how to travel on plane with pram

Taking a Pram On A Plan (A Guide for Travellers)

As a parent, travelling with a little one can be a daunting task, especially when it involves air travel. One of the most common questions we get asked is, "Where do prams go on a plane?" In our extensive research and firsthand experience, we've found that the answer can vary depending on the airline, the type of aircraft, and the specific policies in place.

Can You Bring a Pram on a Plane?

Yes, you absolutely can bring a pram on a plane. Most airlines allow parents to bring a pram or stroller as checked baggage, often at no extra cost. Some airlines even allow you to bring the pram right up to the aircraft door, where it's then taken by the ground crew and stowed away safely for the duration of the flight. This is a great benefit as it allows you to navigate the airport with your child in the pram right up until you board the plane.

Where is the Pram Stored During the Flight?

Typically, prams are stored in the hold of the aircraft. This is the same place where all the checked luggage goes. The ground crew takes great care to ensure that your pram is safely stowed and secured to minimise any potential damage.

How to Minimise Damage to Your Pram

While airlines take precautions to prevent damage to prams, accidents can happen. To minimize the risk of damage, we recommend using a pram travel bag. These bags are designed to protect your pram from scratches, dirt, and minor impacts. It's also a good idea to remove any loose items or accessories from the pram before checking it in.

Airline Policies for Pushchairs/Strollers

Navigating the world of airline policies can be a bit of a minefield, especially when it comes to travelling with children and their necessary equipment. Different airlines have different policies regarding the carriage of pushchairs or strollers.

For instance, Jet2 requires the stroller to weigh no more than 10kg, making it essential to check the weight of your stroller before you travel. On the other hand, SAS offers a more generous pushchair weight allowance of 23kg max, providing a bit more flexibility for parents.

At British Airways, it's not just about the weight, but also the dimensions of your pushchair. Your pushchair must not exceed 117 x 38 x 38cm to be accepted .

These are just a few examples, and it's crucial to check the specific pushchair policy of your airline before you travel. This will help you avoid any unexpected surprises or complications at the airport.

Choosing the Right Stroller for Air Travel

When it comes to air travel, not all strollers are created equal. Some are better suited to the task than others. Here are a few factors to consider when choosing a stroller for air travel:

Weight: A lightweight stroller can be easier to transport and handle, especially when you're also managing luggage and a child.

Size When Folded: A stroller that folds down compactly can be easier to check in and will take up less space in the aircraft hold.

Ease of Folding: A stroller that is easy to fold can save you time and stress at the airport.

Suitability: Consider whether the stroller is suitable from birth or for older children, depending on your child's age.

It can also be helpful to look at reviews or recommendations of specific strollers that are well-suited to air travel. These can provide valuable insights from other parents who have been in your shoes.

Stowing Your Stroller - Cabin or Hold?

Most airlines require your pushchair to be transported in the hold. However, if a stroller is small enough (sometimes referred to as a 'pocket buggy'), it can be transported as cabin luggage. This is providing it fits within the airline's size restrictions for carry-on baggage.

There are pros and cons to each option. Stowing your pram stroller in the hold means you won't have to worry about it during the flight, but you'll be without it during any layovers and will have to wait for it at baggage claim at your destination. On the other hand, having your stroller as cabin luggage means you'll have it readily available, but it could be a hassle to carry it on and off the plane, and space in the overhead bins can be limited.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific circumstances and needs. Consider factors such as the length of your layovers, the size and weight of your stroller, and your personal preferences when making your decision.

What is the best way to protect my stroller when flying?

Investing in a travel bag specific#ally designed for strollers can provide an extra layer of protection. These bags can shield your stroller from scratches, dirt, and minor impacts during transit. Also, remember to remove any loose items or accessories from the stroller before checking it in.

Can I use my pram in the airport before the flight?

Yes, many airlines allow you to use your stroller pram in the airport right up until you board the plane. This can be particularly helpful for managing young children during the wait times at the airport. The stroller is then taken by the ground crew and safely stowed away for the duration of the flight.

What happens if my stroller pram gets damaged during the flight?

Airlines generally take great care to prevent damage to strollers. However, if your stroller is damaged during the flight, you should report it to the airline immediately. Most airlines have policies in place to address damaged luggage, which may include repair, replacement, or compensation.

Are there any strollers recommended for frequent air travel?

If you travel frequently, you might want to consider investing in a lightweight, compact stroller designed specifically for travel. These strollers are easier to transport, less likely to get damaged, and often comply with the size and weight restrictions of many airlines. Specific models and brands may vary, so it's best to check reviews and recommendations.

Gemma Woolich

Gemma Woolich is the founder of Pram Picks, As a mother of four young children. She is passionate about helping families make informed pram purchases through transparent, consumer-focused reviews.

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Trip Planning

6 Tips for Handling Strollers During Air Travel

TripSavvy / Wenjia Tang

Traveling with babies and toddlers is a feat, especially when there's a stroller involved. The mere thought of packing such a colossal piece of equipment is daunting, but it's a rite of passage that every traveling parent must endure. Once you actually complete your first flight with a stroller in tow, though, you'll realize it's really no big deal.

Checking Your Stroller

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Consider your stroller just an additional piece of luggage. As with anything you bring, you'll decide whether to check it or to carry it onto the plane. Note that large collapsible strollers and types that don't fold are typically only accepted as checked luggage, so it's best to call your airline if you're unsure. If you decide to check your stroller, ask the ticketing agent for a plastic bag to keep it clean while it's in the cargo hold.

Getting Your Stroller Through Security

You'll be expected to put your stroller through the X-ray machine at the airport security screening checkpoint, so you should remove your kid and fold it up before it's your turn because we all know the TSA line is stressful as it is. If you're lucky, your airport will have a designated line for families to eliminate some of the pressure from the process.

Checking Your Stroller at the Gate

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If you think your stroller is too big to fit in the overhead bin, you'll probably want to check it at the gate. Airlines offer early boarding for those who require assistance or are traveling with young children, so try to arrive before the pre-boarding time. This gives the airline ample time to load strollers that have been tagged and left to be checked on the jet bridge.

It also gives parents extra time to get their youngsters settled in before the rest of the passengers board the flight. After the flight lands, strollers are brought back up to the jet bridge where passengers can simply scoop them up as they depart from the aircraft.

Storing Your Stroller on the Aircraft

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If your stroller is small enough and the flight isn't full, you just might be able to carry it on the plane with you. In that case, you'll store it in the overhead bin with the rest of the carry-on luggage . This allows parents to have easy access to the stroller and not have to wait for it after leaving their flight. It can also reduce the chances of it getting lost during a transfer to another flight.

Transferring Your Stroller to a Connecting Flight

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Speaking of transferring flights: Making a connection can be tricky when you're traveling with a stroller. Typically, the tags that you fill out for checking a stroller at the gate provide extra room where you may write the number of your next flight. Some may avoid this process due to the risk of it getting lost (especially if your layover is especially short). You may also pick it up and check it at the next gate yourself.

Collecting Your Stroller at Baggage Claim

If you checked your back with the ticketing agent, expect to collect it at baggage claim, per usual. If it's large, keep in mind that it might come out in the oversized luggage area.

10 best cabin-approved strollers you can take on the plane

Looking for a lightweight, cabin-approved stroller? After rigorous, in-depth testing and feedback from real parents, we’re confident that our pick of the best compact plane-approved strollers are fit to fly.

By Tammy Jacks | Last updated Aug 20, 2024

While taking family trips and spending time with loved ones is always exciting, the planning, packing and organising beforehand can be daunting, especially when it comes to navigating busy airports and flights with little ones in tow.

For a more seamless and stress-free journey, it’s always a good idea to have a lightweight, cabin-approved stroller with you for those long walks to the boarding gate and/or luggage pick-up area. But juggling the needs of both you and your children when travelling is tricky enough without the added concern of whether your trusty stroller will meet airline requirements.

The good news? We've taken the guesswork out of the equation. Through meticulous research, we've compiled a list of the best cabin-approved strollers that can be taken on a plane as hand luggage .

Compact, narrow and lightweight, these nifty strollers are designed with the jet-setting family in mind. Their ability to effortlessly fold into a compact size makes them a practical choice for navigating busy airports and cramped aeroplane spaces. Imagine the convenience of strolling through security, knowing that your cabin-approved companion is ready to be stored overhead, leaving you with one less travel worry.

How we tested the best cabin-approved strollers

To select the best cabin-approved strollers, we took a multifaceted approach.

First, we tapped into the wealth of wisdom shared by parents on the Mumsnet forums , seeking genuine product recommendations from those who have hands-on experience with cabin-approved strollers.

We also prioritise real-world testing, so the cabin-approved strollers on our list have been rigorously tried and tested by real parents who put them through their paces in various travel settings.

We consulted trusted organisations like Which? for their lab test results, relying on their expertise to evaluate the strollers' performance under controlled conditions and spent hours scouring countless online customer reviews from top retail sites.

We even chatted with parents at parks and school pick-ups to understand their preferences and priorities when it comes to selecting a cabin-approved stroller.

Lastly, we checked the baggage allowance requirements of all major airlines and consulted the International Air Transport Association's passenger baggage rules to ensure that the cabin-approved strollers on our list met the necessary criteria for hassle-free air travel.

For more information, be sure to check out our guide to travelling with a pushchair or lightweight stroller . Here are the best cabin-approved strollers for 2024.

Best cabin-approved strollers at a glance

Best overall cabin-approved stroller: Babyzen Yoyo² | Buy now

Best budget cabin-approved stroller: Joie Pact Pushchair | Buy now

Best cabin-approved stroller for newborns: Ergobaby Metro+ Deluxe | Buy now

Best quick-fold cabin-approved stroller: Didofy Aster 2 | Buy now

Best stylish cabin-approved stroller: Cybex Coya | Buy now

Best pull-along cabin-approved stroller: Silver Cross Jet 5 | Buy now

Best cabin-approved stroller for toddlers: Joolz Aer+ | Buy now

Best lightweight cabin-approved stroller: Cybex Libelle | Buy now

Best cabin-approved stroller for storage: Bugaboo Butterfly | Buy now

Best durable cabin-approved stroller: Cosatto Yo! stroller | Buy now

Babyzen Yoyo²

Cabin-approved on most airlines

Turns and manoeuvres easily

Ultra-light and comfortable

Can purchase a newborn kit to be used from birth

Assembly is tricky

Storage basket is too small for a baby changing bag

Handlebar doesn’t extend

Tested by Mumsnet: Read the full Babyzen Yoyo review

The Babyzen Yoyo² with its newborn pack, which includes a comfortable 2.5 cm mattress that lies completely flat, head support, a foot cover and a pop-up canopy with two different opening positions, is a game-changer for travel as it has a remarkably compact fold that can be stored in the overhead locker.

Notably, airlines like Virgin Atlantic recognise its efficiency, listing it as an acceptable hand luggage option. In fact, out of all the cabin-approved strollers on our list, the Yoyo² comes out tops for the smallest compact fold (along with the Cybex Coya which has the same dimensions).

The sturdy canopy, while not extending as far forward as some competitors, still offers enough protection and is made from durable materials along with the rest of the stroller. Although the seat reclines with ease, it needs two hands and maintains a slight angle in the upright position. Nevertheless, the soft, cushy seat and padded harness straps prioritise your child's comfort and safety. Despite its limited recline, parents find their little ones nap soundly, attributing it to the ample cushioning.

Ease of use is a highlight, evident in the Yoyo²’s user-friendly brake system and upgraded features. The leatherette handlebar replaces the original version’s foam one, providing a luxurious touch, and a safety strap adds an extra layer of security during walks. The Yoyo²'s buckle system simplifies operation with a single push button.

Furthermore, the stroller's enhanced suspension system across all four rubber wheels ensures a smoother ride for your child. However, the undeniable standout feature remains its nearly flat fold, making it the most straightforward choice for hand luggage among all the strollers we tested. However, if you choose the Babyzen Yoyo² with bassinet, bear in mind that the bassinet is a harder shell and doesn’t fold down with the stroller like the newborn pack does, but needs to be unclipped when folding down the stroller.

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Good value for money

Super lightweight (only 6kg)

Glides over uneven terrain

Easy to unfold with one hand (in six seconds or less)

Storage basket is large enough to fit a backpack

The seat maintains a notable angle even in the upright position

The Joie Pact stroller stands out as a budget-friendly yet feature-rich cabin-approved stroller for parents. Its lightweight design ensures agility in tight spaces, and it comes with a custom carry strap and bag, which is ideal for travel. The all-weather canopy, with UPF 50+ sun protection and water resistance, offers ample protection in various weather conditions.

Noteworthy for its lie-flat position and multi-position recline, the Joie Pact prioritises child comfort. The peekaboo window, removable bumper bar and adjustable calf support all contribute to ease of use.

Designed for diverse terrain, this lightweight, cabin-approved stroller features locking swivel wheels and four-wheel suspension for a smooth ride, even on bumpy surfaces. The single-step brake ensures quick stops in busy areas.

In essence, the Joie Pact balances affordability with functionality, making it an attractive option if you’re looking for a versatile, well-equipped stroller to take on holiday .

However, keep in mind that although it folds in seconds, it doesn’t fold completely flat and may feel a little clumsy to carry without the bag. The footrest is also quite small, so although this stroller is suitable for children up to the age of three, your little one’s legs may dangle off the edge of the stroller a little as they grow taller.

Ergobaby Metro+ Deluxe

Has an adjustable handlebar

Newborn nest mode option for 0-6 months

Large wheels make for a comfortable ride

Mesh windows for added airflow

Heavier than other strollers in this category

Some reviewers say it’s hard to access the brake when the seat is fully reclined

Fiddly to fold and unfold

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our Ergobaby Metro+ review

Approved by all airlines, the Ergo Metro+ Deluxe may not be the lightest cabin-approved stroller on the market, but its thoughtful design and comfortable features make it a top choice if you’re looking for both functionality and comfort when you’re travelling. Whilst it’s not the quickest to fold and unfold because it involves a few steps, it’s still very compact and easy to carry once folded, which makes it a good choice for holidays .

One standout feature that sets the Ergobaby Metro+ Deluxe Stroller apart is the adjustable handlebar with numerous height settings to suit your preferences. Plus, it’s wider than many other stroller handlebars, ensuring a better grip on longer walks.

Distinguishing the Ergobaby Metro+ Deluxe from its standard counterpart, the Deluxe version comes equipped with a durable wind and rain cover, along with a conveniently foldable cup holder – although keep in mind that larger cups and water bottles may fall out.

Enhanced comfort features include upgraded ergonomic, machine-washable padding on the seat and more durable fabric on the canopy, with 22% more space in the storage basket below, as well as a large storage pocket at the back. It’s also made with plenty of mesh windows for added ventilation. The addition of a sturdy bumper bar finished with vegan leather adds a touch of luxury, although some users have noted that it's tricky to remove.

This cabin-approved stroller’s three-point harness is simple to click and unclick and its adjustable footrest is sturdy, with the newborn nest mode feature integrated into the side panels, which allows for easy lifting and securing with clip buttons. This stroller also offers a full flat recline and nest mode, making it suitable for infants aged 0–6 months. To use the newborn nest mode, simply remove the newborn nest side panels from the Velcro pouches on the sides of the footrest, then lift the footrest and clip the side panels to the stroller, creating a secure space, which resembles a bassinet for your little one.

However, a notable downside is that you have to remove the canopy, bumper bar and seat to make space for a car seat if you decide to take one, which might be cumbersome and/or time-consuming when travelling.

Read next: The best umbrella strollers and pushchairs

Didofy Aster 2

Folds and unfolds in seconds

Canopy extends further than other strollers

Has a large adjustable foot rest

Lie-flat feature from birth

Comes with a large storage basket

Easy to manoeuvre

Bumper bar doesn’t swivel

Five-point harness can be fiddly to adjust in a hurry

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Didofy Aster 2 review

This award-winning, British-designed cabin-approved stroller is another favourite amongst families who love to travel. Weighing in at 6.2kg with the carry handle and shoulder strap, the Didofy Aster 2 is not just travel-friendly but incredibly convenient, and it’s accepted as hand luggage by most airlines.

The standout feature? It unfolds and folds itself in seconds with a simple click of a button (also known as the MagicFold feature), which is perfect for navigating busy airports or assembling the buggy on the fly. In her review of the Didofy Aster 2 , Mumsnet editor and mum of two Rebecca says, “The one-handed MagicFold is a breeze to use, and not only does it take up less space than our existing pram, the Aster 2 is also incredibly easy to manoeuvre outdoors and in shops, restaurants and crowds.” However, if you’re planning park walks on slightly muddy ground, this stroller’s wheels aren’t large enough to roll over that type of terrain or tufts of grass.

The UPF 50+ waterproof canopy provides excellent sun protection, while the easily released bumper bar adds to its user-friendly design.

Designed with practicality in mind, the compact Didofy Aster 2 boasts a flip-flop-friendly brake and puncture-free tyres for all terrain, plus a large storage basket that’s easy to access. Remarkably good value for money, it includes premium-quality fabric. Plus, it comes with a rain cover and a durable footmuff that clips on effortlessly. We also like the sturdy five-point harness that ensures your little one's safety with easy adjustments. The lie-flat recline feature is also a bonus, however it’s worth noting that it’s a bit tricky to toggle and needs both hands to recline.

For added versatility, the carrycot adapters are easy to attach (carrycot sold separately), and won’t interfere with the quick fold or ability to store this stroller in the cabin. Overall, this compact stroller strikes the perfect balance between premium features and affordability, so you can enjoy all the features of a cabin-approved stroller without breaking the bank.

Super compact and lightweight

Stylish frame and fabric

Comes with raincover

No flap to cover the mesh panel on the canopy once extended

The upright seating position is a little too reclined

The leg rest is short

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Cybex Coya review

The Cybex Coya is a cabin-approved compact stroller that’s accepted on all airlines and effortlessly blends flair with functionality. Honoured with the German Design Award Special for 2023, this sleek ride ensures your little one travels in both comfort and style.

Much like its counterparts on our list, the Cybex Coya boasts a quick-fold frame for on-the-go ease, though you should note that it may require both hands and unlike the Yoyo2, which folds with the seat inwards, the Cybex Coya folds with the seat facing outwards. While this doesn’t affect the overall compactness of the fold, the seat could get scuffed easily when lifting and storing in the overhead locker or when taking it in and out of the boot. The sturdy carry strap is a bonus though as it ensures compactness, with an integrated fold lock for added security.

When it comes to the look of this stroller, you’re spoilt for choice. The frame is available in rose gold, matt black or chrome, and it can be personalised further with machine-washable fabric covers in various shades including Pale Blush, Nude Beige, Jewels of Nature and Spring Blossom Light. You also have the option of choosing exclusive design collaborations like Rockstar, Wings, We The Best or One Love.

Enhancing both style and functionality, the stroller features a wide and sturdy leatherette handlebar with chic stitching, providing optimal grip. The generous storage basket underneath can carry up to 5kg, while a mesh window behind the seat back ensures ventilation on warmer days.

Like their innovative car seats, the Cybex Coya has a one-pull harness system, to ensure your little one is secure on the move and, although it doesn’t come with a four-wheel suspension, the Cybex frame absorbs most ground forces, promising a relatively smooth ride.

Silver Cross Jet 5

Cabin-approved for most airlines

Can be pulled along like a mini suitcase

Made with sustainable, crease-free fabric

Folds incredibly small

Comes with a dust cover and rain cover

Some say it’s a little flimsy and may topple when hanging heavy bags on it

Has a small storage basket underneath

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Silver Cross Jet review

An upgrade from the Jet 3 model which was launched in 2022, the new and improved Jet 5 is a sleek and stylish cabin-approved stroller that features jet black fabric and leatherette detailing.

Three notable improvements on this latest model include a wider, more plush seat, a faster folding mechanism and a genius magnetic buckle system, a unique feature among compact strollers. Folding flat in seconds with upgraded one-motion fold technology, the Jet 5 unfolds effortlessly by flicking the unlock lever and pulling the handlebar sides - a much needed feature whilst navigating busy airports.

In terms of performance, the Silver Cross Jet 5 delivers a smooth push and a comfortable seat, ensuring an enjoyable travel experience for both parent and child. The exclusive magnetic buckle system (which was launched with the Jet 3) truly sets this brand apart, as it’s so easy to open and close without making any adjustments, and seamlessly locks in place.

We also like that this lightweight stroller has a full lie-flat recline for newborns, with an adjustable footrest for added comfort. The built-in newborn nest also offers a safe and enclosed space, although its cover is smaller compared to some competitors. Notably, the Silver Cross Jet 5 is compatible with the Silver Cross Dream i-Size car seat and various other car seat brands (which can be attached with adapters), adding to its versatility as a travel system.

