$99 travel stroller

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

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

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

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

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

Babylist’s Top Picks for the Best Travel Strollers

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

In This Article

How we chose the best travel strollers.

• Our Top Picks

Which Stroller Is Best for Travel?

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

Nuna PIPA urbn & TRVL LX Travel System - Caviar

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

What Our Experts Say

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

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

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

What’s Worth Considering

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

Additional Specs

Best Travel Stroller for Toddlers

Bugaboo Butterfly Complete Stroller - Midnight Black

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

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

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

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

Best Budget Travel Stroller

Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Stroller

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

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

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

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

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

What Babylist Parents Say

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

Best Travel Stroller for Everyday Use

UPPAbaby Minu V2 Stroller - Jake

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

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

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

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

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

Best Travel Stroller for Flying

Babyzen yoyo2 stroller bundle - black frame/olive.

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

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

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

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

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

Best Compact Travel Stroller

Joolz aer + lightweight stroller - stone grey.

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

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

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

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

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

Best Lightweight Travel Stroller

Zoe the traveler.

• One-handed fold
• Extended canopy, full recline

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

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

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

Best Value Travel Stroller

Baby jogger city tour 2 single stroller - jet.

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

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

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

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

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

Best Infant Travel Stroller

Mountain buggy nano v3 stroller.

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

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

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

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

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

Best Umbrella Stroller for Travel

Summer 3d lite convenience stroller.

• Easy to maneuver
• Umbrella-style fold is bulky

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

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

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

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

Also Worth a Look…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Before you invest in a travel stroller, think through:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Some other air-travel tips to keep in mind:

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

Do you need a travel stroller bag?

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

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

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

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

Jen LaBracio

Senior gear editor.

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

The 9 Best Travel Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

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

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

TripSavvy / Conor Ralph

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

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

Final Verdict

Product selection, how we tested.

• Others We Tested
• What To Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, nuna trvl lightweight stroller.

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

Convenient one-handed fold

Suitable for newborns

Handles a variety of terrain with ease

Potentially unwieldy when removing from overhead bin

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

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

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

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

Best Overall Runner-Up

Gb qbit+ all city stroller.

• Portability 4 /5
• Maneuverability 4.9 /5

User friendly

Solid handling

Long lasting

Canopy could be improved

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

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

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

Best Budget

Summer infant 3dlite stroller.

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

Budget-friendly

Cushioned handlebar

Ample storage space

Not the best for frequent fliers

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

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

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

Best Double

Uppababy g-link v2 stroller.

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

Opens and closes well

Solid canopy

Excellent handling

Heavy (somewhat expected in a double)

Some details could be improved

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

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

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

Best Sun Shade

Uppababy g-luxe stroller.

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

Solid portability

Loaded with functional extras

Supports itself in the collapsed position

Operating takes practice

Not great for packing into small places

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

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

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

Best Lightweight

Kolcraft cloud plus stroller.

 Amazon

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

Works well (once you figure it out)

Only option with a tray

Portability is not great

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

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

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

Most Maneuverable

Baby jogger city tour 2 stroller.

• Maneuverability 4.8 /5

Comfort features for the rider

Great value for its cost

Not as convenient for air travel

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

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

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

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

Best Portability

Babyzen yoyo2 stroller frame.

• Design 4.4 /5
• Portability 5 /5

Excellent padding

Easy to stow

Solid over rough terrain

Not intuitive for folding and unfolding

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other Travel Strollers We Tested

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to Look For in Travel Strollers

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

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

Extra Features

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

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

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

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

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

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The Best Lightweight Strollers for Travel in 2024

These strollers are perfect for traveling with toddlers and newborns.

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

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

Our top picks:

Best Overall Lightweight Stroller

Uppababy minu v2 stroller.

Best Value Lightweight Stroller

Summer infant 3dlite convenience stroller.

Best Lightweight Stroller for Travel

Bugaboo butterfly.

Best Luxe Lightweight Stroller

Joolz aer stroller.

Best Full-Featured Lightweight Stroller

Colugo the compact stroller.

Best Lightweight Double Stroller

Delta children jeep turboglyde side by side double.

Best Lightweight Stroller For Infants Through Preschool

Baby jogger city tour 2 ultra-compact travel stroller.

Lightest of the Lightweight Strollers

Gb pockit air lightweight stroller.

Best Lightweight Stroller Wagon

Evenflo pivot xplore stroller wagon.

Best Ultra-Compact Lightweight Stroller

Cybex libelle.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thule Spring Stroller

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

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

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

Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight Jogging Stroller

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

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

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

Babyzen YOYO2 Stroller

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

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

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

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

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How to find the best lightweight stroller for you

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How we test lightweight strollers

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

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

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

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

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

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

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

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

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

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These are the 10 best travel strollers for your next trip

Editor's Note

Traveling with babies and children requires bringing a lot of extras along for the journey — and one essential you often can't travel without while the kids are little is a stroller. With so many options, choosing which stroller to buy for travel can be enough to make your wheels fall off (that's a stroller joke, by the way).

Large strollers offer all the bells and whistles but may be too heavy, too large or just plain inconvenient to lug around an airport or onto a plane. They can also be challenging to maneuver in your travel destination.

Compact or umbrella strollers may work better for flying, as they're often lightweight and small enough to fold up quickly and easily. In fact, some of these strollers designed for travel will even fit in the overhead bin on your plane.

However, the smaller design can make it tricky to find something comfortable enough for your child or baby to sit in for extended periods of time or to handle the rough terrain at some destinations. In other words, there are trade-offs when you pick the best travel stroller for your family.

Related: When to bring a stroller on a trip (and when to leave it behind)

As parents and frequent travelers, we've tested some of the top-rated travel strollers on the market to help you find the perfect stroller for your family. With those road-tested miles logged, here are the best travel strollers that passed the test and a few tips for your next trip.

Babyzen Yoyo2

• Best for: Parents who need a compact stroller that can fit in the airplane overhead bin
• Weight: 13.6 to 14.5 pounds
• Size when folded: 20.5 inches by 17.3 inches by 7.1 inches
• To buy: Babyzen Yoyo2 , $449

Why Babyzen Yoyo2 is a good travel stroller

The Babyzen Yoyo2 is accepted by most airlines as cabin baggage when folded. Despite its small stature, this stroller is built for long-lasting use beyond just travel, making it especially apt for families living in small spaces in need of one easy-to-maneuver stroller that can do it all.

When you add on the optional newborn pack ($180), the Babyzen Yoyo2 can be used from birth on. With a substantial sun protection factor of 50-plus for its canopy, plus a gradual recline, an under-seat storage bag that supports up to 11 pounds, a zipper pocket and a padded shoulder strap for carrying the stroller when folded, the Yoyo2 is as durable and comfortable closed as it is open.

It's not the most budget-friendly option on this list, especially if you purchase extras like the newborn pack. Unless you purchase the newborn pack, however, the stroller doesn't fully recline for babies ages 0 to 6 months.

TPG senior aviation business reporter David Slotnick is a big fan of this stroller when he flies with his family, sharing, "It folds up small enough to go in the overhead bin and is super lightweight and durable. Every single time the flight attendants are surprised by how compact it is."

• Best for: Families who need a stroller that folds up small but can handle lots of use
• Weight: 10.4 pounds
• Size when folded: 11.8 inches by 7.1 inches by 13.8 inches
• To buy: GB Pockit , $149.99 (regularly $199.95)

Why GB Pockit is a good travel stroller

The GB Pockit has been named the world's most compact stroller by the Guinness Book of World Records, folding up in just two easy steps. Don't let its small size fool you. It still has a weight capacity of up to 55 pounds and can handle a bumpy sidewalk as well as it handles the moving walkway at the airport.

Although the no-frills GB Pockit doesn't come with all the extra bells and whistles (which is why it folds up so easily), it does have a mini sun canopy, an adjustable harness and a small storage space underneath the seat.

The GB Pockit is designed for babies 6 months and older, so parents of newborns will have to wait a bit to use this small-but-mighty stroller.

Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller

• Best for: Families who need a budget-friendly travel stroller
• Weight: 13 pounds
• Size when folded: 14 inches by 10 inches by 42 inches
• To buy: Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller , $71.53 (regularly $99.99)

Why Summer 3Dlite is a good travel stroller

Budget-savvy parents will likely be immediately drawn to the price of the Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller , but that's far from the only thing to love about this lightweight stroller.

The 3Dlite has a full canopy, anti-shock front wheels and a four-position recline that almost lies flat. It can hold kids who weigh up to 50 pounds, and the storage basket underneath can hold up to 10 pounds of baby travel necessities .

Speaking of extras, this affordable stroller comes with a cup holder, a velcro pocket and a carry strap too. One thing it doesn't come with — adjustable handles. Parents on the taller side may not find this stroller comfortable for long periods of time.

Like similar lightweight strollers, the 3Dlite is made for babies 6 months and older, so parents of newborns will have to wait to use this stroller.

• Best for: Families in the market for a comfortable, lightweight travel stroller
• Weight: 13.23 pounds
• Size when folded: 21 inches by 17.7 inches by 8.5 inches
• To buy : Joolz Aer+ , $449

Why the Joolz Aer+ is a good travel stroller

The Joolz Aer+ folds up in one second with just one hand, which is ideal for anyone holding additional luggage (or a child) in their arms. When folded, the stroller easily slides into most airlines' overhead storage bins.

The seat is lightweight but made to be especially comfortable for kids. The foldable seat provides support and cushion for the child's neck and back in all positions of reclining, and the sides conform to the body for additional comfort and support.

The included sun hood provides UPF 50+ sun protection, and there is a large storage basket underneath. Joolz does offer add-on products like a cup holder, footboard and car seat adapters, but you must purchase those separately.

Although the stroller is adjustable, it's designed for kids 6 months and up (the stroller has a 49-pound maximum weight limit) and doesn't fully recline. If you plan to use this stroller with a newborn, you can buy a newborn carrycot ($219) to use for babies.

UPPAbaby Vista V2

• Best for: Parents who want a high-end stroller that can expand with their growing family
• Weight: 27 pounds
• Size when folded: 25.7 inches by 17.3 inches by 33 inches
• To buy: UPPAbaby Vista V2 , $1,299

Why the UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a good travel stroller

The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a luxe travel stroller that can grow with your child. The standard bundle comes with a stroller frame, a toddler seat, an infant seat and base and a bassinet, so you can begin using the stroller as soon as you bring your baby home and up until they reach 50 pounds. This stroller folds in one easy step and can stand on its own when folded.

The UPPAbaby Vista V2 can be further configured to seat up to three children, with the addition of a rumble seat and/or ride-along board. In addition to being versatile, the UPPAbaby Vista V2 provides a smooth ride with spring-action all-wheel suspension, comes with a UPF 50+ sunshade and holds all of your travel essentials in the oversized storage basket that can hold up to 30 pounds of baby gear.

TPG's vice president of marketing and communications chose the UPPAbaby Vista V2 as her first travel stroller. "We are expecting our first baby in just a few short weeks and decided to go with the UPPAbaby Vista V2 for our stroller because we live in NYC and wanted something that is durable, long-lasting and able to convert to multiple combinations," she shared. "This stroller rolls like butter and the storage basket is incredible spacious. It comes with a bassinet and toddler seat, but I love that there are also a ton of accessories you can purchase separately to make the stroller meet your needs," she added.

Related: The best baby travel products according to TPG readers

It's not the lightest or smallest stroller on this list, but the multitude of use options, durability, and thoughtful details like full-grain leather accents, a rain cover and multiple color options make it a great choice if you want a do-it-all stroller that you can use for the long haul.

