travel systems that fold with seat

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The 12 Best Stroller & Car Seat Travel Systems [2023]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

768 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

29 Published Articles 3093 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28

Things To Consider With Travel Systems

1. a travel system for parents on-the-go, 2. compact travel system that saves room, 3. a seamless travel system for all occasions, 4. budget-friendly system that doesn’t give up quality, 5. a travel system that guarantees a smooth ride, 6. a carseat that offers your baby privacy, 7. a quick travel system to set up, 8. easy and lightweight travel system, 9. a travel system option that’s trusted worldwide, 10. environmentally-friendly travel system, 11. a travel system you can use for years, 12. makes trips a breeze with 1-handed setup, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Being a parent is a rewarding adventure, but you can’t just run around town unencumbered anymore. You have to take your baby with you, and you have to make sure that they’re safe.

That’s where travel systems come in. These tools are essential for making sure your child is safe and comfortable in your car and while walking around.

While the main goal of every travel system is the same — to give you an all-in-1 option for your car seat and stroller needs — there are tons of little differences between models. When trying to figure out which travel system is the right one for you, here are a few things to consider:

Size and Weight

A travel system’s size and weight are the first thing you must keep in mind before purchasing one. If you anticipate you’re going to be carrying your system for any reason, like up the steps of an apartment building, for example, you’ll want to opt for lighter travel system models.

Hot Tip: You also want your travel system to be large enough that your baby has enough room to be comfortable. This is also true if you want your travel system to last a few years as your child grows.

The material of a travel system is another primary thing to consider when you’re looking at different options. You want a material that will be easy to clean since it’s very likely your child will make messes while strapped in.

You also want a material that won’t be uncomfortable for your baby to sit in or for you to push.  Heavy-duty plastic is a good choice, particularly if there are cushions in the travel system to add extra comfort. That will ensure both comfort and the longevity of your product.

You want to keep your baby safe, so it’s important that you look into travel system options that are durable.

A sturdy travel system means you’ll be able to push it on rough surfaces or take it on bumpy rides without your child getting jostled. It also means you don’t have to worry about damaging any of its components when it’s not in use, thus compromising its structural integrity. 

Weather Conditions

You should also consider the weather when you’re considering which travel system to buy. If you live in a climate with all 4 seasons, you’ll want to make sure you purchase an option that you’ll be able to use both in the summer heat and in the snow .

You’ll want to make sure you pick a model that isn’t made of material that will melt or become deformed in hot weather if that’s your climate. You’ll also likely want wheels that have some traction when used in snow or rain.

You should consider your child’s age when picking the right travel system. While many travel systems are designed to last through at least a few growth spurts, they might have specifically designated age ranges.

For example, some travel systems are designed to be used from newborn age to 3 years. Others have car seats that are suitable for up to 18 months, but the stroller can last longer. Decide how long you want your travel system to last and your child’s age to help narrow down your options.

The 12 Best Travel Systems

Choosing the right travel system can be daunting. There are so many options out there and so many little differences between them that can make one option better than another.

To help you, we’ve weighed the pros and cons to decide which are the best travel systems on the market.

Baby Trend Pathway 35 Jogger Travel System

If you’re a busy parent who likes to keep their little one nearby, this travel system from Baby Trend is perfect.

It was designed for jogging parents to use so they can keep up with their exercise while still keeping their children by their side . Due to that, when in the stroller, kids will be in for a nice, smooth ride without bumps and jostles.

It’s also lightweight and easy to push for that same reason. However, the jogger also allows for safe car travel as well, thanks to its sturdy car seat that will ensure absolute safety on drives around the block or long road trips. With a maximum weight of 35 pounds, you can use this travel set for a while.

What We Like:

• Super comfortable

What We Don’t Like:

• Not for toddlers

Graco FastAction Fold Jogger Travel System

People looking for a travel system that can be compact for easy storage should look into the Graco FastAction model.

Though the system is nice and spacious when the stroller portion is set up, it can fold into itself so it can fit in most closets and storage areas.

This also makes this model a breeze to travel with as it passes most public transportation regulations for stroller sizes.

Thanks to its 5-point harness, you also don’t have to worry about safety. Your baby will be nice and snug in their seat for as long as needed.

• Elevated maximum weight of 50 pounds
• Wheels deflate quickly

Hot Tip: Check out our in-depth buyer guide to the best travel strollers for newborns and toddlers for more great options!

Evenflo Pivot Vizor Travel System

Some travel systems are designed to make long days and travel easier. Others are designed for walks around the block. This model by Evenflo is designed for both.

The system is sleek and easy to maneuver, making it perfect for any occasion. So whether you’re able to walk leisurely or you’re in a hurry, you can get where you need to go with this travel system’s stroller.

The car seat is also designed for any occasion . It’s able to fit in most vehicles without any problems, and it’s easy to install, so you don’t have to deal with a headache every time you have to strap your baby in for a car ride.

• Sun-protective and privacy visor
• Wheels struggle on rough surfaces

Baby Trend EZ Ride 35 Travel System

If you’re looking for a reliable and high-quality travel system, but you’re on a tighter budget, this model from Baby Trend is worth looking at.

The seating is made out of plush material that won’t be uncomfortable for your baby to sit in. Thanks to its soft grip, you also won’t get uncomfortable pushing or carrying it.

You can even adjust the stroller handles so you don’t have to crouch or stretch. The stroller portion comes with 2 cupholders as well, so you and your baby can stay hydrated while you’re out and about.

The system was even designed to sit your baby further back while the system creates “wings” around them to offer maximum protection on both sides.

• All-encompassing protection
• Lower weight allowance

Safety 1st Smooth Ride Travel System

If your main concern when looking at travel systems is the comfort of your child, then look no further than this Safety 1st option.

With  “Smooth Ride” in its name, you might expect a lot from this travel system, and it delivers. It has sturdy wheels that can stand up to most floors and terrain. So, whether you’re inside or out, you can easily use this stroller.

The wheels also glide effortlessly. They won’t make any noise and help smooth the ride if you push it over a bumpy surface. The car seat also keeps your baby secure and in one place during rides without being jostled around.

• Good for motion-sickness-prone children
• Not intuitive

Graco Modes Pramette Travel System

Your baby can’t speak up and tell you when they want some time to themself, so it’s up to you to make sure you can give them some peace. That’s why this Graco pramette travel system is such a great option.

The stroller can be front- or rear-facing , meaning you can decide if your baby needs some stimulation by seeing the world or if they need some peaceful time. It’s also an added safety measure.

For example, if you’re going to be using your travel system in areas with potential dust or debris or you’re worried you might stumble, a rear-facing system will help keep your baby safe.

• Large storage basket
• 20-pound limit

Graco FastAction SE Travel System

If you want a travel system you can set it up in the blink of an eye, Graco has you covered. Thanks to the way it’s designed to fold compactly, you don’t have to fight with the system to get it open or closed.

The system also comes with a lightweight but heavy-duty car seat to keep your baby safe on the road. It’s even a rear-facing seat, giving it extra points where safety is concerned.

The stroller has a parent tray that comes with a cup holder and a small storage area, so you can keep your essentials within easy reach without having to fumble in the storage compartment too much.

• Convenient design
• Only for newborns and young babies

Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 All

If you’re in need of a travel system, but you don’t want something heavy and bulky that will weigh you down, consider this option from Baby Jogger.

The system is made with breathable material that isn’t just lightweight but will also ensure your child isn’t uncomfortable no matter what time of year it is.

The system also has a single-handed locking mechanism to make folding or unfolding it a breeze.  You don’t have to worry about the stroller trying to fold back in on itself or coming undone either. Once the junctions are locked in place, they stay that way until you unlock them.

The car seat has also been designed to protect your precious cargo by using anti-rebound and trauma-blocking technology.

• Not budget-friendly

Hot Tip: If you prefer to travel lighter, check out our guide to the best travel baby carriers, including wraps, slings, and backpacks .

Chicco Mini Bravo Plus Travel System

If you’re generally undecided about which direction you want to go with your travel system, then consider an option with international respect. Chicco is a brand known worldwide, and it knows what it is doing when it comes to babies. This system was designed to ensure your baby is comfortable on the sidewalk or in the car.

The soft material isn’t just for your baby’s comfort, it also adds another layer of safety. Keeping your baby nice and cozy can absorb any potential trauma by the cushions and the system structure. The system itself is also lightweight and weighs under 20 pounds.

• Highly recommended
• Difficult to clean

Century Stroll On 3-Wheel 2-in-1 Lightweight Travel System

Environmentally-conscious people on the hunt for a good travel system should check out this option from Century. With fabrics made from recycled material, this system helps you do your part in being a little greener .

It also doesn’t hurt that the material is also lightweight, making the system easy to move around. Your baby, on the other hand, will love how breathable the material is. You don’t have to worry about overheating or problems with temperature regulation with this option.

Since the stroller has 3 wheels instead of 4, it also gives it an aerodynamic design that makes it great for moving around quickly.

• Easy-gliding wheels
• May show more wear and tear

Graco Verb Travel System

Graco’s got an option for you if you want a travel system that has a lot of longevity. Whether you want to make sure you can use your travel system for future children down the line or you plan on giving it away as a hand-me-down, you don’t have to worry.

Made of high-quality material that meets strict size standards, this option won’t break down for years. The rear-facing car seat can fit most newborns and infants up to 30 pounds.

On the other hand, the stroller is large enough to give your baby plenty of room to be comfortable. At the same time, it’s also compact enough to suit the stroller-size allotments at most theme parks.

• Suitable for anywhere

Chicco Viaro Quick-Fold Travel System

If you want to be able to take your child on adventures with you and you’re looking for a travel system to help you do just that, Chicco has a great option for you.

This travel system has a quick-fold design that allows you to assemble and fold up the frame in a breeze. That means you can go from the car to the stroller in no time. You can even open it up 1-handed.

The system also had plenty of padding both for your baby and for you while you push the stroller or hold the carrier.  Your child even has 2 cupholders and a tray available to enjoy snacks or otherwise keep busy while you’re on the go.

• Reclining seat
• Only rear-facing car seat

Ideally, a travel system will allow you to seamlessly transfer your child from your car to a stroller and allow you to move around while keeping them secure.

However, there are hundreds of travel system options on the market to choose from. We hope that this list has helped you begin to narrow down which travel system is right for you.

All information and content provided by Upgraded Points is intended as general information and for educational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as medical advice or legal advice. For more information, see our  Medical & Legal Disclaimers .

Frequently Asked Questions

Are travel systems safe for newborns.

Travel systems are generally safe for newborns. However, that might not be universally true for all travel systems. Some travel systems might be designed for older babies and toddlers, for example. Before purchasing or using a travel system with a newborn, check the suggested age group of the product first.

How do travel systems work?

Travel systems typically work the same way their separate parts work normally. The stroller frame will usually fold up or collapse for easy carrying and storage, and the car seat will fit into your vehicle. However, these 2 parts will snap together as well, turning the stroller into a carriage.

What is the difference between a travel system and a stroller?

The biggest difference between a stroller and a travel system is the fact that a stroller is just 1 tool while a travel system is 2, sometimes 3 tools, all in 1. Travel systems include a stroller, but they also have a car seat and, sometimes, a baby carrier, too.

How long does a travel system last?

Since travel systems are typically multiple-in-1 tools made up of a stroller, car seat, and sometimes even a baby carrier, they can last a varying amount of time. As your child grows, they’ll eventually be too big for the car seat and carrier. However, the stroller may last through toddlerhood.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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trvl™ + pipa™ urbn travel system

A lightweight travel system where innovative safety and sleek luxury features combine into a compact package that moves you and baby seamlessly through the city. The Nuna PIPA urbn reimagines the future of travel with baby. This one-of-a-kind, ultra-lightweight infant car seat weighs only 7 pounds* and installs using the advanced pipaFIX™ rigid latch. This groundbreaking baseless installation feature is integrated into the car seat, allowing for super secure installs in seconds when moving from car to taxi, to rideshare and offering a new generation of journeys. It also features a one-handed, quick release from stroller and vehicle and Nuna’s iconic Sky drape™ for ultimate privacy - so you and baby can navigate life with modern-day ease. The super-compact Nuna TRVL stroller with one-handed self-fold is only 13.6 pounds, making it easy to carry with the armbar when folded or store away in the carry bag that’s included. Its progressive front and rear-wheel suspension technology provides smooth strolls for baby, while the one-handed steering makes it a cinch to maneuver through even the liveliest of city streets. It is designed to effortlessly connect with the PIPA urbn with just a click, making your day-to-day so much easier. *Without canopy and insert

• Luxury features for city and travel meet lightweight convenience
• Self-folding stroller opens and closes with one hand
• Free standing compact fold
• MagneTech Secure Snap™, a self-guiding magnetic buckle that automatically locks into place
• 2-second steel-reinforced pipaFIX™ rigid latch installation makes set up swift, simple and above all - safe
• Ultralight for on-the-go at just 7 lbs
• Travel with ease with pipaFIX™ or vehicle seat belt- no base needed
• One-handed vehicle and stroller release for quick and easy in-and-outs
• Ultra-lightweight and easy to carry with the arm bar when folded
• Go hands free with the carry bag that’s included
• One-hand, multi-position recline and adjustable calf support for added comfort
• Progressive front and rear-wheel suspension technology provides a smooth ride
• One-handed steering and exceptional maneuverability make it a dream to push and turn
• Water repellent, easy to clean, UPF 50+ canopy provides both coverage and multiple windows
• Quick-release, no-rethread five-point harness for easy adjustments
• Luxe leatherette accented pushbar and armbar lend style to your strolls
• Quick release wheels make for an even more compact fold
• Simple, one-touch, rear-wheel braking system
• The removable and rotating armbar fits kids of all sizes
• Front swivel wheels with swivel locks
• Easy access basket for storing on-the-go essentials
• GREENGUARD Gold Certified: Products that have achieved GREENGUARD Gold Certification are scientifically proven to meet some of the world's most rigorous third-party chemical emissions standards, and certified to not contribute to indoor air pollution or chemical exposure
• Auto-reclining foot that aids in proper installations in vehicles
• European belt path for vehicle belt installations
• Aeroflex™ foam that is cleverly lightweight, resilient, and minimizes force transferred to baby by absorbing and diffusing energy
• Side Impact Protection for ultimate baby safe keeping
• Five-point harness keeps travels secure
• Sky drape™ pulls down smoothly and attaches quietly with magnets
• Full-coverage UPF 50+ canopy is extendable and features a flip-out eyeshade and XL peek-a-boo window
• From fabric to foam and beyond, each element is smartly sourced to be both flame resistant and contain no added fire-retardant chemicals
• Integrated magnetic buckle holders help keep straps out of the way when buckling baby in
• Head support includes a 2-layer soft surround to accommodate smaller babies
• Infant head support and body inserts feature environmentally friendly Merino wool and TENCEL™ *** branded lyocell fiber blend that is soft, naturally controls moisture, and is environmentally friendly
• Machine washable seat fabrics and inserts
• Luxe leatherette carry handle for stylish journeys
• FAA certified for aircraft use
• All installation types are baseless- no base needed
• Not compatible with PIPA™ series base or RELX™ base
• Set of included anchor guides make it easy to locate and install on the lower anchor bars in vehicle
• *Refer to instructions for any final adjustments **Weight excludes canopy and infant insert ***TENCEL™ is a trademark of Lenzing AG

Product specifications

TRVL Up to 50 lbs

Weight: 13.6 lbs without canopy and arm bar (canopy and armbar approx. 1 lb) Stroller dimensions: L 32.5 x W 20.25 x H 44 in Stroller dimensions (folded) L 24* x W 20.25 x H 11 in (*with arm bar removed) PIPA urbn 4 to 22 lbs, and up to 29 in Weight: 7 lbs without canopy and inserts (canopy and insert approx. 2 lb) Car seat dimensions: L 25 x W 17.5 x H 22 in

Q: Can the PIPA urbn be installed with a base?

Q: when will pipa urbn be available as a stand-alone, q: can you take the trvl on an airplane.

Modern rides, reimagined

Chicco Bravo Primo Trio Travel System

Nuna Nuna x Babylist PIPA urbn & TAVO Travel System

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Nuna PIPA urbn & MIXX Next Travel System

UPPAbaby MESA MAX Infant Car Seat & VISTA V2 Stroller Travel System

Graco Modes Nest Travel System

Nuna PIPA urbn & TRIV Next Travel System

Travel systems—car seat + stroller combos—make getting out with your baby a whole lot easier.

UPPAbaby MESA V2 Infant Car Seat & Cruz V2 Stroller Travel System

Chicco Bravo Trio Travel System

UPPAbaby Mesa Max Infant Car Seat & Cruz V2 Stroller Travel System

Nuna MIXX Next with Mag Buckle and PIPA Rx Travel System

Nuna PIPA Rx & Tavo Next Travel System

Nuna PIPA urbn & TRVL Travel System

Chicco Corso LE Modular Travel System

Maxi-Cosi Zelia 2 Luxe 5-in-1 Modular Travel System

Nuna Nuna x Babylist PIPA rx & Tavo Next Travel System

Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System w/Litemax

Graco Modes Pramette Travel System

Evenflo Pivot Suite Modular Travel System w/Litemax

Graco Modes Nest2Grow Travel System

Graco FastAction Fold Sport Click Connect Travel System

Safety 1st Grow and Go Flex 8-in-1 Travel System

Evenflo Pivot Xpand Travel System with Litemax

Maxi-Cosi Tayla Max 5-in-1 Travel System

Nuna PIPA urbn + DEMI next

Chicco Activ3 Jogging Travel System

Baby Trend Passport Cargo Stroller Travel System

Baby Trend Skyview Plus Travel System

Britax Willow Brook Travel System

Britax Willow Brook S+ Travel System

UPPAbaby Aria Infant Car Seat & Vista V2 Stroller Travel System

Safety 1st Deluxe Grow and Go Flex 8-in-1 Travel System

Baby Trend Tango Travel System

Chicco Corso Primo ClearTex Modular Travel System

Evenflo Pivot Vizor Travel System with LiteMax Infant Car Seat

Nuna PIPA urbn & TRVL LX Travel System

Graco Modes 3 Lite DLX Travel System with SnugRide 35 Lite LX Infant Car Seat

Evenflo Gold Pivot Xpand Travel System

Evenflo Shyft Modular Travel System

Graco Premier Nest 3-in-1 Travel System

Nuna PIPA urbn & TRVL Travel System - Nordstrom Exclusive

Chicco Bravo LE Trio Travel System

Cybex EOS 5-in-1 Travel System Stroller + Lightweight Aton G Infant Car Seat

Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Stroller

Baby Trend Expedition Race Tec Jogger Travel System

Graco Outpace LX Stroller

Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Travel System

Graco Modes Element Travel System

Graco Outpace LX Travel System

Safety 1st Smooth Ride QCM Travel System

Baby Trend Expedition DLX Jogger Travel System

Evenflo Folio3 Jog & Stroll Travel System with LiteMax Infant Car Seat

Graco Modes Nest2Grow DLX Travel System

Baby Trend Sit N Stand 5-in-1 Shopper Travel System

Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 All-Terrain Travel System

UPPAbaby MESA V2 Infant Car Seat & MINU V2 Stroller Travel System

UPPAbaby Aria Infant Car Seat & Cruz V2 Stroller Travel System

Britax Willow Grove SC Travel System

Evenflo Pivot Troop Child and Pet Modular Travel System

Baby Trend Morph Single to Double Modular Travel System

Britax Willow SC Infant Car Seat with Alpine Base

Britax b-lively & b-safe gen2 flexfit travel system, baby trend passport seasons all-terrain travel system with ez-lift plus infant car seat, maxi-cosi gia xp luxe 3-wheel travel system, cybex eos 2-in-1 stroller, baby trend tango 3 all-terrain travel system, baby jogger city select 2 travel system, britax b-free sport & b-safe gen2 flexfit+ travel system, uppababy minu v2 stroller & mesa max infant car seat, baby jogger city select 2 travel system, eco collection, infant essentials bundle, britax brook+ modular stroller, cybex melio carbon 3 ultra lightweight stroller, cybex orfeo compact lightweight stroller | carry-on compatible stroller, baby jogger city sights travel system, shop by guide, frequently asked questions, what is a travel system.

A travel system is a combination of an infant car seat, a car seat base, and a stroller that are designed to work together as a convenient and seamless travel solution for parents.

What are the benefits of using a travel system?

Using a travel system offers several benefits, including the ability to easily transfer your sleeping baby from the car to the stroller without disturbing them, compatibility between the car seat and stroller, and the convenience of having a complete travel solution in one package.