The extra-large UPF50+ canopy is made with an extra flip-out visor for added protection. And if you’re looking for a stroller with plenty of airflow, this one is it with a back flap with a magnetic piece for adjustable ventilation and large peekaboo window with a magnetic flap to close.

The only downside of this compact stroller is its small storage basket, which can only hold contents of up to 5kg and can only be accessed from the front. Not ideal if you need to carry a lot on the go.

Another cabin-approved stroller option from the Silver Cross family is the Silver Cross Clic. Weighing a mere 5.9kg,the Clic features a slick one-hand fold, a pull-out shoulder strap, and pavement-gliding wheels for easy navigation. It accommodates newborns to toddlers with a lie-flat seat for naps and effortlessly folds to a self-standing position for convenient carrying, leaving your hands free.

Read next: Best baby carrier backpacks for travel

Ultra-lightweight frame

Extendable sun canopy

Roomy seat for older children

Doesn’t recline fully

Only suitable from six months

Bumper bar sold separately

Tested by parents: Read our full Joolz Aer+ review

Boasting a larger, more plush seat than the original Joolz Aer, the Joolz Aer+ caters well to babies aged six months and above. The enhanced storage basket now supports extended weight capacity, ensuring ample space for all your essentials. The wheel design has undergone improvements, promising a smoother and more enjoyable pushing experience.

Without a doubt, this compact stroller’s standout feature is its remarkably quick, one-handed, one-second fold, which means you're ready to roll in minutes. Neatly folding without protruding fabric adds to the overall sleek design. With this stroller, you also get a carry strap and travel bag, which makes the Aer+ a great portable option that’s approved by all airlines.

The extended canopy, complete with a mesh window, offers excellent protection and a cosy spot for on-the-go naps. Impressively, the Joolz Aer+ features one of the tallest backrests among strollers, making it an ideal choice for older children seeking a comfortable ride.

We also love that there’s easy access to the storage basket underneath and a user-friendly foot brake that locks both rear tyres securely. For families on the move, the option to attach a footboard ride-along accessory offers additional flexibility.

While the Joolz Aer+ shines in many aspects, note that additional purchases, such as the carrycot or car seat adaptors, are necessary for newborn suitability. Overall, the Joolz Aer+ presents a winning combination of style, comfort and practicality, ensuring a delightful strolling experience for both parents and children alike.

Cybex Libelle

Ultra-lightweight (the lightest stroller on our list)

Simple two-step fold

Good-quality design

Only reclines at a 30- to 40-degree angle

Canopy doesn’t extend

Wheels are a small for rougher terrain

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Cybex Libelle review

The Cybex Libelle earns its spot as the lightest cabin-approved stroller, accepted by most airlines on our list, tipping the scales at a mere 5.9kg. It boasts one of the most compact folds in the market, achieved effortlessly by pushing in two buttons on the handlebars.

The stroller itself is remarkably streamlined, with a spacious seat – but it only reclines to 30 to 40 degrees, making it less desirable for longer naps. Nevertheless, the wide padded straps ensure extra comfort during use and we like the convenient one-pull harness for secure and quick fastening. While the small umbrella-style adjustable leg rest adds a touch of flexibility, the lack of a dedicated footrest may be a drawback for some users.

The front wheels come equipped with suspension in the forks, contributing to a smoother ride, particularly suitable for city walks and theme parks like Disney World or Disneyland Paris . However, due to its smaller wheels, the stroller may feel a bit flimsy on rougher, undulating terrain. The storage basket is also a bit of a letdown only capable of carrying up to 4kg but is wide enough to hold some basic essentials.

A bonus, however, is that this compact stroller comes with a cleverly designed weatherproof travel bag and sturdy shoulder strap that sits comfortably without being cumbersome. We think this thoughtful addition enhances the stroller's portability and convenience.

Read next: Best car sunshades for babies

Bugaboo Butterfly

Has a rigid, sturdy frame

Folds quickly and easily with two buttons

Comes with detachable and washable seat covers

Storage basket can hold up to 8kg

Slightly heavier than other compact strollers

Handlebar isn’t height adjustable

Carry strap is a little short for taller people, sitting just underneath the armpit

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Bugaboo Butterfly review

Launched in 2022, the Bugaboo Butterfly seamlessly combines convenience and functionality. With a simple one-handed fold, this compact stroller is a breeze to use, as it simply clicks into place when folded with the seat inwards. Unlike the Bugaboo Dragonfly , this stroller meets IATA requirements, which means the folded dimensions are compatible with the requirements for carry-on luggage and is accepted by EasyJet, British Airways and Emirates.

Surprisingly spacious for such a compact stroller, the seat provides ample room despite its tiny fold. The ride itself is comfy for kids as the seats recline has a locking lever, which is great to keep it in place as your little one naps.

Designed for durability, the wheels feature a raised middle rim, effectively slowing down wear and tear on the tyres and reducing the drag factor as you push the stroller. Plus, this stroller boasts four-wheel suspension, ensuring a smooth journey on all terrain.

While the footrest serves a dual purpose as a carrying handle, it's worth noting that its width may not be as accommodating as a dedicated footrest. But for parents, the extra-spacious storage basket is a standout feature, with an extended spring-loaded lip that facilitates easy access to your belongings. Impressively, it can hold up to 8kg, accommodating baby changing bags , travel backpacks and loose baby essentials

Versatility is a key feature, as the Bugaboo Butterfly is compatible with a variety of baby car seats . It also comes equipped with a four-panel, waterproof canopy featuring an extra-large mesh window for enhanced ventilation.

Cosatto Yo! stroller

Weighs just 7 kg

Compliant with IATA standards

Fully reclinable for maximum comfort

Available in four stylish designs

Comes with a four-year warranty

Features a convenient one-handed fold mechanism

Equipped with a spacious 8kg storage basket

Small sun canopy

Rain cover fits too snugly on the stroller

Only world-facing

Instruction manual not easy to follow

Not travel system compatible

The Cosatto Yo! is the ultimate lightweight, cabin-approved stroller designed for parents on the go. Weighing only 7kg and IATA compliant, this stroller is perfect for travel. Its intuitive one-handed fold makes it incredibly convenient for busy parents, while the large 8kg storage basket ensures you have plenty of space for all your essentials including your changing bag and snacks.

Available in four appealing designs for kids, the Yo! combines style and practicality. The stroller is fully reclinable, providing comfort for your child whilst on the go and features eco-friendly fabric along with a durable vegan leather handlebar and bumper bar caps, highlighting its thoughtful design.

While the sun canopy could be improved to offer more coverage – especially on full sun days, the ample storage space, easy-to-use brake, and smooth manoeuvrability make the Cosatto Yo! a reliable and enjoyable choice for any family.

Despite being fully reclinable, it could benefit from more ergonomic features such as flexible positioning and an inverted seat area to help babies feel more secure. However, with a four-year warranty, you can trust in its durability and performance.

Read next: The best car seats to take on the plane

What is a cabin-approved stroller?

For a stroller to be ‘cabin approved, where it’s allowed to be placed in the overhead lockers as hand luggage, it needs to neatly fold within the dimensions specified by the International Air Transport Association (IATA): 56cm in length, 45cm in width and 25cm in depth. Plus, it must be fully collapsible and weigh less than 10kg. However, since airline rules may vary, it’s a good idea to double check with the airline you’re travelling with before your trip.

If your pushchair fails to meet carry-on restrictions, it will be labelled and placed in the aircraft's hold for the duration of the flight.

What are the typical features of a cabin-approved stroller?

Airlines often have specific dimensions and weight limits for items that can be brought into the cabin (more on this below), including strollers. But typically, strollers that have the following features should be allowed to be brought on the plane as hand luggage:

Compact: Effortlessly folds into a compact size to fit within carry-on limits.

Lightweight: Manufactured with lightweight materials for easy handling, ensuring you travel without the bulk.

Easy foldability: Should have a simple one-handed fold and unfold feature.

Airline-approved assurance: Should be thoughtfully designed to meet airline size and weight criteria.

Fully collapsible: Should collapse easily, allowing you to tuck it away effortlessly when not in use.

Weight limit: Must weigh less than 10kg, aligning with airline guidelines.

Swift manoeuvres: Engineered for smooth navigation in tight spaces, ensuring comfort for both you and your little one.

What should I look for when buying a cabin-approved stroller?

When buying a cabin-approved stroller, consider the following factors to ensure it meets your travel needs:

Size and foldability: Look for a stroller that’s compact and easily foldable. It should meet the dimensions specified by airlines for carry-on luggage.

Weight: A lighter stroller makes transportation and handling more convenient.

Age bracket: For little ones from birth to six months, the stroller should be stable, robust and supportive with a fully reclining seat or bassinet as the lie-flat position is the most ergonomic position for newborns. The bassinet must be able to fold down with the stroller to make it suitable for cabin luggage. If you’re looking for a compact stroller for your older child, consider the age and weight limit, plus the overall size of the stroller and footrest.

One-handed fold/unfold: Opt for a stroller with a one-handed fold and unfold feature for added convenience, especially when you have your hands full.

Airline compliance: Check that the stroller complies with the carry-on regulations of the specific airlines you frequently travel with. As we’ve mentioned, airline restrictions vary.

Durability and quality: Invest in a stroller made from durable materials to withstand the rigours of travel. Quality construction ensures longevity.

Manoeuvrability: Consider the stroller's manoeuvrability, especially in crowded spaces like airports. Swivel wheels and easy steering enhance ease of use.

Comfort features: Look for a stroller with features that provide comfort for your child, such as adjustable recline, a sunshade and adequate padding.

Handlebar height: Some strollers come with a fixed handlebar height, but if you’re particularly short or tall, it might be worth considering a stroller with adjustable handlebars.

Storage space: Check for storage compartments or baskets to accommodate essentials like nappies, snacks, and small items you may need during your travels.

Additional travel features: Some strollers come with travel-specific features like a travel bag or cover, which can be beneficial for protecting the stroller during transit.

What are the carry-on, hand luggage size limits by airline?

Some of the most popular airlines carry-on hand luggage restrictions are:

Qantas (international): 56 x 36 x 23cm (strollers need to weigh less than 7kg to be allowed on board)

easyJet : 56 x 45 x 25cm (strollers fit in the large bag category)

Emirates : Any size allowed (stroller needs to be fully collapsible)

Jet2 : No strollers in the cabin, only in the hold

Virgin Atlantic : Allows GB Pocket+, Silver CrossJet and BabyZen YoYo as hand luggage

British Airways : No strollers in the cabin, only in the hold

Tui : No strollers in the cabin, only in the hold

Ryanair : 55 x 40 x 20cm (fully collapsible strollers are allowed on board)

However, it's important to note that airline specifications vary and they may undergo changes. Therefore, it's crucial to check the hand luggage rules specific to your airline before you fly.

About the author

Tammy Jacks has 15+ years' experience in the publishing industry, enjoying a long and fruitful career as Managing Editor and Health & Beauty Editor for Woman & Home magazine in South Africa. She later went on to become Assistant Editor of the popular South African parenting title Living and Loving, and has written for numerous lifestyle publications including Oprah Mag SA, Health Intelligence, Your Family Magazine, Longevity, and pharmaceutical company Clicks Clubcard Magazine, as well as edited books for popular fitness influencers and health professionals.

Tammy is a distinguished researcher and writer in the field of child safety, with a notable focus on the critical domain of travel systems including car seats and strollers. Her extensive expertise and commitment to child safety have made her a trusted authority in providing comprehensive insights and guidance to parents and caregivers looking for the right stroller for their children. As a mum to an eight-year-old, Tammy has personally tried and tested numerous buggies and strollers over the years, across all age categories.

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The Best Travel Strollers We Tested on Planes, Trains, Automobiles, and Every Kind of Terrain

They’re easy to push, easy to fold—and actually easy to fit in an airplane’s overhead compartment.

In This Article

Our Favorite Travel Strollers

Is a Travel Stroller Worth It?
Strollers on Planes

Stroller Reviews

Our Testing Process

Our Experts

Factors to Consider
Stroller Safety

Parents / Leticia Almeida

When my son was stroller age, we were not yet in today’s golden era of travel strollers. You either risked gate-checking your fancy SUV-size standard stroller , or you took a less-expensive umbrella stroller that you didn’t mind getting beat up. But those of you with little ones right now are in luck, as there are dozens of ultra-light, ultra-compact travel strollers available that you can fold one-handed and sling over your shoulder while juggling a baby or your other bags, toss in your car trunk, and even stash in the overhead compartment of a plane.

For more than two years, I’ve been testing these strollers in our lab, while other parents on our staff take them (and their kids) all over the world to help you choose the best travel stroller for your next trip. While every family’s needs are different, the ideal travel stroller should be durable, portable, maneuverable, lightweight, and worth your money . Plus, it should be comfortable and practical to use when you get to your destination.

Best Overall: Joolz Aer+ Lightweight Stroller
Best for Airplane: Cybex Coya
Most Comfortable: Uppababy Minu V2
Easiest to Push: GB Qbit+ All City
Best Luxury: Nuna TRVL Stroller
Best Double: Uppababy G-Link V2
Best Budget: Munchkin Sparrow
Best for Car Travel: Baby Jogger City Tour 2
Best for Trains and Buses: Babyzen YOYO2

In our New York lab , we assembled, wheeled, turned, pushed, dropped, and folded each stroller to find which met our standards. My co-author also spoke to two pediatricians about stroller safety, as well as the comfort and health of the grownups behind the wheels.

Through the months, in addition to adding new products, I’ve changed this list based on what our staffers experienced while traveling with them. One luxury pick I once loved broke after its first gate-check. Another that I initially thought was overrated got rave reviews from our real-world tester, not to mention the many parents I stopped on the streets of Brooklyn to ask about it (the life of a shameless parenting editor!). So, we’ll continue to test travel strollers throughout the year and will keep coming back to update you with the very best of the best. — Sabrina Rojas Weiss

Is a Travel Stroller Worth It?

A travel stroller can make your excursions much more efficient and convenient. “Because families need to carry extra snacks, clothes, and other supplies while traveling with kids, a portable stroller can help lighten the overall luggage load,” says Betty Choi, M.D. , a California-based pediatrician, author, and mother of two. “If a stroller folds easily and feels light, it may help conserve your energy for carrying all of the other important things.”

In order to be small, foldable, and light, many travel strollers sacrifice storage space, extra comfort accessories like leg rests or large canopies, and technical features like shock absorbers. For this reason, you may not want a travel stroller to be your main everyday stroller—at least not if you have a very small baby or walk through various terrain on a regular basis. But many parents, especially those with older toddlers, are happy using just one super compact set of wheels, and if that’s the case, a good travel stroller is absolutely worth your purchase.

Can You Take a Travel Stroller on the Plane?

If you want to check your stroller, most airlines won’t charge you for it. And most will also allow you to gate-check a folded stroller if you need it to get through the airport. Many of the compact strollers on this list are also advertised as fitting into overhead bins—which is a welcome option for those of us who dread getting to your destination only to discover your much-needed stroller is a mangled, ruined mess. If you choose to take your stroller as carry-on, that will count as your larger item. We tested the strollers in this list in a space the size of a standard overhead bin, but bin sizes vary by airplane. Policies also vary by airline, so always ask (and ask again!) before you fly. And still, come prepared with a storage bag in case the flight is overbooked and you’re asked to gate check anyway.

Best Overall

Joolz aer+ stroller, why we like it.

When asked to share her experience with the Joolz Aer+ stroller, our lab tester gave one word: “WOW!” She was impressed with how quick it was to assemble (just two minutes) and loved the overall design. Even when loaded with a 25-pound sandbag or squirmy toddler, this stroller glides around with ease . We could smoothly turn corners while using just one hand and that the wheels had excellent shock absorption. Perhaps her greatest compliment for this stroller, however, was about how effortless it was to fold up. Whether you’re about to board an airplane or hop on the tram at Disneyland, you won’t have to worry about how quickly you can fold up your stroller with the Joolz Aer+.

Portability: Not only did we find this super easy to fold one-handed in the lab, but our real world testing parent can’t stop telling us how much she loves this feature. She even impressed all the nurses and patients at the pediatrician’s office with a demo.

What Parents Say

“We were in and out of a car every weekend with this stroller over the summer, and it could not have been easier to carry and load into the car. Folding it in five seconds when your car is double parked excruciatingly close to oncoming traffic is the best feeling in the world.” —Claire, mom of a 1-year-old

But Take Note

This stroller has plenty of positives, but it is expensive. Priced at $449, the Joolz Aer+ may be a great contender for your baby registry so that a group of friends or family members can pitch in on it together.

The Details:

Size open: 32.7 x 17.7 x 41.5 in
Size folded: 21 x 17.7 x 8.5 in
Weight: 13.4 lbs
Age range/weight limit: 6 months to 4 years
PHOTO: Parents / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Parents / Leticia Almeida

Best for Airplane

When our tester used this stroller for a three-week trip to Europe, her primary concern was how easy it was to travel with. Thankfully, the Cybex Coya did not disappoint. Our tester told Parents that the Coya folded down into an “extremely compact” size that fit in the overhead bin of the airplane and inside the trunk of small European cars . “That was a huge win and made travel SO easy!” she said. “It really made our life as a stressed, traveling adult very easy.”

We also really like that this stroller is designed with your baby’s comfort in mind, no matter the weather. First, it has a padded insert that will keep your baby warm in cold weather. When removed, the mesh backrest allows lots of airflow, and the extendable UPF 50+ sun canopy protects kids from the hot sun.

Portability: Our tester loved that the Coya’s carrying strap was long enough to fit over her shoulder, which made it really easy to carry onto an airplane or run through the train station with multiple bags.

“This was our only stroller we traveled with, and it went through possibly every mode of transport—train, planes and automobile. The stroller also went through possibly every type of terrain—snow, mud, city sidewalk, and a small hike. It fit in the overhead bin of both [cross-Atlantic] and [European] flights.” —Hanna, mom of a toddler

While it may be considered a minor detail, parents should keep in mind that the handlebar on this stroller is not adjustable. Also, the seat is always slightly reclined, which can make it harder for kiddos to look out and about when they’re seated.

Size open: 31.1 x 17.3 x 38.2 in
Size folded: 20.5 x 17.3 x 7.1 in
Weight: 14.6 lbs
Age range/weight limit: 6 months up to 55 lbs
PHOTO: Parents / Joy Kim

Most Comfortable

Uppababy minu v2 stroller.

This stroller is equally as comfy for parents to push and it is for little ones to ride. Your tot will love napping in its spacious seat that holds up to 50 pounds and reclines to an ideal level. And you won’t have to worry about them sitting in direct sun because of the generous sun canopy that unzips to an almost horizontal level and the mesh peekaboo window that welcomes extra air flow.

For the adult behind the wheels, there’s a padded leather handle bar, pocket to stash a water bottle and phone, and a large storage basket that holds up to 20 pounds. Thankfully, this stroller has four-wheel suspension , which we found made it easy to take sharp turns and weave in and out of crowds, even while pushing it with one hand.

Portability: With a little practice, parents will find that this stroller folds up quickly. After pressing the buttons on the handle to trigger the folding process, it collapses down on its own, which may require only one hand for a seasoned user. Plus, this stroller stays upright when folded and can be carried by its handle or padded strap.

“I took a stroll around Central park with this bad boy, and it performed well on crowded streets and even rocky uneven roads. It was easy to maneuver and super lightweight.” —Stella, mom of a 1-year-old

This stroller is on the heavier side—about 17 pounds—and probably won’t fit in overhead compartments of smaller planes. We recommend purchasing Uppababy’s travel bag, since it includes insurance against damage to the stroller by the airline once you enroll in the TravelSafe program.

Size open: 35.5 x 20.5 x 41 in
Size folded: 12.5 x 20.3 x 23 in (with bumper bar)
Weight: 16.9 lbs
Age range/weight limit: 3 months to 50 lbs
PHOTO: Parents / Jhett Thompson

Easiest to Push

Gb qbit+ all city stroller.

This travel stroller landed near the top in our testing because it’s comfortable, easily maneuverable, portable, and durable. We especially loved its all-wheel suspension, which allowed it to move easily over different terrain in the Parents lab, including gravel, wood, and carpet. In fact, we barely noticed a difference when transitioning from carpet to gravel!

This stroller has a padded seat that reclines nearly all the way back and comes with a breathable mesh at the top, which allows kids to nap comfortably while in transit. We also appreciate the adjustable footrest, which when placed in the straight-out position makes this stroller suitable for a newborn.

Portability: We found this stroller to be easy to close and fold with one hand. The shoulder straps are comfortably padded, and it has a buckle that’s reasonably simple to do.

