baby stroller for trip

These are the 10 best travel strollers for your next trip

Editor's Note

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

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

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

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

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

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

Babyzen Yoyo2

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

Why Babyzen Yoyo2 is a good travel stroller

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

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

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

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

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

Why GB Pockit is a good travel stroller

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

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

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

Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller

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

Why Summer 3Dlite is a good travel stroller

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

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

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

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

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

Why the Joolz Aer+ is a good travel stroller

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

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

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

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

UPPAbaby Vista V2

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

Why the UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a good travel stroller

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

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

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

Related: The best baby travel products according to TPG readers

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

Doona Car Seat & Stroller

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

Why the Doona is a good travel stroller

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

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

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

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

Thule Chariot Double Jogging Stroller

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

Why Thule Chariot Double Jogging Stroller is good for travel

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

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

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

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

Baby Jogger City Mini GT2

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

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

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

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

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

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

Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller

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

Why the Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller is good for travel

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

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

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

Nuna PIPA urbn + TRVL Stroller and Car Seat Travel System

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

Why the NUNA is a good travel stroller

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

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

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

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

Tips for flying with a travel stroller

Where and how to check your stroller when flying

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

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

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

Related: 21 airline stroller policies around the world

Preventing damage

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

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

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

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

Getting through security

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

Bottom line

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

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

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

Additional reporting by Lori Zaino.

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The 15 Best Travel Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

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

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

You may also want.

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Phoebe Cheong

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

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

Best Overall

Joolz aer+ baby stroller.

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

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Travel + Leisure / Phoebe Cheong

Best Overall, Runner-up

Nuna trvl lightweight stroller.

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

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Claire Cohen

Best Budget

Kolcraft cloud plus stroller.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel & Leisure / Phoebe Cheong

Best for Warm Weather

Gb qbit+ all city stroller.

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

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

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

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

Best Folding

Uppababy minu v2 stroller.

It folds up far more compactly than other UPPAbaby models.

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

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best for Cities

Babyzen yoyo2 stroller.

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

The clips and buckles can be hard to maneuver.

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

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

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

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

Best Double

Uppababy g-link v2 stroller.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cybex Libelle Compact Stroller

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Maneuverability

Bugaboo butterfly stroller.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best for Air Travel

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

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Compact

Contours itsy.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Comfort

Baby jogger city tour 2 stroller.

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

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

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

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

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

Best Umbrella

Uppababy jordan g-luxe stroller.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Lightweight

Zoe the traveler.

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

The attachable snack tray is sold separately.

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

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

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

Most Adjustable

Thule shine.

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

It can be hard to turn on sharp corners.

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Other Travel Strollers We Liked

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tips for Buying a Travel Stroller

Consider the types of travel strollers.

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

Pay attention to folded size

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

Look for storage space and additional features

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

Prioritize comfort and safety

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

Can I carry a travel stroller on board a flight?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

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

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The Best Travel Strollers for All Your Family Adventures

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Best Overall Nuna TRVL Read more

Best Travel Pram (and a Great Toddler Stroller Too) Joolz Aer+ with Carrycot Read more

Best for Air Travel (or Tall Kids) Bugaboo Butterfly Read more

Best Budget Travel Stroller Delta Children Icon Travel Stroller Read more

I love travel strollers. I test strollers as a part of my job , but whenever I'm not testing something new, I switch to these fantastic, lightweight strollers, even if I'm not traveling! They've become my go-to everyday strollers since my kid turned 1 and could face forward on our walks. They're quick to fold and easy to throw in the trunk of my small sedan, and I can carry 'em with one hand while balancing my kid and unlocking the door with the other. They’re great for actual travel too. Whether on a road trip or a plane ride, these lightweight travel strollers are the ones I love most after weeks of testing.

Be sure to get our tips on how to buy a stroller first. If you’re curious about more parenting gear, check out our related guides, including the Best Baby Monitors , Best Breast Pumps , Best Baby Gear , and Best Strollers .

Updated August 2024: We've added the Delta Children Icon and Bombi Bēbee V2 strollers as new budget picks, and notes on the Ergobaby Metro+ stroller.

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Best Overall

No stroller is as easy to fold as the Nuna TRVL . Just the other day a fellow mom asked me what stroller it was, saying she'd never seen a stroller fold like that before. The 14.6-pound Nuna quickly folds forward onto itself into an upright position, sticking the belly bar in the air for you to grab and go, whether you're in the airport or piling into the car after a day at the zoo. It comes with a travel bag, which you can stuff into the lower storage basket and then use when checking the stroller onto a plane. Speaking of, the storage basket’s sides are a little low, but it was a perfect size to fit my favorite diaper bags .

I really love this stroller for the hand fold. I used to live in an apartment with a staircase between me and the rest of the world (my car! the street! any useable sidewalks!), and having a lightweight, easy-to-fold stroller made getting out of the house or coming home from a walk so much easier. For my next little one, I'm buying Nuna's car seat and using this system from day one, since Nuna's TRVL line is compatible with its car seats . It offers a smooth ride even with the lightweight frame, though you do have to look out for big bumps on the sidewalk.

13.6 pounds without handlebar, 14.6 with the handlebar. Comes with a travel bag.

Best Travel Pram (and a Great Toddler Stroller Too)

The Joolz Aer+ on its own looks like a normal travel stroller. It has a solid yet lightweight build and beautiful color choices that give it a luxury look. The storage basket is a little small, and I find it's easier to stick a diaper bag through the front side of the stroller rather than the back, making it a little more effort to take things in and out since you have to park and walk around the stroller to do so.

But where the Joolz Aer+ shines is the fact that you can swap out the toddler seat for the Joolz Carrycot ($229) , transforming it into a travel pram or bassinet stroller. The bassinet can hold babies up to 20 pounds or 30 inches tall. I needed to watch the how-to video to figure out how to swap out the toddler seat for the bassinet, but once the seat is out, the Carrycot is easy to pop into the stroller. The stroller also still folds with the bassinet attached, but I liked popping out the bassinet out and fully compacting the frame. It's one of the only travel stroller setups you can use from birth without needing car seat attachments. Joolz does sell car seat attachments ($45) for the Aer+, but check the compatibility list to see if it works with your car seat of choice.

I really liked the Joolz Aer+ though. If the toddler seat had a belly bar to hold it by (you can buy one separately for $50 ), it would be tied with the Nuna TRVL for me.

13.2 pounds with toddler seat, 17.6 pounds with bassinet. Comes with travel bag and bassinet.

Best for Air Travel (or Tall Kids)

The Bugaboo Butterfly is like the Nuna TRVL with a similarly easy fold, but the seat is a little taller and my 70th-percentile-height 2-year-old has plenty of headroom and room left to grow into it, which I can't say for a lot of strollers (including the Uppababy Vista V2). I like that the extendable canopy is larger, giving my son better coverage when we're on a day trip to the zoo or walking around the park on a sunny afternoon. My kid doesn't like to wear hats, so I'm dependent on my stroller's canopy to protect his poor little head. The Bugaboo's frame doesn't feel as sturdy as the Nuna TRVL though.

It has a slightly shorter, more compact fold than Nuna's strollers, almost perfectly hitting carry-on luggage size. It's still a little wide— 17 inches when carry-on luggage usually can only be 14—but it has a better shot than most other strollers. It's rated to be IATA (International Air Transport Association) compatible, so it should fit in most overhead compartments. Bugaboo also has adapters to make this stroller work with popular infant car seats from Maxi Cosi, Graco, Cybex, and others. The Butterfly has a carry strap rather than a handle when folded, which is fine but not quite as convenient to grab—it often got stuck inside the stroller for me. You can also grab the handle but avoid the center button.

16 pounds. Comes with a rain cover.

★ Another tall kid option: The Nuna TRVL LX ($550) also has more headspace for bigger kids like the Bugaboo Butterfly. The Nuna has a softer seat and I find the fold easier , plus it has a sturdy belly bar to carry it with. The Bugaboo offers a better canopy and is shorter while folded, making it more ideal for plane travel.

Best Budget Travel Stroller

The Delta Children Icon doesn't look like much, but I found myself quickly impressed with everything it offered for such a good price. The seat has nice padding and feel to it, and it has a belly bar that you can easily grab when folded. The frame is compact, but still tall enough for my taller kiddo. It comes with a cupholder, though it's a small size that I prefer to use only for my toddler's water bottle, and I often knock it off the stroller frame when sticking it into my trunk, which is annoying. At 15.6 pounds, it's a little heavier than some of our other picks, but lighter than the above Bugaboo and still easy to carry. It's got a great fold and can sit standing up, too. Plus, unlike the Bugaboo, you can carry this one with the belly bar. The storage basket is just big enough for my backpack-style diaper bag.

Delta Children says the stroller is TSA approved to fit in overhead compartments, and the dimensions of the stroller (10.9 x 16.5 x 23.6 inches) make it a little slimmer than the Bugaboo above, though still a little larger than your standard carry-on size. You'll want to check your airline's rules about strollers even with this small size, though. It doesn't have any infant car seat adapters or compatibility, which is a bummer. The other bummer is that this stroller is short—I'm 5'4" and if I wear tall shoes, I find myself lightly bending to push this stroller.

15.6 pounds.

★ For taller parents: The Ergobaby Metro+ ($299) reminds me a lot of the Delta Children Icon, but it has an adjustable handlebar, so it's a better choice for taller parents. (It's rare to find an adjustable handlebar on travel strollers at all!) It's also car seat compatible, so it's better if you want to use it earlier, and the seat is a little larger also so your kid might fit into it longer than other affordable strollers. While it has a sturdier frame than the Icon, it doesn't fold or unfold as easily as the Icon or my other picks, nor is it as easy to carry. But if you're really tall, you might be happy to deal with those issues for a much easier reach.

Another Great Budget Option

The Bombi Bēbee V2 reminds me of my favorite stroller, the Nuna TRVL, recreated for half the price with a cupholder added. The Bēbee V2 has an easy one-hand fold, can stand while folded, has a belly bar for carrying, and features pretty good materials and colors for the $200 price point. The seat isn't quite as soft as the Nuna, but it is softer than the Zoe Tour v2 and comes in a bunch of fun colors. The storage basket is nothing to write home about, but it did fit my backpack-style diaper bag and a couple water bottles. It's my favorite affordable stroller I've tried, and a great everyday choice for something light and super easy to fold. If you're looking for something to bring on a plane, though, I'd go with the above Delta Children Icon.

The Bēbee V2 also comes with a cupholder, which is exciting, since many strollers don't include it. It's a good size for kids' water bottles or water bottles that hold under 20 ounces, but it isn't big enough for my 40-ounce Owala tumbler. The stroller itself is also 18 pounds, making it one of the heavier travel strollers I recommend, though it isn't as noticeable in use. I wouldn't say it feels as sturdy as the Nuna or Bugaboo, but it's still great for the price. What's also exciting is it has an Uppababy-compatible car seat adapter ($20) , which is rare to find. It's a unique fabric design, almost acting like a seatbelt rather than clicking the car seat into place.

18 pounds. Comes with a travel bag.

Best for Infant Travel

Any trip you're taking with an infant will require a car seat. That's true for road trips, air travel, quick Ubers from your hotel, or even just going home to the hospital (baby's first big trip home!). So why deal with a stroller and a car seat when you can have two in one? The Doona Car Seat & Stroller had me kicking myself that I didn't try it sooner. I was so stressed out trying to make a car seat and stroller pair on a budget, and I should have just bought this all-in-one for the early days and then bought a real travel stroller when my kid grew out of it. Another idea for kid number two!

The Doona is 17 pounds, which isn't light once the baby is in there, but it doesn't feel too heavy. It's easy to switch from stroller to car seat mode once you get the motion down to click the legs back up or out again. The Doona's seat and handle are a little low compared to normal strollers, so tall parents might not like it as much, but it's a great pick to go from car to airport to plane and back again without needing more than one gadget. Just remember—infants can't be in a car seat for more than two hours at a time.

17 pounds. Comes with a car seat base.