Can I use any car seat with a travel system stroller?

Travel systems are designed to work specifically with their corresponding car seats. It is important to ensure that the car seat and stroller are compatible and approved for use together.

Are travel systems suitable for newborns?

Yes, many travel systems are designed to be used with newborns. They often come with infant car seats that provide proper support and safety for newborns during car rides and can be attached to the stroller.

Can I use the stroller without the car seat attachment?

Absolutely! Most travel system strollers can be used without the car seat attached, allowing you to use the stroller as a standalone option as your child grows.

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FastAction™ SE 2.0 Travel System

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• Graco's signature FastAction™ one-second, one-hand fold provides the ultimate in convenience for parents on the go
• Folding child's tray for a more compact fold and added portability
• Includes the Graco® SnugRide® 35 Lite Infant Car Seat, rear-facing for infants from 4-35 lb and up to 32", and attaches directly to the stroller seat
• Parent's tray with 2 deep cup holders and storage to keep essentials nearby
• Child's tray with cup holders is removable so getting your child in and out of the stroller is a breeze

Product Details

Description.

• Multi-position reclining seat for baby's comfort on all of your explorations together
• Lightweight, sturdy frame so it's easier to take on-the-go
• Large storage basket to hold all your essentials
• Self-standing fold for easy storage

Specifications

• Color: Astaire
• Model#: 2186200
• Product Width: 22 in
• Product Height: 38.4 in
• Product Depth: 34 in
• Product Weight: 21.3 lb

Recommended Use

Product instructions, care & maintenance.

• CLEANING SEAT PAD: To clean seat pad, spot clean using mild soap and warm water CLEANING HARNESS: Surface wash only with mild soap and damp cloth. Do not immerse harness straps or latch strap in water. CLEANING HARDGOODS: Metal and plastic parts may be cleaned with mild soap & cool water CLEANING BODY SUPPORT *on select models: Wash removable body support in cold water on delicate cycle and line dry WHEEL MAINTENANCE: Use light oil if wheels squeak

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GRACO CHILDREN'S PRODUCTS INC. EXTON PA 1931 1-888-224-5649 Made in U.S.A.

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9 Best Travel Systems to Buy – Car Seat Stroller Combo

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Buying a travel system is a sound choice – and often an affordable option, too! As a set usually comes with a stroller, car seat , and base, you can save a considerable amount of money!

However, which travel system to choose may be a more difficult decision. After all, there are various systems available, from deluxe to affordable, heavy-duty to lightweight.

In this post, I’ll review nine of the best travel systems available, including both affordable and premium options. I’ll cover each set’s pros, cons, features, and more.

So, you can make a sound decision on which to buy for your new arrival! All of these travel systems have garnered top marks from parents around the country, too.

At A Glance: Our Top 9 Best Travel System Picks for 2021 :

• Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System With SafeMax Car Seat
• BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Travel System With B-Safe Gen2 Infant Car Seat
• Peg Perego YPSI Travel System With Primo Viaggio 4-35 Nido Infant Car Seat
• Baby Trend Nexton Travel System With Flex-Loc Infant Car Seat
• Graco Modes Travel System With SnugLock 35 Infant Car Seat
• Chicco Mini Bravo Plus Travel System With KeyFit 30 Infant Car Seat
• Britax B-Free Travel System With B-Safe Endeavors Infant Car Seat
• Britax Pathway & B-Safe 35 Travel System With B-Safe Ultra Infant Car Seat
• Evenflo Sibby Travel System With LiteMax 35 Infant Car Seat

What is the Best Travel System?

A travel system is an investment, and an important one, too! However, you may be wondering what makes a set one of the best travel systems to buy?

Well, as each system comes with an infant car seat, the best are undoubtedly those that meet or exceed safety specifications. After all, safety comes first – especially when it comes to babies!

If safety comes first, comfort surely comes in a close second, though! After all, a comfortable infant is also a happy one who won’t scream until taken out of the seat or stroller.

Ultimately, the best car seat stroller combos are those that are safe, cozy, and meet your needs, too. So, do take into consideration where you will use the system when picking one.

1. Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System With SafeMax Car Seat

• 6-mode multi-position modular stroller
• Rear-facing SafeMax car seat with base
• Detachable stroller seat
• Large storage basket
• Removable snack tray with cup holder
• Large cruiser wheels with brakes
• Available in grey, rose, red, and sandstone
• Car seat weight limit – 4-35 lbs
• Stroller weight limit – 4-50 lbs
• Car seat height limit – 32”
• Stroller weight – 15.5 lbs

Things We Love!

What I love is that this affordable modular travel system looks much like a set that costs three times the price. And, it acts like one, too!

The 4-piece set includes a car seat, base, stroller, and removable stroller seat. You can configure these parts in a variety of ways, including as a forward or rear-facing stroller!

You can easily remove the stroller seat and clip in the car seat, as well. So, it’s easy to move sleeping babies from the car to the stroller and vice versa!

If that wasn’t enough, the stroller seat also converts from an upright seat into a baby bassinet. So, you really are spoilt for choice with this fantastic, affordable modular travel system! 

• The lightweight stroller is easy and quick to fold down.
• The modular stroller design offers plenty of position configurations, including forward and rear-facing bassinet carriage, regular stroller, and car seat stroller.
• Many parents reported the set is very comfortable.
• Not the best quality build.
• The stroller can be difficult to push on certain rougher terrains.

Overall Thoughts

Overall, I think this is one of the best car seat stroller combos in the affordable range. It comes with all the bells and whistles that much more costly options do.

If you’re planning on using this stroller occasionally at the shops and around town, it’s the perfect option. However, it’s not the most rugged stroller.

2. BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Travel System with B-Safe Gen2 Infant Car Seat

• 3-wheel FLEX 3.0 jogging stroller
• Rear-facing Britax B-Safe Gen2 infant car seat with base
• Extra-large cargo basket
• Six storage pocket, incl a cellphone pocket
• Adjustable handlebar
• Extra-large canopy with a magnetic window
• Off-road tires and shock absorbers
• Available in Graphite black only
• Stroller weight limit – 4-75 lbs
• Stroller weight – 28.5 lbs

I love that this all-terrain stroller works just as well on the tarmac as it does on a hiking trail. Yes, thanks to its mountain-bike-style suspension, you can use it almost everywhere!

Aside from this, the stroller can handle a bit more weight than the average, with a maximum weight limit of 75 lbs. As such, it will be useable for much longer than the included car seat, too!

Speaking of which, the set comes with a Britax B-Safe Gen2 car seat, making it one of the best safe travel systems. Yes, this ultra-safe, comfy car seat is a top-quality option.

Overall, I love the quality build, comfort, safety, extra features, and versatility the system offers. The stroller is just as useful at the shops as it is when exercising or going hiking.

• The set includes one of the safest Britax car seats with a steel-reinforced base, Safe Cell Crumple zone, and protective shell.
• You can use the stroller almost anywhere, thanks to its rugged tires and off-road suspension.
• The stroller is ideal for use while jogging or on hikes, unlike many regular strollers.
• A pricey option.
• The  snack tray  is sold separately.

Are you an avid jogger or hiker and need a top-quality travel system to bring your baby with you ? If so, this set is an excellent choice – and very good value for the money, too!

The safe car seat also plays its part on the log journeys to wherever you plan on hiking. 

Yes, if you’re looking for a safe, versatile travel system to take with you almost everywhere, this is one of the best. Though it is pricey, it definitely delivers in quality, build, and usability.

3. Peg Perego YPSI Travel System with Primo Viaggio 4-35 Nido Infant Car Seat

• 12-mode YPSI stroller
• Rear-facing Primo Viaggio 4-35 Nido car seat with base
• Reversible detachable stroller Companion Seat
• Primo Viaggio car seat to stroller adapter links
• Roomy expandable storage basket
• Height-adjustable telescoping handle with an eco-leather hand bar
• Easy-push wheels with suspension and 12 ball-bearings
• Available in Atmosphere or Onyx
• Car seat weight limit – 35 lbs
• Stroller weight – 22.6 lbs

Italy is renowned for many things, not least its design and fashion! This gorgeous Italian-made set undoubtedly lives up to expectations as one of the best stylish car seat stroller combos, too!

Besides looks, though, it comes packed with plenty of features and is versatile, too! In fact, the neat single YPSI stroller can adapt into many positions, as well as into a double stroller!

You only need to buy the separate double adapters if you want to change it into a double stroller. The car seat then acts as the second seat – so the baby can sit just above their sibling!

Aside from the Companion Seat and car seat, the stroller is also compatible with the  YPSI baby bassinet . This is available for purchase separately.

• The set converts into a double-stroller with the use of the double adapters (not included).
• The stroller is compatible with the Peg Perego car seats, YPSI baby bassinet, or Companion Seat.
• The stroller and the various seats can get configured into a forward or backward-facing stroller.
• The narrow 20” wide stroller chassis can fit through tight spaces.
• The stroller features an easy, compact fold.
• The car seat has a shady extendable Pagoda hood and Dual-Stage cushioning.
• The car seat base features a built-in Load Leg and Anti-Rebound Bar to reduce rotation by up to 50% in case of a collision.
• There’s a fun, YPSI-compatible  ride with me board  for kids available for purchase separately.
• The  YPSI Double Adapters  and extra  Companion Seat  are sold separately.
• There’s no matching snack tray available for the YPSI stroller at present.

If you’re looking for a quality, stylish stroller, then this Peg Perego set is a sound choice. It may be pricey, but you do truly get what you pay for in terms of quality, safety, looks, and design.

It’s also the perfect set for multi-child households or for those planning to have more kids in the future. Unlike many single strollers, it has the capability to adapt easily into a double stroller.

4. Baby Trend Nexton Travel System with Flex-Loc Infant Car Seat

• 3-wheel Nexton stroller
• Rear-facing Flex-Loc infant car seat with base
• Shady expandable canopy with mesh window
• Parent tray with two cup holders
• Removable child snack tray
• Extra-large storage basket
• One-hand fold
• Available in Coral Floral only
• Car seat weight limit – 5-30 lbs
• Stroller weight limit – 50 lbs
• Stroller weight – 25 lbs

This cute and affordable travel system is quite a steal! It’s airy, spacious, and easy to use and even comes with both a snack and a parent tray.

So, you can stow your cup of coffee or tea safely while taking your baby for a morning stroll. In fact, this little set makes for an excellent urban stroller to take around the neighborhood.

The included car seat is quite satisfactory, too, having a shady canopy and easy-grip handle to ensure no accidental drops.

• The car seat clips into the stroller for easy car-to-stroller baby transfers.
• This affordable travel system includes all the necessities like storage.
• The set comes with both a parent tray and a removable child snack tray.
• It is only available in pink floral colors at present, though  other similarly-priced travel system  designs are available from Baby Trend.
• The car seat is not one of the safest on the market.

If you’re looking for a low-cost option for light use, this is undoubtedly one of the best travel systems to choose from. It ticks all the boxes, plus it’s easy to slip the car seat into the stroller.

So, taking a baby with you to the supermarket, family visits, or check-ups is a breeze. Though certainly not the most rugged or heavy-duty option, it will surely perform well around town.

5. Graco Modes Travel System with SnugLock 35 Infant Car Seat

• 3-mode Graco Modes stroller
• Rear-facing SnugRide SnugLock 35 car seat with base
• Reversible detachable stroller seat
• Adjustable leg rest
• Removable snack tray with two deep cup/bowl indents
• Available in black or plum
• Stroller weight – 21.05 lbs

Graco is one of the foremost names in baby products, offering parents quality at an affordable price. As such, it’s no surprise to see one of their travel systems on this list!

This utilitarian all-in-one set ticks most boxes, coming with a versatile stroller and a safe, comfy car seat. The stroller is quite versatile, being compatible with both the car seat and stroller seat.

You can set these up in a variety of ways, too – forward or rear-facing, bassinet, car seat, or toddler mode! So, it really adapts to every situation and occasion and will grow with your baby.

I love that the set comes with the top-of-the-line Graco SnugLock 35 car seat, though.

• The car seat clips into the stroller with the seat on as well as into the bare stroller frame.
• Both the car seat and stroller seat can get set up either forward or rear-facing.
• The stroller seat converts into a baby bassinet, infant seat, and toddler seat.
• The stroller comes with a detachable snack tray with two cup indents.
• This set is one of the pricier Graco travel systems.
• Not a good option for use off-road or on rugged terrain.

As far as quality, affordable sets go, this is one of the best car seat stroller combos around! It is easy to use, fold, and drive, as well as very versatile for use from newborn up to toddler age.

6. Chicco Mini Bravo Plus Travel System with KeyFit 30 Infant Car Seat

• Mini Bravo Plus stroller
• Rear-facing KeyFit 30 infant car seat with base
• Shady vented extendable canopy
• Parent tray with cup holders and a cellphone pocket
• Moderately-sized storage basket
• Quick one-hand fold
• Available in Slate and Midnight
• Car seat weight limit – 4-30 lbs
• Car seat height limit – 30”
• Stroller weight – 19.6 lbs

This lightweight set is no doubt one of the best affordable travel systems to use around town. Weighing in at just under 20 lbs, the stroller itself is light and easy to set up and maneuver.

I love that the car seat clips into the stroller, though! So, it’s easy to transfer little sleeping ones from the car to the stroller and back without waking or disturbing them.

Aside from this, the Chicco Mini Bravo has a sleek “mom-about-town” look to it. The removable snacks tray and parent tray are both quite handy, too, allowing for vital hands-free moments.

• The stroller is easy to fold with its unique one-hand fold handle.
• Once folded, the stroller stands upright for easy storage.
• The stroller is compatible with KeyFit and Fit2 car seats.
• The set includes a useful parent tray and a child snack tray.
• The set may not be ideal for tall parents or babies.

If you’re looking for an affordable, ultra-lightweight system to use around town, this is an excellent option. Apart from its low weight, it also folds and packs down so effortlessly.

7. Britax B-Free Travel System with B-Safe Endeavors Infant Car Seat

• 3-wheel B-Free stroller
• Rear-facing B-Safe Endeavors infant car seat with base
• Clip-in stroller/car seat adapters
• Seven storage pockets
• Shady, expandable canopy
• One-hand quick fold
• All-terrain solid rubber tires
• Available in Midnight
• Stroller weight limit – 65 lbs
• Stroller weight – 20 lbs

This Britax set is undoubtedly one of the safest, and therefore best travel systems on the market. The car seat included with it has a ton of safety features to keep babies secure.

In fact, this Endeavour car seat is one of the highest-rated for safety. Yet, the set comes in at a fraction of the price compared to many other similarly-rated travel systems car seats.

• The ultra-safe Endeavours car seat has plenty of safety features, including side impact protection, an anti-rebound bar, steel frame, and an impact-absorbing base.
• The baby car seat clips into the stroller.
• The car seat is very easy to install, level, and use.
• The set is modern and sleek.
• The included stroller is not a sport stroller, though there is also a  B-Free Sports travel system  available.
• The car seat is a bit heavy, though it is very protective, too.

If safety is important to you, it’s well worth considering this Britax travel system. The safe car seat is excellent, especially if you spend a lot of time driving with a baby on board.

Overall, this system is a good all-rounder that is both affordable, safe, and good to look at!

8. Britax Pathway & B-Safe 35 Travel System with B-Safe Ultra Infant Car Seat

• 4-wheel Pathway stroller
• Rear-facing B-Safe 35 car seat with base
• Car seat to stroller adapters
• Available in Crew or Sketch designs
• Stroller weight limit – 55 lbs
• Car seat height limit – 32“

This all-in-one lightweight travel system is affordable yet also safe and of superior quality and build. The Britax B-Safe car seat comes packed with plenty of safety features, too.

These include a steel frame, side-impact protection, and an impact-absorbing base. So, you know your baby is safe and sound when strapped in.

Otherwise, I love this set’s modern look, which also comes in two unique yet understated shades.

• The set is modern and lightweight.
• The car seat is easily clipped into the stroller using the included adapters.
• The car seat is a bit on the heavier side.

I think this is one of the safest and best car seat stroller combos on the market. If you’re looking for a system with a secure car seat, do consider it.

9. Evenflo Sibby Travel System with LiteMax 35 Infant Car Seat

• Evenflo stroller
• LiteMax 35 car seat with base
• Unique fold-out child ride-along board
• Detachable parent cup holder
• Large mesh storage basket
• Shady canopy with peek-a-boo window
• Extra-long sports-grip handles
• Available in Mineral Gray or Charcoal Gray
• Ride-along board weight limit – 50 lbs
• Stroller weight – 12 lbs

This affordable travel system is a steal for the price. Aside from coming with a stroller, car seat, and base, the set also includes a parent cup tray and more!

I love the unique ride-along board, though – which lets older siblings hitch a ride! How fun! We know how kids can get when dragged along to run errands.

So, this extra is not only a fun touch but also practical! Aside from this, the stroller is so lightweight, and therefore very easy to carry, especially if you’re using public transport.

• The fun built-in ride-along board allows a fully grown child to ride along on the stroller.
• The stroller is very lightweight, weighing in at only 12 lbs.
• The set is great value for money, coming with plenty of added extras.
• Not ideal for use off-road or on bumpy surfaces.
• The parent cup is a bit flimsy.

If you’re looking for a very affordable set, this is one of the best travel systems to pick. Aside from coming with all the regular features, it has some fun extras, too!

Buyer’s Guide to Buying the Best Car Seat Stroller Combo

Buying anything online can be daunting, let alone buying a costly travel system! If you want to get the best car seat stroller combo for your child, there are some tips you can follow, though.

These pointers will help ensure you pick the perfect travel system and avoid lengthy and unwanted returns. So, you can spend more time enjoying outings with your new bundle in tow!

Why Do I Need a Travel System?

Transporting a baby anywhere is a complicated affair, especially if doing so via a vehicle such as a car. As a basic, a rear-facing car seat is a necessity by law, though.

However, beyond getting to your location safely and lawfully, you also need to take your baby out of the car with you after! This is where a travel system with the matching stroller comes in.

Travel systems usually include a car seat, base, and a matching stroller. So, you can conveniently remove your car seat (with a likely asleep baby) and clip it into your stroller.

In this respect, I think a travel system is an absolute necessity, especially if this is your first child. The best travel systems come with plenty of vital extras, like storage, too, though.

At What Age Should I Start Using a Travel System?

Unless your baby is premature, you can start using your travel system immediately after they are born. Of course, you can also buy an infant insert to help smaller babies fit comfortably.

Usually, travel systems, including strollers and car seats, are for infants from 4 lbs up, though. Not all sets get created equal either – some might be a tad uncomfortable for smaller or bigger babies.

So, do be sure to consider this when selecting your travel system. If you have a small car, you might want to check the car seat dimensions and stroller size, too.

Car seats usually fit babies up until they are around 32” tall or 35 lbs. And, the strollers will likely fit your baby a little longer until they are around 50 lbs or more.

Types of Travel Systems

There are a few types of travel systems on the market, and each suits a specific use. So, before you buy, do ask yourself what you expect from your travel system.

Do you want to be able to jog or hike with it, or just use it regularly to run errands? Do you want a set that’s lightweight and easy to carry? Or do you need tons of storage space?

At the end of the day, the best car seat stroller combo for you will depend on your unique needs. Here are the most common types of travel systems to consider buying.

Lightweight Travel Systems

Lightweight sets are exactly that – light and easy to carry. As such, these systems suit mums with limited lifting power or those who may need to carry the set on public transport.

If this is you, do take a look at the system’s stroller and car seat weight before buying! Ideally, ensure your stroller is around 15 lbs or less and the car seat around 5 lbs or so.

Rugged Travel Systems

Rugged, off-road travel systems are those that you can take with you off the beaten track or tarmac. As such, they’re perfect to use on a hike or nature outing.

If you plan on going to places less traveled, you may want to consider investing in one of these rugged travel systems. It will make these excursions with baby not only possible but pleasant!

Jogging Travel Systems

Jogging travel systems are lightweight, easy-to-push sets that you can run or jog with. If you’re planning on getting back to jogging and want to bring baby along, pick one of these.

These easy-to-maneuver strollers won’t hold you back. And they will let you get some much-needed exercise without leaving your little one out of the fun!

Deluxe Travel Systems

If you’re all about plush, deluxe baby items that come with all the bells and whistles, then you won’t be disappointed. There are plenty of deluxe travel systems available to choose from.

