Here are the 10 top travel strollers for your upcoming journey

When traveling with infants and young children, you'll need to pack a variety of essentials, and one item that is indispensable during those early years is a stroller. With so many choices available, selecting the right stroller for your travels can be overwhelming (yes, that's a stroller pun!).

While larger strollers come equipped with numerous features, they can also be cumbersome, heavy, or simply inconvenient to carry through an airport or onto an airplane. Additionally, they may be hard to maneuver in various travel locations.

Lightweight and compact or umbrella strollers are often more suitable for air travel, as they tend to be easy to fold and store. Some travel-specific strollers can even fit in the overhead compartments of airplanes.

On the downside, the smaller design may pose challenges in finding a stroller that provides enough comfort for your child during long periods of use or can handle rough terrains in certain travel spots. Thus, there are compromises to consider when selecting the ideal travel stroller for your family.

As parents who travel frequently, we’ve put some of the highest-rated travel strollers to the test to help you choose the ideal stroller for your family. Based on our experiences, here are the best travel strollers that passed our evaluation, along with a few tips for your next journey.

Babyzen Yoyo2

• Ideal for: Parents seeking a compact stroller that fits in the airplane's overhead bin
• Weight: 13.6 to 14.5 pounds
• Folded dimensions: 20.5 inches by 17.3 inches by 7.1 inches
• Available at: Babyzen Yoyo2, $449

Reasons why the Babyzen Yoyo2 is an excellent travel stroller

The Babyzen Yoyo2 is accepted as cabin baggage by most airlines when folded. Despite its compact design, this stroller is engineered for durability, making it perfect for families in small spaces who need a versatile stroller that excels in any situation.

With the optional newborn pack ($180), the Babyzen Yoyo2 is suitable for use from birth. It features a canopy with a sun protection factor of over 50, a gradual recline, an under-seat storage bag capable of holding up to 11 pounds, a zippered pocket, and a padded shoulder strap for easy transport when folded, ensuring comfort and sturdiness both when open and closed.

While it's not the most affordable choice on this list, particularly if you opt for additional accessories like the newborn pack, it's important to note that without the newborn pack, the stroller does not fully recline for infants aged 0 to 6 months.

David Slotnick, a senior aviation business reporter at TPG, highly recommends this stroller for family travel, stating, "It folds down small enough to fit in the overhead compartment and is exceptionally lightweight and durable. Flight attendants are consistently amazed by its compactness."

GB Pockit

• Ideal for: Families seeking a compact stroller that can withstand frequent use
• Weight: 10.4 pounds
• Dimensions when folded: 11.8 inches by 7.1 inches by 13.8 inches
• Purchase here: GB Pockit, priced at $149.99 (discounted from $199.95)

Reasons why the GB Pockit is an excellent travel stroller

Recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the most compact stroller in the world, the GB Pockit folds down in just two simple steps. Don’t be deceived by its size; it boasts a weight capacity of up to 55 pounds and is capable of navigating both bumpy sidewalks and airport moving walkways with ease.

While the basic GB Pockit lacks many extra features (which contributes to its easy folding), it does include a mini sun canopy, an adjustable harness, and a small storage area beneath the seat.

The GB Pockit is suitable for babies aged 6 months and up, meaning parents with newborns will need to hold off before using this compact yet powerful stroller.

Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller

• Perfect for: Families looking for an affordable travel stroller
• Weight: 13 pounds
• Dimensions when folded: 14 inches by 10 inches by 42 inches
• Available for purchase: Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller, priced at $71.53 (discounted from $99.99)

Reasons why the Summer 3Dlite is an excellent travel stroller

Price-conscious parents will likely be attracted to the affordability of the Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller, but there's much more to appreciate about this lightweight option.

The 3Dlite features a full canopy, anti-shock front wheels, and a four-position recline that nearly flattens out. It can accommodate children weighing up to 50 pounds, while the under-seat storage basket can hold up to 10 pounds of baby travel essentials.

