

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

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

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

Best Folding

Uppababy minu v2 stroller.

It folds up far more compactly than other UPPAbaby models.

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

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best for Cities

Babyzen yoyo2 stroller.

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

The clips and buckles can be hard to maneuver.

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

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

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

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

Best Double

Uppababy g-link v2 stroller.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cybex Libelle Compact Stroller

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Maneuverability

Bugaboo butterfly stroller.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best for Air Travel

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

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Compact

Contours itsy.

Once folded, this is about the size of a large grocery bag.

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

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

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

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

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

Best Comfort

Baby jogger city tour 2 stroller.

This rolls smoothly on various terrains, making it comfortable for riders and pushers.

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

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

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

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

Best Umbrella

Uppababy jordan g-luxe stroller.

The umbrella folding feature is more straightforward to use than other folding models.

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

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

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

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

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

Best Lightweight

Zoe the traveler.

It's one of the lightest options on this list.

The attachable snack tray is sold separately.

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

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

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

Most Adjustable

Thule shine.

The leg rest and handlebar are adjustable, providing comfort for parents and passengers.

It can be hard to turn on sharp corners.

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

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

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

Other Travel Strollers We Liked

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tips for Buying a Travel Stroller

Consider the types of travel strollers.

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

Pay attention to folded size

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

Look for storage space and additional features

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

Prioritize comfort and safety

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

Traveling with a toddler? You're going to need a lot more than a travel stroller to help things go smoothly — or at least as smoothly as traveling with kids can be. These items will make your next trip a little easier, whether you're taking a road trip or flying internationally.

Graco Contender Slim Convertible Car Seat : This lightweight car seat is great for families who are traveling with lots of luggage — it weighs only 16 pounds and doesn't feel as bulky to carry around as other options. Installation only takes about 15 minutes.

​​ Stokke JetKids BedBox : Kids can ride on this spacious suitcase through the airport (a lifesaver for little ones who get bored while traveling), then turn it into a footrest or bed on the plane. It also comes in multiple colors and can be decorated with stickers.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

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

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The 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 | fact checked by shannon vestal robson.

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

We’ve folded and unfolded, packed and unpacked and (sweatily) pushed a lot of travel strollers over the years. After conducting our own testing and talking to both travel experts and the real heroes—parents who travel frequently with their babies and toddlers—we think the Joolz Aer+ Lightweight Stroller is the travel stroller you should bring along on your next adventure. It offers a smooth ride over almost any terrain and folds compactly in seconds with just one hand.

And if you want to keep shopping, we also chose six other top picks across more specific categories like the best travel stroller for everyday use, the best choice for planes and our favorite double travel stroller.

Why Trust Babylist?

Babylist is the expert in baby; we know baby gear inside and out. We talk with parents face-to-face in our showroom and on our user panels and hear from thousands of people annually via our Best Baby Products survey. We know what items millions of expecting parents are adding to their baby registries.

In addition to being Babylist’s gear editor, I’ve also been a mom of two boys for over a decade. I’ve traveled with them at every stage both domestically and internationally on airplanes and on several long road trips. I’ve had the opportunity to test dozens of travel strollers in both my professional and personal life, and used those insights to inform my best-of picks. I reviewed travel stroller feedback from thousands of parents through Babylist’s annual Best Baby Products survey of over 6,000 Babylist users. I also spoke with a group of Babylist team members, all parents who travel frequently with their little ones, and picked their brains about the strollers they love and why. And I talked to Kim Militello, a former flight-attendant-turned-Babylist-employee (and a mom of three) about all things travel + kids. 

The Best Travel Strollers

Best Overall: Joolz Aer+ Lightweight Stroller

Best for Toddlers: Bugaboo Butterfly Complete Stroller

Best Affordable: Summer Infant 3Dquickclose CS+ Compact Fold Stroller

Best for Everyday Use: UPPAbaby MINU V2 Stroller

Best for Planes: Babyzen YOYO2 Stroller Bundle

Best Double: Zoe The Twin V2

Best Travel System: Nuna PIPA urbn + TRVL Travel System

How We Judged

Suspension and maneuverability. A smooth, easy-to-turn stroller is a better experience for you and your baby, especially when you’re traveling. We ensured all of our picks made strolling as effortless as possible.

Ease of use. All of the strollers on our list are easy and intuitive to use. We focused on fold, size and weight when choosing our best travel strollers because we know from our own experience—and from what we’ve heard from thousands of Babylist parents—that folks prioritize these features when choosing a travel stroller. 

Features. We made sure all of our picks had thoughtfully designed features to make you and your baby the most comfortable while you’re away from home like large canopies, good storage, recline options and carry handles.  

Value. Travel strollers range from under $100 to over $500. We didn’t limit our best-of picks by price, but we did factor it in while making our top choices so you can be sure you’re spending your money wisely.

Best Travel Stroller Overall

Joolz Aer + Lightweight Stroller - Sage Green

• Quick, compact one-handed fold and built-in carry strap
• 4-wheel suspension rides smoothly like a full-size stroller
• Compatible with top-rated car seats + bassinet (sold separately)
• Small storage basket
• Expensive, especially if used infrequently for travel
• Some parents noted a flimsy brake that may not fully engage

I’ve tried many travel strollers over the last decade, and the Joolz Aer+ is the one I come back to again and again. Parents in our Best Baby Product survey highlighted the Aer+ as “lightweight and smooth” and repeatedly called out its compact fold and incredible maneuverability. And Babylist team member and mom of three Amanda pegged it as her all-time favorite travel stroller.

“I’ve brought it on several trips and it’s great quality and extremely light. It fits in the overhead compartment, which makes it great for going through the airport. It is easy to push/handle and you can push it with one hand,” she told us.

Pushing the Aer+ doesn’t feel much different than pushing a larger, more expensive stroller—and that’s one of the main things I love about it. That’s because the Aer+ has four-wheel suspension, an uncommon feature in travel strollers. It glides effortlessly across uneven surfaces like bumpy sidewalks and dirt paths.

Combined with the incredibly easy one-handed fold (after a few tries, it won’t take you more than two or three seconds, ever), the compact design and the comfortable seat that contours to fit your child’s body, this stroller is a great choice for travel and everyday use. (It currently occupies a permanent spot in the trunk of my car in addition to coming along on all trips.)

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 sling over your shoulder—there’s a carry strap built right in—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.

The stroller’s biggest con is the basket size, which is small, but it’s still large enough to fit an average-sized diaper bag. You’ll also need to purchase the footrest separately if you want one, which is frustrating for a stroller at this price point.

Real Parent Reviews

“The Aer is an amazing stroller. Like over cobblestone and brick with no trouble and actually the easiest stroller to open or fold one-handed while being wicked lightweight. [My son] also LOVES being in it.” — Babylist Best Baby Products survey parent feedback

“I thought I needed the big fancy stroller everyone has…but after five months I just wanted something more mobile, portable, [and with a] smaller footprint and this has just been the greatest stroller and so much comfier than the other one for my baby.” — Babylist Best Baby Products survey parent feedback

“I live in New York City and have five strollers because it has been so challenging to navigate the streets. Everyone in my area has a different travel stroller so I was hesitant to buy something different but I’m so glad it did. This is the best purchase by far. I wish I would’ve known about this before registering for so many different products. It truly is a one-hand fold, which is great for the train, plane, car and going up and down stairs. It is light, moves with one hand and is sturdy. It’s narrow enough to go down aisles but also roomy for my child. There is an extended shade, which is perfect and there is an air vent so I can see her. I absolutely love it. It has made my life and my child’s life so much easier and SAFER! I purchased the extra foot extension for my one year old which folds with the stroller and the handlebar. In my opinion, it is worth the money.” — Vanessa D.

Additional Specs

Best Travel Stroller for Toddlers

Bugaboo Butterfly Complete Stroller - Midnight Black

• Compact, quick, one-handed fold and built-in carry strap
• 4-wheel suspension for a smooth ride
• High backrest = good for older/taller kids
• Highest upright position is still fairly reclined, which can cause kids to slouch or slide down
• A few pounds heavier than our top travel stroller pick

There are two travel strollers I recommend to families regularly: the Joolz Aer+ (which I’ve raved about sufficiently above) and Bugaboo’s newest compact stroller, the Butterfly. This style-forward stroller shares many of the same thoughtful features as the Aer+. It also has a four-wheel suspension system, a huge perk when I pushed it on anything other than smooth pavement and perfect for toting around my larger toddler. While it doesn’t maneuver quite as easily as the Aer+ (and recognize I’m being really nitpicky in saying that), it’s pretty darn close; it moves and turns really well and I was able to steer it with only one hand. 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 and will fit in the overhead bin on most airlines. There’s also a built-in carry strap, a must-have for me.

Where the Butterfly differs from the Aer+ is in its backrest. It’s high; my 95th-percent-in-height almost three-year-old still fits perfectly in it. If you’re a parent of a taller or older kid, this feature is noteworthy as it means you’ll be able to use the Butterfly longer. There’s also an almost full recline and a built-in footrest for extra comfort, two more toddler-friendly features. And the sun canopy on the Butterfly is one of the best I’ve seen of all the travel strollers on our list.

The Butterfly is pricey. The storage basket is larger than the Aer+’s but still on the smaller side. And the back wheels 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.

“After using it on multiple flights to places around the world, I’m so happy with this choice! It’s become our go-to stroller over our full-size even for everyday life. When unfolded it definitely feels a little bigger than some of the other FAA-approved travel strollers, but this is great for taller parents and for kids to grow into.” — Theresa A.

“The basket had a high weight capacity for such a compact stroller & the seat back is tall which gives me peace of mind with my 96th percentile tall baby. Overall an amazing stroller and I appreciate that it comes with the rain cover.” — Ysabel E.

Best Affordable Travel Stroller

Summer 3Dquickclose CS+ Compact Fold Stroller

• Lots of features + great functionality for the price
• Opening and closing is fast and easy
• Small wheels + no suspension = a bumpy ride
• Fold isn’t as compact as other travel strollers
• Detachable cup holder and cell phone holder stick out on the sides and are a bit flimsy

If you can’t or don’t want to spend upwards of $500 on a travel stroller, or if you don’t travel frequently enough to justify a higher price tag, Summer Infant’s 3Dquickclose is your best bet. At under $100, this lightweight stroller matches many of the features found on the much higher-priced travel strollers on our list. It’s about 17 pounds, which is only a pound heavier than the Bugaboo Butterfly. Its most noteworthy feature is the fold; it’s quick and one-handed, and there’s a carry strap to make it easy to take on the go.

Performance-wise, the 3Dquickclose lacks a suspension system and has plastic wheels, so you won’t get as smooth of a ride as with more expensive picks. But it still has a ton going for it, especially considering the price. The 3Dquickclose handles well on paved surfaces. It’s easy to push and steer, the recline is adjustable and the fabrics are soft. The storage basket is big enough to tuck away an average-sized diaper bag or a jacket and some snacks, and the canopy provides good shade. One of the best features is infant car seat compatibility. The 3Dquickclose accepts a variety of seats from popular brands like Graco, Chicco and Baby Trend, and there are no adapters needed—just secure the seat with the included strap.

If you’re debating between this stroller and another lower-cost option like an umbrella stroller ( Summer’s 3D Lite Convenience Stroller is a popular umbrella-style pick), I’d choose this one. The 3Dquickclose is more compact, easier to maneuver, can be used from birth and has much better storage and sun coverage, among other things.

“I bought this stroller because it folds down very compact and my car doesn’t have the biggest trunk, but this is sturdy enough to travel on the airplane as well. My kid hates sun in their eyes so the extended canopy is a must. I like that there is a car seat belt that tucks into the stroller for when you need to put an infant car seat on the stroller. The basket is big enough to hold a diaper bag and even another purse or bag. It’s super easy to fold the stroller down and open it back up again, you can quickly do it one-handed. It’s not a cheap feeling stroller, it has a good weight to it but the shoulder strap for carrying it from the car to wherever will help. Main cons are: the seat padding isn’t great so I might see options for additional padding if my kid is gonna sit/sleep in the stroller for longer than an hour or 2, the wheels are plastic whereas I would prefer a stronger material like rubber, and the handrail to push the stroller stays in only one position instead of being able to adjust the angle & height. Overall I definitely recommend this stroller especially for those looking for a compact stroller as this one folds down the most compact that I’ve seen.” — NJ

“Let’s start with the negatives…1. No snack tray for baby…but you can buy it separately. 2. The cup holder and phone holder are very flimsy but they do the job. 3. The storage basket is somewhat large for the size of the stroller, but there is a bar that kind of limits the full access to it. 4. Wheels are plastic. Now to the positives. 1. Super easy installation. 2. Extremely easy to fold and unfold. 3. Super smooth to maneuver. 4. You can lock the front wheels if desired. 5. Looks expensive. 6. LOVE LOVE LOVE the extended sunshade for the baby. 7. The peep window on the sunshade is far back enough that you don’t have to “look for” the baby. 8. I’m short (5 ft) and my husband is average height (5ft 10in) and both of us feel comfortable where the handle height is. 9. The recline is easy to use. 10. The buckles are easy to use and I love that the cover for the crotch strap is wide. 11. You can use your Graco car seat with it. Overall I really really like this stroller. It is small enough to travel with or fit in compact places but large enough to have all the benefits of a full-size stroller. I would tweak it just a tad bit but you honestly can’t beat the price for what you are getting. — Ashley L.

Best Travel Stroller for Everyday Use

UPPAbaby Minu V2 Stroller - Jake

• 4-wheel suspension + large basket = a stroller built for travel & everyday use
• One-handed, compact, self-standing fold
• Includes carry strap and storage bag
• Two separate foot brakes for stop-and-go
• Canopy can be flimsy and become detached
• Heavier and bulkier than other travel strollers

When I became a parent, travel strollers were just what they sounded like: strollers used for travel. Fast-forward a decade and the world of lightweight strollers is something else entirely. UPPAbaby’s Minu is a great example of these advances, a compact stroller that can also be used as an everyday option.

From your neighborhood to your family adventures and everything in between, the Minu offers all the conveniences of a day-to-day stroller in a travel-friendly package. According to many Babylist parents we spoke to, this stroller can do it all.

“We never bought a full-size stroller because [the Minu] met all our needs,” one mom told us. “It’s light, easy to use, and fits overhead on a plane. Our infant carrier was a different brand and still clicked in like a breeze when our girl was little. There are available attachments if you want cup holders and other extras. There are cheaper travel strollers out there, but since getting this one was enough for us to forgo a full size, it provides a great value.”

Babylist team member Cassie, a mom of a toddler and a new baby, agrees. “It’s truly our primary stroller, not just travel. Given what I know about the Minu I often tell my husband I’d likely just get that if I was expecting now, and not also get the Vista.”

A few of my favorite features on the Minu V2 include 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 or an infant car seat plus adapters, which will cost you. And while it folds compactly, it is bulkier than some of the other travel 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 traveling (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

“We love how little this stroller is, and that smaller babies can still fit in the seat. Unfortunately the canopy is not very secure so gets messed up every time we fold it up which is fairly annoying. Other than that, it’s very well designed and we use this 90% of the time over our Vista because it takes up less car space and is easier to fold up. — Jillian Tellez Holub H.

Best Travel Stroller for Planes

Babyzen YOYO2 Stroller Bundle - Black Frame/Aqua Color Pack

• Compact fold, fits in overhead bin
• Lots of options for customization and accessories (for an additional cost)
• Comfortable, padded seat and straps
• Fold isn’t intuitive; takes some practice
• Shorter seat back, so not a good choice for taller kids
• Narrow storage basket won’t fit average-sized diaper bags

Traveling by plane presents a challenge when your little one still uses a stroller. “Checking a stroller means it goes with the rest of the luggage and no one’s really paying special attention to it,” says Militello. “It goes up and down ramps, gets thrown from one area to the next, and [you have to] pick it up on the carousel.” Gate checking is an option, but many parents still don’t love the idea of letting such an expensive item of baby gear out of their sight.

The YOYO2 folds the most compactly of any of the travel strollers on our best-of list, and will fit easily in the overhead bins on most planes. (PSA: It’s always worth a call to your airline just to be sure.) It’s 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. “[The YOYO] is the best travel stroller and it has been SO easy to travel with overseas and around the country and you can carry it on,” one parent told us in our Best Baby Products survey. “It’s super light, easy to clean and works like a dream.”

It performs like a champ off the plane, too, easily steering through crowds and narrow spaces. It’s also endlessly customizable, a unique feature I really like. You can change out the seat and shade fabrics with a new color pack , add a custom footmuff for cooler temps or a stroller board for an older child and even add a storage bag that uses wheeled support so your stroller won’t tip. And it’s compatible with many popular infant car seat brands.

The fold on the YOYO2 isn’t as intuitive as other travel strollers on our list; there are two steps, and it takes some practice. 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, which can add up quickly as this stroller is expensive on its own.

“As a mom of four, I always had my hands FULL of various things…so dealing with a huge bulky stroller was NOT IT. I had a big, full-size Nuna at one point. It was a great stroller but it was too much stroller. We got the Yoyo2 and it was a game-changer. It’s so lightweight but still sturdy. It could maneuver through tight spaces like clothing racks at stores or big crowds without any issues. For a lightweight stroller, it even handled various uneven terrain well enough, which was an initial concern. Plus it folds down to be smaller than a carry-on piece of luggage, whereas my big stroller literally took up my entire trunk. Critically, it’s a little tricky to learn how to fold and needs two hands but that wasn’t a deal breaker. It got easier the longer we used it. And while it can handle mildly uneven terrain (think small cracks in sidewalks, gravel roads, etc), if it got any more uneven than that, it was a chore to get it to work.” — Angela

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

Best Double Travel Stroller

Zoe The Twinᵛ²

• Slim frame while still feeling roomy and comfortable (fits Disney size requirements)
• Easily converts to a triple or quadruple stroller with additional seats
• Huge sunshade and storage basket
• Doesn’t roll well on uneven ground or rougher terrain
• Some parents complained about the cup holder on the outside of the frame getting caught in doorways
• Fold isn’t compact

Double strollers often feel big and bulky, even those designed specifically for travel. That’s not the case with Zoe’s The Twin. It’s a delight to open, close and even lift in and out of your car, making it perfect for traveling with two (or more) kids or for times when you don’t want the hassle of a larger stroller.

I was able to open and close the stroller in seconds (and without reading the instruction manual) the first time I tried. Because traveling with kids often involves all of the snacks, I appreciate that this travel double comes with a child snack holder right out of the box. (There’s a parent cup holder included, too.) The stroller weighs about 19 pounds, which is really light for a double. And it’s only 29 inches across, so it fits through standard doorways with ease and is Disney-approved. If you’re traveling with more than two kids, the Twin converts into a stroller for three or even four by adding a triple or a quad seat.

On the cons side, The Twin doesn’t handle well off-road—it’s designed for smooth surface strolling. It also doesn’t accept infant car seats or bassinets, and it doesn’t recline flat, so it’s not a great choice for newborns.

“Had my eyes on this baby since the day I found out I was on my way to 2 under 2! I couldn’t have been happier with this decision. Lightweight, compact when folded, EASY, and so cute…canopy provides sun coverage when necessary, but the best is watching my babies be NEXT to each other and not separated.” — Jordan M

“The stroller is extremely easy to maneuver and the folding feature is the best for storage. Our family takes the Twin everywhere. We have put over 100 miles on it and it still rides like it’s brand new.” — Michaella

“This stroller is super lightweight despite the amount of room, oversized canopy and a large storage basket. My toddlers have plenty of room and enjoy riding in it next to each other. I do wish the wheels were a little better at navigating pavement bumps and cracks, it gets tricky, especially with the added weight of both kids.” — Brie

Best Travel Stroller Travel System

Nuna PIPA urbn & TRVL LX Travel System - Cedar

• Baseless infant car seat included (no adapters needed)
• Compact, lightweight stroller
• Includes carry bag
• Car seat has lower height and weight limits than others
• No snack tray attachment available
• Stroller handlebar isn’t adjustable like with other Nuna strollers

If you know you’ll be traveling frequently throughout your baby’s first year, you may want to invest in a travel system (a stroller and car seat that attach; here’s more on how to pick a travel system ). This combo is my favorite and what I wish I’d had eight years ago as a new mom living in New York City who 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.

TL;DR on infant car seat installation: almost all infant seats can be installed without a base, but require a seat belt—along with time and patience. But not the urbn! There’s no base, no seat belt required for installation AND the LATCH system is built right into the seat’s base. This means the seat installs effortlessly and in seconds. I’m blown away every time I try it; you simply press a button on each side of the seat and push to attach it directly to your vehicle’s lower anchors. That’s it. It’s as foolproof as it gets, and especially ideal if you’ll be using your car seat on the go in rideshares or taxis. “I love being able to move the car seat in and out of any car without worrying about a base,” one Babylist parent told us.

The included TRVL stroller is just as great. The two standout features for me are 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 + a bit 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.

Keep in mind that the TRVL is on the pricier side and 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 a 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.

“I love this travel system. The car seat alone is lightweight and the stroller has many options and is easy to fold down. It’s not light but strongly built so I figure that’s the trade-off.” — Elizabeth R.

“The baseless quick install has been a breeze. Whether he is going in my car, my partner’s, uncle’s, or his grandma’s—no need for a base for quick insert.” — Dana N.

“Love this stroller. So light and easy to push and fold. I was able hold my 20+lb baby, fold this and put it on the X-ray belt without holding up the security line. It’s the closest I’ve come to feeling like superwoman. It also fit comfortably in the overhead bin. Only downside I would say is the storage space underneath as it is a lot smaller than we’re used to with our Nuna Demi Grow.” — Meghan T.

How We Chose Our Best Travel Strollers

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 me, 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 spoke to Kim Militello, a Babylist team member and a mom of three who previously worked as a flight attendant for many years, about traveling with kids (and all of their gear). We also spoke to a group of Babylist team members, all parents who travel frequently with their little ones.

We read customer reviews from hundreds of Babylist users and spoke to parents on our Babylist staff about their real-life product experiences.

Travel Stroller Basics

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.

Stroller pros and cons

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

Traditional strollers: Everyday strollers typically have convenient features like lots of storage space, adjustable handlebars, cup holders and large canopies. Many also have suspension systems and can 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 or small car trunks).

