bugaboo travel system review

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• Prams & pushchairs

Best travel system for babies 2023: Car seat, carrycot and pushchair in one

• Catherine Hufton
• Kat de Naoum

Getting out and about with your little one needn’t be a faff, with our pick of the best travel systems that offer the perfect solution

Finding the best travel system for your baby can feel a little daunting. After all, there’s plenty to consider when making your choice – they need to be able to transport your little one safely; they need to be comfortable to manoeuvre, while remaining relatively portable; and they need to be compatible with carrycots, car seats, and toddler seats to accommodate your baby from birth well into their toddler years. With an array of models vying for your attention, there’s a lot to think about with, potentially, a significant cost.

As is the case when you buy almost anything, what you pick will often come down to your own circumstances and lifestyle. If you travel frequently and use public transport often, then a travel system that’s lightweight and folds down with minimal effort will likely be a priority. If you’re more of an off-road adventurer with a dog or two to walk, then sturdy suspension and durable wheels will top your list of requirements. If size or road conditions aren’t a concern, then you might be free to prioritise style over more practical elements.

Whatever your needs, we’ve put together a brief buying guide with some FAQs and rated some of the top travel systems on the market to help you make the best choice for you and your family.

Best travel system: At a glance

• Best luxury travel system: Bugaboo Fox 5 | £1,115
• Best overall complete travel system:  Mamas & Papas Ocarro | £1,509
• Best travel system for city living: Nuna Triv 4 Piece | £1,050
• Best affordable travel system: KinderKraft XMoov 3-in-1 Travel System | £279

How to choose the best travel system for you

What is a travel system.

It’s a do-it-all pushchair with a modular design that allows you to slot in a carrycot, car seat or toddler seat as needed. The majority of models are presented in a variety of different packages, or bundles as they’re commonly known, ranging from the barebones with just the frame or stroller, right through to deluxe versions comprising everything from the carrycot, car seat, and accessories such as footmuffs, canopy, nappy bag, and even cup holder bundled as standard.

Do I need a travel system?

Not necessarily. You could instead choose to buy a separate pushchair with a carrycot, a stroller , a third-party car seat – or any combination of products that works for you. The appeal of a travel system is integration and the convenience that it brings.

Everything in a travel system is designed to work together, so it potentially means less overlap. For instance, you can just click the car seat onto the travel system chassis and push your baby around town, which saves you transferring your child from a car seat to a pushchair or cot.

What key features should I look for?

Size and weight are crucial, meaning it’s a good idea to go to a store or showroom to have a good play around with the models you’re considering. Will it fit in your boot and/or hallway? Can you carry it upstairs, if you live in a flat? Make sure you’re happy with the folding mechanism, too, since some are more tricky to operate than others.

Note that babies need to lie flat in a pram until they’re six months old, so you’ll need to ensure you’re happy with the size and comfort level of the carrycot. Don’t forget to check details such as whether it’s suitable for occasional overnight sleeping, too.

The size of the wheels is also important: big sturdy wheels are great if you walk a lot on rougher terrain, while slimmer wheels are better suited to city life. It’s worth noting the smaller details, too, such as built-in sunshades, buggy boards for older children, the size of the shopping basket and the stroller seat. Will the travel system accommodate your baby as they grow into a toddler, or will you need to spend more money further down the line? Can it accommodate two (or more) kids, if and when you have more?

How much should I spend?

It’s tempting to assume that the more expensive a travel system is, the better it will perform; but this isn’t necessarily the case. There are a variety of models on offer, at all kinds of price points (starting at around £300 and soaring to well over £1,000), so the best place to start will be to prioritise your main needs and work from there.

At the other end of the spectrum, while the high price of some of these travel systems may appear extortionate at first, factor in the cost of buying all the parts that feature in the bundle separately, and you may well find that an all-in-one travel system actually offers good value for money.

How we test travel systems

To test the best travel systems on the market, our reviewers spend several days putting each pram through its paces. As well as assessing how easy each travel system is to assemble, we also evaluate how it performs in everyday life, covering the school run, trips to the supermarket, as well as on public transport. We also consider extra details such as how easy it is to load and how well it fits into the boot of the car, and the amount of space it takes up in the hallway.

This real-life testing means we can highlight any areas that could prove problematic, or where a product truly shines. In addition, such testing allows us to more accurately categorise each travel system according to people’s different needs, such as storing in a small space, carrying up a flight of stairs, or navigating a muddy sports field. Finally, we include details such as the age range for which each travel system is suitable, the type of wheels it has, and its dimensions.

READ NEXT: The best car seats you can buy

The best travel systems you can buy in 2023

1. bugaboo fox 5: best luxury travel system.

For those who wish to personalise their pram, they can choose from 12 different colourways and add-on many of the luxury Bugaboo accessories, such as the baby bag and cup holder. We recently tested the Bugaboo Fox 3, which similarly feels weightless to push and manoeuvre; but the Fox 5 is even more comfortable to use.

This is a great travel system to use right from your front door, taking you from the school run to out and about on all terrains. It’s a little big for folding down frequently as a result of its large wheels, and you may find lugging it in and out of the car a little annoying. Likewise, if you need to pull it up stairs and fold it down in a hallway, there are more lightweight travel systems that may be better. But if comfort and style are your main needs, and you have the space for it in your car and your home, this is one of the best travel systems we’ve tested.

Key specs – Age range: Suitable for 0 to 4 years or 22kg; Wheels: Lockable swivel; Unfolded Dimensions: 93 x 60 x 105cm; One-piece standing fold: 44 x 60 x 90cm; Weight: 10.4-12.2kg

Check price at John Lewis

2. Ocarro 9 Piece Complete Bundle: Best overall complete travel system

This bundle is also available with a carrycot and cushioned mattress that can be used from birth, a foot muff, changing bag, cup holder, baby blanket, Cybex Aton 5 Car Seat and the base fixing to fit it in the car. Overall, we found this pram super-easy to assemble and fold down, which will be music to the ears of any sleep-deprived new parent.

Key specs – Age range: Suitable for 0 to 4 years or 22kg; Wheels: Lockable swivel; Dimensions: 101 x 59 x 101cm; Weight: 13.7kg

Check price at Mamas & Papas

3. Cybex Priam Travel System: Best high-end travel system

Suitable from birth, when it’s used with the carrycot included in this bundle, right up to when your child is four years old (or 22kg), this stroller can handle any on- and off-road terrain thanks to its rubber wheels and impressive all-wheel suspension that make for a super comfy, and quiet, ride.

Extra features include an SPF50+ canopy, a backrest pocket to store your smaller valuables, and a shopping basket that folds down when not needed. Almost everything you require comes in this bundle, except for the extension pack that replaces the front wheels with a pair of skis for when you head to Meribel.

Key specs – Age range : Suitable for 0 years to 22kg in weight; Wheels : All-terrain wheels; Folded dimensions : 83.5 x 51.5 x 31.5cm; Unfolded dimensions : 92-83 x 60 x 98.5-108cm; Weight : 12.6kg

Check price at Pramworld

4. Nuna Triv 4 Piece: Best travel system for city living

The main pram in this travel system has an easy-to-fold design and a large storage basket underneath, while the spacious flip-fold seat features an adjustable leg rest that can easily accommodate a toddler up to the age of around three.

The additional carrycot can be attached for newborns and this bundle includes a Pipa Next i-Size car seat. The stroller also includes lots of thoughtful details such as a wallet slip at the back of the seat, attractive leather detailing and a peekaboo panel along the back of the canopy.

Key specs – Age range: Suitable from birth to 22kg max; Wheels: Front swivel wheels; Folded dimensions: 32 x 52 x 65cm (LWH); Unfolded dimensions: 77-87 x 106-110cm (LH); Weight: 8.8kg (without canopy, armbar and insert)

Check price at Little Angels

5. Ickle Bubba Eclipse All-In-One: Best affordable travel system bundle

The car seat comes with the Isofix car seat fitting system base that makes carrying the baby in and out of the car a breeze: this eliminates the need to faff around with a seat belt as the baby is already securely strapped into its 5-point car seat harness. Just clip the car seat into the Isofix’s two metal clip fixing points to lock it into place, and unclip to release. Other perks include a full winter footmuff, a smart baby bag that fits neatly on the back handle, an extendable UPF 50+ hood, puncture-proof, high-grip tyres and a wallet slip across the back of the buggy seat.

While the pram is lightweight and incredibly easy to push or lift up onto high pavements, that’s not to say it’s by any means a small buggy. In fact, it’s rather on the larger side, partly due to its bigger wheels which make it great for active families who love the great outdoors. It also, unfortunately, doesn’t fold down completely flat, which may be slightly cumbersome if you have limited storage space.

Key specs – Age range: Suitable from birth to approximately 4 years old; Wheels: Lockable front 360-degree swivel wheels; Folded dimensions: 58 x 80 x 37cm (WLH); Unfolded dimensions: 58 x 116 x 106cm (WLH); Weight: 8.6kg (chassis with wheels)

Ickle Bubba Eclipse 3 in 1 Travel System, with Galaxy Car Seat, Isofix Base & Built in 'Bubba Board (Black with Tan Handles)

6. micralite getgo: best for affordable style and great design.