Doona Car Seat & Stroller

• Best for: Parents of newborns who want an all-in-one stroller solution
• Weight: 16.5 pounds
• Size when folded: 23.6 inches by 17.3 inches by 26 inches
• To buy: Doona Car Seat & Stroller , $650

Why the Doona is a good travel stroller

The wheels of the Doona Car Seat & Stroller snap up to transform it from a stroller into a car seat, making it ideal for globetrotters who are always on the move. Having this one-of-a-kind product ensures you won't need to figure out a car seat plan when arriving at your destination or lug extra gear around the airport.

There are certainly cheaper strollers out there, but when you consider that you are getting a stroller and car seat for one price, the Doona is a surprisingly economical choice.

The Doona looks sharp with faux-leather detailing and sleek black fabric and performs well with an extendable handlebar, canopy shade and a storage bag that attaches to the handlebar. You can purchase a larger storage bag, sunshade and travel bag separately.

The Doona is suitable for babies and kids weighing between 4 and 35 pounds and can only be used as rear-facing, so your baby is likely to outgrow this stroller more quickly than other travel strollers. For the newborn stage, though, it doesn't get much better than the convenient, compact Doona.

Thule Chariot Double Jogging Stroller

• Best for: Families who need a stroller for outdoor adventures
• Weight: 32 pounds
• Size when folded: 34.2 inches by 31.5 inches by 14.7 inches
• To buy: Thule Chariot Double Jogging Stroller , $1,349.95

Why Thule Chariot Double Jogging Stroller is good for travel

The Thule Chariot Double Jogging Stroller may not immediately strike you as a travel-friendly stroller option, but if your travels include hiking, biking or camping (skiing and jogging kits can be purchased separately), you'll be glad to have multi-sport trailer and stroller along for the ride.

As far as trailers and strollers go, the Thule Chariot is top-of-the-line. It folds up smaller than similar strollers, has independently-reclining seats for napping on the go, adjustable suspension for a smooth ride no matter the surface, adjustable ventilation and a large storage basket.

Because of its design, you'll have to gate-check the Thule Chariot when you fly, but TPG's senior director of engineering Mitchell Stoutin believes the stroller's larger size is one of the biggest benefits. "It can double as a 'napping cave' or even a luggage cart in the airport, but the real reason I bought it is because I wanted to do a car seat-free trip with my kids," he said.

When he flew to Sitka, Alaska, with his family, he brought along the bike trailer attachment and rented bikes to use on the island. "Even while towing the kids behind the bike during a downpour, both kids stayed dry and warm," Stoutin shared. "The Thule enabled us to take a different kind of vacation with our kids."

Baby Jogger City Mini GT2

• Best for: Families looking for a stroller that they can use for the long haul
• Weight: 22 pounds
• Size when folded: 25.6 inches by 11.2 inches by 33 inches
• To buy: Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 , $329 (regularly $399.99)

Why the Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 is a good travel stroller

The Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 is a top-tier stroller with a mid-tier price. While not the lightest or smallest on this list, it is made to last. Stoutin, who has had this stroller for six years and used it with three kids, shared that it still functions perfectly.

The City Mini GT2's durability is thanks to its "forever air" rubber tires that never need to be inflated and all-wheel suspension, making it swift and nimble no matter the terrain. It's also highly customizable with an adjustable handlebar and the ability to add an infant car seat, pram, glider board, parent console and child tray (all sold separately).

This stroller folds up quickly and easily with a one-hand fold and keeps your baby comfortable with a near-flat reclining seat and adjustable calf support. There's also a large under-seat basket that holds up to 10 pounds.

The City Mini GT2 can be used with a newborn, using the Baby Jogger infant car seat (sold separately) or the included car seat adapters, and all the way through the toddler stage with an impressive maximum weight limit of 65 pounds.

Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller

• Best for: Parents of multiple kids who need a lightweight, compact stroller
• Weight: 28 pounds
• Size when folded: 26 inches by 30.3 inches by 12.8 inches
• To buy: Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller , $429.99 (regularly $459.99)

Why the Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller is good for travel

Finding a side-by-side double stroller that meets your needs is no simple task, but the Joovy Kooper X2 ticks all the boxes. It has wide, comfortable, adjustable seats for your kids but is slim enough to easily fit through doorways. It folds up easily with one hand and stands on its own when folded. Also, the must-have extras like snack trays, shade canopies and multiple storage spaces are all included.

The seats and shade canopies adjust independently so you can accommodate your children when nap time arrives, and the under-stroller storage basket holds up to 22 pounds (because more kids always means more stuff). If you have a theme park trip in the future, the Joovy Kooper X2 meets Disney World and Disneyland's stroller size requirements .

Each seat is designed to hold a child up to 50 pounds, but it is not compatible with infant car seats, so you can't start using it until your child is at least 3 months old.

Nuna PIPA urbn + TRVL Stroller and Car Seat Travel System

• Best for: City dwellers who need a stroller system that can go from sidewalk to car to airplane seamlessly
• Weight: 13.6 pounds
• Size when folded: 24 inches by 20.25 inches by 11 inches
• To buy: NUNA PIPA urbn + TRVL stroller and car seat travel system , $900

Why the NUNA is a good travel stroller

The PIPA urbn + TRVL system from NUNA is one of the most lightweight and easy-to-use travel systems on the market. The included infant car seat has a baseless latch installation system, so you can use it in a cab, ride-hailing vehicle or airplane seat as easily as you can use it in your own car.

With the car seat removed, the stroller base folds with one hand to a super-compact size that makes it easy to carry. You can even utilize the included carry bag or remove the wheels for an even smaller folded size if necessary.

TPG's director of marketing, Caroline English, uses the NUNA with her child at home and on the road. "It's great on smooth surfaces and can do a full 360-degree turn on a dime," she said. "Also, the folding is incredible. On a recent trip to Cape Cod, we could fold it up small enough to bring into restaurants and carry it around easily," she added.

The NUNA also comes with a UPF 50+ shade canopy, leather-like accents and a storage basket. Once your baby has outgrown the PIPA urbn car seat, the TRVL stroller's toddler seat can be used for children up to 50 pounds.

Tips for flying with a travel stroller

Where and how to check your stroller when flying

Some airlines require you to check your stroller at the gate; others have rules about checking it at the ticket counter if it's greater than a certain weight.

It's more convenient to take your travel stroller to the gate, as your little one can ride (or nap) in it until you board. If you prefer to check it earlier, though, you can do so at the ticket counter and use a baby carrier to get your baby or toddler through the airport.

Before you get to the airport, make sure you check the regulations for the airline that you're flying so you're adequately prepared for what's to come. Some compact strollers are designed to fit in overhead bins, but whether they will be allowed on board depends on the stroller, the airline and ultimately the flight attendants.

Related: 21 airline stroller policies around the world

Preventing damage

When checking your stroller either at the gate or the ticket counter, it's best to take a few photos before traveling. That way, if the stroller arrives damaged, you may have an easier time proving a claim. Each airline has its own rules about what is eligible for a claim, and some, like Southwest, do not cover any type of damage, only loss.

To reduce the chances of damage, cover your stroller with a storage bag when you check it. One may come with your stroller when you purchase it, depending on which model you choose. You can also order a cover for your car seat and/or travel stroller on Amazon.

Unfortunately, you should also always have a backup plan at your destination in case your stroller is lost or damaged, as this can and does happen. It is also a good reason to consider some of the smaller and/or less expensive strollers for travel unless you have a true need for a more robust model.

Make note of a website for stroller rentals in your destination in case you need to resort to plan B. Also, don't rule out a quick trip to a local Walmart or Target, where available. Airline baggage claim offices also sometimes have basic strollers available for use in the case of delayed or damaged strollers.

Getting through security

You will typically be asked to fold up the stroller and place it on the belt when going through TSA checkpoints. If your stroller is not foldable or won't fit on the belt, it may not be the best for travel through the airport — but security can do a visual or physical inspection of it when they deem it necessary.

Bottom line

Picking the right travel stroller greatly depends on your situation. There's no perfect one for all scenarios and situations, so you need to prioritize what matters the most for your trips. Do you want it to fit in the overhead bin? Do you want it to be economical so it's not a huge hit if it is lost or damaged on your trip? Do you want it to be the most comfortable option for your baby for those trips when they will be spending long periods of time in the stroller?

The most compact stroller may not be the best stroller for rugged terrain, and a stroller designed for a newborn may not be the best choice once your child is older.

Once you've figured out what you need and want to prioritize, you can more easily decide which travel stroller on this list best fits your budget, travel preferences and family.

Additional reporting by Lori Zaino.

When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This keeps it 100% reader supported and free of ads or sponsorships. Thanks for your support!

Best Travel Strollers

There are three basic types of strollers that work well for travel. The differences lie in how much space these travel strollers take up when folded – and which features are being sacrificed to make them so compact and lightweight.

The first type is your basic umbrella stroller , which folds long and skinny. Umbrellas are usually lightweight and can be very cheap (cheaper than other types of strollers, at least). The downside to umbrella strollers is that many of them lack key features parents want while traveling, such as a decent storage basket, canopy, etc. Also, umbrella strollers must be steered and pushed with two hands .

Not a deal breaker, just an FYI.

The second is the regular ol’ lightweight “square-fold” stroller . These travel strollers take up the most space when folded, but generally offer better features and one-handed steering (usually).

The third and newest type is a “tri-fold” style stroller , which typically has the best of both worlds: a very small fold and decent features. This type of stroller folds into thirds instead of in half . The tri-fold travel strollers tend to be the most lightweight and compact, but also the most expensive.

You can see them folded and unfolded below to get an appreciation of the relative sizes:

Best Travel Strollers: Index

Keep reading below (or click on a link) for more details.

Umbrella strollers for travel.

Everyone knows umbrella strollers are great for travel. They’re lightweight, fold compactly, and fit into most trunks. It’s pretty easy to find cheap umbrella strollers, though the nicer ones are surprisingly expensive. Note that as tri-fold strollers are gaining popularity, umbrella strollers seem to be slowly on their way out , so the selection is not what it used to be.

Here are our favorite umbrella strollers specifically for travel. See also: Best Umbrella Strollers (for general purposes). 

Summer Infant 3DMini ~ MSRP $60, 11 lbs – “quick and dirty option”

The Summer Infant 3D Mini umbrella stroller is crazy lightweight (only 11 lbs!) and easy to fold. It comes with some features; it has two cup holders in a storage console that also holds your phone/keys, a lower storage basket, a canopy (not that large, but better than most for the price), and has a slight recline for nappers.

If you’re looking for a cheap, bare bones stroller for travel that won’t break the bank, this one’s a really great option. For kids 6 months and up.

Summer Infant 3D Lite ~ $99, 13 lbs

If you’d like to go a step up in terms of quality, Summer Infant also makes the Summer Infant 3D Lite , which is 13 lbs. It comes with more features and is slightly more “luxurious” than the Mini (but still an “economy” build quality, if ya know what I mean…).

For starters, the seat is roomier and can recline further (but not flat, so use from 6 mo+), which is better for longer trips. With an aluminum frame, this stroller should last you a little longer (up to 50 lbs) and the anti-shock wheels offer a smoother ride. The 3D Lite also has a padded 5-point harness and an expandable canopy. However, some parents complain that the seat is not ideal for taller, older children.

Here’s our quick vid:

The 3D Lite comes with plenty of storage, including a decent-size storage basket and a rear storage pocket for your cell phone and keys. The height of the handlebars is perfect for taller parents. Surprisingly, the parent organizer/cup holder on the “Mini” is better. With an easy, compact umbrella fold and a handy shoulder strap, we think the 3D Lite is perfect for travel – and won’t break the bank.