Best for Sneaky Carry-On

Most planes will make you check your stroller at the gate. The ones that won't require a stroller to be carry-on dimensions; many travel strollers fold too long and wide to fit perfectly. But the Silver Cross Jet 5's folded position looks like a piece of luggage, folding down to 10 x 14.5 x 24.5 inches with a handle sticking straight up like on a traditional carry-on. You can lug it around like luggage when folded, which is super handy when you let your toddler run wild at the departure gate so they nap on the plane. It has a cover to make it look more suitcase-like too. It's still a few inches larger than carry-on luggage—most airlines are looking for 8 or 9 inches by 15 and 22 inches for overhead bin luggage—but the Jet 5 might honestly pass for a carry-on when you wheel it past the flight attendant. You'll need to pop the handle off to fit it in the overhead compartment, which is easy to do.

The build materials are fantastic and the stroller is sturdy, but I did find this one more challenging to unfold than any other stroller I've tested. You have to snap the supports together and while they have handles, my small hands struggled to snap them into place while holding the stroller up. It's easier with two people, but even my husband found it difficult. There’s a seat that reclines into a bassinet-like mode with an included piece of fabric to keep the baby in place, but it didn’t feel secure enough for me to want to use with a newborn. I'd prefer our other strollers over this one due to the fold, but if you want a super discrete stroller to bring on the plane (especially since not all airplanes let you carry on a stroller, which you can read more about below) this could be a good fit for you.

15.9 pounds. Comes with a travel cover and rain cover.

A City Stroller I’d Travel With

This is not a travel stroller. The Thule Shine ( 9/10, WIRED Recommends ) is a city stroller, meaning it's a little more compact than your usual everyday stroller, but still has all the capabilities of a full-size stroller. It has a toddler seat that can face both inward and outward and works with third-party car seats with adapters (sold separately).

That said, I like it for travel since it's much smaller than other traditional strollers, like the Uppababy Vista V2 or the Nuna Mixx Next, while still packing similar features. Thanks to the adjustable handlebar, it wasn't too short for my 6'3" dad, and it folds compact enough to almost pass for a travel stroller. It's super easy for city strolling thanks to its slim size and would be a fun stroller to bring on a longer trip where you'll be walking a lot. I'd happily tote it around Europe for a few weeks if I ever get the guts to take my kid on such a long flight. You'll have to check the Thule Shine and it doesn't come with a travel bag, but Thule sells one ($80) . Thule also has a rider board ($130) for older children to hop onto, letting this stroller easily transform into a double stroller. The rider board can get in the way when folding, but it's easy to remove when you aren't using it.

21.6 pounds. Comes with a rain cover.

Honorable Mentions

There are a lot of strollers out there. Here are a few more I like but aren't my top recommendations for one reason or another.

Joovy Kooper for $250 : This stroller is one of the cheapest I've tested, and I like that it comes with a full snack tray—something you won't find in almost any other travel stroller. It folds down flat rather than upright.

Colugo The One for $395 : This is a fine stroller, but for the price I'd rather pay a little extra to get one of the top picks in this guide, and you can save money and get a better fold with our budget picks.

Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 for $430 : This is another city stroller like the Thule Shine, but its nearly flat fold reminds me of a travel stroller. It comes with a car seat attachment that works with many popular car seat makers, so it's a great pick if you want something to work with a car seat right away and still has a great, lightweight fold. It has fantastic wheel suspension, similar to a jogging stroller but with much smaller wheels.

Thule Spring for $400 : This stroller reminded me of the Baby Jogger with its three-wheel design and nice suspension, but folds a lot taller and thicker. It does stand up on its own if you put the handle at a middle height, which is nice. It's touted as a compact stroller for a reason—it's not lightweight or travel-friendly like our other picks. But it still has a nice size and handling if you want something more compact for everyday use.

Zoe Tour v2 for $259 : This was my previous budget pick. It's still a good stroller that comes with lots of accessories, but the seat fabric and build quality isn't as nice as other cheaper or similarly-priced models I've tested. But it does come with the best range of accessories you'll find on a travel stroller.

Can Strollers Go on a Plane?

A big reason you might be looking for a travel stroller is because you want to bring it on a plane.

Many major airlines, like American Airlines and British Airways, require you to gate-check strollers, which means you can still use them at the airport but can't put them in overhead space. Some airlines, like United, Emirates, and Virgin Atlantic, allow a travel stroller (often called a “collapsible stroller”) as carry-on luggage as long as it fits the size requirements of carry-on luggage, which is usually around 8 x 14 x 22 inches.

Technically, none of the travel strollers I've tested fit perfectly into these size constraints. But the Bugaboo Butterfly and Silver Cross Jet 5 have a compact size when folded that gets closer than most (as long as you remove the Jet 5’s handle). There's also a thing called IATA certification (short for the International Air Transport Association). Having that should mean it's safe to pop into the overhead compartment, but I'd still recommend checking the airline's specific rules. Two strollers in this guide are IATA certified, the Silver Cross Jet 5 and Bugaboo Butterfly, and I'm testing the Babyzen Yoyo soon, which is also certified.

What to Look for in a Travel Stroller

Shopping for a stroller can be intense. They're not a small investment, and you want them to last until your kid grows out of them (usually once they hit 50 to 55 pounds). If you're trying to pick a travel stroller in a pinch, or are feeling overwhelmed by the options, here are some guidelines that can help.

• Is there a five-point harness? Five-point harnesses are the standard for securing your baby in the stroller via the straps. Every pick we recommend above has one. This is a feature you want and should be included.
• Do you need car seat compatibility? If you're traveling with an infant, you'll either need a bassinet mode or the ability to connect your car seat to the stroller. You can DIY a travel system by pairing any stroller with a compatible car seat. Many strollers we recommend have car seat attachments you can buy that work with popular brands, but some aren't so flexible. (Uppababy's car seats only work with its strollers.)
• Do you want a travel pram? A travel pram or bassinet is the lie-down flat mode that allows newborns to lie on their back while you walk. It's a nice mix-up from always being in a car seat—especially since infants can't stay in a car seat for more than two hours at a time. I haven't liked most bassinet modes I've tried on travel strollers since they feel a little flimsy and not as secure as I'd want an infant to be, but we're testing more soon and will update this guide with more recommendations.
• Are these umbrella strollers? There's a mixed category of strollers sometimes called lightweight, travel, or even umbrella strollers. Umbrella strollers are less popular and are known for their rounded umbrella-like handle. This guide focuses on more general travel strollers, but we plan to test a few of these.
• Do you need a double stroller? If you have two kids, you might be wondering if you're screwed. You're not! If I had two kids, I'd get a stroller I can add a rider board to, like the Thule Shine (if one of my kids is old enough to ride it). If not, the Zoe Twin V2 ($529) is a double stroller version of the Tour V2, and is a great price for two kids (and can still use Zoe's infant car seat attachment).

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10 Best Strollers for Travel

Whether you're flying to grandma's or navigating Disney World, we've got strollers that will smooth your journey.

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.

Best Overall

Bugaboo butterfly.

Summer Infant 3D Mini

Best All-Terrain

Baby jogger city tour 2.

Every parent of a child age 6 or younger wants to take them on vacation but has nagging worries around the actual travel . Our best advice for moving around with an infant is to wear them in an infant carrier . But for navigating a young child through the airport, getting them on and off shuttles, visiting a crowded event or going around a resort like Disney World , we recommend that you get a great travel stroller.

Our experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute have reviewed more than 40 strollers over the course of the past five years and for this story, we pulled together the strollers that can fit in tiny spaces (some in the airplane overhead) and those that rank high for ease of folding. Separately, we have a list of lightweight strollers that will help you tackle the toddler years with your sanity intact, and some of those are great for travel, too. But the travel strollers below have an additional focus on being compact and folding quickly so you can move like a travel ninja.

We called this a "first-rate folding stroller" when we named this a Good Housekeeping Family Travel Award winner. It doesn't sacrifice comfort for compactness , so expect the usual Bugaboo high-quality fabric, deep seat, real sunshade (no skimping on sun protection here!) and extendable leg rest, just in a more tiny, adorable form that's easy to take along on trips.

One tester mom of a toddler geeked out about the fold, specifically. "The button to fold it is on the handle, so you just push down and it collapses nearly instantly. Our regular stroller requires ducking down and pushing a lever," she said. "Also, the glide of the Butterfly is comparable to much larger strollers. I can push my son uphill easily, with one hand!"

The folded Butterfly stands up by itself, great if you need it to sit while you check bags or load the car. But our Lab experts note that unfolding the Butterfly takes some finesse and practice — you shake it out and lock in place before you can set your kid inside. We like the carry handle that lets you sling the folded stroller over your shoulder, as shown in the picture.

If you want this to carry a newborn in a car seat you can buy a car seat adaptor for the Butterfly. But it only works with select brands including Bugaboo, Nuna, Maxi-Cosi and Cybex.

If you're only taking one big vacation and don't plan to travel often, you might want a no-drama lightweight stroller that's priced under $100 . This little 3D Mini might cost the same as checking a piece of luggage each way, and at just 11 pounds it's easy to handle on a trip.

The basket is small — an average-size diaper bag is too big to fit down there — but there's a zippered parent console that holds two drinks. It's got a reasonable sunshade, and the seat can lean back. There's no seat padding, nor is there springy suspension for the five-inch plastic wheels. It's built for the convenience of getting toddlers and young preschoolers around flat pedestrian areas, and it does that just fine.

The 3D mini folds long, to the size of a traditional umbrella. (Get it? That's why they call this style an "umbrella stroller.") It doesn't stand up when folded — like with an umbrella, you have to prop it against a wall or a car, or lay it down, say in your car's trunk, or carry it in one hand, which is made easy by its light weight.

Not only does this weigh less than 15 pounds but its molded-rubber wheels can tackle a sandy beach path. Our tester did just that, saying, "We took the risk and rolled this along a nature trail in Puerto Rico and it did great." It won't tackle deep sand, though. For that you'll want a beach wagon . But the City Tour 2 is smooth-rolling on plenty of terrain and of course smooth on city streets, too.

This is a comfy choice with a deep seat that reclines almost flat, a wide calf rest plus a decent sun-protective canopy. The fold is easy and starts with squeezing a button on the handle. But when folded this is not as small as some others; it will not fit in an airplane overhead. It also can not stand up while folded. Use the carry bag, included, to gate-check this at the airport.

The handle sits just under 40 inches tall, making it a little low for tall parents. If you want a Baby Jogger stroller that holds an infant car seat, the brand's newer City Mini Air can hold a Baby Jogger or Graco model. But it's about nine pounds heavier and more of a full-size stroller than a travel option.

Colugo The Compact

Lots of the choices on our list are great for airplane trips because of their fold and compact size. But if you fly often — as in to and from grandparents four or five times a year — we like that The Compact can be carted around several ways.

It's important because toddlers hop in and out of their stroller all the time in the airport. Use the carry strap on the back to sling this over your shoulder when you're on a moving walkway, with one arm holding your kid. Or put the stroller in the included backpack-style bag so it's easy to carry your kid and wear the stroller on your back as you step onto the plane, where the stroller can fit in most overhead bins. (If the flight crew says the overheads are full, the bag makes it easy to gate-check.)

When we named this a Good Housekeeping Parenting Award winner, we called out some of the other great features: a more generous basket than most compact strollers; a parent cupholder (because caffeine ); and a rain cover in case it's pouring when you step outside. Our one issue is that this is not a choice for a newborn; your baby has to be at least 6 months old to ride in this.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW : Is a Colugo Stroller Worth It?

If you're taking a young baby and don't want skimp on anything, this comfy, well-made compact stroller comes with a long list of amenities including a carry bag, a magnetic buckle so you can quickly snap your baby in place, plus a no-rethread harness so it's easy to adjust the shoulder-strap height as your child grows.

You can use the TRVL from birth because the seat reclines fully. You can also turn it into a Nuna travel system with the lightweight Nuna PIPA infant car seat, sold separately, without needing any extra adaptor (the car seat rests against the bumper bar).

