travel stroller for airplane nz

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• The perfect travel companion
• Otto fits in most overhead compartments for domestic & international jets (excludes NZ regional turboprop planes)
• There for you through the whole journey from newborn up to 20kg
• Only 7.3kgs and foldable with one hand!
• Air pocket technology means the wheels feel like air without the threat of punctures
• UPF50+ Canopy
• Adjustable footrest
• Comes with complimentary Travel Bag

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Otto is the ultimate all-rounder! There for you through the whole journey…from newborn, right up to 20kg.

You can fold Otto with one hand and at only 7.3kgs, it’s the perfect travel companion. Designed to fit into overhead lockers of jet planes and when folded, combined with the travel bag and rear wheels removed it fits within the IATA guidelines for carry-on baggage.  

With PU wheels, you’ll never get a puncture and you’ll always have a smooth ride. Otto comes with a complimentary travel bag with a handy strap to either use over your shoulder or pull along beside you! 

Fits majority of aircraft overhead compartments (always confirm with airline prior to travel). Please note regional turboprop aircraft in NZ require you to check your pram in.

Otto comes with a complimentary travel bag with a handy strap to either use over your shoulder or pull along beside you.

• 2 x Front Wheels
• 2 x Rear Wheels
• Stroller Frame with Canopy, Seat Unit & Storage Basket attached
• Shoulder Pads & Buckle Pad
• Otto Travel Bag

• Weight: 7kg
• Seat: Width 36cm / Back Height 43cm
• Folded with wheels: 50cm wide, 32cm deep, 54cm high
• Handle Height: 103cm from the ground
• Occupant Capacity: 1 child, 20kg
• Storage basket capacity: 2kg

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Orders are shipped the next business day. This may vary depending on stock availability and sale periods. If you require a product urgently, please get in touch.

All NZ orders are dispatched from our warehouse in Auckland, New Zealand. We're proud to offer fast delivery across New Zealand and Australia, and when you spend over $100, it's totally free.

For further information please check our Shipping page.

At Edwards & Co, we want to ensure your product is what you expect. In most circumstances, we are happy to provide a full refund or exchange. Please see our Returns page for full conditions and further information.

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Designed for small spaces, designed for growth, designed for smooth, why buy from edwards & co, 2+1 year warranty, customer service, next day shipping, 30 day guarantee, customer reviews.

Got the Otto stroller as a replacement to the original travel stroller we bought which unfortunately had issues and couldn't be replaced. The otto looks stylish and folds down compact which is great when travelling as it takes up very little space compared to the oscar. One thing I have found is that it can be a bit difficult to fold down with one hand especially when holding baby and can take a bit of time to get use to the folding down and unfolding process. It also doesn't have a bumper bar to clip toys to or for my little one to hold onto which he loves doing. This stroller also doesnt come with a sun shade or a rain cover and you need to purchase this separately. Luckily we got these free as the original travel stroller we purchased came with these. Overall it is a good compact stroller for travelling or for quick errands

I brought this for my daughter 3 years ago. It was our fourth pram for her - she HATED prams, and we were hoping this would work for her. But turns out it wasn’t to be. We used it maybe 5 times with her. We now have our 2nd Bub and began using the pram last month (which we all LOVE) I’ve noticed the fabric has a very large rip down the seam in the seat. He weighs just shy of 11kg so well within weight limits, and we have only used it maybe 10 times in the last two months. So feeling disappointed about that. It’s in near new condition so we aren’t sure why it has suddenly split. We will try get it repaired but with the rip located where it is it might be tricky. It’s always been stored correctly, and never left in the car, or in the sun. Aside from this, it’s so versatile, light, compact and easy to put up and down. My little guy is more than happy in it!

Thanks for your review! We love Otto too!

I'm sorry to hear about the rip in the fabric. Can you please contact our Customer Service team at [email protected] so we can assist you with this?

Kind regards, Michaela

I just bought one of these at the baby expo and it is honestly just the best. I chose it because my Oscar mx takes up my whole car boot and I wanted something that I could keep in the car for trips out to the shops/cafe etc. instead of having to keep dismantling my oscar everytime I went out. The otto is absolutely perfect for this. It takes up hardly any space once folded down, it's really simple to fold up once you've practiced a couple of times, it's such a good price, and my 7 month old baby seems pretty happy in it. I would say that it makes a great supplementary pushchair to keep in the car, rather than a sole pram if you are buying for a small baby as it isn't as comfortable as the oscar for naps and longer walks, but I imagine that for an older child it would be fine as a sole pram. I'm looking forward to taking it on our trip to the UK at Christmas as well! Love all of our Edwards and co goods, such great design and quality!

So eas to assemble. Super light to use. Absolutely beautiful product. Highly recommend.

Absolute god send when travelling solo with a young toddler - made it SO much easier being able to wheel him right down the aisle on the plane, especially since he was asleep at one end. Airline crew were initially skeptical but quickly turned to very impressed. Love the one handed fold - managed to do it in the aisle while holding said toddler. Lives in the footwell in the car for trips into town which leaves the boot free for the dog and shopping. Only thing I’d change is have it able to sit a bit more upright.

Thank you for taking the time to write such a glowing review, Rosie :) we love the Otto, too!

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Small, compact and easy to manoeuvre, our travel strollers are a must-have for travels far and wide. A good travel stroller is lightweight, easy to carry and folds down small enough to fit in car boots and overhead plane compartments.

Whether you want to stroll around downtown Auckland or head overseas, Global Baby’s lightweight travel strollers are convenient and practical. Don’t let having a baby stop you from seeing the world! Shop in store or online.

• Strollers /

Best Travel Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed by Parents & Experts

Lightweight and compact, a travel stroller can help make your next family vacation a little bit easier., by jen labracio | medically reviewed by holly peretz ot.

If the thought of trying to wrangle your full-size stroller on your next family adventure feels daunting, it’s time to consider a travel stroller.

Travel strollers make leaving home with your little one a little bit easier and a lot more convenient. Today’s travel stroller is a minimalist’s dream. Most have many of the same high-end features as traditional strollers all rolled into a compact, portable package. Many travel strollers break down to fit in the overhead bin of a plane or can be folded down quickly (and with one hand—win) and slung over your shoulder. Many parents even use them as their day-to-day stroller.

If you’re a family who’s frequently on the go, a travel stroller may be the answer to help lighten your load and simplify your life. We’re sharing Babylist parents favorites and bestselling picks to help you narrow down your search. I also added my own thoughts and picks from the countless travel strollers I’ve tested over the last decade as a mom of two and in my role as Babylist’s Gear Editor.

Babylist’s Top Picks for the Best Travel Strollers

• Best Travel System: Nuna PIPA urbn + TRVL Travel System
• Best for Toddlers: Bugaboo Butterfly Complete Stroller
• Best Budget: Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Stroller
• Best for Everyday Use: UPPAbaby MINU V2 Stroller
• Best for Planes: Babyzen YOYO2 6+ Stroller
• Best Compact: Joolz Aer+ Lightweight Stroller
• Best Lightweight: Zoe The Traveler
• Best Value: Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Single Stroller
• Best for Infants: Mountain Buggy Nano V3 Stroller
• Best Umbrella: Summer 3D Lite Convenience Stroller

In This Article

How we chose the best travel strollers.

• Our Top Picks

Which Stroller Is Best for Travel?

What to look for in a travel stroller, how do you travel with a stroller on a plane, babylist’s picks for the best travel strollers, best travel system stroller.

Nuna PIPA urbn & TRVL Travel System - Caviar

• Baseless infant car seat, installs in seconds
• Stroller has one-handed fold, weighs 13 pounds
• Car seat weighs just 7 pounds

What Our Experts Say

If you know you’ll frequently be traveling while your baby is an infant, you may want to invest in a travel system (a stroller and car seat that attach to each other; here’s more on how to pick a travel system ). This combo is the best of the best, and what I wish I’d had when I was a new mom living in New York City seven years ago and didn’t own a car. It combines the ultra-popular TRVL, the brand’s first dive into the lightweight stroller market, with the urbn, a first-of-its-kind car seat.

What’s so special about a baseless car seat? Most infant car seats can be installed without a base, but require a seat belt—along with time and patience. That’s not the case with the urbn. There’s no base to worry about AND the latch system is built right into the seat’s base. I was blown away by how quick and easy this seat was to install. I pressed a button on each side and pushed to attach it directly to my vehicle’s lower anchors—that’s it. It’s about as foolproof as it gets, and especially ideal if you’ll be using your car seat on the go in rideshares or taxis. This is also our pick for best travel car seat .

As for the TRVL stroller, it’s just as great. The two standout features for me were its fold (one-handed, quick and ridiculously easy) and its compact size (it stands on its own and weighs just over 13 pounds. While not huge, the basket is large enough to hold your essentials (and a little more) and is easy to access, and the TRVL’s maneuverability is good enough that you’ll be able to steer easily with one hand.

What’s Worth Considering

The TRVL is on the pricier side and it doesn’t have a carry strap, but the maneuverability, suspension and versatility help explain the higher price point. I found it worked as a travel stroller, but also as an everyday stroller, too. There are also lots of thoughtful design details like magnetic buckles, a no-rethread harness and leatherette bumper bar and handlebar. The urbn car seat has a lower height limit than many infant car seats—not ideal, but not a huge dealbreaker, either.

Additional Specs

Best Travel Stroller for Toddlers

Bugaboo Butterfly Complete Stroller - Midnight Black

• Four-wheel suspension for a smooth ride
• Fast, easy fold
• Included footrest and high seat back

There are two travel strollers I recommend again and again to families, and Bugaboo’s newest compact stroller, the Butterfly, is one of them. (The other one is the Joolz Aer+—more on that below!). This style-forward stroller is packed with thoughtful, impressive features, just like the brand’s popular full-size strollers. Two of my favorites (and there are many to choose from!) are the smooth ride and the quick, easy fold. The four-wheel suspension system means the Butterfly rides more like a traditional stroller than a compact one, a huge perk when I pushed it on anything other than smooth pavement and perfect for toting around my larger toddler. It moves and turns easily and I was able to steer it with only one hand, a huge plus. The fold is just as impressive; I also did it one-handed, and the Butterfly folds down to about the side of a small bag. (There’s also a built-in carry strap, a feature I value in any stroller, but especially one designed for travel.)

A few other things I love: it accommodates an infant car seat with adapters, so you can use it from day one, and the seat has a high back for larger kiddos and reclines almost fully for napping on the go. There’s even a footrest built in for extra comfort, another toddler-friendly feature. (My 95th-percent-in-height two-year-old still fits perfectly in it.) And the sun canopy on the Butterfly is one of the best I’ve seen of all the travel strollers on our list.

There’s not much to pick on with this stroller, minus its high price tag. The back wheels on the Butterfly are fairly close together. That setup, combined with a handle that doesn’t extend (which is the norm for compact strollers), means that if you’re on the taller side like me (5’10”), you may kick the back of the stroller while you’re walking. And although I wouldn’t consider it heavy, it is one of the heavier travel strollers on our list by about three pounds.

Best Budget Travel Stroller

Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Stroller

• Great value
• Extremely light—weighs less than 12 pounds
• Easy fold but not as compact as others on our list

If you’re not looking to spend a lot on a travel stroller or you’re a family who doesn’t travel very often, the Kolcraft Cloud Light is an excellent value for an inexpensive stroller . It boasts lots of thoughtful features, especially considering the stroller’s price. Weight is the standout here—the Cloud Plus weighs less than twelve pounds, making it one of the lightest strollers on our list. The fold is also worth a second look. Although it’s not super compact (the stroller folds in on itself, much like an umbrella stroller, rather than in a tri-fold like many other travel strollers on our list), it’s quick and easy and you can do it with one hand, a feature we always appreciate especially when we’re on the go.

Other features to note include an extendable canopy with a peekaboo window, a parent tray with two drink holders and a large storage basket (it’s one of the biggest on our list).

The seat on the Cloud Plus has multiple positions but doesn’t recline completely flat. It has a lower weight limit than many of the strollers on our list—40 pounds—and doesn’t have much in the way of suspension and shock absorption. The fold is slim but not all that compact.

And remember—this stroller is under $100. It’s not going to compare to travel strollers five times its price in suspension, maneuverability, stability or materials. But, considering the price, it’s a great option if you don’t travel all that much but want a lightweight stroller option when you do.

What Babylist Parents Say

“Easily fits in the trunk of my car.” -Cora

Best Travel Stroller for Everyday Use

UPPAbaby Minu V2 Stroller - Jake

• Great for travel + everyday use
• Roomy storage basket
• Shock-absorbing suspension for a smooth ride

UPPAbaby was one of the first stroller brands to dive into the “travel stroller that can also be used as an everyday stroller” category, and the Minu does both of these things extremely well. From your own neighborhood to wherever your travel adventures take you and to everything in between, the Minu offers all the conveniences of a day-to-day stroller in a travel-friendly package. A few of my favorite features are the one-handed fold, the huge sunshade, the comfy seat with multi-position recline and a roomy, easy-access basket. The spring-action, shock-absorbing all-wheel suspension makes for a smooth ride even over bumpy terrain, so it’s a stroller you can use both in the suburbs and in a city. The Minu stands when folded and features a carry strap and a storage bag for easy transport.

As-is, the Minu works for babies three+ months; that means if you want to use it with your newborn, you’ll need to add the bassinet and adapters , which will cost you.

The Minu folds compactly but is a little bulkier than some of the other strollers on our list when it’s broken down. It’s also a little heavier, weighing in at about 17 pounds. And the seat back is on the shorter side.

“Amazing stroller. Great for travelling (fits in overhead bin), shopping (takes up minimal trunk space), walks in the park (very smooth ride, even over grass!). Has oversized canopy to block sun and folds with one hand. Bought it for travel, but use it as our primary stroller because I love it so much.” -Jessica

Best Travel Stroller for Flying

Babyzen YOYO2 Stroller Bundle - Black Frame/Olive

• Fits in overhead bin
• Fast, one-handed fold
• Options to customize color, add a second rider and more

The YOYO2 was ahead of its time in the world of compact strollers and remains a parent favorite both for travel and for families looking for a smaller, lighter everyday stroller option. This compact favorite fits in the overhead bin and is the stroller of choice for many light-packing parents who don’t want to deal with the hassle (or risk) of gate-checking a stroller when they fly. It performs like a champ off the plane, too, easily steering through crowds and through narrow spaces.

There’s one other unique thing to love here—the custom options. You can change out the seat and shade fabrics with a new color pack , add a custom footmuff for cooler temps, help your older kiddo hitch a ride on the stroller board and even add a storage bag that uses wheeled support so your stroller won’t tip. With adapters that are sold separately, you can also use this stroller with some of the best infant car seats from Nuna and Maxi Cosi, among others.

The YOYO2’s fold isn’t hard, but it’s not quite as easy as some of the other travel stroller picks on our list. (There are two steps, and it takes a little getting used to.) The canopy is on the shorter side. This travel stroller does come with a rain cover, but all the other extras and custom adds will cost you. (And this stroller is on the pricier side to begin with.)

“Fits in airplane cabin. We took it on so many trips!” -Emily

Best Compact Travel Stroller

Joolz aer+ lightweight stroller - stone grey.

• One-handed fold and compact carry
• Comfy, contoured seat

I’ve tried a LOT of travel strollers in my day, and the Joolz Aer+ is the one I come back to again and again. Pushing it doesn’t feel much different than pushing much larger, much more expensive strollers—and that’s one of the things I love about it. The Aer+ has four-wheel suspension, a feature that’s not very common in travel strollers, so it maneuvers easily and glides smoothly even across uneven surfaces like bumpy sidewalks and dirt paths. That combined with the ridiculously easy one-handed fold, the compact design and the comfortable seat that contours to fit your child’s body makes this stroller a great choice for travel and for everyday use. (It currently occupies a permanent spot in the trunk of my car.)

The Aer+ is newborn-friendly and compatible with Nuna and Clek car seats (adapters sold separately), so it works if you want to use it from day one. The stroller folds small enough to fit in an overhead bin or to sling over your shoulder (carry strap included) and tote up and down stairs, on public transportation or anywhere else you need to go. It also comes with a rain cover and travel bag included.

The Aer+ is on the pricier side, but if you’re planning on using it for travel and for everyday, then the cost doesn’t seem as daunting. I also wish it came with a footrest instead of having to purchase one separately.

“It’s so easy to push and steer and SO easy to fold with just one hand. We use it as a travel stroller and often as our everyday stroller as well.” -Jennifer

Best Lightweight Travel Stroller

Zoe the traveler.

• One-handed fold
• Extended canopy, full recline

Lightweight, compact and travel-ready are the three features that come to mind when I think of The Traveler from Zoe. This aluminum-frame stroller is light enough for easy portability but durable enough to handle lots of different adventures. I love the one-handed fold and that it’s small enough to fit in an overhead bin if you don’t want to wrangle with gate checking your stroller on your next trip. There are lots of high-end features like an extended canopy, adjustable footrest and a near-flat recline. And don’t forget one of the best parts: The Traveler folds in seconds with one hand and stands on its own.

The Traveler isn’t compatible with any car seats so you won’t be able to use it with younger babies. There are also no straps or backpack included; if you want those, you’ll have to pay extra to add them on. And while it shines on smooth pavement, it’s not great on bumpy or uneven terrain.

Need a double travel stroller? Zoe’s The Twin+ is a great choice. It weighs under 20 pounds and fits through standard doorways but is comfortable and roomy enough for two children up to 45 pounds each. The fold is quick, easy and compact and the stroller is Disney-approved. And it can expand to a triple or a quad stroller with additional seats.

Best Value Travel Stroller

Baby jogger city tour 2 single stroller - jet.

• Same one-handed fold Baby Jogger full-size strollers are known for
• 3 ways to ride: infant car seat, bassinet or toddler seat
• Padded seat with added depth

Travel strollers can get expensive. If you don’t want to spend $500+ on one, but you travel frequently and want a reliable option, the City Tour 2 is a great mid-priced pick.

Baby Jogger strollers are known (and loved) for their easy, one-handed fold—and this travel stroller is no exception. The City Tour 2 folds into a 19-by-23-inch rectangle and automatically locks closed. You can carry it by the handle or tuck it away in the included tote bag carryall while your little one explores. The stroller has a deep, padded seat and adjustable calf support to keep your kiddo comfortable. Plus, a huge UV 50+ sun canopy provides shade.

There’s suspension system in the frame isn’t great, making for a bit of a bumpy ride. Some parents wish the tote bag carryall had backpack straps for easier transport rather than a shoulder strap.

“I love that I can carry, open and fold it with one hand. It’s easy to maneuver and the only stroller I own. Perfect for city living!” -Amie

Best Infant Travel Stroller

Mountain buggy nano v3 stroller.

• Comes with universal car seat adapter
• Full recline seat
• Ventilated backrest for airflow

The Mountain Buggy Nano stroller is the best of both worlds—a travel stroller that can also act as a travel system . Unlike most travel strollers, this one comes equipped with a universal car seat adapter so you can pop in your infant seat and be on your way with your newborn in tow. (You can also purchase the Cocoon Carrycot separately if you prefer a bassinet option.)

The Nano is lightweight and compact enough to fit easily into many carry-on luggage units on planes and trains or in a trunk, and the travel bag has a handle and strap for portability. The narrow width and front-wheel swivel makes it good for use on city streets or other tight spaces and the seat features a full recline perfect for naps.

There’s no suspension system and no peekaboo window. You need to use two hands to fold the Nano. (Although it’s still really easy.)

“It folded up so small that it fit on the plane as a carryon but it also handled really well on european cobblestone” -Nikki

Best Umbrella Stroller for Travel

Summer 3d lite convenience stroller.

• Easy to maneuver
• Umbrella-style fold is bulky

Umbrella strollers used to be the norm in the compact stroller category. That’s changed over the last five years or so, but if you still prefer one for travel, the Summer 3D Lite should be on your list.

The 3D Lite is a great all-around travel stroller. It’s light (about 13 pounds), features a simple, compact fold and a built-in carry strap, has a seat that lays nearly flat and boasts an ample storage basket. The ride isn’t super cushy, but it’s not all that bumpy, either. And at well under $100, it’s an incredible value for a stroller with this many great features.

Since this is an umbrella stroller, you won’t find the compact tri-fold that parents love so much about many travel strollers.

“It is so easy to travel with - we used it on a cruise ship, in various airports, and for all our daily errands.” -Jeanine

Also Worth a Look…

The world of compact travel strollers has exploded recently, flooding the market with lots of options. Here are a few other travel strollers worth a look:

• The Bumprider Connect 3 Stroller ($599.99) is totally unique. It features a magnetic lock system that allows you to join two or more strollers together. It’s pricey, though, especially if you need more than one.
• Evenflo Gold’s Otto ($199.99) is a competitively priced self-folding, lightweight stroller with a high weight limit (55 pounds) and a two-position adjustable footrest.
• The Inglesina Quid ($299.00) fits in an overhead bin and offers thoughtful features like a self-standing fold, an extendable canopy and a large flap on the hood that fully retracts for ventilation on warm days. The Quid weighs in at only 13 pounds.
• We analyzed results from Babylist’s Best Baby Products survey, which polled 6,000 Babylist users and asked them to share the baby products they love the most and why.
• We utilized insight from the Babylist editorial team, including Gear Editor Jen LaBracio, an expert in the baby space for over six years and a mom of two who has written hundreds of baby gear guides and personally researched and tested hundreds of baby products, including many travel strollers.
• We reviewed customer reviews from hundreds of real Babylist parents.

Some families use a traditional stroller for everything, even traveling. But having a lighter, more nimble travel stroller pays off when you really need it: for airports, narrow city sidewalks , public transportation or just to lighten the load.

Here are some of the pros and cons of using different types of strollers for travel:

• Traditional stroller: Everyday strollers typically have convenient features like lots of storage space, cup holders and trays, and large canopies. Some may also have all-terrain wheels and accommodate an infant car seat. But they’re heavier and bulkier to fold, which makes using and storing them in tight spaces more difficult (think: narrow doorways, airplane overhead bins, small car trunks).
• Umbrella stroller: Bare-boned and exceptionally lightweight, umbrella strollers often lack many amenities you find in traditional strollers like adjustable seats and cup holders. They have skimpy canopies, minimal cushioning and seat support and don’t fold small enough to fit in airport storage bins. You also can’t push an umbrella stroller with one hand. Umbrella strollers are good for when you occasionally need a slimmer, fast-fold stroller.
• Travel stroller: Sometimes also called a lightweight stroller, travel strollers strike a balance between traditional and umbrella stroller styles. They’re lighter than the standard stroller, easy to fold and compact in size when collapsed. (Some travel strollers fold in half, called a square fold, while others feature a more compact tri-fold.) Travel strollers have some full-size amenities like large sun canopies and a storage basket and most even have extras like cup holders.

Figuring out the best stroller to use for travel often comes down to what type of trade-offs you want to make around budget , space and personal preference.

• Some traditional strollers offer a compact fold that’s great for travel, but the stroller weighs a ton.
• Umbrella strollers tend to be affordable but require two hands for pushing and only offer a vertical fold.
• Compact travel strollers are light, portable and easy to steer but come at a cost.

Before you invest in a travel stroller, think through:

• How often you travel
• How much money you want to spend
• Where you’ll be storing your stroller when it’s not in use

Also note that lots of parents find that a travel stroller can work just as well as a full-size option for everyday use; just keep in mind that unless the travel stroller you choose is compatible with an infant car seat or comes with a separate infant kit, you’ll need to wait to use the stroller until your baby is six months old and can sit up unassisted.  

A travel stroller should be easy to take with you on trips and be a comfy spot for your little one, especially since your child will probably spend more hours in it while traveling than at home. Consider these features as you research and shop:

• Size and weight. You’re going to be lifting, carrying and storing your travel stroller often, so the stroller’s size and weight is important. Look for one that’s lightweight and manageable. Also pay attention both to the folded and unfolded size of your travel stroller. Hoping to If you’re planning on using it for an older toddler, also be sure it’s large enough to accommodate them.
• Fold. There’s also a lot of folding and unfolding a stroller during travel, whether it’s to take it in and out of your car, stash it under a table at a restaurant or storing it in the overhead compartment of an airplane. Choose a travel stroller with a quick, easy fold, preferably one you can do one-handed.
• Maneuverability. Not all travel strollers are created equally. Some offer much more maneuverability and a better suspension system than others; however, these features often come at a cost. Thinking through how often you’ll be using your travel stroller and what types of terrain you’ll encounter most often can be helpful in determining whether or not a more expensive stroller is worthwhile.
• Canopy size. Most travel involves at least some, if not a lot, of outdoor time. A large canopy is essential for protecting your little one from the elements, especially the sun.
• Comfort and convenience features. Similar to a full-size stroller, look for features that will make you and your little one more comfortable, especially while traveling. Things like an adjustable seat with a full or nearly full recline, an ample storage basket, an adjustable handlebar and easy to clean fabrics are all important. And don’t forget a built-in strap or a separate carrying case for easy transport.

Bringing a stroller with you on trips can seem daunting. How do you get it from point A to point B when you’re flying ? Will it count toward your carry-on and baggage allotment? And what if you need to use your stroller in the airport? Good news: You can pick how you want to travel with your stroller, depending on your needs. Here are the choices:

• Check the stroller with your baggage: Some parents unload the stroller during check-in and switch to using a baby carrier through the airport instead. Pair a front carrier with a backpack-style diaper bag so your hands will be free to deal with other things (like the toys that will make your trip a breeze ). Note that if you have a large stroller, you may be required to check it as baggage anyway. This usually doesn’t count toward your baggage allotment.
• Check the stroller at the gate: Want to use the stroller until you board the plane? You can check the stroller with the gate agent—it just needs to be tagged—and then pick it up outside the aircraft door when you arrive. (Just remember if you have a connecting flight to catch, waiting for your stroller to be placed on the jet bridge can eat up precious time.)
• Stow the stroller on the airplane: Some travel strollers fold up so small they fit in a backpack and can be stored in an overhead bin. Having your stroller with you eliminates the hassle of waiting for it on the jet bridge or at baggage claim (or losing it).

Some other air-travel tips to keep in mind:

• If you check the stroller with baggage, you do run the risk of damage. If you’re not using a travel stroller bag, ask the agent at check-in for a plastic bag to cover and protect it during transport.
• If you’re taking the stroller through security, it will need to be folded and put through the X-ray machine. Don’t stuff the undercarriage basket until after security.
• If your checked stroller doesn’t come out with the suitcases at baggage claim, check the oversized luggage area. It may have been set aside there (this may also be where your travel crib is, if you checked one).

Do you need a travel stroller bag?