Umbrella strollers: Bare-boned and exceptionally lightweight, umbrella strollers 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 strollers: Also called lightweight or compact strollers, 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.

Do I need a travel stroller?

Figuring out the best stroller to use for travel comes down to what type of trade-offs you want to make around budget, space and personal preferences. There’s no right or wrong answer, and what works for one family may not work for another. “We traveled all around the world with the UPPAbaby Vista V2,” Xan, a Babylist team member and mom of two, told us. “With two kiddos, it is the best! It’s the most universal when it comes to traveling on different sidewalks and surfaces and it holds a ton.”

Before you invest in a travel stroller, ask yourself:

How often do I travel, and to what types of destinations?

How much do I want to spend?

Where will I store the 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. 

What to Look for in a Travel Stroller

A travel stroller should be easy to take with you on trips and be a comfy spot for your little one. 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 are important. Look for one that’s lightweight and manageable. Also pay attention both to the folded and unfolded size of your travel stroller. If you’re planning on using it for an older toddler, also be sure it’s large enough to accommodate them.

Fold. You’ll be folding and unfolding your stroller often while on the go, whether it’s to take it in and out of your car, stash it under a table at a restaurant or store 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 help determine 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.

Flying with a Travel Stroller

Spend a few minutes in any parenting forum and you’ll likely see a question from an anxious new parent about flying with a baby—and all of their stuff. It’s daunting, and there are a lot of questions to answer. How do you get your stroller 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.

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. “The advantage to this is that you don’t have to carry it with you around the airport if you’re not using it,” says Militello. Pair a front carrier with a backpack-style diaper bag so your hands will be free to deal with other things (like the best travel toys that will make your trip a breeze). Just remember that your stroller will be subject to the same rough treatment as the rest of your checked baggage—no special attention and lots of tossing around. And 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. “When you gate check a stroller, it’s handled more with care,” says Militello. “Gate-checked items are usually more fragile and are hand carried from the entrance of the airplane to the bottom of the airplane and vice versa. They’ll deliver your gate-checked item right to the exit of the plane when you get off so you don’t have to to go the luggage carousel and will have immediate access to it once you deboard the plane.” 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. If your stroller collapses small enough, it can be stored in an overhead bin. Having your stroller with you eliminates the potential for damage and the hassle of waiting for it on the jet bridge or at baggage claim. But strollers count as a carry-on item. “You typically only get one carry-on item, so choose wisely!” Miletello recommends.

Keep these other tips 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 and want to check it with your luggage or at the gate, then you’ll probably want to use a travel stroller bag. Look for a padded option to help protect your stroller in case it gets dropped or tossed around. If you’re not planning on flying much or if you’re using your travel stroller as a 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 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 9 Best Travel Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

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

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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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• Baby and kid

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

May be out of stock

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 two years, and I’ve tested dozens of strollers from 16 brands in that time. For a 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 comes only in black or gray (you can also buy a blue-green, special-edition model that’s about $60 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.

Best travel stroller 2024: lightweight buggies for holidays

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

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

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

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

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

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

The top three

The best overall travel stroller 

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

Read more below

The best flexible travel stroller

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

The best lightweight travel stroller

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

Best travel stroller 2024 ranking

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

The best travel stroller overall

1. BABYZEN YOYO2

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

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

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

• Back to the top ⤴

2. Silver Cross Zest

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

3. Joie Aire Pact Lite

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

The best adaptable travel stroller

4. Silver Cross Jet

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

The best compact travel stroller

5. Ickle Bubba Globe Ultra Compact Travel Stroller

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

The best small travel stroller

6. GB Pockit+ Stroller

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

The best affordable travel stroller

7. Red Kite Baby Push Me 2U

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

The best comfortable travel stroller

8. Chicco Echo

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

How we test

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

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

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

How to choose the best travel strollers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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We Tested the Best Travel Strollers for Every Type of Adventure

These are lightweight, small, and ready to make your trip easier

In This Article

Our Favorites

Our testing process, other notable travel strollers, factors to consider.

• How to Use a Travel Stroller Safely

Your Questions, Answered

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.

Recall Alert

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. 

• 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

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.

• 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. 

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.

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.

Related Articles

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.

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.

Joolz AER Stroller

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.

Colugo The Compact Stroller

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.

Delta Children Jeep TurboGlyde Side by Side Double

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 .

Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Ultra-Compact Travel 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.

gb Pockit Air Lightweight Stroller

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.

Evenflo Pivot Xplore Stroller Wagon

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.

Cybex Libelle

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.

RELATED : 50 Must-Have Baby Registry Items

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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Best light and compact travel strollers tried and tested by parents 2024

The best travel strollers for hassle-free travel with your baby from birth to toddlerhood, and beyond

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• The quick list
• 1. Best overall
• 2. Best for jet setting
• 3. Easiest to fold
• 4. Smoothest ride
• 5. Most compact
• 6. Best longevity
• 7. Best for rough terrain
• 8. Best for small cars
• 9. Most lightweight

Best for comfort

• How to choose

Which travel strollers are allowed on planes?

What’s the best travel stroller to take abroad, how we tested the best travel strollers.

The best travel strollers are light, compact and easy to fold in a hurry so we put nine of them to the test to help you choose the right one, whether you're planning a short break with a baby or a long-haul holiday with a toddler.

Travelling with a baby can be daunting but don't let it put you off making plans for a family adventure. Instead, take time to choose the best travel stroller for your family's needs. Because - just like choosing the best newborn pram when you're expecting a baby - picking the right travel pushchair can make exploring the world with your baby a whole lot easier. 

Each of the travel-friendly buggies in this buying guide has been tested by our parent reviewers with children of different ages and in different conditions to give a true picture of their performance in real life. We asked our testers to consider key features including how easy they are to fold and how light and compact they are to lift, carry and store. They also tested them for style and design appeal, overall functionality, and ease of manoeuvrability on different terrain.

(Note: A travel stroller is not to be confused with a travel system, which is a different thing altogether - check out our explainer What is a travel system? if you're not sure what the difference is.)

Recent updates

We updated this buying guide to add a new travel stroller to the line-up after putting it to the test. We also checked all the price information contained in this buying guide and made sure all the strollers were in stock and still available to buy.

Best travel strollers 2024: the quick list

No time to read the full reviews? Choose from our summary of the best prams: 

It's sleek, stylish, lightweight, handles well, and it folds extremely easily. Best of all, it's easy to carry with just one hand, even whilst holding your baby. 

Jump to read more

It takes seconds to fold/unfold the this impressively engineered stroller. It's a marriage of style and function with well-thought-out extras, like a shoulder strap for easy carrying.

With a smooth, one-handed folding mechanism - just press two buttons on the handle and watch it collapse into itself concertina-style - this stroller makes travelling easy.

A nifty, lightweight option that's oh-so-easy to fold - even with one hand. It's also the smoothest ride and the best travel stroller for manoeuvrability. 

Weighing just 6kg, this stroller folds down so compactly that you can fit it in an overhead locker, plus it's a dream to fold thanks to the clever design. 

The best thing about this stroller? Its longevity. It's pricier than others but delivers value as you can use it from birth to four years. It's also super-light and easy to fold.

This stroller boasts a sturdy chassis that makes for a smooth ride. You also get lots of extras included like a footmuff, coffee cup holder, rain cover, and extendable hood. 

Ideal for occasional use such as short shopping trips or on a staycation, this stroller is also a great choice if you have a small car boot with minimal storage space for a pushchair. 

Weighing 5.6kg, this stroller is light enough to lift in and out of a car boot easily - even if you’re pregnant. It also folds very compactly. 

Comfort is king with this lightweight, easy-to-fold and beautifully designed stroller. It also gets bonus points from us because it comes almost fully built. A win if ever there was one. 

Best travel strollers 2024 - tried and tested by parents 

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

Best travel stroller overall

1. silver cross clic travel stroller.

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

✅ You want a reclining seat: The seat is comfortable, even for tiny babies, and reclines for comfy snoozes.

✅ Easy folding is a priority: You can pop the Silver Cross Clic up with one hand and it folds just as easily. 

✅ You use public transport or travel using an airline: Perfect for parents on the go, this will appeal to parents who combine  babywearing  with using a  pushchair as has a handy shoulder strap.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You're looking for luxury: This stroller is not as plush or luxurious as a traditional pram with a lie-flat bassinet. If that's your vibe, check out the Joie Tourist or the Joolz Aer .

The bottom line

🔎  Silver Cross Clic Stroller Review There is a lot to love about this sleek, stylish and lightweight all-rounder, from its reclining seat to the fact it's easy to fold plus it's suitable from birth to four years. ★★★★★

Tested by: Floss Guppy, mum to eight-week-old daughter, Josie.

Our baby gear expert says:  Every detail on the Silver Cross Clic has been cleverly thought through. You can pop it up with one hand in a literal second and it folds down just as easily. It's super compact and has a handy shoulder strap which we found especially useful when it came to navigating the London Underground with a newborn.

The Clic is ideal for parents who use public transport frequently or who are planning to travel by airline with a baby or toddler. It's also a good choice for parents wishing to combine  babywearing  with using a  pushchair because it's light and easy to fold away when you want to pop in a car boot or store it. The seat unit seems super comfortable, even for very young babies, and it reclines easily for comfy snoozes on the go - our tester found the recline feature smooth and ‘really easy’ to operate.

Parent tester, Floss, says: "That level of comfort extends to the person pushing it too - manoeuvering the Clic almost effortless. The wheels offer a smooth ride and seem less flimsy than those on other travel strollers, although the wheels aren't up to off-roading or very rough terrain, particularly with a younger baby." The Silver Cross Clic has the added benefit of being suitable from birth until four years old, meaning you don't need to invest in another pram for your baby's first six months; the Clic can cope with it all.

GoodtoKnow verdict:  The Silver Cross Clic is our top pick of the best travel stroller for 2024 because it's compact and lightweight, making it a brilliant buy whether you're dashing through a busy airport or tackling daily urban life with a little one. The fact that it fits in the overhead compartment of an aeroplane makes it extra convenient for travel use, but there's no compromise when it comes to comfort, style or durability.

Read more: Silver Cross Clic stroller review

Best for jet setting

2. babyzen yoyo2.

✅ You'll be jet-setting often: If you're whisking your little one away, this can fit overhead as cabin baggage.

✅ Style matters: You can choose the colour and different add-ons. 

✅ You want ease: With individual suspension on all four wheels and an integrated strap, this can be popped up in a couple of seconds using just one hand.

❌ You're on a budget: It's one of the more expensive pushchairs you can buy, especially because you can customise it. 

❌ You want an adjustable handlebar: It's fixed at quite a high position, which felt a bit awkward during testing.

🔎  Babyzen Yoyo2 If you live in a city or plan on travelling abroad a lot with your little one, this is the perfect travel stroller. Aesthetically pleasing, well made and super lightweight and compact, it can even be classed as cabin baggage. ★★★★

Tested by: Anna Watt and her eighteen-month-old, Harry.

Our baby gear expert says:  Lightweight, travel-friendly, compact and easy to fold, the YOYO2 from Babyzen can be classed as cabin baggage, so it's unsurprisingly popular with celebrities and jet-setting parents. Kitted out with individual suspension on all four wheels and an integrated carrying strap, this buggy makes travelling with tots easy. 

Parent tester, Anna, says:  "The Babyzen YOYO2 is aesthetically pleasing, with a small curved frame and high-quality mono-colour fabric. The hood is thick enough to keep the strong summer sun out of my baby's eyes, while the handlebar has a leather feel and feels much sturdier than the handle on a typical lightweight pushchair. 

"The basket can carry up to 5kg which is more than enough for my change bag and some shopping, and the buggy frame can support a shopping bag attached to the handlebar when your child is seated in the pushchair."

All in all, the Babyzen YOYO2 is a great choice for a toddler, although its low position to the ground slightly put our tester off the idea of using it as a pram with the bassinet attachment. "I like that a toddler is close enough to the ground to easily get out of the buggy independently once the straps are opened, but I probably wouldn't choose this for a newborn as I'd prefer my baby to be higher up and closer to the person pushing the pushchair," she said.

GoodtoKnow verdict:  Overall, this is a well-made, stylish pushchair that you can use from birth (if you purchase the YOYO+ newborn pack) up to around five years. However it does come at a cost. But, as Anna explains: "It's good value for money considering you could use this as your sole pushchair, rather than, as I did with my first child, and many do, have a main pushchair and a more compact foldable stroller for when travelling."

Read more: Babyzen YOYO2 review

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Easiest to fold

3. joolz aer.

✅ You want a premium stroller: With very few flaws and a truly luxurious feel, the Joolz Aer is a high-quality option.

✅ You're after a compact design: It's super compact when folded and has an integrated carry handle so you can carry it on your shoulder.  

✅ You want a stroller with all the extras:  Along with a smooth, one-handed folding mechanism, it also has a deep shopping basket, a bag hook on the handle, and an extra storage pocket for personal items and valuables. 

❌ You're on a budget: Priced at around the £400 mark, this is the most expensive travel stroller in our guide.

🔎 Joolz Aer A premium stroller that's compact when foded and can be pushed with one hand. It has multiple recline positions for naps on the go, plus a lovely big shopping basket, a bag hook and a handy storage pocket for your phone or bank cards. Brilliant - if you can afford to spend £400.  ★★★★★

Tested by: Charlotte Clarke, mum to 22-month-old daughter Adelaide.

Our baby gear expert says: They thought of everything when it came to designing the Joolz Aer. The smooth, one-handed folding mechanism is a dream - you simply press two buttons on the handle and watch it collapse, concertina-style, into itself.

Parent tester, Charlotte, says:  "My minor gripe is sometimes the buttons don’t engage on the first go but I think this would improve with regular use. When folded down, this stroller is flat and tiny with a carry handle so you can hoist it up and carry it over your shoulder like a bag. When collapsed, the Aer is about a third of the size of my usual travel system. It's a bit of a revelation to me that pushchairs can be this compact."

When upright, the Joolz Aer is light and smooth to push with relatively sturdy front wheels that swivel 360 degrees. "With my toddler on board, I could easily push this with one hand," Charlotte says. "There’s lots of padding in the seat unit and multiple recline positions for naps on the go so when Adelaide snoozed, I simply unzipped the back and gently laid her down. There was no fiddling with straps.

"The storage options on the Joolz Aer are particularly impressive. It has a deep shopping basket, a bag hook on the handle, and an extra storage pocket at the back for personal items and valuables. Stroller manufacturers often overlook how important storage is so I’m pleased it’s been given proper thought."

Verdict:  At £399, the Joolz Aer is at the top end of the price spectrum for a travel stroller but if it's within your budget, we're confident it'll be money well soent. "If you are planning to use the Aer regularly, rather than just for travel use, or hoping to use it for several children as your family grows, you’ll appreciate the extra features it has compared to cheaper travel strollers," she adds. "So it’s definitely worth the price tag."

Read more: Joolz Aer pushchair review

Smoothest ride

4. joie pact pro.

✅ You want a one-handed folding pushchair: The Joie Pact Pro's folding mechanism is a major selling point. Brands often claim their pushchairs can be folded with one hand but this one really can - our tester put it to the test by attempting to fold it whilst holding her child. So easy! 

✅ You want a compact design: Once folded, this pushchair is extremely compact; it's not all that much bigger than a large laptop. It's also the perfect size for the limited luggage compartments of various modes of transport (trains, planes, boats…). 

✅ Manoeuvrability is important:  Our parent reviewer put the Joie Pact Pro to the test both indoors in shops/supermarkets and outside when walking in the park and on gravel and grass. 'I found that the wheels coped well regardless of the terrain and it hasn't felt stuck at any point,' she says. 

❌ You want a stroller in an on-trend colour: Nope, this is not the one, as it's currently only available in one colourway - shale, which is pretty much black - so you might prefer the Silver Cross Clic which comes in a rather classy shade of pink called Roebuck.  

❌ You're after a big seat: Our tester found this a comfortable ride thanks to the adjustable seat but the wide age range (birth to approx. four years) could be a little optimistic for bigger toddlers.

🔎  Joie Pact Pro A brand new light and compact design from a trusted brand of baby gear, this stroller performed well during testing on all types of terrain. The one-handed fold makes it a dream to pop up and down and it's impressively compact and free-standing when folded. Hoping for an easy getaway with a little one? This is the one.   ★★★★★

Tested by: Holly Upton put Joie's newest lightweight stroller to the test with her 19-month-old son, Remy. She used it daily, for everything from quick dashes to the supermarket and longer walks to parks and playgroups, testing it for manoeuvrability on different types of terrain and to see how easy it is to fold and carry and push with a busy toddler aboard. 

Our baby gear expert says:  The Joie Pact Pro lightweight stroller is a definite contender worthy of your consideration if you're shopping around for a travel-friendly pushchair that's affordable too. The easy-to-fold design and the fact that it's so compact (and freestanding) are huge plus points, regardless of whether you plan to push it through a busy airport or pop it in your car boot without sacrificing all the luggage space. And when the holiday is over, this is still a light and manoeuvrable pushchair suitable for everyday life with a baby from birth to toddlerhood - and beyond.

Parent tester, Holly, says:  'The stroller is very simple to assemble and fold down and is possible to do this with one hand which is handy when holding a toddler; it is also lightweight to lift and carry, which helps when getting it in and out of the boot. We keep the stroller in the boot of the car, which I found didn’t take up too much space and I could still fit a 'big food shop' amount of shopping bags in the boot alongside the stroller.'

Our testing revealed that the Joie Pact Pro is as easy to fold with one hand as Joie claims, and Holly found it compact enough that it could easily fit in an understairs cupboard or even in a narrow hallway. 'It does stand on its own when folded but I'm not sure how sturdy it would be to stay standing if my toddler started climbing on it, which he no doubt would,' adds Holly. Verdict:  In terms of value for money, this is a solid mid-range buggy that's ideal for travel use. Our tester has recommended it to friends, primarily because of how remarkably compact it is when folded. 

Read more: Joie Pact Pro review

Most compact

5. joie tourist.

✅ You're going on a plane:  Planning on travelling abroad with your little one in tow? This travel stroller folds so compactly, it's cabin-approved. 

✅ You're looking for a one-handed folding mechanism:  You simply squeeze and slide two buttons on the handle with one hand and the pushchair concertinas down into a three-way fold. Opening it out again is just as simple. 

✅ You need an adjustable handle: Height-adjustable handles are ultra-convenient if parents or carers of different heights are likely to push the stroller. 

❌ You want an upright seat: The Joie Tourist has multiple recline positions. It can even lie flat. But our tester found the slightly reclined seat angle meant her little one was leaning forward to watch the world go by, rather than sitting back against the seat.

❌ You're visiting a country with extreme weather: Our tester felt you might need to invest in a footmuff if it's cold or an additional sunshade in direct sunlight. 

🔎  Joie Tourist  Overall, this stroller is ideal for parents who are scouring the internet for a cabin-approved pushchair that's lightweight so perfect to take on holidays or days out. It’s a stylish-looking stroller in a lovely soft grey, and the adjustable handle makes it comfy to use. ★★★★

Tested by: Hollie Bond and her one-year-old daughter, Margot.

Our baby gear expert says:  The Joie Tourist gets all the essentials spot on. It’s lightweight, weighing just 6kg, and folds down so compactly that you can fit it in an overhead locker. Folding up and down is simple with the simple press of a button, so you can do this one-handed while juggling a toddler.

Parent tester, Hollie, says:  "It's a breath of fresh air to have a pushchair that folds so beautifully and doesn't make you huff and puff every time you get it out!"

As well as being easy to get up and down, Hollie found this pleasant to manoeuvre, with an adjustable handle and lockable wheels. "As it’s so lightweight it does feel a little flimsy at times, but then it’s so light that you couldn’t reasonably expect anything else," adds Hollie. Where she did have a few gripes was with the comfort of the seat. "It’s quite hard and doesn’t have particularly deep sides to it, so doesn’t feel like the cosiest option," she explains.

The Joie Tourist has multiple recline positions. This meant Hollie's daughter could lie completely flat for naps. However, she had trouble putting it up straight and found that Margot leaned forward to look around. Also, Hollie felt this stroller might need some adapting for extreme weather. You’d need to buy a footmuff if it was cold and an additional sunshade in direct sunlight. 

GoodtoKnow verdict:  The Joie Tourist is a good option as a mid-range travel buggy. We'd particularly recommend it to busy parents who want a light, easy-to-use buggy for holidays or hassle-free daily use.

Read more: Joie Tourist travel stroller review

Best longevity

6. inglesina quid2 stroller.

✅ Longevity is crucial: One of the best things about this stroller is the fact it comes with a wide age range - this makes it suitable from birth to four years. 

✅ Having a lightweight travel stroller is important: This is one of the lightest travel strollers in our guide. It weighs just 5.9kg which was half the weight of our tester's usual pram. 

✅ You want a stroller with extra design features: This has a mesh viewing window, UPF50 sun protection, an extendable hood, a carry handle and a reclining seat.  

❌ You're budget-conscious: At just under £300, the Inglesina Quid2 is at the pricier end of the mid-range market. For a more affordable option, check out the Graco EeZe Fold . ❌ You want a big basket: The stroller is compact in its design but that means a small basket underneath. Need space to stash your baby's must-haves? Turn your attention to the Joolz Aer .

🔎  Inglesina Quid2 With a smart design, wide and comfortable seat and handy extras, like the viewing window and rain cover, this is ideal for parents who want a compact and light stroller that can be used for years (and years). ★★★★

Tested by: Grace Holliday and her seven-month-old daughter.

Our baby gear expert says:  Grace took the Inglesina Quid2 with her on holiday to Devon and used it as a travel alternative to her own set of wheels. "It weighs just 5.9kgs, which is half the weight of our usual pram, and we can really tell the difference," she says. 

During testing, Grace noted lots of positives about the stroller. She found it easy to steer, even in tricky places like narrow shop aisles and cafés, and she reports that it handles both grass and smooth pavements well. In particular, Grace highlighted the reclining seat which is easy to adjust via a toggle, and the extendable hood, which has a mesh window so you can easily keep an eye on your baby. 

