Enjoy family adventures with these 13 lightweight and compacted travel strollers, tested by parents

best travel strollers to take on holiday

by Emily Gilbert |
Updated on

Whether you're jetting off for some sun or just planning a family staycation this summer, you're probably wondering how to travel with a pushchair for your baby without overloading your car or exceeding your luggage allowance, but this is where the best travel strollers can help. Leave your pushchair at home and invest in the best travel strollers to make your journey a whole lot easier.

Robust enough to cope with cobbled streets and sandy beaches but light enough to carry up a flight of stairs, a lightweight stroller is also more compact, so it'll take up minimal space. Some can even fit into the overhead compartment on a plane. They're the ultimate convenient travelling companion.

You may already have a pram or pushchair and be wondering if you need a stroller too. The difference between a stroller and pushchair might not seem immediately obvious, but especially when travelling, a stroller, which is lighter and more compact than your everyday pushchair will be very welcome. Typically, a stroller is lighter and smaller than a pushchair or buggy. This means they are great for folding up in the boot of a car, taking on a plane or even hiding away when eating in a restaurant. Prams and pushchairs do tend to be more sturdy and durable, and often come as part of a travel system with the option of a carrycot for newborns, and are often compatible with a car seat. Strollers are great for older children and toddlers though who might like to hop in an out of their stroller on holiday or on a day out.

Best travel strollers at a glance:

Best travel stroller overall: Hauck Travel N Care Stroller - Buy now on Amazon UK
Best for taking as cabin luggage: Joolz Aer - Buy now on Very
Best for a city break: John Lewis & Partners Everyday Stroller - Buy now on John Lewis
Best travel stroller with one-hand fold: Graco Myavo Compact Stroller - Buy now on Amazon UK

While travel system prams can be more suitable to everyday life, a travel stroller can be a lot more practical than having to take all the sections of a travel pram or car seat on holiday so you can pack more holiday essentials.

How we chose the best travel strollers

With several mums on the team, Mother&Baby is best placed to find the best travel strollers as used and tested in real life by our own babies. Plus, we have a huge panel of real mums who test products every year for the annual Mother&Baby Awards, meaning we get to find out the best award-winning products that have been put through their paces thoroughly and independently by our readers.

Awards testers are asked to score the product they are reviewing in four areas: usability, design, quality and value for money. Each product is scored out of 10 with each of these areas in mind, and the final score determines which products make the coveted bronze, silver and gold spots in that product category.

Find out more about how we test and what considerations we take into account in our testing process.

The best travel strollers 2024

Best travel stroller overall

Hauck Travel N Care StrollerCredit: Amazon

The Hauck Travel N Care Stroller was awarded Gold for Best Lightweight Buggy/Stroller at the Mother&Baby Awards 2024.

The Hauck Travel N Care Stroller is a budget-friendly yet premium option for parents on the go. Setting it up is a breeze with its simple assembly, and the intuitive one-handed fold mechanism makes it an amazing time-saver for busy parents, which we loved. Testers also found this stroller lightweight which makes it great for travelling. Deputy Digital Editor for Mother and Baby, Stephanie Spencer, said, "really compact and easy to open, especially if you’re on your own! I like that you can sling it over your shoulder easily, too."

While the Hauck Travel N Care Stroller boasts many impressive features, including an adjustable footrest, removable/washable covers, and ample storage basket, some users have noted that the canopy could be extended further to provide more extensive coverage from the sun, especially during intense sunlight hours and when travelling in sunny locations, although Stephanie Spencer said, "the sun shade covers right over, probably more so than other strollers I’ve used so extra shading in the sun."

A real plus is that it is easy to clean so it won't matter too much about melting ice-creams or any unfortunate travel sickness. We also loved that it comes in a range of colours and Stephanie Spencer really liked the olive green colour. Our tester was impressed with how flat it lies for naps and also commented on how easy it is to use saying, "it’s smooth to push along, too."

