Stroller & Car Seat
The Best Travel Strollers We Tested on Planes, Trains, Cars, and All Types of Terrain
When children reached stroller age in the past, families didn’t have the same range of travel strollers available today. Parents faced the choice of either gate-checking a large, bulky standard stroller or using a less expensive, lightweight umbrella stroller that could get damaged easily. However, today’s parents are fortunate, as there are now numerous ultra-light, ultra-compact travel strollers that can be folded with one hand, carried over the shoulder while juggling a baby or other bags, placed in the trunk of a car, or even stored in a plane’s overhead compartment.
For over two years, these strollers have been tested in a lab environment, with additional input from other parents on staff who have used them on travels across the globe. The goal is to assist in finding the best travel stroller for any family’s next trip. Although each family has different needs, the ideal travel stroller should be durable, portable, easy to maneuver, lightweight, and provide good value for the money. Additionally, it should be comfortable and practical to use at the destination.
In the lab in New York, each stroller was assembled, pushed, turned, dropped, and folded to evaluate how well it performed. Two pediatricians were also consulted about stroller safety, as well as the comfort and well-being of the adults using the strollers.
Over time, new products were added and adjustments made based on the experiences of staffers using these strollers during their travels. A luxury stroller that was once favored broke after the first gate-check, while another, which had initially seemed overrated, earned rave reviews from real-world testers and parents encountered in the streets of Brooklyn. Testing will continue throughout the year, and the list will be updated regularly with the best strollers.
Is a Travel Stroller Worth It?
Travel strollers can greatly improve the efficiency and convenience of family trips. “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.”
Many travel strollers are designed to be compact, foldable, and lightweight, which often means they sacrifice storage space, comfort features like leg rests or large canopies, and technical elements like shock absorbers. As a result, a travel stroller might not be suitable as the primary stroller for everyday use, especially for families with very young babies or those who walk through diverse terrain frequently. However, many parents—especially those with older toddlers—find a compact stroller sufficient for their needs, making a good travel stroller a worthwhile investment.
Can You Take a Travel Stroller on the Plane?
For parents who want to check their stroller, most airlines do not charge for it. Additionally, many airlines will allow gate-checking a folded stroller for use in the airport. Many of the compact strollers featured in this guide are also designed to fit in overhead compartments, a valuable feature to prevent damage to the stroller during travel. If a stroller is taken as carry-on, it counts as the larger personal item. Testing has been conducted with strollers fitting within the size of a standard overhead bin, though bin sizes and airline policies vary. Always confirm with airlines before flying, and be prepared with a storage bag in case the flight is overbooked and the stroller must be gate-checked.
Stroller Reviews
Best Overall: Joolz Aer+ Stroller
Why it’s recommended
When one tester was asked about the Joolz Aer+ stroller, the response was simply “WOW!” She was impressed by how quickly it assembled—just two minutes—and appreciated its overall design. Even when loaded with a 25-pound sandbag or an active toddler, the stroller was easy to maneuver. It turned smoothly with just one hand, and its wheels offered excellent shock absorption. The standout feature, however, was its effortless folding mechanism. Whether boarding a plane or hopping on a tram, the Joolz Aer+ makes folding it quick and easy.
Portability:
The stroller’s one-handed folding feature was appreciated both in the lab and by the real-world tester, who continues to rave about it. She even demonstrated it for nurses and patients at a pediatrician’s office.
What parents say:
“We were in and out of a car every weekend with this stroller, and it couldn’t have been easier to carry and load into the car. Folding it in five seconds when our car was double-parked next to oncoming traffic was the best feeling!” —Claire, mom of a 1-year-old
But Take Note:
Though it offers many advantages, the Joolz Aer+ is priced at $449, which makes it a bit costly. It could make an excellent addition to a baby registry, allowing friends and family to contribute to the purchase.
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
Best for Airplane: Cybex Coya
Why it’s recommended
During a three-week European trip, the Cybex Coya proved to be an ideal travel companion, especially in terms of portability. Its compact fold allowed it to fit in airplane overhead bins and small European car trunks with ease. This feature made travel incredibly smooth and hassle-free.
Additionally, the stroller ensures comfort for the baby in varying weather conditions. It includes a padded insert for cold weather and a breathable mesh backrest that enhances airflow when the insert is removed. The extendable UPF 50+ sun canopy provides effective sun protection.
Portability: The long carrying strap makes it easy to carry the stroller over the shoulder, whether boarding a plane or navigating a busy train station.
What Parents Say
“This was our only stroller we traveled with, and it went through possibly every mode of transport—train, planes, and automobile. It also handled snow, mud, city sidewalks, and small hikes. It fit in the overhead bin of both [cross-Atlantic] and [European] flights.” —Hanna, mom of a toddler
Things to Keep in Mind
The handlebar is not adjustable, which may be a minor inconvenience. Additionally, the seat is always slightly reclined, which could hinder a child’s ability to look around comfortably.
The Details:
- 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 to 55 lbs
Most Comfortable: UPPAbaby MINU V2 Stroller
Why it’s recommended
The UPPAbaby MINU V2 offers a comfortable experience for both parents and children. The spacious seat reclines to an optimal position for naps, while the large sun canopy and mesh peekaboo window keep little ones cool.
For parents, the padded leather handlebar, handy pocket for a water bottle and phone, and ample storage basket are thoughtful touches. The stroller’s four-wheel suspension allows for smooth turns, even in crowded spaces.
Portability: The stroller’s one-handed fold is quick and intuitive, and it stays upright when folded. It can be easily carried with the handle or padded strap.
