The 10 best travel strollers for your next trip

Traveling with babies and children means bringing a lot of extras along for the journey. If you have small children, one essential you often can’t travel without is a stroller. With so many options, choosing which stroller to buy for travel can be enough to make your wheels fall off (that’s a stroller joke, by the way).

Large strollers offer all the bells and whistles but may be too heavy, too large or too inconvenient to lug through an airport or onto a plane. They can also be challenging to maneuver around your travel destination.

Compact or umbrella strollers may work better for flying, as they’re often lightweight and small enough to fold up quickly and easily. In fact, some of these strollers designed for travel will even fit in the overhead bin on your plane.

However, when seeking a smaller size, it can be tricky to find something that is comfortable enough for your child to sit in for extended periods and can handle the rough terrain at some destinations. In other words, there are trade-offs when choosing the best travel stroller for your family.

Related: 42 real-world family travel tips that actually work

As parents and frequent travelers, we’ve tested some of the top-rated travel strollers on the market to help you find the perfect stroller for your family. Here are the travel strollers that passed our test, plus a few tips for your next family trip.

Babyzen Yoyo2

• Best for: Parents who need a compact stroller that can fit in the airplane overhead bin
• Weight: 13.6 to 14.5 pounds
• Size when folded: 20.5 inches by 17.3 inches by 7.1 inches
• To buy: Babyzen Yoyo2, $449

Why the Babyzen Yoyo2 is a good travel stroller

Most airlines accept the Babyzen Yoyo2 as cabin baggage when folded. Despite its small stature, this stroller is built for long-lasting use beyond travel. This makes it especially useful for families living in small spaces who need one easy-to-maneuver stroller that can do it all.

When you add on the optional newborn pack ($180), the Babyzen Yoyo2 can be used from birth onward. With a substantial sun protection factor of 50-plus for its canopy — as well as a gradual recline, an under-seat storage bag that supports up to 11 pounds, a zipper pocket and a padded shoulder strap for carrying the stroller when folded — the Yoyo2 is as durable and comfortable closed as it is open.

It’s not the most budget-friendly option on this list, especially if you purchase extras like the newborn pack. Unless you purchase the newborn pack, however, the stroller doesn’t fully recline for babies ages 0 to 6 months.

TPG contributor David Slotnick is a big fan of this stroller when he flies with his family.

“It folds up small enough to go in the overhead bin and is super lightweight and durable,” he said. “Every single time, the flight attendants are surprised by how compact it is.”

GB Pockit Air

• Best for: Families who need a stroller that folds up small but can handle lots of use
• Weight: 10.4 pounds
• Size when folded: 11.8 inches by 7.1 inches by 13.8 inches
• To buy: GB Pockit Air, $139.99

Why the GB Pockit Air is a good travel stroller

The GB Pockit Air folds up in just two easy steps. Don’t let its small size fool you. It still has a weight capacity of up to 55 pounds and can handle a bumpy sidewalk as well as it handles the moving walkway at the airport.

Although the no-frills GB Pockit Air doesn’t come with all the extra bells and whistles (which is why it folds up so easily), it does have a miniature sun canopy, an adjustable harness and a small storage space underneath the seat.

The GB Pockit Air is designed for babies 6 months and older (up to 55 pounds), so parents of newborns will have to wait a bit to use this small but mighty stroller.

Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller

• Best for: Families who need a budget-friendly travel stroller
• Weight: 13 pounds
• Size when folded: 14 inches by 10 inches by 42 inches
• To buy: Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller, $99

Why the Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller is a good travel stroller

Budget-savvy parents will be immediately drawn to the price of the Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller. The price is far from the only thing to love about this lightweight stroller, though.

The 3Dlite has a full canopy, anti-shock front wheels and a four-position recline that almost lies flat. It can hold kids who weigh up to 50 pounds, and the storage basket underneath can hold up to 10 pounds of baby travel necessities.

Speaking of extras, this affordable stroller comes with a cup holder, a Velcro pocket and a carry strap, too. One thing it doesn’t have is adjustable handles. Parents on the taller side may not find this stroller comfortable for long periods of time.

Like similar lightweight strollers, the 3Dlite is made for babies 6 months and older, so parents of newborns will have to wait to use this stroller.

Joolz Aer+

• Best for: Families in the market for a comfortable, lightweight travel stroller
• Weight: 13.23 pounds
• Size when folded: 21 inches by 17.7 inches by 8.5 inches
• To buy: Joolz Aer+, $449

Why the Joolz Aer+ is a good travel stroller

The Joolz Aer+ folds up in one second with just one hand — ideal for anyone holding additional luggage (or a child) in their arms. When folded, the stroller easily slides into most airlines’ overhead storage bins.

The foldable seat is lightweight but made to be especially comfortable for kids. It provides support and cushion for the child’s neck and back in all reclining positions, and the sides conform to the body for additional comfort and support.

The included sun hood provides an ultraviolet protection factor of 50-plus, and there is a large storage basket underneath. Joolz does offer add-on products like a cup holder, a footboard and car seat adapters, but you must purchase those separately.