If you enjoy long walks and trips into the countryside, the multi-terrain, puncture-proof tyres and dynamic four-wheel suspension will come in handy too. The carrycot is lined with a super soft antibacterial bamboo fabric and is fitted with an integrated pull-out sun visor. There’s also a built-in storage pocket for your purse and keys.

Once your baby has outgrown the carrycot, you can switch it out for the seat unit, which has adjustable calf support and a lie-flat design. We also love the extra details such as the extendable hood with UPF50 protection, zip-out airflow panel and pull-out sunshade.

Key specs – Age range: Suitable from birth to 22kg; Wheels: Four-wheel suspension; Folded dimensions: 76 x 59 x 38cm (LWH); Unfolded dimensions: 72 x 59 x 89-105cm (LWH); Weight: 10.8kg

Check price at Micralite

7. KinderKraft XMoov 3-in-1: Best affordable travel system

A nappy bag with removable changing mat, a rain cover, cup holder, footmuff, extendable canopy and a height-adjustable handle are just some of the XMoov’s features, and the reclinable car seat has adjustable shoulder straps with protectors for the baby’s optimal safety and comfort.

For strolling, the all-terrain pumped wheels have a shock-absorbing mechanism allowing it to glide effortlessly on all kinds of roads, making it the perfect option whether you live in a busy city or in the country. The front wheels swivel and can be locked in position for solely going straight, while back wheel brakes have a simultaneous double clamp.

Key specs – Age range : Suitable for 0 years to 22kg in weight; Wheels : Pumped, all-terrain, locking, swivel, self-aligning; Folded dimensions : 92-116 x 110 x 60cm; Unfolded dimensions : 75 x 42 x 62cm ; Weight : 11.8-14kg

Check price at Baby and Child Store

8. iCandy Peach 7: The most comfortable travel system

While this pram is super-stylish, it’s also loaded with ultra-practical details such as the zipped pocket on the back of the seat, and the integrated stand-on board – which is invaluable if you have an older child. One of the other major pros about this pram is the comfort and security it offers your little one and the fact that it just makes a day-to-day routine feel much easier.

We really liked that the main bundle comes with everything you need to get started, including a carrycot, seat unit, chassis, removable ‘Pip-Zip’ bag, car seat adaptors and elevator adaptors. But you can also add on lots of personalised extras, such as the matching baby bag, footmuff and liner and cup holder, to really make it your own.

Key specs – Age range: Suitable from birth to 25kg; Wheels: Puncture-proof, ultra-smooth rolling PU tyres; Folded Dimensions: No wheels (cm) L70 x W54 x D28; Weight: 12.9kg

9. BabaBing Raffi: Best iCandy alternative

The travel bundle also comes with everything you need to navigate all four seasons, such as an adjustable forward- and rear-facing seat unit, a UPF50+ canopy, a spacious carry cot with a Kose Cool breathable lining, 2-in-1 rain cover and an Ubersnugg Footmuff. That’s a lot of kit for a very reasonable price.

This is a great travel system that’s super stylish, pleasurable to push and with plenty of storage space to boot. It’s definitely worthy of serious consideration and is a much more affordable option to some of the very expensive options in this list.

Key specs – Age range: Suitable from birth to 15kg; Wheels: Full suspension off-road tyres; Folded Dimensions: 70cm x 60cm x 29cm; Weight: 12.5kg

BABABING Raffi Pushchair 3-in-1 Travel System, Baby Pushchair Buggy with Infant Car Seat Adapter & Rain Cover, Adjustable Stroller for Newborn - Navy Blue

10. thule urban glide 2 complete bundle: best running buggy.

There’s a twist hand brake for quickly stopping safely and it offers superior control even on hilly terrain. You can fold this buggy with just one hand while holding the baby in the other, and it weighs a touch over 11kg, so you can easily lift it in and out of the car’s boot and even up stairs.

The sun canopy can be adjusted to multiple positions and offers side ventilation and a peekaboo window that closes with a magnet. The complete travel bundle comes with a bassinet that can make the stroller suitable from birth onwards, and you’ll also get the Cabriofix i-Size car seat along with the base and adaptors.

Key specs – Age range : Suitable for 0 to 4 years, or 22kg; Wheels : Swivel front wheel, 16-inch rear wheels; Folded Dimensions : 87 x 69 x 34cm; Weight : 11.4kg

12. iCandy Core: The best travel system for second babies

This premium travel system from iCandy is a great option if you have other children and regularly interchange between urban and rural environments. It can be used from birth, starting with the fleece-lined carrycot that can be used for permanent overnight sleeping. When your baby grows into a toddler, simply switch over to the adjustable clamshell seat, which can also be used with the compatible car seat (if you purchase the full travel system bundle).

One of our favourite design features with this travel system is the built-in buggy board; it’s a lifesaver if you have older children. It will also save you money in the long run, as you won’t have to buy an additional buggy board or a double buggy, depending on the age of your other children.

Other details to note are the front-wheel swivel lock, bag hooks, an on/off brake indicator (which is flip-flop friendly), and ergonomic adjustable handlebar. Plus, the one-handed fold with the chassis still attached. The basket is also a good size at 48 litres, providing plenty of room for shopping and the baby bag. Finally, it comes with interchangeable wheels: the lighter wheels make it more of a compact city stroller, while the second set is more substantial and ideal for more rural areas. All in all, this is a smart and stylish travel system that will take you from birth to toddlerhood with ease and comfort.

Key specs – Age range: Suitable from birth to 25kg; Wheels: Interchangeable and removable (1 x rural wheel set and 1 x urban wheel set); Folded dimensions: L69 x W61 x H24; Unfolded dimensions: L68 x W61 x H105; Weight: 12.6kg

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Ordered 2 weeks ago they say it’s been…

Ordered 2 weeks ago they say it’s been delivered but it hasn’t, think they have lost it and I’m still waiting for my pram

Date of experience : April 30, 2024

Reply from Bugaboo

Hi Leanne, Thank you for your review. We are sorry you are experiencing issues with the delivery and courier. We are in contact with you over e-mail and are actively working on your case and investigating with the courier. We will be in touch over e-mail with updates and look forward to providing a solution as soon as possible. Kind regards, The Bugaboo Team

Very floppy

I needed a summer canopy for our chameleon 3 as the baby can get quite hot under the original hood during the summer months. However, I'm not too impressed with the summer canopy. It's quite floppy amd doesn't stay open. You have to fully open it by unzipping the extra part at the back otherwise it'll just fall closed. Not impressed amd will not recommend.

Date of experience : March 22, 2024

Hi Kelly, Thanks so much for providing this feedback. We can assure you it's being properly recorded. As for your issue, we will be getting into touch over e-mail to investigate this for you further. We want to make sure you love your Bugaboo product! Regards, The Bugaboo Team

Great customer service

Thank you for all your help, customer service was brilliant and kept sending follow up emails to make sure I was happy with their help

Date of experience : April 05, 2024

Hi Jed! We are so happy to hear your experience with our customer service team was positive. Thank you so much for leaving your review, and we hope you enjoy your Bugaboo products! Kind regards, The Bugaboo Team

Quick delivery, great product

Quick delivery, items arrived well packaged. Child loves the high performance sleeping bag and is fear to get into it. The peep hole in the sub canopy is a great addition missing from our last travel system and the frame feels sturdy and lightweight. Have not yet tested out the all terrain feature yet of the Donkey

Date of experience : February 29, 2024

Hi [email protected], Thank you so much for your review! We are so happy to hear you are enjoying your new Bugaboo products! We wish you many more happy strolls with your family. Regards, The Bugaboo Team

Fails to Deliver as promised.

Apparently don’t know their own postal destinations, not once but twice. Too busy giving the instamums freebies 😆

Date of experience : April 19, 2024

Dear Stevi, Thank you for sharing your experience with us. This information is very valuable and it help us to improve our procceses. We are constantly trying to exceed our customer service experience and we see that your case is still open. Our team is still looking for possibilities so that you can enjoy your favourite Bugaboo products. Please keep an eye on your email! 🙂 Have a nice day! The Bugaboo Team

Very easy ordering this travel cot and…

Very easy ordering this travel cot and fast free delivery. It's an absolutely fantastic travel cot, so much easier to fold down and put up compared to the one I currently have. However it's a lot smaller than the average travel cot, width and length. My tall toddler did not fit in it so that's why I had to return it.

Date of experience : February 26, 2024

Dear Ellie, Thank you for you kind review! We appreciate your feedback and will use it to improve our products in the future. It is great to hear you were pleased with our quick shipping process and the quality of the travel cot. Kind regards, Your Bugaboo Team

Stardust travel cot

This was our first purchase with Bugaboo and it has been an excellent experience so far. The grey travel cot was dispatched promptly and arrived with no problem. A good price and a lovely quality. So easy to unfold and put away again in it's own storage bag.

Dear Cathy, Thank you so much for taking the time to write this kind review! We are happy to hear you are pleased with our quick shipping process and the quality of our products and we wish you and your family many amazing moments with your new Bugaboo products! Kind regards, Your Bugaboo Team

We bought a refurbished stroller

We bought a refurbished stroller – there was literally not a single evidence of it being used before. Every part was brand new, and we couldn’t find a single scratch anywhere – not even a sign of the wheels ever been roamed. We saved money while getting just the right stroller for our kid. Amazed!

