How to Choose a Travel Stroller
If you are a frequent traveler or if your daily strolls include a short out-and-back stroll and lots of visits to the local park take a look at a light stroller that you can pack. They fold easily, and they fit into trunks, trains, buses and planes.
The Nuna Trvl is compact and fits into the overhead bin of most planes. It’s also simple to assemble and comes with great features like the simple, adjustable seat.
Easy to Assemble
Like the name suggests, this stroller is designed to be easy to assemble and use. The frame pops open and folds in one hand, and the seat reclines in two different positions. It also comes with a bumper bar that comes off and back on with ease and the handlebar appears and feels nice, too. The lack of storage on the handle means that parents have to carry a huge bag or drape it delicately over the handle, which is not in line with the advice of a professional.
This stroller is light and easy to maneuver. It has sharp turns and can roll effortlessly on any surface. It has larger foam-filled rubber wheels than those of some other models we’ve tried which gives it a bit more bounce and more stability. Some parents have complained that the tires are flimsy.
In its compact size, the stroller fits into the overhead bins of the majority of aircrafts and weighs less than 13 pounds. Its basic design means that it has few extra features, but it’s an excellent option for frequent flyers. Keep in mind that collapsible walkers can be considered “carry on” baggage, and might require a check by your airline if they have strict baggage restrictions.
If you frequently travel, it might make sense to invest more money in a stroller that comes with advanced features. These strollers that are more expensive typically have more storage options including large underseat bins, and are easier to put together and collapse. Additionally, they often come with adjustable harnesses and other safety features that you might not see in less basic strollers. Check with your airline to find out what their policies are on strollers, and follow them to the letter. It is also important to read your stroller’s manual particularly the sections that pertain to safety. Make sure you understand how to use the straps correctly and ensure they are secured. Be sure to be on the lookout for your child and only use the stroller when walking at a safe pace. This will minimize the risk of injury if your stroller is accidentally tipped over or steers off course.
Easy to Fold
One of the most important aspects of a great stroller is the fact that it folds down into compact and manageable size. Certain models can do this well, like the light JOOVY TRVL, which folded in less than four seconds during our tests and can stand upright in its collapsed state. This makes it easy to store and carry around in a trunk or closet.
The UPPAbaby MINU V2 is another stroller that folds up easily and weighs less than 17 pounds and comes with an extensive underseat storage basket that can be used to store a backpack or diaper bag. The footrest that is reversible can also be used as a handle to fold the stroller. This feature was great during our testing, but unfortunately it left the stroller susceptible to damage by airlines when one of our editors forgot it closed while checking it in with her flight. The baggage handler ripped the footrest off, and the UPPAbaby warranty will not cover damage caused by an airline.
Most of the travel strollers we reviewed, unlike umbrella strollers use joints and hinges in order to fold into a more square package. The UPPAbaby Gluxe, for example, folds in just three seconds, and then stands up when it is done. However the ring and button combination isn’t always easy and you must make sure you are timing it correctly.
Consider how the stroller might be locked in its compacted, closed position. Some models require you pull down the handle or lever near the rear wheels, while others have red straps that need to be connected. Read the owner’s guide for more details on how each model’s locking system works.
If you happen to encounter a stroller that is difficult to close, try using a product like baby oil or WD-40 for lubricating the joints and connections. If this doesn’t work, you can contact the manufacturer or a stroller service. Don’t force it to close. Forcing a stroller to close that was not designed to do so could damage it, and result in injuries to both you and your child.
Easy to Carry
Whether you’re planning a day of running errands, or going on a trip with the family it’s essential to have access to your stroller. Travel strollers are small and light, making them easy to carry and transport. They can also be stored in your car or in the closet at home. Some models come with an organizer bag for simple transport and security.
Consider how you will utilize the stroller before deciding on one. Do you intend to use it on roads, for plane trips or in your everyday life? This will help you narrow down your options. You can cut down on time and energy by selecting a stroller for travel that is compatible with car seats if traveling with children. If you have a toddler, think about a model with a larger rear seat to provide more comfort and legroom.
A great travel stroller must be small and lightweight enough to fit in the overhead bins on airplanes. However, check with your airline before you purchase to ensure it’s in line with their size and policies. A lot of airlines will gate-check strollers if they’re too big to fit in the cabin. Others will send them to the hold if they go over their baggage allowance.
If you plan to use your travel stroller often, choose a model that has wheels that are less hefty and smaller than those found on traditional strollers. The wheels that are smaller are more maneuverable and less likely to damage or puncture. You might want to consider adding two wheel covers for additional protection.
If you’re planning to take your travel stroller to the beach or to other public areas where it will be left without supervision, purchase a lock to ensure it’s secure. Attaching a portable umbrella onto your stroller will provide extra sun protection. You can also clip a utility bag onto the handlebar to allow hands-free shopping or to carry an aloe vera bottle. Finally, a set of carabiners on the front of your stroller is a great option to keep the essentials such as water bottles and snacks close in your the ready.
Easy to Store
The best travel strollers can be easily maintained and stored. To keep your stroller clean and ready for use, start by vacuuming all surfaces to eliminate dust and crumbs. If there are stains on the surface, an abrasive cloth with mild detergent and warm water will work. For hard-to-reach areas, a toothbrush can also be helpful. A damp cloth is sufficient for components that aren’t made of fabric, such as the handlebars and wheels. It is crucial to ensure that these moving parts are lubricated to avoid rust.
Some strollers for travel such as the chitchat lightweight stroller, come with a parent tray for personal items and one or more cup holders, making it easier to carry your things you need on the go. Some models also come with a complete tray for parents, with a slot for a laptop or tablet. These features not only aid parents in keeping their lives well-organized, but they also reduce stress on long journeys.
A great stroller for travel must be able to fold up and fit in small spaces like the overhead bin of an airplane, or on public transportation. Many parents prefer strollers that can be folded and placed in their own bag instead of having to gate-check them using luggage.
Take into consideration how much space you have at home before evaluating strollers. A smaller stroller for travel is the best option for those with limited space. If you plan to take the stroller on regular trips that require it to be transported by public transport or car and pushchairsandprams a larger stroller with better storage and everyday performance could be a better option.
Some strollers can be purchased as part of an overall travel package that includes a car seat for children. The price is the similar or less than buying the products separately. While this is an excellent option but it’s important to keep in mind that the quality of the stroller included in these bundle packages often tends to be lower than standalone models. This is why we suggest considering these options as an option last resort.