Read our full Hauck Travel N Care Stroller review.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • One-handed folding
  • Large storage
  • Adjustable
  • Easy to clean

Cons

  • The hood could extend more
Max load:25kg
Dimensions:86 x 50 x 104 cm; 7 Kilograms
Material:Aluminium frame
  • Handy and compact travel companion
  • Agile, comfortable and safe travel
  • Practical handling for active parents
  • One-handed folding
  • Suspension
  • UPF 50+
  • Light, handy and robust
  • Self-standing and small folding
  • Adjustable seating and lying area
  • Canopy with UV protection and peek-a-boo window
  • Easy to care material
  • Large storage

Best for a city break

John Lewis & Partners Everyday StrollerCredit: John Lewis

The John Lewis & Partners Everyday Stroller was awarded Silver for Best Lightweight Buggy/Stroller at the Mother&Baby Awards 2024.

The John Lewis & Partners Everyday Stroller offers convenience and practicality. We loved the look of this travel pram, which gives style at an affordable price point. But testers also noted that it is easy to collapse, which is what you need when travelling, as well as being lightweight so it is convenient to transport even when folded. Our dad tester, Chris, commented, "being easy to both collapse and fold open, it’s become our preferred choice for when we decide to take shorter walks to get out of the house."

We found this pram was amazing for city living and smooth pavements but struggled a little on more uneven terrain. So, if you are looking for something that looks great for a city break, this is an ideal choice. Dad, Chris, thinks it is a great second pram and noted, "it’s also proven to be an invaluable failsafe for those situations where one of us has ‘forgotten’ that the pram is in the boot of whichever car they happen to have driven off to work in, meaning we don’t have to carry baby far on the way to nursery."

Read our full John Lewis & Partners Everyday Stroller review.

Pros

  • Easy to collapse
  • Lightweight
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Suitable on smooth pavements but does not handle uneven terrain very well
Dimensions:100 x 35cm folded, 80 x 99.5cm unfolded
Weight:7.1kg
Suitable from:Birth to 22kg or 4 years
  • Steel frame
    Five-point harness
    Two-year guarantee

Best travel stroller with one-hand fold

Graco Myavo Compact StrollerSamantha Ball

With an automatic, one-handed fold, the Graco Myavo is compact and lightweight, which makes it easy to take on the go, just what you need when travelling with a little one. Our tester, Senior Writer, Samantha Ball, said, "it's a brilliant compact design, incredibly easy to use and lightweight enough to carry." We like that it has the option of a three- or five-point harness system to keep your little one secure and a detachable bumper bar to make it easier to put them in and take them out. Additionally, the UPF50+ canopy provides amazing comfort and protection from UV rays, enhancing the stroller's appeal and making it a fantastic option for parents planning a holiday.

Testers liked the compact design and integrated folding lock which ensures hassle-free transportation and storage, plus they noted it fits easily into car boots, leaving ample space for other essentials. While it can be folded one-handed, testers found that the mechanism for the one-handed fold can be tricky to use at first, and also commented that their child sometimes slid down in the seat. That said, Samantha Ball, was impressed by the one hand fold commenting, "the one-handed fold alone was enough to impress me."

However, the Graco Myavo still excels in usability and build quality. Its smooth manoeuvrability over various terrains and easy recline feature makes it a practical choice for everyday use. Plus little ones seems to find comfortable too, with Samantha Ball adding, "my daughter was actually happy to stay sat in the stroller and I loved that she felt comfortable enough to stay sat in it, as she would normally try to climb out. The Graco Myavo is definitely a great travel stroller."

Read our full Graco Myavo review

Pros

  • One-handed fold
  • Lightweight design
  • Compact
  • Large storage basket

Cons

  • The one-handed lock feature can be tricky to use at first
Dimensions: 101.6 x 88 x 52cm
Weight: 5.8kg
Suitable for ages: Birth until approximately 4 years old
  • Automatic standalone fold
  • Integrated folding lock
  • Removable bumper bar
  • Large storage basket
  • Rain cover
  • UPF50+ canopy

Best for taking as cabin luggage

The Joolz Aer was awarded Bronze for Best Lightweight Buggy/Stroller at the Mother&Baby Awards 2024.

With a width of just 44cm, the lightweight Joolz Aer can be taken straight onto the plane and popped into the overhead locker which we love and it is a real plus for a travel stroller, especially with a carry handle to make carrying it even easier. Plus, even better the stroller is available in three colours, including refined Black, and it is made from recycled plastic bottles rescued from our oceans so it is kind to the environment too.