UPPAbaby G-Luxe ~ $199, 16 lbs

The high-quality G-Luxe umbrella stroller is one of the few true umbrella strollers left standing (the G-Lite has been discontinued, sadly). The G-Luxe is a high-quality stroller loaded with awesome features. It has an easy fold, a huuuuuge multi-paneled sun canopy to keep baby protected from those evil UV rays, and weighs in at 16 lbs. It has a mesh seat for ventilation purposes (great for summers and hot climates), and a full recline.

Read more about the G-Luxe  here.

Regular Fold Strollers for Travel

There are other travel strollers that are very lightweight, but have a more boxy fold.

Kolcraft Cloud Plus  ~ $77, 11.8 lbs

This economy stroller weighs in at just under 12 lbs, is very affordable, and gives you some bang for your buck.

To level with you, this is the stroller you want if you don’t care that it looks cheap and crappy, and you want a deeper recline, a much larger storage basket, and even a snack tray. It also has a parent tray with two cup holders, which is much appreciated.

Who really cares that it’s not sexy – it’s just for travel anyway, right?

Zoe The Tour v2 ~ $259, 13 lbs

Tri-fold travel strollers.

The newest generation of lightweight travel strollers are what I call “tri-fold” – that means they fold into thirds, which makes for a VERY compact fold. The Mountain Buggy Nano was the first to fold this way; since then, many others have followed.

It’s a different folded footprint than an umbrella stroller, which is long and skinny. Neither is better or worse , per se, they’re just different. That said, tri-fold strollers tend to have better access to storage and because the handlebars aren’t separated you can steer them with one hand (sort of).

Many of these tri-fold travel strollers tout they can fit into an overhead storage compartment on an airplane, which is more to illustrate how small the fold really is (I can’t think of any reason you’d actually want to put a stroller in the overhead bin – seems like overkill to me – just check it at the gate for free). 😉

GB Pockit Air All-Terrain ~ $158

A stroller that can fit in your bag – seriously!

This stroller is lightweight and has an extremely compact fold. In fact, it’s the world’s smallest folded stroller, though it won’t (obviously) give you many features.

The Pockit stroller is all of 10.4 lbs. and works from 6 months to 55 lbs.

The Pockit folds down in two steps (and about 30 seconds, once you get used to it… and you do need both hands to fold) to become 12x14x7 inches—which is well below carry-on regulations, and as the name suggests, can fit into the “pockit” of a large tote or backpack.

This stroller pushes easily on flat surfaces, and also got an “all-terrain” makeover, with four double-wheels, that makes it easier to maneuver on cobblestones and other uneven surfaces.

It has a flat overhead sun shade that will do absolutely nothing to block the sun unless it’s high noon and directly overhead (and it tends to blow up/back in the wind) – but hey, they had to cut something to get it to fit into your bag! Another issue is the lack of a reclining seat and a carry strap.

Some parents (our managing editor included) say the stroller feels a bit flimsy and wobbly. Also, make sure the stroller is fully open and do not hold on to the folding buttons that are at the tip of the handles, as some users said the stroller collapsed… while their babies were in.

At the end of the day, this is an awesome stroller to keep in your bag “just in case” your child gets tired of walking (or you get tired of lugging him around in a carrier). It is that and nothing more , which for many is exactly what they need when traveling.

Contours Itsy Stroller ~ $169

We like the Contours brand because it takes popular styles of strollers and makes them more affordable for the masses. The Itsy stroller is Contours’ latest travel stroller with a unique self-standing, one-handed fold. At 12.3 lbs, The Itsy is almost as light as the Pockit, but has more to offer: a sturdy make, dynamic dual-wheel suspension, a UPF 50+ sun canopy, a generous underseat storage basket and more.

The stroller seat, which does not recline (the one downside for little ones who tend to snooze on the go), can hold a child from 6 months up to 40lbs. Overall, parents love this stroller, especially for the price point. They say it feels sturdy, has a smooth ride and is easy to use on the daily and on the go. Plus… no assembly required when you take it out the box.

In other words, there’s nothing bad to say about this stroller. For the money, we think this is a contender for best travel stroller. 

Mountain Buggy Nano ~ $209

The 13 lb Nano is the little black dress of the stroller world. 

The Nano comes with a belt-style universal car seat adapter, and its accessories include a travel bag and a shoulder strap. The current model (2020) has a deeper seat recline than its predecessor, a better sun shade with a flip-out visor, and extra slim wheels. 

The Nano folds in two steps into a rectangle that is 21 x 12 x 20 inches. It has a 44-lb weight capacity (so it can carry kids up to age 4).

You can buy a separate “ cocoon carrycot ” (aka bassinet) for your newborn. It also has a ventilated seat back (for your tropical trips) and a fabric overlay (for your wintry wanderings). If you travel a lot or just want a super lightweight, high quality stroller for bopping around town, the chic Nano should do the trick. Bon voyage!  

See the demo of the Nano, taken at the ABC Baby Show, below:

Colugo ~ $295 (Editor’s Choice)

The Colugo is an awesome, newer stroller that we like very much. It’s also a great all-around city stroller. Here, we are in the 16-lb territory, which is no longer uber-lightweight, but this stroller is solidly built with great all-around features, and one that you would be happy to use in your day to day as well.

Please read more about it in this separate review .

UPPAbaby Minu V2  ~ $399

We’re in love with the UPPAbaby Minu tri-fold stroller, which just got an update. The MINU V2 is lightweight (though heavier than its predecessor), has a compact fold, and an amazing canopy. It can carry kids up to 50 lbs and, unlike umbrella strollers.. Note that if you already have a VISTA, the bassinet is compatible with the V2.

Following the steps of its big sisters (the Vista and the Cruz), the Minu boasts a basket that is nicely sized (for a compact stroller…), plus it has an extendable canopy with tons of sun coverage, all-wheel suspension, and a seat pocket for keys/phone, etc. Yes, people who are already loyal to the UPPAbaby brand and own the larger Vista or Cruz are very happy with this new compact offering.

As 16.9 lbs, the MINU V2 is not only heavier than the original (14.8 lbs), it’s also the heaviest travel stroller on the market. The extra pounds are due to some pretty awesome seat updates, like an adjustable calf support.

It’s also now compatible with a Piggyback ride-along board that allows you and your standing child to be next to each other while you push the stroller, creating better leg room and visibility (a plus from the BabyZen’s stroller board).

It comes with a storage bag for travel, and car seat adapters for  Nuna Pipa/Maxi Cosi/Cybex  and UPPAbaby Mesa infant car seats.

Attention short people: many under 5’4″ have complained the handlebar is too high (and it does not adjust). Also note that there is no cup holder, though you can buy one separately. This stroller is easier to fold than its competitor, the BabyZen Yoyo+, though larger and heavier.

New/Upcoming Travel Strollers

While umbrella strollers seem to slowly become obsolete, trifold strollers seem to be dominating the 2022 market. We’re specifically keeping an eye out for the following strollers by two of our faves:

Nuna TRVL ~ $500, 13.6 lbs

If you know us, you also know that we are big fans of all things Nuna. It’s just a solid baby brand, whether you’re after a car seat, a stroller or a high chair. We’re most excited about Nuna’s new compact addition: the TRVL, which we foresee will be the Minu’s closest competition. This stroller will especially appeal to parents who opt for the Nuna PIPA car seat, which is compatible with the TRVL (no adapter needed!).

The fold is easy and one-handed, which is a definite advantage from the YOYO2. The TRVL also self-stands and self-locks with a self-guiding magnetic buckle.

So far the reviews are really promising!

Bugaboo Butterfly ~ $449, 16.1 lbs

Bugaboo is joining the trifold club, and it’s doing it with a bang (and with the brand’s usual class). The Butterfly stroller folds and unfolds with one hand in one second and has an expendable canopy, four-wheel suspension and more. At just around 16 lbs, it is most comparable to the Minu and the Colugo in terms of air. This stroller is compatible with the Bugaboo Turtle Air and One car seats by Nuna, as well as many popular car seat brands using Bugaboo Butterfly adapters (sold separately).

Babyzen YOYO2  ~$444

Babyzen is a neat company out of France – and you know how I feel about France… 😍. The stroller was named the Yoyo because it goes up and down so easily (like a yoyo… get it?).

The lightweight and compact BabyZen YoYo2 folds up soooooo tiny (20.5 x 17.3 x 7.1 — small enough to carry on most airlines), but doesn’t skimp on other features in the name of convenience. Yes, this stroller was designed specifically for luxe travel and city living. Yes, it’s the priciest of all the travel strollers reviewed here, but totally worth it if you have a travel/urban lifestyle (IYKYK!).

The seat reclines (about 140 degrees, which is generous), and its wheels roll easily over uneven terrain. In fact, the stroller uses Hytrel, a high-tech polymer to make its suspension resilient and durable, and to provide smoother rides (even on cobblestones) than its predecessor. This technology is new to the Yoyo2.

The stroller is sleek and luxe, especially with its new elegant leather handlebar.

This video is from 2017 and demonstrates the original Yoyo+:

The plush, padded YoYo2 seat carries kids up to 40 lbs. It has a decently-sized storage basket (good for a small diaper bag) and another storage pouch behind the canopy. The canopy rivals that of the Minu and the stroller comes with a very comfortable carry strap and a rain cover.

The stroller is compatible with the European car seats: Nuna Pipa, Cybex and Maxi-Cosi Mico ( adapters sold separately).

If you want to use this stroller with a newborn, you should take a look at the BabyZen YoYo2 Complete ($629), which includes the stroller plus a newborn bassinet. You can also add a Newborn Pack separately ($180). As the overall design and size of the stroller frame hasn’t changed with the YOYO2,  all existing accessories that fit the YOYO+ also fit the new model .

*Some reviewers note that they tend to kick the back of this stroller if they have a longer stride.

For older siblings, the YOYO2 offers a riding board: the Yoyo+ Board . This is a great addition for families with two or more children, but note that the riding board gets in the way of your pushing. You’ll have to walk on the side.

In addition to the riding board, other optional accessories include a travel bag , footmuff , parasol , insect shield , and cupholder .

BabyZen launched YOYO Connect, which hooks to the back of your YOYO2 to turn it into a… drumroll… a double (tandem) stroller! Once a double stroller, the YOYO2 has 5 different setups (2 that are suitable for twins and 3 that are suitable for siblings of different ages).

UPPAbaby Minu V2 vs. Babyzen YOYO2

If you’re trying to decide between the two of them…

• Size : The YOYO2’s fold (20.5” x 17.3” x 7.1”) is definitely more compact than the Minu V2 and can fit in most airplanes’ overhead compartments. The Minu’s fold is slightly larger (20.5″ x 23″ x 11.5″), though still very compact. The YOYO is also significantly (3 pounds) lighter.
• Weight Limit:  50 lbs for the Minu V2, 40 lbs for the YOYO2.
• Wheels : The Minu has slightly larger back wheels (7” as compared to the YOYO’s 6”).
• Folding : Folding the Yoyo2 takes two hands and some practice (folds from a lever on the bottom); the Minu V2 is easier and more intuitive to fold.
• Basket : The Minu’s basket is slightly more generous than the Babyzen’s.
• Handlebar : The Minu’s handlebar is 42.5 inches high, to the YOYO’s 43″.  Neither adjust and they are both better for tall people. 
• Canopy : Both strollers have flip-out visors attached to the sun canopy for extra coverage; the canopies are comparable.
• Infants : Both can handle infants 0-6 months with the purchase of a bassinet; the Minu V2 has a “From Birth” kit for $199 (or you can use the Vista Bassinet if you have one), the Yoyo2 has the Newborn Pack for $225. Both offer car seat adapters for Euro seats.