How you plan to use your travel stroller will affect whether or not you need a travel stroller bag.

If you plan on flying with your stroller then you’ll probably want to use a travel stroller bag, especially if you don’t plan on stowing your stroller in the overhead compartment of the plane (either because you don’t want to or because it won’t fit). A checked stroller, even one that’s gate checked, may get tossed around quite a bit while in transit, so you’ll want a travel stroller bag to keep it protected.

If you’re not planning on flying much with your stroller or if you’re simply using your travel stroller as a more lightweight day-to-day option, then a travel stroller probably isn’t a must-have.

Some travel strollers come with a travel bag while others require you to purchase one separately, so check with your particular brand. There are generic travel stroller bags that may work, too.

Jen LaBracio

Senior gear editor.

Jen LaBracio is Babylist’s Senior Gear Editor, a role that perfectly combines her love of all things baby gear with her love of (obsessive) research. When she’s not testing out a new high chair or pushing the latest stroller model around her neighborhood, she likes to run, spin, listen to podcasts, read and spend time at the beach. In her past life, she worked for over a decade in children’s publishing. She lives outside of Chicago with her husband and their two boys, Will and Ben.

10 lightweight strollers that make traveling with kids (slightly) less stressful

Find lightweight, overhead-bin-friendly options..

All products featured are independently selected by our writers and editors. If you buy something through our links, Tripadvisor may earn an affiliate commission.

Traveling with a child can often feel like the chaotic airport scenes in the Home Alone movies. But instead of running through the terminal with your extended family and too many carry-on bags, you're pushing a little one in a stroller. Everyone is sweaty. The snacks meant for the plane ride are already near depleted. And there’s a smelly diaper waiting to be changed.

Thankfully, your life is not a movie, and there are travel strollers meant to make your time at the airport and beyond more pleasant. Most are designed with the magic word—lightweight—in mind, but there are a few things to consider before perusing the list below: Are you traveling with another adult or older child (ie. someone to help push the stroller or carry bags)? Are you bringing a car seat and related stroller adapters? Will the stroller be used exclusively for navigating the airport or will it also tackle public transportation and unpredictable sidewalks once your plane lands?

While most airlines will check one stroller and car seat free of charge at the gate, it’s always best to confirm beforehand as there can be weight and size limits. (Related: Anticipate manual inspections if your folded stroller doesn’t fit the TSA conveyor belt.)

For infants

Mountain buggy nano, weight: 13 pounds, for children from birth, up to 44 pounds.

For families always on the go—whether it’s air travel or daily use of public transportation— the Nano is a breeze to carry when folded up, thanks to its sturdy shoulder strap and accompanying satchel. It does have a slightly awkward fold, but one of the best qualities of the Nano is the fact that it comes with a universal car seat adapter (ie. no add-ons required) so you can easily lock in your newborn babe.

Bugaboo Butterfly

Weight: 16 pounds, for children 6 months and older, up to 48.5 pounds.

This compact option from Bugaboo is infant car seat–compatible with adapters (sold separately), so you can use it from birth through toddlerhood. The stroller’s four-wheel suspension technology supports a spacious seat complete with a sun canopy, near full recline, and footrest—perfect for your little one's precious moments of relaxation. The Butterfly also folds up in lightning speed (one second, with only one hand) and comes with a comfy shoulder strap so you can tackle the other 53 items on your travel to-do list.

Babyzen YOYO2

Weight: 13.6 pounds, for children 6 months and older, up to 49 pounds.

Things can get stressful when it’s time to pick up your stroller after landing, only to find that you own one of the seven black strollers lined up at the gate door. With the Babyzen YOYO2 , you can customize the fabric colors (eight refreshing choices, including pink Ginger and dusty green Olive), add a footmuff (also in eight colors), a parasol (you never know), or mittens (for the stroller pusher). While these add-ons can increase the price of the stroller quite quickly, your YOYO2 will stick out like a beautiful thumb. If you’re traveling with a newborn, the YOYO2 can also be customized with a Newborn Pack ($180) or bassinet ($250).

For toddlers

Zoe the traveler, for children 3 months and older, up to 45 pounds.

The seamless one-handed fold of The Traveler will make you wish there was a reality competition series solely dedicated to how fast people can collapse their strollers. Besides that party trick, The Traveler was designed to survive frequent trips to and from the airport and fits into most overhead bins when folded. While the stroller is not compatible with any car seats, it does fit behind the passenger seat of most cars, freeing up trunk space for your other bags. Consider opting for the machine-washable seat liner, an add-on available in four colors.

gb Pockit+ All-City

Suitable for children 6 months and older, up to 55 pounds.

Weighing even less than the standard-sized dachshund, the German-designed gb Pockit+ All-City is one of the lightest strollers on the list. The shock-absorbing wheels actually work better than the brand's other popular All-Terrain version, according to a number of parents we spoke to, and the stroller folds neatly into a giant purse or tote bag. Yup, when folded, the whole thing is small enough to fit into the overhead bin if you haven’t already maxed out your carry-on quota. The All-City comes with a sun canopy, a small basket, and is compatible with Cot to Go and Cybex car seats if your child traveler is less than 6 months old.

Weight: 13.4 pounds

For children 6 months and older, up to 50 pounds.

The Dutch design of the Aer is so sleek you’ll be tempted to display it like a sculpture at home when you’re not on the road or runway. The Aer offers a smooth ride thanks to four-wheel suspension and is available in seven earth tones, including sage green and taupe, but arguably its best feature is its one-second, one-handed fold. Plus, it’s so comfortable, your child might not want to get out of the ergonomically designed seat when it’s time to board.

For multiples

Uppababy minu v2, weight: 16.9 pounds, for children 3 months and older, up to 50 pounds.

Now in its second iteration, the Minu has a better folding lock system (compared to the 2018 version), a leather bumper bar, adjustable leg rest, and extendable canopy. With shock absorbing all-wheel suspension, this stroller can conquer any cobblestone or uneven sidewalk without interrupting a ride (or nap, with its multi-position recline feature). Like other UPPAbaby strollers, the Minu is companion friendly, meaning a second young traveler (up to 45 pounds) can safely ride along on the Piggy Back board attachment while you push the stroller with plenty of legroom (for you).

Kolcraft Cloud Plus Double Stroller

Weight: 23 pounds, for children 6 months and older, up to 40 pounds per seat.

If an older toddler sibling isn’t into the idea of a ride along board, perhaps a traditional side-by-side double stroller—lightweight edition—is the better choice. Enter: the Kolcraft Cloud Plus double . The Disney-approved ride (meaning it meets the amusement park’s stroller restrictions) includes independently reclining seats, removable snack trays for easy cleaning, and a parent tray for two drinks. Plus, it stands on its own once folded.

For umbrella lovers

Summer infant 3d lite convenience stroller.

While this traditional umbrella stroller isn’t designed for everyday use, the 3D Lite is a winner when it comes to airport travel. Sure, it doesn’t come with any bells or whistles, but the stroller gets the job done, as long as the surface remains mostly smooth or the walk to dinner is a short one. The 3D Lite has a decent-sized storage basket, folds up vertically, and comes with a long shoulder strap.

Kolcraft Cloud Plus

Weight: 12.8 pounds.

In terms of the fold, the Cloud Plus is a delightful hybrid of everything mentioned on this list: While it folds like an umbrella stroller and remains on the bulkier side (read: not minimalist), the fold can be achieved by one hand. The Cloud Plus is also the lightest of our picks and features a large storage basket, making it all that much easier to enjoy your vacation.

The ultimate family travel guide

The Best Strollers for Airline Travel this Year (based on 100 Tests)

We evaluated all the best lightweight strollers on the market and chose 20 to purchase and perform extensive side-by-side testing. Not every lightweight stroller is great for airline travel so we narrowed the list to 12 strollers and the best of those include: the Joolz Aer , Zoe Tour+ , and Bugaboo Butterfly . 

Many strollers you find promoted in other articles aren’t mentioned here because they have comparatively weak customer reviews or simply aren’t good for airline travel. Strollers that didn’t make the cut .

Table of Contents

Weight and Folded Size:  We limited this list to strollers 17 lbs or less. The UPPAbaby MINU V2 is the heaviest at 16.9 lbs. We also eliminated strollers that were more than 3.5 cubic feet when folded. 

Recommended Travel Strollers

The best strollers for airline travel are the Joolz Aer , Zoe Tour+ , Zoe Traveler , Nuna TRVL , and Bugaboo Butterfly . 

We discuss the Babyzen YoYo2 , Cybex Libelle , and gb Pockit+ All Terrain in the next section. Their notable feature is being able to fit in an airline overhead bin, but none of them tested as well as the recommended strollers above.

Editor's Choice

Fast folding, highly maneuverable, lightweight stroller worth the price

The Joolz Aer took the top spot out of 20 lightweight strollers across all testing categories and it is also a great choice for air travel considering its weight-to-size ratio. Weighing in at 13.4 lbs and collapsing to 1.8 cubic ft, it’s not the lightest or smallest of all strollers, but its combined score is tough to beat.

This stroller offers quick fold and unfold times, taking 2 seconds to fold and 3 seconds to unfold, all with just one hand. At 21 x 18 x 8.5 inches folded, it slightly exceeds the standard size for many but not all, airline overhead bins. 

A distinguishing feature of the Joolz Aer is its exceptional responsiveness and maneuverability. On a smooth sidewalk, in a crowded grocery store, or on paved roads, you can guide it with minimal effort. However, its performance dwindles on uneven terrains like cobblestones or areas with large cracks or gravel. 

A few features make the Aer parent-friendly. The peekaboo window, brake comfort and effectiveness, included travel bag and rain cover are awesome. The storage basket is reasonable but on the smaller side, though this is quite typical for this category of strollers. There is a pocket for small items.

We like the stylish, comfortable handle though it would be even nicer if it were adjustable in height. Other minor drawbacks include having to use a long zipper to recline the seat, an average harness buckle, and awkward harness adjustment.

Our ride smoothness test positioned the Joolz Aer second of twenty, measuring for vibrations and bumpiness. The seat is soft and plush and reclines to a decent napping angle. 

Unfortunately, the Joolz is missing cup holders for parents and children. The canopy provides decent sun protection extending over the knees, but doesn’t have as much coverage as the Zoe or Bugaboo. 

Despite minor imperfections, the Joolz Aer impresses with its high-quality fabric and robust frame. Its folding mechanism and wheels are reliable. 

Our full review of the Joolz Aer.

Zoe Tour+ Luxe

Recommended

Quality, high performing in every category

The Zoe Tour+ Luxe came out as a strong contender for the best travel stroller in all our testing categories. Boasting an ultra-light weight of 12.5 lbs, it’s highly suitable for travel despite its larger folded size of 26 x 20.3 x 7.5 inches which prevents it from qualifying as an airline carry-on.

Similar to the Aer, the Zoe Tour+ showcases impressive steering capabilities and can maneuver deftly through compact spaces, such as grocery aisles and crowded airports. Its performance dips when venturing off-road or on uneven terrains.

The stroller tends to drift off course slightly more than average in our testing. It also requires more force than other strollers in the group to jump curbs based on its frame shape. While its overall maneuverability was average in our tests, it excels in regular, everyday usage.

The Zoe Tour+ Luxe we tested came packed with extra features: a cup holder for parents, an organizer, a belly bar, additional storage bags, and a cup and snack holder for children. Surprisingly, this is not the priciest lightweight stroller, but it offered the most extras among all the strollers we purchased.

Despite its feather-light weight, it boasts one of the most spacious storage baskets, offering 0.75 cubic feet of space, and an additional small item pocket near the handle. If you are using the stroller in an airport, the storage basket and cubbies can give you a place to put a diaper bag, purse, toys, and feeding items.

The tan “leatherette” handle offers both aesthetic appeal and comfort. We appreciated the seat recline mechanism, buckle operation, and harness adjustment, alongside the peekaboo window. However, the separate brake pedals and their functionality left something to be desired.

The Zoe Tour+ Luxe provides the convenience of a one-hand fold, averaging 2 seconds to fold and 3 seconds to open. The fold mechanism operates through a simple pull on the strap at the seat’s center. Its folded size is compact compared to many strollers, but it falls short of the most compact strollers as shown in the attached photo:

In terms of child comfort, the Zoe Tour+ Luxe provides a ride that’s smoother than most. The large canopy offers excellent sun protection, extending beyond the knees, while an extendable leg rest enhances naptime comfort. The upright seat angle is perfectly calibrated, but a recline greater than 30 degrees would be advantageous. While the harness straps are slightly abrasive near the neck area, the seat is generally comfortable. However, this stroller is not designed for larger children, with a maximum weight limit of 45 lbs.

Zoe’s Twin+ and Tandem+ double strollers share many features with the Tour+.

In our noise tests, this stroller tied for first place as the quietest, averaging a decibel level of 44. It performed commendably in our pinch-point tests but didn’t fare as well in the sideways tip-over test. As for the overall quality of parts and materials, the Zoe Tour+ Luxe is exceptional.

Our full review of the Zoe Tour+ Luxe

Bugaboo Butterfly

Comfortable, quick tight folding, high-quality

We also highly recommend the Bugaboo Butterfly Stroller for plane travel, owing to its consistently robust performance across all testing categories and specs. While it compacts neatly to 2.0 cubic feet, potentially fitting into some airplane overhead storage compartments, it weighs in heavier than our other top picks at 16.1 lbs.

Scoring 7th place out of 20 in our tests for maneuverability and steering, the Butterfly excels on flat terrains but struggles when confronted with numerous cracks or hurdles. It pushes straighter without pulling than the Zoe Tour+ and Joolz Aer, though, like these models, it’s not the best at negotiating curbs. It does, however, feature an impressively low wheel vibration compared to other strollers we tested.

The Butterfly offers a substantial storage basket with a capacity of .75 cubic feet, though it lacks additional storage spaces. A sizable mesh peekaboo window ensures extra airflow for the baby. There’s a single brake pedal that’s easy on bare or sandalled feet, although it doesn’t always engage on the first press.

The harness buckle operates smoothly. At first, I didn’t like having to insert four individual clips into the buckle instead of two. However, the Butterfly does a great job of keeping the harness clips up where you can find them which saves a lot of time.

Another benefit is that the harness straps are easy to adjust, and the seat recline mechanism is conveniently one-handed. Regrettably, it’s missing a cup holder for parents!

The Butterfly can be collapsed with one hand, and the folding process takes mere seconds. It folds down compactly and features a padded carry strap for easy transportation when folded.

The stroller provides a comfortable ride with a soft, padded seat and an adjustable leg rest. The upright seat angle leans back more than we’d prefer, and the recline doesn’t go back far enough. Ride smoothness was average in our tests for the Bugaboo, and it does not come with a cup holder for kids.

Tying with the Zoe for the quietest ride, the Bugaboo registered an average decibel level of 44. The stroller’s quality is evident in the fabric’s feel and its performance with regular usage. The wheels come with rubber treads and spring suspension, enhancing its overall appeal.

Our full review of the Bugaboo Butterfly Stroller

Zoe Traveler

The Zoe Traveler stroller, weighing 13 lbs, is well-received by users for its light weight and easy portability. We found it to be slightly more convenient for air travel than the Zoe Tour+ based on its ability to fold compactly to 22 x 19 x 10 inches, which allows it to fit into many, but not all, airplane overhead bins. The Zoe Tour+ folds to 26 x 20.3 x 7.5 inches.

We like that the belly bar and optional snack tray fold into the Traveler when collapsing to reduce the folded size. Unlike the Tour+ which folds in half, the Traveler is a tri-fold stroller folding into thirds. This results in a smaller fold but it doesn’t open as smoothly or reliably and sometimes requires two hands to unfold.

However, the Tour+ is wider, has a taller seat back and increased storage, and is more suitable for daily use. The Tour+ also has additional features like a car seat adapter, all-terrain wheels, and an add-on seat option, allowing it to transform into a Tandem+ stroller for growing families.

The bottom basket is a little difficult to reach and not quite as big as the Tour+ basket.

The Traveler’s mélange fabric provides a distinctive look and waterproof capabilities. Users also note the ease of maneuverability and the comfort it offers for their child.

The Traveler’s seat can recline up to 32 degrees and features a reclinable footrest. The recline isn’t as far back as many, but with the footrest out it still makes a nice napping surface.

The seat does not accommodate an infant car seat. The seat dimensions are small at 11 inches in width and 8 inches in depth, and the back of the seat measures 16 inches high. While Zoe recommends the stroller for children from 3 months of age to 45 lbs, bigger kids will find it uncomfortably tight.

The stroller comes with a belly bar and a parent cup holder, which adds to the convenience. This model also meets the size requirements for strollers at Disney theme parks, gaining it a ‘Disney Approved’ status.

 The brake is easy to engage although a little uncomfortable on uncovered feet.

The Nuna TRVL™ stroller is appreciated for its self-collapsing feature, activated with a push of a button. Both fingers must be engaged in the movement to ensure safety, avoiding accidental folding while your baby is in it. However, it’s important to remember to handle it by the side of the bumper bar when locked, as it can unfold otherwise, a factor that could be challenging, especially for those who frequently travel.

Unfolding the TRVL stroller is a breeze – it works effortlessly and doesn’t require any practice. However, while it is marketed as an ultra-lightweight stroller at 13.6 lbs, this weight does not include the bumper bar or the canopy. Hence, the stroller is naturally slightly heavier than some of the lightest competitors on the market.

The stroller comes with a bag, but no carry strap. The bag, while a nice addition, can be inconvenient as you might occasionally need to fold the stroller quickly and carry it on your shoulder. Furthermore, the bag requires the removal of the back wheels to fit the stroller, which adds an extra step.

While the Nuna stroller is designed for travel, it’s worth noting that it may not fit in the overhead compartment due to its dimensions of 24 x 20.25 x 11 inches. 

Maneuverability, however, is a high point for the stroller. It pushes nicely, doesn’t wobble, and the rear-wheel suspension technology provides a smooth ride. The stroller can also be used on rougher terrain by locking the front wheels.

In terms of compatibility, the stroller can be used with Nuna car seats that easily insert into the bumper bar. However, if you have a different car seat brand, you cannot use it with the Nuna TRVL™ stroller as it doesn’t have adapters for other car seats.

Despite the comfortable seat and the in-built footrest, one significant drawback of the Nuna TRVL™ stroller is the seat height when reclined. While it partially reclines, the seat backrest is only 15” which is comparatively very short. This limitation may make the stroller unsuitable for napping as the child grows.

The storage basket is a strong feature. It’s large, easily accessible, and securely holds a significant amount of items. The seat compartment and canopy are comfortable and come with the added feature of a large ventilation panel at the back, enhancing breathability. However, the no-rethread 5-point harness could be cumbersome to put together when the toddler is unsettled.

Lastly, it’s essential to be aware that the TRVL comes only with a travel bag, and extras like a rain cover are sold separately. Despite the luxury feel and easy folding feature, the stroller falls short on compatibility with other car seats and comfort during reclining for growing toddlers. The Nuna stroller has a hefty price tag and other cheaper travel stroller options might offer more practical features.

Strollers that Fit in An Airplane Overhead Bin

I don’t consider the need to fit in an aircraft overhead compartment to be the most important criterion for a travel stroller, even for air travel.

Checking the stroller at the gate, even though it sometimes requires some wait time to pick up the stroller after the flight, is usually a much better option. Here’s why:

• When I have kids along there are already too many things to carry onboard.
• For many airlines, the stroller counts as a carry-on bag or hand luggage, which means if I take the stroller I have to check another bag or limit myself further.
• The strollers are too wide to be pushed down the aisle of the aircraft, so they must be folded and carried which ties up my already busy hands.

If you are checking other luggage, checking your stroller at the ticket counter is one less thing you have to take through TSA security. Of course, then you don’t have a stroller to put your baby in while at the airport. Pick your poison.

However, if you want to carry your stroller on board the airplane, here are the best options with some pros and cons for each.

Babyzen YoYo²

Luxury, highly maneuverable, small folded size, difficult to fold

Renowned for its compact folding size, the Babyzen YoYo2 fits comfortably as an aircraft carry-on and can be conveniently stowed in many overhead compartments. Despite its travel-friendly dimensions of 20.5 x 17.3 x 7.1 inches, it’s recommended to verify specific airline carry-on stroller policies. Most domestic, U.S. airlines permit up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches. 

We listed the Babyzen first because it has a higher score than the Cybex Libelle and gb Pockit+, but the Babyzen’s folded size is slightly larger than those strollers.

Weighing in at 13.6 lbs, the YoYo2 isn’t the lightest stroller in the group but still maintains an easy, light feel during active usage. Its excellent maneuverability and relatively effortless curb-jumping capabilities make it a superb travel stroller, although it’s not designed for rough off-road conditions. Wheel vibrations on this model may be slightly more noticeable than on other lightweight strollers.

Its storage basket is .47 cubic feet (quite small) and accommodates up to 11 lbs, which is typical for travel strollers. It is accessible from the front however, two bars obstruct the placement of larger items.

Additional storage is provided via a zippered pocket, ideal for essentials such as wipes, car keys, and cell phones. Regrettably, it lacks a parent console or cup holders; these and other accessories can be purchased separately.

The stroller comes with a comfortable carry strap, allowing easy transportation over your shoulder when folded. The canopy features a small plastic peekaboo window which reflects the sun making it difficult to see through.

Its synthetic leather handle cover is robust and comfortable, and includes a safety strap to prevent the stroller from rolling away. The handle is not height adjustable, but it measures a comfortable 40″ high. The solidly built canopy offers lesser sun protection than many due to its limited extension.

Setting up the Babyzen YoYo2 took approximately 15 minutes, longer than any other stroller tested. This included assembling the separate YoYo base, frame, and the “6+ Color Pack” that contains the seat and canopy. Our assembly manual rating is 6 out of 10, as the diagrams provided were only satisfactory, and the instructions were separate from the pictures.

The seat recline mechanism involves pulling two straps apart and back together. While it isn’t overly complex, other strollers offer more straightforward mechanisms. The seat buckle is easy to operate, and the shoulder harness straps are adjustable as your child grows.

Operating the brakes is a breeze thanks to a single comfortable pedal. This design is preferable to dual-pedal systems. The carry strap conveniently sticks out of the travel bag. While the bag is easy to carry and keeps dirt off the stroller, it is thin and won’t protect the stroller when it is thrown around.

The Babyzen YoYo2 comes in several attractive colors and has an optional car seat adapter compatible with certain infant car seat models.

Its folding mechanism was found slightly disappointing, requiring two hands and several steps. The process gets simpler with practice but still takes approximately 6 seconds to fold and 4 seconds to open.

When it comes to child comfort, the YoYo2 offers a well-padded seat and leans back farther than most in its upright position. The seat doesn’t recline as much as other strollers in its reclined position. While it doesn’t offer mesh ventilation, the small canopy doesn’t obstruct much wind. The stroller does not come with cup holders or a snack tray, but they can be purchased separately. Additional accessories are also available, albeit at a rather high price point.

On the downside, the YoYo2 scored below average in our ride vibration and bumpiness tests. However, in terms of quality and safety, it feels sturdy with plush fabric. The folding mechanism is robust and less prone to mechanical issues. The durable rubber wheels, equipped with front spring suspension and rear frame suspension, enhance the stroller’s performance.

Despite its lightweight frame, the YoYo2 is remarkably solid and durable. During tip-over tests, it tipped over with a 12 lb bag on the handle and more easily tipped sideways while empty than most other strollers. This stroller had more potential pinch points than many others we tested.

Cybex Libelle

Compact fold, lightweight stroller with a smooth ride

The Cybex Libelle is an upgraded version of the gb Pockit+ all-terrain stroller. Both brands are owned by the same company.

The Libelle challenges other lightweight strollers in terms of weight and compactness. Weighing a mere 13.7 lbs and occupying just 1.07 cubic feet when folded, with dimensions of 18.9 x 12.6 x 7.8 inches, it conveniently fits into overhead compartments on planes, trains, and buses.

There are numerous joints in the frame that allow the stroller to be folded into a small unit, but those joints make the frame of the stroller flex substantially. Sometimes if feels like its going to break when making simple turns although that hasn’t happened to us, it feels like it will.

The gb Pockit+ folds to a smaller size but takes more effort and coordination to make the fold happen.

When it comes to steering and maneuverability, the Cybex Libelle performs adequately on smooth terrains. Its frame showcases slight flex when cornering, yet the wheels respond swiftly. However, encountering bumps or cracks poses a challenge and its performance on uneven terrain is unremarkable, which is a common issue among lightweight strollers.

We gauged the effort to mount a curb with a fully-loaded stroller; the Libelle required an average force of 11 kg. Despite the minimal shake in its wheels which facilitated in noise tests, it has a tendency to veer sideways, and lacks front wheel locks for adjustment. Consequently, its overall steering and maneuverability rating is mediocre.

In terms of utility, the Libelle’s storage basket, while not large at 0.50 cubic feet, is more accessible than most, albeit small. Capable of holding up to 11 pounds, the basket’s central bar placement is, regrettably, inconvenient. Additionally, the stroller lacks any other storage spaces, including cup holders. As for the handlebar, covered in simple foam, the height is fixed at 39 inches, potentially uncomfortable for taller individuals.

The brake, a single pedal at the back center, engages when stepped on from the left and releases from the right, simultaneously affecting both wheels. Its operation is effortless and gentle on the feet. The harness clips are easy to fasten and release with appropriate pressure, but adjusting the straps can be challenging.

The recline mechanism necessitates two hands for inclining and one for reclining, though it doesn’t offer a significant recline angle. The stroller comes with car seat adapters compatible with any Cybex infant car seat, enabling usage as a travel system. However, the stroller seat needs to be removed prior to mounting a car seat.

When it comes to folding and transport, the Libelle’s compactness shines as it folds down to 1.1 cubic feet, making it one of the smallest folding strollers available. The folding process requires two hands and care should be taken not to pull the latch instead of the frame when carrying. Unfortunately, it lacks a carry strap.

Regarding comfort, the Cybex Libelle excelled in our vibration and bumpiness tests, though its seat design has drawn complaints about slouching and discomfort. The padding is adequately thick and extends beyond the knee bend area down to the calves. The seat is inclined at 62 degrees in its upright position, but it may be uncomfortable for larger children. 

In our quality and safety assessment, the Libelle scored 8 out of 10 in our pinch-point tests. Most of the pinch points we identified were related to the folding process, emphasizing the need to keep children away while folding. 