Parent tester, Grace, says:  "Ideally I'd prefer a buggy with the option to have my daughter facing me, but the stroller’s compactness and lightness would probably have to be compromised to make this possible. The basket underneath is also quite small but, again, that's necessary to achieve such a compact design, and it does at least fit my baby's change bag."

Verdict:  One of the big selling points of the Inglesina Quid2 is its wide age range; it's suitable from birth to four years. According to Grace, the price (at the higher end of the mid-range bracket) is justifiable because you can safely continue using this for longer than many other travel strollers. Would she recommend it to a friend? She already has - and tells us they went straight out and bought it!

Read more: Inglesina Quid2 stroller review

Best for rough terrain

7. Didofy Aster 2

✅ You want a pushchair with all the extras: How does a   footmuff, coffee cup holder, rain cover, and extendable hood sound? All of these features come as standard when you purchase this stroller. 

✅ You're taking on rough terrain: The Aster 2 boasts a sturdy chassis that makes it a dream to push on cobbled country lanes as well as smooth urban streets. 

✅ You want a stroller that will last: The Didofy Aster 2 can be used from birth up until the age of four. 

❌ You need a compact option: We found this stroller to be a little larger than some of the pushchairs we tested for this buying guide, so if you're hopping on a plane it will have to be checked in, rather than popped into the overhead locker. Need a cabin-approved option? Feast your eyes on the YOYO2 from Babyzen or the Joie Tourist . 

🔎  Didofy Aster 2 Lightweight, suitable from birth up until the age of four, and with lots of design extras, this is a lightweight stroller that will give you your money's worth. We recommend it for those who live in the country or are travelling and heading off the beaten track. ★★★★

Tested by: Charlotte Clarke and her 22-month-old daughter Adelaide.

Our baby gear expert says:  The Didofy Aster 2 travel stroller is "a great little run-around", according to our tester. It's not the lightest, smallest or most stylish travel stroller we tested but its selling point is that it boasts a sturdy chassis that performs as well on a muddy country walk as it does on smooth pavements. 

Parent tester, Charlotte, says:  "It’s not the most compact buggy but this means its wheels are larger than most and it can cope with a few bumps on a journey. As we live in the country, this is a huge bonus." 

The Aster 2 folds down with a simple, sliding motion on the handle. It concertinas down and then up again for easy storage and re-assembly. In terms of comfort, there are padded straps and a well-padded seat, plus the option to recline your baby. "I found the toggle to recline the seat a bit stiff, and I couldn’t manage to pull it enough, so Adelaide was sitting upright," adds Charlotte. This meant she had to lean forward a little to look out.

This travel stroller is suitable for newborns through to four-year-olds; a design feature that Charlotte thinks is fantastic. "It's amazing to think you could invest in this and not need to buy a cumbersome travel system for use from birth," she adds.

GoodtoKnow verdict:  Included are lots of extras; a footmuff, coffee cup holder, rain cover, and extendable hood all come as standard. "With all the extras and the wide age range, this represents good value for money if you want a lightweight and easy-to-manoeuvre stroller for regular, everyday use," Charlotte tells us.

Read more: Didofy Aster 2 stroller review

Best for small cars

8. graco eezefold pushchair.

✅ You're going on a staycation: Weighing 9.5kg, this stroller is still very light compared to a standard pram or buggy. However, it is the heaviest option in our guide so it's more suited to trips close to home than long haul.  

✅ Boot space is tight: Thankfully, the Graco Eezefold is a nippy travel system that folds and opens easily. It's also super compact so you'll have no trouble squeezing it into small boots. 

✅ You want a pushchair that's suitable for babies and toddlers:  This is suitable from the day your little one is born until your baby weighs 15kg (which is roughly around three years old).

✅ You want a large storage basket: And let's face it, what parent doesn't? During testing, we found the storage basket the perfect size for carrying all the usual baby/toddler essentials. 

❌ You're looking for a lightweight option: Weighing 9.5kg, this is the heaviest travel stroller in our guide. Looking for something a bit lighter? The Chicco Cheerio is a good alternative.  

❌ You want a pushchair with all the bells and whistles: While the storage is impressive, there's no cup holder or viewing pane in the canopy. If that's important to you, the Didofy Aster 2 could be a better fit. 

🔎  Graco Eezefold Pushchair Whether you're planning a staycation or want a sturdy travel stroller to transport your little one abroad, this robust and manoeuvrable pushchair lives up to both challenges. It has a large storage basket, so there's plenty of room for all your holiday essentials, and it's suitable for babies or toddlers. ★★★★

Tested by: Mum of two, Emma Stokes and her four-month-old baby daughter, Evelyn.

Our baby gear expert says:  If you're after a nippy travel system that folds and opens easily and doesn't cost the earth, you'll find what you're looking for with the Graco EeZeFold pushchair. Suitable from birth, it’s ideal for occasional use such as short shopping trips or on holiday. It's also a great choice if you have a small car boot with minimal storage space for a pushchair. 

Parent tester, Emma, says:  "We had a fabulous time trying out the pushchair on a range of different ground types, such as flat pavement, bumpy pathways, grassy areas, and also uphill."

Emma also praised the large storage basket underneath the seat; it's the perfect size for carrying all the usual baby/toddler essentials, whether this be snacks, a nappy changing bag, or extras such as spare shoes/coats. "I've also found you can pop the rain cover (that comes with the pram) in the basket and still have plenty of room for other stuff," she added. 

"We've had a few pushchairs in the past - both gifted and bought from expensive brands - and the EeZefold comes in at a fraction of the cost but is certainly one of the best we've tried," Emma told us. "It’s sturdy, good value, and can be used time and time again without showing signs of wear and tear."

Verdict:  There's lots to love about this stroller that's sturdy enough to travel over rough terrain, according to our tester, who thinks it's a brilliant buy for £150. "It provides so much comfort, support, and reassurance for any parent, whether it’s your first child or not. It’s always satisfying knowing your child is riding comfortably."

Read more: Graco EeZeFold pushchair review

Most lightweight

9. chicco cheerio pushchair.

✅ You want a light, compact stroller: Weighing in at just 5.6kg and measuring super small once it's collapsed, our tester found this pushchair helped to ease the burden of travelling with a toddler. 

✅ One-handed folding is a priority: When you're carrying a baby in one hand, having an easy-to-open travel stroller is a game-changer. Our tester found the Cheerio ‘seriously easy' to fold and unfold, taking mere seconds to put up and down. 

❌ You want a pushchair that goes the extra mile: The basics are good but our tester found the handle too low, and the rain cover was a mission to attach. The basket is also quite small. If you're looking for a bigger storage basket, check out the Graco Eezefold as an alternative.

🔎  Chicco Cheerio This is a fairly basic pushchair in terms of design, but the features it's kitted out with (like the one-handed fold mechanism and how compact it is) are really well executed. If you're after a super compact stroller, this is it! ★★★★

Tested by: Amelia Jean Jones and her two-year-old daughter, Olga.

Our baby gear expert says:  Even for a travel stroller, the Chicco Cheerio is light. At 5.6kg, it's easy to lift in and out of a car boot, even if you’re pregnant, like our tester. While she found it "so lightweight it can feel a bit out of control on rougher surfaces," she also appreciated that this was a trade-off since a sturdier stroller would likely way much more. 

Parent tester, Amelia, says:  "The one-handed mechanism means it takes mere seconds to put up and down. When it is collapsed, it’s also really small. It's remarkably compact (about half the size) compared to my last pram so it slots neatly into a gap in my hallway. That's a relief, after two years of negotiating my way past a bigger pram and trying to squeeze it into a small car boot."

While the basics are good, Amelia had some issues with the extras. At 5ft 2in tall, she still found the handle too low and the rain cover was fiddly to attach. "The basket at the bottom is also really small with a metal bar that runs across it, meaning it's difficult to fit my child's nursery backpack in there," she says. "Buying a bag clip for the handlebars might solve that."

Verdict:  Overall, Amelia would recommend this as one of the best travel strollers you can buy if you're looking for something very lightweight and incredibly compact for either occasional or travel use. "It's pretty simple but what it does, it does well," she adds.

Read more: Chicco Cheerio stroller review

10. Cybex Coya pushchair

✅ High comfort levels are important:  The seat is super padded, making it comfortable. It also reclines so little explorers can catch some ZZZs while on the go. 

✅ Easy folding is a priority: Coming with a one-hand fold, you can effortlessly pop this pushchair up and down. This makes it great for use before and after flights.  

Don't buy if:

❌ You're on a budget: It's worth highlighting, £500 it's not cheap for a travel stroller. So if you're hoping to find a more pocket-friendly alternative, check out the Joolz Aer or the Joie Tourist.

🔎  Cybex Coya pushchair An expertly crafted and super comfortable pushchair that's ideal for travelling with, thanks to its one-hand fold design and hot weather-appropriate features. Priced at around £500, it's an investment but if you value good looks and comfort, it's a worthy one at that. ★★★★

Tested by:  Harriet Reid alongside her three-and-a-half-year-old daughter.

Our baby gear expert says:  If there's one brand that knows how to do pushchairs, it's Cybex. Founded in Germany in 2005, the premium babywear brand has marketed the Cybex Coya as a 'luxury' travel experience — and we'd agree. The ergonomically designed seat has been designed with comfort in mind so there’s plenty of padding for your little traveller. You can life it flat and it comes with a leg rest. The seat pad removes to reveal a mesh back which is wipeable and great for hot climates. 

Plus, as you'd expect from this premium pushchair, just one click of a button and this lightweight stroller folds down making it easy to on and off-board your little one while on the move — or jetting from one country to the next. 

Parent tester, Harriet, says:  “It folds with one hand (as long as the wheels are lined up) and then the carry strap extends so you can throw it over your shoulder which is incredibly handy. I do it more than I thought I would as it’s so easy. It’s also really compact (it fits behind the driver’s seat of my car, on planes, trains etc.) and incredibly is lightweight. I could carry it, my toddler, and a change bag simultaneously over short distances!” It weighs 6.6kg which Harriet says makes it 'effortless to push and very manoeuvrable'. "I can push with one hand which is a must-have for me. It isn’t designed for off-road so I wouldn’t recommend it for really thick mud, but it performs well on grass, cobbles, up and down curbs etc. On any terrain it feels stable, with good suspension and like it won’t tip easily,” adds Harriet.

GoodtoKnow verdict:  Perhaps the only real bugbear with this stroller? The price. And our tester concurs. "You can find other strollers with greater longevity (over the age of four), that come with accessories, are equally as compact for less money, so it feels hard to justify the price tag,” admits Harriet.  “While it isn’t a cheap stroller, it is well-built, the materials are high-quality, it has lots of thoughtful features, is beautiful to look at and generally I would recommend it if someone wanted to buy it.”

Read more: Cybex Coya pushchair review 

How to choose the best travel stroller

The best travel strollers are designed to deal with all the hiccups that can make city life with a standard pushchair a little tricky, from navigating public transport to tackling uneven pavements. They're also light enough to carry up a flight of steps and compact enough to fit neatly beside you in a busy café - or even in the overhead storage compartment of a train or plane.

Here's what else to look out for when you're shopping for a travel stroller:

• Weight - The lighter a stroller, the easier it is to lift and carry which makes travelling easier. However, keep in mind that other features such as basket space may be sacrificed by designers to create a very lightweight pushchair.
• Comfort - Comfort for both you and your baby is paramount when it comes to a travel stroller. Choose one with a spacious seat they'll be able to nap in (especially if they wake easily) and make sure it has at least one recline position.
• Age range - Many travel strollers can be used from birth - including some of those featured in this buying guide. However, some are not suitable until babies are around six months old because they don't recline fully flat. It's important to check and adhere to the age limits specified by the manufacturer. The NHS advises that strollers are only suitable for babies under six months old if they have fully reclining seats.
• Portability - How small a travel stroller folds is a very important factor. When it comes to fitting it into the boot of your car alongside other luggage or squeezing it into the overhead locker on a plane, the smaller the better. However, very compact travel strollers are typically expensive so factor this into your thinking if you're only planning to use it for tootling around the shops. It's well worth paying more for a compact fold if it's going to make travelling with a baby less stressful.
• Terrain - To keep their weight and size down, travel pushchairs tend to have smaller wheels which can be difficult to manoeuvre on anything more challenging than smooth pavements. If you need a more robust stroller for off-road use or to trek across the beach, look for a travel stroller designed with this in mind - bigger and thicker wheels are a must.
• Seat position - Most travel strollers have world-facing seats, meaning the child is facing the direction of travel rather than looking at the parent. Toddlers generally like to look at where they are going but if you have a younger baby, you might prefer to have your baby facing you. Parent-facing strollers make it easy to interact with your baby and can encourage bonding and promote eye contact and language development skills. You can also keep an eye on your baby more easily with a parent-facing pushchair. This is handy when it comes to knowing if they need more sun cream or are getting too hot or cold.
• Useful extras - Whether you're planning to use your pushchair frequently or just for holiday use, make sure you check what extras it comes with. Establish whether you need to pay more for accessories such as a rain cover and a full hood for protection from the sun, as these are essentials for a travel stroller. Other accessories, such as a roomy shopping basket (space for all those holiday essentials) and a coffee cup holder are nice extras.

Children’s strollers and car seats are not usually counted in an airline's standard baggage allowance. These can be checked in free of charge but you should always check an airline’s specific criteria before you travel. As a general rule, as long as a pushchair or pram is fully collapsible, it is permitted on board an aircraft. You can check it in at the gate and store it in the hold, and then retrieve it at the aircraft door when the aircraft has landed. Some airlines will allow you to take a travel stroller on board if it fits in the overhead locker and there is space on the flight.

‘Every airline has different rules so always check with specific airline before you fly,' says Tiffany Norris of The Mummy Concierge . 'British Airways states that pushchairs that fold down into a carry bag and are within the maximum hand baggage dimensions can be taken on board in place of, but not in addition to, your larger cabin bag. That means the second you get off a plane you have a pram, rather than having to wait for it to arrive at baggage reclaim.’

The Silver Cross Clic stroller is the best travel stroller to take abroad, based on our testing of a range of lightweight pushchairs for this buying guide. 

If you're considering an alternative, firstly look for a light pushchair that's easy to lift in and out of a car boot or carry up a flight of stairs. Secondly, choose a design that can be folded and unfolded quickly and easily. And thirdly, pick a compact pushchair in case you want to place it in the overhead storage compartment on a plane. 

The best travel stroller for you depends on your destination. If you’re going somewhere warm, a pushchair with mesh fabric for breathability so your child can stay cool is an advantage. In addition, make sure it comes with a sunshade to help prevent sunburn.

Alternatively, if you are going somewhere cold, take a rain cover. If this isn’t included with the pushchair, buy the cover designed by the brand for your pushchair’s model. Generic covers are available and usually cheaper to buy but the fit is generally not as good. This means there’s a higher chance that it will let water in, for instance.

GoodtoKnow has developed a product review testing process that is fair, consistent and robust. For this buying guide, our Consumer Editor Heidi Scrimgeour came up with a shortlist of lightweight pushchairs based on her extensive product knowledge that spans 19 years as a mum and parenting journalist.

Next, she finalised the testing line-up by whittling down the options to ensure each stroller weighed less than 7kg, could be folded compactly, and was suitable for use as a holiday pushchair. She also selected products from a broad range of price points so there's something to suit all budgets.

Next, we called on our pool of parent testers and assigned them each a travel stroller to review with a child of the appropriate age. They tested the product rigorously for at least ten days, in a variety of weather conditions and on different types of terrain. 

After this, our parent testers gave each product a rating out of five for overall performance. We also asked for comprehensive feedback on key factors including design appeal, manoeuvrability, functionality (how easy is it to assemble and to fold/unfold), portability (how compact it is when folded), and value for money.

Heidi Scrimgeour joined GoodToKnow after a 16-year freelance career as a parenting journalist. She has written family features for a wide variety of publications including The Guardian, Telegraph, Daily Mail, Red, Psychologies and Stylist. She was the baby gear editor of Mother & Baby for six years and a parenting columnist for AOL’s Parentdish. Heidi has taken part in various parenting debates on This Morning, The One Show and BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour, and lives in Northern Ireland with her husband and their three children. Find out more

Once you've decided on the best travel stroller, you might be interested in finding out the best travel cots , the best baby carrier and best prams for life on the go with your little one. 

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As a parenting specialist for more than 15 years, Heidi has written for most national newspapers and for a wide range of consumer magazines, including Mother & Baby where she was the Shopping Editor for six years, looking after regular consumer features including buying guides and gift roundups.

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BEST TRAVEL STROLLERS

I have travelled to over 40 + countries with my two kids since they were newborns. Needless to say a small stroller for travel and a comfy carrier are two key items we always bring. 

On the whole, we are minimalists when we travel with our kids because we all know how easy it is to mount up on baby paraphernalia. It can be challenging enough carrying a baby, possibly another child hanging off the leg, nappy bag ,  suitcase and so on. 

Having the best travel stroller that is the most compact and lightweight stroller is paramount in making the journey as easy as possible.

We have been in the very lucky position to have the opportunity to try a tonne of strollers for the purpose of review and have developed a good insight into what features make the best travel pushchair. 

Each family’s needs will be different depending on how you travel. Whether it’s a long road trip and you want to save space in the boot, or if you are travelling by air and want your stroller as soon as you step foot off the plane, I have something for you here!

Below I’ve broken down the most important things to look for when choosing the best compact buggy for travel and why. After that I will take you through each of the best travel strollers on the market in 2020, explaining the pros and the cons and who that particular stroller might be best for.

I spoke with a group of travelling mums who told me about their lightweight stroller for travel and each gave me a review summarised in a paragraph.

You will see each opinion is honest and informative with the pros and cons. These reviews appear in italics beneath the stroller breakdown.

My personal contribution is the Mountain Buggy Nano and the Britax Holiday Double that you will find alongside the others. I hope it helps you in choosing a stroller for your adventures!

 What Features Make The Best Travel Buggy

Table of Contents

Depending on how you travel, how old your kids are,  and where you are headed will all affect what type of features you need in order to find the best travel buggy for your family.

We list the main features we look for in a travel buggy below. Some people’s priorities may be to find the most compact stroller and some may be more interested in making sure the seats recline and that it has ample basket space. Others might just need to know that it can fit into an aeroplane stroller bag!

Read through and decide if each one is important to you so you can choose the best pushchair for your travels.

Lightweight Pushchair

How much the baby strollers weigh can be important if you are headed somewhere that you may end up carrying the stroller from place to place. As someone who has stayed in an Airbnb that was a fourth-floor walk-up , it’s not pleasant trying to drag a heavy stroller up and down the stairs. 

Additionally, if you are headed on a road trip it’s good to make sure you have a lightweight pushchair that you can easily get in and out of the boot.

Easily Foldable Strollers

The easily foldable stroller can be your best friend when you are travelling. It’s all good and well if you found a great stroller that is small and meets all your needs, but if it takes a team to fold it, it’s not that useful. 

Especially for parents that are travelling solo with their kids, you are going to want a one-hand fold stroller.

Collapsed Size

Collapsed size can be a very important to choosing the best travel pushchair! Depending on the size of your stroller you may have to check your stroller, be able to take it to the door of the plane, or even be able to take it on the plane and stow it in the overhead bin!

We often just throw our kids in the carrier and check our stroller but if you aren’t into baby wearing, or want to make sure nothing happens to the stroller in flight, this can be a very important category to pay attention to. 

Generally an umbrella stroller will collapse the smallest, but we will give you the collapsed dimensions of each of the pushchairs below so that you can check if the airline will accept it.

Basket Size

We love to have a large basket on our baby buggy so we can throw all the day’s necessities in there and have as little as possible to actually carry. 

Many travel strollers because of their compact size do not have large baskets, so if it’s important to you make sure to take note and read reviews about the basket size.

Fully Reclining Strollers

When looking for a kid’s stroller you may want to make sure you find a fully reclining stroller. 

If you don’t want to have to stop your day and find a place for naptime and have kids that nap easily in their stroller this may be particularly important. 

Travel System Strollers

If you are headed on a road trip you may want a travel sized baby pushchair that also supports a car seat attachment. 

If you want a travel system pushchair, it narrows down your options a bit and they are usually a bit larger but we’ve got a few good ones on the list.

Cheap Strollers

Some people may just be looking for lightweight, cheap pushchairs and if that’s your priority we get it. You may only be using this stroller once a year and it’s not worth a large investment. Some of the fantastic options below are quite cost effective and may even have all the features you are looking for. 

How Well Does it Work on Rough Roads

This one will heavily depend on your destination. If you are headed to an old European city with rough cobbled roads or on some off road adventures you need to make sure your stroller is up to the challenge. 

Some of the strollers on this list are made to be as lightweight as possible and that sometimes means smaller wheels which might make it harder to push when the pavement ends.

Of course, this should not be an issue for those visiting places with nice paved roads.

   Our Top Choices for Best Lightweight Stroller For Travel

Best travel stroller comparative table – single strollers.

[table id=2 /]

Gb Pockit – The Best Compact Stroller & Cheap Travel Stroller

This compact stroller for travel fold up into a measly 35 x 30 x 18 cm and only weighs 4.3kg. This tiny size allows it to be stored in front of your seat or in the overhead bin on the airplane.

The lightweight buggy is also very easy to fold up, although you will need two hands to do it.

• Collapsible and Compact Design: This travel stroller’s ultra-compact and collapsible design ensures it…
• Lightweight Convenience: This must-have umbrella stroller weighs a mere 9 1/2 pounds and makes one-handed…
• Durable and Flexible Construction: Durable for everyday use as well as travel the Pockit plus is designed…

The GB Pockit is appropriate for kids starting at 6 months and up.

The stroller, like all strollers, comes with a few drawbacks. The benefits provided from having the most compact folding stroller causes it to also have a very small basket and not have the ability to recline. 

It also has small lightweight wheels which means it’s not great for rough roads like gravel roads or old cobblestone streets. 

The stroller’s handles for pushing can also be a little too low for taller parents. 

• Cheap travel stroller
• Best compact pushchair; Folds small enough to fit under airplane seat
• Easy fold stroller
• Lightweight
• Recling seat
• Small Basket
• Not great for rough roads
• Not car seat compatible

Conclusion:

If your priority is finding a cheap pushchair that takes up as little space as possible, this is definitely the stroller for you. It is the most lightweight, compact stroller you’ll find. 