In terms of extras, this budget-friendly stroller includes a cup holder, a velcro pocket, and a carry strap. However, it lacks adjustable handles, which may not be ideal for taller parents during extended use.

Like many lightweight strollers, the 3Dlite is intended for babies aged 6 months and older, so parents with newborns will need to wait before using it.

Joolz Aer+

• Ideal for: Families seeking a comfortable, lightweight travel stroller
• Weight: 13.23 pounds
• Dimensions when folded: 21 inches by 17.7 inches by 8.5 inches
• Available for purchase: Joolz Aer+, priced at $449

Reasons why the Joolz Aer+ is an excellent travel stroller

The Joolz Aer+ can be folded in just one second with a single hand, making it perfect for anyone carrying extra luggage (or a child) at the same time. Once folded, this stroller fits easily into the overhead compartments of most airlines.

The seat is designed to be lightweight yet exceptionally comfortable for children. The foldable seat offers support and cushioning for the child’s neck and back in all reclining positions, with sides that contour to the body for added comfort and support.

The stroller comes with a sun hood that provides UPF 50+ sun protection, and it features a spacious storage basket underneath. Joolz also sells additional accessories like a cup holder, footboard, and car seat adapters, which need to be purchased separately.

This stroller is adjustable, making it suitable for children aged 6 months and older, with a maximum weight capacity of 49 pounds. However, it does not fully recline. For newborns, a newborn carrycot can be purchased for $219.

UPPAbaby Vista V2

• Ideal for: Parents looking for a premium stroller that can grow with their family
• Weight: 27 pounds
• Dimensions when folded: 25.7 inches by 17.3 inches by 33 inches
• Purchase option: UPPAbaby Vista V2, available for $1,299

Reasons why the UPPAbaby Vista V2 is an excellent travel stroller

The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a premium travel stroller designed to adapt as your child grows. The standard package includes a stroller frame, a toddler seat, an infant car seat and base, along with a bassinet, allowing you to use it right from day one until your child weighs 50 pounds. This stroller folds effortlessly in one step and can stand upright when folded.

The UPPAbaby Vista V2 can be customized to accommodate up to three children by adding a rumble seat and/or a ride-along board. Not only is it versatile, but it also offers a smooth ride thanks to its spring-action all-wheel suspension, features a UPF 50+ sunshade, and provides ample space for your travel necessities with an oversized storage basket capable of holding up to 30 pounds of gear.

The vice president of marketing and communications at TPG selected the UPPAbaby Vista V2 as her go-to travel stroller. "We are expecting our first baby in a few weeks and chose the UPPAbaby Vista V2 because we live in NYC and needed something durable, versatile, and convertible to multiple configurations," she explained. "It rolls smoothly, and the storage basket is impressively spacious. It includes a bassinet and toddler seat, plus numerous accessories available for separate purchase to tailor the stroller to our needs," she added.

While it may not be the lightest or most compact stroller available, its extensive range of configurations, durability, and thoughtful features like full-grain leather accents, a rain cover, and various color choices make it an outstanding option for those seeking a versatile stroller built to last.

Doona Car Seat & Stroller

• Best for: New parents seeking a comprehensive stroller solution
• Weight: 16.5 pounds
• Size when folded: 23.6 inches by 17.3 inches by 26 inches
• To buy: Doona Car Seat & Stroller, $650

Reasons why the Doona is an excellent travel stroller

The Doona Car Seat & Stroller features wheels that retract to seamlessly switch from stroller to car seat, making it perfect for adventurous families on the go. This innovative design eliminates the hassle of arranging a car seat upon arrival and reduces the burden of carrying additional equipment through the airport.

While there are certainly more affordable strollers available, the Doona offers both a stroller and a car seat for one price, making it a surprisingly budget-friendly option.