The Cybex Libelle showcases high-quality parts and materials that have proven durable. Features such as the folding mechanism, brake pedal, and canopy hinges function consistently well. The stroller comes equipped with front wheels with spring suspension, EVA foam treads, and sturdy wheel assemblies.

gb Pockit+ All-Terrain

Compact travel stroller, difficult to fold, not particulraly kid or parent friendly

The gb Pockit+ All-Terrain stroller tips the scales at 12.3 lbs and when folded, has a volume of 1.01 cubic feet. We measured its folded dimensions to be 16.5 x 13.4 x 7.9 inches which is smaller than the Cybex Libelle’s 18.9 x 12.6 x 7.8 inches. It will fit in every overhead bin that we are aware of, although some airlines have additional restrictions beyond dimensions.

Its nimble steering and maneuverability are commendable, however, the frame’s flexibility may create an illusion of breakability, especially when negotiating sharp turns with a full load. Despite this, the Pockit+ posted a respectable score for Ease of Steering.

Advertised as an “all-terrain” stroller, it falls short in handling anything other than flat surfaces. Its small wheels tend to swivel and jam, while its frame lacks the rigidity to navigate obstacles. Its performance in rough terrain tests was disappointing. This isn’t a problem in airports, but may limit where you can go as tourists.

It has the lowest score in the group for wheel vibration. In our veering tendency tests, the Pockit+ fell slightly below average. Notably, it has front wheel locks to keep from veering on long, straight walks. Taking into account all these factors, its Overall Steering and Maneuverability Rating was unimpressive.

The Pockit’s compact design naturally limits storage space. Its basket can hold up to .35 cubic feet, roughly equivalent to two bread loaves. Access to this basket can be challenging and despite its 11-pound rating, it’s unlikely to hold this much. Regrettably, there’s no additional storage, including parent cup holders or a compartment for small items.

Its sunshade lacks a peekaboo window but offers a minor gap between the shade and the seat back for partial visibility. This, however, does let in light.

The non-adjustable, foam-padded handles are placed at a height of 38 inches, posing difficulties for taller individuals. These handles tend to wobble and flex while making turns.

The harness buckle is simple to use, featuring two clips and a one-thumb release. Adjusting the harness entails sliding clips along straps behind the shoulder harnesses, which can be a bit challenging but quicker than rethreading.

Its brakes operate both rear wheels with a single pedal located on the right rear wheel, which is small and can be hard to engage with your foot. Releasing the brake pedal is uncomfortable with uncovered feet.

The gb Pockit is compatible with Cybex infant car seats using provided car seat adapters.

Reclining the seat back involves a one-hand operation: unzip the zipper below the handlebar, press the button on the recline clip, pull down and release the strap. Raising the seat requires two hands: holding the recline strap while pushing up the recline clip.

In our folding demonstration video for the gb Pockit+, we showcase an easy fold method resulting in a marginally larger fold size. Achieving the smallest fold size involves extra steps, including raising the rear wheels and aligning them before compressing the whole stroller.

The Pockit+ folding process requires two hands and a bit of patience. On average, the larger fold takes around 6 seconds while the more compact fold takes an additional 6 seconds, granted everything runs smoothly. Often it takes much longer to get the wheels aligned properly for the fold.

While the gb Pockit+ All-Terrain stroller does not excel in certain areas, it’s one of the top contenders for a small and lightweight option. If your main priorities are travel and commuting with the occasional mild outdoor usage, the gb Pockit+ All-Terrain could be a decent choice.

Why You Should Trust Us

Being a U.S. native but having lived in Africa and Asia for 11 years, and traveled for work and pleasure all over Europe, with numerous visits to Central America, and a couple to South America, with and without kids, I have a great deal of experience in airports and airplanes.

My wife and I founded ExperiencedMommy.com and now KidTravel.org and have collectively reviewed more than 111 strollers over the past six years. We own 20 lightweight strollers and use them with our grandkids as well as farming them out for additional experience and feedback.

In the research process, we looked at  stroller safety issues ,  recall notices , studied certification standards , and performed our own safety checks like tip-over and pinch-point testing.

Price vs Performance

Note that the Nuna TRVL and Zoe Traveler are missing from the chart below because we haven’t tested them yet. The Nuna TRVL is high priced at $500 while the Zoe Traveler currently sells for half that at $249. 

How They Compare by Category

Weight and folded size.

The strollers we recommend above vary in weight from 12 to almost 17 lbs. In practice you may not be able to tell much difference but every pound counts when you travel! The folded size is also similar enough that it shouldn’t be too big of a factor unless you absolutely need to be able to carry it on a plane.

Folded Size

Folded Dimensions

Most U.S. domestic airlines use a 22 x 14 x 9 inch maximum dimension guideline for carry-on eligible bags and strollers for overhead compartments. Many international carriers accept larger sizes or use a weight criterion or total dimension standard where the sum of the height, width and depth must total less than a maximum number specified in their policy.

Getting into Disney World with any of the strollers in this article is not a problem. And they all fit easily into the trunks of even small cars.

Storage and Ease of Use Comparison

Stroller storage space is always important but especially valuable when on vacation. Here are how the baskets compare for the strollers for airplane travel we recommend above.

Of the three the Joolz Aer basket in the center below is the smallest, at least from the back.

But most of these strollers have front access to the basket as well and the Joolz and Bugaboo have large front openings. In an airport when you are sitting facing your baby it is nice to be able to get to the basket from the front.

Overall the Butterfly and Tour+ have the most usable basket space of the three.

This next group of strollers fold to a smaller size and not surprisingly have smaller baskets overall. 

In the front view you can see that the gb Pockit has little front access, and the basket of the YoYo is blocked by two metal bars that keep you from putting anything big in the basket. Unfortunately, the rear opening of the YoYo is also too small for many diaper bags.

While the volume of the baskets is a factor, the opening size can be just as important.

Storage Basket Volume:

In addition to the basket, several of the strollers have extra storage options. The Zoe comes with a parent console with two cup holders and several cubbies and pockets as shown below.

If you aren’t using the console, there is a small fabric pocket on the canopy that will hold a phone.

The Joolz Aer has a thin pocket on the back but it doesn’t hold very much.

The Butterfly, gb Pockit+ and Cybex Libelle have no additional compartments.

However, the YoYo has a fabric, zippered pocket:

Except for the gb Pockit and Libelle the other recommended strollers have a peekaboo window in the canopy for viewing your little one.

The handles on all of these strollers are non-adjustable and fixed at around 39″ high plus or minus an inch. There are very few strollers with adjustable handlebars that are also lightweight.

If you need a higher or lower handle consider the Ergobaby Metro+ which has an adjustable handle from 37.4″ to 41.3″. We did not buy and test the Metro+ because of its slightly lower customer reviews. It is about 18 lbs and has some very nice features for travel including a small fold size.

For taller and shorter parents, handle height can be important. The Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 is the only stroller in the group with an adjustable handle. The rest are non-adjustable and with few exceptions are about 39 inches high.

How could we discuss Ease of Use without mentioning parent cup holders ? Few strollers come with them, but all of them have cup holders or parent consoles that can be purchased separately. This is a great parent organizer with a cup holder that will fit any stroller.

The Bugaboo Butterfly is the only stroller mentioned above with both a one-hand seat recline and one-hand seat raise action. The others take two hands for at least one of the steps. The Joolz has a zipper that goes all the way around the edge of the seat like a suitcase.

The Babyzen and Joolz Aer come with nice travel bags that include shoulder straps. Note that they are made of thin nylon and provide minimal protection of the stroller. Strollers that are checked or gate-checked will probably get some abuse. It’s not likely they will break badly enough to not be operational (although that could happen), but there can be damage to the handle or surfaces. Bags like this one offer more protection but they are one more thing to carry. Personally, I skip the bag.

Only a few travel strollers come with infant car seat adapters for mounting a car seat. 

Car Seat Adapter Included

Car Seat Compatability

In the Ease of Use category, we considered the brake operation, storage, recline operation, carry straps, handle height and adjustability, harness and buckle operation, and several other things. Here are the overall scores for Ease of Use:

Maneuverability

We did maneuverability testing on all the strollers to be able to compare them in a consistent way. This included steering through an obstacle course, pushing on rough trails and rough surfaces, measuring the force required to jump curbs, measuring how far strollers would go straight without drifting off a center line, measuring wheel vibration and several other tests. The Overall Maneuverability Scores  below incorporate all of those results:

Here are the ratings for basic steering and turning and flat surfaces. All the strollers did pretty well.  Steering Ratings:

When it came to rough surfaces, or consistently bumpy, like on brick or cobblestone streets, none of these strollers did great. You really need bigger wheels and better suspension for rough roads and off-roading. Lightweight, travel strollers just aren’t built for that. That said, the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 and Besrey strollers did a little better than the others in this group.

The top three travel strollers, the Joolz Aer, Bugaboo Butterfly, and Zoe Tour+, all fold in two seconds and open in two or three. They can all be folded and opened with one hand. 

The Joolz and Bugaboo are all tri-fold strollers that collapse with the press of a release button or latch followed by squeezing the fold button on the handle. The Zoe is a bi-fold and collapses in one step by pulling the strap on the seat.

The more compact strollers, the gb Pockit+, Cybex Libelle, and Babyzen YoYo, require two hands, require multiple steps to fold and unfold, and take from 6 to 30 seconds to fold correctly. Of these three, the Libelle is the easiest.

Here’s what it looks like to fold 19 strollers in just over two minutes.

You can see the relative size of the strollers when folded below. All stand when folded, but most aren’t too stable, especially the Zoe. The YoYo, Libelle, and Pockit have a high probability of being accepted as carry-on bags for placement in aircraft overhead compartments.

The Tour+ won’t be accepted as a carry-on for most US domestic flights. And the Aer and Butterfly are hit and miss for domestic flights and a higher probability for international flights.

Here is how the strollers look with the 22 x 14 x 9 inch, standard airline baggage sizer. Some airlines allow for slightly larger bag sizes, but this is the most common standard.

Once folded here is how you carry the strollers:

All of them fit easily into a car trunk:

Kid Comfort

Comfort is key for strollers used on vacation, as they’ll be used a lot.

We first checked how smooth the ride is. Using a tool called an accelerometer, we measured the bumpiness kids might feel in the seat. We did this on a fairly smooth path with some purposely rough spots. A lower number means a smoother ride.

Results for Smoothness of Ride:

Strollers that do well for airline travel typically aren’t the strollers that are most comfortable for bigger kids. 

We assigned a “ Sized for Big Kids Rating ” based on manufacturer guidelines, seat depth, width, height, and distance to the ground.  

The top strollers on this list accommodate children up to 50 lbs. The Cybex Libelle claims to handle 55 lb kids but the measurements and our experience make us skeptical.

  Sized for Big Kids Rating:

Except for the Zoe Tour+ you’ll need to buy snack trays and cup holders for kids separately.

Our babies never liked reclining back too far when they were out and about unless it was nap time. Many strollers lean back at a steep angle even when they are fully upright. This is a complaint we have against some of the top strollers on our list.  Upright Seat Angle:

On the other end of the scale, when it is nap time you want a seat that will go back as far as possible. Here are the  Maximum Seat Recline Measurements:

Also important for napping are leg rests that can be raised. In addition to those below the Nuna TRVL and Zoe Traveler also have leg rests. One can be purchased for the YoYo

Sun protection is also important on vacation. Some of these strollers have very skimpy canopies and others have good coverage. Take a look below.

The Zoe canopy extends down to the belly bar. The Bugaboo also has good coverage, although some sun shines through the large peekaboo window up top.

The compact fold strollers have mostly pitiful sun shades. The Babyzen’s isn’t too bad but it is still smaller than the strollers above.

We measured the noise level of each of the strollers because noisy strollers drive me crazy. Here are the average decibel levels:

All things considered, here is how the strollers rank for  Overall Kid Comfort:

The quality of parts and materials is important for a travel stroller because of the wear and tear that always happens.

We examined the wheels, folding mechanisms, safety features, zippers, snaps and velcro, suspension and other quality factors and rated Overall Quality as follows:

Stroller Accessories for Travel

Sadly many strollers do not include the following basic accessories, which can be lifesavers on a trip.

Cup Holders

Here is a good universal cup holder that attaches to the stroller frame and can be used for both kid and parent cups.

Organizers or Consoles

We like this Momcozy parent organizer because of its many little places to store things and the built in cup holder. Velcro straps allow it to fit on all handlebars.

Rain Covers

Rain covers are optional but if you want to be super prepared here is a generic stroller rain cover. It is a good idea to check whether there is a rain cover made specifically for your stroller before you buy generic.

Stroller Fans

Stroller fans can add hours to your day when the weather is uncomfortably hot. There are many choices but here is a good one.

Stroller Boards

If you have a second child who is able to handle standing on a stroller board, make sure to check on the manufacturer’s website for one of these. This one isn’t perfect but is semi-universal. It is a lot simpler to have a stroller board than to lug around a double stroller if your kids’ ages are appropriate.

Alternative Strollers for Air Travel

Here are a few strollers that are good choices for travel that either didn’t score quite as high as the Joolz, Zoe, or Butterfly, or didn’t fold quite as compactly as the Pockit, Libelle, or Babyzen, and thus weren’t discussed above. 

Of these, the UPPAbaby MINU V2 is a very solid choice as well as the Besrey Gravity fold stroller based on overall performance.

The Besrey stroller surprised us with great scores in maneuverability, user-friendliness, and quality. It appeals to parents with features such as ample storage, an included cup holder, and a peekaboo window.

It has a reasonable weight for travel at 14.4 lbs. But its fold size is 2.9 cubic feet and 25.2 x 19.7 x 11.8 inches which is on the larger side.

Mirroring the aesthetics and feel of a high-end stroller, it nonetheless comes at a lower price. Despite these merits, it did fall short on ride smoothness compared to others and lacks side panels for sun protection.

Besrey Stroller Review

Like the Besrey, the MINU V2 has a high-end look and feel. It is super easy to fold and steer. And it is strong in the storage department.

However, from a travel perspective, it is a bit heavier than the top strollers at 16.9 lbs and has the largest folded dimensions of the group at 23 x 20.3 x 12.5 inches (3.3 cubic feet).

The downsides are a comparatively bumpy ride and a seat back that doesn’t attach well to the frame such that it tips backward and forward when it shouldn’t. 

UPPAbaby MINU V2 Review

The City Mini GT2 is a robust, 3-wheel, lightweight stroller that transports kids up to 65 lbs or 44 inches. It is 20 lbs and barely made our cutoff for lightweight strollers. It folds super easily, maneuvers well, has great quality, and good parent and kid comfort features. The basket is big but difficult to access. Double stroller version.

Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 Review

The Quid is very lightweight at 13 lbs folds to a very reasonable 22 x 19 x 8 inches or 2.5 cubic feet. With these numbers it is definitely in the running for a solid travel stroller.

We also love its maneuverability and quality.

But it is lacking in the folding department where it requires two hands, and doesn’t score as high as many in kid comfort or parent ease of use.

Inglesina Quid Review

Finally, the City Tour 2 is also a decent choice for air travel at 14 lbs and 2.2 cubic feet folded. The folded dimensions are a little wider than we would like at 22 x 20 x 7 inches.

It excels at pushing and steering and is easy to fold.

 It scores well in kid comfort, ride smoothness, and noise. We wish it came with cup holders.

There is a Double stroller version available.

Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Review

Strollers That Didn’t Make the Cut

Here are some strollers that are popular, but we didn’t buy and test because they had lower customer reviews than our cutoff limit. Some of these we do own but don’t recommend for travel for the reasons we list below. For example, we didn’t list any umbrella strollers because they are quite bulky when folded compared to other strollers we tested.

gb Pockit+ All City

Honestly the gb Pockit+ All City is right on the borderline for customer satisfaction and it has excellent specs for travel at 13.2 lbs with a very small fold size that is just slightly bigger than the Pockit+ but still able to fit in an overhead bin.

We may buy and test this one in the future. However, the gb and Cybex stroller we have didn’t perform well in any areas of our testing so we aren’t surprised the average reviews aren’t that high for this one.

Delta Children Clutch Compact Stroller

The  Delta Children Clutch has a similar frame style as the Pockit+ All City. It is also very lightweight and folds compactly. But it is also short in the customer review department and has limitations that make it unlikely to score well in most of our categories.

Mompush Lithe Lightweight Stroller

The  Mompush Lithe Lightweight Stroller is light but has weak customer reviews.

Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Baby Stroller

The  Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Baby Stroller also has less than perfect customer reviews although it has good specs for travel.

Silver Cross Jet 3 

The  Silver Cross Jet 3 stroller has even weaker reviews than those above.

Mountain Buggy Nano V3 Stroller

I don’t know why people continue to tout the  Mountain Buggy Nano V3 Stroller when the customer experience is largely underwhelming. 

Travel Strollers

Cybex Orfeo Stroller

Cybex Libelle Stroller

Discover convenience on the go with our range of travel strollers from top brands like Bugaboo , Redsbaby , Maxi Cosi , and Uppababy . Perfect for quick outings, these compact strollers fold and store easily. Wondering if a travel stroller is worth it? Unlike bulky regular strollers, these are lightweight and portable. If your baby is young, opt for a baby carrier for short outings, reserving the stroller for longer trips or dining out.

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The 15 Best Travel Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We tested the best travel strollers on the market for maneuverability, design, durability, and portability.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Phoebe Cheong

If you're traveling with a child under 4 years old or so, you need a stroller. But your everyday stroller might not be your best bet when you hit the road: Today's models are big with lots of storage space, wide canopies, and large wheels for challenging terrain. Not ideal for packing into trains, planes, and automobiles or for bringing in and out of a hotel. If you plan to travel even somewhat often with your little ones, you might want to invest in a travel stroller.

So, what is a travel stroller? A travel stroller is a smaller, more scaled-back stroller with a collapsible frame that can be folded up tightly. Many travel strollers fold multiple ways to reduce the length, width, and height; some, like umbrella strollers, fold one way into a narrow but still-long piece. In the end, you want your travel stroller to be comfortable and safe for your child while folding up into a very compact, easy-to-carry package.

We tested more than 32 travel strollers from top brands such as Uppababy, Nuna, and Babyzen. We measured and weighed them, then spent eight and a half hours in our New York City lab putting them all through the wringer, looking at each stroller's maneuverability, design features, durability, and portability. We then sent them out intro the real world to be used by families like yours to guarantee stroller longevity and functionality.

Best Overall

Joolz aer+ baby stroller.

 Amazon

• Design 4.6 /5
• Portability 4.9 /5
• Maneuverability 4.9 /5
• Durability 5 /5
• Value 4.6 /5

It folds up into an extremely compact, easy-to-carry package that is great for storing at home or on flights.

The seat can only be hand-washed and air-dried.

The Joolz Aer+ looks great, rolls smoothly, and features plenty of padding for the little rider sitting in it. It wow-ed us right out of the box and was one of the quickest strollers to assemble with just a quick-snap connection to a secure and stable stroller. While the Aer+ is about one pound lighter than earlier models, it is still the same size and features all of the perks parents look for in a high-quality stroller. The roomy shopping basket can hold up to 11 pounds, the canopy is adjustable, and the seat reclines to multiple settings to help keep your little one comfortable as they grow.

Throughout our tests, we tossed the stroller off of a counter to see how it held up and it remained in impeccable condition with little to no scratching and no major breaks or rips. Even when fully loaded up, the wheels moved smoothly and limited turbulence as they are designed to absorb shock from pebbles, rocks, and other rough terrain. We could easily collapse the stroller down using only one hand — which is perfect for use when flying — and it can once again be assembled with just the click of a button. At just over 13 pounds, it's also easy to carry, so you can transport this stroller just about anywhere life takes you.

The Details: 13.2 pounds | 41.5 x 32.7 x 17.7 inches assembled | 8.5 x 21 x 17.7 x inches folded | 50-pound weight limit

Best Overall, Runner-up

Nuna trvl lightweight stroller.

• Design 4.8 /5
• Portability 4.2 /5
• Maneuverability 5 /5
• Value 4.7 /5

Not only does it roll well, but the one-handed folding process was the smoothest of all the strollers we tested.

It's not especially small when folded and is a little unwieldy to carry.

During testing, when we pressed the buttons to collapse and fold the Nuna Trvl, it felt like some spring-loaded mechanism started the process for us and made it easier. That's the kind of helpful detail any parent or caretaker appreciates. And that folding process was quick, easy, and doable with one hand. The Trvl isn't quite as light as some of the other strollers, however, and it has no strap for carrying over the shoulder (although the bumper bar turns into a handle for carrying when the stroller is collapsed). It's also not clear whether the Nuna Trvl will fit in all airplane overhead compartments; It was a tight squeeze when we placed it in ours, with the wheels sticking out a bit.

The Trvl has a lot of great design features, including an adjustable leg rest and simple, adjustable reclining system for your baby. The strap clasp is magnetic to save a little time, and the canopy has a peekaboo window and good ventilation. The bottom storage basket is also on the larger side for a travel stroller and can comfortably fit a backpack. The stroller gilded beautifully over each surface we tried; there was no difference between rolling over the smooth hardwood and the shag carpet, and it handled gravel without issue. And it held up just fine in the durability test.

The Details: 15.4 pounds | 41 x 26 x 20.5 inches assembled | 11 x 27.25 x 20.25 inches folded | 50-pound weight limit

Travel + Leisure / Claire Cohen

Best Budget

Kolcraft cloud plus stroller.

• Design 3.9 /5
• Portability 3 /5
• Maneuverability 4.2 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5
• Value 4.8 /5

It comes with a tray for baby's food and drink but is still extremely lightweight and easy to fold.

There isn't a ton of space in the undercarriage for storage.

Strollers are unnervingly expensive; many new parents experience sticker shock when they first see those price tags. The Kolcraft Cloud Plus is not. And while it's not the prettiest of the bunch (there's some loud branding), it folds easily — it can even be done one-handed with a little effort and coordination. We love that unfolding can also be done one-handed.

The Cloud Plus doesn't fold down quite as small as most every other one we're testing; the shape is somewhere between an umbrella and normal travel stroller. It's very lightweight, which we love, but since it doesn't fold small enough to fit in an overhead bin and doesn't have a strap or handle, it's not as portable as other options.

This stroller is the only one we tested with a tray for the baby's food and drink; the tray is removable if you're looking to save space. There are also two small cup holders for the adults, though our travel mug did not fit in them. The storage basket can fit a small backpack. The recline system is pretty easy to use and goes back three-fourths of the way to horizontal, and the canopy is good but not great. Same goes for the seat padding.

It rolled well on smooth surfaces, though there was some resistance on the carpet and a lot more on the grave. But we were able to push it through, and the stroller is light enough that when the wheels aren't rolling you can still keep moving. It's not the smoothest ride, but passable. The tray came unclasped during the durability test, but there was no actual damage. Overall, the price-to-performance ratio of the Cloud Plus is so good that it's an excellent budget option.

The Details: 11.8 pounds | 38 x 27 x 18 inches assembled | 10 x 33 x 17.5 inches folded | 50-pound weight limit

Travel & Leisure / Phoebe Cheong

Best for Warm Weather

Gb qbit+ all city stroller.

• Portability 4 /5

It reminds us of the very top-tier travel strollers, but its price is meaningfully lower.

The handlebar isn't adjustable and the stroller is a bit heavier than other options.

The GB Qbit+ All City reminded us of the Nuna Trvl, but at a significantly cheaper price. The only areas the stroller fell short of the Nuna model are the canopy, which is not especially nice or expansive, and the fact that it's slightly harder to carry since it's a little heavier and has no actual carrying strap. That said, there's plenty to love about the Qbit. One-handed folding is smooth, and buckling and unbuckling the straps is easy. The seat is nicely padded, the entire back is made of breathable mesh to keep your child from overheating. The leg rest is simple to maneuver and goes all the way flat. The seat also reclines almost all the way back so that your baby can take a comfortable snooze. The included bumper bar comes off and on easily, and the handlebar looks and feels nice. There's enough storage for a backpack, too. As for maneuverability, it rolled great on all our testing surfaces and made crisp, tight turns. If you want something similar to and almost as good as the Nuna Trvl, this is your travel stroller.

The Details: 17.6 pounds | 41 x 24 x 17 inches assembled | 10.5 x 23 x 16.5 inches folded | 54.8-pound weight limit

Travel + Leisure / Phoebe Cheong

Best Folding

Uppababy minu v2 stroller.

• Assembly 3.8 /5

It folds up far more compactly than other UPPAbaby models.

The canopy sticks out a bit when the stroller is folded.

The Minu has a lot of the features familiar to UPPAbaby devotees — unstructured rear storage pouch, locking clasp to keep the stroller folded, excellent canopy — but unlike the brand's G-Luxe and G-Link models, this one is not an umbrella stroller. We actually think that makes for a better travel stroller. The Minu folds up more easily than other UPPAbaby models and far more compactly than an umbrella model. The fold can be done with one hand, but keep in mind the canopy needs to be tucked in once it's folded. A padded carrying strap easily fits over the shoulder. When carried, the Minu isn't the lightest or smallest option on our list, but it's portable enough and fits fine in an overhead compartment.

The Minu's seat back reclines nicely and easily for naps, and the handlebar feels good on the palms. The canopy's magnetic mesh window is handy and easy to keep open, and the sun shade for keeping the brightness out of your baby's eyes is one of the best we saw in our tests. The seat's padding is ample, though we'd like it if the leg rest were adjustable. We did appreciate the sizable bottom storage basket.

In terms of maneuverability, the Minu performed fine. It didn't make quite as tight turns as the Joolz or Nuna, and it felt a bit heavier to push, but it handled the gravel really well. A canopy rod popped out of place when we pushed the stroller off the table, but we were able to fix it pretty easily. Overall, while the stroller is expensive, it's not the priciest on the list and is worth it for the well-crafted features.

The Details: 14.75 pounds | 41 x 31 x 20.5 inches assembled | 12 x 22.5 x 20.25 inches folded | 50-pound weight limit

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best for Cities

Babyzen yoyo2 stroller.

• Assembly 3.5 /5
• Design 4.5 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Maneuverability 4.5 /5

It's very well-padded, folds up into a tidy package, and has a convenient carrying strap.

The clips and buckles can be hard to maneuver.

Folding the Babyzen Yoyo 2 took two hands and, while not difficult, was a little more involved a process than with some other strollers. Unfolding is pretty easy, except we noticed our feet getting caught in straps a few times. While folding and unfolding were slightly disappointing, we love how portable this stroller is. It folds up very small and has a comfortable padded shoulder strap as well as a metal bar for easy carrying. And it fits easily into an overhead storage bin. It's a great option for a stroller you plan to fly with.

The Yoyo 2 has nice features, too. The seat padding is especially cushy, and the seat reclines three-fourths of the way back to horizontal (though the recliner is a bit tricky to figure out). There's also a pocket in the back and a decent storage basket underneath that can fit a small bag. The canopy is good, though we'd prefer the peekaboo window to be mesh instead of plastic.

