travel stroller reviews 2022

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Overview: The Family Travel Issue On the Cover Amanda Kloots on Travel As a Single Mom T+L Trusted 12 Best Travel Strollers of 2023
• My Mom and I Became Digital Nomads at the Same Time — Here’s What Traveling Together Is Like
• After My Father Passed Away, My Family Went on a Safari to Celebrate His Life
• How a 70-mile Backpacking Trip Taught My 3 Kids They Can Do Difficult Things
• I Took My Parents and 10-month-old Baby on Our Dream Train Trip Through Europe
• I Took a Multi-family Road Trip With 4 Adults and 5 Kids — Here's How We Pulled It Off
• How to Plan an Unforgettable Trip With Your Adult Siblings
• How to Help Your Kids Actually Enjoy Museum-hopping in Europe, According to a Mom Who's Been There
• How to Plan an Enjoyable Trip With Your Parents As They Get Older
• 25 Best Mother-daughter Trips Around the World
• The 15 Best U.S. Resorts for Families, According to T+L Readers
• The Best Destination to Take Your Kids at Each Age — From Infants to College Graduates
• 7 Family Vacations Everyone Should Take at Least Once
• I Drove Across the Country With My 2 Young Kids — This Is the Road Trip Gear That Kept Us Happiest
• What You Should Pack to Get Through a Flight With Young Children
• I Took My Mom to Paris — This Is the Travel Gear That Kept Her Comfortable

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Travel Products
• Family Travel

The 15 Best Travel Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

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

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

You may also want.

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Phoebe Cheong

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

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

Best Overall

Joolz aer+ baby stroller.

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

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

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

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

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

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph
• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Phoebe Cheong

Best Overall, Runner-up

Nuna trvl lightweight stroller.

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

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Claire Cohen

Best Budget

Kolcraft cloud plus stroller.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel & Leisure / Phoebe Cheong

Best for Warm Weather

Gb qbit+ all city stroller.

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Phoebe Cheong

Best Folding

Uppababy minu v2 stroller.

It folds up far more compactly than other UPPAbaby models.

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

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

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

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

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

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best for Cities

Babyzen yoyo2 stroller.

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

The clips and buckles can be hard to maneuver.

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

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

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

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

Best Double

Uppababy g-link v2 stroller.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cybex Libelle Compact Stroller

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Maneuverability

Bugaboo butterfly stroller.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best for Air Travel

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

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

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

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

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

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Compact

Contours itsy.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Comfort

Baby jogger city tour 2 stroller.

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

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

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

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

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

Best Umbrella

Uppababy jordan g-luxe stroller.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Lightweight

Zoe the traveler.

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

The attachable snack tray is sold separately.

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

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

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

Most Adjustable

Thule shine.

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

It can be hard to turn on sharp corners.

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

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

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

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Other Travel Strollers We Liked

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tips for Buying a Travel Stroller

Consider the types of travel strollers.

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

Pay attention to folded size

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

Look for storage space and additional features

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

Prioritize comfort and safety

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

Can I carry a travel stroller on board a flight?

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

What's the difference between a travel stroller and a regular stroller?

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

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

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

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

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

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

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Related Articles

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Trip Planning
• Tech & Gear
• Accessories

The 8 Best Travel Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

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

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Final Verdict

Product selection, how we tested.

• Others We Tested
• What To Look For

Frequently Asked Questions

Why trust tripsavvy.

TripSavvy / Conor Ralph

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

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

Best Overall

Nuna trvl lightweight stroller.

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

Convenient one-handed fold

Suitable for newborns

Handles a variety of terrain with ease

Potentially unwieldy when removing from overhead bin

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

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

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

Weight: 15.4 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 11 x 27.3 x 20.3 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 41 x 26 x 20.5 inches | Seat Dimensions: 10 x 13 inches

Best Overall Runner-Up

Gb qbit+ all city stroller.

• Portability 4 /5
• Maneuverability 4.9 /5

User friendly

Solid handling

Long lasting

Canopy could be improved

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

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

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

Best Budget

Summer infant 3dlite stroller.

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

Budget-friendly

Cushioned handlebar

Ample storage space

Not the best for frequent fliers

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

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

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

Best Double

Uppababy g-link v2 stroller.

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

Opens and closes well

Solid canopy

Excellent handling

Heavy (somewhat expected in a double)

Some details could be improved

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

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

Weight: 21.8 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 14 x 40 x 17.5 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 41 x 25 x 28.3 inches | Seat Dimensions: 10 x 11 inches

Best Sun Shade

Uppababy g-luxe stroller.

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

Solid portability

Loaded with functional extras

Supports itself in the collapsed position

Operating takes practice

Not great for packing into small places

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

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

Weight: 16.5 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 15 x 41 x 11.8 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 42.5 x 23.5 x 18.5 inches | Seat Dimensions: 9 x 11 inches

Best Lightweight

Kolcraft cloud plus stroller.

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

Works well (once you figure it out)

Only option with a tray

Portability is not great

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

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

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

Most Maneuverable

Baby jogger city tour 2 stroller.

• Maneuverability 4.8 /5

Comfort features for the rider

Great value for its cost

Not as convenient for air travel

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

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

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

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

Best Portability

Babyzen yoyo2 stroller frame.

• Design 4.4 /5
• Portability 5 /5

Excellent padding

Easy to stow

Solid over rough terrain

Not intuitive for folding and unfolding

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other Travel Strollers We Tested

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to Look For in Travel Strollers

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

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

Extra Features

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

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

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

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

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

Related Articles

More related articles.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

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

Parents / Jessica Juliao

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

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

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)

Parents / Conor Ralph

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

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

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 Yoyo2 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 

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. 

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.  

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.

Related Articles

Protect Your Trip »

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

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

The Best Travel Strollers

Courtesy of Joolz

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

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

The Top Travel Strollers of 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Courtesy of UPPAbaby

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Courtesy of Evenflo

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

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

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

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Courtesy of Doona

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

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

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

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

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

Getty Images

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

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

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

Courtesy of Summer

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

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

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

[Read: The Top Kids Luggage .]

How to travel with a stroller and car seat

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel Stroller FAQ

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

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

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Diaper Bag Backpacks
• How to Get Your Child a Passport
• The Top Cruises for Babies and Toddlers
• The Top All-Inclusive Family Resorts in the World
• The Top Family Travel Insurance

Top Resorts Where Kids Stay Free

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

World's Best Places To Visit

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

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Romantic getaways in florida.

Alissa Grisler and Gwen Pratesi Sept. 9, 2024

The Best Weekend Getaways From NYC

Alissa Grisler and Jessica Colley Clarke Sept. 5, 2024

The Best Beach Resorts in the World

Sept. 5, 2024

The Best Rome Food Tours

Laura Itzkowitz Sept. 4, 2024

Top Things to Do in Hershey, PA

Amanda Norcross Aug. 30, 2024

The Best College Town Hotels

Rachael Hood Aug. 29, 2024

Fun Fall Weekend Getaways

Aug. 29, 2024

Best Hoover Dam Tours from Las Vegas

Holly Johnson and Ann Henson Aug. 29, 2024

The Best London Tours

Kim Foley MacKinnon Aug. 29, 2024

The 18 Best Barcelona Tours

John Rodwan Aug. 28, 2024

9 Foldable, Lightweight Strollers for Travel

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Things change when you have a baby. You start talking in months instead of years. Conversations about the bathroom become (more) tolerable, if not downright interesting. And you begin to notice strollers the way you used to eye nice cars. Your attention gravitates toward sleek aluminum wheels, SPF-protected sunshades, and upgraded leather handles. You can visualize yourself pushing one through a leafy park on a spring morning, all eyes diverted from your outfit—likely stained by grubby hands, anyway—to your state-of-the-art pram.

Finding a travel-friendly buggy only adds to the pushchair pressure. Frequent travelers need to consider things like airports , buses, subways, and terrain that ranges from  18th-century cobblestoned streets  to gravelly park paths. Big strollers—which might make sense on wide sidewalks in a suburban cul-de-sac—lose street cred in an urban environment or crowded airport. Would you try and parallel park your Escalade in Times Square ? No. And as stunning as those mountain-bike style suspension wheels are, you probably shouldn’t attempt to squeeze your double stroller through a metro turnstile either. We road-tested top strollers with family travel in mind , so you don’t have to sift through hundreds of options to find one that works for your brood. Below, nine of the best travel strollers on the market.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

If you’ve ever been in a physical altercation with your jogging stroller—folding them up, alone, can feel like a fixed wrestling match—consider upgrading to this speedy pram, one of the best travel strollers I've tried. The Roam, designed by the good folks at Guava (makers of the popular Lotus travel crib ), is capable of a marathon thanks to its all-terrain bike wheels and bump-friendly suspension system. But, unlike its competitors, it’s sleek and compact, weaving through shoppers on a West Village sidewalk as easily as it lets loose on a Portland hike and bike trail. It also folds into a suitcase-like rectangle that’s 50 percent smaller than other joggers and doesn’t dominate trunk space on road trips. Other welcome details keep weary parents in mind: Instructions for the stroller’s easy fold are spelled out on the back of the generous sunshade, and you can lock your front wheel—ideal for running—remotely from the handle.

Whether you’re catching a flight in Sydney or boarding a train en route to New England, there’s one thing you’re bound to notice now that you’re a parent: The Yoyos. This cosmopolitan favorite—universally loved for its one-click open and close, serious functionality, and sleek design—has now debuted its 2.0. The Yoyo2 has more color options (a white or black frame and sun canopies in colors like aqua and red), an updated faux leather handle, and wheel suspensions that make for an even smoother, more comfortable ride. It also accommodates newborns thanks to a cocoon-like bassinet that is light and clicks into the frame so quietly your baby will continue to snooze. And like its predecessor, the Yoyo2 is small enough to fit in tight spaces, from an airplane’s  overhead compartment  to the snug trunk of your classic Fiat rental in Tuscany.

When Colugo founder Ted Iobst and his wife found out they were having kids, they had an experience many parents are familiar with: They headed to a big box store and were nauseatingly overwhelmed, not by morning sickness (for once), but by the sheer number of stroller options with subpar features for on-the-go families. So Iobst created his own stroller—along with a handful of other baby products—that ticks all of the boxes for frequent travelers. The Colugo has a solid frame and nice wide wheels with a hearty tread, but is still lightweight at 16 pounds. It has an easily removable (and washable) interior layer in elegant colors like olive and rose sparkle—something you’ll appreciate the first time your baby spills milk en route to a museum—and a canopy with UPF 50+ protection. It also comes with a rain cover, shoulder carry strap, cup holder, and storage backpack that fits in an airplane’s overhead compartment. Best of all, the Colugo is so easy to open and collapse that there’s no need for anyone to mansplain the stroller’s “intuitive engineering.”

Like its competitors, Uppababy makes a lighter (around 15 pounds) and more streamlined stroller that opens and collapses with one click. What we love about the Minu is its look: Elegant colors and a handsome leather handle add the level of sophistication you crave when you spend most of the day chatting in baby talk. It also has an easily accessible pocket for essentials, a back-saving undercarriage that can hold a 20-pound diaper bag, and a locking system that’s intuitive enough for a tired parent. Like Uppababy’s other stroller models, the Minu also has shock-absorbing wheels and an extendable sunshade.

This wheeled wonder is both an infant car seat and a stroller, transforming from one to another with a few button clicks. While its shelf life is somewhat short (babies can grow out of infant car seats as early as a year), it’s worth the investment while it lasts, especially if you’re thinking of having more than one kiddo down the line. In stroller mode, the Doona is super solid, with big wheels, a long push handle, and a hearty frame that’s weighty enough to manage both gravel paths and manicured sidewalks. And along with its original green canopy, it now comes in an elegant midnight black. Best of all, you always have your car seat with you, whether you want to jump into a taxi or load it up on a plane. The only drawback? The Doona doesn’t have a built-in storage compartment, though you can buy additional bags that snap onto the stroller with ease.

