Quiz: How Much Do You Know About Stroller
How to Choose a Travel Stroller
If you are a frequent traveler or if your regular walks involve a quick out-and-back, and a lot of stops at local parks take a look at a light, packable stroller. They're extremely easy to fold and fit comfortably into trunks, buses planes, trains and trains.
The Nuna Trvl is small and fits in the overhead bins of most planes. It is also easy to put together, and offers great features, such as an easy-to-manage recliner seat.
Easy to Assemble
This stroller is easy to put together, and is also very simple to use. The frame opens and folds with just one hand. The seat is adjustable to two positions. The bumper bar is easy to remove and replace and the handlebar feels and looks good. However, the lack of storage space means parents will need to carry a huge diaper bag or carefully hang it over the handle (against the advice of a professional).
This lightweight travel stroller makes sharp turns and rolls smoothly on almost any surface. It has bigger foam-filled rubber wheels than those of some other models we've tested which gives it a little more bounce and a bit more stability. Some parents have complained that the tires are thin.
In its compact form it can fit into the overhead bins of the majority of aircrafts and weighs less than 13 pounds. Its basic design means that it doesn't have many extra options, but it's an excellent choice for frequent passengers. Keep in mind that collapsible walkers can be considered "carry on" baggage, and might need to be checked by your airline if they have strict baggage restrictions.
If you're a frequent traveler it's a good idea to purchase an infant stroller that has more advanced features and a higher price point. These models that are more expensive typically provide more storage options, such as large underseat baskets, and are usually easier to assemble and fold. Many strollers have adjustable harnesses, and other safety features you might not see on cheaper models. Be sure to check with your airlines to find out their policies regarding checking strollers, and always adhere to their guidelines to the letter to avoid any unpleasant surprises. It is also essential to read the manual for your stroller, especially any sections pertaining to safety. In particular, be sure to know how to secure the straps and to make sure you are using them in the correct way. Also, remember to use your stroller only in the appropriate speed and not leave your child unattended. This will reduce the risk of injury if your triple stroller accidentally tipped or swerves off course.
Easy to Fold
A good travel stroller must fold into a compact, manageable package. Some models are very good at this, such as the JOOVY, a lightweight TRVL that folded down in just four seconds during our tests. It also can be able to stand in its collapsed condition. This makes it simple to keep in a trunk or closet and to carry on plane's overhead bins.
The UPPAbaby MINU V2 is another easy-to-fold travel stroller that weighs less than 17 pounds and comes with an extensive underseat storage basket that can be used to store a backpack or Pram diaper bag. The footrest that is reversible can also be used as a handle to fold the stroller. This feature was a real boon during our testing however, it also exposed the stroller to airline damage when one of our editors forgot to close the stroller when she was making sure the stroller was closed for her flight. The baggage handler was ripped off the footrest and the UPPAbaby guarantee won't cover airline-related damage.
Unlike umbrella strollers, most of the other travel strollers we've reviewed use a variety of hinges and joints to fold into an even more compact package. For example, the UPPAbaby G-Luxe folds in just three seconds and is upright when it's done. However, its button/ring combination is tricky and requires you to get it precisely.
You'll also want to take into consideration how the stroller locks into 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 joined. Refer to the owner's manual for more information on how each model's locking mechanism operates.
If you have a stroller that is difficult to close, use WD-40 or baby oil to grease all joints and connections. If this doesn't help then you should contact the manufacturer or a stroller service. However, don't force it; forcing a stroller to close that's not meant to be closed can damage it or cause injuries to you or your child.
Easy to carry
It's essential that you easily access your stroller whether you plan to run errands for a day or embark on a family trip. Travel strollers fold up compactly and are lightweight and easy to carry and transport. They can be put in your car, or in a closet in your home. Some models come with a storage bag to make transporting and protecting them much easier.
Think about how you will use the stroller before choosing one. Do you want it to accompany you on airplane trips or be used on road trips, or be used regularly in the city? This will help you narrow your options. If you'll be traveling with a child, look for a stroller that is car seat-compatible to save yourself time and stress. If you are a parent, you should consider the model with a bigger rear seat to provide more comfort and legroom.
A great travel stroller must be light and compact enough to fit in the overhead bins on airplanes. However, make sure to check with your airline prior to you buy to ensure it's in line with their size and guidelines. A lot of airlines will gate-check strollers that are too big to fit inside the cabin. Others will take them to the hold if they go over the baggage allowance.
If you plan to use your stroller frequently, select a model that has wheels that are smaller and stronger than the wheels found 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 an additional set of wheel covers to provide additional protection.
If you're planning to take your travel stroller to the beach or other public locations where it will be left without supervision, purchase a lock to keep it safe. It's also recommended to attach an umbrella portable to your stroller for extra sun protection. You can also clip a utilitarian bag onto the handlebar to allow shopping without hands or to carry an aloe vera bottle. A set of carabiners at the front of your stroller will let you keep snacks and water bottles close to hand.
Easy to pram store near me
The best travel strollers can be easily maintained and stored. To keep your stroller clean and ready for use, begin by vacuuming all surfaces to eliminate loose dirt and crumbs. If there are stains then a clean cloth soaked in mild detergent and warm water is all you need. For hard-to-reach areas brushing with a toothbrush could be helpful. For parts that aren't made of fabric such as the handlebars and wheels, a damp cloth is sufficient however it is recommended to regularly grease moving parts to avoid the rust from developing.
Some travel strollers like the chit-chat light stroller come with a tray for parents to store their personal items, and two or three cup holders. This allows you to carry your essentials on the move. Some models have a more complete tray for parents, which includes the ability to hold a tablet or laptop. In addition to keeping parents well-organized, these features can aid in reducing stress during long trips.
A quality travel stroller must be able to fold down and fit into tight spaces such as the overhead bins of an aircraft or public transport. For this reason, many parents prefer strollers that fold up and fit into its own bag, rather than having to be checked at the gate for baggage.
When you are evaluating strollers based on their ease of storage, be sure to consider how much space you have at home too. A smaller travel stroller is the best Travel stroller choice when you are limited on space. However, if you plan on frequent trips that require the stroller to be transported by car or public transportation the larger model with better everyday performance and storage might be better suited.
Certain strollers are sold as part of a travel system that includes a car seat and can be purchased at the same price or less than buying the items on their own. While this is an excellent option but it's important to keep in mind that the quality of the stroller that is included in bundles tends to be lower than standalone models. This is why we recommend looking into these options only as an option last resort.