This stroller especially stands out for its handling. We were able to maneuver this stroller through the safety cones with such ease, we could really see this stroller being helpful at a crowded grocery store or airport.

The Details: 14.7 pounds | 41 x 28.8 x 17 inches assembled | 8 x 20 x 16 inches folded | 40-pound weight limit

Best Double

Uppababy g-link v2 stroller.

• Assembly 4.9 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Portability 4.4 /5

It folds more easily and rolls more smoothly than we expected from a stroller this size.

It doesn't fold down very small, and unfolding it could be easier.

For such a large contraption, this double stroller folds with surprising ease. We were even able to do it one-handed with a little effort, which none of us expected. Unfolding is a little trickier, as it takes some force to unhook the locking clasp. As a double stroller, the G-Link 2 is not the most compact package when folded. Plus, it's an umbrella structure, so this one probably isn't fitting in many overhead bins. Carrying it was a little unwieldy, as should be expected with a double stroller, but there is a helpful handle, and the stroller is lighter than it looks. You can actually wheel it along when it's folded instead of carrying it, but it's not easy, and it bumped into us when we did so.

We like the canopies on the G-Link 2: quality material and good coverage. There are little storage pockets behind each seat, and it comes with a cup holder. You can also fit a purse or very small backpack in the undercarriage basket. The seats have generous padding, which extends to form a sort of calf rest for the riders. The straps buckle easily and have different height options; the seat backs have two recline positions and are super easy to adjust.

The stroller rolled well over all the surfaces, even the gravel, and it made much tighter turns than we anticipated. We also like that there are no wheels in the middle of the frame (as most double umbrella strollers have), which makes it easier to push without kicking the wheels or frame. Finally, it showed no damage after our durability tests.

The Details: 21.8 pounds | 41 x 25 x 28.25 inches assembled | 14 x 40 x 17.5 inches folded | 55-pound weight limit per seat

Cybex Libelle Compact Stroller

• Durability 4.6 /5

It's a modern-looking stroller that's easy to move.

It lacked some of the features we'd have liked to see at its price.

The Cybex Libelle Stroller looks sleek and is easy to fold down into an easy-to-store size. Unfolding this stroller is incredibly easy — perfect for families on the go. The wheels of this stroller turn more easily than some other styles and provides a smooth ride over most surfaces.

Due to its simplistic design, this stroller doesn't have extra pockets or cupholders, but its lightweight and compact style makes this a great option for traveling since the stroller can fit in the overhead bins of most airplanes. Just be aware that this model does not include a carrying strap, so if you plan to walk for long periods of time with the folded stroller, you'll have to carry it by its medal frame.

It handled pretty well over the smooth hard surfaces with no noticeable hiccups, but it struggled a bit on the gravel.

The Details: 13.7 pounds | 41 x 20 x 20 inches assembled | 8 x 22 x 14 inches folded | 55-pound weight limit

Best Maneuverability

Bugaboo butterfly stroller.

• Assembly 4.8 /5
• Design 4.9 /5
• Portability 4.5 /5

It takes next to no effort to push this stroller over terrains of all types.

The instructions have pictures rather than words, so they’re a bit unclear.

From sharp turns to steep curbs to rocky terrain, the Bugaboo Butterfly Seat Stroller easily traverses it all. Built with advanced four-wheel suspension and a lightweight frame, we loved how little effort it took to push the stroller, even with one hand. The wheels seemed to absorb bumps and shock well, keeping the seat stable and the baby in place. 

We were equally impressed with the stroller’s packing and traveling capabilities. Weighing in at just over 16 pounds and boasting a compact size when folded down, the Butterfly is easy to carry and even hoist in the air to stow in a plane’s overhead bin. It’s also simple to assemble, and it remained perfectly intact and undamaged after we dropped it.

Other useful features of this stroller include a Velcro rain cover, seat cover, spacious under-seat basket, padded handlebar with a wrist strap, reclining mechanism, and an easy-to-use foot brake. 

The Details: 16.1 pounds | 36.4 x 17.7 x 40.3 inches assembled | 17.7 x 9.1 x 21.3 inches folded | 48.5-pound weight limit

Best for Air Travel

• Assembly 4.7 /5

It easily fits in overhead bins and is a high-quality, durable option.

At 14.6 pounds, it's one of the heavier strollers we tested.

The Cybex Coya is a stylish and durable stroller families will be happy to use for their daily activities and while traveling. It folds up quickly and easily slides into airplane overhead bins for easy access as you board and de-board. The comfortable seat padding is removable for cleaning and the canopy comes down for sun and rain protection. The five-point harness is also incredibly easy to adjust and the seat itself reclines to be almost flat. Pair that with the adjustable leg rest and you have the perfect spot for your youngster to nap on the go.

We also love the cushioned handlebar that adds some extra comfort when pushing the stroller and the zippered pocket in the back of the canopy where you can store your phone or wallet for convenience. The cargo area is also a great size considering the overall compact nature of this stroller and easily fit our packed diaper bag. After our toss test, the stroller is still in great condition, although we do recommend investing in a dust bag if you're nervous about bumps and scratches while traveling.

The Details: 14.6 pounds | 38.2 x 17.3 x 31.1 inches assembled | 7.1 x 17.3 x 20.5 inches folded | 55-pound weight limit

Best Compact

Contours itsy.

Buy Buy Baby

• Assembly 5 /5
• Maneuverability 4 /5

There’s almost no assembly required.

Parents of older, larger children may not find it as useful.

If you like to live your life simply, the compact and convenient Contours Itsy may be the stroller for you. Right out of the box, it’s already nearly fully assembled — all you have to do is snap the bumper bar into place, which takes almost no effort. On top of that, it’s a no-frills option, so there’s no cup holder or oversized basket to weigh it down, take up space, or make things complicated. 

We did, however, love features like the secure bumper bar, easy-to-use harness, canopy with UV 50 sun protection, and padding on the crotch strap, which makes the stroller look comfortable. They also appreciated the small size of the foot rest, basket, and entire stroller in general, because it made using and transporting it a breeze.

When it was time to stow the stroller away (or pack it up for travel), we got a kick out of just how tiny it folds up — in its simplest form, it’s not much larger than a grocery bag. It’s also ultra-lightweight and easily folds with just one hand. 

The Details: 12.3 pounds | 32 x 39 x 18.2 inches assembled | 11 x 22 x 11 inches folded | 40-pound weight limit

Best Comfort

Baby jogger city tour 2 stroller.

• Maneuverability 4.8 /5

The price is reasonable considering how solidly it performed on all our tests.

It did not fit in our overhead bin and isn't easy to fold one-handed.

Folding this stroller was pretty simple, though not quite as smooth as it was with some of the others. The unfolding process was a little finicky as well and took some practice. So what do we like about the Baby Jogger City Tour 2? The price is reasonable, it performed solidly on most of our tests, and it maneuvered exceptionally well over all surfaces. We noticed little perceptible difference between its rolling over the shag carpet and smooth wood surface, and while other strollers struggled a bit on the gravel, this one navigated it with ease.

In terms of portability, the City Tour 2 doesn't feel bulky and has a good hand carrying handle. We would have liked to see a shoulder strap, however, and it did not fit in our overhead bin. The seat back has a lot of recline, and the drawstring to pull and push the seat forward and back is easy to use. The seat has good structure and good padding; the straps work well and can be adjusted to different height levels. There's lots of leg room and adjustable calf support for the baby, and the canopy has a peekaboo window and goes up and down smoothly. We'd have appreciated some more storage space; you can't fit a backpack anywhere. When we pushed the City Tour 2 off a table, we did notice that a small foam pad came off, though we couldn't even figure out where it came from, and it did not structurally damage the stroller.

The Details: 14 pounds | 40 x 26 x 20 inches assembled | 7 x 22.5 x 19.5 inches folded | 45-pound weight limit

Best Umbrella

Uppababy jordan g-luxe stroller.

• Portability 3.9 /5
• Maneuverability 4.7 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

The recline system is particularly easy to use, and the stroller stands well on its own when folded.

The button/ring-pull combination for folding it is a bit finicky and has to be timed perfectly.

The first thing to note here is that ​​umbrella strollers only fold one-dimensionally, so the result is narrow but long…like an umbrella. The other strollers on this list fold down via multiple joints and in multiple directions for a smaller and more squarish package; neither is necessarily better, but you'll want to decide what you want before buying a travel stroller.

This particular UPPAbaby model is a bit tricky to fold because the handle/ring combination used to do so is finicky and has to be timed perfectly. Once you get that, the folding is smooth, but the whole button-and-ring thing is a little annoying. As with most UPPAbaby products, however, the G-Luxe's features are pretty nice. There's an included cup holder that fits a travel mug easily, and the canopy is expansive with extra sun shade (there is no peekaboo window, however). The leg rest for the child is easy to adjust, and the straps feature a five-point harness and adjustable height levels. The seat padding is substantial without looking bulky, and the recline system, while only providing two settings, is exceptionally easy to use. The unstructured (perhaps too unstructured) pocket behind the seat is pretty spacious and in a good location, but the storage basket at the bottom of the stroller isn't particularly big.

The G-Luxe maneuvers well, with good tight turns, though it rattled noticeably over the gravel. It held up well during our durability tests and sustained no damage.

The Details : 16.5 pounds | 42.5 x 23.5 x 18.5 inches assembled | 15 x 41 x 11.75 inches folded | 55 pounds weight limit

Best Lightweight

Zoe the traveler.

• Design 3.5 /5

The removable seat liner is machine washable.

The attachable snack tray is sold separately.

If you're heading off on a family trip and looking for a simple, lightweight travel stroller, this minimalistic design will do the trick. It's incredibly easy to assemble and takes just a few minutes to click the wheels and bumper bar into place. It also comes with a parent cupholder and back pocket to help keep your hands free throughout your journey. We did note that the cargo area is the perfect size for a small tote bag or purse, but it may not be large enough to fit diaper bags or weekender bags.

We love that this stroller comes with a removable seat liner that can be thrown in the washing machine after a trip to keep clean and fresh. The canopy can also be unzipped to expand and it has a peek-a-boo feature on top so you can check on your child without stopping. This stroller is also easy to push around on every type of terrain — especially around tight corners. The stroller is light enough to lift up stairs, but we do recommend you use two hands when carrying down the stairs. When it's time to disassemble the stroller, simply press a button on the handlebar and bend the stroller forward. It’s so easy we didn’t even need instructions to figure out how to do it. You can even fold and unfold this one-handed, perfect for on-the-go travels.

The Details : 13 pounds | 41 x 30 x 18 inches assembled | 22 x 19 x 10 inches folded | 45 pounds weight limit

Most Adjustable

Thule shine.

• Design 4.2 /5
• Durability 4.8 /5

Assembly is quick and easy, perfect for first-time parents.

It can be hard to turn on sharp corners.

For such a compact stroller, the Thule Shine has plenty of storage, an expandable canopy with UPF 50+ protection, a reclining seat, and adjustable leg rests — everything you need for a busy parent and growing youngster to travel comfortably. We love the fast assembly of this stroller and the security of knowing everything clicks together when positioned and popped in correctly. There is an adjustable handlebar that is super easy to figure out, an extra rain canopy that you can pack and bring with you, and it is so easy to fold down. The harness does need to be clipped in a specific order before it can be fully buckled, which might become difficult with a fussy child, but we did find the seat to be comfortable and loved that it was extremely adjustable.

During our tests, it only suffered minimal scuffing and we never felt as though it would tip or fall while maneuvering through an obstacle course. We were able to fold the stroller with just one hand, but it was difficult to get it fully locked into the travel position without using two hands. It does stand upright once folded, so you can pop it down quickly for storage, whether you're coming back home and stashing it in a closet or boarding a plane. The stroller also fits easily into car trunks, but is most suitable for gate checking and is not likely to fit in overhead airplane bins. Overall, the stroller felt durable and was light enough that most parents would be able to carry it when needed. We felt like it would last through at least a couple of kids should your family use it multiple times, which is perfect for growing families.

The Details : 21.6 pounds | 35 x 42 x 20 inches assembled | 13 x 27 x 20 inches folded | 49 pounds weight limit

Other Travel Strollers We Liked

Some of the travel strollers we tested did not make our list of recommendations. They all had positive attributes, but a few things held them back.

Summer Infant 3DLite : This is a decent budget option, but the price-to-performance ratio was just not quite as good as the Kolcraft Cloud Plus.

Doona Infant Car Seat and Latch Base : The easy-to-maneuver pick collapses into a car seat but the use case for this is too specific to pay as much as it costs, and many other stroller frames can fit a car seat.

Gb Pockit Air All Terrain : This one is incredibly light and folds easily, but there are basically zero features.

Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Stroller : While this is a sleek and stylish option, i t's not easy to carry, and the canopy adjustment makes a lot of noise, which could wake up a sleeping baby.

Munchkin Sparrow : The lightweight design is smart and thoughtful, but everything from the canopy to the storage bin is simply too small. 

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Once we fully assembled all strollers in our New York City testing lab, we measured their height, length, and width, both fully opened and fully folded down. We also weighed each one, since weight is a particularly important aspect if anyone will be carrying the stroller during a trip. Then after carefully reading instructions, we repeatedly folded and unfolded each stroller. We took copious notes to record whether the folding process was intuitive and easy to execute. We considered how difficult it would be to do with a baby in one arm or with a whiny toddler pulling at our legs.

While each stroller was in its most compact setup, we tested it for portability. Is it easy to pick up? Comfortable to carry? Are there good handles and straps? Is it compact enough to fit in an airplane overhead bin (we constructed our own makeshift one according to standard airline measurements using a storage rack and a box). We recorded all this and more.

Next we carefully examined each stroller for included features. We looked for seat reclining and cushioning, cup holders, baskets and other storage space, canopy cover for protection from the weather, seat cushioning and reclining, and more. We tried the features out and took detailed notes on whether they were functional and helpful. We also practiced buckling and unbuckling the straps.

Then we put 25-pound sandbags in every stroller. We wheeled them forward and backward over hard floor, carpet, and gravel. We practiced U-turns and pivots and even wheeled them through a miniature obstacle course of cones. We also noted how well the brakes worked and if they were easy to engage.

Finally, we gave all of the strollers a durability test. We dropped each one from waist height and then pushed each off of a table slightly higher than that. We examined each after the falls to see if there was any damage.

After completing our lab tests, we sent each stroller out to real families to use these strollers over a period of six months to really put them to the test. Throughout the testing period, we asked how each stroller was holding up in terms of durability, comfort, portability, and more and updated our findings here.

Tips for Buying a Travel Stroller

Consider the types of travel strollers.

Not all travel strollers are designed with the same priorities in mind. Some may emphasize a lightweight and packable style while others are focused on maneuverability or durability. There are umbrella strollers, that are best for toddlers, but light enough for travel; jogging strollers with advanced suspension for smooth rides; and even full-sized strollers that may not seem best for air travel, but often include great features like storage compartments and padded seats when portability is less of an issue. When it comes to selecting the best travel stroller for your family, think about portability and convenience, but don't forget about comfort and bonus accessories to make your trip a smooth and unforgettable experience.

Pay attention to folded size

The biggest differentiator between a regular stroller and a travel stroller is that a travel stroller should pack up more compactly. You'll want it to fit easily into car trunks or train/airplane compartments without taking up much space. The Joolz Aer , our top pick, folds down to 8.5 (height) x 21 (length) x 17.75 (width) inches. That's a good guide for a stroller that will fit nicely into the aforementioned compartments.

Remember storage space and other features

Just because your travel stroller might be a smaller and more scaled-down version of your everyday stroller, you shouldn't have to suffer from a lack of convenience. Good travel strollers still offer some storage space for small bags, toys, snacks, etc. Remember, you can always add a drink caddy for both your stroller and luggage. The seat for your baby should be padded and comfortable and able to recline; keep an eye out for a canopy that offers good coverage and buckles and straps that are easy to use. So, while compact folding and good portability are what make a travel stroller a travel stroller, be sure to look closely at the other features a stroller does (or does not) include.

Prioritize comfort and safety

At the end of the day, your stroller needs to be safe and comfortable for your child. Check for good, padded seats that recline. Make sure the straps don't look like they'd cut into your baby's shoulder or chest, and take note if there are leg rests. Note if the wheels can handle different surfaces well enough to keep the stroller from shaking and rattling too much.

If you can fit it in the overhead, you can bring it on board. If you have an umbrella model or are using your regular (non-travel) stroller, your best bet is to gate check it. But many travel strollers fold down so compactly that they fit easily into an overhead bin. In general, carry-on luggage should be 45 linear inches (22 x 14 x 9 inches) or less. You can reference the FAA website for more guidance.

In short, a travel stroller is lighter than an everyday stroller and folds down far smaller. This means that the frames are usually thinner and have several folding joints, and the wheels will be smaller and less suited for rough terrain. Storage space, cup holders, and other accessories will usually be kept to a minimum. But a good travel stroller should give you everything you really need and even function well enough to be used every day — all while folding down nice and small and being easy to carry or pack away.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Chris Abell is the Associate Editorial Director at Travel + Leisure , and he is a parent and frequent traveler. He's owned the Uppababy G-Luxe and the Joolz Aer, and he helped design and execute the testing for all the strollers on this list. Chris and associate commerce editor Hillary Maglin worked with a team of other editors and parents to test these strollers in our New York City lab space.

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Air Compact Stroller

Style Number: AIRSTROLLER

• Dispatch within 3-4 days

Product details

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A one hand open and fold compact, lightweight stroller  This super lightweight design is suitable from newborn to 18kg – travel system compatible and fits most airlines’ cabin luggage. The seat includes luxury features for your baby including a larger seat for growing toddlers, beautiful luxury washable textiles, leatherette bumper bar and handle bar, storage basket for your shopping needs and a carry bag for travelling. The powder coated aluminium frame is strong and stable and it is tested to 18kg. Fully adjustable recline positions for your newborn baby starting from lay flat. The Babyhood Air Compact Stroller is lightweight and easy to carry, at just 5.7kg (excluding wheels).

Dispatches within 4 working days from via signed courier. A tracking link will be emailed once dispatched. Change of mind exchanges and refunds are not accepted for this product. See Delivery & Returns for more information on exchanging items.

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The 7 best travel strollers, according to parents who use them.

A quality travel stroller makes a world of difference when traveling with little ones.

The Best Travel Strollers

Courtesy of Joolz

The Joolz Aer is the best overall travel stroller on the market.

When traveling with babies and toddlers , having the right gear – especially an easy-to-maneuver travel stroller – is essential. If you're in the market for a stroller you can take on the plane, train and beyond, read on to find the best option for your family as recommended by parents.

The Top Travel Strollers of 2023

Best overall travel stroller: joolz aer, best umbrella stroller for travel: uppababy minu v2, best double stroller for travel: uppababy g-link 2, best travel stroller for big kids: evenflo pivot xplore all-terrain stroller wagon, best travel stroller for infants: doona car seat & stroller, best travel system stroller: nuna trvl stroller, best budget travel stroller: summer 3dlite convenience stroller.

Looking for more information on how to select your ideal travel stroller? Consult the FAQ section at the bottom of this page.

(Note: All stroller dimensions are listed in order of length by width by height.)

Folded dimensions: 21 x 17.7 x 8.5 inches Stroller weight: 13.4 pounds Minimum child age: 6 months Maximum child weight: 50 pounds

When it comes to quality travel strollers, the Joolz Aer is the best investment you can make. Not only does this stroller's lightweight and compact design make it easy to store in the overhead compartment of a plane, but it also opens and closes with a one-handed motion – an essential feature for multitasking parents. Little ones travel comfortably and safely thanks to a five-point harness, extended seatback and adjustable recline, as well as a rain cover. Available in six modern colors – from sage green to taupe – the Joolz Aer also comes with a stroller bag. Parents rave about this travel stroller, with some noting they prefer it to the highly rated BABYZEN YOYO2.

The Joolz Aer is designed for babies 6 months and older; it can be used from birth with select infant car seats, secured by a car seat adaptor you'll need to purchase separately.

Price: $449 or less Shop now: Amazon | buy buy Baby | Nordstrom | Joolz

Courtesy of UPPAbaby

Folded dimensions: 12.5 x 20.3 x 23 inches Stroller weight: 16.9 pounds Minimum child age: 3 months Maximum child weight: 50 pounds

If you're looking for an umbrella-style stroller for travel, consider the UPPAbaby MINU. Its latest model, the V2, features a swift, one-handed setup; a five-point harness; an adjustable recline and foot rest; an extendable canopy with UPF 50+ protection; and a vented peekaboo window. It's also equipped with a generously sized storage basket that can hold up to 20 pounds of additional items. While the MINU is recommended for babies at least 3 months old, you can use this even sooner with UPPAbaby's Mesa Infant Car Seat and adaptors, or with adaptors for other car seats.

Terry Ward, a Florida-based travel writer and co-founder of Florida Beyond , still raves about this travel stroller, which her kids recently outgrew. "I loved the MINU so much that it became my go-to stroller at home, too," she says, adding that it has a great resale value. "I sold it for more than half of what I bought it for after three years – these strollers are really in demand."

The UPPAbaby MINU V2 is available in five color variations and features a stylish full-grain leather bumper bar and handlebar.

Price: $449.99 or less Shop now: buy buy Baby | UPPAbaby

Folded dimensions: 40 x 20 x 14.5 inches Stroller weight: 22.3 pounds Minimum child age: 3 months Maximum child weight: 55 pounds per seat

If you have twins or two stroller-age kiddos and need a tandem stroller for travel, the UPPAbaby G-LINK 2 is a solid choice. Available in charcoal and black, this highly rated double stroller offers two UPF 50+ canopies and independent, multiposition reclining seats. Like the UPPAbaby MINU, this one is a cinch to set up and maneuver, and it features an easy-to-access storage basket that accommodates up to 10 pounds. There's also a sturdy cup holder for that must-have caffeine boost.

Reviewers note that the G-LINK 2 is surprisingly compact given its double capacity, and that it's also ideal for tall toddlers.

Price: $349.99 or less Shop now: Amazon | buy buy Baby | UPPAbaby

Courtesy of Evenflo

Folded dimensions: 23 x 27.5 x 37.5 inches Stroller weight: 34.7 pounds Minimum child age: 6 months Maximum child weight: 55 pounds per seat

Another great travel stroller for two kids or older kids (up to age 5) is the Evenflo Pivot Xplore All-Terrain Stroller Wagon, which has two seats and can be used as a wagon or a stroller depending on your needs and destination. Its all-terrain wheels make it ideal for navigating any landscape – from cobblestone streets to sandy beaches – and a large storage basket and cup holders allow you to easily pack additional travel necessities. "It's basically a portable U-Haul for anything else you're dragging along," says Ward, who upgraded to the Xplore when her kids outgrew the UPPAbaby MINU. It also has an adjustable canopy for protection from the elements.

Price: $399.99 or less Shop now: Amazon | buy buy Baby | Evenflo | Target

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Courtesy of Doona

Folded dimensions: 23.6 x 17.3 x 26 inches Stroller weight: 17.2 pounds Minimum child age: None; can be used from birth with infant insert Maximum child weight: 35 pounds

When it comes to travel strollers, nothing quite compares to the Doona Car Seat & Stroller, which is exactly what it sounds like: a (genius) car seat and stroller in one. Aside from its magical ability to transform from a car seat to a stroller and vice versa in seconds, this travel stroller features a five-point harness, an adjustable handlebar and removable textiles for easy (inevitable) washing. It is Federal Aviation Administration aircraft-approved to fit in most overhead bins and comes in a variety of colors.

Angela Burks of La Vida Mom loves how easy it is to travel with the Doona Car Seat & Stroller. "I like that I don't have to worry about getting an additional car seat for a car service or rental when I arrive at the airport," she says. Another bonus? It doesn't require a car seat base.

The only downsides of this travel stroller are that your child will outgrow it when they hit 35 pounds in weight and/or 32 inches in height, and its hefty price tag given these limitations.

Price: $550.99 or less Shop now: Amazon | Doona | Target

Getty Images

Folded dimensions: 24 x 20.25 x 11 inches (without arm bar) Stroller weight: 13.6 pounds (without canopy and arm bar) Minimum child age: None; can be used from birth with infant car seat Maximum child weight: 50 pounds

If you're looking for a travel system stroller that'll grow with your baby, you can't beat the Nuna TRVL Stroller. The Nuna PIPA series car seat clicks right into the stroller – no adaptors necessary – and can then be removed when your little one is old enough to sit upright in the stroller seat. This luxury stroller features a five-point harness with magnetic technology, a multiposition reclining seat, adjustable calf support, a removable and adjustable arm bar, and a UPF 50+ canopy. Like some of the other travel strollers on this list, this product easily opens and closes with a one-handed motion and comes with a carrying bag. It is also certified GREENGUARD Gold and free of harmful chemicals.

Price: $500 or less Shop now: Nordstrom | Nuna

Courtesy of Summer

Folded dimensions: 42 x 11.5 x 12.5 inches Stroller weight: 13 pounds Minimum child age: 6 months Maximum child weight: 50 pounds

You get what you pay for in many situations, but parents say they're impressed with the Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller given its cheap price tag, noting it has seamlessly navigated bumpy streets in Europe , Disney theme parks and other family vacation destinations. This easy-to-assemble travel stroller features a carry strap (useful for schlepping it when not in use), five-point safety harness, four reclining positions, and an adjustable and removable canopy. It also has a storage basket and cup holder, and comes in four colors.

Price: $99.99 or less Shop now: Amazon | Walmart | Summer

[Read: The Top Kids Luggage .]

How to travel with a stroller and car seat

Perhaps the easiest way to travel with a stroller and car seat is to invest in the two-in-one Doona Car Seat & Stroller , which can be used for children up to about 35 pounds and stored in the overhead bin of a plane. However, other travel stroller systems can also ease the burden of all that gear – especially for those traveling with infants. Here's how to travel with a stroller and car seat in the following situations:

If your baby is in an infant car seat: Simply attach a compatible infant car seat to your everyday or travel-specific stroller and wheel your baby through the airport. When you arrive at the gate, check your car seat and stroller free of charge. (Children 2 and younger can fly for free as lap children on most airlines.) If you'd like to purchase a seat for your baby and bring your car seat on the plane – recommended by the FAA and American Academy of Pediatrics – you'll need to ensure it is FAA-compliant . Alternatively, you can wear your baby in a carrier and use the car seat and/or stroller for storage.

If your baby is not in an infant car seat: If your child is somewhere between an infant and a toddler but no longer uses an infant car seat at home, you can technically get by without a car seat since they can ride through the airport in a stroller or carrier and then sit on your lap during the flight if they are younger than 2. However, you'll need to rent or borrow a car seat when you arrive at your destination.