From plush padding to high-tech safety features, these options don’t come cheap, though. But, they definitely deliver in terms of comfort, quality, looks, versatility, and durability.

All-In-One Travel Systems

All-In-One travel systems are those that feature two or more of the above categories. For example, some systems may be both rugged and deluxe.

These days, you don’t need to settle for one type of car seat stroller combo, especially if you have special requirements! So, be sure to check each set’s unique features.

How to Choose the Best Travel System ?

So, how does one go about picking the best travel system? Well, there are plenty of fantastic options out there. However, the best one for you is ultimately whichever suits your needs. 

There are a few steps you can follow to ensure you buy the best product, though. Follow these to ensure you don’t spend valuable time and money returning an unwanted travel system!

Read Through Customer Reviews

After watching a convincing ad for a travel system, it may be tempting to buy it straight away. But, before you do, take the time to read some real customer reviews, if only to skim them!

These reviews will fill you in on real customer experiences of using the product. So, you can make a sound decision of whether to buy it or pass and keep on looking!

Pick From the Top Rated Options

Highly-rated travel systems don’t just get popular for no reason. It takes hundreds (and, maybe even thousands) of positive customer reviews for the product to achieve this status.

As such, picking from only the highest-rated baby items, including travel systems, is always a good idea. After all, if hundreds of customers loved a product, you’re likely to, too!

Go With Companies Who Offer Superior Customer Support

When buying a product anywhere, mishaps do occur. Perhaps the set gets broken during shipping or arrives missing a part?

Or, maybe you get an entirely incorrect product, or your set comes in the wrong color? At this point, stellar customer support becomes a necessity, not a luxury!

Check the Warranty and Returns Policy

Even if a product is sold by a company with excellent customer support, they still may not accept returns or replace broken or defunct items.

That’s why it’s so important to check the warranty, guarantee, and returns policies. So, you won’t be left with a costly yet defunct, unwanted, or duplicate travel system.

Conclusion:

Navigating the purchase of all your baby essentials can be a confusing and costly affair. Hopefully, this post has helped you find the best car seat stroller combo for your little one, though!

Check out these other great posts!

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The 6 Best Travel Systems That Make Bringing Baby Everywhere Much More Convenient

No matter what your needs are, there’s a perfect stroller and car seat combo that’ll make life way easier.

If you buy something from the links on this page, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?

Because, let's face it — you're going to need an infant car seat (they won't let you leave the hospital without one), and you're going to need a stroller . Getting a travel system ensures that your car seat and your stroller work together seamlessly, which makes the whole process easier from start to finish.

Keep scrolling for quick info on the best travel systems, followed by things to consider as you're buying, a breakdown of our selection criteria, and our full reviews.

The Best Travel Systems

• Best Overall: Baby Jogger City Select 2 Single-to-Double Modular
• Best Budget: Graco FastAction SE
• For Parents Who Expect Luxury: Uppababy Vista V2 Stroller + Mesa Infant Car Seat
• Best Jogging System: BOB Gear Revolution 3.0
• Best Lightweight: Chicco Mini Bravo Plus
• Best Style-Meets-Substance: Maxi-Cosi Zelia Luxe 5-in-1 Modular Travel System, New Hope Black

What to Consider

Travel systems look trickier than they actually are. I’ve spent countless hours testing the stroller/car seat combos, and I can tell you they’re all pretty darn easy to figure out. It’s mostly about what you need as a parent and what you expect as a consumer.

I understand that the first thing you’re going to notice is the price tag (it’s hard not to!). And holy cow, these can be a big investment. But there are good travel systems at a variety of price points, from just a couple hundred dollars to upwards of $1,500. There will be significant differences in durability, and the materials in the lower-end models won’t be as luxurious or, honestly, aesthetic, but that doesn’t mean that less expensive models aren’t great, because every travel system on this list is the best of its type.

Other things you want to think about when buying a travel system are how you're using it, how much it weighs, the height and weight limits of the stroller and the car seat, and how the whole thing cleans up (kids can be messy — we get it).

How You’re Using It

If this is a system that’s going to be taken up and down stairs a lot, if you need it to store in a small space, or even if you just happen to have a bad back, you’ll want to look for a travel system on the lighter side.

Now, there’s no such thing as a “light” travel system. Car seats typically weigh over 10 pounds, the stroller itself can be 20+ pounds, and then you add a baby? It’s a lot — but there are more compact models on this list if you’re aiming to keep things light.

I've also included a jogging stroller on this list. As a runner, I know how hard it can be to hit the pavement as a new parent, and the right travel system can help in this area. While you won't be doing any running with your newborn, getting a jogging stroller travel system means that you don't have to buy another stroller when the time comes. Plus, with the adjustable lock-or-swivel front wheel, there's no reason this can't be your everyday stroller.

Lastly, if you’re planning on growing your family soon or you’re having twins, you should consider investing in a single-to-double stroller, which is also included in the list below.

Stroller Weight and Height Limits

How much does the stroller weigh? The car seat? What are the length and weight limits of both the seat and the stroller? You'll want to consider all of these factors because they can vary pretty widely.

How Do You Clean It?

Why must babies get poop on absolutely everything? It's one of life's great mysteries, but it's just as sure as death and taxes. Knowing how you're going to have to get the stroller and car seat clean is crucial. If you don't mind hand-washing, then you're less limited, but many of us are looking for the magic, golden words: machine-washable.

How We Chose

Every single stroller/car seat combo on this list has been tested by myself for a minimum of four hours of pushing with and without the car seat. I spoke with representatives from every company on this list to make sure that they are the safest, best-designed travel systems on the market. They've survived rigorous use and have been evaluated for durability, comfort of the ride, steerability, ease of cleaning and folding, and general overall quality. Each system on this list is a system that I would use personally, or recommend to family and friends.

Baby Jogger City Select 2 Single-to-Double Modular Travel System

Not sure if you're going to have a second baby, or when? The Baby Jogger City Select 2 gives you options. Much like the UppaBaby Vista 2 (below), it's a single-to-double, but it's about 20% smaller when it's folded, which parents love, and it's $700 cheaper, which is also pretty important. Honestly, though? With the exception of some of the finishing, they are extremely similar strollers. The ride is smooth as silk, taking curves, ruts, bumps, and uneven surfaces like the boardwalk and cobblestone streets without becoming unwieldy.

The folding bit is downright impressive. While it's not a one-handed fold, it is an easy fold. It's also the most compact fold for a single-to-double that I've seen or tested. It doesn't scrimp on the size of the seat, which is comparable to the UppaBaby, nor the size of storage, which beats the competition.

And let's take a minute to discuss the car seat. It's spectacular. It has an anti-rebound bar that redistributes the impact of collisions. The RapidLock belt-tensioning base is easy to operate and stash, and the side-impact protection on the seat is tested to the highest standards. Installation isn't hard to accomplish, and once it's in? It feels secure and steady.

Graco FastAction SE Travel System

The Graco SnugRide car seat is hands-down the most well-known infant car seat in the United States. It's the car seat I used for my oldest, I am constantly putting it on car seat lists , and it's the car seat millions of parents choose every year. It's reliable, durable, affordable, and easy to install. It has an easy leveler, multiple positions of recline, and one of the easiest harnesses on the market. It's also the car seat included in this travel system.

The stroller is a kids' dream, too. It has an oversized canopy, a fold-flat seat, a gigantic snack and drink tray, and a huge cargo compartment. Graco definitely has parents in mind with its own tray and cup holder (we could all use snacks), quick fold, one-handed close, durable wheels that make maneuverability easy, and machine-washable fabrics, all for under $250.

UppaBaby Vista V2 Stroller + Mesa Infant Car Seat Travel System

Yes, this travel system is expensive — but you're getting the top-of-the-line car seat, stroller, and bassinet. It's a single-to-double stroller, with multiple configurations ranging from one car seat on the stroller to two car seats, to a bassinet and a jump seat, and more.

Almost all of it is machine-washable, it's durable enough to last through multiple children, and it performs smoothly. The wheels glide over any surface you throw at it — including sand, with the dual suspension making the whole thing such a smooth ride that babies snooze right over bumps in the terrain. The seat itself reclines almost fully flat if needed, so when your tot is a toddler, they can get in a good snooze.

One thing you might not have thought about is car seat installation — and, trust me, this one is one of the easiest out there. I have latched and unlatched the base, and taken the car seat on and off multiple times, and I never even so much as chipped my pricey manicure (which we all know is a big feat for a mama!).

I personally love this stroller and this car seat. My nephews have been using it for over a year, and my sister-in-law and brother rave about its durability, ease, steering, style, and general quality. My sister-in-law never had a problem maneuvering it, and let me tell you, my youngest nephew is a delightfully beefy fellow. However, again, this is a spend, and in this economy? It's asking a lot.

BOB Gear Revolution 3.0 Travel System

This made-in-the-USA travel system is a high-quality option for new parents who want to keep their baby safe while jogging or taking a nice stroll. Britax is known for its car seats that surpass general safety standards, and the baby gear brand offers a stroller that'll fit one of its most popular car seat models (B Safe 35) perfectly.

Britax car seats incorporate safe cell impact protection, which is a hex-shaped technology designed to absorb extra energy and protect your baby beyond federal standards in the case of a serious crash. It also features a deep foam-lined shell. We love that Britax paired it with the BOB Revolution Flex because it offers storage, a protective canopy to face the elements, a fast one-hand fold, and a lightweight frame. All in all, it has an easy ride with multiple reclining positions.

The advanced suspension system and air-filled tires, along with the adjustable handlebar make this the obvious choice for parents looking for an active lifestyle with their tot. The whole stroller glides easily but with enough heft that you don't feel like it will get away from you. Personally, I love the feel of this jogger as I push it — it’s stable while remaining light and nimble. It takes the ruts and divots of roads and the boardwalk with ease. I do wish that the brakes were a bit more intuitive, but they're not difficult, just a bit ungainly.

Chicco Mini Bravo Plus Travel System

The lightweight stroller included in this travel system features a one-hand fold and auto-positioning wheels for ease of use. Setting the system up is easy, and safe car seat installation is straightforward and simple. The car seat isn’t bulky, so it’s easy to carry and transfer from the car to the stroller. Plus, it clicks right into the stroller within seconds. The stroller features sturdy, agile wheels so that even on rougher terrain, your baby should experience a smooth ride.

It's light and easy to use — and while Chicco may be a more affordable system, they don't skimp on materials, and that's obvious when you consider that the KeyFit car seat is often the top-selling car seat of any brand. It's also one of my favorite infant car seats, period. It's easy to install, lightweight, wipes clean quickly, and buying extra bases is affordable and simple.

Maxi-Cosi Zelia Luxe 5-in-1 Modular Travel System

Best Lightweight

Maxi-Cosi's wonderful Zelia stroller and Mico XP car seat were designed with a real eye toward aesthetics. This stroller comes in several beautiful colorways with leather accents, brushed black aluminum hardware, and clean lines.

The mechanics of the travel system is on par with the looks. The car seat is a wonder with air protect side impact protection, wool-free fire retardant, chemical-free fabrics, an easy-to-thread harness, and leveling indicators that make installation simple. It's also one of the easiest strollers to learn how to fold, which is saying a lot — I'm not kidding. Generally, it takes me anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes to learn a new fold, and I'm an expert. I read the Maxi Cosi manual once, and I got it.

The stroller has rugged wheels that will never puncture but still glide over the pavement. The multiple recline seat with a deep canopy makes for the perfect place for your kid to relax in the afternoon. The seat itself can face the parent or the outside world depending on your baby's preference as well. All of the fabrics are machine-washable, and parents love that even after tons of washes, the fabrics' colors don't fade.

I do wish that the harnesses were easier to thread and that it had more accessories, but other than that, it's a great system. It's one of the most popular car seats for a reason, and the stroller is just as wonderful.

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The 6 Best Car Seats of 2024

The 6 Best Travel Systems of 2024

Wondering what the best travel system of 2024 is? Wondering what stroller car seat combo is best for your family? Finding the best infant car seats and the best strollers on the market gave our team a pretty good idea of the different combinations available today and which travel systems are best for different situations. A travel system consists of an infant car seat that easily attaches to a baby stroller, allowing you to travel with ease. We recommend getting the same brand for your car seat and stroller, but if you are interested in different brands check out our compatibility guide to ensure they will work together.

Recommended

The ultimate car seat and stroller compatibility guide.

In this article you will discover the top travel systems of 2024 and which is the best travel system for your family based on your lifestyle and desired features. When it comes to selecting the best travel system for your needs, there are several factors to consider. First, look for durability and stability – you want to ensure the travel system is built well enough for regular use without compromising on safety or comfort. You’ll also want something lightweight and compact in size , as this will make transportation easier when traveling by airplane or public transit. Additionally, make sure the travel system includes basic and additional features you are looking for such as adjustable handlebars, swivel wheels and storage. Read more about stroller features in our stroller buying guide .

Baby Stroller Buying Guide

Finally, consider your budget when selecting a travel system. Many travel systems come with features that may be unnecessary for your needs, so it’s important to understand what you need before making any purchases . Traveling with a baby can be both exciting and daunting. That’s why having the right travel system is essential to make sure your journey remains safe and stress-free . By taking into account all these factors, you can rest assured you’ll find the perfect travel system for your family! Without further ado, here’s our list of the 6 best travel systems of 2024 :

1. Chicco Bravo Trio: Best Overall Travel System

• Exceeds crash test ratings.
• Durable tires.
• Large cargo space.
• Easy to move the car seat in and out of.
• Overlapping sun shades.

We don’t like:

• Almost no shocks.
• Car seat is a little on the narrow side.

Where to buy: Check price on Amazon

The Chicco Bravo Trio includes the Bravo quick-fold stroller and the Chicco KeyFit 30, one of the best infant car seats on the market (read our full review of the Chicco KeyFit 30 ). The stroller is easy to use, comfortable to push and provides a smooth ride. It provides ample storage, and can be accessed from the front and back of the stroller. And once the child grows out of the car seat, the main seat has a child tray and the seat reclines far enough back for sleeping and even changing a diaper when on the go.

2. UPPAbaby Cruz: Best Travel System for the City

• High quality fabric.
• Stroller drives very smoothly.
• Easy to clean and maintain.
• Canopy slides up and grows with your child.
• More expensive than others.
• One of the heavier travel systems.

We recommend the UPPAbaby Cruz V2 and Mesa Infant Car Seat if you can bump up your budget for a premium travel system. The extra features are great and we love the natural wool fabric (less nasty chemicals and more breathable for your baby). It is a stylish travel system, and there is even an additional bassinet you can purchase if you want.

3. Baby Jogger City Select: Best Travel System for the Outdoors

• Easy to steer and provides a smooth ride.
• Converts to a double stroller.
• Lighter frame than similar strollers, and very compact when folded.
• Lifetime frame warranty for the stroller (which the customer service does deliver on).
• Not the most comfortable handlebar (although it is adjustable).
• A little tricky to fold and unfold.

W here to buy: Check price on Amazon

We recommend the Baby Jogger City Select 2 Travel System with the City GO 2 Infant Car Seat. Baby Jogger is a reputable brand in the market with high quality strollers known for safety and flexibility — since the stroller can easily be converted to a double tandem stroller. Another notable difference is how compact the stroller is when folded. However, they claim “all-terrain” wheels, whereas we find them appropriate for the city, but not “all-terrain”.

4. Chicco Activ3 Jogging: Best Travel System for Jogging

• Durable foam filled tires and suspension, great for smooth or rugged terrain.
• One-hand fold, and three different fold configurations.
• Extendable canopy with two peek-a-boo windows.
• Like many jogging strollers, a bit on the heavier side.
• No child tray.

Not only is this one of the few jogging travel systems, but it is a superb system in general. It is built of high-quality materials, is super easy to put together and operate, and has the most advanced safety options available today. In addition, it includes just about any feature you can think of: additional wrist strap, parent storage, reclining seat, front wheel lock, and more. It is also easy to securely snap the car seat into and out of the stroller and the base.

5. Evenflo Pivot Xpand: Best Double Stroller Travel System

• All the different configurations!
• Car seat sits directly on frame.
• Self-stand fold.
• Spacious under-carriage.
• Folding mechanism is more complex than competitors (although still able to figure out).
• May have to purchase an additional car seat and/or toddler seat.

The Evenflo Pivot Xpand stroller is a “Modular Travel System” that works well with the SafeMax Infant Car Seat, and can be transformed into 22 different configurations including a double stroller requiring no tools or extra parts. But keep in mind that a double stroller takes up more room than your standard single stroller.

6. Baby Trend Expedition: Best Budget Travel System

• Excellent price!
• Stroller can stand upright when folded.
• The lightweight car seat, 6.6 lbs.
• Metal frame on stroller.
• Padding/cushion and fabric not the highest quality (but it is machine washable).
• More difficult to fold than a standard stroller.

The Baby Trend Expedition Jogger stroller wins as our best value stroller when it combines with the lightweight Baby Trend Ally 35 infant car seat, plus it is also a jogger stroller. The stroller is meant for any terrain and includes the standard features of a jogging stroller including air-filled tires, wrist-strap, brakes, and an excellent grip on the handlebar. It also comes in a variety of color options!

How we select the best Travel Systems of the year?

We worked hard to make this list of the top travel systems of 2024 as objective as possible. For us, this started by recognizing that there is no absolute best. Every family has different needs and lifestyles , so we needed to first understand what the different expectations might be before evaluating strollers and car seats against those expectations. For example, you’ll have very different expectations from your car seat if you’re always using it with its base fixed in your car versus using the seat in taxis without its base. Similarly, families who already have a stroller and want a car seat that is compatible with that stroller, will have different criteria (take a look at our ultimate infant car seat and stroller compatibility guide if that’s the case for you). Read our guides on buying the best infant car seat or the how to find the best stroller for your family .

So how did we go about selecting the best travel systems of the year? We started by creating a list of the top 35 best infant car seats available today and cross-referenced with the best strollers . In addition, we used authoritative resources (see the full list below) and then analyzed safety ratings, scores, and reviews for each model to narrow down our list to the top models. We purchased each infant seat on our top list and gave two models to each family in our group. Everyone used their seats for a period of five months with their kids. Each seat was used extensively to get hands-on experience. We paid particular attention to their pros and cons and what they are like on a day to day basis. To read more about our favorite infant car seats, read our Best Infant Car Seats article .

Further reading recommendations about infant car seat and Stroller safety

We used several authoritative sources to help with our list of the best travel systems, for both infant car seats and strollers. We recommend that you read them if you want to learn more about car seat or stroller safety in general. These are also great resources if you want to understand a particular aspect of child safety or want to stay up-to-date with the latest research. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the National Child Passenger Safety Board have excellent in-depth resources on car safety for children. We recommend you start there:

• www.nhtsa.gov
• www.cpsboard.org

If you want to explore car safety even further, we recommend the following resources that were used when writing this article:

• www.safekids.org
• www.nsc.org

For additional information on stroller safety we recommend reading:

• https://www.cpsc.gov

Best Travel Systems: Frequently Asked Questions

Are travel systems safe for newborns.

Yes, travel systems are safe for newborns. Travel systems must meet certain requirements and should always be used according to the manufacturer’s instructions, including age/height limits, installation guidelines, and proper stroller usage (with adapters if needed).

Which travel system is best for baby?

We found the overall best travel system to be the Chicco Bravo Trio . There are a variety of types of travel systems, the best travel system depends on your family’s lifestyle and is one that is safe and durable, is easy to use, but overall makes portability and travel easier.

How long do travel systems last?

Travel systems typically last about 3-5 years, depending on the quality of the stroller, the wear and tear the family placed on it, and the height and weight limits of the stroller or car seat.

Which travel systems have a bassinet or carry cot?

There are several strollers that support a bassinet, aka carriage or carrycot. Some strollers like the UPPAbaby Cruz V2 and the Evenflo Pivot Suite include a bassinet. While others require you to purchase the bassinet separately, like the Mockingbird stroller and Britax Willow Brook S+ .

Megan is a wife and mother of three, as well as an experienced foster mother. She loves building and testing new products, and helping identify what works best for readers and clients. She has her degree in Computer Software Engineering and has been a Product Lead with over 8 years of experience designing, building, testing, and selling products to companies ranging from sole proprietors to the largest retailers in America!

Best Baby Monitors of 2024

• Infant Optics DXR-8 Pro
• Eufy SpaceView Pro

Best Strollers of 2024

• Summer 3DLite
• UPPAbaby Cruz v2
• Evenflo Pivot Xpand

Best Infant Car Seats of 2024

• Chicco KeyFit 30
• Peg Perego Primo Viaggio
• UPPAbaby MESA V2

Best Travel Systems of 2024

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Bravo ® Travel Systems

Quick-fold stroller.

