BEST TRAVEL STROLLERS FOR BABIES 2023

Another incredibly popular stroller, for infants and beyond, one that ALWAYS comes up on Disney World and Disneyland posts as well as my Flying With A Baby Facebook page.

The new Baby Jogger City Tour 2 is heavier than the ones mentioned above, but versatile from birth to older toddler, and is compatible with car seats seats. One hand fold, multiple recline positions, a UV extendable hood, swivel wheels make it a great all rounder. It fits in with some airline cabin baggage allowances, such as JetBlue, Turkish Airlines etc but is otherwise generally over these requirements.

Weight: 14lbs/6.5kgs

Dimensions when folded: 59.5cm x 49.5cm x 9cm (21.6" X16.9" X 6.8")

Recline: Yes

Storage Basket: Yes

Travel Bag: No

Sun Canopy: Yes,

Max Weight Capacity: Up to 45lbs/22kg

Age: Up to 45lbs/22kg

Compatible with Infant Car Seat: Yes

The Maclaren Techo XT specifies that it suitable for children from birth. Although it is meant to fully recline, it is not completely flat, but it is near enough horizontal and certainly comfortable enough for the baby to sleep for many hours.

There is also an extendable foot rest for older babies which allows their legs to be fully elevated. The clasp to secure the straps can be a little fiddly as to unlock as you have to squeeze the buttons on the front and back at the same time making it difficult if you have long nails or weak fingers.

The straps do not adjust properly for newborns as they rub against their ears, the strap covers are definitely required but at an extra cost and for complete comfort you would need a headrest.

The XT is a compact umbrella stroller that is easy to fold away and open, and the handle at the side makes it easy to lift onto a trolley or put into the back of a car. The XT is the heaviest of the Maclarens but its benefits outweigh the extra two kgs that have to be lugged.

It is compact enough that on many occasions the Purser/CSD of the flight has allowed me to bring it on board to be stored in a cupboard. It can be a little heavy to push, but the swivel wheels to help it to easily glide around corners and manoeuvre through complicated spaces.

The Maclaren comes with a rain cover, which is great if you are travelling to tropical countries but investing in a mosquito net that fits securely is a must.

The hood has a handy clear window so you can see your child even when it is open but you will need a CoziGo or Snoozeshade draped over it if you want to completely block out the sun. The seat cover does get very dirty on the baggage belt and my hood did get slightly damaged on one occasion, so do invest in a canvas cover if you want to keep the buggy in pristine condition.

The pockets at the back of the XT are really handy for keeping water, sun cream and a hat at the ready: the storage beneath the buggy is ample for a few bags of shopping if the seat is not reclined.

One thing which always catches me by surprise is how the pushchair will topple over once to take the baby out if you have shopping bags on the handles, the buggy can also topple over when the baby is in the seat if there is too much weight on the handles.

At the end of your trip the seat cover can be removed and washed in the washing machine though refitting it can take time and is a little complicated.

Pros:

• A Compact reclining stroller
• Lighter than a travel system. Weighs 13.8lbs
• Has handy pockets.
• Suitable from birth.
• Easy fold umbrella stroller due to its one handed fold

Cons:

• Need to buy extra pieces for complete comfort.
• Can tip over if shopping bags are on the handle, with or without baby inside

What other readers of Flying With A Baby Say:

In general, I have been pleased with the Maclaren Techno XT and four and a half years later it is still going strong.

I am now using it for my 11 week old baby and although it is a little worn and torn, the functions work just as well as they did when I purchased it. I would recommend the Maclaren Techno XT to any travelling family and can assure you that the Maclaren brand has lived up to its long trusted name. For me, this has been the best umbrella stroller for travel.

Weight: 13.8lbs

Dimensions when folded:

Recline: Yes

Storage Basket: Yes

Travel Bag: No

Sun Canopy: Yes,

Max Weight Capacity: 25kg/55lbs

Age: up to 25kg

Compatible with Infant Car Seat: No

I know a buggy is an incredibly personal choice but I really have great things to say about the Baby Jogger City Mini when flying with a baby.

The Baby Jogger City Mini 2 has an increased recline angle to a near-flat position to accommodate newborns.

We bought a Maclaren run around when we started travelling with our son but when that broke we replaced it with the Baby Jogger and three years and another little one down the line and it's still going strong, in spite of all sorts of rough treatment from the baggage handlers.

