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The 15 Best Travel Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

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

In This Article

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• Our top picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

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

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 your best bet when you hit the road: Today's models are big with lots of storage space, wide canopies, and large wheels for challenging terrain. Not 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.

So, what is a travel stroller? A travel stroller is a smaller, more scaled-back stroller with a collapsible frame that can be folded up tightly. Many travel strollers fold multiple ways to reduce the length, width, and height; some, like umbrella strollers, 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 intro the real world to be used by families like yours to guarantee stroller longevity and functionality.

Best Overall

Joolz aer+ baby stroller.

 Amazon

• Design 4.6 /5
• Portability 4.9 /5
• Maneuverability 4.9 /5
• Durability 5 /5
• Value 4.6 /5

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 wow-ed 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

Best Overall, Runner-up

Nuna trvl lightweight stroller.

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

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.

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

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.

• Portability 4 /5

It reminds us of the very top-tier travel strollers, but its price is meaningfully lower.

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.

• Assembly 3.8 /5

It folds up far more compactly than other UPPAbaby models.

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

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best for Cities

Babyzen yoyo2 stroller.

• Assembly 3.5 /5
• Design 4.5 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Maneuverability 4.5 /5

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. It's a great option for a stroller you plan to fly with.

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.

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

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

• Durability 4.6 /5

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.

• Assembly 4.8 /5
• Design 4.9 /5
• Portability 4.5 /5

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

• Assembly 4.7 /5

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 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

Best Compact

Contours itsy.

Buy Buy Baby

• Assembly 5 /5
• Maneuverability 4 /5

There’s almost no assembly required.

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.

• Maneuverability 4.8 /5

The price is reasonable considering how solidly it performed on all our tests.

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.

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

The recline system is particularly easy to use, and the stroller stands well on its own when folded.

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.

• Design 3.5 /5

The removable seat liner is machine washable.

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.

• Design 4.2 /5
• Durability 4.8 /5

Assembly is quick and easy, perfect for first-time parents.

It can be hard to turn on sharp corners.

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

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

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

Other Travel Strollers We Liked

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 differentiator 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.

Remember storage space and other 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.

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

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

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 associate commerce editor Hillary Maglin worked with a team of other editors and parents to test these strollers in our New York City lab space.

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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

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

Courtesy of Doona

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

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

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

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

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

Getty Images

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

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

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

Courtesy of Summer

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

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

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

[Read: The Top Kids Luggage .]

How to travel with a stroller and car seat

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel Stroller FAQ

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

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

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Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

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• First Year Products

The 15 best baby travel systems 2024

Joie Finiti with Calmi

Mamas and Papas Ocarro

Ickle Bubba Stomp V4

Nuna TRIV Next

Venicci Upline 3in1 + Isofix Base Travel System

Venicci Tinum SE Stylish Black 3in1

Kinderkraft EVERYDAY Travel System

Silver Cross Reef pushchair

Bugaboo Fox 5

Cosatto Giggle 3in1 Travel System and Accessories Bundle

Joie Versatrax Travel System

Maxi-Cosi Zelia Luxe 2

Ickle Bubba Eclipse

BabaBing! Raffi

Rose Gold Marble Belgravia Travel System

Whether you're off for a walk in the woods or popping into town, the best baby travel system makes getting around with your little one easy peasy. Attach the best car seat to the pushchair frame, and you can move your baby from car to pushchair and back again, without disruption.

In general, a travel system consists of a pushchair that is compatible with a Group 0+ car seat, suitable from birth to the age of 12 months. You can easily attach or detach it from the frame, and it will either clip on top of the pushchair seat component or attach directly to the chassis with the seat component removed.

Travel systems for babies often also come with a carrycot attachment, so you can use the pushchair as a lie-flat pram. It's vital when choosing a pushchair for your baby that they can lie flat in it until they're six months old to support the healthy development of their spine and lungs.

Best travel systems at a glance: • Best overall baby travel system overall: Joie Finite With Calmi, £895 • Best baby travel system for on the go: Mamas and Papas Ocarro, £899.99 • Best for a bundle: Ickle Bubba Stomp V4, £649 • Best portable baby travel system: Venicci Tinum SE Stylish Black 3in1, £999 • Best easy to handle baby travel system: Kinder Kraft Everyday Travel System, £257 • Best compact folding baby travel system: Rose Gold Marble Belgravia Travel System, £399.99 • Best storage baby travel system: Joie Versatrax Travel System, £550

To help you out, we've picked out our favourites. Every year we thoroughly test and review the best new products on the market, including the best travel systems for babies. We can then bring you comprehensive reviews from real parents who've tried out the travel systems in real life. Our annual Mother&Baby Awards also help us bring you the best advice about current products on the market.

The best baby travel systems 2024

1. joie finiti with calmi, best overall baby travel system.

joiebaby.com

Description

Award: Won Gold in the Mother&Baby Awards 2023

The Joie Finiti with Calmi bundle is suitable from birth up to 22kg, and includes a pushchair, carrycot and car seat with a base. Our tester loved that it was quick and easy to fold and unfold, and the harness on both items was also really easy to use. The Calmi isn't just a carry cot, it can be used in a car and has the security of a car seat, so there's no need to wake your sleeping baby when they're under six months, moving them from cot to car.

With an extendable UPF50+ canopy, the Joie Finiti pushchair has three backrest positions which allows for a lie-flat position, it can also be folded up with just one hand, which is very useful when you're a busy parent with your hands full.

Our mum tester said: "From the minute the Joie Finiti travel system and Calmi arrived, I was impressed, arriving in just one box each. Quick and easy to build with informative manuals, the included accessories (a cup holder, rain cover and detachable pram organiser) were a nice surprise to have included as standard. The pram is quick and easy to unfold/fold with no need to double over due to the quick release on the seat.

It folds flat with the seat attachment making it quick and easy to put up/pack away if in a rush or in bad weather. The harness is really easy to use on both items and the four various modes this system caters for meant that we could choose the best combination for us for that moment in time. The clever storage pockets built into the Calmi carrycot on both the outside and the inside meant that I was never without a blanket/comforter and could easily and quickly find the items rather than having to rummage in a changing bag."

Read our full Joie Finiti With Calmi review.

• Lightweight to push
• Ample under-seat storage
• Durable suspension
• One hand fold
• Canopy doesn't completely cover the seat when fully reclined

2. Mamas and Papas Ocarro

Best baby travel system for on the go.

www.very.co.uk

If the grandparents-to-be are chipping in, or if you've saved hard for a top-of-the-range travel system, we think every penny is well spent on this Mamas and Papas Ocarro travel system. We love the puncture-proof off-road tyres – perfect for rural adventures in style. The reversible, lie-flat pushchair seat ensures maximum comfort during snoozes on the move.

Mother&Baby tester review: "I must admit I do love this pram! I love the fact that you can put it up and down using just one hand which did make my life easier (especially when caught in the rain)! I like the fact the hood comes down quite far but there's a zip to let some air in and a flap to check on your baby as you're pushing (my previous pushchair didn't have this) which does put your mind at ease, especially the first time you put your baby forward facing! Also, the fact that you can fold the pushchair down with the stroller seat on, and it folds down just as neat as it would without the seat is an added bonus as it saves time when out and about in the car! All in all these little features do make a huge difference!"

Read our full Mamas&Papas Ocarro review .

• Choice of colours
• One-hand fold
• Easy to carry when folded
• Dual suspension for even terrain
• Basket can be difficult to access with larger item

3. Ickle Bubba Stomp V4

Best for a bundle.

icklebubba.com

If you've got a little more to spend on a travel system, you'll want to know you're getting more bang for your buck. The Ickle Bubba Stomp V4 ticks that box, and is sturdy and felt safe, according to our reviewer. It's achingly cool and stylish, yet the highly functional design is also great for parents with differing heights, with a fully adjustable handle. With this travel system you'll get the carrycot, seat unit, i-Size car seat and Isofix base, raincover, footmuff and changing bag all included in the price.

Mother&Baby tester review: "This pushchair was a pleasure to use! It was sturdy and felt safe. It steered well and collapsed relatively easily. It reclined nicely and the sunshade was large enough to provide good cover for my daughter. This was a great feature. I have a dog, and it pushed surprisingly well on grass and pebbles whilst walking her. The handle positioning was easy to adjust and great for my husband who is tall."

Read our full Ickle Bubba Stomp V4 review.

• Easy to connect to the car
• Lightweight
• Quite compact once folded
• Useful extras included
• Our parent testers found it hard to fold down

4. Nuna TRIV Next

Best baby travel system for assemble.

www.johnlewis.com

The Nuna TRIV Next was awarded Gold for Best Travel System  at the Mother&Baby Awards 2024.

Another travel system that really looks and handles well, the Nuna TRIV Next was a hit with our tester, who found it easy to assemble, and was impressed at how simple it was to change the positions. The all-season seat keeps your baby warm in winter and converts to breathable mesh in summer, while the rain cover provides extra protection no matter the weather. This travel system is also compact when folded, and will stay standing by itself which is a huge bonus to many.

Our mum tester said: "The assembly process of the pushchair was so easy, I was able to assemble the pushchair alone at 40+2 weeks pregnant. I also tried out a few of the different seat positions, and changing to the collapsible carrycot the first time I set it up and I was really impressed with how simple that was to do. It all felt very good quality, especially the stylish colour scheme of black, really set off by the brown leatherette handle and front bar."

Read our full Nuna TRIV Next review

• Easy to use and super straightforward assemble
• Great colour scheme
• Suspension isn't great
• Travel cot hood cover is hard to get zipped up

5. Venicci Upline 3in1 + Isofix Base Travel System

Best baby travel system for quick interchanges.

www.boots.com

The Venicci Upline 3in1 + Isofix Base Travel System was awarded Silver for Best Travel System  at the Mother&Baby Awards 2024.

If you're looking for a travel system to use in towns or cities, then the Venicci Upline 3in1 + Isofix Base Travel System could be what you're looking for. Our tester thought it was easy to use and folded down really small, even fitting into a small car with room to spare. This product has a long lifespan, lasting from birth to four years, and comes with a carrycot, seat unit, car seat (with adapters), changing bag, foot muff, insect netting and rain covers.

Our mum tester said: "This is a great travel system for towns and cities. It was really easy to put together with clear instructions and it’s easy and quick to interchange the different components. The pushchair and bassinet are great, folding down nice and small so that they fit easily even in a small car such as a Fiesta, with a bit of room to spare!"

Read our full Venicci Upline 3in1 + Isofix Base Travel System review.

• Modern design and luxurious finish
• Water-repellent fabric
• Large with solid wheels
• Cozy footmuff included
• Adjustable footrest

6. Venicci Tinum SE Stylish Black 3in1

Best baby travel system for simplicity.

www.argos.co.uk

Award: Won Silver in the Mother&Baby Awards 2023

The Venicci Tinum SE Stylish Black 3in1 travel system won a silver award at the 2023 M&B Awards, and with good reason. One reviewer said she loved the one-hand fold, and how it was compact too. It has a lightweight frame, easy-to-fold mechanism and modern design, as well as having a pram, car seat and carrycot included, it comes complete with all the accessories needed to make going out and about with your little one as easy as possible. These include a footmuff, changing bag with mat, rain cover and mosquito net.

One mum said: "This product is extremely user-friendly. Everything about the pushchair is easy to do, with strong smooth mechanisms. The pushchair seat and bassinet are both really easy to attach and detach. Everything feels great quality. It is so easy to fold and unfold the pushchair with one hand and there is no need to remove the seat which is so handy for me. The fold is nice and compact too which is great and it stands freely. The nice big chunky wheels make it great for all terrain and it is really smooth to push."

Read our full Tinum SE Stylish Black 3in1 review.

• One-handed folding
• Looks stylish
• Some mums struggled at first to attach the car seat to the base

7. Kinderkraft EVERYDAY Travel System

Best baby travel system for easy use.

Award: Won Gold in the Mother&Baby Awards 2022

Kinderkraft EVERYDAY is a multifunctional 2-in-1 baby stroller with a large carrycot (with a handle) and a soft mattress; it has bamboo viscose fibres in the cover for good ventilation and antibacterial properties. Our reviewer loved that it has good suspension and is easy to use on different terrains. Together with the Kiddy Evoluna car seat, this makes a comprehensive travel system and the car seat lies flat, both inside and outside the car. *At the time of writing, the travel system which won our award was no longer available, but we have linked through to the 2-in-1 pushchair.

Mother&Baby tester review: "This is a great pram to use as the bassinet sits higher up than others. This means it is easier to see the baby and also lift them in and out. It has good suspension and is relatively easy to use on different terrains. The sunshade is excellent and clips on to the hood and base of the bassinet meaning good shade cover. There is a useful cupholder and also storage pocket within the bassinet for keys/phones etc."

Read our full Kinderkraft EVERYDAY Travel System review .

• Easy to use and adjust
• Spacious basket
• Good suspension for different terrains
• Quite heavy
• Doesn't come with anything to hold the stroller in place once folded to keep it compact

8. Silver Cross Reef pushchair

Best baby travel system for newborns.

The Silver Cross Reef pushchair is an multi-terrain travel system, which is suitable from newborn to 22kg. Our reviewer thought the system was well designed and sturdy, and loved the one-hand fold, but one downside is its weight. This might be an issue for those who have had a c-section, or struggle moving heavier objects out of a car boot. However, the car seat is very sturdy and comfortable and was a hit with the tester's baby.

Mother&Baby tester review: "If you find that you are comfortable with the weight then you would be hard-pressed to find a better travel system out there. It is very well designed, intuitive to use, safe, sturdy, secure, user-friendly and very good to look at."

Read our full Silver Cross Reef review .

• Feels safe and sturdy
• Looks and feels luxurious
• Well-designed and user-friendly

9. Bugaboo Fox 5

Best baby travel system for style.

www.bugaboo.com

If you're looking for something that uses sustainable products, then the Bugaboo Fox 5 could be the right travel system for you. It is a versatile and stylish solution for parents seeking a premium pushchair. Our tester loved its lightweight design, and it seamlessly transitions between a comfortable carrycot for infants and a reversible seat for older children. The Bugaboo Fox 5 features a robust chassis, all-terrain wheels, and adjustable suspension for a smooth ride. Its modular design and high-quality materials make it a top choice for modern, active parents.

Dad tester Ashley said: "It is impeccably well-designed, managing to be both totally functional and stylish. The fact that sustainable products have been used to manufacture it is a huge plus point in this modern age. The suspension system makes the ride silky smooth and coupled with the lightness and quality steering makes it very easy to push and manoeuvre."

Read our full Bugaboo Fox 5 review

• Stylish appearance
• Lightweight but strong
• Brilliant steering and handling
• Fits into the boot without removing the seat
• Can be difficult to first put together

10. Cosatto Giggle 3in1 Travel System and Accessories Bundle

Best baby travel system for vibrant design.

Rrp: £ 599.95

One thing about Cosatto products is you can never call them boring. Their fun designs are perfectly eye-catching for parents and kiddies too, and this travel system, the Cosatto Giggle 3in1 Travel System & Accessories Bundle, is no different. The bundle includes the chassis, convertible pram to seat unit, car seat (with adaptors) and raincover. Our tester thought it was brilliant for the price, but would have liked a larger basket and felt the rails scratched too easily.

Mother&Baby tester review: "I am very pleased with my pram. It looks amazing and it is easy to drive. I have tried it so far on the pavement but went off-road too. My little one loves to observe cute foxes inside. There is only a couple of downsides: rails are a little too easy to scratch and the basket could be bigger. However I highly recommend this pram, you can't get a better design at this price. Love it!"

• Three wheels for easy manoeuvrability
• Lightweight chassis
• UPF100+ protection sunshade hood
• Storage basket could be bigger

11. Joie Versatrax Travel System

Best baby travel system for excellent storage.

www.naturalbabyshower.co.uk

The Joie Versatrax is another stylish travel system, which is free-standing when folded. Appealing to those who are eco-conscious, this travel system is made from 153 recycled bottles. It comprises of a carrycot, infant carrier and stroller, and was easy to push according to our tester. Along with the travel system, you'll get a raincover, bumper bar, cupholder and adapters.

Mother&Baby tester review: "My son found this buggy really comfortable and had no problems falling and staying asleep in it. I found it really easy to push and liked the colour and materials used, it felt really stylish. I particularly liked the large basket that was easy to access and the fact that the buggy was really easy to push and was a smooth ride for my son."

Read our full Joie Versatrax Travel System review .

• Easy to use
• Large basket
• Sturdy build
• Excellent foldability
• Carry handle included
• Not as easy to adjust compared to other prams
• Quite big in size

12. Maxi-Cosi Zelia Luxe 2

Best stream-lined baby travel system.

The Maxi-Cosi Zelia Luxe 2 pushchair is the perfect 2-in-1 pushchair for cool, relaxed city living. This travel system can fit into a small flat without compromising your baby's comfort, and is suitable for newborn to 3.5 years. The Maxi-Cosi Zelia 2 pushchair is the second version of the Maxi-Cosi Zelia stroller, which won bronze in the Mother&Baby Awards in 2019.

Our testers thought it was better suited as a second pushchair, as it wasn't as robust as some of the market, and more suited to a city environment.

Mother&Baby Tester review: "I really loved the Zelia Travel System. It was lovely to steer and push and easy to slot into place. I especially like that it is suitable for all ages. I like that I have the option to use it if I were to have another child with the Pebble Plus car seat. This is a bonus as it's so much easier to have it all as one rather than separate car seats and buggies."