However, if you are not concerned with being able to take the stroller on the plane and want something that is a little more flexible, with options for larger baskets and car seat adapters you may want to choose one of the other options on the list.

GB Pockit Review

Contribution from Big Brave Nomad .

“The GB Pockit Stroller came crashing into the family travel industry, boxing out every other travel stroller with it’s extremely compact fold, durability and light weight.

Parent’s love this stroller because it makes plane travel and public transportation a breeze by folding small enough to fit under a seat or easily in your lap. Not only can you push an infant over 6 months (that sits on their own), but the stroller is rated up to 55 pounds and has a tall enough back to accommodate a 5 year old.

I have put my 2 & 3-year-old both in the Pockit and easily pushed it from point A to point B (That is almost 70lbs of weight).

The benefits of this stroller outweigh the few drawbacks. As a parent who often travels alone with two toddlers , I need a stroller I can handle with one hand. The GB Pockit’s handles are made for single-handed manoeuvring .

This stroller weighs only 9.5 lbs, so it’s extremely easy to carry when folded. Another perk is the front wheels can either swivel 360 degrees for super easy manoeuvrability or they can lock in place for more rough terrain.

The main benefit of the GB Pockit is that it folds down to 11.8” x 7” x 13.8” which is incredibly tiny. So tiny, in fact, it won a Guinness Book World Record for most compact stroller.

This stroller EASILY fits under the seat in an airplane, or in the overhead compartment of a train. This means, no more gate checking your stroller! Bring it on the plane with you and you don’t have to wait on the bridge after your flight!

If you can believe this, the GB Pockit stroller DOES have an under basket. The basket is rated for 11lbs and is easily accessed from the front or back of the stroller. The basket is perfect for a small diaper bag or jackets.

This stroller does have a couple drawbacks. First, the canopy is absolutely worthless. It is tiny and flimsy and does not protect against the sun. Second, the seat does not recline at all.

This hasn’t been a problem for us because our kids sleep in their Tula Carrier , but it could be frustrating for parents wanting their child to sleep in the stroller.

The stroller also has a bit of a quirky fold. The first few times I tried it, it took me so long to get it folded down the entire way. However, after lots of trips and lots of practice, it has become second nature.”

Mountain Buggy Nano

• full recline fabric sling seat providing a lie flat mode that is perfect for newborns
• ultra lightweight at less than 6kg / 13lbs with a carry handle and shoulder strap – ideal for travel or…
• easy two-step compact fold designed to fit in many carry-on luggage units or to leave in the car for…

This umbrella pushchair can handle the cobblestone roads of old European streets and can even take on some gravel roads but if you are planning on doing any intense off-roading you should look into a more heavy-duty stroller.

The only notable drawback of the Mountain Buggy baby stroller is that it is not as lightweight and compact as some of the other options. Whether or not it is allowed on the plane will be up to the individual airlines. The basket is also on the smaller side.

• Can be used from newborn until 20 kg
• Comfortable stroller for naps, with fully reclining seat
• Car seat compatible
• Wheels can handle most roads
• Scooter attachment
• May not be allowed on airplanes due to size

If you are looking for a very versatile umbrella buggy that can be used at any age and for most situations, this may be the right stroller for you.

Mountain Buggy Nano Review

“The Mountain Buggy Nano was our first ever travel stroller and something I thought long and hard about. We ended up choosing it for a number of reasons.

Firstly it can be used from newborn up to a 20kg child. In terms of longevity, it was the perfect option to ensure it lasted us for our stroller days! We took our Mountain Buggy Nano on a family gap year during my maternity leave.

We started off with the Mountain Buggy newborn cocoon inset so baby could lie down comfortably in the early stage. A stand out feature was the fact it could house a car seat to help us during those arm breaking moments. We could put our car seat and baby into the stroller allowing us to be hands-free and concentrate on luggage and the ever running away toddler. 

The Mountain Buggy Nano also has an option for a second child by connecting the Mountain Buggy free rider board . It’s essentially a scooter come buggy board that is perfect for an older sibling.

I love the fact the Mountain Buggy free-rider has two functions and can integrate with the travel stroller.  I don’t know how many times I’ve see a parent with two kids trying to carry a scooter and toddler, whilst also pushing a stroller.

Another necessary feature for us was the comfort and recline for the all-important nap. As you can see from my photo, it goes back enough for a comfy sleep and has some nice padding to make it soft. It also comes with a snooze and sunshade .

Likewise, it has a cover that makes it look like a suitcase when it’s all folded down. The fold is easy and having it so compact for flights meant we could put it in the overhead locker if we wanted. Similar to the GB Pockit, the fold is initially difficult but once you get the hang of it’s totally fine.”

Baby Jogger City Mini

• With a sleek, nimble, and lightweight design, this is the perfect everyday stroller for running errands…
• Customize your ride for 4 different modes of use as a single or double with an infant car seat, pram, or…
• The included infant car seat adapters are compatible with all Baby Jogger infant car seats

The stroller is also easily folded with one hand. It weighs 8.5 kg and its collapsed size is 100 x 65 x 40 cm.

• Can handle most roads and terrains
• Medium sized basket
• Very easy one handed folding capabilities
• Full recline
• On the larger side when collapsed

Baby Jogger City Mini Review

Contribution from Pack More Into Life .

“Finding the perfect stroller can be quite the task, especially as a new mom. The internet can lead you down a rabbit hole of suggestions and price points. Luckily for us, we had lots of friends with kids and I worked as a babysitter and nanny, so I knew which things I liked and disliked about strollers.

We ended up choosing the Baby Jogger City Mini GT and absolutely loved it for all four years of use for my son. Folding it up was a piece of cake with a one-hand fold, it was small enough to fit inside a small SUV or car’s trunk space with enough room left over for other items.

The fabric was so easy to clean and looked great even after visiting over 20 countries in the span of four years. Not to mention all the fabulous accessories that Baby Jogger has, such as consoles for both parent and child , rain covers , travel bags (a must have), hand muffs for cold weather travel and more.

We purchased the padded travel bag and never had an issue with anything being broken or damaged when flying. Not to mention we stuffed in all sorts of extra diapers, wipes, and blankets into the bag.

Another favorite part of the stroller was its ability to grow with my son. Even at four years old and the size of a five-year-old, he could comfortably sleep and ride.

Diono Traverze Travel Stroller

The Diono Traverze is a super light stroller. While not as tiny as the Pockit stroller, it folds up small enough to be stored in most overhead compartments on airplanes. 

The umbrella fold stroller becomes a compact 60 x 41.5 x 24 cm when collapsed and weighs only 5.6 kg. The small size difference between this stroller and the Gb Pockit allows for a few more features that you may want on your airplane stroller. 

• LUGGAGE STYLE STROLLER: Suitable from birth up to 45 lb the Diono Traverze is the original luggage style…
• ULTRA LIGHTWEIGHT: Only 12.3 lbs (5.6kg) to help you glide through the world, with neat pull along handle…
• SUPER COMPACT FOLD = AIRPLANE FRIENDLY: True one hand fold makes Traverze super compact to fit most…

A notable drawback of this stroller is just that it’s small wheels can’t really handle any sort of rough terrains like cobblestone or gravel roads. 

For those looking for cheap baby strollers, it comes at a very reasonable price tag. You can usually find the Diono Traverze stroller for as little as 130 GBP. You can check current prices for the UK here and the USA here .

• Cheap umbrella stroller
• Medium basket
• Compact and light pushchair
• Fully reclines
• Can’t handle rougher roads

If you are looking for the best lightweight buggy this might be for you. While not as small as the Pockit, it remains small enough to bring on most airplanes and gives you the added bonus of a fully reclining seat and a medium-sized basket. 

If you need a stroller for rougher roads such as old European cobblestone roads, or any sort of off-road gravel situation you may want to choose one of the larger options.

Buy stroller in the USA here and the UK here .

Diono Traverze Review

Contribution from Otis and Us .

“We have been trying out the Dio no Traverze travel stroller and love it. It is extremely lightweight – at less than 12.3lbs/5.6kg it is great for transportation, travel and general day-to-day use. The stroller has a super compact fold that is incredibly easy to put up and fold down, you can do it with one hand.

A great feature is the telescopic handle that pulls out like a suitcase. The stroller has a five point harness with removable straps and pads which I love as they are easy to clean if needed.

The stroller also comes with a great water-resistant travel carry cover that zips around the folded pushchair and a rain cover which we are yet to test out!”

Babyzen Yoyo

• EASY TO USE – YOYO2 is one of the most lightweight, compact, full-feature strollers available. Designed…
• TAKE IT EVERYWHERE – It’s never been easier to meet up with friends, catch a cab, or hop onto the subway….
• GROWS WITH YOUR CHILD – Now you only need one stroller! Our all-in-one frame accommodates your growing…

Additionally, it is a very easy to fold up stroller, it takes only one hand and a few seconds to accomplish. Once folded it even has a carry strap that allows you to carry it over your shoulder like a purse.

This single stroller also hold up better than the other super light stroller option. While we still wouldn’t expect it to hold up well on gravel, it will do a little better on cobblestone type roads. 

• Very lightweight and compact
• One hand, easily collapsible stroller
• Car seat adaptable
• Small enough to store in the airplane overhead bin
• Reclining seat
• Not good for really rough terrains

Babyzen Yoyo Review

Contribution from Travel Sisters 

“The Babyzen YOYO2 is my top choice for the ultimate travel stroller.  As a minimalist traveler, I have made peace with the fact that traveling with kids involves more gear. Still, I carefully consider each item I bring along and make sure it will make our travels more seamless.

This meant no stroller as I preferred wearing my son in a carrier so I could freely explore and not have to gate check my full-size stroller as a bonus.  Many people have multiple strollers at home but we live in a condo in the city so we don’t have the luxury of extra space. 

The time came though when depending on where we traveled a stroller would be easier.  After much research and test-driving, I splurged on Babyzen YOYO2 and never looked back. 

Initially, the main selling point was size. I loved that I could take it onboard as carry on luggage and even wheel it down the aisle to our seats.  When at home, I could conveniently store it in our small coat closet- it comes with a storage bag but I don’t really bother with it.

The way this stroller works is you purchase the frame and then customize it to your needs.  I read reviews praising the various color options but that wasn’t a selling point for me as I always go for black anyway.

The biggest draw was that customization meant you could choose to use this from birth, with a car seat or for an older child.  The car seat option requires adapters and the newborn and infant option separate fabrics but the a la carte options keeps you from ending up with more parts than you need.

I originally purchased this when my son was 6 months, but now that I have a newborn, I find this stroller especially useful.  Even with the flat pram for young infants, the Babyzen YOYO 2 still remains compact. Despite the small size, you don’t sacrifice comfort.

 Both my kids love riding in it as it does not feel like a flimsy stroller where riders experience every bump. An included generous sun canopy and rain shield keep kiddos comfy in all types of weather.  And aside from having to carry a big grocery haul home, the Babyzen Yoyo 2 has now become my go-to at home, thanks to the decent storage for a stroller of this size.”

Maclaren Techno XT

• The lightest compact fold on the market. The simple 2D fold beats the competition on basic weight at…
• Comfy and perfect for travel. The extendable, waterproof and UPF 50+ hood includes a window and air…
• Smart product for active parents. The Atom style set includes a premium wind-resistant Raincover,…

The Maclaren Atom can also be folded fairly easily, and once you get the hang of it, it can be done one handed.

It also has the added bonus of adjustable pushing handles so that it’s within arms reach no matter how tall you are.

• Many reclining options, making it suitable for all ages
• Can handle rougher terrain such as cobblestone and gravel
• Easy folding stroller
• Adjustable height handles for pushing
• Car seat compatible 
• Small basket 

Maclaren Techno XT Review

Contribution from Passport & Adventures .

“Having invested in a travel system with our son we realised a travel system wasn’t going to cut it. We decided to change to a stroller and went with a reputable British brand, the Maclaren . Our main reason was it was an umbrella stroller and was a one-piece buggy. 

It is certainly not the lightest of strollers, there are many more on the market that weigh less. It comes in at just over 7kg depending on the year of manufacture. But this simply means it feels good-quality, sturdy and durable.

The Maclaren comes with a sun hood, rain cover, two pockets on the back and a small storage space underneath the seat. There are two handles which have adjustable height to two settings. Handy if you are a couple where one of you is 5 feet 2 and the other is 6 foot 1.

There is a side click lock which keeps the stroller folded for storage or transport. This can feel flimsy but does the job. And if it should break for any reason, Maclaren will replace it. They replaced ours free-of-charge.

There is also a carry handle for ease of transport once folded. You can fold the stroller one-handed if needed, but it’s a skill. The hood unzips to provide additional protection for your child from the sun and the stroller is suitable from birth upwards. In the latest model of the Techno XT there are 4 reclining seat positions and an additional head hugger.

The rain cover is included, something which can be an added extra with some strollers and has brilliant clip holes to clip onto the stroller to keep it in place. The leg rest extends to provide additional comfort and the wheels are lockable or can swivel.

They also have reflector hubcaps and can handle uneven terrain pretty well thanks to the four-wheel suspension. Although cobbled streets can be a bit bumpy, on smoother surfaces it is a comfortable ride for babies and younger children.

We used this stroller for our son between the ages of 6 months and 4 years, and it was by far the best investment we made. Once we had bought it our travel system never got used again.

Best Double Strollers for Travel

Best travel strollers comparative table – double strollers.

[table id=3 /]

Phil & Ted’s Double Stroller

This 3 wheel stroller functions almost like a tandem stroller with the second seat being added as a back attachment so it doesn’t take up any additional space, making it easier to maneuver.

• a great single buggy, that converts into a fantastic inline double buggy – the only active inline on the…
• 3 x 12″ all terrain, air-filled tyres & all-wheel suspension delivers the best in manoeuvrability
• full size fabric seat sling that offers infinite recline modes to fully lie flat for newborn – choose…

The stroller also has great wheels that can take on almost any terrain. 

It weighs in at 14 kg and collapses to 86 x 65 x 31.5 cm. 

• Takes up the same amount of space as a single, when set up
• Can be used for kids of all ages
• Can also be used as a single stroller
• Can handle most terrains
• Easy to collapse
• Small basket

If you are looking for a good quality double stroller for travel, this is a great option. While it’s not the smallest or lightest of the double strollers, it scores in almost every other category. Most double strollers won’t be allowed on the plane in any case so it’s size might not be a drawback for you. 

Phil & Ted’s Double Stroller Review

Contribution from The Elusive Family . 

“If you have two different aged children, look no further than Phil & Ted’s classic stroller .  This stroller has been life changing for travel from cobblestone streets in Paris, to winding hills in Germany to the high curbed streets of Chicago.

Lightweight, easy to fold and super smooth, this stroller is a great compact travel stroller.

If you have two children, this stroller will provide you with even the most stubborn child enjoying the ride.  With a main seat in the front and the ability to attach a secondary seat in the back, it provides two ways for children to sit.

You have the ability to take a baby and toddler, with both kiddos front facing, and safely strapped in a 5 point harness system!

If you have a baby, you can adjust the main seat to lie flat for a baby to lie on and nap, while also allowing for your second child to sit in their seat.  You also have the option of purchasing a car seat adapter in quickly and easily insert a car seat.  A variety of adapters are available depending on which car seat you have.

The tires are all terrain and are surprisingly resilient to any bumps you encounter on your walks. It’s even very easily to maneuver with one handle (if necessary) since the tires all work together to ensure smooth handling. 

The under seat storage area has an option for the fabric to clip down and is large enough for a bag or two of groceries and even a child’s feet to rest in!

Britax Holiday Double – Cheap Double Stroller

The Britax B-Lively Double will be the best double stroller for you if your priority is a cheap double stroller, which also happens to be the most lightweight double stroller.

This double umbrella stroller weighs in at only 9 kg and folds down to 60 x 50 x 28 cm.

It also has a large basket underneath and handles bumpy, cobblestone roads well.

The holiday double also folds down very quickly and easily. 

You can usually find the Britax double for as little as 450 GBP. You can find current prices here .

The downsides of the double is that it barely reclines. It also has handlebars that may be an uncomfortable height for tall people.

The stroller is also only suitable for babies over 6 months old unless an infant car seat is used.

• Smallest and most lightweight double stroller
• Handles rough roads
• Large basket
• Cheap double stroller
• Barely reclines
• Only suitable for children from 6 months to 3 years
• Short handlebars 

If you are looking for a cheap lightweight double stroller for travel, this one is a great option. It hits most the checkpoints of what people look for in a travel stroller as long as your kids are within the age limits and don’t need a reclining seat.

Buy stroller here .

Britax Holiday Double Review

“The Britax Double stroller has to be one of the most compact on the market. It folds up so small and at only 9kg in weight, its easy to carry around when the kids aren’t using it.

Most of the time, both of our kids are running around the place and only want to sit in the buggy when they are feeling tired. It’s so handy to be able to pack It up and wear it as a backpack rather than pushing it around with no kids in it!

It’s really easy to navigate, the only shortfall is it does not recline very far. The Britax Double also comes in a single stroller.”

Read more reviews here .

UppaBaby G-Link

This one comes with a large basket and a fully reclining seat. The fully reclining seat allows it to be used for newborns and up.

The G-Link’s wheels are equipped to handle some rougher, cobblestone and gravel roads. It also is an easy fold stroller.

• Suitable from 3 months up to 55 lbs per seat
• Lightweight aluminum frame
• Independent multi-position reclining seats

It also is a bit larger and heavier than the Britax Holiday Double. It weighs in at 11.2 kg and collapses to 104 x 46 x 46 cm.

• Large Basket
• Fully Reclining Stroller
• Easy Folding Stroller
• Handles Rougher Roads
• Collapsed size is not that small
• A bit heavier than alternatives

UppaBaby G-Link Stroller Review

Contribution from October Acres  

“This UPPAbaby G-LINK was made with the traveling family in mind.  It’s relatively lightweight and compact yet has plenty of storage space.  It comes with a clip on cup holder and clip on sun visors, both of which we consider essential in a travel stroller! 

The two sides of the stroller recline independently of each other and you can even add in the infant support system on one or both sides.  We love the G-Link storage bag you can purchase separately that will keep your stroller and it’s components safe while flying.

Despite my children being on the older side (3 and 6) we’ve used this stroller a ton while traveling. 

It’s especially nice to have after we’ve had a busy day of hiking, sightseeing or skiing and the kids just want to relax, but we want to continue to walk around town and explore. 

Creative Outdoor Wagon Stroller

This wagon allows them to sit or stand and move around and still folds down pretty compactly although it is a bit on the heavy side.

• 【EASY PUSH & PULL】This foldable stroller wagon features an fold-away stroller push handle on the back…
• 【FOLD OR UNFOLD IN 5 SECONDS】This wagon’s compact design can fold into a mini size; One-step fold…
• 【DESIGN FOR SAFETY】Made of premium 300D polyester fabric and high duty steel frame . A detachable…

Most models of the wagon come with plenty of pockets and maybe even a basket to store your things or you can drop some things in the wagon itself.

• Especially good for kids who don’t like to sit still
• Lots of storage/basket space
• Can be used for multiple kids
• Not suitable for infants
• No car seat adapters

If you are looking for an alternative to a traditional stroller or if your kids don’t like sitting for extended periods, this could be a great thing to try out. 

  Not ready to choose? Be sure to pin this post for later!

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Last update on 2024-06-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Tuesday 5th of November 2019

Hi! I noticed you have a picture of your kids using 3-wheel stroller in front of an entrance surrounded with flowers in the "MOUNTAIN BUGGY NANO REVIEW" section. Which stroller is that?

It's one of the other Mountain Buggy strollers - it's not as compact as the nano but a really great stroller.

Thursday 25th of April 2019

Has anyone tried travelling with a Doona? I'm interested because it works as a car seat and a pushchair but I'm not sure how convenient it is when actually travelling. I'm thinking having a car seat when travelling in Asia on trains and buses could be handy, whilst then easily converting into a much needed pushchair.

Travel Mad Mum

Sunday 28th of April 2019

We haven't tried it but if you do, be sure to leave a comment letting us know what you thought of it!

To help us provide you with free impartial advice, we may earn a commission if you buy through links on our site. Learn more

• Prams & pushchairs

Best lightweight stroller 2023: Travel without stress with these super light pushchairs

• Amanda Stellisano
• Kat de Naoum

Your child’s stroller needn't weigh you down – the best lightweight strollers will save you effort and precious plane weight

Taking a stroller along when travelling can feel like a complicated thing. Whether you’re boarding a flight, riding a train, or even just walking through the city, the best lightweight stroller can take weight off your arms and your mind. No one wants to drag a clunky pushchair onto the bus, or wrestle it into the car boot and it’s not an item you can just leave behind either.

Modern lightweight models have slim folds and low weights, making them easy to store. Some strollers are compact enough that they can be carried onto planes as hand luggage and even fit in the overhead luggage compartment.

There are lots of options available for lightweight strollers, no matter your budget, and our roundup below has plenty to choose from with features that make them stand out from the rest.

Best lightweight stroller: At a glance

• Best overall lightweight stroller: Mountain Buggy nano 3 | £219
• Most lightweight stroller: gb Gold Pockit+ All Terrain | £190
• Best lightweight stroller for planes: Inglesina Quid2 | £289
• Best compact lightweight stroller: Didofy Aster 2 | £279
• Best splurge lightweight stroller: Babyzen YOYO² | £625

How to choose the best lightweight stroller for you

What things should i consider.

Finding the right lightweight stroller for your family depends on just that – your family. You need to consider things such as:

Your child’s age: You will want a stroller that fits your child comfortably, so you have to take their age and size into consideration. Most lightweight strollers are designed to carry children from birth to toddler age, but it’s not always the case. The age and size limits are stated on every stroller model, so be sure to choose one appropriate for your child.

The terrain you will be driving over: Whether you stick to city streets or like to get off the beaten path, you will want to make sure that the stroller can handle the ground beneath its wheels. Some strollers have “all-terrain” wheels, to accommodate all types of roads if you don’t like to be limited. 