It's just as travel-friendly - folds down super easily, is nippy and light - but feels much more solid and comfortable for the little ones. It feels more like a flight-friendly regular buggy than a buggy you buy specifically for flights. For more details on the Baby Jogger City Mini, including the UV cover,  please click here 

Pros

• Light - weighs 17.8 lbs
• Can fold with one hand.
• Easy to manoeuvre.
• Seat tilts back to flat for nap time on the go.

Cons

• I can’t think of any!

Weight: 17.8lbs

Dimensions when folded: 55 x 38 x 23 cm (9.03 x 14.96 x 21.65 inch)

Recline: Yes

Storage Basket: Yes

Travel Bag: No

Sun Canopy: Yes,

Max Weight Capacity: from birth to 50lbs

Age: 50lbs

Compatible with Infant Car Seat: Yes. Britax, Chicco, Clek, Cybex, Graco, Maxi Cosi, Nuna, Peg Perego, and UPPAbaby infant car seats (adapters for other brands' infant car seats sold separately)

The Ergobaby is sleek, lightweight and compact and makes a great cabin sized stroller as it folds down to fit into most overhead airplane bins with a folded size of 21x17x9 inches.

Rare for a compact travel stroller, it features an adjustable handlebar height and has a good recline function. This travel includes a rain shield and has a UV 50+ sun canopy.

Weight: 21.6lbs

Dimensions when folded: 21x17x9 "

Recline: Yes

Storage Basket: Yes

Travel Bag: Available separately here

Sun Canopy: Yes

Max Weight Capacity: 50lbs

Age: Newborn (with the newborn nest) to toddler Metro+ is usable from birth up to 22 kg, or 4 years, whichever comes first.

Compatible with Infant Car Seat: Yes comes with Graco/Chicco adaptors.

This is another stroller which meets most airlines cabin baggage allowances and joins the ranks of the few strollers that fit in the overhead bin. It is not as light as the original GB Pockit for plane travel - but it weighs in at a very light 13lbs/6.2kg. - the same as the GB Pockit Plus, in the 6+ version, 6.6 kg (14.5 lbs) with the newborn pack or 8.1 kg (17.8 lbs) with the bassinet. 

The BabyZen YoYo is consistently rated highly as a contender for the best lightweight travel stroller due many of its specifications and additional features.

These include a storage bag and a shoulder strap so you can easily carry the BabyZen on board a plane. It's narrow enough to fit in most airplane aisles and will easily fit into the hat rack. The folded dimensions are (52 x 44 x 18 cm / 20.5 x 17.3 x 7.1 in)

Out and about, this compact travel stroller feels sturdy and is often used as a daily stroller because of all the practical feature; including multi recline, a sun canopy, rain cover and generous under seat storage. Basket supports up to 5 kg (11 lbs)

Although the pushchair is on the pricey end of the market - it just may your most used bit of baby kit. Particularly if it is used daily and used for travel, then it may save you from buying a separate travel buggy. These airplane strollers are also quite popular in Europe because they fit through narrow doorways.

Another bonus is it can handle cobbled stones, at least on a temporary basis. Yes, it is best for flat surfaces so there were a few bumps, but when I trialled it, the YoYo managed them surprisingly well, despite not being built for this. For long term use on cobbled streets, I think you will need something with more suitable wheels for a more comfortable ride.

I have also seen it consistently recommended by parents when anyone asks them what the best travel stroller is.

This travel stroller is suitable for babies aged over 6 months, but you can buy a newborn pack as an additional feature to make it a lie flat stroller. This pushchair can be used in parent-facing mode from birth and front facing from 6+ months up until 22 kg (48.5 lbs) You can carry on the shoulder with its padded shoulder strap

• Weight: 6.2 kg (13.6 lbs) in the 6+ version, 6.6 kg (14.5 lbs) with the newborn pack or 8.1 kg (17.8 lbs) with the bassinet. 
• Dimensions when folded: 52 x 44 x 18 cm / 20.5 x 17.3 x 7.1 in
• Recline: Yes Need newborn insert for infants available separately.
• Storage Basket: Yes
• Travel Bag: Yes
• Sun Canopy: Yes,
• Max Weight Capacity: 22 kg (48.5 lbs)
• Compatible with Infant Car Seat: Yes, including CYBEX

Although the newer Mountain Buggy Nano V3 is out, the original has many decent features and a good price point and is a good travel stroller for infants.

