How to Choose a Travel Stroller

Consider a lightweight, foldable stroller if your travels are frequent or if you stroll around the park frequently. They fold easily and can be tucked away in trunks buses, trains, and planes.

The Nuna Trvl folds down to a small size and fits in the overhead bin of many airplanes. It's also very easy to put together and comes with amazing features, like the simple, adjustable seat.

Easy to Assemble

As its name suggests, this stroller is designed to be easy to assemble and use. The frame opens and folds with just one hand. The seat is adjustable to two positions. It also has a bumper bar that comes off and on with ease and the handlebar looks and feels great as well. The lack of storage means that parents must carry a large bag or drape it carefully over the handle, which is not in line with the advice of experts.

This lightweight travel stroller is quick to turn and moves smoothly on almost any surface. It has bigger foam-filled rubber wheels than the other models we've tested. This gives it more bounce and stability. However some parents have complained that the tires are flimsy.

In its small size the stroller can be tucked away into the overhead bins of most aircrafts and weighs less than 13 pounds. Its minimalist design means it is not equipped with many additional features, but it's an excellent option for frequent travelers. It's important to note, however, that collapsible strollers are considered "carry-on" baggage and may require a check if your airline has tight baggage restrictions.

If you travel frequently, it might make sense to invest in a stroller with advanced features. These strollers that are more expensive typically come with more storage options, such as large underseat bins, and are simpler to put together and disassemble. A lot of these strollers have adjustable harnesses, along with other safety features you may not find on less basic models. Make sure to contact your airline to learn their policies for screening strollers, and make sure to adhere to their guidelines exactly to avoid any unpleasant surprises. It is also essential to read the stroller's manual and especially the sections related to safety. In particular, be sure that you know how to secure the straps and to make sure you are using them in a safe manner. Always supervise your child and use the stroller at a safe pace. This will lower the chance of injury if your stroller accidentally tipped over or steers off-course.

Easy to Fold

One of the key features of an excellent stroller for travel is that it folds down into compact and manageable size. Some models do this well, like the lightweight JOOVY TRVL, which folded in just four seconds during our testing and can stand upright in its folded state. This makes it simple to store and carry in a trunk or closet.

The UPPAbaby MINU V2 travel stroller is a similar lightweight, easy-to fold stroller. It weighs less than 17 pounds and has a large underseat basket which can hold a backpack or diaper bag. The footrest that can be reversible can be used as a handle to collapse the stroller. This feature was a major boon during our testing, but unfortunately it also opened the stroller to damage by the airline when one of our editors was not able to close it while checking the stroller with her flight. The baggage handler snapped off the footrest, and the UPPAbaby warranty won't cover airline damage.

Unlike umbrella strollers, most of the other travel strollers in our review use a variety of hinges and joints to fold up into a more squarish package. The UPPAbaby G-Luxe, as an example, folds in just three seconds, and then stands up after. However the ring and button combination isn't always easy and you must time it perfectly.

You'll also want to consider the method by which the stroller locks in its compact closed position. Some models require you to pull down on a lever or handle situated near the rear wheels, while others have red buckles that need to be connected. It is a good idea to go through the owner's manual to find details on each model's locking mechanism and how it functions.

If you come across a stroller that is difficult to close, use baby oil or WD-40 to lubricate the joints and connections. If that doesn't work, consult the customer service of the manufacturer or try the repair service for your stroller. But don't force it; forcing a stroller to close that's not meant to be closed can cause damage or injury to you and your child.

Easy to carry

No matter if you're planning a full day of running errands or an extended family trip it's crucial to have a quick access to your stroller. Travel strollers are compact and light, making it easy to transport and carry. They can also be easily stored in your car or in a closet at home. Some models include bags for storage to make transporting and protecting them more convenient.

Consider the way you intend to utilize the stroller before deciding on one. Will it accompany you on plane trips or be used for road trips or just be used regularly around town? This will aid in narrowing your choices. You can save time and energy by selecting a stroller for travel that is compatible with car seats if you are traveling with a child. Look for a model with an extra large rear seat for more comfort and legroom, especially if you have children.

A quality travel stroller should be lightweight and small enough to fit in the overhead bins on airplanes. However, make sure to check with your airline prior to you purchase to ensure it's in line with their size and policies. A lot of airlines will gate-check strollers if they're too large to fit in the cabin. Others will take them to the hold if they go over their baggage allowance.

If you plan to use your stroller often, you should choose one with wheels that are smaller and stronger than the wheels found on traditional strollers. The smaller wheels are easier to maneuver and less likely to be damaged or punctured. You might also want to put on some wheel covers for additional protection.

Make sure you have a lock in place if you plan to take your stroller without supervision to the beach or other public places. It's also recommended to attach a portable umbrella to your stroller for sun protection. You can attach a utility bag onto the handlebar to complete your shopping hands-free or carry an aloe Vera bottle. A set of carabiners in the front of your stroller can allow you to keep snacks and water bottles close by.

Easy to Store

The best travel stroller strollers for travel can be easily maintained and stored. To keep your stroller in good condition and ready for use, start by vacuuming all surfaces to remove loose dirt and crumbs. If there are stains on the surface, a damp cloth with mild detergent and warm water should work. A toothbrush is helpful for places that are difficult to reach. For non-fabric parts of the stroller such as the handlebars and wheels, a damp cloth will suffice, though it's wise to regularly lubricate moving parts to prevent corrosion.

Some travel strollers, such as the chit chat lightweight pushchair stroller, include a tray for parents to keep personal items, as well as one or more cup holders, making it easy to take care of essentials on-the-go. Certain models come with a more extensive tray for parents that comes with a slot for a tablet or laptop. These features don't just aid parents in staying organized, but they also ease the stress of long trips.

A quality travel stroller is one that can fold down and fit into tight spaces, such as the overhead bin of an airplane, or on public transport. This is why many parents choose strollers that fold up and fit into its own carry bag, rather than having to be checked at the gate with baggage.

When you are evaluating strollers based on their storage space, be sure to take into consideration the space you have at home, too. If you're only blessed with a little room, a smaller travel stroller could be your best option. If you plan on frequent excursions that require the stroller to be transported by public transportation or a car, a larger product with better everyday performance and storage may be better suited.

Certain strollers are sold as part of a travel system that includes a car seat. These can be purchased at the same cost or less than buying the products separately. While this is a great option however, it is important to remember that the quality of the stroller in bundles tends to be less than standalone models. This is why we recommend considering these options as an option last resort.