Read our full Maxi-Cosi Zelia review.

• Good value for money
• Comfy and cosy
• Fairly compact fold
• Rain cover included
• Could be sturdier

13. Ickle Bubba Eclipse

Best all-in-one baby travel system.

Another travel system with a one-hand fold, loved by our reviewers, is the Ickle Bubba Eclipse. This travel system won the silver M&B award last year and with good reason. Our reviewers found it to be appealing to look at with easy-clean fabrics and a very spacious basket. They also said they would definitely recommend it because it is reasonably priced and features everything you might need. A brilliant addition is the Bubba Board, a built-in board, which can hold another child weighing up to 20kg.

Mother&Baby tester review:  "The pram is very easy to fold up (with one hand) and unfold. The under pram basket is very spacious. But in addition to this, the change bag that comes with the pram is also huge and attaches neatly on the back. Easy to access both the change bag and basket on the go. The pram is very stable - even with a full change bag attached to the back, it did not tip when my toddler was stood up in the seat." 

Read our full Ickle Bubba Eclipse review .

• Easy to clean and use
• Simple to fold
• Spacious storage basket
• Could do with a handlebar brake

14. BabaBing! Raffi

Best trending baby travel system.

The BabaBing! Raffi looks stylish and one reviewer thought that it was amazing quality for the price, however this travel system doesn't come with a car seat, which would be an extra cost. But it does come with a number of accessories, as well as the carrycot and seat unit, it also comes with a 2-in-1 raincover, a waterproof footmuff and car seat adapters.

One review said: "The Raffi Pushchair is perfect for my little one due this year, and such amazing quality for the price. Everything comes with it which makes life so much easier, its easy to use and has a nice sturdy frame but isn't too heavy. I really love it, and can't wait to use it."

• Sturdy one-hand fold
• Generous storage basket
• Reasonably lightweight

15. Rose Gold Marble Belgravia Travel System

Best baby travel system for a compact fold.

mybabiie.com

Award: Won Bronze in the Mother&Baby Award2022

The Rose Gold Marble Belgravia Travel System was designed with celeb mum Dani Dyer as part of her Cherish range. It's design adapts as your family grows and includes a bassinet which can attach to the stroller frame for family strolls and fresh air, eventually progressing to the reversible seat.

Like the Ickle Bubba, it comes with a built-in buggy board for tots and detachable wheels for compact storage at home or on the go. It is also really well priced for such a versatile product, and folds down to a compact size, perfect when you have a lot to fit in your boot!

Mother&Baby tester review:  "This travel system is amazing. It's so easy to put up and fold with one hand, and switch between seat styles, which is everything you need In a travel system. The fact it all comes as a package and you don't need to worry about finding the correct accessories anywhere else, the box has it all. The shopping basket being large with zips is a godsend."

Read our full Dani Dyer Belgravia Travel System review .

• Compact fold
• Easy to use and fold
• Larger seat for prolonged use
• Stunning style
• Some parents didn't even consider it gender-neutral in design

What to look for in the best travel system

Convenience is the main benefit, as you can transfer your baby to and from a pushchair without removing them from their car seat. This is less disruptive for your child and saves time and stress. A travel system is often more expensive and sometimes bulkier than a standard pushchair, so it's only worthwhile if a car is your main form of transport.

It's important to keep in mind that different travel systems are compatible with different car seats, although there is some crossover. The most important thing about buying the best travel system is to make sure it will fit in your car.

Here are some things to look out for when considering your purchase.

Shopping basket

A big basket is essential! It should be large enough to hold everything you need when you're out with your baby, including the rain cover and your baby changing bag . The basket should be accessible, even when the carrycot is attached, or the pushchair seat is fully reclined.

Seat recline

The recommended sleeping position for babies is flat on their back, so a pushchair seat that reclines fully flat is a must for naps in the pushchair. It should be easy (and quiet!) to adjust with your baby in the seat.

A height-adjustable handlebar ensures the pushchair is comfortable for you, your partner or anyone else who might use it regularly. Check that it's easy to adjust and comfortable to hold.

Is the car seat included in the price, or do you have to buy it separately? Factor in the price of the base, too, and don't forget car-seat adaptors to attach it to the chassis.

Babies shouldn't sit in car seats for more than two hours at a time - we've looked at the research into how long a baby should stay in a car seat - including when it's attached to a pushchair chassis. Choose a travel system with a comfy lie-flat carrycot. Your baby will outgrow it by six months old, so check how bulky it is to store – some are cleverly designed to convert to an upright seat.

Seat direction

A travel system with a reversible seat unit means you can choose which way your baby faces. A parent-facing seat encourages your baby's communication skills, but an inquisitive toddler might prefer to face where they're going. There are regulations and advice on how to keep your baby rear-facing for longer .

Accessories

Some travel systems come with coordinating accessories such as a footmuff or change bag. Think about which ones you actually need and whether they're included in the price.

Fold mechanism

A travel system will be in and out of your car boot. Choose one that's compact and easy to fold, leaving room for shopping or luggage.

The brake should be comfortably positioned and easy to operate without the risk of applying it by accident or scuffing your shoes. Check how reliable it feels and whether it's easy to release.

All-terrain wheels make for easy manoeuvrability on muddy walks. Smaller, solid wheels make light work of city pavements and shiny shop floors. If you're likely to switch between different types of terrain, go for lockable, swivel wheels.

Do I need a baby travel system?

A baby travel system can be convenient has they come with all the travel essentials you need for your baby. They are often good value, however if you buy an ISOFIX car seat to stay in your car, you wouldn't need a travel system that comes with a car seat.

What other things do I need to consider when buying a baby travel system?

Not all infant car seats can be attached to all pushchairs, and you may need to buy adaptors. If you'd prefer an i-Size car seat, which sits your baby in the safer rear-facing position until they are at least 15 months old, you'll need to choose a pushchair frame that's compatible. If you want to keep your child rear-facing in the car beyond 15 months, you'll need an extended rear-facing car seat. However, these are designed to stay in your car, so a travel system isn't an option.

The car seat will either clip on top of the pushchair's seat component or attach directly to the chassis with the seat component removed. Adapters are sometimes required to fix the car seat onto the pushchair or chassis. Check if these are included. If they aren't, find out what the additional cost will be.

What about the pushchair?

A travel system often has a seat component that enables it to be used as a 'normal' pushchair. Many mums use the car seat clipped into the frame when their baby is very young, using the larger seat component as their little one grows. If you intend to keep your newborn in the pushchair for long periods, you will need a travel system with a fully reclining seat component.

Newborns should only remain in car seats for a few hours at a time, as lying horizontally is better for their breathing and healthy spine development. Some travel systems also offer the option of a pram-style carrycot. While this can add expense, the carrycot can double as a Moses basket and portable travel cot.

Can you use a travel system for toddlers?

Only Group 0+ car seats will fit on the travel system. These will be outgrown at around 12-15 months. Most mums will continue to use the travel system with the seat component fitted after that.

For toddlers, a seat that reclines for naps is useful, but it doesn't have to be fully horizontal. Some pushchair seats are reversible, so your baby can face you, to begin with, but face outwards to get a better view of the world as they get older. For older children, you may want to look into the best car seat for 4-year-olds .

How easy is it to fold?

All travel systems fold up so that they can be stowed in a car boot. Try out the folding mechanism in the shop – your 'tricky' might be another person's 'easy'. Consider that you may sometimes need to hold your baby while you fold and unfold the chassis. You'll also have to lift the folded pushchair chassis in and out of the car boot, so consider its weight – anything over 10kg could be a struggle.

How big is your car boot?

Travel systems are more compact than ever, but some models are still pretty bulky to allow for all the extra functionality they offer. Before you buy one, check it fits in your car boot. You can always remove the carrycot or seat unit from the chassis and store it on your back seat. Although, this will limit space in your car for other passengers.

Can I use a second hand travel system?

While it can be perfectly fine to use a second hand travel system, it is not advised to use a second hand car seat unless you are absolutely sure that it has never been in an accident.

It would be advisable to only use second hand if it's from a very close relative or friend.

What is the difference between a 2in1 and 3in1 travel system?

A 3in1 travel system includes a car seat, carry cot and a pushchair all on the same frame, where as a 2in1 would only include the car seat and pushchair.

The bonus to both is that they are interchangeable with a car seat, which can be handy when you're out of the house and don't want to disturb your baby if they fall asleep.

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

The Best Lightweight Strollers for Travel in 2024

These strollers are perfect for traveling with toddlers and newborns.

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

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

Our top picks:

Best Overall Lightweight Stroller

Uppababy minu v2 stroller.

Best Value Lightweight Stroller

Summer infant 3dlite convenience stroller.

Best Lightweight Stroller for Travel

Bugaboo butterfly.

Best Luxe Lightweight Stroller

Joolz aer stroller.

Best Full-Featured Lightweight Stroller

Colugo the compact stroller.

Best Lightweight Double Stroller

Delta children jeep turboglyde side by side double.

Best Lightweight Stroller For Infants Through Preschool

Baby jogger city tour 2 ultra-compact travel stroller.

Lightest of the Lightweight Strollers

Gb pockit air lightweight stroller.

Best Lightweight Stroller Wagon

Evenflo pivot xplore stroller wagon.

Best Ultra-Compact Lightweight Stroller

Cybex libelle.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thule Spring Stroller

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

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

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

Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight Jogging Stroller

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

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

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

Babyzen YOYO2 Stroller

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

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

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

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

RELATED : 50 Must-Have Baby Registry Items

How to find the best lightweight stroller for you

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How we test lightweight strollers

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

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

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

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

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

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

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

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

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

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Best travel stroller 2024: lightweight buggies for holidays

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

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

Best travel strollers 2024: Jump Menu

00. T3's top 3 ↴ 01. Best overall : BABYZEN YOYO2 02. Best flexible option : Silver Cross Zest 03. Best lightweight option : Joie Aire Pact Lite 04. Best adaptable option : Silver Cross Jet 05. Best compact option : Ickle Bubba Globe Ultra Compact 06. Best small option : GB Pockit+ Stroller 07. Best affordable option : Red Kite Baby Push Me 2U 08. Best comfortable option : Chicco Echo 09. How we test

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

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

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

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

The top three

The best overall travel stroller 

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

Read more below

The best flexible travel stroller

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

The best lightweight travel stroller

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

Best travel stroller 2024 ranking

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

The best travel stroller overall

1. BABYZEN YOYO2

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

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

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

• Back to the top ⤴

2. Silver Cross Zest

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

3. Joie Aire Pact Lite

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

The best adaptable travel stroller

4. Silver Cross Jet

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

The best compact travel stroller

5. Ickle Bubba Globe Ultra Compact Travel Stroller

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

The best small travel stroller

6. GB Pockit+ Stroller

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

The best affordable travel stroller

7. Red Kite Baby Push Me 2U

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

The best comfortable travel stroller

8. Chicco Echo

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

How we test

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

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

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

How to choose the best travel strollers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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By: Author Kate

The Best Portable Car Seat for Travel For Every Age!

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Are you looking for the best portable car seat for travel with your baby, toddler or child? Are you wondering about the best car seats for airplanes? One of the biggest pains of traveling with young kids is figuring out what to do about the car seats! Seriously, I have planned so much of our travel around “well, how are we going to travel with the car seats??!”  

Not only do we want to keep our kids safe on vacation, but we also want a lightweight travel car seat that isn’t going to break the bank. My car seat for my 3-year-old (although AWESOME) is super heavy and bulky – I needed a better toddler travel car seat option! In this post, we are going to teach you all the tips and tricks I’ve learned to make traveling with car seats a breeze.

The Best Travel Car Seat: Quick Comparison

Should you buy a separate portable toddler car seat.

We love the car seats we have at home and we also spent a lot of money purchasing them. We didn’t want to take the chance of having them ruined at the airport or while traveling which is why we decided to buy a separate portable carseat for travel. The portable car seats we purchased were all super affordable, which is why we weren’t too fussed if they got scuffed or damaged in our travels. We also bought the most lightweight portable child car seat we could find! It never hurts to lighten your load when you are traveling. One extra bonus to having separate travel carseat is that you don’t have to uninstall and reinstall your car seats at home! One time was hard enough to get it all perfect, I’m happy not to have to reinstall my seats every time we take a trip.

If you are looking for some excellent basic information about car seat travel, please check out this awesome article by the American Academy of Pediatrics which is a primer on Car Seat Safety and FAQs. 

Top Choices for Portable Car Seats

We’re going to be reviewing all of these car seats in massive detail below but in case you just want to get to the good stuff, here is our list of the best portable car seats for travel:

Top Choice: Portable Car Seat for 1 Year Old

Our top choice for a 1 year old (or less) is an bucket car seat. These seats are easy to travel with as they can be easily installed using a regular seat belt. We chose the Maxi Cosi Mico 30 for its lightweight design. This is provided that your one year old has not yet outgrown a bucket car seat. Our top choice infant car seat has a weight limit of 30lbs and a height limit of 32 inches. The reason we love bucket seats is that they usually connect to strollers really easily and that means one less piece of equipment on your trip. Read more reviews of the Maxi Cosi Mico 30 and compare prices on Amazon.

Top Choice: Portable Car Seat for 2 Year Old

In the two-year-old category, we are LOVING the Cosco Scenera Next car seat. This convertible car seat is one of the most popular travel car seats for a reason, literally, every single friend of mine owns the same one. The Cosco Scenera Next is super lightweight and you really can’t beat the price . Read more reviews of this travel car seat for 2 year old toddlers here.

Top Choice: Portable Car Seat for 3 Year Old

We still love the Cosco Scenera Next for most 3 year olds . The upper weight limit for this car seat is 40lbs, so most average sized 3 year olds will still fit in this seat. This seat can be used rear facing and forward facing, making it super versatile. If you are short on space or planning to travel for a long period, you may want to consider the Ride Safer Delight for this age group. This nifty ride safer travel vest is the perfect travel car seat for 3 year old and 4 year olds that are too small for travel booster seat options. Read more reviews here!

Top Choice: Portable Car Seat for 4 Year Old

For the 4 year old and up kids, a travel booster may be appropriate. This is all depending on the size of your 4 year old – keep in mind that the majority of boosters have a minimum weight of 40lbs. We love the mifold for its compactness and portability. We have been using this car seat with our now 5 year old son and it has totally changed our lives when it comes to traveling (safely) with kids. Read more reviews and see the weight and height restrictions here.

Should I bring my travel car seat on the plane?

One of the questions that I am asked most by readers is whether it is worthwhile to bring a car seat on the plane. If your child is over age 2 and you are already going to be bringing the car seat along, my answer is always YES!! We were actually late to the game in bringing our car seats ON the plane. I hadn’t really considered it until my second son was almost 2. We’ve now brought our Cosco Scenera Next on the plane for multiple trips and it has been an absolute lifesaver! Not only is it safer to have kids safely strapped into a car seat in the case of turbulence , it also makes flying with kids SO much easier! With my son strapped in, we didn’t have to worry about him constantly trying to bother the people in front of us or trying to hide on the seats. Our kids also sleep super well in the car seats, so it really helped the travel go as smooth as possible. Check out the latest prices on the super affordable Costco Scenra Next here.

One important thing to note is that having a forward facing car seat on a plane puts your kids’ feet at premium seat kicking range! We solve this problem by seating our older child in front of the car seat. It’s something to consider before you book your seats!

Now if your child is less than 2 years old, the decision whether to bring the car seat is entirely personal. If you want to bring your seat, you’ll usually have to pay for the seat. It is definitely safer to have a child strapped in the case of turbulence. Commercial airplanes travel at a speed of 250mph during takeoff and landing and a sudden stop or jolt could send your child flying no matter how tightly you are holding them. That being said, the majority of individuals I know do not buy a seat for their child under age 2. Air travel is one of the safest forms of travel, and in the majority of cases, an infant in your lap will be just fine. One pro tip is to ask the flight attendants whether the flight is full before you board. I have scored a free seat for my less than 2 year old infants twice using this method and both times was able to bring on my car seat without difficulty.

If you aren’t planning to use a travel carseat at your destination, you may consider using the CARES airplane travel harness. The CARES travel harness keeps your kids safe on the flight by strapping them in with an extra chest strap. It is rated for kids 22-44lbs and is approved by the FAA for travel. Not only does the Cares harness keep kids safe, but it also keeps kids contained in their seats. I love that my kids are happier to stay put in their seats when they are all buckled in and relaxed. One thing to note about the CARES harness is that you do need to secure it around the back of the seat behind you. I’ve never had anyone complain about it.

How do I know if my Airplane Car Seat is Approved?

Before you fly, you’ll want to know if your carseat is FAA approved for flight.  Please note that it is important to check your local car seat regulations as these may vary from country to country. In the US,  you will need FAA approved car seats . You can look for your car seat sticker to see if yours is approved, if approved, it should say “this restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft”

Our quick list of FAA approved car seats:

• Portable Baby Car Seat: Maxi Cosi Mico 30
• Best travel car seat for toddler: Cosco Scenera Next

Please note that booster seats are not FAA approved and cannot be taken on flights.

To check or to gate check?

If we aren’t planning to bring our car seats ON the plane (we almost always do now), we usually gate check out seats. I personally trust the gate checkers to be more careful with the objects than the regular luggage line. I have friends who have checked theirs at the desk and have had damage to the seats which made them unusable.

