The Tokyo Chapter

TAKE A STROLLER TO JAPAN (& NOT JUST FOR BABIES)

TAKE A STROLLER TO JAPAN (& NOT JUST FOR BABIES)

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Ok. Can I talk about strollers in Japan for a second?

I get a message every second day recently that pretty much go along the lines of ” We should have bought a stroller! Where can I rent one? Where can I buy one? I didn’t think we would need one!” In my “ Packing for Japan with Kids ” article I talk a little bit about strollers when holidaying in Tokyo, but I thought I would go into more depth about it.

japanese travel stroller

 I always liked getting around with a stroller with a baby carrier in the bottom and mixing it up so baby has many options. 

THE REASONS YOU MAY NOT REALIZE THAT YOU NEED A STROLLER If you have a child who is older than baby carrier age, and 6 or younger… ( I know that sounds really old but let me talk about why in a second…) I think you should consider packing a stroller to bring with you. I have lent a stroller to a guest who even stayed with a 7 year old .

Lots of walking In Japan, you will do a LOT more walking than normal. Yes, your child is probably a very capable walker, but even if they walk with you to and from school or around the supermarket.. this is different. A lot of the walking in Japan is a part of the sightseeing.    So its not just asking your child to and from a destination.  They will be walking through and around that destination. My big girl is now 6 and she needs that stroller (or a little chair attached to a stroller) as a back up.  She’s such a good girl but, understandly, she needs a little rest. A little sit. A little snack – and sometimes we also need to keep moving.

Still not convinced ?

Think of somewhere that is approximately 800-900 metres from your home, right now . Like a park or a supermarket . Imagine you were to walk there with your child.

They had an awesome time when you get there . Running , using energy , having something to eat. Can they still walk home without much trouble ? Without you having to carry them or have someone collect you? Then … yes…. seriously consider a stroller.

( of course , in my suggested area guides I plan for things to do along the way and rest so I’m not for a minute suggesting that kids just walk and walk with no in-built entertainment … but the example was more to help you consider things like your little one’s perseverance , physical capability and the patience of a child… and their parent .. haha.)

 Lots of walking means more resting than normal required Imagine this, you’ve been out at a shrine or a really cool museum…your 4 or 5 year old has been a trooper. But now it is time to hunt down a restaurant.  They are now too tired and cranky to honestly ask them to just walk up and down the street to find the right restaurant for you.  Or maybe you now need to rush them to your temporary accommodation for Icecream and a hot bath – but that means a little extra walk to catch the right bus or train .. or even to the right corner to grab a cab. And if your child is fever-ish or you’re in the throws of jet lag?  Even MORE reason.

japanese travel stroller

Sometimes you need to keep moving…  If a child is having a tantrum and there is no option but to just wait til the horror is over. With a stroller, at least you can strap them in and just keep moving and get them to the nap time, to the food, to the bribery toy… whatever you need in order to make it all work.

Those backpack things aren’t really an ideal option in Japan I know lots of people that love these baby backpacks. It is possible to use in Japan so it can work BUT there are a few reasons that I, personally, don’t think they are a good idea. Firstly, you will feel a little like a freak in some parts of Japan. Its pretty funny but most Japanese people will have never seen one of these before. This will be unique so you may even get people taking photos. Secondly, I speak about this a little in my article here but  in Japan, it is considered rude to use a backpack on a train . In a crowded country where personal space is already limited, your backpack is making it more difficult to accommodate other train passengers.  So you will have to put the backpack on the floor and will have to carry it in many public places ( or will be asked to) and it may also limit your restaurant choices as, unlike a stroller, you can’t “park” on of those babies outside.

Safety & Peace of Mind Let’s say you’ve managed to get to a really overcrowded area and you’re worried that the crowd just isn’t able to spot this little bobbing kiddie heads… Also, what about if you have a few minutes to wait on a busy train platform?

I get really nervous on busy train platforms – mainly because my kids LOVE trains.. and they think every train is ours.  It’s just real peace of mind to have somewhere to buckle them in (or just have a spot to say ‘sit and don’t move.’

And, actually, the times that I love my stroller the most? In the flipping airport.   Even if children walk between terminals for us? Then we use that trusty stroller to throw bags on … to let one child sleep on … it can be used like a high chair… etc.

I often joke that my favourite earthquake preparation “tool” is my stroller.  I believe that we could use it like a mini-house for a bit if we had to.  See here for my actual family earthquake plan. 

japanese travel stroller

Renting a stroller isn’t really a thing in Japan And if you are lucky enough to find a company, or a friend who will lend you a stroller in one city… what about the other cities in Japan you travel to though? For stroller rental throughout Japan,  there aren’t that many options (which is why I highly, highly recommend bringing a stroller from home) but if you’re in Japan already and you’re stuck… here are some places where you can rent a stroller in Japan . 

Most large department stores will rent out their strollers free of charge – but only for use in that department store ( I also find the weight restrictions to be quite limiting, regardless of the child’s age – not helpful for me when I had a gigantic baby boy.)

Disneyland rents out strollers for 1000 yen for the day. Once again, only for use in the park. Please note that Tokyo Disneyland do not rent out stroller rain covers so you will need to purchase ( 2000-3000 yen) or bring your own.

A last minute stroller in Japan is NOT a cheap option In the States, my in-laws tell me that its not that difficult to pick up a cheap 20-30 dollar stroller for use and then donate or throw away. In Japan? I’ve never seen anything like this. I love my stroller that I bought in Japan ( see below) however, it did cost 20,000 yen – and you will never catch me throwing that gem away!

If you do decide to bring a cheap stroller and want to then donate it to the Salvation Army in Tokyo (you can book ahead and they will even collect the items from your accommodation – all the information is   here   or put them up for free on facebook group Mottainai Japan. )

If you do decide you need to buy a stroller I would start by googling your closest Toys R Us and Babies R Us, Aeon Mall, Akachan Hompo or even some BIC Camera or Yodobashi Camera stores will be able to help.  It is highly unlikely that you will find a stroller under 12,000 yen ( and, if you do? Send me a message so that I can share with others.)

japanese travel stroller

WHEN PACKING A STROLLER FOR JAPAN Personally, this is my criteria for stroller selection for travel in Japan:

  • It needs to fold Japan isn’t great at providing elevators and ramps in all parts of town (Rumour has it that hosting the upcoming Olympics with help with some of this though. Yay.) Also, you’ll be limiting restaurant selection if your stroller doesn’t fold and fit in a corner.
  • It needs to be light for carrying
  • It needs to not be your favourite/most expensive stroller – Japan is a very, very safe country. For that reason, it isn’t at all unusual for restaurants, parks, tourist attractions etc. to have a “stroller parking” section. It is highly unlikely that it would be stolen but you need to be comfortable to leave it for hours at a time.

These are the two types of strollers that I use in Japan.  This Graco Baby Double Stroller (then one kid can sit on the seat at the back and the sleepier child on the front – on the seat that can recline. I love that these strollers have snack trays and are sturdy enough to hang bags off the handle. This stroller folds and I can carry it up stairs but I need two hands so my kids need to walk in front of me incase they fall.

  • When my kids were smaller we had a double city select.  ( I dont recommend side by side in Japan ever )  The kids sat in front of one another . It was fabulous for big days of walking , not great for trains ( which is why we upgraded to the Graco when they got slightly older.)

japanese travel stroller

And the other single stroller that I use (and purchased in Japan) is the Aprica.

japanese travel stroller

What about bringing a scooter instead of a stroller for bigger kids? It’s your call, of course, but for me it’s a no. My reasons? -Kids on scooters are not very well received on busy streets in the big cities in Japan. -I’ve found it introduces more risk in terms of potentially getting lost or getting injured (especially if Japanese drivers are on the opposite side of the road where you are from …because even from the pavement kids won’t know which way to expect traffic to come from. -Most shopping complexes and tourist spots won’t allow scooters inside which means you then have to worry about parking or carrying the scooter with you.

If I still haven’t convinced you or your partner to use a stroller in Japan – here is what you need to do if you’ve decided to go without (you’re bonkers, by the way… but whatever) …then I recommend doing these things: – Make sure all your meals and snacks are sit down events and make sure they are frequent -Use google maps to see if taxis can help you out for shorter distances -Expect that you will see less places in one day

Read the items  I recommend packing in Japan with children.

Here are the things in Japan that I found really tricky with kids in Japan at first ( and how we found our groove…) 

You may also enjoy:

Aoyama with kids, high chairs in tokyo, osaka with kids, a day spa & lunch in oiso, see what we’re up to.

For live updates and adventures, follow me on Instagram. I love it SO MUCH when families tag me in their instastories too @thetokyochapter

It brings me so much joy to hear when I have helped make another family’s Japan holiday easier and more fun!

japanese travel stroller

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japanese travel stroller

Japan with a toddler- Found the best compact travel stroller: Contour Itsy

I may not know the recent news but ask me anything about baby gear and strollers I wouldn't keep shut!

Stroller used by a preschooler and Toddler in Japan

Hi, I am Dimple, mom of two small girls (2 yr and 5 yr at this time), and write all things related to travel with kids- guides, itineraries, tips, and hacks so you don’t have to. This post is dedicated to the best stroller I found by accident for our family trip to Japan with my two kids.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you use these links to purchase something, I may earn a commission. Thanks

We just returned from an amazing trip to Japan with our two kids (2 years and 5 years old at the time). Magical, life-changing would be an understatement to define it. I will definitely be back one day to explore the other areas of Japan to curb my unsatiable hunger for travel. Please see my travel guide to Japan with kids to learn more about our amazing 12-day experience.

When you are traveling with kids, one of the basic necessities and the most important gear every mom needs is a baby carrier and/ or a stroller . Having these two items can drastically change the experience of the travel. I brought both of them with me during our Japan trip. If you are a parent, you would already know there are regular travel strollers, a compact travel stroller, an umbrella stroller, buggy strollers, and then there are strollers that are FIT FOR JAPAN TRAVEL! Yes, I'm very serious.

Enter Contours Itsy Ultra-Sturdy Compact Stroller for making my Japan trip with 2 kids a breeze! Something that I found by accident! Before I tell you that story, let's talk about why you need a travel stroller in Japan even if your kid outgrew them (and I'm talking 6-year-olds)

Factors to consider for a stroller for Japan travel

Renting a stroller in Japan

Alternate strollers I was planning to take

How I stumbled into Contours Itsy Stroller

Things I love about Contours Itsy Stroller

Places Contour Itsy Stroller wowed me at

Things I don’t like about Contours Itsy Stroller

Things i could live without in contours itsy stroller.

Final Thoughts

Factors to consider before choosing a stroller for Japan travel

While I was researching things to pack and carry for Japan on multiple Facebook groups and Tripadvisor forums , there wasn't a clear answer if Japan was stroller-friendly. Through all the forums, one of the top collective suggestions from parents was to get a super compact travel stroller for a Japan trip with toddlers and/or older kids. Now, that I'm back from our 12-day family trip to Japan, I know why! STAIRS!!!! not just any stairs, endless stairs!! To that add endless walking!

And let me tell you, after all the walking we did in Japan, I was starting to think my Apple watch was going to file for overtime! It is not even funny, how much my legs cried for help the entire time.

Even if your kid is a very capable walker, know this walking in Japan is part of sightseeing. They will be walking through and around the destination. For context, one day we spent 30 minutes in Shinjuku train station trying to get out. Their stations are massive! We all need a little rest. A little sit. A little snack – and sometimes we also need to keep moving, especially on a vacation.

As per Tokyo Chapter ( famous Japan mom blogger), " A lot of the walking in Japan is a part of the sightseeing. "

Consider three factors when choosing a travel stroller for your Japan trip with kids (baby, toddler, or even preschooler):

Portability Japan is known for its tiny spaces as the Japanese believe in the minimalist concept. You would see a single space being used efficiently and with versatility. You would be fighting for space in those tinier restaurants or taxis. So ensure the stroller can be easily folded and stored even in the smaller areas.

lightweight design Japan's infrastructure doesn't always include elevators or ramps, particularly in older parts of towns and at shrines with numerous stairs. Given, that you will be walking A LOT and then going up and down the stairs, as a parent you will end up picking that stroller too. So ensure the travel stroller is lightweight to carry (for you! :)).

Versatile for all ages Now when I say kids, I mean ages starting from a baby until 7 years old. The amount of walking you will be doing as a family is incomprehensible. When you have multiple kids in that age range, you have to be prepared for anything!

Read the excerpt from the Tokyo Chapter for renting a stroller in Japan- " Renting a stroller for your baby or kid in Japan isn't a thing! And if you are lucky enough to find a company or a friend who will lend you a stroller in one city, what about other cities in Japan you may travel to?

When you are jet lagged how do you plan to navigate the airport with two kids and extra luggage and backpacks? Don't we all use our trusted stroller to throw bags on as well?

Most large department stores will rent out their strollers free of charge – but only for use in that department store

Disneyland rents out strollers for 1000 yen for the day. Once again, only for use in the park.

For stroller rental throughout Japan, there aren’t that many options (which is why I highly, highly recommend bringing a stroller from home) "

Get that stroller for your Japan trip!

Alternative Strollers I had

During my other travels with both kids, I have used a couple of strollers.

I have taken my Graco Modes Travel stroller to Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Mexico. It is a great stroller, but by no means it is compact or lightweight.

I took the Summer Infant 3D lite umbrella stroller to Brazil, Canada, and India. This has been my favorite since the first trip we made to Brazil when my daughter was 15 months old at the time.

Another option - A no-name brand stroller that I have been using for daily walks around the neighborhood area. Serves all the need of a travel stroller but very heavy.

Stumbling into Contours Itsy Compact Stroller

Now initially, I was planning to take my Summer Infant 3D lite umbrella stroller fo r our Japan trip as it is compact and lightweight. And as life would have it, my kids broke the attachment that closes the stroller! So now, 4 days before leaving I went on Amazon with the Prime filter on, to see which compact stroller could be delivered before our flight. (Mom life! !)

My backup option was to use my daily use umbrella stroller (no named brand) which I am not a big fan of as it is very heavy to carry.

Anyhow, after scrolling through the search results of a few umbrella strollers, I stumbled upon the Contours Itsy compact strolle r. The first picture of its foldable size had me! it wasn't your regular umbrella stroller that folds vertically but horizontally! The best part it could be shipped in 3 days (on the date of my departure, but I took the risk). However, It arrived a night before our flight, thank god!

Super compact Itsy stroller  in Japan

My first opinion

My first opinion went from ecstatic to confusion. It was a great compact stroller but it felt flimsy. I had no option, so I decided to put it in our Uber. Now, that I am back from the trip, and have seen all the days of exhaustion, rain, stairs, walking, and two kids- I am in a better position to give my opinion which is - Contour Itsy is literally the Best compact travel stroller for any place not just Japan!!

Things I loved about Contours Itsy Stroller

Compact Contour Itsy stroller best for bullet train

Super Compact: The very reason I bought it in the first place! It folds into this backpack-size case that can fit into the airplane overhead, or can be carried as a backpack (with cover), or stored in the bullet train luggage area. I saw the reviews about it, but didn’t expect it to wow me like that!

Super compact Itsy stroller can handles weight

Handles more than weight limit: Its weight limit shows 40 lb. However, both my daughters (2 years and 5 years old) could sit on it TOGETHER with ease. Their combined weight might be around 70 lbs. I could easily maneuver them around the airport, and on streets (with some rugged ones) while they both chatted together hugging each other. See for yourself!

Super compact Itsy stroller held by one hand in Japan

Lightweight: The stroller weight is 12lb which made it perfect to carry up and down the numerous flights of stairs we had to take in Tokyo train stations.

Super compact Itsy stroller great canopy for toddlers

Canopy: Japan's heat and rain could be a buster. That big canopy helped keep the sun off during those inevitable stroller naps on the go. For rain, however, I hooked an umbrella on the bar to save us from being wet.

folded Contour Itsy stroller is almost same size as a ragular backpack

Freestanding stroller: This wasn't a feature I knew existed for an umbrella stroller, and now there is no going back. This stroller when folded stands upright! this came in handy, especially in the bullet trains, Tokyo subway trains, and Kyoto buses where I could simply fold the stroller and not worry about it falling out if I didn't hold it.

Suitable kids of all ages: in addition to my toddler (2-year-old) using it to the fullest, my 5-year-old and a 7-year-old (a friend's son who accompanied us on our japan trip) used it as well when they got tired from all the walking. in fact, i think my older daughter used it more :).

Contour Itsy stroller is lightweight and can be moved around with handle

Carrying handle: Once it's folded, all you need if carry it with one hand from its handle. I could ask my toddler to roll it as well because of the convenient placement of the handle.

Places contour itsy stroller wowed me.

Japanese trains - We went during cherry blossom season and let me restate the obvious- It was super super CROWDED. We were shoulder to shoulder most times in Tokyo subway trains. The compact case once folded helped us immensely in saving some space. We could simply fold the stroller and store it in the bullet trains overhead instead of storing it in the luggage area. As per Japanese etiquette carrying a backpack in the crowded subway is silently frowned upon which helped us not be a nuisance to anyone. If thats not best what is?

Airports- We were about to miss our flights en route to Tokyo and had to change the terminal 30 min before our boarding. I cannot tell you the amount of stress we were in, We were running! My kids were holding each others hand, and meanwhile, I was carrying the small luggage, one backpack, and folded the stroller and topped it on the smaller luggage (see picture). It was so easy to move around without worrying about finding the elevator while finding transport to the new terminal. Travel made easier! yay!

Super compact Itsy stroller at airports with toddlers

Taxis- Japanese Uber or taxis are pretty compact unless you order an XL (which isn't always available. We could hail any size taxi for our family of 4 during our trip without worrying about the trunk space. We simply stored the stroller in the leg space with our backpack sometimes in the back seat and sometimes in the front passenger seat. It was super convenient.

Luggage storage- The basket isn't the greatest if you want to store a lot of items. However, we could easily store kids shoes, their jackets, and water bottles in it. Given, that most umbrella strollers don’t come with a big storage space, this isn’t a major issue for me.

Seat size for older kids- it isn’t the best stroller for older kids, as their legs mostly hang out. My 5-year-old daughter runs a small size as compared to her age, so it worked for her. However, it wouldn’t work for older kids (over 5 years)

Flimsy material- because it’s the best feature of folding into half, the stroller is a little flimsy and not sturdy enough. I was worried about leaving kids unattended in the travel stroller with the fear of it toppling at any time due to their weight or movements. So make sure to always have the rear parking brake on (that's another great feature :))

No reclining seat- My biggest gripe! I would have wanted the backrest to at least recline to 45 degrees if not all the way down. Traveling in Japan, kids get super tired when they are out exploring all day, this feature addition would have made this the number 1 travel stroller for me. I wish they had worked on this feature.

Super compact Itsy stroller recline position

Final Thoughts- Grab I tsy. Its really best travel stroller

A similar Gb Pockit gets more views for some reason. I am not entirely sure why this stroller isn't popular. It checks most of the boxes for a travel stroller- great for navigating the train stations or rugged terrains, folds compact enough to fit in an overhead bin on the plane, is lightweight, and got shipped super quick which is what I needed!

If you are traveling with a baby or toddler or older kids, and especially to Japan, I would highly recommend it!

Super compact Itsy stroller used by toddler

If you have used this stroller, share in the comments the best feature that made your travel a breeze.

!!!HAPPY TRAVELING

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1 comentário

Wow, what a comprehensive and informative guide to choosing the best travel stroller! Your attention to detail and personal experience really shine through, making it easy for parents like me to make an informed decision. Thanks for sharing your insights and recommendations – you've made planning our next family adventure a breeze! ✨👏

Best Japanese Products

6 Best Baby Stroller in Japan 2024

Are you stepping out so you’re looking for the best baby stroller in Japan ? Yes, I’ve got your back! You’ll find everything you want to know about baby strollers.

When looking for baby products , strollers are always the first thing to keep in mind. Strollers can help with easy commuting with the baby anywhere and everywhere.

Which is the best baby stroller in Japan?

I reviewed several Japanese baby strollers to find the best one based one its features, durability, safety and several other features. I found out that the best one is Combi Fold N Go Baby Stroller. 

Combi Fold N Go Baby Stroller is a very popular Japanese baby stroller and the go-to choice for many parents. It is a lightweight stroller that can be folded and stored compactly. The lightweight structure and its folding feature, you can easily carry the Combi Fold N Go Baby Stroller anywhere with you. It has large wheels that are perfect for all kinds of rough terrains. Combi Fold N Go Baby Stroller also comes with a removable baby tray with a cup holder.

Best Baby Stroller in Japan: Quick Summary

  • Related: Best Japanese Baby Products
  • Related: Best Places to Buy Japanese Toys Online

Top Baby Stroller In Japan

Jiax baby stroller.

japanese baby stroller

This stroller has a lot of sleeping space that keeps your precious one comfortable when traveling. The stroller is warm, safe, and extremely comfortable. 

The design of the stroller is such that it allows for full air circulation. It is also windproof and warm. Thanks to all these excellent features, the stroller is perfect for all seasons. It comes with a gear-type mechanical brake that is very safe. 

The brake is timely and does not slip at all. It also increases the safety of your little one. The sleeping basket in the stroller does not shake at all, which is quite an excellent feature if your little one is not a sound sleeper and gets disturbed with the slightest shake. 

The height of the stroller can also be adjusted. It is also one of the best baby strollers in Japan. 

Key Features:

  • Ample sleeping space for your little one
  • Warm, safe, and comfortable
  • Allows full air circulation 
  • Windproof and warm
  • Perfect for all seasons
  • Comes with a gear-type mechanical brake
  • A timely brake that does not slip
  • Increased safety 
  • The sleeping basket does not shake at all
  • Height can be adjusted

GFF High Landscape Folding Baby Stroller

japanese baby strollers

This is yet another excellent and luxurious baby stroller that comes with springs in the front wheels and body. This spring helps to absorb shocks and keep the brain and body of the baby safe.

 The swivel front wheels come with a lock that helps to provide stability. This stroller is a reversible one that can easily be changed to the rear or forward-facing. It also has three recline positions - flat, semi-recline, and upright.

 These different recline positions make it perfect for the different moods of your baby. The bassinet has a soft padded cushion that makes it comfortable for your little one to sleep in. 

GFF strollers are one of the best baby stroller in Japan. It also comes with a large canopy that protects the baby from the sun and wind.

The height of the stroller can also be adjusted as per your requirements and feasibility. The stroller can also be folded for easy portability. 

  • Luxurious baby stroller
  • Spring in front wheels and body that help absorb shocks
  • Keeps the brain and body of the baby safe
  • Swivel front wheels come with a lock
  • Reversible stroller
  • Can be changed from rear to forward-facing easily
  • Comes with three recline positions
  • Soft padded cushion in the bassinet
  • Large canopy for protection
  • Height of the stroller can be adjusted
  • Foldable and portable

Honey Joy Lightweight Baby Stroller

stroller japan

This is yet another excellent baby stroller that you can choose for your little one. This stroller comes with different recliner modes that let you adjust it as per your baby’s requirements and moods. 

Your baby can easily lie, sleep, or sit comfortably in the stroller. The stroller also comes with a 5-point safety harness to secure the baby when out and about. The canopy that comes with the stroller is also adjustable. It protects the baby from the sun, rain, and wind. 

It is also quite lightweight; you can easily carry it without straining your back. The stroller comes with large wheels that add safety and flexibility. It also comes with foot-operated parking brakes. It is also quite easy to fold this stroller.

 Thanks to this, you can easily carry it anywhere without using up a lot of space. There is also a large and spacious basket underneath to hold all your belongings. 

  • Comes with different reclines modes
  • Lets your child lie, sleep, or sit comfortably
  • Comes with a 5-point safety harness to secure your baby
  • The canopy protects the child from the sun, wind, or rain
  • Has large wheels
  • Easy foot-operated parking brakes
  • Does not take up a lot of space
  • Comes with a spacious basket

Maxi-Cosi Kaia Special Edition Stroller

japanese stroller brands

This is a beautiful baby stroller that comes in an exciting color pattern. The bright color of the stroller is definitely going to keep your baby in a happy mood. This is a very lightweight stroller that you can carry around with ease.

 It does not cause a strain on your back. It also has a foldable design that makes it extremely compact. You can easily travel with it when it is folded. It does not take up a lot of space. 

It also has a seat that can be reclined in different positions for the comfort of your baby. The 5-point harness system keeps your baby safe when moving. It is counted as one of the best baby stroller in Japan.

  • Comes in a bright design
  • Lightweight, making it easy to carry without straining your back
  • Foldable design
  • Compact and does not take up a lot of space
  • Different reclining positions
  • Comes with a 5-point harness system

MOMAMO 3 in 1 Combi Stroller

best strollers in japan

This is yet another luxurious baby stroller that is lightweight and comes with adjustable handlebars. It also has a weatherproof canopy that keeps your child protected against extremes such as heat and wind.

 It can also be easily and quickly folded to make it compact. The rotating front wheels can be locked in position with suspension springs. The spring helps absorb shocks to keep the baby safe.

 It comes with a one-button parking brake that brakes the rear wheels quickly and completely. The seat can be changed into different positions - upright, half-tilted, and deep. 

  • Lightweight and luxurious
  • Adjustable handlebars
  • Weatherproof canopy
  • Easy and quick to fold and store
  • Compact design that can be carried around easily
  • Rotating front wheels can be locked in place with a suspension spring
  • Shock-absorbing design
  • One-button parking brake

Iris Plaza 88-1038 Stroller

baby stroller japan

Iris Plaza baby stroller is a study stroller made with durable materials like aluminum, polyester cushion, etc. This buggy-style stroller is extremely lightweight and easy to use. Iris Plaza's baby stroller has large tires that don’t get flimsy even after several years of use.

We’ve been using this buggy style stroller and it’s literally been our saviour on all our trips as it’s extremely easy to fold and is portable. I love the fact that it can be washed when it gets dirty. It also has a sun canopy and safety harness that ensure the baby’s safety. 

Key features : 

  • Buggy style stroller
  • Large tires
  • Portable and easy to fold
  • Safety features that ensure no harm to the baby

Comfort and safety for your baby!

These were some of the best baby strollers in Japan. I have put together strollers that will make sure your baby remains comfortable and safe when you go out. These strollers are also quite practical in terms of space-saving and portability. Check these out and get one today!

Japan Has Two Categories of Strollers

In Japan, there are two types of strollers known as "Type A" and "Type B" strollers, which are based on regulations set by the Japanese government to ensure safety standards. These categories are not related to the design or functionality of the strollers but rather refer to specific guidelines regarding stroller dimensions and specifications.

