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16 Best Travel Strollers | Top Portable Options

Best Travel Strollers
Published on: August 6, 2021
Last updated: June 5, 2024

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Kyle Kroeger

Written by Kyle Kroeger

Kyle Kroeger is the Founder and Owner of ViaTravelers.com. He is a full-time traveler and entrepreneur.

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

Category Description Product Name Price
Best Overall Excellent combination of price, weight, and performance. Chicco Bravo Trio Travel System $$$$
Best Budget By far, the most convenient stroller at an attractive price. besrey Lightweight Baby Stroller $$
Best Double Stroller A double stroller that is compact and lightweight. Joovy Scooter X2 Double Stroller $$$
Best Jogger A baby jogger that is ideal for outdoor adventures and runners. Baby Jogger City Tour $$$$
Best Travel System An all-in-one travel solution with car seat. Chicco Bravo Trio Travel System $$$$
Best Umbrella A travel stroller ideal for rainy or sunny destinations. Graco Jetsetter Stroller $

Best Strollers for Travel

1. Chicco Bravo Trio Travel System

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.

Pros:

  • 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

Cons:

  • Height cannot be adjusted
  • It can be difficult to maneuver over uneven sidewalks

See Related: Best Travel Humidifiers

2. Graco DuoGlider Double Stroller

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.

Key Features:

  • 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.

Pros:

  • 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

Cons:

  • Kind of heavy and tiring to push around
  • It takes up a lot of space

3. Thule Spring Compact Stroller

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.

Key Features:

  • 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.

Pros:

  • It stands on its own after being folded
  • Durable, puncture-resistant tires
  • Traverses rough terrain easily
  • Easy to carry

Cons:

  • The stroller is slightly smaller than average
  • Small storage basket

4. Graco Modes Pramette Travel System

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.

Key Features:

  • 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.

Pros:

  • Cup and phone holders also provided
  • Can support up to 44 pounds
  • Easily converts based on what you need
  • Easy to assemble

Cons:

  • 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

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.

Key Features:

  • 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.

Pros:

  • It comes with a stylish carry bag
  • The leg support is adjustable
  • Supports up to 50 pounds
  • Equipped with a convertible harness

Cons:

  • Struggles on rough surfaces
  • Safety bar is not very durable

6. Kolcraft Cloud Plus

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.

Key Features:

  • 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

Pros:

  • 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

Cons:

  • The handlebars do not adjust
  • The long-term durability is questionable

7. Joovy Scooter X2 Double Stroller

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.

Key Features:

  • 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.

Pros:

  • 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

Cons:

  • 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

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.

Key Features:

  • 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.

Pros:

  • 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

Cons:

  • Not easy to fold it quickly
  • It can be a bit bulky even after folding

9. Cybex Beezy Ultra-Compact Stroller

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.

Key Features:

  • 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.

Pros:

  • 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

Cons:

  • Lacks accessories
  • The basket under the stroller is pretty small

10. Besrey Lightweight Foldable Stroller

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.

Key Features:

  • 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.

Pros:

  • 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

Cons:

  • Not very easy to fold or unfold
  • Struggles on rough surfaces

See Related: Travel Hacking 101

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

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.

Key Features:

  • 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.

Pros:

  • 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

Cons:

  • The maximum weight limit is 20 pounds
  • Not suitable for everyday use

12. Evezo Travis Lightweight Umbrella Stroller

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.

Key Features:

  • 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.

Pros:

  • 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

Cons:

  • Difficult to fold
  • Fabrics used are highly susceptible to damage

13. Nuna TRVL Compact Stroller

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.

Key Features:

  • Lightweight – This Nuna product is less than 14 pounds
  • Fold with Ease – Fold using a single hands

Pros:

  • 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

Cons:

  • Breaks easily
  • The bumper, armband, and canopy increase the stroller’s weight

14. Mountain Buggy Nano

Mountain Buggy Nano
Mountain Buggy Nano / Mountain Buggy US

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.

Key Features:

  • 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.

Pros:

  • 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

Cons:

  • The Mountain Buggy Nano has limited storage
  • The seat only faces forward, which is not suitable for all toddlers

15. Colugo Compact Stroller

Colugo Compact Stroller
Colugo Compact Stroller / Colugo

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.

Key Features:

  • 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.

Pros:

  • 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

Cons:

  • 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

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.

Key Features:

  • 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.

Pros:

  • 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

Cons:

  • 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.
Compact Travel Stroller in a Car Trunk
Jody Lee / Flickr, CC BY 2.0

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.

FAQs

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.

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