The Best Travel Strollers to Transport Your Baby in Style
As any mom knows, a baby is a responsibility. While it's difficult to take a vacation from them, you may be able to take a vacation with them thanks to a travel stroller. These nifty devices not only allow you to safely walk with your baby, but also travel well since they can be folded up. If you're like me, the more items that can fold up easily for travel, the better. I don't want tons of bulky luggage! Whether you're hitting the road or hopping on a plane, a travel stroller can come with you.
But, with so many options available, finding the one that fits your needs can be overwhelming. To help you find a suitable product, we’ve done the research for you and created a list of the best travel strollers in 2024 that will make this year's vacation a breeze, regardless of your traveling habits!
Buying Guide: Travel Strollers
A travel stroller is a large investment. Just like your car, this is something you will probably be using daily. And if you’re like me, safety is of the utmost importance, so you have to make sure you find a safe one.
With the right stroller, grocery shopping, walking in the park, or even traveling becomes a breeze. A good stroller should be easy to push, not putting any strain on you or your back. But finding a quality stroller can be difficult. Don’t worry though, we’re here to guide you through choosing an ideal stroller for your growing family by looking at the different types of stollers and factors to consider.
Types of Travel Strollers
Umbrella
These are best for those people looking for the most lightweight models. They can weigh 10 to 15 pounds and their sleek frame takes up minimal space. Even better, you can open and close it quickly too. I can see myself easily packing one of these up and throwing it into the back of the car for easy transport. Just ensure that fabric seats and frames are sturdy.
Car seat compatible
This is ideal for road trip traveling and offers an infant car seat alongside a matching stroller, but one can find more add-on options too. These are also typically priced as bundles, so they’re a very economical choice for new parents.
Luxury
If you’re someone concerned with style, consider a luxury stroller that can boost your confidence. Parents can make a fashion statement from various fabric and design options. Whether you want a jogging stroller, bassinet, or a pram, you can find a luxury stroller to suit your preferences.
Factors To Consider When Buying a Travel Stroller
Federal certification
According to the instructions determined by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, all strollers in the country have to follow the obligatory federal safety standards to gain certification. Certified strollers prevent failing brakes, hinges, and other issues.
As parents, you can assure the safety of your little one by only purchasing certified travel strollers. Personally, I would only look at strollers with a certification to ensure the safety of my child.
Five-point harness
This feature has slowly evolved to be added to all travel strollers and car seats. That said, some cheaper models may only have three harness points in their restraint system. I suggest looking only at five-point harness strollers for the safest stroller possible.
Weight
How heavy of a stroller can you handle? While you’re on the road, a lightweight one is preferable. But, make sure you look at the specs because some brands claim a 25-pound stroller is lightweight. If you reside in a big city, you don’t want to carry a heavy stroller, a diaper bag, and occasionally your baby up a flight of stairs or squish through the subway.
Newborn-friendly
Again, check the specifications, as some strollers provide a deep bassinet or recline mode in which you can place your newborn baby without any add-ons. But, many models are better suited for infants who can sit without needing any help and have some neck support. To make a travel stroller newborn-friendly, you need to attach an extra bassinet or a car seat.
What Is/Are the Leading Travel Strollers of 2024?
Summer Infant 3D Travel Stroller – Best Overall
When it comes to travel strollers, we look for ones that are compact, lightweight, and sturdy, and the Summer Infant 3D stroller does it all. Not only does this stroller provide a haven for your kids during your travels, but it also features a spacious pocket to keep all their essentials handy. I could see myself filling this with toys for if the baby gets cranky, snacks for if he’s hungry, and plenty of extra diapers. For traveling, it easily folds up into a compact design. The seat within the stroller is padded for complete comfort and helps your toddlers to sleep on the go. At the same time, the frame is made from quality aluminum, which adds exceptional durability to this travel stroller. All these outstanding features make this product a steal and the best overall product we had the pleasure of reviewing.
Pros
- Exceptionally compact fold for storage
- Amazing tires for mobility
- Hassle-free canopy for weatherproofing
- Lightweight and durable
Cons
- Unsuitable for kids more than 50 pounds
Gb Pockit Air All Terrain Travel Stroller – Most Compact
People who travel by air frequently like me would know how an additional pound can make the difference between a free carry-on and a paid checked bag. If that sounds familiar, then the Gb Pockit Air All Terrain is for you, as it’s a lightweight travel stroller that folds into a compact design. I could easily fit this in my suitcase.