Streamlined Travel at Every Stage

Chicco Bravo Trio Travel System

Bravo Trio Travel System FAQs

The infant car seat that comes with your travel system can be attached directly to the stroller for use with a newborn. While most strollers are designed for children at least 6 months of age, some strollers include an additional infant insert that allows newborns and infants to ride directly in the stroller.

If an infant car seat is certified for use on aircraft (FAA approved) it will be listed on the car seat and in the owner’s manual. Check with your airline for any specific requirements regarding using a car seat on the airplane.

If using the stroller with the infant car seat, as a travel system, the starting point is birth, the stroller by itself is typically used for a child beginning at 6 months of age and up until they reach 50 lbs. Always refer to your owner’s manual for specific usage instructions.

The fabrics on a stroller can be spot-cleaned as needed and in some cases, the seat fabric is removable and machine washable. Always refer to the owner’s manual regarding cleaning instructions.

Most car seat manufacturers offer additional infant car seat bases that can be purchased separately so that both parents or additional caregivers can keep a base in their vehicle for easy transitions.

Travel systems are offered with various types of strollers including lightweight, full-sized, and jogging strollers. If you are looking for a specific type of stroller make that a top priority when comparing travel systems.

Choosing the best travel system for your family includes researching the infant car seat and the type of stroller that is included as part of the system. There are various stroller features you may want to consider such as a height-adjustable parent handle, type of fold, and type of wheels that may be important to you. In addition, features you should look for in an infant car seat include the length of use (based on height/weight limits), type of fabrics, and ease of adjusting the harness.

• Product Reviews
• Stroller & Car Seat Reviews

Best Stroller-Car Seat Combos and Travel Systems

The logistics of getting a newborn from point A to point B can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re a first-time parent. That’s why many folks fill their baby registry with travel gear designed to make the task simpler. (Think: A stroller , car seat or carrier .) While each of the items mentioned above can be used individually, transferring a fussy newborn from a stroller to a car seat and back again can be an added stress you simply don’t need. The good news? Travel system strollers can be a saving grace.

A travel system—also known as a stroller-car seat combo—is simply a stroller and car seat designed to be used together. A car seat-stroller combo lets you easily clip the seat into a stroller frame, so you can transfer your sleeping baby from the car to the outside world without waking them up. Genius! There are a few factors to consider when choosing this type of transport system. To help you narrow down the options we’ve selected seven of the best car seat and stroller combos, so you can find one that works for your lifestyle and budget.

The Benefits of a Stroller and Car Seat Combo

While travel system strollers aren’t an absolute must, they do offer a couple key benefits. If your family takes frequent trips in the car, you can relax knowing that if baby happens to doze off, you don’t need to wake him when you reach your destination—simply lift the car seat from its base and click it into the stroller frame, and you and your sleeping babe are ready to roll.

The other major upside to travel systems is that you only have to buy one stroller that’ll see you and your child from birth through the toddler years. Newborns can’t ride in a regular stroller seat until they can sit up on their own (usually around 6 months), so if you don’t opt for a travel system, you’ll have to hunt for a stroller with a seat that fully reclines or stick with a baby carrier. Plus, buying a car seat-stroller combo instead of purchasing the gear separately can save you some money.

Stroller Travel System Types

There are different types of stroller-car seat combos available, including:

• Three-wheel travel systems. These are narrower and more compact than other travel system strollers, making them ideal for city-dwellers who need to navigate crowded spaces on a daily basis.
• Four-wheel travel systems. Sturdier than their three-wheeled counterparts, four-wheel travel systems are best for strolling over uneven terrain. Their wider profile means more storage space and a durable construction, but they tend to be bulkier than those with just three wheels.
• Jogger travel systems. These are designed for parents who want to take their little ones with them on the running trail. The larger wheels ensure a smooth ride (even over rough terrain), and the streamlined design makes jogging travel systems easy to steer.
• Double travel systems. Expecting twins, or have two kiddos very close in age? Double travel system strollers allow you to easily transport both babies, and can be customized to fit your family’s needs depending on the ages of your children.

What to Consider When Choosing a Stroller-Car Seat Combo

A stroller travel system is a big investment, so it’s important to find the right fit for your family. Below find a few factors to consider while browsing stroller and car seat combos.

• Height and weight limit. Travel systems include a rear-facing infant car seat and a stroller. Each item has its own height and weight limit, outlined by the manufacturer. Always double check these guidelines to make sure that the stroller-car seat combo is safe for your child to use.
• Additional safety features. All car seat and stroller combos are subject to strict federal safety standards and are safe when used appropriately. With that said, some options have additional features designed to keep your little one safe and secure. For example, some infant car seats have load leg or anti-rebound bar features that absorb energy in the event of a crash. Other elements to look for include a five-point safety harness, brakes that lock the stroller wheels and a UPF sun canopy.
• A lightweight car seat. Travel systems are designed for convenience, meaning the car seat section should be lightweight with an easy to grip carry handle.
• Configuration options. Most car seat-stroller combos offer multiple configuration options, so you can use them long after the newborn stage.

Stroller Travel System Comparison Chart

Best stroller car seat combos.

Get ready to click and go. Here are some of the best travel systems on the market right now, including a few options that have been put to the test by our product reviewers—aka new parents just like you!

Overall best car seat and stroller combo

• Four wheel suspension
• Multiple configurations
• LATCH base with bubble indicators
• High price point
• Infant car seat sold separately

First up is the UPPAbaby Vista V2 stroller and the Mesa Max car seat . Pegged as the top stroller-car seat combo in this year’s Best of The Bump awards , this dynamic duo is as good as it gets. Why? The stroller itself includes a bassinet attachment that can be used from birth as well as a toddler seat that accommodates children over 3 months. All-wheel suspension makes for a comfortable ride and a large under-seat basket has enough space for a diaper bag , plus any other supplies you may need. Better yet, it’s compatible with the new and improved Mesa Max car seat (sold separately). This infant car seat hits the mark in terms of safety thanks to a base with an anti-rebound bar and a load leg. It’s also incredibly easy to install and use with the Vista V2 stroller. Our product tester noted that the “the car seat was easy to click into the frame” and remarked upon the “smooth transition” when transferring her sleeping baby from the car to the stroller. Looking for an all-in-one travel bundle? Try the UPPAbaby VISTA V2 and MESA V2 travel system out for size.

Dimensions (open): 36" (L) x 25.7" (W) x 39.5" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 17.3" (L) x 25.7" (W) x 33.3" (H) | Stroller weight: 26.6 lbs. | Stroller capacity: 50 lbs. | Car seat weight: 9.9 lbs. | Car seat capacity: 4 to 35 lbs. | Car seat height limit: 32"

“When baby fell asleep in the car seat I was able to detach the other seat and place the car seat right inside!”

Best versatile car seat and stroller combo

• Six configurations
• Lightweight stroller frame
• No adapters needed
• Handlebar isn’t adjustable

The Evenflo PivotSuite travel system is a super-versatile option for modern family life. It offers six modes of travel: infant car seat mode, lay-flat carriage mode and toddler seat mode, each with a forward- and rear-facing option. Our product tester was a big fan of the carriage configuration saying “my baby felt safe and snug in the bassinet and it seemed to do well over bumps too in that position.” A particularly cool feature is the Pivot's built-in adapter that allows you to transition from infant mode to a toddler seat with a simple flip motion, no extra parts or tools required. Our tester vouched for the ease of switching modes and said: “The stroller is super easy to convert from a normal toddler seat, to reclining, to the bassinet option.” Plus, it can be folded in parent or forward-facing mode with the toddler seat still attached. (Trust us, this is a major win!) Meanwhile, the included Litemax car seat has an anti-rebound bar for baby’s safety as well as an easy to grip carry handle.

Dimensions (open): 39" (L) x 25.8" (W) x 40.5" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 19.5" (L) x 26" (W) x 40" (H) | Stroller weight: 26.8 lbs. | Stroller capacity: 55 lbs. | Car seat weight: 8.7 lbs. | Car seat capacity: 35 lbs. | Car seat height limit: 32"

“Having a car seat that is easily attached to the stroller frame is such a great feature and the stroller itself is worth the money in my opinion, it's a great stroller with so many cool features.”

Best lightweight car seat and stroller combo

• Lightweight design
• One-handed fold and unfold
• Auto-recline feature
• Lower height and weight limit than other options

Nuna TRVL Stroller weighs under 14 pounds, making it one of the lighter options on the market. It comes with the PIPA urbn car seat, which at 7.6 pounds won’t add much weight to the system. Aside from being lightweight, this pick earned a spot among the best car seat and stroller combos thanks to its impeccable steering system and baseless car seat attachment. As the name suggests, the TRVL is a travel-friendly stroller that’s incredibly compact and portable. One-handed steering provides exceptional maneuverability, and as our product tester put it “this baby GLIDES!” Meanwhile, a self-guiding magnetic buckle on the five-point harness makes it easy to safely strap your little one in. But the clever features don’t stop there. The PIPA urbn is the only baseless infant car seat with pipaFIX rigid latch that can install in two seconds flat, and it’s feather-light to boot. This was a huge bonus for our product tester “because it takes the hassle out of switching vehicles,” especially if you’re a two car family. Aside from the top-notch safety features and practical design, this travel system looks and feels luxurious. According to our tester, “the leather really makes it look sleek and high-end” and the neutral color palette was an added bonus. Sounds like a winner to us.

Dimensions (open): 32.5" (L) x 20.25" (W) x 44" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 24" (L) x 20.2" (W) x 11" (H) | Stroller weight: 13.6 lbs. | Stroller capacity: 50 lbs. | Car seat weight: 7.6 lbs. | Car seat capacity: 4 to 22 lbs. | Car seat height limit: 29"

“I would most certainly recommend this travel system for the storage space alone! But also for the convenience.”

Best budget-friendly car seat and stroller combo

• One-hand standing fold
• Car seat clicks into place
• Cup-holder and parent tray
• Plastic tires

Searching for the best car seat and stroller combo on a budget? Look no further than the FastAction Fold Sport Click Connect by Graco . Lightweight yet sturdy, the stroller can be folded with a single hand in one second flat. A lockable front wheel makes it easy to maneuver through crowded streets and the compact frame meets Disney size requirements. It also has a cushy reclining seat, a roomy storage basket and an expandable sun canopy with a peekaboo window. The travel system comes with the SnugRide Click Connect 35 infant car seat that clicks onto the stroller frame in one simple step, no adapters needed! The car seat has a removable infant body support that cradles your baby's head and neck for added comfort and safety. It also weighs less than 8 pounds and the base is super-easy to install in your car thanks to a nifty level indicator.. All that for under $350? Bargain.

Dimensions (open): 40" (L) x 25" (W) x 42" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 16" (L) x 25" (W) x 28" (H) | Stroller weight: 21.4 lbs. | Stroller capacity: 50 lbs. | Car seat weight: 7.5 lbs. | Car seat capacity: 4 to 35 lbs. | Car seat height limit: 32"

Best jogging car seat and stroller system

• Air-filled tires
• Adjustable handlebar
• Car seat snaps into place without adapters
• No cup-holder

The BOB Gear Revolution Flex 3.0 Travel System is a great option for fitness-loving parents. The stroller features mountain-bike-style suspension and air-filled tires that glide over gravel, grass, running trails and uneven pavement. It may be streamlined but this design doesn’t skimp on storage, the stroller has six pockets (including a spot for your cell phone) and a roomy cargo basket underneath the seat. The bundle includes the Britax B-Safe Gen2 Infant Car Seat that slides into place on the frame and is easily removed using the one-press release lever. The car seat employs SafeCell technology, which acts as a crumple zone absorbing crash energy away from your little passenger. A UPF 50+ canopy keeps them shielded from the elements while you stroll. And the base can be installed in your vehicle in three simple steps. Keep in mind that, as with all jogging strollers , you won’t be able to actually run with baby until they’re able to sit in the regular stroller seat.

Dimensions (open): 46" (L) x 25" (W) x 45" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 38" (L) x 25" (W) x 16" (H) | Stroller weight: 28 lbs. | Stroller capacity: 75 lbs. | Car seat weight: 10.9 lbs. | Car seat capacity: 4 to 35 lbs. | Car seat height limit: 32"

Best all-terrain car seat and stroller system

• All-wheel suspension
• Car seat has anti-rebound bar
• Accessories sold separately

The best car seat and stroller combo is often one that meets your individual needs. So if you like to wander off the beaten track, you’re going to need an all-terrain transport system. Introducing the City Mini GT2 by Baby Jogger: A travel system that meets the mark in terms of safety and performance. Forever-air rubber tires will never go flat and all-wheel suspension provides a smooth ride over any terrain. While an adjustable handlebar and hand-operated parking brake make it easy to push and steer. A reclining seat and an adaptable calf support panel also offer an added layer of comfort for your little one, so they can sit back and enjoy the ride. The stroller frame comes with the City GO 2 Infant Car Seat, which easily clicks into place and can be installed in any car, even without a car seat base, thanks to the taxi-safe belt path. Perfect for country living or urban life, this stroller-car seat combo is one of the best out there.

Dimensions (open): 41.3" (L) x 25.6" (W) x 43.1" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 10" (L) x 25.5" (W) x 31.8" (H) | Stroller weight: 22.4 lbs. | Stroller capacity: 65 lbs. | Car seat weight: 10.6 lbs. | Car seat capacity: 4 to 35 lbs. | Car seat height limit: 32"

Best hybrid car seat and stroller combo

• Incredibly lightweight
• Built-in car seat
• Low weight limit
• Not suitable for tough terrain

Last up on our list of the best stroller-car seat combos is a hybrid option by Doona. The all-in-one travel system is the first (and only) infant car seat that converts to a stroller with the press of a button. Once activated integrated wheels pop out of the base and the carry handle flips up to function as a handlebar. Genius! Initially unsure, our product tester did a complete 180 after taking the Doona for a spin: “At first I was concerned about how this was going to work because it’s a two in one. But I was very surprised at how efficient it was.” Lightweight and compact, this pick is certified for air travel and in car-seat mode it can be used with or without the LATCH base. The best part? You can switch to stroller mode without having to unbuckle baby from the car seat.

Dimensions (open): 17.4" (L) x 32.3" (W) x 39" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 17.4" (L) x 26" (W) x 22.4" (H) | Stroller weight: 17.2 lbs. | Stroller capacity: 35 lbs.| Car seat weight: N/A | Car seat capacity: 35 lbs. | Car seat height limit: 32"

“I really loved how easy it was to take my baby out and put him back into the seat. The harness is very easy to adjust the height and tighten; he feels and looks very comfortable.”

How We Chose the Best Stroller Car Seat Combos

We get it—parenting requires a lot of gear, and it can be hard to find the best fit for your family. To streamline your decision-making process, The Bump editors did extensive research, leveraging our familiarity with leading baby brands and relying on our own experiences as parents, narrowing the field to only the most popular, reliable and innovative stroller-car seat combos available today. We read user reviews to get the low-down on how these products work for families, and typically don’t consider anything with less than an average four-star rating. With the help of real parents, we also tested a selection of travel systems and assessed them for ease of use, adaptability, value for money and, of course, safety.

We also follow the safety recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics and look for certifications and seals of approval from key organizations, such as JPMA. Interested in learning more about our editorial process? Read about how our team develops and reviews all articles here .

Plus, more from The Bump:

The Best Strollers

Your Age-by-Age Guide to Strollers: What to Get When

Best Infant Car Seats

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The Best Travel Strollers That Are Actually Easy to Fold and Carry—We Tested Them Ourselves

We folded, pushed and dropped over 50 strollers to find the best for your family

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

Verywell Family / Jhett Thompson

Once you welcome a child into your family, "traveling light" is no longer a thing. But it is possible to take certain conveniences with you on the road or in the air, and a travel stroller is one of those amazing pieces of baby gear that make family trips a whole lot easier. In contrast to the large, luxury baby strollers with all the bells and whistles, we're talking about the lightweight versions that are portable and collapsible , some of which may even fit in an overhead compartment or fold up as small as a backpack . 

When making your purchase, consider how your family likes to travel: A top-notch road trip stroller may be too bulky for flying, while an airplane-friendly stroller could be great at folding but not suited for trickier terrains. Plus, you'll want to keep your budget in mind, and note that airlines have different requirements for the strollers you can bring on board.

To find the best travel strollers , we spoke to pediatricians about the most important criteria, like design and safety . Taking this expert insight into account, we put over 50 top-rated travel strollers through the wringer at the Verywell Testing Lab , pushing them around an obstacle course with several terrains, lugging them up and down stairs , folding them up and stowing them in a mock overhead bin, and even shoving them off tables to see how durable they are. We then sent our top picks home with our editors to use with their families, who have been assessing their portability, how compactly and conveniently they fold, their design features, the ease of steering and turning, and how they've held up throughout their travels . In order to deliver the very best travel stroller recommendations, our editors continue to take these strollers out and about, and we'll keep this list updated as we learn even more.

Additionally, a pediatrician on our Review Board has reviewed this article for medical accuracy regarding safe stroller practices and use, as well as what to look for when shopping for travel strollers.

Recall Alert

In December 2023, Bugaboo and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a voluntary recall of 1,200 Bugaboo Dragonfly Seat Strollers due to injury hazard. According to the manufacturer, when in parent-facing mode, the backrest can move and create a negative recline, which may cause an unrestrained infant to fall. 

Consumers should stop using the stroller immediately and contact the company to obtain a free replacement stroller seat. The recall involves units sold between May and June 2023 in the U.S. and Canada, with serial numbers starting with S460123. For the specific serial numbers and next steps, visit the CPSC announcement page or Bugaboo.com .

A previous version of this article included the Bugaboo Dragonfly Stroller in the “We Also Tested” section. This recall does not affect other Bugaboo strollers, and we continue to recommend the Bugaboo Butterfly as the best overall travel stroller due to its outstanding performance in our lab and real-world testing.

• We Also Tested
• How We Tested
• What to Look For
• Why Trust Verywell Family

Best Overall

Bugaboo butterfly stroller.

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

Roomy, flexible cargo space

Compact, standing fold

Machine washable seat padding

Reclining mechanism isn’t the easiest

When you're traveling with kiddos, the last thing you need is a complicated, bulky stroller. That's why we love the lightweight Bugaboo Butterfly Seat Stroller , which has a compact, standing fold, two carrying options, and plenty of storage space for carting your kiddos' stuff.

To fold it, simply press two buttons on the handle and push the frame down. Then, to unfold, press the same buttons, pull up, and it pops right back into place in the air, though you can also use a hand. There are helpful indicators on either side of the handlebar that let you know when it's fully locked back into place. When collapsed, you have two options for toting the stroller around: Use the shoulder strap for hands-free carrying, or carry it using the handle on the leg rest.

While the Bugaboo Butterfly impresses across the board, it really stands out with its sleek, thoughtful design. Available in black, forest green, and slate blue, it has an adjustable fold-out leg rest, a wrist strap, an adjustable canopy with a mesh panel, and a five-point no-rethread harness , in addition to white accents on the buckle and wheels. The seat inlay is removable and machine washable for cleaning up those inevitable snack crumbs, and the stroller comes with a rain cover to shield your little one from the elements. 

One of our favorite features is the roomy cargo basket (it can hold over 17 pounds!), which can be accessed from the front or back. We love its flexible back wall, which can be pressed down while you load it with a stuffed diaper bag, then springs back up to keep all your belongings in place.

Our one complaint about this stroller's design is the reclining mechanism. Though we appreciate its multiple reclining levels, you'll need to stretch a strap and snap it into place to keep the seat upright, which is a bit tricky.

This stroller is gorgeous to push around, and not just because of its looks. Thanks to its suspension, it moves like butter over grass and up curbs. And when we pushed it over rocks to test its shakiness, it didn't feel like it would be disruptive to a baby. It's also easy to turn , even when making a sharp, fast turn with just one hand. It goes up curbs and over grass smoothly , and when we took it over rocky terrain, the bumps didn't seem like they'd be too disruptive to a baby. Overall, it feels lightweight but stable, as a high-quality travel stroller should.

Assembling this stroller is straightforward . It comes with the canopy and wheels already attached, so you only need to attach the seat inlay , which just requires you to thread straps already on the stroller frame through slits in the padding. Attaching the rain canopy isn't as intuitive—we had to refer to the manual—but once you've figured it out, it's simple: The large opening goes around the handlebar, and two smaller straps go around the sides of the lower half of the frame. We do feel that the instruction manual would benefit from words in addition to pictures. When we pushed it off a table to test its durability, the Bugaboo Butterfly showed no signs of damage.

