Our daughter is just over a year old, and her stroller has accompanied us on over 25 flights and to ten different countries. It's taken a beating, and through this journey, we've learned a lot. Knowing what we know now, would we have done things differently? Um, possibly. Our current stroller, while nimble and capable, is heavier than ideal and not as comfortable or lightweight as we would prefer, especially in hot climates due to its heavy fabric. When it gets wet, it takes a long time to dry, and the parts are hard to clean, leaving it looking a bit worse for wear after all the use.
Based on our experiences, here are the best travel strollers that hit the mark for what you need in a travel companion for your little ones. These strollers excel in lightweight fabric and breathability, comfort, weight, ease of folding, size, capability, and, of course, they look great too.
Key Features to Look For
When choosing a lightweight stroller for travel, consider these essential features:
Weight and Size: Aim for a stroller that weighs less than 15 pounds and folds down compactly.
Easy Folding Mechanism: Look for one-hand fold functionality for quick and hassle-free setup and storage.
Comfort in Hot Climates: Ensure the stroller is designed to keep your baby cool, with features like breathable fabric and good ventilation.
Durability: Ensure the stroller is made from high-quality materials to withstand the rigors of travel.
Comfort: Padded seats, adjustable recline positions, and good suspension systems are crucial for your child’s comfort.
Safety: Five-point harness, sturdy frame, and reliable brakes are non-negotiables.
Extras: Check for features like compatibility with baby car seats, rear-facing options, and availability of scooter attachments.
Our Top Picks
Here are our top picks for the ultimate lightweight stroller for travel, rated on a scale of 1-5 airplanes based on their overall suitability for travel:
1. Cybex Melio
Ultra-lightweight and breathable, perfect for keeping your baby cool in warm climates. [Buy on Amazon] to discover the ultimate travel companion.
Rating: ✈️✈️✈️✈️✈️
Price: $449.95
Weight: 13 pounds
Folded Dimensions: 29.5 x 19.7 x 10.6 inches Overhead Compartment Fit: Yes
Features: Lightweight frame, breathable mesh fabric, one-hand fold, rear-facing option, and baby car seat adapter available
Age Range: Newborn to 3 years
Newborn Accommodations: Yes
Scooter Attachment: No
Infant Car Seat Adapter: Yes
Best For: Families traveling to warm climates needing a compact, easy-to-carry option
Interesting Benefit: Its ultra-lightweight and breathable design makes it ideal for hot climates
Shop: [Buy on Amazon]
2. Babyzen YOYO2
Stylish, compact, and versatile with a one-hand fold and shoulder strap. Carry it like a bag for effortless travel. Shop to elevate your travel experience.
Rating: ✈️✈️✈️✈️
Price: $499.00
Weight: 13.6 pounds
Folded Dimensions: 20.5 x 17.3 x 7.1 inches
Overhead Compartment Fit: Yes
Features: One-hand fold, cabin baggage size, multi-position reclining backrest, and padded shoulder strap. Baby car seat adapter available
Age Range: 6 months to 5 years
Newborn Accommodations: Yes, with Newborn Pack
Scooter Attachment: Yes, YOYO+ Board
Infant Car Seat Adapter: Yes
Best For: Parents looking for a stroller that’s as stylish as it is functional
Interesting Benefit: Its ability to be carried like a bag makes it extremely versatile
Shop: [Buy on Amazon]
3. UPPAbaby MINU
Sturdy, versatile, and spacious with smooth suspension and excellent storage. Shop to enjoy a smooth ride on your adventures.
Rating: ✈️✈️✈️✈️
Price: $429.99
Weight: 14.5 pounds
Folded Dimensions: 11.5 x 20.5 x 23 inches
Overhead Compartment Fit: No
Features: One-hand, one-step fold, all-wheel suspension, multi-position recline, large, easy-access basket. Baby car seat adapter available
Age Range: 3 months to 50 pounds
Newborn Accommodations: Yes, with Birth Kit
Scooter Attachment: Yes, PiggyBack ride-along board
Infant Car Seat Adapter: Yes
Best For: Families needing a sturdy, versatile stroller with plenty of storage
Interesting Benefit: Offers a smooth ride and excellent storage space
Shop: [Buy on Amazon]
4. Cybex Libelle
Budget-friendly and ultra-compact, perfect for warm weather with breathable fabric. Shop to find your ideal travel solution!
