|
|
Lightweight Travel Strollers
Strollers are listed in order of weight
from lightest up to 15.6 lbs.
 Maclaren
Volo
Why we recommend it:
Good luck catching the New York subway
without seeing one of these. The Volo's quick-and-easy one-handed
umbrella fold, combined with its ultra lightweight frame, ergonomic
foam-grip handles, and built-in shoulder strap quickly made it a
favorite among city dwellers--not to mention travelers. Its sturdy
aluminum chassis also makes light work of steering, and it truly is
responsive to one-handed pushing and steering. With a handle height of
41 inches, it has also proven quite comfortable for parents of all
heights. Do be aware that this is a "bare bones" model, with no extra
padding in the seat and even see-through mesh used in the back, though
that can be a plus if you live or travel in very hot regions. Also, the
seat does not recline at all, which is why they say it is for children 6
months and older--though the seat is subtly reclined where it is
positioned. Unlike most lightweight strollers it is rated up to 55 lbs.
and will also accommodate taller children than most models. For more
bells and whistles, see the other strollers and Maclaren models below.
Folds to 13.5" x 11" x 41". Weighs 9.2 lbs.
Find it online at:
Amazon.com Babies R Us
Baby Universe
|
 Silver
Cross Micro V.2
Why we recommend it:
It is quite comparable to the popular Volo,
above, with a few differences that may be preferred by some.
Similarities: Weight at 9.2 lbs., umbrella fold, shoulder strap, ergo
foam-grip handles, style of shopping basket, and breathable mesh fabric
used in seat. Differences: Larger wheels at 6" diameter (Volo's are only
4.5"), optional/removable cushioned seat pad, and even taller handles at
42.5" H. Folds to 10 x 8 x 42. Weighs 9.2 lbs.
Find it online at:
Amazon.com
One Step Ahead
|
 STS-1
Lightweight Travel Stroller
Why we recommend it:
Easy on the wallet. It folds
to the size of a single umbrella stroller, but offers a partial
reclining seat and convenient bumper bar as well. Many features are
REMARKABLY similar to Combi's travel strollers (ahem), including the
very compact fold and shoulder carrying strap. Compared with the
Combi City Savvy below, this stroller does not
feature a full recline and is not suitable for newborns, it also has a
3-point safety harness whereas Combi provides 5-point harnesses. This
stroller also has a shorter handle height, and is not compatible with an
infant car seat. Suitable from 6 months to 45 lbs. Folds to 37" x 14" x
9". Weighs 11 lbs.
Find it online at:
One Step Ahead
|
Chicco Capri (C6)
Why we recommend it:
Value. Another excellent
option that also comes standard with a shoulder carrying strap!
Compact umbrella fold, two-position seat recline, all-wheel suspension,
and a storage basket underneath. A carrying bag
is also included with its own shoulder carrying strap as well--helpful
for those times you might prefer to check your stroller with your
suitcases. Ages 6 months to 3 years. Weighs 11 lbs.
Find it online at:
Amazon.com
Babies R Us
|
 Combi
Flare Stroller
Why we recommend it:
Having traveled the globe
with a Combi over the shoulder, Shelly's quite familiar with the selling
points--and sticking points of Combi's travel strollers. The new Flare
improves upon two sticking points of the past: 1. At 40", the handle
height is 2"-3" taller than most previous models, making it more
comfortable to push and maneuver for taller parents. 2. While most
travel strollers are not made to be used with infant car seats, the
Flare is compatible with the Combi Shuttle infant car seat, making it
useful from your first day home, if you're so inclined (Have a Combi
Connection? See the Savvy below). It is also rated up to 55 lbs., to
hopefully serve you on many, many trips to come. Other great features
included: shoulder carrying strap, bumper bar with cup holder, and an
adjustable recline suitable for use from birth. Folds to 10" x 15" x
37". Weighs 11.7 lbs.
Find it online at:
Amazon.com
Baby Age
Babies R Us
Elite Car Seats
|
 Combi
City Savvy Stroller
Why we recommend it:
It's all in the bumper bar.
While the City Savvy offers great travel features, including Combi's
compact tri-fold design and a convenient shoulder carrying strap, its
bumper bar gives it one very noticeable advantage over its featherweight
competitors. How important is a bumper bar? It gives parents something
to grab onto at the front end when steering the stroller through narrow
doorways, it provides a place to attach travel toys and a
portable stroller
tray, and it makes an adorable footrest for older babies (numerous
parents have reported this). The City Savvy also offers a fully
reclining seat that can be used from birth and includes an infant boot.
Another advantage over the other lighter weight strollers in its
category is that the City Savvy can be used with the Combi Connection
Infant Car Seat. Also includes storage/travel bag. Suitable from birth
to 45 lbs. Folds to 10.5" x 18" x 39". Weighs 12 lbs.