If you have a toddler older than 2: Children are not legally required to have a car seat for air travel, though it's still recommended by the FAA and AAP (and you will likely need one when you get to your final destination anyway). It's easiest to wheel your child in the travel stroller and transport your FAA-compliant car seat by simply carrying it (not preferable, of course) or using one of the following assists:

• Travel cart: Most luggage carts (including the ones offered at the airport) cannot go through security, so look for a foldable travel cart – this one by HÖLM is a good option – that can easily be placed on the security screening belt and then used to transport your belongings to the gate.
• Car seat luggage strap: Strap the car seat to your carry-on bag with a heavy duty luggage strap like this one .
• Car seat backpack: You can free up your hands by wearing a car seat backpack .

If your toddler won't sit in the stroller: Use your stroller as a travel cart instead – strap the car seat and anything else you can get on there. Once you get to the gate, you can either check your car seat (typically free of charge) or bring it with you on board.

Travel Stroller FAQ

Deciding whether you need a travel stroller is an entirely personal decision. Some people are content to travel with the stroller they use at home, while many prefer travel strollers since they are typically less bulky than their everyday counterparts.

No, a stroller can typically be checked at the gate free of charge and picked up on the jet bridge post-flight. It's always best to review your airline's stroller policies before flying, however.

Yes. Simply put it on the X-ray belt with the rest of your belongings.

The Joolz Aer and Doona Car Seat & Stroller can fit in most overhead bins. However, it may be easier to gate check your stroller (typically for free) so you have less to carry on to the plane.

While a stroller bag is not required, it can be useful for protecting your stroller from potential dirt and damage if it needs to be checked at the gate, as well as storing additional items – think: diapers (which can double as extra padding), wipes and other small essentials. Some travel strollers come with a branded stroller bag, but if you'd like a different option, check out these highly rated bags:

• Zohzo Stroller Travel Bag
• J.L. Childress Gate Check Travel Bag
• Gate Check PRO Stroller Bag

Disney World requires that both single and double strollers do not exceed 52 x 31 inches (length by width) when fully assembled. Below are the best strollers for Disney World that meet these requirements (listed with unfolded dimensions in inches):

• Joolz Aer : 32.7 x 17.7
• UPPAbaby MINU V2 : 35.5 x 20.3
• UPPAbaby G-LINK 2 : 27.5 x 28.5
• Doona Car Seat & Stroller : 32.3 x 17.4
• Nuna TRVL Stroller : 32.5 x 20.25
• Summer 3D Lite Convenience Stroller : 27 x 18

The UPPAbaby strollers and Nuna TRVL Stroller are especially ideal for Disney parks since they offer UPF 50+ canopies for protection from the sun. Wagons are prohibited entirely.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Amanda Norcross used her personal experience as a frequently traveling mom, as well as her research skills and conversations with other parents, to determine which travel strollers are truly the best. She first traveled with her infant in a front carrier before transitioning to the Joolz Aer , which she's successfully used on multiple flights with her growing toddler.

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12 Best Strollers for Airplane Travel

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We started traveling when our son was eight weeks old (due to a family emergency), and we’ve been on the go since then. Over the years, we’ve gone through several strollers, so it was only right we write a buying guide on the best strollers for airplane travel.

Disclosure: Kindly be aware that certain links provided below may be affiliate links. If you decide to purchase through these links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. It’s important to note that I am an Amazon Associate and earn from qualifying purchases. For the comprehensive disclosure statement, please click here .

As we approach three years of traveling full-time with our toddler, we have accumulated a lot of knowledge over the years.

Over the last four years, we’ve had five strollers, so we thought we’d share the things to look for when looking for a baby stroller for air travel.

Related Post: Most Compact Strollers for Travel

Table of Contents

Quick Picks: Our Favorite Strollers for Flying

• Best Overall Stroller for Airplane Travel – GB Pockit+ All Terrain
• Airplane Stroller for Toddlers – Ergobaby Metro+
• Best Double Stroller for Airplane Travel – Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller
• Budget-Friendly Option – Safety 1st Teeny Compact Stroller
• Luxury Travel Stroller – BabyZen YoYo2

Cabin-Size Stroller Comparison Table

Last update on 2024-04-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

4 Best Travel Strollers for Flying (That Fit in Overhead Compartment)

After a long flight with a toddler or baby , the last thing you want to do is wait for your stroller while trying to wrangle your toddler or hold your baby.

It can be even more frustrating when your stroller is not at the airplane but taken to baggage claim (Liberia Airport in Costa Rica ), so you go through the airport holding your baby or slowly walking with your toddler.

The strollers in this section fit in the overhead compartment, so you can quickly get off the plane without waiting for your little one’s stroller.

Related Post: Best Travel Beds for Toddlers

CYBEX Libelle Stroller

The CYBEX Libelle Stroller is one of the most company travel strollers for babies and toddlers. This airplane travel stroller has everything you need from birth to toddler years.

If you are a family on the go, this stroller folds small enough to fit in an overhead compartment on airplanes. No more waiting for your stroller after getting off the plane, so you and your little one can be on your way.

You will love how lightweight this stroller is at only 13 lbs, making it the perfect stroller for flying with a baby, especially if you are flying alone.

The front wheel suspension system makes the ride as smooth as ever, so whether you are at the airport or on the streets of London, your little one can ride comfortably.

If you are used to a stroller with a curved handlebar, this will be an adjustment, but you can push this stroller with one hand.

Although the price is a little high, the weight capacity for this stroller is 55 lbs, so little ones as old as five or six can ride in this stroller.

A few things to note about this stroller are that it is only compatible with CYBEX infant car seats, there is a learning curve to fold and open the stroller, and the storage area is small, so don’t expect a large diaper bag to fit under the stroller.

Be careful hanging things from this stroller. Since it is lightweight, the stroller is not heavy enough to counter the weight on the back of the stroller.

Trust us, we tried to attach our son’s diaper bag to a model similar to this, and the stroller tipped backward.

Overall, if you are looking for the best travel stroller for flying, then the CYBEX Libelle Stroller is one of the better options.

• Very compact
• Large sun canopy
• Fits infant car seat
• High weight capacity
• Easy to open
• Learning curve (to fold)
• Small storage space

Related Post: 12 Tips for Traveling with Toddlers

GB Pockit+ All-Terrain

We recently purchased the GB Pockit+ All-Terrain to replace our Zoe Stroller, which our now four-year-old has outgrown.

We’ve been using it for two months in Costa Rica , so we have a full review coming soon, especially since we are heading to Europe in January, where we will put it to the test on cobblestone streets.

The GB Pockit is one of the original compact strollers for airplane travel. This stroller changed the industry by offering a lightweight and compact stroller for traveling families .

We love the all-terrain model because, in our opinion, it is one of the best travel strollers for flying. It has everything you need to fly with a baby.

This airplane travel stroller has eight wheels, making it easier to push on rough terrain or uneven streets. That’s why we think it’s one of the best strollers for airplane travel.

Unlike the original model, this version has a larger sun canopy, reclines, and better cushioning for a more comfortable ride. If your little one naps on the go, this is one of our favorite airplane strollers for travel.

This stroller maneuvers easier than other strollers, making it great for wheeling a suitcase while pushing your baby or toddler.

I will say from personal experience that this stroller can be hard to fold. Although it’s very compact, folding it is beyond annoying.

You can fold it with the wheels tucked in to be more compact or leave the back wheels extended, but if you plan on putting it in the overhead compartment on an airplane, tucking the wheels in is the best option.

I practiced at the gate a few times before getting on the airplane because we purchased the stroller a few days before leaving for La Fortuna, Costa Rica.

This stroller is lightweight, so you cannot hang anything heavy from the handlebars. That’s one of the things we loved about our Zoe Stroller .

The storage basket is small, which is expected when looking for the best stroller to fly with a baby or toddler.

So far, we like this airplane travel stroller. We’ll be sure to include everything in our full review after we get settled in Portugal .

• Easy to maneuver
• Double wheels
• Compatible with CYBEX car seats
• Difficult to fold
• Small sun canopy

Related Post: Our Baby Travel First-Aid Kit

Munchkin Sparrow Compact Stroller

The Munchkin Sparrow Compact Stroller is one of the newest airline-friendly strollers on the market. There aren’t many reviews, but I included it on our list of the best strollers for airplane travel because of its affordability.

The Munchkin Sparrow is the most affordable stroller for air travel on our list, making it the perfect option for budget-conscious families.

The high weight capacity (55 lbs.) ensures you get your money’s worth as your little one grows from a baby to a toddler.

If you live in a hot climate, you can use this stroller daily, as it has breathable mesh to keep your baby cool on hot summer days or for a nice walk along the beach .

Although this stroller isn’t one of the most well-known, it easily fits inside an airplane overhead compartment, making it the best value stroller for traveling by plane.

Unlike the other strollers on our list, this umbrella stroller for air travel includes a carrying bag. The bag protects your stroller, making it easy to load and unload on and off the airplane.

One of the downsides of this cabin-size stroller is the sun canopy. The sun canopy on this carry-on stroller is the smallest on our list.

If you are looking for an affordable alternative to the original GB Pockit, the Munchkin Sparrow stroller is perfect for your next flight.

• Very lightweight
• Breathable mesh
• Includes carrying bag
• Easy to fold
• Short for taller parents
• Small storage basket

BabyZen YoYo2

The BabyZen YoYo2 is one of the most popular strollers for flying. We plan to purchase this stroller for our next little one in the next year or so.

This high-end compact airplane stroller has everything your little one needs to relax on the go. This bundle includes a shoulder strap and storage bag, making carrying it through an airport or on an airplane an easy task with a baby in tow.

Some features parents love about this airplane stroller are the padded handlebar, one-hand fold, tether strap, back pocket for additional storage, and trademarked suspension system.

Along with these features, the BabyZen Yoyo offers the ultimate comfort for babies and toddlers.

The canopy is treated with waterproofing, which allows your little one to stay dry during a downpour, which is essential if you are heading to Disney World with a toddler .

If you are looking for an airplane travel stroller that’ll last from birth to five years old, the BabyZen YoYo is a good investment for traveling families.

Even if you aren’t a frequent traveler, many parents use this as their everyday stroller for errands or to walk around the neighborhood.

I hope to purchase this stroller as our next airplane travel stroller for our next adventure as parents of two. We will keep you posted and write a review if we decide to get this high-end stroller.

• Comfortable
• Includes shoulder strap
• Additional storage pockets
• Easy fold and unfold
• Padded handlebar
• Waterproof canopy
• Additional accessories included
• Lower weight capacity
• Accessories are expensive to purchase

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Airport Stroller Comparison Table

4 Best Strollers for Flying with Toddlers

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Ergobaby Metro+

The Ergobaby Metro+ is our favorite traveling stroller for families with taller toddlers or preschoolers who refuse to walk long distances (like ours). The weight limit for this stroller is 50 lbs, so you’ll get more lifetime use for the price.

The Metro+ is one of the travel strollers that grows with your baby. Easily attach a compatible car seat to the stroller for babies under six months old and transition to the stroller for their toddler and preschool years.

The spring suspension system makes the ride less bumpy for those long walks or your next family trip to Europe, which is hell on strollers (thanks to the cobblestone, which is nice to look at but not functional).

There is mesh for additional airflow to keep your little one cool on those hot summer days or on your next trip to  Disney World . Plus, there is an additional storage pocket in the back for small items.

For tall parents, the handlebar is adjustable, so no more hunching over to push your toddler through the airport. With an extension of over four inches, from 37 inches to as much as 41 inches, your back will love this compact travel stroller.

Overall, it’s easy to see why this is our favorite stroller for traveling with toddlers, especially if your little one is under two years old.

Note: Belly bars are available separately for toddlers that like to jump out of their strollers. That was our son when he learned how to unclip himself.

• High weight limit
• Fits in overhead bin
• Deep recline
• Spring suspension system
• Rainshield (included)
• Adjustable handlebar
• Accessories are expensive
• Storage opening in front

Metro+ Accessories

GB Pockit+ All City

• Ultra compact
• Lightweight

Related Post: 10 Best Sun Hats for Toddlers

Baby Jogger® City Tour

• One-step fold

Safety 1st Teeny

Related Post: Best Double Strollers for Travel

Double Strollers for Flying Comparison Table

Best Double Strollers for Traveling on an Airplane

We always include a section for parents with multiple little ones. Many bloggers leave out double strollers, but we want to provide recommendations for everyone.

The best airplane travel strollers in this list are lightweight double strollers that make traveling with multiple little ones easier.

The airplane double strollers in this section are lightweight, easy to fold, easy to maneuver, and affordable.

Summer 3Dpac CS+

The Summer 3Dpac CS+ is the lightest double stroller on our list for flying with kids. Along with being lightweight, it is a very affordable option for families on a budget.

For parents of an infant and toddler, this double stroller is the best for airplane travel . Infant car seats are compatible without an adapter, so your baby and toddler can ride together.

What I love about this stroller is the extra storage. There is storage underneath the stroller, but there are additional storage pockets behind each seat, making it easy to get to anything you need.

Another feature that I love about this stroller is the single brake pedal. Locking both wheels is annoying, so the single brake is perfect for busy parents, especially at the airport.

Each seat holds up to 50 lbs, so little ones of different ages can use this stroller for trips to long walks or theme parks .

The sun canopy on this stroller is smaller than I’d like. It doesn’t provide adequate shade for little ones compared to the other strollers on our list.

Overall, this is one of the best double strollers for airplane travel with infants and toddlers.

• Car seat compatable
• Attached parent cupholder
• Large storage capacity
• Can be difficult to fold
• Short sun canopy

Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller

Although the Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller is a little pricey, parents love this compact double stroller for traveling with little ones.

If you are looking for a stroller that’ll last several years, this is the airplane stroller for you. Although it is larger than some of the other strollers on our list, it folds more compactly than other double strollers on the market.

There are so many features to love about this airplane travel stroller. Each seat holds up to 50 lb., making this stroller perfect for toddlers up to four years old.

The most popular features include the additional storage pockets, one-step brake, large sun canopy, wide seats, large wheels, and one-hand folding.

Unlike the other strollers on our list, this stroller can handle an astounding 22 lbs of storage. This is not only perfect for getting around the airport, but this can be your everyday stroller for errands or walks around the neighborhood.

Many parents rave about this stroller’s maneuverability, which is essential when traveling with little ones. Also, it takes up less room; you will have more space in your trunk or garage compared to other double strollers.

Overall, if you are looking for a stroller for the long haul, the Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller is the best stroller for flying with babies and toddlers.

• Water repellant canopies
• One-Step Linked Brake
• 2-Year Warranty Guarantee

Related Post: The Best Baby Carriers for Travel

Jeep Destination Ultralight

The Jeep Destination Ultralight S t roller is perfect for families flying with little ones under three years old. Each seat holds up to 40 lbs, so it can last your little ones from as young as six months to four years old, depending on your child’s weight.

The large wheels make it perfect for a  family trip to Europe   or a hike through rough terrain. The back wheels have spring suspension for a more comfortable ride.

Unlike some of the other airplane strollers on our list, the storage basket is large enough to fit everything you need to explore with your little ones.

If you have an active little one, the belly bar is perfect for keeping them safe on the move. They can easily swing out to put your baby in or take them out of the stroller.

For little ones that still need a nap, the footrest is adjustable for your toddler to get comfortable for naptime. Each seat reclines independently, so one kid can sleep while the other plays or rides along.

One of the few complaints about this stroller is the quality of the seatbelt straps. Other travel strollers have more comfortable material, which can get uncomfortable after long periods.

Overall, if you are looking for a travel stroller that can double as your everyday stroller for errands, the Jeep Destination Ultralight stroller is an affordable option.

• Includes stroller carrying strap
• Large wheels
• Maneuvers well
• Swing out belly bars
• Shock-absorbing suspension
• Nylon straps are uncomfortable

Related Post: 10 Countries in Europe to Visit with Toddlers

Mompush Lithe Double Stroller

The Mompush Lithe Double Stroller is an affordable double-stroller for the infrequent traveler. You can use this stroller on walks around the neighborhood, for errands, or to visit theme parks.

Although this brand isn’t a household name, it is one of the lightest functional double strollers on the market for airplane travel.

The all-wheel suspension system makes it a smooth ride for little ones, even on rough terrain, which makes it one of the better options for traveling in Europe.

There are a few cons with this stroller, like any other item. Although the Mompush Lithe Double Stroller is a great overall stroller for flying with little ones, it may not fit the needs of every family.

One of the most noticeable differences between this stroller and the other travel strollers on our list is the size of the seats. The seats on this stroller are more narrow compared to other travel strollers.

• Extra storage
• Includes rain shield
• All-wheel suspension system
• Small/narrow seats
• Upright position has awkward recline

How to Choose the Best Travel Strollers for Air Travel

We know how much of an investment a stroller can be, especially when you have multiple little ones.

There are a lot of things to consider when it comes to choosing the best airplane stroller.

We’ve gone through a few different strollers over the year while traveling, and here is everything we look for when finding the best stroller for plane travel.

There is no particular order, but we look at affordability, ease of folding, maneuverability, weight, size, and the available accessories.

Easy to Fold

As a mom that’s traveled to over 12 countries with a baby (and now toddler), one of the most annoying things about strollers is folding them.

I’ve watched grandparents, dads, aunts, and uncles struggle to fold strollers over the years, and I understand their frustration.

Traveling with a little one is stressful enough, so one of the most important things when looking for the best stroller for airplane travel is how easy it is to fold.

If you purchase a new stroller before traveling, I highly recommend practicing how to fold it at the gate before boarding the plane.

When we purchased the GB Pockit+ All-Terrain, I practiced at the gate for over 20 minutes to save myself the headache of trying to close it before boarding the plane.

We all know kids are expensive, especially when they are young. Strollers can range from a hundred to over a thousand dollars, depending on your needs.

Our buying guides help parents find the best travel gear for their little ones at an affordable price. Of course, affordability depends on your situation, so we include items in all price ranges.

The best strollers for airplane travel are between $200-$350 if you are looking for an airplane-friendly stroller that will last a few years.

Maneuverability

When traveling with a stroller, you will encounter different terrain, especially if you plan on traveling throughout Europe.

The best travel strollers have durable wheels that can withstand cobblestone, cracked sidewalks, and uneven pavement.

You need an agile stroller that is easy to push, especially if you are walking through an airport with a suitcase.

Travel strollers are lighter than traditional strollers, making them easy to push with one hand if needed.

Lightweight strollers are perfect for traveling because they are easy to maneuver for airplanes, trains, taxis, etc.

Some airlines have policies for stroller weight. Lighter strollers mean less hassle and frustration when traveling with little ones.

I do not recommend a single stroller over 15 lbs or a double stroller over 30 lbs for flying with young children.

Size (Dimensions)

The size of your travel stroller is crucial if you plan on storing it in the overhead airplane compartment. The standard carry-on size in the US is 22”x14”x9”, with slight variations between airlines.

International airlines have slightly different standards, but the US guidelines are a decent standard to use when traveling.

Most airlines allow you to bring your stroller onboard the airplane if it meets the carry-on restrictions and is properly folded to no longer resemble a stroller.

Accessories

Unlike regular strollers, most travel strollers do not include additional accessories.

A few airline-friendly strollers on our list include a parent cup holder, carrying bag, or shoulder strap to make traveling with your little one easier.

Although this isn’t a deal breaker, it is nice to have a few extra things included when spending a few hundred dollars on a lightweight travel stroller.

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Best Review

Top 5 Best Travel Strollers in NZ

Travelling with a baby is a journey to prepare for. The process of getting your baby ready to travel with you can be a stressful one. You have to think about all the things you will need for your baby, from the car seat to the stroller. To make your life easier, you will want to invest in a quality stroller.

The best infant travel strollers are lightweight, easy to use and comfortable, making them a must-have item for any parent. A good travel stroller will protect your baby from the elements while you are travelling.

The best infant travel strollers are available in a variety of models and styles. Some are designed to work with car seats while others have an additional feature of using the stroller as a regular buggy. So, It will be confusing for you to select one from the many options available in the market.

In this blog, we are going to identify the best travel strollers and also discuss some of the factors that you need to consider before investing in a travel stroller.

Best Baby Bouncers in NZ

Table of Contents

How to choose the Best Travel Stroller

The best travel strollers are those that have a lightweight and compact design. They are also made of durable materials and are easy to manoeuvre. The following are some tips to help you choose the best infant travel stroller:

Size: The size of your stroller will also depend on the age of your baby. For newborns, you will want a lightweight stroller with a compact design that you can use as a car seat once your child grows older. Heavy-duty strollers are often used by parents who have older children. When using it as a car seat, make sure that it has enough space for the baby to sit down and be comfortable.

Comfort: Your baby is going to be sitting in her stroller for a long time, so you will want to ensure that it is as comfortable as possible. Your baby’s comfort depends on the quality of the cushions, suspension and padding.

Storage: This is the most important factor to consider. You will want to get a stroller that has a large storage area for storing things such as diapers, wipes and blankets. Being able to store enough supplies for your baby is essential when you are travelling with your child.

Weight: Getting a lightweight stroller will make it easier for you to travel with your baby. Most good quality travel strollers weigh around 7-8kg.

Material: The materials used to make the stroller will also affect your baby’s comfort. Most good quality travel strollers are made of sturdy material that is resistant to mould, moisture and rust.

Compact Design: You will want a stroller that has an easy to close and open design. You should be able to fold and unfold the stroller with ease.

Wheels: You will want a stroller that has wheels that are large and stable enough for use. The best travel strollers have wheels that are the right size for use in different levels of terrain. Usually, the rear wheels have a larger diameter than the front ones.

Canopy: Your child needs protection from the sun and wind while you are travelling. Because not all car seats have a canopy, you will want to have one in your travel stroller.

Best Baby Food Makers in NZ

The Best Travel Strollers NZ

1. bebe care mira stroller.

The Bebe Care Mira Stroller is a perfect choice for your little one. It’s made of a lightweight steel frame and has a compact umbrella fold. The five-position fully reclining seat allows your baby to sit comfortably as they grow. The seat extension is adjustable as well, so you can adjust it according to how old your child gets. 

There’s also a large extendable hood with a rear window that helps provide shade and protection from the rain or sun. In addition, the swivel lockable front wheels make it easy to navigate through tight spaces on sidewalks and in stores, while the rear independent brakes make it easy to stop quickly if necessary. Plus, there are safety harnesses with quick release shoulder straps in case of an emergency.

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2. Deluxe Baby Stroller Pram 

The Deluxe Baby Stroller Pram is lightweight aluminium material with a stylish and elegant design. This stroller has an infinite recline which provides your little one with ultimate comfort and relaxation. The one-touch double brakes with shockproof wheels provide for a smooth ride for your little ones with all-terrain capabilities. 

The versatile cruiser tires give your baby the freedom to explore new places on this stroller  It also has an adjustable handle and removable/reversible seat giving you a variety of configurations, each more comfortable than the other, depending upon what your needs are at the time when using the stroller. It folds easily, in seconds and allows for self-standing after folding, which is a great feature to have if you have limited baby space. 

3. Atom Stroller

The Atom Stroller is a great choice for your little ones. It has amazing features that allow parents to take their children anywhere and be prepared. The stroller was designed with the future traveller in mind, making it perfect for life on the go. It includes a car seat compatibility, multiple seat recline and a super lightweight folding system that makes it easy to fit in any bag or carry-on. It includes a Raincover, Infant Comfort Pack, Seat Liner and Storage Bag so you are ready to roll on your space travels without having to worry about anything.

4. Valco Baby Snap Ultra P Stroller

The Valco Baby Snap Ultra P Stroller is the perfect choice for your little ones. It has a capacity of 22kg which is suitable for your babies and toddlers. It comes with a 4-stage hood that ensures maximum protection from the sun and wind. The car capsule and bassinet compatibility also make it easier to transport your baby in the car seat or stroller. Furthermore, it features a removable bumper that comes in handy during your outings. It is also foldable, lightweight and easy to handle.

5. Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 Pram 

The Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 Pram is perfect for your little one. This baby carrier has an air rubber tire for easy rides on flat terrain. The car seat adapters are included and the height-adjustable handlebar is designed to provide a comfortable ride. The reversible calf support provides a relaxing ride and the adjustable canopy keeps your baby shaded from UV rays. The peekaboo windows make it easy to see your baby when you’re outside, and the long-lasting design makes this pram reliable for years of use.

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Free ground shipping (typically 2-5 business days once shipped) and free returns on any stroller purchase, so you can get strollin' without stress. Applicable to the continental US. Learn More →

Your kid might not have a return policy, but we sure do! We offer a 30-day trial period so you can test out Zoe products in the convenience and comfort of your own home. The goal of this policy is to let you test drive the stroller in your home and truly *feel* how awesome our products are. We know that sometimes you just need to see it for yourself and experience the ease, comfort, and simplicity of Zoe. Please be mindful of keeping items in new condition and avoid using strollers outdoors to ensure a full refund. 

•   What can I return?

Most Zoe products can be returned or exchanged within   30 days of purchase   for a full refund or credit of the purchase price.   Returned items must be in brand new condition, unused, unscratched, without wheel tread scuff marks, and with original tags and packaging.

•   What will be refunded, and when will I get my refund? 

While we do provide free return shipping, your original Ground, Express and/or Overnight shipping charges will not be refunded.

As long as everything you return is in perfect condition, you'll get a full refund for your purchase. 

On the crazy chance your item looks like it's been taken around the block (or across the country), a restocking fee of up to 50% may be applied. Examples of restocking fees include $25 for used wheels, $20 if not returned with all original packaging, $25 if item requires cleaning due to pet hair / peanut butter kid hands / etc. If your item cannot be accepted for a refund under the terms of our return policy even with a restocking fee, a member of our Customer Experience team will reach out to see if you would like the item shipped back to you, or if you would like to receive a partial store credit (we try to catch all of these during the returns approval process, but there are a few exceptions). 

Refunds will only be credited to the original form of payment, or issued as store credit.    If you choose to return a gift, please note the refund will be issued as store credit only.

Once your returned item is received and inspected, you will be notified via email. If approved, the refund request will be processed within 5 working days after approval. You will receive email notification of the refund when processed; however, it may take some time for this credit to appear on your credit card statement.

• How do I get started with my return?

We will provide a prepaid shipping label for returns that meet the requirements in our policy. 

You can start a return by clicking on the link below:

Request a Return or Exchange Authorization

Please note: If you ship a stroller back to us as a return, you assume the risk of shipping the stroller. If it is lost in transit or damaged upon arrival, we aren’t responsible for replacing the stroller, and will only award refunds based on the condition of the stroller that we receive.