All-wheel suspension helps this roll more like a full-size stroller. The basket can't hold as much as a few other picks on this list. But fans of the TRVL rave about the fold, which can be executed with just one hand while you hold your baby in your other arm. When folded it stays standing up on its own. Note, however, that it's just a few inches too big to fit in an airplane overhead bin, so plan to gate-check this stroller.

UPPAbaby Minu V2

Another Parenting Award winner, we've said this is "a perfect balance between a convenient compact and a sturdy full-size stroller." We think it's a great travel stroller for a toddler because of the extendable sun canopy, leatherette bumper bar you can use to hang a few toys and the lower basket that can hold up to 20 pounds . Swap the bumper bar for a snack tray , sold separately, if that will keep your toddler happier. If you're less concerned with getting something tiny and more interested in having a relatively compact stroller with all the features of a larger model, this might be your pick.

If you use this in an airport you will have to gate-check it; it won't fit in the plane's overhead. You can buy the UPPAbaby Minu carry bag separately. The Minu's small, self-standing fold means it takes up very little room in your home or hotel room. Tall parents will appreciate that the handle sits over 40 inches from the ground.

RELATED: The Best Baby Strollers

Testers have loved this tiny stroller for taking trips. "The one-handed push-button fold is a notable feature — it’s a game-changer!" one told us. We put it in our most recent Family Travel Awards , where we noted it's compact enough to fit in a plane's overhead storage. The shoulder strap for easy transporting is elastic, which one tester found a little odd, saying, "It feels weird to carry a sizable object by an elastic strap," but it works!

"The Aer+ has a decent sized sun shade for being a compact stroller," another tester said. Nothing on it is huge, and there's no cupholder or bumper bar, but that keeps it lighter than 14 pounds. The price is on the high side, but it does come with a travel pouch and the brand offers a 10-year limited warranty. (You have to register your product for it to be in place.)

Chicco Liteway

Little travelers who are beyond the baby stage do well with an umbrella-style stroller like this one that gives them a place to sit when they need a break but does not cost parents much cash. Mesh sides provide airflow when you're visiting warm places and rear suspension provides a smoother ride than the truly cheap sling-style models that are built more like toys. Because it's got such a lightweight aluminum frame the weight limit for the Liteway is 40 pounds while others on this list go up to 50 pounds.

The handle is two grab handles versus one long bar. Because this is umbrella-style, it has a long, thin fold that has to be rested on the ground or against something. You engage the fold with your foot rather than your hand, kicking up near the basket and stepping down on a lever at the side.

The seat cushion is machine washable and it comes with a parent cupholder. It's ideal for preschoolers, including 4- and 5-year-olds. It's not for a baby younger than 6 months and does not take an infant car seat.

Munchkin Sparrow

It's all about the fold! The Sparrow folds into the neatest little 15" x 14" rectangle and tucks into its own carry case. Not only will it fit in an airplane overhead but we can imagine a bunch of other travel scenarios for this: tucked into a drawer in your hotel room or cruise ship cabin, at your feet as you ride the train around Disneyland, on your shoulder while you hold your child and ride an escalator.

To get that small it has a lot of flexible joints and tiny wheels. Also, the Sparrow weighs less than 13 pounds. The combination can make the Sparrow feel more rickety than others on our list. It performed well enough rolling around smooth New York City sidewalks but, especially if you have a lightweight baby inside, it bounces over cracks, bumps and curbs. Fortunately, if you're mostly steering this through airports or through a theme park, you should be good to go.

A few other notes: The handle is low (not great for tall parents) but the seat is high (so a toddler is not leg-draggingly close to the ground). The basket is tiny and blocked by two bars, so it can't hold very much, maybe just a stroller blanket and water bottle. The tiny sunshade flap is minimal.

Evenflo Gold Otto

If you love the idea of a self-folding stroller that collapses at the touch of a button while you're holding your baby in your arms, this model does just that and at a nice price, too. Getting in and out of vehicles is easy because the Otto, when folded, can be self-standing or carried around by its bumper bar. You can use an Evenflo car seat with this without any separate adaptor, and the molded rubber wheels have suspension in the front.

There is a gap between the seat and the canopy that lets airflow in but also allows a kid to squirm around and see you, which can either be a pro or con. We noticed online reviewers writing that the wheels squeak, which we did not experience in our Lab tests but seems to be an issue during real-world use.

It comes with a parent cupholder. Note that the Otto is heavier than most of the other single strollers on our list but still weights less than 20 pounds. Because it's fairly robust it has a slightly higher weight limit compared to other travel strollers, up to 55 pounds.

Other travel strollers we recommend

Aside from our picks above, here are some others that performed well in our Lab tests and with our consumer testers:

•Best double travel stroller: Zoe The Twin V2

This popular compact double is frequently sold out, but worth checking on if you need to take two kids on vacay. We've called this stroller " t he best double stroller for Disney " based on testers' real-world experiences. It meets the Disney park size requirements but weighs less than 20 pounds so it's not too tough to schlep on and off transport, plus it stands up when folded so it's easy to set it down and pick it up again without having to lean the stroller on something. Each seat has a large canopy (so important for long, sunny outings!), separate reclines so either kid can lean back when needed and bumper bars for toys and to help keep preschoolers from leaping out if they spot Mickey.

•Best car seat-stroller combo: Doona

Nothing else comes close to being an ideal car seat and stroller combo for travel with a baby. The Doona is an infant car seat for a vehicle, then you pop the wheels out and stroll with it. No need to travel with both a car seat and a stroller since this is a two-in-one. "Now I tell every mama that she needs this," said one tester who started traveling with her baby in the Doona at 2 months old. Because it's only for toddlers up to 35 pounds and 32 inches tall, most families outgrow it by their child's second birthday. Read our full Doona Car Seat and Stroller Review .

•The original square-fold travel stroller: Cybex Libelle Pockit

Cybex pushed the travel-stroller category when it came out with a Pockit stroller that folds into a neat square . The latest version is the Libelle which, when folded, is just 12.6" x 7.9" x 18.9". And yet, unfolded, it can hold a Cybex infant car seat, sold separately. It comes in an array of colors though some of them will add to the price.

•Best small-space travel stroller : Babyzen YOYO2 (pictured)

We recommend this stroller for city parents or anyone who lives in a small spac e because of its compact size. It travels well, too. "We took it on a trip to Australia and it was so easy to travel with," a tester told us. Folded, this 13.5-pound stroller can be worn over your shoulder with the carry strap, and it comes with its own carry bag. Buy the $180 bassinet to use it from birth.

How we test the best travel strollers

We test strollers both in the Good Housekeeping Institute Labs and in real-world conditions. For travel strollers, we ask consumer testers to take a model on a trip and report back on how easy the stroller made their journey.

In the past five years we've tested more than 40 strollers, looking at a dozen factors including stroller weight, ease of fold, size of stroller when folded, whether it comes with a travel bag, size of the sunshade and basket, whether the seat can recline for rest and more. We roll strollers along varied terrain and time how long it takes to assemble strollers out of the box.

We offer many stroller guides, including lists of the best jogging strollers and the best stroller wagons .

What to consider when shopping for a travel stroller

✔️ Just how tiny do you need it to fold? If you want to roll your stroller right onto the plane and throw it in the overhead bin, look for a travel stroller that promises to fit up there. The International Air Transport Association suggests that carry-on luggage not be larger than 22'' x 18'' x 10".

✔️ A carry bag makes a nice backup plan if you're flying. If your stroller is supposed to fit in the overhead but the plane is too full, having a carry bag lets you easily gate-check it. Plenty of families, including many of our Lab experts, actually prefer to gate-check their stroller. You roll your child to the gate, wait until boarding, then fold and bag the stroller and have airline personnel put a tag on it so you can pick it up on the jet bridge when the plane lands, allowing you to stroll your child to baggage claim.

✔️ Check the Disney Park requirements , if you're going there. Unfolded, your stroller should be no larger than 31 inches wide and 52 inches long for a day at one of the parks.

✔️ Pay attention to age grading. If your infant is still only a few months old, they will be potentially unsafe in a stroller for ages 6 months+. If you'll be traveling with a newborn, look for a travel stroller that works from birth or that accommodates your infant car seat riding on top of it. At any age, know your child's current weight and height, and read the requirements specific to your stroller to ensure it's appropriate.

✔️ What happens when it folds? We like a stroller that can stand while folded, because you can set it and forget it while you deal with other travel and packing hassles. However, sometimes an umbrella fold, which is long and skinny, is nice for road trips when you have a tightly packed car. You can almost always wedge an umbrella stroller in there! Watch videos online to see how travel strollers fold and how you are expected to carry one in its folded position.

✔️ We like a canopy. We're nuts about sun protection (see our best sunscreens for kids ) and that's why all of our picks have at least some sunshade. We do not recommend one of the ultra-cheap sling-type strollers lacking any sun visor. But not all canopies are equal: Some extend far out, some have mesh panels for ventilation and many large canopies have peekaboo windows that let you easily peer down and see how your kid is doing. Some sunshades make noise as you move them in and out and some are silent. Finally, some are made of UPF 50+ sun-blocking fabric, which is preferable.

There are many things you will not get in a travel stroller that you would get in a big, full-size stroller. A compact travel stroller won't have a huge basket because it must fold down small. It won't have large, heavy wheels either, which means it will not roll as smoothly as a stroller with robust tires . However, if you're using the travel stroller with a toddler or preschooler, their weight will help anchor the stroller to the ground and make it less jumpy as you push it over bumps. A travel stroller is essentially small, nimble wheels on a compact frame — something that's easy to take on vacations.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

For more than a century the experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute have been dedicated to helping consumers make safe and sound choices when purchasing items for their home and family. You can trust our experts to test kitchen appliances like the Best Espresso Machines and outdoor equipment like the Best Zero Turn Lawn Mowers . For kids we rank the Best Kids' Mattresses and, for travel with babies, the Best Pack n Plays and Playards .

This list was written by contributing writer Jessica Hartshorn who has followed the juvenile-products industry for decades, most recently for American Baby magazine and Parents magazine. She's a mother of two and a judge for the annual Parenting Awards .

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 .

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The 8 Best Travel Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

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

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Final Verdict

Product selection, how we tested.

• Others We Tested
• What To Look For

Frequently Asked Questions

Why trust tripsavvy.

TripSavvy / Conor Ralph

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

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

Best Overall

Nuna trvl lightweight stroller.

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

Convenient one-handed fold

Suitable for newborns

Handles a variety of terrain with ease

Potentially unwieldy when removing from overhead bin

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

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

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

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

Best Overall Runner-Up

Gb qbit+ all city stroller.

• Portability 4 /5
• Maneuverability 4.9 /5

User friendly

Solid handling

Long lasting

Canopy could be improved

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

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

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

Best Budget

Summer infant 3dlite stroller.

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

Budget-friendly

Cushioned handlebar

Ample storage space

Not the best for frequent fliers

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

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

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

Best Double

Uppababy g-link v2 stroller.

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

Opens and closes well

Solid canopy

Excellent handling

Heavy (somewhat expected in a double)

Some details could be improved

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

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

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

Best Sun Shade

Uppababy g-luxe stroller.

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

Solid portability

Loaded with functional extras

Supports itself in the collapsed position

Operating takes practice

Not great for packing into small places

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

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

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

Best Lightweight

Kolcraft cloud plus stroller.

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

Works well (once you figure it out)

Only option with a tray

Portability is not great

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

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

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

Most Maneuverable

Baby jogger city tour 2 stroller.

• Maneuverability 4.8 /5

Comfort features for the rider

Great value for its cost

Not as convenient for air travel

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

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

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

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

Best Portability

Babyzen yoyo2 stroller frame.

• Design 4.4 /5
• Portability 5 /5

Excellent padding

Easy to stow

Solid over rough terrain

Not intuitive for folding and unfolding

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other Travel Strollers We Tested

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to Look For in Travel Strollers

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

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

Extra Features

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In This Article

Our Favorite Travel Strollers

• Is a Travel Stroller Worth It?
• Strollers on Planes

Stroller Reviews

• Our Testing Process

Our Experts

• Factors to Consider
• Stroller Safety

Parents / Leticia Almeida

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

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

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

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

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

Is a Travel Stroller Worth It? 