Find it online at:
Amazon.com
Baby Age
Baby Universe
Elite Car Seats
|
 Maclaren
Triumph
Why we recommend it:
Longevity. You can use the Triumph from 3
months through 4 years. The Triumph offers adequate recline for infants
and--unlike many lightweight travel and umbrella strollers-- it
accommodates the longer legs, taller bodies, and greater weights of
older children. The sturdy frame and ergonomic handles also make
Maclaren strollers easier to push with older children than many other
models. Enjoy the same quick-and-easy one-handed fold, ergonomic design,
and other shoulder carrying strap of the Volo, with the added bonus of a
multi-position reclining seat. For 3 months to 55 lbs. Owing to its narrower canopy,
the Triumph also folds slightly smaller than the Volo, plus its wheels
are a full 5" diameter and offer a slightly smoother ride. Rain cover
included. Folds to 10" x 10" x 41". Weighs 11lbs.
Find it online at:
Amazon.com
Babies
R Us
Baby Universe |
 Maclaren
Quest
Why we recommend it:
Good for infants. Add to the features of the
Triumph an extendable leg rest to support little legs,
a UV-treated peek-a-boo window in the back of the hood,
and a storage pocket on the back of the canopy (Volos and Triumphs don't
have windows or pockets). The seat has
4 reclining positions reclining seat.
It also has treaded 5" wheels and. Note that the Quest has a carrying handle
and not a shoulder strap. If your child is already past the point
of using the leg rest and you can do without the peek-a-boo window, you
might prefer to travel with the lighter weight, less expensive Triumph
(above). Also, compare with the Chicco C5 below. For children 3
months and up. Folds to 10" x 10" x 41". Weighs 13.4 lbs.
Find it online at:
Amazon.com Babies
R Us
Baby Universe
|
 Chicco
C5
Why we recommend it:
Comfort and value (compare with the Quest
above). The Chicco C5 gives you big-brand extras, like ergonomic
foam-grip handles, a one-hand umbrella fold, one-hand multi-position
seat recline, an adjustable padded leg rest, extra seat padding, and a
lightweight tubular aluminum frame--but at a price lower than you may
expect. Canopy with peek-a-boo window zips open at back when extra
ventilation is desired. 5.5" wheels. Note: There are many Chicco
strollers in the market, so be sure you are shopping for the C5 if you
are interested in this model. Also, the Chicco C5 has a carrying handle,
not a shoulder strap. For babies 6 months up to 37 lbs.
Folds to 15" x 10" x 42". Weighs 13.7 lbs.
Find it online at:
Amazon.com
Baby Age
Baby Universe
|
 Maclaren
Techno XT
Why we recommend it:
Add a few bells and whistles to the Maclaren
Volo and Triumph models and you get the Techno XT. This deluxe model
features a fully reclining seat and a UV-protective sun canopy that can
extend down to your child's knees when needed. Ergonomic handles adjust
from 41 to 44 inches, making it ideal for taller parents--or households
with staggered parents. 6.5" wheels are larger than other Maclaren
models and help ensure a smoother ride. Built-in carrying handle instead
of a shoulder strap. Rain cover included. Suitable from birth to 55 lbs.
Folds to 11.5" x 10.5" x 42.5". Weighs 14.5 lbs (fully equipped).
Find it online at:
Amazon.com
Baby Universe
|
Micralite Fastfold FTS
Why we recommend it:
We'd be lying if we said
that looks had nothing to do with it--after all this is hardly the
stroller to choose if you want to blend in with the crowd. But it may
also turn the heads of those hoping against all odds to find one
stroller they can be happy with for all occasions--this one may actually
fit the bill. Pneumatic 12" rear wheels give a smooth ride over park
trails and even help you negotiate curbs and sets of steps with
grace--plus they have shocks. A spring-loaded swift folding mechanism
activates when you simply lift the handle, and--shebang--you can leave
it self-standing on the jetway as you board your flight. Seat adjusts to
two positions. Easy steering handle adjusts from 37" up to 41.5"H.
Rain cover included. Can be used from 3 months up to 50 lbs, or from
birth with the Micralite Graco Car Seat Adapter. Folds to 40" x
12.5" (wheels) x 14.5". The stroller weighs 15 lbs.
Find it online at:
Amazon.com
Baby Age
Babies R Us
One Step Ahead
|
|
 Quinny
Zapp
Why we recommend it:
It's the most compactly folding stroller we
know of. At only 27" x 10" x
11" folded, you can pack it in your suitcase and still have room for
your clothes. Better yet, think of all the room it could save you in
your cruise ship cabin, sleeper car--or rental car for that matter.
Unfortunately, the seat doesn't recline, but you can't have it all.
However, the Quinny Zapp does have a storage basket, sun canopy, rain
cover, and adapter for the Maxi-Cosi infant car seat. Weighs 15.6 lbs.
Find it online at:
Amazon.com JoggingStroller.com
|
Back to top
Back to Strollers &
Accessories
|