The large, extended hood offers UPF 50 sun protection to keep your baby safe, and also has ventilation to keep your little one cool. Its robust construction and premium feel make it suitable for both urban and rural walks, accommodating children comfortably while being easy to manoeuvre for parents of varying heights, although the reclining transition is not very smooth and reviewers thought this could be improved.

The Aer's compact fold and integrated shoulder strap make taking this pram out quite literally a walk in the park. It fits into car boots effortlessly and still leaves ample space for other essentials like trikes, scooters and shopping. Plus, customers commented, "it collapses small enough so it can be stored easily and is also great for restaurants as it again goes down so easily so you have more room."

We loved that despite its lightweight design, the stroller maintains a high-quality feel and reviewers really liked it saying, "we bought this buggy when I was eight months pregnant for our 2.5-year-old and I just wish we had got it sooner," while others noted that it's "lightweight yet feels sturdy."

Read our full Joolz Aer buggy review

Pros

  • Narrow design
  • Fits in the overhead compartment
  • Made from sustainable materials
  • Lightweight
  • Good Ventilation in the hood
  • Comfortable seat

Cons

  • Seat recline could be smoother
Dimensions:83 x 45 x105.5 cm
Weight:6kg
Suitable for ages:From six months to 18kg
Maximum weight:22kg
  • One-hand one-second fold
  • UPF 50+ sun hood with ventilation
  • Adjustable harness
  • Click & go 5-point buckle 
  • 4-wheel suspension
  • High handle bar for taller parents
  • Reclines to sleeping position
  • Fits in overhead plane storage
  • Comes with shoulder strap
  • Comes with travel pouch and rain cover
  • Available in six different colours

Best for travelling abroad

Super-slim and perfect from birth and for growing toddlers, the Airo pushchair is perfect for navigating tight spaces. Not only is it Mamas & Papas' lightest ever pushchair, but the stroller can even be worn as a backpack when your little one would prefer to toddle on their own, which we think makes it the perfect travel stroller. Mother&Baby Editor, Maria Martin, has tested the pushchair and said, "Myself and my 1-year-old have been testing the Airo out for about 15 months. The pushchair has served us well as a light compact travel assistant that's come in useful when boarding aeroplanes and also when out on busy city day trips."

Testers liked that it folds with one hand and is solid and sturdy, thanks to the unique dual-sided wheel lock. Maria Martin also commented that "it folds down to a compact size and is super lightweight. We've been able to fit this into every car boot possible." With adjustable positions for your baby, a bumper bar, and a quick-fit five-point harness, testers loved that you can be safe in the knowledge that your little one is comfy and secure. Plus it is cabin friendly so can be carried onto the plane.

Impressively, despite being compact, it has great under seat storage. Maria Martin found that "the under-seat storage compartment is big enough for snacks, water bottles, hats, etc. We added a couple of buggy clips too, which have helped attach a change bag whilst on the move." Although some reviewers did note that the seat is smaller than on other strollers and so may not be as comfortable for larger toddlers. That said, our tester, Maria Martin added, "I love that the seat can lie completely flat and that the Airo can be used with a sun-shield/insect net (sold separately) – handy when nap times are calling, but home is nowhere in sight."

Read our full Mamas & Papas Airo review

Pros

  • Cabin-friendly
  • Decent storage despite its compact size
  • Easy one-hand fold

Cons

  • Some found the seat smaller than most
Dimensions:99 x 45 x 103.5cm (opened)
Weight:7.6kg
Suitable for ages:Suitable from birth
  • Adjustable handle height positions
  • Easily adjustable straps with the quick fit 5-point harness
  • One hand quick fold
  • Unique dual-sided wheel lock
  • Adjustable footrest

Best travel stroller for newborn and beyond

MARIA MARTIN with daughter in Babyzen Yoyo strollerMARIA MARTIN

Becoming one of the go-to for many mums and dads, this versatile stroller wears a few different hats, it’s easy to take around cities and can be picked up when catching the underground or bus. Plus, it's also easy to take on an aeroplane and can be popped into the overhead lockers. Our Group Editor Maria Martin tested the strolled and said, "this stroller is a game changer – I just love how sturdy it feels while static or on the move."