Methods of travel: Planes, trains and automobiles – which will you be taking? There are much stricter size restrictions to store your stroller in the overhead locker on a plane than there are to put it in the boot of your car. If you want to take it on the plane with you, you will need the most compact stroller available.

Features you can’t go without: Maybe you need a place for your morning coffee on the school run, or a rain cover to combat UK weather. Perhaps more storage space is at the top of your list of priorities. Whatever you’re after, take note of what is included with your stroller to make sure it suits your personal needs.

What is a lightweight stroller?

To be considered lightweight, a stroller should weigh no more than 11kg, and much ideally less, for easy portability. They’re typically sleek and slim so they can be easily folded into a compact size. They’re small enough to zip around anywhere you need to go without sacrificing structure or sturdiness.

What features should I look for in a good lightweight stroller?

Safety features: It’s incredibly important to make sure the stroller you choose adheres to safety standards. This includes a three- or five-point harness and effective brakes that are easy to use. A sun canopy or hood is also important for sun protection. Safety also includes knowing when you’ve reached the weight limit of the stroller.

Comfort features: It’s important to make sure that even with all the safety features in place, your child is comfortable. Cushioned straps and back pads, adjustable footrests, ventilation, and wheel suspension can all make for a smoother and more enjoyable experience for your child.

Wheels: There’s a surprising amount to consider when it comes to stroller wheels. As mentioned, you will want to make sure they can tackle the terrain you will be driving it over. Consider whether fixed or swivel wheels work better for you, as well as whether or not you need wheel suspension.

Easy folding: This is one of the key features of a lightweight stroller, so consider how much effort you want to have to put into folding your stroller. We provide two-step, one-push and even auto-fold options in our list.

Backrest recline: If you’re shopping for a newborn, your stroller will need to fully recline. And if you want the stroller to adapt as your child grows, an adjustable backrest is necessary.

How we test lightweight strollers

At Expert Reviews, we know that hands-on testing delivers the most complete information about a product. As such, we test all the lightweight strollers we review by using the models in various environments, putting their features and the supplied accessories through their paces. Where lightweight strollers are recommended for a particular type of travel vehicle or use, we test the stroller in that scenario to ensure we make an accurate recommendation.

We closely assess the safety features of each stroller and consider the overall ease of use, portability and whether models are easy to fold down and store between uses. We also note how well the wheels stand up to rigorous use. Finally, we confirm the measurements and weight capacity of the product.

READ NEXT: The best running buggies to buy

The best lightweight strollers to buy in 2023

1. mountain buggy nano 3: best lightweight stroller for most people.

Built for both travel and comfort, the award-winning Mountain Buggy nano 3 is a perfect fit for parents on the go. The nano 3 is made with aircraft-grade aluminium, making it durable, yet it only weighs 6kg. It has a two-step folding system that can be performed with one hand, and includes a travel satchel for convenient storage. Designed to last from birth to toddler years, this model has a soft, lie-flat seat with ventilation for breathability and an adjustable footrest for optimal comfort.

For parents who like to travel, it gives the option of a carrying handle or shoulder strap when not in use. Front wheels can be set to lock back for rough terrain or 360° swivel for better control. It also has rear wheel suspension and a foot-controlled brake. The five-point harness is tail-free, meaning there are no stray straps for children to fiddle with. The nano 3 comes in five colour and pattern options.

Key specs – Ages: Newborn to 4 years; Weight: 6kg; Folded Dimensions: 51 x 30 x 54cm

Check price at Mountain Buggy

2. gb Gold Pockit+ All Terrain: The lightest stroller

While you can’t go running or jogging with this stroller (hey, we can’t have it all), it’s a great option for local errands and hopping on public transport. It can tuck the wheels in and fold right down into a petite package just 20cm wide. You can effortlessly lift it in and out of the boot with just one hand. In addition, it has a five-point safety harness, a raincover and double, all-terrain wheels – the front ones can swivel or lock too. It also comes in three colourways.

Key specs – Ages: 6 months to 17kg; Weight: 5.6kg; Folded Dimensions: 34 x 20 x 42cm

gb Gold Pockit+ All Terrain Ultra Compact Pushchair, Cabin Luggage Compliant, From 6 Months to 22 kg (approx. 4 Years), Velvet Black

3. babyzen yoyo²: best premium lightweight stroller bundle.

The YOYO² can be folded, unfolded, and steered with one hand. The frame weighs only 6.1kg and, when folded, meets the carry-on baggage size for most airlines. A padded shoulder strap makes for easy carrying and the safety-wrist strap offers extra protection. The storage basket, which can be easily accessed from the front or back, can carry up to 5kg. The stroller boasts hytrel elastomer suspension and a five-point harness for child safety. It also comes with a two-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Key specs – Ages: Newborn to 22kg; Weight: 6.1kg; Folded Dimensions: 52 x 44 x 18cm

Check price at John Lewis

4. Inglesina Quid 2: Best lightweight stroller for plane travel

The reclining backrest can go from sitting upright to a 170 degrees recline and an adjustable footrest provides maximum comfort for the child without leaving their little legs dangling. The chair itself has soft features, such as cushioned straps to prevent irritation, while front suspension gives children a smoother ride, even on bumpy pavements. It also has a fully-retractable hood with UPF 50+ protection and anti-UV fabric. The hood also includes a mesh insert, providing ventilation and increased breathability.

Key specs – Ages: Newborn to 22kg; Weight: 5.9kg; Folded Dimensions: 46.5 x 58 x 19cm

Check price at Kiddies Kingdom

5. Joie Aire Double Pushchair: Best lightweight double stroller

For the parent’s ease of use, this stroller is still foldable with one hand so, while this type of stroller is hardly compatible with single doors, it’s easy enough to collapse for transport on trains or buses. It has dual-wheel suspension and lockable front wheels with linked brakes. There is a spacious shopping basket included for storage and a raincover to keep children dry and comfortable. The Joie Aire double pushchair makes travelling with two children easier, while keeping each child individually happy.

Key specs – Ages: Newborn to 3 years, or 15kg; Weight: 11.8kg; Folded Dimensions: 98.5 x 78 x 30.5cm

6. Lejoux Foldable Stroller: Best budget lightweight stroller

The Lejoux foldable stroller shows us that affordability doesn’t always require sacrificing features. It uses aircraft-grade aluminium to provide sturdiness while keeping the overall weight low, at only 8kg. There’s also a fully adjustable seat with three positions, and a cooling memory foam pad to keep children comfortable on sunnier days. The footrest is also adjustable and there’s a five-point harness for optimal safety. Meanwhile, the hood is retractable and includes a mesh window for airflow and easy viewing.

This stroller quickly folds with the push of a single button and includes a telescoping handle that allows it to roll along like luggage. The wheels have dual suspension and lock with a single lever and there is even a large storage basket below the seat. It’s available in four colours, for the style conscious, and comes with a number of extra items including a rain cover, a mosquito net, a bottle holder and a stroller cover.

Key specs – Ages: Infant to 15kg; Weight: 8.5kg; Folded Dimensions: 66 x 36 x 26cm

Lejoux™ Baby Pushchair Stroller– Lightweight Foldable Travel Buggy with 5-Point Harness, Adjustable Seat Back and Oversize Basket Folds with 1 Hand – Smooth Swivel Wheels Rain Cover (Black)

7. didofy aster 2 ultra-compact pushchair: best compact lightweight stroller.

A compact stroller makes travelling so much easier and this model really is small. Available in three neutral colours, the Didofy Aster 2 ultra-compact pushchair weighs just 6.2kg and can be carried as hand luggage on the majority of airlines. It comes with a “MagicFold” button for simple one-push folding and unfolding. The leatherette handle stands at a height of 105cm and offers easy, one-handed steering, while the brake is flip-flop friendly to prevent injured toes.

The stroller’s hood is waterproof and offers UPF 50 protection, and also includes a peek-a-boo window, as well as ventilation built into the seat. The backrest reclines into multiple positions, as does the footrest. Its five-point harness is cushioned for extra comfort and the stroller comes with a rain cover, footmuff and a cup holder for the parent’s convenience. The wheels are puncture-proof and it has built-in suspension for a tranquil ride.

Key specs – Ages: Newborn to 22kg; Weight: 6.2kg; Folded Dimensions: 55 x 47 x 25cm

Check price at Baby Planet

8. Chicco Goody: Best easy-fold lightweight stroller

The backrest can recline into three different positions, and the leg rest is also adjustable. It comes with a rain cover to protect from the British weather and the sun canopy has a removable insert to ensure the child gets proper sun protection at every size. Better still, there are padded straps and a five-point harness for comfort and safety.

Key specs – Ages: Newborn to 22.5kg; Weight: 6.9kg; Folded Dimensions: 46.5 x 56 x 25cm

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16 best prams and buggies 2024 – tried, tested and approved by parents

Our experts put these top-rated pushchairs and travel systems through their paces, article bookmarked.

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In the market for a new pram, stroller or travel system? There are so many different styles to choose from but, as always, the IndyBest team is on hand to help, as we’ve put the best prams, pushchairs and buggies on the market to the test, to help you decide which is right for you and your little one.

Prams and pushchairs may be essential for many parents but the price tags can be a bit daunting. So, it makes sense to really think about various factors when trying to decide which will be the best pram to suit your needs.

If you’re planning to have more than one child, future-proofing your pram makes good financial sense. If you have two children close together or are having twins, you can find prams that convert from one seat to two. If you have a child who will walk sometimes, look for a pram with an on-board buggy board that they can ride on when their little legs get tired.

Another factor to bear in mind is where you’ll be using your pram. If you live in a rural area, where you head off the beaten track , bigger tyres and decent suspension is what you’re after. If you live in an urban area and planning to be on and off public transport a fair amount, smaller swivel wheels that are nippy at manoeuvring and a more compact pram will be a lifesaver.

You’ll also need to become familiar with the different types of buggies on offer. For example, a travel system is normally a kit with a bassinet for newborns and a seat unit for when they get older, plus, they can take an infant car seat (normally with adaptors). Alternatively, a pushchair or stroller tends to be something more lightweight – but they don’t always lie flat, so sometimes they’re not suitable from birth.

7 best running buggies for zooming around with your little one

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

11 best lightweight strollers for hassle-free and compact travel with your little one

12 best car seats to keep your child safe, secure and comfortable

10 best baby monitors: Tried and tested video and audio models

How we tested the best prams

We’ve tested countless prams to whittle it down to the very best. We recruited babies and children of all different ages to ride in them. We walked and went running for miles over different terrains – from country paths to city streets – in the wind, rain and sunshine, to find the best prams on the market. We looked at how easy they are to use – both pushing and folding – how comfortable they seem and any nice little extras that made us think: “Ooh, clever”.

The best prams for 2024 are:

• Best pram overall – iCandy lime travel system: £755, Amazon.co.uk
• Best budget pram – Micralite getgo travel system: £395, Micralite.com
• Best easy-fold travel system – Nuna MIXX next: £660, Johnlewis.com
• Best premium stroller – Stokke xplory X stroller: £1,159, Amazon.co.uk

iCandy lime travel system

• Best : Pram overall
• Folded dimensions : ‎68cm x 51cm x 30cm
• Weight : ‎10.2kg
• Age suitability : Suitable from birth with the carrycot
• Folds with seat still attached
• Car seat attachment available
• Not the most compact

There are many great features we were impressed with on the iCandy lime. There’s the “totalfold” function, which essentially means the pram folds compactly with the seat unit still attached. Then, once folded, there’s a carry strap to help you lug it about. It’s a long way from being the most compact pram we tried, but on the other hand it’s a much more robust pram than some others. It’s also a great option if you have an older child and a baby, as this travel system comes with a built-in buggy board.

The lime comes with a fleece-lined bassinet included, which sounds absolutely dreamy – who wouldn’t want to sleep in a fleecey nest? Plus, it’s suitable for overnight sleeping, which is great if you don’t have a travel cot or moses basket. There are attachments both for car seats and to raise the seat up further, so it’s about the right height for your child to reach a dining table – great for not having to faff about with high chairs at restaurants. And as for the drive, the push is easy and the chair nips along nicely. This is a great option for city dwellers who want a bit more luxury from their ride.

Micralite getgo travel system

• Best : Budget pram
• Folded dimensions : 76cm x 59cm x 38cm
• Weight : 10.8kg
• Age suitability : From birth up to 22kg
• Small touches for a more premium appeal
• Roomy basket
• Handy pocket for your phone

Marketed as a highly practical pushchair, we can’t say we can argue with that. We were impressed by this pushchair because it had so many of the nice touches of more expensive, bigger prams, yet it had most of the benefits of a smaller stroller too. We liked the smart black colourway with tan leatherette trim on the handle and bar, and the cream fabric insert. The hood is extendable, has UPF50 and also has a pull-out mesh sunshade that tucks away into the top, which gives more coverage than any other hood we tried. There is also a nice roomy basket, with some pockets to store smaller items.

And best of all? A cup holder and a zippy pocket in the back of the seat that’s smartphone sized. Yes, the designers of this pram clearly knew what parents of small children need. It folds really easily with the seat unit attached, which lies totally flat so it’s suitable from birth (you can buy a bassinet that fits onto the chassis if you want). We thought this was a fantastic pushchair, which ticked pretty much all of our boxes.

Babystyle oyster3 stroller

• Best : Pram for city and town living
• Folded dimensions : 71cm x 57cm x 37cm
• Weight : Unspecified
• Saves space
• Relatively lightweight
• Harness clips are tricky to get the hang of

While this pram has a moderate footprint – it’s not up there with a big iCandy, but nor is it a nippy libelle (£289.95, Naturalbabyshower.co.uk ) – it also has several clever functions that make it a really smart choice if you’re short on space. It folds with the seat unit in place, whether it’s world or parent facing, and has a really smooth folding mechanism. We don’t have time to stand about coaxing prams to fold, and this would be a brilliant bonus for people who need to take their pram on public transport often. Once it’s folded, it has a sturdy carry handle, and it is freestanding.

The Oyster3 is also surprisingly lightweight compared with some of its competitors, so, it would be one of the easiest out of the more comprehensive prams to lug up stairs. The wheels are large and foam filled, which gives a smooth ride, but we didn’t find it quite as smooth to push, or as quick to speed away as other prams.

The five-point harness clips are magnetic, which helps when securing our little one in place. However, the separate clips are a bit like pieces of a puzzle, and we’re not often in the mood for puzzles when our toddler is planking while being put into their pram. There is a moderate size extendable sun canopy with UV protection, and while the seat unit is lying flat you can also buy a bassinet for it – we’ve found “bundles” of the stroller and bassinet for really great prices.

Nuna MIXX next

• Best : Easy-fold pram
• Folded dimensions : 42cm x 65cm x 52.5cm
• Weight : 11.09kg
• Age suitability : From birth
• Premium appeal
• Plenty of under-seat storage
• Handy phone pocket
• Easy one-hand fold
• Folds compact
• Chunky wheels

More papped than Britney , this stroller is a celebrity favourite, including among the Kardashians and Jessica Biel. It seems those celebs know a good pram when they see one. The MIXX next is suitable from birth, as it smoothly reclines completely flat, or you can buy a bassinet that attaches to the pram, which is sold separately (£200, Mamasandpapas.com ). It’s also possible to have the seat facing the parent or the rest of the world.

This pram feels really premium – the fabrics are hardwearing and luxurious on the hood and seat, and the handlebar and arm bar are made of a lovely leatherette material that is very tactile and nice and easy to grip. We were wowed by the sizable under-seat storage basket, which has a zip-up compartment too, so VIP passengers – Rusty the cuddly toy fox, for example – don’t get dropped. There’s also a little phone pocket in the back of the seat that’s pure genius.

There is a summer seat, which has a mesh back to help keep passengers cool, and in colder weather you can add a seat pad (which is included) that feels really cosy. Our tall parent testers loved this pram as the handle baseline is quite high up (which might not be great for petite parents), and extends further upwards too. And let’s talk about the fold – the seat unit stays attached to the chassis, and you simply pull up two latches on the handle and it collapses without any pushing or shoving. Definitely an easy one-hand fold here. It folds small enough to fit into a compact car boot, but the wheels are quite chunky so it’s not one that you can slip under your arm and jump on a bus.

Stokke xplory X stroller

• Best : Premium stroller
• Folded dimensions : 101cm x 131cm x 56cm
• Weight : 13.4kg
• Supremely cosy seat
• The car seat (sold separately) won’t need adaptors
• Seat isn’t suitable from birth
• Pricey (particularly with the bassinet sold seperatlet)

“It doesn’t look like a pram – are you sure it’s a pram?” asked our family when this turned up. It’s definitely a pram – a pram like no other. The xplory X has an iconic Stokke look to it, and the clever design that goes along with their products. The seat unit was the snuggest seat of all we tested, and our little one looked so cosy in their nest. Your child can be parent or world facing, and the seat has a cute little foot rest that slips on the bottom.

However, the seat unit is only suitable from six months, and the bassinet is sold separately (£219, Bellababy.co.uk ) – the price combined brought us out in a cold sweat, if we’re honest. That said, it does glide nicely, with the flexibility of locking the front wheel if you are covering rough terrain.

The basket underneath closes totally, meaning none of your shopping gets wet, although it’s not generous in size. For those precious naps while out and about, the seat unit reclines well, and allows an almost horizontal angle. And if you buy into the Stokke range, the Stokke car seat clips onto the chassis without the need for adaptors – why can’t all prams do this? We felt pretty trendy pushing this pram down the street, and it’s definitely a front runner for parents who are style conscious.

Silver Cross clic

• Best : Compact pushchair
• Folded dimensions : 54cm x 45cm x 22cm
• Weight : 6.5kg
• Age suitability : From birth to 22kg
• Smooth glide
• Storage has quite high sides

This jazzy little number has an eye-catching metallic pattern in the sun canopy, and comes in lilac, aqua or the standard black. The seat unit is quilted in a geometric pattern to match, and looks really comfortable. The shoulder straps also have pads for extra luxury travel.

The clic claims to be a one-hand recline, which is true, but you have to fiddle with a clasp to get it back upright again. However, the clic lies completely flat, so newborns and pram nappers will be just fine in it. The storage has quite high sides, so it’s not the easiest to lob your shopping into when in a rush at the self checkout. The push on it is great though, it glides smoothly and doesn’t feel cumbersome, taking on all the speedy corners we threw at it.

iCandy orange pram

• Best : Pram for growing families
• Folded dimensions : 70cm x 60cm x 28.5cm
• Weight : ‎17.8kg
• Age suitability : Suitable from birth with a carry cot, up to 25kg
• Smooth ride
• Luxurious seat
• Smooth seat recline
• Can’t use the buggy board in twin or double mode

We couldn’t find a better pram for a growing family than the iCandy orange. It has the footprint of a single pram, but can convert to twin or double mode, and it has an integrated buggy board too. It’s worth noting though that you wouldn’t be able to use the buggy board if in twin or double mode, unless your child was a contortionist.

As a single pram, it does have quite a big footprint, but for that it’s very stable and gives a smooth ride. And the basket is epic. It folds down well though, and you can fold it with the seat unit and bumper bar attached. The seat unit is quilted and feels really luxurious. And once our little darling is rocked to sleep thanks to the decent suspension, the seat reclines really smoothly using a handle at the top of the seat.

Mamas & Papas airo pushchair

• Best : Pram for easy carrying
• Folded dimensions : 25cm x 45cm x 55cm
• Weight : 7.6kg
• Age suitability : From birth to toddler
• Smooth recline
• Compact fold
• Extendable hood
• One-hand fold could be simpler

Suitable from birth, this compact pushchair lies totally flat and is a comfortable ride too. The recline on it is super smooth, so no jerky manoeuvres to wake up our sleeping beauty. It’s also possible to buy a newborn pack (sold separately), which includes a bassinet (£149, Mamasandpapas.com ).

The one-hand fold has several stages to it, so it wasn’t the simplest – not ideal when you have a tantruming toddler stood next to you. But it does have a useful padded carry handle. You can also wear it like a backpack, but we weren’t convinced by this feature as you have quite a large pram for a tail – perhaps useful if you need to be hands free at an airport or something, but not a feature we’d like to use often. The fold is compact, and it fits neatly into our compact-car boot with loads of room for other toddler paraphernalia. The extendable hood is great and the storage basket is a decent enough size to fit your shopping underneath.

Bababing raffi travel system

• Best : Pram for value for money
• Folded dimensions : 70cm x 60cm x 29cm
• Weight : 12.5kg
• Age suitability : From birth to 6 months with the carry cot/car seat, from 6 months up to 15Kg with the seat
• The bassinet is robust
• Don’t need to remove the seat to fold

The Raffi is a great little travel system. The seat unit is well padded – even on the sides – and it reclines back into a horizontal position easily. You can also have the seat unit either parent or world facing. We liked that the bassinet – is nice and robust, with its own sunshade that locks into position – is included in the price on this travel system.

When thinking about fitting this in the car boot, we’ve got to be honest, the chassis isn’t the most petite. But the seat unit can stay attached to the chassis when you fold it, which is music to our ears. However, it is heavy, so it might not be one for lugging about too much. The basket space is ample, and the sides come up nice and high to stop anything getting turfed out on the road. We were really impressed with this little (ok, big) number and think it is great value for money.

Ergobaby metro+ stroller

• Best : Compact pram for newborns
• Folded dimensions : Unspecified
• Weight : 7.8kg
• Nice padding
• Compact once folded
• The recline is a little fiddly

If you’re looking for something very lightweight, without the hassle of a bassinet, this is a great option. The stroller has a hidden, built-in newborn nest and flaps that you fold out from the foot rest, which folds all the way up at the bottom. We thought this was a brilliant feature for such a compact pram. The seat unit is nicely padded and feels quite bouncy, and the straps are padded, too. The seat uses a strap and clasp recline, which isn’t our favourite as it’s a bit more fiddly. When reclined, the back of the seat is mesh, which helps prevent our snoozer from overheating.

All mechanisms on the pram were great – it’s easy to fold with one hand, and folds compactly. It doesn’t take up much room in the boot, so it’s great for even very small cars. The pram really moves nicely, too – a gentle push and we’re away, nipping around pedestrians with ease. The spring suspension provides a smooth ride for our passengers, too. You can also buy a carry bag for it, which is great if you’re putting it in an aeroplane hold or lugging it some distance.