Rating: ✈️✈️✈️
Price: $299.95
Weight: 13.7 pounds
Folded Dimensions: 18.9 x 12.6 x 7.9 inches
Overhead Compartment Fit: Yes
Features: Ultra-compact fold, lightweight frame, breathable fabric for hot climates. Baby car seat adapter available
Age Range: 6 months to 55 pounds
Newborn Accommodations: No
Scooter Attachment: No
Infant Car Seat Adapter: Yes
Best For: Budget-conscious families looking for a compact travel solution
Interesting Benefit: Designed with travel in mind, offering great comfort for babies in warm weather
Shop: Buy on Amazon
5. Bugaboo Butterfly
Quick one-second fold with ample storage, making it perfect for on-the-go parents. Shop on Amazon to make travel a breeze.
Rating: ✈️✈️✈️✈️
Price: $429.00Weight: 16 pounds
Folded Dimensions: 21 x 14 x 7.5 inches
Overhead Compartment Fit: Yes
Features: One-second fold, large under-seat basket, ultra-lightweight design. Baby car seat adapter available
Age Range: 6 months to 4 years
Newborn Accommodations: Yes, with Newborn Cocoon
Scooter Attachment: Yes, Bugaboo Comfort Wheeled Board
Infant Car Seat Adapter: Yes
Best For: Parents who need a quick-fold stroller with ample storage
Interesting Benefit: Offers a super quick fold and plenty of storage
Shop: Buy on Amazon
6. Mountain Buggy Nano
Compact and travel-ready, accommodating infant car seats. Shop on Amazon to explore ease of travel on a budget!
Rating: ✈️✈️✈️✈️
Price: $199.00
Weight: 13 pounds
Folded Dimensions: 22 x 12 x 20 inches
Overhead Compartment Fit: Yes
Features: Ultra-compact fold, travel system ready, full recline fabric sling seat, and extendable sun canopy. Baby car seat adapter available
Age Range: Birth to 4 years
Newborn Accommodations: Yes, with carrycot or car seat
Scooter Attachment: No
Infant Car Seat Adapter: Yes
Best For: Budget-conscious parents looking for a reliable travel stroller
Interesting Benefit: Designed for ease of travel and can even accommodate an infant car seat
Shop: [Buy on Amazon]
7. Baby Jogger City Tour 2
Lightweight and foldable with UV 50+ canopy for sun protection. Shop on Amazon to ensure comfort and versatility on your urban travels.
Rating: ✈️✈️✈️✈️
Price: $299.99
Weight: 14 pounds
Folded Dimensions: 21.6 x 17.7 x 7 inches
Overhead Compartment Fit: Yes
Features: Compact fold, lightweight design, multi-position recline, and UV 50+ canopy. Baby car seat adapter available
Age Range: 6 months to 45 pounds
Newborn Accommodations: Yes, with pram or car seat
Scooter Attachment: No
Infant Car Seat Adapter: Yes
Best For: Families seeking a lightweight, versatile stroller for urban travel
Interesting Benefit: Offers UV 50+ canopy for sun protection
Shop: [Buy on Amazon]
Tips for Traveling with a Stroller
1. Check Airline Policies: While airlines typically accept checked strollers, policies vary on whether you’ll need to check it at the gate or at check-in. I've never encountered an airline that doesn't happily accept checked strollers.
2. Be Prepared for Wear and Tear: Checked strollers often get beat up during travel. Be prepared for the look of a well-traveled stroller or invest in a travel bag. Our travel bag is covered in sticky goo from various stickers and tags, but it keeps our stroller safe.
3. Consider Baby Seat Adapters: If you plan to bring along an infant car seat, ensure your stroller can accommodate the necessary adapters.
Conclusion
Choosing the right lightweight stroller can make your family's travels much smoother and more enjoyable. The right stroller can help you feel in control and look like you have it totally together. Focusing on portability, comfort, and safety can help you find the perfect stroller to fit your needs. Our top picks offer a range of features and price points, ensuring there’s an option for every family. Happy travels!
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