With its stylish faux-leather accents and sleek black fabric, the Doona stands out. It features an extendable handlebar, a canopy for shade, and a storage bag that attaches conveniently to the handlebar. Additional storage bags, sunshades, and travel bags can be purchased separately.

The Doona is designed for infants and children weighing between 4 and 35 pounds and is exclusively rear-facing, meaning your baby may outgrow it faster than other travel strollers. However, during the newborn phase, the compact and convenient Doona is hard to beat.

Thule Chariot Double Jogging Stroller

• Best for: Families seeking a stroller for outdoor activities
• Weight: 32 pounds
• Size when folded: 34.2 inches by 31.5 inches by 14.7 inches
• To buy: Thule Chariot Double Jogging Stroller, $1,349.95

Why the Thule Chariot Double Jogging Stroller is ideal for travel

At first glance, the Thule Chariot Double Jogging Stroller may not seem like a typical travel stroller, but for adventures involving hiking, biking, or camping (with optional skiing and jogging kits), this multi-sport trailer and stroller is a perfect companion.

Among trailers and strollers, the Thule Chariot is a premium choice. It folds more compactly than many similar models, features independently reclining seats for on-the-go naps, adjustable suspension for a smooth ride on any terrain, adjustable ventilation, and a spacious storage basket.

Due to its design, you'll need to gate-check the Thule Chariot when flying. However, TPG's senior director of engineering, Mitchell Stoutin, believes its larger size offers significant advantages. "It can serve as a 'napping cave' or even a luggage cart at the airport, but I bought it primarily for a car seat-free trip with my kids," he shared.

During a trip to Sitka, Alaska, he brought the bike trailer attachment and rented bicycles for the island. "Even while towing the kids behind the bike in a heavy downpour, both kids stayed dry and warm," Stoutin remarked. "The Thule allowed us to experience a different type of vacation with our children."

Baby Jogger City Mini GT2

• Best for: Families in search of a stroller designed for longevity
• Weight: 22 pounds
• Size when folded: 25.6 inches by 11.2 inches by 33 inches
• To buy: Baby Jogger City Mini GT2, $329 (regularly $399.99)

Why the Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 is an excellent travel stroller

The Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 stands out as a premium stroller at a reasonable price point. While it may not be the lightest or most compact option available, its durability is impressive. Stoutin, who has owned this stroller for six years and used it for three children, attests that it remains in excellent working condition.

The durability of the City Mini GT2 comes from its "forever air" rubber tires that require no inflation, paired with all-wheel suspension, allowing it to glide smoothly over various terrains. It’s also highly adaptable, featuring an adjustable handlebar and compatibility with an infant car seat, pram, glider board, parent console, and child tray (all sold separately).

Folding the stroller is a breeze with its one-hand fold mechanism, and it ensures your child’s comfort with a nearly flat reclining seat and adjustable calf support. Additionally, there's a spacious under-seat basket that can carry up to 10 pounds.

The City Mini GT2 is suitable for newborns when paired with the Baby Jogger infant car seat (sold separately) or the included car seat adapters, and it can support children up to 65 pounds, making it ideal for the toddler stage.

Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller

• Best for: Parents with multiple children seeking a lightweight and compact stroller
• Weight: 28 pounds
• Size when folded: 26 inches by 30.3 inches by 12.8 inches
• To buy: Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller, $429.99 (regularly $459.99)

Why the Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller is ideal for travel

Locating a suitable side-by-side double stroller can be challenging, but the Joovy Kooper X2 fulfills all essential criteria. It features spacious, comfortable, adjustable seats for your children while remaining narrow enough to pass through doorways effortlessly. It folds with one hand and stands upright when folded. Plus, essential features like snack trays, shade canopies, and ample storage compartments are included.

The seats and shade canopies can be adjusted separately, allowing you to cater to your children's needs during nap time. The under-stroller storage basket can hold up to 22 pounds, accommodating the extra gear that comes with having more kids. If you're planning a trip to a theme park, the Joovy Kooper X2 complies with Disney World and Disneyland's stroller size requirements.