Should you use a car seat bag?

Check out the latest Car Seat Bags on Amazon here.

There are lots of travel car seat bags available to help you lug your car seats around the airport. Some even have backpack straps and some have roller wheels to make it even easier to bring them along. I have lots of friends who use (and rave!) about these accessories. Personally, I don’t use a car seat bag. For me, it’s just one more thing to bring along!

I also find that when the luggage attendant sees something in a bag they tend to be less careful about it! When they see a car seat out in the open they know they can’t just toss it around (hopefully!). Perhaps if I traveled with my more expensive car seats, I would be more inclined to use a bag, but for now, I’m not sold on the need for one.

How do you bring your car seat through the airport?

If you gate check you can use the seat to transport your child around the airport. Check out this neat product which straps the car seat right to a piece of luggage turning it into a stroller for the airport. Or you can even buy a travel car seat cart to turn your car seat into a temporary stroller at the airport. Read more reviews and compare prices of these travel car seat accessories here.

Personally, one of the reasons that we LOVE the Cosco Scenera NEXT Car Seat is that it fits in the basket of our Uppa Baby Vista stroller. With the car seat tucked in the bottom of our stroller, we still feel like we are traveling light! Check out the Cosco Scenera next in detail here.

Portable Travel Car Seat Rundown

Ok, now it’s time for the detailed reviews! Here are the best car seats for travel that I have tried and tested. These opinions are my own, and I was not paid or sponsored by any of these companies.

Infant Portable Car Seat: Maxi Cosi Mico

Weight and Height Restrictions:

• Up to 32 inches

FAA Approved?

Where to buy it:.

Check out prices at the following retailers:

Why we love it

Taking a car seat with an infant is the easiest and simplest. I have always used a bucket seat with my kids and I take the same bucket seat that I use at home with me when I travel. We have the Maxi-Cosi Mico 30 , and I think this is the most lightweight car seat around!  Any bucket seat , as long as it meets safety requirements, will do!

For the best car seat stroller combo,  our car seat attaches to our UppaBaby Vista which makes it great for use in the airport and also while we are on the trip. We never bring along our actual stroller seat until our little one has outgrown the bucket seat. It is too much to carry and our little ones have always been happy in the bucket seat with a few toys to play with. I LOVE traveling with my full-size stroller. Find out more about why I always bring my full size stroller here! 

Toddler Travel Car Seat: Cosco Scenera Next

• 5-40lbs (rear facing 5-44lbs, forward facing 22-40lbs)
• 19 to 40 inches

Why we love it:

For me, toddlers are the trickiest age for bringing car seats for travel. My 2-year-old certainly doesn’t fit into a bucket seat, but also is way too small for a more portable booster seat. A lot of the toddler car seats are so bulky and that makes them difficult to transport in the airport. At the advice of a friend, I purchased what I consider the ultimate portable car seat for my 2-year-old,  the   Cosco Scenera Next.   I use this car seat exclusively as my toddler travel car seat and I can not stop RAVING about it. This seat is seriously the best car seat for travel!  The car seat is SUPER lightweight, which makes it great for airplanes as it’s easy to transport and not a huge pain in the airport. It also fits perfectly in the basket of my Uppa Baby Vista Stoller (score!).

The biggest plus of this super portable car seat is the price!! It is the best value around, and with such a low price I am not afraid of it getting ruined when we travel.  We don’t use this car seat for anything but travel, and it’s also AMAZING not to have to uninstall our regular car seats from our cars because we have this one. If you are like me, installing the car seat the first time was challenging enough, I prefer to keep my regular car seats installed when I can! In the US, this portable car seat is FAA approved,  meaning that it is an airline approved car seat for travel. I prefer to take this car seat and risk it getting damaged than to take the expensive car seat that I use every day.

Portable Booster Seat: The MiFold

Best car seat for travel.

• 40 lbs – 100lbs
• 40 -57 inches

No! Booster seats are not permitted on airplanes.

My kids are still little but I recently learned about an amazing new product from my friend. The mifold car seat is a super thin and portable booster seat that was designed by a couple who also felt the pain of constantly traveling with their seats. The mifold is so compact, it can fit in your purse! The design is simple, yet safe, as it currently meets all of the safety requirements for booster seats in the US. The minimum weight is 40lbs (and 4 years of age).

My friends review? She loves it! The only complaint would be that she says her kids say the seat is not the most comfortable for long car rides. This usually isn’t a huge problem when we travel. Certainly, I would still be using my 5-point restraint car seat at home (as its safer until you reach the maximum weight!). Once my son is big enough I plan to just use the mifold for trips, carpooling, taxi rides etc. My son is soon to be 4, but far away from 40lbs. I can’t wait to try this for myself!

For those kids who are a bit small for their age,  another cool option is the Ride Safer Delight . Although a bit bulkier than the mifold, this safety restraint is rated for smaller children who are at least 3 years old and at least 30 lbs.  You can compare prices and read reviews of the Ride Safer Delight here . Check out my fellow blogger friend from The Family Voyage for a detailed review of The Ride Safer Delight .

*** Update *** My son is now almost 5 and we are LOVING the mifold! It is so great to have something that literally fits in my purse to take with us on our travels. We don’t typically use a car a lot when we travel so having this option is SO GREAT! It sure beats lugging a bulky car seat along for only 40 minutes of total drive time! At home, we use it for taxi rides as well, which is SUPER convenient on the go. Definitely, love having this option! You can read more reviews of the MiFold here.

Should you just rent a car seat for travel?

Sometimes even the most portable car seat is just too much of a pain to bring on your trip. On several occasions, especially when we have been renting a car, we have rented a car seat . A few times we had a car seat that was quite old and worn, and on one occasion we had a seat that wasn’t properly rated for my child’s size. These are the problems with renting travel car seats from a rental company. Renting from a car rental company is at your own risk, as they don’t reserve the seats ahead of time. We will still occasionally do this, especially if we aren’t planning on using the seats a lot during the trip.

There are also companies that rent out car seats specifically for travelers. These baby gear companies will tell you the exact model of car seat that you are renting. The main disadvantage to a company like this is that unless they deliver to the airport you will be left without the car seat for your trip to go pick it up! This is why we have never rented a car seat from a company like this in the past.

Don’t forget your car seat accessories!

This post would not be complete without a shout out to some of my favorite car seat accessories!

The Best Car Seat Fan

I love my Diono Stroller Fan that attaches easily to the handle of the bucket seat to keep my baby cool on a hot vacation. Check out my other favorite beach hacks in this post on what to pack for the beach with kids.

Car Seat Lap Support

If you are headed on a road trip with kids, a car seat lap organizer is a perfect accessory. This Lap Desk for kids has a spot for a drink and can easily hold a few coloring books and markers. It can be worn like a backpack which makes it easy to carry through the airport when travelling.

The Best Car Seat Head Support

If you are doing a road trip with kids, you may have concerns about ‘head slump’ in the car seat. Mostly because it was freaking me out to see my kid’s heads contorted in such ways, I bought this portable car seat head support . Now when we go on long trips my son doesn’t look so darn uncomfortable when he sleeps! And seriously, the panda face is super cute!

Best Car Seat Cover

I love this car seat cover particularly for travel. It comes with a UPF 50+ sun shade that is perfect for hot vacations where you want to keep your little one protected. Under the sun shade is a mesh layer that is perfect to keep the Mosquitos out at night. With all of the worry about mosquito-borne illnesses like Zika, I wanted to prevent my little ones from getting bit as much as possible! Check out the pricing for this car seat cover here.

What is the best stroller for travel with car seats?

We are huge fans of trying to bring our full size stroller whenever we can on vacation. We have an Uppa Baby Vista and absolutely love it. The only exceptions would be when we are really limited on space (e.g. cruise, small rental car etc ). I love our full-size stroller and I’ve found every travel stroller I’ve owned to be completely lacking in so many important features. The basket on our stroller is larger enough to carry our travel car seat – you would never see that on a travel stroller!

I’ve never regretted bringing my bigger stroller and I’ve also never had any damage to my full size strollers. I have, however, had a wheel break on a flimsy travel stroller during a flight! Check out prices on the Uppa Baby vista here .

We do have a travel stroller that we use occasionally when we are really short on space. We used the Zoe XL2 travel stroller when we went on a Disney cruise and there was no room for a full size. I like that the Zoe XL has a decent recline and a really large canopy. The storage space isn’t great but it’s the best travel stroller I’ve owned yet. You can read more reviews and check out prices of the Zoe XL2 stroller here.

Have any more travel car seat questions?

Drop your questions in the comments below and I will be sure to answer them in this post.

While you’re in trip planning mode, be sure to check out my other guides to the top  baby travel gear and toddler travel gear posts for more ideas.

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The Best Gear for Traveling With Kids

If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism. Learn more . Please also consider subscribing to WIRED

Best In-Car Entertainment Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Edition Read more

Best Headphones JLab Audio JBuddies Folding Headphones Read more

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Best Car Seat Alert System Copilot Alert System Read more

Parenting involves more than a little magical thinking. If I go anywhere that parents gather, sooner or later a desperate mom or dad will ask me for the one thing that will make it easier to travel with a baby or small children. I can't make a 4-year-old avert a meltdown at an airport gate, or change a dirty diaper in a cramped airplane bathroom for you. But I can make a list of travel gear and gadgets I've found to be indispensable for the past four years while taking my kids on planes, trains, and road trips. If you need a tablet, compact stroller, or baby monitor, read on.

Be sure to check out our other guides on the best gift ideas for new parents , best baby monitors , best baby carriers , and our picks for a great travel mug .

Update December 2019: We added a few new picks and new product information.

Best In-Car Entertainment

Amazon's Fire HD 8 Kids Edition is the best children's tablet for the money. Amazon's FreeTime Unlimited platform restricts kid content by age, which means that you won't be constantly looking over their shoulders to see if they've found something unsavory on YouTube. FreeTime also includes Audible books, so a kid who has carsickness can listen and look out the window. It's small size makes it great for portability, and the tablet has a 3.5-mm headphone jack.

If your kid wants a bigger screen, the new Amazon Fire HD 10 is a great alternative, with slightly better performance and it's the first Amazon device with a USB-C charging port, making it convenient to juice up if you're already using a USB-C charger for your phone or laptop. Read our best Amazon Fire tablets guide for more options.

Best Headphones

Senior writer Lauren Goode pointed out that if you want to watch movies on a plane, you'll need headphones with a 3.5-mm headphone jack. And with kids, it might always be best to avoid more complicated wireless options. These corded, affordable JBuddies can easily switch between a tablet and a plane's screen. They have a built-in volume limiter and ear cushions to protect little ears and fit both my 2-year-old and 4-year-old.

Best Travel Car Seat

The best piece of kid travel gear I've tested in the past year is Wayb's Pico Car Seat . Children have to be in car seats until they fit a seatbelt properly , at 4 feet 9 inches or 80 pounds, but the manpower required to drag a 25-pound car seat on a trip is exhausting. The Pico weighs a mere 8 pounds and folds into a backpack. It's easy to carry, not only on planes but also while roaming a city and getting into different Lyfts and rental cars.

In November 2019, I did get an update stating customers that purchased Pico car seats with a model number ending in -001 sometimes reported a cracked head tube. It's not a safety issue, but Wayb is currently voluntarily replacing seats with that model number.

Best Car Seat Alert System

Tragically, parents sometimes accidentally leave their very young children buckled in closed, parked cars . It's hard to see a child in a rear-facing car seat, and it's far more likely to happen when you're tired, stressed, or there's a break in the routine, like traveling. Both car and car seat manufacturers are working on making visual and audio alerts standard practice, but in the meantime, this simple Bluetooth-enabled clip is simple, foolproof, and easy to install. Just replace the chest strap on your infant's car seat and attach the fob to your keychain. If you walk more than 10 feet away from a buckled clip, the fob alerts you.

Brian Barrett

Parker Hall

Julian Chokkattu

Best Stroller

I've tried the Bugaboo Ant and other awesome lightweight folding strollers , but my favorite one is still Ergobaby's Compact Metro. It folds down to a mere 21 inches tall and has a handle to carry it like a suitcase. It has an easy one-handed opening mechanism, a silky, expansive fabric canopy, and it goes into a full recline for toddlers that need to take a relaxing nap while touring a museum. It's also slim enough to walk through the turnstiles at metro stations in cities like Washington, D.C.

Best Baby Monitor

At the end of a long day of traveling, the last thing you want to do is fiddle with a Wi-Fi-enabled baby monitor and figure out how to prop it up on a bedside table. Eufy's SpaceView monitor is compact and can stand independently. It has a ridiculous 330-degree horizontal and 110-degree vertical rotation, so I can put it almost anywhere in a room. It's not Wi-Fi-enabled, so I don't have to spend endless minutes waiting to connect it. Read our baby monitor guide for more options.

Best Streaming Device for Travel

Children must learn to be adaptable and flexible. But not in the 10 minutes before bedtime, when they're tired, cranky, and just want 10 minutes of Paw Patrol to wind down before passing out. Google's Chromecast Ultra lets you "cast" videos from your phone to any TV. It's easy to use, supports 4K resolution, and has an Ethernet port in case the Internet is wonky. It also works with Disney+ (wait, you don't have Disney+ yet? Go get it. We'll wait here).

Best Kid Tracking Device

I have mixed feelings about tracking my kids , but I've never been as terrified as the moment I lost sight of my preschooler at a neighborhood parade. The Jiobit is as small as an Oreo and easy to attach to my kid's clothes with a hair tie. It's rated IPX8 for waterproofing—you can swim with it—and uses a combination of Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, cellular data, and GPS satellites to track your kid almost anywhere on earth. Watching my kid run around in its live-tracking mode was like having a real Marauder's Map on my phone.

I've also tried the Monkey Kid sensor and the Relay , but the Jiobit is still my favorite.

Best Cheap Toy

Even if you're fully prepared with familiar toys and snacks, a tiny surprise will often delight and distract smaller children. These adorable, tiny erasers are affordable and are a surprise hit in my house. You can also get food or truck sets . Package them up individually and whip them out when you see that telltale downward mouth turn that signals an impending tantrum.

Best Travel Bag

The Yeti Camino Carryall won't work as a travel bag on a plane. It won't fit under a seat and the top doesn't zip shut. But if you're taking a road trip for the weekend, it easily transitions from diaper bag to beach bag to grocery bag. If your toddler squishes an entire carton of berries at the bottom, just tip it over, rinse it out with a hose, and dry it with a towel. Once, I lost track of it for a few hours. I complained to a friend that it felt like I'd lost my arm.

Best Snack Box

Small children are powerless beings, so when they find a way to exert control, they do so with relish. The specific way that my children have chosen to torment me is by eating only very tiny portions of lots of different things. I could buy lots of prepackaged snacks for traveling, but it's easier to reduce waste by filling this durable, leakproof bento with six blueberries, two graham crackers, and so on. It also comes in a mini version .

Best Water Bottle

I've tried dozens of BPA-free kid water bottles, with different types of lids and drink tops, and this is the only one that can be tossed in a bag without leaking all over. Both of my kids have had the same bottle since they were old enough to drink from a straw. My two-year-old can easily carry it with the top's loop, and he can fold the straw's lid closed himself to prevent spills. It also has double-walled vacuum insulation to keep milk cold during a four-hour flight, and it's steel, so it doesn't break or dent when dropped (or thrown).

Best Clean-Up Kit

Name one parent who doesn't have easy access to five packets of wet wipes at any given second. I'll wait here while you think. My son has eczema, and Water Wipes have been approved by Allergy UK and the French Association for the Prevention of Allergies, as well as the National Eczema Association here in the US. They're moist and durable enough to scrub at car seats and clothes, as well as faces and hands.

A Useful Tool

As a mom, I find light, sturdy carabiners to be almost as useful as hair ties or wet wipes. You can clip a small pouch to the back of your seat pocket so that you're not constantly reaching under the seat for your bag. You can hang your backpack off the floor in a filthy restroom. If your kid is in a travel harness with a leash, you can clip them to your belt! You can clip a tiny Bluetooth speaker to their car seat to listen to story podcasts or a meditation on Insight Timer to put them to sleep! And because climbers carry dozens of these at a time, each one weighs about an ounce. Carry several.

Best Travel Outfit for Mom

My friends have dubbed this, the "momper." Patagonia's insanely comfortable romper is made from stretchy, light, and durable recycled polyester and Spandex. It has also been treated with durable water repellent (DWR) so goopy messes can be wiped right off, and the crossover straps are easy to peel off to use the bathroom. In addition to two capacious front pockets, it also has a concealed zip pocket for keys or lip balm. I've worn it while hiking, biking, and skateboarding, so sprinting after two toddlers is a breeze.

Nena Farrell

Scott Gilbertson

Eric Ravenscraft

Matt Jancer

Medea Giordano

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Packing Lists , Travel Advice

20+ toddler travel essentials for 2024 – with packing list.

Items that helped us through the challenging toddler travel years

We’ve never denied that one of the most difficult phases we went through with our children was the toddler years. At home and travelling. The memories are still very fresh!

It never stopped us from travelling, but it certainly added to the amount of gear we needed to lug around the world with us (it’s kind of the same as babies, only it feels bigger and heavier, AND you’re chasing a little one around too!)