We’ve always loved this British brand, Maclaren, for its umbrella strollers , which are lightweight and collapse to roughly the dimensions of a walking stick. The Atom echoes that ease and practicality but delivers on features more in line with a full-sized stroller. The sturdy frame has four-wheel suspension, seats recline to a near lay-flat position, and accessories include a rain cover, seat liner, and a storage bag. Even with the welcome extras, the Atom weighs just 12 pounds thanks to a breathable mesh fabric, and it folds up to the size of a briefcase. It’s also car seat compatible and comes out of the box practically ready to roll—great news to those of us who have spent more time piecing together strollers than a nursery’s worth of IKEA furniture.

German-based stroller company Cybex is a favorite throughout Europe, and its stateside popularity is growing thanks to its smart design and intuitive engineering. Libelle, the latest pram from the brand, is its smallest yet: Folded up, it easily fits in an airplane’s overhead compartment or between car seats on the road. When open, it shows off bells and whistles—a large sunshade, padded seats, and an extendable leg rest—that competitors have skipped to stay so small. And thanks to its sturdy frame and sizable wheels, the Libelle maneuvers well on city sidewalks and park pathways alike. The seat and reclinable back are also wider than most compact strollers, so there’s room for a teddy. Or 10.

If you’re road tripping or willing to take on a little more weight in exchange for comfort, the Cruz V2 is the perfect compromise. A revise to Uppababy’s original Cruz pram, this model has several travel-friendly updates, including a more compact frame that’s a cinch to fold, as well as an undercarriage that handles 30 pounds of additional cargo, a win for anyone toting around a vacation’s worth of baby essentials. Register the Cruz V2’s travel bag with Uppababy’s TravelSafe program; it covers any damage incurred to your gear while you fly. (Airlines, on the other hand, rarely cover broken strollers and car seats.) The stroller’s toddler seat now has an extendable UPF 50+ sunshade, easy one-hand recline, and a leather handle, and Uppababy’s Mesa car seat —a favorite for its chemical-free, merino wool upholstery—easily snaps into the V2’s base. Hauling a crew? Older siblings can also hitch a ride on the V2’s PiggyBack Ride-Along Board.

The designer behind this tiny stroller—it’s so small that it won a Guinness Book of World Records award for its compact size—was clearly a jetsetter who was tired of gate-checking prams. Measuring less than 12 by 14 inches, the little gadget is a conversation starter. Even stern TSA agents can’t help but comment (or at least let their eyes linger) when the set of wheels haughtily shrinks down to the size of a handbag and breezes through the x-ray machine. No more gate-checking, either: It can fit in an airplane’s overhead bin or even under the seat. Our only gripes? Its small wheels are fine on city sidewalks but can’t handle more rugged terrain, and its shallow sunshade won’t cut it on long walks outdoors.

Ad-free. Influence-free. Powered by consumers.

The payment for your account couldn't be processed or you've canceled your account with us.

We don’t recognize that sign in. Your username maybe be your email address. Passwords are 6-20 characters with at least one number and letter.

We still don’t recognize that sign in. Retrieve your username. Reset your password.

Forgot your username or password ?

Don’t have an account?

• Account Settings
• My Benefits
• My Products
• Donate Donate

Save products you love, products you own and much more!

Other Membership Benefits:

Suggested Searches

• Become a Member

Car Ratings & Reviews

2024 Top Picks

Car Buying & Pricing

Which Car Brands Make the Best Vehicles?

Tires, Maintenance & Repair

Car Reliability Guide

Key Topics & News

Listen to the Talking Cars Podcast

Home & Garden

Bed & Bath

Top Picks From CR

Best Mattresses

Lawn & Garden

TOP PICKS FROM CR

Best Leaf Blowers

Home Improvement

Home Improvement Essential

Best Wood Stains

Home Safety & Security

HOME SAFETY

Best DIY Home Security Systems

SURVEY RESULTS

Most and Least Reliable Refrigerators

Small Appliances

Best Small Kitchen Appliances

Laundry & Cleaning

Best Washing Machines

Heating, Cooling & Air

Best Air Purifiers

Electronics

Home Entertainment

FIND YOUR NEW TV

Home Office

Cheapest Printers for Ink Costs

Smartphones & Wearables

BEST SMARTPHONES

Find the Right Phone for You

Digital Security & Privacy

MEMBER BENEFIT

CR Security Planner

Take Action

Best Strollers

Most Popular

Best Travel Strollers

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

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

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

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

Best Travel Strollers for Newborns and Infants

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Keith Flamer

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

Molly Bradley

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

Sharing is Nice

We respect your privacy . All email addresses you provide will be used just for sending this story.

GB Pockit+ All-Terrain

Thule shine, mountain buggy terrain, maxi-cosi mara xt ultra compact, chicco bravo le cleartex quick fold, uppababy minu v2, baby jogger city sights, bugaboo dragon fly seat, britax grove, britax brook+.

See All Ratings

Trending in Travel Systems

Best Stroller and Car Seat Combos

Best Strollers of 2024

Chicco Bravo Trio Travel System Review

Getting Your Home Ready for Your Baby

The Best Lightweight Strollers for Travel in 2024

These strollers are perfect for traveling with toddlers and newborns.

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

Parents of little ones quickly learn to not leave the house without a fully-packed diaper bag and a stocked stroller. But the load can get heavy quickly, and as your kid grows you might hit a breaking point when you need a lightweight stroller. These "umbrella strollers" can fold up small (like an umbrella) and stow away in your foyer or trunk. Lightweight strollers also make airplane travel easier, because they're easy to send through security and to gate-check.

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

Our top picks:

Best Overall Lightweight Stroller

Uppababy minu v2 stroller.

Best Value Lightweight Stroller

Summer infant 3dlite convenience stroller.

Best Lightweight Stroller for Travel

Bugaboo butterfly.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Joolz AER Stroller

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

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

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

Colugo The Compact Stroller

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

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

Delta Children Jeep TurboGlyde Side by Side Double

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

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

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

Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Ultra-Compact Travel Stroller

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

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

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

gb Pockit Air Lightweight Stroller

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

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

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

Evenflo Pivot Xplore Stroller Wagon

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

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

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

Cybex Libelle

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

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

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

Thule Spring Stroller

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

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

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

Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight Jogging Stroller

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

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

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

Babyzen YOYO2 Stroller

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

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

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

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

RELATED : 50 Must-Have Baby Registry Items

How to find the best lightweight stroller for you

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How we test lightweight strollers

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

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

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

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

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

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

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

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

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

Product Reviews

The Best Mattresses

The Best Humidifiers for Babies

The Best Cordless Drills

The Best Outdoor TVs

The Best Water Filters

The Best Tagine Pots

The Best Laundry Detergents of 2024

The Best Razors for Women of 2024

The Best Enzyme Cleaners

I Tested Vitamix's Buzzy New Blenders

The Best Futons

The Best Shampoos for Gray Hair

We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.

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

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

If you're a new parent, you will no doubt have spent a fair amount of time weighing up which pushchair to buy. But once you've found the ideal travel system for your little tyke, do you really need a separate stroller for travelling too, and what are the benefits of using a lightweight buggy ?

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

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

Do you need a travel stroller?

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

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

Cybex Libelle Travel Stroller

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

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

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

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

The Cybex Libelle first impressions

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

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

The Cybex Libelle foldability

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

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

The Cybex Libelle handling

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

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

The Cybex Libelle stand out features

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

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

Our verdict

Compared to some of the premium lightweight strollers on the market such as the Babyzen Yoyo or the Bugaboo, at £259.95, the Libelle is a mid-range stroller and competitively priced. But most importantly, it really does fold up incredibly small without losing any essential pushchair elements including comfort, handling and ease of use. We're big fans and highly recommend this dinky stroller for travel and popping about town. BUY NOW

Rhalou is a senior digital editor specialising in health and wellness with over fifteen years’ online and print publishing experience.   

Rhalou has worked for various health platforms including Women’s Health, Men’s Health, Runner’s World, Netdoctor, Women’s Running, Men’s Running, The Running Bug and Women’s Fitness.   

Covering everything from sexual health to fitness, parenting, marathon running and self-care, Rhalou loves creating fun and accessible lifestyle content and feels strongly about demystifying complex medical jargon and empowering people to better understand their health.   

Previously, Rhalou was a freelance social media specialist for several major sporting events and race listings including The London Marathon, Breca Swimrun, Findarace, The Westminster Mile and Prudential Ride 100. She has also been a reporter on a local newspaper in remote Scotland, penning breaking news stories about killer otters, cats stuck up trees and the Scottish hill racing scene.    

Over the years, Rhalou has been lucky enough to run 15 marathons and even a few ultra-marathons. She is still a passionate runner, but these days she can mostly be found at her local parkrun or chasing after her young son.  

Products for Parents

'This pump saved me a fortune on formula'

Best pram fan deals to shop in 2024

Last-chance Amazon Prime Day baby deals 2024

Why you won't regret buying the iconic Elvie Pump

Best bedside cribs to buy

Best pregnancy pillows for a great night's sleep

Seraphine's new baby carrier is chic and practical

26 best nursing bras to shop in 2024

Best lightweight strollers to shop in 2024

The best baby bouncers to shop now

The best baby changing bags to shop now

13 best baby monitors to buy

• Strollers /

The Best Strollers of 2024

We’ve tested dozens of strollers over the years. these are the best options for all types of families., by jen labracio, cpst | medically reviewed by holly peretz ot | fact checked by karen reardanz.

A stroller is one of the first items parents start researching when they find out they’re welcoming a baby. That’s because for most families, a stroller is something they’ll use every day—and in many different places—for years. The stroller you choose needs to meet your family’s needs and make getting out with your little one a little easier.

To help you from getting lost down the best stroller rabbit hole, we’ve done the work for you. After analyzing feedback from thousands of Babylist parents and our countless hours of on-the-ground strolling, we think the Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 is the best stroller for most families. With its unbeatable combination of price and performance, it’s easy to push and steer, even easier to fold and handles most types of terrain well.

And because there’s a lot of nuance around strollers—both in the features families want to suit their particular needs and what’s offered by manufacturers—we’ve also chosen six other best-of picks across more specific categories like the best stroller for travel, the best affordable choice and the best jogger.

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 annually via our Best Baby Products online survey. We know what items millions of expecting parents are adding to their baby registries.

As Babylist’s gear editor, I’ve been testing the ins and outs of strollers for over a decade—both as a city and suburban parent of two young boys, ages ten and two, and professionally via the dozens of strollers I’ve assembled, pushed and jogged with through my neighborhood over the years. I drew on both of these roles as I put together this list. I reviewed stroller feedback from thousands of parents through Babylist’s annual Best Baby Products survey of over 6,000 Babylist users and talked to parents at Babylist for their input. I also spoke with several experts for this guide. Courtney English , a Pediatric Occupational Therapist, walked us through all things strollers and safety. Tatyanna Hunter Jones and Pateel Markaradi are Babylist Showroom Registry Consultants. They’re part of a trained team of experts who work at the Beverly Hills showroom, answering questions daily about baby gear and helping parents-to-be build their baby registries.

The Best Strollers

Best Overall: Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 Stroller

Best Convertible: UPPAbaby Vista V2 Stroller

Best Travel System: Chicco Corso LE Modular Travel System

Best Affordable: Graco Modes Pramette Stroller 

Best Stroller Car Seat Hybrid: Doona Infant Car Seat & Stroller

Best Travel: Joolz Aer+ Lightweight Stroller

Best Jogging: BOB Wayfinder Single Jogging Stroller

How We Judged

Suspension and maneuverability. A smooth, easy-to-turn stroller is a better experience for you and your baby. 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 zeroed in on fold, size and weight when choosing our best 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 stroller. 

Features. We made sure all of our picks had thoughtfully designed features—like large canopies, lots of storage, recline options and adjustable handlebars—to make you and your baby the most comfortable while you’re on the go.  

Value. Strollers range from under $100 to well over $1,000. 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 Stroller Overall

Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 Stroller - Opulent Black

• Super quick + compact fold
• 3-wheel design = easy to maneuver
• Rides smoothly on rough terrain like grass, dirt and gravel
• Doesn’t maneuver well through sand or snow
• Small storage basket; large diaper bags and bulky items may not fit
• Seat only faces outward; no parent-facing option

Baby Jogger’s City Mini stroller has topped our best-of list for years—an impressive feat considering all of the changes in the stroller market over the last half-decade.