At 13lbs, this lightweight stroller has a full-size, padded seat with an adjustable leg rest and multi-position recline.

The seat can almost go into a lie-flat mode, making it one of the best reclining strollers for travel. However there is a newborn cocoon available as an extra, if you need.

Like the BabyZen YoYo Plus, this compact stroller comes with a carry handle and carry strap plus a travel bag. For most airline hand baggage rules, the Nano is too big to be considered as hand luggage, despite it being very compact.

The rain cover does need to be bought separately. It cannot fold one handed but feels sturdy.

Pros

• The narrow frame  is good for narrow streets  and doorways.
• Can be pushed one-handed easily.
• A good lightweight reclining stroller.
• Fits into overhead storage compartments (if permitted.)

Cons 

• Cannot be folded with one hand.
• Can be a bit tricky down a set of steps due to the small wheels.

What other readers of Flying With A Baby Say:

"We would be lost without our Mountain Buggy Nano. It has been on almost 50 flights in 18 months and is still in the best condition. Great recline too."

• Weight: 13lbs/6kg
• Dimensions when folded: 12 x 22 x 20 inches 
• Recline: Yes
• Storage Basket: Yes
• Travel Bag: Yes
• Sun Canopy: Yes
• Max Weight Capacity: 44lbs
• Age: up to 4/ 44lbs
• Compatible with Infant Car Seat: Yes

With an extendable sun canopy, 4 position recline and extendable footrest, this travel stroller offers a lot of benefits when traveling with toddlers. At 13.7lb, it's lighter than the Mclaren XT, has a few less features, smaller wheels, but still has plenty of perks. 

The Quest Arc includes a rain cover and is compatible with the Maclaren Carrycot. All Maclaren strollers have waterproof/ UPF 50+ hoods to protect from the elements and machine washable seats.

It can be used as an infant travel stroller if you purchase the bassinet which attaches to the seat. Comes with a shoulder strap.

Pros

Rain cover included

Can use one handed

Good canopy

4 position recline and extendable footrest

Need to purchase the bassinet separately to use as a travel stroller for babies.

Cons

Others can fold more compactly.

Specifications 

• Weight: 13.7lb/6.22kg
• Dimensions when folded: 41.3″ x 9.4″ x 11″.
• Recline: Yes
• Storage Basket: Yes
• Travel Bag: No
• Sun Canopy: Yes,
• Max Weight Capacity: 55lb
• Compatible with Infant Car Seat: No

The UPPAbaby MINU is very easy to use with one step and one hand fold - meaning you can hold baby and easily open up this pushchair. The shock-absorbing, all-wheel suspension is helpful for uneven terrain.

The MINU’s spacious, reclinable seat holds up to 50 lbs and the generous pop out UPF sunshade extends to shield your child from harmful UV rays. The canopy’s vented peekaboo window allows you to check in on your child. 

This lightweight stroller weighs in at 15 lbs, and comes with a useful built-in carry handle and shoulder strap.

Car seat adapters, are available for the MESA Infant Car Seat or select Maxi-Cosi®, Nuna® and Cybex infant car seats.

Suitable from 3 months to 50 lbs with a maximum child height of 40" or suitable from birth with the 'From Birth Kit' accessory

Storage under the stroller seat can accommodate 20lbs.

Pros

• Multi-position recline
• Extendable, pop out UPF 50+ sunshade
• Vented peekaboo window

Cons

• It may be hard at times on cobblestones in Europe
• Canopy could be better

What other readers of Flying With A Baby Say:

"I needed two hands for the lock but otherwise easy to use."

Weight: 14.8 lbs

Dimensions when folded: 11.5″ L x 20.5″ W x 23″ 

Recline: Yes

Storage Basket: Yes

Travel Bag: Yes

Sun Canopy: Yes, pop out UPF 50+ sunshade

Max Weight Capacity: 50lbs

Age: 3 months to 50 lbs with a maximum child height of 40"

Compatible with Infant Car Seat: Yes - MESA Infant Car Seat or select Maxi-Cosi®, Nuna® and Cybex infant car seats.