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

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

Can You Take a Travel Stroller on the Plane?

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

Best Overall

Joolz aer+ stroller, why we like it.

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

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

What Parents Say

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

But Take Note

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

The Details:

• Size open: 32.7 x 17.7 x 41.5 in
• Size folded: 21 x 17.7 x 8.5 in
• Weight: 13.4 lbs
• Age range/weight limit: 6 months to 4 years

Parents / Jessica Juliao

Best for Airplane

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

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

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

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

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

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

Parents / Joy Kim

Most Comfortable

Uppababy minu v2 stroller.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Parents / Jhett Thompson

Easiest to Push

Gb qbit+ all city stroller.

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

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

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

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

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

Parents / Conor Ralph

Parents / Phoebe Cheong

Best Luxury

Nuna trvl lightweight stroller.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Double Stroller

Uppababy g-link v2 double stroller.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Parents / David Carr

Best Budget Travel Stroller

Munchkin sparrow stroller.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best for Car Travel

Baby jogger city tour 2 stroller.

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

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

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

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

Best for Trains and Buses

Babyzen yoyo2 stroller.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other Notable Travel Strollers

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

Our Testing Process 

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

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

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

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

Factors to Consider When Buying a Travel Stroller

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

How to Use Travel Strollers Safely

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

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

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

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

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

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

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• Strollers /

The Best Strollers of 2024

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

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

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

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

Why Trust Babylist?

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

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

The Best Strollers

Best Overall: Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 Stroller

Best Convertible: UPPAbaby Vista V2 Stroller

Best Travel System: Chicco Corso LE Modular Travel System

Best Affordable: Graco Modes Pramette Stroller 

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

Best Travel: Joolz Aer+ Lightweight Stroller

Best Jogging: BOB Wayfinder Single Jogging Stroller

How We Judged

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

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

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

Value. Strollers range from under $100 to well over $1,000. We didn’t limit our best-of picks by price, but we did factor it in while making our top choices so you can be sure you’re spending your money wisely.

Best Stroller Overall

Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 Stroller - Opulent Black

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

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

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

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

Real Parent Reviews

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

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

Additional Specs

Best Convertible Stroller

UPPAbaby Vista V2 Stroller - Jake

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Travel System

Chicco Corso LE Modular Travel System - Veranda

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Affordable Stroller

Graco Modes Pramette Stroller - Pierce

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Stroller Car Seat Combo

Doona Infant Car Seat & Stroller - Nitro Black

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Travel Stroller

Joolz Aer + Lightweight Stroller - Forest Green

• Compact, one-handed fold and built-in carry strap
• 4-wheel suspension rides smoothly like a full-size stroller
• Compatible with top-rated car seats
• Expensive, especially if used infrequently for travel
• Small storage basket

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

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

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

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

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

Best Jogging Stroller

BOB Gear Wayfinder Single Jogging Stroller - Nightfall

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other Car Seats We Love

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

A More Affordable Convertible

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

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

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

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

Best Luxury Travel System

Nuna PIPA urbn & MIXX Next Travel System - Caviar

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

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

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

Best Stroller Wagon

Veer Cruiser City Wagon - Cruiser City Wagon Xl

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

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

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

Best City Stroller

Thule Shine Stroller - Mallard Green

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

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

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

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

Best Stroller for Twins

Bugaboo Donkey5 Mono Complete Stroller - Washed Black/Mineral Collection

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

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

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

Best Umbrella Stroller

Summer 3D Lite Convenience Stroller

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

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

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

How We Chose Our Best Strollers

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

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

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

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

Types of Strollers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Choose the Best Stroller

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

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

Evaluate your lifestyle

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

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

Think through features

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

Factor in family size

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

Consider safety

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

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

Keep cost in mind 

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Can your baby sleep in a stroller.

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

Which is better: a stroller or a wagon?

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

What is the best stroller to put in a car?

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

Jen LaBracio,

Senior gear editor, cpst.

Jen LaBracio is Babylist’s Senior Gear Editor and a Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST). When she’s not geeking out over car seats, testing out a new high chair or pushing the latest stroller model around her neighborhood, she likes to run, do all things Peloton, listen to podcasts, read and spend time at the beach. In her past life, she worked for over a decade in children’s publishing. She lives outside of Chicago with her husband and their two boys, Will and Ben.

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The 5 Best Travel Strollers for Your Next Vacation, Parent-Tested and Approved

Upgrade your umbrella stroller.

PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here .

Navigating an already crowded New York City subway with a full-sized stroller—or any airport monorail, for that matter—will make you vow to teach your baby to walk at six months. At least that was the case for me, prompting many a late-night search for “What’s the best travel stroller?” and “compact stroller that’s not flimsy and won’t hurt back.”

As much as I trust our search engine overlords to understand my fragmented queries (isn’t that the power of AI?), all the options meshed into a general…sameness. Steel-framed, plastic-wheeled baby-holders that promise to fold with one hand and kinda, maybe fit into an overhead bin, ranging in price from $100-ish to the down payment on a used car . But which one should I buy?! And do I really need to spend $400 or more on one?! So, I did what anyone with the luxury of working at a product-reviewing lifestyle site would do: I called on parents to help test the top-reviewed and up-and-coming brands on the market, vetting them to bring you the Best Travel Strollers on the Market.

Want to know which buzzy products are *really* worth buying?  Sign up for our shopping newsletter  to uncover our favorite finds.

The Best Travel Strollers at a Glance

Best Overall Travel Stroller

Bugaboo butterfly stroller.

Best for International Travel

Babyzen yoyo connect stroller.

Best Budget-Friendly Travel Stroller

Delta clutch stroller.

Best Compact Jogging Stroller

Guava roam crossover stroller.

Best Full-Size Stroller Alternative

Thule spring stroller.

Best for Nuna Devotees

Nuna trvl lx.

Eco-Friendly Travel Stroller

Silver cross jet 4.

Most Stylish Compact Stroller

Cybex coya stroller, how i chose the best travel strollers.

Beyond scouring reviews, I interviewed parents for their recommendations, then put the top models in my research to the test. I asked a team of seven parents to spend at least one week using their stroller(s), paying close attention to:

• Ease of Use: Can you really fold/unfold it with one hand? Did you need to keep referring to the instructions to adjust it? What was setup like?
• Maneuverability: How does it handle different terrain, from sidewalks and streets to gravel and dirt paths or cobblestone roads? What’s its turning radius like? 
• Sturdiness: Does it feel like it’s going to fall apart after repeated use? Could it withstand being tossed around by TSA? If your kid surpasses 30 pounds, will it be a struggle to push?
• Comfort—for You and Your Baby: Is the seat cushioned and supportive? Are the handlebars adjustable? Do you have to hunch to push it along?
• Overall Size: Is it narrower than the typical stroller? Does it fold up to a more compact size?
• Special Features: Can you stow anything under the seat? Is it compatible with an infant car seat? Does it have a snack tray or cup holder? Or a generously sized canopy?
• Value: With all of these points considered, how does that compare to the price?

The 5 Best Travel Strollers, Tested by PureWow Parents

1. Bugaboo Butterfly Stroller

What i like:.

• Large UPF 50+ sun canopy
• Underseat basket holds roughly 17 pounds
• Lightweight (16 lbs)
• Car seat compatible (adapters sold separately)
• IATA compatible for flights

What I Don’t Like:

• Somewhat pricey
• Transport bag sold separately

As soon as I mentioned “travel strollers” to anyone who owned a Bugaboo Butterfly, their voice would drop to a conspiratorial whisper as they gushed about it. Sorry, friends, but I’m leaking your best-kept secret. Our reviewer struggled to find fault with it. “I've replaced my full-size stroller with this one, and I never want to go back,” says Rachel Gulmi , PureWow Operations Director of Branded Content and mom of one. “I also love the extendable canopy. It's huge and blocks so much sunlight, which is great for hot summer days or on-the-go naps.” (This is worth noting, since most compact strollers feature little more than a visor on top, which is kind of a joke on a cloudless day.)

Gulmi also attested to the brand’s promise of a “one-second fold,” adding that she’s been able to easily fold and unfold it while holding her toddler or carrying things, and that it collapses to a carry-on size, so there’s no need to gate-check it.

• Dimensions: 17.7” x 9.1” x 21.3” (folded); 36.4” x 17.7” x 40.3” (unfolded)
• Age Range: 6 months to 4 years (max 50 lbs)
• Passed One-Handed Fold Test? Yes

2. Babyzen YoYo Connect Stroller

• Features shoulder strap for easy carrying
• Super lightweight (13 lbs)
• Water-repellant fabric
• Handlebars don’t adjust
• Under carriage storage is small (holds 11 lbs)

Just as popular as the Bugaboo Butterfly is the YoYo. For international travel, where you’re likely to be hauling gear on planes, trains and automobiles, the YoYo reigns supreme. It feels as sturdy as the Bugaboo Butterfly and features a decent-sized canopy to shade kids, yet it’s 3 pounds lighter and features a shoulder strap for easy toting. Plus, if you’re worried about gate-checking, it folds up small enough to qualify as a carry-on.

“It’s just so lightweight and easy to fold,” says PureWow Executive Editor and mom-of-two Alexia Dellner , who “100 percent” recommends this model. “You do NOT need more things weighing you down when you travel so a lightweight stroller is a must. There isn't a ton of under storage space but there’s room for a small kids bag or tote bag’s worth of items, and the back pouch is handy for all those must-have items you want nearby (wipes, hand sanitizer, snacks, etc.).”

• Dimensions: 20.5”L x 17.3”W x 7.1”H (folded); 33.8”L x 17.3”W x 41.7”H (unfolded)
• Age range: newborn (with bassinet seat) to 4 years
• Passed One-Handed Fold Test? No, but folding is still easy

3. Delta Clutch Stroller

• Super lightweight (12 lbs)
• Built-in carrying strap
• Takes up roughly the space of a grocery bag
• Canopy is too small to really block sun
• Handles are short for taller parents

delta children

“Clutch” is an apt name for this relatively affordable stroller—with its hand strap, it resembles an oversized clutch when folded. It’s the most compact stroller out of the ones tested, making it a great pick if you already have a full-size stroller and are just looking for something to take on road trips or flights. This small stroller got me through six months living in Florida during the pandemic, and while the wheels are a bit small and rickety for off-road terrain, it maneuvers nicely along crowded streets and walkways. It’s also well within Disney stroller requirements , making it theme park-friendly.

At 5-foot-11, I tend to hunch a bit while pushing this stroller, but my petite friends had no issues using it. You’ll have no problem squeezing onto subway cars, and you can use it as a carry-on to skip the gate-check (though, to be honest, I have no issues gate-checking gear—unless it’s raining and I forgot a cover).

• Dimensions: 15”L x 5.9”W x 19.7”H (folded); 29.5” L x 18.5” W x 39.8” H (unfolded)
• Age range: for children up to 50 lbs (need strong head/neck control to sit up in five-point harness)

4. Guava Roam Crossover Stroller

• Adjustable handlebar (from 34” to 45”)
• Glides smoothly
• Great turning radius
• Wheel lock for easy jogging
• Great on a variety of terrain
• Heavy (28.5 lbs)

The one challenge of most jogging strollers is that you need a serious SUV—that isn’t full of other luggage—to haul them around. Not so with the Guava Roam, which folds up to be 50 percent smaller than the typical jogger, according to the brand. (And in testing, I can confirm it’s much smaller than the Bob jogger I borrowed from a friend.) Its wheels are massive, so they can handle all kinds of terrain, and the independent suspension provides a smooth ride, so your kid isn’t jostled about too much. The wheel lock on the handlebar is nice too, so you can easily secure the wheel as you get ready to run. I loved how smoothly it glides down the street, compared to other models tested, and how the adjustable handlebars—which pivot in height from 34” to 45”—allowed any of my friends and family to take it for a spin comfortably, regardless of height.