What Parents Say
“I took a stroll around Central Park with this, and it performed well on crowded streets and rocky, uneven roads. It was easy to maneuver and super lightweight.” —Stella, mom of a 1-year-old
Things to Keep in Mind
At around 17 pounds, the stroller is on the heavier side, making it less suitable for smaller overhead compartments. The Uppababy travel bag is recommended for travel, as it includes damage insurance for the stroller.
The Details:
- 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
Easiest to Push: gb Qbit+ All City Stroller
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Why it’s recommended
The gb Qbit+ All City Stroller stands out for its excellent maneuverability, comfort, and durability. The all-wheel suspension ensures smooth rides on diverse terrains, including gravel, wood, and carpet. The padded seat reclines almost fully and comes with breathable mesh for added comfort.
Portability: The stroller folds quickly and can be carried using padded shoulder straps. It also has a buckle for secure folding.
Things to Keep in Mind
The stroller can be slightly challenging when securing a wriggling toddler. It weighs over 17 pounds and does not feature a shoulder strap, which may be inconvenient for overhead storage.
The Details:
- 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)
Best Luxury: Nuna Trvl Lightweight Stroller
Why it’s recommended
The Nuna Trvl is a luxurious and practical travel stroller with high-end materials such as memory foam padding and faux leather handles. Its ride is exceptionally smooth, offering a comfortable experience for both the parent and child. The stroller’s water-repellant, UPF 50+ canopy provides ample shade, while multiple mesh windows enhance airflow.
Portability: It is lightweight and easy to fold with one hand, and the stroller is easy to carry by the bumper bar due to the lack of a shoulder strap.
What Parents Say
“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 is busy carrying other items or a child! … It’s still gliding over sidewalks like butter after a month of use.” —Ashleigh, mom of two
Things to Keep in Mind
In a hurry, the bumper bar can be somewhat tricky to attach and detach, which may be frustrating in busy travel settings.
The Details:
- 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
Why it’s recommended
The UPPAbaby G-Link V2 is an excellent option for parents with twins or children of varying ages. It offers multi-position reclining seats, large canopies with UPF 50+ protection, and features like a removable cup holder and double storage pockets. Despite the side-by-side seating, it is narrow enough to fit through most doorways and is affordable compared to some single strollers.
Portability: The stroller folds easily with one hand and can stand when folded. However, it lacks a shoulder strap for hands-free carrying.
Things to Keep in Mind
Its larger size means it must be gate-checked at airports.
The Details:
- 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
Best Budget Travel Stroller: Munchkin Sparrow Stroller
Why it’s recommended
The Munchkin Sparrow is exceptionally compact and folds down quickly into a small carrying case that fits within the overhead bin. Despite its small size, it offers a larger seat that supports children up to 55 pounds and is made with breathable materials for comfort.
Portability: Weighing under 13 pounds, this stroller is easy to carry, particularly when packed in its small case with handles.
What Parents Say
“It folds up so small, I am able to fit it on the floor of the backseat and still have room for everything else.” —Allison, mom of an 8-month-old
Things to Keep in Mind
Storage space is limited, the sun canopy offers minimal shade, and it is less suited for rough, unpaved paths.
The Details:
- Size open: 39 x 18.5 x 28 in
- Size folded: 15 x 14 x 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
Why it’s recommended
The Baby Jogger City Tour 2 is perfect for road trips, as it takes up little space in the car while providing a sturdy ride over bumps and tight turns. The stroller’s recline feature and adjustable calf rest ensure comfort, and its large sun canopy with a peekaboo window adds convenience for parents.
Portability: It weighs just 14.5 pounds and comes with a carrying bag, making it easy to transport.
Things to Keep in Mind
It does not fit in overhead bins and may not win any style awards.
The Details:
- Size open: 33 x 23 x 40 in
- Size folded: 6.8 x 16.9 x 21.6 in
- Weight: 14.3 lbs
- Age range/weight limit: Up to 45 lbs and 41 in tall
Best for Trains and Buses: Stokke YOYO2 Stroller
Why it’s recommended
The Stokke YOYO2 is ideal for navigating public transportation with its narrow frame and compact fold. It is easy to carry with a padded shoulder strap, even when holding other items or children. Despite its size, it provides ample room and comfort for the child, with a reclining seat, five-point harness, and UPF 50+ canopy extensions.
Portability: It is incredibly compact, making it simple to store in tight spaces and carry on public transit.
What Parents Say
“I had honestly forgotten that I was wearing the stroller!” —Rachel, mom of a toddler
Things to Keep in Mind
While it is advertised as having a one-handed fold, it requires two hands for most users. Additionally, several accessories are sold separately.
The Details:
- Size open: 41.7 x 33.8 x 17.3 in
- Size folded: 20.5 x 17.3 x 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: Combines an infant car seat and stroller, but its limited use before outgrowing it makes the cost harder to justify.
- Ergobaby Metro+ Deluxe Baby Stroller: Compact and easy to push but on the heavy side at 19 pounds and lacks a shoulder strap.
- Uppababy G-Luxe: Known for smooth turns and a self-standing fold, but it is not as compact as other strollers on the list.
- Bugaboo Butterfly Seat Stroller: A luxury option with great maneuverability, though fragile when gate-checked.
- Contours Itsy: One of the lightest strollers, but lacks a reclining seat and the weight limit is just 40 lbs.
Our Testing Process
Testing involved real-world use by parents and caregivers who considered factors such as ease of assembly, design, durability, maneuverability, folding ease, portability, and overall value.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Travel Stroller
When selecting a stroller, consider the folded size, weight, type of travel (plane, train, or car), and budget. A lightweight, compact stroller that is easy to fold and carry will make trips much easier.
How to Use Travel Strollers Safely
Ensure the stroller meets safety standards and follow guidelines for securing the child in the stroller. Always use the brake when parked and check the stroller’s stability before hanging items on the back. Follow the manufacturer’s weight and age guidelines for safe use.