The Joovy Kooper comes with a snack tray (it can still be folded with this on) and as well as a storage basket below, it also comes with extra storage with a zippered pocket and mesh cup holder. The recline makes it suitable for babies 3 months and older but not newborns. Whilst it doesn't come with a bag or carry straps, you can buy stroller travel bags if needed.

Weight: 16lbs

Dimensions when folded: 29.3” L x 21” W x 12.5” H

Recline: Yes

Storage Basket: Yes, 15lbs worth of storage

Travel Bag: No, but it has an automatic folding lock

Sun Canopy: Yes

Max Weight Capacity: 50lbs

Age: 3 months + to approx 5 years old

Compatible with Infant Car Seat: Yes

The updated version of the popular G-Lite travel pushchair is now reclinable and even lighter at 11lbs. It has lost the function to stand up by itself, but for the lightness that's not a huge inconvenience. This travel umbrella stroller (with convenient carry strap) has dual wheels.

The seat has a breathable mesh for those hot days and the basket is very reasonably sized for a reclining umbrella stroller. The large UPF canopy is an improvement with an additional pop out sun visor. However, some readers have said the seat doesn't offer enough support for a younger baby, making it more suitable for a toddler.

A cup holder comes as standard (yay!) The price is also very reasonable for all the functions making it one of the best umbrella strollers and a great all rounder.  

Pros

• Very light
• Large, extendable sun canopy, pop out UPF 50+ sunshade
• Can hold up to 55lbs
• Price

Cons

• A smaller recline than some.

What other readers of Flying With A Baby Say:

"Easy to use and the carry strap is handy. Good but others fold up more compactly now."

Weight: 11.2lbs/5.08kgs

Dimensions when folded: 20 x 34 x 42 cm/ 12.5″ L x 10.7″ W x 42″ H

Recline: Yes

Storage Basket: Yes, holds up to 20lbs

Travel Bag: No, has a carry strap

Sun Canopy: Yes, pop out UPF 50+

Max Weight Capacity: 55lbs

Age: 6 months up to approx. 4 years

Compatible with Infant Car Seat: No

The GB Pockit + All Terrain is an upgrade from the original GB Pockit and tweaks have it made it stronger, more robust, and even more practical for travel.

This newer version benefits from a recline function, a UV50 sun canopy whilst still folding up incredibly compactly, making it a fully collapsible stroller

It folds down in 2 simple steps and can be carried via the attached handle. It is considerably heavier at 12.3lbs/5.6kgs than its predecessor, but it is still a very lightweight travel stroller, which can be moved with one hand.

Although there is no travel bag or straps with the compact stroller, some people have bought backpack straps and carabiners to attach to the stroller and wear it as a backpack, as it is so lightweight.

The adjustable recline feature makes it possible for older babies and toddlers to sleep in but it does not go completely flat.

Included are adapters to click onto a CYBEX infant car seat.

Pros

• Really compact, perfect for immigration queues or day trips with a baby
• Reclines

Cons

• It may be hard at times on cobblestones in Europe
• Canopy could be better

What other readers of Flying With A Baby Say:

"So useful for plane travel. We can fit it in our backpack as carryon"

Weight: 12.3lbs/5.6kgs

Dimensions when folded: 20 x 34 x 42 cm

Recline: Yes

Storage Basket: Yes

Travel Bag: No

Sun Canopy: Yes,

Max Weight Capacity: 55lbs

Age: 6 months up to approx. 4 years

Compatible with Infant Car Seat: Yes - gb and CYBEX

The stroller has an easy one handed fold using two buttons pressed together and it can be done with one hand. As you flick it open it often goes straight into place, but other times I have to push the back of the seat to click it all into place (I can use my knee so still one handed).

Folding it down is also done with the same two buttons pressed together and pushing down on the handle.

It doesn’t lie flat and therefore is only suitable from 6 months but it lies back enough to look comfortable for longer sleeps (111°-145°). There are two positions, upright and reclined and it can be changed one handed between the two. The seat is only forward facing.

This Bugaboo stroller is designed for children up to 22kg/around 4 years which is bigger than most in the travel stroller category. My petite 6 year old (21.5kg) has ridden in it on some longer days and it is still easy to push and tall enough in the seat to handle her. At 5 foot 9, I often struggle with stroller’s that don’t have a height adjustable bar, but I find the Butterfly is still comfortable to push.

The basket is a reasonable size and I can fit our changing bag under there.

Once folded, the stroller is a very compact 45 x 23 x 54 cm which means it fits in most car boots (we have a Ford S Max 7 seater and with all 7 seats up I could fit in several folded Butterflys).

It it also approved as cabin luggage and can slide into the overhead lockers easily..

We have tried it so far on Air India, British Airways and Vietnam Airlines and it was a comfortable fit in the lockers – something that made a stopover much more comfortable for all of us! It is unusual to be given your pushchair or stroller back for stopovers as you will usually collect any stroller at your final destination. Being able to use a super compact foldable stroller in-between connecting flights was incredibly useful! Read more on the Bugaboo Butterfly here.

• Weight: 7.3 kg
• Dimensions when folded: 45 x 23 x 54 cm
• Recline: Yes
• Storage Basket: Yes
• Travel Bag?: No
• Sun Canopy: Yes
• Max Weight Capacity: 22kg
• Age suitable for: 6 months – 4 years
• Compatible with Infant Car Seat: Yes - with adaptors available separately. Compatible with Bugaboo Turtle One and Air by Nuna & other Maxi-Cosi® infant car seats.
• Dimensions unfolded 92.5 x 45 x 102.4 cm

This hand luggage sized pushchair is currently the world's smallest and most compact stroller for travel and can fit into a backpack! It weighs a mere 9.5 lbs making it the lightest stroller for travel.

Its narrow width means it easily passes through narrow door ways and small turnstiles at train stations. However, with this version that's where a lot of the benefits stop.

Infants cannot use this extra small stroller as it does not recline fully and toddlers needing a nap may find this uncomfortable for long periods. This original GB Pockit foldable baby strollers collapses down to a 11.8 inches x 7 inches x 13.8 inches.  

The sunshade lacks any sort of proper coverage, so you wouldn't want to be out in prolonged sunshine without some sort of CoziGo or Snoozeshade protector which is airy.

There is a mini storage area at the bottom for small items.

With all this in mind, the original GB Pockit collapsible stroller is definitely a good contender for the best stroller for airplane travel as it meets most cabin baggage sizes. This cabin size stroller really comes into its own for plane travel, due to its compact size and those waits in passport control.

This probably wouldn't be your every day stroller but for travel it has some clear advantages. There are several newer models out now, including the the Pockit Air Terrain 2019 model which is making this original model slightly cheaper.

Pros

• A small, lightweight compact stroller
• Can be used as cabin baggage. It will even fit under the seat.
• Front wheels can be locked to a stationary position or left to swivel
• It's really small and a very collapsible stroller!
• Did I mention how small it is?

Cons

Only suitable for babies aged 6 months plus.

• Sun canopy does not offer a great deal of protection
• There is no recline option (unless you purchase the Pockit Plus)

What other readers of Flying With A Baby Say:

"Easy to fold, a super light stroller and comfy as much as it can be for the size. We only use it when travelling by subway, bus and airplane."

• Weight: 9.5lbs
• Dimensions when folded: 11.8 inches x 7 inches x 13.8 inches.
• Recline: No
• Storage Basket: Yes
• Travel Bag: Yes
• Sun Canopy: Yes, but not effective
• Max Weight Capacity:
• Compatible with Infant Car Seat: No

The Mountain Buggy Nano Duo original version weighs in at only 20lbs/9kg and has an extra large gear tray with 8kg / 17.6lb capacity plus a very convenient carry handle and shoulder strap, making it a very portable buggy.

The maximum weight this popular double pram can take is 15kg / 33lbs per seat which is at the lower end compared to others. It's surprisingly narrow too, with the seat measurements being only - 66cm / 26".

Product Weight:  9kg / 20lbs

Dimensions when folded: (H x W x D) - 51.5 x 73 x 28cm / 20 x 28.7 x 11"

Dimensions when unfolded: (H x W x D) - 100 x 73 x 84cm / 39.3 x 28.7 x 33"

Recline: No

Storage Basket: Yes

Travel Bag: Yes

Sun Canopy: Yes, but not effective

Max Weight Capacity: 15kg / 33lbs per seat

Age Range: newborn - 3 years (with cocoon) 6 months - 3 years (without cocoon)

Compatible with Infant Car Seat: Yes. It's car seat compatible with not only car seats from Mountain Buggy but also, Phil & Teds, Graco, Peg Perego, Cybex, Nuna, and Maxi Cosi (with adaptor purchase)

This newest City Tour 2 Double is lightweight compact twin stroller at 10.5 kg/23.2lbs and features an ultra-compact one-hand fold. Its lightweight, compact slim design fits through any standard doorways making it easier to get around town with 2 kids as a compact twin stroller.

The City Tour 2 Double pushchair can be used from birth with additional carry cot attachments allowing a flat surface.

The fully featured stroller includes multiple recline positions, adjustable calf supports, UV 50+ canopies and two comfortable padded seats which can hold up to 33 lbs per seat.

The large storage basket can hold up to 15lb underneath.

Some readers mention the seat is quite narrow, so it may not last til your child is 3 or 4 years of age.

Product weight: 23.21 lb

Unfolded Width: 26.1"

Folded up it measures 25cm/9.8" x 66.5cm/26.2" (W) x 63cm/24.8"(L)

Recline: Yes

Storage Basket: Yes

Travel Bag: No

Sun Canopy: Yes

Max Weight Capacity: 15kg / 33lbs per seat

Age Range: Each stroller seat holds kids up to 33 lb. From birth with additional carry cot

Compatible with Infant Car Seat: No

The Joovy Caboose is currently the lightest tandem stroller on the market, at 23.5lbs, and one of the most compact double strollers around. A tandem stroller has a similar width as a single stroller. However, this type of a double stroller is much longer.

The front seat accommodates a child from 3 months to 45 lbs. and reclines to 3-positions/

Rear seat holds a child from 6 months to 45 pounds

• The rear bench seat and standing platform holds child 2.5 years and up to 45 lbs. The rear seat canopy extension protects the rear child when seated.
• Additional accessories include a parent organizer and a universal car seat adapter

Product weight: 23.5lbs

Unfolded dimensions: 38 x 21.25 (53.98cm) x 42 in (L W H)

Folded up it measures 45.25 x 21.25 x 10 in (L W H) when folded.

Recline: Yes

Storage Basket: Yes

Travel Bag: No

Sun Canopy: Yes

Max Weight Capacity: 90lbs

Age Range: 3 months to 45 lbs per child. Front seat holds a child from 3 months to 45 pounds. Rear seat holds a child from 6 months to 45 pounds

Compatible with Infant Car Seat: Yes

The Joovy Kopper double travel stroller comes with a removable snack tray but can also fold with in place too! It has an easy one handed fold system,

• The large wheels on this compact double stroller help when using it one-handed.
• For hot or sunny weather the large canopies offer a UPF 50+ protection.
• The stroller reclines to various positions with an adjustable footrest too.
• Storage wise there is a mesh cup holder and a zipper pocket. Below, is a large storage space, suitable for up to 15lbs.
• If you are traveling to Disney, it meets the Disney Stroller requirements too.

Product weight:

Unfolded dimensions:  31.7” L x 30.3” W x 41.3” H

Folded up it measures: 26” L x 30.3” W x 12.8” H

Recline: Yes

Storage Basket: Yes

Travel Bag: No

Sun Canopy: Yes

Max Weight Capacity: seats for two kids up to 50 lbs each,

Age Range: 3 months+

Compatible with Infant Car Seat: No

Like its popular single stroller model, the seats recline to near flat position and the adjustable canopy hoods offer peek through flaps.

The adjustable calf supports and near-flat seat reclines allow you to find the most comfortable position for your children while the extra-large storage basket holds up to 10lbs. The UV50+ canopies with peek-a-boo windows provide sun protection and a way to keep an eye on your baby without disturbing them.

It meets Disney requirements too.

Product weight: 14.7 kg

Unfolded dimensions:  104 x 75.5 x 102cm

Folded up it measures:(H x W x L): 76.5 x 77.5 x 32cm

Recline: Yes

Storage Basket: Yes

Travel Bag: No

Sun Canopy: Yes

Max Weight Capacity: two children up to 22kg

Age Range: suitable for two children from birth to 22kg (5 years approx.

Compatible with Infant Car Seat: Yes, Graco, (H x W x L): 76.5 x 77.5 x 32cm, Maxicosi with adaptor available separately.