Best Travel Stroller For Toddler: Top Picks for Easy and Convenient Trips
If you are planning for a trip with a toddler in tow, don’t forget to pack your travel stroller with you. Toddlers get tired easily, although sometimes they seem to have an unending supply of energy.
Why You Need a Travel Stroller for Your Toddler
Preparing for a trip with your toddler can be a daunting task, and the trip can either be really easy or challenging. That’s why I always recommend having a travel stroller handy. Here are some reasons why you need a travel stroller for your toddler:
Convenience
A travel stroller is lightweight and easy to fold, making it convenient to carry around during your travels. It takes up minimal space and is perfect for navigating through crowded airports, train stations, and other public places.
Comfort
Travel strollers are designed with your toddler’s comfort in mind. They come with adjustable seats, canopies, and footrests, making it easy for your child to relax and enjoy the ride. Some strollers even come with additional features like cup holders, storage baskets, and snack trays, making it easier for you to keep your child happy and entertained during long trips.
Safety
A travel stroller is designed to keep your toddler safe and secure while you’re on the go. They come with safety harnesses, locking brakes, and sturdy frames that can withstand the bumps and jolts of travel.
Versatility
A travel stroller is not just for traveling. It can also be used for everyday activities like running errands, going to the park, or taking a walk around the neighborhood.
Features to Look for in a Travel Stroller
When you’re on the go with your toddler, a travel stroller can be a lifesaver. But with so many options available, it can be hard to know what to look for. Here are some features to consider when choosing a travel stroller.
Compact and Lightweight
Make sure that the stroller you choose is compact and light, because when you are travelling you want to be able to easily carry the stroller and maneuver it when walking endlessly. Umbrella strollers are often a good choice for travel because they’re lightweight and easy to fold. Look for a stroller that’s easy to fold with one hand and that can fit in overhead bins on planes and trains.
Comfortable for Your Toddler
Your toddler’s comfort is important, too. Look for a stroller with a comfortable seat and good padding. A footrest is also a nice feature to have. Some strollers come with an infant car seat that can be attached to the stroller, which is convenient if you’re traveling with a newborn. However, it’s worth mentioning that a stroller with an infant car seat is often bulky — there’s no way of going around it.
Easy to Fold and Store
A stroller that’s easy to fold and store is essential for travel. Look for a stroller that can be folded with one hand and that has a compact fold. Some strollers even come with a carrying strap or a stroller bag for added convenience.
Canopy and Storage
A good canopy is important to protect your toddler from the sun and rain. Look for a stroller with a large sunshade or canopy that can be adjusted for different positions. Storage is also important, especially if you’re traveling with a lot of gear. Look for a stroller with a large storage basket underneath as well as other storage options like cup holders. Alternatively you can purchase a stroller cup holder that will attach to your stroller’s handles.
Safety Features
Safety is always a top priority, especially when traveling. Look for a stroller with a five-point safety harness to keep your toddler secure. Some strollers also have all-terrain wheels for added stability and maneuverability. A rain cover can also be helpful to have so you can be ready for all types of weather.
Best Travel Strollers for Toddlers
Whether you’re going on a road trip, flying to your dream vacation, or simply running errands, a travel stroller can make your life much easier. Here are our top picks:
Contours Itsy Ultra-Sturdy Compact Fold Lightweight Travel Toddler Stroller
The Contours Itsy Toddler Stroller is by far the most lightweight, easy to carry around stroller we’ve found. There were many options we were looking at, but at the end, we decided to go with this stroller for our overseas trip to Paris. And we don’t regret it one bit. Let me tell you why:
Pros
- Ultra-compact: it’s easy to put up and take down from the overhead compartments on the plane.
- Lightweight: easy to lug around with a baby in tow
- Durable: We walked through the cobblestone streets in Paris and this stroller was able to handle days of endless walks through cobblestones
Cons
- Does not recline: When our daughter had to nap, she would be in a seated position in the stroller
- Small Storage: the storage bin underneath the stroller is ridiculously small. We rarely used it because it’s so tiny
- No cupholder for baby to put their cup or snacks in
This stroller is great because it’s so compact and is easy to carry with one hand. It also opens and closes using one hand, and is ultra-compact when collapsed. As was already mentioned, we walked through the streets of Paris with this stroller and it stood up to the cobblestone streets of Paris!
Because this stroller is so compact, it didn’t have space for any bells and whistles that others might like. For example, the storage bin is small and there’s no cupholder for baby. However, we did bring a diaper bag that we snapped on to the stroller handles which housed all the things we needed for baby for the whole trip. So the small storage area was a non-issue for us.