Type A Strollers

Type A strollers are designed for infants aged 7 months or younger. They have specific dimensions and features to provide optimal safety for newborns and young babies. Type A strollers typically have a reclining seat that allows infants to lie flat, ensuring proper support for their developing spine and neck. They may also have features like a sunshade or a removable bassinet for added comfort and protection

Pros and cons of Type A Strollers:

  • Suitable for newborns: Type A strollers are designed to provide optimal support and comfort for infants aged 7 months or younger. They often have a reclining seat that allows newborns to lie flat, promoting healthy spinal development and minimizing the risk of suffocation.
  • Enhanced safety features: Type A strollers typically come with additional safety features such as a secure harness system and extra padding to ensure the safety and protection of young infants.
  • Can accommodate bassinets: Some Type A strollers allow the attachment of a removable bassinet, providing a cozy and secure space for newborns during outings.
  • Limited age range: Type A strollers are specifically designed for infants, which means they may not be suitable for older babies or toddlers who can sit upright independently.
  • Less versatility: These strollers are primarily focused on providing a safe and comfortable environment for newborns, so they may have fewer adjustable features compared to Type B strollers.

Type B Strollers

Type B strollers are designed for babies and toddlers aged 8 months and older. These strollers are suitable for children who can sit upright without additional support. Type B strollers generally have a more upright seating position compared to Type A strollers. They may also include features like adjustable seat positions, storage compartments, and a canopy for sun protection.

The classification of strollers into Type A and Type B is primarily intended to ensure the safety and well-being of children based on their age and developmental stage. It is important for parents in Japan to choose a stroller that aligns with the appropriate category to ensure compliance with the regulations and provide a secure and comfortable environment for their child.

It's worth noting that these regulations may change over time, so it's always recommended to consult local authorities or retailers in Japan for the most up-to-date information regarding stroller classifications and safety guidelines.

Pros and cons of Type B Strollers:

  • Suitable for older babies and toddlers: Type B strollers are designed for babies aged 8 months and older who can sit upright without additional support. They are ideal for babies who have outgrown the reclining position of Type A strollers.
  • More versatility: Type B strollers often have adjustable seat positions, allowing children to sit upright or recline as needed. They may also come with features such as adjustable footrests, sun canopies, and storage compartments.
  • Longer-term usability: Since Type B strollers accommodate older babies and toddlers, they can be used for an extended period as your child grows.
  • May not provide optimal support for newborns: Type B strollers may not have a fully flat recline position suitable for newborns, so they may not be the best choice for very young infants.
  • Potentially less specialized safety features: While Type B strollers still adhere to safety standards, they may not have the same level of specialized safety features as Type A strollers.

How To Choose the Best Japanese Baby Stroller In Japan

When choosing the best Japanese baby stroller, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

  • Safety: Ensure that the stroller meets the safety standards set by the Japanese government. Look for features such as a secure harness system, sturdy construction, and proper braking mechanisms.
  • Age and Weight Capacity: Consider the age and weight range of your child to ensure the stroller is appropriate. Some strollers are specifically designed for newborns, while others are suitable for older babies or toddlers.
  • Size and Weight: Consider the stroller's size and weight in relation to your lifestyle and needs. If you frequently use public transportation or have limited storage space, a lightweight and compact stroller may be more suitable.
  • Maneuverability: Test the stroller's maneuverability by pushing it around the store. Ensure it is easy to navigate through different terrains and corners. Consider factors such as wheel size, suspension system, and swivel functionality.
  • Folding and Portability: Check how easily the stroller can be folded and unfolded. Look for features like one-hand folding, compact folding size, and a carrying handle for convenience during travel or storage.
  • Comfort and Adjustability: Consider the stroller's features that provide comfort for your child, such as adjustable seating positions, padded seats, and adjustable footrests. Look for a canopy or sunshade to protect your child from the sun.
  • Storage and Accessories: Evaluate the stroller's storage options, including a basket, pockets, or cup holders, to carry essential items. Some strollers may also offer additional accessories like rain covers, mosquito nets, or adapters for attaching car seats.
  • Reviews and Recommendations: Read reviews and seek recommendations from other parents to learn about their experiences with specific stroller models. This can provide valuable insights and help you make an informed decision.
  • Budget: Set a budget range and consider strollers within that range. Remember that while high-end strollers may offer additional features and durability, there are also affordable options that meet safety standards and provide adequate functionality.
  • Test and Compare: Whenever possible, visit a baby store and test different strollers firsthand. Push them around, check the features, and assess their overall performance to find the one that suits your preferences and requirements.

By considering these factors, you can select a Japanese baby stroller that is safe, comfortable, practical, and tailored to your specific needs and preferences.

Types of Baby Strollers in Japan Based On Design and Function

In Japan, there are various types of strollers available to meet different needs and preferences. Here are some common types of strollers you can find in Japan, along with examples:

  • Standard Strollers in Japan
  • Lightweight Strollers in Japan
  • Jogging Strollers in Japan
  • Umbrella Strollers in Japan
  • Travel Systems in Japan
  • Double/Twin Strollers in Japan
  • Convertible Strollers in Japan
  • All-Terrain Strollers in Japan
  • Compact Strollers in Japan
  • 3-in-1 Strollers in Japan
  • Reversible Handle Strollers in Japan
  • Specialized Strollers in Japan

Japanese Baby Strollers: FAQs

Do people in japan use strollers.

People use strollers in Japan to make traveling with kids easier for them. They’re used to resting the child while touring, waiting in line, sightseeing, etc. You can also use a baby carrier in Japan for traveling with babies.

Are Honey Joy baby strollers good?

Honey Joy baby strollers have great durability as they’re made with quality materials. They have great storage space and also come with a canopy to provide sun protection. Honey Joy strollers also come with a 5-point harness to protect the babies.

Is Japan stroller friendly?

Yes, Japan is stroller friendly. You can get it on your own or fetch it through stroller rental in Tokyo. Even a double stroller is available in Tokyo. In Traditional places like Nikko mountains, without strollers can be challenging, however, it is absolutely fine in districts like Asakusa.

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The Best Travel Strollers

The two travel strollers we recommend, the Uppababy Minu V2 and the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller, standing next to each other.

By Elise Czajkowski

A good travel stroller can make the difference between a jaunty vacation and a miserable slog.

We researched dozens of travel strollers, tested seven on a variety of trips involving planes, trains, buses, and cabs, and concluded that the Uppababy Minu V2 is the best option to keep parents and tots happy. Unlike most travel strollers, you’re sacrificing very little in comfort and maneuverability with the Minu V2—which is why many people find it’s also the ideal everyday stroller.

If you’re looking for a lighter, simpler option, the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller is a great budget pick.

Everything we recommend

japanese travel stroller

Uppababy Minu V2

The best travel stroller.

This comfortable, sturdy travel stroller handles bumpy streets better than the competition and is easy to fold one-handed. Many parents love it for everyday use as well.

Buying Options

Budget pick.

japanese travel stroller

Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller

Simple and sturdy.

This less-expensive option handles rough terrain well and offers the best on-the-go napping option of all the strollers we tested.

What we looked for

Being able to quickly collapse or unfurl the stroller is crucial when traveling.

We prioritized strollers that are easy to steer one-handed over bumpy surfaces and around tight turns.

A travel stroller should be small enough to store easily, whether in a closet or a packed car trunk.

You shouldn’t need to look at the manual to relearn how to use your stroller each time you pull it out.

Neither the Minu V2 nor the City Tour 2 Stroller is compatible with any of the picks in our guide to infant car seats ; if that’s a must, the Mountain Buggy Nano (2020+) is another good option . And if putting your stroller in an overhead compartment is a priority, we recommend the Babyzen Yoyo2 Stroller .

The Uppababy Minu V2 has many features that allow it to function as a full-size stroller, including an underseat basket that holds up to 20 pounds, a simple recline option that’s good for napping, and a handy backseat pocket for storing odds and ends. Its one-hand fold is impressively simple, and of the travel strollers we tested, it has the easiest harness to adjust and the most-intuitive brakes. It also has a large, zip-out sun canopy with UPF protection. You can use it—without attachments—with children as young as 3 months, or with Uppababy’s bassinet or select car seats with newborns. A kid doesn’t officially outgrow it until they reach 50 pounds—which is often grade-school age. But at 17 pounds, it’s heavier than our budget pick.

The Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller isn’t quite as simple to fold, recline, or buckle as the Minu V2, but it has the most comfortable handlebar of the travel strollers we tested, a decent canopy with UV protection, and a good amount of underseat storage (though it is harder to access than the Minu V2’s). Its large, adjustable footrest, long seat, and deep recline make it the best stroller that we tested for on-the-go naps, even for older kids (it fits kids up to 45 pounds). At 15.1 pounds, it’s a couple of pounds lighter than the Minu V2 and, unlike that stroller, comes with a travel bag.

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, how we picked and tested, our pick: uppababy minu v2, budget pick: baby jogger city tour 2 stroller, other good travel strollers, the competition.

I’ve been writing about strollers for Wirecutter for more than a year, and I’ve tested dozens of strollers from 16 brands in that time. For this 2023 update to our guide to travel strollers, I researched more than a dozen popular models and tested seven with my 1-year-old son.

My husband and I brought these strollers on international flights, regional trains, and local buses, and we loaded them in and out of cabs and cars of various sizes. Other Wirecutter parents tested strollers on their summer trips, and I badgered people around my neighborhood about their experiences with travel strollers.

This article builds on the work of writer Sonjia Hyon, who logged 130 miles testing nine travel strollers for an earlier version of this guide.

For many families, a travel stroller will never be necessary; for others, it may be the only stroller they ever need. In general, travel strollers are smaller and lighter than full-size strollers and fold down to fit easily in many forms of transportation.

If you don’t travel regularly, or you’re mostly visiting people who have a spare stroller, you can forgo one entirely and rely on carriers and car seats. On the other hand, I know plenty of parents who use a travel stroller as their everyday go-to; it’s a particularly good option for anyone who is living in a small space or has to carry a stroller up and down steps on a regular basis.

Travel strollers have increasingly replaced umbrella strollers as the go-to lightweight, foldable option for travelers, which became clear when we noticed brands discontinuing their umbrella strollers and making travel models instead. They are primarily distinguished by their fold; a travel stroller collapses into a more compact, suitcase shape while umbrella strollers fold into a long, golf bag shape. This extra convenience comes at a cost; travel strollers are generally much pricier. All of the so-called budget travel strollers we tested in 2023 were more expensive than the priciest model we considered for our guide to umbrella strollers .

Three travel strollers folded up and resting next to each other.

You do, of course, have to make some compromises. The travel strollers that fold the most compactly are likely to be the hardest to fold; the lightest strollers do not maneuver as well as heavier options. And all lack some features that many parents love in their full-size strollers, such as large storage baskets, reversible toddler seats, and adjustable handlebars.

If you’ve already purchased a full-size stroller that you like and are looking to add a travel stroller, you may want to look first at options from the same brand. Stroller manufacturers keep many things consistent across their lines, so you’ll find that elements like the type of brake, the style of the buckle, and the feel of the handlebar are familiar. For instance, the Uppababy Cruz V2 and Minu V2 share the same harness that’s easy to adjust and buckle, which I consider to be one of the most important elements in a good stroller.

Nine of the travel strollers we tested standing side by side.

More travel strollers are available now than when we began testing in 2018, as high-end brands have begun to offer more luxe options. We began our 2023 research by looking at the updated models of our three past picks—the Uppababy Minu V2 has replaced the original Minu, the Babyzen Yoyo2 Stroller has replaced the Yoyo+ Stroller, and the Mountain Buggy Nano (2020+) has replaced the original Nano. We also read online reviews for dozens of strollers to determine other good options to test. Based on our research, we determined that a good travel stroller is:

Easy to push and maneuver: Because a travel stroller needs to perform in a variety of environments inside and outside, we prioritized strollers that are easy to push on uneven terrain and able to maneuver through tight spaces. We only tested strollers that could be pushed and steered one-handed. I took seven strollers home and tested them several times in different conditions, including over cobblestones and uneven streets, in and out of subways, and up and down stairs. I also put them through a test course in our Long Island City, New York office, using sandbags in the toddler seat to test maneuverability and the one-handed push.

Easy to fold and unfold: A travel stroller needs to be easy to quickly fold and unfold; ideally, you should be able to collapse or unfurl a stroller while holding a squirming baby or kicking toddler. In my testing, I timed how long it took to fold and unfold each stroller and if it required one or two hands.

Easy to carry and stow: The stroller should fold down to a compact size; some even get small enough to fit into the overhead compartment on an airplane. We didn’t prioritize that ability, since different airlines and planes have different requirements, and it may be up to individual flight crews to decide if you can put a stroller in the overhead bin. We weighed each stroller ourselves, and the ones we tested ranged from 13 to 17 pounds, a close enough number that it didn’t end up being a major factor in our decision making. We also looked for strollers that have a shoulder strap or travel bag for carrying.

We liked to see that strollers had an option for clicking in an infant car seat, though neither of our picks are compatible with our best infant car-seat picks .

We also looked for a reclining seat, an easily adjustable harness, a decent-size canopy for sun protection, and an accessible underseat storage basket. I tested how easy it was to clean up food messes by smearing jam and whipped cream on all of the strollers and seeing how hard it was to remove stains with just baby wipes or fabric cleaner. Where small children go, messes follow—that’s why we devoted an entire article to  how to clean a stroller .

The Uppababy Minu V2, our pick for best travel stroller.

The Uppababy Minu V2 is an exceptionally comfortable travel stroller for children and parents. It’s similar to the previous version of the Minu, which was our top pick for years, but it improves on that model with a simpler-to-adjust harness, a bigger sun canopy, and an adjustable footrest.

I found that it was sturdy enough to maneuver on bumpy cobblestone streets, light enough for one person to haul up short flights of stairs with a child buckled in, and simple enough to fold one-handed and throw in the back of a car. It has a comfortable handlebar, ample underseat storage, a large canopy with UPF protection , and a harness that adjusts quickly and intuitively.

A folded Uppababy Minu V2 standing up on its own.

It has a fantastic one-handed fold. The Minu V2 is the only one of our picks with a one-handed fold—you slide a lever and push a button simultaneously on the handlebar, push the whole thing forward, and the stroller collapses onto itself. The unfold is also fairly simple; undo a latch on the side and pull up on the handlebar, and it all flings open. The stroller stands up pretty well on its own when folded. In our tests, we found that it took less than 10 seconds to fold or unfold the stroller.

It’s easy to carry. The Minu V2 includes a carry handle and a shoulder strap, so it’s easier to pick up for short hauls than our other pick. (Though at 17 pounds, it’s not particularly comfortable to tote around for long periods.) Uppababy also sells a travel bag that lets you access the TravelSafe program , an additional two-year warranty added onto the original product warranty that offers replacements for parts damaged during air travel.

The harness is simple. The simple plastic buckle is easy to close and open. I find the Uppababy’s harness straps to be the easiest to use of any strollers I’ve tested because the shoulder and waist straps are permanently connected (on other strollers, including the city tour 2, our budget pick, they can separate). This does mean wiggling your child’s arms in and out of the straps, which some parents find more taxing. The harness straps are also the easiest to adjust of any that we tested; simply slide the strap up and down along the back of the child’s seat to change the height, and pull on the ends of the straps to tighten or loosen.

The recline and incline function on the seat is straightforward. You simply pull down a buckle to recline and pull up on two straps to incline. It does take some effort to incline with a toddler in the seat, but none of the travel strollers that we tested were any easier.

The brakes are intuitive and easy to engage, even when you’re barefoot. Like the Uppababy Cruz V2 , a pick in our guide to full-size strollers , the Minu V2 has two brake pedals—a red to lock and a green to unlock—that are easy to engage and, based on their position, allow you to see from a distance if the stroller is locked.

It can be used for a long time and has plenty of storage. With an additional attachment, the Minu V2 can be used with the Uppababy bassinet as well as several infant car seats, making it a good option for newborns, and it can fit a child as young as three months without any accessories. The seat can hold a child up to 50 pounds, the maximum of the travel strollers we tried, and the underseat storage basket can hold up to 20 pounds, the most of any travel stroller we tested, making it popular as an everyday stroller, with good reason. It lacks some of the best features of the larger, more expensive Uppababy Cruz V2 —a reversible toddler seat, a storage basket that can handle a grocery haul, an adjustable handlebar—but it’s narrower, lighter, and faster to fold.

View of the storage pocket on the Uppababy Minu V2, showing sippy cup and a pair of sunglasses in it.

The canopy, seat fabric, and underseat basket can be removed for hand-washing. In our cleaning tests, it was hard to get stains out of the green fabric of our stroller; even after using a stain remover, we could see dark splotches on the seat.

Uppababy strollers come with a two-year limited warranty and an extra year if you register your stroller within three months of purchasing.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

The first Minu V2 that we tested held up well for several weeks of travel—and then, one day it refused to fold. We contacted Uppababy, which said this is not a known issue (although we found a few online complaints of a similar issue with the original Minu) and that anyone with this problem would be issued a new frame immediately; our replacement stroller has held up just fine so far. Given Uppababy’s reputation for good strollers, we’re fairly confident that we simply got a lemon.

At nearly 17 pounds, the Minu V2 is the heaviest of the strollers we tested. It’s also one of the largest when folded, meaning it may need to be gate-checked when boarding a plane. (Though it is larger than almost all airlines’ official requirements for on-board luggage, it may fit in the overhead bins on larger airplanes.) In our travels, it required some careful, Tetris-like finagling to squeeze it into a hatchback alongside our luggage, although one tester was able to fit it behind the driver’s seat of a sedan.

Like all of the travel strollers we tested, it sometimes requires a little shoving to get it to collapse fully. And because of the way the canopy is attached, it sometimes felt flimsy, and it occasionally popped off the frame on one side when unfolding or carrying the stroller up stairs with a child inside.

Weight: 17.3 pounds Frame dimensions: 20.5 by 36 inches (WL) Folded size: 20.5 by 23 by 13 inches (WLH) Child weight, height limit: 50 pounds, 40 inches Storage basket weight limit: 20 pounds Car seat compatibility with an adapter: Uppababy Mesa; Maxi-Cosi Mico Max 30 Infant Car Seat, Mico NXT Infant Car Seat, Mico AP Infant Car Seat, and Mico Max Plus Car Seat; Nuna Pipa, Pipa Lite, Pipa Lite Lx, Pipa Lite R, Pipa Rx, and Pipa Lite Rx; the Cybex Aton, Aton 2, Aton Q, and Aton M Second child adaptability: ride-along board available for purchase Wheel diameter: front wheels 5 inches, rear wheels 6.5 inches Included accessories: bumper bar Add-on accessories: cup holder , travel bag , parent organizer , bassinet , ride-along board , snack tray , rain shield , and basket cover

The Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller, our budget pick for best travel stroller.

If you’re willing to sacrifice a one-handed fold, an easily accessible storage basket, and a notably easy-to-buckle harness, the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller is a remarkably solid and maneuverable stroller for its price. It handles bumpy streets and cobblestones without complaint, and I found the handlebar’s height and material more comfortable than those on the other less-expensive options we tested.

The City Tour 2 Stroller also has a large adjustable footrest that allows a young toddler to lie almost completely flat; paired with its built-in UV 50+ sun canopy, it’s a great option if on-the-go naps are a priority. For many parents, the best thing about this stroller is that it doesn’t feature anything too noteworthy or fussy; it’s a simple stroller that just works.

The fold is simple, but it requires two steps and both hands. Slide a lever and push a button to fold down the handlebar, then pull up on a strap on the inside of the seat to collapse the whole thing. (If you have the adjustable footrest up, you need to put it down for maximum compactness.) To unfold, undo a latch on the side and click it all into place. In our testing, it took about 10 seconds to fold the stroller (including lowering the footrest) and about 7 seconds to unfold.

The buckle has five pieces but stays together well. The shoulder and waist straps on each side click together, which allows you to simply slide your child’s arm through the shoulder straps rather than attach five separate pieces. One tester found that these pieces tended to separate when her toddler was getting out of the stroller, requiring her to clip them again the next time. But the straps remain snug once buckled. Reclining and inclining the seat is simple—pinch a clamp and pull down on the seat to recline, then pinch the same clamp and push up to incline. As with all of the travel strollers we tested, inclining can be a challenge with larger children.

The underseat basket can easily hold a day’s worth of stuff. The underseat basket holds 15 pounds—not as much as our top pick, but more than most of the strollers we tested.

A person carrying the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller in the travel bag.

The seat fabric of the City Tour 2 Stroller can be machine washed; other parts should be hand-washed. In our cleaning tests, we found that food wiped easily off of the black fabric, and any lingering smudges disappeared with stain remover. Unfortunately, we can’t say if this was due to the dark color or the fabric itself, but this stroller only comes in black (you can also buy a blue-green, special-edition model that’s about $100 more) while the Minu V2 comes in many colors.

It also comes with a travel bag, which adds another layer of protection if you’re gate-checking a bag or putting the stroller away for long-term storage.

Baby Jogger strollers come with a lifetime warranty for manufacturer defects on the frame, and a one-year limited warranty on the fabrics. And though it doesn’t offer the same sort of TravelSafe program as Uppababy, the company said they “are always willing to help our customers where we can with damaged goods.”

The canopy can be hard to unfurl. The peekaboo window is secured with Velcro, which means it could wake up a sleeping child when undone. (The peekaboo flap can also be held open with a button.) The single brake pedal must be pushed up from the bottom to unlock, which is tricky if you’re barefoot or in open-toe shoes; the Minu V2’s two pedals are easier to use. And though the City Tour 2 Stroller does come with a travel bag, the stroller itself doesn’t feature a shoulder strap for carrying.

The seat’s most upright position is somewhat reclined. As with other Baby Jogger strollers that we’ve tested, the seat is never fully upright, which can be frustrating for a bigger kid who wants to look around (or a parent who doesn’t want a toddler to nap). The harness can be a challenge to adjust—the waist straps in particular take some time—and to change the height of the shoulder strap, you need to rethread the straps through the back of the toddler seat, which can’t be done with a child in the stroller. Unlike the Minu V2, the back of the seat doesn’t have a pocket for small items.

The stroller does not stand on its own when folded. It always needed to be propped against a wall or laid down flat. And I found that I sometimes smashed my hand when pushing down to make sure that it was folded as compactly as possible. The stroller also doesn’t have a mechanism for the whole stroller to stay attached to itself when folded; if you grab the handlebar when the stroller is folded, it will pull away from the body.

A folded Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Stroller lying down flat.

At 5 foot 2, one tester found it was difficult to fold the handlebar down and needed to stabilize the stroller by putting her foot on the underseat basket for leverage; at 5 foot 7, I didn’t have the same issue.

Weight: 15.1 pounds Frame dimensions: 20 by 39 inches (WL) Folded size: 20 by 22.5 by 9.5 inches (WLH) Child weight, height limit: 45 pounds, 40 inches Storage basket weight limit: 15 pounds Car seat compatibility with an adapter: Baby Jogger City Go Infant Car Seat, City Go 2 Infant Car Seat, and City Go Air Infant Car Seat; Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35 Elite and SnugRide SnugLock 35 Platinum Second child adaptability: stroller cannot be adapted; City Tour 2 Double Stroller is also available, but we have not tested it yet Wheel diameter: front wheels 5 inches, rear wheels 6 inches Included accessories: travel bag Add-on accessories: belly bar , parent console , and weather shield

If you need or want to travel with a car seat: The Mountain Buggy Nano (2020+) is equipped with a universal car seat adapter—a genius feature that all stroller companies should adopt. Not only can you use many infant car seats with the nano—including any of our infant car seat picks —but it works with lightweight toddler car seats and convertible travel car seats like the Cosco Scenera Next Convertible Car Seat , which we recommend as the best convertible car seat for travel .

But the canopy rests against the handlebar when closed, making the stroller uncomfortable to push for long periods, especially in the heat. It also has finicky harness straps that never felt tight enough and a brake that’s easy to trip accidentally.

If a stroller that fits in most overhead compartments is crucial: Consider the Babyzen Yoyo2 Stroller , which has the smallest fold of any of the strollers we tested. It meets the International Air Transport Association standards for carry-on bags, and I’ve seen people putting it in the overhead bins on several flights—even though at 17.3 inches wide, it is wider than the official width limit of 14 inches on many airlines. The fabric was also the easiest to wipe clean of every stroller we tested.

But its multistep folding mechanism is frustrating; it involves pushing a button and pulling a handle underneath the seat, which means crouching down and feeling around for the right spots. It’s also difficult to push and steer in a hurry; in our tests, it veered off course easily when pushing one-handed. And the front tires had a tendency to spin uncontrollably after hitting a bump, creating a drag that took a few seconds to correct.

This is not a comprehensive list of everything we tested in previous iterations of this guide; it only includes strollers that are still available for sale.

The 16-pound Bugaboo Butterfly is well made and easy to maneuver, but multiple testers said they found the handlebar uncomfortable to push, particularly on hills. I also found that I sometimes struggled to get it unlocked and unfolded in a hurry—an important feature of a travel stroller.

At about $500, the nearly 16-pound Nuna Trvl is the most expensive travel stroller that we tested, and it has some excellent features, including the simplest fold we saw on any travel stroller. But it is very large when folded with the belly bar attached, and when the canopy is closed, it covers the handlebar, making it uncomfortable to push.

The dual handlebars of the Summer Infant 3Dlite Convenience Stroller , our umbrella stroller pick , make it nearly impossible to push one-handed—an important feature if you’re traveling by yourself and need your other hand for carrying other items. If you don’t mind using two hands and relying on a simpler but less maneuverable stroller than those recommended in this guide, you can save money by using an umbrella stroller over a travel model.

The Zoe the Traveler is only 13 pounds and has some nice features, including a parent cup holder, but it didn’t maneuver as well as I’d like. I struggled to push it off the subway, and it nearly tipped forward from a small, uneven bump in the sidewalk. It was also one of the hardest strollers to unfold.

We tested the 11-pound Zoe XL1 Best in 2018 (which has since been renamed The Tour+) and dismissed it after finding it harder to push and maneuver than other travel strollers we tested. It would frequently stop suddenly, causing the parent to pitch forward.

The 9.5 pound GB Pockit Air All-Terrain and the 13-pound GB Pockit+ All-City were dismissed because they didn’t feel sturdy.

The Kolcraft Cloud Plus Stroller was dismissed because it did not feel durable, was challenging to maneuver, and didn’t have a working lock.

This article was edited by Rachel Hurn and Kalee Thompson.

Meet your guide

japanese travel stroller

Elise Czajkowski

Elise Czajkowski is a freelance writer and editor covering strollers for Wirecutter.

Further reading

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Three of our top picks for the best travel car seats, shown side by side.

The Best Travel Car Seats

by Christina Szalinski and Rebecca Gale

After testing 17 lightweight, portable car seats, we have five good options for infants, toddlers, and big kids to recommend.

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The Best Stroller Wagons

by Liz Iversen

Got kids and gear you need to schlep to the soccer field, the beach, or the neighborhood block party? A stroller wagon might be for you.

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The Best Umbrella Stroller

by Elise Czajkowski

An umbrella stroller should be hassle-free and inexpensive enough to buy as a spare to store at Grandma’s house.