Testers really liked that the lightweight YOYO2 incorporates Hytrel elastomer suspension on all four wheels, meaning it is a very comfortable ride for your tots, but also convenient for parents to carry, our tester, Maria, noted, "its lightweight feature is impressive, making it all too easy to get in and out of my car boot." BABYZEN also uses their patented Soft Drive system, eliminating the need to lock the front wheels on rough terrain for easier manoeuvrability so you can steer with one hand if needed. We also liked that the seat feels well-padded and Maria agreed, adding, "it’s comfortable for my little one."

It is worthwhile noting that the price is just for the frame so if you want a colour pack then you need to pay extra, which disappointed some reviewers. There's also the option to add a newborn pack which means you can use the stroller from birth. Our reviewer, Maria, was impressed with the fact it "folds into a cabin baggage size, keeping all straps in place," which makes it an ideal travel stroller.

Read our full BABYZEN YOYO² review.

Pros

  • Easy one-hand fold
  • Fits most airline cabin baggage restrictions
  • Four-wheel suspension for all terrains

Cons

  • Price is for frame only, the colour packs are an additional £60-£80
Dimensions:52 x 44 x 18 cm (folded)
Weight:6.1 kg
Suitable for ages:From birth to 22 kg
  • Soft faux-leather handlebar
  • UPF 50+ sun protection canopy with peekaboo window
  • Zipped back pocket
  • Safety wrist-strap
  • Multi-positioning reclining backrest with a 5-point harness
  • Hytrel® elastomer suspension

Best travel stroller with lie-flat seat

Joie Pact LiteCredit: Argos

If you're a frequent flyer looking for a practical travel pushchair, the Joie Pact might just be it. Impressively light, a doddle to fold, and seriously compact, we love that it even comes with its own storage bag and has an integrated carrying strap. It is also compatible with some models of Joie car seats which makes it even more convenient when travelling. One reviewer said, "I bought this as I need to travel by train with my 5-month-old. I can fold and unfold it with ease with one hand, whilst holding my baby. It's extremely lightweight, and the strap is great for carrying it."

Reviewers really liked the all-wheel suspension which ensures a smooth ride for your baby on all types of terrain and we love the lie-flat seat, which is suitable from birth. However, there was some criticism about the back rest which doesn't fully rise and could be more comfortable.

Overall testers were impressed and said the stroller was good quality and they like how compact it is so it doesn't take up too much room in the boot of the car. One mum tester was impressed and commented, "it feels of good quality and will grow with my baby. It's perfect for travelling with and folds up very small to fit the boot of a car."

Pros

  • Comes with a convenient carry strap
  • Includes its own storage bag
  • Compatible with certain models of Joie car seats

Cons

  • The backrest doesn't fully rise
Dimensions:86 x 52.5 x 106 cm
Weight:6 kg
Suitable for ages:Suitable from birth
  • Forward facing seat
  • 5 point harness
  • Lockable front swivel wheels
  • Dual wheel suspension
  • Adjustable leg rest
  • Handle height adjustable from 97 to 105.5cm
  • 1-hand recline adjustment
  • Multi recline positions

Best premium travel stroller

Silver Cross Zest StrollerCredit: Amazon

The Zest pushchair from Silver Cross is bursting with features to make everyday strolls a breeze, plus with fun designs we think it is really stylish too. It is one of the lightest travel prams on the market, perfect for parents who need something light yet robust and great for family holidays with little ones, as one reviewer said "I bought this pushchair for my five-month-old baby to take on holiday, and it was perfect."

The lie-flat seat and adjustable drawstring recline let you find the most comfortable position for your little one and adjust their seating position without disturbing their nap and testers liked the extendable UPF 50+ hood which keeps your little one shaded on sunny days, plus also has an air-flow mesh panel to keep them cool and dry, which testers loved, commenting that it is, "light and cool in the heat."

While the stroller is easy to manoeuvre and easy to carry when needed, reviewers found that it is difficult to push on tough terrains due to the suspension which could be improved. That said, one reviewer agreed it is not great on all terrains but did say, "it moves perfectly over hard ground."

One customer commented on the under storage basket saying, "the only drawback, which wasn't really a problem for us but if you rely on the under-pushchair storage, then it can be difficult to access when the baby is in the pushchair and lying down." However, overall we like this stroller for travelling because it helps with keeping cool in the heat and the hood provides great protection, plus it is extremely lightweight.