It proved a bit challenging when trying to wrangle a wiggly toddler into it at times. At slightly more than 17 pounds, this stroller is a bit heavier than some of the others we tested. It also doesn’t have a shoulder strap and might not fit in all overhead compartments.

Size open: 33 x 17 x 41.7 in
Size folded: 17 x 10.4 x 22.8 in
Weight: 17.2 lbs
Age range/weight limit: Birth (with infant car seat) to 4 years (0-55 lbs)
PHOTO: Parents / Conor Ralph
PHOTO: Parents / Phoebe Cheong

Best Luxury

Nuna trvl lightweight stroller.

The Nuna Trvl is a luxurious travel stroller whose comfort, functionality, and efficiency rival that of an everyday stroller. We knew we were in for a treat when we saw that it comes in colors like “caviar” and “hazelwood.” Just like you’d expect from a luxury car, this stroller had one of the smoothest rides out of any that we tested and is covered in high-end finishes. “All the materials feel really luxurious,” our tester shared. “The padding is very soft—like memory foam—and the handles and bumper bar [are covered in] faux leather.”

We also love that this stroller is equipped with a water-repellant, UPF 50+ canopy that provides ample shade and multiple mesh windows that open with ease. It also fits into the overhead bin of most planes and has an under-seat compartment that is large enough to fit a backpack or diaper bag , which is a big plus for traveling.

Portability: Aside from looking good, this stroller is also really practical. It’s super easy to fold one handed and felt very light when carrying it around—even though you have to carry it by the bumper bar because it doesn’t have a shoulder strap.

“Throughout the airport or getting in and out of the car, I’m able to easily fold it using my right hand while my left hand/arm is busy carrying other items, or a child! … After a month of using it in my neighborhood, through two airports, and throughout the Magic Kingdom, it’s still gliding over sidewalks like butter.” —Ashleigh, mom of two

If you’re in a hurry—which parents often are in an airport—you may find that the bumper bar can be a pain to put on and take off.

Size open: 20.25 x 32.5 x 44 in
Size folded: 20.25 x 24 x 11 in
Weight: 13.6 lbs
Age range/weight limit: Up to 50 lbs

Best Double Stroller

Uppababy g-link v2 double stroller.

Editor's Note: The insights below are from when we tested the older Uppababy G-Link back in 2022 and have not yet tested the Uppababy G-Link V2 listed here. The new version is 2.5 pounds lighter and 2 inches narrower than its predecessor, but the rest of the details remain mostly the same.

Whether you have twins or young children of different ages, having a comfortable double stroller (that isn’t a pain to push around) is a must for travel. We love the Uppababy G-Link 2 because it maneuvers like a single stroller and has all the features needed to make kids comfortable. In addition to multi-position independent reclining seats, it has extra-large canopies and UPF 50+ sun shades. Plus, there are a few accessories that are included just for parents, including a removable cup holder, double storage pockets, and an oversized basket to keep all the essentials within reach.

Despite having side-by-side seats, the G-Link V2 has a relatively narrow footprint . Less than 30 inches wide, it is slender enough to move through standard doorways but spacious enough for two children to sit comfortably. It’s also less expensive than some of the single strollers on our list, which is always a pleasant surprise for parents with two kids!

Portability: Despite the larger size, this stroller is easy to fold up with one hand and can stand up when folded. Carrying it isn’t a hands-free experience, however, since it doesn’t have a shoulder strap.

Since it’s naturally larger than single strollers, you’ll have to gate check this one before you board the plane.

Size open: 27.5 x 28.5 x 42 in
Size folded: 40 x 20 x 14.5 in
Weight: 22.3 lbs
Age range/weight limit: 3 months up to 55 lbs per seat
PHOTO: Parents / David Carr

Best Budget Travel Stroller

Munchkin sparrow stroller.

Never has it been easier to pop a stroller into an overhead bin than it is with the Munchkin Sparrow. It folds up quickly and fits neatly inside a tiny carrying bag, so you can slide it into the bin without getting impatient looks from other flyers. Once inside its carrying bag, this stroller stands just 14 inches high, which is within the carry-on luggage parameters for most major airlines.

Although it’s compact, this stroller has a slightly bigger seat than others in this category and can hold a child until they weigh 55 pounds. Our real-world testing baby was very comfortable in it. We also like that it has a breathable, mesh headrest and extendable handles for parents of varying heights.

Portability: Weighing slightly less than 13 pounds, this stroller is easy to tote around, especially when packed away in its small carrying case that comes with handles.

“It folds up so small, I am able to fit it on the floor of the backseat [of my car] and have plenty of room for everything else.” —Allison, mom of an 8-month-old

The storage is seriously lacking in this stroller, you need two hands to fold it, and its sun canopy provides only the slightest sliver of shade. It’s also not the best on unpaved paths.

Size open: 39 x 18.5 x 28 in
Size folded: 15 × 14 × 6.25 in
Weight: 12.8 lbs
Age range/weight limit: Up to 55 lbs and 41 in tall

Best for Car Travel

Baby jogger city tour 2 stroller.

If you're planning a family road trip, the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 is a great choice. It takes up considerably less room than a standard stroller does and slides easily into a trunk or backseat. Though it may be compact in size, the City Tour 2 is quite sturdy and moves well. In testing, it performed just as well as some of our top picks while cruising over bumps and around tight turns. We really liked how well it did over gravel. Best of all, it’s built to keep kids comfortable. It reclines far with an adjustable calf rest, has extra padding around the straps, and has a generous sun canopy with a peekaboo window to check on your kiddo.

Portability: This 14.5-pound stroller comes with a handy carrying bag , which makes transporting it to and from the car a piece of cake.

Though it slides into a car like a dream, this stroller doesn’t fit into an overhead bin. It isn’t the best looking, either.

Size open: 33 x 23 x 40 in
Size folded: 6.8 × 16.9 × 21.6 in
Weight: 14.3 lbs
Age range/weight limit: Up to 45 lbs and 41 in tall

Best for Trains and Buses

Babyzen yoyo2 stroller.

Whether you live in a city where you rely on public transit or plan to visit one, the Babyzen Yoyo 2 is bound to make your life a whole lot easier. You can stash it just about anywhere (including an overhead bin), and it has a uniquely narrow frame , which makes it just right for weaving through crowded sidewalks, farmer’s markets, or outdoor art exhibits.

Despite its compact size, this stroller’s seat is surprisingly roomy and padded, which we found to be necessary as it struggled to maneuver over rough surfaces. Still, we appreciate its various features that make it a safe, comfy ride for kids, including the five-point harness, multi-positioning reclining backrest, and UPF 50+ canopy extensions, and the soft, faux leather handlebar for parents.

Portability: This stroller’s key feature is how small it is, both when in use and fully folded. It folds up into a convenient package and has a comfortable, padded shoulder strap that allows you to carry it hands-free while climbing up and down subway stairs—or in and out of trains and buses—so you can focus on carrying your kiddo.

“[When packing my car] I was carrying my baby and a bag and wearing the stroller on my shoulder. My husband asked me if I wanted him to take the stroller from me. I had honestly forgotten that I was wearing the stroller!” —Rachel, mom of a toddler

Though the brand says it's a one-handed fold, our testing parents needed two hands—which isn’t always convenient when boarding a plane, train, or bus. Also, most of its accessories, including the newborn insert, are sold separately.

Size open: 41.7 x 33.8 x 17.3 in
Size folded: 20.5 × 17.3 × 7.1 in
Weight: 13.7 lbs
Age range/weight limit: 6 months (birth with bassinet add-on) to 48.5 lbs

Other Notable Travel Strollers

Doona : This stroller is basically an infant car seat with wheels, which saves you the step of your baby from one seat to another. However, your baby will outgrow it within a year, which makes it hard to justify the price.
Ergobaby Metro+ Deluxe Baby Stroller : While our tester thought that it was “nice looking,” “super compact” when folded, and overall “lovely” to push, they weren’t a fan of its 19-pound frame that didn’t come with a handle or shoulder strap.
Uppababy G-Luxe : Our testers said that the G-Luxe makes “tight turns” and “rolls smoothly” and loved that it “stands up when folded.” However, as a standard umbrella stroller, it’s not as small as the ultra-compact strollers on this list.
Bugaboo Butterfly Seat Stroller : This luxury option has a comfortable seat, a fully extendable canopy, and excellent maneuverability. But when our tester had to gate-check it and hadn’t fully folded the footrest, it snapped clean off. For such a price, we don’t think it should be quite so fragile.
Contours Itsy : Though it’s one of the lightest strollers we’ve tried and is great for airplane travel, the seat doesn’t recline, and the weight limit is just 40 pounds.

Our Testing Process

Parents / Jessica Juliao

To test the travel strollers on our list, we enlisted parents and caregivers on our staff to put them to use both in the lab, at home, and on their travel excursions. While testing, they considered the following attributes:

Ease of Assembly: While timing themselves, our testers assembled their strollers, following the manufacturer’s instructions as needed. They noted how easy or difficult the process was and if they needed special tools or help from another adult.
Design: Our testers paid close attention to features that made the stroller comfortable for a baby and helpful for a parent, such as a five-point safety harness, reclining seat, adequate padding, ample storage, cup holder, and a sun canopy.
Durability: To make sure a stroller was durable, each tester dropped their stroller from table height onto the floor and inspected it closely for any damage.
Maneuverability: Whether pushing a baby or 25-pound sandbag, each tester took their stroller for a brisk walk, making sure to push it over various surfaces, bumps, up and down stairs, and around tight turns. And while at home and family vacation they paid attention to how their strollers handled the various terrain.
Ease of Folding: When collapsing their stroller, our testers noted whether or not they could do so with one hand (sometimes while holding a baby in the other), if they had to empty the storage basket before doing so, and if it stood upright when folded.
Portability: After folding, testers used the bag, strap, handle, or bar to determine how easily they could carry their stroller. They also noted whether or not it fit into an overhead bin and how easy it was to pack it into the trunk of a car.
Value: After considering each attribute, our testers gave their honest opinion on their stroller’s overall value. Specifically, they shared if they thought it would last a decent amount of time, if it lived up to their expectations, and if they would pay full price for the stroller or wait until it goes on sale.

We interviews the following health care experts to gain a better understanding of what parents should look for in a travel stroller and how to use one safely with their child:

Betty Choi, M.D., a pediatrician, author, and mother of two
Wendy Hunter, M.D., FAAP , a pediatrician and host of The Pediatrician Next Door

Factors to Consider When Buying a Travel Stroller

Folded Size: While travel strollers are typically lightweight and small, this doesn’t always mean they are portable. Parents should consider how easy it is to carry the stroller (does it have a shoulder strap or handle?), if it stands up when folded, and if it will fit in the trunk of a car or overhead bin of an airplane.
Weight: There may be times when you have to fold up the stroller and carry it, so choosing one that is around 15 pounds or less will make it much easier to do so when the time comes. Having a lightweight stroller will also make traveling with kids a little less stressful, especially when you have to raise it into the overhead bin of an airplane or into the trunk of a car.
How and Where You’ll Be Traveling: Before purchasing a travel stroller, parents should consider the types of destinations they plan to visit. If you will be traveling by plane, choose a stroller that folds up easily and fits into an overhead bin. If you plan to do lots of walking over various surfaces, one that has excellent maneuverability and all-wheel suspension, like the GB Qbit+ All City , will serve both you and your child well. If you plan to be on the go a lot throughout your travels, consider a stroller that has a padded, reclining seat, wide, extendable sun shade, and ample storage, so that your baby will be comfortable and you can store all your necessities for the day.
Your Budget: Every family’s budget is different and an important factor to consider when buying a travel stroller. Ultimately, as long as your stroller has a comfortable seat, five-point safety harness, sun shade, and a place to store your baby’s things, he or she will have everything they need.

Parents / Jhett Thompson

How to Use Travel Strollers Safely

While strollers are generally safe to use, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) reminds parents that injuries can happen when they’re not used correctly. When choosing a travel stroller, the AAP recommends parents take the following precautions:

Safety Standards: Buy a stroller that was manufactured in the past few years. If it was made before 2014, check the Consumer Product Safety Commission to see if it’s been recalled.
Seatbelt: Always secure your child according to the manufacturer’s instructions by using the safety harness—ideally, a five-point safety harness .
Break: If your stroller has removable wheels, make sure that they are securely installed before using it. Whenever the stroller is parked, always use the brake to ensure it doesn’t roll away.
Age & Weight Guidelines: Dr. Hunter tells Parents that travel strollers are safe for infants as long as they meet the manufacturer’s height and weight guidelines. “It’s safe for babies to use a front-facing reclined stroller when they are about 3 months old,” Dr. Hunter says. “They can be seated in a more upright stroller around 6 months.” You should also avoid letting children sleep in the stroller—especially if they’re younger than 4 months old because they have a higher risk of suffocation.
Storage: “Check that the stroller doesn’t fall over when you hang items on the back,” says Dr. Hunter. You can do this by keeping heavy items (diaper bags, purses, or backpacks) in the storage basket under the seat. Avoid hanging anything from the handlebars to prevent the stroller from tipping over.

Parents / Joy Kim

Laura Lu, MS , is a commerce and parenting writer at Parents and a mom of two. She has conquered theme park visits and braved airline travel with her kids, during which a travel stroller has been her trusty sidekick in getting her from point A to point B with ease.

Sabrina Rojas Weiss is the associate editorial director for commerce at Parents and mother of an 11-year-old. She took her son’s trusty Uppababy G-Luxe all over the country, and it survived many a baggage handler. She’s tossed a lot of strollers off of tables to test durability in the lab.

Tips for Traveling With Young Ones This Holiday Season . American Academy of Pediatrics . 2023.

Safety Tips Help Protect Children From Stroller Injuries . American Academy of Pediatrics . 2016.

The ultimate guide to flying with a baby

Cropped hand of a toddler pointing airplane window against blue sky

Flying with a baby for the first time can be as momentous as their first steps, first bite of first solid food, or first drop off at daycare. And like all those milestones, parents can feel understandably freaked out beforehand. No one, not even your baby themself, knows how a child will react to being on an airplane for the first time. And no matter what happens, one thing's for sure: you'll be stuck in a cabin full of strangers for at least a couple hours while you find out.

But dread not – your child may love air travel, for starters – and even if they don't, you will get through it. With a little planning, the right gear, and a willingness to adapt accordingly, flying with a baby or young kids can be prepared for, and perhaps, easier than you think. Below, what you need to know before flying with a baby or young kids, according to their extremely well-travelled parents.

Is it safe to fly with a newborn?

For infants, the safety of air travel is largely dependent on their health. Jay L. Hoecler, M.D. tells Mayo Clinic . It's up to your doctor's discretion, but full-term newborns who are at least 7 days old are generally safe to fly; however, most parents wait for a few weeks after birth. Premature or preterm babies may require more time for air travel clearance – at least, until their lungs or heart mature. In any case, take precaution and clear your new baby’s air travel with a trusted healthcare professional before booking the flight.

How to prepare

After you purchase your tickets, download Flying With Baby by Meg Collins, the blogger behind a relatable mum survival guide Lucie’s List . Collins claims, accurately, to be the voice of reason about everything: “ticketing, check-in, car seats, feeding, napping, and all the other stuff that makes your brain explode.”

There's no sure way to prepare a baby ahead of time, but if you're travelling with a toddler or an elementary school-aged child, you may need to do a little incepting – i.e., plant the idea that “flying is fun!” and make a game of it at home beforehand. Traveller contributor Debbie Dubrow gave us some timeless tips a few years ago that still hold true:

Talk about your trip and your flight ahead of time, focusing on the aspects that are new to your child or might cause them concern.

2. Read stories about flying. Try, the classic Airplanes by Byron Barton or the 2024 release Ready to Soar by Cori Doerrfeld for toddlers. Richard Scarry's A Day at the Airport is fun and best for older kids. If you’re headed to a new destination, make a trip to the library to pick up a few books set in that place.

3. Line up some dining chairs to make airplane seats , and act out how you should sit down and buckle up on a plane. Build a security checkpoint using a doorway as the metal detector and a cardboard box and towel as the conveyor belt and X-ray. Practice putting your child’s stuffed animal or blanket through the X-ray and getting it back on the other side. This can be a fun and engaging way for your child to act-out the protocols before heading to the airport.

4. Depending on their age, let your children help pack their carry-on bags (but secret away a few new toys in your own). That way, they’ll get to choose which items they just can’t live without, and you’ll get to set expectations about which toys are okay on the plane (leave the harmonica at home, please!).

What to pack

If this is your first time flying with a baby, it’s safe to say that you will bring significantly more items than you've flown with before. For optimal organisation, create an itemised list of the major items (i.e., the car seat, stroller); the bags you’re checking; and the bags you’re carrying on . Do a count of your bags like they’re children on a field trip when you get to the airport, get through security, and get off the plane. (If it sounds like overkill, think about what your trip might be like if you forget the one bag with your baby's favourite stuffed toy. Yeah.)

The go-to items we love the most

The Doona Infant Car Seat/Stroller (for infants up to 35 pounds) combines two of the most cumbersome items you have to bring on a trip. With the Doona, gate check the stroller, and leave the car seat at home. Uber drivers always get out of the car to open the trunk, assuming the stroller will need to go in the back – and are always amazed when you collapse the Doona and slide it into the backseat instead.

The Dohm sound machine helps little ones fall and stay asleep in new and strange places. “I bring my son’s Dohm everywhere with us," says Traveller contributor Lauren DeCarlo. "Hotels, my parents’ house. It’s essential.” You can also download white noise apps on your phone.

The Ergo Baby 360 Carrier is for newborn or toddlers, and known for airy support through the airport and the flight. Its light mesh material makes for necessary ventilation for both you and the baby. Not to mention, it’s strategically designed for lumbar support with double adjusters that tighten for parents in favour of lower back support, helping mitigate the pain caused by sitting on a plane. There’s also padded shoulder straps for your baby, a criss-cross option that buckles on the front, and a detachable storage pouch that can be helpful for more packing space.

A well-stocked diaper bag with enough wipes, diapers, and formula/breast milk/food to get you through the flight and an hours-long delay, minimum, is a must. Frequent flier, Skift aviation reporter, and father Brian Sumers recommends three days' worth of food for the baby to account for any mishaps. Make sure you also have basics like hand-sanitiser, scented diaper trash bags, a pacifier clip ("this will save you the horror of watching a pacifier drop to the airplane floor," says Traveller contributor and mom of three Juliana Shallcross), and one new baby toy. "I still swear by the one-new-toy trick," Shallcross says. "Buy the baby one new toy specifically to open on the airplane. It will keep their attention for a little bit longer than if you brought an older toy. However, for young babies, you don't need much. All they really need is their bottle, maybe a pacifier, and a nice seat mate who makes funny faces."

The Doona stroller collapses into a car seat, eliminating the need to travel with both.

For little ones with their own seat, Britax Willow Grove SC Baby Travel System is an infant car seat and stroller combination device, suitable for newborns to children up to 50 lbs (so there’s much room for growth). For the airport, the all-wheel suspension and tough wheels ensures parents to stroll smoothly and steadily, while also providing an extra-large cargo area with five additional pockets for any smaller travel-must haves. The car seat clicks securely into the base, making the device easier to use. Just make sure to familiarise yourself with the travel system before the flight to ensure swift movement through the airport and plane. The Cares Airplane Safety Harness is the only FAA-approved harness for kids over the age of one, when they're big enough for their own seat but too small for the seatbelt to do any good.

A different outfit – for you – is a gift. "A change of clothes is a no-brainer for the baby who may have a diaper situation at some point during the flight," says Shallcross. "But if you can manage it, pack a T-shirt or leggings for yourself in your carry-on." You don't want to be stuck wearing a formula-stained shirt (or worse).

As for what to leave at home? Anything you can get where you’re going, like jars of baby food. Just make a beeline for a local grocery store once you arrive. It can also be fun seeing how other cultures and countries do the basics. (Fun fact: French diapers aren’t quite as absorbent as American ones. Who knew?)

Do babies need an ID?

Yes, all babies need a passport to travel internationally.

For UAE nationals, after the baby is born, you will receive a stamped and signed birth notification from the hospital. Government hospitals will issue birth certificate as a next step, but if a baby is born in a private hospital, parents will need to apply to Ministry of Health and Prevention or the health authority in their emirate of residence for a birth certificate.

After the birth certificate is received, visit Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) with the same set of required documents to add the new born to the family data . UAE nationals can then apply online for their children's passport and Emirates ID through the website of ICP.