Essential Gear for Moving Around With Toddlers

Sleeping away from home, toddler meals on the move  , toddler essentials for flying, toddler entertainment on the move, other essential toddler items not to forget, this post is part of our best toddler travel advice series.

I bet if you’ve picked up this article, you already know toddlers have a mind of their own!  Not all tactics for keeping toddlers nearby when you’re in busy places will work the same. 

We’re going to suggest a few travel accessories for toddlers here that have variously worked with our three children – but we know they won’t suit all!

Toddler harness / reins

Some will love ’em, some will despise them!  Having a cute little character will definitely help your kids grow an attachment to this essential piece of toddler kit for a family trip. Perfect for crowded places, we haven’t left home without one of these for years.

Accmor Toddler Harness Leash

3 in 1 Toddler Harness Leash

Accmor Toddler Backpack Leash

You can see our complete guide to buying toddler reins and harnesses here

Collapsible Stroller

Once you have outgrown a full-sized baby buggy that carries basically your whole life in, it’s time to downgrade to something more sensible, practical, and lightweight for your family vacation.

We love the brands that collapse small enough we can take them right up the plane door and onto the plane with us, fitting into the overhead bin with your carry-on bag.

The Babyzen Yoyo was the first brand to achieve this and is still a great option, but there are many brands that have now followed suit.

We have used our trusty Mountian Buggy Nano for years, but you can also try brands such as the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 or the immensely popular microsized GB Pockit that comes in several variations.

Evenflo GOLD Otto Self-Folding Stroller

Mountain Buggy Nano V3 Stroller

gb Pockit+ All-Terrain

You can see our full guide on how to select the best plane stroller here.

Just be conscious of your child’s height and weight;  hopefully, this investment can last you all the way through to the preschool years. Try not to compromise too much when it comes to your tot still being able to comfortably recline and having a decent-sized shade covering and storage basket, features we would still look for even in a travel stroller. 

We also review the best lightweight double strollers for twins and baby/toddler combinations here.

TIP : If you are still looking to travel with a larger stroller, we suggest you protect your gear when flying or stowing on transport by placing it inside a stroller gate check bag – our full review of your different stroller travel bag options here . 

Toddler Carrier

By now, I am guessing most of you freuent travelers have discovered the joys that a baby carrier brings.  Many brands now see a child all the way through to their toddler years. 

We have used our Ergo across the continents for many years – but with our youngest now 4 (and, to be fair, a happy walker/runner – unlike the first two!!) we are finally ready to say goodbye – one of our best pricier bits of toddler kit we’ve never regretted investing in.

Ergobaby Omni 360 All-Position Baby Carrier

Beco Toddler Carrier with Extra Wide Seat

Infantino Carry On Multi-Pocket Carrier

You can find our comprehensive toddler carrier comparison guide here. 

Hiking Toddler Carrier

For those who do more heavy-duty walking and hiking, you can’t look past the Deuter Kid Comfort Pro . It is one of the most expensive on the market, so you could also look at the Deuter Kid Comfort II which is slightly lighter, but doesn’t include the built-in sunshade.

Deuter Kid Comfort Pro Child Carrier

ClevrPlus Deluxe Adjustable Baby Carrier Outdoor

Luvdbaby Premium Baby Backpack Carrier

See our complete comparison of hiking carrier backpacks here

Car Seats for Toddlers

Outgrown their baby capsule that conveniently fits with their travel system but not ready yet for a simple collapsible booster ?  Yep, this is one phase of travelling with kids that I’m afraid will be with you for a long time, even well beyond the toddler years!

Depending on your child’s age and stage, there are a few options, but inevitably, accept it’s a continual upgrade process (and one of the bulkiest and most inconvenient parts of toddler travel – sorry!)

Where possible, we try to arrange for pick-up services that include a seat or hire cars at a destination – but we know all too well, that travelling home to Australia (where car seat laws are IMMENSELY STRICT) hiring is not financially viable after more than a few days x 3 children, so for years, we’ve kept a complete set of extra toddler seats at the grandparents.  

Safety 1st Grand 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat

Evenflo Chase Harnessed Booster

Britax Emblem 3 Stage Convertible Car Seat

Tip: If you have any intention of travelling with your car seat on the plane, too (you need to buy a separate seat for the infant) then the car seat must be compliant for whichever airline you are flying with. FAA rules are a pretty good for international guidance – but note they apply specifically to US-based carriers, you need to check the rules for the country your carrier falls under.

Find our complete guide on how to travel with car seats on planes here

Don’t forget if you are checking your car seats rather than using them on the plane, you will need to make sure they are adequately protected to prevent handling damage in the hold.

This is our detailed review of the best car seat travel bags .

Toddler Neck Pillow

Another thing we noticed once our kids were out of their snug little capsules and into proper car seats is how much their heads seemed to wobble around when they were drowsy! We’ve researched and tried many a brand of head cushion to get the right fit:

Unicorn Toddler Neck Pillow for Kids

BCOZZY Kids Travel Neck Pillows for Toddlers

INFANZIA Kids Chin Supporting Travel Neck Pillow

You can see our extensive head toddler cushion review here .

Do note, if you want to use them in their car seat, as supposed to say on a train or plane, many of the cute toddler brand ones are too bulky. Microbead products like the BCozzyKids Travel Pillow we have found to be the most adaptable to different positions and modes of transport, even if they look thinner they still do the job well.

Just when you thought you had your nice little routine – then you up sticks and change time zone….. I won’t deny that some of the worst jet lag we have experienced actually happened during the toddler years. 

We have a full guide to jet lag survival with kids you can read here , but the primary things I would worry about packing to conquer this are:

This has been my go-to bedtime tool for years (still IS!). OK, it works a charm for 2/3 kids at least!  No matter where we are in the world, once you have a strict bedtime routine happening, the clock is a great first indicator to them whether they should be getting out of bed or not

Just be conscious of wattage if you are taking any electronic devices with you.  We have lugged many an item halfway around the world to discover it doesn’t work at our destination.  Particularly if you are flying US to a lot of other countries and vice versa, you will need to take not only international plugs but a wattage adaptor, like one of these:

Tommee Tippee Groclock Sleep Trainer Clock

Kids Ok to Wake Clock for Kids  

Hatch Rest Baby Sound Machine

Black Out Curtains

Another thing that helps with sleep patterns and time zone adjustment is having a dark room.  If there’s no guarantee the hotel room at your destination will have blackouts, so this is a great BYO solution if you can afford the space in your luggage, as they are a little bit bulky.

Most portable blackouts stick up with suction cups.

Gro Company Gro-Anywhere Blind

RUseeN Portable Blackout Shades 

Amazon Basics Portable Travel Window Blackout Curtain

Portable Toddler Cot

There’s also no guarantee your destination will have the best sleeping arrangements for your child either.  During these toddler years, we did intentionally look for hotels or apartments that COULD provide us with a cot, but many times especially staying with friends and family this wasn’t an option. We invested early on in a good, lightweight, portable cot (don’t get confused into thinking a bulky pack-n-play pen is the same thing!). 

Phil & Teds Traveller Travel Crib

Milliard Folding Floor Sleeper Cot

Regalo My Cot Pals Portable Toddler Bed

You can see our full range of toddler bed options reviewed here.

We tested the Phil & Teds Traveller a while ago and haven’t looked back since. We still think its one of the lightest and best-priced models on the market, but does take little construction skills.

Portable high chair

You can’t always rely upon every restaurant or hotel having a high chair, so it’s great if you can BYO an easily portable option.  They come in all sorts of designs, from clamp-ons to boosters or cloth wraparounds for restaurant chairs – each with its pros and cons.

Summer Pop ‘n Dine SE Highchair

Baby Delight Go with Me Uplift Deluxe Portable High Chair

Regalo My Chair 2-in-1 Portable Travel Booster Seat

You can see our full review of travelling high chairs (and whether we think they’re worth the luggage space) here.

Spill-proof sippy

You’ve no doubt moved on from purely boob and bottle to a sippy by the toddler stage.  It’s perhaps not until you’re on the move you realise that these things leak so darn much! Or that your toddler terror will do anything to deliberately make them spill! 

We have been through many different brands of leaf-proof sippy cups – just accept no matter which you try, they’re not fail-proof!

Contigo Kids Spill-Proof 14oz Tumbler

First Years Dinosaur Kids Insulated Sippy Cups

Elk and Friends Kids & Toddler Cups

(Note if you are taking any sort of water bottle on a plane, they can pressurise. We have had many a bottle explode water everywhere over the plane when opened… you have been warned!)

Easy clean bibs

Neoprene-style bibs were by far one of our greatest baby-to toddler year discoveries! (Sorry to all our family and friends who received these as gifts from us!) But we truly love them!

They dry so quickly and can be strapped high on your toddler’s neck without choking them so there’s no seep through.  We normally get several wears before they need to go in the wash, and they don’t take up much space, both of which are a good idea for travel.

PandaEar Set of 3 Cute Silicone Baby Bibs for Babies & Toddlers

Nuby 2 Pack Adjustable Easy Clean Soft Silicone Bibs

Snap and Go Easy-wear Bibs for Baby & Toddler

No-spill snack cups

These spill-proof cups might seem like one of the easiest to pack, logical items, but seriously took us years to discover! Do yourself a favour and get one of these for your diaper bag as soon as your kids are onto finger foods. 

They don’t necessarily stop all the crumbs but prevent major spillages and should come everywhere with you, ready to tackle those hangry moments.

Silicone Toddler Snack Cups No Spill

Ubbi Tweat No Spill Snack Container for Kids

Collapsible Silicone Snack Container

Reusable food clips

For when they’re claiming they’re dying of hunger, take two mouthfuls then leave the rest.  Yep, a handful of these cheap but essential clips are a lifesaver in your backpack diaper bag too.

Silicone Food Storage Bags

Otylzto 4 Size Assorted 40 PCS Food Bag Clips

8 Pack Stainless Steel Chip Clips

Snacks, snacks, and more snacks

This is my overriding toddler years memory! OK, there were some classic meltdowns too… But the constant, I’m hungry, minutes after they just declared they were to full for lunch. 

Keeping a good supply of things like rice cakes, carrot sticks, sultanas, cereal bars, and food pouches kept us going on countless day outings and long-haul flights – we have a great list of healthy toddler snack suggestions here.   

Quaker Chewy Granola Bars

Unsweetened Fruit Snacks for Kids

Quaker Large Rice Cakes

Got a little one on the fussy end of the spectrum (aren’t they all?) You’ll want to check out our tips for travelling with picky eaters

Before you read any further, make sure you’ve checked out flying with a toddler section!

Leg cushions for the plane

Guessing you’ve heard these are the latest craze, right? But are they even allowed on planes?  Are they worth the investment? Will my kids actually sleep better on a long flight? What age are they designed for? 

We have tested many of these products on behalf of the manufacturers and have a detailed review, including which airlines allow them here.

BleuWhisk Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed

Inflatable Travel Pillow Airplane Footrest Flight Pillow Toddler

Portable Foot Pillow for Toddler Kids & Adults

So, are these really toddler flight essentials?

My verdict : With one child, set up in the correct position, on a plane that will allow them, yes, they make for a more comfortable flight. But I recommend you read the above article with all the factors to consider before deciding if it’s the right thing for you.  There might be other ways you can get your toddler comfortable without the need for yet more gear (I can see your eyes boggling already how much you have to pack!)

CARES Restraint

As an alternative to taking a full car seat on a plane, but once your tot is simply too big and heavy to take as a lap child, try the FAA-approved CARES Harness.  Ideal for 22-44lbs children – note you do need to have booked the seat to use this.

Cares Airplane Harness for Kids

Airplane Kid Travel Accessories Cares Safety Restraint System

Child Airplane Safety Travel Harness, Safety Restraint

Toddler Plane Bags

You can also see what items we are packing in our toddlers plane bag  here, and read below about toddler entertainment throughout your travels.

Just remember, don’t go over the top when it comes to packing toys for young kids – here are 5 things we definitely recommend do NOT make it into your toddlers plane bag ! 

Wildkin Kids Insulated Lunch Bag

Solar System Planets Kids Backpack Toddler

YUPING Toddler kids Dinosaur Backpack

Tip: Until they are old enough to carry their own bag for the entire journey, do your self a favour and skip the cute novelty rolling bag until they are really ready or you are simply making additional luggage for yourself.  Fine with one kid, but when you have multiple children to consider ….  

Small tablet

We recommend these only for your older toddlers verging on preschool age.  I don’t recommend them for younger toddlers because I know how frustrated mine got when they couldn’t raise the sound, and I’m a strict headphones-only mamma when it comes to electronic devices being used in public places. 

And you reckon you can make a small toddler keep headphones on?

We have snapped our way through too many pairs (yes, even those claiming to be best ‘unbreakable’ on the market) through to your cheapest Walmart ones. NOTHING works on a wiggly toddler, so tablets are a no-go until they can sit still or survive on mute. 

When your toddler is ready to try, here are the best toddler headphone brands we recommend you start with.

For years we gave our kids our hand-me-down ipads but as they are starting to get outdated, we have discovered Amazon Kindle Fire , with its super sturdy case and ability to connect via Google Play and the Android system, as well as subscribe to FreeTime Unlimited for kids. 

Amazon Fire 7 tablet

IWEGGO Tablet 8 inch Tablet with Case

Tibuta Android Tablet

We talk more about Amazon Prime and why it can be a traveller’s best friend here.

Other favourite portable toddler toys:

• WaterWow books by Melissa & Doug
• Quiet Books
• Gel Stickers
• Triangle crayons

Jungle Animals Thick Gel Clings Winter Safari Window Gel

Triangular Crayons

My Busy Book Baby Soft Toy

For more travel toy ideas, pop on over to these detailed buying guides:

• Best travel toys for one-year-olds
• Best travel toys for two-year-olds
• Terrific toys to pack for a 3-year-old
• More toddler plane bag ideas
• Engaging road trip toys for toddlers
• Is it worth getting a travel tray for your toddler to play?
• A spare change of clothes
• Beach and water safety wear
• Wet bags for spares or dirty items
• Hand sanitiser
• Small detergent bottle for washing bottles and cups at your accommodation – don’t forget to check out our complete guide to travelling with bottles & sterilising here.
• A good first aid kit/medicine bag – you can see our complete family first aid packing guide here.

Germ-X Original Hand Sanitizer

ALVABABY 2pcs Cloth Diaper Wet Dry Bags Waterproof

First Aid Only 298 Piece All-Purpose First Aid Emergency Kit

Potty training stage?

We talk about potty training on the move in a lot more detail here , but for anything around toileting don’t forget:

• Wet Wipes! Not just for clean bums, you’ll want these little gems with you for YEARS! 
• Pull-ups, even if they are relatively newly trained, you will want to consider this fall back for long journeys
• Piddle pads for the seat , a great back up to prevent leakage

Wet Ones Travel Wipes

Toddler Pull Ups

Piddle Pad Car Seat Protector

Never forget a thing next time you’re packing by downloading our Family Travel Checklist   

Now we never said travelling with toddlers was light, right?  But it is still rewarding. With the right gear and right frame of mind, it really is a magical age to start opening children up to the world around them and creating wonderful happy memories.  

Further reading on the toddler years:

• That time we took 3 under 5 on a 16-hour flight
• Taking your toddler hiking; how to make it fun!
• Surviving a road trip with a toddler
• 5 travelling lessons my 3-year-old has taught me
• Our Best Toddler Travel Advice Home Page

Bookmark this page, share it with your friends or save it to Pinterest for later

Are your kids a little older?  See what gadgets we recommended for older families on the go , or pop back here if you’re still at the baby age and need our Ultimate Baby Travel Checklist

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links.  Purchasing any items listed on this page through an affiliate link will not affect how much you pay for the item but may earn us a small commission. Our  full disclosure policy  can be found here.

© Our Globetrotters | Feature images CanvaPro

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2 thoughts on “ 20+ Toddler Travel Essentials for 2024 – With Packing List ”

Based on this guide, I need to carry the entire house with me on the plane or train. We travel a lot and each of us has only one backpack. Our toddler’s backpack goes in the stroller and has a bag of nappies, wipes, baby food, baby water, a toy or two, his clothes, home shoes, and essential meds and swimming gear if we plan to. That’s all and never had any trouble. Most taxis and car hires have toddler seats. Sometimes we take baby carrier. That said, our kid is a bit of adventurer. He wont use anything special if we don’t use it

That’s great you’ve learnt to travel light with your tot. It really depends on your style of travel and destination. Certainly, our needs have changed between kidsand we hope that by presenting a number of options, we can prepare first-time travelling parents with the information they need for different travel scenarios with toddlers – all these items we’ve needed at some point in our travels. Thanks for taking the time to stop by the blog and comment, happy travels 🙂

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The 11 Best Double Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We tested 69 double strollers to find the best option for growing families

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

Verywell Family / Jhett Thompson

Whether you've got infants, two toddlers, or two young children of different ages, a double stroller is one of the easiest ways to travel with siblings just about anywhere. The best double strollers can keep your kids comfortable (and contained) while you maneuver them around in one solid unit. To find the best double strollers, we put 69 of them through multiple tests at the Verywell Testing Lab in New York City.

“Double strollers can be a great option for parents of twins, but they are also incredibly useful when you’re toting around a baby and an older toddler simultaneously,” Oregon-based pediatrician and member of Buybuy BABY’s Parenting Pros, Whitney Casares, MD, MPH, FAAP, tells Verywell Family. “Many provide more storage capacity than traditional strollers and can be converted from a single to double when needed.”