It can be tricky to recommend a best overall stroller pick, as families have many different types of stroller needs and what works for one may not work for another. But the GT2 is just that good. It’s versatile enough to work for both city and suburban parents and is a favorite among Babylist registrants who are looking for a stroller with high-end features under the $500 mark. That’s because it boasts an unbeatable combination of price and performance. It’s certainly not cheap, but it won’t cost you thousands of dollars, either. It’s easy to push and steer, features all-terrain forever air rubber wheels and all-wheel suspension, and has a near-flat seat recline. And the fold! It’s one-handed, takes under five seconds and is incredibly intuitive. (We promise you’ll never, ever have to Google “How do I fold my City Mini GT2?”) It’s also compatible with a huge range of infant car seats if you’re looking to build a travel system, including select models from popular brands like Britax, Nuna, Chicco, Graco and UPPAbaby.

My only real gripes with this stroller—and the things that Babylist parents also mention—are the small basket size and the lack of modularity (meaning you can’t flip the seat from forward- to rear-facing; it only faces outward). Also note that Baby Jogger used to make a more basic version of this stroller, called the Baby Jogger City Mini (no GT2 in the name)—but they’ve phased it out over the last few years and now only produce the GT2.

Real Parent Reviews

“This is seriously the only stroller we own and our daughter is now 17 months. We purchased it around the time she was 4 months old. It was extremely easy to set up as all we had to do was pop the wheels on. We love the way it steers, the forever air tires are great on almost any terrain, and the stroller folds very easily. The fact that it reclines almost completely flat for nap times (and diaper changes on the fly!) is a huge relief. It will be a stroller that lasts us many years since it will hold a larger child and our daughter is very petite. We can’t recommend it enough as an everyday/all the time stroller!” — mantan10

“I love this stroller. Not only is it comfortable for me to push (5’5”) but my husband (6’6”) loves it too! That adjustable handlebar is awesome. The size is perfect. It’s sturdy but not huge. It fits perfectly in the back of my station wagon & I can fold it up with one hand if I need to.” — Imtmum

Additional Specs

Best Convertible Stroller

UPPAbaby Vista V2 Stroller - Jake

• Stroller can fit up to 3 kids (with attachments; sold separately)
• All-wheel suspension + effortless steering and turning
• 30% of Babylist parents voted for this as their favorite stroller
• Harder to push and steer with 2+ kids

Almost 30% of the 6,000+ Babylist users who completed our Best Baby Products survey voted the Vista V2 as their favorite stroller, describing the quality as “unmatched” and many going a step further and naming it the best product they added to their entire baby registry. I count myself among one of this popular stroller’s biggest fans; it’s the stroller I used multiple times a day for years as a mom in New York City.

The Vista is all about options to accommodate growing families. From birth, you can use the included bassinet for strolling or for naps and overnight sleep. “A bassinet is a great option because it allows baby to continue to move freely on their stroller ride,” says English. “I also love bassinet stroller rides for newborns because it stimulates their visual and vestibular systems as they explore looking at trees, clouds or a mobile as their body moves in space. This is all great for their development.”

If you prefer a car seat, you can pair the Vista with the brand’s Mesa or Aria infant car seats or other compatible top-rated infant car seats with the addition of adapters. When your child gets older, switch out the bassinet for the front or rear-facing toddler seat. Adding baby number two? Add on the multi-directional Rumble Seat or the PiggyBack Ride-Along Board for a big kid who wants to stand and ride.

Performance-wise, the Vista shines. The suspension system holds up to just about anything you throw at it, including high curbs, bumpy sidewalks and off-road terrain. The telescoping handlebar means it works for parents and caregivers of different heights (I’m 5’10” and find it comfortable to push) and the full-recline seat and extendable canopy are good kid-forward comfort features. The huge storage basket is also a plus; I easily fit a few days’ worth of groceries in it after a walk to the store.

This stroller is on the larger side, even when folded. It’s also expensive, and some parents say the inline design makes it tough to push when it’s loaded with two (or more) kids. (To clarify, that’s true of all inline strollers, not just the Vista V2.)

If you love all things UPPAbaby but want to spend a bit less money, or simply don’t need a stroller as large as the Vista, check out the Cruz V2. It’s a single stroller with no option to convert it to a double (although you can add a PiggyBack board so an older child can stand and ride along), but shares many of the same features parents love in the Vista in a more compact and affordable package.

“Love the ability to add more seats. Love the size and maneuverability. Love the bassinet. Bought the stand and have used it in our bedroom for three kids now. Onto our third child and stroller still looks and acts brand new—it’s incredible! Well worth the money.” — Clair

“As a twin mom, this was a great option for the first 9 months because it was incredibly easy to click in their infant car seats. Con: Multiple pieces to put together every time you get in and out of the car. It doesn’t sound terrible until it’s raining and you have two babies in the car screaming and you just want to go home lol.” — Melanie S.

“Uppababy Vista stroller [was the best thing I registered for]…it’s had the longest life so far, we’re currently using it with two kids now (3.5 years and 15 months) and the customer service at UPPAbaby is phenomenal.” — LL

Best Travel System

Chicco Corso LE Modular Travel System - Veranda

• Includes parent-favorite car seat
• Has several high-end features for mid-range price
• Rear suspension and rubber tires = smooth ride
• Handlebar isn’t adjustable
• Storage basket only holds up to 10 lbs
• No snack tray available

The price of a travel system (a car seat + stroller combo that attach) can range from a few hundred dollars to well over a thousand. The Corso sits squarely in the middle and has a lot to offer, making it my top pick and my favorite out of all of Chicco’s travel system offerings thanks to its quality and functionality.

The car seat, the KeyFit 35 , is a popular parent favorite—and our pick for the overall best infant car seat —that’s easy to install, packed with safety features and fits babies of all sizes well. (It also works well for extended rear-facing use, with a good amount of headrest room and a weight maximum of 35 pounds.)

The stroller stands out for its high-end features, many of which you’d find on more expensive options. It pushes smoothly and steers easily thanks to the large, foam-filled tires and rear-wheel suspension. I also appreciate the modular seat (and its many recline options), the adjustable canopy and footrest and the one-handed, self-standing fold. These convenience extras make the stroller easy to use and comfortable for both parents and babies.

One unique thing about this stroller is that the seat pops off completely to turn it into a skeleton frame when you’re using it with only the infant car seat. This isn’t the case with all travel system strollers; some require the infant seat to attach over the toddler seat, adding weight and making the stroller tougher to push. And while the handlebar on the Corso isn’t adjustable, I was still able to push it comfortably even though I’m tall.

“As a CPST I trust Chicco and all of their products. The ease of the KeyFit35 install is to die for. The car seat also feels comfortable and sturdy. I also love this stroller! The one-hand fold and the sleek design. It looks beautiful with the flower-like wheels and leather handle. It’s also a beautiful color. I would recommend to anyone.” — Patience Mabin

“This travel system has been so great, and is holding up well 8 months in. The car seat is really easy to adjust as baby has grown, and is so easy to install. And I love that the 35-pound weight limit means we’ll be able to have her rear-facing for longer. The stroller is the thing that I use the most, and it is one of the best pieces of baby gear we have. It’s super maneuverable and very easy to push one-handed. We walk every day in our city neighborhood with old broken sidewalks and the stroller handles all that terrain beautifully. The stroller can also be used comfortably by people of different heights. I’m 5’5” and my husband is 6’2” and we can both comfortably push the stroller. My husband doesn’t kick the stroller when he’s walking (something that I’ve read can be an issue for tall people with other strollers.)” — Kate H

Best Affordable Stroller

Graco Modes Pramette Stroller - Pierce

• Can use from birth (seat turns into a bassinet)
• Less suspension = a bumpier ride
• Takes time to assemble

The Pramette, part of Graco’s Modes stroller line, is three strollers in one, all for just about $200: an infant car seat carrier, an infant pramette (AKA a bassinet) and a toddler stroller. This versatility means you can use the stroller from birth right out of the box and is why I recommend the Modes line above the brand’s (many) other models.

“Most babies are not able to ride in standard strollers until at least six months,” says English, something many first-time parents don’t realize. “It all depends on their core, trunk and head control,” she explains. In Pramette mode, the sides of the toddler seat drop down and the seat flattens completely, transforming it into a newborn-friendly space—which means you can skip purchasing a bassinet separately. (You’ll also save space, since a bassinet is yet one more thing to store when the newborn days are over.) The seat on the Pramette is modular, another big pro for a stroller in this price range. There’s also a one-handed fold and a parent cup and phone holder included.

The stroller does lack the suspension found in many higher-priced options, so the ride is a bit bumpier according to many parents and our own testing. It also doesn’t turn as effortlessly as some pricier models. Parents also mentioned that the Pramette took a bit of time to assemble, usually about 30 minutes or so. And the handlebar isn’t adjustable.

“I have both an infant and a toddler, and I love that this stroller can easily and quickly be transitioned from using it for my toddler to my infant and vice versa. I regularly use this stroller both for neighborhood walks and running errands and I love that it is easily maneuvered even with my toddler riding in it. When folded it can easily fit in the trunk of my compact car, and I love that I can fold it with ease. The basket underneath is very large, easily accessible and can fit my bulky diaper bag with room to spare. I have limited storage space so I really appreciate that it has the function to be used for the stages of an infant through a toddler without having extra parts to store.” — kelcic

“Overall I really like the Modes Pramette Stroller compared to the other strollers I have used for my one-year-old. The multiple configurations (bassinet, inward toddler and outward toddler) make it possible to use this stroller from newborn through toddler. It is really easy to switch between the different modes and I love having the option of switching my daughter to face inwards so I can see her and interact with her on our walks or while at the store. The storage bin on this is AMAZING (bigger than on any other stroller I’ve used), which is a huge perk and so convenient for running errands. The stroller also comes with cup and phone holders for no additional cost, which is a nice addition. The folding mechanism could be better on this stroller. You can only collapse the stroller when it is in the outward toddler position, which is frustrating because I like using the inward position the most. Because of this I have to switch the seat to face the other direction every time I collapse it, which is pretty quick and easy to do, but still something I wish could be avoided. Switching the seat position also requires both hands so I can’t collapse the stroller while holding my daughter.” — leah5825

Best Stroller Car Seat Combo

Doona Infant Car Seat & Stroller - Nitro Black

• Infant car seat + stroller all in one = ultimate convenience
• Great for travel
• Lighter weight than most other strollers
• Short usage life
• Low handlebar can be uncomfortable for taller parents
• No storage basket, snack tray or cup holder
• Harness needs to be adjusted manually

“Makes everything easier,” “ so convenient for our lifestyle” and “once you have the Doona, you don’t need anything else,” are just a few things moms told us about this innovative car seat + stroller hybrid when we asked them what they loved about it in our Best Baby Products survey.

The Doona transforms from an infant car seat into a stroller with the click of a button. When it’s time to get in the car, the stroller legs and wheels pull up and fold under the car seat. For some parents, this ultimate convenience feature is a really big deal. The Doona is ideal for parents who travel or fly with baby frequently, who are in and out of the car often (think a suburban parent of multiple kids who’s doing daily preschool dropoff, sports practices, etc. with a baby in tow) or for a city family who uses rideshares or rental cars regularly. It’s also great if you’re a minimalist who’s trying to cut down on the amount of baby gear you need, especially during the first year.

The Doona isn’t for everybody, though, as there are a few downsides. Most babies will outgrow it right around the one-year mark—at which point you’ll need to purchase a new stroller. There’s no storage basket, and the seat sits quite low to the ground with no adjustable handlebar, making it tough to push if you’re a taller parent (raises hand). It’s pricey, especially considering the limited usage window, and suspension and steering aren’t as good as you’ll find in most traditional strollers.