Although the stroller is adjustable, it’s designed for kids 6 months and up (with a 49-pound maximum weight limit) and doesn’t fully recline. If you plan to use this stroller with a newborn, you can buy a newborn carrycot ($219) to use for babies.

UPPAbaby Vista V3 Travel System

• Best for: Parents who want a high-end stroller that can expand with their growing family
• Weight: 27 pounds
• Size when folded: 25.7 inches by 11.3 inches by 32 inches
• To buy: UPPAbaby Vista V3 Travel System, $1,249.98

Why the UPPAbaby Vista V3 Travel System is a good travel stroller

The UPPAbaby Vista V3 is a luxe travel stroller that can grow with your child. The standard bundle comes with a stroller frame, a toddler seat, an infant seat and a base. So, you can begin using the stroller as soon as you bring your baby home and up until they reach 50 pounds. This stroller folds in one easy step and can stand on its own when folded.

You can further configure the UPPAbaby Vista V3 to seat up to three children with the addition of a rumble seat and/or ride-along board. In addition to being versatile, the UPPAbaby Vista V3 provides a smooth ride with spring-action, all-wheel suspension. It comes with a UPF 50-plus sunshade and holds all your travel essentials in the oversized storage basket that can support up to 30 pounds of baby gear.

TPG’s vice president of marketing and communications chose the UPPAbaby Vista as her first travel stroller.

“We are expecting our first baby in just a few short weeks and decided to go with the UPPAbaby Vista for our stroller because we live in New York City and wanted something that is durable, long-lasting and able to convert to multiple combinations,” she shared. “This stroller rolls like butter and the storage basket is incredibly spacious. It comes with a bassinet and toddler seat, but I love that there are also a ton of accessories you can purchase separately to make the stroller meet your needs.”

Related: The best baby travel products, according to TPG readers

It’s not the lightest or smallest stroller on this list. However, the multitude of use options, durability and thoughtful details — like full-grain leather accents, a rain cover and multiple color options — make it a great choice if you want a do-it-all stroller that you can use for the long haul.

Doona Car Seat & Stroller

• Best for: Parents of newborns who want an all-in-one stroller solution
• Weight: 16.5 pounds
• Size when folded: 23.6 inches by 17.3 inches by 26 inches
• To buy: Doona Car Seat & Stroller, $650

Why the Doona Car Seat & Stroller is a good travel stroller

The wheels of the Doona Car Seat & Stroller snap up to transform it from a stroller into a car seat. This makes it ideal for globe-trotters who are always on the move. Having this one-of-a-kind product ensures you won’t need to lug extra gear around the airport or figure out a car seat plan when arriving at your destination.

There are certainly cheaper strollers out there, but when you consider that you are getting a stroller and a car seat for one price, the Doona is a surprisingly economical choice.

The Doona looks sharp with faux leather detailing and sleek black fabric. It performs well with an extendable handlebar, a canopy shade and a storage bag that attaches to the handlebar. You can purchase a larger storage bag, a sunshade and a travel bag separately.

The Doona is suitable for babies and kids weighing between 4 and 35 pounds. It can only be used as rear-facing, so your baby is likely to outgrow this stroller more quickly than other travel strollers. For the newborn stage, though, it doesn’t get much better than the convenient, compact Doona.

Thule Chariot Double Jogging Stroller

• Best for: Families who need a stroller for outdoor adventures
• Weight: 32 pounds
• Size when folded: 34.2 inches by 31.5 inches by 14.7 inches
• To buy: Thule Chariot Double Jogging Stroller, $1,349.99

Why the Thule Chariot Double Jogging Stroller is a good travel stroller

The Thule Chariot Double Jogging Stroller may not immediately strike you as a travel-friendly stroller option, but if your travels include hiking, biking or camping (skiing and jogging kits can be purchased separately), you’ll be glad to have a multisport trailer and stroller along for the ride.

As far as trailers and strollers go, the Thule Chariot is top of the line. It folds up smaller than similar strollers, and it has independently reclining seats for napping on the go, adjustable suspension for a smooth ride no matter the surface, adjustable ventilation and a large storage basket.

Keep in mind that because of its design, you’ll have to gate-check the Thule Chariot when you fly. That said, the stroller’s larger size is often touted as one of its biggest benefits.

Bombi Bebee V2 Lightweight Stroller

• Best for: Families who want a durable, lightweight stroller at an affordable price
• Weight: 18 pounds
• Size when folded: 23.38 inches by 19.75 inches by 10 inches
• To buy: Bombi Bebee V2 Lightweight Stroller, $199.99

Why the Bombi Bebee V2 Lightweight Stroller is a good travel stroller

The Bombi Bebee V2 is a favorite of ours for several reasons. The first is because it’s one of the easiest-to-fold strollers we’ve ever used. You can fold it up in one second using just one hand, making it a convenient option when you’re on the go.

