Top 3 Light Travel Strollers (and the One I Recommend Most)
If you’ve ever tried wrangling a bulky stroller through an airport or onto a bus in Europe then you know the struggle is real. The first time I lugged our Uppababy Vista overseas to Switzerland, I quickly realized it’s way too bulky for cobblestone streets, tiny cafés, and crowded buses. Lesson learned: when it comes to light travel strollers, convenience is everything.
And if you’re flying with a baby or toddler, a lightweight stroller is even more essential for navigating long security lines, gate-checking, and rushing to connections. It is so much easier when your stroller isn’t weighing or slowing you down.
As a mom of two who has lived abroad all over Europe, I’ve tested more strollers than I’d like to admit, searching for the ones that actually make travel easier instead of harder. Once I discovered the Joolz, I realized a good light travel stroller isn’t just for vacations, as it quickly became our everyday go-to for errands, trips, and everything in between. Honestly, I wish I had made the switch sooner.
In this post, I’m sharing the 3 best light travel strollers (tried and tested), why they’re worth considering, and which one has been the ultimate game changer for our family.
Related: Top 3 Slumberpod Alternative Options for Better Toddler Sleep
Is a Travel Stroller Worth it?
Yes, absolutely. Out of all the baby gear you’ll invest in, light travel strollers are one of the biggest game changers. Whether you’re off to Disneyland, spending the day at the fair, running errands, or heading on vacation, they make traveling with a baby or toddler so much easier.
One thing parents often don’t realize is that when flying internationally, airport staff sometimes send your stroller straight to baggage claim. That means you could be stuck carrying your baby for 30 minutes to an hour until luggage is unloaded. It happened to us once, and it was exhausting.
Since then, we’ve only traveled with light travel strollers. We either fold one into the overhead bin or gate check it in a padded bag so it stays protected. Having a lightweight stroller you can rely on makes every trip smoother and far less stressful.
Light Travel Strollers Comparison Chart
Related: Babyzen YoYo2 Stroller Review and Pros/Cons
Top 3 Light Travel Strollers
Here are my top 3 Light Travel Strollers!
Let’s talk about them all in depth, starting with my favorite light travel stroller!
1. Joolz Aer – My Clear Winner
If I could recommend only one, out of all light travel strollers, it would absolutely be the Joolz Aer. It’s the stroller I reach for every single day, and it officially replaced my bulky full-size stroller.
Weighing 14.3 pounds, it’s incredibly light but still feels unexpectedly sturdy and smooth , more like a full-size stroller than a compact one. The one-handed fold is effortless, which is a lifesaver when you’re juggling kids, bags, and boarding passes.
What really sold me is the taller seat height. My toddler is on the taller side, and this is one of the few travel strollers that gives her plenty of room to ride comfortably. The extendable canopy, secure 5-point harness, and a surprisingly functional storage basket just make life easier.
After traveling with it and using it daily around town, it has completely replaced our bulky Uppababy Vista. Honestly, I grab the Joolz for everything now. And with the new Aer2 offering a full recline in the U.S., it’s even better for naps!
If you want something lightweight, stylish, durable, and truly practical, the Joolz Aer 2 is the easy winner.
2. Bugaboo Butterfly
The Bugaboo Butterfly is another strong option, especially if overhead-bin compatibility is important. At 16.1 pounds, it’s slightly heavier, but its IATA-approved folded size means it fits in most overhead bins without an issue.
Its best features:
- Smooth, easy maneuverability
- A surprisingly large underseat basket (holds up to 17.6 lbs!)
- A sturdy frame that holds up well, even after years of travel
- One-handed, quick fold
A couple of trade-offs: the seat doesn’t sit fully upright, and the narrow wheelbase can feel a bit tippy on uneven surfaces. Plus, accessories like the bumper bar and travel backpack are sold separately (this isn’t uncommon).
Even with those quirks, the Butterfly is stylish, durable, and incredibly travel-friendly, definitely worthy of this light travel strollers list.
3. Uppababy Minu
If you’re already a fan of Uppababy (I used the Vista for years), the Minu feels familiar in all the best ways. It’s compact, lightweight, and folds down small enough for everyday errands or plane travel. Pair it with the TSA-approved travel bag, and it fits easily in the overhead bin or can be gate-checked without worry.
The one-handed fold is one of its biggest perks. In terms of weight, it sits between the Butterfly and the Aer, lighter than the Butterfly but slightly heavier than the Joolz.