“It was so great for the subway and made my life living in NYC without a car so much easier. I don’t know what I would have done without it.” — CS

“I absolutely love this stroller/car seat combo…it is without a doubt worth the money. I have an 11-year-old, so when surprise, I’m pregnant again 11 years later, the one thing I remembered hating was dealing with the car seat and the stroller. I’m pretty small so lugging that around was a nightmare. I saw the Doona online one day and thought wow that’s an awesome gadget and I wasn’t even pregnant or thinking about being pregnant at the time. But I never forgot the name!! I recommend it to everyone I know and strangers alike….love love love this car seat/stroller!” — MamaKenz

“Doona car seat stroller with accessories [is my favorite item of baby gear]. It is a game changer for getting to appointments when baby is little, and later just such a space saver when traveling. Everyone comments on it when they see it.” — MD

Best Travel Stroller

Joolz Aer + Lightweight Stroller - Forest Green

• 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
• Expensive, especially if used infrequently for travel
• Small storage basket

A travel stroller is a good investment if you plan on flying or traveling frequently with your family, but it’s also something to consider if you need a lightweight, easy-to-fold stroller to keep in your car or to use when you don’t want to deal with a larger stroller. The Joolz Aer is my top pick as it packs a big punch in a small package. It’s been my go-to travel and keep-in-the-trunk stroller for almost three years and I’m constantly recommending it to anyone who asks. (Or doesn’t, truly.)

The two things I love the most about this stroller are the push and the compact size/easy fold. Pushing it doesn’t feel much different than pushing many larger, more expensive and much heavier strollers. (That’s because of the four-wheel suspension system, a feature that’s not that common in travel strollers.) It steers easily and even handles uneven surfaces well, which is notable considering its 13-pound size. Fold-wise, it’s amazing. It breaks down in about two seconds with one hand, and it’s just as easy to open. When folded, it’s compact enough to fit in an overhead bin of most airlines or tuck away in any other small space.

The storage basket isn’t huge, but it’s big enough for a small diaper bag or backpack, and the near-flat recline is great for resting on the go. I also love that it’s newborn-friendly. It’s compatible with Nuna and Clek car seats (adapters sold separately) or a bassinet (also sold separately) so you can use it from birth if you’d like.

“After tons of research, we decided to try out the Joolz for our first family trip to Colorado. The stroller itself is very easy to unfold (after a little practice) and has great steering considering the smaller wheels. It did just fine on cobblestone/gravel paths and loved having the Nuna Pipa car seat attachments to push when in her car seat. The bottom storage was great for our day trip essentials and the canopy unzips to the perfect height to protect my kid’s head. HIGHLY recommend if you plan on traveling via plane and now it lives in my trunk for quick stops around town!” — Erica

“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 handle bar. In my opinion, it is worth the money.” — Vanessa D.

Best Jogging Stroller

BOB Gear Wayfinder Single Jogging Stroller - Nightfall

• Slimmer and more compact than many other joggers
• Quick, one-handed, self-standing fold
• Zip-top basket keeps things from falling out on the go
• Tires need to be inflated at setup and could lose air pressure over time
• Narrower frame = slightly smaller basket size and narrower grip
• Compatible with fewer car seat brands than other BOB strollers

BOB strollers are a longtime favorite of running parents. The Wayfinder is the brand’s newest addition and a home run for me; the overall functionality, performance and profile make it the best choice for parents who run frequently but also want a jogging stroller for day-to-day use.

The Wayfinder features independent, dual suspension and air-filled tires, so no matter what type of terrain I tried it on (dirt path, sandy road, bumpy sidewalk), it provided a smooth ride every time. It checks all the feature boxes I look for in a jogger: a swivel-locking front wheel, a hand brake, a wrist strap, an adjustable handlebar and a large cargo basket. The fabrics and finishes look and feel high-end, there’s a great canopy and the seat reclines all the way back. And it’s compatible with many popular infant car seats with the addition of adapters.

The biggest plus of the Wayfinder, though, and why I think it stands above other BOB joggers, is its slimmed-down profile. While not small by any means, this jogging stroller is narrower and more compact than many of its competitors. And when you fold it (which is also easy to do), it gets even smaller; the Wayfinder is only about 22 inches across, so it’s easier to store or load in your trunk than other joggers. The slimmer profile overall does take a bit of getting used to when running, especially if you’re used to a lower, wider jogger like I was, but it only took me a few runs to get the hang of it. Also know that although the stroller’s weight limit is 75 pounds, the height limit is 44 inches, so the odds are pretty high that your little one will grow out of it height-wise long before they come close to the stroller’s max weight capacity.

“We’ve used the Wayfinder both on neighborhood jogging and for tackling our local trails and it has knocked it out of the park every time. Compact enough to handle winding trail paths, the smoothest push you could hope for across different terrains, and the basket can carry more than expected at first glance. We had lunch for 5, extra snacks, water for the hot day and a first aid kit all comfortably carried. It has a true standing fold which is refreshing and the steering is as nimble as can be. I love the brakes and how upright the seat can get if needed, as well as the front access to the basket. Quality-wise, the Wayfinder is built to last. We have been getting out and exercising more as a family since we got it and I am looking forward to more adventures to come!” — strollingsodapops

“I love this stroller! When I say it’s the perfect all-in-one stroller, it really is! When people hear the words “jogging” stroller, they immediately think a ginormous contraption…but this is not it. I love how it glides so smoothly through every surface whether I am jogging out on a rocky trail, or a stroll in the city. The stroller is so compact that I can fit it on the back of my older Toyota Highlander. The fabric is so easy to clean as well! It has a pretty large compartment under the seat and would be perfect for long trips or amusement parks where you’ll need a lot of space to carry kiddo’s stuff! My daughter has fallen asleep multiple times and comfortably because the seat is spacious and comfortable and it’s adjustable. Honestly, I could go on and on, but that’s all for now!” — Cilla

Other Car Seats We Love

Need more options? Here are other top strollers we love including the best luxury pick, the best stroller for twins and more.

A More Affordable Convertible

Mockingbird Single-to-Double Stroller 2.0 - Black/Windowpane Canopy With Penny Leather

• Premium design, affordable price
• Expands to hold 2 kids
• Lifetime warranty
• Maneuverability and suspension not as good as some higher-priced competitors
• Taller parents tend to kick the lower crossbar
• Fold takes practice

If your heart is set on a luxury stroller but your wallet doesn’t agree, check out the Mockingbird. The parents we surveyed called it “the best bang for the buck,” an “awesome” product and “very nice and half the price of some other strollers.” It’s packed with high-end features including 22+ configurations, modular seats, a spill-resistant extendable canopy that offers plenty of sun coverage and a built-in suspension system for a smooth ride. There’s a one-handed, self-standing fold and an XL storage basket, and we love the lifetime warranty.

“We initially bought a single stroller from a different brand, not expecting baby number two so soon after number one so we needed something that we could use with both kids. I was torn between this and another comparable stroller but happy we went with Mockingbird! It was affordable and had all of the features we could want and need. We were able to clip our daughter’s Nuna Pipa in and have our young toddler comfortably in his own seat and it was still easy to maneuver. The bottom basket was also spacious enough to fit our very overpacked diaper bag. Once my daughter was old enough, she graduated to her own seat and my son loved the ride-on-board attachment. It was a bit tricky to fold and I found it’s easier to do without the seat attached, so it does take a minute to set up and break down when getting it in and out of the car. I also wish more accessories were included with the stroller (like the cupholder) but still worth it!” — Briana

Best Luxury Travel System

Nuna PIPA urbn & MIXX Next Travel System - Caviar

• Stroller has excellent suspension + high-end features
• Includes baseless car seat
• Expensive for a non-convertible stroller
• Car seat has low height limit

This luxury car seat + stroller combo is one of the best around. The Mixx stroller features all-wheel suspension, a reversible seat, tons of storage and thoughtful features like magnetic buckles and a compact fold. The urbn is a baseless car seat that installs in your vehicle in seconds (rigid LATCH is built right in) and is as foolproof as it gets, meaning a safe, secure install every time.

“Love this stroller and car seat. Car seat is so easy to get in and out. Stroller does take up some space but the stroller ride is worth it. Ride is so smooth. Able to put my infant in car seat right into the stroller in his car seat or can use the seat it comes with. Two options depending on what I am doing. Great storage below stroller.” — Britney S.

Best Stroller Wagon

Veer Cruiser City Wagon - Cruiser City Wagon Xl

• Works on all types of terrain
• Accepts infant car seat
• Lots of fun (and useful) accessories available to customize your ride
• Pricey, especially after add-ons
• Bulky and heavy

Veer was one of the first stroller wagons to hit the market—and we think it’s the best. With the functionality of a stroller and the fun factor of a wagon, the Veer is a hybrid that offers the best of both worlds. Its oversized tires and front-wheel suspension mean it can easily tackle all sorts of rugged terrain, sand and snow included. You can even attach an infant car seat using adapters, along with tons of other fun accessories.

“We have used both versions of the Veer wagon and love the City way more! The push is much more intuitive because you can steer with the front wheels. We use this wagon for walks around the neighborhood, at the zoo, on rocky trails, you name it. It’s a smooth, comfortable ride and we actually use it more than our double stroller. We also love all of the extra accessories (which can be pricey to add on, but they’re worth it). It’s a bit heavy for me (mom) to get in and out of my SUV but not impossible. We have two toddlers but actually got the 4 seater and are so glad because they have more room plus space for our diaper bag and stuff.” — Brie

Best City Stroller

Thule Shine Stroller - Mallard Green

• Full-size features, compact design
• Can use from birth with accessories
• One-handed, compact fold

City-friendly strollers pack much of the same punch, features-wise, as a full-size stroller, but in a more compact package, making them perfect for urban living where extra space is often at a premium.

The Thule Shine is our favorite in this category. The features are those you’d expect in a full-size stroller—a reversible, reclining seat with an adjustable leg rest, a huge canopy, a one-handed, self-standing fold and all-wheel suspension—but in a much more compact, lightweight package. (It weighs just over 20 pounds, almost 10 pounds less than the UPPAbaby Vista V2.) This streamlined design means it’s easier to store in small, urban spaces and easier to push through crowded streets and aisles, both huge perks for city living.

“This stroller is beautiful! It looks good and feels good to push around. I am not a fan of bulky strollers and this one is anything but that. It breaks down easily and compact, but is very high quality and durable. I’m so glad I got this stroller. I recommend 100x.” — Andreaakayyy

Best Stroller for Twins

Bugaboo Donkey5 Mono Complete Stroller - Washed Black/Mineral Collection

• Fits through most doorways
• Smooth ride + easy to steer
• Lots of configurations
• Very expensive
• Bulky when folded

Finding a twin-friendly double stroller is tricky. Many are bulky and unwieldy to push, don’t fit through doors and don’t accommodate two bassinets or two car seats at a time. The Donkey does all this and (much) more. Its slim profile means it makes its way through most standard doorways easily. It holds two bassinets, two car seats and two toddler seats at the same time. And it converts from a single to a double in three easy clicks. It’s easy to push and steer even when fully loaded and has an incredible suspension system for a cushy ride.

“Babies have older grandparents so the ease of pushing was the most important thing looking for a stroller for us and this is the only one I tried that I felt fully comfortable would be easy for them…It is difficult in stores in double mode, even though it does fit fairly well through a standard doorway, but in stores often displays are in the way…The basket is low capacity and difficult to access in double mode with 1 bassinet/1 child seat configuration, but I like this much better than any of the other double strollers I tried. I’m not someone who usually splurges on the most high-end baby products but having bought a cheaper stroller for my first child I knew I wanted something better engineered and so far feel I got what I paid for with this stroller and am so happy I made this choice.” — Alex M.

Best Umbrella Stroller

Summer 3D Lite Convenience Stroller

• Lightweight
• Near-flat seat recline
• No suspension = bumpy ride
• Small canopy

Umbrella strollers fold into a slender, vertical shape and while lacking some features, they’re lightweight, convenient and a good choice for on-the-go or travel. The Summer 3D Lite combines a great range of features with a price point of under a hundred bucks. The aluminum frame lightens the load—this stroller weighs about 13 pounds—and there’s a built-in shoulder strap for portability. I also appreciate the near-flat seat recline, a large, adjustable canopy and an XL storage basket.

“I love this stroller. It’s light and compact yet sturdy. My baby likes to be front-facing so she loves it. It’s a really good stroller for the price.” — Tiffany

How We Chose Our Best 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 strollers.