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The 15 Best Travel Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We tested the best travel strollers on the market for maneuverability, design, durability, and portability.

japanese travel stroller

In This Article

  • Our Top Picks
  • Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

  • Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Phoebe Cheong

If you're traveling with a child under 4 years old or so, you need a stroller. But your everyday stroller might not be your best bet when you hit the road: today's models are big with lots of storage space, wide canopies, and large wheels for challenging terrain. Not ideal for packing into trains, planes, and automobiles or for bringing in and out of a hotel. If you plan to travel even somewhat often with your little ones, you might want to invest in a travel stroller.

So, what is a travel stroller? A travel stroller is a smaller, more scaled-back stroller with a collapsible frame that can be folded up tightly. Many travel strollers fold multiple ways to reduce the length, width, and height; some, like umbrella strollers, fold one way into a narrow but still-long piece. In the end, you want your travel stroller to be comfortable and safe for your child while folding up into a very compact, easy-to-carry package.

We tested more than 32 travel strollers from top brands such as Uppababy, Nuna, and Babyzen. We measured and weighed them, then spent eight and a half hours in our New York City lab putting them all through the wringer, looking at each stroller's maneuverability, design features, durability, and portability. We then sent them out into the real world to be used by families like yours to guarantee stroller longevity and functionality.

Best Overall

Joolz aer+ baby stroller.

 Amazon

  • Design 4.6 /5
  • Portability 4.9 /5
  • Maneuverability 4.9 /5
  • Durability 5 /5
  • Value 4.6 /5

It folds up into an extremely compact, easy-to-carry package that is great for storing at home or on flights.

The seat can only be hand-washed and air-dried.

The Joolz Aer+ looks great, rolls smoothly, and features plenty of padding for the little rider sitting in it. It wowed us right out of the box and was one of the quickest strollers to assemble with just a quick-snap connection to a secure and stable stroller. While the Aer+ is about one pound lighter than earlier models, it is still the same size and features all of the perks parents look for in a high-quality stroller. The roomy shopping basket can hold up to 11 pounds, the canopy is adjustable, and the seat reclines to multiple settings to help keep your little one comfortable as they grow.

Throughout our tests, we tossed the stroller off of a counter to see how it held up and it remained in impeccable condition with little to no scratching and no major breaks or rips. Even when fully loaded up, the wheels moved smoothly and limited turbulence as they are designed to absorb shock from pebbles, rocks, and other rough terrain. We could easily collapse the stroller down using only one hand — which is perfect for use when flying — and it can once again be assembled with just the click of a button. At just over 13 pounds, it's also easy to carry, so you can transport this stroller just about anywhere life takes you.

The Details: 13.2 pounds | 41.5 x 32.7 x 17.7 inches assembled | 8.5 x 21 x 17.7 x inches folded | 50-pound weight limit

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Travel + Leisure / Phoebe Cheong

Best Overall, Runner-up

Nuna trvl lightweight stroller.

  • Design 4.8 /5
  • Portability 4.2 /5
  • Maneuverability 5 /5
  • Value 4.7 /5

Not only does it roll well, but the one-handed folding process was the smoothest of all the strollers we tested.

It's not especially small when folded and is a little unwieldy to carry.

During testing, when we pressed the buttons to collapse and fold the Nuna Trvl, it felt like some spring-loaded mechanism started the process for us and made it easier. That's the kind of helpful detail any parent or caretaker appreciates. And that folding process was quick, easy, and doable with one hand. The Trvl isn't quite as light as some of the other strollers, however, and it has no strap for carrying over the shoulder (although the bumper bar turns into a handle for carrying when the stroller is collapsed). It's also not clear whether the Nuna Trvl will fit in all airplane overhead compartments; It was a tight squeeze when we placed it in ours, with the wheels sticking out a bit.

The Trvl has a lot of great design features, including an adjustable leg rest and simple, adjustable reclining system for your baby. The strap clasp is magnetic to save a little time, and the canopy has a peekaboo window and good ventilation. The bottom storage basket is also on the larger side for a travel stroller and can comfortably fit a backpack. The stroller gilded beautifully over each surface we tried; there was no difference between rolling over the smooth hardwood and the shag carpet, and it handled gravel without issue. And it held up just fine in the durability test.

The Details: 15.4 pounds | 41 x 26 x 20.5 inches assembled | 11 x 27.25 x 20.25 inches folded | 50-pound weight limit

Travel + Leisure / Claire Cohen

Best Budget

Kolcraft cloud plus stroller.

  • Design 3.9 /5
  • Portability 3 /5
  • Maneuverability 4.2 /5
  • Durability 4.5 /5
  • Value 4.8 /5

It comes with a tray for baby's food and drink but is still extremely lightweight and easy to fold.

There isn't a ton of space in the undercarriage for storage.

Strollers are unnervingly expensive; many new parents experience sticker shock when they first see those price tags. The Kolcraft Cloud Plus is not. And while it's not the prettiest of the bunch (there's some loud branding), it folds easily — it can even be done one-handed with a little effort and coordination. We love that unfolding can also be done one-handed.

The Cloud Plus doesn't fold down quite as small as most every other one we're testing; the shape is somewhere between an umbrella and normal travel stroller. It's very lightweight, which we love, but since it doesn't fold small enough to fit in an overhead bin and doesn't have a strap or handle, it's not as portable as other options.

This stroller is the only one we tested with a tray for the baby's food and drink; the tray is removable if you're looking to save space. There are also two small cup holders for the adults, though our travel mug did not fit in them. The storage basket can fit a small backpack. The recline system is pretty easy to use and goes back three-fourths of the way to horizontal, and the canopy is good but not great. Same goes for the seat padding.

It rolled well on smooth surfaces, though there was some resistance on the carpet and a lot more on the grave. But we were able to push it through, and the stroller is light enough that when the wheels aren't rolling you can still keep moving. It's not the smoothest ride, but passable. The tray came unclasped during the durability test, but there was no actual damage. Overall, the price-to-performance ratio of the Cloud Plus is so good that it's an excellent budget option.

The Details: 11.8 pounds | 38 x 27 x 18 inches assembled | 10 x 33 x 17.5 inches folded | 50-pound weight limit

Travel & Leisure / Phoebe Cheong

Best for Warm Weather

Gb qbit+ all city stroller.

  • Portability 4 /5

It reminds us of the very top-tier travel strollers, but its price is meaningfully lower.

The handlebar isn't adjustable and the stroller is a bit heavier than other options.

The GB Qbit+ All City reminded us of the Nuna Trvl, but at a significantly cheaper price. The only areas the stroller fell short of the Nuna model are the canopy, which is not especially nice or expansive, and the fact that it's slightly harder to carry since it's a little heavier and has no actual carrying strap. That said, there's plenty to love about the Qbit. One-handed folding is smooth, and buckling and unbuckling the straps is easy. The seat is nicely padded, the entire back is made of breathable mesh to keep your child from overheating. The leg rest is simple to maneuver and goes all the way flat. The seat also reclines almost all the way back so that your baby can take a comfortable snooze. The included bumper bar comes off and on easily, and the handlebar looks and feels nice. There's enough storage for a backpack, too. As for maneuverability, it rolled great on all our testing surfaces and made crisp, tight turns. If you want something similar to and almost as good as the Nuna Trvl, this is your travel stroller.

The Details: 17.6 pounds | 41 x 24 x 17 inches assembled | 10.5 x 23 x 16.5 inches folded | 54.8-pound weight limit

Best Folding

Uppababy minu v2 stroller.

  • Assembly 3.8 /5

It folds up far more compactly than other UPPAbaby models.

The canopy sticks out a bit when the stroller is folded.

The Minu has a lot of the features familiar to UPPAbaby devotees — unstructured rear storage pouch, locking clasp to keep the stroller folded, excellent canopy — but unlike the brand's G-Luxe and G-Link models, this one is not an umbrella stroller. We actually think that makes for a better travel stroller. The Minu folds up more easily than other UPPAbaby models and far more compactly than an umbrella model. The fold can be done with one hand, but keep in mind the canopy needs to be tucked in once it's folded. A padded carrying strap easily fits over the shoulder. When carried, the Minu isn't the lightest or smallest option on our list, but it's portable enough and fits fine in an overhead compartment.

The Minu's seat back reclines nicely and easily for naps, and the handlebar feels good on the palms. The canopy's magnetic mesh window is handy and easy to keep open, and the sun shade for keeping the brightness out of your baby's eyes is one of the best we saw in our tests. The seat's padding is ample, though we'd like it if the leg rest were adjustable. We did appreciate the sizable bottom storage basket.

In terms of maneuverability, the Minu performed fine. It didn't make quite as tight turns as the Joolz or Nuna, and it felt a bit heavier to push, but it handled the gravel really well. A canopy rod popped out of place when we pushed the stroller off the table, but we were able to fix it pretty easily. Overall, while the stroller is expensive, it's not the priciest on the list and is worth it for the well-crafted features.

The Details: 14.75 pounds | 41 x 31 x 20.5 inches assembled | 12 x 22.5 x 20.25 inches folded | 50-pound weight limit

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best for Cities

Babyzen yoyo2 stroller.

  • Assembly 3.5 /5
  • Design 4.5 /5
  • Portability 5 /5
  • Maneuverability 4.5 /5

It's very well-padded, folds up into a tidy package, and has a convenient carrying strap.

The clips and buckles can be hard to maneuver.

Folding the Babyzen Yoyo 2 took two hands and, while not difficult, was a little more involved a process than with some other strollers. Unfolding is pretty easy, except we noticed our feet getting caught in straps a few times. While folding and unfolding were slightly disappointing, we love how portable this stroller is. It folds up very small and has a comfortable padded shoulder strap as well as a metal bar for easy carrying. And it fits easily into an overhead storage bin so it's a great option to consider when flying with a baby .

The Yoyo 2 has nice features, too. The seat padding is especially cushy, and the seat reclines three-fourths of the way back to horizontal (though the recliner is a bit tricky to figure out). There's also a pocket in the back and a decent storage basket underneath that can fit a small bag. The canopy is good, though we'd prefer the peekaboo window to be mesh instead of plastic.

This stroller especially stands out for its handling. We were able to maneuver this stroller through the safety cones with such ease, we could really see this stroller being helpful at a crowded grocery store or airport.

The Details: 14.7 pounds | 41 x 28.8 x 17 inches assembled | 8 x 20 x 16 inches folded | 40-pound weight limit

Best Double

Uppababy g-link v2 stroller.

  • Assembly 4.9 /5
  • Design 5 /5
  • Portability 4.4 /5

It folds more easily and rolls more smoothly than we expected from a stroller this size.

It doesn't fold down very small, and unfolding it could be easier.

For such a large contraption, this double stroller folds with surprising ease. We were even able to do it one-handed with a little effort, which none of us expected. Unfolding is a little trickier, as it takes some force to unhook the locking clasp. As a double stroller, the G-Link 2 is not the most compact package when folded. Plus, it's an umbrella structure, so this one probably isn't fitting in many overhead bins. Carrying it was a little unwieldy, as should be expected with a double stroller, but there is a helpful handle, and the stroller is lighter than it looks. You can actually wheel it along when it's folded instead of carrying it, but it's not easy, and it bumped into us when we did so.

We like the canopies on the G-Link 2: quality material and good coverage. There are little storage pockets behind each seat, and it comes with a cup holder. You can also fit a purse or very small backpack in the undercarriage basket. The seats have generous padding, which extends to form a sort of calf rest for the riders. The straps buckle easily and have different height options; the seat backs have two recline positions and are super easy to adjust.

The stroller rolled well over all the surfaces, even the gravel, and it made much tighter turns than we anticipated. We also like that there are no wheels in the middle of the frame (as most double umbrella strollers have), which makes it easier to push without kicking the wheels or frame. Finally, it showed no damage after our durability tests.

The Details: 21.8 pounds | 41 x 25 x 28.25 inches assembled | 14 x 40 x 17.5 inches folded | 55-pound weight limit per seat

Cybex Libelle Compact Stroller

  • Durability 4.6 /5

It's a modern-looking stroller that's easy to move.

It lacked some of the features we'd have liked to see at its price.

The Cybex Libelle Stroller looks sleek and is easy to fold down into an easy-to-store size. Unfolding this stroller is incredibly easy — perfect for families on the go. The wheels of this stroller turn more easily than some other styles and provides a smooth ride over most surfaces.

Due to its simplistic design, this stroller doesn't have extra pockets or cupholders, but its lightweight and compact style makes this a great option for traveling since the stroller can fit in the overhead bins of most airplanes. Just be aware that this model does not include a carrying strap, so if you plan to walk for long periods of time with the folded stroller, you'll have to carry it by its medal frame.

It handled pretty well over the smooth hard surfaces with no noticeable hiccups, but it struggled a bit on the gravel.

The Details: 13.7 pounds | 41 x 20 x 20 inches assembled | 8 x 22 x 14 inches folded | 55-pound weight limit

Best Maneuverability

Bugaboo butterfly stroller.

  • Assembly 4.8 /5
  • Design 4.9 /5
  • Portability 4.5 /5

It takes next to no effort to push this stroller over terrains of all types.

The instructions have pictures rather than words, so they’re a bit unclear.

From sharp turns to steep curbs to rocky terrain, the Bugaboo Butterfly Seat Stroller easily traverses it all. Built with advanced four-wheel suspension and a lightweight frame, we loved how little effort it took to push the stroller, even with one hand. The wheels seemed to absorb bumps and shock well, keeping the seat stable and the baby in place. 

We were equally impressed with the stroller’s packing and traveling capabilities. Weighing in at just over 16 pounds and boasting a compact size when folded down, the Butterfly is easy to carry and even hoist in the air to stow in a plane’s overhead bin. It’s also simple to assemble, and it remained perfectly intact and undamaged after we dropped it.

Other useful features of this stroller include a Velcro rain cover, seat cover, spacious under-seat basket, padded handlebar with a wrist strap, reclining mechanism, and an easy-to-use foot brake. 

The Details: 16.1 pounds | 36.4 x 17.7 x 40.3 inches assembled | 17.7 x 9.1 x 21.3 inches folded | 48.5-pound weight limit

Best for Air Travel

  • Assembly 4.7 /5

It easily fits in overhead bins and is a high-quality, durable option.

At 14.6 pounds, it's one of the heavier strollers we tested.

The Cybex Coya is a stylish and durable stroller families will be happy to use for their daily activities and while traveling. It folds up quickly and easily slides into airplane overhead bins for easy access as you board and de-board. The comfortable seat padding is removable for cleaning and the canopy comes down for sun and rain protection. The five-point harness is also incredibly easy to adjust and the seat itself reclines to be almost flat. Pair that with the adjustable leg rest and you have the perfect spot for your youngster to nap on the go.

We also love the cushioned handlebar that adds some extra comfort when pushing the stroller and the zippered pocket in the back of the canopy where you can store your phone or wallet for convenience. The cargo area is also a great size considering the overall compact nature of this stroller and easily fit our packed diaper bag. After our toss test, the stroller is still in great condition, although we do recommend investing in a dust bag if you're nervous about bumps and scratches while traveling.

The Details: 14.6 pounds | 38.2 x 17.3 x 31.1 inches assembled | 7.1 x 17.3 x 20.5 inches folded | 55-pound weight limit

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Compact

Contours itsy.

Buy Buy Baby

  • Assembly 5 /5
  • Maneuverability 4 /5

There’s almost no assembly required.

Parents of older, larger children may not find it as useful.

If you like to live your life simply, the compact and convenient Contours Itsy may be the stroller for you. Right out of the box, it’s already nearly fully assembled — all you have to do is snap the bumper bar into place, which takes almost no effort. On top of that, it’s a no-frills option, so there’s no cup holder or oversized basket to weigh it down, take up space, or make things complicated. 

We did, however, love features like the secure bumper bar, easy-to-use harness, canopy with UV 50 sun protection, and padding on the crotch strap, which makes the stroller look comfortable. They also appreciated the small size of the foot rest, basket, and entire stroller in general, because it made using and transporting it a breeze.

When it was time to stow the stroller away (or pack it up for travel), we got a kick out of just how tiny it folds up — in its simplest form, it’s not much larger than a grocery bag. It’s also ultra-lightweight and easily folds with just one hand. 

The Details: 12.3 pounds | 32 x 39 x 18.2 inches assembled | 11 x 22 x 11 inches folded | 40-pound weight limit

Best Comfort

Baby jogger city tour 2 stroller.

  • Maneuverability 4.8 /5

The price is reasonable considering how solidly it performed on all our tests.

It did not fit in our overhead bin and isn't easy to fold one-handed.

Folding this stroller was pretty simple, though not quite as smooth as it was with some of the others. The unfolding process was a little finicky as well and took some practice. So what do we like about the Baby Jogger City Tour 2? The price is reasonable, it performed solidly on most of our tests, and it maneuvered exceptionally well over all surfaces. We noticed little perceptible difference between its rolling over the shag carpet and smooth wood surface, and while other strollers struggled a bit on the gravel, this one navigated it with ease.

In terms of portability, the City Tour 2 doesn't feel bulky and has a good hand carrying handle. We would have liked to see a shoulder strap, however, and it did not fit in our overhead bin. The seat back has a lot of recline, and the drawstring to pull and push the seat forward and back is easy to use. The seat has good structure and good padding; the straps work well and can be adjusted to different height levels. There's lots of leg room and adjustable calf support for the baby, and the canopy has a peekaboo window and goes up and down smoothly. We'd have appreciated some more storage space; you can't fit a backpack anywhere. When we pushed the City Tour 2 off a table, we did notice that a small foam pad came off, though we couldn't even figure out where it came from, and it did not structurally damage the stroller.

The Details: 14 pounds | 40 x 26 x 20 inches assembled | 7 x 22.5 x 19.5 inches folded | 45-pound weight limit

Best Umbrella

Uppababy jordan g-luxe stroller.

  • Portability 3.9 /5
  • Maneuverability 4.7 /5
  • Value 4.5 /5

The recline system is particularly easy to use, and the stroller stands well on its own when folded.

The button/ring-pull combination for folding it is a bit finicky and has to be timed perfectly.

The first thing to note here is that ​​umbrella strollers only fold one-dimensionally, so the result is narrow but long…like an umbrella. The other strollers on this list fold down via multiple joints and in multiple directions for a smaller and more squarish package; neither is necessarily better, but you'll want to decide what you want before buying a travel stroller.

This particular UPPAbaby model is a bit tricky to fold because the handle/ring combination used to do so is finicky and has to be timed perfectly. Once you get that, the folding is smooth, but the whole button-and-ring thing is a little annoying. As with most UPPAbaby products, however, the G-Luxe's features are pretty nice. There's an included cup holder that fits a travel mug easily, and the canopy is expansive with extra sun shade (there is no peekaboo window, however). The leg rest for the child is easy to adjust, and the straps feature a five-point harness and adjustable height levels. The seat padding is substantial without looking bulky, and the recline system, while only providing two settings, is exceptionally easy to use. The unstructured (perhaps too unstructured) pocket behind the seat is pretty spacious and in a good location, but the storage basket at the bottom of the stroller isn't particularly big.

The G-Luxe maneuvers well, with good tight turns, though it rattled noticeably over the gravel. It held up well during our durability tests and sustained no damage.

The Details : 16.5 pounds | 42.5 x 23.5 x 18.5 inches assembled | 15 x 41 x 11.75 inches folded | 55 pounds weight limit

Best Lightweight

Zoe the traveler.

  • Design 3.5 /5

The removable seat liner is machine washable.

The attachable snack tray is sold separately.

If you're heading off on a family trip and looking for a simple, lightweight travel stroller, this minimalistic design will do the trick. It's incredibly easy to assemble and takes just a few minutes to click the wheels and bumper bar into place. It also comes with a parent cupholder and back pocket to help keep your hands free throughout your journey. We did note that the cargo area is the perfect size for a small tote bag or purse, but it may not be large enough to fit diaper bags or weekender bags.

We love that this stroller comes with a removable seat liner that can be thrown in the washing machine after a trip to keep clean and fresh. The canopy can also be unzipped to expand and it has a peek-a-boo feature on top so you can check on your child without stopping. This stroller is also easy to push around on every type of terrain — especially around tight corners. The stroller is light enough to lift up stairs, but we do recommend you use two hands when carrying down the stairs. When it's time to disassemble the stroller, simply press a button on the handlebar and bend the stroller forward. It’s so easy we didn’t even need instructions to figure out how to do it. You can even fold and unfold this one-handed, perfect for on-the-go travels.

The Details : 13 pounds | 41 x 30 x 18 inches assembled | 22 x 19 x 10 inches folded | 45 pounds weight limit

Most Adjustable

Thule shine.

  • Design 4.2 /5
  • Durability 4.8 /5

Assembly is quick and easy, perfect for first-time parents.

It can be hard to turn on sharp corners.

For such a compact stroller, the Thule Shine has plenty of storage, an expandable canopy with UPF 50+ protection, a reclining seat, and adjustable leg rests — everything you need for a busy parent and growing youngster to travel comfortably. We love the fast assembly of this stroller and the security of knowing everything clicks together when positioned and popped in correctly. There is an adjustable handlebar that is super easy to figure out, an extra rain canopy that you can pack and bring with you, and it is so easy to fold down. The harness does need to be clipped in a specific order before it can be fully buckled, which might become difficult with a fussy child, but we did find the seat to be comfortable and loved that it was extremely adjustable.

During our tests, it only suffered minimal scuffing and we never felt as though it would tip or fall while maneuvering through an obstacle course. We were able to fold the stroller with just one hand, but it was difficult to get it fully locked into the travel position without using two hands. It does stand upright once folded, so you can pop it down quickly for storage, whether you're coming back home and stashing it in a closet or boarding a plane. The stroller also fits easily into car trunks, but is most suitable for gate checking and is not likely to fit in overhead airplane bins. Overall, the stroller felt durable and was light enough that most parents would be able to carry it when needed. We felt like it would last through at least a couple of kids should your family use it multiple times, which is perfect for growing families.

The Details : 21.6 pounds | 35 x 42 x 20 inches assembled | 13 x 27 x 20 inches folded | 49 pounds weight limit

Other Travel Strollers We Liked

Some of the travel strollers we tested did not make our list of recommendations. They all had positive attributes, but a few things held them back.

Summer Infant 3DLite : This is a decent budget option, but the price-to-performance ratio was just not quite as good as the Kolcraft Cloud Plus.

Doona Infant Car Seat and Latch Base : The easy-to-maneuver pick collapses into a car seat but the use case for this is too specific to pay as much as it costs, and many other stroller frames can fit a car seat.

Gb Pockit Air All Terrain : This one is incredibly light and folds easily, but there are basically zero features.

Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Stroller : While this is a sleek and stylish option, i t's not easy to carry, and the canopy adjustment makes a lot of noise, which could wake up a sleeping baby.

Munchkin Sparrow : The lightweight design is smart and thoughtful, but everything from the canopy to the storage bin is simply too small. 

Once we fully assembled all strollers in our New York City testing lab, we measured their height, length, and width, both fully opened and fully folded down. We also weighed each one, since weight is a particularly important aspect if anyone will be carrying the stroller during a trip. Then after carefully reading instructions, we repeatedly folded and unfolded each stroller. We took copious notes to record whether the folding process was intuitive and easy to execute. We considered how difficult it would be to do with a baby in one arm or with a whiny toddler pulling at our legs.

While each stroller was in its most compact setup, we tested it for portability. Is it easy to pick up? Comfortable to carry? Are there good handles and straps? Is it compact enough to fit in an airplane overhead bin (we constructed our own makeshift one according to standard airline measurements using a storage rack and a box). We recorded all this and more.

Next we carefully examined each stroller for included features. We looked for seat reclining and cushioning, cup holders, baskets and other storage space, canopy cover for protection from the weather, seat cushioning and reclining, and more. We tried the features out and took detailed notes on whether they were functional and helpful. We also practiced buckling and unbuckling the straps.

Then we put 25-pound sandbags in every stroller. We wheeled them forward and backward over hard floor, carpet, and gravel. We practiced U-turns and pivots and even wheeled them through a miniature obstacle course of cones. We also noted how well the brakes worked and if they were easy to engage.

Finally, we gave all of the strollers a durability test. We dropped each one from waist height and then pushed each off of a table slightly higher than that. We examined each after the falls to see if there was any damage.

After completing our lab tests, we sent each stroller out to real families to use these strollers over a period of six months to really put them to the test. Throughout the testing period, we asked how each stroller was holding up in terms of durability, comfort, portability, and more and updated our findings here.

Tips for Buying a Travel Stroller

Consider the types of travel strollers.

Not all travel strollers are designed with the same priorities in mind. Some may emphasize a lightweight and packable style while others are focused on maneuverability or durability. There are umbrella strollers, that are best for toddlers, but light enough for travel; jogging strollers with advanced suspension for smooth rides; and even full-sized strollers that may not seem best for air travel, but often include great features like storage compartments and padded seats when portability is less of an issue. When it comes to selecting the best travel stroller for your family, think about portability and convenience, but don't forget about comfort and bonus accessories to make your trip a smooth and unforgettable experience.

Pay attention to folded size

The biggest differentiator between a regular stroller and a travel stroller is that a travel stroller should pack up more compactly. You'll want it to fit easily into car trunks or train/airplane compartments without taking up much space. The Joolz Aer , our top pick, folds down to 8.5 (height) x 21 (length) x 17.75 (width) inches. That's a good guide for a stroller that will fit nicely into the aforementioned compartments.

Remember storage space and other features

Just because your travel stroller might be a smaller and more scaled-down version of your everyday stroller, you shouldn't have to suffer from a lack of convenience. Good travel strollers still offer some storage space for small bags, toys, snacks, etc. Remember, you can always add a drink caddy for both your stroller and luggage. The seat for your baby should be padded and comfortable and able to recline; keep an eye out for a canopy that offers good coverage and buckles and straps that are easy to use. So, while compact folding and good portability are what make a travel stroller a travel stroller, be sure to look closely at the other features a stroller does (or does not) include.

Prioritize comfort and safety

At the end of the day, your stroller needs to be safe and comfortable for your child. Check for good, padded seats that recline. Make sure the straps don't look like they'd cut into your baby's shoulder or chest, and take note if there are leg rests. Note if the wheels can handle different surfaces well enough to keep the stroller from shaking and rattling too much.

If you can fit it in the overhead, you can bring it on board. If you have an umbrella model or are using your regular (non-travel) stroller, your best bet is to gate check it. But many travel strollers fold down so compactly that they fit easily into an overhead bin. In general, carry-on luggage should be 45 linear inches (22 x 14 x 9 inches) or less. You can reference the FAA website for more guidance.

In short, a travel stroller is lighter than an everyday stroller and folds down far smaller. This means that the frames are usually thinner and have several folding joints, and the wheels will be smaller and less suited for rough terrain. Storage space, cup holders, and other accessories will usually be kept to a minimum. But a good travel stroller should give you everything you really need and even function well enough to be used every day — all while folding down nice and small and being easy to carry or pack away.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Chris Abell is the Associate Editorial Director at Travel + Leisure , and he is a parent and frequent traveler. He's owned the Uppababy G-Luxe and the Joolz Aer, and he helped design and execute the testing for all the strollers on this list. Chris and associate commerce editor Hillary Maglin worked with a team of other editors and parents to test these strollers in our New York City lab space.

