Top 9 Strollers for Traveling

Before having kids, it's hard to grasp how much deliberation goes into choosing the right stroller—almost like shopping for a car. When you add the necessity for a stroller that travels easily—whether navigating airports, hopping on trains, pushing through busy Manhattan, or strolling over cobblestones in a charming European town—there's even more to think about.

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Is the stroller simple to fold and unfold while wrangling a spirited toddler at a bustling airport gate? Does it provide sufficient storage and easy access for your diaper bag? Is it light enough for gate checking with airlines (see 20 airline stroller policies globally)? Does it have too many fragile parts that could break during travel? These and many other considerations guided our research into the best strollers for traveling families. Keep reading for our top recommendations.

UPPABABY MINU

Although it launched a few years ago, the UPPAbaby Minu (priced around $400) remains a top contender in the travel stroller category due to its effortless opening and compact folding design, along with its overall user-friendliness. I've taken this stroller everywhere, from the bumpy, dusty roads of Cuba, where my children's grandmother resides, to my local supermarket in Florida. It's become my go-to for errands and fits conveniently in the overhead compartments of most flights.

There are countless features to love about this stroller, which weighs just under 15 pounds and offers a multi-position recline for optimal comfort. With a simple, one-handed motion, you can quickly open or collapse it. The under-seat storage is easily accessible and spacious enough to hold a fully packed backpack with kids' essentials. The UPF 50+ sunshade includes an extension for added sun protection during walks or naps at the beach. Plus, the magnetic closures on the peek-a-boo window allow you to check on your sleeping child quietly, without any noisy Velcro sounds.

Please note that without the bassinet accessory or infant car seat adapter, the MINU is not suitable for most newborns and is designed for children weighing between 14 pounds (around 3 months) and 50 pounds only.

SILVER CROSS JET

Setting a new benchmark for luxury travel strollers, the Silver Cross Jet (priced around $350) might be the ultra-compact stroller you’ve been seeking. It's cabin-approved for most airlines and fits snugly in overhead compartments. Weighing just under 14 pounds, it features a convenient design that allows you to pull it behind you like luggage when folded, perfect for airports or whenever your child prefers to walk or is in a carrier.

Suitable from birth (with car seat adapters), the latest model of this stroller, released in 2021, supports kids weighing up to 55 pounds, offering years of use. The handle used for towing the stroller doubles as a toddler safety bar when in use, enhancing security. This stroller is also particularly easy to maneuver over uneven surfaces, thanks to its wide front wheels that improve suspension and ensure a smooth ride for little ones.

DOONA INFANT CAR SEAT STROLLER

I've lost count of how many times I've spotted this stroller in public and been amazed by its compact size. In action, the Doona Infant Car Seat Stroller resembles a transformer toy. It’s a real game-changer for traveling with an infant. Its clever design allows you to easily tuck away the wheels and transform the stroller into a car seat with just the push of a button, a pull of a lever, and a simple folding motion. It might take a few tries to master switching between modes, but once you do, transitioning from strolling to hopping into a cab with your baby securely strapped in is a breeze.

The stroller weighs around 16 pounds, and the car seat can be used with a base or just the car's seat belt. While the company claims it accommodates babies up to 35 pounds and 32 inches long, be aware that once your baby reaches those limits, it may feel snug. Additionally, the sunshade could be larger (but you can purchase an extension to enhance it).

CHICCO MINI BRAVO PLUS

Chicco has replaced its umbrella stroller line with this perfect travel option in the compact stroller segment. A handle cleverly concealed beneath the stroller's seat cushion allows for one-handed folding of the Chicco Mini Bravo Plus (priced around $180). Its ability to stand independently when folded makes it incredibly convenient to leave at the gate. Weighing in at 19.6 pounds, it’s not the lightest option, but its durability makes it ideal for those who want a stroller that can handle a few bumps during travel.

The intuitive recline knob (no annoying ties to deal with) lets you effortlessly adjust your baby’s position to three different angles, including a nearly flat setting. This stroller also boasts one of the largest and most accessible under-seat storage compartments, allowing you to carry plenty of essentials with you.

BABY JOGGER CITY TOUR 2

One of the more budget-friendly options among the premium Baby Jogger lineup, the City Tour 2 stroller (priced around $230) weighs 14 pounds and can be folded for easy storage in an overhead compartment if needed. It features a spacious, easily accessible under-seat basket that makes grabbing your diaper bag and other carry-ons while on the go a breeze. The included backpack-style carrying bag simplifies transport when your baby prefers to be carried. Additional highlights include a UPF-plus extendable sunshade to shield your baby from harsh sunlight during adventures, like touring Athens in the summer. Plus, the cozy, padded seat reclines nearly flat to encourage napping, and the adjustable calf support enhances comfort as you stroll along.

In the market for a different jogging stroller? TPG contributor Jill Krause recommends the Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight Jogging Stroller as an excellent choice.

BABYZEN YOYO²

Only the French could create such a compact and stylish stroller. If there’s ever been a case of travel stroller envy, the Babyzen YOYO² (priced around $500) is definitely the culprit.

This incredibly compact stroller folds down into a neat little bundle that can be easily stored in an overhead bin or tucked under a restaurant table. Its slim design even allows you to navigate it down an airplane aisle right to your seat (especially useful if you're traveling alone with two kids and carrying one in a carrier).

Weighing in at approximately 13 pounds, this stroller boasts luxurious features such as four-wheel suspension tires, a plush faux-leather handle, and a surprisingly sturdy yet lightweight aluminum frame.

The under-seat storage basket is easily accessible and can hold up to 11 pounds of additional items. Plus, it comes with a padded carrying strap for convenient transport when you need to fold it up and carry it into crowded attractions or areas where strollers aren't permitted.

GB POCKIT STROLLER

A stroller that earned a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the most compact in existence certainly deserves the attention of any traveler. The stylish gb Pockit Stroller weighs less than 12 pounds but can support children up to 55 pounds — and can also carry an additional 11 pounds of baby essentials in its under-seat basket.

Prepare to impress the flight attendants as you glide this stroller down the airplane aisle with ample space to spare. With just two simple steps, you can fold it up and tuck it neatly under your seat in seconds. A compact yet impressive marvel, for sure.

ZOE TRAVELER STROLLER

When it comes to affordability, durability, and compactness, the Zoe Traveler Stroller ($159) truly excels. Constructed from high-grade aluminum, it weighs a mere 11 pounds. You can effortlessly fold and unfold The Traveler with one hand, making it easy to stow in an airplane's overhead bin. It also conveniently fits into a backpack for on-the-go transport, and can even be carried as a backpack itself. Features that contribute to its nap-friendly design include a full recline, an adjustable footrest, and an expandable canopy with UPF 50+ protection. Though the wheels are slightly small, you'll be amazed at how smoothly they roll over uneven and cobblestone surfaces.

COLUGO COMPACT

Relatively new in the baby gear scene, Colugo has made a strong entry into the travel stroller market with the Colugo Compact ($285). This stroller shares many similarities with the UPPAbaby Minu, featuring a fully reclining seat, generous storage, and puncture-proof tires, all while being more budget-friendly. Weighing 16 pounds, it can support children up to 55 pounds. Plus, it comes with a rain cover and a travel-friendly backpack for added convenience.