Traveling with toddlers is a big change from traveling with a baby. If your toddler is anything like mine, you’ll sometimes wonder why you’ve brought along your toddler travel stroller. My toddler constantly wants out of the stroller. Then he wants back in. He wants to walk, then he wants to be carried. Not only that, but snack and meal times still fill a large part of the day. In my experience, the best travel strollers for toddlers are ones that are lightweight, easy to travel with and have a compact fold.
Toddlers love exploring, but those little legs still get pretty tired! All that moving around and testing out everything they find can make them exhausted! So you can still expect to get a few years out of a toddler travel stroller. I love the idea of a stroller that can be folded up and carried, making it easier to hold your toddler’s hand when he’s in the mood to walk.
When he gets tired, it’s easy to pull the toddler travel stroller back out and get a little nap on the go! Alternatively, when your toddler is walking or being carried, you can use the stroller to hold your bags! You’ll be glad you have that toddler stroller for travel!
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Best Travel Strollers for Toddlers
With so many great options, finding the best lightweight travel stroller for a toddler isn’t an easy task! Based on my years of traveling with toddlers, I’ve included my recommendations plus plenty of details for each compact travel stroller to help in your search for the best stroller to travel with a toddler.
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Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Toddler Stroller
One of my picks for the best overall toddler stroller for travel, the Ergobaby Metro+ is a compact stroller that delivers all the features traveling parents could want. It's easy to see why they call this a premium ultra-compact travel stroller.
While it might not be the most lightweight stroller for travel at 16.9 lbs, the comfort from newborn right through the toddler stage more than makes up for it.
The seat has more padding than most for extra comfort, the seat fully reclines and the sunshade is large enough to block the sun. Its compact fold will allow the Ergo Metro+ to fit in most overhead bins on the airplane.
The Ergobaby has one feature I rarely see in a good travel stroller - an adjustable handlebar, making this the best travel stroller for tall parents!
It is even car seat compatible and includes a weather shield. Ergobaby also has an optional travel bag. Recommended from newborn and up to 50 pounds, you’ll get plenty of use out of this compact folding stroller for travel.
- Recline – Full flat recline.
- Storage – Large under seat basket.
- Sun Protection – 4 panel extendable canopy.
- Size/Weight – 16.9 lbs / folds to 21 x 17 x 9 inches.
- Max Weight Capacity – 50 lbs.
Read my full review of the ErgoBaby Metro+ Stroller.
ErgoBaby has also released the ErgoBaby Metro+ Deluxe stroller which has some premium upgrades, a child support bar plus a cup holder. Read my full review of the Metro+ Deluxe Stroller.
Inglesina Quid Stroller
My second pick for the best toddler travel stroller, I love how the multiple position recline on the Inglesina Quid Stroller allows it to be used from 3 months and up to 50 pounds. It's a lightweight toddler travel stroller too, weighing only 13 pounds. The compact tri-fold with folded dimensions of 22.8” x 18.3” x 6.8” will fit in the overhead bin on most airlines.
The large extendable canopy has an extra zipper extension to offer plenty of sun protection.
I love getting good value for my money, especially on expensive travel gear. With a max weight capacity of 50 pounds this compact toddler stroller for travel should last right through the toddler stage.
- Recline – Multiple positions.
- Storage – Large under seat basket.
- Sun Protection – Large extendable canopy.
- Size/Weight – 13 lbs.
- Max Weight Capacity – 50 lbs.
Read my full review of the Inglesina Quid travel stroller here.
Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller
With an extra large storage basket plus a side pocket and a cup holder, you’ll be able to carry everything you need using the Summer 3Dlite Convenience compact travel stroller. This affordable umbrella stroller for travel weighs only 13 pounds and has an umbrella style fold with a carry strap. While you won’t be able to store it in the overhead bin, you can bring it right to airplane and gate check it.
With 4 recline positions to nearly flat, you’ll have no trouble getting your toddler to sleep on vacation. This stroller is recommended for babies 6 months + and up to 50lbs.
- Recline – 4 position recline to nearly flat.
- Storage – Extra Large storage basket.
- Sun Protection – Adjustable and removable canopy with sun visor.
- Size/Weight – 13 lbs.
- Max Weight Capacity – 50 lbs.
The Summer 3Dlite is similar to the Summer 3Dmini except that it's 2 lbs heavier and more expensive. On the other hand it's also over 3 inches taller, so better for taller parents.