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japanese travel stroller

Related Articles

The 9 Best Travel Strollers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Make your trip comfortable and fun for all with these top picks

japanese travel stroller

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TripSavvy / Conor Ralph

A lightweight, collapsible travel stroller is a must-have accessory for parents on the move. There are many options to choose from, with the right stroller depending on your specific requirements. If you’re planning on traveling locally, a stroller that packs away into the trunk of your car may suffice; but if you're traveling overseas, you may prefer one that complies with airline carry-on restrictions. If you’re buying for a newborn, a fully reclining seat is necessary, while car seat compatibility is another factor.

We tested nearly two dozen strollers in our lab and rated each on their design, portability, maneuverability, durability, and overall value.

Final Verdict

Product selection, how we tested.

  • Others We Tested
  • What To Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, nuna trvl lightweight stroller.

  • Design 4.8 /5
  • Portability 4.2 /5
  • Maneuverability 5 /5
  • Durability 5 /5
  • Value 4.7 /5

Convenient one-handed fold

Suitable for newborns

Handles a variety of terrain with ease

Potentially unwieldy when removing from overhead bin

Our testers loved this stroller. "It was one of the best, if not the best, in the entire test," one tester concluded. But it's also one of the most expensive. The top marks begin with the fold and unfold, which was easy to do with practice. "Whoa! It folds for you! With alacrity," one tester reported. Our testers also liked smart features including easy and full reclining positions, good ventilation, a mesh window in the canopy, a big storage compartment, and a magnetic strap clasp.

But what really set this one apart from others was the smoothness of its ride. "It glides like a dream on every single surface," a tester reported. "There was no difference between the smooth hardwood and tile and the shag carpet. The gravel was also incredibly easy to maneuver, with little to no jolting or bumping up and down."

The nitpick our testers found was that it wasn't the easiest to fit in the overhead bin space, and our testers were concerned it could flop open when retrieving it at the end of a flight. Sure, this stroller is expensive. But if you've got the budget, this was one of the best of the batch.

Weight: 15.4 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 11 x 27.25 x 20.25 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 41 x 26 x 20.5 inches | Seat Dimensions: 10 x 13 inches

Best Overall Runner-Up

Gb qbit+ all city stroller.

  • Portability 4 /5
  • Maneuverability 4.9 /5

User friendly

Solid handling

Long lasting

Canopy could be improved

Gb's QBit+ All-City stroller scored nearly as high as the Joolz AER in our lab test but cost less. In particular, the QBit+ did best in our durability, maneuverability, and foldability tests. Folding requires pressing two buttons, but our testers could do it with one hand. "Locking it when unfolding takes a second, but overall it was really good," a tester noted. The QBit+ also passed our maneuverability tests with flying colors. And there was no damage to it during our durability tests.

Our testers noted that while the canopy has coverage and a mesh peekaboo window, it doesn't go down very far. It also didn't score best in our portability test since it did not come with a carrying strap. "We wouldn't want to carry it folded for long periods of time," a tester reported. But, for the cost, our testers thought the QBit+'s other features more than made up for it. "This stroller would be great as a regular stroller—not just for travel," a tester said.

Weight: 17.6 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 10.5 x 23 x 16.5 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 41 x 24 x 17 inches | Seat Dimensions: 9 x 13 inches

Best Budget

Summer infant 3dlite stroller.

  • Design 3.5 /5
  • Portability 4.5 /5
  • Maneuverability 4.6 /5
  • Value 3.5 /5

Budget-friendly

Cushioned handlebar

Ample storage space

Not the best for frequent fliers

What's better than a reliable, easy-to-operate, and durable travel stroller? Well, one that checks all these boxes without breaking the bank. The 3Dlite is that stroller. Though a bit bumpy over uneven terrain, it performed quite well in the maneuverability test and suffered no damage despite being dropped multiple times from several heights. A convenient carry handle makes porting around this mid-weight option relatively painless—but you'll have to gate-check it as it didn't fit in our simulated overhead bin.

Our testers would have liked to see improved features, namely a canopy that offers more coverage and a shoulder strap with padding. But, if you won't be traveling by plane much, the 3Dlite is a solid pick that will get the job done.

Weight: 13.6 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 10.5 x 42 x 12 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 43 x 24 x 18 inches | Seat Dimensions: 6 x 13 inches

Best Double

Uppababy g-link v2 stroller.

  • Assembly 4.9 /5
  • Design 5 /5
  • Portability 4.4 /5

Opens and closes well

Solid canopy

Excellent handling

Heavy (somewhat expected in a double)

Some details could be improved

For those with twins, friends, or siblings close in age, our testers like the G-Link V2 Double Stroller best. Our testers liked how easy the fold is, noting it can be done with one hand (although unfolding was a bit tougher). They also liked how easy it was to recline the stroller and that the recline had two positions. It also maneuvered skillfully. "The shag carpet was pretty easy with little drag or resistance," one tester noted. "The gravel impressed me, too; it was relatively smooth and barely bumpy." Another tester liked that there were no wheels in the middle of the frame (like most double umbrella strollers have). "It makes it easier to push without kicking the wheels or frame," they noted.

While our testers reported they'd liked to have seen windows in the canopy and pads on the shoulder straps, overall, they scored this stroller very well.

Weight: 21.8 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 14 x 40 x 17.5 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 41 x 25 x 28.25 inches | Seat Dimensions: 10 x 11 inches

Best Sun Shade

Uppababy g-luxe stroller.

  • Design 4.5 /5
  • Portability 3.9 /5
  • Maneuverability 4.7 /5
  • Value 4.5 /5

Solid portability

Loaded with functional extras

Supports itself in the collapsed position

Operating takes practice

Not great for packing into small places

An adequate sunshade is an important feature for many caregivers. The G-Luxe stroller offers loads of extra shade with its oversized canopy. But that's not the only feature our testers loved about this stroller. They also enjoyed the large cupholder, which fits travel mugs; how easily the footrest worked; the location of the pocket behind the seat; its padding; and the five-point harness with an adjustable shoulder strap.

Folding was a bit tricky and annoying at first with a handle and ring combo, but once you get it, the folding is smooth, our testers reported. While the stroller wasn't very small when folded, our testers did like the strap. "It feels light when you sling the strap over your shoulder, and it's nice that it will leave your hands free to carry more things," one tester noted. It performed well in the maneuverability test. Bonus: This stroller can stand on its own when folded.

Weight: 16.5 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 15 x 41 x 11.75 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 42.5 x 23.5 x 18.5 inches | Seat Dimensions: 9 x 11 inches

Best Lightweight

Kolcraft cloud plus stroller.

 Amazon

  • Design 3.9 /5
  • Portability 3 /5
  • Maneuverability 4.2 /5
  • Durability 4.5 /5
  • Value 4.8 /5

Works well (once you figure it out)

Only option with a tray

Portability is not great

If you're looking for a lightweight budget option, we like the Kolcraft Cloud Plus for its foldability, durability, and overall value. You're not going to get all the bells and whistles with this stroller. But you will get a functional item at a much more reasonable price than others on this list. Our testers liked how easy it was to fold and unfold, noting that this could be achieved with one hand (with some strength and coordination). The Kolcraft didn't have the smoothest ride, but our testers could push it through gravel even if the wheels stopped spinning because of its lightness.

You will sacrifice a few things with this option—mainly portability. While the stroller is one of the lightest we tested, it does not come with a case, strap, or handle. It also didn't fold down small enough to put in an overhead bin, meaning you'll need to check it at the gate if you fly with it, but our testers were impressed with the durability of the stroller. Overall, we view this as the Honda Accord of the batch. Does it have the performance and features of the more expensive models on this list? No. Is it great value, and will it get you—and, more importantly, your little one—from location A to B? Absolutely.

Weight: 11.8 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 10 x 33 x 17.5 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 38 x 27 x 18 inches | Seat Dimensions: 9 x 13 inches

Most Maneuverable

Baby jogger city tour 2 stroller.

  • Maneuverability 4.8 /5

Comfort features for the rider

Great value for its cost

Not as convenient for air travel

Our testers raved about the maneuverability of the City Tour 2. "The maneuverability on the Baby Jogger is exceptional," one tester said. "There was little perceptible difference between shag carpet and smooth wood and tile surfaces. And while other strollers struggled a bit on the gravel, this stroller navigated it with ease."

While the maneuverability of this one is stellar, there's a lot more to it than just that. The folding and unfolding were relatively easy. Our testers loved the recline, structure, and padding. They also liked small touches like extra legroom and adjustable calf support. While the storage space was minimal and there was no cupholder, our testers liked the functionality of the canopy and that it has a window.

One issue: It didn't fit in the overhead bin space, so checking it at the gate is necessary. But overall, our testers thought it was a solid performer for the stroller's price.

Weight: 14.5 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 7 x 22.5 x 19.5 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 40 x 26 x 20 inches | Seat Dimensions: 9 x 13 inches

Best Portability

Babyzen yoyo2 stroller frame.

  • Design 4.4 /5
  • Portability 5 /5

Excellent padding

Easy to stow

Solid over rough terrain

Not intuitive for folding and unfolding

For the best portability, our testers liked the Babyzen Yoyo2. It's not the lightest stroller we tested (but it's on the lighter side). And it's not the most compact (but it's close). But its compact size, relatively lightweight, plush and comfy shoulder strap, and metal bar handle combined to make this the overall best for portability.

Our testers also liked the canopy window, back pocket, basket underneath for boosted storage, and how easily it fits in the overhead bin space. They also liked how well it was handled. "There was minor resistance on the gravel, but it was smoother than many other strollers over the bumpier surface," one tester noted. "It maneuvers well for back and forth and changing directions."

Weight: 14.7 pounds | Folded Dimensions: 8 x 20 x 16 inches | Assembled Dimensions: 41 x 28.8 x 17 inches | Seat Dimensions: 9.5 x 12.5 inches

To make traveling as seamless as possible with a young companion, you'll want a travel stroller that's easy to fold and unfold, carries comfortably from place to place, and handles well over various surfaces. The Nuna Trvl Lightweight Stroller has all this plus top-notch durability. If you're looking for something affordable and lightweight, we also recommend the Kolcraft Cloud Plus Stroller .

Our editors and testers tapped into prior knowledge of strollers and stroller brands and conducted internet research to select products. Once a group of products was set, we whittled the list down based on the strengths and price of each stroller to get a range of functions and price points.

All products mentioned in this roundup were tested in our Brooklyn, New York lab. Products were tested for the following attributes: folding/unfolding, design, portability, maneuverability, and overall value. We also weighed and measured each stroller.

We followed the instructions to fold and lock each stroller and then unfold it. We rated it based on how easy these actions were and if they could be achieved with one hand. The design was ranked based on the stroller's extra features and how well (or not) those features worked. We were looking for things like adjustable handle heights, reclining positions, storage space, and canopies, among other things.

For portability, we folded each stroller into its most compact state and carried it around our testing lab, up and down stairs. We also created a simulated overhead bin space using a baker's rack. Maneuverability was tested with a traffic cone obstacle course in our lab and on different surfaces including hardwood, tile, shag carpet, fake grass, and gravel.

Durability was tested by dropping the folded strollers from waist height and from on top of a table. Lastly, the overall value was rated based on the cost of the stroller and how it performed in the tests compared to others.

Other Travel Strollers We Tested

Doona : We liked that this was the one stroller tested that also works as a car seat. It also performed very well in the maneuverability test, as one tester noted being able to maneuver through the cones one-handed. However, it was tough to fold and unfold (we had to watch a video to figure it out). Overall, our testers concluded that it was a specific product, and while it was good, it wasn't great enough to make our top picks.

Cybex Libelle Stroller : The Cybex Libelle Stroller was another good, just not great performer. It was fine in our tested categories and will get the job done. Our testers just liked the other ones listed above better. Our testers particularly liked how easy it was to fold and unfold.

Jeep Scout Double : Folding the Jeep Scout Double was not intuitive and took some figuring out. "Once you get used to it, it does get easier, but it's not very intuitive," concluded one tester. While this one falls into the budget range, our testers didn't care for it.

Mountain Buggy Nano V3 Stroller : The Mountain Buggy Nano V3 Stroller was lightweight and compact. It also did well in the maneuverability test on turns and with one hand. But this one had some quirks, like a reverse folding canopy and an unfolding process that was counterintuitive enough to keep it off our favorites list.

Jovial Portable Folding Stroller : Overall, the Jovial Portable Folding Stroller wasn't a super strong performer in our lab tests. It did fine—just nothing to put it over the top. The folding and unfolding took some effort. The handlebar was a bit low, and the canopy felt somewhat flimsy. And it struggled on the gravel during our maneuverability test.

Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Stroller : Waking a sleeping baby is a big no-no. And while the Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Stroller had some features our testers liked (folding and unfolding, excellent maneuverability, and good reclining), it was loud, particularly the canopy. "It just didn't impress across the board for the price," one tester concluded.

Colugo The Compact Stroller : The Colugo Compact Stroller checked many boxes. It can be folded and unfolded with one hand. It has padded shoulder straps. And it was pretty good at maneuvering and handling turns. But it performed poorly on gravel. And the buckles for the straps hurt our testers' hands. Plus, the canopy's performance deteriorated throughout the test.

What to Look For in Travel Strollers

If you're buying a travel stroller, you're after one that'll be lighter and more compact than your everyday model. Look for high-tech materials that are sturdy without adding extra weight. You'll find materials such as aluminum, polyester, and plastic are popular. Anything less than 15 pounds for an individual model is an excellent place to start, which applies to all the picks on our list. Fully collapsible models can be carried on board airlines, and weight restrictions for these are uncommon but not entirely nonexistent. Check your airline's requirements and restrictions before your trip.

A comfortable child on vacation is a happy child on vacation—so you'll want a stroller that will keep your child at ease during long days of sightseeing and exploring. Look for reclining seats, adjustable canopies, and padded harnesses. Keep in mind that features that add comfort often add weight. Consider a more minimalist design if you're planning to use a travel stroller primarily to get from point A to B or will be loading and unloading frequently. On the other hand, if you're road-tripping to natural or attraction parks , you and your little rider will appreciate those added comfort items.

Extra Features

Sure, you can go bare-bones with a stroller that's little more than a nylon sling chair on wheels, but you may also want features like cup holders or a rack underneath to hold larger bags. Your ideal travel stroller fits the specific needs of your family and the type of trip you have in mind. That extra storage space could save you from carrying another bag or two, which could turn a potentially stressful event into a relaxing and fun outing, depending on where you're headed.

The best travel stroller to take on a plane is one that fits in the overhead bin space, is lightweight, and is one that you feel comfortable using. When in doubt, check the folded dimensions of the stroller, matching it with the overhead bin space of the plane you'll be flying on.

You don't need a separate travel stroller. But if you do a lot of traveling—whether that's flights or road trips with your kids —we recommend having a travel-specific stroller. Many of the ones we suggested could double as your everyday stroller.

Jess Macdonald is a travel expert and has been writing for TripSavvy since 2016. She has honed her skills as a freelance writer specializing in travel, scuba diving, and wildlife conservation. She's also a mom of two who has traveled extensively (both at home and overseas) with her kids.

Nathan Allen is the Outdoor Gear Editor at TripSavvy. While not a parent himself, he's learned the importance of having a good travel stroller after spending a month road-tripping the Western US and Midwest with his four-month-old niece.

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Japan Horizon

Should I Take a Stroller to Japan?

When traveling to Japan with babies or toddlers for the first time, all the parents will eventually ask themselves if they need to take a stroller. Preparing for this huge trip to Japan can be a little stressful, and you want to make sure you have everything you’ll need. I understand you. Travelling with kids it’s not the easiest thing in the world and there are lots of things to pack, so why bother carrying a stroller with you to Japan? Well, the right question is: “How can you not have a stroller in Japan?”.

Travelers going to Japan with babies and toddlers will need a stroller to make their travel easier while moving around, sightseeing or even waiting in line. Parents with babies can eventually replace the stroller, which takes a larger place, with a baby carrier that can fit everywhere.

However, the stroller is still the most relaxing option, at least according to 85% of the parents I asked “Do you prefer a stroller or a baby carrier?”. In the next paragraphs, I’ll explain why it is a good idea to take a stroller to Japan and some inconveniences that you might come across. This way, you can be prepared for everything, and also, you’ll be able to make your own decisions because some parents might not have the same problems I have. 🙂

In Japan, You Walk a Lot

Kids need to rest, a stroller grants you security, a stroller can be used as a high chair, a stroller can be used as a change table, a stroller helps you with your bags.

  • What if Your Forgot or Didn't Take Your Stroller to Japan

Check Your Airline Recommendations

Your stroller must fold and be compact, your stroller must be light, your stroller must not be expensive, advantages of using a stroller in japan.

japanese travel stroller

I’m sure all parents can understand how useful a stroller is, otherwise, there wouldn’t be 75% of the parents using it with their 3-year-old kids. But more often than not, when they decide to travel far away (usually overseas), they start to hesitate about taking the stroller with them. I can understand that taking equipment like that can be complicated at the airport or the plane, but the stroller will literally save your life in Japan. 😉

Let me tell you in detail the reasons that make me think the stroller will be your best friend during your trip to Japan.

I bet you heard this before, but it is true. In Japan, you will be doing lots of walking and there’s no way you can avoid it. There’s so much to see around the main attractions that you will find yourself walking a little more each time. Plus, you will be walking to find a place to eat, to find places to buy souvenirs, to do some shopping, to return to your hotel (especially, if this one is not located close to a train/subway station). You might even get lost and have to walk a lot to find your way. Getting lost is not a bad thing because you will be able to see the best of Japan when you’re lost, but it will mean extra walking.

A trip to Japan is known to be somehow physically challenging for adults, so I let you imagine how that feels for kids . Can you imagine your small kid walking for hours? I know I can’t.

Hey, check out these recommendations I have for you!

Before going any further, take a look at some of the recommendations I've handpicked for you. I think these are essential items you should have on your trip to Japan. You can check them out and buy them directly from Amazon.

And when you need your kid to stay still because you’re admiring a beautiful view, or visiting a temple? Sometimes you just need to slow down a little, but kids don’t get that either and this is when a stroller can become really handy.

Whether you need to keep going or slow down, a stroller will certainly help you manage your kid and keep the right pace.

Don’t fall into the trap that a toddler doesn’t need a stroller anymore . Kids who start walking will be easily tired since they tend to run around all the time instead of just walking.

My kid is 3 years old, and I certainly use a stroller for long walks anywhere , even close to our home. When you go for a walk in a park, your kid will be tempted to run around and explore things, which is perfectly normal. When you decide to return home, that’s when things become complicated because your kid won’t have the same motivation and that’s when the stroller becomes a life-savior. Until now, there wasn’t a single parent who told me he or she preferred to carry a tired kid instead of simply pushing the stroller. Can you relate to this?

If this kind of situation happens near your home, expect it to happen in Japan as well. If you want to give your kid a rest from all the walking and sightseeing, use a stroller . It will be good for your kid and you, as well. Pushing a stroller will be easier for you than carrying a tired kid .

And if your kid still takes naps, a stroller is essential, especially one that can be reclined into a lay-down position. This way you don’t have to return to your hotel to let your kid rest, and you can do it on the go.

japanese travel stroller

No matter how good you are at taking care of your kid, you know that small kids run faster than you initially thought possible. Small kids have this amazing superpower of disappearing in seconds . They are small, they run fast, and they don’t listen to what you say to them. I let you imagine how fast they can disappear in a crowded country like Japan .

Unless you have an angel as a kid (I don’t, that’s for sure!), I recommend using a stroller to avoid any problems . A stroller will prevent your kid from running around, maybe putting himself or herself in danger, and will avoid the use of the annoying superpower I told you before.

I know that when my kid is in the stroller, I stress a lot less than when he stands by my side because he will hardly be able to get out of the stroller by himself.

japanese travel stroller

As you probably know, in Japan you shouldn’t walk and eat or drink at the same time . It is not a law, but it is a big no-no. Imagine that you bump into someone with your food full of sauce, and you stain his or her clothes, this could be a big problem, particularly when people are rushing to get on time. Now imagine kids with food on their hands.

Other than worrying about others, you probably agree that is much better to have your kid sitting somewhere when you give him/her food. Small kids can’t wait for you to find the perfect restaurant when they’re hungry , and sometimes, searching for a restaurant in Japan can take a lot of time (unless you have all planned and booked a restaurant in advance, but that’s usually not the case).

A stroller is, once again, your best friend because your kid can sit and eat without problems.

If your toddler still uses diapers, a stroller is a life-savior. Instead of having a hard time looking for a restroom with a diaper change station, just change your kid on the go in the stroller . Reclinable strollers are the best for these situations.

Babies and toddlers might have to be changed at any time without further notice so just push your stroller to some calm place, and you can end the problem right there. No need to stress while trying to find a restroom.

A stroller is not only useful for your kid, but for you too. If you plan on doing lots of shopping in Japan, and if you don’t you will certainly change your mind once you get to Japan, a stroller can be very helpful to carry all your bags.

Imagine yourself in a mall carrying your kid’s bag, toys, etc., plus your purse or backpack and all the shopping bags with souvenirs, etc. It will be a little complicated, don’t you think? I know that it is doable to carry all that at the same time, but I rather avoid it, especially in crowded places like Japan and when I have to manage a kid at the same time.

In these situations, a stroller makes my life so much easier so why should I deny myself this help?

You may also like: Should I Bring my Kids to Japan? Can Children Stay in Capsule Hotels?

The only inconvenient I can think of for a stroller’s use in Japan are :

  • Stairs (it is annoying to have to take a stroller through stairs when elevators are not available).
  • Escalators (less annoying than stairs, but also difficult, and most of the time it is forbidden to use a stroller in escalators).
  • Crowded trains are a true problem in Japan, especially during rush hour. Sometimes, it’s really difficult to get a person on a crowded train, so I let you imagine how hard it is to fit a stroller.
  • Small cafés/restaurants : Japan is full of small commerce and most of the time, you can’t enter if you do not fold the stroller. And even when you can fold it, sometimes it is still a problem.

The bottom line is that despite these few situations, I still think that more often than not, a stroller is a true life savior during your trip because of all the advantages we saw previously.

What if Your Forgot or Didn’t Take Your Stroller to Japan

japanese travel stroller

If you forgot to take your stroller to Japan or if you don’t want to travel with your stroller, there’s still a solution to have a stroller in Japan during your stay. It is possible, of course, to buy a stroller in Japan, but parents who tried that option didn’t find cheap strollers that could serve this purpose.

The best option, in my opinion, is to rent a stroller in Japan and then return it at the end of your stay.

There’s a cool company created by parents that can help you with the stroller rental. It’s called Lileo. It offers the possibility of renting high-quality Bugaboo strollers made specially for the city because they are compact enough to fit almost everywhere. Plus they are easy to fold, carry and store, and they can be easily pushed with one hand.

The service couldn’t be easier. You just have to rent the stroller online with Klook , and tell the number of days you need it. You will have to indicate your hotel address and the date of arrival so that they can send you the stroller just before your arrival. It is possible to receive the stroller in the following cities at the moment:

This couldn’t be more hassle-free for parents. You can benefit from all the advantages of using a stroller in Japan without having to travel overseas with your stroller.

At the end of your stay, you just have to return the stroller using the address label they gave you.

For more detail about renting a stroller in Japan check the Klook’s page for this service .

What You Should Know Before Travelling With Your Stroller

japanese travel stroller

If you decide to take your stroller to Japan, you have to keep in mind a few things. Not all strollers are the same, so you have to pick one that will fit your needs in Japan.

This is one of the first things you want to check before taking the stroller with you to Japan. As you know, airplanes have limited cabin space, so you will have to check in your stroller most of the time . Don’t worry, in almost every airline company, strollers are not subject to checked baggage restrictions , but it will be better for you if your stroller is not a huge one and if it can fold correctly. Also, it is better to have a case to check in the stroller, otherwise, it will be put in a plastic bag most of the time.

If you have a very compact stroller, usually you will be able to bring it on board with you if it respects the carry-on size regulations when folded . Just keep in mind that if several other passengers are bringing their strollers too, the airline company might ask some passengers to check them in.

However, if you choose to bring the stroller on board, you won’t be allowed to bring any other carry-on baggage .

If you’re traveling with ANA (All Nippon Airlines) or JAL (Japan Airlines), they have a full page explaining all that you need to know when traveling with babies and small children:

No matter what airline company you’re using, just remember to always check the stroller policy they have to avoid any problems at the airport.

This might seem pretty obvious, but it is really important in Japan because of the crowds . I already told you before that in some small cafés or restaurants, you can’t enter if your stroller doesn’t fold. Even if it folds, sometimes that’s still a problem. Unless you’re going to huge malls in the big cities, you will mostly find small stores everywhere and a stroller can be a problem.

When outside, remember that Japan is known to be a crowded country, especially in the cities so a compact stroller will be better to navigate the crowds .

An umbrella stroller is easily and quickly folded and can be a good option because you can push it easily onto the train (when it’s not rush hour).

A light stroller is crucial in Japan and pretty much everywhere, I guess.

You will probably have to carry your stroller a lot when you don’t have an elevator nearby so be ready for this.

Larger train stations have elevators, but finding them is another story , and if you’re in a hurry to catch your train on time, you will be tempted to take the stairs . In that case, I hope you brought a light stroller, otherwise, that can be a huge problem.

Many train stations have escalators, but you know that escalators and strollers are not the best friends so it’s better to avoid that.

The smaller train stations just have a lot of stairs (as well as many of the subway stops). This is starting to change, especially due to the Olympics, but it is better to be prepared to all kinds of situations.

Even if you have a top-quality stroller that is great and that you love a lot, I won’t recommend taking it to Japan. It will be useful, yes, but it can be damaged on the travel and that would be a pity. And even if your stroller resists airplane travel, you will be tempted to go everywhere with it and charge it with lots of weight, which can damage it too.

Also, it’s not uncommon to see a stroller parking in some places like restaurants, etc., so you have to be comfortable with the fact of letting the stroller away from you .

An inexpensive umbrella stroller can be enough to make your trip easier in Japan and you avoid damaging your best stroller.

For a long walk, I use a cheap stroller that I bought from Amazon for about $90. (Unfortunately, it is no longer available, but it’s like this one on Amazon .) It is the one that you see in all the pictures above, and it is pretty useful with its large shopping basket below and the meal tray. It folds easily, and it’s lightweight, but you can tell that it is not going to last several years, which is normal regarding the low price. I’ve had this stroller for 2 years now, and I’m pretty happy that it lasted that long considering the tough experiences we put it through 😉

The only inconvenience is the small wheels. If I were to change it, I would pick one with bigger wheels, which is easier to move around. I’m thinking about buying this one also on Amazon , if the current stroller breaks.