Would it be nice if it folded up even smaller? Yes. Did I have to consult the instructions, which were printed as images on the stroller itself, the first six times I used it? Yes. But all that said, it’s still the sleekest jogging stroller I’ve tried.

• Dimensions: 29” L x 15” W x 17” H (folded); 39” L x 25” W x 43” H
• Age range: From birth (with appropriate infant seat) to 60 lbs
• Passed One-Handed Fold Test? Yes to folding; needed both hands to unfold

5. Thule Spring Stroller

• One-hand adjustable handlebars (so parents of any height don’t hunch)
• Multi-position seat recline
• Heavy (23 lbs)
• Bulky for big trips

If you want one stroller to do it all—sturdy and spacious enough to carry a kid up to 64 pounds, yet more compact than a full-size model—the Thule Spring is for you. It’s heavy duty and durable, but our reviewer, PureWow freelance editor and mom-of-one Rebecca Shapiro , noted that at 23 pounds, it may be too heavy to haul alongside luggage and a squirmy toddler in tow.  “I would be hesitant to use it on trips that I needed to carry the stroller for any significant amount of time,” she admits. However, “the one-handed fold and small footprint are amazing, and it's great to combine those conveniences with some of the things that we love about our larger, everyday stroller—unlike most travel strollers, it is smooth for both parent and child, and has some storage.”

• Dimensions: 17.7" x 12.6" x 30" (folded); 35.2" x 23.4" x 38.6" (unfolded)
• Age range: birth (with appropriate infant seat) to 64 lbs

The Top 3 Runners Up (In Case You Want More Options)

6. Nuna TRVL LX

• Spacious underseat storage
• Lightweight (14.6 lbs)
• Adjustable leg rest for toddlers
• Carry bag included
• Magnetic buckle makes buckling in kids easy
• Challenging for uneven sidewalks or cracks in the road

Nuna car seats have their own following, and fans of the brand will love its compact stroller as an alternative to a full-size stroller. Your baby can use it from birth, if you pair it with the Nuna Pipa series car seat (sold separately; no adapter needed), up until they reach 50 pounds. Plus, it features some of the bells and whistles other reviewers said they missed, like a removable and adjustable armbar, a wide canopy and adjustable leg rest for little ones. “The stroller glides very smoothly and feels lightweight without being rickety,” says PureWow Senior Food Editor and mom-of-one Katherine Gillen . “My daughter seemed very happy in it, aside from when I tried to adjust the seat recline with her in it and it jolted back—definitely made her cry with that move.” All in all, she felt it was a bit bulky for airline travel, but it makes for a solid full-size stroller alternative for families who live in crowded cities and/or small apartments, where space is at a premium.

• Dimensions: 21” x 14.25” x 27” (folded); 21” x 32” x 45.5” (unfolded)
• Age range: from birth (with appropriate infant seat, sold separately) to 50 lbs

7. Silver Cross Jet 4

• Lightweight (13.6 lbs)
• Newborn lie-flat seat suitable for infants
• Carry-on compatible

What I Don't Like:

• Struggles with uneven terrain

silver cross

It’s a rare thing for a stroller to be so compact and yet, when unfurled, look so sleek. The Silver Cross Jet 4 features vegan leather details and anti-crease fabrics made from recycled water bottles, which contribute to its streamlined look. Each detail is designed for an on-the-go vacation lifestyle, from a brake that was created to be used with flip-flops (so you don’t jam your toes to lock it in place) to a wide, UPF50+ mesh canopy.

Our reviewer, Philadelphia mom Abby Plesser, raved about its compact size and how comfortable it was to steer around, though she noted that the small wheels could be tough for uneven terrain. “I got stuck several times on our city sidewalks with cracks, large gaps and uneven pavement. My son seems to love it—it's easy to clip him in and out, and the seat has nice padding for him,” Plesser says. “It would be great for airplane travel. I could also see it as a good option for people who live in walk-up apartments/homes and need something lighter than a traditional stroller to go up and down stairs.”

• Dimensions: 8” x 12” x 22″ (folded); 35” x 18” x 38″ (unfolded)
• Age range: From birth to 55 lbs
• Passed One-Handed Fold Test? No

8. Cybex Coya Stroller

• Carrying strap for easy toting
• Adjustable leg rest for kids
• Cybex car seat adapters included
• May be too short for taller parents

Most travel strollers come in very limited colorways—three to four options is considered quite a range—but Cybex offers 25 color and frame combinations (from quiet luxury neutrals to a bold, “We the Best” tropical print collab with DJ Khaled). At 14.6 pounds, it’s relatively lightweight, and our tester had no trouble carrying it in one arm while tending to her four-month-old. (She did note that it got heavy once you attached the infant car seat.) “For such a lightweight stroller that has smaller wheels, it's surprisingly smooth on outdoor terrain,” PureWow Commerce Editor and mom-of-one Olivia Dubyak says. “I took it on a walk at a nearby park and felt that it did a very solid job at handling bumps, quick turns to avoid dips and puddles, all while riding smoothly and not seeing every bump in my child's jiggling cheeks.”

She also tested it with her 18-month-old nephew and said he was “super comfortable” and “secure” as they went on walks together. She did note, however, that he missed having a snack tray or place to hold his sippy cup.

• Dimensions: 20.5” x 17.3” x 7.1” (folded); 31.1” x 17.3” x 38.2” (unfolded)
• Age range: From birth (with appropriate infant seat, sold separately) to 4 years (or 55 lbs)

What to Look for in a Travel Stroller

As you vet options, consider:

• Folded size: How tiny do you want it to get? If you want to use it as a carry-on, look for signs it’s IATA compatible (in general, that means it should be about 22” long, 18” wide and 10” deep when totally folded).
• Unfolded height: Grab a measuring tape and gauge what height would be comfortable for you to push a stroller. For my petite colleagues, an unfolded height of 40” was fine, whereas in my case—I’m 5’11” with long legs, something closer to 42” or 43” was ideal. If you and your partner are varying heights, consider a model with adjustable handlebars, like the Thule Spring or Guava Roam .
• Child size and weight requirements: Will you want to use it with an infant? If so, you’ll want an option that’s compatible with a bassinet attachment (like the YoYo) or infant car seats. If you have tall children, a super-compact model may be outgrown early. (My daughter’s legs were too long for the Delta Clutch, for example, well before she hit the 50-pound max weight.)
• Storage: Is an under-basket bin important to you? What about a cup holder? Some of those things can be purchased separately, but it’s good to think through what you’re typically hauling, and what you won’t want to carry on your back as you travel.

The 15 Best Pregnancy Must-Haves, According to Moms

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best stroller for traveling by plane.

That depends on how you travel. If you pack light and would prefer not to gate-check your stroller (and risk it getting jostled as it’s packed onto the plane), opt for the Bugaboo Butterfly, Babyzen YoYo or Delta Clutch. If you don’t mind gate-checking and tend to prefer a heavier-duty stroller that can double as a luggage trolley (as I tend to do), go with the Thule Spring or Cybex Coya.

What Strollers Can Be Gate-Checked?

It’s always smart to check with your airline to see if they have specific requirements, but most strollers —even full-size ones—can be checked at the gate, provided they can be collapsed. TSA simply requires that they undergo inspection, and if they’re too large to be x-rayed, they will undergo a physical inspection.

What Baby Items Are Free to Bring on Flights?

Most airlines—such as Delta , JetBlue and United —will not charge you to gate-check a stroller, car seat or booster seat, and many do not count a diaper bag as part of your luggage allotment (provided you have an infant in arms listed on your ticket), but it’s always important to check with your carrier before booking.

VP of editorial content

• Oversees home, food and commerce articles
• Author of two cookbooks and has contributed recipes to three others
• Named one of 2023's Outstanding Young Alumni at the University of South Florida, where she studied mass communications and business

Why You Should Trust Us

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

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

The Best Travel Strollers

Courtesy of Joolz

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

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

The Top Travel Strollers of 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Courtesy of UPPAbaby

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Courtesy of Evenflo

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

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

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

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Courtesy of Doona

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

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

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

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

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

Getty Images

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

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

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

Courtesy of Summer

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

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

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

[Read: The Top Kids Luggage .]

How to travel with a stroller and car seat

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel Stroller FAQ

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

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

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The 10 Best Travel Strollers for Newborns and Toddlers in 2023 [In-depth Buyer Guide]

Erin Miller

Content Contributor

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Table of Contents

Why use a stroller for travel, types of strollers, things to consider with travel strollers, the 5 best travel strollers under $150, the 5 best travel strollers under $500, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Your child’s stroller is one of the most useful essentials you will ever own. It is somewhere to sit for long distances, somewhere to nap when little legs get tired, and a mobile shopping basket for parents on the move. Nowhere is your stroller more necessary than when you are on vacation. With lots of considerations, our buyer’s guide will help you find the perfect travel stroller for newborns and toddlers.

In this article, you’ll find all the information you need about a travel stroller, what types of travel strollers are on the market, important qualities to look for, as well as a short list of recommended travel strollers if you’re in the market.

Travel strollers are easy to use and offer a comfortable and convenient seat for little legs on the go. With all the basics covered — seat, canopy, basket, and handles — most travel strollers are not designed to replace your super plush, designer-brand travel system, but they will fold up small enough to fit in the trunk of your car or take on an airplane.

They should be affordable and convenient in order to be a must-have for any parent who likes to vacation with the family . A travel stroller offers everything you need when you are away from home.

As any new parent will quickly discover, there are tons of different kinds of strollers for moms and dads to choose from:

Travel Systems

These fully integrated systems offer everything a new parent needs and will last your baby from birth well into their toddler years . Usually comprised of an infant car seat that connects to the stroller with an adapter, as well as a seat unit (and sometimes a bassinet ), these systems offer a variety of forward and rear-facing positions to suit the development of your baby, all in one neat package.

Bottom Line: If you have a big enough vehicle, you will be able to fold and pack the various parts of the system in the trunk of your car, but for small vehicles or air travel, these are big and bulky and not the most practical to take on vacation with you.

Frame Strollers

Frame strollers are more lightweight and compact than regular strollers and simply feature a seat that fits into a variety of different positions on the stroller frame itself. These types of systems allow you to mix and match the car seat, carry cots, and toddler seats to suit your requirements and are useful for growing children.

Bottom Line: Frame strollers are a little bit bulky as no matter how compact the frame may be when folded, the seat unit can still be cumbersome for throwing in the trunk or taking with you on airplanes.

Umbrella Strollers

Compact and easy to use, these basic little strollers are great for keeping in the car or taking with you on vacation . They can close up small but should offer enough padding to be comfortable for your child. They should also have enough extras (like adjustable handles and shopping baskets) to be useful for mom or dad too.

Bottom Line: Umbrella strollers are inexpensive, lightweight, and better suited to babies of 6 months or older, although some will lie flat to use from birth. You will have no worries using these on public transport, and they can be carried over your shoulder with ease.

Full-size Strollers

A full-size stroller is designed to house your baby from birth through to the toddler years and therefore is built to last. Often with 2 smaller front wheels to allow for precise steering  and larger rear wheels to help you handle any terrain, these types of strollers are incredibly durable and easy to use. Padded, comfortable seats will give your baby enough space to grow, and there is usually a ton of storage space for parents to make the most of, too.

Bottom Line: Much like travel systems, full-size strollers can be heavy to lift and bulky even when folded. Most are well suited to the trunk of a car, but you could come unstuck trying to lift the frame and your baby on buses, trains, planes, and other public transport.

Jogging Strollers

Jogging strollers allow mom or dad to get in shape while staying with the baby. With many offering a fixed front wheel, additional hand brake, and a 5-point safety harness to keep baby safe on the go, these types of stroller are great for working out in the park or close to home , and some of the newer generations of jogging strollers may even be able to fold up small enough to take away with you.