We spoke to Courtney English , a Pediatric Occupational Therapist, about stroller safety. We also talked with Babylist Showroom Registry Consultants Tatyanna Hunter Jones and Pateel Markaradi. They’re part of a trained team of experts who work on our Beverly Hills showroom floor, answering questions daily about baby gear and helping parents-to-be build their baby registries.

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

Types of Strollers

There are several different types of strollers to choose from when you’re researching what to register for or buy:

All-purpose strollers : What likely comes to mind when you imagine a traditional stroller, all-purpose strollers are great for everyday activities like walking around the neighborhood or strolling through a store.

Travel systems : A travel system is a stroller + infant car seat that attach. Parents like travel systems because they can use them from day one and because you don’t have to disturb baby during the car-seat-to-stroller-and-back transfer. You can buy a travel system with a stroller and a car seat from the same brand, or mix and match different brands to make your own. (You’ll just need to make sure your stroller and car seat are compatible and purchase adapters.)

Lightweight strollers : Lightweight strollers weigh much less than traditional strollers. They’re sometimes referred to as travel strollers or compact strollers. They’re great for travel or for parents who need a stroller that’s easy to carry (think going up and down stairs, taking it in and out of car trunks, riding public transit etc.).

Double strollers : Double strollers hold two children at once. If you have twins or little ones close in age, a double stroller can make your life easier. Double strollers come in two configurations: front-to-back (also called tandem or in-line) and side-by-side.

Convertible strollers : A convertible stroller converts from a single stroller to a double. Convertibles are a good choice if you’re planning on having two children relatively close in age. Like double strollers, convertibles come either in tandem or side-by-side configurations.

Jogging strollers : Runners take note: these strollers are built to handle rougher terrain and have souped-up suspension systems for a smoother ride. You don’t have to be a runner to own a jogging stroller, though; many parents love them for their ability to glide over almost any type of terrain.

Stroller frames : A skeleton of a stroller (think: handle, storage basket and wheels), these are made complete when you attach a compatible infant car seat.

How to Choose the Best Stroller

The best stroller for your family depends on a lot of things. “Some parents are shopping for [a stroller] that can turn into a bassinet or a bassinet option that can be added to their strollers,” says Hunter Jones, who talks with parents-to-be daily as a Registry Consultant at Babylist’s LA showroom. “Others are prioritizing travel systems because they like the convenience of taking baby from stroller to car and vice versa. Others [want] unique colored strollers or canopies,” she says.

“Parents coming in want to compare the pros and cons between different brands and models,” shares Markaradi, another Registry Consultant. “Many are looking into ease of use when folding and lifting the stroller. They also look into whether or not the stroller seat is newborn-friendly.” So how should you decide?

Evaluate your lifestyle

“Just because one stroller worked for a family member or your bestie doesn’t mean it will be the perfect stroller for you,” stresses Hunter Jones. Think through your lifestyle and your daily needs to help you narrow down the right stroller. A city family who uses public transportation each day has different stroller needs than a suburban family who’s constantly in and out of their car. You’ll also want to consider things like stroller storage space, if you have stairs leading up to your home and if you’ll be using your stroller mainly for walks or for jogging, too. 

“Consider lifestyle and neighborhood,” echoes Markaradi. “For example, there are some strollers that are lightweight for quick city strolls and some strollers that have more all-terrain [features] to smoothly take on adventures.”

Think through features

Do you want a stroller that accommodates your newborn from day one? Are you set on a particular brand of car seat that’s only compatible with certain strollers? How important are things like fold, weight, a reversible seat, a large storage basket and an adjustable handlebar to you? Be sure to carefully think through all the features you need—or want—in a stroller before making your choice.

Factor in family size

If you’re planning on having multiple children close in age, you may want to consider a convertible stroller from day one instead of registering for a single stroller and then having to purchase a double shortly after. “My recommendation for first-time parents is to navigate if they want to start with a single stroller or stroller that will grow,” says Markaradi. 

Consider safety

“A five-point harness is most important to ensure baby is secure in [the] stroller,” says English. Other safety features she recommends looking for include easy-to-operate brakes and a good fit. “A child should be able to freely move their arms and legs with good trunk control (no slouching). They should be able to hold their head up against gravity with their neck in a neutral position,” she says.

If you plan on using an infant car seat with your stroller, always remember what English calls the two-hour rule. “Safety experts recommend limiting car seat use to no more than two hours in a 24-hour period,” she stresses. “This is because research shows that when a baby is positioned in a semi-upright position for longer durations, it can restrict airflow to baby's lungs, resulting in breathing issues.” Too long of a stretch in a car seat can also put baby’s spine in a stressful position, notes English, and take away from floor time—the best way to help support your little one’s sensory and motor development.

Keep cost in mind 

Strollers can cost anywhere from a hundred dollars to well over a thousand. Pricier strollers often have features like all-wheel suspension, better maneuverability, high-end fabrics, modular seats or the ability to convert to a double. But there are plenty of high-quality, more affordable stroller options, too. There’s no right or wrong—it’s about what’s important to you. 

For a step-by-step deep dive into stroller decision-making, head over to our How to Choose a Stroller guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can your baby sleep in a stroller.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies sleep alone , on their backs and in a crib or bassinet with a firm sleep surface and covered in a fitted sheet with no other bedding. If a baby falls asleep in a car seat attached to a stroller or in the stroller itself, they should be removed and placed in a crib, bassinet or other safe sleep space as soon as possible. If a baby falls asleep in a stroller and you’re hoping to avoid disturbing them so they can finish a nap, reduce the risk by removing hats and blankets and be sure the stroller is well-ventilated—and always supervise them.

Which is better: a stroller or a wagon?

A stroller wagon is a hybrid of a stroller + a wagon, featuring the maneuverability of a stroller alongside the fun and functionality of a wagon. Most have large wheels, a robust suspension system and both push and pull functionality, and many break down in some way to make them more compact for portability. Stroller wagons have many pros (great for an outdoors-loving family, for seating multiple kids and for older kids who may be beyond a traditional stroller but not yet ready to walk independently for long periods of time), but some cons, too (most are big and bulky, expensive and don’t always work for infants, and many don’t maneuver nearly as well as a stroller). Like many baby gear decisions, you’ll want to think through these pros and cons and weigh them against your family’s needs if you’re deciding between a stroller or a stroller wagon.

What is the best stroller to put in a car?

Not all strollers are ideal for getting in and out of a car trunk. If you know you’ll be driving with your baby most days, prioritize a stroller with a quick, easy one-handed fold, a lighter weight and a compact design.

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.

Advertisement

• Baby and kid

The Best Full-Size Strollers

By Elise Czajkowski

A full-size stroller needs to do—and be—many things.

It must safely and comfortably transport a child from point A to point B for several years, while also seamlessly supporting a family’s day-to-day activities.

Depending on where you live and what your daily life looks like, you may rely on your stroller to be a cargo carrier for groceries and extended outings.

You may need a stroller that you’re able to fold and carry with one hand—so you can easily toss it in the back of a trunk, carry it onto public transportation, or lug it up several flights of stairs.

Or maybe you want a stroller that facilitates a regular jogging routine, that’s built to handle jaunts off the beaten path, or that is easy to travel with. (We’ve included descriptions of our top-pick jogging stroller and travel stroller in the Other good section of this guide because we think either could be an ideal everyday stroller for certain families.)

Whatever boxes you’re aiming to tick, we’ve got you covered on this ultra-important purchase. We researched more than 100 strollers and tested 16, and we’re confident that our recommendations will suit a wide range of circumstances and budgets.

How we picked

Since different circumstances call for different strollers, we looked for models with features that would suit a range of needs.

A good stroller should be easy to drive and intuitive to adjust.

Collapsing a stroller shouldn’t be overly confusing or require excess force.

Both the caregiver and the child should find a stroller pleasant and secure-feeling.

The research

Who this is for, the best full-featured stroller for daily urban use: uppababy cruz v2, the best less-expensive full-featured four-wheeler: evenflo pivot xpand modular stroller, the best all-around easy-fold stroller: thule spring, the best value: britax b-lively lightweight stroller, the best for off-roading: baby jogger city mini gt2 all-terrain stroller, our picks at a glance, other good full-size strollers, why you should trust us, how we picked and tested, what about buying a used stroller, the competition.

A full-size stroller can accommodate a child from birth through the toddler years and usually well beyond. Newborns can begin riding either in car seats or bassinet attachments, or fully reclined, if a stroller allows for it.

Full-size strollers are just one of the multiple stroller types available. For example, jogging strollers are designed specifically for runners and are typically equipped with larger, air-filled tires and hand brakes. Double strollers are designed to transport more than one child at a time.

Many families have an umbrella stroller (a lightweight stroller that collapses into a long, thin, umbrella-like shape) or a travel stroller (which is also lightweight but generally folds into a more-briefcase-like package); these are either in addition to or instead of a full-size stroller. Those compact strollers are typically less expensive than full-size strollers, and their size makes them easier to deal with. However, they tend to sacrifice features, such as a large canopy, ample storage space, recline options, and smooth suspension and maneuvering.

Keep in mind that, depending on your circumstances, a stroller may not end up being your preferred means of baby transport. Baby wraps and slings and baby carriers are convenient for younger babies. Stroller wagons have become popular among families who have plenty of room and lots to lug. And hiking baby carriers or kids bike seats , attached to an adult bicycle , can be ideal for traveling longer distances with older babies and kids.

Uppababy Cruz V2

A stylish four-wheeler well suited to city dwellers.

This comfortable, user-friendly stroller has a reversible toddler seat and generous storage. But it’s not the easiest to lift or fold.

Buying Options

Best for: Caregivers who use their stroller as a child’s main source of transportation and don’t need to carry it on a regular basis.

Why we like it

The four-wheeled Uppababy Cruz V2 has amassed a loyal following, especially among city-dwelling parents. And for good reason: The Cruz V2 is a thoughtfully designed, well-executed stroller that gets most things just right, including a smooth ride, a huge canopy, and a generous storage basket. Overall, we think the Cruz is a better choice than Uppababy’s larger Vista for toting a single child.

The Cruz V2 has a narrow frame, so it’s easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The stroller’s profile is slim and short enough that navigating narrow spaces or swinging it around one-handed takes little effort. Despite that slim frame, it has a larger-than-average storage basket, with the highest weight capacity among any of our picks. I’ve used this as my main stroller for more than 18 months and have no issues or complaints. And every time I test another stroller, I’m always so happy when I can go back to the Cruz V2.

The Cruz V2 is the only stroller in our test group that has two foot brakes. A green one on the left unlocks the stroller, and a red one on the right locks it. The configuration seems designed for right-handed folks who would naturally use their right foot to brake. But I appreciate that the color-coded system makes it easy to confirm whether the stroller is locked—from any angle or from a distance.

It has the best toddler seat of any stroller we’ve tested. The Cruz V2’s one-piece harness is especially simple to adjust, and it makes getting out the door with a little one significantly easier. Unlike with many other strollers, with this one you don’t have separate shoulder and waist straps to wrangle—there’s just one continuous, easy-to-adjust harness.

Popular add-ons for the Cruz V2 include a bassinet attachment for newborns and a bassinet stand for using the bassinet without the stroller (it’s sleep-safe), as well as the PiggyBack ride-along board (for children from around 2 years and up to 55 pounds).

Uppababy offers a two-year warranty (or three years, if you register your stroller), which covers manufacturer defects. It does not cover normal wear and tear or accidental damage.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

The process of folding the Cruz V2 requires your full attention and the use of both hands. That can be a big ask when you’re caring for a small child. And the Cruz V2 isn’t the easiest stroller to pick up or carry when folded.

The price is likely to be a deterrent for many people. Although this stroller is more satisfying to use than less-expensive competitors, getting a great stroller for a lot less is not difficult. (Also, this model currently costs around $700, so Uppababy really should’ve thrown in a cup holder .) But the Cruz V2 does go on sale fairly regularly, and it’s possible to buy pre-owned models, as well. (See What about buying a used stroller? )

Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Stroller

A four-wheeled stroller that offers bang for the buck.

This less-expensive take on a fully loaded “designer” stroller has flaws, but it delivers lots of features on a tighter budget.

Best for: Families who want the features of an Uppababy but want or need to spend much less.

The Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Stroller is a solid stroller that ticks the essential boxes, with adjustable handlebar height, a reversible toddler seat, and an accessible storage basket. It doesn’t feel as thoughtfully designed or streamlined as our other four-wheeled pick, the Uppababy Cruz , but it’s more than half as good for about half the cost.

It offers good maneuverability for the price. While the Pivot Xpand isn’t as pleasant to push as the Cruz, especially around tight corners, it is much easier to push and steer than comparably-priced four-wheeled strollers.

The toddler seat reclines smoothly via a handle on the back. The toddler seat also has an “infant mode” for children under 6 months old. When you unbuckle a strap under the seat, the seat becomes almost flat, creating a suitable position for small babies; this also makes the stroller particularly cost-efficient, since you don’t have to purchase a separate bassinet (as you do with the Uppababy Cruz V2).

The Pivot Xpand has a large storage basket that’s nicely open and accessible from the back. It easily holds a 70-count box of diapers. But the storage basket’s weight capacity is only 10 pounds, so it’s less than ideal for serious grocery trips. (The Uppababy Cruz V2’s basket has a 30-pound weight limit.)

The Pivot Xpand can be converted from a single to a double stroller. That requires the purchase of a second toddler seat . We did not test this stroller as a double. It is the only one of our picks in this guide that converts, though the Uppababy Vista, which is a pick in our guide to double strollers , provides that option.

Evenflo offers a 90-day warranty for manufacturer defects, which is an unusually short warranty period. This does not cover normal wear and tear or accidental damage.

The Pivot Xpand is not great on rougher surfaces. That’s due in part to its size and weight—it is the heaviest of our picks by 5 to 10 pounds, and it has a larger frame than the Uppababy Cruz V2; this also makes it less than ideal for moving when it’s folded.

The belly bar is a real pain. It must be fully removed every time you take your child in and out of the stroller. If you live in a sunny climate, the Pivot Xpand’s small canopy—the shortest canopy among our picks—could also be an issue.

Thule Spring

A nimble and ultra-portable three-wheeler.

This sleek, zippy stroller is a cinch to fold and carry—plus, it has a good storage basket.

(limited colors)

Best for: Families who want a compact, agile three-wheeled stroller that folds quickly and can be thrown into a trunk or carried up a flight of stairs with ease.

The Thule Spring is a nimble, compact stroller. And it has a quick, one-handed fold that’s sure to be deeply appreciated by anyone who regularly loads their stroller into a car trunk, lugs it up stairs, or tries to jam it into an already-packed space.

The sharp-looking Spring is a peppy stroller to tool around with. We love how this three-wheeler can squeeze between parked cars and hop curbs—it’s both fun and easy to drive. I could easily hoist the whole thing, complete with my son inside, up into my arms in order to scale a few steps—something that was impossible to do with our four-wheeled picks. Our long-term tester appreciated that the Spring was “nimble and agile and spritely” without compromising her daughter’s comfort. She compared it to “the difference between driving a zippy little sports car versus a big SUV; refreshing, fun, easy.”

The underseat storage is more generous than on similar models. Many three-wheeled strollers have small, shallow storage baskets that are difficult to access. But not the Spring: Its underseat storage basket is completely open in the back, so you can toss things right in or even fit larger items, like a 70-count box of diapers.

The Spring’s one-handed fold is simple and elegant. You slide over a small plastic tab and pull up on a sturdy handle (hidden beneath the child’s seat), which you can then use to comfortably carry the stroller (kind of like a suitcase).

The Spring does not come with an adjustable leg rest as part of the toddler seat. Most of the other strollers we tested do. You can purchase a leg rest separately (for around $50) and attach it to the seat. Other accessories include the Newborn Inlay and the Newborn Nest , for using the Spring with babies under 6 months of age.

Thule offers a limited lifetime warranty for frame defects and a three-year warranty for the fabric and other parts. The warranty does not cover normal wear and tear or accidental damage.

The handlebar may feel awkward to use. A couple of testers with smaller hands found that the Spring’s oddly shaped handlebar, which is wide and flat, was uncomfortable to grip. “It makes me feel like I’m a baby bird trying to wrap my claws around a big branch,” one long-term tester said. Another long-term tester found that there is “no way to grip this handlebar normally or comfortably.” And she said when she’s using the stroller for long distances, she has to move and wiggle her hands a lot on the handlebar.

It’s not the smoothest on uneven terrain. For example, the narrow Spring is inferior to the Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 All-Terrain Stroller for off-road driving. Still, when I was testing multiple three-wheeled strollers against one another head to head, I found myself consistently gravitating toward the Spring.

The child harness on the Spring’s toddler seat has room for improvement. You must attach the straps for the shoulders and waist separately to the central buckle, and you cannot attach them in the order of your choosing—you must buckle in the waist straps first, which can be tricky when a child has other ideas in mind. Further slowing down the process: To buckle the separate harness pieces, you must align them and slide them in just so—an exercise that requires far more precision and concentration than it should.

A taller kid may find the fit tight. Our long-term tester found that her tall 3-year-old bumped her head on the bottom of the canopy, and by age 4, she could only ride in it with the canopy closed.

Britax B-Lively Lightweight Stroller

A solid, inexpensive three-wheeled stroller.

This is a pretty bare-bones stroller—the handlebar height is not adjustable, and this model works only with its own brand of infant car seats. But it’s ultra-light, drives well, and folds easily.

Best for: Caregivers in search of a basic, dependable stroller that does a good job.

The Britax B-Lively Lightweight Stroller is the lightest and least-expensive stroller among our picks in this guide. It is unapologetically simple: You can’t adjust the handlebar height, but it’s a breeze to fold and unfold, and it’s pleasant to drive.

At an ultra-manageable 20 pounds, the B-Lively is refreshingly light. It’s also the slimmest when folded. It’s the kind of stroller you might want along for an excursion involving staircases, car rides, or public transit (or to keep as a spare at a grandparent’s house). The B-Lively’s compactness allows it to squeeze into tight spaces that larger strollers cannot manage.

Folding the B-Lively is easy. You simply push a small button on the side of the stroller before pulling up on a handle at the center of the toddler seat. (The additional step of pushing the button is intended as a safety measure, in case a child tries to climb into the stroller by grabbing the strap, which could otherwise cause it to collapse.)

It’s pleasant to drive and comfortable to push, particularly on a smooth or paved surface. This three-wheeler’s light weight and small footprint make it easy to weave through narrow spaces. (Technically it has four wheels, since two small wheels sit up front, but they function as one.)

It’s remarkably enjoyable to unfold. Opening and unfurling this stroller takes less effort than with other models, since it pops into place faster, requiring less balance, strength, and bracing in the process.

The B-Lively’s rounded foam handlebar is relatively comfortable to grip. Because there are no buttons or notches anywhere, you can grab the handlebar right in the center, so it’s more comfortable to steer one-handed than many of our other picks.

Britax offers a two-year warranty for manufacturer defects on its strollers. This policy does not cover normal wear and tear or accidental damage.

It’s difficult, or impossible, to adjust certain features. The handlebar does not adjust at all, so this stroller is less comfortable for notably tall or short people to use. And adjusting the height of the shoulder straps on the B-Lively is a bit of a bear (as it is on the Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 All-Terrain Stroller ); it involves unthreading and rethreading the straps through slits on the back of the stroller, which can be time-consuming.

The all-black foot brake blends into the surroundings. If you’re looking at the stroller from afar or in low light, it is difficult to tell whether the B-Lively is locked.

The underseat basket is less accessible than others. With a shallow basket and a narrow opening, the storage on this stroller falls short compared with that of the Thule Spring .

It’s not great for napping. This stroller lacks an adjustable footrest, so you can’t create a long, flat bed where kids can sleep on the go. The recline of the toddler seat can be tricky, too.

The only way to use this stroller for an infant is with a Britax car seat. Britax does not sell a bassinet attachment or any other infant accessories for the B-Lively. If you want to use this stroller for babies who are newborn through 6 months, the B-Lively does come with an adapter that makes it compatible with Britax infant car seats; unfortunately, there are no other adapters for this stroller to make it compatible with infant car seats from other brands (like the models we recommend in our guide to the best infant car seats ).

Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 All-Terrain Stroller

A rugged, all-terrain stroller with a hand brake.

Large yet lightweight, this quick-folding three-wheeler is built for off-roading (but not jogging).

Best for: People who want a larger stroller that can handle different types of terrain but that’s also light and easy to fold. It’s also a good fit both for tall kids and tall caregivers.

The three-wheeled Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 All-Terrain Stroller delivers rugged functionality. It’s sturdy and wide yet also very light. And it has a simple, one-handed fold—the best of any stroller we tested—so it’s easy to pop into the back of your car before you head off on an adventure.

It excels on tricky terrain like grass and gravel. (But, despite the brand name, this stroller is not designed for running.) Overall, the City Mini GT2 is a pleasure to drive, with responsive, nimble handling.

It’s pleasant to push and to ride in. The stroller’s rubberized handlebar is comfortable for long-term pushing and gripping as you maneuver over bumps and curbs, and its large canopy and deeply reclining, nap-friendly toddler seat lend themselves well to extended day trips.

It fits taller kids (and parents) well. This stroller has the longest toddler seat of any of our picks. And its adjustable handlebar can go up the highest, 44 inches, making this stroller a potentially great fit for particularly tall families.

It’s the largest of the (non-jogging) three-wheeled strollers we’ve tested. The stroller’s scale could make it less than ideal in certain urban settings or any sort of cramped quarters. But its wider frame—which distributes weight evenly and provides extra stability—makes it especially well equipped to take on rougher terrain.

The fold cannot be beat. You pull up on a nylon handle located at the center of the toddler seat, and the entire thing collapses. This stroller has, by far, the simplest and most streamlined folding process among our picks.

It’s an improvement over the Baby Jogger City Mini 2, a previous pick in this guide. A Wirecutter writer who has been using the City Mini GT2 has been particularly impressed by how much better it drives compared with her previous Baby Jogger City Mini 2. “It’s much smoother, easier to push, and gives a more cushiony ride,” she said. The two strollers share the notably quick fold.

It has foam-filled tires. The City Mini GT2 has what Baby Jogger calls Forever-Air tires. These rubber tires are filled with a lightweight foam, rather than air, and they’re intended to be buoyant and capable of handling different surfaces. They do not require refilling, unlike the air-filled tires on jogging strollers.

The City Mini GT2 uses a hand brake instead of a foot brake. While the hand brake on most jogging strollers operates like a bike brake (you squeeze a handle, and the stroller slows down), the hand brake on this stroller functions more like an emergency parking brake. You pull up on the brake (which is located on the right side of the frame, just below the handlebar) to engage it, and the stroller stops completely. There is no foot brake.

It is compatible with other brands’ car seats, without an additional purchase. With the use of an adapter, most of our picks are compatible with car seats from other brands. But the City Mini GT2 is the only one that comes with an adaptor. It doesn’t come with any other accessories.

Baby Jogger offers a lifetime warranty for frame defects, and it offers a limited one-year warranty for the stroller’s seat fabric and other components, with the exception of the tires. This policy does not cover normal wear and tear or accidental damage.

The underseat storage basket is the least useful of storage on any stroller we tested. It is skimpy size-wise, and its entry points are narrow and obstructed, so it’s impossible to get large items in there.

The hand brake is not universally beloved. Although the City Mini GT2’s hand brake has its defenders , I was frustrated by having to keep a hand free to brake. Beyond that, I was always concerned that the fabric of the canopy would interfere with the braking mechanism. “The hand brake is my least favorite feature on the stroller,” said the parent who has been long-term testing the City Mini GT2. “I find it difficult to engage, and I’m less likely to use the brake when I’m just stopped at a red light because it’s a bit of a pain. I use it only when I’m fully parked.”

Even at its most inclined, the toddler seat is not very upright. It has a perpetually reclined quality—which could be a problem for kids who want to sit up straight and look out at the world.

Adjusting the height of the shoulder straps is a chore. It requires feeding the straps through openings in the back of the seat. And the harness consists of five pieces that you must click into place every time you put the child in the stroller, which is a hassle.