Just keep in mind not to spend a lot of money on a stroller that can end its days in Japan 🙂

japanese travel stroller

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japanese travel stroller

Wandermust Family

Traveling Japan with a baby

By: Author Wandermust Daddy

Traveling Japan with a baby

Are you thinking of traveling Japan with a baby? In this guide we will tell you all the tips and tricks we learnt from our own Japan travel experience with a baby, with advice on strollers, carriers, best time to visit and of course the best things to do in this magnificent country with a baby in town. 

Important Note : This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click through and make a purchase I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you!

Table of Contents

Travelling to Japan with baby tips and tricks 

Travel at the right time of year.

Japan is a very seasonal country but you will find the summer and winter in Japan have the more extreme weather. We visited Japan in the summer with our little one and it was definitely very hot so we had to be careful about over heating and dehydration. 

We therefore recommend visiting Japan in the shoulder seasons of Spring and Fall. The only issue with Spring is that because of the Sakura season and the beautiful cherry blossoms is that both the crowds and prices will swell. Therefore unless you are desperate to see the cherry blossom (and let’s face it is on many people’s Japan bucket list) we would say Fall might be the best time to visit Japan with a baby. 

Chose your Flight Time wisely

Now if you are traveling to Japan international, the chances are that you will have a long flight ahead of you so it is really important to prepare for the flight well. 

Firstly if you are traveling with a baby to Japan then you will want to make sure that you have the bulkhead seats reserved. Having the bulkhead will mean that your little one will be able to use the bassinet to nap in during this long flight (which means you won’t have to have them lying on you for the whole flight – turbulence withstanding). 

Also be sure to check that you know whether or not your airline provides baby food etc. Even when a ticket price says it includes this we will always take enough with us to cover us for the duration of the flight as there is nothing worse than a hangry baby.

On top of this if you are flying with a formula fed baby you need to make sure you have enough formal to last the whole flight and some extra. You can either pack this and take through security or preorder to pick up in the terminal. 

Be Prepared for Jet Lag 

Now if you are coming from Europe or North America for your Japan vacation then it is best to be prepared for jet lag. Now jet lag with babies is never fun however I actually found that my baby bounced back quicker than I did when we were traveling around Japan.

Our biggest tip is to make sure you have plenty of snacks with you, keep to the correct meal time at the correct time and most of all make sure you get outside and into the sunshine. 

Next Read:  For more information on great Asian countries to visit with kids check out this post.

Choose the right type of accommodation

As you may have heard space is at a premium in Japan and you will find that many of the hotel rooms are very very tiny. You might want to consider that airbnbs or accommodations other than hotels might be better for you and your little one especially when you are trying to get them over their jet lag. 

Move Around – Don’t just stay in one place

Traveling Japan with Toddlers - Kyoto to Tokyo with toddler

The rail system in Japan is amazing and I would definitely say that it is worth even if you are only in Japan for a week to sample at least two locations. The obvious two are of course Tokyo and Kyoto and they are two completing contrasting sides of Japanese life. But…

Don’t move around too much and take it slow

Slow travel is a must when you are traveling with toddler s or babies but in a place like Japan you really do want to cover mire than one place. 

We recommend picking one or two places to base yourself out of and then exploring them in depth and taking a few day trips too. Be sure to check out our Japan itinerary with kids for more information. 

TOP TIP : Also while for most couples and solo travellers in Japan who plan to move around a lot the JR Pass can be a definite budget saver however if you are looking at only doing one or two big journeys on the trains I would advise doing the calculation as it might not be a cost saving to you. But be sure to factor in the cost of day trips too. 

Take Day trips 

The great thing about basing your self out of big cities in Japan such as Kyoto and Tokyo with a baby is that there are almost endless possibilities for day trips. 

For instance the city of Osaka, Hiroshima, Nara for the deer and Arashiyama Bamboo Forest all can be done as day trips really easily from Kyoto. And from Tokyo you can get to Yokohama, Disneyland and Disneysea , Hakone as really easy day trips even with a baby.  

Time your Journeys

You may have heard that Japan is a busy place and it hasn’t been exaggerated. Tokyo in particular is a very busy place on the subway especially at rush hour.  To save yourself some stress by avoiding traveling in Japan at rush hour. 

Don’t overpack

You will notice that whatever accommodation you book you will find space it at a premium. And on public transport you will find it hard to move with masses of luggage. Therefore we recommend keeping packing to a minimum to make your life easier when traveling around Japan. 

Eating with Babies in Japan

One of the easiest things about taking a baby rather than traveling Japan with a toddler , is that a baby will not be fully weaned and you won’t need to put as much thought into what they will need to eat as restaurants. 

However do not expect there to be a ready availability of high chairs. Now those of us from Europe and North America might be used to all restaurants having a provision of high chairs however don’t expect this to be the case in Japan.

We found very few restaurants had high chairs so we packed a fold up fabric high chair which can covert any chair into a high chair which was very useful. On occasions where we didn’t have this with us she just sat on our lap during the meal or where there was room we used our stroller covered in a blanket in place of a high chair which worked just fine.  

While we didn’t eat at any high end places we did find that everywhere we went was more than happy for us to take our little one in and on many occasions the waiting staff are extra helpful with our little one. 

Japan with a baby Packing List 

Can i use a stroller in japan .

One of the things we had heard before we traveled to Japan was that using a stroller there was difficult. However, we decided to take one with us regardless. So did we find that you could use a stroller in Japan?

Can I use a stroller in Japan? Traveling Japan with a baby

Can I use a stroller in Japan? Traveling Japan with a baby

The answer was yes and no. We are definitely glad that we took a stroller with us and if we were going to Japan again we would definitely take a stroller again. However there are some places in Japan that are easier with stroller than others and some types of strollers are better than others too. 

For instance we recommend taking a stroller that collapses easily as you will find it has to be folded in some of the more inaccessible stations. 

While you can use a stroller on the subway in Tokyo, some of the stations are not accessible and do not have elevators so you will need to fold them up to take them up or down. 

Also the you may find shrines and temples slightly more difficult with a stroller. However I would still advocate you taking a stroller with you but I would also take a carrier too for certain locations. 

For more information on using a stroller in Japan check out this post. 

Should I take a Carrier to Japan? 

japanese travel stroller

But even if you like us decide to take a stroller to Japan, I would also recommend taking a carrier. This will be useful at some of the more inaccessible sites. Also if you are traveling to Japan in the summer months such as July, August and September I would recommend taking a carrier that can deal with hot weather . 

For instance I would take one that has a lot of mesh and is designed with hot weather climates in mind. If you don’t have one of these and your are traveling over the summer you and your baby will find it a very sweaty experience. 

Click here to shop hot weather baby carriers. 

Is if easy to find baby changing facilities in Japan?

The baby changing facilities we found in Japan happened to be some of the nicest and cleanest that we have ever used anywhere in the world. They might not be on every street corner however so it is advisable about thinking ahead to places that may have these facilities. 

Generally speaking we found the following places usually had great baby change facilities in them

  • train stations and other transport hubs
  • department stores 
  • tourist attractions such as museums

One of the other things I loved about Japanese toilets, apart from the toilets themselves obviously was that in each toilet cubicle I went to there was a seat on the back of the door where your baby or toddler could seat while you used the restroom. It was amazing and something I wish they would start introducing back home. 

Where to buy Baby Supplies in Japan

If you are traveling with a baby probably the biggest concern you will have is where can you buy baby supplies such as formula milk, pureed baby food and diapers. 

We found the department stores, although more expensive had plenty of baby supplies but the 7-11 and drug stores were probably the best places you could go to get baby supplies. 

We actually found all of the baby supplies we bought in Japan to be of excellent quality. In particular the diapers were super soft and we had never had any problems using. However you will probably find it cheaper to bring them from home if you have plenty of room in your suitcase. 

We also found there were a few varieties of baby formula to chose from. We used Meiji and our baby loved it. 

Admittedly it was easy to find the sizes and supplies we needed easier to find in the cities than smaller towns so you may want to factor this in so you don’t spend too long hunting down supplies. 

Also if you come across one of my favorite stores in Japan, Daiso it is always worth heading in as they sometimes have baby supplies and you will find them a lot cheaper here than anywhere else. 

Can I breastfeed in Japan?

While I was formula feeding in Japan I did see people breastfeeding with no issues. However everyone I saw was being discreet. 

What are the best places to visit in Japan with babies 

Tokyo with a baby.

Japan with a baby / Tokyo Disneysea with toddlers

Japan with a baby / Tokyo Disneysea with toddlers

No Japan itinerary is complete without visiting Tokyo. Being the capital and business centre of Japan it should come as no surprise that Tokyo will be the busiest place you will visit.

In order to have a success trip to Tokyo with a baby we recommend planing your day so your are never traveling at rush hour. But other than that the beautiful parks and other child friendly attractions mean that Tokyo is a great place to visit as a family. 

Some of our favourite places int eh city to visit with are baby are:

  • Borderless Teamlab digital art museum,
  • the two Tokyo Disney resorts
  • The Fish Market
  • Tokyo Tower 

I would recommend spending at least 3 days in Tokyo to explore the city on its own but if you want to do some day trips from the city I would advise prolonging the amount of time you stay here. 

Kyoto with a baby

Japan with a baby / Kyoto with a baby

Japan with a baby / Kyoto with a baby

Out of all the places we visited in Japan my favourite was without doubt Kyoto. While Tokyo is the business centre, Kyoto is the cultural capital of Japan and requires at least 4 days to explore this city fully. 

Some of our favorite things to do in Kyoto with a baby include:

  • The Golden Pavilion (Kikakuji)
  • Fushimi Inari 
  • Nijo Castle
  • Imperial Castle
  • Gion and the Geisha 

However there are also some great day trips that you can take from Kyoto too such as 

  • Nara to see the deer and 
  • Arashiyama bamboo forest

all of which are great places to visit with a baby. 

Osaka with a baby

If you are traveling to Japan with a baby I would personally recommend either staying in either Osaka or Kyoto as they are quite close together and can easily be done as day trips and will save you having to take luggage and all your baby paraphernalia to a new location.

We opted to stay in Kyoto as it had more of the things we wanted to see (Gion, Fushimi inure Tashi and the golden pavilion to name but a few) but this is really a personal choice so I would advise picking the one you think you will be spending the most time in for your base location. 

Nara with a baby 

Again, this is an easy day trip from Kyoto and while babies will love seeing the deer in Nara I think it makes a better day trip from Kyoto than as your base. 

Hokkaido with a baby

Best Things to do in Otaru Hokkaido with kids

Best Things to do in Otaru Hokkaido with kids

We spent over a month in Japan so decided to head up to Japan’s most northern island of Hokkaido. We loved visiting H okkaido with kids as it is much quieter than the island of Honshu and has lots of things that babies will enjoy doing such as the zoo in Sapporo.

I wouldn’t advise going to Hokkaido on your first visit to Japan especially if you are short on time but if you are a repeat visitor or like us are in the country for an extended amount of time it is definitely worthwhile. Check out our guides on the best time to visit Hokkaido and our Hokkaido itinerary for more information. 

Okinawa with a baby

We didn’t make it to Okinawa with a baby but it is currently near the top of our Japan Bucket List . Okinawa still has loads of cultural things to do but the attraction for me is to see its beautiful beaches. Hopefully I will be writing about a trip to Okinawa soon! 

FAQs about Japan travel with a baby

Is japan a good place to travel with a baby.

Although Japan is known for being busy, work centred and crowded I have to say Japan is one of our favourite places to visit with a baby. Although Tokyo is all of the above things, it is also friendly, exciting and very baby friendly with oodles of attractions your baby will love such as the gardens and parks for instance. It is also a great place to have your child’s first Disney experience. 

But outside of the capital you can also find countryside, cultural icons and much much more that you will enjoy exploring with a bay. We would go back to Japan with a baby tomorrow. 

Is Japan a child friendly country?

We found Japan to be an absolutely child friendly country but it was perhaps even more so a baby friendly country. We had no problems finding baby supplies and wherever we went with our baby we were greeted warmly and had an amazing time. 

Is Japan stroller friendly?

I would say Japan both is and isn’t a stroller friendly country. It depends where you are as to how stroller friendly it is. For more information see out post on using a stroller in Japan which breaks down where you should and shouldn’t use a stroller in Japan. 

Have you been to Japan with baby? What were your favourite things or top pieces of advice?

Kawaii Journeys

15 Best Strollers for Travel: Ideal for Navigating Japan with Kids

best stroller for travel

  • December 24, 2023
  • kawaiijourneys

Strap on your adventure boots and get ready to hit the road with your little one in tow! We've scoured the market to bring you the 15 best strollers for travel, each one lightweight, compact, and perfect for those on-the-go parents who refuse to let anything slow them down.

From the Summer Infant 3Dmini Convenience Stroller in vibrant blue and black to the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Ultra-Compact Travel Stroller in sleek jet black, we've got you covered.

But that's just the beginning – there's so much more to discover in this exciting world of travel strollers.

Are you ready for the ride of a lifetime?

Summer Infant 3Dmini Convenience Stroller (Blue/Black)

compact and stylish stroller

For the adventurer seeking a lightweight and compact stroller that's perfect for travel, the Summer Infant 3Dmini Convenience Stroller (Blue/Black) is the ultimate choice.

This stroller is designed to meet the needs of on-the-go parents who crave adventure and excitement. With its durable steel frame and lightweight construction, you can easily navigate through any terrain with ease.

The compact fold feature allows for effortless storage and travel, making it the ideal companion for your next adventure. The multi-position recline and padded seat provide ultimate comfort for your little one, while the hassle-free canopy with sun visor offers protection from the elements.

Plus, with the extra storage basket and cup holders, you can conveniently carry all your essentials while exploring the world. Don't let anything hold you back from your next adventure – choose the Summer Infant 3Dmini Convenience Stroller (Blue/Black) and embark on your journey with style and convenience.

Best For: Adventurous parents who are looking for a lightweight and compact stroller that's perfect for travel.

  • Durable steel frame for long-lasting use.
  • Compact fold for easy storage and travel.
  • Multi-position recline and padded seat for maximum comfort.
  • Canopy may occasionally pop off.

Summer Infant 3Dquickclose CS+ Compact Fold Stroller

compact and easy to use stroller

With its lightweight design and quick one-handed fold, the Summer Infant 3Dquickclose CS+ Compact Fold Stroller is an ideal choice for adventurous travelers seeking convenience and ease. This stroller weighs only 17 pounds, making it easy to carry and maneuver during your travel adventures. Its compact fold feature allows you to quickly and effortlessly fold it with just one hand, saving you time and energy.

The stroller is also compatible with various car seats, providing versatility and convenience. Safety is a top priority with the five-point safety harness and adjustable seat for your child's comfort. The stroller offers extra storage options with a sizable basket, back pocket, and even a cell phone holder. Its oversized canopy provides excellent sun protection, while the large storage basket offers ample space for your belongings.

The multi-position recline feature ensures your child's comfort, and the stroller even comes with a child's cup holder and removable bumper bar. The peek-a-boo window allows you to keep an eye on your little one while on the move. Whether you're traveling or using it for everyday use, the Summer Infant 3Dquickclose CS+ Compact Fold Stroller is a reliable and convenient choice for on-the-go parents.

Best For: Adventurous travelers seeking a lightweight and compact stroller with convenient features.

  • Lightweight and compact design
  • Quick and easy one-handed fold
  • Compatible with various car seats
  • Not recommended for areas with gravel

Evenflo GOLD Otto Self-Folding Stroller (Lightweight Compact)

self folding lightweight stroller

The Evenflo GOLD Otto Self-Folding Stroller is a game-changer for travelers seeking a lightweight and compact option that effortlessly folds with just the touch of a button. This stroller is perfect for the adventurous and energetic parent on the go.

With its gravity fold and automatic folding operation, you can easily navigate through crowded airports or busy city streets. The Evenflo GOLD Otto stroller is designed to fit an infant car seat, making it convenient for families with newborns. The bumper bar doubles as a carry handle, allowing you to easily transport the stroller when folded.

With dimensions of 21.125 W x 24 D x 13.625 H inches when folded, it's compact enough to fit in tight spaces. Its one-hand activation provides instant folding, giving you more time to focus on your exciting travel adventures. The stroller can support children up to 55.0 lbs and 40.0 inches in height, so it can grow with your child.

The front suspension ensures a smooth ride, while the accent bumper bar, harness covers, and 2-panel canopy with an oversized peek-a-boo window add a touch of luxury. Evenflo has been a trusted source of high-quality children's products for over 100 years, so you know you're getting a reliable and durable stroller.

Customers have praised the Evenflo GOLD Otto for its easy folding mechanism, lightweight design, and sturdy construction. They also appreciate the extendable/foldable part, large canopy, and adequate storage. Some users have compared it to other stroller brands in terms of size and travel-friendliness. However, a few minor cons mentioned include squeaky wheels, lack of a snack tray, and a small storage basket.

Overall, the Evenflo GOLD Otto Self-Folding Stroller is an excellent choice for parents who want a compact and lightweight stroller that doesn't compromise on features or quality.

Best For: Travelers and on-the-go parents who need a lightweight and compact stroller that folds easily.

  • One-hand activation for instant folding
  • Suitable for children up to 55.0 lbs and 40.0 in height
  • Smooth ride with front suspension
  • Squeaky wheels

Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Toddler Stroller (Slate Gray)

lightweight toddler stroller slate gray

Designed for families on the go, the Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Toddler Stroller (Slate Gray) is a travel essential that combines lightweight convenience with comfort and style. Weighing only 12.87 lbs, this stroller is perfect for your adventurous spirit.

Its all-terrain wheels and front suspension ensure a smooth ride, allowing you to conquer any terrain with ease. The multi-position reclining seat provides ultimate comfort for your little explorer, while the extended canopy offers sun protection and a peek-a-boo window to keep an eye on them.

With a large storage basket and a parent tray with drink holders, you can bring all your essentials along for the journey. And when it's time to pack up and move on, the convenient one-hand fold and self-standing feature make it a breeze.

The Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Toddler Stroller is the perfect companion for your travel adventures. So, get ready to explore the world with your little one!

Best For: Families who are always on the go and need a lightweight and compact stroller for travel.

  • Lightweight design makes it easy to carry and maneuver.
  • Multi-position reclining seat provides comfort for the child.
  • Large storage basket and parent tray with drink holders offer convenience for parents.
  • Some customers had issues with the size of the stroller and difficulty in cleaning it.

Jeep PowerGlyde Plus Stroller by Delta Children (Grey)

grey jeep stroller with powerglyde

For the adventurous traveler seeking a lightweight, smooth-riding stroller with optimal support, the Jeep PowerGlyde Plus Stroller by Delta Children (Grey) is the ultimate choice. With its swivel front wheels and precision technology, you'll have outstanding control and effortless push, allowing you to navigate any terrain with ease.

The aluminum frame makes it incredibly lightweight, weighing only 13.7 lbs, making it convenient for travel. The stroller's compact umbrella fold, carry handle, and auto latch lock ensure hassle-free transportation. Its extra-large extendable canopy with UPF 50+ sun visor provides ample shade and protection from the sun. The four-position reclining seat guarantees optimal comfort for your little one, while the five-point safety harness ensures their safety.

With an extra-large storage basket and cup holder, you'll have plenty of room for all your essentials. Don't settle for anything less than the Jeep PowerGlyde Plus Stroller for your adventurous journeys.

Best For: Adventurous travelers seeking a lightweight and convenient stroller for their little one.

  • Lightweight aluminum frame for easy maneuverability
  • Four-position reclining seat for optimal comfort
  • Extra-large extendable canopy with UPF 50+ sun visor for sun protection
  • Some reports of parts falling off and wheels not turning well after minimal use

Disney Baby Character Umbrella Stroller (Hide & Seek Mickey)

disney mickey themed umbrella stroller

With its eye-catching and fun design, the Disney Baby Character Umbrella Stroller (Hide & Seek Mickey) is the perfect travel companion for parents seeking an adventurous and compact stroller option. This 3D stroller features a Mickey Mouse theme, adding a touch of personality to your little one's ride. It's compact and easy to fold, making it convenient for travel.

The stroller includes a 3-point harness, parking brakes, and a footrest for secure and comfortable strolling. With a weight limit of up to 40 lbs, it's suitable for a wide range of ages. The 3D canopy provides shade and adds to the stroller's playful appeal. Additionally, there's a convenient storage basket for essentials like blankets and snacks.

Whether you're going for a spin around the block or exploring the Magic Kingdom, this stroller is the perfect travel companion. Its compact design allows for easy storage in a closet or trunk, making it essential for longer trips, even when traveling light. Customers have praised its simplicity, lightweight, and easy assembly. They love how adorable and comfortable it's for their child, and appreciate its space-saving design.

Some have mentioned concerns about the stroller being low and difficult to push, so keep that in mind. Overall, the Disney Baby Character Umbrella Stroller (Hide & Seek Mickey) is a great alternative to bulky and heavy car seat strollers.

Best For: Parents who are looking for a compact and lightweight stroller option for their child.

  • Eye-catching and fun design with a Mickey Mouse theme
  • Compact and easy to fold for travel convenience
  • Includes a 3-point harness, parking brakes, and footrest for secure and comfortable strolling
  • Some concerns about the stroller being low and difficult to push

JOY & LOTUS Lightweight Self Folding Baby Stroller (Gray)

gray self folding baby stroller

If you're looking for a stroller that effortlessly combines lightweight design with convenient folding capabilities, the JOY & LOTUS Lightweight Self Folding Baby Stroller (Gray) is the perfect choice for your adventurous travels. This stroller features an ultra-compact design and a one-hand gravity fold, making it incredibly easy to use on the go.

The near flat recline seat ensures that your baby can rest comfortably and the UV and waterproof canopy provides protection from the elements. Safety is also a top priority with the padded 5-point safety harness and one-touch linked brake system.

The JOY & LOTUS stroller is travel-friendly and has an easy one-press auto fold, allowing you to quickly fold it up and store it in the luggage rack of an airplane, train, or car trunk. With its adjustable sun canopy and mosquito net, your baby will be protected from the sun and bugs while you explore new places.

Plus, the extra-large storage basket under the seat eliminates the need for an extra backpack or diaper bag. Don't let the compact size fool you, this stroller is built for adventure and will be your perfect companion on your travels.

Best For: Parents who are looking for a lightweight and compact stroller that's easy to fold and unfold, perfect for travel and daily use.

  • Ultra-compact design and one-hand gravity fold for easy transportation and storage.
  • Near flat recline seat and adjustable sun canopy provide comfort and protection for the baby.
  • Extra-large storage basket eliminates the need for an extra backpack or diaper bag.
  • Some customers reported issues with the foot rest and back rest.

Rollingsurfer Lightweight Baby Stroller with Cup Holder & Sleep Shade

lightweight stroller with accessories

Discover the ultimate lightweight travel stroller, perfect for the adventurous parent on the go – the Rollingsurfer Lightweight Baby Stroller with Cup Holder & Sleep Shade. This stroller is designed to make your travels with your little one a breeze.

With its compact and lightweight design, weighing only 14.33 lbs, you can easily carry it wherever your adventures take you. The one-hand easy foldable design allows for quick and hassle-free storage and portability. The adjustable reclining backrest and canopy ensure your baby's comfort, while the oversized basket provides ample storage space for all your essentials. The high-quality construction with a heavy-duty aluminum frame ensures durability and stability. Plus, the extended sun canopy and detachable armrest offer added convenience and protection.

With positive customer reviews praising its practicality, compactness, and comfort, the Rollingsurfer Lightweight Baby Stroller is a must-have for any on-the-go parent.

Best For: Parents who are looking for a lightweight and compact stroller for travel and everyday use.

  • Lightweight and easy to carry
  • One-hand easy foldable design for quick storage and portability
  • Adjustable reclining backrest and canopy for baby's comfort
  • Maximum weight capacity may be limited for older and heavier toddlers

Munchkin Sparrow Ultra Compact Lightweight Travel Stroller

compact and lightweight travel stroller

The Munchkin Sparrow Ultra Compact Lightweight Travel Stroller is the perfect choice for families on the go, providing a convenient and hassle-free way to travel with your little one. This stroller is designed for adventure and offers an energetic and detail-oriented experience.

With its lightweight and collapsible design, it's small enough to fit into most overhead airplane bins, making it a great companion for your travels. The stroller unfolds with ease, requiring no assembly, and measures only 15 x 14 x 6.25 inches when folded, weighing under 13 lbs. It features a 5-point harness and a modern carrying case for easy packing.

The mesh headrest keeps your little one comfy and cool, while the sun shade provides protection from the elements. Although some customers have mentioned issues with the lower basket breaking and the sun shade size, overall, the Munchkin Sparrow Ultra Compact Lightweight Travel Stroller has received positive feedback for its compactness, durability, and ease of use.

So, get ready for your next adventure with this fantastic travel stroller!

Best For: Families on the go who need a compact and lightweight stroller for travel.

  • Lightweight and collapsible design for easy travel
  • Fits in most overhead airplane bins
  • Includes a 5-point harness and modern carrying case for convenience
  • Some customers have difficulty folding the stroller with one hand

gb Pockit+ All-Terrain Travel Stroller (Velvet Black)

compact and versatile travel stroller

For the adventurous traveler seeking a compact and lightweight stroller, the gb Pockit+ All-Terrain Travel Stroller (Velvet Black) is the perfect choice. Weighing only 9 1/2 pounds, this stroller is designed to be easily carried with its attached handle. Its durable construction and flexible design make it suitable for everyday use and travel.

The stroller features a reclining seat back and UPF50+ sun canopy, ensuring your little one's comfort and protection from the sun. With agile front swivel wheels, maneuverability is a breeze, allowing you to navigate through any terrain. The gb Pockit+ supports children from 6 months old up to 55 pounds and is 2-in-1 travel system ready with included adapters for CYBEX infant car seats.

Its compact size when folded makes it perfect for storing in overhead compartments or tight spaces. However, be aware that it doesn't come with cup holders or additional storage.

Overall, the gb Pockit+ All-Terrain Travel Stroller (Velvet Black) is a reliable companion for your adventurous travels.

Best For: Adventurous travelers seeking a compact and lightweight stroller.

  • Compact and collapsible design perfect for air travel and tight spaces.
  • Lightweight and easy to carry with attached handle.
  • Agile front swivel wheels for easy maneuverability on any terrain.
  • Limited storage space and no cup holders.

Jeep Unlimited Reversible Handle Stroller, Grey Tweed

jeep reversible handle stroller

When exploring the world with your little one, the Jeep Unlimited Reversible Handle Stroller, Grey Tweed, offers the perfect blend of functionality and style. With its reversible handle, you have the flexibility to choose whether your baby rides parent facing or forward facing, allowing for a truly interactive experience.

The stroller is also compatible with various car seats, making it a convenient travel system option. With an extendable European-style canopy featuring a UPF 50+ sun visor, your little adventurer will be protected from harmful UV rays. The reclining seat with three positions and adjustable footrest ensures your baby's comfort throughout the journey.

The stroller also comes with a child tray and cup holder, perfect for snacks and drinks on the go. With a large storage basket under the frame, you can easily carry all your essentials. The quick and compact fold makes it easy to transport and store the stroller. The Jeep Unlimited Reversible Handle Stroller is JPMA certified and comes with a five-point safety harness, providing peace of mind.