Each seat can accommodate a child weighing up to 50 pounds, but please note that it is not compatible with infant car seats, meaning you can only begin using it when your child reaches at least 3 months of age.

Nuna PIPA urbn + TRVL Stroller and Car Seat Travel System

• Best for: Urban parents needing a stroller system that transitions smoothly from sidewalk to car to airplane
• Weight: 13.6 pounds
• Size when folded: 24 inches by 20.25 inches by 11 inches
• To buy: NUNA PIPA urbn + TRVL stroller and car seat travel system, $900

Why the NUNA is an excellent travel stroller

The PIPA urbn + TRVL system by NUNA is among the lightest and most user-friendly travel systems available. Its included infant car seat features a baseless latch installation, making it just as easy to use in a cab, ride-hailing service, or airplane seat as it is in your personal vehicle.

When the car seat is detached, the stroller base can be folded with one hand into a compact size that's simple to carry. You can also use the provided carry bag or detach the wheels for an even smaller profile if needed.

Caroline English, TPG's marketing director, regularly uses the NUNA both at home and during travels. "It handles smoothly on flat surfaces and can make a complete 360-degree turn effortlessly," she remarked. "Plus, the folding mechanism is fantastic. On a recent trip to Cape Cod, we were able to fold it compactly enough to take it into restaurants and carry it around with ease," she shared.

The NUNA also includes a UPF 50+ shade canopy, luxurious leather-like details, and a storage basket. After your child outgrows the PIPA urbn car seat, the TRVL stroller can accommodate toddlers weighing up to 50 pounds.

Tips for traveling with a stroller

Where and how to check your stroller when flying

Some airlines mandate that you check your stroller at the gate, while others have specific weight limits that dictate whether it should be checked at the ticket counter.

Taking your travel stroller to the gate is often more convenient, allowing your child to ride or nap until it's time to board. If you prefer to check it sooner, you can do so at the ticket counter and use a baby carrier to navigate the airport with your little one.

Before arriving at the airport, check the policies of your airline to ensure you're well-prepared. While some compact strollers are made to fit in overhead bins, whether they're permitted on board ultimately depends on the specific stroller, the airline, and the flight crew's discretion.

Preventing damage

Before checking your stroller at the gate or ticket counter, it's wise to take some photos. This way, if it arrives damaged, you can more easily support your claim. Each airline has its own policies regarding claims, with some, like Southwest, covering only loss, not damage.

To minimize the risk of damage, use a storage bag to protect your stroller when checking it. Depending on the model, one may be included with your stroller purchase, or you can find one for your car seat and/or travel stroller on Amazon.

It's essential to have a backup plan at your destination in case your stroller gets lost or damaged, as these situations can occur. This is also a strong reason to consider smaller or less expensive strollers for travel, unless you specifically need a more durable model.

Make a note of a stroller rental website for your destination in case you need to implement your backup plan. Don't overlook a quick visit to a nearby Walmart or Target if available. Airline baggage claim offices sometimes offer basic strollers for use if yours is delayed or damaged.

Navigating security

At TSA checkpoints, you'll generally need to collapse your stroller and place it on the conveyor belt. If your stroller isn't foldable or is too large for the belt, it might not be ideal for airport travel. However, security can conduct a visual or physical inspection if they find it necessary.

Key takeaways

Choosing the right travel stroller hinges on your specific needs. There's no one-size-fits-all solution, so it's important to identify your priorities for each trip. Do you need it to fit in the overhead compartment? Are you looking for something budget-friendly in case it's lost or damaged? Or do you want maximum comfort for your baby during long outings?

The tiniest stroller may not handle rough terrain well, and a stroller suited for infants may not be suitable as your child grows older.

Once you clarify your needs and priorities, choosing the right travel stroller from this list that aligns with your budget, travel style, and family becomes much simpler.