Double Strollers

Double strollers come in a wide variety of designs, and if you have twins or 2 children that are close in age, you can opt for a double-frame stroller, travel system, three-wheeler or even an umbrella stroller, depending on your preference. You can also choose whether you would like your children to sit next to each other in a side-by-side stroller or in front of each other with a tandem stroller.

Bottom Line: Unless you manage to find a lightweight and compact double umbrella stroller, most double strollers are too large to be easily carried around on public transport.

The best travel system for you is the one that suits you perfectly. Every family will have their own unique requirements, but you should still consider the following before you buy:

Size and Weight

The lightweight, compact nature of a travel stroller is what sets it apart from any other type of baby-carrying device. Ideally, it will be as small as possible without compromising the space available for your little one to sit in. It needs to be compact enough to fold up small and light enough to be carried (using a strap or by the handle) around airports, down to the beach, and on public transport when you need to.

Bottom Line: Travel strollers are designed to fold up small for the journey but still offer enough space to be comfortable and useful when you get there.

Material and Durability

Your travel stroller may not need to be used daily, but it will need to be strong enough to withstand the rigors of air travel and other public transport. Sturdy steel or aluminum frames are far more durable than plastic ones, so be sure to buy a travel stroller that is made of sterner stuff.

Your travel stroller should be made of nylon or another human-made, rip-proof material. It will also need to be water-resistant to a degree (as not all strollers come with rain covers) and will definitely need to be easy to wipe down to keep it clean and hygienic.

Your Child’s Age

Newborn babies need to lie flat in their strollers, and even between the ages of 3 to 6 months old, it is only recommended that they can be gently elevated in their strollers. A child who is not yet old enough to walk will need a travel stroller that offers some padding and a few more added extras than the most basic of strollers has to offer.

Hot Tip: You should also bear in mind that most travel strollers do not have suspension features, meaning that they can be uncomfortable for young babies to travel in for hours at a time.

Folding and Portability

Of course, part of the reason for purchasing a travel stroller is the fact that you will be able to take it anywhere with you. For this purpose, many smaller, lightweight strollers come complete with a carry strap, handle, or even a case to be tucked away in.

Easy folding mechanisms are also a must , and it’s even more useful if you can operate it one-handed. If you are carrying your child or lots of luggage, you need a stroller that flips open and collapses wherever you are.

Hot Tip: Some teeny tiny travel strollers are designed to fit in their own carry bag. These are better still as you can carry them over your shoulder, leaving both your hands free.

Safety and Comfort

Just because your travel stroller is smaller than your travel system doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be as safe or able. Your travel stroller should have a secure 5-point harness and shoulder straps to keep your little one safe, and the seats should be padded and breathable for comfort.

Hot Tip: You should also check the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure that the stroller you buy is suitable for your baby’s age and that the stroller has passed rigorous safety tests.

How much you pay for your travel stroller is entirely up to you. Most basic strollers are inexpensive and will offer a seat, a shade, 4 wheels, and a small shopping basket. If you are willing to pay upwards of $200, you could grab yourself a stroller that also offers:

• All-terrain wheels and full suspension
• 5-point safety harness with padding
• A fully reclinable seat unit made from breathable, wipeable fabric
• An extendable canopy
• 1-hand folding mechanism
• Carry strap, handle, or even a travel bag
• Adapters for car seat or bassinet to form a travel system if you want to

The most affordable travel stroller in our review is the Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Stroller at $69.99, and the most expensive is the GB Pockit+ Lightweight Stroller at $279.95. If you already have a top-of-the-range stroller system back at home, you may not want to splash out on an expensive travel stroller, but whatever your budget , there are plenty out there to choose from.

1. A Lightweight Travel Stroller for Everyday Use

Summer 3dlite+ convenience stroller.

This light and convenient stroller is good quality for everyday use and is perfect for trips to the supermarket, days out with the family, and even for taking with you on your next vacation. With a high-end look and feel, this stroller weighs in at just 14 pounds, and the padded carry strap makes it easy to take with you anywhere with you. The one-handed folding mechanism also helps by making light work of folding and opening on the go.

Suitable from birth, the 2Dlite+ has a fully reclining seat that is made from soft yet durable polyester and is padded to provide extra comfort. The oversized canopy with flip-out sun visor will help to keep your child shielded from the sun, and the peek-a-boo windows mean you can check in on your little one even when they are sleeping.

Loaded with premium features, there is an extra large storage basket for keeping your items safe on the go, as well as a parent cup holder, a cell phone holder, a zip-close storage pocket, and a child sippy cup holder. The compact fold with auto-lock makes this super convenient to close and open in transit, and the anti-shock front wheels and lockable rear wheels mean it is as comfortable to push as it is for your baby to sit in.

Bottom Line: The 3Dlite+ travel stroller really is a delight for both parents and babies alike.

2. Jog, Run, and Have Fun With This Little Travel Stroller

Jovial portable folding baby stroller.

This portable travel stroller has an extra slim foldable design and comes complete with its very own carry bag for stowing on planes, trains, and other public transport. Weighing in at just 16.3 pounds and with a super easy open and fold mechanism, using and traveling with this stroller literally is as easy as child’s play!

Suitable for use from birth, the Jovial Portable Folding Baby Stroller has been designed to offer superior stability and unrivaled versatility. This compact stroller could even be used as a jogging stroller for parents that like to stay active while on their travels.

The 5-point seatbelt with its super-secure locking system, combined with the easy-to-use foot pedal, make this an incredibly safe stroller. The retractable overhead canopy can also be pulled forward to protect your little one from the hot sun.

The almost lie-flat seat makes this particular stroller incredibly popular with families on vacation. Let your little baby sleep soundly on the move without having to carry a separate bassinet.

Bottom Line: Compact, lightweight but super usable, this stroller really can accommodate babies of all ages.

3. A Lightweight Stroller With Lots of Storage

Safety 1st teeny ultra compact stroller.

The  Safety 1st Teeny Ultra Compact Stroller  is a lightweight, versatile, foldable stroller that is perfect for the trunk of the car or on vacation. Weighing just 15 pounds, it’s one of the most lightweight strollers on our list, but it’s not compatible as a travel system for a car seat.

Designed for toddlers up to 50 pounds, this stroller offers a super comfy ride for your kids. With an extra-large canopy and pop-out visor to provide shade from the sun and a peek-a-boo mesh window, your little one will stay cool and protected under your watchful eye. The cushioned seat unit has multiple recline positions, and the padded 5-point harness is designed to adjust as your child grows .

For busy parents, this stroller can be pushed using just 1 hand, and the lockable wheels can be activated even when wearing flip-flops. A removable parent cup holder and an easy-access extra-large storage basket make this great for any excursion, and the back pocket provides quick access to your cell phone or wallet.

Bottom Line: You get a lot for your money with the Safety 1st Teeny Ultra Compact Stroller.

4. A Lot of Lightweight Stroller for Your Buck

Kolcraft cloud plus lightweight stroller.

Weighing in at just 11.8 pounds, this lightweight stroller is perfect for families on the go. You can stow it in the trunk of your car for days out and other adventures, or take it on vacation with you. Suitable for babies from 3 months old up to approximately 40 pounds and 40 inches tall, this is a useful little stroller that makes a perfect addition to your essential baby travel kit.

For the comfort of your little one, the seat reclines (although not to lie fully flat), and is padded and wipeable to keep it clean and hygienic. There is also a handy 3-tier extending canopy for maximum sun coverage and peek-a-boo window so you can see what your baby is doing at all times. The 5-point safety restraint system has the scope to grow with your baby and will keep them safe, while the all-terrain wheels and front suspension offer a smooth ride, every time.

Bottom Line: For moms and dads on the move, the Kolcraft Cloud offers a large, easy to access storage basket for holding your shopping and a parent tray with not 1, but 2 drink holders. It also includes a useful extra storage area for keys, wallets, and other everyday essentials.

5. A Sleek Stroller Made With Recycled Fabrics

Century stroll on 4-wheel lightweight stroller.

The Century Stroll On 4-Wheel Lightweight Stroller is an affordable and highly capable travel stroller that works as well at home as it does when you are away. Weighing in at under 15 pounds, this is the perfect foldable stroller for keeping in the trunk of your car or packing for your vacation .

Suitable from birth when purchased with the Century Carry On 35 Infant Car Seat, this is an easy-to-maneuver, fast-fold stroller that offers all the basics as well as a few extra useful features. The multi-position reclining seat allows your little one to sit up or nap, and the padded fabric and 5-point harness make it both comfortable and secure.

The smooth and lockable wheels offer great control  and can even handle more rugged terrain without too much trouble. This stroller even stands up on its own when folded, keeping your hands free for important tasks.

Bottom Line: Lightweight, easy to fold, and self-standing, this is the ideal stroller for busy parents on the go.

1. A Cabin-size Stroller With Plenty To Offer

Besrey airplane stroller.

This cute and convenient stroller is so small it can fit into its very own backpack, making it perfect for families traveling by air . With an innovative 2-step folding design, the carry bag measures just 22’’ x 12’’x 11” — just the right size to store in the cabin — meaning you can get to it as soon as you touch down.

Suitable for children between 6 to 36 months and weighing no more than 50 pounds, this stroller does not recline, but it is equipped with a secure 5-point safety belt and protective comfort pads, meaning your baby will be kept comfy and safe along the way.

Weighing in at just 14.4 pounds and featuring a lightweight yet sturdy aluminum frame, this is an excellent buy for parents looking for a second stroller for the trunk of the car or to use on vacations. The overhead canopy will help to keep your little one protected from the sun, and the seat is padded for their comfort. The removable handlebar can be used to attach toys to, or taken away as your child gets older.

Bottom Line: With a one-hand fold mechanism, a large brake, smooth rolling swivel wheels, and a large shopping basket, this stroller is also designed with parent comfort in mind. Travel light on your next family adventure with a stroller that fits into a backpack.

2. Not Quite Pocket-size, but Definitely Locker-size

Gb pockit+ lightweight stroller.

With its ultra-compact and collapsible design, this smart stroller will fit neatly inside most overhead compartments on planes and trains, making it a fantastic alternative to your regular, bulky stroller.

Weighing just 9.5 pounds, pushing and steering this baby is a breeze. The 2-step easy fold mechanism means you can keep one hand free while you close or open it, and it can be quickly lifted and carried using the built-in handle.

Little ones love this stroller, too. With a UPF 50+ canopy to keep them safe from the sun , and a padded, reclining seat, they will be able to nap in comfort wherever you go. The flexible yet durable construction also ensures that the seat unit remains stable no matter how wriggly your toddler may be.

For your own pushing pleasure, this stroller has agile front swivel wheels that will glide effortlessly over indoor and outdoor terrain. The stroller also corners beautifully and for uneven terrain, simply switch the wheel lock to make it easier to handle.

Bottom Line: A quirky, cute-looking travel stroller that can more than hold its own against larger, more expensive strollers and travel systems.

3. Designer Stroller With Excellent Functionality

Uppababy g-luxe stroller.

UPPAbaby is one of the biggest names in designer strollers, and the G-LUXE stroller makes it easy to see why. Packed with the functionality of a much larger stroller but without the extra weight , this agile little number is suitable for children from 3 months old to 55 pounds. The hand-level triggers make it easy to fold the G-LUXE using just your hands, and once folded it can even stand on its own — vacation-ready every time.

For the comfort of your baby, the one-handed reclining seat with adjustable footrest is well padded and large enough for naps on the go. The pop-out UPF 50+ sunshade extends way out to help shield your child from the sun, and the seat pad and fabric surround can all be removed for washing. Comfy, clean, and cozy all year round.

For moms and dads who want a more elegant ride, the high-performance 5.75″ wheels are super easy to maneuver, and the one-click brake mechanism will bring you to a gentle stop.

Bottom Line: Designed with both fashion and function in mind, this is a great-looking stroller that ticks all the boxes.

4. Room for 2 in This Compact Double Stroller

Jeep destination ultralight double stroller.

Suitable for carrying both your babies at 1 time, the Jeep Destination Ultralight Double Stroller is a lightweight, compact-fold double stroller that is perfect for taking away on vacation with you. With a 1- or 2-handed easy fold mechanism with an automatic lock, this double stroller folds up compact, weighs under 29 pounds, and has a convenient strap for carrying.