The reflective piping enhances visibility at night, adding an extra layer of safety. With 7 front swivel lock wheels and 8 shock-absorbing back wheels, the stroller offers a smooth and comfortable ride. While there have been some criticisms about the excess fabric on the canopy and the lack of a parent cup holder, overall, users have praised the handle and recline features.

The stroller is lightweight and easy to maneuver, comparable to more expensive options. However, some users have mentioned cons such as the size of the storage basket, lack of a parent tray, difficulty in collapsing the stroller with one hand, and limited maneuverability in reverse mode. It's important to note that the stroller doesn't have an adjustable height handle, despite being advertised as such.

Manufactured by Delta Children (Jeep), the stroller is backed by Amazon.com's Voluntary 30-Day Return Guarantee. So, when you're ready to embark on your next adventure, the Jeep Unlimited Reversible Handle Stroller, Grey Tweed, is ready to accompany you and your little one every step of the way.

Jeep AdventureGlyde Stroller by Delta Children

stylish and durable stroller

Ideal for the adventurous traveler seeking a lightweight and compact stroller, the Jeep AdventureGlyde Stroller by Delta Children offers the smoothest ride and convenient features for parents on the go. With its swivel front wheels equipped with precision technology, you'll have complete control and easy maneuverability, making every journey a breeze. The locking back brakes and puncture-proof 6-inch tires ensure safety and stability, while the durable steel frame weighing only 15 lbs keeps it light and easy to transport.

The 43' stroller height provides added comfort, and the easy compact umbrella fold with a carry handle and auto latch lock makes storing and carrying a breeze. This stroller meets theme park size requirements, so you can take it with you on all your adventures. With 3 recline positions, an oversized canopy with UPF 50+ protection, and an extra-large storage basket and cup holder, this stroller has everything you need for a comfortable and convenient travel experience.

The Jeep AdventureGlyde Stroller has received rave reviews, with users praising its quality, features, and ease of use. Whether you're exploring the streets of New Orleans or enjoying a day at Disneyland, this stroller will exceed your expectations.

Best For: Parents who are looking for a lightweight and compact stroller that offers a smooth ride and convenient features for travel and daily use.

  • Lightweight and easy to transport
  • Smooth ride and easy maneuverability
  • Durable steel frame and puncture-proof tires for safety and stability
  • May not be suitable for newborns as inserts are available only for older babies

Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Ultra-Compact Travel Stroller, Jet

compact lightweight travel stroller

With its ultra-compact design and lightweight frame, the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Ultra-Compact Travel Stroller, Jet, is the ultimate choice for travelers seeking convenience and versatility. This stroller weighs only 14 lb, making it incredibly easy to maneuver and handle on your adventures. Its one-step fold and auto-lock feature ensures a quick and hassle-free folding experience, perfect for when you're on the go.

The multi-position padded seat can recline to a near-flat position, providing optimal comfort for your little one. The adjustable calf support adds extra convenience and ensures a cozy ride. Don't worry about the sun's harmful rays, as the stroller comes with a UV 50+ canopy for added protection. Compatible with an infant car seat, this stroller can support children from birth up to 45 pounds. Plus, you can customize it with a range of add-on accessories to suit your specific needs.

Get ready to embark on exciting journeys with the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Ultra-Compact Travel Stroller, Jet.

Best For: Travelers seeking a lightweight and compact stroller for their adventures.

  • Lightweight and easy to maneuver
  • Compact design with one-step fold and auto-lock feature
  • Adjustable recline and calf support for added comfort
  • Small basket size may limit storage capacity

GAP babyGap Classic Stroller (Pink Stripes)

babygap pink striped stroller

Searching for a lightweight and compact stroller that doesn't compromise on style or functionality? Look no further than the GAP babyGap Classic Stroller (Pink Stripes).

This stroller is perfect for the adventurous and energetic parent who wants a reliable and stylish travel companion. With swivel front wheels featuring precision technology, you'll have full control over your stroller's movements. The locking back brakes provide extra safety and peace of mind. The puncture-proof tires ensure a smooth ride, no matter where your travels take you.

The stroller offers three recline positions, allowing your little one to rest comfortably. The oversized canopy with an extendable sun visor provides ample protection from the sun's rays. The ergonomic leatherette handles offer a comfortable grip for long walks. The extra-large storage basket allows you to carry all your essentials with ease. The removable parent organizer keeps your belongings organized and within reach. Rest assured, this stroller is JPMA certified and equipped with a 5-point safety harness to keep your child secure.

The GAP babyGap Classic Stroller is made from sustainable materials, including soft surfaces and fabrics made from recycled water bottles. The plastic drinking bottles are sorted, cleaned, and shredded into flakes, which are then used for the seat fabric. Weighing only 14.5 lbs, this stroller is incredibly lightweight and easy to transport. Its compact umbrella fold, auto lock, and carry handle make it a breeze to take on the go.

The unique design of the stroller features easily recognized Baby Gap logos and iconic Brannan Bear icons. The elevated look of the stroller is further enhanced by the Brannan Bear featured on the wheels, canopy, calf rest, parent organizer, and safety harness.

In summary, the GAP babyGap Classic Stroller (Pink Stripes) is a responsibly made lightweight stroller that offers precise control, ample sun protection, comfortable seating, and plenty of storage. It's the perfect travel companion for parents who want a stylish and functional stroller without compromising on quality.

Best For: Parents who want a lightweight and compact stroller with stylish design and functional features.

  • Precise control with swivel front wheels and locking back brakes.
  • Ample sun protection with an oversized canopy and extendable sun visor.
  • Plenty of storage with an extra-large storage basket and removable parent organizer.
  • Recommended for ages 9 months and up, limiting usability for younger infants.

Eaocrhu Convenience Stroller, Lightweight and Foldable Travel Stroller (Black)

convenient lightweight travel stroller

When it comes to the best strollers for travel, the Eaocrhu Convenience Stroller stands out with its lightweight design and convenient foldability, making it a top choice for adventure-seeking parents on the go. Weighing just 18 pounds, this stroller won't weigh you down as you navigate through busy airports or explore new cities.

With its multiposition recline and one-hand fold feature, you can easily adjust the seat to your child's comfort and quickly fold it up for storage or transportation. The 5 point safety harness ensures your little one stays secure, while the 180° adjustable seat rotation allows you to easily change their direction. The adjustable handle accommodates people of different heights, and the large sunshade provides ample protection from the elements.

While some customers have mentioned that the storage space is a bit limited, overall, the Eaocrhu Convenience Stroller has received positive reviews for its compactness, maneuverability, and ease of use. So, if you're looking for a stroller that can keep up with your adventurous spirit, this is the one for you.

Best For: Adventurous parents who are always on the go and need a lightweight and compact stroller for travel.

  • Lightweight design and easy one-hand fold for convenient transportation.
  • Multiposition recline and adjustable seat rotation for optimal comfort.
  • Adjustable handle and large sunshade for added convenience and protection.
  • Limited storage space may not be sufficient for all belongings.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Stroller for Travel

When choosing a stroller for your travel adventures, there are several factors to consider that will make your journey smooth and hassle-free.

First, look for a lightweight design that will be easy to maneuver and carry around.

Compact foldability is also essential, allowing you to store the stroller easily in tight spaces.

Additionally, consider the stroller's travel-friendly features and its storage capacity, ensuring that it meets your specific needs on the go.

Lightweight Design

For a stroller that will make your travel adventures a breeze, look no further than the lightweight design. These strollers are specifically designed to be easy to carry and convenient for both travel and everyday use. They're compact and foldable, allowing for easy storage and transport.

With features like multi-position recline for your baby's comfort and parent-friendly additions like cup holders and storage pouches, these strollers have got you covered. One of the best things about lightweight strollers is their maneuverability and ease of use, making them suitable for various terrains.

But don't forget to consider the stroller's durability and construction to ensure it meets your travel needs. So, get ready to explore the world with a lightweight stroller that will make your journey truly unforgettable.

Compact Foldability

Compact foldability is a game-changer when it comes to choosing a stroller for your travel adventures. Imagine effortlessly folding up your stroller with just one hand, ready to hit the road in no time.

The compact design allows for easy storage and travel convenience, making it ideal for on-the-go parents like yourself. Not only is it perfect for travel, but it's also suitable for everyday use.

These strollers are designed to tackle various terrains, ensuring a smooth ride wherever your adventures take you. Users rave about the lightweight and compact features, making it a breeze to maneuver through crowded airports or narrow city streets.

Say goodbye to bulky, hard-to-fold strollers and embrace the freedom of compact foldability. Your travel experiences will never be the same again.

Travel-Friendly Features

As you continue your journey of exploring the best strollers for travel, let's now dive into the exciting world of travel-friendly features that will enhance your on-the-go experiences.

Picture this: you're strolling through a bustling city or exploring a picturesque park with your little one comfortably reclined in their stroller. With a lightweight and compact fold, this travel companion effortlessly fits into tight spaces and is easy to store and transport.

The multi-position recline ensures your baby's comfort, allowing them to nap or sit upright as they please. And don't worry about the sun's rays, because the hassle-free canopy provides ample shade and sun protection.

Need to bring along essentials? No problem! Convenient storage options like a storage basket and cup holders make it easy to keep your belongings within reach.

This stroller isn't just suitable for travel, but also for everyday use, making it the perfect companion for your adventurous lifestyle.

Get ready to conquer the world with your little one in tow!

Maneuverability and Ease

Enhance your travel adventures with a stroller that effortlessly glides through any terrain and crowded areas, providing you with unparalleled maneuverability and ease.

When choosing a stroller for travel, it's crucial to consider the stroller's maneuverability and ease of use. Look for features like swivel front wheels, adjustable handlebars, and precision technology that enhance maneuverability and control.

A compact and lightweight design is also essential as it makes the stroller easier to handle and transport, especially during travel. Evaluate the folding mechanism and ease of operation, ensuring it can be conveniently folded and unfolded with one hand for quick and hassle-free use.

Additionally, check user feedback for positive experiences regarding maneuverability, easy folding, and a smooth ride. These aspects contribute to overall convenience and satisfaction, making your travel experience more enjoyable and effortless.

Storage Capacity

When it comes to choosing a stroller for travel, don't forget to consider the storage capacity, ensuring you have enough space for all your essential items while embarking on your exciting adventures. Make sure the stroller has an extra-large storage basket, so you can easily accommodate your baby's necessities and your own belongings.

Look for strollers with convenient features like accessible cup holders and additional storage pouches, allowing you to keep essential items within easy reach during your travels.

Opt for a stroller with a compact and foldable design, making it effortless to store and transport. Check the stroller's weight and dimensions when folded, ensuring it meets airline and transportation size restrictions.

Choose a stroller that's portable and convenient, with a one-hand fold design and lightweight materials, so you can effortlessly navigate your way through your travel destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions Can the Strollers Listed Be Used as Carry-On Luggage on an Airplane?

Yes, you can use the strollers listed as carry-on luggage on an airplane. They are lightweight, compact, and perfect for on-the-go parents like you. So, get ready for an adventurous journey!

Are Any of These Strollers Suitable for Newborns?

Looking for a stroller for your newborn? Look no further! These lightweight, compact strollers are perfect for on-the-go parents like you, providing comfort and convenience for your little one from day one.

Do Any of These Strollers Have Adjustable Handlebars for Parents of Different Heights?

Yes, some of these strollers have adjustable handlebars for parents of different heights. They're designed to accommodate your needs and make your on-the-go adventures comfortable and convenient. You'll have no problem finding the perfect fit!

Are There Any Additional Accessories or Attachments Available for These Strollers?

You'll be thrilled to discover that these strollers come with a wide range of accessories and attachments. From handy cup holders to convenient storage bags, you'll have everything you need for your on-the-go adventures!

Can These Strollers Be Used on Different Types of Terrain, Such as Gravel or Grass?

Yes, these strollers are designed to handle various terrains, like gravel and grass. With their sturdy wheels and durable construction, you can confidently navigate any path and enjoy your adventures with ease.

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Visiting Japan with a Stroller 赤ちゃんと日本で旅行する

  • Published on : 21/10/2014
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In Japan, there are several paid stroller rental.

Traveling with a baby <br>

From Japanese diapers to strollers for rent, how to facilitate a trip with a toddler.

Besides the jet lag, traveling with a toddler in Japan is easier than many other countries. Highlights of the Archipelago: Equipment and services. Diapers and milk for babies can be found in supermarkets open 24/7 . Public places and shopping centers are (almost) always equipped with changing tables, and hotels and ryokan offer babysitting services.

Since 2006, children must have their own passport , and it is no longer possible to place a minor on his or her parent's passport.  Please check you home countries rules and regulations about passports.

Although there are no mandatory vaccinations for a trip to Japan, it is imperative that the child is up to date on his or her vaccines.

Spoon and bottle

It is not easy to find baby food in Japan (check out the chain store  Ippondo ) and the flavors are often not liked by non-Japanese babies... better to plan a small stock of food in your luggage or a small pressure cooker (but watch out for electrical standards ).

The illustrations on baby food containers can be of great help, but understanding them is another matter. Here are some tips to choose a suitable milk .

Public transport

Free for children under 6 and half price between 6 and 12 years old (bus, subway, and the Japan Rail Pass ).

In Tokyo, avoid rush hour! There is no way to get out of the stroller on the subway, and the lack of space can scare the little ones. Also, choose a stroller that will be easy to carry up and down the many steps of temples.

Stroller for rent

We can avoid bringing a bulky stroller by renting one in Japan, for example from the online shops Nicebaby or Babyfriend , which offer car seats, cots, baby carrier, etc. These sites are all in Japanese, but the hotel staff will be happy to assist you. For the rest of your XXS shopping, the store Akachan Honpo (nationwide) offers a wide range of baby goods, strollers and maternity clothes.

Note that some department stores (such as Canal City  in Fukuoka) have strollers for free while shopping.  

Good advice

Japan for Kids, a guide book specially designed for traveling with a child in Japan, provides valuable advice but the latest edition dating back to 2000, and numerous addresses given are gone.

For further reading on the web:

  • Tokyo Urban Baby , a handy blog by an American mom in Tokyo
  • Surviving in Japan  has information on all baby products in Japan (bottles, diapers, wipes ...)

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Hangry By Nature

Airline lost your luggage? Hotel ran out of cribs? Or perhaps you simply want to travel light. It’s 100% possible thanks to Lileo stroller rental in Tokyo and most cities in Japan.

Travelling is one of the best experiences a parent can give to their kids, and.. themselves. Look, as much as we love saying “we’re doing it for the kids”, we’re really half doing it for ourselves. True? There’s no shame about that. Heck, I ain’t judgin’. I’m applauding. However, the reality of travelling with young kids is hella challenging and, in most cases, puts your physical strength and resilience to the ultimate test.

By that, I’m talking about lugging oversized suitcases, travel cribs and car seats, whilst simultaneously carrying a baby on your chest and running after a toddler that’s gone rogue.

Four years into travelling the world with babies and toddlers (who have now grown into rambunctious lil boys) – I’ve only one piece of advice to give. Travel light . Easier said than done, right? We’ve mastered travelling with one check-in suitcase between the four of us so that we have more limbs available to fish back unruly boys who do not heed to the call of roaring parent voices. I swear, having kids gives you a first-hand experience of what it feels like to talk to a wall and completely waste your breath.

Via thorough destination research and picking the right accommodation with family-friendly amenities, we’re now able to achieve travelling light with less stress and hair-tearing-out situations. On our most recent Japan family holiday, we came across the brilliant team at Lileo Japan , who provide stroller rentals in Tokyo and most major cities in Japan.

Need more tips for travelling Japan with kids?

Top 10 Attractions in Osaka for Families

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Renting a Baby Stroller in Japan: Common Questions

Renting a stroller in Japan with Lileo is completely hassle-free and a process so easy that it makes a walk in the park seem hard. Seriously. You might be questioning whether you need a stroller at all, as your kids might be avid walkers. These answers will help you make a conclusive decision.

How stroller-friendly is Japan?

Train stations, shrines and temples – they are your greatest foes in Japan. Apart from these two somewhat stroller-unfriendly sites, I have no other grievances when it comes to pushing a baby stroller in Japan. It’s not that train stations don’t have elevators, it just takes a helluva lot of effort trying to find them without ending up on the wrong side of the platform and having to start over again. On the bright side, the search for lifts and hauling strollers up and down staircases is a great workout, especially if you’re needing to work off those matcha ice creams and crepes.

RELATED: How Family-Friendly is Japan? Your Questions Answered.

What type of stroller is best suited for use in Japan?

Compact and easily foldable. If you ever get caught in Tokyo peak hour (which I  do not recommend getting stuck in with or without kids) and you miraculously manage to squeeze your stroller into a carriage, you’ll be thanking whatever higher powers there are for having a compact pram.

Plus, if you want to swing into those teeny tiny delicious local eateries, having a bulky stroller is going to be your biggest setback. Staff will most likely ask you to fold it up or leave it outside.

5 Reasons you need a stroller in Japan

▪︎  Copious amounts of walking. The best way to explore Japan with kids is to *drum rolls* walk . Whether you’re wandering from one station to another or through epic department stores and alleyways, you’ll find yourself clocking up those fitbit steps like never before. The problem? Well, kids don’t seem to like walking.

▪︎  Kids are lazy. Unless the end destination involves a playground or ice cream, kids don’t see a reason to walk. Our 4-year old was always worn out by the afternoon from all the fun activities and general awesomeness of Japan, so we were immensely grateful for our stroller that allowed him to rest.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tina ft. 2 boys & 1 man child (@hangrybynature) on Oct 17, 2019 at 3:52am PDT

▪︎  Even older kids will nap.  Spending an entire day exploring the nooks and crannies of Japan is pretty exhausting, not to mention the jetlag that the kiddos will experience in the first week. A stroller is a must to avoid hand-carrying the kids.

▪︎  Get moving quicker and safer. Cities in Japan are densely populated and if you’re gallivanting around busy and touristy areas, it’s easy to lose track of small kids in a sea of humans. Plus, you’ll move from A to B a whole lot faster when they’re tucked safely in a stroller.

▪︎  A place to drape jackets & hang shopping bags. We used our Bugaboo Bee rental stroller from Lileo as a child transporter, a mobile coathanger and shopping bag carrier. Why lug bags and clothes around when you can hang them off a stroller?

Pick your stroller rental at Lileo today and get 10% off your order by using our special coupon code hangrybynature . 

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Lileo Japan: Stroller Rental in Tokyo & Other Cities

Praise the gods – renting a stroller is a  thing in Japan and there’s no better place to hire one than Japan’s first baby supply delivery and stroller rental company, Lileo . The service is ideal for parents seeking to travel minimally or for those unforseen travel mishaps (eg. airlines damaging them in transit).

Below are the benefits of renting a baby stroller in Japan from Lileo.

Reduce Travel Stress & Pack Less

After all, packing less on your flight over to Japan means more room in your luggage for Kit Kats, Pocky sticks and matcha snacks, right?

When we first started travelling with kids, our biggest gripes were juggling wiggly toddlers while carrying a baby and keeping track of our suitcases and bulky baby items that have become part of our travel life post-kids. To say it was a struggle is a serious understatement.

Clearly, the team at Lileo heard everyone’s travel parenting woes, and being parents themselves, they’re well-versed in the highs and lows of travelling with kids. Hence, they came up with the brilliant concept of delivering essential baby supplies and stroller rental in Tokyo and most cities and townships in Japan. Yay to having one (or more) less thing to worry about and account for.

READ MORE: 8 Baby & Toddler Beds for Airplane Travel

Rent Quality Strollers & Travel Cribs

You won’t be getting any random stroller or travel crib that you see at Wal-Mart or Target. Nah-uh. Top of the range brands is what you’re going to expect at Lileo. Their rental range consists of high quality products from reputable brands – they’re honestly so good that you’ll grow desperately attached to your rental by the end of your trip.

We named our rental stroller ‘Bumblebee’ like the yellow guy from Transformers and when the time came to drop our ‘Bee off at the post office, even my husband shed a couple of man tears.

lileo-baby-stroller-japan

Lileo’s range of strollers and travel cribs arrive disassembled for easy transport and thoroughly sanitised. For real, our rental stroller was so clean and in top notch condition that we were convinced it was brand new.

When you rent a stroller or travel crib for your Japan family holiday, Lileo offers the popular and much-loved Bugaboo Bee 5 and the BabyBjörn Travel Crib that comes complete with a mattress and organic cotton sheets.

YOU MIGHT LIKE: Top 10 Things to do in Osaka with Kids

Delivery & Drop-Off in any City

Travelling to Japan with a baby or toddler has never been easier. Lileo don’t just provide stroller rental in Tokyo – you can pick up and drop off rentals in any city in Japan. However, the lovely team at Lileo are more than happy to accommodate to requests to the best of their abilities. That’s what makes their service so exceptional.

If you’re staying in a hotel, your rental item can be delivered directly to the front desk. In some cases, Lileo are even able to arrange for rental pick-ups at Narita airport so that a stroller is available to transport your little ones as soon as you arrive. Be sure to contact them directly to see if an airport pick-up is available for your arrival date.

For visitors staying in Airbnbs or apartments, the process is also super easy. Have the stroller or travel crib delivered to the nearest post office and it’ll be waiting patiently there for you. Unlike many other countries, Japan Post is one of the safest and most efficient methods of delivery – post offices can be found on almost every block in Japan.

Get 10% OFF – use code ‘hangrybynature’

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tina ft. 2 boys & 1 man child (@hangrybynature) on Nov 7, 2019 at 2:50am PST

First-Class Customer Service

This deserves a category of its own simply because Lileo’s customer support goes above and beyond the normal spectrum of a simple business transaction. The husband and wife team deliver a personalised service to ensure that all visitors have an incredible time in Japan with their families.

Don’t hesitate to throw questions their way about exploring Tokyo with a toddler or uncovering the best things to do in Japan with a baby. They are seasoned travellers and extremely knowledgeable when it comes to family-friendly restaurants, activities and attractions in Tokyo and other popular cities. There’s nothing that will make your trip more whole than a little local insider knowledge, which Erika and Hiro from are more than happy to provide.

Fluent English Support

If you’ve previously been to Japan, you might know that fluent English customer service can be a little hard to come by. The first thing that struck me was that English support was impeccable at Lileo, which made it easy and efficient to convey any questions I had regarding their products and delivery.

We got by in Japan with a lot of big smiles, head nodding and bowing, but really, Google Translate was our saviour in situations when we really needed to get a message across, so it was refreshing to speak to someone at Lileo who not only advised us about their products and services, but on all things Japan.

baby-stroller-rental-japan

How to Rent a Lileo Baby Stroller in Japan

You know how I mentioned that renting a baby stroller in Japan from Lileo is easier than a walk in the park? I wasn’t kidding. Here’s how it works:

  • Jump on the Lileo Japan website
  • Click on ‘Rentals’ or ‘Supplies’ in the navigation bar
  • Pick your product(s)
  • Enter your rental dates and pick-up location (hotel or nearest post office)
  • Collect your order when you arrive
  • Drop your rental(s) off at your hotel reception or closest post office when you’re done

That’s basically it, folks. The entire process couldn’t be any more seamless. The only thing to be mindful of is to allow a minimum of 5 days for delivery. However, if you do require a last-minute rental, you can always try reaching them at [email protected] and they will do their best to meet your requests.

They’ve also currently got 50% off shipping which you can take advantage of. Partner that up with our code hangrybynature to receive an additional 10% off your order.

SEE MORE: 10 Essential Travel Accessories for Kids

What’s Included in Lileo Rentals?

Stroller or crib. Your rental product will arrive neatly packaged in a compact travel bag.

Detailed English instruction guide with pictures.  An easy-to-follow English guide is provided to help with assembling rental items, as well as instructions on how to return the product.

Transport bag.  Rental items arrive safely in a cover for protection and easy transport.

Rain cover (Bugaboo strollers).  This is also provided to help keep little ones dry inside the stroller on rainy days. Absolute life-saver because it rains a fair bit in Japan.

Return shipping label.  A pink slip will come with your rental which needs to be provided to your hotel or post office for return.

Other Japanese Baby Products Available at Lileo

Aside from baby stroller rental in Japan, Lileo also offer a host of other essentials for babies and kids that can be conveniently delivered alongside your pram or travel cot rental.

To further reduce packing stress and luggage weight, you can also purchase quality Japanese diapers, wipes, baby bottles, sippy cups and skincare products for your little ones. There’s no doubt that Japanese baby products are some of the best and safest to use in the world (we absolutely love them and stock up on baby and kids’ products each time), which is why you can be assured that Lileo only provide top quality products for use on your tiny humans.

You can even purchase a Diaper Bundle that includes wipes, disposable diaper change mats, odourless diaper waste bags and, of course, diapers. Traveling to Japan with a baby seriously couldn’t get any easier.

See the entire list of essential baby supplies available on Lileo here  and use our code  hangrybynature for a 10% discount.

travelling-to-japan-with-toddler

Travel to Japan with a Baby: Must-Know Tips

•  Don’t overpack baby products. You’ll find everything you could possibly need in department stores, electronic stores, toy stores, supermarkets and shopping malls. Japanese baby products are some of the best in the world – there’s no need to worry about the availability of baby supplies.

•  Bring a baby carrier. You’ll need one if you plan on exploring the beautiful temples, castles and shrines in Japan, as the grounds usually contain a lot of steps and stairs.

•  Diaper changing facilities can be found everywhere. Every public, station or shopping mall bathroom will have, at the very least, a diaper change table. They also have convenient baby seats in regular cubicles that will safely hold your baby while you’re doing your ‘business’.

RELATED: 10 Brilliant Toddler Travel Toys for your Holiday

•  Don’t breastfeed in public . It’s not exactly a sight that the Japanese are attuned to, however, private nursing rooms can be found in almost all department stores and shopping malls.

•  Don’t travel during peak hour. Holy moly – don’t do it. It’s a sweat and claustrophobia-inducing experience. Let’s just say it’s like being sardines in a can and there’s no way you’ll even come close to getting a stroller onboard.

•  Did I mention don’t overpack? Seriously, don’t. You’ll want to utilise  all the extra space in your suitcase for the ah-friggin’-mazing Japanese souvenirs and snacks you’ll accumulate. If I could’ve taken the whole country and incredible people home with me, I seriously would’ve.

For more tips on travel to Japan with a baby and kids – watch our How Family Friendly is Japan video.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tina ft. 2 boys & 1 man child (@hangrybynature) on Oct 29, 2019 at 5:32am PDT

Should I Rent a Stroller in Tokyo & Japan? The Final Word

If you’re not planning to bring your own stroller and you’re not 100% confident in your kids’ walking abilities or they still enjoy their naps – yes, yes and yes! You won’t regret renting a stroller in Japan. It will be your best companion for carrying the weight of kids, snacks, jackets and probably gachapon (Japanese vending machine toys).

