How to Choose a Travel Stroller

If you frequently travel or if your daily walks involve a quick out-and-back, and a lot of visits to the local park you should consider purchasing a lightweight, packable stroller. They fold easily and can be tucked away in trunks, trains, buses and planes.

The Nuna Trvl is compact and fits in the overhead bins of many planes. It is also easy to assemble, and it has great features such as a simple, adjustable recliner seat.

Easy to Assemble

As the name suggests this stroller is designed to be easy to assemble and use. The frame opens and folds in one hand and the seat reclines in two different positions. The bumper bar is easy to replace and remove and the handlebar is comfortable and looks great. However, the lack of storage space means parents will need to carry a large diaper bag or drape it over the handle (against the advice of an expert).

This lightweight travel stroller rolls effortlessly over every surface, including rough sidewalks. It also makes sharp turns. It has larger foam filled rubber wheels than the other models we have tested. This gives it more bounce and stability. Some parents have complained that the tires are not durable.

In its small size, the stroller fits in the overhead bins on most aircrafts and weighs less than 13 pounds. Its simple design means it doesn't have many extra features, but it's still an excellent choice for frequent flyers. It's important to remember, however, that strollers that collapse are considered "carry-on" baggage and may require a check in the event of a tight baggage restrictions.

If you're an avid traveler, it may make sense to purchase a stroller with more advanced features and a higher cost. These models that are more expensive typically offer more storage options, like large underseat baskets, and are usually easier to assemble and fold. In addition, many have adjustable harnesses as well as other safety features you may not find in less basic strollers. Make sure to check with your airline to determine what their policies are on strollers and adhere to them to the letter. It's also crucial to read the user manual for your stroller, particularly any sections that cover safety. Particularly, you need to know how to fix the straps and always use them correctly. Always be on the lookout for your child and only use the stroller when walking at a safe pace. This will reduce the risk of injuries if the stroller is accidentally tipped or swerves off course.

Easy to Fold

One of the key features of a great travel stroller is that it folds into an easy-to-manage compact package. Some models are very good at this, like the lightweight JOOVY TRVL which folded in only four seconds during our tests and can be able to stand when folded. This makes it simple to store and carry in a closet or trunk.

The UPPAbaby MINU V2 is another stroller that folds easily and weighs less than 17 pounds and comes with an enormous underseat storage bin that can fit a large backpack or diaper bag. The footrest that can be reversible doubles as an handle when the stroller is folded into its position. This feature was a huge hit during our testing but unfortunately, it left the stroller vulnerable to damage by airlines when one of our editors forgot it closed when she checked it in for her flight. The baggage handler snapped off the footrest, Infant Carriages and the UPPAbaby guarantee won't cover airline-related damage.

Unlike umbrella strollers, most of the other strollers in our review utilize a variety of hinges and joints to fold into an even more compact package. The UPPAbaby Gluxe, for example, folds in just three seconds, and then stands up after. However the button/ring combination isn't always easy and you must time it perfectly.

Consider how the stroller can be locked in its closed, compacted position. Certain models require you to pull down on a handle or lever located near the rear wheels, while others have red buckles that must be connected. It's a good idea check the owner's manual for details about each model's locking mechanism and how it operates.

If you encounter a stroller that is difficult to close, use baby oil or WD-40 to lubricate the joints and connections. If this doesn't work then you should contact the manufacturer or a stroller service. But don't try to make it close. Forcing a stroller to close that was not designed to do so can damage it and cause injuries to both you and your child.

Easy to carry

It's important that you can quickly access your stroller regardless of whether you're planning to go on errands during the day or go on an excursion with your family. Travel strollers fold down into a compact size and are lightweight and easy to carry and transport. They can be put in your car, or in your closet at home. Some models come with a storage bag to make transporting and protecting them more convenient.

Before choosing a travel stroller, consider how you plan to use it. Will it accompany you on airplane trips or be used on road trips, or be used regularly around town? This will help you narrow your choices. If you'll be traveling with a baby pram, look for a stroller with a compatible with car seats to save time and stress. Look for a model with an extra large rear seat for more legroom and comfort if you have children.

A great travel stroller must be small and lightweight enough to fit in the overhead bins of airplanes, but make sure to check with your airline prior to you purchase to make sure it's in line with their size and policies. Many airlines will gate check strollers that are too big to fit in the cabin. Some airlines will send strollers to the hold if their baggage allowance is exceeded.

If you intend to use your travel stroller frequently, select one with wheels that are less hefty and smaller than those that are found on standard strollers. The wheels that are smaller are easier to maneuver and less likely to damage or puncture. You may want to add an additional set of wheel covers to provide additional protection.

Consider a lock if you plan to take your stroller off-guard to the beach or other public locations. Attaching a portable umbrella to your stroller will provide extra sun protection. You can clip a utility bag onto the handlebar for doing your shopping hands-free or carry an aloe vera bottle. A set of carabiners in the front of your stroller will let you keep water bottles and snacks close to hand.

Easy to store

The most reliable strollers for travel can be easily maintained and stored. Begin by vacuuming the stroller to remove any particles of dirt or crumbs. If there are stains, a cloth with warm water and mild detergent will do the trick. For areas that are difficult to reach the use of a toothbrush may be helpful. A damp cloth is sufficient for parts that are not made of fabric, like the wheels and handlebars. It is crucial to grease these moving parts to prevent rust.

Some travel strollers like the chit-chat lightweight stroller have a tray for parents to store their personal items, as well as two or more cup holders. This makes it easier to carry all the essentials traveling. Certain models come with a comprehensive parent tray that includes the ability to hold a tablet or laptop. These features do more than aid parents in keeping their lives organized, but they also reduce stress on long trips.

A quality travel stroller must be able to fold down and fit into tight spaces, such as the overhead bins of an aircraft or public transport. This is why many parents choose strollers that fold and fit in its own bag instead of having to be checked at the gate for baggage.

When looking at strollers in terms of storage space, be sure to consider how much space you have at home too. If you only have limited space, a smaller stroller may be your best bet. If you intend to use the stroller on a lot of trips that require it to be transported by car or public transport, a larger stroller with more storage capacity and a better performance for everyday use could be a better option.

Some strollers are offered as part of an overall travel system that also includes a car seat. They can be purchased at the same cost or less than buying the items on their own. While this is an excellent option, it's important to note that the quality of the stroller that is included in these bundle packages often tends to be less than standalone models. We recommend that you only consider these options as a last resort.