How to Choose a Travel Stroller
Consider a foldable, lightweight stroller if you travel often or if you stroll through the park often. They are easy to fold and prams can be tucked away in trunks buses, trains, and planes.
The Nuna Trvl is compact and fits in the overhead bins of many planes. It is also simple to put together, and comes with great features like an easy, adjustable recliner seat.
Easy to Assemble
This stroller is easy to assemble, and it's extremely easy to use. The frame folds and opens with only one hand. The seat is adjustable to two positions. The bumper bar is simple to replace and remove and the handlebar is comfortable and looks nice. However, the absence of storage space means parents will have to carry a large diaper bag or drape it over the handle (against the advice of a professional).
This lightweight travel stroller is quick to turn and moves effortlessly on any surface. It has bigger foam-filled rubber wheels than some of the other models we tested. This gives it more bounce and stability. Some parents have complained that the tires are flimsy.
The stroller is compact enough to fit in the overhead bins on most aircrafts and weighs less than 13 pounds. Its simple design means it comes with a few features, but it's an excellent choice for frequent travelers. Keep in mind that collapsible walkers can be considered "carry on" baggage, and might require a check by your airline if they are subject to strict baggage restrictions.
If you are a frequent traveler, it might make sense to invest a bit more in a stroller with advanced features. These strollers that are more expensive typically include more storage options like large underseat bins, and are easier to put together and fold. Many of these strollers also come with adjustable harnesses, as well as other safety features you may not find on more basic models. Check with your airline to find out what their policies are on strollers and follow them to the letter. It is also essential to read the stroller's manual, especially any sections pertaining to safety. Make sure you know how to properly use the straps and ensure they are secured. Be sure to supervise your child and only use the stroller at a safe speed. This will reduce the chance of injury if your stroller is tipped over or veers.
Easy to Fold
A quality stroller for travel must fold down into a compact, manageable size. Some models are very good at this, such as the lightweight JOOVY TRVL which folded down in less than four seconds during our tests and can be able to stand in its folded state. This makes it easy 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 that 17 pounds and has a large underseat basket which can hold a backpack or diaper bag. The reversible footrest can also be used as a handle for folding the stroller. 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 omitted to close it closed while checking it in with her flight. The baggage handler ripped the footrest and the UPPAbaby warranty will not cover airline-related damage.
Most of the travel strollers we looked at, unlike umbrella strollers use joints and hinges to fold into a more squared package. The UPPAbaby G-Luxe, for instance, folds in less than three seconds, and then stands up when it is done. However, its button/ring combo can be finicky and you must make sure you are timing it correctly.
It is also important to take into consideration how the stroller locks into its compact closed position. Certain models require you to pull down the handle or lever close to the rear wheels. Other models have red straps that must be tethered. It's a good idea to read the owner's manual for details about the locking mechanism of each model and how it functions.
If you do encounter a stroller that's difficult to close, try using a product such as baby oil or WD-40 for lubricating the joints and connections. If you're not successful, contact the customer service of the manufacturer or consider an repair service for your stroller. Don't force it. Forcing a stroller to close when it was not designed to close it can harm it, and pram shops near me result in injuries to both you and your child.
Easy to carry
No matter if you're planning a full day of errands to run or a family vacation it's crucial to have access to your stroller. Travel strollers fold up into a compact size and are lightweight, making them easy to carry and transport. They can also be easily stored in your car or a closet at home. Some models include an organizer bag that makes transporting and protecting them much easier.
Consider the way you intend to utilize the stroller before deciding on one. Do you want it to accompany you on airplane trips, be brought out for road trips or just be used regularly in the city? This will help you narrow down your options. You can cut down on time and energy by selecting a travel stroller compatible with car seats if traveling with children. Consider a model that has a larger rear-seat to provide more comfort and legroom if you have children.
Make sure to check with your airline to ensure that the stroller you pick will fit in their overhead bins. Many airlines will check strollers at the gate if they are too big to fit inside the cabin. Certain airlines will transfer strollers to the hold in the event that their baggage allowance has been over.
If you plan to use your stroller frequently, select a model that has wheels that are smaller and stronger than the ones used on traditional strollers. The wheels that are smaller will be more maneuverable and less prone to damage or puncture. You might also want to add some wheel covers to provide additional protection.
If you're planning to take your travel stroller to the beach or other public places in which it's without supervision, purchase a lock to keep it safe. Attaching a portable umbrella to your stroller will offer additional sun protection. You can clip a utility bag onto the handlebar to complete your shopping without hands or carry an aloe vera bottle. A set of carabiners on the front of your stroller will let you keep water bottles and snacks close to hand.
Easy to Store
The best travel strollers can be easily maintained and stored. To keep your stroller clean and ready to use, first vacuum all surfaces to eliminate loose dirt and crumbs. If stains are evident the use of a soft cloth, warm water and mild detergent is all you need. For difficult-to-access areas the use of a toothbrush may come in handy. For non-fabric parts of the stroller such as the handlebars and wheels, a damp cloth will suffice but it's recommended to regularly lubricate moving parts to avoid rust.
Some strollers for travel such as the chit chat lightweight stroller, come with an adult tray to store personal items, as well as one or more cup holders, making it easier to keep your essentials on-the-go. Certain models come with a complete tray for parents, which includes slots for tablets or laptop. These features do more than help parents stay well-organized, but they also reduce stress on long journeys.
A quality travel stroller is one that can fold up 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 rather than needing to be gate-checked with baggage.
Take into consideration how much space you have at home when you are evaluating strollers. If you're only blessed with a little room, a smaller travel stroller may be the Best travel Stroller option. If you plan to take the stroller on frequent trips that require it to be carried by public transport or car, a larger stroller with better storage and everyday performance could be a better option.
Certain strollers can be purchased as part of an overall travel package that includes a child car seat. The cost is the same or lower than buying the products on their own. This is a good option however it is essential to keep in mind that the quality of strollers that are included in these bundles can be less than standalone models. We recommend that you only consider these options as a last resort.