A friend of mine who travelled to Japan with her 6-year old regretted not bringing a stroller because they spent most of their days walking and exploring, which – let’s be real – kids aren’t wholly into unless some form of bribery is involved.

This is what makes Lileo such a great service, as it caters for families travelling light and also parents who no longer own strollers, believing their little ones to be capable walkers only to find out that it’s not the case when an entire day of walking is involved.

Got questions about renting a stroller in Japan or getting around with kids?

Feel free to ask in the comments below.

This post was sponsored and created in partnership with Lileo Japan . However, all content, experiences and opinions are, always, our own.

Like it? Share it!

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The Best Lightweight Strollers for Travel in 2024

These strollers are perfect for traveling with toddlers and newborns.

best lightweight strollers

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

In order to find the best lightweight strollers, we reviewed over 30 strollers over the course of the past two years. For this update, we also got hands-on with newer variants of previously tested models as well as newer-to-market options.

Our top picks:

MINU V2 Stroller

Best Overall Lightweight Stroller

Uppababy minu v2 stroller.

3Dlite Convenience Stroller

Best Value Lightweight Stroller

Summer infant 3dlite convenience stroller.

Butterfly

Best Lightweight Stroller for Travel

Bugaboo butterfly.

AER Stroller

Best Luxe Lightweight Stroller

Joolz aer stroller.

The Compact Stroller

Best Full-Featured Lightweight Stroller

Colugo the compact stroller.

Jeep TurboGlyde Side by Side Double

Best Lightweight Double Stroller

Delta children jeep turboglyde side by side double.

City Tour 2 Ultra-Compact Travel Stroller

Best Lightweight Stroller For Infants Through Preschool

Baby jogger city tour 2 ultra-compact travel stroller.

Pockit Air Lightweight Stroller

Lightest of the Lightweight Strollers

Gb pockit air lightweight stroller.

Pivot Xplore Stroller Wagon

Best Lightweight Stroller Wagon

Evenflo pivot xplore stroller wagon.

Libelle

Best Ultra-Compact Lightweight Stroller

Cybex libelle.

Our Lab experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute test every type of baby product you can think of from baby toys to top-performing nursery gliders and high chairs . For most, we rated them for key factors including ease of fold, maneuverability (We run them around a track!), stability (We hang weights from the handles) and storage space (We place the same fully packed diaper bag in each basket to see how it fits.)

Why don't parents start with lightweight strollers? Some do. But consider: A lightweight stroller does not roll as smoothly as something with large wheels and a serious suspension system. If your baby is tiny, they will be less jostled and more cushioned when riding in one of the many great full-size strollers or car seat and stroller combos . As your baby gets bigger, they will be just fine in a smaller, lighter-weight stroller. And when you have a preschooler who wants to hop in and out of their stroller, you'll be grateful to have a lightweight one.

After our picks, stick around to learn more about how we test lightweight strollers in and out of the Lab and what to look for when shopping for one. If you are looking for even more options, check out our roundups of the best strollers for travel and the best portable car seats to improve short and long trips with the little ones.

If you're looking for a lightweight stroller you can use every day for several years, consider this top-of-the-line pick, a recent GH Parenting Awards winner. Despite having small wheels, the MINU V2 is great at handling rougher terrain. That's because it has the shock absorption and all-wheel suspension usually found in full-size strollers. This makes it a little over 15 pounds, but our testers still found it lightweight and easy to carry.

Other features we love for your child's comfort: The canopy zips out to provide lots of shade. The seat does not recline fully but it does lean far enough back for comfortable relaxation. Buy the adaptor and you can even snap the MESA car seat onto this. The footrest is adjustable, which is a nice touch.

Parents will appreciate that the storage basket can hold up to 20 pounds of whatever you need to put in there, though the basket is not particularly large. We found that we could fold the whole stroller with one hand and in one quick motion, so you should be able to do it while holding your baby in your other arm. Plus we're suckers for the real-leather trim at the handle and on the bumper bar, the bar that crosses your baby's lap and lets you hang toys to keep them occupied. While there is no cupholder included, there is a parent pocket you can use to hold your cell phone or your reusable shopping bags.

Some assembly is required, and we particularly got caught up trying to attach the canopy correctly, but we found the manufacturer's videos helpful. The good news is that once it's set up, you're good to go, and the no-rethread harness means this is simple to modify as your kid grows. If you want to check this at the airport, consider the travel bag accessory .

This $100 lightweight pick is also one of our best stroller picks. A carry strap on the back makes it easy to sling this over your shoulder if you have to carry it around , for instance, if your toddler insists on walking. If, on the other hand, your self-proclaimed "big kid" really needs a rest, the seat reclines for them.

The basket is fairly wide and open, but note that it can only hold 10 pounds. Likewise, the canopy has a pop-out sun visor but it is not as generous as many others. Those eight tiny wheels are great for maneuvering this through the supermarket — It did great on our obstacle course! — but they would not do well on a rocky trail. We see this as an excellent choice mainly for daily errands, runs to the playground and trips to preschool.

This does include a very small parent pocket (you could fit some dollar bills for the ice cream truck in there, but not much else) and a single cupholder. It's got more than 11,100 five-star reviews on Amazon, with most parents saying it's an easy, affordable choice.

With silky fabric and a fold that literally takes a second, there's a lot to appreciate about this new compact stroller, a winner of one of our GH Family Travel Awards. Kids can take comfort from the tall seat that reclines, the extendable footrest and the giant canopy that blocks the sun.

Both our GH Lab experts and our home testers liked how well this handles. This is another lightweight stroller that has suspension wheels similar to a more deluxe model. We noticed it could fly over New York City sidewalks smoothly. A big selling point is that it folds down quickly into a little rectangle to fit in the overhead compartment of a big airplane. (It might not fit in a small plane, but could be gate-checked.) One note: Buckling a child in requires connecting four pieces, and each makes an audible click — helpful because you know it's connected, but a little loud if your young tot is drowsy.

The Butterfly comes with a rain cover which is super useful. But like other strollers on this list, this one has other accessories sold separately including a cup holder and storage bag that fits on the handles. The Butterfly is so new that there's not yet a travel bag for it, but we suspect the brand will come out with one.

There's a reason this has a price close to a full-size stroller: It has quality construction backed by a lifetime warranty . It also comes with accessories such as a rain cover and travel bag that other brands ask you to buy separately.

The Dutch brand has a patent pending on the seat construction for its ergonomic, supportive design — it's like a little nest that's supposed to conform to a child's body. The seatback is also taller than many, making it able to accommodate a growing preschooler. Testers said that their kid was totally comfortable riding in this for an afternoon, though in the Lab, we found the recline feature a bit cumbersome to implement.

The seat doesn't lay completely flat but it does recline for relaxation. If, for this price, you want to use the AER from birth, you can buy a separate bassinet attachment , then replace the seat with the bassinet for the first six months. They also sell car seat adaptors to turn this into a travel system but note this only fits three brands of car seats: Nuna, Cybex and Clek.

Another GH Parenting Award winner, this pick comes in many fun colors and with a bunch of accessories . Our Lab really liked that the stroller could be folded down with just one hand. We found it easy to turn with the sturdy rubber (not plastic) wheels and liked that it came with a cupholder, raincover and carry backpack, plus a seat-pad layer that could be thrown in the washing machine.

The seat folds nearly flat for naps, but this is still suggested for babies 6 months and up, according to the manufacturer. We like the magnets in the buckle, though it took us a few tries to get used to the harness. Watch the brake while walking since they're placed right by your feet and are easy to accidentally step on.

Double strollers are always going to be heavier than single strollers and to get one under 20 pounds, you have to either lose the canopies or the under-stroller storage.

We chose to lose the basket storage. The Jeep TurboGlyde has four storage pockets on the back of this double, though you don't want to add too much weight or, according to our tests, it will tip backward. Mostly what we loved when testing the TurboGlyde Double is the incredibly small fold and the sun protection , and the price is extremely nice for a travel or errand-running double stroller.

Testers say it is easy to push kids of different weights in this, for instance, a 1-year-old and their 3-year-old sibling. The seats don't recline much, so if you want a double stroller for long outings, look for a full-size double stroller .

If you want a lightweight option that lasts you for years, we like that this deep, padded seat has a near-flat recline that's appropriate for infants and big kids alike . Buy the car-seat adaptor and this is a good lightweight choice for newborns who are able to ride in their car seat atop the stroller seat. They should be able to move out of the car seat and to the regular seat by 6 months.

As parents, we appreciated that this comes with its own carry bag for travel. We found the fold to be super easy; you squeeze a latch at the handle and it collapses down in a few easy seconds. It's not exactly a one-handed fold — our testing showed it to be much easier with two hands — but it is fast. The basket is a fairly standard size, not tiny but not huge, so we'd spring for the add-on parent console that gives you a place to rest your water bottle and hide your phone.

Note: Baby Jogger is a brand that, as the name suggests, started as a company that made strollers for jogging. Now, they make a ton of baby gear that has nothing to do with running for exercise; this stroller is great for running errands, but is not for actual jogs! See or guide to the best jogging strollers for those. We also have a lightweight pick for jogging at the end of this list.

If your number one priority is a stroller that's as featherweight as can be, this weighs just over 10 pounds and the fold is incredibly small . Here's the thing: To get there, it has just a sun visor rather than a full canopy, a small basket and the seat is a really simple sling of fabric. That said, our testers said it's perfect for traveling and for short errands with a toddler.

You almost have to see the folding action to believe it — the wheels turn in so the stroller forms just a thin square. It fits anywhere, including an airplane overhead, under an airplane seat in front of you and maybe even in your diaper bag!

If you like the idea of this small fold but would prefer a larger canopy and a little more of a seat, see the Pockit+ All City version — though it's a bit more expensive and a bit heavier.

Our pick for the best overall wagon stroller also happens to be lightweight — for a stroller wagon. Obviously, nothing with wheels this big is going to be light as air, but the fact that it's a little under 35 pounds makes it a great choice if you'll be lifting your wagon in and out of the car or occasionally taking it up and down steps to the beach or a park.

This stroller wagon can be pushed or pulled. Separate sun-protective canopies let you position them differently for each kid. Each child has a snack tray with a cupholder and there's a generous storage bucket on the back. Stroller wagons are not the best for tired kids, as the seats don't recline, but they are good if you have a lot of stuff to haul and if the kids will be jumping in and out of the wagon.

Our testers say the assembly comes together quickly and the stroller is easy to fold. It works on most terrain (we would stop short of saying all terrain). One tester points out that this, like all strollers, is not totally weatherproof — if it rains, a stroller wagon can collect water in the bottom. But the mesh sides of this model help it dry out and allow for airflow on warm days.

When space is super tight, lightweight strollers don't get much more compact than the Cybex Libelle which, like the Pockit, folds into a rectangle shape. Folded, it measures just 12.6" by 18.9" by 7.9". You will need to use both hands to get it there, while your kid stands next to you or someone else holds your toddler, but in testing, we were able to fold it quickly.

It unfolds fast too — you just unlock it and give it a quick shake to snap it open. It boasts all the functionality you'd want in a lightweight stroller, including easy recline and a UPF 50+ canopy, and it also has a nicely adjusting footrest that can help make this more of a little bed for resting.

This stroller is compatible with the Cybex infant car seat , sold separately if you want to use it from birth.

Thule Spring Stroller

Spring Stroller

If you like the sporty look of a three-wheeler, we liked testing this stroller with lots of parent-friendly touches . There's a telescoping handle, so if you and your partner are different heights it can adjust.

There's a wrist strap, normally only found on jogging strollers, which gives you a feeling of extra security as you push this along. While it does not fold especially small, it stands up on its own when folded, which makes stashing it anywhere from beside you at a restaurant to inside your foyer a lot easier. And the fold is one of our favorites, you just pull up a lever that's under the seat.

It has a high weight limit, great if you have a Kindergarten kid who still needs a stroller on long outings. Both the canopy and the basket are wide, and the seat reclines nearly flat for naps. All of that adds to the weight, so this comes in a little over 20 pounds — not exactly lightweight, but light for a three-wheeler with all of its features.

Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight Jogging Stroller

Zoom 360 Ultralight Jogging Stroller

Jogging strollers are going to have a bit more weight to them thanks to their big, bike-like tires that keep things smooth as you breeze down your path. The front wheel can lock so that the jogging stroller stays on course.

Because this is crafted with aluminum and a slim design, it comes in under 30 pounds , about the best you can hope for with a stroller meant for running. It doesn't skimp on its nice wide canopy, and it includes both an organizer with a cupholder and a basket underneath.

While the fold is never especially compact with any jogging stroller, including this one, it does fold very easily using just one hand. One note: These are real air-filled tires, so the stroller comes with a pump. Some online users say it's possible for the wheels to puncture and need a tire change.

Babyzen YOYO2 Stroller

YOYO2 Stroller

Because seat cushions are sold separately from the frame, you can use this excellent lightweight stroller for your newborn. First, you buy this stroller frame, then add the Newborn Pack that makes it safe from birth. It's truly a newborn-friendly lightweight option that does not require you to use your infant car seat with it.

The frame, shown, comes in either black or white and has a shoulder strap for carrying the folded stroller. There's also a bag to use for travel or storage. The separate newborn pack comes in your choice of six colors and includes a mattress, canopy, foot cover and head support. Once your baby is ready to sit up and use a regular seat you'll want to buy one of the $70 Color Packs which provide a seat cushion, canopy and zippered back pocket. It means you can change the color of your stroller and get a fresh new cushion when you transition from infancy to toddlerhood.

City families who tested this for us love how compact the system is. The small footprint of this stroller makes it a breeze to push down a crowded sidewalk, and the stroller takes up little room in a small home. We suggest leaving it set up at home because folding it is a little awkward. It's easy enough to do if you want to put it in the trunk of a car or into the overhead on an airplane, but in everyday life, we'd just leave this little stroller in its open position.

If you do fall in love with the YoYo, it has a unique way of turning into a double stroller by hitching one YoYo to another, or you can have your big kid ride behind with the board attachment . We like that it adapts and changes as your family grows, and it may be more economical than buying a full-size stroller now and a full-size double stroller later.

RELATED : 50 Must-Have Baby Registry Items

How to find the best lightweight stroller for you

a lightweight stroller is tested with a dummy baby at the good housekeeping institute

Take note that with the advantage of going light, you will find yourself trading off some sturdiness (the wheels will be smaller and lighter weight) and storage (an under-seat basket, if it exists, will be smaller than that on a full-size stroller). That's why it's important to recognize which features matter to you most.

We find sun protection to be a non-negotiable, which is why we're not featuring any of the super-cheap umbrella strollers that have no visor or canopy. When you're shopping for the best lightweight stroller for your family, we recommend you consider the following:

✔️ Physical footprint: Lightweight strollers typically take up a smaller amount of space, but some fold down to be more compact than others. A stroller with a larger storage basket and wide canopy might not fold as small.

✔️ Folding capabilities: Some strollers feature single-hand folding — this comes in handy when you're by yourself and need to carry your baby in one arm while you fold the stroller.

✔️ Canopy size: Some strollers feature an adjustable or extendable canopy and others claim to have an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) to safeguard against the sun.

✔️ Adjustable seat: Check to see if the seat offers multiple reclining positions. The further back a seat folds, the better it might be for a baby under a year old. For any age, a reclined seat is great for tired kids heading home for a nap. But regardless, always make sure to check the age limit and weight limit before you purchase any stroller.

✔️ Wearable features : Some strollers come with a convenient carrying case or strap that you can sling over your shoulder if you want to carry it folded.

How we test lightweight strollers

black stroller with a child inside being pushed by a parent down a street in brooklyn

The Good Housekeeping Institute has reviewed more than 30 strollers over the past two years using a combination of in-Lab and at-home tests with both expert and consumer reviewers. We also asked manufacturers to provide American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) certification to verify that strollers pass ASTM's safety standards.

At our Institute, we perform tests to assess maneuverability, stability, ease of reclining the stroller, ease of getting babies in and out of the seat including buckling and unbuckling the five-point harness, ergonomics for the parents pushing the stroller, storage space (We try placing the same diaper bag in each basket to compare how it fits.) and more, giving each factor a score of 1 to 5.

We also take the strollers outside and push them over varied terrain including pavement, grass, dirt and cobblestone and we make obstacle courses to judge the navigation effort required.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

a woman tests a lightweight thule spring stroller outside of a restaurant, part of good housekeeping's tests for best lightweight strollers

For well over a century the Good Housekeeping Institute has tested consumer-product claims and made recommendations based on data-rich evaluations.

Our stroller testing and coverage was led by Rachel Rothman , who also oversaw GH's annual Toy Awards and Parenting Awards . Rothman is the mom of three young kids.

Our most recent update was written by contributing writer Jessica Hartshorn who has covered the stroller market for a few decades, most recently for Parents magazine.

Headshot of Jessica Hartshorn

Jessica (she/her) is a freelance writer with several decades of experience writing lifestyle content and evaluating home and parenting products. A mom of two teens and two cats, her previous work can be seen in American Baby and Parents .

Headshot of Rachel Rothman

Rachel Rothman was the chief technologist and executive technical director of the Good Housekeeping Institute for over 15 years , overseeing testing methodology, implementation and reporting for all GH Labs. She also managed GH's research division and the analysis of applicants for the GH Seal and all other testing emblems. 

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a black and silver stroller

The 8 Best Travel Strollers for Dads Navigating Airports and City Streets

These are the ones that’ll make your life easy and your kids happy.

Butterfly Stroller

Best Overall Travel Stroller

Bugaboo butterfly stroller.

QBit+ All-City Stroller

Comfiest Stroller

Gb qbit+ all-city stroller.

Classic Stroller

Best Budget Stroller

Babygap classic stroller.

Itsy Lightweight Travel Stroller

Easiest Stroller to Carry

Contours itsy lightweight travel stroller.

G-Link V2 Stroller

Best Stroller for Twinning

Uppababy g-link v2 stroller.

YOYO2 Stroller

Best Stroller for City Dwellers

Babyzen yoyo2 stroller.

Jet 3 Super Compact Stroller

Smoothest Handling Stroller

Silver cross jet 3 super compact stroller.

Infant Car Seat and Stroller

Best Stroller for Flying with Infants

Doona infant car seat and stroller.

Thankfully, my wife and I come prepared. The Bugaboo Butterfly travel stroller is a godsend when running around with small humans . It opens quickly and easily, it’s light and portable, and it holds kids up to fifty pounds. That means even though my two-year-old daughter is usually the one hitching the ride, when my five-year-old son’s legs get tired (or a sibling rivalry inevitably rears its head), he can hop in there, too.

All of which is to say that when the Koenig clan finally does arrive at the gate, all four of us are in relatively good spirits—even the two year old. The Bugaboo is a great get, but there are a number of other travel strollers out there that could be a good match for you and yours. Read our full breakdown of the varieties we’ve tested and reviewed.

The Butterfly is aptly named, as it feels like it is actually floating over the ground, even when on grass and gravel. The seat must be especially comfortable, because my two year old surely would have let me know in no uncertain terms were it not. The cargo space on the Bugaboo is good enough for emergency drinks, snacks, Mom’s bag, and Dad’s travel hoodie.

Opening and closing the Butterfly is a cinch, and with Irish blood on both sides, my kids appreciate the sun canopy as well. The stroller is small enough to keep as a carry-on, but if you do decide to check it, be sure to fold up the footrest so it doesn’t get damaged in transit.

There’s not much to dislike about the All-City stroller, and that includes its price point, which is a good chunk less than the Bugaboo’s (right in the $300 range, depending on when and where you shop).

This is a stroller with comfortable padding in the seating area and folding mechanisms that won’t induce public meltdowns (from dads, not toddlers). It’s also rather maneuverable and has a silky ride that is really impressive. The only bona fide knock against it is that at 17.6 pounds, it’s pretty bulky, and without a shoulder strap, heaving it around is a real workout.

For an item that costs around $100, the Classic Stroller from babyGap can take a beating. That’s a pleasant surprise for those of us dads who tend to hulk out on things from time to time. (Hi, it’s me. I’m the problem, it’s me.)

This stroller also has a comfortable seat with a five-point harness and a sun canopy overhead with a peekaboo window so you can keep an eye on Junior. The only thing not to like about it is that the folding lock on the bottom-right side takes a little getting used to, which might annoy impatient dads... Not that I know anyone like that.

The most minimalistic of the strollers on this list, the Contours Itsy Lightweight Travel Stroller reminds me of something my wife says every time I float the idea of buying a new car. She points out the window at the old beater in our driveway and says, “Does it still roll?”

This stroller has no cupholders and limited storage space. It also doesn’t recline, which might be an issue for bigger kids. But it does, in fact, still roll—rather smoothly at that. And at just 12.3 pounds and $170, this will be a sensible option for many.

Before I had kids, I used to think I wanted twins. What a sweet and innocent child I was. One kid at a time has been plenty for me, and for those dads in the trenches with twins, you have my respect.

For you guys, the Uppababy G-Link V2 Stroller is a very solid choice. I think of it as the Cadillac of travel strollers—comfortable, smooth, and (obviously) rather large. It’s actually too big to keep as a carry-on, so be prepared to check it. But realistically, there is very little not to like here.

Since I’m a full-fledged suburban dad now, car seats are my current worry. But I lived in cities for twenty years of my life, so I am very sympathetic to space concerns. The best travel stroller out there for the urban denizens among us needs to be small and easy to maneuver—enter the Babyzen YOYO2.

This zippy little thing is great for weaving through armies of commuters on busy city sidewalks. It also folds up teeny, and at 13.7 pounds, it’s an easy carry with a padded shoulder strap. The only downside is that it’s not fond of rough surfaces, which is not really a big deal as long as you avoid New York City potholes.

You know that feeling when you’re cutting wrapping paper and the scissors begin to glide? That’s how it feels to push the Silver Cross. It’s also got a five-point harness and an adjustable footrest, plus it fully reclines. The sun canopy is workable if not the largest I’ve seen.

A fun trick is that this stroller folds into a little rolling-suitcase-looking thing—the leather-wrapped bumper bar turns into the handle. The main drawback here is that cargo space is at a bare minimum. The Silver Cross Jet 3 is best thought of as the roadster of travel strollers.

Traveling with infants—and really doing anything with infants, now that I say it out loud—has an added degree of difficulty. Gently put: You’re going to want all the help you can get. That’s why I like this entry from Doona. It doubles as a car seat and stroller, so it gets high marks for versatility. It is also ready right out of the box for newborns (many other strollers need to be adapted for kids under six months). And, best of all, for you cosmopolites out there, it’s approved by both U.S. and European authorities for air travel.

The one issue with this stroller is that its max weight capacity is thirty-five pounds, so your child will likely outgrow it quickly. But it’s great to save for a second kid or to share with friends.

What to Consider When Buying a Travel Stroller

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Don’t just trust our picks; see how we graded them.

Movement When you’re pushing around one, two, or (godspeed) three-plus kids, you want the stroller to make it easy on you. If you’re in the city, you only need it to be good on sidewalk asphalt and epoxied airport floors. If you’re in the burbs, gravel and dirt might come into the equation.

Weight When it’s folded up, you want it to be easy to handle. This is especially true for carry-on strollers.

Storage Everyone in the family has essentials: Baby’s snacks, Dad’s drink, Mom’s in-flight melatonin. A good stroller gives you space for all of it.

Ease of use Is it difficult to fold? Does it fit in an overhead bin? Is the carry-strap sufficient for its size? Stuff like this is important.

Versatility This is critical when you’ve got multiple kids and the older ones like to campaign for stroller privileges. What is the weight limit? Also, if a stroller can recline, it’ll be more comfortable for bigger kids.

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The Best Stroller Wagons to Load Up for Outdoor Adventures

Haul kids and their gear to the beach, park, and other fun destinations with less fuss.

  • Our Favorite Stroller Wagons

Other Notable Stroller Wagons

  • Our Testing Process

Our Experts

  • Factors to Consider
  • How to Use Safely
  • Stroller or Wagon?

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Parents / Jhett Thompson

For many caregivers, a single stroller just won’t do. If you have two or more tots, their gear, and/or a load of toys to transport—and especially if you’ll be going over rough terrain, a stroller wagon can be incredibly handy. To find the best stroller wagons out there, we put 30 popular options to the test in our lab and out in the world with real parents and their kids, who reported back on what they loved and didn’t like. 

These devices mix the advantages of a stroller and a wagon, typically with seating for two to four kids and extra onboard storage for everyone’s stuff. They’ve got big tires and two types of handles, so you can push or pull the wagon through uneven or rough terrain. They should be easy to maneuver with a collapsible design that’s easy to deploy without requiring instruction manuals every time. Of course, safety harnesses, canopies, and easy-access brakes are essential, too. 

We also asked parents to test out top stroller wagons in real-world conditions and to provide unbiased feedback on assembly, setup and breakdown, comfort, and ease of use. 

Our Favorite Stroller Wagons 

  • Best Overall : Keenz 7S 2.0

Best All-Terrain: Jeep Sport All-Terrain Stroller Wagon

  • Best Budget: Little Folks by Delta Children City Wagon Cruiser
  • Best for Infants : Graco Modes Adventure Stroller Wagon
  • Best Maneuverability : Joey The Wagon
  • Best for Naps : Larktale Caravan V3 Stroller Wagon
  • Best Storage : Jeep Deluxe Wrangler Wagon Stroller with Cooler Bag and Parent Organizer
  • Best With Bassinet : Evenflo Pivot Xplore Dreamz With Bassinet Insert
  • Best for Car Trunks : Radio Flyer Odyssey Stroll ‘N Wagon   

Best Overall: Keenz 7S 2.0

Why we like it.

Overpackers will appreciate the roomy interior with plenty of passenger space . Caregivers can take advantage of the external and internal storage pockets , cup holders, and even a place to keep shoes or dirty things separate from the rest. Inside, kids can stretch their legs out while still having enough room for diaper bags, toys, and even shopping bags. One of our testers actually found the enhanced storage a little overwhelming, saying they might forget where they put certain items. 

The Keenz 7S 2.0 is surprisingly lightweight and easy to handle. Our testers felt it moved like a dream over smooth surfaces, bumps, curbs, grass, and even sand. The very large back wheels give this stability, as well as the all-terrain support. It can be pushed or pulled thanks to the included handles on either side. Double handles also allow you to get help from a second adult on more challenging terrain. A quick-fold lever makes this easy to stow between uses. Other features like a removable canopy with side curtains, removable snack tray, and a storage cover add to its functionality. 

The 7S is also available in a four-seater capacity or you can opt for the Keenz XC . We also tested the XC which is more compact than the 7S with a 216-pound weight limit (compared to 300 pounds) and narrower width for added maneuverability. 

"You could fit your kitchen sink in this wagon. This wagon is ace when it comes to storage." — Jessica, mom of two, real-world tester

But Take Note

The Keenz 7S can be difficult to assemble. Even when with the manual, it wasn’t intuitive and left many functionality questions unanswered. “It probably took us about 30 minutes, including the time spent scratching our heads in confusion,” one tester noted. One tester also felt that it wasn’t aesthetically pleasing for something so pricey. 