A Great Alternative to a Foldable Airplane Stroller

Wait – we have one more cool thing to show you!

Lugabug  ~ $41

If you’re a “carry-on” person (you know who you are!), definitely check out the Lugabug. As you know,  it’s very difficult to push a stroller and a suitcase at the same time  (but not impossible! I’ve done it many times – HA).

The Lugabug is a seat that attaches to your suitcase – your kiddo simply hops on and you can wheel them all around the airport (since it attaches to your suitcase, it’s only really helpful if you’re not planning to check your bag).

I get soooooo many questions and comments when I travel with my Lugabug, I feel like a walking advertisement. I love it for my short weekend flights when I’m traveling light and don’t want to check luggage. Highly recommend. Note: It’s better to use it with  higher quality  luggage (for cheap luggage, you risk breaking the wheels).

Seriously, this thing is  way  cool — I’ve enjoyed it very much! Max weight is 60 lbs.

There you have it – our top picks for travel strollers. Happy trails, bon voyage, and safe travels, parents!

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The 7 best travel strollers, according to parents who use them.

A quality travel stroller makes a world of difference when traveling with little ones.

The Best Travel Strollers

Courtesy of Joolz

The Joolz Aer is the best overall travel stroller on the market.

When traveling with babies and toddlers , having the right gear – especially an easy-to-maneuver travel stroller – is essential. If you're in the market for a stroller you can take on the plane, train and beyond, read on to find the best option for your family as recommended by parents.

The Top Travel Strollers of 2023

Best overall travel stroller: joolz aer, best umbrella stroller for travel: uppababy minu v2, best double stroller for travel: uppababy g-link 2, best travel stroller for big kids: evenflo pivot xplore all-terrain stroller wagon, best travel stroller for infants: doona car seat & stroller, best travel system stroller: nuna trvl stroller, best budget travel stroller: summer 3dlite convenience stroller.

Looking for more information on how to select your ideal travel stroller? Consult the FAQ section at the bottom of this page.

(Note: All stroller dimensions are listed in order of length by width by height.)

Folded dimensions: 21 x 17.7 x 8.5 inches Stroller weight: 13.4 pounds Minimum child age: 6 months Maximum child weight: 50 pounds

When it comes to quality travel strollers, the Joolz Aer is the best investment you can make. Not only does this stroller's lightweight and compact design make it easy to store in the overhead compartment of a plane, but it also opens and closes with a one-handed motion – an essential feature for multitasking parents. Little ones travel comfortably and safely thanks to a five-point harness, extended seatback and adjustable recline, as well as a rain cover. Available in six modern colors – from sage green to taupe – the Joolz Aer also comes with a stroller bag. Parents rave about this travel stroller, with some noting they prefer it to the highly rated BABYZEN YOYO2.

The Joolz Aer is designed for babies 6 months and older; it can be used from birth with select infant car seats, secured by a car seat adaptor you'll need to purchase separately.

Price: $449 or less Shop now: Amazon | buy buy Baby | Nordstrom | Joolz

Courtesy of UPPAbaby

Folded dimensions: 12.5 x 20.3 x 23 inches Stroller weight: 16.9 pounds Minimum child age: 3 months Maximum child weight: 50 pounds

If you're looking for an umbrella-style stroller for travel, consider the UPPAbaby MINU. Its latest model, the V2, features a swift, one-handed setup; a five-point harness; an adjustable recline and foot rest; an extendable canopy with UPF 50+ protection; and a vented peekaboo window. It's also equipped with a generously sized storage basket that can hold up to 20 pounds of additional items. While the MINU is recommended for babies at least 3 months old, you can use this even sooner with UPPAbaby's Mesa Infant Car Seat and adaptors, or with adaptors for other car seats.

Terry Ward, a Florida-based travel writer and co-founder of Florida Beyond , still raves about this travel stroller, which her kids recently outgrew. "I loved the MINU so much that it became my go-to stroller at home, too," she says, adding that it has a great resale value. "I sold it for more than half of what I bought it for after three years – these strollers are really in demand."

The UPPAbaby MINU V2 is available in five color variations and features a stylish full-grain leather bumper bar and handlebar.

Price: $449.99 or less Shop now: buy buy Baby | UPPAbaby

Folded dimensions: 40 x 20 x 14.5 inches Stroller weight: 22.3 pounds Minimum child age: 3 months Maximum child weight: 55 pounds per seat

If you have twins or two stroller-age kiddos and need a tandem stroller for travel, the UPPAbaby G-LINK 2 is a solid choice. Available in charcoal and black, this highly rated double stroller offers two UPF 50+ canopies and independent, multiposition reclining seats. Like the UPPAbaby MINU, this one is a cinch to set up and maneuver, and it features an easy-to-access storage basket that accommodates up to 10 pounds. There's also a sturdy cup holder for that must-have caffeine boost.

Reviewers note that the G-LINK 2 is surprisingly compact given its double capacity, and that it's also ideal for tall toddlers.

Price: $349.99 or less Shop now: Amazon | buy buy Baby | UPPAbaby

Courtesy of Evenflo

Folded dimensions: 23 x 27.5 x 37.5 inches Stroller weight: 34.7 pounds Minimum child age: 6 months Maximum child weight: 55 pounds per seat

Another great travel stroller for two kids or older kids (up to age 5) is the Evenflo Pivot Xplore All-Terrain Stroller Wagon, which has two seats and can be used as a wagon or a stroller depending on your needs and destination. Its all-terrain wheels make it ideal for navigating any landscape – from cobblestone streets to sandy beaches – and a large storage basket and cup holders allow you to easily pack additional travel necessities. "It's basically a portable U-Haul for anything else you're dragging along," says Ward, who upgraded to the Xplore when her kids outgrew the UPPAbaby MINU. It also has an adjustable canopy for protection from the elements.

Price: $399.99 or less Shop now: Amazon | buy buy Baby | Evenflo | Target

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Courtesy of Doona

Folded dimensions: 23.6 x 17.3 x 26 inches Stroller weight: 17.2 pounds Minimum child age: None; can be used from birth with infant insert Maximum child weight: 35 pounds

When it comes to travel strollers, nothing quite compares to the Doona Car Seat & Stroller, which is exactly what it sounds like: a (genius) car seat and stroller in one. Aside from its magical ability to transform from a car seat to a stroller and vice versa in seconds, this travel stroller features a five-point harness, an adjustable handlebar and removable textiles for easy (inevitable) washing. It is Federal Aviation Administration aircraft-approved to fit in most overhead bins and comes in a variety of colors.

Angela Burks of La Vida Mom loves how easy it is to travel with the Doona Car Seat & Stroller. "I like that I don't have to worry about getting an additional car seat for a car service or rental when I arrive at the airport," she says. Another bonus? It doesn't require a car seat base.

The only downsides of this travel stroller are that your child will outgrow it when they hit 35 pounds in weight and/or 32 inches in height, and its hefty price tag given these limitations.

Price: $550.99 or less Shop now: Amazon | Doona | Target

Getty Images

Folded dimensions: 24 x 20.25 x 11 inches (without arm bar) Stroller weight: 13.6 pounds (without canopy and arm bar) Minimum child age: None; can be used from birth with infant car seat Maximum child weight: 50 pounds

If you're looking for a travel system stroller that'll grow with your baby, you can't beat the Nuna TRVL Stroller. The Nuna PIPA series car seat clicks right into the stroller – no adaptors necessary – and can then be removed when your little one is old enough to sit upright in the stroller seat. This luxury stroller features a five-point harness with magnetic technology, a multiposition reclining seat, adjustable calf support, a removable and adjustable arm bar, and a UPF 50+ canopy. Like some of the other travel strollers on this list, this product easily opens and closes with a one-handed motion and comes with a carrying bag. It is also certified GREENGUARD Gold and free of harmful chemicals.

Price: $500 or less Shop now: Nordstrom | Nuna

Courtesy of Summer

Folded dimensions: 42 x 11.5 x 12.5 inches Stroller weight: 13 pounds Minimum child age: 6 months Maximum child weight: 50 pounds

You get what you pay for in many situations, but parents say they're impressed with the Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller given its cheap price tag, noting it has seamlessly navigated bumpy streets in Europe , Disney theme parks and other family vacation destinations. This easy-to-assemble travel stroller features a carry strap (useful for schlepping it when not in use), five-point safety harness, four reclining positions, and an adjustable and removable canopy. It also has a storage basket and cup holder, and comes in four colors.

Price: $99.99 or less Shop now: Amazon | Walmart | Summer

[Read: The Top Kids Luggage .]

How to travel with a stroller and car seat

Perhaps the easiest way to travel with a stroller and car seat is to invest in the two-in-one Doona Car Seat & Stroller , which can be used for children up to about 35 pounds and stored in the overhead bin of a plane. However, other travel stroller systems can also ease the burden of all that gear – especially for those traveling with infants. Here's how to travel with a stroller and car seat in the following situations:

If your baby is in an infant car seat: Simply attach a compatible infant car seat to your everyday or travel-specific stroller and wheel your baby through the airport. When you arrive at the gate, check your car seat and stroller free of charge. (Children 2 and younger can fly for free as lap children on most airlines.) If you'd like to purchase a seat for your baby and bring your car seat on the plane – recommended by the FAA and American Academy of Pediatrics – you'll need to ensure it is FAA-compliant . Alternatively, you can wear your baby in a carrier and use the car seat and/or stroller for storage.

If your baby is not in an infant car seat: If your child is somewhere between an infant and a toddler but no longer uses an infant car seat at home, you can technically get by without a car seat since they can ride through the airport in a stroller or carrier and then sit on your lap during the flight if they are younger than 2. However, you'll need to rent or borrow a car seat when you arrive at your destination.

If you have a toddler older than 2: Children are not legally required to have a car seat for air travel, though it's still recommended by the FAA and AAP (and you will likely need one when you get to your final destination anyway). It's easiest to wheel your child in the travel stroller and transport your FAA-compliant car seat by simply carrying it (not preferable, of course) or using one of the following assists:

• Travel cart: Most luggage carts (including the ones offered at the airport) cannot go through security, so look for a foldable travel cart – this one by HÖLM is a good option – that can easily be placed on the security screening belt and then used to transport your belongings to the gate.
• Car seat luggage strap: Strap the car seat to your carry-on bag with a heavy duty luggage strap like this one .
• Car seat backpack: You can free up your hands by wearing a car seat backpack .

If your toddler won't sit in the stroller: Use your stroller as a travel cart instead – strap the car seat and anything else you can get on there. Once you get to the gate, you can either check your car seat (typically free of charge) or bring it with you on board.

Travel Stroller FAQ

Deciding whether you need a travel stroller is an entirely personal decision. Some people are content to travel with the stroller they use at home, while many prefer travel strollers since they are typically less bulky than their everyday counterparts.

No, a stroller can typically be checked at the gate free of charge and picked up on the jet bridge post-flight. It's always best to review your airline's stroller policies before flying, however.

Yes. Simply put it on the X-ray belt with the rest of your belongings.

The Joolz Aer and Doona Car Seat & Stroller can fit in most overhead bins. However, it may be easier to gate check your stroller (typically for free) so you have less to carry on to the plane.