Made from aluminum with a polyester canopy, this travel stroller even offers a storage pocket for the baby’s essentials. What more could we want from a stroller that can fit in a shopping bag? Comfortability? Well, the inlaid padded seat is one of the most comfortable we have ever reviewed.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight build
- Possesses amazing maneuverability
- Made from breathable polyester
- Carry-on compliant for airplanes
Cons
- Comes at a premium price
Kolcraft Cloud Plus Travel Stroller – Best Value
Although a travel stroller might be a necessity for a family with infants, it shouldn’t be too overbearing on the wallet. If you’re a thrifty person like me, then the Kolcraft Cloud Plus is the best choice for you, as it comes at a very affordable price point. This stroller is still one of the most compact, lightweight, and comfortable we have used. The stroller also features an extended canopy with a peek-a-boo window, which not even many high-end strollers provide. The storage basket is also spacious and this travel stroller even has cup holders for the parents! I’d be using it to carry around an iced latte with me wherever I go.
Pros
- Very affordable price
- Cured polyester for maximum UV protection
- Comes with a five-point safety harness
- Spacious storage
Cons
- Doesn’t recline completely flat
Dream On Me Coast Stroller – Most Versatile
Not everyone has the luxury of pushing around their kids, and if you are someone dealing with a disability that doesn’t let you do that easily, the Dream On Me Coast Stroller is perfect for you. It’s made from high-grade aluminum alloy and comes with connectors that allow you to attach this stroller to anything, from another stroller to a wheelchair. It’s also lightweight and can even convert into a scooter.
This travel stroller’s design has passed many safety standards set by the CPSC and ASTM, making them highly secure as well. Don’t take our word for it — this stroller is even the winner of JPMA Innovation Awards 2020 and the National Parenting Products Award 2022.
Pros
- Premium quality construction
- Disney approved stroller
- Comes with a five-point harness
- Extremely comfortable for the toddlers
Cons
- Might not last too long
Safety 1st Step Lite Travel Stroller – Most Stylish
Being a parent isn’t easy, but the Safety 1st Step Lite surely helps. With its generously padded seats and aluminum frame, this travel stroller will become your best ally while taking care of your kids. The stroller has two different compartments for you to store essentials in the form of one bigger basket and a smaller pocket, along with a cup holder for your daily dose of coffee. I’d be bringing along tons of supplies and even organizing them between the two pockets with this stroller.
Additionally, it has a great aesthetic and looks premium, providing a peek-a-boo window to hide your kids from the weather elements and the paparazzi. After all, with how stylish the stroller is, everyone would want a shot!
Pros
- Canopy for UV-protection
- Quick fold and compact storage
- Lightweight and durable
- Large storage for accessories
Cons
- Cupholder falls off frequently
Mompush Travel Stroller – Most Comfortable
The Mompush Travel Stroller has an ultra-lightweight aluminum frame that weighs less than 15 pounds, so it’s easy to carry around the park, with your luggage, and in many other situations. The nifty handle and included travel bag also make for easy transportation anywhere. I could see myself easily packing this up and throwing it in the car for a family road trip.
As for your child, they will be safe and comfortable in the stroller seat. The design provides extra ventilation and breeziness to make your kid feel cool and dry. The cute but protective sun canopy provides UPF 50 sun protection and shade over your child so they are kept out of the hot sun or even light rain. The large, all-terrain wheels can handle different surfaces to get through any bumpy street or uneven park while giving your child a smooth ride.
Pros
- UPF 50 sun protection
- All-terrain wheels are durable
- Five-point adjustable harness secures child
Cons
- Adjustable seat is very low
People Also Asked
A: Many parents think that a travel stroller is as practical as a full-size option for daily use. But, make sure that it comes with an infant kit or is compatible with an infant car seat.
A: The maximum collapsed diameter of a stroller should be 10 inches and the length shouldn't exceed 36 inches for it to be brought onto a plane.
A: Most parents invest in a full-size stroller for a variety of reasons. Mainly, this stroller will work from day one until your baby is a toddler and the wheels guarantee stability and steering.
A: Both of these words are used for the same product. A stroller refers to a model with an upright seat, whereas a pram refers to a flat sleeping surface or a bassinet. Regardless, most models allow both positions these days.
A: For a travel stroller, most websites recommend waiting until your baby is 6 months old. However, some strollers have specific add-ons for infants and may be safe for them.