The Takeaway

The Bugaboo Butterfly is a bit pricey, but you get your money's worth. This stroller is lightweight, easy to fold and unfold, and a dream to maneuver. We also appreciate the large cargo basket, the included rain cover, and how it conveniently fits in the overhead bin. While we'd like phone storage and a cup holder to be included with a $449 stroller, you can purchase one separately , in addition to an organizer and a wheeled board with a toddler seat .

• Dimensions: 17.72 x 9.06 x 21.26 inches (folded), 36.42 x 17.72 x 40.31 inches (unfolded)
• Seat Dimensions: Not listed
• Weight: 16.1 pounds
• Child Age/Weight Range: Birth up to 48.5 pounds  

Best Overall, Runner Up

Nuna trvl lightweight stroller.

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

Attractive design

Roomy storage compartment

Heavier than other options

The Nuna TRVL is a dream of a stroller with luxe features that make it well worth the price. The most standout feature is how easily it folds and unfolds with the simple push of a button on the handlebar: It essentially folds itself up for you .

The TRVL also maneuvers smoothly , gliding over carpet, hard floor, and even gravel, thanks to the front- and rear-wheel suspension . Then there's the design: The fabric, faux leather handle, and bumper bar all have a luxurious look to them, and they're also water-repellent. The UPF 50+ canopy offers a lot of coverage for the child and has a mesh window for peeking and improving airflow . Plus, the back zips open for airflow, and it reclines to a convenient sleeping angle with a drawstring you can operate with one hand (and we all know how important those naps are during travel!). The seat is a comfortable 13 inches wide, and the calf rest can go all the way to flat for naps or fold down for a more active position.

The magnetic buckles are easy to operate without much fuss, and the harness doesn't require rethreading to adjust the height . Travelers will also appreciate the storage compartment at the bottom of the stroller, which can easily fit a full backpack.

Our only minor complaint with this stroller is that at 15.4 pounds, it's not the lightest to carry when folded and doesn't have a built-in strap for toting around . For hands-free carrying, you'll have to use the included travel bag . It could conceivably fit into an overhead storage bin, but at this size, we suspect most airlines will still have you gate-check it. 

The Nuna is also one of the most expensive strollers we tested, but you get a lot for your money. Nuna Pipa infant car seats don't need an extra attachment to click into the bumper bar, so if you're a frequent traveler or just want to go on local adventures, this may be the only stroller you need.

The price tag on the Nuna TRVL is hefty, but we still love this stroller because it's functional and versatile enough to be a family’s everyday stroller . It also boasts a few unique features, like front- and rear-wheel suspension that makes it seamless to maneuver on different terrains, magnetic buckles, a no-rethread harness, a large cargo basket, and an included travel bag. The downside is that it's larger than other strollers, so you probably won't be able to stow it in the overhead bin.

• Dimensions: 22.5 x 20.25 x 12 inches (folded), 31 x 20.5 x 41 inches (unfolded)
• Seat Dimensions: 10 x 13 inches
• Weight: 15.4 pounds
• Child Age/Weight Range: Birth (with car seat) up to 50 pounds

Verywell Family / Conor Ralph

Verywell Family / Phoebe Cheong

Best Folding

Uppababy minu v2 stroller.

 Amazon

• Assembly 3.8 /5
• Portability 4 /5

Stands when folded

Padded carrying strap

Storage for phone, keys, and other small items

Handlebar is not adjustable

A first-rate travel stroller should be easy to fold so you can quickly stow it in an overhead compartment or car trunk. Better yet, it should have a one-hand, standing fold , like the Uppababy Minu V2 . Simply slide and squeeze a button on the handlebar and press down, and you’ve got a fully folded stroller within seconds. (Just make sure the safety closure attaches to the frame.) While this is a true one-handed fold, you might want to use both if you have smaller hands.

The Minu V2 has Uppababy’s signature full-grain leather covering on the handlebar , which looks very stylish, but we found it inconvenient that the handlebar isn’t adjustable. There’s plenty of storage space, including a cargo basket that holds up to 20 pounds and a pocket on the back that can fit the caregiver’s phone, keys, wallet, and more. The adjustable canopy has a mesh peekaboo window with a magnetic closure, and the five-point no-rethread harness and buckle are easy for the adult to use. The brake, which must be engaged to fold the stroller, is located by the right wheel, and there’s a pedal to unlock it by the left wheel. The seat is padded and reclines with a pull tab. Carrying the folded stroller around is comfortable thanks to the padded strap , and the handlebar doubles as a handle you can pick it up with.

We found that this stroller is so easy to maneuver and steer with one hand that we’d be perfectly capable of pushing it through the airport while lugging a heavy suitcase. In our test, it glided over grass smoothly and didn’t slow down when we pushed it over rocks. We had no difficulty getting it up and down stairs, and it feels stable to push, even when making sharp turns. There were no scuff marks or signs of damage when we dropped it.

This stroller isn’t the easiest to assemble, but we were still able to put it together in under 17 minutes. Attaching the canopy and handlebar is not intuitive initially, though one editor who used an Uppababy stroller with her own kid figured it out pretty quickly. We do wish that the instructions had words in addition to the pictures.

Like the Bugaboo Butterfly , the Uppababy Minu V2 costs $450, which is an investment if it’s not your everyday stroller. However, this compact stroller is a breeze to fold and a dream to maneuver for families that travel often or like to frequent museums and the zoo.

• Dimensions: 12.5 x 20.3 x 23 (folded with bumper bar), 35.5 x 20.3 x 41 inches (unfolded)
• Weight: 16.9 pounds
• Child Age/Weight Range: Birth (with separate bassinet accessory) or 3 months up to 50 pounds/40 inches

Best Maneuverability

Silver cross jet 3 super compact stroller.

Silver Cross

• Assembly 3.9 /5
• Design 4.2 /5

Moves and turns beautifully

You can pull it like a suitcase when folded

Standing, one-handed fold

Assembly instructions aren’t helpful

Small cargo space

The Silver Cross Jet 3 Super Compact Stroller moves like a dream , ideal for navigating through crowded airports and cities. Even with the cargo space and child’s seat fully loaded, it handles different surfaces with aplomb and turns effortlessly. Plus, its genius design allows you to tote it around easily : When the stroller is folded and put in the included travel cover , the wheels and handlebar peek out, so you can roll the whole thing behind you like a suitcase for added convenience. 

This travel stroller is well-designed, too. The adjustable, waterproof UPF 50+ canopy has a peekaboo window, the footrest is adjustable, and the seat reclines flat . While the handlebar is comfortable to grip, it isn’t adjustable, which may pose a problem for taller parents. (However, this is true of many travel strollers on our list.) We particularly love its sleek look: The black fabric and brown leather accents on the handlebar and bumper bar evoke a luxury car . Plus, it’s built to last—when we pushed it off a counter to test its durability, there was no damage and the bumper bar did not come off at all.

However, the Silver Cross Jet 3 falls flat when it comes to storage space. The cargo area is tiny —we couldn’t fit a diaper bag into it—and there are no hooks for hanging a diaper bag on the handlebar, either. Assembly was a mixed bag since the wheels and bumper bar were easy to attach, but getting the frame to lock into its upright position was tricky, and the instructions were not helpful. Ultimately, we were still able to assemble it in 10 minutes.

Priced at $500 (comparable to the Nuna TRVL ), this compact stroller is worth the money for families looking for an option with clever features that’s also a breeze to steer. We particularly loved that it can be rolled like a suitcase even when folded and stored in the included travel cover. This feature is unique among the strollers we tested.

• Dimensions: 7.08 x 11.81 x 21.65 (folded), 35.43 x 17.7 x 39.5 inches (unfolded)
• Weight: 13.6 pounds
• Child Age/Weight Range: Birth up to 55 pounds

Best Lightweight

Contours itsy lightweight stroller.

Easy to put in an overhead bin

Minimal assembly required 

One-handed, standing fold

Brake requires effort to engage

A low weight and a compact fold are two key characteristics to look for in a travel stroller, and the Contours Itsy delivers on both. Weighing just 12.3 pounds , this stroller is easy to heave into an overhead bin, especially since it’s so small when folded (just 10.5 x 11 x 19.5 inches). Plus, folding is a breeze —it’s possible to fold it with one hand while balancing your baby , diaper bag, and purse in the other, which comes in handy on the bus or in the airport.

While its aesthetic look isn’t anything special, there’s plenty to appreciate about the Itsy’s design. The crotch strap on the five-point harness is padded for your little one’s comfort, and the adjustable UPF 50+ canopy is generous in size and has a peekaboo window.

During our test, the included bumper bar felt secure and did not fall off when we dropped it. The stroller comes mostly assembled , too: All you have to do is snap on the bumper bar, which is simple. However, the storage basket is quite small —it can barely fit a diaper bag—and the brake, which catches on the stairs when you’re carrying it up a flight, requires an emphatic stomp to engage.

To fold this stroller with one hand , press a button, and the whole thing collapses and stands up on its own . (Make sure to use the security latch to hold it all together.) We do wish that it had a carrying strap or handle, though.

The Contours Itsy stands up to its name not just in size but also in price: At $170, this is one of the most budget-friendly picks on our list. Given its compact size when folded (only a little bigger than a reusable grocery bag ), we think this stroller is worth it if a small footprint is your priority.

Key Specs: Dimensions: 10.5 x 11 x 19.5 (folded), 32 x 18 x 39 inches (unfolded) | Seat Dimensions: Not listed | Weight: 12.3 pounds | Child Age/Weight Range: Birth up to 40 pounds

Best for Cities

Babyzen yoyo2 stroller frame.

• Design 4.4 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Maneuverability 4.7 /5

Carrying strap

Can be pulled up stairs with one hand

Turns very well

Involved assembly

Not great on all surfaces

Whether you’re navigating crowded sidewalks or weaving through grocery store aisles, city travelers and dwellers alike will appreciate this BabyZen stroller’s impressive turning skills (it passed our obstacle courses test with flying colors). It’s best suited for pavement and other flat surfaces—it’s a bit hard to maneuver over grass and gravel, although it’s doable with a vigorous push—and it can be pulled up the stairs with just one hand , which comes in handy for the subway or bus.

When it comes to design, we appreciate the ample padding in the spacious seat , and the canopy provides excellent coverage. We also like that the fabric is available in various appealing colors. The harness is made of five components that come apart each time you unbuckle it, which is a hassle, and you’ll need to rethread it if you want to adjust the height. Thankfully, the seat cover attaches with velcro, so rethreading is not as finicky as it could be.

While we like that you can customize the color of the frame and fabrics, ordering this stroller is not straightforward . You’ll want to make sure to order both the frame and the “color pack,” which refers to the seat fabrics you’ll need to attach. Assembly, too, is complex. The written instructions and illustrations are separate and not particularly helpful, so we recommend referring to the assembly video on BabyZen’s site. No tools are required, but the stroller arrives in quite a few parts : You need to attach the seat board, seat padding, and thread wires through the canopy fabric before attaching it. However, we were still able to assemble it in just over 20 minutes, and you’ll only need to put it together once.

Folding this stroller takes a few steps , and the front wheels need to face forward to engage the lock, but it’s not complicated. The lock did come undone during our durability test, and the canopy detached, too. Unfolding the stroller, on the other hand, is quick, easy, and just two steps.

We recommend this for urban parents and families who prefer city vacations since it’s handy for navigating crowds and easy to carry to a walk-up apartment . Assembling the stroller is a bit tricky, but that's not a dealbreaker for us because you only need to assemble it once.

• Dimensions: 20.5 x 17.3 x 7.1 (folded), 33.8 x 17.3 x 41.7 inches (unfolded)
• Weight: 13.7 pounds
• Child Age/Weight Range: Birth up to 48.5 pounds

Verywell family / Conor Ralph

Verywell Family / David Carr

Best Car Seat Compatible

Chicco bravo quick-fold stroller.

• Assembly 3.5 /5
• Design 4 /5
• Portability 3 /5

Turns smoothly

Ample storage

Wobbly when brakes were engaged

Hard to access cargo space when seat is reclined

Investing in a travel stroller and a separate travel system can get pricey, so we appreciate the Chicco Bravo Quick-Fold Stroller’s car seat compatibility. The versatile stroller is compatible with all Chicco infant car seats (no adapters needed) , turning it into a handy travel system for families on the go .

The stroller is super easy to maneuver , making 360-degree turns effortlessly and handling several types of terrain smoothly. The wheels are exceptionally sturdy, which is handy for navigating gravel and grass. However, the front wheels don’t lock, so pushing it up the stairs might be risky. When we pushed it off a table, no parts came detached and there was no noticeable damage.

To fold it, use one hand to engage a latch with your thumb and pull upward—just make sure you’ve emptied the cargo area first. The stroller stands upright when folded . And while it’s easy to fold, it’s heavy to carry and doesn’t have a shoulder strap .

When it comes to the design, there are parts we like and things we’d change. We appreciate the dual cup holder —great for a parent’s coffee and water—and the padded, insulated storage pocket on the handlebar . There’s enough room in the storage bin for a well-stocked diaper bag, though it’s hard to access it when the seat is fully reclined. The seat is well-padded and can be reclined to multiple positions , though the buckle’s material feels slightly flimsy. Some of the plastic fasteners feel lower quality than we’d like, too. The brake requires some effort to kick up, which isn’t ideal if you’re wearing nicer shoes. And in our test, the stroller felt a little wobbly when locked, although it didn’t move.

At a reasonable $270, the Chicco Bravo Quick-Fold Stroller is less pricey than many of our other top picks, and it also makes for an affordable travel system, should you choose to buy a compatible car seat. Overall, it’s a heavier, bulkier option, so it’s best suited for those who want a travel system and a travel stroller, rather than just a travel stroller.

• Dimensions: 15 x 22.8 x 36.8 inches (folded with snack tray installed; height is 29 inches with no tray), 35.2 x 22.8 x 42.7 inches (unfolded)
• Weight: 24.9 pounds
• Child Age/Weight Range: Up to 50 pounds  

Best for Overhead Bins

Munchkin sparrow stroller.

• Assembly 5 /5
• Maneuverability 3.8 /5

No assembly required

Stroller folds into itself

Minimal storage

No real canopy

Sometimes, all you need is a simple, straightforward travel stroller . The Munchkin Sparrow may not have a ton of bells and whistles, but it’s a convenient travel companion. It comes fully assembled and ready to use —just unfold it and everything pops into place. When it comes time to collapse it, simply press on the handles and fold them under, and the stroller will fold into a compact square that fits neatly in the included carrying bag . (One editor compared it to origami.) Best of all, it’s under 13 pounds, so it’s easy to swing it up into an overhead bin.

Since it is so lightweight, it’s easy to push but doesn’t handle uneven surfaces very well and has no suspension . And while it’s not the smoothest driver, it turns incredibly well.

The Munchkin Sparrow does have a few design flaws, though: The cargo holds very little and there isn’t a real canopy—it just has a small retractable sunshade , which we feel does not provide enough sun protection for little ones. We do appreciate the ventilated headrest, however.

If you’re searching for a luxurious, tricked-out stroller, you’ll want to opt for a more upscale model like the Bugaboo Butterfly or Nuna TRVL . However, the ultra-compact Munchkin Sparrow is a great no-frills pick if you’re looking for a convenient, affordable solution that will make your next family flight a little less hectic.

• Dimensions: 15 x 14 x 6.25 (folded), 28 x 18.5 x 39 inches (unfolded)
• Weight: 12.8 pounds
• Child Age/Weight Range: Birth up to 55 pounds/41 inches  

Best for Overhead Bin Runner-Up

• Assembly 4.7 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Maneuverability 4.9 /5

Five-point harness is very easy to adjust

Comfortably fits into the overhead bin

One-handed fold and unfold

Maneuvers with some difficulty on uneven surfaces

No carry bag

When taking flights and navigating traveling with a little one , you want to take your stroller with you as a carry-on rather than checking it in so you can access it as soon as you get off the plane. The compactness of the folded Cybex Coya stroller makes this possible, as it fits comfortably in the overhead bin or compartment without stress. 

We appreciate that folding it is uncomplicated and you can do it with one hand . It also has a comfortable carry strap to use when folded.

The design of this stroller is undeniably stylish and sleek . The copper/rose gold accents on the bars connecting the seat to the wheels remind us of some of the fancier full-size strollers we've tested. The handlebar is lined with a cushioned leatherette fabric that is super luxurious looking, but unfortunately, the handlebar is not adjustable. The padding on the seat is removable for cleaning , which we appreciate, and without the padding, your little one can enjoy a breathable backrest of just mesh—great for hotter days. 

The seat reclines nearly flat and there's an adjustable footrest to aid in naptime. The canopy has a decent amount of coverage, considering this is a travel stroller, and it can extend by a few inches more when you unzip it at the back. Doing so also reveals a stretchy mesh fabric/peekaboo window, adding more breathability. There's also a nifty little zippered pocket for your phone and wallet at the back of the canopy.

One of the great design elements of this stroller is the five-point harness, which is designed just like the harness in a car seat , making it much easier to adjust. Instead of threading individual straps through a buckle to tighten and loosen, you just pull on the strap between your kid's legs while pressing down on the button right above the strap. The only issue is that you have a strap dangling down, so you'll have to loop it through a couple of times to avoid that. We found the storage basket relatively small and had to squeeze in a diaper bag to fit it in during testing, but it's not the smallest basket we've seen in a compact stroller. 

This Cybex stroller maneuvers really well on hard surfaces , but is a little more challenging on grass and stone surfaces. It also seems to have better suspension on the front wheels than other compact strollers we've tested, which makes it drive a little more smoothly on bumps than expected. 

While this Cybex is on the pricier side, we think it's a worthy investment . We love how it folds with ease and fits into an overhead bin while traveling. We also like that it has features you'd typically not find in a compact stroller , like the decent-sized canopy and the harness-tightening feature. We just wish it came with a travel bag to protect it while in storage on an airplane or train.

• Dimensions: 20.5 x 17.3 x 7.1 inches (folded), 31.1 x 17.3 x 38.2 inches (unfolded)
• Weight: 14.6 pounds
• Child Age/Weight Range: Birth to 55 pounds

Verywell Family / Joy Kim

Best Umbrella

Uppababy g-luxe stroller.

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

Comfortable shoulder strap

Standing fold

Cupholder included

Folding is a learning curve

Handlebar height is not adjustable

If you're looking for a compact stroller for local outings, like the zoo or a children's museum, an umbrella stroller is a convenient, lightweight pick. We recommend the Uppababy G-Luxe , which impresses us with its portability and features. While the folding takes a few tries to get the hang of —you have to pull a handle and a ring at precisely the same time—the stroller stands upright when folded , and thanks to a comfortable shoulder strap , it's easy to tote around.

The G-Luxe has quite a few features for a simple stroller: It comes with a sizable cupholder for the caregiver —we could fit a travel mug into it—and has an extendable UPF 50+ canopy. The seat also has a one-handed recline and is well-cushioned without looking bulky (and caregivers will appreciate that the fabric is removable and washable !). While the footrest is adjustable, the handlebar height is not. We found that the brake is easy to engage.

Though umbrella strollers typically aren't the sturdiest to maneuver, this one turns on a dime and rolls smoothly with its all-wheel suspension . It is a little bumpy to take over gravel, but that's to be expected for a smaller stroller.

Priced at $160, this is a worthwhile investment for families who are frequently on the go around town. For a small, lightweight stroller, the G-Luxe has many features we love, like the four-wheel suspension, comfortable seat, and large cupholder.

• Dimensions: 19.2 x 12 x 41.8 inches (folded), 28.8 x 18.8 x 43 inches (unfolded)
• Weight: 16.3 pounds
• Child Age/Weight Range: 3 months to 55 pounds

Best Portability

Zoe the traveler.

• Design 3.5 /5
• Maneuverability 4.5 /5

Quick, straightforward assembly

Incredibly lightweight

Removable, machine-washable seat liner

Snack tray not included

Zoe’s The Traveler stroller is so lightweight —just 13 pounds—that you can easily carry it around with just one hand, and swinging it up into an overhead bin is a breeze. To fold, press a button on the handlebar, then bend the stroller forward to collapse it. (It stands upright when folded .) Then, to unfold, press the same button and lift the frame. We were able to do both one-handed—plus, the cushioned handlebar makes it comfortable to carry around. The Traveler is also easy to assemble: All you have to do is click on the wheels and the bumper bar, then slide on the parent’s cup holder. 