While a stroller bag is not required, it can be useful for protecting your stroller from potential dirt and damage if it needs to be checked at the gate, as well as storing additional items – think: diapers (which can double as extra padding), wipes and other small essentials. Some travel strollers come with a branded stroller bag, but if you'd like a different option, check out these highly rated bags:

• Zohzo Stroller Travel Bag
• J.L. Childress Gate Check Travel Bag
• Gate Check PRO Stroller Bag

Disney World requires that both single and double strollers do not exceed 52 x 31 inches (length by width) when fully assembled. Below are the best strollers for Disney World that meet these requirements (listed with unfolded dimensions in inches):

• Joolz Aer : 32.7 x 17.7
• UPPAbaby MINU V2 : 35.5 x 20.3
• UPPAbaby G-LINK 2 : 27.5 x 28.5
• Doona Car Seat & Stroller : 32.3 x 17.4
• Nuna TRVL Stroller : 32.5 x 20.25
• Summer 3D Lite Convenience Stroller : 27 x 18

The UPPAbaby strollers and Nuna TRVL Stroller are especially ideal for Disney parks since they offer UPF 50+ canopies for protection from the sun. Wagons are prohibited entirely.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Amanda Norcross used her personal experience as a frequently traveling mom, as well as her research skills and conversations with other parents, to determine which travel strollers are truly the best. She first traveled with her infant in a front carrier before transitioning to the Joolz Aer , which she's successfully used on multiple flights with her growing toddler.

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Parenting And Family

The Best Travel Strollers for Families On the Go

• By Cory Kessler Updated On January 04, 2023

Traveling with kids  can be very fulfilling but also very stressful. Navigating airports, train stations, or trying to pack a vehicle with all of the necessary items can be a difficult process, especially if you're working with bulky items like jogging strollers . But what if you could simplify the process? If you're a frequent traveler, you'll definitely want to check out travel strollers.

Travel strollers are lightweight, compact, and specifically designed to fold and maneuver easily in tight spaces. The best travel strollers offer accessories and features to make your life easier on the go. In this article, we'll give you a list of our top picks for travel strollers plus highlight some of the most important things you need to know when shopping for a travel stroller. We'll also answer some of the common questions people have.

Why Trust Us?

ACTIVE.com's editorial team relies on the knowledge and experience of fitness and wellness experts including competitive athletes, coaches, physical therapists, nutritionists, and certified trainers. This helps us ensure the products we feature are of the highest standard. Collectively, the team has spent countless hours researching equipment, gear, and recovery tools in order to create the most accurate, authentic content for our readers. Customer satisfaction is also a key part of our review process, which is why we only feature products that are highly rated.

The Best Travel Strollers - Our Top Picks

By clicking on the product links in this article, we may receive a commission fee at no cost to you, the reader. Sponsorships and affiliate commissions help support our research so we can help you find the best products. Read the full affiliate disclosure here .

• Best Overall Travel Stroller: Joolz AER Premium Baby Stroller
• Best Travel Stroller for Flying: Babyzen YoYo 2 Stroller
• Best Lightweight Travel Stroller: Coolkids Lightweight Travel Stroller
• Best Compact Travel Stroller: gb Pockit Air All Terrain
• Best Double Travel Stroller: Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller
• Best Travel Stroller for Toddlers: Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Baby Stroller
• Best Budget Travel Stroller: Summer Infant 3D Mini Convenience Stroller
• Best Umbrella Travel Stroller: Pamo babe Travel Stroller
• Best Travel Stroller for Infants: Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System
• Best Folding Travel Stroller: Evenflo GOLD Otto Self-Folding Stroller

Best Overall Travel Stroller - Joolz AER Premium Baby Stroller

• Dimensions: 32.7" x 17.7" x 41.5"
• Weight: 13.4 lbs.
• Age range: Baby to toddler
• Weight limit: 50 lbs.

CHECK PRICE

When we're talking about the best travel stroller, we have to be picky. There are a lot of really good travel strollers out there with unique designs and features, but only one can be the best. For us, the Joolz AER Premium baby stroller stands out above the rest.

The Joolz AER has all the elements of a good travel stroller. It is compact, it is lightweight, has a one-handed folding mechanism, and is easy to maneuver in tight spaces. But where this stroller stands out is its patented seat design for safety and comfort, big storage space underneath, and the included rain cover and travel bag.

What We Like

• Significant storage space
• Included rain cover and travel bag
• Lifetime-warranty

What We Don't Like

• No cup holders for parents
• No bumper bar

BUY: Joolz AER Premium Baby Stroller

Best Travel Stroller for Flying - Babyzen YoYo 2 Stroller

• Dimensions: 33.8" x 17.3" x 41.7"
• Weight: 13.6 lbs.
• Age range: Newborn to toddler
• Weight limit: 48.5 lbs.

Airports are stressful for everyone, but lugging around all of the stuff you need for your child can be an extra burden. With the Babyzen YoYo 2, you'll get a very compact, lightweight, and easy-to-use stroller that can take some of the stress off your mind.

This stroller is an average size when unfolded, but the folding design fits neatly into storage bins on most airplanes. It also has a storage basket that can hold up to 11 pounds so you can throw some of your carry-on baggage underneath for easy access.

• Storage basket can hold up to 11 lbs.
• Machine washable material
• Small enough to fit in overhead bins
• No accessories included
• Not car seat compatible

BUY: Babyzen YoYo 2 Stroller

Best Lightweight Travel Stroller - Coolkids Lightweight Travel Stroller

• Dimensions: 30" x 17" x 39"
• Weight: 14 lbs.
• Weight limit: 33 lbs.

Sometimes it is good to have a travel stroller on hand to keep in your car when you're shopping or running errands with your little one. The Coolkids lightweight stroller is a great option for everyday use.

This stroller may not have all of the bells and whistles of higher-end travel strollers, but it does have an XL canopy with a peekaboo window and one of the easiest folding mechanisms on our list. Even better, the T-shaped bumper becomes a pull handle when it is folded so you can pull the stroller like a suitcase.

• T-shaped bumper that becomes a pull handle
• Rolls like a suitcase when folded
• One-handed fold and unfold mechanism
• Lower weight capacity
• Minor assembly required

BUY: Coolkids Lightweight Travel Stroller

Best Compact Travel Stroller - gb Pockit Air All Terrain Stroller

• Dimensions: 28" x 17" x 39.8"
• Weight: 10.4 lbs.
• Age range: 6 months to 5 years
• Weight limit: 55 lbs.

All travel strollers are compact relative to other types of strollers, but some make an extra effort to have a small footprint. The gb Pockit is an ultra-compact travel stroller that weighs just over 10 pounds but is strong enough to hold your child up to 55 pounds.

You will be hard-pressed to find a stroller that is as functional as the gb Pockit while being this small. Another unique quality of the gb Pockit Air is that its wheels are graded for all terrains so you won't have to worry about going through the grass at the park or over broken pavement.

• UPF 50+ protection from the canopy
• 2-step fold and unfold
• Can be steered with one hand
• Seat does not recline
• Wheels may be too small for some stone surfaces

BUY: gb Pockit+ Ultra Compact Travel Stroller

Best Double Travel Stroller - Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller

• Dimensions: ‎ 31.69" x 30.31" x 41.34"
• Weight: 28 lbs.
• Age range: Baby and up
• Weight limit: 99 lbs.

If you have ever traveled with multiple kids then you likely know how convenient a double stroller can be. And while they are naturally larger than other travel strollers, some double strollers are still relatively compact.

The Joovy Kooper X2 is our pick for the best double travel stroller. With the Joovy Kooper you'll get a 28-pound stroller that can hold two kids comfortably with a weight capacity of 99 pounds. This stroller has an iron frame so it is very durable and the seat fabric is removable and machine washable. It also has a good bit of storage underneath.

• 15-lb. storage space underneath
• Removable seat fabric is machine washable
• Durable iron frame
• Not a good option for infants
• 28 lbs. is fairly heavy

BUY: Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller

Best Travel Stroller for Toddlers - Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Baby Stroller

• Dimensions: 34.2" x 17.3" x 37.7"
• Weight: 21 lbs.
• Age range: 0-4 years

Most good strollers are made to grow with your child. Some brands are able to do this better than others, but if you're looking for a travel stroller that operates at its best for toddlers, the Ergobaby Metro+ is what you're looking for.

This stroller has an adjustable footrest so your child can get comfortable, and an adjustable handlebar for you to choose your hand position while you're pushing the stroller. The canopy has UPF 50 protection, and it has ultra-padded seats.

• Car seat compatible
• Adjustable footrest and handlebar
• Ultra padding in the seats
• Unfolding can be difficult with one hand

BUY: Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Baby Stroller

Best Budget Travel Stroller - Summer Infant 3D Mini Convenience Stroller

• Dimensions: 31.25" x 18.5" x 39"
• Weight: 11 lbs.
• Age range: 6 months to Toddler
• Weight limit: 45 lbs.

As you can see from our list, the price ranges for travel strollers go up to several hundred dollars. For the most part, you can expect to get what you pay for with travel strollers, but if you're looking for a good option that is budget-friendly, we found a gem.

The Summer Infant 3D mini convenience stroller has all of the basic features you need in a good travel stroller. This stroller folds to a nice, compact size, and only weighs 11 pounds. It doesn't have a storage basket underneath, but it has dual cup holders for parents plus storage pockets on the back.

• Dual-parent cup holders
• Budget-friendly
• Parent storage pockets
• Wheels may not be durable
• No basket for storage underneath

BUY: Summer Infant 3D Mini Convenience Stroller

Best Umbrella Travel Stroller - Pamo babe Travel Stroller

• Dimensions: 17.7" x 23.6" x 39.4"
• Weight: 15 lbs.

Many travel strollers fold into a rectangular shape similar to carry-on luggage so they can fit in overhead compartments on airplanes. But airplanes aren't the only mode of transportation for frequent travelers, so another option is the umbrella stroller.

Umbrella strollers fold in a vertical shape that looks like a folded umbrella. Our favorite umbrella travel stroller is the Pamo babe travel stroller. It is lightweight with a 50-pound weight range so you'll be able to use it well into toddlerhood. Plus this stroller has moisture-proof seat material that can weather the elements. And, of course, it folds to a nice vertical shape that is only 9 inches wide.

• Moisture-proof seat material
• XL adjustable canopy
• Folds vertically
• Umbrella strollers can be difficult to fold
• Plastic, cheap wheels

BUY: Pamo babe Travel Stroller

Best Travel Stroller for Infants - Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System

• Dimensions: 34" x 26.5" x 41.5"
• Weight: 20 lbs. (stroller only) 38 lbs. (stroller and car seat)
• Weight limit: 50 lbs. (stroller), 35 lbs. (car seat)

Infants have a lot of needs. Traveling with an infant can be overwhelming because of all the stuff you'll have to bring to make sure your baby is comfortable and settled. If you've experienced this, then give the Evenflo Pivot modular travel system a try.

This is a travel stroller and car seat combo package that can give you everything you'll need for your baby in one system. The stroller has six modes, including a bassinet mode if you want to park it and let your infant nap lying down. There is also an oversized storage basket underneath big enough for diaper bags so you're not carrying everything on your back.

• Car seat, stroller combo
• 6 modes including bassinet
• Oversized storage basket
• Some key accessories are sold separately
• Only some models have removable, washable pads

BUY: Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System

Best Folding Travel Stroller - Evenflo GOLD Otto Self-Folding Stroller

• Dimensions: ‎33.5" x 21.13" x 40.5"
• Weight: 18 lbs.
• Age range: Toddler

We know that all travel strollers fold. But some of the folding mechanisms you'll find on travel strollers are more difficult than they seem, particularly when they auto-lock because it can be difficult to unlock and unfold with one hand. But the Evenflo GOLD Otto is in a league of its own.

This stroller has a self-folding mechanism. All you have to do is press the button under the handlebar and the stroller will fold down. Plus, it is immediately self-standing so you can truly move your hand away after pressing the button without worrying about the stroller falling over.

• Self-folding mechanism
• Infant car seat compatible
• Bumper bar becomes a handle when folded
• Only 2 adjustment levels on the back and footrest
• Not compatible with other brand car seats

BUY: Evenflo GOLD Otto Self-Folding Stroller

How to Choose the Best Travel Stroller

Safety features.