Regardless of whether you are looking for a tandem or side-by-side option, it's important to look for key safety features (things like a five-point harnesses, a footrest, good brakes, and solid stability when it's loaded up with two kiddos). When shopping for a double stroller , you should also pay attention to the weight capacity of both seats, an adjustable recline, how easily it folds and unfolds, dimensions (when folded and unfolded) that match your lifestyle and storage space, and extra features like cup holders, snack trays, and more

In the lab, we looked at those factors while also examining each stroller’s sun canopies, harnesses, recline options, storage space, ease of folding, size, snack trays, footrests, brakes, and handlebars. When testing double strollers, we weighed the pros against the cons to narrow down our list to the best options for families. We also had a board-certified pediatrician from our Review Board review this article for medical accuracy and integrity surrounding double strollers, safety features, and how to evaluate them.

Safety Warning

On February 9, 2023, Baby Trend and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a safety warning for certain models of the Baby Trend Sit N’ Stand Ultra and Double strollers, which we had previously recommended in this list. If you think you purchased one of these strollers, check the  CPSC website  for more information.

• How We Tested
• We Also Tested
• Why Trust Us

Best Overall

Baby jogger city tour 2 double stroller.

• Assembly 5 /5
• Design 4 /5
• Maneuverability 4.5 /5
• Ease of Folding 5 /5

Both seats recline independently

Easy to fold 

Maneuvers smoothly 

Divided storage space

With its easy setup, smooth steering, and abundance of useful features, the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Double impressed us during testing, which is why it earned our top spot for the best overall double stroller. Standing at only 23 pounds, it took only seven minutes to unbox the double stroller and set it up without using instructions, since the stroller came nearly fully assembled. Pop the four wheels on, and you’re ready to roll and fold it back to create a compact-size double stroller that’s great for traveling thanks to its easy-to-find handles. When folded it also locks for extra stability, too!

Both seats recline independently and have adjustable calf rests. Plus, the buckle was easy to use and didn’t get stuck. We noticed that the two features create the ultimate on-the-go nap space , as both seats can lie almost entirely flat. The UPF 50+ expandable canopies were large and featured a Velcro peek-a-boo window for airflow and visibility. We loved that the peek-a-boo windows stayed open using the attached elastic piece, which is a nice touch for parents and caregivers who want to keep an eye on kids while they walk. 

Keep in mind that the storage basket has a weight limit of 15 pounds, and is not ideal for a diaper bag because of a vertical bar that runs through the middle, limiting the space to smaller items. Additionally, the stroller does not come with snack trays or cupholders for kids and adults, which can be a pro or con, depending on your family’s lifestyle. There are several add-ons you can purchase later, like a glider board for a third child to stand on and enjoy the ride. 

The stroller provided a smooth and easy ride over different landscapes and made tight turns around cones and corners without issues. It fits easily through a 33-inch doorway, though the seats are pretty narrow as a result. People with longer legs could struggle when walking briskly due to the design of the stroller, but if walking slowly we don’t foresee there being an issue.

Key Specs: Dimensions: 26.1 x 40.3 inches | Product Weight: 23.21 pounds | Child Age/Weight Range: Up to 33 pounds per seat | Car Seat Compatible: Yes

Verywell Family / Tamara Staples

Best Convertible

Uppababy vista v2 stroller.

• Design 5 /5
• Maneuverability 4 /5
• Overall Value 4.5 /5

Stunning design 

Grows with your family 

Smooth maneuverability 

This convertible Uppababy stroller performed well in all categories and surpassed the other models that grow and shrink with your family’s needs. We love how the single-to-double stroller only required the attachment of wheels for assembly, and it scored 5 out of 5 stars in that category. Our tester said the stroller felt solid and sturdy once fully assembled. It caught the eye of many testers in the lab with its full-grain leather handlebars that felt thick and comfortable, adjusting to accommodate parents and caregivers of any height. The Vista V2 featured UPF 50+ extendable canopies with mesh peek-a-boo windows to allow more air in (and visibility for the adults). And the five-point harnesses didn’t cause any problems for testers. A large storage basket held two bags, but part of the stroller’s frame ran through the middle of it. Despite that small detail, the stroller passed the design test with flying colors.  

“The stroller is very easy to push around, and it just feels absolutely solid,” one tester noted during the maneuverability test. We pushed the stroller through the lab’s obstacle course, which consisted of various terrains, stairs, and a curb. “The front wheels locked out once they turned out instead of turning around,” remarked our tester when taking the stroller backward upstairs. While that aspect was a challenge, the stroller navigated the rest with ease. The Vista V2 also folds in one step and stays upright for ultimate portability and storage purposes. 

This is the most expensive stroller we tested, but with its top-notch features, style, and maneuverability, it will likely be the only stroller your family needs. “If you can afford it, and if you plan on using it for a lengthy period of time on a daily basis, I would absolutely recommend it,” our tester said. Plus, you can use it immediately after birth, using the included bassinet or Uppababy Mesa infant car seat . There’s also the option to attach a second bassinet or second rumble seat , but the adapters are sold separately. We also love the option for a third child to ride using the ride-along board (sold separately). 

Key Specs: Dimensions: 36 x 25.7 x 39.5 inches (unfolded), 17.3 x 25.7 x 33.3 inches (folded with seat attached) | Product Weight: 27 pounds (stroller with toddler seat), 8.8 pounds (bassinet) | Child Age/Weight Range: Birth up to 20 pounds or until infant can push up on hands and knees, whichever comes first, in the bassinet; 3 months to 50 pounds in the toddler seat

Verywell Family / Leticia Almeida

Best Travel

Uppababy g-link v2 stroller.

• Assembly 4.9 /5
• Maneuverability 5 /5
• Ease of Folding 4.8 /5

Easy to maneuver

Felt sturdy and secure

Easy to carry

Folding takes some muscle

Lightweight and easy to operate, the Uppababy G-Link 2 was a close favorite to the City Tour 2 Double in our lab testing. The setup was easy, and it took less than 10 minutes to assemble the front wheels, canopy, and cupholder. According to our tester, the wheels snapped on, and the canopy’s clips slid into place. The side-by-side double stroller weighs 22 pounds when fully assembled, which allowed it to maneuver beautifully through the obstacle course in the lab—even with the weight of two “babies” (two 25-pound bags). Our tester could push the stroller with one hand despite having two separate handles. Additionally, the stroller made 360-degree turns in small spaces without a problem. While the stroller was a little more challenging to push on grass, our tester said it was narrow enough to fit through a 33-inch doorway with room to spare. 

Our tester praised the design of the G-Link 2, noting how sturdy the stroller felt, largely thanks to the vertical aluminum bars on the frame and four sets of wheels that provided additional support and security. Our tester noted that kiddos stay secure and comfortable during any ride with 5-point harnesses that adjust to three different heights easily, even with littles (or weighted bags) in tow. “Shoulder straps attach to the waist straps, so you only need to worry about one component when buckling,” our tester said, adding that both seats recline to about 30 degrees if littles need a nap. The UPF 50+ canopies are large and have small sun shades that extend beyond the canopies to protect children from the sun. There’s also space for two parent cup holders; both are removable if you only need to use one. For storage, you’ll find two separate baskets with a 10-pound weight limit. “They're spacious but not very wide, so you can't put a diaper bag underneath unless you can squeeze it, but you could put a few individual diapers and baby wipes,” our tester said. When the storage baskets are full, adults will appreciate the pockets conveniently located behind the seats to store small items, like phones and keys.

Testing Notes: “I was impressed by how easy it was to maneuver. I was able to push it with one hand when fully loaded! It was a bit more challenging on grass, but that's to be expected in an umbrella stroller. My favorite part was how sturdy and secure it felt.”

To fold this stroller, press a button and lift the handle slightly. According to our tester, she had to use a little muscle when folding, as it doesn’t collapse on its own. However, a latch clip automatically locked everything in place for security, earning this a healthy 4.8 out of 5 stars for its ease of folding. While the Uppababy G-Link 2 is pricier than your average umbrella stroller, its sturdy design and smooth maneuverability scored 5 out of 5 stars, and it could be the only stroller a family needs, making this a great addition to your baby registry .

Key Specs: Dimensions: 27.5 x 28.5 x 42 inches | Product Weight: 22.3 pounds | Child Age/Weight Range: 3 months up to 55 pounds per seat | Car Seat Compatible: No

Verywell Family / Conor Ralph

Verywell Family / David Carr

Best Storage

Joovy kooper x2 double stroller.

• Value 4.5 /5
• Ease of Folding 4.5 /5

Effortless recline

Generous storage space

Difficult to push with maximum weight

It’s all about the details for the Joovy Kooper X2, which was a breeze to put together in the lab. Assembly took 7.5 minutes from start to finish, earning 5 out of 5 stars in that category. “It was really intuitive. I didn’t even need the instructions,” said our tester. The side-by-side double stroller gained another perfect score for its functional design and thoughtful details. Removable trays snap in to hold snacks and drinks for the kiddos. There are mesh cupholders for the adults on the back of each seat, along with a zippered pocket to keep a cell phone and keys (or hide your snacks). The wide seats, which hold up to 50 pounds each, were easy to recline thanks to a pull strap. They kept the weighted bags secure with adjustable five-point harnesses. The stroller’s leg rests adjust to three positions for a comfy ride. UPF 50+ canopies extended independently and thoroughly over each seat, according to our tester, and included a peek-a-boo window. Plus, the generous storage space, which holds up to 22 pounds, held a backpack, diapers, and wipes. 

There were highs and lows to the stroller’s maneuverability, according to our tester, who pushed the stroller through the obstacle course, up and down stairs, and over a curb. “With 25 pounds in each seat, this was a breeze. With 50 pounds in each seat, it was much more of a struggle,” said our tester. On uneven surfaces, the stroller felt a little bumpy, but it maneuvered smoothly on level ground, which resulted in 4 out of 5 stars for maneuverability. And at 30 inches wide, the side-by-side double stroller just barely squeezed through doorways. 

Joovy markets this stroller’s one-handed fold (trays included) and compact size, and that all proved true during testing. Our tester said it was relatively easy to fold, even with one hand, but found it tricky to carry once folded, so they docked half a point for the stroller’s ease of folding. 

Testing Notes: “This stroller has lots of thoughtful details. The stroller has little pockets on the back of each seat--a mesh one (cell phone size) and a slightly bigger pouch. I'd definitely use these to stow snacks and keep my phone handy.”

While the Kooper X2 has a higher price tag than some competitors, it still earned 4 out of 5 stars for its overall value, particularly its functional design and ease of operation. 

Key Specs: Dimensions: 31.7 x 30.3 x 41.3 inches | Product Weight: 28 pounds | Child Age/Weight Range: 3 months up to 50 pounds per seat | Car Seat Compatible: No

Verywell Family / Jessica Juliao

Best Travel System

Evenflo gold pivot travel system.

• Assembly 4 /5
• Design 4.5 /5
• Overall Value 5 /5

Stylish design

Maneuvered effortlessly

Car seat included

Bumper bar could get in way

The Evenflo Gold Pivot Xpand was a standout in our separate single-to-double convertible stroller test, so it earns a spot on this list as well.

This stroller was a dream to assemble and earned 5 out of 5 stars for that attribute. “I loved the way that things also snapped in place and made a loud click so that you knew it was secure,” a tester noted after the less than five-minute assembly. However, our tester docked a point for the box’s heavy weight, which required assistance from a second person in the lab. In addition to the Evenflo Gold Pivot Xpand stroller, the travel system also comes with the SecureMax Instant Car Seat, which features a safety clip that alerts you via your phone of potentially serious situations, like an unattended child or accidental unbuckling. Once a child outgrows the car seat, you can replace it with a second toddler seat (sold separately).

The stroller’s bright colors stood out in the lab, along with its full recline options and adjustable footrests for naps on the go. The buckles and clips on the five-point harnesses were easy to use, and the vast storage space under the seats easily fit items. Each seat on the double stroller includes two adjustable canopies to block the sun at any time of day. As for the downsides of the stroller’s design, our testers noticed minor problems with the bumper bar and handle. Removal of the bumper bar may be necessary to put some children in the stroller, while the stroller’s handle sometimes felt wobbly. 

Aside from minor problems, the Gold Pivot Xpand shined during the maneuverability test. The stroller turned smoothly through the obstacle course cones and corners thanks to a front swivel wheel and rear-wheel suspension. One tester found it easier to push the stroller when both seats faced forward than in other configurations, but it was still great to push overall. “It goes over the bump with no problems and not a lot of resistance. You don't have to force it over,” our tester said. 

This travel system has 22 possible configurations for one child or two, so it easily earned 5 out of 5 stars for value. 

Key Specs: Dimensions: 49 x 26.5 x 56 inches (stroller), 24 x 17 x 26 inches (car seat) | Product Weight: 28.6 pounds (stroller), 9.2 pounds (infant car seat), 8.7 pounds (base) | Child Age/Weight Range: Birth to 55 pounds (toddler seat), 4 to 35 pounds and up to 32 inches tall (infant car seat) | Car Seat Compatible: Yes

Best Budget

Graco duoglider double stroller.

• Design 4.3 /5
• Maneuverability 3.5 /5

Good suspension

Cupholders and snack trays included

Spacious storage compartment

Couldn’t make sharp turns

It’s no secret that double strollers are pricey (you’re practically buying two single strollers), but the Graco DuoGlider is an affordable double stroller with many of the same features you’ll find with luxury brands. The stroller earned 5 out of 5 stars for its quick 10-minute assembly that only required the attachment of the wheels, snack trays, and canopies. Whether you have twins or children close in age, the inline double stroller is safe from birth using a Graco car seat and has toddler seats that snap in easily (and flip around) as your kiddos grow. 

While the double stroller earned 5 out of 5 stars for its easy assembly, it lost some momentum in the design category. Each seat has a snack tray with two cup holders and a space in the middle for snacks, but the cupholders were shallow, and bottles nearly fell onto the lab floor when it was in motion. There’s also a cupholder for grown-ups and a covered compartment that’s the perfect size for keys (but too small for a phone) on the stroller’s comfy foam handle. Our tester observed that the cargo space beneath the seats is large if you need to store big items. Both seats recline to multiple positions using a lever on the back, and they feature adjustable canopies and footrests for a comfortable ride. Our tester strapped in two weighted bags using the stroller’s harnesses, observing that the “buckles are easy to adjust and don't seem too pinchy.” 

Despite the double stroller’s locking front swivel wheel and suspension, it was just average in maneuverability. The stroller drove smoothly but couldn’t make sharp turns with the weighted bags (80 pounds total) strapped in, and the tester struggled to navigate the curb. Our tester said they had to “pop a small wheelie” and use their strength because the stroller felt heavy. However, the tandem double stroller was narrow enough to glide through the lab’s 33-inch doorway. Folding the stroller was super easy, and it could stand when folded by securing a latch. However, our tester took a point off due to the confusing folding instructions that contained only pictures and no words. 

Testing Notes: “While I wish it turned a bit more sharply and a few of the features were different, at the end of the day, this is a great stroller for the low price point.”

As for the overall value of the Graco DuoGlider, it earned 5 out of 5 stars because it won’t blow your budget and has useful features for children. 

Key Specs: Dimensions: 36 x 20.5 x 41 inches | Product Weight: 29.5 pounds | Child Age/Weight Range: Birth (using a car seat) up to 40 pounds each | Car Seat Compatible: Yes

Best Jogging

Bob gear flex 3.0 duallie jogging stroller.

• Ease of Setup 4 /5
• Ease of Folding 3 /5

Full coverage canopies

Simple assembly

Maneuvers well on various terrains

Folding not intuitive

The BOB Gear Revolution Flex 3.0 Duallie is a top pick for anyone looking to take their kids on active adventures. According to our tester, the assembly of the stroller was relatively simple but earned 4 out of 5 stars in that category for feeling heavy. Apart from a small bump at the start, we loved everything about this double stroller’s design, which passed with flying colors. The seats feature five-point harnesses and recline independently if one child wants to nap when the other doesn’t. Large UPF 50+ canopies provide full protection from the sun along with sport mesh magnetic peek-a-boo windows. The soft handlebar also adjusts, which is a nice touch for parents and caregivers. 

Our tester didn’t even need both hands to maneuver the jogging double stroller during the running test outdoors. “It glides easily over rough terrain and feels like it solidly grips the ground while running on flat ground,” said one of our testers. While you need to read instructions and can’t fold the stroller with one hand, the actual folding of the stroller was easy. Its folded size isn’t too big for a car's trunk, either. 

The BOB Gear Revolution Flex 3.0 Duallie has a steep price tag, but if you’re looking for durability, functionality, and a safe spot for kids to ride while you run, the stroller is worth it.

Key Specs: Dimensions: 48 x 30.5 x 45 inches (unfolded), 40 x 30.5 x 17.5 inches | Product Weight: 33.1 pounds | Child Age/Weight Range: Birth (using infant car seat) up to 50 pounds per seat (walking only), from 8 weeks riding in stroller seat (walking only), and from 8 months in stroller seat (jogging/off-road) | Car Seat Compatible: Yes

Best Multi-Purpose

Bumbleride indie double stroller.