For expat babies born in the UAE, residents have 120 days from the birth of their child to arrange the formal documents which includes birth certificates, passports, Emirates ID and visas of their new born babies. Passports will be issued by your country's embassy. There are also services such as Baby Steps Dubai that can offer information and assistance on how to acquire your baby's documents.

Do babies need their own plane ticket?

It depends. On most airlines, including Emirates and Etihad , babies under the age of two can sit in your lap on a flight, sometimes with a special lap belt that you attach to your seatbelt. You may have to pay a fee – primarily on international airlines – which can come with a special boarding pass. It helps to call the airline before booking to confirm. In fact, some require you to call their customer service line to add them as a “lap-infant.” Once the child turns two, they are required to have their own ticket.

Still, if you can swing it, we suggest purchasing your baby their own seat from the get-go. It will be more pleasant to have the extra space (and a buffer from other passengers) and, as Sumers says, it's safer: “You wouldn't hold your baby in your lap in a car, even if you were only going a mile away at 10 mph. So why would you hold your baby on an airplane racing on a runway at 150 mph? In severe turbulence, or in a survivable crash, you may not be not able to hold onto your baby.”

On Etihad, children up to 36 months and travelling on a child’s ticket are allowed to use an approved car seat on board. On Emirates , only infants under 10kg can use a car seat, but will not accept car seats that need to be secured by a three‑point seat belt or shoulder harness.

If you are interested in a bassinet, note that they are available on a first come, first serve basis only and are limited in number. Children up to two years old and weighing up to 11kg are allowed to sleep in a bassinet.

At the airport

When flying with kids, arrive early to the airport, so you have extra time to check in, get through security, and board the plane. Here's how to prepare, step-by-step.

The good news is that breast milk and formula are some of the few items you're allowed to pack in your carry on in excess of the 100ml liquid rule.

As for the stroller you plan to gate check, know that it will have to go on the belt through the x-ray machine, like the rest of your bags. It may be pulled aside and tested or swabbed by an agent.

Getting to the gate

Speaking of gate-checking: "As soon as you make it through security, head to your gate and get the gate tags for your stroller," says Shallcross. "If you wait until you board, the gate attendants may ask you to step aside and wait until they finish boarding the group, before they give you the tags."

And then there's the age-old question: Should you board in the first wave with your baby and toddlers? Most gate agents give you the option of early boarding – and with a newborn or infant, that's the way to go so you can get settled with bags stowed and essentials out for takeoff. But with an active toddler? That means you're on the plane for an extra 30 to 45 minutes, trying to contain their wild energy in a small space. No thanks.

If you're travelling with another adult, super traveller Sam Brown recommends dividing and conquering. One of you boards early with the bags; the other stays behind with the kids, letting them burn off energy at the gate until the last possible minute you can board. And, when travelling with two adults, “it’s helpful for one to go on with all the bags to place them in the overhead compartment,” says Condé Nast Traveller ’s Executive Editor and travelling super-mum of two, Erin Florio. “The other can stay with the kid(s) while they run around.”

Nursing, pumping, and feeding

If you need a quiet space to breastfeed before boarding, look for a Mamava Pod. They're designed to allow mothers to nurse babies in private, they're free to use, and there's even room for another small child to hang out inside.

As for toddlers, “if you rely on the plane to refill the baby’s bottle, don’t,” says Florio. When finding that many airlines don’t offer milk onboard, Florio finds it’s best to purchase it in the terminal beforehand. She often requests for a terminal café to fill up two empty bottles and then brings them onboard.

The flight itself

The easiest way to keep a baby from crying during the flight is to give them milk or formula on takeoff and landing – the go-to move of parents for decades, as it helps babies adjust to the change in cabin pressure. Admittedly, if the baby is going to be strapped in, nursing will be hard, so consider a bottle. (When it comes to tips for getting your toddler to sleep on a plane, we've got those too).

If you have a bassinet or plan to have the baby in a Bjorn for most of the flight , they'll need to come out and be strapped into their seat or held on your lap during takeoff and landing. Become friendly with your flight attendants, because you may need their help (and patience) more than usual from here on out (that said, they're often happy to help with things like warm water for a bottle).

This also brings us to our favourite controversy: Should you apologise in advance to your fellow seat mates? Sumers says, emphatically, that “there's no reason parents should bring treats for other passengers, or apologise for their baby's behaviour." Everyone knows it's hard to control any situation on an airplane, and that you're doing the best you can, Sumers says. People-pleasers may feel the need to do otherwise; ultimately, it's about whichever move creates an on-plane environment that's most comfortable for you.

What if your kid is a seat kicker?

Try changing up your seating chart. Travel journalist Samantha Brown and her husband would book seats in two separate rows, one right in front of the next, and each sit with one of their twins. If one of the kids got fussy – or kicked the seat in front of them – at least it would be a family member they were harassing.

Do babies’ ears hurt when flying?

Ear-popping and discomfort can be an issue for many flyers in general, thanks to pressure changes. To pop our ears, normally, we yawn or swallow to open the Eustachian tube, which equalises the air pressure in what’s called our “middle ear.” For babies and young kids , these tubes can be relatively narrow, which is why you might hear crying during the first or last few minutes of the flight. If they are old enough to understand, ensure that they know the pain is only temporary, and allow a few minutes for the tubes to open up. To help ease lasting ear pain, Yamini Durani, MD tells Nemours, have your children stay awake for takeoff and landing (during sleep, they won’t swallow as often, so the air pressure might be more difficult to equalise), and give them a bottle or pacifier, or breastfeed – just make sure the baby is sitting upright when drinking. For precautionary measures, bring along medicine, such as a decongestant or antihistamine, for your child to take just in case.

Upon arrival

Many parents worry about the impact of jet lag on children when flying long distances. If you're taking a transatlantic flight (say, Dubai to New York ), the red-eye is a godsend and the easiest way to ward off jet lag. To start: Your baby will be more inclined to sleep through the flight. Once you land, consider not getting on local time. Yes, you'll all sleep in later and start your day later, but you can keep the baby out later, rather than having to commit to your hotel room by 6:30pm every night, and the re-entry back home goes a bit smoother because you never really got off your schedule. There's also something special about being able to take your baby to the Louvre at 8pm on a Friday.

This article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller US

10 of the best cabin-approved strollers you can take on a plane as hand luggage

These compact pushchairs are fit to fly! They will fit in a baggage locker and do not have to be checked in when travelling, making them the ideal strollers when travelling on an airplane

Natalie Paris
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Having a cabin-approved stroller with you when travelling offers so much ease and convenience compared with putting your buggy in the hold. Being able to slip your sleeping baby or irritable baby straight into your trusty lightweight pushchair , is bound to give you peace of mind during the journey.

Parents beware though: pushchairs described as "cabin-friendly" on manufacturer’s websites usually have a disclaimer that reminds customers to check this with their airline. To save you the legwork, we have tested different types of pushchairs with compact folds and asked eight major airlines for their carry-on size requirements for travel buggies.

We then compiled a list of the ten best travel buggies that can be stored in the overhead lockers of plane cabins. Looking for a great deal? We've found the best Prime Day baby deals and Prime Day toy deals for you.

Jump to our list of the best cabin approved strollers

Best carry-on hand luggage travel buggies at a glance.

Best for a tiny fold: GB Pockit+ All-Terrain, from £176.75 £169.28
Best for sleek design: Cybex Libelle, £259.95
Best pull-along stroller: Silver Cross Jet 3, £345
Best bargain buy: My Babiie MBX5 Billie Faiers Pink Ultra Compact Stroller, £149.99 £119.99
Best for newborns: Babyzen YoYo 2, £319
Best luxury cabin-approved stroller: Cybex Coya, £539.95 £499.95
Best for sustainability: Joolz Aer+, £429
Best for storage: Bugaboo Butterfly, £419 £398
Best for comfort: Ergobaby Metro+, £319 £249
Best for accessories: Ickle Bubba Globe Prime, £249

You can jump straight down to see our list of the best travel prams for planes below, or if you want to know more about what to look for when buying a travel buggy and more information about the major airlines and their policies, you'll find everything you need at the bottom of our list.

Jump to what to look for when buying a travel buggy Jump to carry-on hand luggage size limits by airline Jump to do all airlines allow buggies as hand luggage — a breakdown of each major airline

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Here are the best cabin approved strollers for 2024

1. gb pockit+ all-terrain, £176.75 £169.28, – best for a tiny fold.

Age suitability: From 6 months to 22kg | One-handed fold: No | Folded dimensions: H 42cm x W 34cm x H 20cm | Weight: 5.6kg | Car seat compatible: Yes

Very lightweight
Two fold options including the most compact one on our list
Canopy not fully enclosed
Lack of suspension
No foot rest

The latest GB travel buggy has the most compact fold of the pushchairs in our list, with a three-step fold that condenses down to an amazing 42cm x 34cm x 20 cm, small enough to slide into a shoulder bag or a rucksack. It's also extremely lightweight: at 5.6kg it's the joint lightest pushchair on our list, so it should be fairly painless to carry around.

By virtue of its tiny fold and lightweight frame, it's one of 3 buggies that should be accepted (locker space permitting) by 7 out of the 8 airlines that we surveyed (all bar Jet2, who told us they will not accept buggies in the hold at all). It even fits within the measurements for EasyJet’s small-size cabin bag (45 x 36 x 20cm), which means it can be brought into the cabin for free. The fold is quick but not the quickest, as the back wheels must be bent back individually first to achieve the smallest fold, but when you're not flying there's an easier fold that's only slightly larger which doesn't require this extra step.

You do sacrifice stability and some of your child’s comfort to achieve the tiny fold size, as the buggy is not the most solid, there is no foot rest, and the top of the seat has open sides when reclined, which could affect naps on the go.

Don't let the "all-terrain" name fool you, either. Although the double wheels will go some way to keeping the ride smooth and tackling tricker bumps in the road, this is still a very lightweight buggy with little suspension, and as such it won't perform well on very uneven or muddy ground.

Available from : Amazon

2. Cybex Libelle, £259.95

– best for sleek design.

Age suitability: From 6 months to 22kg | One-handed fold: No | Folded dimensions: H 48cm x W 32cm x H 20cm | Weight: 5.9kg | Car seat compatible: Yes

Lightweight
Fits into a bag,
Fast and intuitive fold
Only a shallow recline
Short canopy

This buggy, which is very similar to the GB Pockit+ range, looks chic and has a clever, compact fold that helped it win a Red Dot product design award for its compact construction.

MFM reviewer Sarah said it was "perfectly suited to travel and staycations, but could improve on some design features, such as basket size and carry strap." It also has a limited recline for naps, and no useful additions like a foot rest or peephole in the hood. She said the buggy is competitively priced and stylish with a "top class design and feel." Sarah reported, however, that the wheels "don’t cope too well going up hills or very rough terrain, and are very much designed for a city run-around rather than an off-road, nature trip."

The pushchair is very lightweight, weighing just 5.9kg. "It is not a one-handed fold, as you need to fold it in on itself with both hands," said Sarah, "but it does fold very quickly and rather dynamically." This results in a compact box measuring only 48 x 32cm x 20cm. The folded buggy fits within the cabin bag size requirements for 6 of the 8 airlines in our survey. It is sadly not included on Virgin Atlantic’s list of accepted buggies.

Read the full MadeForMums Cybex Libelle review

Available from: Natural Baby Shower and Boots

3. Silver Cross Jet 3, £345

– best pull-along stroller.

Age suitability: From birth to 15kg | One-handed fold: No | Folded dimensions: H 20cm x W 30cm x L 55cm | Weight: 5.9kg | Car seat compatible: Yes

Can be wheeled when folded
Easy to store
Complicated fold
No bounce to the wheels
15kg weight limit

The chic Silver Cross Jet 3 would be allowed into the cabins of 7 of our 8 surveyed airlines, thanks to its compact fold size of 20cm x 30cm x 55cm. Uniquely, it folds so that it can be pulled along behind you, like a suitcase. There is also a protective cover attached that protects the buggy once it has been folded. MFM reviewer Charlotte said that this is one of her favourite features of the pushchair, telling us that it's "very practical and saves your shoulders." As well as being a great travel buggy, this also makes it great for storage elsewhere too. Charlotte said "it takes up very little space — ideal in our small, busy house or in the boot of our VW Golf. This transportability is perfect for travel or day trips."

The downside is that this semi-umbrella style buggy requires a more cumbersome fold, first folding inwards at the handle bar and then upwards from the bottom of the buggy. Reviewer Charlotte also raised some issues with unfolding it, particularly as it isn't one-handed: "it does require 2 hands to unfold — you can't just shake it out like the Babyzen Yoyo2. That is quite a big drawback for me when wanting to get out of the house in a rush."

She also said that it's great for city-dwellers and for travelling, but cautions that "the buggy feels a little flimsy and it's hard to see the front wheels, which I find tricky when manoeuvring." This is very normal for a lightweight buggy but may be a bit of a surprise if you're used to something more sturdy and versatile.

The buggy is marketed as being suitable for newborns, but parents might not be comfortable with this and our reviewer noted that the seat doesn't lie completely flat. You can add a car seat using adapters, though.

The Jet is lightweight, weighing just 5.9kg, but it is worth noting that it can only carry children up to 15kg. If your child is in the higher percentiles, this means they could outgrow the buggy as early as 2 and a half.

Read the full MadeForMums Silver Cross Jet 3 stroller review

Available from: Amazon and Boots

4. My Babiie MBX5 Ultra Compact Stroller, £149.99 £119.99

– best bargain buy.

My Babiie MBX5 stroller tester picture and product shots

Great value
Carry handle
Comes with travel bag
Doesn't recline
Only suspension in the front wheels

Retailing from £140, this buggy from My Babiie has the cheapest pricetag on our list. It's also the lightest — weighing in at an impressively light 5.5kg — and shares a number of features with the GB Pockit+ All Terrain, not least those double wheels.

Its clever fold is very similar to the Cybex Libelle's and the compact fold of this stroller — 54.5cm x 35.5cm x 19cm — means that it should be accepted into the cabin of at least 6 of the 8 airlines surveyed — all except Virgin Atlantic and Jet2 (which doesn't allow any buggies in the cabin). Parent tester Amber, who tested the buggy with her 2-year-old daughter Remi (pictured) said that the stroller is "perfect for travelling as it's lightweight, compact and fits into a backpack type bag which makes it perfect for taking through an airport." Other travel-ready features include a flip-flop friendly break, a carry handle and a padded travel bag.

It has front-wheel suspension which provides a relatively smooth ride, parent tester Amber said that "the stroller is fine on flat surfaces, pushes fine on grass and it's quite easy to manoeuvre up and down tight kerbs and turn tight corners. However, I found it difficult to push one-handed and it's not great on gravel." The seat should be comfortable for your child due to its padded seat unit and leg rest. However, do bear in mind that you can't recline the buggy should your child want to have a nap or lie down — it only has one, upright position.

Available from: Argos , Kiddies Kingdom and Amazon

5. Babyzen Yoyo 2, £319

– best for newborns.

Age suitability: From birth to 22kg | One-handed fold: No | Folded dimensions: H 52cm x W 44cm x L 18cm | Weight: 6.1kg | Car seat compatible: Yes

Suitable for newborns with carrycot/newborn pack
Front wheel suspension
Shoulder strap
No flat recline
Small wheels can’t cope with rough terrain
Expensive with accessories

The original travel buggy, the Babyzen Yoyo2 is a small, nimble pushchair that is suitable for newborns when using a special newborn pack or a nicely padded bassinet (both sold separately). Once folded, it comes with a carry strap for easy transportation, and also has one of the larger storage baskets on the list, as well as a surprisingly roomy pocket on the back.

Some of the other buggies mentioned here recline flat to accommodate newborns, but many parents would rather newborns face them and have the extra support a carrycot or bassinet offers. With this pushchair there are 2 options. The bassinet is more solid, but it must be removed before folding, so is less useful for air travel. The newborn pack, will fold on the frame just like the 6+ month seat unit, to the same compact size of 52 x 44 x 18 cm.

This buggy is approved for Virgin Atlantic cabins, meaning the Babyzen Yoyo2 is suitable for four of the eight airline cabins on our list. It doesn't quite meet Ryanair and TUI's size restrictions, but parents have reported to us that they have successfully taken this buggy onto both of these airlines. As ever, check before you fly just to be sure.

The Yoyo 2 has a "small, curved frame with an eye-catching design," according to MFM reviewer Natalie. "Because of the reinforced, premium materials, the frame doesn’t feel flimsy despite being so light," she said, "it actually feels strong and unlikely to dent easily." This is a favourite with a lot of parents because of its luxury feel, smart design details and accessories, and small fold. However it doesn't recline as far as many competitors, and the fold is complicated compared to some newer models.

This buggy does have front wheel suspension which helps to give a slightly smoother ride. Natalie said, "the pushchair wheeled fairly easily over grass but muddier ground was an issue." However, she also said that "slightly raised paving slabs sometimes cause the pram to jolt."

Read the full MadeForMums Babyzen Yoyo2 review

Available from: John Lewis and Mamas&Papas

6. Cybex Coya, £539.95 £499.95

– best luxury cabin-approved stroller.

Age suitability: From birth to 22kg | One-handed fold: Yes | Folded dimensions: H 52cm x W 44cm x L 18cm | Weight: 6.6kg | Car seat compatible: Yes

Good storage
One-handed freestanding fold
Carry strap included
No bumper bar

For families seeking a luxurious and stylish travel buggy, the Coya ticks these boxes in abundance. Not only are there over 20 fashionable designs to choose from — from a sleek all-black to a Rockstar design collaboration — the Coya has also very much been designed with travel in mind. It has a quick and easy one-handed fold and there's an integrated carry strap for easy transportation once it's folded. It should be accepted in the cabin by Emirates, EasyJet and British Airways.

The buggy has a removable padded comfort inlay which provides extra comfort for your baby and, once removed, it reveals a breathable mesh that allow a breeze to circulate through the backrest, keeping your child cool. There's also a mesh window in the UPF50+ sun hood for extra ventilation.

The buggy can be used from birth thanks to its one-handed ergonomic lie-flat recline (but it is world facing only, like most of the buggies on this list), and there's an integrated leg rest to provide extra comfort for your child. Other notable features include a one-pull harness, a 5kg basket and suspension in the front wheels to help navigate bumpier surfaces. You can also attach a Cybex baby car seat to the Coya with the car seat adaptors (available separately for £44.95).

On the downside, it is the most expensive option on our list and it doesn't include accessories such as a bumper bar or rain cover.

Available from: Natural Baby Shower , Mamas&Papas and John Lewis

7. Joolz Aer+, £429

– best for sustainability.

Joolz Aer+ tester picture and product shot

Smooth one-handed fold
Extendable canopy
Folding carrycot option
Sustainably made
Car seat compatible
Fiddly recline with zip and drawstring

This sleek buggy has streamlined fabrics and is sturdy, with a reinforced frame that makes it good for everyday use as well as for travel. It has a neat, smooth one-handed fold and due to its compact fold, it should be accepted by EasyJet, BA and Emirates.

Unlike its predecessor (the Joolz Aer ) the Aer+ has a reclinable, lie-flat seat and an updated harness, meaning that it is now suitable from birth without needing the additional carrycot. An infant carrier or the additional Aer+ carrycot ( £229 ) can be added if you prefer and the carrycot impressively folds down on the frame. However, if you do choose to add the carrycot, this will make it too large to be stored on a plane, so you may find you're asked to leave it at the plane door.

It comes with some great travel-ready features too, such as a handy carry strap, a generous 17L basket and an SPF50 extendable hood with a peek-a-boo window. MFM reviewer Emily, who tested the Aer+ with her 6-month-old daughter (pictured above), loved how versatile the Aer+ is for both travel abroad and daily use, saying "not only is it great for travellers, it's durable enough for everyday use around the city."

The stroller is also a great eco-friendly option, the seat fabric is made from recycled PET bottles and it comes in recyclable and reusable packaging, making it a more sustainable choice. Plus, Joolz offers an impressive 10-year transferrable warranty, meaning it can be transferred to another family if you decide to pass the buggy on.

Read the full MadeForMums Joolz Aer+ review

Available from: Mamas&Papas

8. Bugaboo Butterfly, £419 £398

– best for storage.

Bugaboo butterfly pushchair tested by a toddler

One-handed fold
Large basket
Not the lightest

Bugaboo’s pushchairs have a reputation for being well designed and the Butterfly is no exception. It folds down into a slender package and boasts a range of smart features.

The Butterfly offers Bugaboo’s smallest fold, collapsing to 54 x 45 x 23cm, meaning it should be accepted into the cabin by three airlines on this list — BA, EasyJet and Emirates. It appears to follow the trend among newer travel prams to feature a well-cushioned but minimal seat and hood, so there is no excess fabric to deal with when folding up small.