Made with comfort in mind, both seats recline enough to let your children nap, and the seats are padded and breathable to help keep your kids cool. Peek-a-boo windows allow you keep a watchful eye on your little ones, while the swing-out child bars are convenient for getting your kids in and out of the stroller. The canopies pop-out and have SPF 50 sun visors, offering an exceptional level of sun protection for both of your babies.

For parents, the Jeep Destination is also easy to push, even for a double stroller. While it is not an all-terrain stroller, it is incredibly competent on surfaces like airport terminals and busy city streets . The steering is light and manageable, while the 0-inch back wheels have their very own in-built suspension.

Bottom Line: Lightweight and easy to love, whatever the Jeep Destination lacks in terms of fancy extras, it more than makes up for in terms of practicality and ease of use.

5. Stylish, Sleek, and Small Enough for an Overhead Locker

Baby jogger city tour 2 ultra-compact travel stroller.

This super light stroller is one of the most compact on the market and is so tiny it fits most overhead bins on an airplane. As petite as it may be, it still can be turned into a travel system with the addition of a car seat, but it is one for city streets as opposed to rugged country hiking.

The cleverly crafted folding mechanism can be opened in seconds with just 1 hand, and the front swivel wheels are lockable for an easier push and smoother ride for both parents and babies.

For napping on the go, the comfortable, padded seat reclines to a near-flat position, and the 5-point harness will keep your child safe and secure. Suitable to use from birth, the Baby Jogger integrates with the Baby Jogger car seat which can be purchased separately.

Padded fabrics that are removable for easy washing will keep your little one comfy on the move, while the under-seat storage basket is just big enough to hold your baby’s essentials. Suitable for children up to 33 pounds, the YOYO+ collapses to 20.5 x 17 x 7 inches. It comes complete with its very own carry bag and strap, making it super easy to take with you everywhere you go.

Bottom Line: Weighing just 14 pounds, this lightweight stroller is super-convenient for your travels and fits in most airline overhead compartments.

Choosing the right travel stroller is vital for ensuring your child’s comfort and safety on the road. It also needs to be as parent-friendly as possible, as well as easy to transport, push, and maneuver, no matter where you are headed.

Before you commit to your next piece of baby gear, consider the advantages over your existing stroller or travel system to find a travel stroller that totally suits you and your little one’s needs.

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16 Best Travel Strollers | Top Portable Options

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Written by Kyle Kroeger

Traveling with a baby doesn’t have to be hard if you’re well-prepared and know what to pack for your little one. The best way to make your life easier is by filling a good quality, lightweight stroller that will be used as a carry-on item on flights, buses, and trains.

That might include models like the Chicco Lite Way Stroller or the Graco Contempo Click Connect Stroller – both of which are lightweight and offer plenty of space for storage!

We’ve compiled a list of the best travel strollers to help you find the perfect fit for your needs. Whether you need something small enough to take on a plane or a jogging stroller for the mall, we’ve got you covered.

My spouse and I would give up any other thing in the world for parenthood. Our children are our most cherished possessions, and we want to spend as much time with them as possible.

As any parent can tell you, traveling with infants and toddlers is no easy feat. They get fussy and restless. They move around, even more so when they’re not entirely comfortable.

Searching for good strollers became a must for us. Our experiences have taught us a lot about the variety of strollers. We’ve discovered how big of a difference certain overlooked features can make, and we want to share what we’ve learned with you!

Best Travel Stroller TL;DR

Best strollers for travel, 1. chicco bravo trio travel system.

The  Chicco Bravo Trio Travel System  is the one we picked up early on for our second child. We’re starting strong here, seeing it as the best available travel system stroller.

This Chicco creation is an excellent lightweight, compact stroller for  travel if you drive around  often with your child, as it features an infant car seat and a decent compact fold. Chicco also makes some of the  best infant car seats  around, which made us feel more comfortable with the overall travel system.

It could use some improvement as a road stroller, but overall, you’ll be happy with its build quality and convenience-focused features.

Key Features:

• Removable Seat and Canopy – This travel stroller can quickly transform into a car seat when needed.
• Adapters Not Required – Adapters are not required if you intend to use this stroller as a car seat inside your vehicle.
• One-Hand Smart Fold Design – Put away this travel stroller quickly using the included fold handle under the seat pad.
• It can be conveniently set up and put away
• Easy to use as a car seat even without certain accessories on hand
• Durable tires that stand up to continuous usage
• Conveniently located mesh window
• Built-in safety features make it a highly secure car seat
• Height cannot be adjusted
• It can be difficult to maneuver over uneven sidewalks

See Related: Best Travel Humidifiers

2. Graco DuoGlider Double Stroller

The quest for the best double stroller for air travel proved challenging. Let us make your search easier by drawing your attention to the DuoGlider Double Stroller !

From our experience, this deserves to be considered among the best double-travel strollers money can buy. Finding a travel stroller for multiple children that is lightweight, sturdy, and compact is as tricky as it sounds.

It’s perfect for a quick walk when exploring the best neighborhood to stay in New Orleans or when touring the best walking cities in the US .

• Independently Moving Features – Seats, canopies, and footrests move independently.
• Works with Other Graco Products – Graco car seats are compatible with the frame of this double stroller.
• Easy Folding – This double stroller can be folded using one hand.
• Both seats can hold up to 40 pounds each
• The storage basket can hold a lot of items
• Tray provided for the parents
• Seats are positioned at different heights
• Kind of heavy and tiring to push around
• It takes up a lot of space

3. Thule Spring Compact Stroller

We love the simple and smart design of this Thule Spring Compact Stroller . It’s the best travel stroller if you’re looking for an option that’s particularly user-friendly.

We like this Thule creation and feel it deserves a place among the better travel strollers you can buy now. It’s built with excellent quality and solid materials to ensure a long lifespan, no matter how often you use it.

It’s not great for an overhead bin and doesn’t have great one-handed maneuverability, but it does have an easy one-handed fold capability that can make the travel stroller worth it.

• Three-Wheel Stroller – The tricycle design does not affect the stroller’s stability.
• Stylish Design – This could be your best bet for a modern stroller.
• Padded Five-Point Harness – The five-point harness is cushioned to provide additional comfort.
• It stands on its own after being folded
• Durable, puncture-resistant tires
• Traverses rough terrain easily
• Easy to carry
• The stroller is slightly smaller than average
• Small storage basket

4. Graco Modes Pramette Travel System

The best bassinet stroller travel system we used was the Graco Modes Pramette Travel System . It works very well as a stroller, bassinet, or car seat.

You certainly get a lot of bang for your buck with one of these! The versatility of this travel stroller is second to none. If you want just one stroller that can do it all, this is the one for you.

It does not have an all-wheel suspension, but the padded seat, a storage basket, and a measurable smooth ride make this an easy choice.

• Highly Versatile – Use it as a stroller, car seat, or bassinet.
• Reversible Stroller Seat – Change how the stroller seat is positioned if you want to.
• Convenient Storage – Fold up this stroller with one hand when you don’t need it.
• Cup and phone holders also provided
• Can support up to 44 pounds
• Easily converts based on what you need
• Easy to assemble
• Heavy stroller
• It uses up a lot of space inside the car or in storage

See Related: How to Pack Formula for Flying

5. Graco Jetsetter Stroller

Whether you’re hopping on a flight or walking around the neighborhood, the Graco Jetsetter Stroller has your back. This is the epitome of a compact travel stroller.

While there are a couple of drawbacks, the benefits vastly outweigh them. The Graco Jetsetter Stroller is highly practical, and you can expect much use. As one of the smaller options, it gives you great compact solutions with a storage basket.

The main benefit of Grace’s Jetsetter stroller is its ease of use as one of the smaller umbrella stroller options.

• Lightweight – This Graco product is light at only 14 pounds.
• Folds with Ease – Fold it up in seconds if you need to store it.
• Works with Graco Car Seats – Pair this stroller with a Graco Car Seat if you have one.
• It comes with a stylish carry bag
• The leg support is adjustable
• Supports up to 50 pounds
• Equipped with a convertible harness
• Struggles on rough surfaces
• Safety bar is not very durable

6. Kolcraft Cloud Plus

The Kolcraft Cloud Plus shines as a travel stroller. Its straightforward and clever design prioritizes families by making it user-friendly.

Its durability shows that this stroller is built to last, with top-notch materials, guaranteeing longevity, which is great when traveling often. The swift and uncomplicated fold is impressive and results in a surprisingly compact square that is easily stowed.

Its easy one-handed fold makes it a travel essential you may come to adore.

• Ultra-Lightweight – The stroller’s lightweight makes it easy to travel with and at less than 12 pounds, it’s one of the lightest on the market.
• Easy Storage Solutions -The large storage basket is easy to reach and can carry all your necessities.
• Multiple Reclining Positions – Find the right position to keep your child comfortable
• The stroller’s compact fold makes it great for storage
• The multi-position reclining seat gives your child the ability to sit up or lie back for a nap
• The durable canopy has enough shade to protect your child from the elements
• The handlebars do not adjust
• The long-term durability is questionable

7. Joovy Scooter X2 Double Stroller

Going around town with two strollers has never been easy for us. We wanted to keep at least one hands-free set if we wanted to make a pit stop for drinks or food! That meant that we needed the best double-travel stroller.

Joovy’s Scooter X2 Double Stroller is a good purchase for parents traveling on a road trip with twins or when visiting the world’s best family vacation spots with infants of similar age/size. It’s built to accommodate two kids while providing individualized comfort.

The weight of this stroller can be an issue, but if you can get past that, this will be a helpful purchase.

• Individually Adjustable Seats – You can adjust one seat without changing the other, which will come in handy very often.
• Large Canopy Provided – The kids in the seat will get plenty of protection from the sun thanks to the prominent canopy.
• Removable Bumper Bar – You can detach the bumper bar whenever you need to put this double travel stroller in storage.
• Wheels with sealed bearings are easy to control
• Parking brakes also linked to the wheels
• Plenty of storage compartments and pockets, including two cup holders
• It can be easily cleaned with detergent and warm water
• Peek-a-boo window provided
• Heavy for a travel stroller
• It does not always stand consistently when folded

See Related: LEVEL8 Luggage Review: Is it Worth it?

8. ShaHa Umbrella Stroller for Toddlers

Finding the right stroller for our first toddler was not easy. Toddlers grow up fast, so getting a stroller that comfortably accommodates their rapid growth is necessary! We found that ShaHa’s Travel Umbrella Stroller is our needed adjustable aid and remains the best umbrella stroller for travel we have found.

This ShaHa creation is among the most stable lightweight strollers on the market. However, the folding can be an issue for those new to the design.

In the end, the stroller is sturdy, portable, and has its own great travel bag for traveling on planes and trains.

• Features a Five-Point Safety Harness – Your child will remain safe, secure, and undisturbed inside this stroller.
• Adjustable Backrest and Canopy – The easily adjustable backrest and canopy put this item in our runnings to be considered as the best travel stroller for toddlers…when in use.
• Fully Swiveling Wheels – Pivot and move around with greater ease with the help of the fully swiveling wheels.
• Can fit in the overhead bin
• Travel bag included
• One of the lighter travel strollers
• Rust and water-proof frame
• The stroller can be easily disassembled
• Not easy to fold it quickly
• It can be a bit bulky even after folding

9. Cybex Beezy Ultra-Compact Stroller

How often has your child woken up because you accidentally ran the stroller over a small bump on the sidewalk? Some kids will remain undisturbed, but the light sleepers will likely start crying immediately!

The best travel strollers should stop small bumps from disturbing your child. That’s what you’re getting from this Cybex stroller. The Cybex Beezy Ultra-Compact Stroller is an excellent purchase to ensure a smooth riding experience for your child.

However, you can find better alternatives if you’re looking for a more versatile travel stroller.