Crate & Barrel

• Overall Value 3.5 /5

Smooth suspension 

Attractive design 

Bulky when unfolded

While pushing this stroller in and out of the lab, our tester received multiple compliments on its beautiful design and sea glass color. But the Bumbleride isn’t just here for its looks. It’s a pleasure to maneuver and seems like a comfortable way to take the kids around town or on the running trails.

First, it was easy to put together because the seats arrived entirely built. As a jogging stroller, the front wheels required using the included tools, like an Allen wrench, while the tires required inflation using the included pump. There were struggles with the bumper bars, which were somewhat challenging to figure out in terms of alignment, according to our tester, scoring the stroller’s assembly 4 out of 5 stars. 

This double stroller earned a perfect design score for more than an eye-catching color. The stroller was made with comfort and security in mind, from its cushioned bumper bars to padding on the seat, straps, and crotch area. We also liked the five-point harnesses that were easy to thread and buckle. If kids want to nap, the seats recline completely and feature an easy-to-use button to keep seats flat. While there are no cupholders or snack trays, pockets on the back of the seats and the large storage space below are ideal alternatives. Each child gets their own UPF 45+ canopy to stay dry and cool, and there’s even a little mesh window in the canopies that opens and closes via a magnet.  

Durable air-filled tires and a great suspension earned this double jogging stroller a nearly perfect score for its maneuverability. Despite no padding on the handle, it still provided a good grip around the obstacle course. According to our tester, the double stroller was a bit bulky and difficult to pull up the stairs, but took turns easily and navigated smoothly over various terrains. “The brake takes some pressure to engage and disengage,” our tester observed. 

The stroller’s quick, compact fold impressed, too, scoring 5 out of 5 stars. Simply fold the bumper bars down and engage the brake before lifting two levers on the side of the stroller. “It gets quite compact for a jogging stroller, and it's light enough to lift and put into a trunk,” our tester noted. 

The Bumbleride Indie isn’t ideal for families on a budget and is more of a splurge item. However, it's worth the price if you can use it for exercising, getting to school, and running errands. 

Key Specs: Dimensions: 47 x 29.5 x 26.5-45.5 inches (unfolded), 32.5 x 29.5 x 13.5 | Product Weight: 36 pounds | Child Age/Weight Range: Birth (with infant car seat) up to 45 pounds per seat | Car Seat Compatible: Yes

Best Maneuverability

Delta ultralight side x side double stroller.

• Design 3.5 /5
• Value 4.8 /5

Quick assembly

Seamless folding

Easy to go over curbs and steps

Problem with reclining mechanism

Plastic peekaboo window

The Jeep Destination Ultralight surprised our tester in the lab with its fast assembly (4 minutes!) and agile maneuverability. Our tester loved how easy it was to assemble this side-by-side double stroller and said she only had to attach the wheels and bumper bars. Otherwise, the stroller arrived nearly fully assembled and scored 5 out of 5 stars in that category without a second thought. 

While the stroller was off to a great start right out of the box, the design was average and earned 3.5 out of 5 stars. On the plus side: Both seats hold up to 40 pounds each and recline with adjustable calf rests to create a cozy napping experience. The bumper bars swing open on one side for easy accessibility. And each rider gets their own extendable UPF canopy to protect from the sun or rain and peek-a-boo windows for visibility. Our tester wasn’t a fan of the fact that the peek-a-boo windows were plastic instead of a breathable mesh, and she also would have preferred if there were some way to hold the peekaboo flap open.

But here’s where this Jeep fell short: On one seat, the strap that controls the reclining mechanism was threaded wrong, so the seat was stuck in one position. If this were a real-world scenario, we would have either brought the stroller back to a store or contacted the manufacturer for a replacement part, making it a hassle but one with an obvious solution.

Despite that setback, the Destination Ultralight scored 5 out of 5 stars for its dreamy maneuverability, seamless folding, and affordable price tag. The side-by-side double stroller maneuvered beautifully around cones and corners, various terrains, and stairs (where we had to make sure that the front wheels were unlocked). While it’s slightly wider than other double strollers we tested, it fits through the lab’s 33-inch doorway. “I was honestly very surprised and impressed at how well it went up and down a short flight of stairs,” said our tester, who added that detail is one of the best features of the stroller. We also loved the minimal effort needed to engage the parking brake.

According to our tester, folding and unfolding the stroller was seamless each time. The carrying strap is a nice touch to give parents and caregivers a hand, but our tester noted the 28-pound stroller is not ideal for carrying around for long periods.

Given the whole package, our tester said, “I still think that for the price, it's a great stroller. It feels like a much more expensive stroller.”

Key Specs: Dimensions: 36.2 x 29.5 x 41.7 inches (unfolded), 30 x 29.5 x 13.4 inches (folded) | Product Weight: 28.7 pounds | Child Age/Weight Range: 6 months up to 40 pounds each | Car Seat Compatible: No

Best for Older Siblings

Joovy caboose ultralight double stroller.

• Assembly 3 /5

Multiple configurations 

Parent organizer

Glides across various terrains

Difficult assembly 

Long profile

Our tester had mixed feelings about the Joovy Caboose Too Ultralight: It’s got a difficult setup and a design that’s best suited for toting around a young child and their older sibling. The small back seat won’t be comfortable for long rides—but for kids who will be walking most of the time and just need to hitch a ride when they get tired, this is going to save parents from a lot of whining.

The stroller had a rough start with the assembly that took our tester 38 minutes, which is why it earned 3 out of 5 stars for setup. “It was confusing with multiple washers and pins for attaching the rear wheels. There is a complete instruction booklet and a separate fold-out diagram,” said our tester, who thought that assembly would be better as a two-person job. 

The stroller’s tandem design allows children to sit or stand, which is ideal for a young child and older sibling but results in it feeling longer than the average double stroller. Instead of stadium-style, with the rear seat higher than the front, the stroller’s seats sit at the same level. “That means the child in the back won't be able to see over the head of the child in the front,” our tester observed, adding that could cause problems during exciting events, like a trip to the zoo or parade. On the plus side, both seats recline to three different positions for a comfy ride. Only the child in front gets a snack tray and cup holder, and the back child’s feet hang into the storage compartment below. However, this may not be an issue if you have a baby and toddler, as one of the seats is replaceable with an infant car seat using the included adapter. The storage compartment isn’t large enough to accommodate a diaper bag, so you’d have to hang items on the handle. There is a convenient parent organizer to hold an iced coffee, baby bottle, cell phone, or other small items and a zipper pocket for stashing money or a credit card. Unfortunately, the UPF canopy wasn’t a big hit with our tester, who said the shade “only covers the top of the child’s head and doesn’t give any side coverage.” 

The Joovy Caboose Too Ultralight lives up to its name, weighing only 22 pounds. That helped it glide over the various terrains in the lab, but it was challenging to push over the curb with weighted bags, scoring 4 out of 5 stars for maneuverability. The stroller made up for its lower points by passing with flying colors for its easy folding and overall value. According to our tester, folding was easy if you followed the directions and locked both the front and back wheels first. 

For a stroller you can use with an infant and older sibling and continue to use with a toddler and preschooler, the price is low compared to its counterparts. 

Key Specs: Dimensions: 38 x 21.25 x 42 inches (unfolded), 45.25 x 21.25 x 10 (folded) | Product Weight: 22 pounds | Child Age/Weight Range: Newborn (using infant car seat), or 3 months up to 45 pounds per seat | Car Seat Compatible: Yes

How We Rated the Best Single-to-Double Strollers

4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best single-to-double strollers we tested. We recommend them without reservation 4.5 to 4.7 stars: These single-to-double strollers are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them. 4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great single-to-double strollers, but others are better. 3.5 to 3.9 stars: These single-to-double strollers are just average. 3.4 and below: We don't recommend single-to-double strollers with this rating; you won't find any on our list.

How We Tested the Double Strollers

Testers evaluated 32 double and convertible strollers in the Verywell Lab in New York City, assessing each on assembly, folding, maneuverability, design, and value. We consulted with Oregon-based pediatrician Whitney Casares, MD, MPH, FAAP , for product recommendations and advice for families. We also followed guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics.

We unpacked and assembled the double strollers right out of the box and in the lab, taking notes about any tools needed, challenges they faced, and whether we needed help at any time. We also put together the strollers without instructions to determine whether or not assembly was intuitive. While some strollers simply snapped into place, others took 30 minutes or more and required extra tools and/or online instruction videos. 

We placed “babies” (weighted sandbags) into the seats for the design test to determine how difficult it was to buckle children in using the strollers’ harnesses. For convertible strollers, consider the ease of adding the second seat. We placed a full diaper bag, sometimes two if there was room, in each stroller to test the storage space. When evaluating each stroller, we look at features, like snack trays, cup holders, removable bumper bars, and adjustable handlebars. While some of these features are more subjective, we consider what we would want when traveling with our families, such as sun-protection canopies and parent organizers. 

During the test, each double stroller gets pushed through our indoor obstacle course and over various terrains, such as turf-like grass and hardwood flooring. We take the strollers up and down stairs while checking the brakes to ensure they work and are easy to access. Finally, we carefully consider all other attributes in comparison with the price of each stroller to assess their overall value. 

Double Strollers We Also Tested

• Graco Ready2Grow LX 2.0 Double Stroller: While the stroller offered a large storage basket for goodies, it was a beast to assemble and did not impress during the maneuverability test. 
• Zoe the Twin+ Double Stroller: We loved this stroller’s one-step fold, but it struggled to maneuver over the curb and navigate the stairs. The brake system didn’t make sense to us, nor did the fact that it’s priced as high as some of our favorite strollers.

Why Trust Verywell Family

Katrina Cossey is a commerce writer for Verywell Family with nearly eight years of experience. Katrina’s background in journalism began at an Emmy Award-winning news station in Oklahoma before she obtained her B.A. in professional media. Her love for service journalism, helping others, and being a mom led to her commerce writing role, which allows her to research and recommend the best products for families, pregnant people, and kids of all ages. You’ll likely find her outdoors with her husband and their thrill-seeking toddler son when she's not writing and researching. 

Middle East latest: Ten militants killed in Israeli raid in West Bank; Erdogan and Hamas chief discuss 'lasting peace process'

The IDF has said its forces killed ten militants in a raid in the West Bank. Meanwhile, Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has met Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh for talks in Istanbul.

Saturday 20 April 2024 22:54, UK

• Israel-Hamas war

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• Israeli raid in West Bank kills ten militants, IDF says
• 'Lasting peace process' discussed between Erdogan and Hamas chief
• Airstrike on Iraqi base from 'unknown source'
• US Congress approves aid package for Israel 
• Six children among nine killed in Israeli airstrike, hospital says
• Analysis: Iran isn't biggest threat to the coalition right now

We'll be back tomorrow with more updates on the Israel-Hamas war.

You can scroll back through today's coverage for the latest developments.

Earlier today people gathered near the remnants of an intercepted ballistic missile that fell near the Dead Sea in Israel.

The scenes come after Iran's drone and missile strike on Israel last week.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it was responding to an "attack on the consular section of the Iranian embassy in Damascus" on 1 April.

It is "forbidden to impose sanctions on the Israel Defence Forces", Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said.

In a statement on X, Mr Netanyahu said he had been "working against the imposition of sanctions on Israeli citizens".

"At a time when our soldiers are fighting the monsters of terror, the intention to impose a sanction on a unit in the IDF is the height of absurdity and a moral low," he said.

"The government headed by me will act by all means against these moves."

The comments come after US sources reportedly told American news website Axios that Washington was expected to sanction the IDF.

Israeli forces have killed 13 Palestinians since beginning a raid on Tulkarm city and Nur Shams refugee camp in the West Bank, the Palestinian health ministry has said in an update this evening.

Earlier, the IDF said its forces killed ten militants in the camp and the surrounding areas since it began its raid (see post at 3pm).

In a statement, it said the Israel army and the country's border police arrested eight Palestinian suspects from the area.

Israel's foreign affairs minister Israel Katz has said the US aid vote today proved "the strong ties and strategic partnership between Israel and the US" and "sends a strong message to our enemies".

Below is what Mr Katz said on X...

We have been reporting today on an Israeli airstrike on a house in Gaza's southernmost city, which killed at least nine people, six of them children.

The strike late on Friday hit a residential building in the western Tel Sultan neighbourhood of the city of Rafah, according to Gaza's civil defence. 

The bodies of the six children, two women and a man were taken to Rafah's Abu Yousef al-Najjar hospital, the hospital's records showed.

Rafah, which lies on the border with Egypt, currently hosts more than half of Gaza's total population of about 2.3 million people, the vast majority of whom have been displaced by fighting further north in the territory.

Despite calls for restraint from the international community, including Israel's staunchest ally, the US, the Israeli government has said it intends to push a ground offensive into the city, where it says many of the remaining Hamas militants are holed up.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has thanked the US Congress for passing its aid bill for Israel.

"Thank you friends, thank you America," he said.

The US House pushed swiftly through a series of votes today in a rare Saturday session to approve $95bn in foreign aid for Ukraine, Israel and other US allies.

The US House of Representatives has approved a $26bn package aiding Israel and providing humanitarian relief to people in Gaza. 

The package will now go to the US Senate, where it is likely to be passed on Tuesday. 

Congress has also approved sending $60.8bn in foreign aid to Ukraine.

People have been attending a protest against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government in Tel Aviv today.

Protesters are also calling for the release of hostages kidnapped in the 7 October Hamas attack on Israel.

By Alex Rossi , international correspondent in Tel Aviv

On Shabbat, the Jewish day of rest, people took to the beach in Tel Aviv. Under the hot spring sunshine, the tensions between Iran and Israel seemed a world away.

Most of the people there are hoping that the worst of this phase of the crisis has passed.

As he rested on the sand between surfs, Jonathan Weiss told me: "I definitely hope this direct bit is over. We have enough things to worry about - internally and with our direct borders.

"Lebanon, Hamas, Gaza…we don't want to add anything to that."

Lior Shalev agreed: "I hope everything will be over soon. It's just unnecessary for both sides to get people hurt."

Israel's government has remained officially silent on the attack on a base near the Iranian city of Isfahan. It is another indication that the situation is de-escalating.

The strike appears to have been limited; symbolic in nature to send a warning rather than ignite a bigger confrontation.

But whilst the latest flare-up in the wider Middle East appears to have died down for now, Israel is still locked in conflict closer to home.

The indication is that Israel's long-anticipated incursion into the southern city of Rafah - which Israel sees as the last stronghold for Hamas - may not be far away.

US officials met their Israeli counterparts virtually this week to discuss the imminent incursion.

The White House has consistently warned the Israelis against a wholesale ground offensive of the city, fearing that an indiscriminate approach could lead to yet more huge civilian casualties.

But as we saw this week, Israel will make its own decisions on matters of war.

After Israel repelled a mass Iranian drone and missile attack, President Biden initially advised Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to "take the win" and not strike back.

Within days, the US realised Mr Netanyahu was going to strike anyway - albeit in a limited fashion.

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Venus Facts

Venus is the second planet from the Sun, and our closest planetary neighbor. It's the hottest planet in our solar system, and is sometimes called Earth's twin.

Quick Facts

Venus is the second planet from the Sun.

Venus is a bit smaller than Earth. It's 7,521 miles (12,104 kilometers) across, and Earth is 7,926 miles (12,756 kilometers).

On Venus, the Sun would rise in the west and set in the east, because Venus spins backward compared to Earth.

Except for Earth, Venus has by far the fewest impact craters of any rocky planet.

Venus is named for the ancient Roman goddess of love and beauty, who was known as Aphrodite to the ancient Greeks. Most features on Venus are named for women.

Introduction

Venus is the second planet from the Sun, and Earth's closest planetary neighbor. Venus is the third brightest object in the sky after the Sun and Moon. Venus spins slowly in the opposite direction from most planets.

Venus is similar in structure and size to Earth, and is sometimes called Earth's evil twin. Its thick atmosphere traps heat in a runaway greenhouse effect, making it the hottest planet in our solar system with surface temperatures hot enough to melt lead. Below the dense, persistent clouds, the surface has volcanoes and deformed mountains.

How Venus Got Its Name

The ancient Romans could easily see seven bright objects in the sky: the Sun, the Moon, and the five brightest planets: Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn. They named the objects after their most important gods.

Venus is named for the ancient Roman goddess of love and beauty, who was known as Aphrodite to the ancient Greeks. Most features on Venus are named for women. It’s the only planet named after a female god.

Potential for Life

Thirty miles up (about 50 kilometers) from the surface of Venus temperatures range from 86 to 158 Fahrenheit (30 to 70 Celsius). This temperature range could accommodate Earthly life, such as “extremophile” microbes. And atmospheric pressure at that height is similar to what we find on Earth’s surface.

At the tops of Venus’ clouds, whipped around the planet by winds measured as high as 224 mph (360 kph), we find another transformation. Persistent, dark streaks appear. Scientists are so far unable to explain why these streaks remain stubbornly intact, even amid hurricane-force winds. They also have the odd habit of absorbing ultraviolet radiation.

The most likely explanations focus on fine particles, ice crystals, or even a chemical compound called iron chloride. Although it's much less likely, another possibility considered by scientists who study astrobiology is that these streaks could be made up of microbial life, Venus-style. Astrobiologists note that ring-shaped linkages of sulfur atoms, known to exist in Venus’ atmosphere, could provide microbes with a kind of coating that would protect them from sulfuric acid. These handy chemical cloaks would also absorb potentially damaging ultraviolet light and re-radiate it as visible light.