For a slightly higher price and weight, you can get the Summer 3DLite+ Convenience travel stroller which comes with a one hand recline, cell phone holder and oversized canopy.
gb Pockit+ All-Terrain
The gb Pockit+ All-Terrain travel stroller is comparable to the the gb Pockit+ All City in that it’s compatible with infant car seats and reclines. Where it differs is with its double all terrain wheels, lower weight at 12.3 pounds and smaller folded dimensions. This compact toddler travel stroller will fit in the overhead bin on an airplane.
The recline is nice for naps, as is the better canopy compared to other pocket strollers and the all-terrain wheels makes it easier to push larger children. These nice features make it one of the best fold-up strollers for toddlers.
This stroller is recommended for babies who can sit up unassisted around 6 months + and up to 55 pounds. This high upper weight limit makes this my pick for the best travel stroller for big kids.
- Recline – Yes.
- Storage – Large pocket under seat.
- Sun Protection – Larger Canopy compared to other pocket strollers.
- Size/Weight – 12.3 lbs / folds to 16.5 x 13.4 x 7.9 inches.
- Max Weight Capacity – 55 lbs.
Summer 3Dmini Convenience Stroller
If a basic umbrella stroller for travel makes the most sense, the Summer 3Dmini Convenience stroller is highly regarded and comes at a low price (under $100).
The Summer 3Dmini is a basic umbrella style travel stroller that’s easy to travel with given how light it is at 11 lbs. For the most affordable stroller on my list, the Summer 3Dmini umbrella stroller has a decent canopy. Given it isn't compatible with infant car seats, this makes a much better travel stroller for toddlers.
This travel stroller meets Disney size requirements and even has a parent organizer that hangs on the back.
- Recline – Multi-position recline.
- Storage – Small storage basket.
- Sun Protection – Extendable with sun visor.
- Size/Weight – 11 lbs.
- Max Weight Capacity – 45 lbs.
Mountain Buggy Nano V3 Stroller for Travel
The Mountain Buggy Nano V3 (which is similar to the original Mountain Buggy Nano) is only 13 pounds and the maximum weight capacity is 44 lbs. The Mountain Buggy Nano V3 has a flat recline that will allow parents to use this portable stroller for travel with toddlers and newborns alike.
With a lower max weight capacity of 44 pounds, I'm concerned that you may not get much use out of this travel strollerit if you have a heavy child.
The Mountain Buggy Nano V3 was designed to fit in most overhead bins on the airplane, but the wheels may need to be popped off first. It comes with a carry handle, shoulder strap and a travel bag.
- Recline – Flat recline.
- Storage – Large under seat basket.
- Sun Protection – Two tier canopy with pop out sun visor.
- Size/Weight – 13 lbs.
- Max Weight Capacity – 44 lbs.
UPPAbaby G-LITE Stroller
Perfect for traveling to warm climates, this UPPAbaby G-LITE umbrella stroller has a mesh back keeping your child cool. It’s super lightweight at only 11.2 pounds, but still has a large storage basket and a removable cup holder. It also has a nice large canopy with a pop out sun visor to keep your little one out of the sun.
Other features include tall ergonomic handles and a carry strap.
Recommended for babies 6 months+ and up to 55 pounds. With the mesh seat and only one option for recline, this stroller would be best for toddlers and more specifically for summer or in a warm climate.
- Recline – Two positions with zipper recline.
- Storage – Large under seat basket.
- Sun Protection – Three tier canopy with pop out sunshade.
- Size/Weight – 11.2 lbs.
- Max Weight Capacity – 55 lbs.
Joovy Kooper Stroller
The Joovy Kooper is the closest you’ll get to an all-terrain stroller for travel. It has larger wheels than some of the other travel strollers for toddlers on my list. Though it’s heavier than most at 16.17 pounds, it has the added bonus of a tray. A tray makes travel with a toddler so much easier, as you can feed your toddler snacks on the go, making it easy to get from place to place.
It has a reclining seat, adjustable footrest and with a max weight capacity of 55 pounds, you can plan to use this stroller for years to come.
The Joovy Kooper has a one-hand tri-fold and the tray folds up with the stroller. Unfortunately, the tray adds extra inches and this stroller won’t fit in the overhead bin on the airplane. With a good stroller bag it can be protected when it is gate checked.
- Recline – Multi-position recline.