Gabrielle, a member of our Top Testers Club, preordered the pushchair and was one of the first to put it to the test (pictured). She said, "Bugaboo say it is a one second fold and I think they are about right. It is easily folded & put up one handed and is incredibly lightweight so I can carry (a not small) 18 month old and pram together easily." MFM reviewer Cher also commented that "I can honestly say that the Butterfly is one of the easiest strollers to fold."

What stands out is the huge amount of storage promised in comparison to other buggies with a compact fold. Bugaboo says the basket will hold 8kg of shopping — twice the amount of Bugaboo's popular Bee pushchair . Gabrielle confirmed, "the basket is actually bigger than our Bee 5!" The Butterfly is slightly heavier than some other buggies here, at 7.3kg, but by virtue of that it is also one of the more robust in this list. MadeForMums reviewer Cher was pleasantly surprised with "how sturdy it is compared with other strollers" and loves how the Butterfly handled "various types of tough terrain really well."

Read the full MadeForMums Bugaboo Butterfly review

Available from: John Lewis , Argos and Mamas&Papas

9. Ergobaby Metro+, £319 £249

– best for comfort.

Adjustable handle
Full recline
No shoulder strap
Newborn flaps don’t offer much support

This buggy offers comfort for baby via an ergonomic soft padded seat, and for parents too, as it's the only buggy in our list that has a height-adjustable handlebar. Children will appreciate the adjustable leg rest too, and it's impressive that Ergobaby has been able to factor in adjustable details like this while still keeping the buggy under 7kg.

The compact fold is quick to put down but takes two steps. Once folded, the buggy should be suitable to go in the overhead compartment of EasyJet, BA and Emirates cabins.

Some reviewers liked that the folded buggy can be carried with one hand, but MFM Consumer & Reviews Editor Christy said the small strap, which is attached to the seat, "was a very tight fit for my hand and rubbed on my skin." Reviewers also found the buttons a bit stiff. It is suitable from birth with a lie-flat seat, and there are built-in flaps designed to keep a newborn secure, but it is world-facing only.

Parent tester Bianca concluded: "A lot of cheaper, more lightweight prams don't hold their own across bumpy terrain so people end up having to buy a sturdier model as well. The Ergobaby Metro+ Stroller is, however, a does-it-all pram that holds its own on country walks, as well as on quick trips in the city."

Read the full MadeForMums Ergobaby Metro+ Stroller review

Available from: Natural Baby Shower and Kiddies Kingdom

10. Ickle Bubba Globe Prime, £249

– best for accessories.

Age suitability: From newborn (with cocoon) to 15kg | One-handed fold: No | Folded dimensions: H55cm x W45cm x L25cm | Weight: 6.4kg | Car seat compatible: Yes

Easy to push
Fashionable
Lots of accessories
Adjustable leg rest
Difficult fold
Short hood extension
Small basket

This glamorous travel pram wins points for being stylish and strong, although the dimensions of its fold are the maximum that EasyJet and British Airways say they will accept as hand luggage. This just means you must be sure to fold the buggy properly at the boarding gate for it to be accepted by those two airlines, along with Emirates.

The Globe is a good choice for parents who might want to stand out with a rose gold chassis, say, or by customising the buggy with the wide range of accessories on offer, which include a footmuff, buggy organiser, parasol and cup holder.

MFM reviewer Gabrielle praised the buggy’s manoeuvrability saying it was "incredibly easy to push – on smooth surfaces indoors and outside – with just one hand. It was a pleasure to push this buggy through the hotel we stayed in on holiday at as it glided over marble tiles."

She liked the fold less as it requires two hands and three steps. She said the fold was “fairly straightforward in theory but in practice it was fiddly. The buttons on the inside of the handles aren’t easy to locate through the fabric and keeping them pressed in while simultaneously lowering the handlebar involves some dexterity.”

The Globe Prime is suitable from birth thanks to its lie-flat seat, but as with others on this list the seat is is world-facing only.

Read the full MadeForMums Ickle Bubba Globe Prime review

Available from: Ickle Bubba , Amazon and Boots

What to look for when buying a travel buggy

Fold type – A major feature of all travel buggies is a compact fold, but each will fold in a slightly different way. A number of models now have special gravity-assisted 'magic' folds that can be done with just a flick of the wrist. However, these buggies don't tend to fold quite as small as those with two-handed or multi-step folds.

Comfort for child – Travel buggies may have limited padding so they can fold up small, so look at the fabric on seats and straps, and decide if you need leg rests or calf supports before you buy, as this may limit your options.

Ease of steering/pushing – A small fold means small wheels, which can struggle on tougher terrains like sand dunes or cobblestones, but most will be fine through airports, along pavements and on grass. Look for front wheel suspension for the smoothest ride.

Handlebar height – Many travel buggies have fixed height handlebars, which are designed to work for most heights, but may be more uncomfortable for taller or shorter parents. It's important to try before you buy if you're tall or petite.

Durability – Due to their lightweight nature, these buggies won't feel as solid as a traditional pram or travel system as the frame is designed to easy to pick up and fold. The more budget lightweight buggies might not be able to handle as many knocks as heavier, bulkier models or more premium designs.

Age suitability – Many lightweight strollers are designed for use from 6 months, and even those that offer a lie-flat seat that's suitable from birth may be world-facing only. If you're looking for a buggy to use from birth, look for one that offers the ability to convert the seat or add a carrycot. On the other end of the scale, some lack the leg rest that older children may need, or have a 15kg weight limit which could significantly reduce their longevity.

Hood coverage – Some travel buggies have shorter, non-extendable hoods with minimal fabric. They're designed not to add weight or get in the way of the compact fold, but you may want full coverage during hot weather or at nap time. Look for deeper UPF 50+ hoods, or consider buying a buggy cover or parasol for extra protection.

Storage – Travel buggies often only have room for small baskets, so you won't be able to keep as much in one of these as in a larger pushchair. Look out for extra zip pockets and detachable bags for more space.

Weight – When choosing a portable buggy it is important that it is light to carry, and it should weigh less than 10kg for cabin use. We've listed the weights of all the buggies on our list.

Carry-on hand luggage size limits by airline

The International Air Transport Association’s guide to carry-on size requirements says that carry-on baggage should have a maximum length of 56 cm, a width of 45 cm and a depth of 25 cm, so a buggy must fold to within these limits to be "cabin approved". However, not all airlines follow the IATA guidelines exactly, so we spoke to them to find out the exact rules.

This table shows the specific restrictions for each major airline we spoke to, and the number of buggies in our list that should therefore be guaranteed to be accepted in the cabin. In reality, you may find friendly cabin crew will turn a blind eye to a buggy that is a few centimetres larger, but it can't be guaranteed.

The buggies in our list below are ordered from smallest fold to largest, so if you're considering one of the airlines with tighter restrictions, it would be safest to choose one of the buggies towards the beginning of the list.

Do all airlines allow buggies as hand luggage?

The International Air Transport Association’s general guide to carry-on size requirements is used by hundreds of airlines around the world. It suggests that carry-on baggage should have a maximum length of 56 cm, a width of 45 cm and a depth of 25 cm. These dimensions include wheels, handles and side pockets. However, this guidance is voluntary and individual airlines still have their own policies and size restrictions. We spoke to eight major airlines to find out what their specific policies are.

Please do bear in mind that things can change at the gate and on busy flights passengers may be asked to put larger items of hand luggage into the hold, including buggies. Similarly, we've heard anecdotal evidence that some of the airlines listed below may accept slightly larger folding buggies in some circumstances.

Below, we've included a more in-depth look at the different guidelines for each airline.

Emirates is the most easygoing of the airlines we spoke to about travel buggies, perhaps because they fly larger, modern planes. A spokesperson said they would accept any size of folding travel buggy into the cabin, as long as there was space. “Customers are permitted to carry only one fully collapsible stroller/pushchair or infant’s carrycot in the aircraft cabin free of charge, subject to space availability,” we were told. If there is no available space, the stroller will be checked in as hold luggage.

They even went as far as to say that “A stroller with a car seat can be taken on-board for stowage provided sufficient space is available on-board.”

“Emirates does not recommend a particular pushchair but it should be fully collapsible,” they added. “Some brands even offer a zipped travel bag which the stroller neatly fits into.”

Though policies can change, EasyJet currently has two cabin bag sizes, a smaller one that is free and a larger, paid-for, size that must weigh less than 10kg.

“As long as the buggy fits within the dimensions of our cabin bag allowances they would be permitted in the cabin,” a spokesperson for the airline told us.

When folded, a couple of the more compact buggies we tested fit the smaller size of 45 x 36 x 20 cm. Both these buggies and all the remaining pushchairs on our list fit within the larger, paid for, cabin bag size of 56 x 45 x 25 cm. Both sizes have a maximum weight of 15kg.

British Airways

British Airways’ cabin bag size is currently the same as EasyJet’s larger, paid-for cabin bag size, with a maximum size of 56 x 45 x 25 cm. With BA – though rules can change – it is generally free to have one cabin bag this size, and it can weigh up to 23kg. A spokesperson for BA told us that travel buggies of this size will be accepted in place of your hand luggage.

The website also states however that: “As with all larger cabin bags, this is not guaranteed to travel in the cabin, but our staff will make every effort to accommodate if space is available.”

It is worth noting that BA’s website suggests that most umbrella-style buggies can wait for you at the aircraft door at both ends of your flight at “most” airports. However the compact fold of the travel buggies on this list is wider than a typical umbrella fold (BA’s size limit for this option is 117 x 38 x 38cm) so – read strictly – travel buggies with a compact fold would need to be taken into the cabin where they meet the requirements.

In contrast to the positive responses from the other airlines, Jet2 told us that no travel buggies of any size would be allowed into cabins on its flights, with “all infant-related luggage” needing to go into the hold.

We asked why this was but were given no further answer.

At 55 x 40 x 20cm, TUI’s hand luggage size is smaller than EasyJet and BA’s but the same size as Ryanair’s. A TUI spokesman told us that its hand luggage policy applied to both bags and travel buggies that meet the size requirements.

The TUI website states: “Customers can take 1 piece of hand luggage per person (excluding infants) weighing up to 10kg and with maximum dimensions of 55 x 40 x 20cm on a TUI Airways flight.” We have, however, heard from members of our Top Testers Club that they have successfully taken slightly larger folding strollers such as the Silver Cross Clic onto TUI flights, so you may get lucky if you encounter crew members who're willing to be flexible.

Ryanair told us that if a foldable pushchair meets the size requirements of a 10kg cabin bag, at 55 x 40 x 20cm, and if – importantly – there is adequate capacity in the cabin, passengers are allowed to carry their foldable pushchair onboard free of charge.

As with any of these low-cost airlines, overhead lockers on busy flights fill up fast, so capacity may well be lacking. Still, it is worth asking.

The Australian airline confirmed to MadeForMums that a fold up buggy that fits within its hand luggage restrictions can be carried in the cabin and stored in the overhead locker. On international flights the maximum cabin bag size is 56 x 36 x 23cm, which is slightly narrower than other airlines.

Virgin Atlantic

“We only accept a certain list of pushchairs that meet the size and weight limitations of our hand baggage policy to ensure there is enough space onboard for all our customers and their luggage,” a Virgin Atlantic spokesman said.

This list is very specific and includes only four branded buggies: the GB Pockit, Britax Holiday , Silver Cross Jet and Babyzen Yoyo .

“In cases where pushchairs do not meet carry-on restrictions,” the spokesman continued, “they are tagged and placed in the hold for the flight. For the majority of Virgin Atlantic destinations, they are brought to the aircraft door upon arrival to assist customers through the airport.”

How we chose and tested these pushchairs

Natalie Paris is an experienced journalist who writes for a number of national publications. She has two young children, aged 6 and 2.

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Baby and kid

The Best Travel Strollers

By Elise Czajkowski

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

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

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

Everything we recommend

Uppababy Minu V2

The best travel stroller.

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

Buying Options

Budget pick.

Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller

Simple and sturdy.

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

What we looked for

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The research

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A folded Uppababy Minu V2 standing up on its own.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Flaws but not dealbreakers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The seat fabric of the City Tour 2 Stroller can be machine washed; other parts should be hand-washed. In our cleaning tests, we found that food wiped easily off of the black fabric, and any lingering smudges disappeared with stain remover. Unfortunately, we can’t say if this was due to the dark color or the fabric itself, but this stroller comes only in black or gray (you can also buy a blue-green, special-edition model that’s about $60 more) while the Minu V2 comes in many colors.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This article was edited by Rachel Hurn and Kalee Thompson.

Meet your guide

Elise Czajkowski

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

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

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

The Best Travel Car Seats

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

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

The Best Stroller Wagons

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

The Thule Spring stroller and the Uppababy Cruz V2 stroller, shown side by side.

The Best Full-Size Strollers

We considered more than 100 full-size strollers to determine the best ones to transport your kids and all of their stuff. These are the top five.

Strollers /

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

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

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

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

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

Why Trust Babylist?

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

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

The Best Travel Strollers

Best Overall: Joolz Aer+ Lightweight Stroller

Best for Toddlers: Bugaboo Butterfly Complete Stroller

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

Best for Everyday Use: UPPAbaby MINU V2 Stroller

Best for Planes: Stokke YOYO3 Stroller Bundle

Best Double: Zoe The Twin V2

Best Travel System: Nuna PIPA urbn + TRVL Travel System

How We Judged

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

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

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

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

Best Travel Stroller Overall

Joolz Aer + Lightweight Stroller - Sage Green

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Real Parent Reviews

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

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

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

Additional Specs

Best Travel Stroller for Toddlers

Bugaboo Butterfly Complete Stroller - Midnight Black

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

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

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

The Butterfly is pricey. The storage basket is larger than the Aer+’s but still on the smaller side. And the back wheels are fairly close together. That setup, combined with a handle that doesn’t extend (which is the norm for compact strollers), means that if you’re on the taller side like me (5’10”), you may kick the back of the stroller while you’re walking. And although I wouldn’t consider it heavy, it is one of the heavier travel strollers on our list by about three pounds.

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

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

Best Affordable Travel Stroller

Summer 3Dquickclose CS+ Compact Fold Stroller

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Travel Stroller for Everyday Use

UPPAbaby Minu V2 Stroller - Jake

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

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

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

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

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

A few of my favorite features on the Minu V2 include the one-handed fold, the huge sunshade, the comfy seat with multi-position recline and a roomy, easy-access basket. The spring-action, shock-absorbing all-wheel suspension makes for a smooth ride even over bumpy terrain, so it’s a stroller you can use both in the suburbs and in a city. The Minu stands when folded and features a carry strap and a storage bag for easy transport.

As-is, the Minu works for babies three+ months; that means if you want to use it with your newborn, you’ll need to add the bassinet or an infant car seat plus adapters, which will cost you. And while it folds compactly, it is bulkier than some of the other travel strollers on our list when it’s broken down. It’s also a little heavier, weighing in at about 17 pounds. And the seat back is on the shorter side.

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

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

Best Travel Stroller for Planes

Stokke YOYO 3 Stroller 6M+ - Black Frame/Black Color Pack

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

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

The YOYO3 folds the most compactly of any of the travel strollers on our best-of list, and will fit easily in the overhead bins on most planes. (PSA: It’s always worth a call to your airline just to be sure.) It’s the stroller of choice for many light-packing parents who don’t want to deal with the hassle (or risk) of gate-checking a stroller when they fly. “[The YOYO] is the best travel stroller and it has been SO easy to travel with overseas and around the country and you can carry it on,” one parent told us in our Best Baby Products survey. “It’s super light, easy to clean and works like a dream.”

It performs like a champ off the plane, too, easily steering through crowds and narrow spaces. It’s also endlessly customizable, a unique feature I really like. You can change out the seat and shade fabrics with a new color pack , add a custom footmuff for cooler temps or a stroller board for an older child and even add a [storage bag]https://www.babylist.com/gp/stokke-yoyo2-and-yoyo-rolling-bag/15261/243303 “Babyzen YOYO2 and YOYO+ Rolling Bag”) that uses wheeled support so your stroller won’t tip. And it’s compatible with many popular infant car seat brands.

The fold on the YOYO3 isn’t as intuitive as other travel strollers on our list; there are two steps, and it takes some practice. The canopy is on the shorter side. This travel stroller does come with a rain cover, but all the other extras and custom adds will cost you, which can add up quickly as this stroller is expensive on its own.

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

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

Best Double Travel Stroller

Zoe The Twinᵛ²

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Travel Stroller Travel System

Nuna PIPA urbn & TRVL LX Travel System - Cedar

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How We Chose Our Best Travel Strollers

We analyzed results from Babylist’s Best Baby Products survey, which polled 6,000 Babylist users and asked them to share the baby products they love the most and why.

We utilized insight from the Babylist editorial team, including me, Gear Editor Jen LaBracio, an expert in the baby space for over six years and a mom of two who has written hundreds of baby gear guides and personally researched and tested hundreds of baby products, including many travel strollers.

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

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

Travel Stroller Basics

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

Stroller pros and cons

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

Traditional strollers: Everyday strollers typically have convenient features like lots of storage space, adjustable handlebars, cup holders and large canopies. Many also have suspension systems and can accommodate an infant car seat. But they’re heavier and bulkier to fold, which makes using and storing them in tight spaces more difficult (think: narrow doorways, airplane overhead bins or small car trunks).

Umbrella strollers: Bare-boned and exceptionally lightweight, umbrella strollers lack many amenities you find in traditional strollers like adjustable seats and cup holders. They have skimpy canopies, minimal cushioning and seat support and don’t fold small enough to fit in airport storage bins. You also can’t push an umbrella stroller with one hand. Umbrella strollers are good for when you occasionally need a slimmer, fast-fold stroller.

Travel strollers: Also called lightweight or compact strollers, travel strollers strike a balance between traditional and umbrella stroller styles. They’re lighter than the standard stroller, easy to fold and compact in size when collapsed. (Some travel strollers fold in half, called a square fold, while others feature a more compact tri-fold.) Travel strollers have some full-size amenities like large sun canopies and a storage basket and most even have extras like cup holders.

Do I need a travel stroller?

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

Before you invest in a travel stroller, ask yourself:

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

How much do I want to spend?

Where will I store the stroller when it’s not in use?

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

What to Look for in a Travel Stroller

A travel stroller should be easy to take with you on trips and be a comfy spot for your little one. Consider these features as you research and shop.

Size and weight. You’re going to be lifting, carrying and storing your travel stroller often, so the stroller’s size and weight are important. Look for one that’s lightweight and manageable. Also pay attention both to the folded and unfolded size of your travel stroller. If you’re planning on using it for an older toddler, also be sure it’s large enough to accommodate them.

Fold. You’ll be folding and unfolding your stroller often while on the go, whether it’s to take it in and out of your car, stash it under a table at a restaurant or store it in the overhead compartment of an airplane. Choose a travel stroller with a quick, easy fold, preferably one you can do one-handed.

Maneuverability. Not all travel strollers are created equally. Some offer much more maneuverability and a better suspension system than others; however, these features often come at a cost. Thinking through how often you’ll be using your travel stroller and what types of terrain you’ll encounter most often can help determine whether or not a more expensive stroller is worthwhile.

Canopy size. Most travel involves at least some, if not a lot, of outdoor time. A large canopy is essential for protecting your little one from the elements, especially the sun.

Comfort and convenience features. Similar to a full-size stroller, look for features that will make you and your little one more comfortable, especially while traveling. Things like an adjustable seat with a full or nearly full recline, an ample storage basket, an adjustable handlebar and easy-to-clean fabrics are all important. And don’t forget a built-in strap or a separate carrying case for easy transport.

Flying with a Travel Stroller

Spend a few minutes in any parenting forum and you’ll likely see a question from an anxious new parent about flying with a baby—and all of their stuff. It’s daunting, and there are a lot of questions to answer. How do you get your stroller from point A to point B when you’re flying? Will it count toward your carry-on and baggage allotment? And what if you need to use your stroller in the airport? Good news: You can pick how you want to travel with your stroller, depending on your needs.

Check the stroller with your baggage. Some parents unload the stroller during check-in and switch to using a baby carrier through the airport instead. “The advantage to this is that you don’t have to carry it with you around the airport if you’re not using it,” says Militello. Pair a front carrier with a backpack-style diaper bag so your hands will be free to deal with other things (like the best travel toys that will make your trip a breeze). Just remember that your stroller will be subject to the same rough treatment as the rest of your checked baggage—no special attention and lots of tossing around. And note that if you have a large stroller, you may be required to check it as baggage anyway. This usually doesn’t count toward your baggage allotment.