Some of the Russian Venera probes did, indeed, detect particles in Venus’ lower atmosphere about a micron in length – roughly the same size as a bacterium on Earth.

None of these findings provide compelling evidence for the existence of life in Venus’ clouds. But the questions they raise, along with Venus’ vanished ocean, its violently volcanic surface, and its hellish history, make a compelling case for missions to investigate our temperamental sister planet. There is much, it would seem, that she can teach us.

Size and Distance

Venus orbits the Sun from an average distance of 67 million miles (108 million kilometers), or 0.72 astronomical units. One astronomical unit (abbreviated as AU), is the distance from the Sun to Earth. From this distance, it takes sunlight about six minutes to travel from the Sun to Venus.

Earth's nearness to Venus is a matter of perspective. The planet is nearly as big around as Earth. Its diameter at its equator is about 7,521 miles (12,104 kilometers), versus 7,926 miles (12,756 kilometers) for Earth. From Earth, Venus is the brightest object in the night sky after our own Moon. The ancients, therefore, gave it great importance in their cultures, even thinking it was two objects: a morning star and an evening star. That’s where the trick of perspective comes in.

Because Venus’ orbit is closer to the Sun than ours, the two of them – from our viewpoint – never stray far from each other. The ancient Egyptians and Greeks saw Venus in two guises: first in one orbital position (seen in the morning), then another (your “evening” Venus), just at different times of the year.

At its nearest to Earth , Venus is about 24 million (about 38 million kilometers) distant. But most of the time the two planets are farther apart; Mercury, the innermost planet, actually spends more time in Earth’s proximity than Venus.

One more trick of perspective: how Venus looks through binoculars or a telescope. Keep watch over many months, and you’ll notice that Venus has phases, just like our Moon – full, half, quarter, etc. The complete cycle, however, new to full, takes 584 days, while our Moon takes just a month. And it was this perspective, the phases of Venus first observed by Galileo through his telescope, that provided the key scientific proof for the Copernican heliocentric nature of the solar system.

Orbit and Rotation

Spending a day on Venus would be quite a disorienting experience – that is, if your spacecraft or spacesuit could protect you from temperatures in the range of 900 degrees Fahrenheit (475 Celsius). For one thing, your “day” would be 243 Earth days long – longer even than a Venus year (one trip around the Sun), which takes only 225 Earth days. For another, because of the planet's extremely slow rotation, sunrise to sunset would take 117 Earth days. And by the way, the Sun would rise in the west and set in the east, because Venus spins backward compared to Earth.

While you’re waiting, don’t expect any seasonal relief from the unrelenting temperatures. On Earth, with its spin axis tilted by about 23 degrees, we experience summer when our part of the planet (our hemisphere) receives the Sun’s rays more directly – a result of that tilt. In winter, the tilt means the rays are less direct. No such luck on Venus: Its very slight tilt is only three degrees, which is too little to produce noticeable seasons.

Venus is one of only two planets in our solar system that doesn't have a moon, but it does have a quasi-satellite that has officially been named Zoozve . This object was discovered on Nov. 11, 2002, by Brian Skiff at the Lowell Observatory Near-Earth-Object Search (LONEOS) in Flagstaff, Arizona, a project funded by NASA that ended in February 2008.  

Quasi-satellites, sometimes called quasi-moons, are asteroids that orbit the Sun while staying close to a planet. A quasi-satellite’s orbit usually is more oblong and less stable than the planet's orbit. In time, the shape of a quasi-satellite’s orbit may change and it may move away from the planet. 

According to the International Astronomical Union (IAU), the organization that names space objects, Zoozve is the first-identified quasi-satellite of a major planet. Earth also has quasi-satellites, including a small asteroid discovered in 2016 . 

Based on its brightness, scientists at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) estimate Zoozve ranges in size from 660 feet (200 meters) to 1,640 feet (500 meters) across. 

Interestingly, Zoozve also orbits relatively close to Earth but does not pose a threat to our planet. For the next 175 years, the closest Zoozve will get to Earth is in the year 2149 when it will be about 2.2 million miles (3.5 million kilometers) away, or about 9 times the distance from Earth to the Moon.  

How Zoozve Got Its Name  

After the discovery in 2002, Skiff reported his finding to the Minor Planet Center , which is funded by a Near-Earth Object (NEO) Observations Program grant from NASA’s Planetary Defense Coordination Office . At that time, it was given the provisional name 2002 VE68. Skiff said he didn’t realize the asteroid’s importance and forgot about the object until a radio show host reached out to him in 2023 about naming it Zoozve. 

Soon after Skiff’s discovery, a team of astronomers, including Seppo Mikkola with the University of Turku in Finland and Paul Wiegert with the University of Western Ontario in London, determined that the object was the first of its kind to be discovered. They think that Zoozve may have been a companion to Venus for at least 7,000 years, and that Earth’s gravity helped push Zoozve into its present orbit. 

The name Zoozve comes from a child's poster of the solar system. The artist, Alex Foster, saw “2002 VE68” on a list of solar system objects, wrote down “2002 VE,” and then misread his own handwriting as “Zoozve.”  

Latif Nasser, co-host of the WNYC Studios show Radiolab, tracked down the source of the mistake with the help of Liz Landau , a NASA senior communications specialist. Nasser suggested that Skiff request that the IAU officially name the asteroid Zoozve. Skiff agreed, and the name Zoozve was approved in February 2024. 

Venus has no rings.

A critical question for scientists who search for life among the stars: How do habitable planets get their start? The close similarities of early Venus and Earth, and their very different fates, provide a kind of test case for scientists who study planet formation. Similar size, similar interior structure, both harboring oceans in their younger days. Yet one is now an inferno, while the other is the only known world to host abundant life. The factors that set these planets on almost opposite paths began, most likely, in the swirling disk of gas and dust from which they were born. Somehow, 4.6 billion years ago that disk around our Sun accreted, cooled, and settled into the planets we know today. Better knowledge of the formation history of Venus could help us better understand Earth – and rocky planets around other stars.

If we could slice Venus and Earth in half, pole to pole, and place them side by side, they would look remarkably similar. Each planet has an iron core enveloped by a hot-rock mantle; the thinnest of skins forms a rocky, exterior crust. On both planets, this thin skin changes form and sometimes erupts into volcanoes in response to the ebb and flow of heat and pressure deep beneath.

On Earth, the slow movement of continents over thousands and millions of years reshapes the surface, a process known as “plate tectonics.” Something similar might have happened on Venus early in its history. Today a key element of this process could be operating: subduction, or the sliding of one continental “plate” beneath another, which can also trigger volcanoes. Subduction is believed to be the first step in creating plate tectonics.

NASA’s Magellan spacecraft, which ended a five-year mission to Venus in 1994, mapped the broiling surface using radar. Magellan saw a land of extreme volcanism – a relatively young surface, one recently reshaped (in geologic terms), and chains of towering mountains.

The Soviet Union sent a series of probes to Venus between 1961 and 1984 as part of its Venera program (Venera is Russian for Venus). Ten probes made it to the surface, and a few functioned briefly after landing. The longest survivor lasted two hours; the shortest, 23 minutes. Photos snapped before the landers fried show a barren, dim, and rocky landscape, and a sky that is likely some shade of sulfur yellow.

Volcanoes and tectonic forces appear to have erased most traces of the early surface of Venus. Newer computer models indicate the resurfacing may have happened piecemeal over an extended period of time. The average age of surface features could be as young as 150 million years, with some older surfaces mixed in.

Venus has valleys and high mountains dotted with thousands of volcanoes. Its surface features – most named for both real and mythical women – include Ishtar Terra, a rocky, highland area around the size of Australia near the north pole, and an even larger, South-America-sized region called Aphrodite Terra that stretches across the equator. One mountain reaches 36,000 feet (11 kilometers), higher than Mt. Everest. Notably, except for Earth, Venus has by far the fewest impact craters of any rocky planet.

Other notable features of the Venus landscape include:

• A volcanic crater named Sacajawea for Lewis and Clark’s Native American guide.
• A deep canyon called Diana for the Roman goddess of the hunt.
• “Pancake” domes with flat tops and steep sides, as wide as 38 miles (62 kilometers), likely formed by the extrusion of highly viscous lava.
• “Tick” domes, odd volcanoes with radiating spurs that, from above, make them look like their blood-feeding namesake.
• Tesserae, terrain with intricate patterns of ridges and grooves that suggest the scorching temperatures make rock behave in some ways more like peanut butter beneath a thin and strong chocolate layer on Venus.

Venus’ atmosphere is one of extremes. With the hottest surface in the solar system, apart from the Sun itself, Venus is hotter even than the innermost planet, charbroiled Mercury. The atmosphere is mostly carbon dioxide – the same gas driving the greenhouse effect on Venus and Earth – with clouds composed of sulfuric acid. And at the surface, the hot, high-pressure carbon dioxide behaves in a corrosive fashion. But higher up in the atmosphere, temperatures and pressure begin to ease.

Magnetosphere

Even though Venus is similar in size to Earth and has a similar-sized iron core, the planet does not have its own internally generated magnetic field. Instead, Venus has what is known as an induced magnetic field. This weak magnetic field is created by the interaction of the Sun's magnetic field and the planet's outer atmosphere. Ultraviolet light from the Sun excites gases in Venus' outermost atmosphere; these electrically excited gases are called ions, and thus this region is called the ionosphere (Earth has an ionosphere as well). The solar wind – a million-mile-per-hour gale of electrically charged particles streaming continuously from the Sun – carries with it the Sun's magnetic field. When the Sun's magnetic field interacts with the electrically excited ionosphere of Venus, it creates or induces, a magnetic field there. This induced magnetic field envelops the planet and is shaped like an extended teardrop, or the tail of a comet, as the solar wind blows past Venus and outward into the solar system.

Discover More Topics From NASA

Asteroids, Comets & Meteors

Kuiper Belt

• Strollers /

Best Double Strollers of 2024

Double stroller are an investment, but crucial to getting out when you have two (or more) kids close in age., by jen labracio | medically reviewed by holly peretz ot.

If you have more than one little one on the way or you’re having a second baby while your first is still in diapers , you probably have a lot of questions. Will I ever sleep again? How many cups of coffee is too many cups of coffee? And how will I get around with two kiddos in tow? Push two strollers ?

While we may not be able to help with those first two questions, we can help with the last two. Meet the double stroller : a parent’s best friend when you have two (or more) kids close in age.

Babylist’s Top Picks for the Best Double Strollers

• Best Side-by-Side: Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 Double Stroller
• Best Convertible: UPPAbaby Vista V2 Stroller
• Best More Affordable Convertible: Mockingbird Single-to-Double Stroller 2.0
• Best Affordable Double: Graco Ready2Grow LX 2.0 Double Stroller
• Best for Travel: Zoe Twin+
• Best Lightweight: Joovy Caboose Ultralight Graphite Stroller
• Best for Twins: Bugaboo Donkey5 Mono Complete Stroller
• Best Jogging: BOB Gear Revolution Flex 3.0 Duallie Double Jogging Stroller
• Best Stroller Wagon: Evenflo Pivot Xplore All-Terrain Stroller Wagon
• Best Eco-Friendly: Bumbleride Indie Twin Double Jogging Stroller
• Best Umbrella: Summer Infant 3Dlite Double Convenience Lightweight Double Stroller

In This Article

• How We Chose the Best Double Strollers
• Our Top Picks

Do You Need a Double Stroller?

Types of double strollers, what to consider before buying a double stroller, frequently asked questions, babylist’s picks for the best double strollers, best side-by-side double stroller.

Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 Double Stroller - Jet

• Quick, easy fold
• Near-flat seat recline
• Forever Air rubber tires

What Our Experts Say

Baby Jogger strollers are known for their easy, one-handed folds, and this double version is no exception. With just one handle pull, this side-by-side stroller folds down quickly and completely flat—no small feat for any stroller, but especially for a double. It’s definitely our favorite feature about this side-by-side double and the thing parents rave about the most. We also love this stroller’s maneuverability and that it fits through 36-inch doorways, which isn’t always the case with all doubles. Each canopy has its own peek-a-boo window and the seats have near-flat independent reclines for napping on the go, two more standouts.

What’s Worth Considering

This stroller can hold one car seat with an adaptor, but can’t hold two, so it’s not a great choice for twins. (For multiples, check out the City Select 2 , a convertible stroller that offers up to 24 riding possibilities, including adding two infant car seats.) The storage basket is also on the smaller side and tough to reach from behind.

What Babylist Parents Say

“It’s a bit big, and you should make sure it fits in your car first. But it maneuvers so well and makes it easy to stroll with two kids.” -Kenna

Additional Specs

Best convertible double stroller.

UPPAbaby Vista V2 Stroller - Anthony

• Can accommodate up to three kids
• Lots of configurations (including for twins)
• Smooth ride and lots of high-end features

The Vista is a high-quality, extremely durable convertible stroller that’s just as popular with parents who use it in its single mode as it is with those who use it as a tandem double. It’s one of the best strollers around for a growing family, built to accommodate up to three kids with the addition of Uppa’s Rumble Seat and a Ride-Along Board . (It also works for twins; it can accommodate two bassinets, two car seats or two toddler seats at the same time.) It’s pricey, but it comes with a lot: a bassinet, a rain/bug shield, more than ample storage space in the basket for up to 30 pounds of stuff and a toddler seat for kids up to 50 pounds. It’s also beautifully designed, boasts an impressive suspension system for a smooth ride (even over uneven surfaces) and is sturdy enough to withstand years of heavy use.

There’s no getting around the fact that a fully loaded Vista is tough to push and steer. It’s especially front-heavy when a toddler sits in the bottom seat, which is probably the stroller’s biggest fault. It’s also bulky, pricey and not super easy to break down.

“We love it—both us and the kids. It’s a good value. The ability to add on the toddler standing board is very cool, and it’s easy to fold. The only drawback is it’s difficult to put the folded stroller into our trunk.” -Lisa S.

Best More Affordable Convertible Double Stroller

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

• High-end features at an affordable price point
• 18+ different seat configurations
• Modern, fun colors and fabrics

If you have your eyes on the Vista but can’t justify the price tag, you’re in luck. Mockingbird is a direct-to-consumer brand that skips the retail markups so they can bring you a luxury stroller for a whole lot less. Sharing many of the same features as UPPAbaby’s Vista stroller, the Mockingbird Single-to-Double 2.0 boasts 18+ configurations and a one-handed fold at about a third of the price. Both seats are the same size and can be switched to either forward- or parent-facing. This stroller works from birth with the addition of a car seat (it’s compatible with the widest range of top rated infant car seats —just remember you’ll need adapters), the Mockingbird Bassinet or Infant Seat Insert , both sold separately. There’s also a Riding Board if that attaches to the back of the stroller and lets an addition rider sit or stand as you stroll. And we love all of the fabric canopy color and pattern options.

Overall, the Mockingbird isn’t quite as sturdy and doesn’t offer quite as smooth of a ride as the Vista—but thanks to the updated suspension in the 2.0 version it’s pretty close, which is really impressive considering the stroller’s much more affordable price tag. And much like the Vista, it can feel a bit unwieldy when you’re pushing it in tandem mode.

For another single-to-double convertible stroller option that’s a little easier on the wallet, check out Evenflo’s Pivot Xpand . It’s not quite as luxe as the Vista or the Mockingbird but it’s versatile (works for one, two or three kids using various attachments), offers a fairly smooth ride and has some really nice features like a large storage basket, modular seating, large tires and rear-wheel suspension.

Best Affordable Double Stroller

Graco Ready2Grow LX 2.0 Double Stroller - Clark

• Budget-friendly
• Lots of accessories
• Bench or standing option for toddlers

This budget-friendly double stroller is one of the most affordable on our best-of list and will save your wallet without sacrificing on features. The Duo has a ton of different riding options, which is pretty impressive considering its price tag. The stroller comes with two stroller seats, a bench seat and a standing platform, and you can mix and match as needed. It also accepts two infant car seats, making it a twin-friendly option. The other standout feature is the fold. It’s pretty compact and folds the same way as most single strollers, so although it will take up a bit more room in your trunk or storage space, it’s a definite pro. The storage basket is pretty large and each seat features a full-size canopy.

This double stroller offers a lot for the price, but there are some drawbacks. The Ready2Grow only accepts Graco brand car seats. It also has plastic wheels (not rubber), so it doesn’t ride smoothly on uneven terrain. The seats can be a bit cramped for two toddlers, and the rear seat can only be used in the parent-facing position.

“Super smooth and so easy to add car seat to. I wish the seats had more padded options and the front one had a snack tray, but not the end of the world. Much more realistic in price then the Mockingbird.” -Christina

Best Double Stroller for Travel

• Lightweight
• Quick, compact fold perfect for on-the-go
• Disney-approved

Traveling with two kids can be stressful, but choosing a travel stroller doesn’t have to be. The Twin+ has all of the features we look for in a double travel stroller: it’s light, narrow, features a quick, one-handed compact fold and comes with a child snack holder and parent cup holder. At only 19 pounds and 29 inches wide, it easily fits through standard doorways and is Disney-approved. There’s even an option to turn it into a stroller for three (or four!) by adding a triple or a quad seat.

While pushing this stroller on (mostly) flat surfaces is easy, it’s not so great when it comes to bumpier terrain. There’s no option to attach car seats and the seats don’t recline completely flat, so it’s not a great choice for newborns.