Date of experience : February 27, 2024

Hello CR, Thank you for your positive feedback! We wish you happy strolling and moments with your Bugaboo stroller. Wishing you a lovely start of the week! Kind regards, (Bugaboo Team)

My bugaboo fox cub that was bought in…

My bugaboo fox cub that was bought in baby elegance blanchardstown Dublin In July 2023 baby arrived In September. I only started using the stroller in Jan 2024 & the whole seat snapped while I was on a walk with my baby. 3 months into being used. I went back to baby elegance with it & was told me bugaboo would send me out a new seat & this would take “1 week “ with the bank holiday. 2.5 weeks later I am still with out a buggy no replacement was offered my baby is 7 months old & this is just not good enough. A

Date of experience : March 21, 2024

Hello Nicole 🙌🏻 Firstly we would like to thank you for taking the time to provide your feedback, this helps us to improve our products and service. After checking the tracking number of the order we can see that this shows as delivered already. We kindly ask you to contact the retailer as the replacement should be with them already. If you have any further questions do not hesitate to contact us via our contact form (https://service.bugaboo.com/s/consumer-contact?language=es) Wishing you lots of adventures and moments with Bugaboo 🫶🏻

Ordered some wheel caps for little…

Ordered some wheel caps for little pram makeover.always love ordering direct.delivery is always prompt and items are great.

Date of experience : March 18, 2024

Hi Ms. Swan! Thank you so much for your review. We are so happy to hear you have enjoyed your experience with us. We hope you enjoy your new products! Regards, The Bugaboo Team

Great service!

After ordering our pram when I was 20 weeks pregnant we didn’t notice the rain cover was missing until our little boy arrived a couple of weeks ago. After emailing Bugaboo a replacement was immediately sent without charge. Ledina sorted this easily and replied to any emails quickly. Excellent service! Thank you!

Date of experience : November 02, 2023

Dear Mrs. Romano, Thank you for your kind review! We are very happy to hear you are pleased with our customer service and we wish you and your family many amazing moments with your Bugaboo products. Kind regards, Your Bugaboo Team

I made a mistake on the delivery address…

I made a mistake on the delivery address, so I got in touch with bugaboo via the chat. This led to some email communication with an advisor (Lizzy) who was able to make the change i was requesting. She was very helpful. Thank you. ☺️

Date of experience : January 16, 2024

Dear James, Thank you for taking the time to write this kind review! We are very to hear Lizzy was able to assist you in this matter and we wish you and your family many amazing moments with your new Bugaboo products. Kind regards, Your Bugaboo Team

Amazing Bugaboo Dragonfly

Ordered the Bugaboo Dragonfly on line and luckily it arrived 48hours later....my newest grandson arrived the day after, 10 days early!! Great service and an exceptional design enabling the bassinet to fold with the chassis and it fits into the boot of a Fiat 500....brilliant

Date of experience : November 10, 2023

Firstly, congratulations on the new arrival of your grandson! Secondly, thank you very much for the lovely feedback...we greatly appreciate it :) We wish you lots of enjoyment with your new baby grandson and the Bugaboo Dragonfly! Regards, Bugaboo Team

Over 2 weeks for repair parts

After countless faults with my Bugaboo Donkey, and having to contact bugaboo/john Lewis again for a repair, I’ve been told that the replacement pieces won’t be shipped until April 13th (and this was told to me mid March). So in the meantime, I can either use a broken pram for my two children, or no pram at all and hope I can carry a two year old and 1 year old

Date of experience : March 19, 2024

Dear AbEP2020, thank you for taking the time and effort to share your feedback! We are sorry to read, that the service has not been sufficient for you, our customer service team has contacted you again regarding this matter and we hope to find an appropriate solution. Please do not hesitate to ask, in case of any further questions or concerns! Kind regards, Bugaboo Team

Absolutely LOVE this pram

Absolutely LOVE this pram! It's easy to put together, great quality and exactly what was described on the description. It's not too big, by comparison to some of the other prams we have trialed and will fit in the car nicely! Not to mention the next day delivery was a real sweetener! Can't wait to start using the pram once my baby has arrived! Definitely recommend.

Date of experience : July 02, 2023

Hi, We appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts and experience in assemblying your Bugaboo product! We are truly glad that the quality and service has met your expectations! We wish you and your family lots of wonderful memories with it! Sincerely, Bugaboo team

The Cosy Bugaboo rain cover!

After ordering the Bugaboo cover for my newly acquired bugaboo buggy the weather changed! So I was thrilled the bugaboo cover arrived so quickly! My 2 month old Granddaughter looks very cosy in her Bugaboo! It’s so easy and smooth to control! The rain cover fits perfectly and my Granddaughter can still see us because of the transparent window!

Date of experience : September 20, 2023

Dear LizRig, We appreciate your positive feedback! We are delighted to hear that your order was delivered quickly and that our Bugaboo product has met your expectations. We wish you more dry and comfortable walks to come with your granddaughter in your Bugaboo pushchair! Sincerely, The Bugaboo team

Excellent service

it was really easy ordering the part I needed. the information was clear. the service was excellent as I was informed all the way about delivery times. A really good service!

Date of experience : February 24, 2024

Hi Mrs. Andrews, Thank you for your positive feedback! We hope you will have lovely moments with your Bugaboo product and wishing you a lovely day! Kind regards, (Bugaboo Team)

Lovely strollers and great customer support

I originally went for the Bugaboo Fox 3 but decided it’s too big for my needs and changed to Dragonfly instead. Lovely luxury strollers. Seamless purchase and refund. Great customer service and experience. The only thing I didn’t like is that the actual parasol is not included with the Dragonfly, just the attachment clip which is a little bit misleading on the description as it says parasol + clip.

Date of experience : August 24, 2023

Dear Miss Karamanoleva, We are very happy to hear that you are loving your Bugaboo Dragonfly pushchair and that you had a great customer experience. We understand the information on the What's in the Box items lacked clarity and we will forward this information to the relevant team for you. We greatly appreciate your time sharing your experience and thoughts with us and we wish you many wonderful strolls with your pushchair! Sincerely, The Bugaboo Team

The most versatile pushchair you can…

The most versatile pushchair you can buy, I have two under two and it’s perfect. I’ve had several different brands but the donkey is by far the best. It’s great on rough terrain, easy to push one handed. Has so many accessories too which is great.

Date of experience : December 05, 2023

Dear Samantha, Thank you for sharing your review with us. We are glad to hear that you are very happy with our Bugaboo Donkey pushchair! We wish you and your family wonderful walks in it! Sincerely, The Bugaboo team

Customer service/ aftercare

I bought a Bugaboo Fox 5, which has been great. This week some damage was caused to one of the parts so I contacted customer services to get a replacement. The response time, options offered and communication were all brilliant. I rarely review on Trustpilot but I felt I must as I was so impressed. I would highly recommend the brand to everyone I know. The price may seem steep, but in this case (as in so many others) you really do get what you pay for!

Date of experience : July 12, 2023

Hello Chloe, We highly appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback with us. We are glad to hear that our Bugaboo Fox 5 has met your expectations and we are very happy to know that you had a wonderful experience with our customer service team. Sincerely, Bugaboo Team

• Strollers /

Best Travel Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed by Parents & Experts

Lightweight and compact, a travel stroller can help make your next family vacation a little bit easier., by jen labracio | medically reviewed by holly peretz ot.

If the thought of trying to wrangle your full-size stroller on your next family adventure feels daunting, it’s time to consider a travel stroller.

Travel strollers make leaving home with your little one a little bit easier and a lot more convenient. Today’s travel stroller is a minimalist’s dream. Most have many of the same high-end features as traditional strollers all rolled into a compact, portable package. Many travel strollers break down to fit in the overhead bin of a plane or can be folded down quickly (and with one hand—win) and slung over your shoulder. Many parents even use them as their day-to-day stroller.

If you’re a family who’s frequently on the go, a travel stroller may be the answer to help lighten your load and simplify your life. We’re sharing Babylist parents favorites and bestselling picks to help you narrow down your search. I also added my own thoughts and picks from the countless travel strollers I’ve tested over the last decade as a mom of two and in my role as Babylist’s Gear Editor.

Babylist’s Top Picks for the Best Travel Strollers

• Best Travel System: Nuna PIPA urbn + TRVL Travel System
• Best for Toddlers: Bugaboo Butterfly Complete Stroller
• Best Budget: Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Stroller
• Best for Everyday Use: UPPAbaby MINU V2 Stroller
• Best for Planes: Babyzen YOYO2 6+ Stroller
• Best Compact: Joolz Aer+ Lightweight Stroller
• Best Lightweight: Zoe The Traveler
• Best Value: Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Single Stroller
• Best for Infants: Mountain Buggy Nano V3 Stroller
• Best Umbrella: Summer 3D Lite Convenience Stroller

In This Article

How we chose the best travel strollers.

• Our Top Picks

Which Stroller Is Best for Travel?

What to look for in a travel stroller, how do you travel with a stroller on a plane, babylist’s picks for the best travel strollers, best travel system stroller.