Check the stroller at the gate. Want to use the stroller until you board the plane? You can check the stroller with the gate agent—it just needs to be tagged—and then pick it up outside the aircraft door when you arrive. “When you gate check a stroller, it’s handled more with care,” says Militello. “Gate-checked items are usually more fragile and are hand carried from the entrance of the airplane to the bottom of the airplane and vice versa. They’ll deliver your gate-checked item right to the exit of the plane when you get off so you don’t have to to go the luggage carousel and will have immediate access to it once you deboard the plane.” Just remember if you have a connecting flight to catch, waiting for your stroller to be placed on the jet bridge can eat up precious time.

Stow the stroller on the airplane. If your stroller collapses small enough, it can be stored in an overhead bin. Having your stroller with you eliminates the potential for damage and the hassle of waiting for it on the jet bridge or at baggage claim. But strollers count as a carry-on item. “You typically only get one carry-on item, so choose wisely!” Miletello recommends.

Keep these other tips in mind:

If you check the stroller with baggage, you do run the risk of damage. If you’re not using a travel stroller bag, ask the agent at check-in for a plastic bag to cover and protect it during transport.

If you’re taking the stroller through security, it will need to be folded and put through the X-ray machine. Don’t stuff the undercarriage basket until after security.

If your checked stroller doesn’t come out with the suitcases at baggage claim, check the oversized luggage area. It may have been set aside there. (This may also be where your travel crib is, if you checked one.)

Do you need a travel stroller bag?

How you plan to use your travel stroller will affect whether or not you need a travel stroller bag. If you plan on flying with your stroller and want to check it with your luggage or at the gate, then you’ll probably want to use a travel stroller bag. Look for a padded option to help protect your stroller in case it gets dropped or tossed around. If you’re not planning on flying much or if you’re using your travel stroller as a day-to-day option, then a travel stroller probably isn’t a must-have. Some travel strollers come with a travel bag while others require you to purchase one separately, so check with your particular brand. There are generic travel bags that may work, too.

Jen LaBracio,

Senior gear editor, cpst.

Jen LaBracio is Babylist’s Senior Gear Editor and a Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST). When she’s not geeking out over car seats, testing out a new high chair or pushing the latest stroller model around her neighborhood, she likes to run, do all things Peloton, 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.

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8 best travel prams to take on holiday – according to parents

mother with kids and luggage looking at planes in airport

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

I remember with strange clarity, a family of four spilling onto a Corfu -bound flight with every toddler gadget going sprouting from their limbs, as if they were in a comedy sketch… though the parents weren’t finding it remotely funny. Having lugged all their items on board and held onto energetic sprogs with the only finger left hooked in the label of their stretched jumpers, the parents were then told that their pram was too large for the cabin and needed to go in the hold. The mother was on the brink of tears and a near tangible wave of sympathy for her swept the plane. As a travel writer, I have done my utmost to avoid the same fate, to smooth over the pain points of travelling with tinies in tow and to get savvy on all the gadgets worth the investment.

I soon realised that it all starts with the pram (buggy or stroller). Whether travelling by train, plane or car with a pocket-sized boot, the pram needs to fold like origami and perform like a zippy Mini Cooper. It’s hard for the brands to tick all the boxes: a petite, nifty thing in its element on Parisian pavements will struggle with Milanese cobblestone or anything remotely rural; some can be a challenge to fold one-handed (a prerequisite when travelling with the baby and toddler ensemble or as single parents); others can be the dream folders but not robust enough for the newborn phase. The thing to look out for is if the pram is IATA (International Air Transport Authority) compatible – if it’s compact enough to be classed as hand luggage on all major airlines.

Like anything with children, it’s such a personal thing – but to avoid being that sobbing, Corfu-bound parent who’s had it with the whole holiday palaver before even leaving home turf, here’s our expert opinion on the best travel prams.

Best travel pram for flying

Pros: A neat fold with a shoulder strap, one of the lightest travel prams yet also a great city stroller, stretches from newborn to 4 years.

Cons: The wheels aren’t good on bumps or cobbles, the newborn pack doesn’t feel very sturdy so many parents end up buying the more robust bassinet which can’t be folded down.

Weight: 6.1kg

Folded Dimensions: 44 x 18 x 52cm

‘Yoyo’ is the word airlines are really looking for when checking if your pram complies with cabin baggage regulations. It’s the secret password to a land of hassle-free air travel and (as most parents will have gleefully discovered), is narrow enough to scoot up the aisles of most trains. You’d be hard-pressed to walk down a street in London and Paris and not spot at least two Babyzen Yoyos, with their distinct curved frame and smooth hoods (all SPF 50). Only weighing 6.1kg, this city favourite is easily folded and unfolded using one hand, and can be thrown over your shoulder with a strap (airport security with children never looked so easy). While the newborn pack is ideal for being out and about, some parents choose to buy the more robust bassinet for more protection (which needs clicking off before the frame can be folded and would count as an extra item of luggage). The basket under the pram can fit a surprising number of toys and bottles (with easy access from the sides too), though most large baby bags would struggle to squash under the frame just above it. While this truly is the city staple, that comes into its own when rushing through airports and stations, the wheels are too rickety for anything beyond a flat pavement… Yoyos are notoriously bad on bumpy terrain, but that’s the price you pay for an acrobatic pram that makes travelling or scaling stairs a breeze. There is also a glitch when it comes to the footmuff preventing the pram from properly folding (you need to remove it, which is particularly annoying during winter months).

Best travel pram for basket space

Pros: Large basket, cushioned seat and ready for any of the Bugaboo extras; long warranty.

Cons: Not suitable for under 6 months, clackety plastic wheels.

Weight: 7.3kg

Folded Dimensions: 45 x 23 x 54cm

Noticeably more plush for tots, with a cushioned, cocoon-like seat that isn’t sore on the eyes, the Bugaboo Butterfly has been cleverly designed with a basket big enough for the baby bag or tote that other foldable prams never seem to have the space for. And, while already winning, having freed up a limb or two for parents navigating airports and stations with babies and toddlers, the Butterfly is also compatible with all the Bugaboo-branded accoutrements, such as the shade and mosquito covers and the footmuffs. While there is a strap to tip the chair back for queue snoozes or outdoor siestas while on the move, it’s very much tipped and not fully flat. This may not bother some parents though as the pram is designed for six months plus and doesn’t click onto any bassinet (so one to avoid if you’re travelling with an infant). Another common issue for travel prams is the clackety-clack plastic wheels that are no match for Europe’s cobbled streets and with seemingly limited suspension. Ultimately though, it’s an agile travel pram despite being foldable, that children up to four years old will easily nod off in while on the move.

The best compact travel pram

Pros: Robust yet easily folding flat without any fiddly levers; a smart-sized basket and spacious, cushioned seat that works for newborns through to 4-year-olds.

Cons: The style isn’t for everyone, but we’re scraping the barrel for cons here.

Weight: 6.6kg

Move over Babyzen Yoyo, Cybex’s new COYA could be the ultimate travel companion. This cabin baggage-compatible pram folds flat as a pancake with remarkable ease (one-handed) and somehow feels more sturdy than its main competitor. It also lies completely flat so can be used from birth – though the jury’s out on whether the harder bassinets are safer for travelling with newborns, as they feel more encased if anything bashes into the pram fabric – the newborn nest Cybex offers is a great solution as it keeps them cushioned in and not rolling about as you move. There’s an impressive mix of fabric shades and frame colours, some even patterned (should anyone wish to tie in their pram with luggage hues), and the zip at the back is ideal as a temporary spot for your passports , phone or a bottle/beaker. A particularly neat feature is the scoop of the pram basket underneath, ensuring no items fall out while weaving through crowds. Its wheels also feel less rickety than other travel prams, and the pulley strap at the back is straightforward (and crucially quiet) when your little one looks as though they’re about to nod off. There’s also the added bonus of being able to attach Cybex’s car seats to the pram if you’re travelling with one – a smooth way to transfer the baby without waking them up. The double metallic legs may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but we’re struggling to find a negative point for this new travel pram which, so far, ticks all the right boxes.

The best travel pram for travelling solo

Pros: Pram can be collapsed using only one hand, folds up flat, has two seat-back options, and straps can be adjusted with just one pull.

Cons: Small storage compartment.

Weight: 6.3kg

Folded Dimensions: 47.5 x 15.5 x 52.5cm

This pram is a nifty little option for flights, especially if you're travelling without another adult. You can fold the pram down to be completely flat using just one hand. And it fits neatly in the boxes at airport security as well as in the overhead lockers on the plane – also handy if you’re going to be hopping in and out of taxis. It’s super lightweight – I’ve carried it in one hand, with baby in the other, through airports and even across beaches as my toddler trundles towards the water. The storage is great, with one big canopy shelf that will do you for a day out and about, as well as sneaking extra stuff on the plane (it doesn't count as a ‘bag’). Despite its streamlined design, it’s still very sturdy (other travel prams have been noticeably flimsy) and has two seat-back options for upright or snooze mode, as well as good coverage from the sun on the hood. The safety strap is also noteworthy – much better than my usual, fussier pram which has loops for the arm straps – the design makes it wiggle-proof, which is also helpful if you’re running to catch a transfer (which I also have, unfortunately) had experience with. Charlotte Davey , fashion and lifestyle editor

The best affordable travel pram

Pros: Incredibly good value for money; an adjustable handle for parent height and a newborn nest feature that doubles up as a toddler footrest.

Cons: Heavier than other travel prams and maybe not as chic.

Weight: 7.8kg

Folded Dimensions: 45 x 24 x 54cm

Taller parents rejoice! Those whose feet routinely catch the bottom of the lower prams can finally walk without a hunch with the Ergo Baby Metro + Classic Stroller’s adjustable handle. These perks do mean it’s that little bit heavier than competitor prams, with a sturdier frame, but it’s worth that smidgen of extra weight for not needing to carry an extra attachable bassinet (the footrest for toddlers can be folded into a newborn ‘nest’ - in a similar style to Cybex’ new COYA. It’s also kinder on wallets and still easy on the eye. Toddlers can easily snooze in the well-cushioned seat, and not flinch when being thrown around on bumpy terrain – though another key pro of the Ergo is its rubber wheels, avoiding that clackety plastic that only really works on flat pavement or a smooth airport floor. Despite feeling heavier, it folds down really tightly (and easily) when on the move.

The best lightweight travel pram

Pros : An impressive 10-year warranty; incredibly light and easy to fold; a smoother ride with rubber wheels.

Cons: 6 months plus, with no newborn function.

Weight: 6kg

Folded Dimensions: 45 x 21.5 x 53.5cm

The Joolz AER+ is a much smoother ride than the others on the list, with a squishy handle and foam-rubber wheels that prevent the baby from bouncing around inside (and save your and any fellow walkers’ ears from the racket of plastic-wheeled travel prams). This impressive model only requires a one-handed click to fold like a dream and flicks out from this compact position as if a wizard just muttered a spell. It’s also one of the lightest travel prams going at just 6kg (lighter than the mighty Babyzen Yoyo), which is a great accolade considering it’s constructed from recycled bottles; a nod to the notion that sustainability doesn’t chip away at quality or function. One feature that’s particularly useful for hot countries is the hood, which folds down to cover tots’ faces in fierce sunshine, without having to pull out an extra shade cover or clip on a muslin cloth, shifting it as the sun moves (we’ve all been there). Its fold when going through airport security or once onboard is smooth-as-butter – the sort that can be done with seasoned traveller flair. The fully flat recline is useful for snoozing, though it’s worth noting that the pram is for 6 months + and without any newborn function or additions.

The best travel pram and car seat in one

Pros: Converts from pram to car seat, can also be strapped into a plane seat, suitable from birth, adjustable handlebar.

Cons: Rear-facing only, likely to only last for up to 12 months / 13kg.

Weight: 7.5kg

Folded dimensions: 60 x 44 x 66cm

The pint-sized Doona is a great option for tiny tots weighing up to 13kgs as it converts from a pram to a car seat in seconds, perfect for airport transfers and taxi rides abroad. If you’re not paying for an extra plane seat for a child under two, it’s small enough to fit in the overhead compartment of most planes. However, if you do decide to put your little one in their own seat, the Doona in the car seat position is TUV and FAA aircraft-approved and can be strapped to the plane seat – a more comfortable and safe way for little ones to travel. As it's rear-facing it will probably only last you up to a year at the most, but I personally found it well worth it. Jessica Rach, Global Content Manager

The best travel pram for the first year

Pros: Affordable; newborn onwards; adaptable to Chicco’s carrycot and car seat (so particularly great for travelling in the first year of a baby’s life).

Cons: Plastic wheels aren’t good for negotiating curbs or anything other than a smooth surface.

Weight: 6.9kg

Folded Dimensions: 46.5 x 25 x 56cm

A lightweight travel pram from Chicco that really grows with your child, the Goody+ has a glorious ‘one-touch’ fold, where it collapses into a tote-sized square. From newborn to 4 years, its seat feels unusually wide and spacious (despite its compact collapsed size) and can be cleverly attached with Chicco’s soft carrycots and car seats – so consider this before buying all that baby clobber too. If you’re planning to travel lots with a baby in the first year of its life, this could be the 3-in-one combination that will see you through, and without costing a fortune. It’s easier to ‘build’ than most prams – no manic 2am YouTube How-To videos with an early flight time – and looks chic, despite its more reasonable price point. An immediately obvious down side of this nimble and incredibly popular travel pram is its wheels and general manoeuvrability over anything that isn’t a polished station floor. You’d have serious trouble negotiating the historic mule paths of a Greek village with this pram. This is also something to note if your baby doesn’t sleep well with too much jiggling about.

Jet Set: 8 Travel Prams To Take On A Plane

Whether you’re heading off on bub’s first road trip or your mini-me is a frequent flyer, a travel pram or stroller is a handy accessory that makes family holidays more comfortable for everyone.

Travel prams are lightweight strollers that fold down into compact units that are small enough to travel with. In fact, some are compact enough to take on planes as carry-on and fit in the overhead compartments.

Domestic carry-on luggage allowances

Carry-on restrictions vary between airline carriers in Australia. We’ve checked with the airlines and listed their carry-on weight and dimension allowances.

When checking if your pram meets the requirements of the carrier you’re flying with keep in mind that the stroller weight listed by the brand may not take into account any accessories like pram liners, sunshades, cup holders etc.

Size and weight restrictions for overhead luggage

We always recommend rechecking your pram’s total weight before you travel.

Virgin Australia

Dimensions: 56cm x 36cm x 23cm Weight: 7kg

Dimensions: 56cm x 36cm x 23cm Weight: 10kg

Rex Airlines

Dimensions: 56cm x 36cm x 23cm Weight: 7kg – 15kg depending on fare type

OUR PICK OF THE CROP 8 travel strollers compact enough for carry-on

Even if you’re taking a baby carrier on your travels, there are times when only a stroller will do. We consulted our huge Facebook community of Australian mums and listed their most popular choices below.

In no particular order, here are 8 popular Travel Prams we recommend.

BABYZEN YOYO² Travel Pram ($849.95)

Only taking seconds to fold, the BABYZEN YOYO² Pram is compact and cabin approved. Extremely strong and super light thanks to its high-quality materials, we love that all seat fabrics are washing machine friendly. Optional newborn pack available.

Folded d imensions : 52cm x 44cm x 18cm Weight: from 6.2kg Suitable for : 6 months to 22kg

Leclercbaby

Leclercbaby influencer stroller ($859).

Meet the Leclerc Baby Influencer Stroller—a style icon, safety champ and comfort expert all in one! With its chic design in three fabulous colours, quick-fold magic (1.5 seconds flat) and cozy seat, it’s the ultimate travel companion for trendy tots. Fly high with fashion and function.

Folded d imensions : 56cm x 24cm x 47cm Weight: 6.6kg Suitable for : Birth up to 22kg capacity

Bugaboo Butterfly Stroller ($749)

Equipped with a one-second fold, the Bugaboo Butterfly boasts a large, fully reclinable seat, extendable hood and 8kg of underneath storage. We love that it meets the requirements for carry-on luggage by the International Air Transport Association.

Folded d imensions : 54cm x 45cm x 23cm Weight: 7.3kg Suitable for : 6 months to 22kg

Silver Cross

Silver cross jet eclipse travel pram ($699).

Ultra-lightweight and compact, Silver Cross’s Jet Eclipse travel pram is cabin approved for most major airlines. Complete with UPF50+ sun canopy and optional travel system adaptors, we love that it transforms from a full-size stroller to a compact pull-along.

Folded d imensions : 55cm x 30cm x 18cm Weight: 5.9kg Suitable for : birth to 15kg

Edwards & Co

Edwards & co otto ($449).

With puncture-proof PU wheels, the Edwards & Co Otto stroller has a fully reclinable seat, UPF50+ sun cover and a one-hand folding mechanism. We love the complimentary storage bag that allows you to pull it along or carry over the shoulder.

Folded d imensions : 49cm x 41cm (with wheels removed) Weight: 7kg Suitable for : birth to 20kg

UPPAbaby Minu Travel Stroller ($599)

With a handy one-step fold, UPPAbaby’s Minu lightweight stroller has all-wheel suspension, a fully reclining multi-positioning seat and an extendable pop-out UPF50+ canopy. We love that it comes with a storage bag and built-in carry handle and shoulder strap.

Folded d imensions : 58.4cm x 52cm x 29.2cm Weight: 6.7kg Suitable for : birth to 23kg (with additional birth kit)

Babyhood Air Compact Stroller 2.0 ($549)

Fitted with a smooth glide wheel system and auto-fold mechanism, Babyhood’s latest Air Compact stroller is newborn-ready and travel system compatible. We love the zip-open sun drape for complete protection from head to toe and free rain cover and bumper included.

Folded d imensions : 54cm x 48cm x 23cm Weight: 6.6kg (without accessories) Suitable for : birth to 18kg

Karion Kids

Karion kids travel stroller ($329).

Ultra compact, light-weight and suitable for all terrains, the Karion Travel Stroller folds out in seconds with a flick of the wrist. Equipped with an SPF 50 sun shade, solid wheel base and strong frame, you can carry it as a backpack or shoulder bag. Airport game: strong.

Folded d imensions : 50cm x 33cm x 20cm Weight: 4.9kg Suitable for : 6 months to 17kg

Read the comments and find out which travel prams other mums have taken on planes:

Can travel prams go on airplanes?

Yes, select travel prams are permitted onboard airplanes if they are compact and lightweight enough to meet the cabin baggage allowance. Of course, always check with your airline before you travel as cabin allowances vary with fares.

What are the benefits of a travel pram?

There are so many benefits to having a travel pram with you on holiday, starting with being able to pop baby into the stroller the second you step off the plane. A compact stroller also makes it faster to get around with young kids and gives them a place to sleep while you’re on the go.

What features should I look for in a travel stroller?

Aside from a compact, lightweight design, look for reclining seats so that kids can rest, a sun-safe canopy, good ventilation and a storage basket for your snacks and shopping. Many travel strollers also come with storage bags and shoulder straps for easy carrying.

Know a travel stroller we should add to our list? Contact us and let us know, we’ve been collating Australia’s best baby products into shortlists for over 15 years and we’re always happy to support new brands and businesses.

Ask other mums

Looking for stroller to take on holidays and still not sure if any of these are right for you? Join the huge Grapeviner community in one of our age-based private Facebook baby groups and ask thousands of other mums with babies the same age as you, which one they recommend.

Click here and be matched to your Mum’s Grapevine Facebook groups today!

We want you to know

At Mum’s Grapevine, we’re a team of passionate mums with over 15 years of experience researching and writing about all things baby and parenting. Our reviews of recommended products, like the ones in this post, may include paid inclusions, but we promise to only feature products that we truly believe in and have used or seen ourselves. We want to ensure that our readers have access to the latest and greatest products in the parenting world, and we’re committed to maintaining our high standards of quality and honesty. See our Disclosure Policy .

Thank you for trusting us to be your go-to source for all things baby-related.

Top 6 nappy bin brands leading the way, puddle pals: 10 kids’ gumboots mums recommend, rain play: 12 durable kids’ raincoats mums recommend, book list: 35 pregnancy books for expecting mums.

Travelling with a baby stroller: What you need to know

Travelling with infants is a whole new ball game. Everything from what to pack to planning your itinerary can become significantly more complex. Flying with infants, ofcourse, is perhaps the most stressful part of the journey. Especially with long overhauls at some of the big airports can mean lugging your child through the long hallways between airport terminals.

If you’re traveling with a baby or young child, bringing a stroller can be a big help. Not only can you move faster but sometimes your child can easily fall asleep in the stroller thus easing their and your journey. And when your sightseeing involves a lot of walking, a stroller can be life saver.