Summer Infant 3Dmini Convenience Stroller
If you’re looking for a lightweight and compact stroller for your toddler, then the Summer Infant 3Dmini Convenience Stroller might be the right choice for you.
Pros
- The stroller is lightweight, making it easy to carry around and use on the go.
- It has a compact fold, which makes it easy to store and bring with you on trips.
- The stroller has a multi-position recline, padded seat back, and padded 5-point safety harness, ensuring that your little one is comfortable and safe.
Cons
- The storage basket is small, so you might not be able to fit all your essentials in it.
- The sun visor is small, so it might not provide enough shade on very sunny days.
- The front wheels can be a bit tough to control on rough terrain.
Because it’s so compact, this stroller will fit easily in the overhead bin on the plane, and will not take up a lot of space in the trunk. This stroller is also very easy to maneuver, and you can recline your child all the way back if your little one gets sleepy while you’re out and about.
Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Easy Fold Compact Travel Toddler Stroller
The Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Easy Fold Compact Travel Toddler Stroller is highly recommended for anyone looking for a reliable, lightweight stroller for their little one.
Pros
- The one-hand, self-standing fold is incredibly convenient for car travel and vacations.
- The three-tier, extended canopy provides maximum sun coverage and the peek-a-boo window allows you to easily check on your baby while traveling.
- The all-terrain wheels and front suspension make for a smooth ride, and the large, easy-access storage basket holds all of baby’s gear.
Cons
- The stroller seat does not recline completely flat.
- The cup holders on the child tray are small and may not fit larger sippy cups.
- The stroller may not be suitable for very tall children.
The Kolcraft Cloud Plus stroller is perfect for families on the go. It is lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it ideal for travel and day trips. However, it is a little bulky and may be better suited to road trips vs taking on an air craft.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a travel stroller for your toddler, there are many factors to consider. We understand that choosing the right stroller can be overwhelming, so we’ve put together this buying guide to help you make an informed decision.
Key Features to Consider
- Weight and Size: A travel stroller should be lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry and store. Look for strollers that weigh less than 20 pounds and fold down to a small size.
- Ease of Use: The stroller should be easy to open and close with one hand, and maneuverable in tight spaces. Check that the brakes, harness, and recline are easy to adjust.
- Comfort and Safety: Look for strollers with adjustable seats and footrests, as well as a five-point harness to keep your child secure. Consider strollers with a sun canopy or rain cover for added protection.
- Storage and Accessories: Travel strollers should have a storage basket or pockets for carrying essentials, such as diapers and snacks. Some strollers come with accessories like cup holders or a travel bag.
Additional Considerations
- Terrain: Consider the terrain you will be using the stroller on. If you plan on using it on rough terrain, look for strollers with larger wheels and suspension.
- Age and Weight Limit: Check the age and weight limit of the stroller to ensure it is appropriate for your child.
- Price: Travel strollers vary in price, with some costing hundreds of dollars. Consider your budget and what features are most important to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best lightweight stroller for travel?
The best lightweight stroller for travel is the Mamyzen Yoyo2. It is a popular option for parents because it is easy to carry, compact and durable. It also weighs less than 15 pounds and has a compact fold.
Which is the best umbrella stroller for travel?
The best umbrella stroller for travel is the Summer Infant 3D Lite Convenience Stroller. It’s a popular option because it’s lightweight and also affordable.
What is the most suitable travel stroller for flying?
The Baby Jogger City Tour 2 is the most suitable travel stroller for flying because it is lightweight, compact and easy to fold. In addition, it is also approved for carry on storage on most airlines.
Is the Cybex travel stroller a good option?
The Cybex travel stroller is a good option if you are looking for a stroller that is both stylish and functional. The Cybex Eezy S Twist 2 is a popular option that has a unique 360-degree rotating seat and is also lightweight and compact.
At what age is a travel system stroller appropriate?
A travel system stroller is appropriate for infants and toddlers up to 50 pounds. The infant car seat can be used from birth up to 35 pounds, and the stroller can be used up to 50 pounds.
Do I need a stroller for my 3-year-old when traveling?
You will need a stroller for your 3-year-old when travelling if you will be doing a lot of walking or sightseeing. Even if your child is comfortable walking, it’s still a good idea to have one because they may get tired much faster than you, and having a stroller is more convenient than carrying your toddler around.