If you’re a runner who is looking for a single terrific stroller that can do it all: The Thule Urban Glide 3 —the top pick in our guide to jogging strollers —combines high-quality construction with excellent maneuverability and suspension. (Pictured above is its highly similar predecessor, the Urban Glide 2.) It has a unique curved-handlebar design that works well for people of all heights, and at 26 pounds, it’s as lightweight as a full-size stroller. We love this stroller’s large canopy, sandal-friendly foot brake, and easy, one-handed fold. And its covered storage basket can hold up to 26 pounds, so it’s also a useful stroller for running errands.

If you want a travel stroller that can be used as a main stroller: The Uppababy Minu V2 —the top pick in our guide to travel strollers —has many features that allow it to function as an everyday 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-handed fold is impressively simple, and it has an easily adjustable harness and intuitive brakes. It also has a large, zip-out sun canopy. You can use it—without attachments—for children as young as 3 months, or with Uppababy’s bassinet or select car seats for newborns. A kid doesn’t officially outgrow it until they reach 50 pounds, which is often grade-school age.

If you like the Uppababy Cruz V2, but you want a larger stroller that has even more storage space (and that can convert to carry two kids): The Uppababy Vista V2 is a supersize version of the Uppababy Cruz V2 , our four-wheeled pick for daily urban use. The Vista V2’s frame is bigger than that of the Cruz V2, and the stroller comes with a larger storage basket. We thought the more-expensive Vista V2 maneuvered slightly better than the Cruz V2, since its larger frame distributed weight differently across the stroller. But we also found it was harder to navigate tight spaces with a stroller that had a bigger footprint. Unlike the Cruz, the Vista V2 can convert from a single stroller to a double stroller, with the purchase of an additional seat (the Vista model is the upgrade pick in our guide to the best double strollers ). Our long-term tester who has had the Vista V2 said she has loved its ability to carry around all of her family’s things, even for long trips, but that it is “freaking huge” in the back of her family’s SUV. Uppababy is releasing an updated version of the Vista this fall, though the V2 will continue to be available for a while to come. We c ompared the two versions , concluding that most people who want to buy the Vista for use with a new baby will be just as happy with the V2 as with the V3.

If you’re looking for a high-end four-wheeled stroller with an especially easy fold: The Nuna Mixx Next has the easiest fold of any four-wheeled stroller we tested. This pricey stroller is very attractive, great for pushing one-handed, and designed with a compact frame, so it’s good for both navigating and storing in tight spaces. With 36 pounds of weight in the seat, however, cornering became tricky, and big bumps stopped the Nuna Mixx and threatened to tip it over completely. Also, the bumper bar is a nuisance to click in and out, and it requires two hands to operate. And the adjustable footrest is a tad flimsy and short for older babies and toddlers. Finally, this stroller is compatible only with Nuna’s own line of car seats, which we have tested and do not recommend .

If you’re interested in a rugged stroller with outdoorsy, à la carte add-ons: The Veer Switchback stroller system—from the makers of the popular Veer Cruiser , a pick in our guide to the best stroller wagons —is unique. You can buy the components for it separately or in a bundle. There’s a toddler seat, sold individually, that you can click into a four-wheeled stroller frame called “&Roll,” which we tested. The same toddler seat can also work on the “&Jog” jogging stroller frame or (with the use of adapters) transform into a bicycle seat, a camping chair, or a restaurant booster. The Switch&Roll stroller, which we tested, has an adjustable suspension system that you can calibrate for the terrain and for the weight of the child. We didn’t notice huge variations from this calibration, but even so, this stroller was able to plow over tree roots and jump curbs better than any other model we tested. However, for most people in a city or suburban setting, it’s likely not an ideal fit: The stroller’s unusually large chassis and wheels are unwieldy and heavy, its handlebar has a rough texture, and its child harness is time-consuming and unintuitive to adjust. It also doesn’t fold compactly, and it really should have a hand brake, considering its heft (29.8 pounds). This stroller was a new offering when we tested it, and we think Veer may still have some kinks to work out.

I’m a writer and editor who has 15 years of journalism experience, and I’ve covered strollers for Wirecutter for more than two years. I’ve personally tested over two-dozen strollers with my son, starting when he was almost 1. I’ve also spent a lot of time talking about strollers with friends and strangers at doctor’s offices, playgrounds, birthday parties, my son’s daycare, and elsewhere.

Over the course of the many iterations of this guide, we interviewed a dozen experts in pediatrics, stroller safety, and baby equipment. We’ve also reviewed other guides, scoured Facebook and Reddit pages on strollers, and kept a close eye on the CPSC’s recall website . This guide builds on the work of Sonjia Hyon, PhD, a freelance researcher and writer who began reviewing strollers for Wirecutter in 2017. As part of her more than 55-hour process, she consulted with multiple R&D and product teams and stroller retail experts.

In 2022, Wirecutter polled readers about the features that mattered most to them when considering a full-size stroller. The survey also asked people to share their feedback on the strollers they currently owned. That input was an immensely valuable jumping-off point for this guide.

There’s no single stroller that’s perfect for every family. Your needs and wants are bound to vary depending on your lifestyle, priorities, and budget. That’s why we offer a wide range of picks with different features.

For this guide, we considered both three- and- four-wheeled strollers. Three-wheeled strollers tend to be lighter and easier to maneuver than their bulkier four-wheeled counterparts. But with their larger frames, four-wheeled strollers may provide more storage space and adaptability.

We have found some common denominators among worthy strollers. After putting in dozens of hours of research and conducting half a dozen expert interviews, we’ve determined that a great full-size stroller should meet the following criteria:

It should be safe for a baby to use from birth through toddlerhood. The right stroller should be able to transport a child, quite literally, from infancy through the toddler years, and maybe beyond. All strollers must meet federal safety standards established by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, which relies on the testing rubric determined by ASTM International . Some manufacturers depend on outside testers, such as the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association, to certify their products; we took this into consideration but did not consider it a requirement.

A stroller should be pleasant to push and maneuver. Full-size strollers come in either the traditional four-wheeled design or with three wheels on a triangular base. Beyond that, many factors contribute to how a particular stroller handles, including suspension, weight, overall size, handlebar position, wheel size, and wheelbase (that is, the distance between the front and back wheels).

It should be user-friendly. The best full-size strollers are simple to use, period. Adjusting key features (like the child harness, handlebar, toddler seat recline, and bumper bar, if applicable) should be intuitive and easily understood by any caregiver. And the basket should be functional and accessible.

It should be easy to clean. Where small children go, messes follow—that’s why we devoted an entire article to how to clean a stroller . We prefer strollers with fabrics that can be spruced up in a jiffy and that can stay new-looking longer, with the help of supplies parents are likely to have on hand (like damp paper towels or baby wipes).

We’ve considered 102 strollers and tested 20 in the past two years alone. We eliminated models that had large numbers of serious online complaints, few or no reviews, availability issues, or no obvious way to contact customer service. Each stroller was run through various tests in our office and out in the world. My initial testing took place when my son was about 1 year old; during follow-up testing, he was 2½.

My husband (5-foot-10) and I (5-foot-7) pushed the strollers around the streets of Upper Manhattan. We took them through small grocery-store aisles, around parks, and in and out of our apartment building’s narrow, 100-year-old elevator. Some strollers also joined us on the subway, at the zoo, and at various appointments and social engagements.

You can find an extensive market for secondhand strollers on Facebook Marketplace, GoodBuy Gear, Mercari, and other sites. Many families end up using their stroller far less than they thought they would, so it’s possible to find pre-owned strollers that are still in excellent condition.

Before purchasing or using any older baby gear, check the CPSC’s recall website to make sure that it hasn’t had any issues.

With strollers, it’s best to buy local so you can test-drive the stroller first and try all of its key features, including the brakes, steering, harness, canopy, seat recline, and folding and unfolding. You should also look for any signs of damage that could affect the stroller’s performance, safety, or longevity, such as a bent frame or torn fabric.

We have advice on how to give a used stroller a thorough cleaning . But if you’re worried about germs, mold, or mildew, it may be worth it to have the stroller professionally cleaned before using it.

Whether you’re buying new or used, when you’re purchasing a stroller, you may want to consider its eventual resale value. Strollers from well-known, dependable, in-demand brands (like Baby Jogger, Thule, and Uppababy) tend to hold their value well. And if they’re in good shape, they can often be resold for more than half of their original sticker price.

The Bumbleride Era is a newer stroller from a company that’s mostly known for its jogging strollers. This was the only four-wheeled stroller we tested that has air-filled wheels (a feature usually found on jogging strollers); this would probably be considered a drawback by most people since they have to be refilled regularly. Other issues—like a cork handlebar that could easily get dinged or dirty and a foot brake that we found difficult to lock into place—caused us to eliminate it from consideration.

The Chicco Bravo LE is a solidly built four-wheeler that we tested for the original version of this guide. (The current model is now made with ClearTex fabric, which has received a Greenguard Gold Certification .) It lacks a locking mechanism to keep the stroller folded, so if you travel with it or store it, you need to secure it yourself. We think most people who are looking for a lower-priced stroller would be better served by the three-wheeled Britax B-Lively Lightweight Stroller .

The Chicco Viaro is a lower-priced three-wheeled stroller with solid online reviews. We dismissed it based on owner reports indicating that it provides a bumpy ride.

The Cybex Gazelle S four-wheeled convertible stroller is billed as a “shopper” by its manufacturer, since it comes with a large shopping basket that can attach to the stroller frame. But this concept failed to grab us in person: We found it was difficult to adjust both the toddler seat and the basket, which left us wondering whether we had done it correctly. And the process of folding this stroller was complicated enough to make one tester give up entirely.

The Delta Children Revolve Reversible Stroller had a lightweight frame, the smallest fold I’d seen on a full-size reversible stroller, and a very affordable price tag. For me, it ultimately didn’t feel sturdy enough for everyday use, however, especially on bumpy sidewalks or over curbs.

The Graco Modes Pramette Stroller is consistently one of the most popular strollers on Amazon, likely due to its affordable price and name recognition. But despite its reasonable size and maneuverability, its harness is frustrating to use and adjust, its brakes are difficult to lock and unlock, and there’s a creaking in the wheels. On top of that, its assembly was one of the most difficult I’ve seen on a stroller—so much so that I worry many people would put it together incorrectly.

In 2022, we tested the Mockingbird Single-to-Double Stroller, which we found unpleasant and a little precarious. In November 2022, following multiple reports of structural issues with the frame when the stroller was being used as a double, Mockingbird issued a voluntary recall on certain models , and it sent out frame-reinforcement kits. (Mockingbird’s voluntary recall applies to some lot numbers of the Single model, as well. If you currently own any of these strollers, you should request a frame-reinforcement kit, if you haven’t already.)

In early 2024, we tested the updated Mockingbird Single-to-Double Stroller 2.0 , which includes an updated frame as well as some improvements on the harness, canopy, and fold. Although this newer version is definitely an improvement over its predecessor, I still found that many of the original’s flaws—a wide frame that makes it harder to swing around, a handlebar that I found uniquely uncomfortable to push—prevented me from loving it.

The four-wheeled Peg Perego Ypsi tends to move even when the brake is engaged (including when I was trying to remove my child from the stroller). Also, the leg rest on the Ypsi has a limited range, the fabric is difficult to clean, and the handlebar feels a little rickety when adjusted. The Ypsi can convert to a double stroller, but we have not tested it as a double.

The Silver Cross Reef Stroller is a beautiful, high-end four-wheeled stroller that we simply cannot recommend. It has a child harness that is complex and frustrating, an uncomfortable handlebar, a storage basket that we found difficult to access, and a canopy that tended to bunch up. And its fold was so unintuitive and complex that it brought one particularly level-headed Wirecutter editor very close to the brink of rage.

The Thule Sleek is a robust, full-featured four-wheeled convertible stroller that we tested for a previous version of this guide. Its large wheels (8 inches in the front and 11 inches in the rear) easily handle bumps and grassy elevations, and we like that it has the agility of a more-nimble three-wheeled stroller (though it does take wide turns). It does, however, have a high price and a heavy weight (28 pounds).