This stroller navigates most terrains well and only felt a bit wobbly on gravel during our test. However, we always felt in control of the stroller, even when carrying it up and down the stairs.

While the design is simple, it has practical features : The canopy expands and has a peekaboo window and a storage pocket for your phone or keys. The seat material isn’t the plushest we’ve tested, but the liner is removable and machine washable for easy cleanup. (The liner does cost an additional $40 at checkout.) There’s also an adjustable footrest for your kiddo. An adult cup holder is included , but the kids’ snack tray is sold separately , and the cargo space can only fit a small tote bag, not a full diaper bag backpack.

At $249, Zoe’s The Traveler is more affordable than many of our top picks, though it’s not the least expensive. If portability is your priority over design, you can’t go wrong with this lightweight travel stroller.

• Dimensions: 10 x 19 x 22 inches (folded), 41 x 18 x 30 inches (unfolded)
• Weight: 13 pounds
• Child Age/Weight Range: 3 months to 45 pounds

Verywell Family / Jessica Juliao

Best Reversible

Thule shine.

• Durability 4.8 /5

Large cargo space

Fits in narrow spaces

Adjustable handlebar

Difficult to maneuver around turns

The Thule Shine is our pick for best reversible travel stroller because it can grow with your baby from birth (with the bassinet or newborn inlay , sold separately) to toddlerhood (up to 49 pounds). Starting at 6 months old, your baby can use the stroller's regular seat in reverse position, so you can keep an eye on them as you stroll, and when you feel comfortable, the seat easily turns to face forward so they can see the road ahead.

We love that the Thule Shine stroller comes with an adjustable handlebar (which is pretty unique for travel strollers), a storage bin capable of holding up to 22 pounds (much larger than the average stroller storage), multiple recline positions (including a near-flat option), an adjustable footrest, and a large, extendable canopy with mesh peekaboo window.

Assembly was pretty seamless during testing. We were able to put this stroller together quickly and didn’t need any tools . The only area where we struggled was attaching the canopy portion, but it wasn't too big of an issue. We timed the entire process and it only took 10 minutes and six seconds to go from box to being ready to go.

One downside you might want to consider is that folding the stroller down isn't an intuitive process and requires multiple steps . You have to move the handle down to the lowest position, empty the cargo space, retract the canopy, fold the seat forward all the way, press two buttons on the handle while you move the handlebar down to the floor, lift up the folded stroller using the carry handle, and lock it in place. The entire process can technically be done with one hand, but it's not as convenient as other options on our list. Once it’s locked, the stroller can stand up straight on its own .

The brand describes the Thule Shine as a "city stroller" and we agree with that assessment, as its design is pretty sleek and compact. However, our maneuverability test revealed mixed results: The stroller seemed to pull to the left quite a bit and the turning radius wasn't the most convenient. However, we were impressed by how well it handled sandy terrain . It also performed extremely well in our drop test, maintaining only minor scuffs.

The Thule Shine is a great option for a no-frills parent who needs a durable, reliable, reversible travel stroller with easy set-up and large cargo space . However, folding it down is a multi-step process and it is a bit bulky, so this is a stroller you'd have to gate-check.

• Dimensions: 13 x 20 x 27 inches (folded), ‎35.4 x 20.5 x 38 inches (unfolded)
• Weight: 21.6 pounds
• Child Age/Weight Range: Birth up to 49 pounds

Verywell Family / Tamara Staples

Best Cargo Space

Safety 1st teeny ultra compact stroller.

• Portability 4.8 /5

Ample storage basket and canopy pocket

Easy to fold and unfold

Reclining mechanism could be improved

When you’re on the go, cargo space is precious, so we appreciate the Safety 1st Teeny Ultra Compact Stroller’s generous storage space. The roomy cargo hold fits a fully packed diaper bag and still has room to stash a jacket, snacks, or toys. A large, moveable silicone cup holder for the adult is included, and there’s a large pocket on the back of the canopy for other belongings, like a phone, wallet, or water bottle.

Out of the 50 travel strollers we've tested, this one was the easiest to assemble and literally took us two seconds: Unfold it and you’re ready to go. Folding it back down was just as painless and can be done one-handed by pushing two buttons and pressing the frame down. You can also adjust the wheels to make the stroller more compact. We had no problems putting it into a mock overhead bin since it feels surprisingly lightweight for a 19-pound stroller.

The stroller also features a large, ventilated canopy , which the brand says blocks 96% of UVA and UVB rays, and an adjustable footrest . The seat does recline , but we wish it would recline further. As for maneuverability, the Teeny is nice to push around and performs well on smooth terrain, but its wheels can jam when going over gravel.

At $130, this travel stroller is one of the more affordable picks on our list. While there are some design flaws, the Safety 1st Teeny proves itself with its generous storage capacity and easy folding.

• Dimensions: 18.5 x 9 x 22.5 (folded); 36.3 x 18.5 x 39.9 (unfolded)
• Weight: 19.2 pounds
• Child Age/Weight Range: Birth up to 50 pounds  

Best Eco-Friendly

Bombi bēbee lightweight stroller.

• Design 4.1 /5
• Maneuverability 2.4 /5

Quick, intuitive assembly

Travel bag and cup holder included

No plastic packaging

Harness feels low-quality

If environmentally conscious consumption is a priority for your family, consider the Bombi Bebee Lightweight Stroller , which is shipped without any plastic packaging. Plus, according to the brand, each stroller and included travel bag are made from at least 50% recycled plastic bottles , saving over 50 single-use bottles from ending up in landfills. Additionally, the accents are made from vegan leather , and Bombi donates 1% of its sales to 1% for the Planet, an organization that supports environmental and sustainable causes.

Assembly is straightforward —you can pop in the four wheels in a matter of minutes without looking at the instructions. Everything is compact and easy to handle, and the extremely roomy canopy expands quite a bit to shield your little one from the sun, even when the seat is reclined. (The seat doesn't recline all the way to flat, however.) We like the swing-away bumper bar, the adjustable footrest, the included travel bag and cup holder , and the adequate cargo space, which fits a decent-sized diaper bag. We don't love the harness, however: The material feels flimsy, and although the five-point harness has a standard quick-release button, the shoulder straps connect to it with hooks, which were tricky to work. Plus, the handlebar is not adjustable.

Nothing fell off when we dropped the stroller to test its durability—not even the cup holder. It's simple to fold—just press two buttons on the handlebar and it folds in seconds—and it stands upright when folded up , though it didn't fit into our mock overhead bin .

While this stroller moves well on smooth, even terrain, getting up a curb is challenging and it does not perform well on gravel or other uneven surfaces. The Bombi Bebee isn't the most lightweight stroller, but it's fairly easy to carry around if you use the carrying bag, which, while sustainable, feels somewhat flimsy.

With its sustainable materials and the brand's charitable practices, this travel stroller is a top eco-friendly choice. It's best suited to families who plan to use the stroller primarily on paved sidewalks and other flat surfaces.

• Dimensions: 21 x 20.75 x 10.5 (folded), 33 x 18 x 40 (unfolded)
• Weight: 16 pounds
• Child Age/Weight Range: Birth (with separate car seat adapter) or 6 months up to 50 pounds  

Best Travel Design

Joolz aer+ stroller.

Bloomingdale's

Comes fully assembled

Easy one-hand fold and unfold mechanism

Sophisticated design

No footrest

No cupholder

Why We Recommend It

The Joolz Aer+ lightweight stroller is made with travel and portability in mind, with design features that make packing, carrying, and storing it a breeze. During testing, we were really impressed with the one-hand, one-second fold mechanism : With just one push of the button on the handlebar and a gentle nudge down, it automatically falls into a folded position. This exposes a carry strap that sits comfortably on your shoulder. Although it is a little bulky to carry, the fact that it only weighs 13.2 pounds makes up for it. 

As part of our travel stroller test , we put it up on a shelf to simulate the overhead compartment in an airplane. Thanks to its compact size (21 x 17.7 x 8.5 inches), the Joolz Aer+ fits on smaller shelves and overhead bins , but keep in mind that these storage compartments vary in size and that airlines have different rules regarding strollers in the main cabin, so it’s best to double-check. 

We also love this stroller’s sleek design . With a leatherette grip on the handlebar and metal accents on the fabric, it looks and feels very sophisticated. The basket, which is roomy and can carry up to 11 pounds , is accessible from the front and back. Both the canopy and the seat reclining feature use zippers to hide the extra fabric when not in use, creating a sleeker look and making it less fussy when folded. There’s a five-point harness and the belts can be tightened and loosened by pulling on them. One downside is that there’s no footrest or cupholder. 

The elegant design is matched by excellent maneuverability . We found that we only needed to use one hand to turn corners during testing, and it felt lightweight to push around even with a 25-pound sandbag and fully loaded basket. When driving it on various surfaces, we found that it moved smoothly and the design of the wheels protected the stroller from shock, even on uneven sidewalks. To test its durability, we dropped the stroller several times from a table onto the floor, and we’re pleased to report that the stroller remained intact and in impeccable condition .

While this stroller comes with a slightly higher price tag at $449, we think it’s a worthy investment . We loved its durability, the amazing folding mechanism, how compact it is, and the fact that having those features doesn’t come at the expense of a smooth and sturdy ride. It’s great for a solo caregiver on the go , or if you have a small car trunk or storage space. We even think it can serve as your main stroller and not just for travel. It will also last you a long time, as it’s recommended for ages 6 months to 4 years old, with a weight capacity of up to 50 pounds. 

• Dimensions: 21 x 17.7 x 8.5 inches (folded), 32.7 x 17.7 x 41.5 inches (unfolded)
• Seat Dimensions: 21.7 x 13.4 inches
• Weight : 13.2 pounds
• Child Age/Weight Range: Up to 50 pounds

Verywell Family / Leticia Almeida

Best Double

Uppababy g-link v2 stroller.

• Assembly 4.9 /5
• Portability 4.4 /5

Narrow and light for a double stroller

Smooth folding

Easy to push and turn

Doesn't get very small when folded

No carrying strap

While there is nothing easy about traveling with two stroller-age kiddos, having a compact double travel stroller can go a long way toward making it less painful. The G-Link 2 is a side-by-side umbrella stroller that manages to be smaller than most because it has only four sets of wheels instead of the typical six. The folding mechanism, a loop between the handles that you pull up, is surprisingly smooth, so it won't be a burden on the go.

During testing, we were pleasantly surprised by how well this stroller moves : It takes turns and bumps like a single stroller. But while we appreciate the generous UPF 50+ canopies, included carry handle, fully reclining seats, and well-placed cup holder for the adult , this stroller just didn't match the single strollers for portability and design. In particular, we wish it were smaller when folded and came with a carrying strap.

At $350, this double travel stroller is priced competitively with many of our top single travel strollers, making it a great investment for families with multiples. Although it'll never be as portable as a single stroller and won't fit in an overhead bin, the G-Link 2 is incredibly light, convenient, and easy to operate for a double stroller.

• Dimensions: 40 x 17.5 x 14 inches (folded), 25 x 28.25 x 41 (unfolded)
• Seat Dimensions: 10 x 11 inches
• Weight: 21.8 pounds
• Child Age/Weight Range: 3 months up to 55 pounds (per seat)

Most Comfortable

Baby jogger city tour 2 stroller.

• Maneuverability 4.8 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5
• Value 4.8 /5

Lighter than most travels trollers

Reclines for comfortable napping

Folding requires two hands

No straps for hands-free carrying

Under-seat storage could be bigger

With a price point about $200 less than its travel stroller competitors, the City Tour 2 is as lightweight (14.5 pounds) and almost as easy to fold as our top picks. Though it's advertised as having a one-handed fold, after pushing the two buttons at the handlebar and collapsing the stroller, you do need two hands to finish the process and lock it into place, but it's not complicated. And once it's folded, it's easy to pick up at the handle with one hand, and you can put it into the included carrying bag for hands-free carrying. It may fit in a larger overhead compartment, and the front wheels detach pretty easily to squeeze into tighter spaces. 

One of the best features of the City Tour 2 is the way the seat reclines way back and the calf rest extends all the way flat , which, combined with the full-coverage UPF 50+ canopy (with a peekaboo window), makes for a very cozy ride. The five-point harness is well cushioned but requires rethreading to adjust the height. There are a few design drawbacks, such as an under-seat storage compartment that's smaller than we'd like, and an overall lack of special features like a bumper bar (which can be purchased separately ).

Meanwhile, the grownup behind the handlebar won't be struggling to push their little passenger. The front wheels have suspension, and the back wheels are slightly larger, helping it get over curbs and bumpy surfaces, including the gravel that some other strollers struggle to traverse. 

The City Tour 2 maneuvers amazingly well across different types of terrain and is easy to fold up and tote around thanks to the included hands-free carrying bag. Although it doesn't have many special features and the cargo space is small, we think it’s a great value for its $250 price tag.

• Dimensions: 22.5 x 19.5 x 7 inches (folded), 26 x 20 x 40 inches (unfolded)
• Seat Dimensions (Inches): 9 x 13 inches
• Weight: 14.5 pounds
• Child Age/Weight Range: Birth (with car seat attachment) to 45 pounds

Best One-Handed Fold

Gb qbit+ all city stroller.

Very easy to fold

Stands up when folded

Suspension makes the ride smooth

Heavier than other travel options

Canopy could be bigger

You're not seeing double: The GB Qbit+ All-City Stroller does look very similar to the Nuna TRVL . If you love the look of our Best Overall Runner-Up pick and want to spend around $70 less, this may be the way to go. Like the Nuna, this stroller features luxe-looking fabric and faux leather on the bumper bar and handle , and it too folds down to carry-on size with just one hand and the push of two buttons. The two strollers are not identical, however.

We admire this stroller's smoothness and ease of folding , and when the seat reclines, it also opens a nice mesh window for a breezy feel. That ride will also be comfortable thanks to the all-wheel suspension , which makes going over the bumps of gravel in our test barely different than going over the hardwood floor. Still, it's not as portable as some of our top picks, mainly because it weighs a few pounds more (17.6 pounds) and it doesn't have a carrying strap . We also wish the canopy had more coverage, especially if this is something you want to take on a sunny vacation.

One more note: GB may be better known in this category for its Pockit Air All-Terrain stroller , which is lightweight and packs up to the size of a backpack. However, that stroller is a beast to maneuver and is designed poorly, so we don't feel we can recommend it.

The Qbit+ All City stands out for its design and maneuverability, thanks to all-wheel suspension. It's very similar to the Nuna TRVL but a bit more affordable.

• Dimensions: 23 x 16.5 x 10.5 inches (folded), 24 x 17 x 41 (unfolded)
• Seat Dimensions: 9 x 13 inches
• Weight: 17.6 pounds
• Child Age/Weight Range: Birth (if used with Cybex infant car seat) to 55 pounds

Best Budget

Kolcraft cloud plus stroller.

• Design 3.9 /5
• Maneuverability 4.2 /5

Simple folding mechanism

Comes with trays for child and grownup

Too big for overhead bins

If your budget is tight and all you need is a simple stroller to take on vacation, the Kolcraft Cloud Plus offers all the essentials for $80 (at the time of this writing). It's not the prettiest or smallest on our list, but it is the lightest, weighing under 12 pounds .

The one-handed, two-button fold takes a bit of strength and coordination at first, but you get the hang of it after a couple of tries. Once folded, it doesn't fit in an overhead bin on the plane and it has no carrying strap, so it's not the most portable option . But again, for a stroller at this price, you probably won't mind checking it. 

There are two trays—one for the kid and one for the adult , with two drink holders each—making this an attractive option for travel. The trays can come loose, but they're easy to reattach. Another handy feature is the roomy under-seat storage compartment for a diaper bag or backpack. On the other hand, it only reclines about three-fourths of the way and there is no calf rest , so it's not recommended for napping. It does have front-wheel suspension, and while it's not the most agile on bumpy surfaces, its light weight makes it easy to push through any small obstacles. 

Though it's not a perfect stroller, this is a solid travel stroller for a more than reasonable price (well under $100), so it's an excellent pick for budget-minded families.

• Dimensions: 33 x 17.5 x 10 inches (folded), 27 x 18 x 38 inches (unfolded)
• Weight: 11.8 pounds
• Child Age/Weight Range: 6 months to 50 pounds

Verwell Family / Conor Ralph

Travel Strollers We Also Tested

• GB Pockit Air All Terrain Ultra Compact Lightweight Travel Stroller : Though this stroller is lightweight and truly compact (it folds down to the size of a backpack), it performed poorly in all of our other categories, and we don’t feel confident recommending it.
• Delta Children Spyder : This stroller is poorly designed and feels cheaply made. The five-point harness does not feel stable, the stroller looks odd, and it doesn’t fold up compactly, despite being a bare-bones stroller. Plus, several pieces fell off in our durability test, during which we noticed some signs of wear and tear on the wheels.
• Diono Flexa : While it passed our durability test with flying colors, this stroller is heavy and bulky, so it’s not an ideal option for a travel stroller. Its huge wheels are a pain to maneuver, so it’s not a great pick for your everyday stroller, either. The canopy does come in several bright colors if that’s your thing.
• Maxi-Cosi Mara XT Ultra Compact Stroller : Easy to assemble and fold, this stroller comes with a cup holder, spacious cargo hold, and reclinable seat. However, it didn’t feel particularly lightweight and did not fit in our mock overhead bin (you’d have to take off the bumper bars and wheels, which would be inconvenient), so we don’t feel that it’s the best pick for travel.

How We Tested Travel Strollers

To date, our editors have tested over 50 travel strollers in the Verywell Testing Lab in New York City, scrutinizing them and evaluating them on portability, maneuverability, design, ease of folding, ease of assembly, and overall value. We then sent our top picks home with our editors to use with their families, and we'll continue to update this list as we learn more about their functionality. Additionally, we spoke with Nkeiruka U. Orajiaka , MBBS, a board-certified pediatrician and member of Buybuy Baby's Parenting Pros, and kept her advice in mind while assessing the strollers' safety features. 

In the lab, we assembled each travel stroller, noting how quickly and intuitively we were able to put them together, as well as how helpful the instructions were. For portability, we carried the strollers around the room—by their carrying strap, when applicable—and tested whether they would fit on a shelf that was the approximate size of an average airplane overhead compartment. A travel stroller should be easy to fold, so we folded and unfolded each stroller multiple times, noting how compact their folded footprints are, whether they can be folded with one hand, if they stand upright when folded, and how helpful the instructions are.

To test their maneuverability, we pushed the strollers (with sandbags as "babies") through an indoor course with gravel, artificial turf, stone curbs, and a cone obstacle course. We checked that the brakes on each stroller were easy to use and logically placed, and we also dropped each stroller from hip height and then pushed them off a table to evaluate durability. Almost all the strollers earned a perfect score in that attribute, save a couple on which a few pieces came loose but did not break off.

Value and design were more subjective attributes. We looked at the various features we would want for our own travels with children, including safety (sun-protective canopies and reliable harnesses), comfort for the child, comfort for the adult, storage space, and attractiveness. Finally, we took all of these attributes into account relative to the price of each stroller to assess their overall value.

Verywell / Jhett Thompson

What to Look for in a Travel Stroller

The criteria you use to choose a travel stroller will vary based on your child or children's needs, how you plan to travel, and what you plan to do when you get there. Still, we think there are some basic needs every stroller should meet, and some things that are very nice to have.

Safety Features

When using any stroller, including travel strollers, it's crucial to consider your little one's safety. If safety is not prioritized, injuries can occur, including head injuries, fractures, lacerations, and skin friction or rubs, says Dr. Orajiaka. These can happen if the child isn't buckled in properly, the brakes aren't applied when the stroller is unattended by an adult, the child's foot gets caught in the footrest, the stroller isn't sturdy enough, or extra items tip the stroller over. For all of these reasons, you should pay attention to the manufacturer's age and weight limits (including the cargo hold's weight limit) and follow them closely. 

Dr. Orajiaka also stresses the importance of a sun canopy, which is essential for children's long-term health. Sun canopies help protect your child from direct sun rays or other inclement weather, and since babies younger than 6 months old are not old enough to use sunscreen, this is a useful way to keep their skin (and eyes) protected.

If your baby is younger than the recommended age for the stroller, see if there are additional bassinet features you can attach or adapters for your infant car seat.

