Our favourite lightweight, compact and easy to manoeuvre strollers
16 October 2023
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I remember with strange clarity, a family of four spilling onto a flight bound for Corfu, laden with every toddler gadget imaginable, as if they were in a comedy sketch… though the parents weren’t finding it remotely funny. Having lugged all their items on board and held onto energetic sprogs with the only finger left hooked in the label of their stretched jumpers, they were then told that their pram was too large for the cabin and needed to go in the hold. The mother was on the brink of tears, and a palpable wave of sympathy swept through those on board. As a travel writer, I have done my utmost to avoid the same fate, smoothing over the pain points of travelling with little ones and getting savvy about which gadgets are worth the investment.
I soon realised that it all starts with the pram (buggy or stroller). Whether travelling by train, plane, or car with limited boot space, the pram needs to fold like origami and perform like a zippy Mini Cooper. It’s challenging for brands to tick all the boxes: a petite, nifty model suited for Parisian pavements may struggle with Milanese cobblestones or any remote country path. Some can be a challenge to fold one-handed, which is essential for parents travelling solo. Others may be easy to fold but not sturdy enough for newborns. Look for prams that are IATA (International Air Transport Authority) compatible, meaning they’re compact enough to be classified as hand luggage on major airlines.
As with anything related to children, personal preferences play a significant role. However, to avoid being that sobbing, Corfu-bound parent who’s lost hope before leaving home, here’s our expert opinion on the best travel prams.
Best travel pram for flying
Pros: A neat fold with a shoulder strap, lightweight, and an excellent city stroller; suitable from newborn to 4 years.
Cons: Not ideal for bumpy surfaces, and the newborn pack may feel flimsy, prompting some parents to invest in a sturdier bassinet that can’t be folded down.
Weight: 6.1kg
Folded Dimensions: 44 x 18 x 52cm
‘Yoyo’ is the term airlines prefer when checking if your pram meets cabin baggage regulations. It’s the secret password to hassle-free air travel and, as parents have happily discovered, narrow enough to pass through train aisles. This city favourite, weighing just 6.1kg, easily folds and unfolds with one hand, making it manageable to carry over your shoulder. The basket under the pram accommodates many toys and bottles, although larger baby bags may struggle to fit underneath. While this pram shines in urban settings and excels in airports and train stations, it falters on uneven terrain, which is a trade-off for such portability.
Best travel pram for basket space
Pros: Large basket, cushioned seat, and compatibility with Bugaboo extras; long warranty.
Cons: Not suitable for under 6 months; clackety plastic wheels.
Weight: 7.3kg
Folded Dimensions: 45 x 23 x 54cm
The Bugaboo Butterfly boasts a plush, cushioned seat and a generous basket, perfect for a day out. Its design allows for compatibility with various Bugaboo accessories, but it’s designed for children aged six months and older. Although it’s agile, it struggles with cobbled streets, making it less than ideal for uneven surfaces.
The best compact travel pram
Pros: Robust yet easily folds flat; spacious, cushioned seat; suitable for newborns to 4-year-olds.
Cons: Style might not be for everyone.
Weight: 6.6kg
Folded Dimensions: 44 x 18 x 52cm
The Cybex COYA is a well-rounded travel companion, folding flat and feeling sturdier than many competitors. The fabric and frame come in various colours, allowing you to find a style that matches your preferences. This pram can also accommodate Cybex car seats, enhancing its versatility for those on the move.
The best travel pram for travelling solo
Pros: One-handed folding, compact design makes it easy to handle.
Cons: Limited storage compartment.
Weight: 6.3kg
Folded Dimensions: 47.5 x 15.5 x 52.5cm
This pram is ideal for solo travellers, collapsing flat effortlessly and fitting neatly into overhead compartments. It’s incredibly lightweight, enabling simple transport, and features two seat-back options for versatility.
The best affordable travel pram
Pros: Excellent value; adjustable handle; convertible into a toddler footrest.
Cons: Heavier than other travel prams.
Weight: 7.8kg
Folded Dimensions: 45 x 24 x 54cm
The adjustable handle on the Ergo Baby Metro+ accommodates taller parents comfortably. While it’s heavier, the sturdy frame and cushioning ensure a smooth ride for toddlers, making it a practical choice for many families.
The best lightweight travel pram
Pros: Impressive 10-year warranty; lightweight; smooth ride with rubber wheels.
Cons: Suitable for children 6 months and older, no newborn function.
Weight: 6kg
Folded Dimensions: 45 x 21.5 x 53.5cm
The Joolz AER+ offers an incredibly smooth ride, with foam-rubber wheels for a comfortable experience. Its one-handed folding mechanism is perfect for busy parents, making it an ideal choice for those prioritizing convenience
The best travel pram and car seat in one
Pros: Converts from pram to car seat, can be fitted in a plane seat; suitable from birth.
Cons: Rear-facing only; limited lifespan.
Weight: 7.5kg
Folded Dimensions: 60 x 44 x 66cm
The compact Doona serves as both a pram and car seat, ideal for airport transfers and taxi rides. It can be secured in a plane seat, providing a comfortable journey for young passengers.
The best travel pram for the first year
Pros: Affordable, adaptable for carrycots and car seats, suitable from birth.
Cons: Plastic wheels are not effective on rough surfaces.
Weight: 6.9kg
Folded Dimensions: 46.5 x 25 x 56cm
The Chicco Goody+ is a lightweight, versatile option for parents, offering a simple fold and compatibility with various accessories. It’s especially advantageous for families travelling with a baby in their first year.