Nuna PIPA urbn & TRVL LX Travel System - Caviar

• Baseless infant car seat, installs in seconds
• Stroller has one-handed fold, weighs 13 pounds
• Car seat weighs just 7 pounds

What Our Experts Say

If you know you’ll frequently be traveling while your baby is an infant, you may want to invest in a travel system (a stroller and car seat that attach to each other; here’s more on how to pick a travel system ). This combo is the best of the best, and what I wish I’d had when I was a new mom living in New York City seven years ago and didn’t own a car. It combines the ultra-popular TRVL, the brand’s first dive into the lightweight stroller market, with the urbn, a first-of-its-kind car seat.

What’s so special about a baseless car seat? Most infant car seats can be installed without a base, but require a seat belt—along with time and patience. That’s not the case with the urbn. There’s no base to worry about AND the latch system is built right into the seat’s base. I was blown away by how quick and easy this seat was to install. I pressed a button on each side and pushed to attach it directly to my vehicle’s lower anchors—that’s it. It’s about as foolproof as it gets, and especially ideal if you’ll be using your car seat on the go in rideshares or taxis. This is also our pick for best travel car seat .

As for the TRVL stroller, it’s just as great. The two standout features for me were its fold (one-handed, quick and ridiculously easy) and its compact size (it stands on its own and weighs just over 13 pounds. While not huge, the basket is large enough to hold your essentials (and a little more) and is easy to access, and the TRVL’s maneuverability is good enough that you’ll be able to steer easily with one hand.

What’s Worth Considering

The TRVL is on the pricier side and it doesn’t have a carry strap, but the maneuverability, suspension and versatility help explain the higher price point. I found it worked as a travel stroller, but also as an everyday stroller, too. There are also lots of thoughtful design details like magnetic buckles, a no-rethread harness and leatherette bumper bar and handlebar. The urbn car seat has a lower height limit than many infant car seats—not ideal, but not a huge dealbreaker, either.

Additional Specs

Best Travel Stroller for Toddlers

Bugaboo Butterfly Complete Stroller - Midnight Black

• Four-wheel suspension for a smooth ride
• Fast, easy fold
• Included footrest and high seat back

There are two travel strollers I recommend again and again to families, and Bugaboo’s newest compact stroller, the Butterfly, is one of them. (The other one is the Joolz Aer+—more on that below!). This style-forward stroller is packed with thoughtful, impressive features, just like the brand’s popular full-size strollers. Two of my favorites (and there are many to choose from!) are the smooth ride and the quick, easy fold. The four-wheel suspension system means the Butterfly rides more like a traditional stroller than a compact one, a huge perk when I pushed it on anything other than smooth pavement and perfect for toting around my larger toddler. It moves and turns easily and I was able to steer it with only one hand, a huge plus. The fold is just as impressive; I also did it one-handed, and the Butterfly folds down to about the side of a small bag. (There’s also a built-in carry strap, a feature I value in any stroller, but especially one designed for travel.)

A few other things I love: it accommodates an infant car seat with adapters, so you can use it from day one, and the seat has a high back for larger kiddos and reclines almost fully for napping on the go. There’s even a footrest built in for extra comfort, another toddler-friendly feature. (My 95th-percent-in-height two-year-old still fits perfectly in it.) And the sun canopy on the Butterfly is one of the best I’ve seen of all the travel strollers on our list.

There’s not much to pick on with this stroller, minus its high price tag. The back wheels on the Butterfly are fairly close together. That setup, combined with a handle that doesn’t extend (which is the norm for compact strollers), means that if you’re on the taller side like me (5’10”), you may kick the back of the stroller while you’re walking. And although I wouldn’t consider it heavy, it is one of the heavier travel strollers on our list by about three pounds.

Best Budget Travel Stroller

Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Stroller

• Great value
• Extremely light—weighs less than 12 pounds
• Easy fold but not as compact as others on our list

If you’re not looking to spend a lot on a travel stroller or you’re a family who doesn’t travel very often, the Kolcraft Cloud Light is an excellent value for an inexpensive stroller . It boasts lots of thoughtful features, especially considering the stroller’s price. Weight is the standout here—the Cloud Plus weighs less than twelve pounds, making it one of the lightest strollers on our list. The fold is also worth a second look. Although it’s not super compact (the stroller folds in on itself, much like an umbrella stroller, rather than in a tri-fold like many other travel strollers on our list), it’s quick and easy and you can do it with one hand, a feature we always appreciate especially when we’re on the go.

Other features to note include an extendable canopy with a peekaboo window, a parent tray with two drink holders and a large storage basket (it’s one of the biggest on our list).

The seat on the Cloud Plus has multiple positions but doesn’t recline completely flat. It has a lower weight limit than many of the strollers on our list—40 pounds—and doesn’t have much in the way of suspension and shock absorption. The fold is slim but not all that compact.

And remember—this stroller is under $100. It’s not going to compare to travel strollers five times its price in suspension, maneuverability, stability or materials. But, considering the price, it’s a great option if you don’t travel all that much but want a lightweight stroller option when you do.

What Babylist Parents Say

“Easily fits in the trunk of my car.” -Cora

Best Travel Stroller for Everyday Use

UPPAbaby Minu V2 Stroller - Jake

• Great for travel + everyday use
• Roomy storage basket
• Shock-absorbing suspension for a smooth ride

UPPAbaby was one of the first stroller brands to dive into the “travel stroller that can also be used as an everyday stroller” category, and the Minu does both of these things extremely well. From your own neighborhood to wherever your travel adventures take you and to everything in between, the Minu offers all the conveniences of a day-to-day stroller in a travel-friendly package. A few of my favorite features are the one-handed fold, the huge sunshade, the comfy seat with multi-position recline and a roomy, easy-access basket. The spring-action, shock-absorbing all-wheel suspension makes for a smooth ride even over bumpy terrain, so it’s a stroller you can use both in the suburbs and in a city. The Minu stands when folded and features a carry strap and a storage bag for easy transport.

As-is, the Minu works for babies three+ months; that means if you want to use it with your newborn, you’ll need to add the bassinet and adapters , which will cost you.

The Minu folds compactly but is a little bulkier than some of the other strollers on our list when it’s broken down. It’s also a little heavier, weighing in at about 17 pounds. And the seat back is on the shorter side.

“Amazing stroller. Great for travelling (fits in overhead bin), shopping (takes up minimal trunk space), walks in the park (very smooth ride, even over grass!). Has oversized canopy to block sun and folds with one hand. Bought it for travel, but use it as our primary stroller because I love it so much.” -Jessica

Best Travel Stroller for Flying

Babyzen yoyo2 stroller bundle - black frame/olive.

• Fits in overhead bin
• Fast, one-handed fold
• Options to customize color, add a second rider and more

The YOYO2 was ahead of its time in the world of compact strollers and remains a parent favorite both for travel and for families looking for a smaller, lighter everyday stroller option. This compact favorite fits in the overhead bin and is the stroller of choice for many light-packing parents who don’t want to deal with the hassle (or risk) of gate-checking a stroller when they fly. It performs like a champ off the plane, too, easily steering through crowds and through narrow spaces.

There’s one other unique thing to love here—the custom options. You can change out the seat and shade fabrics with a new color pack , add a custom footmuff for cooler temps, help your older kiddo hitch a ride on the stroller board and even add a storage bag that uses wheeled support so your stroller won’t tip. With adapters that are sold separately, you can also use this stroller with some of the best infant car seats from Nuna and Maxi Cosi, among others.

The YOYO2’s fold isn’t hard, but it’s not quite as easy as some of the other travel stroller picks on our list. (There are two steps, and it takes a little getting used to.) The canopy is on the shorter side. This travel stroller does come with a rain cover, but all the other extras and custom adds will cost you. (And this stroller is on the pricier side to begin with.)

“Fits in airplane cabin. We took it on so many trips!” -Emily

Best Compact Travel Stroller

Joolz aer + lightweight stroller - stone grey.

• One-handed fold and compact carry
• Comfy, contoured seat

I’ve tried a LOT of travel strollers in my day, and the Joolz Aer+ is the one I come back to again and again. Pushing it doesn’t feel much different than pushing much larger, much more expensive strollers—and that’s one of the things I love about it. The Aer+ has four-wheel suspension, a feature that’s not very common in travel strollers, so it maneuvers easily and glides smoothly even across uneven surfaces like bumpy sidewalks and dirt paths. That combined with the ridiculously easy one-handed fold, the compact design and the comfortable seat that contours to fit your child’s body makes this stroller a great choice for travel and for everyday use. (It currently occupies a permanent spot in the trunk of my car.)

The Aer+ is newborn-friendly and compatible with Nuna and Clek car seats (adapters sold separately), so it works if you want to use it from day one. The stroller folds small enough to fit in an overhead bin or to sling over your shoulder (carry strap included) and tote up and down stairs, on public transportation or anywhere else you need to go. It also comes with a rain cover and travel bag included.

The Aer+ is on the pricier side, but if you’re planning on using it for travel and for everyday, then the cost doesn’t seem as daunting. I also wish it came with a footrest instead of having to purchase one separately.

“It’s so easy to push and steer and SO easy to fold with just one hand. We use it as a travel stroller and often as our everyday stroller as well.” -Jennifer

Best Lightweight Travel Stroller

Zoe the traveler.

• One-handed fold
• Extended canopy, full recline

Lightweight, compact and travel-ready are the three features that come to mind when I think of The Traveler from Zoe. This aluminum-frame stroller is light enough for easy portability but durable enough to handle lots of different adventures. I love the one-handed fold and that it’s small enough to fit in an overhead bin if you don’t want to wrangle with gate checking your stroller on your next trip. There are lots of high-end features like an extended canopy, adjustable footrest and a near-flat recline. And don’t forget one of the best parts: The Traveler folds in seconds with one hand and stands on its own.