- Storage – Large lower storage plus zipper storage pocket.
- Sun Protection – Large oversized canopy.
- Size/Weight – 16.17 lbs.
- Max Weight Capacity – 55 lbs.
Cybex Libelle 2 Ultra Compact and Lightweight Stroller
I really like a lightweight travel stroller for toddlers, since most walking toddlers will be in and out of the stroller. The Cybex Libelle 2 weighs only 13.7 lbs with a compact fold 18.9 x 12.6 x 7.9 allowing this travel stroller to fit in most overhead bins on the airplane. With its lightweight, one handed recline and adjustable footrest, this is an excellent toddler travel stroller for flying.
The Cybex Libelle is self-standing once folded and can be used with Cybex infant car seats to make a travel system. This toddler stroller is recommended from 6 months until 50 lbs.
- Recline – Yes.
- Storage – Large basket under seat.
- Sun Protection – Extendable canopy.
- Size/Weight – 13.7 lbs / folds to 18.9 x 12.6 x 7.9 inches.
- Max Weight Capacity – 50 lbs.
UPPAbaby MINU V2 Toddler Travel Stroller
The UPPAbaby MINU V2 is a lightweight toddler travel stroller that can be used from birth (with the use of the UPPAbaby Bassinet) and right up to 50 pounds. Without this, it can still be used from 3 months old and is compatible with car seats with the use of optional adapters. I really like a stroller for travel with toddlers that can be used with a baby from early on. It just means that us parents will get a lot more use out of our purchase.
This is a new version of the UPPAbaby Minu which is slightly heavier, but this well rated travel stroller still has a one-hand, one-step fold with folded dimensions of 23” x 20.3” x 12” (which may fit in the overhead bin on some larger airlines). This stroller comes with a deep storage basket that can be reached from the front or back. It also has a carry strap or optional travel backpack.
The UPPAbaby Minu V2 is 16.9 pounds and has a max weight capacity of 50 pounds, meaning parents will get plenty of use out of this stroller.
- Recline – Multi position recline.
- Storage – Large under seat basket.
- Sun Protection – Extendable canopy with pop out sun visor.
- Size/Weight – 16.9 lbs.
- Max Weight Capacity – 50 lbs.
The Traveler (Zoe Travel Stroller)
Zoe has been making solid travel strollers for a while and the Traveler is no exception. With a compact fold that should fit most size requirements for the overhead bin on the airplane, the Zoe Traveler travel stroller has folded dimensions of 22 x 19 x 10 weighs only 13 pounds.
Add to that a large extendable canopy, reclining seat to 148 degrees and a maximum weight capacity of 45 pounds, makes this an ideal travel stroller for flying with toddlers. The Traveler has a belly bar, a parent cup holder and a optional add-on snack tray. Plus it has a self standing featuring, meaning you can easily place it out of the way in restaurants or your hotel room.
While the Traveler is their “travel stroller”, the Tour+ seems to be the replacement to the original Traveler XL1 stroller that was loved by so many parents. At only 11 pounds (12.5 for the LUXE version), it has many of the same features as the XL1, including the 165 degree recline (compared to only 150 degrees on the XL1), plenty of storage and a large extendable canopy. It includes a parent cup holder, child cup holder, snack cup and a belly bar.
It has a slightly larger fold at 26 x 20.25 x 7.5, so while it might fit in some overhead bins, you might be gate checking this one.
- Recline – Yes.
- Storage – Large under seat basket.
- Sun Protection – 4 panel extendable canopy.
- Size/Weight – 13 lbs / folds to 22 x 17.5 x 8 inches.
- Max Weight Capacity – 45 lbs.
The Zoe stroller has a convenient backpack for traveling.
Babyzen YOYO2 Stroller
For anyone with a big budget, the BabyZen YoYo2 is one of the best travel strollers hands down. It’s lightweight at only 13.6 pounds, but the weight allowance is only 40 pounds. While this will work for many, if you have a large toddler you may not get as much use out of this stroller.
The folded dimensions of the BabyZen YoYo2 are 20.5” x 17.3” x 7.1”, allowing it to fit in the overhead bin on most airlines.
For babies 6 months and up to 40 pounds, the 6+ Color Pack offers a reclining seat for comfortable naps.
The Babyzen YoYo2 is a one-hand fold travel stroller, making it convenient when traveling with a baby or toddler. The shoulder strap makes it easy to pick up and go.