However, carrying as unwieldy a thing as a stroller can be disconcerting, especially when flying. With airlines, across the world, tightening their belts and treating extra luggage with increasing disdain, it is important to be informed about the rules practices around carrying a stroller around during your travel.

This blog will help you do just that. We shed light on some of the biggest concerns about travelling with a stroller and also encapsulate policies of popular airlines when it comes to checking in strollers. Read on…

Can you bring a stroller on the plane?

The simple answer is Yes. You can check it in with your baggage. Most airlines don’t charge additionally for strollers as courtesy, but it is better to confirm before flying for budget airlines (see the policies of some popular airlines below).

These days most airlines (domestic and international) also provide what is known as gate check-in for strollers. Which means once you arrive at the ladder point of the aircraft (or door in case of an aero bridge) the airline staff will load it with the check-in bags. Once you arrive, you can just ask the cabin crew to retrieve it for you.

This is a great service and you should definitely opt for it, if available (best to check at the check-in counter, while collecting your boarding passes). Because, when you check it in at the gate, there are less chances of the stroller being mishandled. Plus, you can use it through the airport until you depart. Same at the arrival airport. It also means you dont have to wait for the stroller on the luggage carousel.

When should I bring one?

Even the lightest strollers are heavy (around 5 kgs). For short trips and local flights, using a baby-carrier , or a back carrier (for slightly older infants) may be a better alternative. They strap onto your body and can be easily folded and packed away. However, it can be back breaking for the parent if out and about for a longer time and with babies over 18 months old.

Some airports and even malls provide strollers to ease your transit or shopping experience. If you have booked a flight with a long overhaul, it is better to check up on the special facilities for infants. It may just allow you to skip the hassle of carrying a stroller, entirely.

If you are travelling with two or more toddlers and if your itinerary involves extensive sight seeing, then the stroller is totally worth it. Especially when travelling to large cities or when your sightseeing involves zoos and amusement parks, having a stroller can make a big difference. Many strollers also have additional storage that can help carry/ replace the nappy bag.

What you need to know?

Make sure you go for an umbrella stroller as those fold nicely and airlines are used to handling and stowing them away. Your normal city stroller, may not be accepted by the airline atall, so do be careful in this regard. Whether fully checking or gate-checking a stroller make sure to remove any stroller attachments like drink holders, bag carrier etc. Securely strap it in its folded position before allowing it to be checked.

To give you an idea about the rules behind stroller check-ins, we have briefly encapsulated the policy in this regard, of some popular airlines below:

For safety reasons, children above the age of 7 days and under the age of 2 years as on the date of travel are regarded as Infants. A maximum of 7 kgs as hand baggage is permitted for infants. Infants cannot travel in their own seat and must be seated in an adult’s lap. Gate check in for strollers is permitted.

Young guests between 2 and 12 years of age (at the time of travel) will be considered as children. Guests up to 2 years will be considered as infants. They provide full check in of strollers for international flights at no cost while for domestic it should be within the 15kg baggage limit. Gate check in for strollers is also allowed.

Baby strollers/buggies/prams, can be carried free of charge as checked baggage provided they are being used by an infant, child user that is travelling. Otherwise, a checked baggage allowance must be pre booked.

They allow you to gate check in the stroller.

British Airways

For children 2-11 years of age: You are allowed “one fully-collapsible pushchair (stroller) and one car seat”, in addition to regular baggage allowance.

For infants under age 2: You are allowed to bring a stroller and car seat, but no other extra checked baggage.

Cathay Pacific

You can carry an approved car safety seat, a small bag of food and nappies (for consumption on the flight), an umbrella type collapsible stroller (if cabin stowage is available); when travelling with a child or an infant, on the plane.

Singapore Airlines

A fully collapsible stroller or pushchair, carry-cot and infant food items may be checked in without charge or can be checked in at gate.

You can bring one fully collapsible stroller or carry-cot , as a carry-on item if cabin space is available or else as checked baggage.

Baggage allowance for i is 10kgs, and one bag. In addition, you are permitted to bring one carry-cot or one fully collapsible stroller into the cabin if there is room. However, if checked, they will not count against your baggage allowance.

You can carry 2 items of baby equipment free of charge per child – 1 pushchair plus one of the following items: car seat or booster seat or travel cot.   Children’s pushchairs can be checked in at the gate (provided local conditions permit this).

All baby pushchairs can be brought till the door of aircraft but only car-type baby carriage are only allowed to be taken into the cabin. They carry push chairs free of charge.

They allow one collapsible stroller/pushchair or carrycot per infant, without charge, additionally to the free baggage allowance to which each infant is entitled.

Please visit your airline’s website for the full and latest policy on stroller check-ins before travelling.

In sum, as we always say, travel equipped to travel better. And if you need any specialized gear for your next trip, you can always rely on Bragpacker.com to provide you with the best gear to Rent, Try or Buy.

Feature image courtesy: www.popsugar.com

4 replies on “ Travelling with a baby stroller: What you need to know “

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A Guide to Flying with a Stroller

A stroller is necessary while traveling with a young child. It not only gives your child a place to rest and unwind, but it also makes it simpler to maneuver in congested places like airports. There are many different types of travel strollers, some can be packed flat and placed in the overhead bin whereas the bigger strollers will have to be checked as luggage.

In this article, we share information from whether you can bring a stroller with you internationally to whether you can bring them onboard. We also discuss the guidelines of different airlines about their rules and regulations regarding strollers, including their weight and size limitations, all things that make flying with kids less stressful .

You can also learn about tips and tricks to packing light .

You can even consider traveling with carry on only to avoid all the baggage chaos.

Thinking of booking an airplane bassinet for your baby? Read here for more information.

Can we take stroller in international flight, how to travel with a stroller.

Can You Take a Stroller on a Plane?

How to Protect Stroller When Flying?

Stroller That Fits in Overhead Bin

Are Baby Strollers Allowed On Airplanes?

What kind of stroller can i take on a plane, is a stroller considered a carry on, here's a lightweight stroller for airplane travel to consider.

Is it Free to Bring a Stroller on a Plane?

Can I Take a Full Size Stroller on an Airplane?

51 airlines stroller policy.

Yes is the quick, short answer. Saying that most airlines allow you to check in two baby items like a stroller and car seat free of charge. Many airlines also allow strollers to be gate checked. This means that the airline employees will load the aircraft with the check-in bags after you reach the ladder point of the plane (or door in the case of an aero bridge).

Tell the check-in agent at the counter that you want to gate-check your stroller when you check your bags. They will either attach the tag themselves or provide you with instructions on where to get your tags once you arrive at your gate.

Generally, if your stroller is in two components, it will need to be checked in or gate-checked due to the size of the stroller. You won't be able to take it onboard.

Take note that if you are to bring a stroller onto the plane, airlines will require the stroller to be fully collapsible. And if you do bring the stroller onboard, most airlines consider the stroller as your carry on luggage whereas some airlines allow a stroller and car seat to be brought onboard in addition to your carry-on luggage. So, make sure you check with your airlines prior to flying.

family showing you how to travel with a stroller

There are three ways you can travel with a stroller. See the different options below:

1. Check Stroller with Checked Baggage

A stroller is regarded as checked-in luggage when checked at the counter. Your stroller is loaded onto the aircraft along with the luggage by the attendants. When you check your stroller alongside your luggage, often you may be required to drop off your stroller at the oversize luggage counter.

2. Gate Checked Strollers

Credit: sophiefamilytravel

Another option is to gate-check your stroller. By choosing this option, you will have access to your stroller as you navigate through the airport.

How to gate check your stroller:

At check-in counter:

Speak to the ground staff and let them know you intend to use your stroller at the airport. In this instance, they will either print you a tag for the stroller or instruct you to get a tag from the staff at the gate.

Pass through security with your stroller:

As you get through security, you will have to fold up your stroller to go through the x-ray machine. If the stroller is too big to fit in the x-ray machine, it will be manually inspected by a TSA employee.

Drop your stroller off at the gate:

Make sure you have your stroller tag by now. If you haven't done so, speak to the airline staff at the gate to obtain one. You can continue to use your stroller up until boarding the plane.

Leave your stroller at the door of the plane:

Upon boarding, the airline staff will remind you to place the stroller by the door of the plane. The stroller will then be placed in the hold with all the luggage. Depending on which airport you land at, you will either get your stroller back from the jet bridge as you disembark the plane, or you may need to head to baggage claim to retrieve your stroller.

This is true flying Qantas into Australia or Malaysia Airlines into Malaysia. There is a risk of your stroller being damaged if your stroller has not been packed properly in a padded stroller bag. Once more, review the policies of your airline before flying.

3. Bringing stroller onboard

Credit: myternx

The regulations of the airline as well as the size of your stroller will determine whether this option is feasible.

Can You Take a Stroller On a Plane?

A foldable stroller or another small, compact stroller can typically be used as a carry-on with most airlines. However, not every airline is made equally. Some airlines do not allow strollers onboard, Others permit strollers, but consider your stroller as carry-on allowance if you bring one along and some allows your stroller onboard as long as it is packed down an unrecognizable as a pushchair.

It also depends on whether you are flying with a lap infant or whether you purchased an extra seat for your baby. Do note that if you have purchased an extra seat for your baby, they are entitled to the same carry on luggage allowance as you.

For example, Austrian Airlines doesn't count a stroller as carry-on allowance and permits strollers to be brought on board as long as the stroller is under 10kg and once folded and is no longer identifiable as a pushchair.

Singapore airlines allow a compact, foldable lightweight stroller on board the cabin as long as it is under 7kg and the sum of length, width, and height does not exceed 115cm. Saying that, Singapore airlines regards your stroller as your carry on allowance.

Whenever you gate check or check your stroller with your baggage, make sure the stroller is packed in a stroller bag to protect the stroller. This is because your stroller gets handled by many people and can be mishandled at times. The last you want is receiving a damaged stroller when you get to your vacation destination.

Read here for the best travel stroller bag to protect youtr sroller.

From personal experience, the safest option is to bring a travel stroller that fits in the overhead compartment of the plane.

Stroller That Fits In Overhead Bin

According to IATA Carry-on baggage size , the standard carry-on allowance for luggage varies depending on the airline, the class you are flying, and even the size of the aircraft. Generally speaking, carry-on bags shouldn't be larger than the following measurements: 22 x 18 x 10"/56 x 45 x 25 cm. These measurements account for the wheels, handles, side pockets, etc.

However, from our research, most airlines' carry on requirements varies. In fact, many airlines have a size restriction of 22 x 14 x 9"/56 x 36 x 23cm. Hence, it is important to check with your airlines prior to flying.

The main reason to get a travel stroller that fits in the overhead compartment is to ensure that your travel stroller is with you the entire time. In the event of a flight delay, having the stroller with you ensures you will have a comfortable space for your baby to nap in if required. It also gives you peace of mind to know that your stroller won't be lost or damaged in transit.

Every airline has its carry-on allowance policies and policies for strollers and child restraint system. Be sure to check with your airlines before hand.

As carry-on luggage, you are allowed to bring one small, foldable baby stroller (maximum dimensions: 55 x 40 x 23 cm) or two if you are flying business or first class.

Strollers with overall dimensions greater than 115 cm can be used up until the ticket counter, but beyond that, they must be checked in as luggage. Strollers or umbrella strollers designed that fold up completely and measure less than 100 cm x 20 cm x 20 cm are permitted on board.

Delta Airlines

Strollers can be checked in or gate checked for free. Stroller can also be brought on board as part of the adult’s carry on allowance when flying with a lap infant.

As for car seats, child safety seats may be brought onto the aircraft. You may put your baby in an FAA-approved child safety seat during takeoff and landing if you reserved a seat for them or if there is an open passenger seat in your row. The item must be checked at the gate by a Delta official if you haven't purchased a seat for your youngster or there aren't any additional passenger seats available.

British Airways

British Airways offer a service that returns your stroller back to the plane's entrance in certain destinations to aid you in your travels. Please see the list below to see if your stroller satisfies the tight requirements for pushchair size.

It must be an all-in-one, sleek, fully folding pushchair. Wheels not included, maximum dimension: 38 cm height x 117 cm in length x 38cm in depth.

If your stroller fits the requirements , it will be marked with an orange Return To Aircraft Door label bearing your contact details before being put on the hold. Then, when you get to your location, you can pick it up. For guidance, please speak with the cabin staff.

Your stroller won't be delivered to the aircraft door upon arrival if it exceeds the measurements . Alternatively, you can pick up your stroller and checked bags from the arrival gate in the baggage hall when you reach your destination.

Mom pushing baby in a stroller at the airport

Hand luggage prams are typically allowed on planes when you're traveling with a baby because airlines are aware you'll need them when you get to your destination. What you need to check is that the baby stroller is within the airline's restriction for carry on.

In general, the collapsible size of your stroller should not exceed 22 x 18 x 10"/56 x 45 x 25 cm if you are intending to bring it onto a plane. If it exceeds this, it might be too large to fit in the overhead compartment and hence prohibited.

On the other hand, if you are traveling with a double stroller or jogging stroller, they will have to be checked in due to size. As always, it's advisable to double-check with the airline you're traveling with as each has its policies regarding what is and isn't permitted.

Any stroller and related items, like child's car seat, booster seats will be required to meet airline policies to be brought onboard. The best strollers for flying are light, simple to fold, and have folded proportions that fit the specifications for keeping the stroller in the airplane overhead bin.

While many strollers are lightweight and compact for travel, very few of them are genuinely small enough to fit in the overhead bin of an airplane. The majority of umbrella strollers still need to be checked or gate-checked, making them prone to being thrown or damaged during transportation.

Airlines have different stroller restrictions, and some airlines don't allow strollers as carry-on bags regardless of size. Before your trip, make sure to review your airline's policies.

After doing extensive research, there are actually only 5 travel strollers that are FAA approved and fit in the overhead compartment.

Are Umbrella Strollers Allowed on Planes?

As a general rule of thumb , the collapsible size of your stroller should not exceed 22 x 18 x 10"/56 x 45 x 25, which means umbrella strollers often fall outside these measurements and are not allowed to be brought onto the plane. It is likely you will need to gate check umbrella strollers. It is best to double check with your airlines prior to flying.

In general, if you decide to bring your compact stroller onboard the plane and it fits within the carry on requirements, it will count towards your carry-on allowance. Otherwise, most airlines allow you to check in or gate check your stroller for free.

Wonder what size luggage is considered carry on ? Read on.

TernX Carry On

Folded dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9”/55 x 36 x 23cm

Weight: 16.9 lbs (~7.7kg)

The TernX Carry-On is the best travel stroller for flying , and is a cutting-edge option for families on the go, providing several advantages that make travel simpler, more effective, and less stressful. For both parents and kids, this provides convenience and a smooth travel experience. TernX Carry-On is a collapsible stroller for travel. It complies with the IATA carry-on allowance.

Excellent for travel as it is a cabin-size pushchair and it provides storage for your belongings.

In the mean time, here's a summary of 50 airlines stroller policies at a glance.

Is it Free to Bring a Stroller on a Plane?

Generally, if your stroller fits within the carry on dimensions and allowance of the airlines, you are allowed to bring a stroller on a plane for free. However, the stroller will count towards your carry on allowance. So, if you are flying a budget airline, make sure you take this into consideration as there may be additional charges if you have too many hand luggage with you.

No, you are not allowed to take a full size stroller on an airplane. Only strollers that are folded small enough to fit carry on requirements can be taken on an airplane.

For an infant, one fully folding stroller is permitted, together with either a car seat, booster seat, or travel cot.

Aeroflot Russian Airlines

A collapsible stroller with maximum dimensions of 42 х 50 х 20 cm is allowed onboard when travelling with a child.

Baby strollers/buggies/prams can be carried free of charge as checked baggage provided they are being used by an infant and/or child that is traveling.

One stroller no larger than 25.5 x 92cm per child may be checked for free at the baggage office or the boarding gate. A stroller for each child is permitted in addition to carry-on and checked baggage.

As long as its total dimensions don't exceed those permitted for typically checked luggage, a stroller or bassinet may also be checked in for free.

A carry-on item weighing up to 10 kg, a car seat, and a foldable stroller or baby carrier allowed in the hold.

Air New Zealand

You are allowed to check two items as part of your baggage allowance. Buggy/stroller, car seat or bassinet.

Alaska Airlines

You can either wait until you get to the gate area or check these goods with your other luggage without any cost at your end.

American Airlines

1 stroller allowed to be checked free of charge.

ANA - All Nippon Airways

Strollers that fold up, portable cradles, and kid seats can be checked in for free.

Asiana Airlines

You can include a bassinet, travel cot, car seat, or lightweight stroller free of charge.

Austrian Airlines

Strollers are permitted, but if they weigh more than 10 kg, they must be checked in.

Strollers can be checked in free of charge.

Each infant and toddler may check up to two of the following necessary items into the hold: completely foldable pushchair (stroller), booster, portable cot.

Cathay Pacific

An umbrella-type collapsible stroller or any type of foldable stroller within the standard cabin bag size and weight after folding is allowed (if cabin stowage is available).

Cebu Pacific Air

You can check in strollers free of charge.

China Airlines

A passenger under 2 can have a fully collapsible stroller/pushchair, infant carrying basket, or car seat checked as baggage or be accepted as a carry-on in the passenger cabin subject to the availability of space.

Delta Air Lines

They don't charge extra for using strollers or child restraint devices. These are not considered part of your (or your ticketed child's) checked baggage allowance.

You can carry two items for your child in the hold for your baby for free. These consist of a portable crib, stroller, car seat, portable or conventional pram, booster seat, and/or baby carrier.

Strollers are allowed to be taken onboard free of charge.

Strollers can be brought inside the cabin if there is room, but if not, they must be checked in for free.

Ethiopian Airlines

For infants under the age of two, you are allowed a stroller and car seat without charge.

Frontier Airlines

Strollers are permitted, however, once you get to the gate, they must be examined from there. The stroller will be free to check in.

Garuda Indonesia

Stroller allowed as checked-in luggage.

Hainan Airlines

One baby back carrier and light collapsible baby buggy or pushchair (that can be carried, such that the volume and weight do not exceed carry-on baggage restrictions, and can be put in the baggage compartment above the seat or under the seat directly in front of the passenger.

Japan Airlines

Baby carriage or stroller can be taken aboard only if it is foldable to fit within the required size of carry-on baggage.

Jetblue Airways

One stroller allowed and does not count toward your carry-on or checked bag allowance.

When traveling with a baby or young child, you can check any number of the following items — a pram, a stroller, a portable cot, and/or a highchair for no additional cost.

Kenya Airways

Strollers are checked in for free.

Strollers with a combined size greater than 115 cm may be used up until the boarding gate, but after that, they must be checked in as luggage. Strollers that fold up completely and measure less than 100 x 20 x 20 cm are permitted on board.

LATAM Airlines

Strollers with detachable restraint systems (Travel System) are classified as single items and can therefore be transported with either all of the components (base and chair) or just one of them. We will send it to the hold at no additional charge if there is no room in the cabin.

Strollers are permitted on board; however, some flights may require that they are placed in the hold.

Norwegian Air

5kg of regular free baggage allowance and you are allowed one stroller and car seat.

Collapsible strollers that meet the carry-on allowance baggage dimensions in their collapsed state and weigh less than 7 kgs can be brought onboard however will be counted as a piece of the accompanying adult’s carry-on baggage allowance.

Qatar Airways

Each infant is allowed a stroller, carrycot that collapses, or pushchair.

Royal Brunei Airlines

Strollers for infants must be checked in and are not permitted as hand luggage. Lightweight strollers can sometimes be checked in at the boarding gate, depending on the airport. Once at the destination and after leaving the flight, these strollers will be returned.

Royal Air Maroc

You are not charged extra to transfer your child's stroller. A stroller that fits in the baggage compartments and has dimensions no larger than 15 x 30 x 100 cm is permitted to travel with you.

Free use of two pieces of baby gear per child: one pushchair and one car seat, booster seat, or travel cot.

Saudi Arabian Airlines

Infants are allowed an infant-carrying basket, a fully foldable stroller, or a baby seat.

Singapore Airlines

A small, collapsible, light stroller can be brought into the cabin.

South African Airways

Infants are allowed one accessible folding stroller or buggy, a car seat, and one piece of checked luggage up to 23 kg.

Southwest Airlines

Customers with children are allowed to check one stroller and one car seat without charge.

You may bring so-called “pocket buggies” on board as part of your free hand baggage allowance, provided they are packed accordingly and are no longer recognizable as pushchairs.

Thai Airways International

Pushchairs are transported for free in addition to your permitted amount of luggage.