The convenience doesn’t end there. This stroller folds up small enough to fit in most airlines’ overhead compartments, and it comes with a storage bag. When in use, the stroller’s rugged wheels provide a smooth ride, and the harness is designed so that you never have to worry about taking it apart when you need to make an adjustment.

The Bebee V2 is designed for use with children ages 6 months and older until they reach 50 pounds. You can also use it from birth with the optional car seat adapter ($19.99).

Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller

• Best for: Parents of multiple kids who need a lightweight, compact stroller
• Weight: 28 pounds
• Size when folded: 26 inches by 30.3 inches by 12.8 inches
• To buy: Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller, $429.99

Why the Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller is a good travel stroller

Finding a side-by-side double stroller that meets your needs is no simple task, but the Joovy Kooper X2 ticks all the boxes. It has wide, comfortable, adjustable seats for your kids while still being slim enough to easily fit through doorways. It folds up easily with one hand and stands on its own when folded. Also, it includes all the must-have extras like snack trays, shade canopies and multiple storage spaces.

The seats and shade canopies adjust independently so you can accommodate your children when nap time arrives. Additionally, the under-stroller storage basket holds up to 22 pounds (because more kids always means more stuff).

Each seat is designed to hold a child up to 50 pounds, but it is not compatible with infant car seats. You can’t start using it until your child is at least 3 months old.

Nuna Pipa urbn + trvl Stroller & Car Seat Travel System

Why the Nuna Pipa urbn + trvl Stroller & Car Seat Travel System is a good travel stroller

The Nuna Pipa urbn + trvl system is one of the most lightweight and easy-to-use travel systems on the market. The included infant car seat has a baseless latch installation system, so you can use it in a cab, ride-hailing vehicle or airplane seat as easily as you can use it in your own car.

With the car seat removed, the stroller base folds with one hand to a super-compact size that makes it easy to carry. You can utilize the included carry bag or remove the wheels for an even smaller folded size, if necessary.

TPG’s director of marketing, Caroline English, uses the Nuna Pipa with her child at home and on the road.

“It’s great on smooth surfaces and can do a full 360-degree turn on a dime,” she said. “Also, the folding is incredible. On a recent trip to Cape Cod, we could fold it up small enough to bring into restaurants and carry it around easily.”

The Nuna Pipa also comes with a UPF 50-plus shade canopy, leatherlike accents and a storage basket. Once your baby has outgrown the Nuna Pipa’s car seat, you can use the stroller’s toddler seat for children up to 50 pounds.

Tips for flying with a travel stroller

Where and how to check your stroller when flying

Some airlines require you to check your stroller at the gate, while others have rules about checking it at the ticket counter if it’s over a certain weight.

It’s more convenient to take your travel stroller to the gate, as your little one can ride (or nap) in it until you board. If you prefer to check it earlier, though, you can do so at the ticket counter; then, you can use a baby carrier to get your baby or toddler through the airport.

Before you get to the airport, make sure you check the regulations for the airline that you’re flying so you’re adequately prepared for what’s to come. Some compact strollers are designed to fit in overhead bins, but whether they will be allowed on board depends on the stroller, the airline and, ultimately, the flight attendants.

Preventing damage

When checking your stroller either at the gate or the ticket counter, it’s best to take a few photos before traveling. That way, if the stroller arrives damaged, you may have an easier time proving a claim. Each airline has its own rules about what is eligible for a claim, and some (like Southwest Airlines) do not cover any type of damage, only loss.

To reduce the chances of damage, cover your stroller with a storage bag when you check it. One may come with your stroller when you purchase it, depending on which model you choose. You can also order a cover for your car seat and/or travel stroller on Amazon.

Unfortunately, you should also always have a backup plan at your destination in case your stroller is lost or damaged. This can and does happen. It is also a good reason to consider some of the smaller and/or less expensive strollers for travel unless you have a true need for a more robust model.

Make note of a website for stroller rentals in your destination in case you need to resort to plan B. Also, don’t rule out a quick trip to a local Walmart or Target, where available. Airline baggage claim offices also sometimes have basic strollers available for use in the case of delayed or damaged strollers.

Getting through security

Agents will typically ask you to fold up the stroller and place it on the belt when going through Transportation Security Administration checkpoints. If your stroller is not foldable or won’t fit on the belt, it may not be the best for travel through the airport — but security can do a visual or physical inspection of it when they deem it necessary.

Bottom line

Picking the right travel stroller greatly depends on your situation. There’s no perfect one for all scenarios and situations, so you need to prioritize what matters the most for your trips. Do you want it to fit in the overhead bin? Do you want it to be economical so it’s not a huge hit if it is lost or damaged on your trip? Do you want it to be the most comfortable option for your baby for those trips when they will be spending long periods of time in the stroller?

The most compact stroller may not be the best for rugged terrain, and a stroller designed for a newborn may not be the best once your child is older.

Once you’ve figured out what you need and want to prioritize, you can more easily decide which travel stroller on this list best fits your budget, travel preferences and family.