Size and Weight

The size and weight of your stroller are a matter of personal preference. If you plan to use your travel stroller only on short trips, you can choose something extra compact and light while compromising on other features. This may mean the stroller isn't able to recline all the way for naps, it lacks suspension in the wheels, or it doesn't have a bumper bar or a full sun canopy. 

On the other hand, if you want all the features you look for in an everyday stroller, you will probably wind up with something slightly heavier that doesn't fit as well into car trunks and overhead compartments. Ultimately, Dr. Orajiaka recommends wide-base strollers, as they're less likely to tip over.

Even though several travel strollers fit in overhead compartments on planes, remember that some airlines may still ask you to gate-check your stroller on a full flight.

Ease of Use

Travel strollers should be convenient and easy to use—no parent wants to fight with a complicated stroller while on the go! Some of the travel strollers we tested felt like they required an advanced degree to figure out the folding process; others folded easily, but we couldn't manage the harness buckles without hurting our fingers. Managing either of those tasks with a crying baby or a screaming toddler in the middle of an airport security line would be exponentially more difficult, which is why we made sure to list only the strollers that were easiest to operate (sometimes even one-handed!). If you purchase a stroller and using it isn't intuitive, return it and try something new. There are so many options—one will make sense for you.

Maneuverability is another key component when traveling with luggage or walking in unfamiliar places. You'll be happy with a stroller that can handle bumps, turns, and getting around obstacles.

Comfort and Style

When it comes to comfort, consider how a stroller feels for both the child riding in it and the grown-ups pushing it. For children, things like padding, foot and calf rests, reclining seats, and adjustable five-point harnesses are all features to consider. For adults, the handle height should be comfortable (or adjustable), and the stroller should feel light when you push it and lift it up the stairs or into storage. You may also want extra features like cup holders, storage pockets, and generous under-seat storage so that everything you and your kid needs is within reach.

Finally, getting a stroller with a look you like isn't just about what others will see. If you are taking it on family trips, it will likely wind up in family photos, so you'll be looking at it for many years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

This depends on the particular child (and the particular stroller), but generally, kids should be transitioning out of their strollers by 3 years old, says Dr. Orajiaka. Around this age, walking helps them continue to develop their strength and stay active. However, you may want to consider keeping your stroller around for long-distance travel or when a child is tired, she says.

Yes, you can bring any standard stroller through security. Most of the time, they will ask you to take out your child and fold the stroller down so that it can go through the scanner. Other times, they can scan it in the metal detector or by hand. 

If your stroller folds down small enough, it can be stored in an overhead bin, but larger strollers can typically be checked at the gate. This can vary by airline, so you should consult your particular airline’s policies before traveling. We also recommend that you not keep too many loose items in your stroller as you move through the airport to avoid losing precious lovies or baby gear.

Most airlines offer free gate check-in for strollers, so they will be placed on the plane with more care than luggage checked before security. If you want, you can purchase a stroller bag to protect it. (Most brands, like UPPAbaby, sell stroller bags that are specifically designed for their travel strollers.) While there is no way to guarantee that your stroller will remain undamaged during flights, purchasing a durable, high-quality travel stroller is your best bet for prolonging its shelf life.

Travel strollers vary in cost depending on several different metrics such as construction, cushion, size, and weight. A good travel stroller’s cost can range from $80 on the low end up to around $700. Our best overall pick is the Bugaboo Butterfly Seat Stroller , which is a compact, roomy travel stroller that sits at $449.

Why Trust Verywell Family 

Phoebe Sklansky is Verywell Family’s Associate Commerce Editor. As a commerce writer and avid shopper herself, she enjoys helping readers find the best products for their unique needs. She tested many of these travel strollers herself and was particularly impressed by the compact Bugaboo Butterfly’s clever, attractive design and the UPPAbaby Minu V2’s easy one-handed, standing fold. To date, she’s researched hundreds of baby products and has tested dozens in our lab, from strollers to diaper bags to baby swings.

Additional reporting by:

Parenting editor Sabrina Rojas Weiss lives in what may be the highest stroller-per-capita area of the world, Park Slope, Brooklyn. After many years as an entertainment editor, she transitioned to a career in which she can put all her baby-gear shopping skills to good use. Her son's trusty red UPPAbaby G-Luxe survived many a plane trip and subway ride before she finally decided he had to walk everywhere.

Transportation Security Administration. Traveling With Children .

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Willow Grove SC Travel System

Make every moment effortless with the Willow Grove™ SC baby travel system. Includes the Willow™ SC infant car seat, Alpine™ car seat base and Grove™ modular stroller.

Why You'll Love It

Includes everything you need.

Comes with infant car seat, stroller and base- plus the CozyFit™ insert and stroller bumper bar.

ClickTight Installation

Install with confidence in three easy steps: open, thread & buckle, click it closed. *ClickTight indicator window may vary by model. Refer to user guide for specific instructions.

6 Ways to Ride

Allows infant and toddler seats to easily switch from parent-facing to forward-facing. Can be used with or without the CozyFit™ insert.

Customize to Baby's Size

RightSize system provides adjustment points at the hips, shoulders & between the legs. Create your baby’s perfect fit from the start!

Quick-Push LATCH Connectors

Lock into place with a click and are easily released with the push of a button.

SafeCell Technology

Acts as a crumple zone, helping to keep crash energy away from your child.

ReboundReduce™ Carry Handle

Acts as a stability bar when used in the upright position.

CozyFit Insert

Provides customized and comfortable fit for newborns under 11 lbs.

One-Hand, Quick Fold

Makes it easy to store and go.

Ultra-Lightweight Frame

Long-term use without the extra weight.

Extra-Large Cargo Basket

Includes hidden zippered pocket and water bottle pocket.

Features High Performance Fabrics

Willow SC cover and CozyFit stroller liner are safe to machine wash and dry. Entire CozyFit liner, headpad and wedge are all free of FR chemicals. Willow SC fabrics are also free of FR chemicals.

Stroller liner and headpad resist stains, moisture and odor to stay clean longer.

Make every moment effortless with the Willow Grove™ SC baby travel system. This infant car seat and stroller combo includes the Willow™ SC infant car seat, Alpine™ car seat base, and Grove™ modular stroller. First ride jitters? Gone. Britax is the only brand with ClickTight® technology, so you know it can be installed securely on the first ride and beyond. Made for multitasking, this infant car seat features an aluminum carry handle that easily adjusts with one hand to keep the other hand free. The RightSize™ system provides adjustment points at the hips, shoulders, and between the legs to help you find the perfect fit from the start. The ReboundReduce™ stability bar on the Alpine car seat base helps minimize movement in a crash for peace of mind while you’re on the move. When it's time to cruise, attach the car seat to the Grove baby stroller and take on the town. Made for children up to 50 lbs, the Grove baby stroller features 6 different strolling positions—including both parent-facing and forward-facing—so your child can look up at you or out to the world. The included washable CozyFit™ insert allows babies as small as 10 lbs to ride in this toddler stroller when the seat is fully reclined. The one-step fold lets you pack up and go with trunk space to spare. The Grove stroller comes with an extra-large cargo basket plus 5 additional pockets for valuables, drinks, and your little one's must-haves. Fabrics are naturally flame-retardant with no added FR chemicals. The Willow Grove SC infant travel system pairs trusted car seat safety with a fully loaded stroller to give you the best of both worlds.

Product Specs

Product Weight (Car Seat Only) 9.3 lbs

Seat Back Compartment Height 21"

Harness Slot Heights 5.5" / 7.5" / 9.5" / 11.5"

Buckle Strap Depths 2.5" / 5.5"

Child Weight 4-30 lbs

Rear-facing Harnessed Height Less than 32"

Product Weight (Base Only) 10.2 lbs

Stroller Product Weight 24 lbs

Maximum Unfolded Dimensions 37"L x 23.5"W x 44"H

Folded Dimensions, Wheels On 16”L x 23.5”W x 36”H

Stroller Product Length/Depth 37"

Stroller Product Height 44"

Stroller Product Width 23.5"

Seat Area Depth/Width 12" / 9.5"

Shoulder Width 10"

Actual product may vary from image. Britax reserves the right to substitute fabrics or parts and/or make substitutions.

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• Baby and kid

The Best Travel Car Seats

By Christina Szalinski and Rebecca Gale

Let’s face it: Traveling with little kids can be a slog. But a lightweight, compact, easy-to-install travel car seat is one tool that can make trips a bit easier.

We’ve tested 17 travel car seats for infants and up, and we examined how they performed in various circumstances, including during air travel and in rental cars. The Chicco KeyFit 35 , one of our picks for the best infant car seats , is an excellent choice for both travel and everyday use. For an affordable and easy-to-use convertible car seat for toddlers and preschoolers, we recommend traveling with the Cosco Scenera Next , which fits kids up to 40 inches tall for rear-facing or 43 inches for forward-facing. For kids bigger than that who still need a seat with a five-point harness, we recommend the Cosco Finale 2-in-1 , which also converts to a high-back booster. The backless, lightweight Cosco Rise is great for booster-age kids.

If you’ll be hopping in and out of taxis or ride shares with a baby, the Doona is a unique but expensive infant car seat that converts to a stroller. And instead of purchasing a dedicated convertible car seat for travel, another option is to bring yours along with the Britax Travel Cart .

Everything we recommend

Chicco KeyFit 35 ClearTex

The best infant car seat for travel.

If you’re a frequent traveler, the Chicco KeyFit 35 is easier than most infant car seats to install securely without its base.

Buying Options

An infant car seat and stroller in one

This unusual car seat has integrated wheels that pop out to turn it into a stroller. It’s best for parents who frequently need to move their car seat in and out of different vehicles.

Cosco Scenera Next

The best convertible car seat for travel.

This affordable and easy-to-use car seat weighs 6.8 pounds and can be used rear- and forward-facing. But kids can outgrow it quickly.

Cosco Finale 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat

The best harness booster car seat for travel.

This no-frills seat converts from a forward-facing five-point harness to a high-back booster. It weighs just 12 pounds.

Britax Travel Cart

A travel cart for lugging your own seat through the airport.

This sturdy, smooth-rolling travel cart helps you transport your own convertible car seat—and avoid buying a standalone travel seat. You can even strap your child into their seat and use it like a stroller.

The best backless booster seat for travel

This basic booster seat weighs only 2.2 pounds and can work for children as small as 40 pounds. But it has a rather large footprint and will be too big to fit in most carry-ons.

How we picked

A seat that’s lightweight is more manageable to carry between multiple locations. A more compact seat is also easier to pack.

We considered the seat’s comfort and ability to adjust straps and buckles.

Ease of installation is paramount, as the easier it is to do, the more likely it will be done properly.

We looked at crash-testing scores and ease-of-use ratings. Our infant, convertible, and harness booster picks are FAA-approved for use on a plane.

The Chicco KeyFit 35 is a great all-around infant car seat—and one of the ones we recommend for everyday use. But for travel it stands out: It has a European belt path that makes it easier to get a secure install without the base than for many car seats, and it’s cheaper than other seats that have this belt routing option.

Weight of seat: 10 pounds Orientation: rear-facing only Weight range: 4 to 35 pounds Height limit: 32 inches

Parents who can’t leave their infant seat base installed in a specific car but instead need to travel by taxi or rideshare frequently may find the innovative Doona to be a convenient option. This sleek infant car seat has integrated wheels and converts to a stroller that maneuvers easily, plus the seat is FAA-approved for use on an airplane. But the versatile Doona is much heavier and more expensive than a regular infant car seat.

Weight of seat: 14.3 pounds Orientation: rear-facing only Weight range: 4 to 35 pounds Height limit: 32 inches

The Cosco Scenera Next is a notably lightweight, affordable convertible car seat that is simple to install and carry on an airplane. It receives strong safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and is FAA-approved for use on a plane. But many kids will outgrow it before they reach the height or weight limit because of the low position of the shoulder straps.

Weight of seat: 6.8 pounds Orientation: rear- or forward-facing Weight range: 5 to 40 pounds rear-facing; 22-40 pounds forward-facing Height range: 19-40 inches rear-facing; 29-43 inches forward-facing

For children using a forward-facing five-point harness, the Cosco Finale 2-in-1 is a lightweight and affordable travel option that is FAA-approved for use on a plane (in harness mode only). It also converts to a high-back booster. However, it has lower height limits than some boosters, so kids may not get as many years of use from it, in comparison with pricier options.

Weight of seat: 12 pounds Orientation: forward-facing only Weight range: 30 to 65 pounds for harness mode; 40 to 100 pounds for high-back mode Height range: 32 to 49 inches for harness mode; 43 to 52 inches for high-back mode

Bringing your own car seat to the airport has one big advantage—you don’t have to learn how to install yet another seat. But your own convertible car seat is likely to be heavy (our picks in our guide to convertible car seats range from 19 to 33 pounds). The Britax Travel Cart is compatible with most convertible seats, and when your car seat is secured to it with LATCH, you can use it like a stroller to push your toddler through the airport. The cart can then be stored in an overhead bin during your flight.

Weight of cart: 7.6 pounds

If you need a cheap, no-frills booster seat, we recommend the Cosco Rise . It’s a bit too large to fit into a carry-on suitcase or backpack, but it’s easy to attach with a bungee cord to a carry-on for plane travel. It’s also a great option if you just need a spare booster for carpools or to order ahead for use at the grandparents' house.

Weight of seat: 2.2 pounds Weight range: 40 to 100 pounds Height range: 43 to 57 inches

The research

Why you should trust us, who should get this, the best infant car seat for travel: chicco keyfit 35, an infant seat and stroller in one: doona, the best convertible car seat for travel: cosco scenera next, the best harness booster seat for travel: cosco finale 2-in-1, a great car seat caddy: britax travel cart, the best booster seat for travel: cosco rise, other good travel car seats, should a kid sit in a car seat on the airplane, what about checking a car seat, the competition, care, use, and maintenance.

The authors of this guide have collectively interviewed 40 industry experts, safety authorities, and physicians. Among them were certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians (CPSTs) such as Lani Harrison, who installs more than 300 car seats each year; Dr. Aditya Belwadi, a biomechanics research scientist who previously led the child passenger safety research team at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and now works at Tesla in Crash, Safety, and Occupant Protection/Biomechanics; and Bill Horn, head sled testing engineer at Calspan , one of the country’s top crash-testing facilities. The authors also talked with dozens of parents and representatives from leading car seat manufacturers.

The original version of this guide was written by Rebecca Gale, whose reporting on policy and parenting has appeared in outlets including The New York Times, Slate, and The Washington Post. Rebecca has also been certified as a CPST, completing a 40-hour training program through the Safe Kids Worldwide organization.

In 2022 and 2023, this guide was updated by Christina Szalinski, a science writer whose reporting on health and parenting has appeared in The Atlantic and Kaiser Health News . In addition to writing the most recent versions of Wirecutter’s infant and convertible car seat guides, Christina is responsible for Wirecutter’s guides to the Best Baby Formula and kids face masks .

Few people strictly need a separate car seat for travel as you can gate- or baggage-check any car seat for free with most airlines. But lugging your regular (likely heavy and bulky) seat in and out of the car and through the airport can be a major hassle. Investing in a smaller, lighter-weight option may be worthwhile, especially if you fly or use ridesharing services or taxis frequently.

Infant car seats for travel

If you’re traveling with an infant or baby, bringing along your usual infant car seat without its base (to cut down on weight and heft) is typically the best option. Our top infant car seat pick, the Graco SnugRide SnugFit 35 DLX , is relatively lightweight and, like other infant car seats, can be safely strapped in with a seatbelt only and no base.

There are two possible ways to install an infant car seat without a base: either with the belt directly across the top, called “American routing,” or with the shoulder belt placed around the back of the seat in addition to the top, called “European routing.” It’s easier to get a secure fit with European routing, and two seats we recommend in our guide to infant car seats, the Chicco KeyFit 35 and the Clek Liing , are designed to allow for that type of install. If you know you’ll be traveling with your infant often, it may be worthwhile to choose one of these as your baby’s first car seat.

Many infant car seats are compatible with easy-to-fold stroller frames, such as the Chicco KeyFit Caddy , which turns an infant car seat into a stroller and can be convenient for travel. Most infant seats are FAA-approved for airplane use, should you decide to purchase an airplane seat for your infant.

Convertible car seats for travel

When your child has outgrown their infant car seat, deciding on a car seat for travel can be trickier. Alisa Baer, a pediatrician, CPST, and co-founder of the website The Car Seat Lady , recommends bringing your own convertible car seat and using a travel cart . That way you have a seat that you’re already comfortable installing. But some people will prefer a dedicated travel car seat, as they can be significantly lighter than regular seats—as little as 7 pounds versus 20 to 30 pounds.

If you do buy a dedicated travel seat, it’s a good idea to practice installing it before your trip—you don’t want to be figuring it out for the first time when you, and your kid, are potentially jet lagged and feeling extra cranky. Installation can be the most time-consuming and frustrating part of using a car seat—and particularly a convertible car seat—and is often the point of failure for using a car seat correctly.

Booster seats for travel

If your everyday booster seat has a removable back (as with our top pick and runner-up pick, the Chicco KidFit ClearTex Plus and the Graco TurboBooster LX ), you may prefer to simply bring that seat for travel, leaving the bulky back at home. But like with convertible seats, it’s also an option to get a dedicated travel booster that may be significantly lighter and smaller than the one you rely on every day.

Jessica Jermakian, vice president for vehicle research at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, offered several tips for bringing along a backless booster, especially if it’s not one that’s compact: “I bungee cord them to my luggage while traversing the airport. On most flights, my kids could shove them under the seat in front of them and still have room to throw their backpack on top. On some flights, I’ve put them in a tote in the overhead compartment.”

Travel car seat alternatives

If you’re headed to a familiar destination, you could look into borrowing a seat from friends or relatives. Or, you may be able to rent one through a baby equipment rental service.

Many car rental companies also offer car seats for a daily fee, but it can cost up to $15 a day—adding up to much more than the cost of a travel car seat, which can be less than $50. And though you can reserve one in advance, rental car seats are subject to availability, so there’s no guarantee that one will be available when you arrive. The car seat provided may also be difficult to install properly, especially in an unfamiliar car. That said, you may be able to find discounts or other benefits through programs such as AAA, which offers one free car seat rental for members when they book a car through Hertz, Dollar, or Thrifty. Ridesharing and airport and town car services may also provide a car seat with advance reservations.

There are hundreds of travel car seat options for infants, toddlers, and older kids. We began the whittling down process by examining online customer reviews and existing media coverage, which included going to Car Seats for the Littles , Lucie’s List , and the Car Seat Lady . We found the travel car seat category to be sorely lacking in an abundance of great options, so we also considered some “regular” car seats and alternatives.

We knew from our expert interviews that proper installation is generally a far bigger problem than the level of protection that a seat inherently provides, so we searched the NHTSA ease-of-use installation database to help determine which seats offer easy installation and come with clear instructions. We also relied on the personal experience of Wirecutter staffers, volunteer testers, and car seat techs who had used the car seats in the past.

Our research led us to conclude that the ideal travel car seat should be:

Lightweight and compact: A travel car seat will likely need to be carried between multiple locations, sometimes with a baby inside (if we’re talking about an infant). The less the seat weighs, the easier it is to deal with when combined with children and carry-on items. A more compact seat can also fit more readily in a wide variety of vehicles.

FAA approved: For parents who want to use their infant seat, convertible car seat, or harness booster on a plane, FAA certification is crucial.

Easy to install: As with all of our car seat recommendations, ease of installation is paramount, as the easier it is to do, the more likely it is to be done properly.

Easy to use: Straps should be simple to adjust to get a snug but comfortable fit in a five-point harness. The buckles should be easy for parents to clip and unclip but difficult to impossible for children to mess with. We considered the experience of both parents and kids in using the seats, as well as how easy each seat was to clean.

Safe: When it comes to travel, convenience can trump a minor safety advantage; a seat that you can bring along with you is vastly superior to no seat at all. Still, we did take the relevant government safety data from NHTSA into consideration.

Over the past five years we’ve tested 17 car seats with travel specifically in mind.

If you’re shopping for an infant car seat with travel in mind, we recommend the FAA-approved Chicco KeyFit 35 , one of our picks in our guide to infant car seats . It is lightweight and easy to use, and it can be installed securely without its base using the European belt path, a method that generally provides a superior install. (Any infant seat can be installed without its base, so if you already have an infant seat, using what you already own is likely the easiest choice.)

You can save on weight and bulk by leaving a car seat base at home when traveling. There are two ways to install an infant seat without its base. The most common is American belt routing, in which the seat belt goes over the top of the infant seat and the baby’s knees. We’ve found that it can be very difficult to secure an infant seat in the car securely using this method.