Read our full Silver Cross Zest stroller review.

Pros

  • Fun designs
  • Easy to manoeuvre
  • Convenient to carry

Cons

  • Suspension across all terrains could be improved
  • Basket hard to access when baby is lying down
Dimensions:84 x 46 x 105 cm
Weight:6.4kg
Suitable for ages:Suitable from birth
  • Upf50+ sun protection hood
  • One motion fold and carry handle
  • 5-point safety harness with chest and harness pads
  • Full lie-flat seat with one-hand recline

Best travel stroller for design

Cosatto WooshCredit: Amazon/Cosatto

This pushchair ticks every box when it comes to the perfect holiday pushchair! Sleek and sporty, it's light enough to lift without thinking twice, but robust enough to tackle any terrain, thanks to all-round suspension and lockable swivel wheels. We like the one-hand fold which is convenient when travelling and we also thought the designs were fun and stylish, plus kids will love them too. Personally, we love the dinosaur design. One reviewer said, "My son naps really well in this and loves the bright colours and bold pattern – we tried one with a dragon design."

With comfort in mind, reviewers were impressed by the fully reclinable seat, adjustable leg rest and extra-large hood. Plus, we love that parents have been thought about too with the included cup holder so you can keep hydrated on the go. There is a large storage bag to put shopping or all those baby or travelling essentials and one customer was impressed by this saying, "I love the large basket, valuables pouch and matching rain cover, cleverly stowed beneath the seat."

Some reviewers thought it was heavier than other strollers, although one customer said, "I can forgive that for such a robust and reliable runaround." Other customers were disappointed that the foot muff is not included and has to be to bought separately. Overall though they were impressed and loved the design, convenience and comfort of this stroller, plus they found "it's smooth and sturdy to push, even on potholed streets."

Pros

  • Lots of fun designs to choose from
  • Includes cup holder for on-the-go
  • Easy one-hand fold

Cons

  • Foot muff not included, which disappointed some reviewers who had to buy one separately
Dimensions:79 x 50 x 106 cm
Weight:7.1 kg
Suitable for ages:From birth to 25 kg
  • UPF100+ double-tiered hood for ultimate shading
  • Extra-large basket & cup holder included
  • Easy-clean quick-release wheels with Lockable swivel front wheels
  • Front and rear suspension

Best sturdy travel stroller

Ergobaby Metro +Credit: Joh Lewis
Price: $299.00

The Metro + will keep your precious cargo comfy, whether you're in Barcelona or Bromley, thanks to smooth suspension and puncture-proof tyres. We love that the seat has plush padding, as well as an adjustable leg rest and faux-leather handlebars, which make the stroller perfect for smaller or taller parents. Reviewers were impressed and commented saying, "after a lot of research, we picked the metro based on sturdiness, weight, large sun canopy and tyre size."

This is a lightweight stroller and easily fits on buses, tubes, trains and planes, weighing just 7.8kg. Reviewers also commented that it is compact when folded and can even fit in the footwell of a car. However, while the stroller feels strong the shopping baskets do not feel as secure which bothered some reviewers.

Nevertheless the sleek, streamlined design is still impressive and makes this a great choice for adventures. One reviewer added, "we brought it on holidays and are really happy with the product. The stroller feels much heavier than 6kg - more towards 7kg but does fold up pretty compact."

Read our full Ergobaby Metro+ review.

Pros

  • Sleek, streamlined design
  • The compact fold can even fit in car footwell
  • Adjustable handlebar

Cons

  • Shopping baskets could be more secure
Dimensions:54 x 25 x 44 cm (folded)
Weight:7.8kg
Suitable for ages:From newborn without any accessories
  • Adjustable leg rest
  • Perforated vegan leather handlebar
  • Night-reflective details
  • Hidden ‘newborn nest’ flaps

Best travel stroller to grow with them

Bugaboo is always popular and the Bugaboo Butterfly is impressively compact, plus we like the one-second fold which is great for travelling but also for day to day city life. Parents were impressed with how easy it is to set up and open, with one reviewer saying, "I opened the box, and you simply push in two buttons with one hand, and the whole thing pops right open. It also closes that easily as well." Plus, they liked that it is really lightweight, plus because it is compact, it doesn't take up much room in the boot of the car, which is extremely handy because we all know how much stuff you need to pack when away with children.