• Are there any exceptions I should know about? 

We love our long-distance friends (and we'd love to come visit you, Hawaii moms), but unfortunately, we don't process Exchanges from locations outside the contiguous (mainland) United States including Hawaii, Alaska, or international addresses. Any orders that need to be exchanged from these areas must return for a refund, then re-purchase. 

Crazy coupon ladies & discount shoppers, this one's for you: please note that items purchased during significant sale events such as Warehouse Sales or Black Friday / Cyber Monday may not be eligible for returns. Be sure to check the terms of special discount offers before purchasing, as those items may be final sale. Gift cards are also non-refundable. 

The Traveler is fun ction forward – giving you all the essentials you need to get out there, together.

All the product details you could want (and then some).

Rest easy knowing your stroller is covered.

Zoe strollers are under warranty for 1 year-post purchase under normal use, and all accessories are covered for 6 months.

For all warranty details, see here.

Prefer to talk to a human? We'd love to chat with you about our warranty and answer any questions you may have. Contact Us!

Making memories in new places can get a little messy .

Thankfully, our strollers are easy to clean. With stain resistant fabrics, most spills are cleaned after using a warm, damp cloth cloth and air drying.

Each stroller has specific cleaning instructions on the tag. Avoid harsh chemicals, and spot clean with detergent to test before using across all fabric.

Want a little more protection? Check out our machine washable seat liners.

TRAVEL READY

LIGHTWEIGHT

DISNEY APPROVED

Product Details

Four Panel Expandable Canopy with UPF 50+ lining

140° recline

Adjustable foot rest

Durable, lightweight aluminum

Ball bearing wheels

Self standing with invisible belly bar

Easy one hand compact fold

Fits in Overhead Bins

No need to gate check (and risk damage) – with our most compact fold, it fits in overhead compartments.

Disney Approved

The Traveler meets all Disney requirements! It's roomy, lightweight, and perfect for the parks.

With a four-panel canopy and 140-degree recline, The Traveler makes for easy naps on the go so you can keep the adventures rolling.

Your new travel buddy

The compact, easy to maneuver frame is ready for any adventure big or small.

Your questions, answered

While both strollers offer a light-weight, compact design, each is designed with a primary need in mind. The Traveler is best if you find yourself traveling often — particularly airport travel. Its fold is slightly more compact and frame is smaller, allowing it to fit in all overhead bins. The Tour+ is slightly wider with a taller seat back, making it better for day to day use as your little grows and you more frequently need increased storage. The Tour+ also is compatible with our car seat adapter, all-terrain wheels, and an add-on seat — turning it into a Tandem+ for your growing family.

Yes, perfect for traveling - it will fit in airline overhead compartments.

Yes! You can get The Traveler sized snack tray here. It folds into the stroller just like the belly bar — keeping the stroller compact at all times.

We offer a 30-day trial period so you can test out Zoe products in the convenience and comfort of your own home. Think of it as our happiness guarantee. If we're not the right fit for you, we understand (but we're pretty confident you'll love it)! Please be mindful of keeping items in new condition and avoid using strollers outdoors to ensure a full refund. To see the full refund policy, click here. Zoe strollers are under warranty for 1 year-post purchase under normal use, and all accessories are covered for 6 months. For all warranty details, see here .

The Traveler is recommended for children 3 months and up, with a maximum child weight of 45 lbs.

All the essentials for wherever you're headed.

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Product Reviews

5 absolute best lightweight & compact travel strollers for airplanes in 2024.

Take your stroller all the way to the plane door with these great compact models

One piece of essential baby kit that revolutionized for us between our first and third child is the travel compact stroller. Forget bulky 3-piece travel systems and clunky umbrella strollers; when you’re eyeing up regular travel with your tots, ultra-compact is the way to go.

You don’t have to give up on too many luxurious stroller features for an ultraconvenient way to travel with your kids – all the way to the plane! Yep, no need to gate-check these models as they count as carry-on and will fit in the overhead bin of (most) planes.

We’ve picked out our five favorite compact strollers for airplane travel and give you plenty of alternative value options to choose from too.

This post is part of our  tried and tested travel product reviews and recommendations  series

What to look for in a compact travel stroller, mountain buggy nano 2.

• Babyzen Yoyo2

gb Pockit + All City Lightweight Baby Stroller

Baby jogger city tour 2, bugaboo butterfly , and the rest: other ultra-compact strollers that work as airplane carry-on.

We’ve summarised the leading brands in an easy comparison table here, but read on below for more details to help you find the best travel stroller.

Best Compact Plane Strollers

Price Guidance – $ – under $200USD; $$ – $200-300USD; $$$ – over $300USD.

** Whilst we have listed these brands as overhead compartment compliant and capable of being used as carry-on luggae, please do check with your individual airlines. You will have no issue on wide-bodied, long-haul aircraft, but smaller domestic planes may have tighter restrictions and require you to check your stroller at the gate. Be prepared for this eventuality with either the supplied storage back or get yourself a generic gate check bag to keep your stroller safe. 

(If you’re brand new to the stroller game, I suggest you read this post first to understand better what you should be looking for in a travel stroller – there is no one size fits all!). 

Compact Travel Stroller Wheels

You will notice the big difference between the ultra-lightweight stroller models and what we’d call your everyday models is the wheel size.  To be so compact and convenient, wheels are not removable and tend to be hard rubber, 6″ wide or less.

You do lose some of the ride comfort and ability to glide over rough surfaces that you do get with bigger, traditional strollers, especially with pneumatic wheels. Check that the wheels still have good maneuverability and wheel suspension. Compact fold strollers are not purposefully designed to go off-road, but you still want a smooth enough ride on cobbled streets and uneven surfaces.

Compact Travel Stroller Height and Width

Another concern many parents have with a compact is that your taller toddler can quickly outgrow them.  Make sure they still have decent head clearance and bottom wiggling room. Smaller children can easily fit most models through to 4 years+, but larger children will struggle with this type of stroller, mostly on the seat width and depth.

Compact Travel Stroller Seated Position

Due to their design, compact brands are only designed for 6 months plus when you’re child can independently sit upright in a 5-point safety harness. It’s likely you still want your tot to be able to nap on the move though, so watch out as some cheaper models lack the recline function. 

It can add a little more bulk, but some sort of recline function is a necessary additional feature.

Compact Travel Stroller Suncover

Likewise, getting babies and toddlers to nap is easier when the sun is not glaring in their eyes.  Many of the brands we looked at had somewhat compromised on the adjustable canopy to get smaller and lighter, but we still think a large sun canopy is an essential travel feature not to compromise on.

Compact Travel Stroller Handlebar Height

None we have reviewed come with adjustable handles, so they may not suit extra-tall parents. That said, Mr Globetrotter is 6 foot and has had no issue with the Nano, and taller friends have used the Yoyo – the tallest we look at without complaint.

Compact Travel Stroller Folding Mechanism

The time-tested art of one-handed metal origami!  We’ve all been there, child on hip, bags dropping off our shoulders. Read the reviews, try it out in the shop; check that the folding mechanism really is as simple as they say it is!! Simply put, one-hand fold is an essential feature for air travel.

Compact Travel Stroller Basket Space

Compact size can mean compact everything.  We all know your diaper bag/day pack needs to go somewhere still, bottles, blankets, nursing cover, sling – you name it!  We have used our stroller organizer still on ones we’ve personally reviewed without issue, but still having good access to a decent-sized storage basket underneath is essential while traveling.

Lighter models are more susceptible to tipping, so be careful to hook larger bags of the handlebars. The manufacturers specifically warn you not to, but I know most will try anyway, at your peril!!

Compact Travel Stroller Storage Bag

Not all brands we reviewed included the travel bag and carrying straps.  Even though the stroller comes with you on the plane, I still much prefer to keep my stroller neatly packaged in its own bag when not in use on the plane – or in case overhead bins are full, flight attendants may still ask you to stow it.

Do You Need a Travel System?

Although we are reviewing these strollers for toddlers, we have noted for each brand when they come with a travel system, ie, with adaptors, the product can be used with a car seat attachment from newborn. 

See also our guide to COMPACT DOUBLE STROLLERS if you’re also planning for future needs with multiple children.

Value for money

Will this new stroller only be for your travel adventures a few times throughout the years, or are you looking to ditch your baby stroller and make this your everyday stroller?  Think about how much use you will get and therefore the amount you are willing to invest into yet more baby gear .

We promise you, if you are regular travelers this is one of the best investments you will make in those early years. 

Top 5 Best Travel Strollers Small Enough For The Overhead Locker on an Airplane

Let’s look at the best travel stroller brands in more detail:

The Mountain Buggy Nano Stroller was our first foray into compacts, and it quickly became our everyday stroller. Better known for making robust joggers and outdoorsy models, the Nano immediately exceeded our expectations with a comfortable, roomy ride, a good reclining seat, large sun canopy and easy access storage space.

You can see our full review of the Mountain Buggy Nano in action here .

The Nano also offers two newborn solutions, it has car seat adaptors so a capsule can be added in the full recline position, or alternatively, you can attach the Mountain Buggy Cocoon making it suitable from birth.

Are you seeing Double?

Mountain Buggy has branched out to offer a double in the compact Nano range. We cover this more in our review of Double Travel Strollers, but if you are curious, come and check out the Mountain Buggy Nano Duo here:

NB – technology hasn’t quite advanced enough for any brand of double stroller to be compact enough to fit on the airplane with you.

Babyzen Yoyo 2

Babyzen was one of the first movers in this market – and still remains one of the best and most trusted brands. The maneuverability of the latest model, the Yoyo 2 is brilliant, and the recline and storage space is great; taller parents prefer it due to the handle height.  Many parents now lean towards this product as their everyday stroller.

Yoyo 2 can also be used for newborns giving it extra versatility. Using the Yoyo newborn attachment set you can add any compatible car seat.

And as your family grows, they also offer a branded Babyzen stroller board for a toddler to travel seated at the back.

My only real issue with the Yoyo is the price tag’; is it THAT much better than the rest? Maybe.

gb have long maintained their title as the creator of THE most compact and lightest strollers for travel. The smallest and lightest of them all, the base model Pockit is a simple and cost effect solution (under $150 USD), but it has undoubtedly got its critics – ourselves included – with its severe limitations and lack of comfort features.

The Pockit Plus undoubtedly addressed some of these concerns, but the latest model, the gb Pockit All City is our current favorite. Design tweaks now give this ultra-compact stroller a generous SPF50+ sun canopy and a recline feature, without compromising too much on weight.

For those looking for a little bit more than just the basic features, consider the gb QBit+ All City Stroller . Weighing in at 17.6 lbs it’s a little heavier than other leading compact stollers, but does give the option of a bit more seat recline and canopy and has a a higher weight capacity up to 55 lbs, good for older children.

With adaptors, it can also be used from newborn, with a compatible infant car seat.

Note the Pockit brand doesn’t come with a travel bag like the others, you will need to purchase this separately if you want to store and carry the stroller. There are several generic brands that specifically market to the QB Pockit users seeing this gap from the manufacturer:

A brand we have used for years, perhaps better known for some of their hugely versatile double combinations, they also have an ultra-compact model suitable for the plane. The City Tour 2 is almost on par with the Nano as its closest comparison in size and weight, though it is a little narrower.

The City Tour 2 has replaced the original City Tour, and it’s definitely sleeker, slimmer folding, and a slightly wider seat. We also like that it comes with its own stroller bag for protection. But with these improvements, the price has also crept up. A nice addition is that with a pram bassinet attachment it can now be used from 3 months as a travel system.

Other compact options from Baby Jogger

Those looking for a little more flexibility in their Baby Jogger product (confession, we’ve owned 4 different types!) may prefer the City Tour LUX model. The LUX has a reversible seat and slightly larger dimensions meaning it can hold a slightly larger child. It’s definitely the superior model to the City Tour – but it comes with the corresponding price tag! The Lux is around 30% smaller than their best-selling City Select model.

This new kid on the compact stroller block is seriously impressive. As you’d expect from the leading luxury stroller, it comes with an eye-watering price tag, but it’s almost impeccable in terms of looks and function.

A step further than their original ‘light’ models, the Bugaboo Bee and Bugaboo Ant, this latest iteration is even lighter and has a great storage capacity as well as a generous child weight limit. Where it differs from the Bee is that you can’t adjust the handlebar height, your fixed at 40.3″ – a faction shorter than the Yoyo2.

A rain cover and seat liner are included, but you don’t get a carry bag, just a carry strap.

Yes, there are more! We first started our compact stroller reviews back in 2016 when the Yoyo was fresh on the market. We have seen more than a dozen stroller brands now follow suit trying to achieve that perfect balance between ultra compact size and functionality.

This review highlylights for you what we think are the top 5 best-selling brands that have stood the test of time, but many fabulous compact products are entering the market all the time that might be just right for you. You could also consider:

A newcomer we have not yet tested is the Silver Cross Jet Travel Stroller – check out this review though, for more on this snazzy new compact with quite a unique folding design.

We’re also curious about the Joolz Aer – a great review here – which comes in at the higher end of the price spectrum but looks ultra-sleek and can be adapted to use as a travel system from birth.

Over to you, do you have a favourite compact brand that has worked well for your family?  We’d love to hear the pros and cons of different brands you’ve tried.

Not quite ready to buy?  Bookmark this page in your browser or Pin it for Later

Looking for more handy travel products?  Check out all our handy buying guides before your next vacation:

• Coolest new travel gear for a family trip  – for travel with younger children, all our best recommendations on sleep products, strollers and car seats.
• Best lightweight & compact double strollers – growing with your family’s needs, best travel strollers for more than one child.
• Best double jogging strollers – for families who love outdoor adventures.
• What do you move to once your child starts outgrowing their stroller? Our guide to stroller alternatives for a 5-year-old+
• Complete guide to travel car seats – how to use a car seat on a plane and the best brands compared
• Getting cosy on the move – best kids travel pillows and seatbelt comforters.
• Are travel high chairs worth the investment? – leading portable highchair brands compared.
• Kids plane sleep devices – a comparison of the top brands and which airlines actually accept them.
• How to choose a gate check stroller bag   – still want to take your pride and joy or got a double stroller?  How to keep your stroller safe when its gate checked.
• Items that travel-loving parents-to-be will actually use   – Get clued-in on what to buy new parents that they will get a lot of practical use from for their baby.

Disclosures: We are participants in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.  This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of these links, we receive a commission. You can read our  full disclosure policy  here.

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3 thoughts on “ 5 Absolute Best Lightweight & Compact Travel Strollers for Airplanes in 2024 ”

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Very helpful, thanks! Have you tried out the Gb Pockit+ All City?

No this wasn’t available when we first put the review together so not had the chance to have a push. It looks pretty sleek though.

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A Guide to Flying with a Stroller

A stroller is necessary while traveling with a young child. It not only gives your child a place to rest and unwind, but it also makes it simpler to maneuver in congested places like airports. There are many different types of travel strollers, some can be packed flat and placed in the overhead bin whereas the bigger strollers will have to be checked as luggage.

In this article, we share information from whether you can bring a stroller with you internationally to whether you can bring them onboard. We also discuss the guidelines of different airlines about their rules and regulations regarding strollers, including their weight and size limitations, all things that make flying with kids less stressful .

You can also learn about  tips and tricks to packing light .

You can even consider traveling with carry on only to avoid all the baggage chaos.

Thinking of booking an airplane bassinet for your baby? Read here for more information.

Table of Contents

Can we take stroller in international flight, how to travel with a stroller.

Can You Take a Stroller on a Plane?

How to Protect Stroller When Flying?

Stroller That Fits in Overhead Bin

Are Baby Strollers Allowed On Airplanes?

What kind of stroller can i take on a plane, is a stroller considered a carry on, here's a lightweight stroller for airplane travel to consider.

Is it Free to Bring a Stroller on a Plane?

Can I Take a Full Size Stroller on an Airplane?

51 airlines stroller policy.

Yes is the quick, short answer. Saying that most airlines allow you to check in two baby items like a stroller and car seat free of charge. Many airlines also allow strollers to be gate checked. This means that the airline employees will load the aircraft with the check-in bags after you reach the ladder point of the plane (or door in the case of an aero bridge).

Tell the check-in agent at the counter that you want to gate-check your stroller when you check your bags. They will either attach the tag themselves or provide you with instructions on where to get your tags once you arrive at your gate.

Generally, if your stroller is in two components, it will need to be checked in or gate-checked due to the size of the stroller. You won't be able to take it onboard.

Take note that if you are to bring a stroller onto the plane, airlines will require the stroller to be fully collapsible. And if you do bring the stroller onboard, most airlines consider the stroller as your carry on luggage whereas some airlines allow a stroller and car seat to be brought onboard in addition to your carry-on luggage. So, make sure you check with your airlines prior to flying.

There are three ways you can travel with a stroller. See the different options below:

1. Check Stroller with Checked Baggage

A stroller is regarded as checked-in luggage when checked at the counter. Your stroller is loaded onto the aircraft along with the luggage by the attendants. When you check your stroller alongside your luggage, often you may be required to drop off your stroller at the oversize luggage counter.

2. Gate Checked Strollers

Another option is to gate-check your stroller. By choosing this option, you will have access to your stroller as you navigate through the airport.

How to gate check your stroller:

At check-in counter:

Speak to the ground staff and let them know you intend to use your stroller at the airport. In this instance, they will either print you a tag for the stroller or instruct you to get a tag from the staff at the gate.

Pass through security with your stroller:

As you get through security, you will have to fold up your stroller to go through the x-ray machine. If the stroller is too big to fit in the x-ray machine, it will be manually inspected by a TSA employee.

Drop your stroller off at the gate:

Make sure you have your stroller tag by now. If you haven't done so, speak to the airline staff at the gate to obtain one. You can continue to use your stroller up until boarding the plane.

Leave your stroller at the door of the plane:

Upon boarding, the airline staff will remind you to place the stroller by the door of the plane. The stroller will then be placed in the hold with all the luggage. Depending on which airport you land at, you will either get your stroller back from the jet bridge as you disembark the plane, or you may need to head to baggage claim to retrieve your stroller.

This is true flying Qantas into Australia or Malaysia Airlines into Malaysia. There is a risk of your stroller being damaged if your stroller has not been packed properly in a padded stroller bag. Once more, review the policies of your airline before flying.

3. Bringing stroller onboard

The regulations of the airline as well as the size of your stroller will determine whether this option is feasible.

Can You Take a Stroller On a Plane?

A foldable stroller, umbrella stroller, or another small, compact stroller can typically be used as a carry-on with most airlines. However, not every airline is made equally. Some airlines do not allow strollers onboard, Others permit strollers, but consider your stroller as carry-on allowance if you bring one along and some allows your stroller onboard as long as it is packed down an unrecognizable as a pushchair.

It also depends on whether you are flying with a lap infant or whether you purchased an extra seat for your baby. Do note that if you have purchased an extra seat for your baby, they are entitled to the same carry on luggage allowance as you.

For example, Austrian Airlines doesn't count a stroller as carry-on allowance and permits strollers to be brought on board as long as the stroller is under 10kg and once folded and is no longer identifiable as a pushchair.

Singapore airlines allow a compact, foldable lightweight stroller on board the cabin as long as it is under 7kg and the sum of length, width, and height does not exceed 115cm. Saying that, Singapore airlines regards your stroller as your carry on allowance.

Whenever you gate check or check your stroller with your baggage, make sure the stroller is packed in a stroller bag to protect the stroller. This is because your stroller gets handled by many people and can be mishandled at times. The last you want is receiving a damaged stroller when you get to your vacation destination.

Read here for the best travel stroller bag  to protect youtr sroller.

From personal experience, the safest option is to bring a travel stroller that fits in the overhead compartment of the plane.

Stroller That Fits In Overhead Bin

According to IATA Carry-on baggage size , the standard carry-on allowance for luggage varies depending on the airline, the class you are flying, and even the size of the aircraft. Generally speaking, carry-on bags shouldn't be larger than the following measurements: 22 x 18 x 10"/56 x 45 x 25 cm. These measurements account for the wheels, handles, side pockets, etc.

However, from our research, most airlines' carry on requirements varies. In fact, many airlines have a size restriction of 22 x 14 x 9"/56 x 36 x 23cm. Hence, it is important to check with your airlines prior to flying.

The main reason to get a travel stroller that fits in the overhead compartment is to ensure that your travel stroller  is with you the entire time. In the event of a flight delay, having the stroller with you ensures you will have a comfortable space for your baby to nap in if required. It also gives you peace of mind to know that your stroller won't be lost or damaged in transit.

Every airline has its carry-on allowance policies and policies for strollers and child restraint system. Be sure to check with your airlines before hand.

As carry-on luggage, you are allowed to bring one small, foldable baby stroller (maximum dimensions: 55 x 40 x 23 cm) or two if you are flying business or first class.

Strollers with overall dimensions greater than 115 cm can be used up until the ticket counter, but beyond that, they must be checked in as luggage. Strollers or umbrella strollers designed that fold up completely and measure less than 100 cm x 20 cm x 20 cm are permitted on board.

Delta Airlines

Strollers can be checked in or gate checked for free. Stroller can also be brought on board as part of the adult’s carry on allowance when flying with a lap infant.

As for car seats, child safety seats may be brought onto the aircraft. You may put your baby in an FAA-approved child safety seat during takeoff and landing if you reserved a seat for them or if there is an open passenger seat in your row. The item must be checked at the gate by a Delta official if you haven't purchased a seat for your youngster or there aren't any additional passenger seats available.

British Airways

British Airways offer a service that returns your stroller back to the plane's entrance in certain destinations to aid you in your travels. Please see the list below to see if your stroller satisfies the tight requirements for pushchair size.

It must be an all-in-one, sleek, fully folding pushchair. Wheels not included, maximum dimension:  38 cm height x  117 cm in length x  38cm in depth.

If your stroller fits the requirements , it will be marked with an orange Return To Aircraft Door label bearing your contact details before being put on the hold. Then, when you get to your location, you can pick it up. For guidance, please speak with the cabin staff.

Your stroller won't be delivered to the aircraft door upon arrival if it exceeds the measurements . Alternatively, you can pick up your stroller and checked bags from the arrival gate in the baggage hall when you reach your destination.

Hand luggage prams are typically allowed on planes when you're traveling with a baby because airlines are aware you'll need them when you get to your destination. What you need to check is that the baby stroller is within the airline's restriction for carry on.

In general, the collapsible size of your stroller should not exceed 22 x 18 x 10"/56 x 45 x 25 cm if you are intending to bring it onto a plane. If it exceeds this, it might be too large to fit in the overhead compartment and hence prohibited. 

On the other hand, if you are traveling with a double stroller or jogging stroller, they will have to be checked in due to size. As always, it's advisable to double-check with the airline you're traveling with as each has its policies regarding what is and isn't permitted.

Any stroller and related items, like child's car seat, booster seats will be required to meet airline policies to be brought onboard. The best strollers for flying are light, simple to fold, and have folded proportions that fit the specifications for keeping the stroller in the airplane overhead bin.

While many strollers are lightweight and compact for travel, very few of them are genuinely small enough to fit in the overhead bin of an airplane. The majority of umbrella strollers still need to be checked or gate-checked, making them prone to being thrown or damaged during transportation.

Airlines have different stroller restrictions, and some airlines don't allow strollers as carry-on bags regardless of size. Before your trip, make sure to review your airline's policies.

After doing extensive research, there are actually only 5 travel strollers that are FAA approved and fit in the overhead compartment.

In general, if you decide to bring your compact stroller onboard the plane and it fits within the carry on requirements, it will count towards your carry-on allowance.  Otherwise, most airlines allow you to check in or gate check your stroller for free.

Wonder what size luggage is considered carry on ? Read on.

TernX Carry On

Folded dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9”/55 x 36 x 23cm

Weight: 16.9 lbs (~7.7kg)

The TernX Carry-On is the best travel stroller for flying , and is a cutting-edge option for families on the go, providing several advantages that make travel simpler, more effective, and less stressful. For both parents and kids, this provides convenience and a smooth travel experience. TernX Carry-On is a collapsible stroller for travel. It complies with the IATA carry-on allowance.

Excellent for travel as it is a cabin-size pushchair and it provides storage for your belongings.

In the mean time, here's a summary of 50 airlines stroller policies at a glance.

Is it Free to Bring a Stroller on a Plane? 

Generally, if your stroller fits within the carry on dimensions and allowance of the airlines, you are allowed to bring a stroller on a plane for free. However, the stroller will count towards your carry on allowance. So, if you are flying a budget airline, make sure you take this into consideration as there may be additional charges if you have too many hand luggage with you.

No, you are not allowed to take a full size stroller on an airplane. Only strollers that are folded small enough to fit carry on requirements can be taken on an airplane.

For an infant, one fully folding stroller is permitted, together with either a car seat, booster seat, or travel cot.

Aeroflot Russian Airlines

A collapsible stroller with maximum dimensions of 42 х 50 х 20 cm is allowed onboard when travelling with a child.

Baby strollers/buggies/prams can be carried free of charge as checked baggage provided they are being used by an infant and/or child that is traveling.

One stroller no larger than 25.5 x 92cm per child may be checked for free at the baggage office or the boarding gate. A stroller for each child is permitted in addition to carry-on and checked baggage.

As long as its total dimensions don't exceed those permitted for typically checked luggage, a stroller or bassinet may also be checked in for free.

A carry-on item weighing up to 10 kg, a car seat, and a foldable stroller or baby carrier allowed in the hold.

Air New Zealand

You are allowed to check two items as part of your baggage allowance. Buggy/stroller, car seat or bassinet.

Alaska Airlines

You can either wait until you get to the gate area or check these goods with your other luggage without any cost at your end.

American Airlines

1 stroller allowed to be checked free of charge.

ANA - All Nippon Airways

Strollers that fold up, portable cradles, and kid seats can be checked in for free.

Asiana Airlines

You can include a bassinet, travel cot, car seat, or lightweight stroller free of charge.

Austrian Airlines

Strollers are permitted, but if they weigh more than 10 kg, they must be checked in.

Strollers can be checked in free of charge.

Each infant and toddler may check up to two of the following necessary items into the hold: completely foldable pushchair (stroller), booster, portable cot.

Cathay Pacific

An umbrella-type collapsible stroller or any type of foldable stroller within the standard cabin bag size and weight after folding is allowed (if cabin stowage is available).

Cebu Pacific Air

You can check in strollers free of charge.

China Airlines

A passenger under 2 can have a fully collapsible stroller/pushchair, infant carrying basket, or car seat checked as baggage or be accepted as a carry-on in the passenger cabin subject to the availability of space.