- Recline – Multi position to 145 degrees.
- Storage – Large under seat basket.
- Sun Protection – Extendable canopy with pop out sun visor.
- Size/Weight – 13.6 lbs.
- Max Weight Capacity – 40 lbs.
gb Pockit Air All Terrain Ultra Compact Lightweight Travel Toddler Stroller
The gb Pockit Air All Terrain is one of the most compact travel strollers for toddlers on the market. I love how this lightweight compact stroller can be collapsed in seconds and will fit in the overhead bin on the airplane.
At only 10 lbs, this folding toddler travel stroller is easy to fold, lift and maneuver. However, what you get in compactness you sacrifice in features. This stroller doesn’t recline and the sunshade is going to offer very little protection.
Rated up to 55 lbs, this stroller is best for anyone who needs an ultra-lightweight travel stroller for toddlers without all the extra features. Recommended age for this travel stroller is from 6 months up to 55 lbs.
- Recline – No.
- Storage – Limited.
- Sun Protection – Small sun visor.
- Size/Weight – 10.4 lbs / folds to 11.8 x 7.1 x 13.8 inches.
- Max Weight Capacity – 55 lbs.
Delta Children Clutch Ultra Compact Lightweight Travel Stroller
Ideal for airplane travel, the Delta Children Clutch is a lightweight foldable stroller that folds up to a size of 15 x 19.7 x 5.9 inches and weighs 12 lbs.
If you are looking for a small compact stroller for toddlers, this is it! With the compact fold, this airplane friendly stroller should fit in most overhead compartments on the airplane. As a bonus it also comes with a built in carry strap to make carrying it even easier.
For children who weigh up to 50 pounds and meeting Disney size requirements, you’ll get plenty of use out of this folding stroller for travel. This stroller is best for toddlers as there's no recline. The best part is when your toddler decides to walk, you can pack it up into a bag and carry it.
I don’t love the lack of recline and small sunshade, but if your toddler is frequently choosing to get in and out of the stroller then this would be a great option!
Read my full review of the Delta Children Clutch stroller for travel.
- Recline – No.
- Storage – Storage basket under seat.
- Sun Protection – Small sun visor.
- Size/Weight – 12 lbs / folds to 15 x 19.7 x 5.9 inches.
- Max Weight Capacity – 50 lbs.
The Delta Clutch can also be purchased at Walmart.
Safety 1st Teeny Ultra Compact Stroller
If you are looking for a budget-friendly toddler travel stroller, the Safety 1st Teeny is worth a look. This lightweight travel stroller for toddlers is rated up to 50 pounds, has a large canopy with a flip out visor (plus peek-a-boo window) and plenty of storage. Parents will love that it comes with a cup holder and storage both behind the seat and below.
It weighs 15 lbs and has folded dimensions of 23 x 19 x 10 which will fit in the overhead bin on some larger airlines. Add to that a full recline and one-handed fold, and parents will get a ton of use out of this stroller.
- Recline – Multiple recline positions.
- Storage – Large lower storage.
- Sun Protection – Large expandable canopy.
- Size/Weight – 15 lbs.
- Max Weight Capacity – 50 lbs.
My Recommendations for the Best Toddler Travel Strollers
I know you don’t always have time to read the whole article, especially when you are chasing a busy toddler! So here are my top picks for the best travel stroller for toddlers:
Overall Best Toddler Travel Stroller
Ergobaby Metro+ or the Inglesina Quid – both are lightweight toddler travel strollers, have a compact fold and are good up until 50 lbs. You’ll get tons of use out of either of these strollers with that high max weight capacity, plus they are easy to push around even if your toddler decides to walk. (Use BFMETRO100 for $100 off a Metro+ as part of their holiday deal!)
Best Budget Toddler Travel Stroller
Summer 3Dmini Convenience– a well rated umbrella stroller at an affordable price.
Best Lightweight Stroller for Toddlers
GB Pockit Air All Terrain – one of the best compact strollers for toddlers. The best part about this one is you can carry it in a backpack when your toddler decides to walk instead of ride.
Best Travel Stroller for a Big Kid
gb Pockit+ All-Terrain – has a weight capacity of 55 pounds, making it a decent choice for a stroller for a child over 50 lbs.