• Utilizes Four-Wheel Suspension – All-wheel suspension prevents minor bumps from affecting your child inside the stroller.
• Offers Leg Rests – The leg rests help bigger kids use this stroller comfortably.
• Large Canopy – The attached canopy protects your child.
• It can be folded using only one hand
• Adjustments can also be made with a single hand
• Stands steady when folded
• Can move into an almost flat position
• Uses machine-washable components
• Lacks accessories
• The basket under the stroller is pretty small

10. Besrey Lightweight Foldable Stroller

If you want the best stroller for airplane travel, think small. You want something that easily fits into whatever storage is provided while keeping your child comfortable.

The Besrey Lightweight Foldable Travel Stroller could be your ideal travel companion. This is a solid option if you need a stroller for an upcoming flight.

It doesn’t take up much space and works fine for short usage periods. It is also one of the few strollers that give you an actual one-handed fold.

• Lightweight Stroller – It only weighs 12 pounds, so traveling with it will be easy.
• Aluminum Frame – The aluminum frame makes this travel stroller durable and lightweight.
• Five-Point Harness Installed – Travel strollers that use five-point harnesses excel at keeping kids in the correct position.
• A one-step brake stops the stroller from moving on its own
• Peek-a-boo window allows you to keep a close eye on your child as they sleep
• The backrest and footrest can be adjusted
• The safety bar can be removed quickly
• Stroller bag and rain cover included
• Not very easy to fold or unfold

See Related: Travel Hacking 101

11. Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Ultra-Compact Travel Stroller

Was the last travel stroller not portable enough for you? In that case, you may find this Baby Jogger City Ultra-Compact creation to represent the best travel stroller for flying better! If you are headed on an outdoor trip and need a compact stroller and a baby jogger, this is likely you’re the best bet.

Baby Jogger’s Ultra-Compact Travel Stroller is suitable for airplanes, but that’s about it. As long as you understand that going in, you should be happy with this travel stroller.

Yes, it’s easy to push around different surfaces, fold, and move through an airport. But it’s too large for most overhead bins, has minimal storage, and doesn’t have extendable handles or a cup holder.

• Easy to Carry Around – It weighs less than 10 pounds, so you can quickly bring this stroller.
• Folds into a Compact Package – You can fit it into a travel bag with room to spare.
• Adjustable Leg Support – Keep your child comfortable by adjusting the leg support as needed.
• Machine-washable
• Front wheels can lock in place
• Locks automatically when folded
• It can be folded with one hand
• Also usable as a car seat
• The maximum weight limit is 20 pounds
• Not suitable for everyday use

12. Evezo Travis Lightweight Umbrella Stroller

Your child will eventually reach that point where they’re starting to get too big for a stroller, but asking them to walk around continuously is also a bit much for those little legs. At that point, you need a sturdy stroller that can support them.

The Evezo Travis Lightweight Umbrella Stroller could be best suited for your growing child. Pick up this stroller if you need one to accommodate your quickly growing child.

It’s also one of the few strollers that can recline completely flat. This may not be important to you, but it could matter to your toddler.

• Sturdy Steel Frame – The strong yet lightweight steel frame makes this one of the best travel strollers.
• Five-Point Safety Harness – Your child is kept secure by the five-point harness.
• High Maximum Weight Limit – It can accommodate kids who weigh up to 40 pounds.
• Double-layered seat for extra comfort
• The seat is also made from flame-retardant materials
• Locking brakes installed
• Mesh basket for storage found underneath the seat
• Extended canopy provides complete protection
• Difficult to fold
• Fabrics used are highly susceptible to damage

13. Nuna TRVL Compact Stroller

Nuna TRVL Compact Stroller can feel like a game-changer for parents and can feel like a top tip when traveling with toddlers and kids . It is more than style over substance by offering exceptional convenience without compromising on comfort or safety.

It is compact and folds easier than any other travel stroller on the market. The maneuverability gives you a smooth ride.

The seats recline to make your toddler more comfortable. There’s also ample storage with the large storage basket.

When not using the stroller, keep it stored in its travel bag because it tends to break easily.

• Lightweight – This Nuna product is less than 14 pounds
• Fold with Ease – Fold using a single hands
• Free-standing compact fold
• It comes with a nice carry bag
• It’s lightweight and small for convenience
• The stroller is self-folding for easy use
• Breaks easily
• The bumper, armband, and canopy increase the stroller’s weight

14. Mountain Buggy Nano

One of the worst things to happen when traveling is a child being jolted awake by minor bumps on the road. The Mountain Buggy Nano is not just a stroller; it’s designed for a smooth ride to help your child enjoy an uninterrupted journey.

Sturdy but lightweight at around 13 pounds, it’s easy to handle and comes with a travel bag and carrying strap. The tall canopy can add to your child’s comfort rain or shine.

Use the accessible storage basket and recline your child all the way back for a relaxing ride if you need to tour one of the best airports for layovers .

• Compact and Lightweight – Known for its compact and lightweight design, it’s easy to transport and store when not in use.
• One-Hand Fold – Super easy and convenient if you’re a parent on the move.
• TSA-Approved Travel Bag : Some models have a travel bag that’s TSA-approved for easy air travel.
• Easily portable because of its lightweight
• Great comparability with different car seats
• Front-wheel suspension gives it a smooth ride
• Proven durability to take on the labor of daily tasks and travel
• The Mountain Buggy Nano has limited storage
• The seat only faces forward, which is not suitable for all toddlers

15. Colugo Compact Stroller

If you want style and substance, the Colugo Compact Stroller is an exceptional choice. Lightweight and with a one-handed fold, it is convenient for traveling of all types.

Its modern design is an added benefit when really, the stroller’s portability matters most, fitting easily in car trunks and overhead airplane bins.

Find plenty of storage space and enjoy easy maintenance. It’s a nice companion piece for hassle-free family travel .

• Compact Fold – The stroller is designed to fold down easily and compactly, convenient for storage and travel.
• Lightweight – It’s a lightweight stroller perfect as a portable travel option.
• One-Hand Operation – Folded and unfolded the stroller easily with just one hand.
• The stroller is super easy to transport while traveling
• For families who love style, Colugo has a modern design
• Even while small it provides a good amount of space with a storage basket
• The fabric is easy to clean, and the seat cover is machine-washable
• The seat only faces forward, which may not be suitable for all children
• The seat has limited reclining ability

16. GB Pockit Air All-Terrain Travel Stroller

The last of the best travel strollers we’ll feature in this article is the Pockit All-Terrain from GB . As its name suggests, this is the kind of travel stroller that works on varied surfaces.

It’s one of the world’s smallest folding stroller and depending on where you live, you may find GB’s All-Terrain Stroller more valuable than most. Feel free to capitalize on its unique features and comfort your child whenever you head out.

I used it during my family trip to Hawaii and plan on using it when exploring the best things to do in Paris with kids .

• Double Wheels – The dual wheels handle different types of terrain easily.
• Lightweight Travel Stroller – It weighs just a little over 10 pounds.
• Breathable Mesh Fabric – The breathable mesh fabric used in the stroller keeps your child cool on warm days.
• It fits into an airplane’s overhead compartment
• Provides room for an additional seat pad
• Adjustable sun visor
• It folds up into a small package
• Supports up to 55 pounds
• The stroller can feel somewhat flimsy
• It does not collapse easily

How These Travel Strollers Were Ranked

These best travel strollers were ranked based on factors such as:

• Size – A travel stroller must be compact and lightweight.
• Max Weight – Will it be easy to carry your baby?
• Convenience – Does the stroller feature convenience items such as a storage bag, a carrying strap, or a carry handle?
• Flexibility – Traveling can be challenging, so you should have a stroller that can adapt to your travel needs, such as car seat compatibility (good for renting a car), a universal car seat adapter, or generic car seat adapters.
• Comfort – Your little ones’ comfort should also be a top priority, so we scoured features like flat recline options, multi-position recline, compatibility for a diaper bag, and adjustable leg rest.

See Related: Top Minimalist Travel Accessories to Own

How to Choose the Best Portable Stroller for Travel

The most notable differences between travel and conventional strollers can be observed in their weight, size, and how they are stored. Many travel strollers are suitable for airplanes, while their more conventional counterparts are not. In general, a travel stroller is more compact.

You need to consider plenty of things when purchasing a baby carrier. First, you should prioritize what type of lightweight travel stroller you need to make your life more convenient.

Size and Weight

The significant difference between a regular stroller and a travel stroller is its size and weight. The best travel strollers on long days out are lightweight and small enough for carrying around and storing, but offer features regarding recline position and under-seat storage. I found the ability to lie down was important when traveling with my young infant.

Easy Folding

Foldable strollers may be folded down quickly and easily by hand. If you’re on the go, you’ll want one that collapses quickly and ends up compact and easy to handle.

Recline And Other Features

Several lightweight strollers offer reclining and sun protection; however, you may be forced to compromise on the storage compartment. Find the one thing that is essential to you, and then decide what you can compromise on.

Sometimes you can get accessories like cups, purse clips, and purse hooks for strollers to make your stroller more convenient, if the features aren’t already there.

Maneuverability

Some of the strollers on this list are designed to be as light as possible, which implies smaller wheels that can be more difficult to push when the roadway ends or when you’re dealing with cobblestones. If you know you’ll be traveling off-the-beaten-path, look for bulkier, sturdier wheels.

What are the best strollers for travel?

The best strollers for travel require a few essential features: lightweight and compact, can be checked as baggage on flights, are easy to fold/unfold and push, and have enough space for storage of all baby’s needs, including snacks and diapers. Our top picks are the Chicco Bravo Trio Travel System and the Thule Spring Compact Stroller .

What are some of the negative things about lightweight travel strollers?

Because of the more petite frame, often there is less cushioning for your baby, which makes them a bit more uncomfortable. And because many skimp on storage, you might have to invest in accessories or carry a larger diaper bag.

Related Resources

• How to Go on a Road Trip with Kids
• Best Portable Car Seats for Travel
• Best Websites to Book Hotels in Europe

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• Baby and kid

The Best Full-Size Strollers

By Elise Czajkowski

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

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

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

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

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

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

How we picked

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

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

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

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

The research

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

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

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

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

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

Uppababy Cruz V2

A stylish four-wheeler well suited to city dwellers.

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

Buying Options

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

Why we like it

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

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

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

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

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

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

Flaws but not dealbreakers

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

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

Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Stroller

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thule Spring

A nimble and ultra-portable three-wheeler.

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

(available in grey, blue, and rose)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Britax B-Lively Lightweight Stroller

A solid, inexpensive three-wheeled stroller.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 All-Terrain Stroller

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you want a travel stroller that can be used as a main stroller: The Uppababy Minu V2 —the top pick in our guide to travel strollers —has many features that allow it to function as an everyday stroller, including an underseat basket that holds up to 20 pounds, a simple recline option that’s good for napping, and a handy backseat pocket for storing odds and ends. Its one-handed fold is impressively simple, and it has an easily adjustable harness and intuitive brakes. It also has a large, zip-out sun canopy. You can use it—without attachments—for children as young as 3 months, or with Uppababy’s bassinet or select car seats for newborns. A kid doesn’t officially outgrow it until they reach 50 pounds, which is often grade-school age.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Meet your guide

Elise Czajkowski

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

Further reading

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

by Elise Czajkowski

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

The Best Travel Strollers

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

The Best Stroller Wagons

by Liz Iversen

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

The Best Jogging Strollers

by Jenni Gritters and Katharine Gammon

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

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Strollers that give you the freedom and confidence to experience life to the fullest with your kiddos..

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PATENTED DESIGN

Don't reinvent the wheel

Our patented add-on seats adjust your stroller to meet ever-changing needs.

Your travels just got easier

The best “carry-on” to keep your little one contained and make memories in new places.

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Picking a stroller is a big decision – we remove as much of the risk as possible.

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We’re in the stroller business because we want to empower parents to pursue the life they want alongside their kids.

The Squeeze

Tips for napping on the go, summer check-in: how's the memory making going, stroller maintenance 101: keeping your stroller in peak condition, stroller storage hacks for small spaces, we're here for you, roll with the zoe fam.

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