Delta Air Lines

They don't charge extra for using strollers or child restraint devices. These are not considered part of your (or your ticketed child's) checked baggage allowance.

You can carry two items for your child in the hold for your baby for free. These consist of a portable crib, stroller, car seat, portable or conventional pram, booster seat, and/or baby carrier.

Strollers are allowed to be taken onboard free of charge.

Strollers can be brought inside the cabin if there is room, but if not, they must be checked in for free.

Ethiopian Airlines

For infants under the age of two, you are allowed a stroller and car seat without charge.

Frontier Airlines

Strollers are permitted, however, once you get to the gate, they must be examined from there. The stroller will be free to check in.

Garuda Indonesia

Stroller allowed as checked-in luggage.

Hainan Airlines

One baby back carrier and light collapsible baby buggy or pushchair (that can be carried, such that the volume and weight do not exceed carry-on baggage restrictions, and can be put in the baggage compartment above the seat or under the seat directly in front of the passenger.

Japan Airlines

Baby carriage or stroller can be taken aboard only if it is foldable to fit within the required size of carry-on baggage.

Jetblue Airways

One stroller allowed and does not count toward your carry-on or checked bag allowance.

When traveling with a baby or young child, you can check any number of the following items — a pram, a stroller, a portable cot, and/or a highchair for no additional cost.

Kenya Airways

Strollers are checked in for free.

Strollers with a combined size greater than 115 cm may be used up until the boarding gate, but after that, they must be checked in as luggage. Strollers that fold up completely and measure less than 100 x 20 x 20 cm are permitted on board.

LATAM Airlines

Strollers with detachable restraint systems (Travel System) are classified as single items and can therefore be transported with either all of the components (base and chair) or just one of them. We will send it to the hold at no additional charge if there is no room in the cabin.

Strollers are permitted on board; however, some flights may require that they are placed in the hold.

Norwegian Air

5kg of regular free baggage allowance and you are allowed one stroller and car seat.

Collapsible strollers that meet the carry-on allowance baggage dimensions in their collapsed state and weigh less than 7 kgs can be brought onboard however will be counted as a piece of the accompanying adult’s carry-on baggage allowance.

Qatar Airways

Each infant is allowed a stroller, carrycot that collapses, or pushchair.

Royal Brunei Airlines

Strollers for infants must be checked in and are not permitted as hand luggage. Lightweight strollers can sometimes be checked in at the boarding gate, depending on the airport. Once at the destination and after leaving the flight, these strollers will be returned.

Royal Air Maroc

You are not charged extra to transfer your child's stroller. A stroller that fits in the baggage compartments and has dimensions no larger than 15 x 30 x 100 cm is permitted to travel with you.

Free use of two pieces of baby gear per child: one pushchair and one car seat, booster seat, or travel cot.

Saudi Arabian Airlines

Infants are allowed an infant-carrying basket, a fully foldable stroller, or a baby seat.

Singapore Airlines

A small, collapsible, light stroller can be brought into the cabin.

South African Airways

Infants are allowed one accessible folding stroller or buggy, a car seat, and one piece of checked luggage up to 23 kg.

Southwest Airlines

Customers with children are allowed to check one stroller and one car seat without charge.

You may bring so-called “pocket buggies” on board as part of your free hand baggage allowance, provided they are packed accordingly and are no longer recognizable as pushchairs.

Thai Airways International

Pushchairs are transported for free in addition to your permitted amount of luggage.

A stroller or completely folded crib to be transported to the aircraft door. The crew will put it in the aircraft hold and hand it over to the Passenger at the door of the aircraft once arrived at the destination.

United Airlines

United Airlines Stroller policy allows standard strollers, folding wagons, and car seats can be used to get to your gate and then checked for free. They’ll be returned to you on arrival. Collapsible strollers can be stored in-cabin.

Vietnam Airlines

Passengers should check-in their baby stroller, or they may use it up to the boarding gate. 

Virgin Australia

You're entitled to carry special items free of charge: pram, portable cot, car seat, baby capsule

Vueling Airlines

Passengers travelling with an infant may also check in a total of two extra items: pushchair, carrycot, car seat or cot.

You can check a car seat and stroller for free while traveling with a young child. 

If you are looking to bring your car seat on the flight, read here for more information on flying with a car seat .

Here are some tips on  how to deep clean your stroller after your travels.

Flying with a Stroller

Hope this gives you a better idea on what is possible when flying with a stroller. The key is to do your research beforehand. From personal experience, traveling with a stroller on board is much safer and easier. You are certain the stroller is with you at all times and you reduce the risk of your stroller being damaged during transportation.

Furthermore, you have a peace of mind knowing that there is a spot for your child to rest during layovers. Not only that, having a stroller with you at the airport gives you more control over your immediate surroundings, especially when you are navigating through crowded and busy airports. Have fun on your next journey!

If you want to know exactly the allowed size of luggage for carry on regarding these airlines, read here .

Don't forget to check out our  tips for traveling on an airplane with kids .

Happy journeys!

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TernX Carry On Wins Prestigious German Design Award 2023

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Best Lightweight Strollers for Travel

Last update: January 9th, 2024 at 02:57 pm

Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Lightweight Stroller for Travel Intro

Traveling with an infant or baby can be challenging, but having the right travel gear, such as a compact and lightweight stroller for travel can make things so much easier (especially if you are specifically looking for an airplane stroller for flying with a baby or toddler).

While there may not be one perfect solution, we want to get you as close to perfection as possible and help you find the best compact stroller for travel.

Important Disclaimer:  I intend for the information on this website to serve as a general overview on matters of interest derived from my experience traveling with my own children. I am not an expert on the subject and safety of travel strollers. I attempt to ensure that the content is current and accurate but I do not guarantee its currency and accuracy. For more information, please see our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy . 

Top 3 Travel Strollers

Don’t have time to read this whole post?  While I will go into all 7 compact strollers in greater detail later in this post, here are my three favorite (and top selling) lightweight stroller for travel options.

1. Best Cheap Travel Stroller

Coming in at less that $100 (USD) and only 13lbs, the Summer Infant 3D Lite is one of the best umbrella travel strollers on the market. It is also jam-packed with features including a 4-position recline, an extendable sun shade, and a handy storage basket.

While this travel umbrella stroller is not quite small enough to store in the airplane overhead bins, it can be easily gate checked. This has been my number #1 selling travel stroller for several years in a row. Learn more about the  Summer Infant 3D Lite Stroller here.

2. Best Infant Travel Stroller

If you can move up a little in price (a little over $200 USD), you will love the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 lightweight stroller for travel. This foldable stroller gets great reviews for its light weight (14 lbs) and the fact that it will fit in most overhead bins on airplanes (with wheels removed). It has a one-hand quick fold, one-hand steering, and handles superbly on a wide variety of terrains (important if you are looking for a stroller for cobblestone streets in Europe).

The City Tour 2 has some great improvements over the original City Tour in that it has a deeper seat, a calf adjustment for naps, and is car seat and carry cot adaptable allowing it to be used from birth to 45lbs. Learn more about the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 lightweight stroller for travel or watch the  demo video .

3. Best Luxury Lightweight Stroller for Travel 

While most parents inevitably choose something less expensive, if you have the budget, the 14lb BabyZen YoYo compact stroller for travel is amazing.

It can be used from infancy (with cot or car seat) and then converted to a baby travel stroller for use from 6 months to 40lbs. It has an extended sun canopy, an excellent suspension system for rough terrain, and it comes with some great little extras (carry bag, strap and a rain cover). Furthermore…it looks pretty gorgeous too.

Learn more about the BabyZen YoYo+ here . You may also want to watch this 1 minute BabyZen YoYo+ demo video .

Travel Stroller Airplane Policy

What kind of stroller can i take on a plane.

The best strollers for airplane travel (and travel in general) are both light and compact. If you would like to be able to bring your small travel stroller right onto the plane to put in an overhead bin, it technically needs to be a cabin size stroller (meaning it cannot exceed carry-on luggage size parameters).

What size of stroller can I take on a plane?

For flying domestically in the U.S., a carry on stroller or carry on piece of luggage should not exceed 22″ x 14″ x 9″. Something you may notice, however, is that many strollers designed for air travel slightly exceed these dimensions when folded. In all likelihood, you will not be hassled about this and should be able to board and store it within the cabin.

What about gate checking a stroller?

The best travel stroller for flying does not necessarily  need to fit in an overhead bin*. There is always the option of gate checking your travel stroller. You simply need to obtain a gate-check tag for your stroller when checking in or boarding. You then can leave your folded stroller at the entrance of the plane. It will be placed in the cargo hold and returned to you after you exit the plane (sometimes you need to wait a few minutes so there is no need to rush off).

If you are concerned about handing over your beloved, brand new travel stroller to a ground crew, I recommend using a padded stroller travel bag (some models are sold with one).

* I discourage you from choosing a compact stroller for travel solely on the basis of it fitting in the overhead bins of an airplane. The reason for this is that the smallest foldable travel strollers tend to also be stripped of features such as the recline function, which can be very important on trips.

Is the a weight limit for a gate checked stroller?

The maximum allowable weight and dimensions of a gate checked stroller vary by airline. Typically, however, a stroller that weighs over 20 lbs needs to be checked with regular luggage at the ticketing gate (not gate checked at the plane entrance). For this reason, I urge you to leave your big stroller at home. If you ever take a walk by the oversized baggage pickup area in an airport, you may recognize a wide variety of broken parts. Why take the risk?

Recommendation: In airports, I always found that having a lightweight baby carrier along with my traveling stroller to be very helpful. Sometimes my kids would get restless and cranky in an airport while in their newborn travel stroller (especially if we were nearing nap time) and just needed to be close to mom (or dad). In these cases I was always glad to have a lightweight travel baby carrier on hand, usually just tucked into the bottom of the stroller or in my diaper baby.

Best Lightweight Travel Stroller Features

Many parents find that they purchase a light and easy travel stroller as a secondary stroller, but due to its light weight and ease of portability, it quickly becomes their favorite. With that in mind, when comparing foldable strollers for travel, you may want to consider spending a little extra money to get all the features you need, rather than just buying the cheapest travel stroller. Here are some of the most desirable features in a folding stroller for travel.

Key Lightweight Stroller for Travel Features

1. lightweight.

The lighter the travel stroller, the better so long as you don’t give up too many features (stroller features add weight !) Most of the top travel strollers are less than 14 lbs, but some of the best strollers for air travel go as low as 11lbs.

2. Five Point Harness

Keep your baby secure with a 5 point harness that ideally converts to a 3 point as they grow.

3. Option to Recline

Will you have action-packed days where your baby or toddler may need to nap on-the-go? If so, a reclining* travel stroller could be important to you.

*Please note that only strollers that recline to flat (or have an option to add a baby bassinet or infant bucket car seat) are suitable for use as an infant travel stroller. If you are looking for the best travel stroller for an infant, be sure to look for one that has cot/car seat compatibility.

4. One Hand Open / Close

An easy open and close feature is very helpful when you are on the go with a baby or toddler. It is a huge advantage if you can pop your child in one arm and open or close your stroller with the other. Bonus points go to a stroller that can stand on its own.

5. Good Wheels and Suspension

Will you be rolling your stroller along the smooth paths of Central Park or do your travel plans include Europe’s cobblestone streets? Having quality (larger) wheels and a good suspension systems are definitely features to look for with the latter.

6. Canopy / Cover

A good travel stroller should have a large sun canopy and an optional rain cover to protect your child from the elements.

7. Air Vents

It is also nice if the travel stroller has an option to zip open an air vent to keep your child cool in hot weather.

8. Large Storage Basket

A large storage basket under the stroller can be quite useful. It is very easy, for example on a beach trip, to end up with a toddler travel stroller full of all kinds of gear (umbrellas, pails, sunscreen etc.).

9. Carry Strap or Bag

 When selecting a portable stroller for traveling, it’s nice if it includes a handy travel bag or carry strap.

Travel Stroller Comparison Chart

Best compact stroller for travel 2021 – the list.

Whether you are looking for the best newborn travel stroller or the best travel stroller for a toddler – we’ve got you covered here with these 7 models.

While the best travel stroller for flying will depend on your specific needs, I will tell you that strollers # 1 and #2 on this list are my best sellers by far (with price being a determining factor for most people – #2 is twice the price of #1).

1. Summer Infant 3D Lite Convenience Stroller

Claim to Fame:  #1 Top seller for those looking for the best travel umbrella stroller for airplanes.

• Weighs 13 lbs.
• Good from 6 months to 50lbs (22.6 kg) making it a good travel stroller for toddlers too !
• Award winner in the category of best lightweight umbrella stroller for travel .
• Folded dimensions are 10″ x 9″x 43″ (gate check).
• 4 position recline.
• 5 point safety harness.
• Cup holder and storage pocket.
• Anti-shock front wheels and lockable rear wheels.
• Adjustable and removable canopy with flip out sun visor.
• Extra-large storage basket and rear storage pocket.
• Easy compact fold (2 hand) with carry strap and auto lock.
• Want to learn more about the Summer Infant 3D Lite travel umbrella stroller? See this demo  video .

Read reviews and further details about the  Summer Infant 3D Lite Stroller here .

2. Baby Jogger City Tour 2

Claim to Fame: Our all-around pick as the best lightweight stroller for travel (luxury features at half the price).

Features of the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Travel Stroller:

• Weighs only 14.3lbs – a good stroller for airplane travel.
• Suitable from birth – 45lbs (with compatible car seat or carry cot).
• Folded stroller dimensions: 21.6″ x 16.9″ x 6.8″.
• One hand quick fold.
• Multi-position near-flat recline.
• Adjustable calf rest for naps.
• UV 50+ sun canopy with canopy extension and peek-a-boo window.
• 5-point harness.
• Under the seat storage basket
• Shoulder carry bag included.

Read more reviews and get further details about the Baby Jogger City Tour 2  compact stroller for travel

3. The Mountain Buggy Nano V3

Claim to Fame:  An excellent stroller for air travel that can go from newborn to toddler stage.

• Suitable from birth (with compatible infant cot or car seat).
• Perfect baby travel stroller up to toddler-age with range to 50 lbs.
• Folded dimensions: 22″ x 12″ x 20″ (cabin or gate check).
• Easy 1 step open, compact 2 step fold.
• One hand steering (single bar).
• 2 position recline with air vents.
• Large sun canopy with flick out mesh sun visor.
• Easy foot pedal brake.
• Lockable swivel or straight front wheels.
• This compact stroller for travel has an included travel bag.
• Handy shoulder carry strap.
• Multi point safety harness.
• Free rider  scooter compatible for 2nd child (attach with a connector 2 )
• Includes a universal car seat adapter (see Nano car seat compatibility list ).
• Reviews and further details about the Mountain Buggy Nano stroller here.

4. Zoe XLC Best Travel Stroller

Claim to Fame:  The most lightweight stroller for travel (11 lbs) that still has a recline feature.

  Features:

• Weighs only 11 lbs!
• Good for child 6 months to 40 lbs (18 kg).
• Folded dimensions: 22″ x 17.5″ x 6″ (will fit most overhead bins).
• One hand fold and open.
• Large extendable sun canopy and peek-a-boo window.
• 165 degree reclining seat (where 90 Degrees is straight up and 180 degrees is totally flat.)
• Large mesh storage basket.
• Reviews and further details about the  Zoe XLC Best stroller here.

Note: The Zoe is also available in a 19 lb double travel stroller !  Read reviews and learn more about the Zoe Tandem Double Stroller here .

5. GB Pockit Stroller

Claim to Fame:  The most compact stroller for travel. World’s smallest folding stroller!

Features of the GB Pocket Stroller:

• Weighs only 9.5 lbs (the lightest travel stroller).
• Suitable from a 6 month old baby, to a child up to 55lbs.
• The smallest stroller for travel ! Folded dimensions of 12″ x 7″ x 14″ (airplane cabin size stroller).
• Easy 2-step fold – a convenient lightweight stroller for travel.
• Self-standing when folded.
• Small but strong: Built using durable materials.
• One-hand push and steering. 
• Adjustable harness system.
• Want to learn more about the features of the award winning GB Pocket Stoller? See this  video .
• Reviews and further details about the  GB Pocket stroller here .

Please note: While this model makes an excellent airplane cabin stroller, it  does not recline, which I realize may be a dealbreaker for some.

6. Maclaren Sherpa

Claim to Fame:  The new Maclaren travel umbrella stroller fits in overhead bins.

• Weighs only 11.1 lbs.
• Suitable from 6 months to 55 lbs.
• Easily fits in airplane overhead bin.
• One hand umbrella fold.
• Large UPF 50+ hood.
• 5 point adjustable safety harness.
• Made from lightweight aluminum.
• Large storage basket.
• Reviews and further details about the Maclaren Sherpa stroller.

7. Graco Breaze Click Connect Stroller

Features of the Graco Travel Stroller:

• Weighs 17.75 lbs ( a little heavy for a compact stroller for travel, but has some great features).
• Suitable for children up to 50 pounds.
• Folded dimensions: 11.5″  x 16″ x 43″.
• Full flat recline option. Great travel stroller for 3 month old infant or a newborn.
• Deluxe padded seat.
• Extra-large canopy with a visor extension and peek-a-boo window plus UV 50+ protection.
• Exclusive one-hand fold makes this the easiest folding umbrella stroller.
• Easily accepts all Graco Click Connect infant car seats with a secure one-step attachment.
• Want to learn more about the features of the Graco Breaze Click Connect Stroller? See this product demo video .
• Reviews and further details about the Graco Click Connect Stroller here .

Further Reading

• 12 Best Family Hotels in NYC
• The Best Travel Car Seats for Airplanes
• Best Travel Booster Seats
• Best Kids Bluetooth Headphones
• The Best Travel Cribs

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22 Responses

Hi, I have nautica compact stroller and it’s folded dimensions are 20”18”9”. I was wondering whether I can put the stroller in the airplane overhead bin or not. Thanks, Shahzeen

Tara Cannon

Hi Shahzeen, Technically, your stroller exceeds carry-on dimensions, but just barely. You might (depending on the flight crew and how full the flight is) be allowed to bring it on. More likely, however, you will have to gate check it (give it up at the entrance of the plane and have it returned to you post flight). For this reason, a bag than can protect your stroller from damage (or losing any parts) might be helpful.

Hi, Tara, what do you think about GB QBit+ and Chicco Mini Bravo? Are they good travel strollers for car/plane trips? My baby is 16 months old and 12,5kg weight. I need something light, as confortable as possible, and not so expensive like Babyzen Yoyo. Thank you! Xoxo

Hi Danielle, There are a number of strollers in that price range that could be suitable (and I don’t have room to list them all here). I would just make sure you read the critical reviews for each carefully to find the best fit for you. For example, tall people seem to really like the QBit, but shorter people, not so much due to the height of the bar. The one thing I would say about the Mini Bravo is at 18.5 lbs, it is a little heavy for a travel stroller. That said, if you love the extra features, then the extra weight may not bother you (more features generally means a heavier stroller).

Hi, You mentioned that you also ise a light weight carrier at the airport when travelling. Which one do you have/recommend? My little guy will be 7 months when we travel and is already at 22 lbs at 5.5 months. Thanks so much 🙂

We just used the one we would normally use at home (in our case the Baby Bjorn Carrier One). I don’t think you need to go out an buy one especially for travel, unless you need a new one anyway. My two favorites are the Ergo 360 and the aforementioned Baby Bjorn Carrier One. Both of them are suitable up to 33lbs. I have a full post on the topic here: https://pintsizepilot.com/best-baby-carrier-for-travel-baby-carrier/

Note: You didn’t mention how far you will be traveling. We liked also having a carrier because our travels often involved a long day. If you are just point-to-point and a few hours, you could probably get away without it.

Happy travels !

I have spent an embarrassing amount of time researching strollers for an upcoming trip to Portugal and Spain. I have a 2.5yo and 6mo. We have a mountain buggy nano but are toying with the idea of a travel stroller with two seats so my toddler can rest and nap as well. Can you recommend a double travel stroller for Europe? I’m thinking side by side might be a bit much for some locations. Or should we just stick with ergo and 1 stroller? Too many options! Thanks in advance for your help!

As someone who can stay up until 2am researching travel topics, I know exactly where you are coming from. 🙂 I was digging around on your topic tonight and I came across this thread on TripAdvisor:

https://www.tripadvisor.ca/ShowTopic-g1-i9658-k7269252-Double_Jogging_Stroller_in_Europe_and_more-Family_Travel.html

Check out comment number 4 from “Island Girl”. I like the idea of the Nano, a very inexpensive umbrella (think Walmart) AND the Ergo. I feel that a double (up/down or side/side) is just going to be too big and cumbersome.

Hi! Thanks for sharing this information! I’m trying to decide which stroller is best for us to take our 1yo girl to a 2week trip to Europe in August. I’ve been considering the Zoe XL1, Maclaren Mark II, Mountain Buggy or just keep the Zobo we currently have. I’m looking for something light, with enough reclining for naps and good wheels for cobblestone or uneven terrain. What would you recommend? I also thought that being able to take it with us on the plane was a good feature, but now I think checking it at the gate wouldn’t be that bad, right?

Hi Maria! How lovely that you are off to Europe. I’m sorry, but I don’t know a lot about the Zobo. I will say, however, that for Europe it is really all about the wheels and the size of the stroller (smaller = better). The wheels (and suspension) are important for those cobblestone streets and the size because, well, everything is a little tighter over there (restaurants, cars etc.). Both Maclaren and Mountain Buggy are good choices. We always gate checked, but it is nice if you can put your stroller in a stroller bag for extra protection of parts (some strollers come with them). I would just avoid checking with regular luggage (at check in).

Jessica Davis

Hello Thanks for this great post! Any suggestions for A double stroller great for travel. My 3 year old and 7 month old will be travelling with us to North Africa and I just know they will both need use of a stroller. Or do you recommend me and hubby each push a single. Help!

Hi Jessica,

I wish you could see the whiteboard in my office. On it there is an item “double strollers” under “posts I need to write”. It has just sadly been there for a really long time.

I understand your conundrum well. I’m not sure how familiar you are with North Africa or the developing world in general, but I’m a little concerned about the quality of the road/sidewalk infrastructure. Strollers are great when there is a good surface to roll them upon. Having traveled a fair bit in Mexico when my kids were little, there was a lot of picking up the stroller when the sidewalk ended, broke apart, or simply didn’t exist. I think it is important to have that kind of expectation for North Africa (unless you are staying at some swanky resort like the Four Season with impeccable grounds).

If it were me, and after conferring with a friend of two young children (who is familiar with North Africa). I would bring one good travel stroller (with a good sun shade) that could hopefully accommodate either child and a baby carrier (also with sun shade). The higher quality travel strollers, such as the Mountain Buggy Nano tend to have better wheels and handling on rough roads. I hope this helps F.eel free to email me directly as well at [email protected] .

Michelle Osino

Hi Tara, great article indeed, i`m actually in a similar situation as Jessica, we are travelling to East Africa in 2 months with our 2 year old and one of my friends had suggested i take the baby jogger stroller, one since it`s a bit hotter there, the huge canopy will come in handy, and also since it`s built to handle almost any terrain, it would be an ideal choice. Personally i`m leaning more towards it because of it`s lightweight and easy to fold making it easier for travelling. I was wondering if you recommend it for travelling to such an area or is there a better option compared to it. Thanks in advance.

Hi Michelle,

Where are you going in East Africa? Will you be in a city or are you on a safari or something? While I love the suspension and tires on the Baby Jogger, I’m just a little worried about the airlines asking you to check it with regular luggage (if it is larger). There is just a bigger chance of it getting damaged.

Hi, I’m really torn between the baby jogger, the mountain Nano & the pocketit. We are doing a road trip with our 3 year old plus 3 other kids. We need something which won’t take up much space in the car along with all the luggage but want something which is good for walking as we will be doing a lot of walking once we reach our destinations. Can you help me make a decision…she’s quite a big girl so I’m worried the baby jogger seat is too narrow

Hi Nicola ! While I love the Pockit for its size and weight, the seat it quite narrow (only 9″!). Being so light, it also doesn’t have a ton of features such as recline or a sun canopy (not sure how sunny it will be where you are going). If there is one complaint about the Baby Jogger, it is that the seat is not deep enough. With your child being 3 years old, I would recommend the Nano. Now, that said, I would recommend buying it from somewhere that has easy free returns and I would try to sit your child in it (perhaps on carpet so wheels don’t get scratched), to make sure that you love it. As you already know, it is on the pricier side. I hope this helps ! Have a great trip !

I have 3 year old so only need a travel stroller for another year or 2 for trips to NZ and Europe. We don’t travel that much only 2-3 times a year. I have a disability so can only use 1 hand well and light weight is important. I am torn between the kolcroft and summer d-lite. Is the kolcroft thin when folded ? I’ve heard you can hit your legs if you have a long stride but I’m not that tall. Over those 2 which would you recommend for ease of 1 handed use?. We have taken the britax b-agile to NZ but it was a mistake. That stroller is so hard to maneuver with the 1 front wheel.

Hi Charlotte. It sounds like you have some nice travels coming up ! While I know it is easiest to order things online, I wonder if you might do best to go into a baby store where you can actually try the strollers out. Personally, I find a single bar (not 2 handles) is best for one handed steering, and wheel/suspension quality is also key. The latter is where the pricier strollers really shine (Baby Jogger City Tour and the Mountain Buggy Nano). I used a version of the Kolcraft with my kids until about 4 years old, but I wished in retrospect that I had purchased a more expensive travel stroller for the reason of better handling. Keep in mind that strollers have good resale value on sites like Craigslist if you keep care of them (you can probably get at least half your money back). The last thing I am thinking about is the seat height and depth on the stroller. As you have a 3 year old, you would want to make sure that the seat is not small or short. Now, to actually answer your question though….I would choose the Kolcraft over the Summer for the single handle bar. 🙂

I need something that can be pushed easily with one hand since I have to push luggage around with the kids. What do you think would fit my need?