The Traveler isn’t compatible with any car seats so you won’t be able to use it with younger babies. There are also no straps or backpack included; if you want those, you’ll have to pay extra to add them on. And while it shines on smooth pavement, it’s not great on bumpy or uneven terrain.

Need a double travel stroller? Zoe’s The Twin+ is a great choice. It weighs under 20 pounds and fits through standard doorways but is comfortable and roomy enough for two children up to 45 pounds each. The fold is quick, easy and compact and the stroller is Disney-approved. And it can expand to a triple or a quad stroller with additional seats.

Best Value Travel Stroller

Baby jogger city tour 2 single stroller - jet.

• Same one-handed fold Baby Jogger full-size strollers are known for
• 3 ways to ride: infant car seat, bassinet or toddler seat
• Padded seat with added depth

Travel strollers can get expensive. If you don’t want to spend $500+ on one, but you travel frequently and want a reliable option, the City Tour 2 is a great mid-priced pick.

Baby Jogger strollers are known (and loved) for their easy, one-handed fold—and this travel stroller is no exception. The City Tour 2 folds into a 19-by-23-inch rectangle and automatically locks closed. You can carry it by the handle or tuck it away in the included tote bag carryall while your little one explores. The stroller has a deep, padded seat and adjustable calf support to keep your kiddo comfortable. Plus, a huge UV 50+ sun canopy provides shade.

There’s suspension system in the frame isn’t great, making for a bit of a bumpy ride. Some parents wish the tote bag carryall had backpack straps for easier transport rather than a shoulder strap.

“I love that I can carry, open and fold it with one hand. It’s easy to maneuver and the only stroller I own. Perfect for city living!” -Amie

Best Infant Travel Stroller

Mountain buggy nano v3 stroller.

• Comes with universal car seat adapter
• Full recline seat
• Ventilated backrest for airflow

The Mountain Buggy Nano stroller is the best of both worlds—a travel stroller that can also act as a travel system . Unlike most travel strollers, this one comes equipped with a universal car seat adapter so you can pop in your infant seat and be on your way with your newborn in tow. (You can also purchase the Cocoon Carrycot separately if you prefer a bassinet option.)

The Nano is lightweight and compact enough to fit easily into many carry-on luggage units on planes and trains or in a trunk, and the travel bag has a handle and strap for portability. The narrow width and front-wheel swivel makes it good for use on city streets or other tight spaces and the seat features a full recline perfect for naps.

There’s no suspension system and no peekaboo window. You need to use two hands to fold the Nano. (Although it’s still really easy.)

“It folded up so small that it fit on the plane as a carryon but it also handled really well on european cobblestone” -Nikki

Best Umbrella Stroller for Travel

Summer 3d lite convenience stroller.

• Easy to maneuver
• Umbrella-style fold is bulky

Umbrella strollers used to be the norm in the compact stroller category. That’s changed over the last five years or so, but if you still prefer one for travel, the Summer 3D Lite should be on your list.

The 3D Lite is a great all-around travel stroller. It’s light (about 13 pounds), features a simple, compact fold and a built-in carry strap, has a seat that lays nearly flat and boasts an ample storage basket. The ride isn’t super cushy, but it’s not all that bumpy, either. And at well under $100, it’s an incredible value for a stroller with this many great features.

Since this is an umbrella stroller, you won’t find the compact tri-fold that parents love so much about many travel strollers.

“It is so easy to travel with - we used it on a cruise ship, in various airports, and for all our daily errands.” -Jeanine

Also Worth a Look…

The world of compact travel strollers has exploded recently, flooding the market with lots of options. Here are a few other travel strollers worth a look:

• The Bumprider Connect 3 Stroller ($599.99) is totally unique. It features a magnetic lock system that allows you to join two or more strollers together. It’s pricey, though, especially if you need more than one.
• Evenflo Gold’s Otto ($199.99) is a competitively priced self-folding, lightweight stroller with a high weight limit (55 pounds) and a two-position adjustable footrest.
• The Inglesina Quid ($299.00) fits in an overhead bin and offers thoughtful features like a self-standing fold, an extendable canopy and a large flap on the hood that fully retracts for ventilation on warm days. The Quid weighs in at only 13 pounds.
• We analyzed results from Babylist’s Best Baby Products survey, which polled 6,000 Babylist users and asked them to share the baby products they love the most and why.
• We utilized insight from the Babylist editorial team, including Gear Editor Jen LaBracio, an expert in the baby space for over six years and a mom of two who has written hundreds of baby gear guides and personally researched and tested hundreds of baby products, including many travel strollers.
• We reviewed customer reviews from hundreds of real Babylist parents.

Some families use a traditional stroller for everything, even traveling. But having a lighter, more nimble travel stroller pays off when you really need it: for airports, narrow city sidewalks , public transportation or just to lighten the load.

Here are some of the pros and cons of using different types of strollers for travel:

• Traditional stroller: Everyday strollers typically have convenient features like lots of storage space, cup holders and trays, and large canopies. Some may also have all-terrain wheels and accommodate an infant car seat. But they’re heavier and bulkier to fold, which makes using and storing them in tight spaces more difficult (think: narrow doorways, airplane overhead bins, small car trunks).
• Umbrella stroller: Bare-boned and exceptionally lightweight, umbrella strollers often lack many amenities you find in traditional strollers like adjustable seats and cup holders. They have skimpy canopies, minimal cushioning and seat support and don’t fold small enough to fit in airport storage bins. You also can’t push an umbrella stroller with one hand. Umbrella strollers are good for when you occasionally need a slimmer, fast-fold stroller.
• Travel stroller: Sometimes also called a lightweight stroller, travel strollers strike a balance between traditional and umbrella stroller styles. They’re lighter than the standard stroller, easy to fold and compact in size when collapsed. (Some travel strollers fold in half, called a square fold, while others feature a more compact tri-fold.) Travel strollers have some full-size amenities like large sun canopies and a storage basket and most even have extras like cup holders.

Figuring out the best stroller to use for travel often comes down to what type of trade-offs you want to make around budget , space and personal preference.

• Some traditional strollers offer a compact fold that’s great for travel, but the stroller weighs a ton.
• Umbrella strollers tend to be affordable but require two hands for pushing and only offer a vertical fold.
• Compact travel strollers are light, portable and easy to steer but come at a cost.

Before you invest in a travel stroller, think through:

• How often you travel
• How much money you want to spend
• Where you’ll be storing your stroller when it’s not in use

Also note that lots of parents find that a travel stroller can work just as well as a full-size option for everyday use; just keep in mind that unless the travel stroller you choose is compatible with an infant car seat or comes with a separate infant kit, you’ll need to wait to use the stroller until your baby is six months old and can sit up unassisted.  

A travel stroller should be easy to take with you on trips and be a comfy spot for your little one, especially since your child will probably spend more hours in it while traveling than at home. Consider these features as you research and shop:

• Size and weight. You’re going to be lifting, carrying and storing your travel stroller often, so the stroller’s size and weight is important. Look for one that’s lightweight and manageable. Also pay attention both to the folded and unfolded size of your travel stroller. Hoping to If you’re planning on using it for an older toddler, also be sure it’s large enough to accommodate them.
• Fold. There’s also a lot of folding and unfolding a stroller during travel, whether it’s to take it in and out of your car, stash it under a table at a restaurant or storing it in the overhead compartment of an airplane. Choose a travel stroller with a quick, easy fold, preferably one you can do one-handed.
• Maneuverability. Not all travel strollers are created equally. Some offer much more maneuverability and a better suspension system than others; however, these features often come at a cost. Thinking through how often you’ll be using your travel stroller and what types of terrain you’ll encounter most often can be helpful in determining whether or not a more expensive stroller is worthwhile.
• Canopy size. Most travel involves at least some, if not a lot, of outdoor time. A large canopy is essential for protecting your little one from the elements, especially the sun.
• Comfort and convenience features. Similar to a full-size stroller, look for features that will make you and your little one more comfortable, especially while traveling. Things like an adjustable seat with a full or nearly full recline, an ample storage basket, an adjustable handlebar and easy to clean fabrics are all important. And don’t forget a built-in strap or a separate carrying case for easy transport.

Bringing a stroller with you on trips can seem daunting. How do you get it from point A to point B when you’re flying ? Will it count toward your carry-on and baggage allotment? And what if you need to use your stroller in the airport? Good news: You can pick how you want to travel with your stroller, depending on your needs. Here are the choices:

• Check the stroller with your baggage: Some parents unload the stroller during check-in and switch to using a baby carrier through the airport instead. Pair a front carrier with a backpack-style diaper bag so your hands will be free to deal with other things (like the toys that will make your trip a breeze ). Note that if you have a large stroller, you may be required to check it as baggage anyway. This usually doesn’t count toward your baggage allotment.
• Check the stroller at the gate: Want to use the stroller until you board the plane? You can check the stroller with the gate agent—it just needs to be tagged—and then pick it up outside the aircraft door when you arrive. (Just remember if you have a connecting flight to catch, waiting for your stroller to be placed on the jet bridge can eat up precious time.)
• Stow the stroller on the airplane: Some travel strollers fold up so small they fit in a backpack and can be stored in an overhead bin. Having your stroller with you eliminates the hassle of waiting for it on the jet bridge or at baggage claim (or losing it).