The Thule Urban Glide 4-Wheel all-terrain stroller borrows heavily from Thule’s popular jogging-stroller style. Yet it isn’t recommended for use as a jogger. And, unfortunately, it falls into a “worst of both worlds” chasm. Mostly, it’s massive. I caused a traffic jam in a grocery store when I couldn’t squeeze down a narrow aisle, and I couldn’t squeeze it into the narrow door of my 100-year-old elevator. Since it isn’t recommended for use for runners, I think this style will appeal to very few people.

This guide was edited by Rachel Hurn, Alison Rochford, and Kalee Thompson.

Dr. Benjamin Hoffman, former chair of the American Association of Pediatrics Council on Injury, Violence and Poison Prevention, president of AAP , video interview , June 28, 2022

Sarah Huff, senior manager of customer and community at BabyQuip , video interview , June 28, 2022

Leticia Nache Perez, former senior quality assurance engineer at Kolcraft and former co-chair of the ASTM subcommittee for carriages and strollers , email interview , September 1, 2022

Carriages and Strollers Business Guidance & Small Entity Compliance Guide , United States Consumer Product Safety Commission

Eli Gurock, owner and CEO of Magic Beans, board adviser for GoodBuy Gear , email interviews , January 12, 2023

Isaac Judd, former co-owner and COO of Magic Beans , phone interview , July 7, 2017

Jamie Mamikunian, owner and founder of Stroller Spa , phone interview , July 7, 2017

Kelly Thomas and Claudia Prager, director of brand marketing and senior product manager, Britax , phone interview , October 23, 2017

Chris Davenport and Matt Rivera, brand development and R&D engineering, Baby Jogger , phone interview , August 30, 2017

Heather Felton, pediatrician, University of Louisville , phone interview , August 10, 2017

Meet your guide

Elise Czajkowski

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

Further reading

Uppababy Just Redesigned Its Popular Vista Stroller. We Tested It Out.

by Elise Czajkowski

The upgraded version will be on sale soon. But there’s little reason to wait for that new model.

The Best Travel Strollers

After testing seven travel strollers on various trips and excursions, we’re confident that the Uppababy Minu V2 is the one to get.

The Best Stroller Wagons

by Liz Iversen

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

The Best Jogging Strollers

by Jenni Gritters and Katharine Gammon

If you’re a runner who wants to bring a kid along for the ride, you’ll want a stroller that can keep pace. After testing 18 models we settled on three top performers.

Guide to Tricks and Treats at CA Great America

If you are looking for something fun, unique, and interactive that the whole family can participate in this Halloween season, then you need to head on over to California’s Great America for their brand new Tricks and Treats event! We recently attend this one-of-a -kind fall festival and Halloween party combo and we have nothing but raves and accolades! It was literally so much fun! We live in Southern CA so we took a short flight over but you can easily drive to the amusement prk as there are so many fascinting stops along the way to make for a fun road trip. Here is a guide with some tip to help you navigate this event:

What is Tricks And Treats?

All new for 2022 is Tricks and Treats has replacd their Halloween Haunt and is a one-of-a-kind epic fall festival and Halloween party combo. Everyone in the family – from little goblins to grown-up ghouls – will find ghastly great things to do for Halloween. Celebrate the season with mischievous tricks, tasty treats, adventures and activities – and so much more.

Upon entering the park, guests will be immediately immersed in the Halloween fun with a choice of four themed areas to start from. The Main Stage sits adorned with a giant pumpkin as the event’s centerpiece of all festivities. During the day, it is a picturesque family backdrop perfect for capturing fall-inspired memories. As the evening approaches, guests will notice the large festive Jack o’ Lantern coming to life with a fiery light, taking on a soft uncanny glow. From there, guests can choose their path by embarking on the festive Lands of Treats or one of the mischievous Lands of Tricks, each with its own mystery and fun in store. The Lands of Treats is made up of Everfall and Sweet Tooth Acres, both rich with joyful memories of bonfires, Halloween sweets and cozy fall feels. Guests will enter an autumnal fall festival, and sugar-spun candy farm decor displayed everywhere imaginable. For those looking for more mischievous fun, the Lands of Tricks offers Spooky Spires and Ickyville. These playful areas will have guests drawn to a splat-tastic monster party and an eerie classical speakeasy populated by gothic surprises.

Know Before You Go

• Before you even enter the park I highly recommend you download their app. Not only can you store all of you mobile tickets in the app, but you can also purchase passes, meals, fast lane, parking FunPix and more.
• The app will also tell you where every bathroom is located in the park.
• CA Great America is cashless so be prepared with credit cards or use the cash-to card kiosks
• If you need a stroller or a wheelchair I recommend you arrive right at opening as both sell out FAST! (single strollers are $22, doubles are $27) and (manual wheelchairs are $30 and electric scooters are $75)
• Lockers are $
• Know the bag policy. If you plan to arrive after 6pm, however, you are only permitted a very small wallet or clutch (6.5” x 4.5” x 2”) – barely big enough to hold a phone. Plan accordingly!
• Bring a sweatshirt to tie around your waist. It gets chilly in the evenings.
• The park is closed Sunday October 23 for a San Francisco’s 49ers game (the theme park shares parking with the stadium so both can’t be open at once). Great America has scheduled has an extra party the Thursday night before instead – October 20.

Where To Stay?

If you are coming from out of town, I highly recommend staying at the Hilton Santa Clara. This is the closest hotel to CGA. Just a five-minute walk to Levi’s Stadium, the stylish and SUPER SAFE sophisticated Hilton Santa Clara hotel boasts an ideal location adjacent to California’s Great America theme park and directly across from the Santa Clara Convention Center. This AAA-rated hotel is set in an attractive resort-style building, just 20 minutes from the San Jose Airport (SJC), in the heart of Silicon Valley. From award-winning dining to spacious rooms and suites, the hotel offers a modern touch and a convenient location.

Room Tour of Hilton Santa Clara

Arrival At The Park

You will need to go through a bag check upon entry into the park. If you would like to bring in a full-sized bag You will have to enter BEFORE 6pm as after that only bags the size of a small wallet are allowed in. You can find more information here . Her are some helpful tips you should do upon arrival:

• Upon entering the park, point out a uniformed security officer that your child can easily spot if he or she should become lost. If your children do get lost, go to the Family Care Center, located in Planet Snoopy, where all unaccompanied children are brought.
• Sign up for KidTrack. This is a free program that assists in quickly reuniting lost children with their parents. Guests with cell phones can register for this safety system at Guest Services, Town Hall or Family Care Center.
• Familiarize yourself with Parent Swap. This is a program intended to help families with small children. One parent waits in line and both get to ride (separately). To participate in Parent Swap, parents need to obtain a slip at Guest Services or Town Hall.
• For the shortest lines, always ride the most popular rides – such as RailBlazer and Flight Deck – when the park first opens or in the early evening when many large groups leave the park.
• Familiarize yourself with the park’s layout by taking a moment to look over the park map handed out at turnstiles. Then take a ride on the 200-foot-high Star Tower, located to your right in Carousel Plaza, for a panoramic view. Below is a woderful map of the park.

If you like Rides a Fastlane Pass is Recommended

Your time is worth money. You should absolutely splurge and get a fastpass because it can completely change your visit. We literally covered so much having a fast pass. One of the best lines we bypassed was the sky buckets. We legit walked right up and got right on. That lin must have ben like 2 hours long. My 11-year old daughter loved loves roller coasters so she maximized our fast pass like you couldn’t believe. We rode multiple rides multiple times and still had plenty of time to cover everything the event had to offer.

When can kids Trick Or Treat?

Kids can tick or treat from 5pm-10pm along the trail but must be under 12 to participate. A punch card is required which they will give to you.

Shows to see at Tricks and Treats

Incantation.

Each night of Tricks and Treats, join the characters and help bring Patch the Pumpkin Pail to life! Tricks and Treats is open select nights from Sept 23 – Oct 30 in Celebration Plaza 7:30pm

The Great Craft Off

This is where audience members are invited to recreate a fall treat in Halloween decorating competition! My daughter made an alligator out of graham crackers and marshmallow fluff.

Costume Council

Have a costume that you feel fearless in? Participate in the Costume Council! Those who dress to impress better strut their stuff and celebrate their unique Halloween look! Showtimes: Download the Great America app!

Harvest Duet

The music of Everfall consists of acoustic covers of songs that simply feel fall. Grab a hot drink and listen to our two musicians perform an array of acoustic songs, from earnest tributes to the Lands to romantic “sweater weather” tunes to music that intangibly fits the season

The all-zombie band The Snots play putrid pop punk parodies of popular songs: Ed Sheeran’s ‘Shape of You’ becomes ‘Plate of Goo,’ ‘Uptown Funk’ becomes ‘Uptown Gunk,’ ‘Blurred Lines’ is ‘Blurred Slimes’…a repertoire so long you could just puke.

The Spectral Sisters

The tastefully harmonized wails of this Andrews Sisters -esque act can be heard across Spooky Spires.

Click HERE to see all of the shows and events offered during Tricks and Treats.

Take Pics With Characters and Props

Tricks and Treats is literally an instagram playground. There are so many photo ops that you could literally spend all day just taking photos.

Enjoy All The Food

One of my favorite places to eat in the park was South Bay Cantina. Here you can build your own nachos and order other Mexican food items. Everything was so delicious and they even have specials of the day!

My daughter loved “The Bride of Frank’s” ice cream that we purchased at the Churro Factory. It’s vanilla ice cream with a twist! Be warned though, it will stain your tongue black for the night.

Their pizza was also very good and an easy choice for kids. However, the kiosk system is kind of tricky. It didn’t seem to be streamlined and a lot of people had issues that caused a backup at the windows. Just bring your patience.

Tricks and Treats sells THE BEST slime we have ever made! It was so stretchy and plyable. The slime shop is located in kids stuff outfitters right next to booger Flicker. All you do is purchase a box for $16 or get the package for $18 which comes with 1 mix-in. There is even a plastic container in the box for you to put your slime in once you are finished. It makes it so easy to carry around at the park.

The slime shop is open on:

?Fridays from 4 to 10 PM ?Saturdays and Sundays from 12 PM to 10 PM

Again, if you have a Fastlane pass this is a no-brainer. My daughter is on the older side at 11 so we did not ride anything in Camp Snoopy as we rode all of the big ones. White waterfalls was super fun and she didn’t mind getting wet a bit as it was very muggy out.

Whitewater Falls

Cooling off on a hot California day is a Great America tradition, and Whitewater Falls provides a scream-filled plunge that does the trick. Located in Hometown Square, Whitewater Falls has been a park favorite since 1990.

Xtreme Airflyer

This particular does have a fee attached to it and my daughter wanted to ride it but as a parent, I had to say no. Listen to this description:

After you get strapped into the harness – face down, mind you – a lift cable elevates you to a peak of 154 feet above the ground. At the top, the rider operator will instruct you to pull the cord. Because you pull the ripcord yourself, you’re in control, right? Um, no. Not, really. The second you rip the cord, gravity kicks in and you free fall at speeds up to 50 miles per hour down, down, down toward the earth, skimming it by mere feet. You then swing back and forth until it’s all over. Whew! This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll never forget.

Surrounded by the sounds of tribal music and jungle drums, thrill seekers embark on a journey past fiery 40-foot-tall torches, exotic relics and tropical landscaping. The twists and turns on the rolling track make Tiki Twirl a must-ride for guests.

Buy Some Merch

We were obsessed with the merchandise at CA Great America. So many warm sweatshirts, hats and beanies. We live in Southern California where it is always hot so this was a nice change.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Family Review Guide (@familyreviewguide)

Tips For Tricks and Treats

• Eat During Off-Times
• Bring an extra battery pack for your phone
• Ride The Sky Buckets to the other end of the park to give yourself a break
• Bring Wipes! You are bound to want to wipe your hands and the bathrooms are spread out a bit.

For more information about Tricks and Treats at California’s Great America, visit them on Facebook and on Instagram .

Share this:

Sharing is caring!

• Facebook 24
• Pinterest 1

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Join our mailing list to receive the latest news and updates from our team.

You have Successfully Subscribed!