As you know, your child's safety is the highest priority when shopping for a travel stroller. Different brands have their own safety features, but generally speaking, you want a stroller that has a five-point harness, some form of bumper bar, a canopy that can get your kid out of the sun, and shock-absorbing wheels.

Other safety features are available and good to have, but these should be your baseline.

Strollers come in all shapes and sizes. Travel strollers are typically lighter and more compact than other types of strollers, so there may not be as much storage space on some models as you are used to.

The important thing to balance when you're traveling is your child's comfort and getting a stroller that is as compact as possible. You probably won't notice the difference between an 11-pound stroller and a 13-pound stroller, but if one is much smaller than the other your child may not be as comfortable.

Most strollers have an age recommendation and a weight recommendation. The most important thing to remember about the age recommendation is that at different stages your child can sit in different positions. For example, your infant should not be sitting in a forward-facing position.

Once your child can comfortably sit in a forward-facing stroller without their car seat, the age recommendation matters less than the weight limit.

Weight Limit

The weight limit recommendation on strollers is one of the most important specifications to note. Using a stroller after your child is over the weight limit recommendation can compromise the safety features and make the stroller less comfortable.

However, kids grow at different speeds so if your toddler is still under the weight limit then you can feel safe continuing to use the stroller.

FAQs About Travel Strollers

Are travel strollers worth it.

If you're planning on traveling, yes, travel strollers are worth it. They are easy to fold, easy to carry, and easier to maneuver in tight spaces like airports or trains.

What is the best stroller to take on a plane?

The best stroller to take on a plane is a compact travel stroller that will fit in the overhead compartment when folded. However, many airlines will offer to check your stroller at the gate for free so it will be waiting for you when you get off the plane.

Can you use a travel stroller for everyday use?

Yes, you can use travel strollers for everyday use, but you may find some travel strollers are not as durable as full-sized or jogging strollers. But there are high-quality travel strollers that will stand up to everyday use.

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The Best Lower-Priced Strollers, According to Parents Who've Used Them

Medical review policy, latest update:, quick summary, how we chose the best affordable strollers, why trust us, best lower-cost full-size stroller, chicco bravo quick-fold stroller, most affordable umbrella stroller, summer infant 3dlite convenience stroller, most affordable travel system, graco modes 3 lite dlx travel system, best affordable reversible stroller, chicco corso le modular quick-fold stroller, most affordable double stroller, evenflo pivot xpand modular stroller, best lower-priced stroller for travel, kolcraft cloud plus stroller, best affordable jogging stroller, baby trend expedition jogger stroller, best affordable sit and stand stroller, joovy caboose ultralight, our research, is it necessary to buy an expensive stroller.

American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), How to Keep Your Sleeping Baby Safe: AAP Policy Explained , July 2022. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), How to Choose a Safe Baby Stroller , August 2022. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Carriages and Strollers Business Guidance & Small Entity Compliance Guide , 2023. Marilyn Bull, M.D., Professor of Pediatrics and Spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

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Stroller Joolz Aer+

Warranty 2 years & 10-Year transferable warranty if you register within 6 months

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wash with a mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly and dry flat. Please keep in mind it is not possible to wash the fabrics in the washing machine.

To remove dirt for your chassis simply use a lukewarm wet cloth (no detergents needed). You can clean the wheels with water and mild detergent. Make sure you remove them before cleaning and put them back when they are dry.

Can I bring my Joolz Aer along as cabin luggage?

The Joolz Aer can be stored away in the overhead compartment without worry*. Whether travelling by bike, bus, plane* or boat, the new Joolz Aer helps lighten the load. The Joolz Aer has a compact design and can be stored in small spaces. The Joolz Aer comes with a travel pouch to protect your light weight stroller while you travel. 

*Luggage restrictions differ per airline. If in doubt, we recommend that you call the airline directly before traveling. Folded size of the Joolz Aer is 53x45x23 cm. Weight is 6 kg.

Is this Joolz Aer suitable for newborns?

No - the light weight stroller is suitable for children that can sit unaided, usually this is around 6 months. For the newborn solution, go to the Joolz Aer with bassinet >>

Where can I find the serial number of the Joolz Aer?

The Joolz Aer serial number starts with AERCH and can be found at the front of the light weight stroller, on the sticker underneath the bar attached to the left front wheel.

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• length 32.7 inch
• width 17.7 inch
• height 41.5 inch
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The box contains one complete and amazing Joolz Aer+ and everything that belongs to it.

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Recycling is better for the environment and, who knows, your little one might learn something too. Big and small cardboard boxes – unpack them first – then convert them into an airplane. So don’t throw the packaging away.

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We make the best strollers for parents, babies and the planet. That’s why our strollers and buggies are designed to last a lifetime. With our 10-Year transferable warranty you contribute to a better world for your child. And, it doesn’t end there. When selling or gifting your stroller to a new person, our warranty is transferable. This means that other families can enjoy your stroller too.

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• Recommended use: up to 50  lbs.
• Luxury features for city and travel meet lightweight convenience
• Creates a sleek-looking travel system connecting directly with Nuna PIPA™ series car seats with just a click—no adapters needed
• Self-folding stroller opens and closes with one hand
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• Weight: approx. 13.60 lbs. (without canopy and arm bar)
• open dimensions: (In.) 32.5 x 20.25 x 44
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The 8 Best Travel Strollers for Dads Navigating Airports and City Streets

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

Best Overall Travel Stroller

Bugaboo butterfly stroller.

Comfiest Stroller

Gb qbit+ all-city stroller.

Best Budget Stroller

Babygap classic stroller.

Easiest Stroller to Carry

Contours itsy lightweight travel stroller.

Best Stroller for Twinning

Uppababy g-link v2 stroller.

Best Stroller for City Dwellers

Babyzen yoyo2 stroller.

Smoothest Handling Stroller

Silver cross jet 3 super compact stroller.

Best Stroller for Flying with Infants

Doona infant car seat and stroller.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to Consider When Buying a Travel Stroller

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Parker Hall

Review: Britax Willow Grove SC

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Everyone tells you how tired you’ll be with a newborn, but take it from someone with a 3-month-old: It’s more than you can anticipate before having kids, unless you were previously an ultramarathoner and/or offshore oil rig worker.

When you’re putting your freshly baked human into a car seat, stroller, or generally taking it anywhere with you (which you have to do, apparently), you don’t just want the process to be easy; you need the process to be easy. That’s why I’ve fallen in love with the Britax Willow Grove SC travel system.

This car seat base, car seat, stroller, and stroller base all come in a package together, and everything just works. There are no tricks for installation or daily use. Anyone can easily figure out how to use every part of these things, even when you haven’t slept in days. Just click your little one into either the stroller or car seat attachment, fold up the wheeled base with one hand, and you’re off to wherever you need to go. The price you pay for this system is about $100 higher than you might pay for another all-in-one option from Chicco, but the build quality and ease of use is well worth the extra cost.

Getting Loaded

The most important thing for any newborn is a quality car seat and base; the hospital literally checked that we had ours installed before they allowed us to leave. There aren't any official safety ratings for this system, but the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration recommends rear-facing seats like this for infants. I grew up (and later babysat) in a time when you had to take your car to the fire department to install your car seat base permanently in the back seat until a child was old enough to not need it, so color me excited when I realized how easy the Britax base was going to be to install.

Simply click the two hooks around the now-standard child seat restraint area on your car’s seats (two hooks that often hide behind the cushions), put the seat belt through the company’s proprietary ClickTight Installation system, and press down. It all tightens in place easily, taking about 30 seconds to install. Once you’ve done it one time, swapping between cars is a breeze. No need to own two bases for different cars/friends/family.

Clicking the actual car seat into the base is also a breeze; it just clicks right in, with a handle on the forward side of the carrier (where your baby’s back faces) that easily allows you to detach it with one hand as your other grabs the handle of the carrier. Apart from the weight of your baby (we have a lunker!), it’s extremely wieldy and convenient.

I like that there are little plastic tabs on the left and right sides of the car seat you can use to hold the straps while you place your baby's butt in the seat. This makes it super easy to then click your baby in place with the three-piece click harness and to cinch them in with the strap between their legs.

On a Stroll

The best part of the car seat is that it easily clicks in and attaches to the foldable stroller base, which means you don’t have to transfer a sleeping kid to a stroller seat when you want to roll them somewhere fresh out of the car. This is awesome, especially because the foldable stroller section can easily be deployed one-handed, thanks to a simple hook-to-hold mechanism on the outside of the right rear wheel pole. You just unhook the plastic piece that’s holding the stroller folded, and gravity does the rest.

I will say that when I was stressed trying to make sure everything was set up before my kid was born, I broke the plastic tabs that click my car seat in place. Initially, I thought the whole system was ruined, but I found that attaching the car seat to the stroller base is largely achieved by gravity, rather than that specific locking mechanism. The locking mechanism for the car seat base, which you install in the car and leave there, uses strong metal bars that would be impossible to break except in a brutal crash. For the stroller base with the car seat attachment on top, I have found that even without the security of plastic locking tabs, the car seat hasn't ever shown any indication it's not firmly on top of the stroller attachment. They're clearly more for peace of mind than anything.

To fold the stroller section down, just remove the car seat or stroller top using two quick-release buttons on the right and left side (unless you've broken them), and hold the thumb and fist switches on the back of the handle, which causes the whole thing to collapse instantly and the aforementioned hook to hold it all closed. It’s really easy to do one-handed, and the hook holds it closed very well.

The design is very clever all around. I love that the bottom of the stroller, which folds out with nice-sized sides and allows you to store a shocking amount of stuff, can still hold most of said stuff when folded. We tended to throw our daughter’s diaper bag and an extra blanket/water bottle down below, and it still easily folds with those things inside, so we don’t need to carry another bag.

The wheels are shockingly smooth and robust. They’re not inflatable, but we have walked our daughter miles and miles over sidewalks and through yards, dog parks, trails, and virtually every surface imaginable, and the wheels are still as smooth as ever after months of hard use.

One thing I'm not stoked about, particularly on the car seat portion, is the sunshade. The stretchy material that Britax uses is nice, and I like the fact I can flip up the magnetic vent so my daughter isn't getting blasted with wind, but it's too elastic to stay in the lowest positions I need to keep the sun out of her eyes. The stroller attachment is better, but it still could go a bit lower for the times when I'm walking my daughter around sunrise and sunset in the northern United States.

I like that the Willow SC came with padded inserts for newborns in each set. It was very easy to size them to fit my baby when she was just born, and to resize the straps (and remove the extra padding) as she's gotten bigger and bigger. We'll probably get at least six months out of this stroller and car seat, maybe more depending on how tall my freakishly long daughter grows in the coming days.

There are very few tools that I have been completely satisfied with in child-rearing. Most baby-focused products tend to work for certain people and not for others. This is one of the few foolproof pieces of gear that I have found for parents, and one that I have been recommending to every pregnant couple soliciting advice.

I can't help you get more sleep; figure out what the hell that crying blob wants at 3 in the morning on your own. I can help you get to and from doctor appointments, to relatives, and to the bar (the blessed bar) with ease: Grab the Britax Willow SC. This system will help you take your baby anywhere.

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Summer Infant 3Dlite Convenience Stroller, Black – Lightweight, with Aluminum Frame, Large Seat Area, Mesh Siding, 4 Position Recline, Extra Large Storage Basket – for Travel

Purchase options and add-ons, about this item.