Cybex libelle pushchair

• Best : Pram with the smallest fold
• Folded dimensions : 20cm x 32cm x 48cm
• Weight : 6kg
• Age suitability : From 6 months to 22kg
• Lightweight
• Super compact
• Not as comfy and plush as larger models

When this arrived, we were slightly disbelieving that a pram could fit in such a small box – but fit it did. This pushchair is a brilliant option if you’re after a lightweight, very compact pram for around town and going away. Indeed, it can fit in overhead compartments on planes, and under train seats. For all this zippy, compact fun, this pram isn’t the plushest of rides. Although the fabric feels nice and durable, the seat isn’t super padded and the straps are fairly basic. Our tester looked happy enough in there, but we’re not convinced it’s as comfy as some other (larger, heavier) prams.

The hood isn’t extravagantly large, but fares ok on the coverage front. Pushing the pram is easy, and it zoomed around the shops and over curbs. Because the seat doesn’t lie flat, it’s not suitable for newborns, but it does have a nice recline on it, which is very adjustable as it’s a cord you pull at the back. For such a tiny pram, the basket underneath is also a good size.

Egg 2 stroller

• Best : Pram for style
• Folded dimensions : 67cm x 29cm x 59cm
• Weight : 9.7kg
• Age suitability : Six months and above
• Smooth to recline and operate
• The seat is plush
• Sensitive foot break

Sleek and stylish, this pram has definitely been designed with aesthetics in mind but it isn’t just style and no substance. The grey chassis can accommodate a seat unit or a bassinet, and it feels really smooth to operate. The recline function when in seat mode is operated from the top, which means you don’t have to stop and fiddle around at the sides when you’re in a rush. And the recline is smooth – it didn’t wake our slumbering baby.

Speaking of the seat unit, it’s plush and padded. In fact, we were quite jealous of how comfortable our mini tester looked in it. It looks good, too – all smooth curves and glossy metal. Another thing we liked was the foot break, which was nicely sensitive and springy – much smoother than others we battled with.

It’s a big thumbs up for the basket underneath, which is really nice and roomy. It has a good space between it and the seat or bassinet above, meaning we didn’t have to get on our hands and knees to load and unload items. Another smart thing we thought was clever was the elasticated insect net, which is stored under the footrest. If you have twins or children close in age, the egg2 can be adapted to a tandem configuration – but you have to buy the tandem adaptor set.

Out n About nipper double

• Best : Double pram
• Folded dimensions : 71cm x 36cm x 79cm (wheels off)
• Weight : ‎12.8kg
• Age suitability : Newborn to around four years old
• Tackles obstacles with ease
• Durable fabrics
• Surprisingly compact once folded
• Function over comfort
• Recline could be easter to master
• No under-seat basket

This three-wheeler pushchair is great if you’re pushing more than two kids around. It’s brilliant at handling off-road obstacles, pavement bumps and curbs – we didn’t even have to pull it onto its back wheels to get it up the curb. And the suspension is great – our passengers didn’t blink an eye at potholes or bumpy tracks. We loved the generous sun canopy with lift-up flap, and that there are lots of built-in pockets in the hood.

The nipper isn’t the most plush of prams though, and the fabrics feel made for durability rather than comfort. We found the recline function a bit tricky to master as it’s a case of pulling a strap through a clasp. And crucially there’s no under seat basket, which seems madness for parents with two or more kids. We also found the foot brake a bit sticky. However, despite this we were overall really impressed with this double, and that’s why it’s got the top billing. It’s narrow enough to fit through pretty much all doors and you can fold it with the seat units attached. Plus once it’s folded it’s actually pretty compact, so would probably fit in most car boots.

Chicco cheerio stroller

• Best : Pram for easy folding
• Folded dimensions : 53cm x 44cm x 25cm
• Weight : 5.6kg
• Age suitability : From birth up to 15kg
• A breeze to fold
• Fairly lightweight
• Small turning circle

Definitely the easiest to fold pram of the many, many prams we tried over the course of our testing. Simply press two buttons in the handle and the cheerio folds itself down to a very compact size – brilliant if you’re holding a baby in one arm. You can then pick it up and carry it using the padded bumper bar – and away we went to get on with our day. We found it lightweight enough to sling into our boot and it’d be easy to get it into overhead lockers on aeroplanes (as long as no one else is hogging all the space).

Let’s talk about the ride. The seat has adequate padding, and the straps are padded too. The glide on it is great, and it has a really small turning circle. The footprint on the pram isn’t huge, so it feels a little less robust than an all-out big travel system, but if you’re buying this you probably aren’t looking for the Land Rover of the pram world, let’s be honest. Nice little additions were the included rain cover and carry bag, which make this pram a really smart buy in the compact market.

Thule urban glide 2 running buggy

• Best : Running pram
• Weight : ‎11.4kg
• Tackles tough terrain with ease
• Secret storage

Almost good to go out of the box, this pram is ready for a life on the road. It seriously moves – one gentle push and it’s off, and it’s really easy to push one handed even over rough terrain. We loved that you have the option of locking the front wheel for running, or unlocking it when negotiating the streets and shops – it offers the best of both worlds.

Another great touch is the secret pocket behind the hood for phones, keys and masks (but you do need slim fingers to retrieve anything in there). The under-seat basket is waterproof and zips up so you can keep things clean and dry if you’re off for a muddy run across the fields. There’s also a generous sun canopy, which has a magnetic window so you can silently check on your baby as they snooze. There is also a hand brake, making it easy to slow when running.

One thing that was tricky is that the pram is large – it didn’t fit in our compact-car boot without taking the wheels off. This was a muddy job after some runs, so definitely worth factoring in. Even so, we fell hard for this pram, both as a running buggy and for general use. The price is quite punchy compared to some other running prams but we think the difference in quality of the fabric, build and mechanisms is noticeable on the Thule.

Bugaboo dragonfly carrycot and seat pushchair

• Best : Pram for folding options
• Folded dimensions : 36cm x 52cm x 90cm
• Weight : 10.4kg
• Age suitability : Suitable from birth to 4 years with bassinet
• Folds down with seat or bassinet attached
• Robust yet smooth movement
• Compatible with a number of car seats
• Rain cover not included as standard

The biggest selling point of the Bugaboo Dragonfly is its foldability with varying attachments. If you buy the option with both the seat and bassinet, both of these are able to be folded down fully and the frame can then continue to be wheeled around in its folded state. The folding mechanism takes a few practice goes to get a feel for, but once you get the hang of it you’ll be folding down in the blink of an eye.

This is very convenient for city living, and it’s also not too heavy compared to other models of this size if you need to carry it up stairs on occasion. When in its unfolded state the pushchair has quite substantial storage space under the seat and feels sturdy and robust. In motion it feels smooth and has an extendable handle that should be comfortable whatever your height.

Available extras include a snazzy changing backpack, which comes in very handy, and a cup holder attachment which may become essential for your morning coffee.This model is also compatible with a number of different brands of car seat, which can be lifted from your vehicle and straight into the pushchair frame without having to wake the baby. Features like this make this pram one of the most adaptable on our list.

How to choose between a pram, stroller and travel system

The main and most important difference between prams and pushchairs is that the former is designed for younger infants and babies, and they’re generally suitable to use from birth. On the other hand, strollers are designed for older infants and toddlers. This is down to the positioning of the seat or carry cot – while prams feature a flat position, strollers are more upright, which suits infants who are capable of sitting up independently. Last but not least, if you’re looking to go further afield, travel systems may be a good choice, as they’re able to have a car seat attached to the frame.

• If the pram has a cover, it can protect infants from sunlight.
• They won’t be practical once the little one can sit up independently.
• While they can fold down when you need them to, they won’t be as compact as a stroller, making them trickier to store away.
• They’re generally designed to collapse down to a compact size for easy storage.
• While they aren’t able to recline completely, they should recline enough for toddlers to sleep.
• They can be used until your toddler can walk for long periods.

The verdict: Prams

The iCandy lime was a standout pram during testing. We loved how robust yet manoeuvrable it is, and it’s packed with design features that really make a difference to parents’ lives. If you’re after something smaller in size and budget, we really loved the Silver Cross clic , too.

Want to make your baby’s pram extra cosy? Check out our guide to the best footmuffs

Voucher Codes

Cybex Libelle review: we tested the world's most compact travel stroller

We put the ultra-lightweight, easy-to-fold and incredibly compact pushchair through its paces

The new Libelle travel pushchair from German-born baby brand Cybex is arguably one of the smallest and lightest strollers on the market, making it the perfect companion for long haul flights, day trips and mini breaks.

But just how important is size and weight, and does the Libelle live up to its claims? We put one of the world's dinkiest strollers through its paces at home and away.

Do you need a travel stroller?

Strollers of all types tend to be a big investment and what you need in the early days can rapidly change as your little one develops. One moment you're looking for something to easily navigate supermarket aisles and the next you're booking holidays and realising that buggies and aeroplanes don't always mix.

The key to a good travel stroller is being lightweight and compact enough to lug about when collapsed, while also performing like a dependable and user-friendly buggy when in use. And importantly, if your travel stroller is small enough to be classed as hand luggage on an aeroplane, it might save you money too. Check out our rundown of the best lightweight strollers for more on the subject.

Cybex Libelle Travel Stroller

So, if you already have an everyday pushchair and you simply need something small and nippy for your holidays, you’ve come to the right place.

Cybex is an award-winning company that’s best known for kiddy car seats, but the brand’s lightweight stroller offering did not disappoint. The Libelle is a breeze to assemble, performs like a dream on most urban surfaces and - perhaps most importantly of all - collapses to the size of a handbag at the touch of a button, making it ideal for air travel.

Keep scrolling for our take on the benefits of the Cybex Libelle travel buggy, which we've linked in a stylish grey hue if you fancy shopping it for yourself. If you'd prefer, there's also an updated Cybex Libelle 2023 , which comes with a one-pull harness that allows you to secure your little one in seconds using just one hand.

Cybex Libelle Stroller stats : Age range: 6 months-4 years | Stroller weight: 5.9 kg | Dimensions: 102 x 52 x 71cm| Folded size: 48 x 20 x 32cm

The Cybex Libelle first impressions

The Cybex Libelle is said to be one of the smallest strollers on the scene and certainly lives up to its lightweight and compact claims, weighing in at just 5.9kg and folding down to 48 x 20 x 32 cm.

For comparison, the average briefcase measures 40 x 35 x 10 cm, so the Libelle really does fold up small. Our first impression was actually shock! How can something that small ping open and become an average size and sturdy feeling stroller? It defies all logic! But as you can see from our two-year-old tester above, despite its diminutive size the Libelle is a comfy ride.

The Cybex Libelle foldability

The Cybex Libelle is officially hand luggage compliant. In just seconds, it folds into an ultra-compact package that is small enough to fit into a bag , be taken on train or a plane and definitely stores away in an overhead compartment. In fact, when we first tested it, we were stunned to discover that it folds in on itself twice, making it ideal for lockers, car boots and general travel.

That said it does require two hands to manoeuvre, so if you’re solo parenting with a little one in tow, you will need someone to hold the baby while you pop the buggy up. But it takes milliseconds and if you have good upper body strength, you might be able to hold your travel companion under one arm while you open the buggy with the other. Our two-year-old tester is very heavy for his age, so we had to plonk him on the floor while we set things up, but once he was safely installed, he seemed content.

The Cybex Libelle handling

How a buggy handles on different terrain is a subject you only really consider when it isn’t working well. Struggling with cobbles, stairs or wonky wheels? If your buggy is underperforming this is when it shows.

Fortunately, the Cybex Libelle rides like a dream. In fact, the wheels are so smooth, it made things feel easy. We narrowly missed a connection on our travels so had to run with the buggy, and it sped across the terminal with no trouble at all. We also rate the wide handlebars, which made tight corners and stairs easy to navigate.

The Cybex Libelle stand out features

Aside from the aforementioned dinky size and good usability, the Cybex Libelle comes with an adjustable seat which our little tester found useful for naps on the move, plus lots of padding and the straps were easy to use.

Some buggies require both sides to strap in at the same time which can make things tricky when you’re trying to manhandle a reluctant baby octopus. But the Libelle can be clipped in one side at a time, making it easier to strap wriggly toddlers in if they’re making a bid for independence in a busy travel spot such as an airport terminal.

Our verdict

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• Pushchairs, Buggies and Strollers

Compact strollers for travel without the hassle

Chicco Cheerio Stroller

Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Travel Pushchair

Disney Cassy Stroller by Teamtex 

Joie Litetrax 4 Wheeler Pushchair

BABYZEN YOYO² Chassis and Colour Pack Bundle

Cosatto Woosh 3

Mamas and Papas Airo Pushchair

Doona Infant Car Seat and Stroller

Travelling with a pushchair or pram can be stressful, and whether you're trying to cram-fit your car boot for a holiday or squeeze yourself onto public transport, compact strollers are a must for many parents on the move. Perfect for city living, commuting, or jet-set travellers, compact strollers are often lightweight and easy to fit in small areas, whether that's a car boot or airplane storage.

Designed to be lightweight pushchairs and easy-folding for all your space-saving requirements, these travel systems will make any trip effortless with your little one in tow. Folding up small for those big adventures: the best compact strollers are packed full of practical features, making them a quality choice for an everyday stroller on the road with the bonus of being extremely compact.

The best compact strollers at a glance:

Best compact stroller overall: Nuna TRIV - View offer on Nuna

Best for compact fold: BABYZEN YOYO² Chassis and Colour Pack Bundle - View offer on Mamas&papas

Best portable compact stroller: Mamas and Papas Airo Pushchair - View offer on Mamas&papas

Best two-in-one stroller: Doona Infant Car Seat and Stroller - View offer on Mamas&papas

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.

Best compact strollers

Best compact stroller overall.

nunababy.eu

Award:   Won Silver at the Mother&Baby Awards 2023 for Best Pushchai r 

One hand fold and recline. This fully-featured compact pushchair is perfect for city living or jet-setting travellers. TRIV™ is cleverly designed with a seat that can face both ways and fold both ways and can easily convert to a travel system. The ring adaptor can even fold with the frame, creating the perfect sidekick to your everyday adventures. For a quick trip to the corner store or getting across town, TRIV packs up quickly, folds with one hand and stands on its own, keeping your busy hands free. Proof that great things can come in small packages. 

One mum tester said:  "Henry was comfortable in it whether he was lying down for a nap or sitting upright. Henry isn't great at napping but there seemed to be something about this pram that helped him get off to sleep quickly and comfortably. It is easy to manoeuvre and good for getting into tight spaces. It is very user friendly and I was able to put it up in about 10 minutes with minimal need for the instructions. It is very quick and easy to put up and down after use and slots nicely into the car boot."

Read our full Nuna TRIV Review

• Very compact when folded
• Lightweight
• Easy to steer
• Poor suspension

Best auto fold

www.pramworld.co.uk

Awarded Gold for Best Lightweight Buggy/Stroller at the Mother&Baby Awards 2022

The Cheerio is Chicco's most compact auto-folding stroller, homologated from birth to 15kg (approximately three years). Extremely compact and easy to use, thanks to its one-touch folding mechanism, it is the perfect solution for parents looking for both functionality and compactness. It comes with a UV50+ protective canopy, rain cover and carrying bag included.

Our mum tester Laura said: "This product definitely makes my life easier as it's so lightweight and compact. It's so easy to get in and out of the car one-handed because it's so light I'm able to hold the baby and open or close the pram. It's super easy to unfold, possible to do one-handed so it really is quick and convenient. It also doesn't take up loads of space in shops so easy to wiz around with."

Read our full Chicco Cheerio Review

• One-hand fold
• Easy to clean
• Poor protection from the sun

Best travel-system

The City Tour 2 is the ultimate travel companion. Weighing only 6.5kg - this fully-featured stroller includes multiple recline positions, adjustable calf support, a UV 50+ canopy, a carry bag, and a comfortable padded seat with added depth. Ultra-compact, it can fold in seconds with just one-hand operation and has auto-lock for easy transportation and storage. Awarded Silver for Best Lightweight Buggy/Stroller at the Mother&Baby Awards 2022, it's perfect for newborns too - pair with the compatible carrycot (sold separately) so you can stroll with your little one from birth to tot.

Our mum tester Haylee said: "The City Stroller makes my life easier as a Mum by being extremely easy to open and close. I have even been able to do this one-handed while holding my little girl which is very helpful. It is also small and compact when folded down so it can easily be tucked behind the seat of the car if the boot is full, and easy to store at home in the cupboard under the stairs It's a very lightweight stroller which makes quick trips to the shop much easier than with a full travel system. My little girl wants to be in and out of the stroller every 5 minutes so the quick release straps are very handy."

Read our full Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Compact Fold Stroller Review

• One-handed fold
• Quick release straps
• Includes carry bag
• Poor wheel suspension

Best for included features

Appealing to Disney and Marvel fanatics, this pram is lightweight at only 6kg and folds neatly into a carry bag. Features include a removable canopy, a peekaboo visor, a 5-point adjustable harness, an adjustable backrest, a storage basket and a cup holder.  

Our mum tester Clare said: "It's a smooth and easily manoeuvrable pram, suitable for shopping trips and city running. Its best feature is the easy fold and is incredibly small in comparison to the bigger travel systems. Its only downside was the location of the break but as someone with long legs, I tend to find that an issue."

• Child-friendly design
• Includes storage basket
• Some mums found issues with the difficult-to-reach location of the break

Best for storage

www.argos.co.uk

The Joie Litetrax 4 is parent-friendly thanks to the one-hand instant fold, and it's infant-friendly too. The SoftTouch harness welcomes even the tiniest riders, whilst the super shady UPF50+ extendable canopy keeps them protected from the sun's harmful rays. The multi-position, flat reclining seat and adjustable leg rest provide cosy resting options. We love the super spacious storage basket, great for trips to the supermarket, that can hold a whopping 5kg.

One reviewer said: "I bought this a month ago as a travel pram and love it so much that I've now started using as his everyday pram too. It's easy to fold up and very smooth to push."

• Freestanding when folded
• Four recline positions
• Adjustable leg rest
• Front wheels can be tricky to manoeuvre

Best for compact fold

Mamas & Papas

Available in a choice of trendy colours, the YOYO² takes the win for having the most compact fold, making it ideal for taking on holiday and onboard airlines. It's extra lightweight, and you can even carry it on the shoulder with its padded shoulder strap. Offering complete comfort for your child, plus suspension for a smooth ride, a five-point harness for safety, and a UPF50+ sun canopy - it's designed to make exploration an enjoyable experience for both you and your baby. It's also a favourite with celeb parents, such as  Emma Louise Connolly and her hubby, Ollie Proudlock.

One reviewer said: "We bought this pram a couple of weeks ago as we needed a smaller pram for future flights and trips away. It was a little tricky to put together, but after watching a YouTube video it was much easier. It took a few attempts to get the hang of putting the pram up and down. Great for city walks, popping to the shops or a short walk around the block. I wouldn't recommend for bumpy surfaces such as woodland or fields. The wheels would be far too small. My son seems very comfortable in it although the seat is a little more reclined that I would have liked, he does tend to forward to be upright more. Great to be able to recline it further for naps times. "Overall, a must-have pram! I think we'll get many years out of it and it's already become extremely handy to have."

• Four colour ways
• One-handed folding and driving
• Easily converts to lie flat
• Not great on rural terrain

Best for child-friendly design

www.cosatto.com

The playful designs in Cosatto's range make their strollers stand out, and this one more, so thanks to the combined style and compact fold. This sturdy yet lightweight stroller is easy-to-use and can be used for longer than most other compact strollers. As well as boasting a UPF100+ hood and double-length sun visor, the Woosh 3 comes with a travel-friendly telescopic pull handle so you can pull the stroller easily around after you once folded down. Features include eco-fabrics, a cup holder, a roomy seat for extra comfort, and adjustable support for your little one.

One reviewer said: 'Beautiful colours and easy to push. The only problem I found is that the handle isn't movable. It's set quite high for a shorter person like me.'

• Includes cup holder
• Large storage basket
• Doesn't include adjustable handle

Best portable compact stroller

Super-slim, cabin-friendly, and perfect from birth and for growing toddlers, the Airo 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. 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, you can be safe in the knowledge that your little one is comfy and secure.

One reviewer said: "Airo is well designed, lightweight and compact. Feels more flimsy than a full size buggy but perfect for trips to town."

• Cabin friendly
• One-hand folding
• Not the most sturdy design

Best two-in-one stroller

The Doona offers a revolutionary type of compact fold; the stroller can fold into a car seat that your little one can use in the car and on flights too. With one simple motion, you can switch between a stroller and car seat in seconds with all the necessary safety features needed to keep your baby safe on the road. A safe and practical solution for parents on the go, it saves you from needing to disturb a sleeping baby and is easy to carry when going upstairs, travelling on public transport, or nipping to a friend's house. It's worth keeping in mind that this is a great compact option to have alongside a regular full-size stroller, as it's not recommended to keep your baby in a car seat for longer than two hours.

One reviewer said: "We love our Doona pushchair, very convenient and lightweight for parents on the go."

• Comes with newborn insert
• Adjustable handlebar
• Rocking function
• Difficult to fasten

What's the difference between a compact stroller and an umbrella stroller?

Whilst an  umbrella stroller  is compact too, there are some differences between a compact stroller and an umbrella stroller.

• Folding mechanism:  An umbrella stroller collapses like an umbrella at a single point and, once folded, remains the full length of the stroller. In comparison, a compact stroller folds down, usually into thirds, to create a square or rectangle-like shape. You may find that this sizing makes it easier to store when travelling.

•  Handlebars:  Umbrella strollers have two handles, whilst compact strollers have a single, sturdier handlebar that provides more support to the stroller and makes it easier to manoeuvre.

• Features:  If you're after a small and lightweight stroller that closely resembles a full-size stroller, a compact stroller has many of the shared features and provides your little one with more ergonomic comfort on the move. Most umbrella strollers offer limited storage space and won't fully recline, making them unsuitable for babies under four months old.

•  Sturdiness:  Compact strollers are typically more robust with sturdier frames and wheels, making them more functional for modern parents.