The only downside for me is the push. It’s good, but when you compare it directly to the Joolz Aer, the difference in smoothness is noticeable.
Still, the Minu is stylish, reliable, and definitely one of the better-designed light travel strollers on the market.
In Conclusion
All three strollers are great in their own ways: compact, functional, and designed with traveling families in mind. But after years of flights, road trips, and daily use, the Joolz Aer continues to outperform the rest.
If you’re looking for a lightweight stroller that’s durable, comfortable for taller toddlers, and genuinely easy to travel with, the Joolz Aer is the one I’d buy again every time.
Bonus: Budget-Friendly Light Travel Strollers Worth Considering
If you want a solid option without spending as much as the premium brands, here are two great light travel strollers that parents consistently love , and won’t break the budget.
Graco Ready2Jet Travel Stroller
Graco offers several lightweight, budget-friendly light travel strollers that get the job done without the high price tag. The Ready2Jet is simple, practical, and easy to fold.
While they don’t have the same luxe feel or long-term durability as the higher-end picks ( such as the 3 listed above), Graco is a dependable choice if you’re looking to save money while still getting a true light travel stroller.
Mamazing Travel Stroller
The Mamazing travel stroller has become a surprisingly impressive affordable alternative, and one of the most talked-about light travel strollers for parents on a budget.
- Super lightweight (lighter than some babies!)
- Folds easily with one hand
- Comfortable enough for naps, even babies who never sleep in strollers
- Multiple recline positions
- Great sunshade
- Cotton seat cushion
- Works well on most terrains
- Comes with helpful add-ons like the cup holder bag
It’s marketed to fit in most overhead bins, which is a big perk for any light travel stroller, but some airlines still require all strollers to be gate-checked.
A couple things to keep in mind: the under-seat basket has a small weight limit (around 4 lbs), and when the seat is fully upright, there are no side panels, so always strap your baby in.
If you have a tall toddler or want something that will last several years, this may not be the best long-term fit. But for the price (typically $200–$250), it’s an amazing value in the world of light travel strollers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use these strollers from birth?
Yes, you can use the Joolz Aer 2 from birth, however, you need to purchase the bassinet separately. They are available on their website and on Amazon.
Are they compatible with car seats?
Yes, all three light travel strollers mentioned above are compatible with car seats. This includes the Joolz Aer 2, Bugaboo Butterfly, and the Uppababy Minu.
Can you bring a stroller through TSA or onto the plane?
Yes, you can bring the strollers through TSA and onto the plane. Most are able to fit in overhead bins. Make sure to double check with your airline!
Do they work on rough terrain?
Yes! Most travel strollers can handle everyday surfaces, but they’re not the best for rough terrain. The wheel size and suspension just aren’t built for that level of impact.
What accessories should I consider?
In terms of travel stroller accessories, I would recommend you get the belly bar and cup holder for your iced coffee, matcha, etc. Those are the two accessories I’ve actually used and needed.
My Top Resources for Traveling Like a Pro
As an experienced traveler with over 6 years of booking and planning trips for my family and over 10 years of exploring the world solo, I have curated a list of the most reliable and efficient websites for travel planning.
1. Best deals for Flights, Hotels, and Rental Cars: Expedia.
2. Excursions and Activities: Viator.
3. Free Airport Lounge Access: Priority Pass through Chase Sapphire Reserve gives you access to over 1400 airport lounges around the world.
Amazon Travel Favorites
Don’t forget to visit my Amazon storefront, where you’ll find thoughtfully curated selections of travel essentials.
1. Traveling with a Toddler
2. Travel Essentials
3. Airport Outfit Ideas
Read More
Traveling with Toddlers? You might also enjoy these posts.
1. 3 Best Toddler Travel Bed Options to Use After Pack and Play 😴
2. Babyzen YoYo2 Stroller Review and Pros/Cons
3. Is Slumberpod Worth It? Honest Slumberpod Review ✈️
4. 10 Proven and Effective Ways to Pop Your Toddlers Ears on a Plane 👂
5. Top 3 Easy Ways to Transport a Car Seat Through the Airport 🌴
Written by: Melanie Suggs
Melanie is a nurse, a coffee lovin’ mama of two, and a frequent flier who has visited 17+ countries, lived overseas in Asia, Europe, and the States, and has taken her kids on over 30 flights all over the world (and even more domestic ones). With her extensive experience in flying and traveling with children, she has developed a passion for helping families travel easily through travel tips, honest gear reviews, and recommendations in her blog posts.
