How to Choose a Travel Stroller
If you frequently travel, or if your daily walks involve a quick out-and-back walk and a lot of stops at local parks take a look at a light stroller that can be packed. They’re incredibly easy to fold and fit comfortably into trunks, buses, planes, and trains.
The Nuna Trvl is compact and can fit in the overhead bin of most planes. It is also easy to put together, and comes with great features like an easy-to-manage recliner seat.
Easy to Assemble
The stroller is simple to put together, and is extremely easy to use. The frame opens and folds with only one hand. The seat is adjustable to two positions. It also comes with a bumper bar that slides off and on easily, and the handlebar looks and feels nice and feels great too. However, the lack of storage space means that parents will have to carry a huge diaper bag or carefully drape it over the handle (against expert advice).
This lightweight travel stroller is quick to turn and moves smoothly on almost any surface. It has bigger foam-filled rubber wheels than some of the other models we have tested. This provides it with more bounce and stability. Some parents have complained that the tires are thin.
The stroller is compact enough to fit into the overhead bins on most planes and weighs under 13 pounds. Its basic design means that it comes with a few features, but it’s still a solid option for frequent passengers. Note that collapsible walkers are considered “carry on” baggage, and may have to be checked by your airline if they have strict baggage restrictions.
If you are a frequent traveler it could be beneficial to invest a bit more in a stroller that has advanced features. These more expensive models often have more storage options, including large underseat baskets, and are generally easier to put together and fold. Additionally, they often come with adjustable harnesses and other safety features that might not find in more basic strollers. Be sure to check with your airlines to find out their policies on checking strollers and follow their instructions exactly to avoid any surprises. It is also important to read the stroller’s manual particularly the sections that pertain to safety. Particularly, you need that you know how to secure the straps and to make sure you are using them in the correct way. Also, remember to only use your stroller while walking at a safe pace and to not leave your child unattended. This will lower the chance of injuries if the stroller is accidentally tipped over or steers off-course.
Easy to Fold
A great stroller for travel is one that folds down into a compact and easily able package. Some models do this well, like the lightweight JOOVY TRVL, which folded in less than four seconds during our testing and is able to stand upright in its folded state. That makes it easy to keep in a closet or trunk and to carry on a plane’s overhead bins.
The UPPAbaby MINU V2 is another stroller that folds easily and weighs less than 17 pounds and comes with an enormous underseat storage bin that can be used to store a backpack or diaper bag. The footrest that is reversible can double stroller as a handle when the stroller is folded into its position. This feature was a real benefit during our testing however it also left the stroller open to damage from the airline when one of our editors failed to close it when making sure the stroller was closed for her flight. The baggage handler snapped the footrest off and the UPPAbaby warranty won’t cover such damage caused by an airline.
As opposed to umbrella strollers of the other strollers we’ve looked at make use of a variety hinges and joints to fold up into a more squarish package. The UPPAbaby G-Luxe, for best travel Stroller instance, folds down in only three seconds, and then stands up when done. However, its button/ring combo can be finicky, and you have to make sure you are timing it correctly.
You’ll also want to take into consideration the method by which the stroller locks in its compact closed position. Certain models require you to pull down a lever or handle near the rear wheels, while others have red straps that must be connected. It’s a good idea to check the owner’s manual for specifics on each model’s locking mechanism and how it works.
If you have a stroller that is difficult to close, use WD-40 or baby oil to lubricate all the joints and connections. If that doesn’t work, consult the customer support of the manufacturer or try a stroller repair service. However, don’t force it; forcing a stroller that isn’t intended to be closed may cause damage or injuries to you and your child.
Easy to carry
No matter if you’re planning a full day of running errands or an extended family trip it’s crucial to have easy access to your stroller. Travel strollers are compact and light, making it easy to carry and transport. They can also be easily stored in your car or a closet at home. Some models even include bags for storage to make it easy for transport and protection.
Before you pick a stroller for your travels take into consideration how you plan to use it. Do you intend to use it on road trips, for airplane trips or in your daily life? This will help you narrow down your options. If you’ll be traveling with a baby, look for a travel stroller that’s car seat-compatible to save yourself time and stress. You should consider a stroller with an extra large rear seat for more comfort and legroom, especially if you have an infant.
Check with your airline to ensure that the stroller you pick will fit in their overhead bins. Many airlines will check strollers for gate-checks if they are too large to fit inside the cabin. Others will transfer them to the hold if they go over the baggage allowance.
If you’ll be using your stroller for a lot of time, choose a model with wheels that are smaller and more durable than those on traditional strollers. The wheels that are smaller are easier to maneuver and less likely to cause damage or puncture. You may want to add two wheel covers for additional protection.
Consider a lock If you are planning to take your stroller off-guard to the beach, or other public places. It’s also a good idea to attach a portable umbrella to your stroller for extra sun protection. You can clip a utilitarian bag onto the handlebar to complete your shopping without hands or carry an aloe vera bottle. A set of carabiners in the front of your stroller will let you keep water bottles and snacks close by.
Easy to Store
The best travel strollers can be easily maintained and stored. To keep your stroller clean and ready to use, first vacuum all surfaces to remove dust and crumbs. If there are stains, a damp cloth with mild detergent and warm water will work. For difficult-to-access areas brushing with a toothbrush could come in handy. For non-fabric parts of the stroller such as the handlebars and wheels, a damp cloth is sufficient but it’s recommended to regularly lubricate moving parts to avoid corrosion.
Some strollers for travel, like the chit-chat lightweight stroller have an area for parents to store personal items, as well as two or three cup holders. This allows you to carry your essentials traveling. Some models also come with a complete tray for parents, with slots for laptops or tablet. These features do more than aid parents in staying organized, but they can reduce stress during long trips.
Another factor to consider when selecting a stroller for travel is its ability to fold up double pram and pushchair fit in tight spaces, like an overhead bin of an airplane or on public transportation. Many parents prefer strollers that fold and stored in a bag instead of having to gate-check them using luggage.
When looking at strollers in terms of storage space, be sure to think about the space you have at home as well. If you’re only blessed with a little space, a smaller stroller may be your best travel stroller (http://alicetarot.paul-it.com/board/bbs/Board.php?bo_table=review&wr_id=190731) bet. However, if you plan on frequent excursions that require the stroller to be transported by public transportation or a car the larger model with better performance for everyday use and storage might be more suitable.
Certain strollers are sold as part of an overall travel system that also includes a car seat. These can be purchased at the same cost or less than buying the items on their own. While this is an excellent option, it’s important to note that the quality of the stroller that is included in bundles tends to be less than standalone models. This is why we recommend considering these options as an option last resort.