While it might be small and light, you can still put up to 8kg in the basket, which is perfect for a shopping trip. Unfortunately, the Bugaboo Butterfly is not suitable for newborns so you will need an alternative travel buggy for those early days, but it is suitable from 6 months and can hold a weight of 22kg. For travelling there is a shoulder strap to make carrying it much more convenient and reviewers described it as "comfortable." Plus it can be carried onto the plane as hand luggage.

We also love that this is compatible with various Bugaboo accessories, which is great for parents who have already purchased accessories for a Bugaboo pram. The reviewers like the different colours with one reviewer saying, "I got green, which is the prettiest colour for our sweet little boy." They were also impressed with the car seat adapter which is easy to add to the stroller, and one one customer added that "his Nuna Air car seat just pops right on," and he continued, "I love this stroller and how it can grow with our little boy for several years to come."

Read our full Bugaboo Butterfly review.

Pros

  • Compatible with certain car seats
  • It comes with a convenient carry strap
  • Easy and compact fold

Cons

  • Not suitable for newborns
Dimensions:92.5 x 45 x 102.4 cm
Weight:7.3kg
Suitable for ages:From six months
  • Underseat basket holds up to 8 kg
  • Full suspension
  • UPF 50+ sun canopy with extendable breezy panel
  • Almost fully flat one-hand recline

Best travel stroller for hands-free folding

Joie Baby Tourist Signature Pushchair, ShaleCredit: Boots

Suitable from birth, with a flat reclining seat, this tiny traveller is proof that big things can come in small packages, with three different modes to choose from including a carry cot, infant carrier and forward facing option. Reviewers liked that it offered multi-position recline to help your little one sleep soundly when out and about.

Weighing just under 6kg, the Tourist offers easy hands-free folding, as well as a handy carry strap and a storage bag which is great for travelling through airports or on planes, but also on buses and trains. For every day trips out to the shops, or day trips with the family, there is a roomy basket for all your essentials which we love. Reviewers agreed with one customer commenting, ""I purchased Joie Tourist for my one-year-old baby girl. I switched from a massive and heavy pushchair to a light one; it's so easy to use and can be folded and unfolded with one hand. It fits everywhere, and the design is lovely. I would recommend it."

Some testers found the harness is not that easy to use and can be fiddly so suggest it could do with improvement, but they liked the lockable front wheel for tough terrain and were impressed with the lie flat option making it suitable from birth. It is a great stroller to see you through from the newborn days right through the toddler years.

Read our full Joie Baby Tourist review.

Pros

  • Easy one-hand fold
  • It comes with a convenient carry strap
  • Includes its own storage bag

Cons

  • Harness could do with improving
Dimensions:83.1 x 47.1 x 106 cm
Weight:6.6 kg
Suitable for ages:Suitable from birth
  • One-hand auto fold
  • Lie-flat recline
  • UPF 50+ water-repellent canopy
  • 5-point safety harness
  • Adjustable leg rest
  • Lockable front swivel wheels
  • One-touch braking system
  • Clever autoclick™ magnetic buckles

Best travel stroller for affordability

Hauck's Sport stroller is the ideal travel companion, not only for public transport but for travelling too. The Hauck Sport has an easy and compact fold that will fit in most car boots, so getting where you need to be is simple with very little hassle. Reviewers were impressed with its simplicity, with one commenting, "I bought it to take on holiday with me, and it was easy to fold, super light and worked absolutely fine. It doesn't have any fancy features, but you really can't expect them for the price. I'd recommend this product."

Our reviewers thought its lightweight frame makes it easy to push around, which is great when out and about every day or on holiday. Plus, the basket underneath has enough space for all your essentials. Testers did note that the wheels could be improved because they are a bit small. But for an affordable stroller, this is a great option, and we liked that it is strong and durable to withstand travelling and everyday use.

Price is a big plus here and one customer said, "I was pleasantly surprised about this stroller. Considering how little it costs, it really does do the job!" We like that it is lightweight and durable but won't break the bank.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Easy to fold
  • Extremely lightweight

Cons

  • Wheels could be improved
Dimensions:75 x 45 x 100 cm
Weight:5.9kg
Suitable for ages:Suitable from birth
  • Swivelling and lockable front wheels
  • Multi-adjustable backrest
  • Adjustable footrest
  • Large shopping basket
  • 5-point harness and front bar

What to consider when buying the best travel strollers

Hayley Hanigan, the Founder of baby equipment rental service, Tiny Explorers, gives us her tips on what to look for when choosing a travel stroller.