Hi Jeanette. For one-handed pushing, I find that a single push bar (handle) works best. Also, better quality wheels/suspension also help. If you have the budget, I would look at the Baby Jogger City Tour, or something of that quality. I used something similar to the Kolcraft shown in this post, which was fine until you hit some gravel or something (the wheels are not nearly as good as those on the Baby Jogger). Your child may be too young for this, but we also found the Trunki ride-on luggage to be very helpful in airports when traveling with a toddler. Best of luck with your travels. If you have the time later, drop me a line and let me know how things worked out for you. 🙂

Hi, My husband and I are planning on a. Cruise with our 3 year old and 10 month old. We are thinking of bringing 1 stroller to minimize stuff to fly/in our cabin. Plan is to get a stroller they can share, when the toddler is in there I will carry the baby and when the baby is in there in toddler will walk. I need a reco on a stroller that is lightweight, good vetting for the Caribbean weather, good recline for napping and on the go diaper changes, can be a carry-on (gate checked) and really easy, fast and small to fold for the airport, cruise check in and cruise cabin. What stroller do you think would be best? Thank you, Alexis

Hi Alexis. A cruise – what fun ! I am a big fan of the Zoe XL1 Best stroller for travel. While it doesn’t have a full flat recline, it goes to 165 degrees which is pretty good (and decent for diaper changes on the go). It has better wheels/handling than some of the less expensive strollers. This can be an issue in the Caribbean where the roads and sidewalks are not always the best. It also has a peekaboo window/vent at the top that can help with air circulation. All that said, it is a little pricey. If you are looking for an inexpensive option, I would go with the Summer Infant 3D Lite Convenience stroller. We used a very similar stroller for several trips to the Caribbean and it was just great (it was just a little weak in the handling department when you hit gravel or sand). I hope this helps. Regardless of which way you go, I would encourage you to thoroughly read reviews. Have a great trip ! 🙂

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The ultimate guide to flying with a baby in New Zealand

Thomas Bywater

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Flying start: the ultimate guide to flying with a baby in New Zealand. Photo / Thomas Bywater

Despite challenges, flying with a baby can be the easiest way to get across New Zealand as a family, but here’s what I wish I knew before taking our tamaiti-kotiro to the departures terminal.

“First flight at 12 weeks? You’re starting early!”

The air steward’s professionally cheery tone couldn’t mask what sounded like genuine surprise. Judgment even.

Getting from A to B with a baby is never easy. Particularly through New Zealand’s network of roads and waterways. Then again, flying comes with its own questions and complications for new parents. Does a baby need their own ticket? How long should I wait to fly with my baby?

Faced with either a 7 hour drive through scorching central Otago or a 50-minute air link, it was an easy choice. Though it felt like a step into the unknown.

Flying is a tradeoff between speed and being able to pack everything you want. That being said, most airlines have very generous luggage allowance for infants, though it doesn’t make it any easier for adult travellers to work out what to prioritise.

How much does it cost to fly with a baby?

On domestic flights with Air New Zealand, babies under 2 fly for free, unless they need their own seat.

The carrier includes two additional checked items with an Infant ticket, for travellers under 2. This means you’ll have to think carefully if you need the pram, car seat AND bassinet on your travels.

Jetstar meanwhile has a far more generous allowance for small children, allowing parents to check stroller, travel cot, car seat and highchair for each infant. There is a $20 infant fee, for small children or babies travelling on Jetstar, even if they are seated on an adult’s lap.

Children under 2 fly for free domestically with Air New Zealand, when they are sat on a carer’s lap. However, only one infant can fly on an adult’s lap and you’ll be charged a child’s fee if they take up a seat. You will also have to take a car seat for them.

What is the minimum age to fly in New Zealand?

While 2 years old is the upper limit for an infant, most carriers also have a minimum age limit to fly.

Jetstar will not carry newborn babies under 48-hours-old. You will also need a medical note to fly with a baby under seven days.

While Air New Zealand doesn’t have a published lower age limit, children are not advised to fly for the first few weeks.

According to the Mayo Clinic, “air travel is typically safe for most healthy, full-term infants after the first few weeks,” after this point their lungs will have time to have matured and they will benefit from their first immunisations. You may be asked to provide a medical note for babies younger than a week or born pre-term.

The packing list

Strollers or prams.

Many families are inseparable from their strollers for their ability to carry fast-growing babies and their small caravan of necessities. Having one on the other side of a flight is a lifesaver.

The right stroller can not only help you with your trip but your luggage allowance, too.

On Air New Zealand’s passenger jet services, you can take a small, collapsible stroller on to the aircraft as carry-on. However, the stroller will have to fit in the overhead locker.

This is not available on regional turbo-prop planes.

Jetstar will allow you to carry on a collapsible stroller as long as it fits within the (56cm x 23cm x 36cm) carry-on dimensions. This counts towards your carry-on limit and will also need a protective cover/bag.

If you’re borrowing a car or getting a cab on either side of your flight, a car seat is a priority.

Although most car rentals will lease car seats as an extra, it’s reassuring and often more practical to take your own.

In some cases you’ll need one on your flight. If your child can’t be seated on your lap, they’ll have to be in an approved car seat. Your car seat will have to be certified by a national safety standards body (in New Zealand this will normally be a small ‘S’ mark for AS/NZS 175 ). They can also be no wider than 43cm and cannot be fitted in the aisles, so must travel in either the middle or window seat.

Car booster seats, however, are not allowed on planes. These items are prohibited by Air NZ and Jetstar.

Travel cot or bassinet

Having somewhere safe for your baby to sleep is an important consideration, wherever you are. Bringing a lightweight bassinet or travel cot can help everyone sleep easily.

Of course most hotel or resort accommodation will say if they can provide cots. Bringing a travel cot grants a bit more flexibility when planning your trip. Then again, even smaller folding travel cots take up a lot of room for families already straining carousel load.

Nappy bag: Changing a baby on flight

Your nappies and change bag is one piece of carry-on you will want to have on you.

Having a wet-bag with a couple of nappies and wipes ready to go is a must for any young family on the go. Though this will count towards your carry on for Air New Zealand and Jetstar flights.

There’s no formula for the number of nappies you’ll need for a flight. Hopefully, if you’re flying domestically, on a short connection changes can be kept to a minimum.

Jetstar says that all “A320, A321 and Boeing 787 aircraft bathrooms are fitted with baby-change tables”, for use in flight. Although they stress that babies should not have nappies changed on aircraft seats, tray tables or the floor - out of courtesy to customers who come after you.

Air New Zealand’s jet aircraft have change tables in the bathrooms, however turbo-prop ATR & Q300 aircraft don’t have change tables. Although a spokesperson for the carrier says that regional air crew “can provide a baby change mat, which is placed over the toilet seat so parents or caregivers can change their babies in the air.”

And don’t forget to bring a change of clothes for yourself, too. A spare top can save the day if you get some excess spill, changing in the confines of a plane WC.

Don’t forget the flight sacks!

Airlines will often refuse large and cumbersome items like strollers unless they have a bag to travel in.

Air New Zealand provides fly sacks for strollers in their larger hubs. However in the regions and on some other carriers, you will be expected to bring your own.

Top tips for take-off on baby’s first flight

With a baby on your lap, you’ll have even fewer hands for yourself and your belongings. Having everything you need, where you need it for the flight, is essential.

Infants are provided with their own seatbelt, which loops through your buckle. If they can support their own head, ideally they will be seated on your lap, facing forward for takeoff.

Takeoff is an ideal time to get a feed in, as this is a comfort to baby and can help them get used to the pressurised cabin. Breast, bottle or pacifier can ease pressure on their ears and soothe their flight. Just make sure their belt remains around their waist.

Flying on a regional service can be a lot more streamlined, with less time spent queuing around or passing through airport security. Although it may not be quite as quick or spacious as booking the A320 passenger jet, turboprop planes are an easy introduction to flying. As much for parents as for their kids.

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Travelling with children

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Booking flights for babies and toddlers under 2 years old

Infant fares (under two years old).

Babies and toddlers are welcome onboard Air New Zealand flights. They're very special passengers, so there are a few extra rules.

• A carer over 15 years old must accompany the infant, except for flights to and from Canada where the adult must be 16 years or older.
• On all flights, infants sit on their adult's lap and not a seat. 
• You can only have one infant sitting on your knee. If you are travelling alone with two infants, you'll need to purchase a child fare adjacent across the aisle and seat the other infant in  an approved car seat .
• If you're travelling with an infant you're unable to be seated within the exit row.
• Infants can't be booked in their own Business Premier™ seat for safety reasons. You can book to share a Business Premier, Economy or Premium Economy seat with your infant and a bassinet, or book yourselves each your own seats in   Economy or Premium Economy. Infants must be supervised by their carer at all times.

When you fly within New Zealand, infants travel for free. While you need to book their flight, they won't receive a ticket or receipt as they don't pay a fare or occupy a seat.

When you're flying internationally, infant fares are 10% of the adult fare.

Can I book a ticket for a child or baby online?

Yes you can! If the child will be travelling with an adult, just add them when booking your ticket . You'll need to include their passport number on international flights.

Booking flights for your baby before it's born?

Unfortunately, you can't book an infant fare until your baby is born. You can book everyone else's ticket, of course, and we can add your baby after the big day. Simply get in touch with us and have your booking reference ready.

Travelling with a placenta

New parents often ask us about bringing a placenta on their flight. There are a few simple rules to follow.

If you're flying overseas, or if your placenta is frozen or medically preserved, contact our Cargo team . There are special conditions we must follow, and they can help.

Otherwise, seal your placenta in a leak-proof container, and pack it in your checked-in baggage. You can't bring your placenta on board in your carry-on baggage.

Booking flights for children over 2 and under 12 years old

Children older than two years will have their own seat onboard the flight. They need to travel with someone who is at least 15 years old, or book as an unaccompanied minor .

Children's fares are:

• same as an adult fare within NZ, Tasman or the Pacific
• 75% of the adult fare on long-haul international flights  (Exception: Children's fares for long-haul international flights originating in US and Canada are the same as adult fares)
• same as adult fares when travelling in Business Premier

Children 12 years and older pay adult fares.

Flights to/from Canada

All children under five years of age must be accompanied by a person who is at least 16 years old in accordance with Canadian law. Our airport staff will facilitate the allocation of seats for children under the age of 14 with accompanying adults during check-in in accordance with Canadian Law if seating hasn't already been pre-allocated.

Children's baggage allowances

Children over 2 years old have the same baggage allowance as adults. Babies and toddlers under 2 years old can bring one carry-on bag, but no checked-in baggage.

In addition to your baggage allowance and for no extra charge, you can bring two of these items for every infant and child under 12 years old in your group:

• Bassinet or portable cot
• Stroller, pram or pushchair

Bassinet seats are available on many of our flights. They're at the front of the cabin, and we can attach a bassinet to the wall for your baby. They're very handy for giving baby a chance to sleep comfortably, and to give your lap a rest.

For the safety of your infant, the bassinet must only be used when your infant is sleeping. Beds are made up  with sheets, a pillow and blankets for added comfort.

Your baby will need to be able to safely fit the bassinet:

• They are designed for infants up to 11.8kg (26lb)
• The bassinet is 73.66cm long and 34.29cm wide (29 inches x 13.5 inches).

We'll try to give you a bassinet seat when you check-in with your baby, but availability is limited. It's a good idea to reserve one ahead of time with Seat Select. There's a small charge for choosing the seat.

You can book a bassinet seat in Seat Select. Choose a seat with the bassinet icon .

Traveling with your baby? Reserve a bassinet seat early. 

Bringing extra seat restraints

Your car seat can be comforting and familiar to your child on a long flight. It also provides extra protection.

You're welcome to bring a car seat for a child with a paid seat. Your car seat must:

• Be in a safe working condition
• Be able to seat your child with their arms and thighs within its frame
• Show a certification label approving it for use on aircraft

These are examples of the main certification labels:

The certification label must be visible so it can be verified by our crew.

• Fit between your seat's armrests, and allow the seat in front to recline

If your car seat is 43 cm (17 inches) wide it may not be able to fit your chosen seat.

Aft (rear) facing

42-43 cm (16.5-17 inches)

48 cm (19 inches)

Forward facing

65 cm (25.5 inches)

For safety, your car seat can't block access to the aisle. Be sure to use Seat Select to choose an appropriate seat for your child:

• A window seat
• One of the middle seats of a centre row
• The window end of an Economy Skycouch™. Please remove and stow the car seat if you want to raise the seat footrest or lie down.

Car seats are not permitted in the Business Premier cabin.

Car booster seats are not approved car seats.

Your flight attendant will help fit your car seat to the seat. If you have any questions please contact us .

CARES Harness

A CARES Harness gives your child torso support. You're welcome to bring one to provide extra protection for your child.

Your CARES Harness must be in a safe working condition, and be the right size for your child. It also needs to be FAA approved, and show a certification label.

Your flight attendant will help you fit your CARES Harness to the seat.

You can't use a CARES Harness in an exit row seat, or in Business Premier.

Front Packs and Infant Slings

For taxi, take-off and landing, seat your baby on your lap with an infant seat belt. Your front pack or sling must be removed and stowed during this time. You're welcome to put your baby into a front pack or sling only after take-off.

If the seat belt sign illuminates, you must fasten an infant belt around your infant and the sling or front pack.

Prohibited equipment

For safety and regulatory reasons we prohibit certain products on Air New Zealand aircraft. This includes, but is not limited to:

• CoziGo  cover for bassinets
• Car booster seats
• Inflatable comfort accessories e.g. Fly-Tot and Plane Pal
• Jetkids Bedbox bag
• LegsUp leg hammocks
• Knee defenders

Collapsible strollers, prams and pushchairs

Strollers, prams and pushchairs are handy when travelling with infants and children.

You can bring a compact, foldable stroller for every infant and child under 12 years old in your group. It won't count towards your child's baggage allowance, even if the fare doesn't include checked baggage. There's no extra charge, and you don't need to tell us in advance.

Checking in your stroller

• To check in your stroller, simply print out an extra bag tag from the kiosk at the airport and take it to the bag drop with your other checked baggage.
• You can check your stroller in with or without a protective travel bag. Most New Zealand airports have reusable or clear plastic travel bags that can be purchased.
• Large or double strollers must be checked in as checked baggage for all flights.

Bringing your stroller on board

• Our smaller turbo-prop aircraft with flight numbers NZ5000-NZ5999 don't have the space to accommodate strollers, so they must be checked in.
• You can bring a collapsible single stroller on your flight as carry-on baggage on international services and New Zealand domestic jet services between Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, Queenstown, Dunedin and Invercargill.
• To fit in the overhead locker, strollers must not exceed our carry-on baggage dimensions of 55cm x 40cm x 23cm (21 x 16 x 9 inches) or weigh more than 7kg (15lb).
• If you're bringing your stroller as carry-on baggage, it must be collapsed prior to boarding the aircraft.
• It's not permitted to use it when crossing the tarmac or inside the airbridge at any airport.
• If the flight is full, we may ask you to check your stroller in at the gate.

Seating support for children or infants with disabilities

Air New Zealand permits the onboard use of selected support seats and medical harnesses for young travellers with complex seating needs. The devices are not permitted in exit rows and in Business Premier seating for safety reasons, and may have other seating restrictions.

• MERU TravelChair is a postural support chair for children aged 3-11 with a physical disability. The maximum sitting shoulder height for the passenger is 52cm and maximum weight is 35kg.
• Carrot 3000 is a car seat suitable for children with special needs who weigh between 15-36kg.
• Houdini Harness is a medical harness for postural support that must be worn in conjunction with the aircraft safety belt.

Please contact us prior to travel so that we can help you book appropriate seats for the seating support you are bringing onboard, and so we can prepare for your flight. Email us at [email protected] or call us on +64 9 255 7757.

Flying Skycouch™ with children

Our award-winning Skycouch  gives everyone the space to relax and spread out on your couch in the sky.

It's perfect for travelling with kids and safe for even our youngest travellers. We offer a Skycouch infant harness, harness belt and optional infant pod. Whether your little one is on a seat, your lap or lying down, they can be safely buckled at any time.

Skycouch infant harness and belt

At the start of the flight, our crew will provide you with a safety briefing and let you know when and how to use the infant harness with the Skycouch. The infant harness can be used when the infant is lying down or seated on the adult's lap.

Any time the seatbelt sign is illuminated, your child or infant must be restrained. To avoid disruptions later in the flight, we recommend fitting the harness when the seatbelt sign is turned off after take-off.

When an infant is using the infant harness and secured by the harness belt to the standard seatbelt of the window seat, the infant may lie down when the seatbelt sign is on. You can adjust the belt for a snug fit to keep you child safe.

Secure baby on an adult's lap by looping the adult's seat belt through the back of the infant harness.

The harness comes in three sizes:

85 - 110cms

The optional infant pod lets babies sleep comfortably and securely with you on a Skycouch. There are a limited number of infant pods on each flight.

Your baby will need to fit within the infant pod. Its dimensions are:

• 320mm wide at the top and 220mm wide at the foot

Both the infant harness and harness belt, and optional pod are free for Skycouch customers.

Find out more about booking a Skycouch .

Keeping kids fed and entertained can be a full-time job when travelling. Here's what's included with your fare, and what you can bring onboard.

If your baby is on solids or formula, you can bring your own baby food and feeding equipment on board. Please note we don't have facilities for sterilising water or equipment.

If your flight has a meal service, you can order a baby meal prior to your long haul flight. You can request a baby meal when you book your flight. You can also add a baby meal online  or in the Air NZ app .

Children's meals

We'll keep little tummies happy with healthy options, and a few good kiwi treats too.

We only serve snacks on our domestic flights, but you can order children's meals prior to the flight on:

• All long haul international flights
• Pacific and Tasman flights when your ticket includes a meal

To order, select the children's meal option when you book. If you've already booked, you can request a children's meal  online  or in the Air NZ app .

Here's a taster of a typical children's menu.

• Main meal: Mild butter chicken with rice and peas. Or penne pasta with beef bolognese. Served with Kapiti ice cream, cheese, fruit juice and a berry fruit bar.
• Breakfast: Hotcakes with berry compote. Fresh fruit salad, muffin, juice and yogurt pouch.
• Snacks: Available on long haul or to purchase on short haul - Rookie Cookie, potato chips and fruit juice.

We try to serve the kids before the adults so you can help them eat, before relaxing with your own meal.

Kids like familiar foods, and eating on their own schedule. To make your travel a little easier, you're welcome to bring your own food on board. Some things to remember:

• We can't heat or refrigerate your food
• Don't get caught out by airport security restrictions on liquids, pastes and gels
• Don't take any leftovers past border control. Leave them with us for safe disposal.

Special dietary requirements

A selection of special meals are available on our long-haul international flights. We cater for a range of allergies and dietary restrictions. You can order one of our available special meals when you book your flight. If you've already booked, you can choose a special meal online  or in the Air NZ app . 

Please request your child's special meal at least 24 hours before you depart.

If your child has an allergy, we can work with you to manage allergies  when travelling.

Entertainment

Inflight entertainment.

Select the "Kids" button on our inflight entertainment screens . It gives your kids access to age-appropriate movies, TV shows, music and games.

Special situations

Travelling with more than five children.

Air travel can be a fun adventure for children, but it can also be a little overwhelming. To keep everyone happy, safe and relaxed, it's best to travel with at least one adult for every five children.

Travelling with someone else's children

Airlines are careful to ensure all young people are safe when they travel. They may be cautious if you're travelling with someone under 18 and you're not their parents. We recommend you carry:

• A letter of consent signed by the child's parent or lawful guardian
• A copy of the child's birth certificate.

Travelling with someone else's children from a French Territory

French laws are very specific about travelling with children.

If you're leaving a French Territory (other than Noumea) with someone else's under-18 child, you must carry:

• The child's passport with a visa, if applicable
• A permit to travel ,  also known as an AST or l'autorisation de sortie du territoire. It must be signed by the child's parent or legal guardian.
• A photocopied ID document of the parent or legal guardian who signed the permit to travel

Travelling in a different cabin to your children

When flying Air New Zealand, you can travel in one cabin class and leave your children in another.

• Children must all be at least five years old
• You will need to pay the full adult fare for their seat
• Parents or carers must supervise and look after the children
• You must collect and care for your children during and at the end of the flight, and during any stopovers

Some airlines don't allow your children to fly in a different cabin. If you're connecting to a codeshare or partner flight, please check with them for their rules.

FAQs about travelling with strollers, prams and pushchairs

Can i bring a stroller on board my flight.

If you are flying on a smaller turbo-prop aircraft, you will need to check in your stroller or pram when you check in for your flight.

Our international and New Zealand domestic jet services between Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, Queenstown, Dunedin and Invercargill can accommodate a stroller on board.

To fit in the overhead locker, strollers must be collapsible and not exceed our maximum carry-on baggage dimensions of 55cm x 40cm x 23cm (21 x 16 x 9 inches) or weigh more than 7kg (15lb).

What kind of stroller can I take on a plane?

All kinds of collapsible single strollers, prams and pushchairs are allowed as long as they can fit in the overhead locker and don't weigh more than 7kg (15lb).

Our turbo-prop aircraft don't have the space to accommodate strollers in the overhead lockers so they must be checked in.

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The 8 Best Travel Strollers for Dads Navigating Airports and City Streets

These are the ones that’ll make your life easy and your kids happy.

Best Overall Travel Stroller

Bugaboo butterfly stroller.

Comfiest Stroller

Gb qbit+ all-city stroller.

Best Budget Stroller

Babygap classic stroller.

Easiest Stroller to Carry

Contours itsy lightweight travel stroller.

Best Stroller for Twinning

Uppababy g-link v2 stroller.

Best Stroller for City Dwellers

Babyzen yoyo2 stroller.

Smoothest Handling Stroller

Silver cross jet 3 super compact stroller.

Best Stroller for Flying with Infants

Doona infant car seat and stroller.

Thankfully, my wife and I come prepared. The Bugaboo Butterfly travel stroller is a godsend when running around with small humans . It opens quickly and easily, it’s light and portable, and it holds kids up to fifty pounds. That means even though my two-year-old daughter is usually the one hitching the ride, when my five-year-old son’s legs get tired (or a sibling rivalry inevitably rears its head), he can hop in there, too.

All of which is to say that when the Koenig clan finally does arrive at the gate, all four of us are in relatively good spirits—even the two year old. The Bugaboo is a great get, but there are a number of other travel strollers out there that could be a good match for you and yours. Read our full breakdown of the varieties we’ve tested and reviewed.

The Butterfly is aptly named, as it feels like it is actually floating over the ground, even when on grass and gravel. The seat must be especially comfortable, because my two year old surely would have let me know in no uncertain terms were it not. The cargo space on the Bugaboo is good enough for emergency drinks, snacks, Mom’s bag, and Dad’s travel hoodie.

Opening and closing the Butterfly is a cinch, and with Irish blood on both sides, my kids appreciate the sun canopy as well. The stroller is small enough to keep as a carry-on, but if you do decide to check it, be sure to fold up the footrest so it doesn’t get damaged in transit.

There’s not much to dislike about the All-City stroller, and that includes its price point, which is a good chunk less than the Bugaboo’s (right in the $300 range, depending on when and where you shop).

This is a stroller with comfortable padding in the seating area and folding mechanisms that won’t induce public meltdowns (from dads, not toddlers). It’s also rather maneuverable and has a silky ride that is really impressive. The only bona fide knock against it is that at 17.6 pounds, it’s pretty bulky, and without a shoulder strap, heaving it around is a real workout.

For an item that costs around $100, the Classic Stroller from babyGap can take a beating. That’s a pleasant surprise for those of us dads who tend to hulk out on things from time to time. (Hi, it’s me. I’m the problem, it’s me.)

This stroller also has a comfortable seat with a five-point harness and a sun canopy overhead with a peekaboo window so you can keep an eye on Junior. The only thing not to like about it is that the folding lock on the bottom-right side takes a little getting used to, which might annoy impatient dads... Not that I know anyone like that.

The most minimalistic of the strollers on this list, the Contours Itsy Lightweight Travel Stroller reminds me of something my wife says every time I float the idea of buying a new car. She points out the window at the old beater in our driveway and says, “Does it still roll?”

This stroller has no cupholders and limited storage space. It also doesn’t recline, which might be an issue for bigger kids. But it does, in fact, still roll—rather smoothly at that. And at just 12.3 pounds and $170, this will be a sensible option for many.

Before I had kids, I used to think I wanted twins. What a sweet and innocent child I was. One kid at a time has been plenty for me, and for those dads in the trenches with twins, you have my respect.

For you guys, the Uppababy G-Link V2 Stroller is a very solid choice. I think of it as the Cadillac of travel strollers—comfortable, smooth, and (obviously) rather large. It’s actually too big to keep as a carry-on, so be prepared to check it. But realistically, there is very little not to like here.

Since I’m a full-fledged suburban dad now, car seats are my current worry. But I lived in cities for twenty years of my life, so I am very sympathetic to space concerns. The best travel stroller out there for the urban denizens among us needs to be small and easy to maneuver—enter the Babyzen YOYO2.

This zippy little thing is great for weaving through armies of commuters on busy city sidewalks. It also folds up teeny, and at 13.7 pounds, it’s an easy carry with a padded shoulder strap. The only downside is that it’s not fond of rough surfaces, which is not really a big deal as long as you avoid New York City potholes.

You know that feeling when you’re cutting wrapping paper and the scissors begin to glide? That’s how it feels to push the Silver Cross. It’s also got a five-point harness and an adjustable footrest, plus it fully reclines. The sun canopy is workable if not the largest I’ve seen.

A fun trick is that this stroller folds into a little rolling-suitcase-looking thing—the leather-wrapped bumper bar turns into the handle. The main drawback here is that cargo space is at a bare minimum. The Silver Cross Jet 3 is best thought of as the roadster of travel strollers.

Traveling with infants—and really doing anything with infants, now that I say it out loud—has an added degree of difficulty. Gently put: You’re going to want all the help you can get. That’s why I like this entry from Doona. It doubles as a car seat and stroller, so it gets high marks for versatility. It is also ready right out of the box for newborns (many other strollers need to be adapted for kids under six months). And, best of all, for you cosmopolites out there, it’s approved by both U.S. and European authorities for air travel.

The one issue with this stroller is that its max weight capacity is thirty-five pounds, so your child will likely outgrow it quickly. But it’s great to save for a second kid or to share with friends.

What to Consider When Buying a Travel Stroller

Don’t just trust our picks; see how we graded them.

Movement When you’re pushing around one, two, or (godspeed) three-plus kids, you want the stroller to make it easy on you. If you’re in the city, you only need it to be good on sidewalk asphalt and epoxied airport floors. If you’re in the burbs, gravel and dirt might come into the equation.

Weight When it’s folded up, you want it to be easy to handle. This is especially true for carry-on strollers.

Storage Everyone in the family has essentials: Baby’s snacks, Dad’s drink, Mom’s in-flight melatonin. A good stroller gives you space for all of it.

Ease of use Is it difficult to fold? Does it fit in an overhead bin? Is the carry-strap sufficient for its size? Stuff like this is important.

Versatility This is critical when you’ve got multiple kids and the older ones like to campaign for stroller privileges. What is the weight limit? Also, if a stroller can recline, it’ll be more comfortable for bigger kids.

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