• LIGHTWEIGHT – A lightweight stroller makes any outing a little easier. The Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller has a durable aluminum frame that weighs just 13 pounds and has a large seat area, plus anti-shock front wheels and lockable rear wheels.
• FOR TRAVEL AND EVERYDAY – Whether you’re traveling or just on the go running everyday errands, having a lightweight, compact stroller is a must. With this one easy to use stroller, you’ll have both an everyday and travel stroller option.
• 4-POSITION RECLINE – Keep your little one comfortable and safe at all times with the 4 position recline and 5 point safety harness. Maximum weight and height of child for this toddler stroller: 50 pounds and 43 inches.
• COMPACT FOLD – The easy compact fold with carry strap and auto lock makes it simple to store this lightweight umbrella stroller and bring it with you to go. Plus, the adjustable and removable canopy with flip out sun visor is perfect for sunny days.
• EXTRA STORAGE – With plenty of storage in this stroller, you won’t have to leave anything at home. It includes an extra-large storage basket, rear storage pocket and cup holder. Don’t overload storage basket: maximum of 10 pounds

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3D lite Convenience Stroller by Summer Infant

• Durable, stylish, 12 pound frame
• Large seat area with 5-point safety harness
• Anti-shock front wheels and lockable rear wheels
• Multi-position recline
• Extra large storage basket
• Adjustable and removable canopy with flip out sun visor
• Rear storage pocket
• Easy compact 3-D fold with carry strap

The award winning 3Dlite features an innovative air-light aluminum frame which makes it super lightweight to carry and push - yet durable enough to stand the test of time! With its open design, you can easily access the large storage basket or recline almost flat which is ideal for on-the-go naps or diaper changes! Going for a sunny day stroll? The canopy features a pop out visor that protects baby from sun’s harmful rays – 99.9 percent to be exact – and with the included cup holder there’s even a place for your water (or iced coffee).

Available in six delightful fun fashions – scoop yours up today.

What's Included:

Instructions, 4 wheels (2 front and 2 rear), canopy, cup holder, and stroller frame with seat, storage basket, and carry strap.

Product Description

With the Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller, you don’t have to sacrifice any features you want in a stroller! This infant stroller has a durable, lightweight and stylish aluminum frame and is one of the lightest and most feature rich convenience strollers on the market. With a compact, easy to fold frame and carry strap, you can be on-the-go running errands or traveling or stow and go with ease. Some of the features in this lightweight stroller include: a large seat area, 4 position recline, 5-point safety harness, anti-shock front wheels, lockable rear wheels, adjustable and removable canopy with flip out sun visor, easy compact fold with carry strap and auto lock, extra-large storage basket, rear storage pocket, cup holder and more.

Brand Story

By Summer Infant

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Customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the value, ease of assembly, size, comfort and weight of the stroller. They mention that it's budget friendly, the basket is decent size and that it reclines enough for their child to nap comfortably. They also appreciate the weight.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the quality of the stroller. They mention that it holds up amazingly well, is very lightweight, and functional. Customers also appreciate the great wheels and brakes. Overall, most are happy with the quality and functionality of the product.

" Worked so well for our trip to the Creation Museum and Ark Encounter in Kentucky, USA. Our 18 month old son easily fit in it...." Read more

"...It held up all day , both kids enjoyed sitting in it (at different times), it was lightweight, easy to get on and off trams/trolleys, and generally..." Read more

"...But it’s sturdy and stable. The wheels are good. The only thing flimsy is the cupholder but I don’t even use that really so I don’t really care...." Read more

"...In short, I highly recommend this product for its durability and lightweight features and would purchase again. Great value." Read more

Customers like the weight of the stroller. They say that it is lightweight, easy to carry, and easy to push around.

"...We also used it on a blacktop trail. Very lightweight yet sturdy. Worth every penny." Read more

"...day, both kids enjoyed sitting in it (at different times), it was lightweight , easy to get on and off trams/trolleys, and generally seamless...." Read more

"...It’s so light and easy..The over hang thing to keep the sun out of his eyes is kinda small but I don’t care about that...." Read more

"...The stroller was great and lightweight when it arrived, it was easy to put together and fold up...." Read more

Customers like the size of the stroller. They mention that it's easily portable, has a decent size basket, and can fit in their vehicle. They also say that it is satisfactory for a compact umbrella stroller at this price point. Customers also say the storage bin fits their diaper bag and is light-weight. They say it can hold smaller things like a blanket, extra diapers, toys, and snacks.

"...We also found it was pretty compact to store in the car which was helpful." Read more

"...stroller that bends under the weight of the baby, and it's not ridiculously short -- I'm not a tall person but I've seen those ridiculous strollers..." Read more

"...I feel it indeed isn't the best at it, but is satisfactory for a compact umbrella stroller at this price point...." Read more

"... Decent sized storage basket under seat .- This is minor, but the handles feel wonderful to grip.Cons- Holy. Squeak...." Read more

Customers like the ease of folding of the stroller. They mention it folds very easily, has a handy mechanism for collapsing and unfolding, and that it takes one movement to open it.

"...This stroller rocks with the opening and closing ...." Read more

"...and lightweight when it arrived, it was easy to put together and fold up ...." Read more

"Very lightweight and functional. The stroller was easy to fold seams sturdy and durable however time will tell...." Read more

"...5. This one has a very handy mechanism for collapsing and unfolding . It's very doable with one hand and auto locks...." Read more

Customers find the stroller easy to assemble. They mention it's lightweight, easy to put up and down, and can be set up in a flash. They also say the instructions are adequate and the strollers can be navigating easily.

"...I was pleasantly surprised with the quality and ease of use with this...." Read more

"...It was super easy to put together . My cup holder does t stay very well so I just left it off." Read more

"...This stroller rocks with the opening and closing. So easy .. I haven’t bought a stroller for 20 years before this, so I don’t have anything to..." Read more

Customers find the stroller to be a good value for the price. They say it's budget friendly, works great, and is well worth the price, with a useful basket.

"...We also used it on a blacktop trail. Very lightweight yet sturdy. Worth every penny ." Read more

"...This was cheaper than renting a normal stroller , seemed like a better idea than the strollers the park rents, and wouldn't make my wallet cry if..." Read more

"...To me this is a beefed up- better umbrella stroller. Worth every penny I paid ." Read more

"... Great value ." Read more

Customers like the maneuverability of the stroller. For example, they say it maneuvers very smoothly, has large wheels that move nicely, and glides well. Some mention that it has good maneuverability for uneven sidewalks and cobblestones. That said, most are happy with the folding and steering capabilities.

"... Very easy to maneuver ." Read more

"The stroller is so easy to push . My daughter is 2.5 and it works great for the price. would recommend." Read more

"This stroller is lightweight, so easy to assemble and sturdy. It glides well and it is easy for me to maneuver around corners and up ramps etc...." Read more

"...It folds compactly, moves easily , and the reclined function is great...." Read more

Customers like the comfort of the stroller. They mention that the handle height makes it comfortable for them, the seatbelt is great, and that it reclines enough for their son to nap comfortably. They also say that it's comfortable to use for taller folks, and mention that it doesn't hurt their back. Customers also say the strollers are easy to put together and smooth.

"...I was looking for something comfortable , light weight, easy to fold and carry and on the tops should be able to work fr 2-3 more years...." Read more

"...My husband is 6’1” and used it mostly, no backache complaints . He actually prefers this to our bigger, more heavy duty stroller...." Read more

"The quickest easiest to put together and so smooth ! Love it!" Read more

"...thing is the "shoulder carry strap" is too tight and the stroller is awkward on your back - not easy to carry this way...." Read more

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7 Disney stroller essentials you need to pack before your next family vacation

• Updated: May. 10, 2024, 9:31 a.m. |
• Published: May. 09, 2024, 6:05 p.m.

Whether it serves as a nap mobile or as a front-row seat for parades and firework displays, a stroller will be the M.V.P of your family's Disney vacation. Shop these popular travel strollers and extras. Amazon/Canva

• Danielle Halibey | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

A trip to Disney without a stroller is the dream, but if you’ll be vacationing with little ones in tow, it’s a pretty non-negotiable line item.

Despite their endless energy, even the most spirited kiddos need breaks on a regular day, but this is Disney . The amount of walking is a lot. The glaring sun is a lot. The constant excitement and stimulation is a lot.

Your tiny Mouseketeers are bound to want to “tap out” and take a breather at some point, and having a stroller ready and waiting for them, preferably one with sundry reclining positions, a coverall sun canopy and ample storage spots and pockets for all your things, is the perfect solution.

Related: The 9 best shoes for Disney are magical in their own righ t

Pros of Stroller Rentals at Disney World

Disneyland , Walt Disney World and Disney Springs do offer daily, multi-day and length-of-stay stroller rentals that you can pre-purchase or buy in the parks and resorts themselves, but it can get pricey, even with single strollers starting at $15 daily.

Another option, if you plan to do a lot of sightseeing, shopping and touring on your trip, is to rent through ScooterBug , Disney’s exclusive provider of mobility (stroller, scooter and wheelchair) services. The company will drop your stroller off directly at your hotel or resort, and you’ll have it upon arrival to use at your leisure.

Pros of Bringing Your Own Stroller to Disney World

As a mom of three, including a first grader, preschooler and toddler, I’ll always opt for a great travel stroller purchase. A reliable, lightweight, sun-shading and easy-to-push/carry carriage will help you survive Disney and become your go-to for every amusement park, parade, aquarium, zoo, museum, trunk-or-treat or holiday light show from here on out.

I got the Silver Cross Jet 4 Super Compact Stroller a few years ago, before my youngest was born, and we’ve used it on three vacations already. It’s a splurge, for sure, but it’s one of the lightest strollers I’ve ever pushed, folds into the most convenient luggage, spinner-like configuration to zip through the airport, easily stows in the overhead cabin and sports the biggest UPF50+ sunshade. You can also hold a lot of things in the under-seat basket and behind your kiddos’ seat.

These are the 6 best travel strollers I’d recommend for your next Disney World trip, and then 7 accessories you need to buy and pack in your stroller.

Travel Strollers

• Silver Cross Jet 4 Super Compact Stroller for $470
• Jeep Destination Ultralight Side x Side Double Stroller for $250, instead of $300
• Zoe The Traveler for $249
• Munchkin Sparrow Ultra Compact Stroller for $220
• Baby Trend Sit N’ Stand Double Stroller for $180, instead of $200
• Summer Infant 3D Mini Convenience Stroller With Compact Fold for $58

Stroller Accessories

• Clear Stroller Rain Cover for $10
• Baby Uma Baby Stroller Hooks for Bags - 2-Pack for $13, instead of $15
• zak! Disney Princess Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Water Bottle for $21
• Momcozy Portable Stroller Fan for $25, instead of $30 (clippable 10% off coupon at checkout on Amazon)
• Itzy Ritzy Adjustable Stroller Caddy / Organizer for $25, instead of $30
• Disney Baby by J.L. Childress Portable Diaper Changing Station for $30
• Apple AirTag 4-Pack for $79, instead of $99

Tips for planning the best Disney World Vacation

• The 9 best shoes for Disney are magical in their own right
• 14 things you need to pack for your Disney trip

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The Best Bassinet Strollers To Stroll With Newborns Comfortably

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If you’re looking for the ultimate in luxury and comfort for your newborn, look no further than a bassinet stroller. The best bassinet strollers can make life with a newborn much easier, especially if you have a baby who doesn’t like their infant car seat, which many parents attach to the stroller as part of a travel system. “Bassinet strollers are a great option for parents of newborns because they offer a safe and comfortable sleeping and strolling area for babies who can't roll or sit up,” says Sarah Huff, baby gear product expert at Babyquip .

The best bassinet strollers let your newborn nap on the go.

