How to Choose a Travel Stroller If you are a frequent traveler or if your daily walks involve a quick out-and-back walk and a lot of stops at the local park you should consider purchasing a lightweight stroller that can be packed. They are easy to fold, and they fit into trunks buses, trains, and planes. The Nuna Trvl is packed to a manageable size that fits into the overhead bin on most planes. It's also simple to assemble and comes with great features like the simple, adjustable seat. Easy to Assemble As its name suggests, this stroller was designed to be simple to put together and use. The frame opens and folds with one hand and the seat reclines in two different positions. It also has an adjustable bumper bar that can be taken off and on easily, and the handlebar looks and feels good and feels great too. The lack of storage means that parents must carry a huge bag or drape it delicately over the handle, which is against the advice of experts. This lightweight travel stroller is quick to turn and moves effortlessly across any surface. It has larger foam-filled rubber wheels than other models we've tried that give it a bit more bounce and a bit more stability. Some parents have complained that the tires are thin. In its compact size the stroller can be tucked away into the overhead bins of most aircrafts and weighs less than 13 pounds. Its simple design means 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 could have to be checked by your airline if they have strict baggage restrictions. If you frequently travel it may be a good idea to invest more money in a stroller that has advanced features. These higher-end models typically offer more storage options, including large underseat baskets, and are usually easier to assemble and fold. They also have adjustable harnesses as well as other safety features you might not find in more basic strollers. Check with your airline to determine what their policies are regarding strollers, and follow them to the letter. It's also crucial to read the user's manual for your stroller, especially the sections on safety. Make sure you know how to use the straps correctly and secure them. Remember to only use your stroller when walking at the appropriate speed and not leave your child unattended. This will reduce the chance of injury in case your stroller accidentally tips over or swerves. Easy to Fold One of the keys to a good stroller for travel is that it folds down into an easy-to-manage compact package. Certain models can do this well, like the lightweight JOOVY TRVL that folded in less than four seconds during our tests and can stand upright in its collapsed state. This makes it simple to store in a closet or trunk 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 features an extensive underseat storage basket that can be used to store a backpack or diaper bag. The reversible footrest can be used as a handle to fold the stroller. This feature was fantastic during our testing, but unfortunately it left the stroller susceptible to damage by airlines when one of our editors forgot to keep it closed when she checked it in for her flight. The baggage handler snapped the footrest, and the UPPAbaby warranty will not cover damages caused by the airline. Most of the travel strollers we reviewed, unlike umbrella strollers use hinges and joints in order to fold into a more square package. For instance, the UPPAbaby G-Luxe folds in only three seconds and stands upright when it's done. However, the ring and button combination can be tricky and requires you to time it perfectly. It is also important to take into consideration the method by which the stroller locks in its compact, closed position. Certain models require you to pull down on a lever or handle located close to the rear wheels, while others have red buckles that have to be connected. Check the owner's guide for more information on how each model's locking mechanism works. If you have a stroller that is difficult to close, you can use WD-40 or baby oil to lubricate the joints and connections. If that doesn't work, consult the customer support of the manufacturer or try an repair service for your stroller. However, don't force it to close. Forcing the stroller to close even though it isn't intended to do so can damage it, and result in injuries to both 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 important to have a quick access to your stroller. Travel strollers are small and light, making them easy to carry and transport. They can be stored in your car, or even in a closet at home. Some models even include a storage bag for easy transport and security. Before you pick a stroller for your travels take into consideration how you plan to use it. Do you want it to accompany you on plane trips, be brought out for road trip visits or just be used regularly in the city? The answer to this question will aid in narrowing your options. If you'll be traveling with a baby, look for a stroller with a car seat-compatible to save yourself time and stress. 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 into the overhead bins on airplanes. However, consult with your airline prior to you buy to ensure it meets their dimensions and regulations. Many airlines will gate check strollers if they're too large to fit inside the cabin. Others will take them to the hold if they exceed their baggage allowance. If you plan to use your stroller for a lot of time opt for a model with wheels that are smaller and more durable than those on traditional strollers. The smaller wheels are easier to maneuver and are less likely to be damaged or punctured. You might want to consider adding two wheel covers for additional protection. Invest in a lock if you plan to take your stroller unattended to the beach, or other public areas. Attaching a portable umbrella to your stroller will offer additional sun protection. You can also clip a utility tote onto the handlebar for shopping hands-free or to carry an aloe vera bottle. Finally, a set of carabiners at the front of your stroller is a great way to keep essentials like water bottles and snacks close at fingertips. Easy to Store The best strollers for travel can be easily maintained and stored. Begin by vacuuming the stroller thoroughly to remove any particles of dirt or crumbs. If there are stains on the surface, an abrasive cloth with mild detergent and warm water will work. For areas that are difficult to reach the use of a toothbrush may be useful. For parts that aren't made of fabric, like the handlebars and wheels a damp cloth will suffice, though it's wise to lubricate moving components regularly to avoid corrosion. Some strollers such as the chitchat lightweight stroller, have a parent tray for personal items, as well as one or more cup holders, making it easy to carry your things you need on the go. Other models come with a complete parent tray, including the ability to hold a laptop or tablet. These features do more than aid parents in staying organized, but they can reduce stress during long journeys. 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 transportation. Because of this, many parents prefer strollers that fold and fit into its own bag, rather than having to be gate-checked with baggage. When looking at strollers in terms of ease of storage, be sure to think about the space you have at home too. If you have a small amount of space, a smaller stroller might be your best bet. If you plan to take the stroller on frequent trips that require it to be transported by public transport or car and a larger stroller with more storage space and performance for everyday use could be a better option. Some strollers are available as part of the travel package which includes the child car seat. The cost is same or less than purchasing the items separately. While this is a great option, it's important to note that the quality of the stroller included in bundles tends to be lower than standalone models. We suggest that you think about these as a last resort.