Both an umbrella and compact stroller are easy to carry and small enough to push around busy locations. Lightweight, portable, and convenient to store, both make a handy travel alternative to have alongside your little one's main buggy. However, if you're after a stroller that folds up to a more travel-storage size - a compact stroller takes the trophy.

Can you take a compact stroller on a plane?

According to British Airways , "If you have a small, fully collapsible and lightweight pushchair/stroller (with maximum dimensions of 117cm x 38cm x 38cm/46in x 15in x 15in when the pushchair is collapsed), you can take this right to the aircraft door and collect at the aircraft door at most airports."

"Pushchairs that fold down into a carry bag, such as the Yo-Yo Zen and are within the  maximum hand baggage dimensions , can be taken on board in place of, but not in addition to, your larger cabin bag."

That being said, you should always check the requirements with your chosen airline before you fly so you don't get caught out at the gate.

Eleanor Weaver is the Deputy Homes & Garden Product Editor and has been a writer for titles such as Mother&Baby and Yours. In her role, she has researched and recommended the best products for parents, from breast pumps to toys, nursery décor to car seats. She's also kept a keen eye on celeb mums and influencers to share what they've been using to help make parenting that little bit easier.

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12 best lightweight strollers and buggies: compact strollers for travel with babies and toddlers

After in-depth research and parent-led testing, we reveal the UK's best lightweight strollers, buggies, prams and pushchairs for school runs, holidays, car journeys and urban exploring.

By Gemma Wilcock & Laura Westerman | Last updated Jun 19, 2024

Finding the best lightweight buggy can be tricky business, especially when there are a whole host of features to consider. Umbrella or concertina fold? Four wheels or three?

While lightweight strollers may not be an immediate choice for many parents with children under the age of two, buggies (otherwise known as strollers or pushchairs) are great alternatives to traditional prams for newborns and traditional travel systems .

They’re compact, easy to manoeuvre and ideal for travel, whether that's on public transport or on family holidays abroad, and they make getting around big cities or urban areas a breeze. Their light frames and simple folding mechanisms also make them brilliant for the school run. But which lightweight stroller is the best?

How we tested the best lightweight strollers

We’ve researched the UK’s top lightweight buggies, consulted parents on the Mumsnet forums for their best buys, analysed in-depth lab test results from the likes of Which?, and comparatively tested all the strollers on this list with our team of parent testers and their children (aged one to four) to bring you a comprehensive guide to the best lightweight strollers you can buy right now.

If you're looking for more of a robust pram for everyday use, we've rounded up the best pushchairs , the best travel systems , the best umbrella prams , the best all-terrain prams , the best double strollers and the best running buggies for babies and toddlers. And on the accessories front, we've also got the lowdown on the best pram toys , the best buggy boards and the best changing bags .

Best lightweight strollers at a glance

Best overall lightweight buggy: Babyzen YOYO² | Buy now

Best budget lightweight buggy: Ickle Bubba Aries | Buy now

Best lightweight buggy for newborns: Bugaboo Dragonfly | Buy now

Best lightweight buggy for toddlers: Didofy Aster 2 | Buy now

Best lightweight buggy for easy fold: Joolz Aer+ | Buy now

Best compact lightweight buggy: Cybex Coya | Buy now

Best lightweight buggy for travel and city life: Ergobaby Metro+ Stroller | Buy now

Best lightweight buggy for frequent flyers: Cybex Libelle | Buy now

Best lightweight buggy for longevity: Baby Jogger City Tour 2 | Buy now

Best lightweight buggy for rough terrain: Silver Cross Pop | Buy now

Best travel system-compatible lightweight buggy: Cybex Mios | Buy now

Best versatile lightweight buggy: Leclercbaby Influencer Air | Buy now

Babyzen YOYO²

Well-cushioned and roomy

Generous storage basket

Easy to collapse and carry (cover bag and carry strap included)

Meets the cabin luggage dimensions of most airlines

Manoeuvres very well in tight spaces

White wheels show up dirt easily

Rain cover sold separately

Requires some assembly

RRP: £450 (chassis and colour pack only) | Age range: Birth (with newborn pack) to four years | Max weight: 22kg | Weight: 6.2kg | Parent-facing option: Yes, if you have a newborn pack, otherwise it’s world-facing only | Travel system/car seat compatible: Yes | Folded size: 52 x 44 x 18cm

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full  Babyzen YOYO review

The Babyzen YOYO² is a top-performing lightweight buggy that can be used all the way from birth with Babyzen's newborn pack. It's the ideal buggy if you travel often, whether at home or abroad, but it functions just as well as an everyday stroller too.

An upgrade to the ever-popular Babyzen YOYO+ , the Babyzen YOYO² boasts improved suspension, a higher weight limit, a new faux leather handlebar and compatibility with even more infant car seats than its predecessor.

It’s lightweight and ultra compact with great adaptability. Better yet, the higher-than-average upper weight limit means that you can enjoy long years of use from this hard-working buggy.

All in all, it's a good alternative to a travel system for parents looking for a compact solution right from the get-go. Just don't forget to buy a rain cover.

Read next: The best car seats for children

Ickle Bubba Aries Auto-Fold Stroller

Auto-fold mechanism that folds the stroller down in seconds

Ultra-lightweight

Decent amount of storage

Lie-flat recline

Comes with added extras, including rain cover and bumper bar

Fabrics aren’t machine-washable

Non-adjustable handlebar

Topples when changing bag hung on handlebar (without child in seat)

RRP: From £159 | Age range: Birth to around five years old | Max weight: 22kg | Weight: 6.1kg | Parent-facing option: No | Travel system/car seat compatible: No | Folded size with bumper bar: 46 x 22 x 79cm

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Ickle Bubba Aries review

The brand-new Ickle Bubba Aries Auto-Fold Stroller is the ideal urban buggy. It’s ultra-lightweight at just 6.1kg, with a small footprint and auto-fold mechanism that makes it one of the easiest buggies out there to fold, whether you regularly use public transport or tend to travel by car.

This handy feature means the stroller folds down automatically at the press of two buttons, collapsing down in a matter of seconds - a game-changer for busy parents on the go. 

The Aries is also very affordable, with a number of different accessories included depending on which version you buy - something you don’t find with most lightweight buggies. The standard Aries stroller comes with a rain cover and bumper bar, while the Aries Max also includes a foot warmer and cup holder. The Ickle Bubba Aries Prime goes even further and comes with a cup holder, carry bag and buggy organiser alongside the rain cover and foot warmer.

Our tester and mum of two Claire says, “It's great value for money with lots of extras, including a pocket on the back of the hood for additional storage - a huge bonus! The seat is a decent size for my one-year-old and my two-and-a-half year old found it comfortable too.”

Read next: Best toddler reins to keep your little ones close

Bugaboo Dragonfly

Carrycot can be collapsed with the buggy

Generous amount of storage space

Rear storage pocket can be detached and hung on the handlebar

Huge extendable sun canopy with extra extension for sunny days

Sliding, easy-to-adjust five-point harness

Stiff and clunky recline

Fold takes time to master

No rain cover included

RRP: £695 (seat and chassis only); £945 for bundle | Age range: Birth age four | Max weight: 22kg | Weight: 7.9-10.4kg | Parent-facing option: Yes | Travel system/car seat compatible: Yes | Folded size: One-piece self-standing fold with seat 36 x 52 x 90cm; one-piece self-standing fold with carrycot 32 x 52 x 90cm

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Bugaboo Dragonfly review

Released in June 2023, the Bugaboo Dragonfly has been designed with city life in mind. Compatible with a variety of infant car seats (when used with the appropriate adapters) and the Bugaboo Dragonfly bassinet , this stroller can be used as a travel system so that your newborn has somewhere safe and comfortable to rest while you’re out and about.

From birth, the ergonomic seat is very supportive and has extra ventilation for regulating your child’s body temperature. There are a number of recline angles, including an upright position and lie-flat, and it can be used in parent-facing mode during the earlier months and then world-facing when your baby gets older.

The compact frame easily wheels through small or tight spaces, and the stroller can be folded down with just one hand, although it took our parent tester, Laura, some time to master. It’s petite enough to fit into a medium-sized car boot (although you may have to remove the parcel shelf in smaller cars) and can be left freestanding once folded on public transport.

With an extendable handle and swivel wheels, the Dragonfly is a comfortable ride that steers well, although it does struggle going up kerbs. The brake is very easy to engage - one of the easiest we've come across in fact - and the five-point harness is simple to adjust. Parent tester, Laura, says, "One of the best features of this pram is that the twist straps can be adjusted without the need for rethreading, the same as on other Bugaboo prams like the Bugaboo Fox 5. You simply slide the harness straps up and down to the desired position as your baby grows."

The two real highlights of this buggy though is the 10kg of storage, plus a detachable rear pocket that can be hung on the handlebars like a changing bag, and the fact that the Dragonfly can be folded down with (yes, WITH) the carrycot still attached. A game-changer in the newborn days if you ask us.

Didofy Aster 2

3kg storage basket

MagicFold technology allows it to be folded with one hand

Includes a rain cover, footmuff and cup holder

Can be carried on most airlines as hand luggage

Flip-flop-friendly brake

Cup holder feels flimsy and can be reached by child in the seat

Brake bar may get in the way for parents with a longer stride

Stitching in quilting holds dirt and crumbs and mud left some stains on the fabric

Wheels didn’t perform as well on uneven ground

Footrest gets in the way when carrying the folded buggy

RRP: £299 | Age range: Birth to four years | Max weight: 22kg | Weight: 6.2kg | Parent-facing option: No | Travel system/car seat compatible: Yes | Folded size: 55 x 47 x 25cm

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full  Didofy Aster 2 review

Thanks to its quilted seat fabric, leatherette handlebar and a choice of frame colours, the Didofy Aster 2 is a practical lightweight stroller that will also turn heads.

Parents can choose from three stylish fabric colours - olive green, grey and black - and a black or bronze stroller frame. The included footmuff and leatherette bumper bar both match the stroller’s stylish design.

The Aster 2’s MagicFold feature swiftly pops the stroller up or down with a press of a button. There’s a handle and shoulder strap for carrying the buggy, but our tester did find that the footrest got in the way and the lock came loose quite easily.

The seat is spacious with cosy quilted padding for extra comfort, an adjustable footrest and a multi-recline for a child up to approximately age four. It can also be used with a car seat.

The Astor 2 didn’t perform as well as other buggies in our topple tests - the instructions warn not to let children lean sideways out of the pram and, during testing, our toddler was able to make it lean to one side. But the swivel, puncture-proof wheels give a smooth comfortable ride for daily life (although they can be harder to manoeuvre on uneven ground). The pushchair whizzed through doorways no problem, but it did sometimes struggle to turn in small spaces.

Didofy has designed the brake to be flip-flop-friendly and it's very easy to engage and holds the pram securely, but our tester did feel the bar was set quite far back so may get in the way for parents with a longer stride.

If you plan to use the Aster 2 for your holiday, it’s small enough when folded to take on most airlines as hand luggage and there are handy extras you can buy, such as a storage bag and a mosquito net should you need to. The expanding UPF 50 sun canopy gives good coverage, but you’ll need to cover your child’s legs on sunnier days.

Read next: Didofy Stargazer 2-in-1 review

Impressive storage

Superb one-handed fold and unfold

Airy design for hot weather

Extra long stroller seat – ideal for taller children

Not suitable from birth

Recline mechanism is a bit awkward

Leg rest and bumper bar aren’t included

RRP: £429 | Age range: 6 months to three or four years | Max weight: 18kg | Weight: 6kg | Parent-facing option: Yes, if you use a carrycot, but otherwise world-facing | Travel system/car seat compatible: No | Folded size: 53.5 x 45 x 21.5cm

Tested by Mumsnet:  Read our full Joolz Aer review

Folding doesn’t get easier than with the Joolz Aer , which is easily collapsible with one hand. Throw in a stylish design and a generous storage capacity and this buggy is a must-have for anyone looking to downsize at six months plus.

We also love the Aer’s padding and extra-long seat. This is a comfortable ride across the age range, ideal for reluctant walkers (although not suitable from birth), and it manages to achieve all of this while also folding up surprisingly small.

Our tester found the Joolz Aer to be the most convenient to fold out of all the lightweight strollers she tested.

Read next: The best baby carriers backpacks, according to parents

Compact fold

Travel system-compatible 

Hand luggage size for plane travel

Small footprint when unfolded

Generously sized storage basket and extra storage pocket

Harness is easy to adjust and requires no rethreading

Forward-facing only unless used with a car seat

Seat isn't fully upright in its highest position

Jerky recline

No bumper bar

Not as sturdy on uneven ground as other travel strollers

RRP: £540 | Age range: Birth to around four years old | Max weight: 22kg | Weight: 6.6kg | Parent-facing option: No | Travel system/car seat compatible: Yes | Folded size: 18 x 44 x 52cm

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Cybex Coya review

The Cybex Coya , released in 2023, is a compact and comfortable stroller. Versatile and reliable, it's the ideal buggy for both day-to-day use and travel thanks to it small footprint and cabin-approved size for flights.

Our tester, Laura, liked the extendable sun canopy, which offers decent coverage in sunny weather, as well as the generously sized storage basket - one of the largest we've seen on such a compact buggy. The fact that the Coya is car seat-compatible only adds to its charm.

At just 6.6kg, its frame is exceptionally lightweight, so it will suit you well if you live in the city and regularly use public transport. It has an integrated carry strap for carrying the stroller over your shoulder when needed.

Our tester Laura says, "What lets the Coya down is its recline, which is jerky when the seat is put into a lie-flat position for naps. [...] I have the similarly designed Babyzen Yoyo2 at home and, while I think the Coya beats the Yoyo on its larger storage basket capacity and sunshade, it also feels much less sturdy."

Ergobaby Metro+ Stroller

Ergonomic bucket seat for padded support

Infinite recline options

All-terrain wheels

Compact fold fits in most airline overhead compartments

Quick assembly

Sun canopy doesn’t provide full coverage

Seat is only world-facing

One-handed fold takes a bit of practice to master

Storage basket is shallow so won’t hold larger items

RRP: £299 | Age range: Birth to four years | Max weight: 22kg | Weight: 7.8kg | Parent-facing option: No | Travel system/car seat compatible: Yes | Folded size: 54 x 25 x 44cm

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our Ergobaby Metro+ review

The Ergobaby Metro+ folds down to a super compact size making it easy to use on public transport and to squeeze into car boots and most overhead cabin compartments.

It’s an update on the Ergobaby Metro, with upgrades including harness covers, a vegan leather handlebar which can be adjusted for different heights and 16% more storage – although the instructions warn not to load more than 2.2kg in the basket. It's also quite shallow so it's not big enough to fit a changing bag inside.

The ergonomic, padded seat was loved by our tester’s two-year-old who slept soundly when out and about, but the near-flat recline, adjustable leg rest and built-in newborn flaps also allow you to use the Metro+ from day one. Plus, it's car seat-compatible (with adapters).

The PU rubber tyres, spring suspension and extendable handlebar make the stroller a dream to manoeuvre around small spaces and over rough terrain, with a one-handed fold that’s perfect for days when you’re frequently in and out of the car.

The Metro+ only comes with a rain cover, but there’s a host of reasonably priced accessories – including different coloured sun canopies – that you can buy for adding your own touches.

Related: The best buggy boards to buy

Cybex Libelle

Folds down easily to the size of a small suitcase

Stands up when folded with handles on one side

Infinite recline

No assembly needed

Five colours available

Cabin-approved for flights

Wheels struggled on rough terrain, such as grass

The three-point harness slipped when our toddler was bouncing around in the seat

Doesn’t come with a belly bar

Thicker substances like mud settled into the material if not wiped quickly

Can’t fit a changing bag in the basket

RRP: £290 | Age range: 6 months to four years - can only be used from birth with a compatible infant car seat | Max weight: 22kg | Weight: 5.9kg | Parent-facing option: No | Travel system/car seat compatible: Yes | Folded size: 32 x 20 x 48cm

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Cybex Libelle review

If you’re jetting off on holiday and want a stroller you can take on the plane, the Cybex Libelle folds down to the size of a small carry-on suitcase.

Cybex recommends double checking the measurements with your airline before flying, but this buggy is so compact and lightweight (one of the lightest on our list, in fact) that it stands up easily on its own and has handles on the side for carrying, whether that’s on public transport or for getting it in and out of a car boot.

The Libelle quickly folds and unfolds with buttons and locks that are white so you can easily identify which parts to press. You can also buy adapters to use this buggy with any Cybex or gb car seat.

The pram pushes well but the handlebars are straighter than on other pushchairs and are angled upwards so they may take a bit of getting used to. Due to its compact nature, the wheels are small so they don’t perform quite as well on uneven ground as they do on pavements, but they’re more than good enough for city life and holidays. The brake is effective but only holds the back wheels.

Although the basket can hold 5kg, it’s worth noting that we found it difficult to fit a changing bag inside. This means the bag may need to go on the handlebar, which does make the pushchair topple when it's empty.

While the pushchair does come with a rain cover, there’s no footmuff or bumper bar included (these can be bought separately). But the Cybex Libelle is a great option for parents who want to move around with minimal fuss. A bonus? It comes already pre-assembled.

Read next: The best car seats for toddlers

Baby Jogger City Tour 2

Greater age range than most lightweight strollers and it's more than affordable considering its longevity

Folds up small one-handed

Reclines fully

Carry bag included

Fiddly harness

Bit of a bumpy ride

Rain cover not included

Can’t stand on its own when folded

RRP: £284 | Age range: Birth to four years | Max weight: 22kg | Weight: 6.5kg | Parent-facing option: No, unless used with car seat or carrycot | Travel system/car seat compatible: Yes | Folded size: 59.5 x 49.5 x 19cm

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Baby Jogger City Tour 2 review (double stroller)

Often touted as a great travel option, the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 works equally well as a day-to-day buggy. But don’t be fooled by the name. We think it’s a brilliant pushchair wherever you live.

We were impressed with the size of this buggy, considering how light it is. With a weight limit that makes it suitable for kids up to around five years, you could get quite a lot of use out of it both on your travels and day-to-day.

Good news too – it's an upgrade on the original Baby Jogger City Tour , which means it's now compatible with a carrycot and baby car seat.

Read next: The best double buggies

Silver Cross Pop

Classy design with a cushioned leatherette bumper bar

Durable material that doesn’t mark easily

One-motion fold

5kg storage basket

Bulky when folded down - struggled to fit in Audi A1 boot

Five-point harness feels flimsy

Stroller toppled when changing bag was on the handlebar and the pram was empty

No parent-facing option

Handlebars are angled so aren’t particularly comfortable to push

RRP: £245 | Age range: Birth to four years | Max weight: 22kg | Weight: 7.2kg | Parent-facing option: No | Travel system/car seat compatible: No | Folded size: 105 x 31 x 35cm

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Silver Cross Pop review

As the name suggests, the Silver Cross Pop has been designed to quickly unfold when on the go.

Our tester’s two-year-old slept comfortably in the padded, supportive seat which has an adjustable calf support for use from birth - although it doesn’t quite lie flat enough for younger babies.

And while the infinite recline mechanism is meant to be one-handed, it does feel clunky which isn’t ideal if you have a sleeping baby. The seat does, however, have a lovely, cushioned leatherette bumper bar to give parents extra peace of mind.

Where this pram excels though is in everyday life. The storage basket is a decent size and can hold a changing bag, a change of clothes and a shopping bag. The stroller can be folded down quickly and swiftly for popping to the shops or rushing out on the school run, but you may find it long and a bit bulky if you’re short on space at home or in your car boot. Make sure to check the size of your boot before buying.

The four sets of double wheels are lockable so perform surprisingly well on all terrain - whether that’s going up and down curbs, squeezing through shop doors or being pushed over grass and gravel at the park.

Overall, the Silver Cross Pop is durable, easy to clean and looks classy too (choose from four stylish colourways). It currently retails at under £200 which is a great price for such a high-performing buggy.

Read next: The best bike trailers to buy

Genuinely suitable from birth (some buggies better from six months)

Manages well on all types of terrain

One-handed fold and recline

Adjustable handlebar height

Lots of accessories available including foot-muffs, cup holders and changing bags

On the heavier side for a lightweight buggy

Hefty price tag (carrycot also sold separately)

Folding mechanism may take some practice

RRP: £680 | Age range: Birth to fours years | Max weight: 22kg | Weight: 9.9kg | Parent-facing option: Yes | Travel system/car seat compatible: Yes | Folded size: 65 x 50 x 30cm

Tested by Mumsnet:  Read our full  Cybex Mios review

The Cybex Mios straddles two pushchair categories as a fully-functioning travel system with the nimbleness and foldability of a lightweight pushchair. We were particularly impressed by how easily it switches between parent- and world-facing.

Even without adding a carrycot, the Mios offers a cosy fit for newborns with the leg support lifting to create an enclosed pram, similar to a carrycot. At the same time, it also manages to be roomy enough for a three-year-old with lots of space to grow.

Despite being on the heavier side, this buggy is still a big performer across the age range.

Read next: The best baby carriers to buy

Leclercbaby Influencer Air

Super lightweight

Ultra-compact fold

Ideal for travelling (cabin-approved)

Auto-fold feature

Three recline positions, including lie flat

Four-wheel suspension

Can be used with a bassinet

Difficult to push older child with one hand

RRP: £499 | Age range: Birth (with bassinet) to approx. four years old | Max weight: 22kg | Weight: 6.6kg | Parent-facing option: Yes (with bassinet) | Travel system/car seat compatible: No | Folded size: 47 x 24 x 56cm

Tested by Mumsnet:  Read our full Leclercbaby Influencer Air review

The Leclercbaby Influencer Air is a cabin-approved stroller with an ultra-compact fold. At just 6.6kg, it’s one of the lightest buggies on the market and its auto-fold feature means it folds down in as little as three seconds, making it the ideal stroller for travel or city life. It comes with a handy travel bag that you can easily sling over your shoulder.

Our tester Jane, who tested this stroller out with her two-and-a-half-year-old, tried this stroller out on public transport, including buses and the Tube, as well as on muddy and bumpy terrain when headed to her local playground. It handled both scenarios with ease. 