The Details:

  • Dimensions: 37.5 x 26 x 44.5 inches
  • Product weight: 33 pounds 
  • Number of kids it holds: 2
  • Recommended weight/age limit: up to 55 pounds each for passengers; 300 pounds total; 12 months old and up

If you’re planning on hauling children and gear to the beach, over unpaved trails, or on bumpy sidewalks, the Jeep Sport All-Terrain Stroller Wagon was a breakout hit in our lab. Our tester shared that it handled rocks, sand, and grass smoothly. It was easy to navigate through regular turns, and the larger 10-inch back wheels and sturdy suspension cushioned it over bumps. As is common with many stroller wagons, backing onto a curb will be significantly easier than trying to “pop and push” the wagon onto a curb. Younger babies can ride in it if you purchase the car seat adapter (sold separately) that’s compatible with select Graco, Evenflo, Britax, and Chicco car seats. 

Even though our tester felt the assembly wasn’t quite intuitive, the instructions come with pictures, so transitioning through the steps is easy enough. Folding the stroller wagon was a straightforward process, and our tester was easily able to do it by herself. We appreciate the well thought-out design elements that include numerous exterior pockets, a removable snack and drink tray, the built-in storage center and drink holder for adults, and the included canopy. Plus, the truly compact flat fold design makes it fit in your trunk, garage, or home. 

"This stroller wagon (when fully loaded) glided very smoothly over all the surfaces that we tested. I didn't have any issues with maneuvering this wagon over rocks, sand, or grass." — Amy, mom of one, lab tester

This wagon lacks a double canopy, so even though the canopy can be positioned in the center of the wagon to offer equal shade, little necks and backs might still get hot over time. Because of the wagon’s length, tight turns in areas with minimal clearance can be tricky. Finally, our tester thought the foot space for the children was a bit shallow, making for a less comfortable experience for extended use by tall kids. 

  • Dimensions: 43.3 x 18.11 x 43.3 inches
  • Recommended weight/age limit: Up to 55 pounds for passengers, up to 110 pounds total; from birth if using car seat adapter, from the age of unassisted sitting without one

Parents / Jessica Juliao

Best Budget: Little Folks by Delta Children City Wagon Cruiser 

Delta Children

The City Wagon Cruiser isn’t just affordable for most, it’s also really easy to use. Our testers loved that assembly only took a few minutes and didn’t require the instruction manual to complete. The cushioned seats and three-point harnesses accommodate up to two children, and it has a total weight capacity of 110 pounds. A removable center console with cup holders , plenty of pockets for storage, a parent cup holder, and a removable canopy with roll-down shades are all convenient features. 

At less than 40 pounds, this stroller feels very lightweight compared to some other wagons. It’s easy to fold, though one tester did admit that you need two hands to do so. It folded into a compact size that left room for other items in their SUV’s trunk . Testers felt it was “fantastic” to push or pull, even when it was packed with items. Adjustability was the biggest draw: You can put the canopy shades up or down, removable cup holders allow for more space, and the handlebar and push handle are all adjustable. 

"My 4-year-old doesn't always like riding in a regular stroller anymore, but he always gets excited when I tell him we're bringing the stroller wagon. It's a different and fun way for him to ride around and see his surroundings." — Janice, mom of two, real-world tester

Little else fits in the cabin when two kids are inside. Also, performance lagged on uneven terrain. As you reach the 110-pound weight capacity, it’s “a little tougher to steer and turn the stroller when they’re both sitting in it,” shared one tester of her two kids. One tester confided that the handlebar was too wiggly, while another felt the seatbelt straps could have been stronger and more durable. 

  • Dimensions: 51 x 20 x 47 inches 
  • Product weight: 36.3 pounds 
  • Number of kids it holds: 2 
  • Recommended weight/age limit: 110 pounds (55 pounds per seat); 9 months old and up

Parents/Jhett Thompson

Best for Infants: Graco Modes Adventure Stroller Wagon

This Graco Modes stroller wagon is a great option for use from birth. With the separate purchase of a car seat adapter , you can fit most Graco infant car seats in the wagon . It’s designed for two children with two three-point harnesses, and it’s one of the most maneuverable picks we tested. The all-terrain wheels make it easy to push over pretty much any surface. “I absolutely love the wheels of this wagon,” one tester raved. “This is how all stroller wagons should feel.” It’s lightweight at just 30.5 pounds for easy one-handed pushing or pulling paired with a durable and sturdy feel. 

Core features like a snack tray with cup holders, external and internal storage pockets, and removable, separate canopies enhance the functionality. It also folds down to a really compact size, making it great for packing into a car or closet. “When it’s open, it feels roomy, but folded over, it does not have a huge footprint ,” one tester noted. Maintenance was easy and required little more than wiping down the seats occasionally. 

"I live in a city with narrow, uneven sidewalks, and I've been able to use this pretty much anywhere. I love using it for longer excursions with my daughter because she can sit and have a look all around her." — Alison, mom of one, real-world tester

One complaint we had with this stroller is that it isn’t as roomy as the competitors. With two children inside, it gets cramped even with just a diaper bag. Our testers also felt assembly was difficult without the manual—especially when installing the wheels. The good news is, you’ll only have to do that once!

  • Dimensions: 40.16 x 24.8 x 39.75 inches 
  • Product weight: 30.5 pounds 
  • Recommended weight/age limit: holds 100 pounds total; with infant car seat adapter can be used from birth, without adapter 12 months and older

Best Maneuverability: Joey The Wagon

With a sleek, luxe design, this wagon is made of high-quality materials that are durable enough for extended use. This two-seater comes with three-point harnesses and cushioned seats for comfort . Assembly was fairly simple in testing and didn’t take more than about 15 minutes. Collapsing it was also pretty simple, and we like that you can stash accessories in the foot area when it’s folded. 

The Wagon comes with a snack tray, cup holders for the kids and parents, storage pockets both inside and outside (as well as underneath the wagon), and a removable UPF 50+ canopy. It was very easy to maneuver and even supported one-handed operation both for pushing and pulling. “Even with the weight of two kids, it took very minimal effort to pull, push, or turn the wagon ,” one tester noted, while another felt it was “shockingly easy” for the size.  

"I thought that a wagon of this size would be potentially unwieldy, but we were able to go around tight corners." — Julia, mom of two, real-world tester

For some reason, the Wagon includes only one canopy for one rider (at most retailers), with a second you can buy separately. This comfortably fits two toddlers, but our testers felt that storage was limited with two kids seated inside. It also underperformed when maneuvering through sand.

  • Dimensions: 59.3 x 34.9 x 25 inches 
  • Product weight: 37 pounds 
  • Recommended weight/age limit: Up to 55 pounds for each seat; unassisted sitters up to age 4

Best for Naps: Larktale Caravan V3 Stroller Wagon

Note: We tested a previous version of the Larktale Caravan. The new V3 has no-rethread harnesses, a new handlebar console, and a movable storage basket. We’ll test it soon, but much of the rest of this review should be relevant. The Larktale Caravan stands out because of its extensive storage space and the way one of the well-padded seats folds down to create a little bed for naps on the go. Paired with the full canopy, mosquito net, and rain cover , this is one comfy ride.

Assembly was easy, and the Larktale Caravan was easy to use overall. It comes with lots of storage (even with two tots inside), including interior and exterior pockets, and a large external basket. Our tester loved the “huge” canopy ,” and has been recommending it to other parents with multiple kids, especially since it can be adapted to seat four (with a separate purchase). Younger infants can ride along if you purchase a car seat adapter, too. The folded-down size was also fairly compact. 

"The handlebars are super comfortable and easily adjustable for when we had my 6'4 brother maneuvering it." — Kimberly, mom of one, real-world tester

One of our testers felt it was a little heavy, which made lifting it over bumps or curbs difficult. Often it was easier to push than pull, and one of our testers didn’t like how it handled in the sand. And while this is not a deal breaker, one tester cautioned that the oversized design makes it be better suited for bigger kids who can easily see over the sides. 

  • Dimensions: 49 x 25.2 x 46.5 inches 
  • Product weight: 40.5 pounds 
  • Number of kids it holds: 2 (4 with extra seat adapter) 
  • Recommended age/weight limit: 93 pounds per seat; 207 pounds total capacity; from birth with infant car seat adapter; 6 months old and up without adapter 

Best Storage: Jeep Deluxe Wrangler Wagon Stroller

 This Jeep wagon comes standard with an infant car seat adapter (check brands for compatibility first) and plenty of storage for all-day outings and beach trips. There’s also a small detachable cooler bag that connects to the side of the wagon. There are plenty of storage pockets, aparent organizer with three storage compartments plus a zippered pocket, and a separate parent cup holder. The wagon is pretty roomy even with two kids inside.

Assembly was easy enough with total installation time taking less than 10 minutes in the lab. Folding was also straightforward, and we appreciate the storage pocket for the removable canopy. Although the seats don’t fold flat seat like inthe Larktale, they are still great for napping. And the five-point harness is an AAP-approved safety feature we don’t alwayssee in wagons. 

It also has a low turning radius that’s ideal for tight corners , even with one hand. The puncture-proof tires are useful, as is the easy one-step brake. The Jeep Wrangler Deluxe is a two-seater model, but Jeep also offers a four-seater variant , which we also tested and liked, if you need more space. 

"All you need to do is pull up on the handle in the center of the stroller and the entire wagon collapses!" — Jack, dad of one, lab tester

This is probably one of the bulkier wagons thanks to the square design and canopy. Our tester shared that  “when fully loaded, it definitely gives you some resistance when pushing.” That’s when you’ll want to shift to the other side of the stroller and pull it like a wagon. 

  • Dimensions: 46 x 26.7 x 46 inches 
  • Product weight: 46.6 pounds 
  • Recommended weight/age limit: 110 pounds overall; can be used from birth with adapter, without adapter recommended for 6 months and older 

Best With Bassinet: Evenflo Pivot Xplore Dreamz

If extensive storage space isn’t a priority, or you only need a stroller wagon for one child, the Evenflo Pivot Xplore Dreamz may be a great choice. It comfortably fits two children, with a separate adapter available to support an infant car seat. And if you have one sleepy kid who is at least 6 months old, they can recline and nap in the included bassinet insert . 

There are some other convenient design elements in this stroller: The removable two-piece canopy lets you easily adjust them separately, while an external parent organizer holds plenty of items. There are inside and outside pockets for more storage and a removable snack tray with a cup holder. The telescoping handlebar also supports height adjustment, which is great for taller caretakers. We also really like that each seat tilts down individually, making it easier for each child to climb in and out on their own. 

"I love that it serves as a place to hold all of our stuff when they decide to ride their bikes or scooters." — Jessica, mom of two, real-world tester

Although the compact fold is ideal for storing, figuring out how to fold it can be challenging. Specifically, the oversized handlebar might get in the way of a flat fold. And despite the fact that it weighs less than others on this list, our petite lab tester felt this would be a challenge for her to get into and out of a trunk on her own. 

  • Dimensions: 45 x 27 x 39 inches 
  • Product weight: 34.7 pounds 
  • Recommended weight/age limit: Up to 55 pounds per seat; can be used from birth with car seat adapter, unassisted sitting without adapter  

Parents/Jessica Juliao

Best for Car Trunks: Radio Flyer Odyssey Stroll ‘n Wagon 

Most stroller wagons are fairly bulky, even when folded. But this Radio Flyer option is one of the most compact out there and will likely fit in most average-sized trunks . Testers also loved that one side of the wagon folds down so that kids can climb in and out of it independently. The canopy is retractable—which is a nice touch—and can be folded and placed into a storage compartment whenever it’s not in use. 

There’s plenty of storage throughout, which is great for extended periods outside. This one also maneuvers pretty well. It can be pushed or pulled, with an adjustable handlebar for pushing like a stroller and a pole for pulling like a wagon. It rides smoothly on uneven pavement, grass, and smooth ground, with wheels that rotate easily. “Pulling meant that I could get over the curb and make tighter turns … even with 50 pounds in there,” our tester exclaimed.

"Even when the wagon is loaded up, either with gear or another heavy child, moving the wagon is always a breeze." — Rachel, mom of three, real-world tester

Assembly is time-consuming, with one tester logging more than 30 minutes to complete, while another relied on a YouTube video to fill in the gaps left by the manual. One tester felt it operated poorly over sand, which is a common complaint with many wagons.  The brake sits right where you might normally place your foot when hoisting the wagon over a curb or bump, which can be annoying. And while it does fold into a compact size, at nearly 40 pounds when empty, it’s one of the heavier options we tested. 

  • Dimensions: 33 x 19 x 11 inches 
  • Product weight: 39.46 pounds 
  • Recommended weight/age limit: Up to 120 pounds, 1-3 years old
  • Wonderfold W2 Elite Stroller Wagon : The storage pockets, adjustable handlebar, reclining and removable seats, and canopy are key features to love. But this was a difficult stroller that took a while to assemble with complicated instructions. Maneuverability was commendable but it struggled over sand—making it useless as a beach wagon. 
  • Veer Cruiser XL 4-seater : This was easy to put together, with a functional design that offers plenty of convenient features. While it does have four seats, we felt they were narrow, making it a better fit with just two kids. Canopies must be purchased separately, and the wagon makes really wide turns. The brake is responsive, the wagon handles well on the sand, and it’s easy to clean. But given the premium price, the features seemed limited. 
  • Wonderfold W4 Original Stroller Wagon : Premium seat suspension ensures a smoother ride, and we love that the canopy is so easy to use. However, our testers felt the seats were somewhat narrow, especially if the pockets were full and items were inside with four kids. It performed poorly over most terrain, and at 55 pounds when empty, it’s heavy and difficult to lift.
  • Safety 1st Summit Wagon Stroller : Easy assembly, a compact fold, and an enhanced array of accessories like car seat adapters makes this a tempting and affordable choice for a stroller wagon. However, triggering the collapse mechanism to fold and store it is almost a two-person job—which makes this frustrating to use for a caregiver on a solo mission. It’s also very heavy, making tight turns difficult. 

Our Testing Process 

We tried out 30 different popular stroller wagons in our lab to find the best options available. Then, we sent them home with our staffers to try out with their own kids. During the lab test, we looked at: 

  • Ease of Assembly: We asked testers to time how long it took them to put together their stroller wagons and note how difficult or simple the process was.
  • Design Intuitiveness: Testers loaded the stroller wagons up with diaper bags, toys, and other accessories to see how well everything fit. They took note of design features like how much coverage the canopy offered, the available brakes, and if there were on-board snack trays or pockets for the kids.
  • Portability: We tried folding and unfolding the wagons, noting how difficult the process was and how compact they could become to fit into a car trunk.
  • Maneuverability: We also asked testers to use them on gravel, smooth floor, turf, and sand. They pushed and pulled the wagons for each test and also turned each through traffic cones. Later, our real-world testers also took these out on a variety of terrains. 
  • Overall Value: Lastly, they determined overall value by looking at how well the product performed and how much functionality it offered compared to the price. 

We also spoke with the following independent child safety experts for information on how to choose a stroller wagon and use it safely: 

  • Kelly Moriarty , an injury prevention coordinator at Novant Health in Charlotte, North Carolina. 
  • Kathryn Grant , MSN, RN, CPNP-PC, pediatric nurse practitioner.

Factors to Consider When Shopping for a Stroller Wagon

  • Ease of Use and Maneuverability : A stroller wagon is ideal for the beach or a hike, but can also be practical for daily use with multiple small children. It should be easy to unfold and fold without requiring a complicated mechanism sequence. “Consider your normal activities, such as ball games and visits to the beach or public parks,” Moriarty says. “Different stroller wagons have different wheels that do better on specific surfaces. Also consider if you can push or pull the stroller wagon.” It should also be easy to maneuver on terrain even when packed to capacity. 
  • Portability: Pay attention to the size and weight of your stroller wagon. Most wagons are around 30-40 pounds when empty. Something heavier than this might be difficult to lift it in and out of a trunk by yourself. Look at the dimensions both folded and unfolded to make sure it fits in your trunk.  
  • Age Limits and Capacity: Not all stroller wagons are created equal. Some hold four kids and still have plenty of space for storage, while others are two-seaters and narrower for city use. Consider the number and ages of the children who will regularly be in your stroller wagon. Without car seat adapters, stroller wagons typically can’t be used from birth. “Wagons are not often set up for infants or children who cannot sit up alone or don’t have head and neck control,” Moriarty says. Always check the weight and height limits on the stroller to ensure your child is within those guidelines.
  • Accessories: Stroller wagons come with versatile accessories to make the ride more enjoyable for passengers and operators. Options like removable snack trays, convertible seats for on-the-go naps, canopies for sun protection, and even adapters for the littlest riders can be very helpful. Meanwhile, caregivers also need on-board storage. And if people of different heights are pushing and pulling it, features like adjustable handlebars are essential. 
  • Your Budget: Stroller wagons are usually pricier when compared to regular strollers. Typically, stroller wagons range from $200 to over $800. In our guide, the Delta Children City Wagon Cruiser was under $200 yet still offered several essential features. Depending on how frequently you want to use it and whether it will be your main stroller, you’ll need to determine your budget goals. 

How to Use Stroller Wagons Safely

Safety is a priority when purchasing a stroller wagon. A stroller wagon should meet certain safety standards, and you should feel comfortable using it, even on rough terrain. The Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association (JPMA) reminds caregivers to be careful when opening and closing strollers, to avoid overloading them as this can exceed weight capacities, and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Remember these additional tips when shopping for and when using your stroller wagon: 

  • Note age/weight/height requirements: “The stroller wagon manufacturer tests the safety of their products for certain age, weight, and height ranges,” Grant tells us. “The safety of the stroller wagon you choose has not been tested with children outside of these ranges.” You should never put infants or children who can’t hold their heads up in a stroller wagon unless the stroller wagon has a specific infant seat or an adapter for an infant car seat. 
  • Properly use safety harnesses and buckles: As with any other stroller, harnesses are key, and you should always use them correctly. “Refer to your stroller wagon’s manufacturer guidelines for proper buckling and braking,” says Grant. “The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends using a stroller with a five-point safety harness.” However, stroller wagons will often feature three-point safety harnesses. 
  • Only use them for approved scenarios : Not all stroller wagons are meant for all-terrain situations. “Note if there are tips for terrain, such as avoiding uneven ground or sand, for example,” Moriarty says. 
  • Pause before letting them nap : For very young ones, napping in a stroller wagon may not be safe. “Keep in mind that a stroller wagon is usually not a great option for naps on the go, as wagons typically require the child to be seated upright at a 90-degree angle with the buckle fastened,” Grant says. Some stroller wagons offer the option to fold the seats into a little bed to make naptime more comfortable. This might be safer if the stroller wagon is not in motion during naptime. 
  • Always use a canopy : Some stroller wagons are totally open, while others have canopies that are removable or adjustable for shade. “It’s important to ensure your child is properly shaded,” Grant points out, adding, “This does not replace the need for sunscreen!”

Do You Need a Stroller or a Stroller Wagon?

Regular strollers are going to be more versatile and maneuverable compared to a stroller wagon. They’re usually more compact, and most can be used from birth (with proper infant seats or inserts) and beyond. Regular strollers can also be more budget-friendly and sometimes easier to use. Wagons tend to be a bit bulkier, they aren’t always safe for infants (or babies under nine months), and they don’t offer as much cozy protection for colder weather. However, wagons might be better for uneven terrain or on beach trips, while many strollers are not made for that. 

Jessica Booth is a freelance writer who covers parenting, shopping, wellness, entertainment, and wedding content. She has been freelance writing since 2017 and before that, worked as an editor at an online publication for seven years. She has written for sites such as Brides, People, Insider, Bustle, Romper, Refinery 29, Cosmopolitan, Delish, The Daily Beast, Reviewed, She Knows, Scary Mommy, The Knot, and What to Expect. She also has two young daughters and absolutely loves her Evenflo Pivot Xplore stroller wagon. 

Dorian Smith-Garcia is a commerce, health, and parenting writer at Parents , where she reviews and tests products and provides insider tips on can’t-miss deals. Although her daughter is firmly out of the stroller phase, she had a faithful Graco Aire3 that she used on a trip to Disney World when she was 5., They also recently tried a wagon stroller briefly for a Fourth of July outing.

Stroller Safety . JPMAcares.org.

How to Choose a Safe Baby Stroller . HealthyChildren.org. 2022.

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japanese travel stroller

Shikoku Mule (Yuzu Moscow Mule)

japanese travel stroller

This Shikoku Mule is a creation based on the popular Moscow Mule cocktail.  It’s technically a Yuzu Moscow Mule but I also used Japanese shochu instead of vodka to make this new refreshing cocktail drink.

While I used Japanese ingredients to make this recipe, I didn’t simply want to name this “Japan Mule” (which just sounds odd) or something meaningless like “Tokyo Mule” just because that’s the city in Japan that everyone knows. I named this Shikoku Mule because Shikoku in Japan is where yuzu is predominately produced.

What is yuzu?

Yuzu is a citrus fruit that can be explained as “not quite a lemon, not quite a tangerine” but the flavor of it has been described as “a cross between a grapefruit and a lime.”  It’s very fragrant and has an elegant tart flavor that yuzu can be found in many cooking ingredients as well as in beauty and bath products. 

Where in Japan is Shikoku?

Shikoku is smallest of the four major islands of Japan. The name directly translates as “four countries” and true to its name, the island is made up of four prefectures.  Just so that you have a better idea of where Shikoku is, here is the map:

Map of Japan showing where Shikoku island is located

Shikoku, incidentally, is also a Japanese breed of dogs , a lesser known cousin to Akita or Shiba Inu .  That’s not why I named this drink Shikoku although, now that I’m thinking about it, I also made a Salty Shiba cocktail drink recently.  Hmm…I see a trend.  But there’s nothing wrong with combining my two favorite things: dogs and cocktails!

What is Shochu?

Shochu  (pronounced  show-chew ) that I used as the base alcohol for this cocktail,   is a Japanese alcoholic beverage distilled typically from sweet potatoes, barley, buckwheat, brown sugar or rice.  Shochu works great for this recipe since, unlike vodka, it doesn’t overpower the flavors of other ingredients in the drink.  So that you can enjoy the natural, vibrant flavors of yuzu and ginger beer.

Related article: Lean all the basics about Japanese shochu

Bottle of Ty Ku Shochu

Ginger beer

Ginger beer varieties used to make the Yuzu Moscow Mule

So, what exactly is ginger beer?  It’s a carbonated drink, with spicy ginger flavor, that is usually non-alcoholic. 

Since also I found alcoholic ginger beer, I made them two different ways – one using alcoholic ginger beer Wild Ginger and another one using the non-alcoholic version, Fever-Tree Premium Ginger Beer. They are equally refreshing.  The alcoholic version just has a little more boost.   

Shikoku Mule made with alcoholic ginger beer

Shikoku Mule (Yuzu Moscow Mule) Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 oz yuzu juice or yuzu syrup
  • 1 oz shochu
  • 4 oz ginger beer

Glass: Copper mule mug or old-fashioned

Garnish : One or a combination of:

  • Lemon wedge

Instructions :

  • Fill a glass with ice cubes.
  • Add shochu and yuzu juice.
  • Fill the glass to the top with ginger beer.
  • Gently mix, garnish and serve.

Pin it for later!

Pinterest graphic for Shikoku Mule - Yuzu Moscow Mule

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Jane | 27th Aug 19

As I was reading your post, I was salivating. LOL. I love this kind of drink because it has citrus in it. And I love anything with citrus, lime..

I will copy your recipe for when we have a gathering.

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admin | 28th Aug 19

Citrus does have that effect on your taste buds! lol I love anything with citrus, too. Let me know how it turns out, Jane! Thanks!

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' class=

Ive read many old posts n still have a few doubts hence asking

1. Will i get sim card at vnukovo airport. If yes where?

2. I'll be taking aeroexpress and then need a cab to my apartment in city center. I believe i will havebto use yandex? As no prepaid cabs there? So will i be able to book it without sim?

3. I saw posts which had links to rent a stroller but in city center i believe streets are cobbled? So stroller may not be req?

4.is there a tourist office near red sq?

Many Thanks in advm

japanese travel stroller

1. At any of several stores selling communications things...just go to the official web site, and it should have a map showing various stores.

3. No worries as to cobbled streets...sure, Red Square is, and a few side streets, but aside from Red Square proper, you will always have smooth sidewalks...and LOTS of native Russians have and use strollers...

Great! Thanks for replying to all my q.

Im traveling with spouse and child. I thout cab from vnukovo to city center will take super long due to traffic so thout aeroexpress better.

So roughly how much should i expect to pay for by cab from airport to red sq, any clue?

Ok..will look for sim stores

Traffic depends on time of day...as for cab fare, try going to VKO website, and see if they have a link for taxis (most do)...you can try this out and get an idea, but unless is it rush hour, would think it should be worst case 1500-2000 rubles...or maybe $23-30...the Aero for family would be about $15 I think...and also, not only does the Aero leave every hour, but it takes 40-45 minutes, and brings you into Kiev Station, which is a bit off to the West, and without an app, you would like spend another $5 at least on a taxi...and if there is traffic, you will end up fighting it here to.

As for every large city, general rule also applies here...heading INTO the center is bad in the morning, and out is bad at end of workday...

Scheduled landing time is 1440. Map shows 45mins by cab. Kiev station to apt shows 14min. So just in case i do manage to get the hourly aeroexpress which takes 35min to kiev stn... is there trusted cab hire there or not worth even thinking abt it

Aeroexpress for 2pax is 14$ if i prebook online cheaper...

Is 2 enough? Do you have a child? But think there is a family pass for about the same. To me, NOT worth the hassle here...you will be heading IN at rush hour, which for the most the way means fairly quick sailing.

As for getting a cab at the train station, this is a VERY busy, huge place, and I would NOT expect to be able to find one easily that will not rip you off...much less dragging around luggage, with a child in tow, etc...

And BTW, you arrive at 2:20 PM...no way should you expect you can hit the 3 PM train...so, it will be 4, and then 4:35 when you arrive at the station, and grabbing a cab from there will put you right in the mix of very bad traffic downtown...as opposed to hopping in a cab at maybe 3:20 PM...

Cab hands down...splurge a bit for the extra $10 or so...you will not regret it...

Ha ha... you seem to be right!! Will do just that. Locked.

' class=

>apartment in city center.

Can you say more directly where is your apartament?

Near ritz carlton

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  22. Shikoku Mule (Yuzu Moscow Mule)

    Instructions: Fill a glass with ice cubes. Add shochu and yuzu juice. Fill the glass to the top with ginger beer. Gently mix, garnish and serve. Pin it for later! Spread the love. Shikoku Mule is a Yuzu Moscow Mule made with yuzu juice and Japanese shochu instead of vodka. Try this new refreshing cocktail drink today!

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    Answer 1 of 15: Ive read many old posts n still have a few doubts hence asking 1. Will i get sim card at vnukovo airport. If yes where? 2. I'll be taking aeroexpress and then need a cab to my apartment in city center. I believe i will havebto use yandex...

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