What to Look for in a Toddler Travel Stroller
Here are some things to consider when looking for the best toddler stroller for travel:
1. Reclining Stroller Seat
My kids didn’t do well when they missed a nap, so this feature was especially important to me. If your toddler is still napping or doesn’t do well missing a nap, get the best reclining stroller for your toddler. A compact toddler stroller with a good reclining seat will keep your toddler comfortable and help you get your toddler to sleep while you are sightseeing.
2. Well Rated with Safety Features
Consider only well-rated travel strollers for toddlers made by a reputable company. Ensure it has all the important safety features like locking wheels, won’t tip when it’s reclined and a 5 point harness.
3. Easy One-Hand Fold
There will be times when you are trying to hold your toddler and fold up the stroller at the same time. Getting the a fold up stroller for toddlers with a one-hand fold will make your life so much easier.
4. Small Compact Fold
Often times your toddler will want to be out of the stroller walking (see my post on baby carrier vs. stroller for travel). If your toddler travel stroller has a compact fold, you or your partner can carry the stroller in a backpack travel bag while the other runs after your toddler. This is especially useful when visiting places that aren’t stroller accessible or when flying with toddlers.
5. Comfort
Your stroller still needs to be comfortable so your toddler will enjoy being in it and with any luck nap in it. Look for a lightweight travel stroller for toddlers that still has decent padding in the seat and where your toddler can sit comfortably.
6. Canopy
I used to use a large swaddle blanket as a stroller sun shade while traveling with my kids, but it just wasn’t up to the task. A large extendable canopy is important to keep your toddler out of the harsh sunlight. Look for a toddler stroller for travel that has a canopy that can offer the right sun protection for your toddler.
There are aftermarket products like the CoziGo stroller cover that can be added on if the canopy isn’t ideal. These stroller sunshades are ideal for helping your toddler nap on the-the-go!
7. Storage
You’ll still be carrying around all the diapers, snacks and other toddler travel essentials, so choose a portable stroller for toddlers that has enough storage. I would often toss a toddler travel carrier in the bottom, as you just never know when you might want to use it!
8. Price
A travel stroller for toddlers can get pricey! Make sure you know your budget for the best lightweight toddler stroller before you start researching.
9. Extended Life
Not all travel strollers for toddlers have a high max weight capacity. If you have a tall or heavy toddler, make sure your toddler won’t outgrow your lightweight toddlers stroller for travel. If you are looking to buy a new travel stroller for your toddler, make sure the maximum weight capacity is 50 lbs or more.
10. Food Tray and Cup Holder
These aren’t deal breakers, but nice-to-haves. Having the ability to give your toddler a snack or even to play with one of these screen-free toddler travel toys while walking is a huge convenience. The best toddler strollers for travel should also make your life easier! Consider a lightweight toddler stroller with a snack tray and cup holder. At a minimum, you can always look for toddler travel strollers where these items can be added after.
Other things to keep in mind when purchasing a stroller:
- How much will you use your toddler travel stroller? This will help determine how much you spend on your stroller.
- Where will you travel with your stroller? Does it need to meet Disney stroller size requirements? Does it need to withstand cobblestone streets while touring Europe with a toddler?
- Are you flying with a stroller? Will your travel stroller be used primarily for road trips with a toddler or will you be flying with a stroller frequently? This will help you decide how compact your travel stroller needs to be.
- Will you have more children? If you plan on having more children, consider getting a travel stroller for infants that still meets your needs traveling with a toddler. Eventually, you may want to look into the best double travel strollers.
Optional Accessories for Travel Strollers for Toddlers
Not every travel stroller is going to have all the features you want. If you really like one of my recommended travel strollers for toddlers above, but it’s missing a feature that is important to you, don’t worry. I’ve written a post with the best add-on accessories for travel strollers which should solve your problem.
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This post was written & edited by:
Celine Brewer is the owner of Baby Can Travel. Not only does she have years of experience traveling with babies & toddlers, but she's helped millions of new parents travel with their babies and toddlers for over a decade. In addition to writing on her baby travel blog, she has shared her expertise on traveling with a baby or toddler by contributing to articles about traveling with a baby with the Washington Post, USA Today, the Lonely Planet magazine and Pregnancy & Newborn magazine.
Celine also writes about family travel on the site FamilyCanTravel.com, which she co-owns with her husband. Being from the Canadian Rockies, she shares her passion about her home and travel to Banff National Park and area on their site TravelBanffCanada.com.