A stroller or completely folded crib to be transported to the aircraft door. The crew will put it in the aircraft hold and hand it over to the Passenger at the door of the aircraft once arrived at the destination.

United Airlines

United Airlines Stroller policy allows standard strollers, folding wagons, and car seats can be used to get to your gate and then checked for free. They’ll be returned to you on arrival. Collapsible strollers can be stored in-cabin.

Vietnam Airlines

Passengers should check-in their baby stroller, or they may use it up to the boarding gate.

Virgin Australia

You're entitled to carry special items free of charge: pram, portable cot, car seat, baby capsule

Vueling Airlines

Passengers travelling with an infant may also check in a total of two extra items: pushchair, carrycot, car seat or cot.

You can check a car seat and stroller for free while traveling with a young child.

If you are looking to bring your car seat on the flight, read here for more information on flying with a car seat .

Here are some tips on how to deep clean your stroller after your travels.

Flying with a Stroller

Hope this gives you a better idea on what is possible when flying with a stroller. The key is to do your research beforehand. From personal experience, traveling with a stroller on board is much safer and easier. You are certain the stroller is with you at all times and you reduce the risk of your stroller being damaged during transportation.

Furthermore, you have a peace of mind knowing that there is a spot for your child to rest during layovers. Not only that, having a stroller with you at the airport gives you more control over your immediate surroundings, especially when you are navigating through crowded and busy airports. Have fun on your next journey!

If you want to know exactly the allowed size of luggage for carry on regarding these airlines, read here .

Don't forget to check out our tips for traveling on an airplane with kids .

Happy journeys!

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What should i be aware of when flying with my baby.

When you and your baby fly with Lufthansa, you are in good hands because our special services are entirely orientated towards your wellbeing.

Dad holding his baby daughter during flight on airplane going on vacations. Baby girl drinking formula milk from bottle. Air travel with baby, child and family concept.

Important information about preparing for a flight with your baby

Night flights are especially suitable for travelling with babies as they can maintain their sleep pattern and consequently be more relaxed.
During the aircraft’s ascent and descent, you can help your baby to equalize the air pressure by giving him/her a dummy or a bottle.
Changing tables can be found in the washrooms on board.
There is also water suitable for babies’ bottles on board so that it is unnecessary to purchase water after you have passed through security control.
We also have spare nappies available on board for emergencies.

At most airports, it’s possible to use a foldable pushchair 1 or buggy and to hand it over just before boarding. It will be returned to you immediately after landing. Please enquire at baggage drop-off whether you can take your buggy or pushchair 1 with you and hand it over directly at the aircraft. Please also remember to tell staff if you will need your buggy or pushchair 1 for a connecting flight. At the departure gate, our staff will make sure that your buggy or pushchair 1 is taken on board. Once the aircraft reaches its parking position, the buggy or pushchair 1 will be returned to you at the passenger boarding bridge or, in the case of a bus transfer, at the foot of the aircraft boarding steps. If you do not receive your buggy or pushchair 1 on arrival, please contact one of our gate staff or the nearest Service Center. Please note that the return of your buggy or pushchair 1 may take a few minutes. You cannot take your buggy or pushchair 1 on board yourself at the following airports: Addis Ababa, Asmara, Bari, Billund, Birmingham, Bordeaux, Bremen, Cagliari, Catania, Copenhagen, Dresden, Dusseldorf, Gothenburg, Hamburg, Hanover, London Heathrow, Lyon, Marseille, Nice, Nuremberg, Olbia, Palermo, Riyadh, Stockholm, Stuttgart, Valencia. Taking a buggy or pushchair 1 with you is free of charge. You can find information about the free baggage allowance for babies here.

1 Please note that it must be a fully foldable travel pushchair.

Yes, but we still recommend taking along your baby’s favourite food or bottle, as the availability of baby food on board Lufthansa flights is limited. We will happily warm up baby’s bottles or food for you on board. There is also water suitable for babies’ bottles on board so that it is unnecessary to purchase water after you have passed through security control.

Children aged two or over, or who will turn two during the trip, require their own seat. In the latter case, the child fare applies to the entire trip. Please note that for safety reasons only one baby per adult is allowed on board. However, if you have a second child under two years old travelling with you, you have the option of booking a seat and taking an appropriate child restraint system, such as a baby carrier or child car seat, on board with you.

We have special bassinets available on our entire long-haul fleet: these are perfectly suited to babies under 11 kg in weight and under 67 cm in length. The number of bassinets on board is limited. You can reserve a bassinet up to 52 hours before your flight departs. Please note that, depending on your booking class, a seat reservation fee for the seat with the bassinet may apply. For further information, please contact our Service Center.

A child restraint system, child car seat or baby carrier can be used on board to increase the passive safety of babies and children (up to about 7 years of age). Their use is voluntary.

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TRAVEL GEAR

How to Protect a Stroller When Flying

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best stroller hacks for baby and toddler

I think you’ll agree with me when I say…

Protecting your stroller from getting scratched or damaged when flying is a tough ask.

As if traveling with kids wasn’t hard enough!

So, with that in mind, I’ve made travel a little bit easier for you!

Here are 13 amazing ways you can protect your stroller on your next flight.

Let’s get started…

13 ways of protecting your stroller when flying

After tens of hours of research and from our own experiences traveling with kids and strollers, here are our top ways to protect your stroller on your next trip!

Get a stroller bag

One of the best ways of protecting your stroller when flying is getting yourself a handy universal stroller travel bag, like the VolkGo Stroller Bag on Amazon.

This will keep your stroller free from germs and dirt, which is perfect if you’re flying or taking a road trip with the kids.

Be sure your stroller bag is waterproof and durable enough to survive being checked in, as baggage handlers don’t have the best reputation when it comes to looking after your luggage.

Things to look out for:

Make sure your travel bag fits your stroller
Ensure its waterproof
Don’t always opt for the cheapest
Check its quality and durability
Ensure your bag has a lock
Getting a bright color can make your stroller easily to find

I would recommend the VolkGo Stroller Bag or the Stroller Gate Check Bag (which is cheaper) as they both tick all the points above and have excellent reviews.

Take it on board the aircraft

The best way to protect your stroller when flying is to keep it with you at all times.

In order to do this, your stroller needs to be very compact and lightweight, such as the BabyZen Yoyo (Amazon) or the Pockit Stroller (Amazon) .

These strollers are perfect for flying, as you can fold them right down and easily fit them into the overhead bin compartment.

This is great as you can avoid gate checking your stroller, potentially avoiding any damage.

However, be sure to check your airline’s stroller policy before traveling as they are all different. So far we haven’t had any issues bringing our BabyZen Yoyo on board.

Bandage or wrap foam handles

A strollers foam handles are notoriously vulnerable for getting slashed if they come in contact with anything sharp or with force, a suitcases zippers might even do it.

So, to minimize this risk, a great little stroller hack is to wrap your strollers foam handles with bandages like these on Amazon or duct tape for added protection.

During your flight, especially take off, things can move around if they are not secured well enough. This hack will help prevent anything sharp from ripping your handlebars.

This is a great cost effective idea if you are gate checking your stroller.

Use bubble wrap or tape

If you’re thinking of gate checking your stroller then you should consider using bubble wrap (Amazon) combined with tape to help protect your strollers frame.

This will help prevent your stroller from getting scratched and scuffed when flying and also during transport to and from the aircraft.

The first stroller we owned came out battered from an American Airlines flight, I only wish then I had done something like this.

Use plastic wrap at the airport

For a small fee of between $10 and $15 your checked baggage can be wrapped in multiple layers of plastic film.

This service is common in most airports around the world now and if you’re carrying an expensive stroller it’s well worth paying for!

The plastic wrap will shield your stroller from dirt and germs but most importantly protect your stroller from potential damage from rough handling or weather conditions during loading.

If you’re going to use this service check if the airport offers courtesy stroller you can use around the airport and to the gate. If not then you might want to consider getting a baby carrier sling (Amazon) – We love this one! So handy for traveling.

The DIY version is using bubble wrap and tape, however, this might not be practical if you need to use your stroller until the gate.

Use zip ties to stay collapsed

If you don’t have a travel bag and you’re worried that your stroller may open during the flight then getting some zip ties (like these off Amazon) might be the answer you’re looking for.

Simply, collapse your stroller as normal then wrap the zip ties around the legs of the stroller to fits frame. This will keep your stroller snug and prevent it from opening and causing damage in the aircraft hold.

A simple but effective solution! The only downside is you’ll need to remove the zip ties and may need scissors!

Use the airport courtesy strollers

There are lots of international airports around the world that offer courtesy strollers for transporting your children around the airport and to the gate.

This is great if you don’t fancy lugging a stroller around the airport, simply check yours in at the check-in desk and use the airports.

By keeping your stroller at home it will stay in one piece, however, you might find it hard carrying a little one around at your destination.

Consider bringing a stroller with you, but use some form of stroller protection mentioned above and check it in at the baggage desk with your cases.

Get a second stroller for traveling

If you’re worried about that expensive stroller getting damaged while traveling, that is totally understandable, chances are it probably will.

Therefore, you might want to consider getting a second stroller solely for traveling.

If you’re considering a second stroller look for a lightweight and compact stroller that will fit in the overhead bin compartment on the plane.

We love the BabyZen Yoyo (Amazon) , but it’s on the expensive side, but you can get the Pockit Lightweight Stroller which is a cheaper option, but still an amazing stroller for traveling.

Buy a cheap or used stroller

If you want a second stroller and don’t want to break the bank, why not think about getting a used stroller?

You can get some amazing bargains out there, check out our guide for buying a used stroller , It has everything you need to know.

This way you can use your used stroller for traveling and you won’t be as disheartened if it goes get scratched.

Once again though, I’d still consider some of the stroller protection options above on your used stroller.

Put stroller accessories in your baggage

Whether you’re gate checking your stroller or taking It on board, I’d recommend removing your accessories.

Put your cup holders, hoods, umbrellas, and trays in your checked baggage instead, this way you’ll keep them safe.

It’s not uncommon for a strollers umbrella to get ripped or for cup holders to snapped, so better safe than sorry.

Use pool noodles for protection

You can pick us some pool noodles on Amazon really cheap and then cut them to size to fit your strollers handlebars, legs, and frame.

This will provide added cushioning and protection during transportation to and from the plane.

This option isn’t as practical as the others though if you’re going to do anything like this then I would probably opt for the bubble wrap and take.

Or even better, spend $10 and get the airport staff to do it for you and save yourself the hassle.

Keep your stroller in the box

Another way to protect your stroller when flying is to transport it in its box. By doing this, your stroller will be fully protected and most probably contain protective bubble bags inside.

To transport a stroller in its original box, you will need to check this in at the baggage desk and there will most likely be an additional fee due to its size and weight.

If you’re in any doubt, contact your airline before you travel.

Don’t take a stroller

Last but not least, you could leave it at home not bother taking your stroller with you.

You can make use of the courtesy strollers offered at the airport to get you around the airport at both ends

Once you’re at your destination you could buy a cheap stroller, borrow a friend’s or use a baby carrier.

Final Thoughts

Protecting your stroller when flying is never an easy task especially if it’s checked baggage, as you have no control over it.

Your stroller could be thrown around and potentially mistreated by baggage handlers, other items could be thrown on to your stroller or bad weather conditions could dirty it.

Hopefully, some of the tips above will help you protect your stroller on your next adventure.

I would personally invest in a lightweight and compact travel stroller that you can store in the overhand bin compartment of the plane. This makes life a whole lot easier getting from point A to point B.

There’s no waiting around, carry it off the plane and away you go. The beauty of having a travel stroller means that you don’t have to do any of the points above!

There’s no messing around with bubble wrap, tape or wrapping as you can take it with you and keep it safe!

If you don’t have a stroller like the BabyZen Yoyo then my personal favorites for keeping your stroller in one piece are:

Stroller bag
Bubble wrap and tape
Use the airports plastic wrapping machine
Or a combination of different methods

Please let me know in the comments what your favorite tip is, or if I’ve missed any that you would like adding to the list! Thanks for reading.

Baby Center Forum – Protecting a stroller when flying
DIS Forums – Protecting a stroller when gate checking

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Unruly passenger threatens to 'kill everybody' and choke flight attendant on Frontier flight

A California man on a Frontier Airlines flight was arrested on Wednesday after attempting to strangle a flight attendant and threatening to kill everybody. The unruly passenger ultimately caused the flight to be diverted, according to officials.

Charles Angela Salva, 30, of Fremont, California, was a passenger on Flight 3581 departing from John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana to San Francisco International Airport on Monday, according to a press release by the U.S. Attorney's Office, Central District of California. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in federal prison for interfering with flight crew members.

In a statement to USA TODAY, Frontier Airlines confirmed the incident "involving a passenger who physically assaulted members of the flight crew and had to be restrained, forcing the flight to divert to Ontario, California."

One passenger told law enforcement they noticed that Salva seemed "claustrophobic" and "like he wanted to get off the plane."

Shortly after takeoff, flight attendants noticed the oxygen masks in one row in the middle of the aircraft were out of the overhead compartment and discovered that Salva had pulled down the masks and got his hand stuck in the process, the release said.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Salva soon began "yelling obscenities" at the flight attendants, including, "We are all going to hell" and "This airplane is going down." He got out of his seat, grabbed at other passengers and ran toward the rear of the aircraft.

Get a hold of yourselves: Why air rage on airplanes is every traveler's problem

As crew members tried to restrain him, Salva assaulted them multiple times. He allegedly tried to choke one of them – leaving two small marks on their neck. He then pushed another flight attendant and said he "going to kill everybody."

Breaking out of flex cuffs, Salva had to be restrained by a seatbelt with assistance from other passengers. He kicked one flight attendant in the legs about six times, leaving bruising and swelling that required medical attention, the release said.

The flight was then diverted to Ontario International Airport. "We extend our utmost appreciation to the flight crew for their professionalism and to the other passengers who assisted during the incident, as well as local and federal law enforcement, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Central District of California, for their efforts to ensure justice," Frontier Airlines said.

The FBI and Ontario Police Department are currently investigating the incident, according to the release.

As of Friday, there has been 897 incidents of unruly passengers , according to the Federal Aviation Administration.

COMMENTS

Everything You Need to Know About Strollers on Airplanes
Option 1: You may check the stroller at the check-in counter. Option 2: You may hand over the baby stroller at the aircraft door. Because storage space is limited in the aircraft cabin, the acceptance of baby prams/strollers as cabin items will be on a first-come, first-served basis.
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Yes, you absolutely can bring a pram on a plane. Most airlines allow parents to bring a pram or stroller as checked baggage, often at no extra cost. Some airlines even allow you to bring the pram right up to the aircraft door, where it's then taken by the ground crew and stowed away safely for the duration of the flight.
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Delta Air Lines Stroller Policy. Delta's stroller policy allows you to check strollers and car seats because they don't count as baggage. Whether you check them at the curb, ticket counter, or gate, there's no charge for these baby items. You can bring the car seat onto the plane if you have a seat for your baby.
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No. In most cases, taking a pram or a stroller onto a plane is free of charge if you're travelling with a child. Read next: The best travel systems, as tried and tested by parents. What's the best pram to take on a plane? Whether you're placing a pram in the hold or in the overhead lockers, here are the best pushchairs to take on a plane ...
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1. Babyzen YOYO2 Stroller. The Babyzen Yoyo2 - my top pick for the best stroller for airplane travel. In my opinion, the Babyzen YOYO2 is the best travel stroller for flying. The easy one-hand fold brings this 13.6 pound travel stroller down to folded dimensions of 20.5 x 17.3 x 7.1 inches.
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Carol Yepes / Getty Images. If you think your stroller is too big to fit in the overhead bin, you'll probably want to check it at the gate. Airlines offer early boarding for those who require assistance or are traveling with young children, so try to arrive before the pre-boarding time. This gives the airline ample time to load strollers that have been tagged and left to be checked on the jet ...
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Best cabin-approved stroller for newborns: Ergobaby Metro+ Deluxe | Buy now. Best quick-fold cabin-approved stroller: Didofy Aster 2 | Buy now. Best stylish cabin-approved stroller: Cybex Coya | Buy now. Best pull-along cabin-approved stroller: Silver Cross Jet 5 | Buy now.
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Here are our top picks for the best travel strollers (read further below for in-depth reviews, a comparison chart and further options) Best Buys Overall: Mountain Buggy Nano , Uppa Baby Minu. Best Budget: Summer Infant 3D Lite stroller but not so great if traveling solo. Best High-End: BabyZen YoYo2, Joolz Aer+ and Bugaboo Butterfly.
The 9 Best Travel Strollers, Tested by Traveling Parents
Best Luxury: Nuna TRVL Stroller. Best Double: Uppababy G-Link V2. Best Budget: Munchkin Sparrow. Best for Car Travel: Baby Jogger City Tour 2. Best for Trains and Buses: Babyzen YOYO2. In our New ...
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Flying with a baby for the first time can be as momentous as their first steps, first bite of first solid food, or first drop off at daycare. And like all those milestones, parents can feel understandably freaked out beforehand. No one, not even your baby themself, knows how a child will react to being on an airplane for the first time.
10 of the best cabin-approved strollers you can take on a plane as hand
Best for newborns: Babyzen YoYo 2, £319. Best luxury cabin-approved stroller: Cybex Coya, £539.95 £499.95. Best for sustainability: Joolz Aer+, £429. Best for storage: Bugaboo Butterfly, £419 £398. Best for comfort: Ergobaby Metro+, £319 £249. Best for accessories: Ickle Bubba Globe Prime, £249.
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Using a pram at the airport and on a plane . Having a pram or stroller at the airport can be a lifesaver, especially if you find yourself needing to rush between gates or when it's a bit crowded and you need to keep your little one close and safe. ... How to travel with a baby on a plane . Once you board the plane, it's time for a whole new ...
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The Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller isn't quite as simple to fold, recline, or buckle as the Minu V2, but it has the most comfortable handlebar of the travel strollers we tested, a decent ...
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Travel strollers make leaving home with your little one easier and more convenient. Today's travel stroller is a minimalist's dream. Most have many of the same high-end features as the best traditional strollers all rolled into a compact, portable package. Many break down to fit in the overhead bin of a plane or can be folded down quickly (and with one hand) and slung over your shoulder.
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Weight: 6.6kg. Folded Dimensions: 44 x 18 x 52cm. Move over Babyzen Yoyo, Cybex's new COYA could be the ultimate travel companion. This cabin baggage-compatible pram folds flat as a pancake with remarkable ease (one-handed) and somehow feels more sturdy than its main competitor.
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Silver Cross Jet Eclipse Travel Pram ($699) Ultra-lightweight and compact, Silver Cross's Jet Eclipse travel pram is cabin approved for most major airlines. Complete with UPF50+ sun canopy and optional travel system adaptors, we love that it transforms from a full-size stroller to a compact pull-along. Folded dimensions: 55cm x 30cm x 18cm.
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Indigo. For safety reasons, children above the age of 7 days and under the age of 2 years as on the date of travel are regarded as Infants. A maximum of 7 kgs as hand baggage is permitted for infants. Infants cannot travel in their own seat and must be seated in an adult's lap. Gate check in for strollers is permitted.
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Here's a Lightweight Stroller for Airplane Travel to Consider TernX Carry On. Folded dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9"/55 x 36 x 23cm. Weight: 16.9 lbs (~7.7kg) The TernX Carry-On is the best travel stroller for flying, and is a cutting-edge option for families on the go, providing several advantages that make travel simpler, more effective, and less ...
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Keep your stroller in the box. Another way to protect your stroller when flying is to transport it in its box. By doing this, your stroller will be fully protected and most probably contain protective bubble bags inside. To transport a stroller in its original box, you will need to check this in at the baggage desk and there will most likely be ...
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Taking a Pram On A Plan (A Guide for Travellers)

Can You Bring a Pram on a Plane?

Where is the Pram Stored During the Flight?

How to Minimise Damage to Your Pram

Airline Policies for Pushchairs/Strollers

Choosing the Right Stroller for Air Travel

Stowing Your Stroller - Cabin or Hold?

What is the best way to protect my stroller when flying?

Can I use my pram in the airport before the flight?

What happens if my stroller pram gets damaged during the flight?

Are there any strollers recommended for frequent air travel?

Gemma Woolich

Pram Picks: Pram Reviews & Comparison

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Here are the best cabin approved strollers for 2024

2. Cybex Libelle, £259.95

3. Silver Cross Jet 3, £345

4. My Babiie MBX5 Ultra Compact Stroller, £149.99 £119.99

5. Babyzen Yoyo 2, £319

6. Cybex Coya, £539.95 £499.95

7. Joolz Aer+, £429

8. Bugaboo Butterfly, £419 £398