Extra features and high-end finishings abound in the bassinet stroller market today, so before you begin shopping, consider what qualities are important to you in the bassinet and in the stroller overall. Common features include sun-protective canopies, parent cup holders, machine-washable fabrics, one-handed folds, adjustable handlebars and the option to purchase a bassinet stand. Our top pick for the best bassinet stroller is the Uppababy Cruz V2 , which has a very smooth push to limit how much your baby gets jostled around, and the bassinet has a UPF 50 sunshade and a bug shield. I also named it the best stroller overall after testing 15 of the best strollers .

• Best Bassinet Stroller Overall: Uppababy Cruz V2 Stroller
• Best Budget Bassinet Stroller: Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System with Litemax Infant Car Seat
• Best Single-To-Double Bassinet Stroller: Bugaboo Donkey 5
• Best Travel Bassinet Stroller: Joolz Aer+ Stroller + Bassinet Bundle
• Best Splurge Bassinet Stroller: Silver Cross Wave
• Best Bassinet Stroller For Sleep: Nuna Mixx Next Stroller And Bassinet

Best Bassinet Stroller Overall

The smooth ride won’t jostle your baby, uppababy cruz v2 stroller.

Stroller weight: 25.5 pounds | Weight limit: 50 pounds | Dimensions: 16.5 x 22.8 x 33 inches (folded); 37.5 x 22.8 x 40 inches (unfolded) | One-handed fold: No

After testing over 15 strollers, from sleek travel strollers to pricey double strollers, the Uppababy Cruz V2 remains one of the best overall, and it’s compatible with a bassinet attachment (which you’ll need to purchase separately). The stroller is incredibly easy to push and has high-end finishings. The storage basket is rather large, giving you plenty of room to store all those newborn necessities. Because this stroller pushes so smoothly, it’s one of the most comfortable ones for babies to ride in; they won’t be bumped and jostled around as much as they would in other strollers. “I recommend the Uppababy bassinet stroller because it is big, firm, well made and adheres to all the guidelines for safe baby sleep practices,” says Daniel Ganjian , M.D., FAAP, board certified pediatrician. 

The bassinet is safe for babies up to 20 pounds or until they are pushing up on their hands and knees. It has an extendable UPF 50 sunshade, a cover you can pull across the bassinet, a machine-washable mattress cover and a vented base and mattress for breathability. The the bassinet comes with a bug shield, and you can purchase a bassinet stand separately as well. This allows you to even use this bassinet for overnight sleep. If you plan on extending your family in the future or already have an older child, you might want to opt for the similar UppaBaby Vista V2 that can accommodate two children.

Best Budget Bassinet Stroller

The stroller seat turns into a bassinet, evenflo pivot modular travel system with litemax infant car seat.

Stroller weight: 38 pounds | Weight limit: 50 pounds | Dimensions: 26 x 19.5 x 40 inches (folded); 25.5 x 47 x 34 (unfolded) | One-handed fold: No

If you’ve been shopping for a bassinet stroller for any length of time, you probably already know that they can get rather pricey. The Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System, however, is much more budget-friendly than many of other other options, and you don’t have to buy a separate bassinet attachment. Rather than using a separate bassinet, you can configure the stroller seat into a bassinet, which Evenflo calls a carriage. It’s easy to do: Completely recline the seat, and use your hands to push down on the inside, creating the walls of the bassinet. You can use the seat in this mode facing toward you or away from you. 

The combined seat and bassinet configuration makes this a good travel option as well, because it reduces the amount of baby gear you need to carry around. Purchase of the travel system also includes a car seat and a parent cup holder—another nice perk. If you’re looking for something inexpensive that gives you everything you need, this is the pick for you.

Best Single-To-Double Bassinet Stroller

Comes with a bassinet and toddler seat, bugaboo donkey 5.

Stroller weight: 26.9 pounds (mono mode) | Weight limit: 50 pounds per seat | Dimensions: 35 x 23.6 x 13.8 inches (folded in mono mode); 41.7 x 23.6 x 43.7 (unfolded in mono mode) | One-handed fold: No 

Parents who already have an older child or who are planning to expand their family might want to consider a single-to-double stroller. This way, you won’t have to buy a whole new double stroller for baby number two. The Bugaboo Donkey 5 can function as a single stroller with a large storage area in the mono configuration, and it can convert to a side-by-side double stroller with an expansion set. This allows you to use a bassinet next to a toddler seat or two toddler seats. Parents of twins will want to consider the Bugaboo Donkey 5 Twin , which allows you to use two bassinets at once. 

The bassinet has an aerated mattress and a mesh panel to help with airflow and breathability. You can also choose to close this panel up during colder weather. Like Uppababy, Bugaboo strollers are known for being very smooth and high-quality, so you won’t need to worry about your baby getting bumped and jostled around too much. Another reason we love this stroller: it comes with the bassinet, unlike many other options that require you to purchase the bassinet separately.

Best Travel Bassinet Stroller

The bassinet is collapsible, and the stroller fits in most overhead compartments, joolz aer+ stroller + bassinet bundle.

Stroller weight: 13.2 pounds | Weight limit: 50 pounds | Dimensions: 21 x 17.7 x 8.5 inches (folded); 32.7 x 17.7 x 41.5 inches | One-handed fold: Yes

Traveling is no reason to sacrifice your baby’s comfort (in fact, it’s every reason to cater to their comfort), and you won’t have to sacrifice with the lightweight Joolz Aer+ stroller. It has a one-handed fold, it comes with a travel bag and the stroller fits in most overhead compartments, to make flights a little easier. Even the bassinet is collapsible for ultimate portability. It has a UPF 50+ canopy on the bassinet as well as a cover and an easy-to-carry handle. It’s also made out of 100% recyclable fabrics, making it a more sustainable option.  

Parents of newborns appreciate that the Aer+ comes already assembled; that’s one less thing to worry about. It also has a four-wheel suspension to help reduce rough riding, and it’s compatible with an LED light you can purchase separately. The light is an invaluable safety feature for traveling to unfamiliar places. When your baby is ready, move them to the toddler seat to continue on all of your adventures.

Best Splurge Bassinet Stroller

Help regulate their temperature with bamboo fabric and adjustable ventilation.

Pottery Barn Kids

Silver Cross Wave

Stroller weight: 26.6 pounds | Weight limit: 55 pounds | Dimensions: 37 x 23 x 15 inches (folded); 43 x 23 x 37 inches (unfolded) | One-handed fold: No

There are many things I like about the Silver Cross Wave for newborns, from the soft fabric to the sturdy feel. Out of the box, it comes with a bassinet and a toddler seat, meaning you won’t need to purchase anything extra. This stroller can also be converted to a double, so you don’t have to buy a new one if a second baby comes along. Your purchase also includes two rain covers to keep your baby safe from the elements. So while it’s a splurge, you get a lot for your money.

The bassinet has built-in adjustable ventilation and soft bamboo fabric, which is known to help regulate temperature. It also has a ventilated UPF 50+ canopy, a cover and an easy-to-carry handle. If you’re planning on going for a lot of walks while your baby is in the bassinet, this is another option with a very smooth ride that will limit how much your baby is jostled. To use the bassinet for overnight sleep while traveling or at home, you can also buy the bassinet stand (sold separately).

Best Bassinet Stroller For Sleep

Safe for overnight sleep with a bassinet stand, nuna mixx next stroller and bassinet.

Stroller weight: 29.3 pounds | Weight limit: 50 pounds | Dimensions: 27.5 x 23.6 x 19 inches (folded); 32.7 x 23.6 x 45.3 (unfolded) | One-handed fold: No

Though you shouldn’t use a bassinet stroller for overnight sleep when the bassinet is attached to the chassis, bassinet stands can be used for an overnight sleep option. “If your baby falls asleep in the stroller often, moving them to a bassinet stand saves nap time,” says Huff. The bassinet on the Nuna Mixx Next can easily transition from the stroller to the stand, but note that the stand and bassinet are sold separately from the stroller. The bassinet has a sky drape that attaches quietly with magnets to keep things cozy for your baby. The bassinet also features a UPF 50+ canopy, ventilation panels, a hidden storage pocket and a GOTS certified organic cotton machine-washable mattress cover. The bassinet also folds for storage. 

The stroller itself is nimble, and it’s one of the best strollers I’ve tested, especially for babies and younger toddlers. The stroller seat is even safe for newborns when fully reclined if you need to run out of the house without the bassinet. I also like that the handlebar extends very far, so even tall parents with long strides won’t worry about hunching over or accidentally kicking the storage area while walking. 

The Most Comfortable Sneakers For Men, Based On A Podiatrist’s Advice

The best portable dishwashers that are just as efficient as built-ins, why trust forbes vetted.

At Forbes Vetted, we spend a lot of time researching and testing kids and baby gear , meticulously vetting everything from baby shoes to booster seats .

• Alicia Betz , author of this story, is a mom to three, including a 5-year-old and twin toddlers. She has been testing and writing about baby and kids gear for five years and has tested over 15 strollers, making her one of our resident stroller experts. She’s a regular Forbes Vetted contributor and has written hundreds of parenting articles.
• The Forbes Vetted kids and baby gear section is overseen by deputy editor Rose Gordon Sala , a mom of three who has covered parenting for about 10 years. This story is was edited by commerce editor Margaret Badore , a mom of one who has also professionally tested a range of parenting products.
• For this story, we spoke to two experts: Daniel Ganjian , M.D., FAAP, board certified pediatrician at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, CA and Sarah Huff, baby gear product expert at Babyquip .
• We update this story regularly for freshness and accuracy. It was most recently updated in May 2024.

How We Chose The Best Bassinet Strollers

To pick the best bassinet strollers, we used our own real-world experience, interviewed experts, examined product specs and considered online reviews.

• As parents of small children, we’ve tried many bassinet strollers ourselves.
• We examined online reviews and ratings to find the bassinet strollers that families are most happy with.
• We extensively evaluated specs and features of each stroller, focusing on safety and comfort. We also considered extra features like one-handed folds, rain covers and bug shields, for example.
• In an effort to include picks that work for all families, we recommend top strollers for various budgets and uses, including lightweight travel strollers and strollers that can expand to accommodate two children.

What To Look For In The Best Bassinet Strollers

When shopping for bassinet strollers, there are a few factors to consider to ensure you’re getting the best option for your family.

Of course, you can’t ask a baby if they’re comfortable, but they’ll let you know by communicating with cries and coos. To help your baby feel comfortable, look for a bassinet with covers to block the sun, ventilation and soft fabrics. You’ll also want to look for a stroller that pushes smoothly so your baby doesn’t get bumped around too much.

Use Beyond Newborn Months

Bassinet strollers are really nice, but they can only be used as long as it’s safe for your baby to be in a bassinet, which is often around four to six months. “Avoid bassinet strollers that cannot be used for older children. Most strollers have multiple attachment options, from bassinets to fully reclining toddler seats,” says Huff. “Strollers with only a bassinet option would not be suitable for long-term use.”

Newborns and infants should be placed on a firm, flat surface when in a bassinet. Look for a bassinet attachment that meets these requirements. When pushing the bassinet stroller, be mindful of how much you’re jiggling your baby around. “Avoid using bassinet strollers on rough terrain, as this can jostle your baby,” says Ganjian.

Ease Of Use

As you’re getting used to life with a newborn, you’ll want to look for a stroller that has easy-to-use features, such as a simple fold, smooth pushing and steering, and simple setup. “If you plan to transport it frequently, a lightweight, foldable stroller may be important,” says Ganjian.

Huff also recommends looking for features that make life easier. “Parents should look for easy transportability and quick breakdown. When you have a brand-new baby, the last thing you want to do is mess with a stroller that's hard to fold and store,” she says.

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