Compact and Lightweight: Hayley says, "a travel stroller should be compact and easy to fold, making it convenient for travel. Look for strollers that can fit into airplane overhead compartments."

Portability: "Consider strollers with a carry handle or a travel bag for easy transportation. Some models even come with a shoulder strap for hands-free carrying."

Reclining Seat: "Look for a stroller with a reclining seat so your child can nap comfortably during travel. Some strollers have multiple recline positions."

Sun Canopy: "A large sun canopy is crucial to protect your child from harsh sunlight. Some canopies also have UV protection."

Cleaning: "Can you remove the materials easily to clean the sand and lolly stains?!"

Storage Basket: "Check if the stroller has a spacious storage basket for carrying essentials like diapers, snacks, and small bags."

Safety Features: "Ensure the stroller has a 5-point harness to secure your child. Also, look for a brake system to keep the stroller stationary when needed."

Compatibility with Car Seats: "If you plan to use the stroller with an infant, consider one that is compatible with your infant car seat. This allows you to transfer your baby from the car to the stroller without disturbing their sleep."

Another factor you can consider to ensure travelling with little ones is easy and stress free is the folding mechanism. Folding and unfolding your pushchair should be easy and intuitive, even when you're holding your baby. One that's freestanding when folded will take up less space in your accommodation when it's not in use. Also consider the pocket because somewhere to stash your valuables is a handy feature in a holiday stroller, but make sure it is big enough to hold your purse, phone and keys. Finally don't forget the wheels. Some lightweight strollers have adjustable wheels that can handle different types of terrain. Lockable swivel wheels are ideal for manoeuvring between shiny shop floors or hotel lobbies and rougher ground. If you're heading for the beach, choose all-terrain wheels with good suspension.

{#h-how-we-chose-the-best-travel-strollers}

Maria Martin Mamas&Papas Airo
Our Digital Group Editor, Maria Martin, tests the Mamas & Papas Airo. ©Mother&Baby

For the essential products, our annual Mother&Baby Awards shortlist the top products tested, and you can find full reviews from our mum testers provided on the product page. Thousands of our mum and dad testers have been putting these carriers and slings through their paces all year round and reporting back to help us coordinate this list of the best carriers out there.

Our shopping experts have also done their research to find the best travel strollers that have the best specifications with excellent reviews. So, which travel strollers came out on top?

Do you need a travel stroller?

Lightweight travel strollers are the perfect holiday pushchair if your existing buggy feels too cumbersome to travel with. But they're not just for holiday use – lots of parents replace their baby's first pushchair with a lightweight stroller once their baby starts walking, especially when a light, manoeuvrable pushchair is a practical choice. There are compromises to be made, though, and not all are suitable from birth.

How light do you need it to be?

A pushchair is considered lightweight if it is 7kg or less, but some weigh nearly half this! A very light pushchair will inevitably be less robust, so think about just how light you need it to be – will you be lifting it on and off trains with your baby strapped in, or carrying it with your baby in your arms when boarding a plane?

How compact do you need it to be?

When folded, most lightweight pushchairs are compact enough to fit into a standard car boot without taking up all the space. Others are designed to fold even more compactly. Check that it's freestanding when folded, too.

Emily Gilbert is the Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby and has written for the website and previously the magazine for six years. Specialising in product reviews, Emily is the first to know about all the exciting new releases in the parenting industry.

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How we write our articles and reviews
Mother & Baby is dedicated to ensuring our information is always valuable and trustworthy, which is why we only use reputable resources such as the NHS, reviewed medical papers, or the advice of a credible doctor, GP, midwife, psychotherapist, gynaecologist or other medical professionals. Where possible, our articles are medically reviewed or contain expert advice. Our writers are all kept up to date on the latest safety advice for all the products we recommend and follow strict reporting guidelines to ensure our content comes from credible sources. Remember to always consult a medical professional if you have any worries. Our articles are not intended to replace professional advice from your GP or midwife.