“This stroller is everything! It is lightweight, allowing me to easily get it out the SUV, glides so smoothly across the ground and folds practically flat! Hands down the best stroller we’ve owned!” -Amy

Best Lightweight Double Stroller

Joovy Caboose Ultralight Graphite Stroller - Black

• Lightest tandem on the market
• Good for baby + toddler
• Compact frame

Not all double strollers have to be big, bulky and heavy. Weighing in at just 23.5 pounds, the Joovy Caboose is the lightest tandem stroller on the market and one of the most compact. It’s built for a baby and a toddler, with room for the baby in a car seat or five-point harness up front and an older child in the back either sitting or standing on a sliding bench seat. Parents especially love the stability of the standing platform, much more so than stroller board attachments found on many other brands.

If your little one is, let’s say…willful, this sit-and-stand stroller may not be a great option. Joovy does sell a rear seat attachment for children under two and a half years old who aren’t yet ready to stand.

“Handles very well, and it sets up and breaks down easily, and it’s not too bulky. The storage underneath the stroller is too small though.” -S. Holmes

Best Double Stroller for Twins

Bugaboo donkey5 mono complete stroller - stormy blue.

• Slim profile; fits through most doorways
• Unmatched suspension and maneuverability

Not all double strollers are created equally, especially when it comes to twins. If you’re shopping for a twin stroller, you’ll want to make sure it accommodates two bassinets and/or two infant car seats at the same time. You’ll also want to be conscious of storage, maneuverability and the stroller’s width. Bugaboo’s Donkey5 gets an A++ in all of these categories. It’s one of the narrowest doubles on the market, so fitting through standard doorways and other crowded spaces won’t be an issue. There’s an incredible suspension system for a smooth ride even over bumpy terrain (it can even curb hop!) and an adjustable handlebar for strollers of different heights. It even pushes and turns easily, making you (almost) forget you’re hauling around twice the weight as most parents.

The Donkey5 is a luxury stroller and with that comes a luxury price tag, especially when you start adding on twin must-haves like the Duo Extension Set and the Twin Bassinet Fabric set. But if your double stroller is your main mode of transportation each and every day, we believe this expensive stroller is well worth the high price tag if you can swing it.

While still pricey, the Valco Trend Duo is another side-by-side option that’s about half the price of the Donkey and is similarly loved by twin parents.

Best Double Jogging Stroller

Bob gear revolution flex 3.0 duallie double jogging stroller - graphite black.

• Effortlessly handles any terrain for a comfortable ride
• 9-position adjustable handlebar
• Tons of storage

Jogging with one kid is impressive enough, but jogging with two? You rock. The double version of Bob’s popular running stroller will help you get your sweat on with its impressive mountain-bike style suspension system, comfortable seats and nine-position adjustable handlebar for parents or caregivers of any height. There’s tons of storage—both under the stroller and in any of the ten pockets—and XL sun canopies so you can get out in any type of weather. It also pairs with many popular infant car seats and fits through most doorways.

Although this double jogger does fit through most doorways, it’s a big, bulky stroller—so be sure to do some measuring before you buy, especially if you’ll be loading it in and out of your trunk on the regular.

Looking for something a bit sleeker that can still handle any terrain? You may want to also check out the Thule Urban Glide 2 Double Stroller .

Best Double Stroller Wagon

Evenflo pivot xplore all-terrain stroller wagon - wayfarer.

• Stroller + wagon hybrid
• Tackles all types of terrain
• Very versatile

We know what you’re thinking: this isn’t a double stroller. But wait! The Pivot Xplore is a wagon + stroller hybrid and a super fun way to transport two kids when you’re on the go. Stroller wagons can be a great alternative for pushing kids around, especially when you go to the beach or park. With one quick flip of the handle, the Xplore transforms from a wagon into a stroller that’s suitable for kids from six months up to five years old. (You can get even more versatility by adding in a toddler seat and a car seat adapter , sold separately.) The all-terrain wheels tackle almost any surface and the wagon features a telescoping handle to accommodate different heights.

The Xplore doesn’t handle all that well on the beach, especially on softer sand. For a beach-ready stroller wagon check out the Veer Cruiser .

“This is such a great wagon! It is definitely become one of our go-to strollers/travel system. We used it with the infant seat attachment when my son was a newborn and it was very sturdy. My son now sits in the wagon and loves being in it. It folds down to a great size and doesn’t take up the entire trunk. I love the push and pull options of the handle. I definitely recommend this wagon!” -Jessica

Best Eco-Friendly Double Stroller

Bumbleride indie twin double jogging stroller - sea glass.

• Environmentally friendly
• Dual car seat and bassinet compatible
• All-wheel suspension

Bumbleride has kept one million plastic water bottles out of landfills since 2011. If that’s not reason enough to love them, we’re not sure what is. (Turns out their strollers are pretty great too.) The Indie Twin is an environmentally friendly stroller that’s great for twins or for kids of different ages. This side-by-side works from birth either with the fully reclining seats + adjustable footrest or with the addition of two car seats or two bassinets (sold separately) and features all-wheel suspension for a smooth ride. There’s a one-step fold and gripped handles for carrying plus lots of convenient features like large canopies each with a peekaboo window and a roomy cargo basket.

The biggest complaint from parents is head and legroom; lots of parents wish there was a bit more, especially those with toddlers on the taller side.

Best Double Umbrella Stroller

Summer infant 3dlite double convenience lightweight double stroller.

• Lightweight stroller
• Carry handle for easier transport
• Dual adjustable seats and canopies

While not the sturdiest or the most accessorized in the stroller world, umbrella strollers are lightweight, generally very affordable and super convenient for travel or day trips and make a great addition to your stroller lineup. This double umbrella stroller checks all of those boxes. Notable features include individually reclining seats and adjustable canopies, a compact fold and light weight, a carry strap for when you need to take it on the go, a fairly large storage basket and a parent cup holder.

One of the biggest flaws of umbrella strollers is that the handlebars don’t adjust up or down, making them tricky to push if you’re on the taller side. Other parent complaints include a fold that’s tricky to master without a little practice.

If you’re looking for a higher-end double umbrella option, check out the UPPAbaby G-Link V2 .

Other Double Strollers We Love

• The Mountain Buggy Nano Duo Buggy is a lightweight option that makes a solid choice if you’re looking for a double travel stroller. It weighs in at about 20 pounds and is easy to fold and carry. It’s also newborn compatible.
• Nuna’s DEMI Next Stroller is a convertible single-to-double option that rivals the UPPAbaby Vista V2. There are 25+ modes of use (including for twins) and features custom dual suspension for an incredibly smooth ride.
• The Baby Trend Sit N Stand Ultra Tandem Stroller is an affordable choice if you’re looking for multiple seating options for a baby and a toddler. Older toddlers love the independence of the standing bench and parents love the one-handed fold.
• Joovy’s Kooper X2 Double Stroller is a side-by-side loved for its narrow width, one-handed fold and XL wheels.

How We Choose the Best Double 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 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 double strollers.
• We reviewed customer reviews from hundreds of real Babylist parents.

Most parents with multiple kids close in age choose to purchase a double stroller—and use it a lot . But it’s a big investment. If you already have a single stroller and aren’t sure you want to pony up for a double, there are a few options to explore.

• Stroller boards: Some strollers offer a ride-along board for an older sibling that attaches to the back of the stroller base. There are also universal boards that work with lots of different stroller brands. Before you to this route, though, you’ll need to make sure your child is up for—and capable of—the challenge.
• Baby carrier: You can also explore using a baby carrier for your younger child and putting the older one in a single stroller. But this won’t work for twins , and will only work for as long as your second child can fit in a carrier.

There are three basic types of double strollers: side-by-sides, in-lines and convertibles. Each option has pros and cons, and choosing which one is right for you can depend on a few different factors.

Side-by-Side Strollers

Side-by-side strollers , as the name implies, have seats that are positioned next to each other.

In-line Strollers

In-line strollers , sometimes also called tandem strollers, are single-file seats with one seat in front of the other. The two seats can be the same height, but often in-line strollers have what’s termed as “stadium seating” with the back seat raised higher than the front for better viewing.

Convertible Strollers

Convertible strollers are strollers that can be used as a single stroller or converted into a double (or even a triple) by adding on a second seat and accessories . The majority of convertible strollers are in-lines, but there are a few side-by-side convertibles on the market.

What About Stroller Wagons?

Another option some families are considering when figuring out a way to cart around two little ones: a stroller wagon .

The stroller wagon—a stroller + wagon hybrid with the push and maneuverability of a stroller combined with the fun and functionality of a wagon—has been gaining in popularity recently, and for good reason. Stroller wagons can handle a variety of different terrain, hold anywhere from two to four children (some can work for infants with the addition of an infant car seat and adapters) and come with lots of accessories. They’re also, simply put, pretty fun. But there are a few things you need to think through if you’re considering one in lieu of a double stroller.

• Stroller wagons feature both pull and push functionality, but even the highest-end ones aren’t as easy to maneuver as a tradtional double stroller. They’re also bulky, very heavy and often tricky to break down. If you’re looking for something to use for walks around the neighborhood or quick trips to the park, then a stroller wagon can be a solid choice. But they’re not ideal for consistent, everyday use, if you’re trying to navigate city streets or tight spaces or if you’re getting in and out of a car all day.
• Not all stroller wagons accommodate infants, and the ones that do require separate (and often brand-specific) infant car seats and adapters. If you need to transport an infant and a toddler, you’ll need to be sure the stroller wagon you choose can accomplish that.

Size and Maneuverability

Double strollers aren’t known for being compact—but there are some that are smaller and more streamlined than others. Consider how you’ll be using your double stroller and where you’ll be storing it. Do you need a double stroller that fits through narrower doorways? Will you be keeping it in your car, in an apartment or in a garage? Will you need to lift the stroller often, or break it down for storage? You’ll want to consider all of these factors before you decide which double stroller is best for you. You’ll also want to think through maneuverability. A city family in an elevator building using a stroller day in and day out needs a double that’s easy to turn, steer and push, whereas a family who plans to use a double more infrequently (or in a different living environment) doesn’t need to be as focused on maneuverability.

How important are features to you when considering a double stroller? Things like stroller configuration, modular seating, fabric, canopy size, basket storage, an adjustable handlebar, reclining seats, cupholders and suspension are just some of the things to consider as you shop. You should also think about if you want a double stroller that accommodates infant car seats or bassinets (and in which configurations) and research the weight range of your double stroller—both for each seat individually and the stroller overall.

Double strollers are an investment, costing anywhere from a few hundred dollars to well over a thousand. While pricier strollers tend to have more features such as higher-end fabrics, modular seats and better suspension, there are also many affordable doubles that are still high-quality. Consider how often and for how many years you’ll be using your double stroller and what features are important to you (and what you think you can skip) when setting your budget.

What Is the Best Double Stroller?

The best stroller for your family depends on your lifestyle and your personal situation. Consider how you’ll use a double stroller most often.

• Do you live in a crowded city or in an apartment building with narrow doorways, or will you mostly be using your double stroller in the suburbs or in a more rural area?
• How much room do you have to store a double stroller?
• If you need it for two infants, do both seats accommodate infant car seats?
• If you need it for a toddler and a baby, does the stroller have a high enough weight limit to accommodate older children?
• Do you travel frequently?

Thinking through these types of questions will help you decide on the best double stroller for your family.

What age range is best for a double stroller?

The age range for a double stroller typically varies based on the weight and height of the children and the weight and height requirements of the stroller itself. Most double strollers are designed to accommodate infants as young as a few months old up to toddlers who are around four or five years old. However, it’s always important to check the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations to ensure that the stroller is appropriate for your particular children’s age, weight and height.

Can I take a double stroller through the airport?

Yes, you can take a double stroller through the airport. However, it’s important to check with your airline beforehand to make sure that the stroller meets their size and weight requirements. You may also need to fold and check the stroller at the gate or at the check-in counter before boarding the plane. And be sure to arrive at the airport early to allow enough time for these procedures.

Jen LaBracio

Senior gear editor.

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

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How to Fly Your Kid Solo, Free of Stress

By Alexander Nazaryan

For many parents and guardians, putting a child on a flight alone may seem terrifying. Belligerent passengers, delays, turbulence: All loom large in a caregiver’s imagination.

Life sometimes leaves no other option. Hudson Crites , 17, of Marshall, Va., was 10 when he started flying unaccompanied to visit his father in Kansas and later Georgia, said his mother, Chelsea Tippett. But the extra attention from airline staff made Hudson “feel special,” Ms. Tippett recalls. Other than a single tarmac delay, he has had no problems.

On rare occasions, children have had troubling experiences. In December, Spirit Airlines accidentally flew a 6-year-old to Orlando, Fla., instead of the intended destination of Fort Myers. Spirit apologized, fired the gate agent responsible and offered reimbursement to the boy’s grandmother for her travel to Orlando. But while the boy was unharmed, his grandmother expressed worry that he had been kidnapped .

If you decide to fly your child unaccompanied, you’ll discover that each airline has its own procedures, fees and routes open to children. While some may find the process complicated, flying alone may be exciting for your child, instilling some independence. Here’s what you need to know.

Before you book, know the process

Regardless of the airline or route, flying an unaccompanied minor differs from an adult or a family catching a flight. Airlines require a trusted pre-authorized adult to be at the departure and arrival gates, and will ask you at booking to provide contact information for those adults. They will also need to present identification at the terminals.

The journey begins at the originating airport’s airline ticket counter. There, airline staff will check your identification and check in the child, perhaps handing them a lanyard or wristband to wear. The agents will provide you with a pass to get through security with your child. You will accompany them to the gate, where you will hand them off to a gate agent. You must stay at the gate until the plane takes off.

In the air, the flight crew will keep watch — but will not babysit, or sit with, your child. If the flight has a connection, a crew member will walk your child off the plane and a gate agent will take him or her to the next gate.

At the arrival airport, the child will be handed off by staff to the authorized guardian or parent who should have already checked in at the ticket counter with proper identification, gone through security with their gate pass and be waiting at the gate.

To learn more about this process, read the Department of Transportation’s online guide, “When Kids Fly Alone,” followed by the website of your selected carrier.

Choosing an airline and paying an extra fee

Before purchasing a ticket, experts advise you to consider an airline’s on-time performance. “Solid on-time performance is hard-earned, and signals a carrier that has tight control of its operation,” said the Ask the Pilot author, Patrick Smith. The Bureau of Transportation Statistics has those numbers.

Booking procedures vary. Delta Air Lines and American Airlines require you to call. United Airlines allows bookings online. JetBlue Airways does online bookings, too, but asks for three printed copies of its forms upon arrival at the airport.

International flights may call for a notarized consent letter describing where the child is traveling, with whom they’ll stay and how long they’ll be there.

On top of the ticket fare, flying an unaccompanied minor can be pricey.

Southwest Airlines charges $100 one way for each child, regardless of distance. Alaska Airlines charges $50 per child if the flight is nonstop; a connection adds $25. On Delta, one $150 fee will cover up to four children, and American’s $150 covers all siblings, with no cap on number. United charges $150 for one child, or two children flying together.

Restrictions: There are plenty

U.S. carriers allow children to fly as unaccompanied minors once they turn 5 and before they turn 18. But regardless of your child’s age, make sure he or she is ready by discussing the trip details and your expectations of their behavior. No policy can replace your judgment.

The low-cost carriers Frontier Airlines and Allegiant Air don’t allow unaccompanied minors, Other airlines have restrictions that, in the broadest terms, differentiate between young children and teenagers. American and Delta restrict children under 8 from routes requiring connections. Both airlines allow children between 8 and 14 to take some connecting flights.

On American, no unaccompanied minor is allowed to take an overnight flight requiring a connection, or a flight that includes a connection on its final leg that also happens to be the last such flight that day (“unless it’s the only flight,” the company adds). Minors are not allowed on code-share flights.

United and Delta have similar rules. Southwest, JetBlue and Spirit don’t allow unaccompanied minors on connecting flights.

JetBlue prohibits minors from flying to Europe, and limits the number of unaccompanied minors in one party to three. Spirit does not allow children on flights to Central or South America. Southwest doesn’t allow children on any international flights. American, United and Delta let minors fly abroad, but restrictions on connections, code-shares and overnights limit options.

American and Delta allow children to opt out of flying as unaccompanied minors once they turn 15 — that is, the child can fly without the assistance of airline personnel. JetBlue ends unaccompanied minor service at 14, while Alaska has an opt-out option at 13. Southwest boasts the lowest opt-out age: 12.

However, you should be able to accompany your child to the gate even if they’re not flying unaccompanied. American requires that you do so for teens between the ages of 15 and 17, even if they’ve opted out.

What to pack

Have a plan to head off your child’s hunger, boredom and thirst. If they are older, make sure they have emergency money and a charged phone.

When her two daughters, then 9 and 11, flew to Denver, Joey Conover of Charlottesville, Va., had a long list for their carry-ons.

“Pack a backpack with iPad, headphones, lightweight book to read, a pad of paper and colored pencils (markers might smear), a small travel game, water bottle (bring empty and fill in airport), snacks, some kind of surprise fidget or animals to play with, hoodie, and a lovey,” she wrote in an email.

“Write your name and phone number on the inside of their arm in Sharpie and put a parent’s business card in a luggage tag on both suitcase and backpack,” Ms. Conover said. (A sheet of paper with all their identification, and their guardian’s contact information, also works. Simply stick in an easy-to-access pocket.)

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .