Planning a family holiday can be both exciting and daunting, especially when it comes to choosing the right travel stroller for your little one. Did you know that a well-chosen stroller can make your trip so much more enjoyable? In this guide we’ll walk you through everything you need to know in order to select the perfect travel stroller that meets your family’s needs for your upcoming trip. Whether you’re navigating busy airports or strolling through the park on holiday, there is a comfortable travel stroller out there for your Mini person to relax in.
Why do you need a travel stroller?
Travel strollers are designed to be more compact and lightweight than regular strollers and this makes them ideal for travel. Here are some of the key reasons why you need a travel stroller for your next family holiday.
Convenience Travel strollers are easier to fold and carry than regular strollers and this makes them perfect for navigating busy airports and public transportation systems when abroad. They fit easily into overhead compartments or the back of a car allowing for seamless transitions during your journey.
Comfort The top travel strollers provide a really comfortable seating option for your child during those long days of sightseeing. Most come with padded seats and reclining features, just like regular strollers, meaning your little one can nap comfortably while you explore.
Portability Lightweight strollers are designed to ensure that you can easily carry the stroller when needed. Whether you’re climbing up the Spanish steps or manoeuvring through the crowded streets of Paris, a travel stroller’s portability is an absolute game-changer.
Compact size Travel strollers take up less space compared to normal strollers which is crucial when you have a limited luggage allowance. The compactness of a foldable travel stroller makes it easier to store the stroller in small hotel rooms or your rental car when exploring your destination.
Key differences between regular strollers and travel strollers
The key differences when it comes to looking at a travel stroller against a regular stroller are Weight, Size and its Features.
Weight Travel strollers are often significantly lighter than regular strollers. They often weigh less than 15 pounds which makes them so much easier to carry and push around.
Size Travel strollers are much more compact and easier to store. This means they can fit into tighter spaces (think overhead storage on planes) and makes them ideal for travel.
Features While travel strollers might have fewer features than regular strollers, they focus largely on their portability and ease of use. You may sacrifice some storage space and additional features for the convenience of a smaller, lighter stroller but it will be worth it when you are walking round Disneyland for the day pushing a stroller.
Real-life scenarios where a travel stroller is essential
There are lots of instances when you are on holiday where you will be thankful that you have left your big, all-terrain buggy at home and brought along your lightweight compact stroller.
Air travel Manoeuvring through busy airports and fitting the stroller into the overhead compartments can be challenging with a bulky stroller. A travel stroller’s lightweight and compact design makes this task easier and less stressful.
Public transportation Easily getting on and off of the buses, trains and subways is crucial when travelling with a child. Travel strollers are designed to be easy to fold and carry which makes public transportation more manageable.
Sightseeing Navigating through the crowded tourist spots and narrow streets can be difficult with a larger stroller. Using a travel stroller allows you to move freely and comfortably through these busy areas.
Important features to look out for
When choosing a travel stroller it is important to consider these features to make sure that the stroller you choose meets not only your needs, but that it also provides everything your mini person needs as well in terms of safety and comfort.
Weight and size – the importance of a lightweight design
Ease of carrying A lighter stroller is much easier to carry, especially when you are trying to find your plane tickets and also need to hold your child and your other bags. Look for those strollers that weigh less than 15 pounds for maximum convenience.
Storage A compact size means that it can fit into tight spaces when not in use like car boots or the overhead storage on an airplane. When choosing a stroller to take on your holiday, make sure to measure the dimensions of it when it is folded to ensure it will fit in your intended storage spaces.
The folding mechanism – ease of use and storage
One-hand fold Look for the strollers that can be folded with one hand for convenience. This feature is particularly useful when you’re juggling multiple tasks or carrying your child, both of which have a habit of happening at the same time in my experience and especially when we are on holiday!
Compact fold It is important to make sure that the stroller folds down small enough to fit in your desired storage space. Some strollers even come with carrying handles or shoulder straps for some extra added portability.
Durability and material quality
Frame material Choose strollers that are made from sturdy yet lightweight materials like aluminium. This will ensure that the stroller can withstand the rigors of travel while remaining light and easy to carry.
Fabric Opt for those durable and easy-to-clean fabrics. Look for materials that are resistant to spills and stains and consider removable, washable covers for easy maintenance.
Comfort features for your Mini person
Seat padding There is potential for your child to be sat / asleep in their stroller for quite some time so it needs to be as comfortable as possible. Look for strollers that have plenty of padding and support in their seats.
Recline function Multiple reclining positions for napping on the go will allow your child to sleep comfortably while you explore. Some strollers even have the ability to offer nearly flat reclines for infants.
Sun canopy Having adequate sun protection with an extendable canopy helps to protect your child from harmful UV rays. Look for canopies that have SPF protection and adjustable coverage.
Safety
Brakes A reliable braking system is crucial for the safety of your child. Ensure that the stroller has a secure and easy-to-use brake that can be engaged and disengaged quickly if needed.
Harness A five-point harness to secure your child is the gold standard in travel stroller safety. This will help to make sure your child remains safely strapped in, even when on bumpy terrain.
Certifications In the UK, travel strollers must meet specific safety standards to ensure they are safe for use. These standards are set by the British Standards Institution (BSI) and align with European standards. These certifications indicate that the stroller meets strict safety standards. BS EN 1888:2018 is the primary safety standard for pushchairs and prams in the UK. It outlines the general safety requirements and testing methods for wheeled child conveyances.
Different types of travel strollers
Different types of travel strollers suit the different needs of a family. Here’s a breakdown of the main types.
Umbrella strollers
Lightweight and compact Umbrella strollers are ideal for those short weekend trips and days out. They are often the lightest and most compact option which makes them easy to carry and to store when they are not needed.
Simple design These strollers have basic features, are easy to fold and are usually very affordable. They are perfect for older children who don’t need as much support or comfort but less well suited to younger children and babies.
Compact strollers
Versatile use Compact strollers offer a lot more features than umbrella strollers while still being lightweight and easy to fold. They strike a really good balance between their portability and their functionality.
Comfortable and sturdy These strollers provide better comfort and durability for those longer trips. They often include features like reclining seats, larger canopies and more storage space.
All-terrain strollers
Rugged design All-terrain strollers are, as their name suggest, suitable for all types of terrain including those rough paths and nature trails you might come across on a family day out. They have larger wheels and a more robust suspension systems to handle those uneven surfaces.
Heavier These strollers are typically more substantial than most of the other travel strollers but they are great for outdoor adventures. If you plan to do a lot of walking or hiking on your holiday then an all-terrain stroller is a really good choice.
Double travel strollers
For two kids These are designed to accommodate two children. In our opinion, double travel strollers are a must if you have twins or two young children. They come in either a side-by-side or tandem design and are much better than buying two single strollers.
Compact options available Look for lightweight and compact designs which are suitable for travel. Some of the double strollers that are available fold down nearly as small as single strollers so they are perfect for travelling.
Budget considerations
Choosing a travel stroller involves balancing cost with those must-have features.
Here’s how to make an informed decision.
Price range for travel strollers
Budget-friendly The more basic models start at prices around £50-£100. These strollers may have fewer features but are ideal for occasional use or those short trips.
Mid-range These have more enhanced features and are generally priced between £100-£250. They offer a good balance of quality and affordability. These strollers typically include more comfort for your child and have convenience features.
High-end Premium strollers with advanced features often cost around £250 and more. These strollers are made with high-quality materials and offer a range of features that provide maximum comfort and have the most useful features – think easy folding, storage, lightweight.
Balancing cost with essential features
Prioritise needs Focus on the must-have features within your budget. Make a list of the most important features for your family and look for strollers that meet these criteria.
Longevity Consider spending a little bit more on a durable stroller that will last you a lot longer. A higher initial investment can save you money in the long run if the stroller is used for multiple children or frequent travel and holidays.
Tips for finding deals and discounts
Sales events Look for sales during holidays and special promotions. Retailers often offer significant discounts during these times. One of the best times to get a good deal is during Amazon’s Amazon Prime Day.
Second-hand options Consider opting for gently used strollers for cost savings. Websites like Facebook Marketplace and local second-hand shops can be great sources for affordable, high-quality strollers.
Comparison of top models
Babyzen YOYO2 Lightweight, compact fold and great for air travel, the YOYO2 is a favourite among frequent travellers. It offers a smooth ride, easy folding mechanism and can be used from birth with the appropriate attachments.
Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Comfortable, durable and easy to manoeuvre, the City Tour 2 is designed for those parents who want a high-quality stroller that can handle various terrains. It features a near-flat recline, ample storage and a beautiful sleek design.
GB Pockit Extremely compact and fits in an airplane overhead storage locker, the Pockit is the world’s smallest folding stroller. It’s perfect for city dwellers and frequent flyers and offers a simple, no-fuss design.
Check out our post on the 5 best travel strollers for family holidays
Choosing the best travel stroller for your family holiday is a crucial step in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip. By considering factors such as weight, size, comfort and budget, you can find the perfect stroller that meets all your needs. Don’t forget to read real parent reviews and compare different models to help make an informed decision. Happy travelling!
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