While the handlebar is non-adjustable and the stroller doesn’t come with a rain cover, the Influencer Air is generally well-designed. It’s also suitable for use with a newborn if you buy the compatible bassinet , although this does come at a premium.

Jane says, “This stroller’s design is simple and compact which makes it super easy to travel with and store, much like other city strollers on the market, such as the Babyzen Yoyo2. [...] The magnetic harness for strapping in and out took me a little while to get used to. But once I got the hang of it, it was easy to strap my toddler in.”

How we chose the best lightweight buggies

Over 30 models tested by parent testers

Hundreds of strollers reviewed by Mumsnet parents on our forums

12 buggies recommended as best buys

Recommendations from real parents

As the UK's biggest network of parents, many of our buggy recommendations came from Mumsnet users who’d already put the buggies to the test in their everyday lives. After scouring the Mumsnet forums , we ended up with a longlist of more than 25 tried-and-tested products, which was then narrowed down to a final shortlist for additional testing.

We vetted each buggy, noting which were given Best Buys on trusted review sites such as Which?, only considering strollers with overwhelmingly positive consumer feedback.

In-depth testing with parent testers

We tested all the buggies on this list with parent testers, who used each pushchair over the course of at least three months. They each filled out our comprehensive testing score sheet, scoring the buggies on key areas such as safety, assembly, ease of use, aesthetics, ease of cleaning and value for money.

Expert guidance

We also spoke to buggy expert Emma Redding, founder and director of BuggyFit , who sees a huge range of buggies through her work and regularly fields questions about the right stroller for both parent and child. She was able to advise us on what most parents are looking for when choosing a lightweight buggy.

The Royal Society for Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) further rounded out our research by providing essential safety information on buying and using a buggy.

What is a stroller?

A stroller, also known as a buggy, is a style of pushchair or pram that's lightweight, compact and typically used with older babies or toddlers.

Easy to transport and compact for easy storage, types range from the simplest of umbrella strollers to sturdier, more luxurious models.

Lightweight buggies often take up less room than full-sized travel systems or more traditional prams and, unlike the latter options, don’t always have fully-reclining, newborn-friendly seats.

Genuine birth to toddler options are increasingly hitting the market though (complete with a full recline and parent-facing seat), aimed at parents looking for a compact travel solution as soon as their baby is born. We’ve included some options like these in our testing.

Why use a lightweight stroller?

Parents often look to strollers when they're ready to move on from bulkier travel systems, seeking a less complicated solution for grandparents or something less fussy to take on holiday.

Buggies can also be useful for public transport if you live in the city, ideal for family holidays when you’re trying to minimise luggage, and a lifesaver for those moments when your toddler just wants to rest their tired legs.

Can a lightweight stroller be used as an everyday stroller or just for travel purposes?

A lightweight stroller can certainly be used as an everyday buggy. While they are designed with travel in mind, they are also practical for daily use due to their compact size and easy manoeuvrability.

How long can lightweight buggies be used for?

Usually, lightweight strollers are suitable from six months and can extend to either three-and-a-half years (15kg) or even four or five (25kg).

However, some models extend even beyond this age limit, accommodating children as old as six. Always check the weight limit on the buggy you’re considering before you buy.

How easy is it to fold and store a lightweight stroller?

Most lightweight strollers are designed for easy folding and storage. They often feature one-hand folding mechanisms, making them convenient to fold up and store in small spaces, such as car boots or airplane overhead compartments.

What’s the difference between a lightweight buggy and a travel system?

A travel system , sometimes called a pram, is the more traditional and bulky method of transporting a baby around.

Travel systems tend to be the go-to for parents of newborn babies because they're compatible with carrycots and baby car seats – the latter of which allows parents to transfer their baby from car to pushchair and vice versa with minimum hassle.

Unlike travel systems, lightweight buggies aren't always compatible with carrycots or car seats, and smaller wheels might rule out off-roading. However, they tend to be lighter, more compact and a whole lot cheaper than travel systems, which can actually make them a more attractive option to parents once their baby is a bit older.

How much does a good quality lightweight stroller typically cost?

Prices vary from as little as £30 to over £500, so there really are options to suit every budget.

How much you choose to spend may depend on how often and where you plan to use it. Solid options can be found on either end of the spectrum though, so a lot will come down to personal preference.

If you're planning to use your stroller every day, investing in one with decent suspension, easy collapsibility and a good-sized storage basket will be well worth the pennies. On the other hand, if you think you'll only use it occasionally or as a spare, a budget-friendly basic option might be the way to go.

Many affordable buggies do a surprisingly good job and should come with the essential rain cover and shopping basket too.

How to choose a lightweight buggy

A few different factors will determine which stroller is the right fit for you. Be sure to clarify your criteria before you start looking to avoid being overwhelmed by choice or railroaded into buying something that won’t meet your needs.

Safety: Make sure the buggy feels sturdy enough to withstand daily life. It’s not recommended to hang a changing bag on the handlebar but if you think you’re going to need to, check whether it will hold the weight and not topple easily. All pushchairs in the UK should carry a safety label confirming compliance with BS EN 1888. If you’re buying an older model, it’s worth checking that the pram hasn’t been recalled for safety reasons.

Harness: Look at the harness - does it feel secure? A five-point harness is best for keeping your child safe. Make sure there are no gaps for little hands to get caught in and that any accessories, such as a cup holder, are out of reach.

Brake: Test out the brakes to ensure it's effective and can be easily applied using a variety of footwear.

Location : For a start, where are you most likely to use it? Will you be taking it on city pavements, hopping on and off buses, or do you need something that will fold up small into your car boot and potentially be taken into a muddy field? Many parents reach for a lightweight buggy when preparing to go on holiday so you may be looking for something that can fit inside the locker of a plane as hand luggage. If purchasing in-store, be sure to mention where your buggy will be getting most of its use.

Size of wheels and manoeuvrability: When thinking about location, you'll also need to consider the terrain you'll be using the buggy on, and in turn the size of the wheels and how easy it'll be to use, whether you're needing something for city or country life. Bigger wheels tend to be better for uneven surfaces due to the suspension.

Age range: Is the buggy suitable from birth? If it is, it will need to fully recline and you may want to make sure it's padded and sturdy enough for a tiny baby while holding any bags you’ll be taking along with you. Whether a buggy fully reclines or not can also be a dealbreaker with older babies and toddlers, especially if it'll be a safe place for your child to sleep when out and about. Additionally, what’s the upper end of the age range like? Do you want a buggy that'll last beyond early toddlerhood?

Maximum weight of seat: The maximum weight of the seat will also let you know the age the buggy can be used until. If you're wanting an option with longevity, bear in mind you'll need a larger weight capacity as your child grows.

Comfort: You’ll also want to consider the height of the handlebars, particularly if you’re tall or if the buggy will be shared by adults of varying heights. Are the handlebars long enough? Is there potential to adjust the handlebars if not? This could have a huge impact on your comfort, which you may not realise until the damage to your back has been done.

The way the seat faces: If you have a newborn you may want a buggy with a parent-facing orientation so the baby is facing you, whereas a world-facing stroller will likely be better for toddlers. While most tend to be forward-facing, some include the option to change the orientation to parent-facing with the addition of a car seat or carrycot, but you'll need to check these are compatible with the buggy you're buying and will allow you to have your child in a parent-facing position.

Weight: Weight can vary wildly between strollers, with some even coming with handles for carrying around while others require a lot more effort. Whether you’re lifting it into a car boot or taking it up a flight of stairs, you’ll want to be sure that your model is an easily manageable weight for you.

Foldability: Buggies conventionally fold in half with the activation of a switch at the back. However, many models now fold to an even more compact shape and size. You’ll want to consider the size of your boot or anywhere else the buggy is likely to be stored as well as how easy is it to fold. Can it be folded one-handed when on public transport, for instance?

Storage space: Strollers generally have smaller storage baskets than travel systems, but the size of the basket can vary from model to model. You’ll want to consider how much room there is in the basket, how accessible it is with a child sitting in the chair and how stable the stroller is if a bag were to be hung on the handles – this sometimes goes against manufacturers’ instructions, but is a criteria that many parents consider.

Calf support: You may want some extra cushioning around the calf area to make it more comfortable for your child as an extra feature.

Accessories: The accessories a lightweight stroller comes with can also vary. While most come with a rain cover, shopping basket and sun canopy, you’ll want to look at how generous these are and keep an eye for any extras. Are there pockets? Can the wheels be upgraded? Are any other accessories available for purchase? And does it offer good value for money overall? Bear in mind that lightweight strollers generally lack standard pushchair features like peekaboo windows.

What are the key features to look for in a lightweight stroller?

When choosing a lightweight stroller, look for key features such as a compact fold, lightweight materials, easy manoeuvrability, adjustable seat positions, a sturdy frame and a comfortable harness system. These key features will ensure convenience and comfort while traveling with your little one.

What is the most lightweight pram or buggy?

The lightest stroller we tested was the Cybex Libelle at a feather-light 5.9kg. It also measured up as the smallest once folded up, at just 32 x 20 x 48cm.

What is the maximum weight limit for a lightweight stroller?

The maximum weight limit for a lightweight stroller typically ranges from 22kg to 25kg, which is around age four or five. It's important to check the specific weight limit of the stroller you are wnating to buy, as it can vary depending on the brand and model.

What is the best lightweight stroller for travel?

The best lightweight travel stroller is the Babyzen YOYO2 . It weighs only 6.2kg and can be folded easily with just one hand. It also meets most airline carry-on size restrictions, making it perfect for hassle-free travel with your baby or toddler.

How real-life comparative testing makes Mumsnet Reviews unique

To make sure that all the buggies were put through their paces in the same everyday situations, we tasked our parent testers, Matt, Beccy, Claire and Laura, to rigorously test each buggy. With toddlers and preschoolers ranging from age one to four, they were able to get out and about with each of the strollers to see which ones were built to tackle everyday life with ease.

Our testers spent three months testing all the buggies on this list - more than 200 hours in total. They assessed each product on a variety of key criteria including safety and stability, assembly, day-to-day use, cleanliness, aesthetics and value for money.

This entailed looking at everything from how easily the buggy toppled over, how much storage the basket held, how quickly and easily it could be folded down, and how the recline and brake performed. He also assessed the quality of any accessories included, such as a rain cover and footmuff.

Our testers also looked at how comfortable their children was in each buggy. They spent around 30 hours with each stroller, testing how well it coped with bags of shopping, whether it was suitable for muddy walks to the park, how easily it fit into the car boot for the school run and how well it managed rougher terrain.

They then made detailed notes on each product, scoring them on how well they performed in each area. When the final scores were in, the products that performed the best were included in our round-up.

About the authors

Gemma Wilcock is a freelance writer and mum of two. She has 15 years of experience working for national magazines and online publications, and has been researching and writing about baby and child products for Mumsnet for over six years - reviewing everything from buggies to baby bouncers .

As a busy mum of two young children, now aged eight and six, she knows just how important first-hand parenting knowledge can be, and she draws on her own experiences when writing about baby essentials, toys, health, money and lifestyle. She has also written for Prima Baby, Woman’s Own and Bella.

Laura Westerman is an editor, writer and Deputy Head of Editorial Content at Mumsnet. With over seven years' experience as a full-time editor, five of which have been spent writing, commissioning and editing buggy product reviews and round-ups, Laura has a keen eye for what parents love and likes nothing more than putting together honest reviews to make parents' lives that little bit easier. 

In addition to her work as a writer and editor, she has also appeared in a number of baby product review videos for Mumsnet's YouTube channel. She is mum to a one-year-old.

Joie Versatrax review

• Laura Higgins

In a nutshell

The Joie Versatrax is a stylish, mid-range, multi-functional pushchair with a nifty one-handed fold, but may be a tight fit for children at the upper weight limit

What we tested

• Large easy-to-access basket, lightweight, handy pockets, easy to steer, good quality wheels, large carrycot
• No footmuff, no central bumper bar in carrycot, not suitable for overnight sleeping, snug-fitting seat

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Joie is a mid-market brand that claims its products offer unique parent-friendly features using the highest quality materials - promising products that are safe, stylish and affordable.

The Versatrax is their latest pushchair, costs £300 and is a hard-working multitasker. Described as a 4-in-1 system, it can be used with a carrycot, infant carrier and forward or rearward-facing seat.

Similar products in the same price bracket include the Billie Faiers MB400 Bronze and Sage Melange Pushchair, £299.99 , Baby Elegance Venti 2-in-1 Pushchair by Rosie C in Grey, £319.99 and the CBX Leotie Lux Pushchair & Carry Cot, £349.99.

Buy The Joie Versatrax: Boots , Mamas & Papas and Uber Kids

Laura Higgins is a mum to 2 children - Ross, aged 3, and 5-week-old Skylar. She tested the Joie Versatrax in a busy town centre, on bumpy, uneven pavements.

What were your first impressions of the Joie Versatrax?

I was surprised at how lightweight the Versatrax felt with the carrycot on. This is great for lifting the buggy in and out of the boot but made me think that it might not be very sturdy - particularly on uneven pavements.

What age range is the Versatrax pushchair suitable for?

The pushchair is suitable from birth up to 22kg, which Joie says is about 4 years old, while the carrycot is suitable from birth to 9kg.

I tried my 3-year-old in the seat to get an idea if this was right (he’s just over 13kg) and it was very snug. I would say the Versatrax wouldn’t be suitable up to the age or weight it claims to be.

What do you think of the carrycot?

The Versatrax’s carrycot was spacious, but not so large that a newborn would be lost in there. It fitted easily onto the chassis using the included adaptors. My baby seemed very comfortable in there - it’s very cushioned, but the lining was not very soft and didn’t feel very breathable so I used it with a sheet. It’s not suitable for prolonged periods of sleeping, so couldn’t be used as an overnight travel cot.

The mattress pad can be cleaned with a damp cloth, and the liner can be hand-washed and drip-dried. Being machine washable would have been handy, but then I used it with a sheet so it didn’t really need more than a hand-wash anyway.

The carrycot’s handle was on the hood, the same one used for pulling the hood into position, but a central bar would have made lifting the cot a bit more balanced.

There’s also a handy little pocket inside the carrycot, which is perfect for your phone or keys but is not something I’ve come across before!

What do you think of the Versatrax seat unit?

The seat was just as easy to attach as the carrycot and could be forward or parent-facing. The parts that were removable could be machine washed - really handy for when older children spill drinks or have an accident when potty training. It was lovely and padded and the leg rest was adjustable to make it more comfortable as children get older.

My only reservation with the Versatrax seat is that it didn’t come with a footmuff, which for me is an essential in colder weather, especially if you are using the seat attachment with a small baby.

The Versatrax seat unit is actually suitable from birth in the most reclined position, although I would be reluctant to use it with a newborn baby. My baby seemed a little lost in there, and if we were out for a long period of time I would prefer her to be in the carrycot, where she is more enclosed and cosy, and does not have to be strapped in.

Does the Versatrax seat recline?

Yes - the seat reclined and clicked into place easily, with a pull lever at the top of the seat.

Is the seat reversible?

The Versatrax seat is reversible so you can have it parent-facing or forward-facing. It’s very simple to change - you simply use the side clips to lift it out and pop it back in the other way round.

What did you think of the Versatrax seat harness?

I loved the padded straps which I think would have made being strapped in more comfortable.

With other buggies I have tried, the buckle can sometimes be a bit stiff, but this clipped in and out really easily. Also, you can adjust the harness with one hand – a helpful touch if you are trying to convince an older child to sit still while you strap them in!

How easy is it to manoeuvre the Joie Versatrax around town?

This was so smooth to manoeuvre around town. I didn’t feel like it was cumbersome when walking through a busy town centre (as some buggies can be) and the wheels allowed me to move it swiftly when needed.

How does the Versatrax pushchair ride on challenging surfaces?

I used this buggy on uneven pavements and it still manoeuvred very well without being too bumpy for my baby, and it felt pretty sturdy when going up and down kerbs.

I also found the Versatrax fairly easy to get in and out of the house, with both the seat and carrycot, thanks to the locking front wheels.

What do you think of the wheels?

I found that the Versatrax wheels handled well on bumpy, uneven surfaces and going up and down kerbs, thanks to the rubber outside and foam-filled inside. They seemed really durable.

Is the brake easy to use?

The brake on the Versatrax is a pedal that you simply press up or down with your foot. It wasn’t too stiff and was very convenient to apply as it’s to the side and not obstructed by anything.

How is interacting with your child when in the Versatrax buggy?

It was easier to interact with my child when using the seat, compared to the carrycot where she was obscured somewhat by the apron. I didn’t actually see this as a disadvantage, as I liked that she was protected in the Versatrax carrycot rather than exposed in the seat.

If she was slightly older then I would prefer to be able to interact with her more than I could in the carrycot, but then she would probably be in the seat at that point anyway.

How sturdy is the Versatrax pushchair?

The pushchair felt sturdy enough, which was surprising considering that it was quite lightweight compared to others I have tried.

However, after just a few trips out the Versatrax chassis had started to scuff. Although this wouldn’t impact on how well it functions, it might just look a little tatty if you decided to keep it for a second child, for example.

How much does the Versatrax weigh in each mode?

The Versatrax weighs just 11.7kg with the seat on, making it easy to manoeuvre and lift. The carrycot is only 2.97kg so it’s actually even lighter when used in this mode.

How easy is the Joie Versatrax to lift?

When used with the carrycot it was very light, as you need to take the cot off of the chassis to fold it. The carrycot itself is extremely light, and without anything attached the chassis is easy to lift into the boot of a car.

However, with the seat unit on it was a different matter – it was manageable, but considerably heavier. And there isn’t a clip or anything to hold the chassis closed when folded, so that - combined with the weight - made getting the Versatrax in and out of the boot tricky.

How does the Versatrax pushchair fold?

The Versatrax claims to fold in a flash using just one hand, which I should imagine is one of its main selling points.

• The seat doesn’t need to be removed, regardless of which way it is facing, you just use one hand to fold this in half, then use the central strap to fold it down completely
• However, there is a knack to it. In theory you simply lift the chassis by the strap in the centre and it will collapse. In practice, you need to give it a bit of a yank to release the lock, and a couple of times I did have to resort to using my other hand to press the clips in to release it
• The one-handed fold is actually easier to do when the seat is attached, perhaps the extra weight of the seat helps the clips to unlock
• The strap can then be used to carry the chassis, or it can be stored freestanding

Unfolding it is easy and can be done with one hand, you just pull up the push bar. When being used with the carrycot, this does need to be removed first.

What did you think of the hood on the Versatrax?

The hood on the carrycot can be pulled into 2 different positions and clicks into place. It needs a little bit of a tug on the handle to get it to click into the highest position. To push the hood back down, there are 2 buttons on either side that you press to release, but these are also a little bit stiff to use.

The hood on the Versatrax seat can be unzipped to provide extended coverage and did fold down quite far.

How compact is the buggy when unfolded and folded?

I was happy with how compact the Versatrax was when folded down, even with the seat attached. It was easy to fit into the boot of the car and store in the hallway at home.

What do you think of the shopping basket?

I was very impressed with the Versatrax’s basket. If you use the buggy for running errands, shopping or even days out, you’ll quickly realise how valuable a large, sturdy basket is.

This one held about 4 bags of shopping and was still easily accessible with both the seat and carrycot on - a problem I have encountered with other buggies. It also has a handy zip-up pocket for keeping essentials or valuables safe and close to hand.

What do you think of the Versatrax rain cover?

The rain covers for both the carrycot and seat covered the units completely and were quick and easy to pull on – perfect when I was caught off-guard by a sudden downpour!

How did you find using the Versatrax buggy on public transport?

I used the pushchair with the seat attachment on a bus and found it easy to get on and off with, and to fit into the space available. If I had needed to fold it down, the one-handed fold function would have come in handy. I think perhaps with the carrycot attached the journey wouldn’t have been quite as easy.

Does it fit in the boot of your car?

I have an average-sized boot and the Versatrax chassis with the seat on fitted in nicely, with space for a bag or two to spare. With the carrycot, the fit was snug and it did push the parcel shelf up slightly.

What’s in the box?

• The Versatrax chassis
• Adaptors to use with the carrycot and car seat, both of which are sold separately.

Is it easy to assemble?

The Versatrax instruction booklet initially looked a bit tricky, as you had to keep referring back to images on previous pages. However, it was pretty self-explanatory to assemble and the images were clear to understand so it only took about 15 minutes to build.

What would you have wanted to know before you purchased the Joie Versatrax?

I would have liked to know that the seat attachment doesn’t have a foot cosy. When buying a stroller for an older child I wouldn’t have expected one, but with a push chair for a baby I would have just assumed that there was one included.

Is the Versatrax a stylish pushchair?

I would say that it’s a pretty stylish pushchair, and it looks modern with its woven fabric and faux leather handle. I liked the colour, Laurel, which I would describe as a sage-tinted grey. It is also available in a light grey (Grey Flannel), a dark grey (Pavement) and a navy blue (Deep Sea).

Who would the Joie Versatrax be most useful for?

This is a good buy for someone who wants to use a pushchair around town, with a baby or a smaller child.

Is the Versatrax value for money?

Given that some similar products are in the same price bracket as a second-hand car, I think that the Versatrax is very reasonably priced. I did feel that the quality wasn’t as good as some of the pricier models I have tried, but the quality of the materials didn’t prevent it from doing the job well. Certainly good value for money.

Do you have to buy a lot of additional extras?

The Ramble XL carrycot is sold separately (£99.99 on Amazon ), but the seat is suitable from birth so it’s not an essential and comes down to what you would prefer for your newborn. The Versatrax is also compatible with 3 Joie infant car seats – the i-Level, the i-Gemm and the Gemm, all sold separately.

Where can I buy the Joie Versatrax?

It is available to buy from, Boots , Mamas & Papas and Uber Kids .

MadeForMums verdict

I would recommend the Joie Versatrax for someone who is looking for a reasonably priced pushchair to take their child from being a baby into a toddler. I was happy with how it functioned, although there were a few things that could have made it even better.

However, if you’re looking for something to last you several years, and perhaps to be used for a second child, I’m not sure it would still look as smart second time round.

For more feedback on the Joie Versatrax, see our parent testers' comments in the latest MadeForMums product test.

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Product Specifications