Some other air-travel tips to keep in mind:

• If you check the stroller with baggage, you do run the risk of damage. If you’re not using a travel stroller bag, ask the agent at check-in for a plastic bag to cover and protect it during transport.
• If you’re taking the stroller through security, it will need to be folded and put through the X-ray machine. Don’t stuff the undercarriage basket until after security.
• If your checked stroller doesn’t come out with the suitcases at baggage claim, check the oversized luggage area. It may have been set aside there (this may also be where your travel crib is, if you checked one).

Do you need a travel stroller bag?

How you plan to use your travel stroller will affect whether or not you need a travel stroller bag.

If you plan on flying with your stroller then you’ll probably want to use a travel stroller bag, especially if you don’t plan on stowing your stroller in the overhead compartment of the plane (either because you don’t want to or because it won’t fit). A checked stroller, even one that’s gate checked, may get tossed around quite a bit while in transit, so you’ll want a travel stroller bag to keep it protected.

If you’re not planning on flying much with your stroller or if you’re simply using your travel stroller as a more lightweight day-to-day option, then a travel stroller probably isn’t a must-have.

Some travel strollers come with a travel bag while others require you to purchase one separately, so check with your particular brand. There are generic travel stroller bags that may work, too.

Jen LaBracio

Senior gear editor.

Jen LaBracio is Babylist’s Senior Gear Editor, a role that perfectly combines her love of all things baby gear with her love of (obsessive) research. When she’s not testing out a new high chair or pushing the latest stroller model around her neighborhood, she likes to run, spin, listen to podcasts, read and spend time at the beach. In her past life, she worked for over a decade in children’s publishing. She lives outside of Chicago with her husband and their two boys, Will and Ben.

• Pushchairs, Buggies and Strollers

Bugaboo Butterfly review

When you’re heading on holiday with your family, you’ll most likely want to pack a travel stroller to take with you. Going without isn’t an option if you have a little one who will no doubt get tired while you’re out and about and a travel system tends to be too big for taking away. One popular option is the Bugaboo Butterfly. While also marketed as a pushchair for city-dwellers thanks to its one-handed one-second fold, it quickly became a hit for families heading on holiday as it folds down into an ultra-compact package and is IATA-compatible, meaning it can be used as carry-on luggage on planes.

As a brand, Bugaboo sits at the top end of the market and the Bugaboo Butterfly will set you back £419. They do have other city-designed pushchairs: the Bugaboo Bee 6 and Bugaboo Dragonfly , both more expensive but suitable from birth and offering extra features.

The closest comparison would probably be Babyzen YOYO2 which is lighter at 6.6kg but more expensive overall, requiring you to buy ‘packs’ to suit your family situation.

So how does the Bugaboo Butterfly compare and should it be joining you and your tot on your next break? Find out how our Mother&Baby tester got on when they put it to the test.

Bugaboo Butterfly overview

1. buy the bugaboo butterfly.

www.bugaboo.com

• Lightweight
• Compact fold so can be taken on many planes as carry-on luggage
• Stylish design
• Roomy adjustable seat
• Large basket
• Extendable UPF 50+ sun canopy
• Limited colour choice
• Seat doesn't fully recline

Testing the Bugaboo Butterfly

Unpacking the Bugaboo Butterfly couldn’t be easier as it arrives already constructed, meaning there is no assembly required other than attaching the seat in-lay. You do receive a picture-led instruction book for the pushchair's features that I felt could have been more useful with words but it is fairly self-explanatory anyway so this wasn't a problem.

As it comes, the Butterfly is suitable from six months but it can be made suitable from birth with adaptors, purchased separately along with a compatible car seat.

As someone who is a fan of the style of Bugaboo products in general, I found the Butterfly was no different in this regard. It’s a stylish and modern pushchair that comes in three colour options, all on a sleek black chassis.

Performance

Pushing and steering the Butterfly is smooth and effortless, something I’ve noticed in Bugaboo products in general. The lightness of the pushchair also helps here. While the wheels are quite small, this didn’t affect how the Butterfly tackled bumpy surfaces and having tested the stroller on a variety of terrains, I found it faired comfortably on the likes of cobbles and steps

The brake pedal can be found in the centre of the chassis and while I worried that we might accidentally kick this on while walking, this wasn’t the case. I did find the break needed quite a bit of force, however. As you’d hope, the Butterfly feels secure and sturdy when the break is on.

The fold is definitely the star of the show with the Bugaboo Butterfly. There’s no need to adjust anything, simply push the two white buttons on the handle until locked and the stroller folds into itself. Unfolding is just a quick: click the same two buttons and the Butterfly springs open. I don’t always trust pushchairs that say they fold one-handed but there’s no denying this is the case here.

When folded, the Butterfly stroller fits neatly into the overhead lockers on aeroplanes as it is IATA compatible. However it’s worth noting that not all airlines allow strollers to be stored in the cabin, so you should double-check before flying.

This compact fold also means it was so easy to tuck it away at home without taking up much space as well as fitting it into my and my husband's cars along with all the usual debris of parenting plus bags of shopping.

I was really pleased to see how large and roomy the seat unit of the Bugaboo Butterfly is in comparison to the Babyzen YOYO2 which I'm aware many parents find too small. It’s important for me to be able to get the most out of my baby products and I feel confident that the Butterfly with its 56cm high backrest (63cm in total with the headspace included) will last my daughter until she is four due to its spacious seat. It’s also very comfy, with a padded insert that my youngster seems pretty happy with.

By pulling the white handle (again, one-handed), the seat will recline but not fully flat. This is something that may be an issue for some parents, although I generally find my daughter is happy relaxing even with just a slight recline. To pull the seat upright again, just pull the cord and secure it with the button.

When it comes to adjustability, the Butterfly fares pretty well overall. The leg rest has five different positions or it can even be folded away if preferred.

The handle cannot be adjusted but having asked a variety of adults of different heights (from 5ft to 6ft2) to take the Butterfly for a spin for the sake of this review, this wasn't a problem for anyone.

I absolutely love the breezy sun canopy which can be extended by four panels, providing plenty of shade. It made such a difference in both protecting my daughter from the sun and providing a cosy place for her to nap. The first panel is made from mesh, which I found great for being able to keep a close eye on my little one as well as air circulation. You could also zip this up if it wasn’t required.

Considering its compact size, the under-seat basket is seriously impressive, holding 8kg worth of storage. It’s accessible from both the front and the back, with high sides that reassured me that nothing would fall out. The flexible opening in the rear was handy when popping things in and out as with previous strollers, I’ve found a bit of manoeuvring was needed.

Final thoughts

While I wouldn’t necessarily use it as my main pushchair just yet, the Bugaboo Butterfly has become a real asset to me and my family. We like to take trips out and about wherever we can and for this, the Butterfly is our pushchair of choice, whether we’re heading to London for the day or a trip to the coast. The fold and unfold is an absolute dream and being so compact when folded was a massive plus, you really can’t beat it when travelling.

I’d really like to see more colours available as there are only three which I found quite surprising. While the options available are all very classic and attractive, I can see more choices being really appealing to parents who want to stand out from the crowd. All of the accessories such as a bumper bar or cup holder are an extra cost which is fairly common but I was disappointed it didn’t come with a travel bag as standard. Instead you can buy this directly from Bugaboo.

2. Bugaboo Butterfly transport bag

The lack of a complete recline wasn’t an issue for me personally but given this is something many competitors have, it would be good to see this on any updated versions of the Butterfly.

Yes, the Bugaboo Butterfly is on the pricey side when it comes to travel pushchairs but considering the features, high-quality, premium brand and how effortless it is to use, it feels more than a fair price to pay.

Bugaboo Butterfly FAQs

Can I take my Bugaboo Butterfly on the plane?

The Butterfly is IATA compatible which essentially means that the folded dimensions make it compatible with the requirements for carry-on luggage. You should however check with the airline you are flying with before bringing your Butterfly as the carry-on allowance can vary between airlines.

Can you put a bassinet on the Bugaboo Butterfly?

There are no bassinet options with the Bugaboo Butterfly but you can purchase adaptors to use a newborn car seat with it. If you want a compact pushchair with the option of a bassinet, we'd recommend the Bugaboo Dragonfly .

How to clean the Bugaboo Butterfly

To keep the pushchair looking as good as new, simply wipe the seat inlay, underseat basket and carry strap fabrics with a damp cloth. The base seat fabric can also be washed by hand.

Emily Gilbert   is the Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby and has written for the website and previously the magazine for six years. Specialising in product reviews, Emily is the first to know about all the exciting new releases in the parenting industry.

Bugaboo Ant Review – Is It the best Travel Stroller?

By: Author Hannah

Posted on Last updated: 6 March, 2024

The Bugaboo Ant was the first travel stroller we owned, and we still use it to date. It’s in the trunk of our SUV all the time, we use it at the park, store, festivals, etc. We’ve also flown with the Bugaboo Ant several times. On our yearly month-long trips to Playa del Carmen, Mexico it’s the stroller we bring. We’ve really put it to the test, this is an honest Bugaboo Ant review!

Bugaboo is a major player in the international world of strollers. So when they launched the Bugaboo Ant, their compact travel stroller, they once again delivered a product that is sleek, stylish and gives parents what they need.

They’ve really come through with great design features you’re not going to find with other travel strollers. Key things like the reversible seat, variable handle height, and the way it can be wheeled around like a compact carry-on luggage piece make the Ant stand out among the rest.

**Update 2023 – We no longer use our Bugaboo Ant. We have replaced it with newer, updated travel strollers. We currently LOVE our Joolz Aer , which is our main travel stroller. If we travel with two single strollers, we bring our Joolz Aer and our Babyzen Yoyo (I don’t mind this one, it just isn’t my favorite). If we bring a double stroller, we bring our Zoe Twin+; it is the best travel double stroller on the market now.

Let’s start off this Bugaboo Ant review with the pros and cons. There are some cons. Just like everything else in the world, nothing is perfect.

• Folds up small and compact to fit in the overhead bin (yes, it really fits – note on regional jets it will not fit)
• It can be wheeled like a small piece of luggage when folded
• Seat configuration: switches from forward to rear-facing
• Compatible with attachments (purchased separately- car seat attachment for select models or ride-along boards for older siblings)
• Adjustable handle height for parents of various heights (I am5’10 and Adan is 6’5 for reference)
• Grows with your child from newborn to 5 years old (up to 22kg/50lbs)

We started using the Ant with Atlas when he was 3 months old for our first international trip with him. We had him rear-facing then, and now at 2 years old, he is world-facing, and we still think the Ant is one of the best traveler strollers on the market.

It’s a big pro. The Ant holds up to 50 lbs, a lot of other travel strollers on the market max out at 40-45 lbs.

• Slightly heavier than other travel strollers
• Cost – at the higher end of the price range and add-ons make it pricey
• The folding process is a bit complicated and cannot be done with just one hand
• No cup holder, but one can be added
• Perfect for Urban Living and Travel

Even with the cons, the Bugaboo Ant is an ideal stroller for urban families and those who travel.

City living means constantly dealing with crowded places. Navigating the realities of narrow grocery aisles, busy sidewalks or the subway, and minimal storage space in small apartments means the smaller the stroller, the better.

Bugaboo’s Ant is compact and effective for all of these situations. When open, the narrow chassis means the width of the stroller is smaller than average, so you can maneuver tight spaces. Folded, it collapses on itself to take up little space. It even stands upright to reduce the hassle of having to only lay on its side. At moments when the elevator is not an option, the lightweight nature of the Ant makes it easy to carry up and down the stairs.

Traveling with your little one is easier with the Ant. Its smooth ride keeps the whole family calm when moving through the terminals. When it’s time to board, fold the stroller down at the end of the gateway and then roll it like a small trolley down the plane’s aisle.

Arriving at your seat, just collapse the handle and stow it away. Its compact fold is specifically designed to fit in the overhead bin of airplanes. There’s no need to check it in, which is a lifesaver when you arrive at your destination with a sleeping or (worse) cranky child. Trust us on this one!

The Bugaboo Ant is built for travel, but—don’t be mistaken— it’s not a travel system . A traditional travel system allows for an infant car seat to be used in a car (using a base), then transferred to a stroller with a built-in attachment for the car seat. Travel systems are built for families to use regularly with their own cars.

What ages can use the Bugaboo Ant?

The Bugaboo Ant, incredibly, can be used from birth until about five years old . When strolling the newest member of your family, there is no need to add anything to the Ant (unlike other compact strollers). The competition typically has a minimum age of three or six months or requires add-ons, which can be expensive.

The Ant’s inward-facing seat reclines until nearly flat and the five-point harness makes it perfectly supportive for a newborn. If you’d rather your baby was in an infant car seat, Bugaboo’s Ant Adapter for car seats (costs just under $50) is compatible with a number of popular European car seats, like Bugaboo Turtle One by Nuna, Cybex Aton 2, and Nuna Pipa Lite.

Just make sure to check which ones work together before buying. Another option is to add the Bugaboo Cocoon Lite (priced at about $100) that gives newborns a snug and cozy ride.

Children can continue to ride in the Ant until they are 50lbs or 22kg (seated facing inward or out). This is middle of the road compared to other compact strollers: both the UppaBaby Minu and Summer Infant 3D Lite can support up to 50lbs, while the BabyZen Yoyo+ only is lower at only 40lbs, and the GB Pockit can hold up to 55lbs.

Although the Ant can support a child of this weight, keep in mind that it’s a compact stroller, so the narrow frame and seat may be a bit snug for riders as they grow.

• Unfolded: 38.19″ L x 16.06″ W x 40.16″ H
• Folded: 21.6″ L x 14.1″ W x 9.1″ H

Weighing only 15.8lbs , the Ant is definitely light compared to its older Bugaboo siblings—the Bugaboo Bee6 , Lynx , or Fox —which are all over 20lbs.

As a compact stroller, its appeal is the small yet sturdy frame. Folded, it takes up very little space: 21.6″ L x 14.1″ W x 9.1″ H, making it one of the smallest folded strollers on the market.

What does the Bugaboo Ant Cost?

Bugaboo is a high-end stroller brand that provides excellent quality. The Ant is no exception. Its initial price tag of $499 is on par with its rivals, like the Yoyo+ . But unlike others, the Ant can be used for newborns without add-ons. This is part of the reason we initially chose the Ant. We wanted a stroller to use when Atlas was a newborn and would grow with him.

And, if you choose to add the Cocoon, the cost is significantly lower than the newborn pack needed for the Yoyo+.

Related Article – Is the $1,500 SNOO Bassinet Really Worth It?

Bugaboo Ant Seat Configurations

Unique to the Ant, the seat can be facing forward or to the rear. Facing the seat inward lets you keep an eye on your child at all times, but when your little one is ready to greet the world, simply switch the seat around.

Okay, it’s not as simple as switching a dial, but with a few pushes here, and some clicks there, you’ll be set. (And let’s be honest, when it comes to baby strollers, I’d rather have a few clicks to make sure my baby is safe rather than a haphazard swivel chair.)

The Ant has a number of preset recline positions. In rear-facing mode, the three positions allow your child to sit up straight, slightly reclined, and nearly flat, which comes in handy during a naptime stroll. Many ask, can the Bugaboo Ant lie Flat? It can basically lie flat. Your child will have no issue sleeping in the Bugaboo Ant.

Facing forward, the seat can be upright or slightly reclined. If you’re worried about your little one dozing off when out and about, it’s best to begin the walk facing inwards so you have the option to recline all the way.

The height of the Ant’s seatback is adjustable, so it will grow with your child.

How to Fold the Bugaboo Ant

The fold is a great asset to the Bugaboo Ant, but it can also be its greatest frustration. There are a number of steps (about six) to complete in order to achieve its small compact fold. I am guilty of cursing at the stroller the first few times I folded it. This video helps show how to fold it; I must have watched this 20x…

Each step must be done in the correct order for the magic to happen (this is where I screwed up). It’s the same with the unfolding method which requires a number of steps before you’re ready to roll. It’s best to watch the instructional video a few times to get it right. I was always forgetting to fold the canopy inwards and then pushing the backrest down.

But don’t worry, with regular use. It becomes second nature. Before you know it, you’ll be folding and unfolding in a matter of seconds.

A downside to the fold is that the process can’t be done one-handed (to fold or unfold). So, make sure your child can stay somewhere safely while you take care of the stroller.

Two positive aspects of the Ant’s fold is that once collapsed, it stands on its own and can be wheeled like luggage. Items in the storage basket are also accessible when folded, which can be a lifesaver.

Bugaboo Ant Storage

The Ant boasts an incredible yet simple feature: the storage compartment is accessible when it’s folded. You can keep items in the storage while the stroller is folder and still access them. Granted, you can’t have it jam-packed full. We can, however, fit Adam’s entire camera bag in the Bugaboo Ant storage!

So when your child is having a meltdown, and you realize that you threw their favorite toy into the storage basket for safekeeping, you can swiftly retrieve it without unfolding the entire stroller. (Phew. Crisis averted.)

This is especially handy when you’ve already packed the stroller into the plane’s overhead compartment or in the trunk of your car.

The storage is divided into two sections: the under-seat and the rear luggage basket. This allows you to keep some items close to hand for convenience. The combined storage area can hold up to 17.6lbs (8kg).

One thing to note is that when the seat is facing inwards, it’s difficult to access the rear luggage basket because it’s blocked by the seat.

The Ride: Wheels and Frame System

The Ant is small but mighty. Its four-wheel advanced suspension system provides an easy push and a smooth ride. The wheels of the Ant are relatively small, measuring five inches in the front and six inches in the rear, but this is quite standard for compact strollers (the BabyZen’s Yoyo wheels are all 5.3 inches).

The small size and all-wheel suspension make the Ant great for navigating bumps in the street or sidewalk. But it’s not quite ideal for off-roading, so it’s best to steer clear of the trails and rugged terrain. We have had no issue with it on cobblestone streets.

The aluminum frame makes it sturdy and lightweight (only 15.8 lbs). Compared to others, the Ant is not the lightest stroller on the market (the GB pockit is only 10.5 lbs), but Bugaboo’s solid structure provides stability at the cost of being slightly heavier.

The Ant is Bugaboo’s compact travel stroller, so the chassis is designed to be narrow enough to fit into tight and crowded spaces, like the subway or an elevator. When folded, it’s perfect for those with small storage options, like the trunk of a compact car, urban apartment, or the overhead bin when traveling by air.

While having a narrow frame is a great space saver, it also means the seat is narrow. So, it does not give much room for little riders to move from side to side. It may even be a bit too snug as they get older. We have no problem with Atlas right now at two years old and 30 lbs.

Geniously, the handle on the Ant has a changeable height. This is a great feature for families that have parents and caretakers of various heights. Adjustable at either 95 cm (37.5 inches) or 104 cm (41 inches), this allows the ride to be more comfortable for those of us doing the pushing. Adam and I are tall people, Adam is 6’5, and I am 5’10, and we both feel pushing the stroller is

It also comes in handy when using the attached Comfort Wheeled Board – just increase the handle height so your big kid can have more headroom to ride along.

Can Bugaboo Ant go on the Plane?

The Bugaboo Ant fits in the overhead bins, trust us we have done this. Do note that some regional jets it will not fit, but neither will your rolling carry on suitcase…We have had no issues bring in the Bugaboo Ant on a plane. Sometimes you just have to tell the gate agent that it fits in the overhead bin and then they are fine with it.

Accessories for the Bugaboo Ant

In true Bugaboo style, the Ant has a sleek modern look. However, for those of us who desire a more personalized ride, Bugaboo sells different accessories to give you the additional comforts you want.

My #1 must-have accessory is a cupholder, I have this cheap one on Amazon . The one I have also has a cell phone holder attached to the cup holder, which is really convenient. With items, such as a cup holder or organizer that attach directly to the handle, you’ll have the things a parent on-the-go needs right at your fingertips.

As your family grows, Bugaboo’s Comfort Wheeled Board ($125) can be attached seamlessly so your little one can choose to ride like a big kid or take it easy in the seat. This feature is ideal for families with more than one baby on board. We have the wheeled board but haven’t used it yet, and Atlas is too little yet.

In colder climates, consider Bugaboo’s Cocoon Light for newborns up to six months or the Ant Footmuff to keep older riders cozy and warm. Each is priced at around $100.

For easy transitions from the car to the stroller, consider the Ant’s Adaptor for car seats. Marked at about $50 it will provide a simple click system to move the baby. This helps to reduce the hassle of taking the baby out of the car seat and putting them in the stroller or vice versa.

More importantly, it may just keep a sleeping baby asleep, which is priceless. The major thing to keep in mind is that it’s compatible with only a few car seat models, including Bugaboo Turtle One by Nuna, Cybex Aton 2, Cybex Aton Q, Cybex Cloud Q, and Nuna Pipa Lite.

Want colors that suit your style? Bugaboo provides a few different color options for the Ant’s sun canopy ($65-75), wheel caps ($17), and seat fabric ($55-65).

Related Article: Must Have Baby Registry Items 2021

In Comparison

Compared to the competition, the Bugaboo Ant holds its own amongst other compact travel strollers. It’s not the cheapest (like the Summer Infant 3D Lite, which is under $100), but it’s definitely not the most expensive either. We also own the Doona, which we couldn’t live without. The Doona is good for newborns to about 18 months (depends on height/weight), read our detailed Doona car seat stroller review .

It has the longest shelf life, as it can be used from birth to 50lbs without any add-ons, unlike its rivals. It’s lightweight (at only 15.8lbs) but there are several other models that are lighter (but not by too much), including the BabyZen Yoyo, UppaBaby Minu, and the Summer Infant 3D Lite. It folds into a compact, squat form that is similar in size to the BabyZen Yoyo+.

What sets the Ant apart from the rest? The seat can be inward or outward-facing. It can be used at birth without add-ons. It can be wheeled around like a small suitcase when folded. The handle height is adjustable. If any of these features speak to you, then you’ve probably just found your next compact travel stroller.

Do you own an Ant? We’d love to hear your Bugaboo Ant review down in the comments. What do you love and hate about it?

Other Must Have Travel Products

We have several other reviews on our favorite travel products after putting them to the true test…TRAVELING with them. Here are a few other articles to check out:

• Doona car seat – The Best Car seat 
• Joolz Aer – Best Travel Stroller for one child
• SlumberPod – Blackout cover for pack’ N plays so you can have the lights on in the hotel room!
• Zoe Twin Double Stroller – The best travel double stroller
• Elvie Stride – Wearable hands-free breast pump 
• Best Wagon Strollers
• Best Strollers for Disney
• How to get a free breast pump through insurance
• Baby registry must-haves
• Willow Go – Wearable hands-free pump with no cords
• Best Bamboo Brands – Yes, the clothing is worth every penny

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Bugaboo Cameleon3 review

Best pushchair 2018.

It's got a lightweight chassis, full wheel suspension, flexible seating and a huge shopping basket – the Cameleon3 more than lives up to Bugaboo’s design credentials

By Mumsnet HQ | Last updated Apr 17, 2024

Product Information

Suitable from : Birth – 17 kg

Weight : 9.6 kg

Folded Dimensions : H90 x W59 x L31 cm

RRP : £849.99-£970 depending on the customisations you choose

Resale value : Average £430, depending on design

Compatible with (car seats) : Maxi Cosi Cabriofix and Pebble, Cloud Q, Aton Q, Recaro Zero 1 Elite and BeSafe iZi Go car seat. Attaches using adaptors (each sold separately).

Available in orange, red, soft pink, petrol blue, ice blue, off white, black and grey. Other designs also available in limited editions.

Dutch company Bugaboo is known for its beautifully-designed pushchairs, and the Cameleon3 is no exception. We loved the style and quality of the design, and the detailed personalisation options which mean you can really make it your own. We were also impressed by how easy it was to use, from switching between the baby car seat travel mode and carrycot to folding down with one hand. As pushchairs go, the Cameleon3 pretty much has it all.

As its name suggests, the Cameleon3 adapts to both its surroundings and your preferences; you can easily switch from parent- to world-facing, from all-terrain to swiveling wheels, and from you to your partner with height-adjustable handlebars. The seat can be converted into a carrycot which clicks into place, and it’s easy to attach a baby car seat too. The Cameleon3 is pricey, but worth every penny.

Most pushchairs are bulky, and while the Cameleon3 is indeed a larger travel system, it’s much lighter than most. Its aluminium frame makes it strong but lightweight, and with adjustable suspension and large wheels it glides over rough terrain. The seat and carrycot are both ultra comfortable too; we loved the snugness of the carrycot in particular, which felt extremely safe and secure for even the littlest of passengers. We did find the recline a little clumsy though – it’s controlled with two white buttons which require both hands to operate.

Related: We take a first look at the new Bugaboo Bee 6

The Cameleon3 comes with one frame, which creates both the seat and carrycot. You simply remove the fabric of the seat (or carrycot) from the frame using the velcro fastenings and replace with the carrycot (or seat) fabric. To be honest, it can be a bit of a faff, but you may only need to do it once when your little one outgrows the carrycot, so it's not a big deal.

I have a Cameleon3 and love it. Perfect for long walks and negotiating hills, or for pushing around parks etc. Easily fits on and off London bus too.

Aside from this, the Cameleon3 lives up to its name in that it can change and adapt with ease. The seat/carrycot simply clicks into place; the baby car seat requires adaptors (sold separately for £34.99), which were easy to fit. It’s worth noting though that the pushchair can't be folded while the adaptors are attached, which we found slightly inconvenient but not the end of the world.

One-handed folds are tricky with any pushchair, as you usually first have to remove the seat or carrycot in use with both hands. Once this is done however it’s easy to pick up and fold the Cameleon3 in one smooth movement. We loved the fact that the chassis is freestanding once folded, making storage easy. As with all prams, it's worth checking the size of your car boot before you buy, but we’d be surprised if you couldn't squeeze the compact Cameleon3 in.

Spacious for older babies, got the crib thing for newborns. Very sturdy and smooth ride. It takes a hammering without a problem which is good as I intend to get double use out of it.

Your baby can face you or the world, and you can change the direction easily in one of two ways. First, the seat and adaptors work whichever way they’re facing, so it’s easy to detach them and swivel them round. The second method is genius – you can move the handlebars over your child's head until you're pushing from the opposite direction. This feature also means the Cameleon3 can adapt to your environment; we found it extremely easy to manoeuvre around small spaces in urban settings with the small swivelling wheels at the front, while for rougher terrain, you can simply move the handlebar and have the larger wheels leading the way. The handlebar can also be adjusted to suit multiple heights, which is perfect if you're sharing pushchair duty with someone else.

The brake is really handy – literally. Instead of a foot pedal, the brake is controlled by a switch that sits under your hand. We found it incredibly easy to use, and the pram felt sturdy and safe.

The Cameleon3 stands out when it comes to the details. The shopping basket is huge, the UPF 50+ sunshade is extendable, and the fabric is all easily cleaned by simply removing it and sticking it in the wash. If you’re going on holiday, the entire system can be packed down into a wheeled travelling case (sold separately for £120). These small but thoughtful features combine to create a pushchair which is intuitive and just plain convenient.

Related: Bugaboo Fox vs. Bugaboo Cameleon3 Plus

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