A few seats also offer the option to rely on the European belt path, the method we prefer, in which the lap belt goes over the top of the infant seat and the shoulder belt goes around the back. It’s easier to get a secure install with the European belt path, but it’s only found on a few car seat models. Of the four infant car seats we recommend, only the Chicco KeyFit 35 and Clek Liing offer the option of using the European belt path.

Beyond the advantage of the European belt bath, the Chicco KeyFit 35 has everything we love about the more popular Chicco KeyFit 30 with a few bonus features, such as an anti-rebound base as an added safety option. The KeyFit 35 can also accommodate a slightly larger baby (up to 35 pounds) than the KeyFit 30.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

The KeyFit 35 is about $50 more than our top infant car seat choice, the Graco SnugRide SnugFit 35 DLX . It probably doesn’t make sense to buy this seat just for travel if you already own a similar infant car seat. But if you plan to be jet-setting with your baby, it may be worth the additional $50 or so to get a better on-the-go install from the start.

The Doona is an FAA-approved infant car seat (rear-facing only) with built-in wheels that allow it to convert to a stroller. For travel, this is about as convenient as it gets, allowing caregivers to rely on a single piece of equipment to accomplish two goals: avoid gate-checking a stroller—assuming an airline seat is purchased for the infant—and hop in and out of cabs without having to stow anything in the trunk.

Compared with a regular infant car seat, the Doona has some drawbacks. For one thing, it did not perform particularly well in Baby Gear Lab’s crash testing (there are no government crash tests available yet for this seat). For this reason, and because it’s tricky to install without its base (as most infant seats are), one of our car seat experts does not recommend this seat. At 14.3 pounds, it’s heavy and bulky to carry and maneuver when in car seat mode. The Doona also has the steepest price of any of the car seats (including infant, convertible, and boosters) that we’ve reviewed. It does come with a traditional infant car seat base that allows for an easy click in and out of a car, but the extra width means it could be impossible to fit three across in a backseat. And it would defeat the point to use that base for travel.

Switching the Doona from car seat mode to stroller mode and back requires “both hands and concentration,” said one tester, as well as “quite a bit of practice for me. It takes a rather specific, subtle motion to collapse it back and tuck the wheels.” It’s harder than taking a regular infant car seat off of a stroller with an infant seat attachment. Plus, once your child outgrows this seat, you’ll have to buy another stroller.

As a stroller, the Doona maneuvers easily, and the brake is intuitive and easy to use. But though it comes with an attached storage bag, the Doona lacks a storage basket.

The inexpensive Cosco Scenera Next weighs just 6.8 pounds, is relatively easy to carry and install, and can be used rear-facing from 5 to 40 pounds and forward-facing from 22 to 40 pounds. It’s FAA-certified and easy to install on an airplane (using the plane’s seatbelt).

The Cosco sells for $60, which is a bargain compared with many convertible car seats (the Graco Extend2Fit , our favorite convertible seat for everyday use, is a little over $200). The seat gets strong safety ratings from NHTSA, and given its low weight and heft and easy-enough install, we think it’s the best option available for an on-the-go or backup car seat. We strongly prefer the (heftier) Graco Extend2Fit for everyday use. That’s because it’s easier to get a safe, secure install with that seat and to adjust it to fit the child. Plus, it can be used forward-facing until a kid is 65 pounds and 49 inches tall—a much longer usable life than the Scenera Next.

Several Wirecutter staffers use or have used the Cosco Scenera Next, appreciating its low cost, low weight, and small size. They’ve found that the seat’s slim profile makes it a great option for smaller cars (specifically, a Prius or Renault Scenic). Senior editor Courtney Schley found that the Cosco allowed her to get three seats (two Coscos and one infant car seat) across in her family’s car.

The Scenera Next’s low shoulder straps mean that a child may outgrow this seat well before they are ready for a booster. ( Shoulder straps should hit at or below the shoulders when a child is rear-facing; when forward-facing the straps should hit at or above the shoulders.) The low straps mean that many 3-year-olds with longer torsos may outgrow the seat in forward-facing mode, even though the seat’s height and weight limits indicate that it should fit an average-size kid up to age 4. With a long torso, the straps end up hitting below the shoulders, a situation that can compromise safety.

Though the Scenera Next is simple to install compared with other lightweight convertible car seats we tested, some of our testers still found it difficult to get a tight, secure install. It has hook LATCH straps that aren’t particularly easy to use—you really have to tug on the LATCH straps to get a tight fit, and getting them off can be an even bigger challenge. We preferred installing the seat with a seat belt in unfamiliar cars, which was an easier way to get a tight install (try the inside/outside trick with the shoulder belt), and made it much easier to uninstall.

Our testers also found that the chest clip on the harness wasn’t as responsive or easy to use as those on more expensive seats. The Scenera Next also has less padding than many seats, though Baer points out that the padding on most seats is highly compressible, meaning that just because a seat looks fluffier doesn’t mean it provides much more cushion.

This seat also has a few downsides if you bring it on a plane. Like most convertible car seats, it’s wider than the aisle, so you have to carry it awkwardly down the plane to get to your seat, which can be quite a challenge if you’re on your own and have other carry-on items (plus your child). Additionally, the plane’s seat belt buckle is going to be pushing into your child’s back if the seat is oriented forward-facing. Alisa Baer, co-founder of The Car Seat Lady, recommends installing any seat with this issue rear-facing, even if a kid is used to forward-facing. Or you can put a diaper or other soft item over the buckle to make it a bit more comfortable.

The Cosco Finale 2-in-1 is a solid option for kids who are no longer rear-facing but still benefit from a five-point harness. It’s affordable, weighs just 12 pounds, and is relatively easy to install using the car’s seat belt while in harness mode (it also comes with LATCH straps, though we didn’t find these as easy to use). Like other boosters, when in booster mode, this seat relies on the car’s seat belt to secure the child, so there’s no need to install it.

This bigger-kid seat can see a growing child through years of travel: It can be used as a forward-facing five-point harness booster seat from 30 to 65 pounds and then as a regular (harness-free) booster from 40 to 100 pounds (up until a child is 52 inches tall).

As a five-point harness, it’s FAA-certified and easy to install on an airplane using the plane’s seatbelt. However, when it’s in booster mode, like all boosters, it cannot be used on an airplane.

In harness mode, the Cosco Finale 2-in-1 performed well in an NHTSA crash test. And several Wirecutter staffers use or have used the Cosco Finale 2-in-1 while traveling after their child outgrew the Cosco Scenera Next—they liked the price and straightforward install. Converting the seat to a booster is fairly straightforward , and the seat has storage for the harness, crotch buckle, and chest clip. Once the seat is in booster mode, your child can’t use it on an airplane, but many airlines will allow you to check a booster seat for free (you may wish to check with your airline in advance).

A more expensive version of the Cosco Finale 2-in-1, the Cosco Finale DX 2-in-1 , is also available. The only difference between the two is the fabric—the DX has a tiny bit more cushion and a slightly less slippery texture. We asked several children to try each seat and then report their favorite (they wore blindfolds, to remove color preference as a factor). There was no clear winner between the two seats, and our adult testers could hardly distinguish a difference in the cushioning. For this reason, we don’t think it’s worth the extra $20 for the DX.

When using the Finale 2-in-1 in harness mode, you first have to install it in the car, which you can do either with the seat’s LATCH straps or with the car’s seat belt. We found the Finale 2-in-1’s hook LATCH straps difficult to use—it’s hard to get a tight fit in the car, and getting them off can be a big challenge. As we did with the Cosco Scenera Next, we preferred installing the harnessed seat with a seat belt; this was an easier way to get a tight install (try the inside/outside trick with the shoulder belt) and also made it much easier to uninstall. (When the harness is removed and the seat is in booster mode, you do not need to install it in the car, since the car’s seat belt holds it in place and secures the child.)

Our testers also found that the chest clip on the harness was a bit more difficult to open compared to those on more expensive seats like the Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 . The straps have to be manually threaded through the car seat, which isn’t particularly difficult or time consuming, but you have to remember to do it before you install the seat. It also has less padding than many seats, though our child testers didn’t complain (however, we didn’t take it on any long road trips).

This seat won’t have as many years of use as other travel options, like the Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1, because the Cosco has a maximum height of 52 inches (most boosters go to 57 inches) and does not convert to a backless booster.

If you need to travel with a convertible car seat, you can bring the one you already have to the airport and onto the airplane with the Britax Travel Cart . The main benefit of bringing your own is that you’ll have a seat that you (and your child) are comfortable with, and that you know how to install confidently.

There are a number of similar travel carts out there, but we think this one offers the most for the price. We like that when the car seat is strapped onto the cart using the car seat’s LATCH clips, you can use the whole thing like a stroller and push (or pull) your child through the airport. The frame is also studier than other models—it can hold a total of 100 pounds of car seat and child. Plus, when it’s time to get on the plane you can fold the cart to stow it in an overhead bin.

At about $100 for the cart, it is cheaper to purchase a budget convertible car seat like the Cosco Scenera Next. However, depending on your circumstances, the Britax Travel Cart may outlive the expiration of many car seats (which are between six and 10 years), and could be used for future car seats, or passed along without as much consideration as a used car seat.

For a cheap, no-frills booster seat, the Cosco Rise is a reliable option that weighs only 2.2 pounds. It’s simple to use: Like other backless booster seats, it does not need to be physically attached to the vehicle; a child simply sits in it and fastens the car’s lap belt over their knees (under the seat’s sides).

The Chicco GoFit Plus is our overall top pick for the best backless booster seat because it’s cushy, made with easy-to-clean materials, and includes two cup holders and a LATCH system to anchor the seat to the car. But it’s bulky, heavy, and not great for travel. The Cosco Rise has fewer bells and whistles, but it offers a key safety feature: Unlike many other boosters, this seat has a strap that attaches to a car’s shoulder belt to adjust the belt’s position for smaller riders (the shoulder belt should always rest on a child’s collarbone, and not against their neck).

The Cosco Rise can accommodate children as small as 40 pounds, as long as they are also 43 inches tall, meaning it will work for most kids 5 and up but may not accommodate some 4-year-olds.

This seat is a bit too large to fit easily into a carry-on suitcase or backpack (it takes up almost all the room top-to-bottom in a standard-sized carry-on, with only a little room left on the side). There is also almost no padding on this seat, merely a polyester cover, but for short rides, our testers didn’t complain.

If you want an upgraded infant seat that’s great for travel : We recommend the Clek Liing , one of our favorite infant seats . Like the Chicco KeyFit 35, the Clek Liing can be installed without its base using a European belt path, which is much easier to get secure than the standard American belt routing found on most infant car seats. And when you’re at home, we love how easy it is to install the Liing’s base, which includes an added safety feature: a load leg .

If you want a high-end infant seat and don’t own a car: The lightweight, easy-to-clean Clek Liingo is similar to the Clek Liing but without the base. In general, we think installing a seat with the base is an easier and more secure option with infant car seats. But if you don’t own a car, the Liingo can be installed without a base in several ways. It has the same European belt path that the Liing has, which routes the lap belt over the top and the shoulder belt around the back for more security than an install that just goes over the top of the seat. The Liingo also comes with a LATCH strap that routes in the same spot as the lap belt—though we found this was not nearly as secure as the European belt path routing.

If you want a longer-lasting five-point harness seat for older kids: The Graco Tranzitions 3-in-1 is a good choice. This forward-facing-only seat has a five-point harness that holds kids from 22 to 65 pounds and up to 49 inches tall, and it can be adjusted without rethreading it, so it is easier to modify as your child grows. When your child is ready for a regular booster, you can remove the harness and crotch buckle, converting the seat to a high-back booster that can hold a child from 40 to 100 pounds and up to 57 inches tall. Finally, you can remove the back and convert the seat to a lightweight backless booster that can also be used from 40 to 100 pounds and up to 57 inches tall.

First off, a car seat must be FAA-approved—as all of our recommended infant and convertible seats are—for a kid to ride in one on an airplane. (Booster seats are reserved for older children and not intended for use on airplane seats.)

Both the Federal Aviation Administration and CPSTs believe it is safer for kids under 2 to ride in a car seat aboard a plane rather than in their parents’ arms. In the event of turbulence or rough air, a child is much safer if strapped in. Being injured in turbulence , though very unlikely, does affect a handful of American flyers each year, and recent research indicates that turbulence is on the rise due to climate change.

Many parents find that air travel is easier when their child has their own seat (though of course you have to pay for that additional seat). Children are allowed to sit on caregivers’ laps on planes until age 2, but few toddlers can sit still for a long period of time, and that extra harness and recline (as well as familiarity) provided by the car seat may keep a child seated comfortably longer, especially once they are mobile but still too young to fully understand how to sit still in a lap belt.

There are a number of challenges to bringing a car seat, especially a convertible seat designed for a toddler, onto a plane. Some smaller planes may have seats that aren’t wide enough for many convertible car seats. And even if the car seat is narrow enough for the plane, not many seats are narrow enough to easily fit down the aisle. The Clek Foonf , one of our convertible car seat picks, is one of them, but it is pricey and heavy. (The Clek Fllo , Graco SlimFit3 LX , and Graco True3Fit also fit on an airplane seat, but we did not test them.) You’ll generally have to lift a car seat above the seats to carry it to the rear of a plane.

Finally, unlike a car seat buckle, which sits on your hip, a plane’s seat buckle sits right in the middle of your lap. That means for many car seats, once you install them on the plane, there’s going to be a large metal buckle below your child’s legs or behind their back (the Clek seats are among the few without this issue). Alisa Baer, co-founder of The Car Seat Lady, recommends using convertible seats with buckle-in-the-back issues rear-facing, even with a larger child—they’ll likely be more comfortable if their feet have a place to rest, plus they won’t be trying to rest their feet on the passenger’s seat in front of them. You can also put a diaper or spare T-shirt over the buckle to make it a bit more comfortable.

Some parents may find it simpler to use a CARES harness (Child Aviation Restraint System) to help keep kids in their seats on a plane (and their kids may prefer sitting in an airplane seat over a car seat); you install this four-point harness around the child’s seatback and under the tray behind it.

Most airlines allow at least one car seat to be checked for free but doing so has several potential problems . The luggage can be handled roughly and tossed, damaging the car seat in the process. Seats, like any piece of luggage, can also be lost or misplaced in transit. Ultimately, the main reason you may want to have your child use a car seat on the plane is so that you are absolutely confident you’ll have the car seat when you arrive at your destination.

For people who do check in their car seats, Harrison recommends—ideally—using the original box and styrofoam that the seat came with if they are available or using Bubble Wrap and a garbage bag if not. Examine the seat for visible damage when it comes out at baggage claim, and be prepared to replace the seat if it’s broken or bent.

Infant travel seats

The Chicco Fit2 can accommodate infants as small as 4 pounds and toddlers as large as 35 pounds or 35 inches. Like the Chicco KeyFit 35 we recommend as the best infant car seat for travel, it can be installed with a European belt path. But because of this seat’s large size, some seat belts are too short to route over the car seat securely.

Convertible travel seats

We previously recommended the lightweight, foldable, forward-facing WAYB Pico (rhymes with “baby”) as a good travel car seat for kids who are too big for the Cosco Scenera Next but still need a five-point harness. Its adjustable seat back allows it to accommodate taller kids, and its slim design means it takes up less room in the backseat than other car seats. The 8-pound seat is exceptionally convenient to install, uninstall, and carry around, including through airports and onto a plane. In September 2019, however, WAYB announced it was recalling 4,558 Pico car seats manufactured between March 1 and May 12, 2019, due to reports of breakage in the aluminum tube connecting the headrest to the seat. You can read NHSTA’s report (PDF)  for details about the recall, how to identify your car seat’s date of manufacture, and how to inspect your car seat for damage. Since the recall, there have not been further reports of problems. Like all car seats sold in the US, the Pico was self-certified by WAYB to pass NHTSA standards (PDF) for safety testing.

The EvenFlo Tribute is a lightweight seat (9 pounds) similar to the Cosco Scenera Next and also has a weight limit of 40 pounds, but as our convertible car seat guide testing showed us, it’s not as easy to get a good install with this seat. CPSTs like Harrison recommend using a towel or pool noodle when using the Tribute to address this. It’s also more expensive than the Cosco Scenera Next.

Booster travel seats

We previously recommended the BubbleBum , an inflatable, portable backless booster seat for older kids. However, in February 2022, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety raised concerns about the safety of inflatable boosters. A study using a computerized model determined that an inflatable booster may not have the stiffness required to keep a child from sliding out from under the lap belt upon impact in a car crash.

The backless Cosco Topside is too large to fit into a carry-on or a backpack. Unlike the Cosco Rise , our favorite backless booster for travel, this booster seat also doesn’t have a belt-positioning clip, which can help the shoulder belt fit better on a smaller rider.

We liked the Graco RightGuide booster seat because it was small enough to fit inside a carry-on or backpack. But it was recently discontinued.

The Immi Go is a booster car seat with a five-point harness that folds conveniently into its own carrying bag. Due to low sales, it is no longer for sale in the US, but you may see this seat if you travel abroad.

The MiFold backless booster seat (currently unavailable) is small enough to fit into the back pocket of some pants and weighs less than 2 pounds. It works by moving the seat belt down to fit the kid (as opposed to raising the kid to fit the belt, as other boosters do). However, our testers found its hard plastic shell uncomfortable to sit on for long periods of time and said that the seat was complicated and unintuitive to set up. Also, a car seat safety expert we consulted noted that the design of the seat may encourage a child to use bad posture while they’re sitting in it—in an effort to find a more comfortable position, the child may tend to scoot forward, moving the slick-bottomed seat along with them, which could pose a safety concern.

Travel carts

The Torevsior Car Seat Travel Cart is about $25 less than the Britax Travel Cart we recommend, but it’s also less robust—the frame just doesn’t feel as sturdy. The weight limit is also lower than the Britax’s, at 70 pounds versus Britax’s 100 pounds. Like the Britax travel cart, the Torevsior cart has hooks for LATCH straps, to secure a car seat onto the cart so that your child can ride in it as you’re moving through the airport. It’s 6.4 pounds (Britax is 7.6 pounds), and extends up to 46 inches (Britax to 42 inches).

All of the guidelines for car seat care, use, and maintenance in our other car seat guides apply to travel car seats as well.

This guide was edited by Ellen Lee, Amy Miller Kravetz and Kalee Thompson.

Jessica Jermakian, vice president for vehicle research at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety , email exchange , August 1, 2022

Alisa Baer, pediatrician, nationally certified child passenger safety instructor, and co-founder of The Car Seat Lady , phone interview, July 15, 2022 and January 9, 2023

Lani Harrison, CPST, Car Seats for the Littles , email interview , January 28, 2019

Meet your guides

Christina Szalinski

Christina Szalinski is a freelance science writer with a PhD in cell biology.

Rebecca Gale

Further reading

The Best Travel Strollers

by Elise Czajkowski

After testing seven travel strollers on various trips and excursions, we’re confident that the Uppababy Minu V2 is the one to get.

The Best Booster Car Seats

by Rebecca Gale

After researching over 50 booster car seats and testing 13, we’ve concluded that the convenient Chicco KidFit ClearTex Plus is the best overall choice.

Traveling With Little Kids Can Be Tough. The Right Gear Can Help.

by Kerry Davis McGuinness

From compact car seats and cribs to portable blackout shades and white noise machines, the right tools for travel can lead to less fuss—and more fun.

The Best Infant Car Seats

by Christina Szalinski

After extensive research and field testing, we found that the Graco SnugRide SnugFit 35 DLX is the best infant car seat for most families.

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Chicco Viaro Quick-Fold Travel System, Includes Infant Car Seat and Base, Stroller and Car Seat Combo, Baby Travel Gear | Techna/Black/Silver

About this item.

• TRAVEL-FRIENDLY -- With an aluminum frame and sleek 3-wheel design, this lightweight stroller with included infant car seat makes the Viaro an ideal baby travel system.
• CAR SEAT AND BASE INCLUDED – Top-rated KeyFit 30 Infant Car Seat with SuperCinch Force-Multiplying LATCH Tightener makes this car seat easy to install accurately, every time. Secure, click-in attachment to stroller for fuss-free transitions.
• ONE-HAND FOLD – A pull-strap and button tucked under the seat easily activate the compact and free-standing fold for easier maneuverability and storage.
• RECLINING SEAT – A multi-position reclining toddler seat and adjustable canopy offer a comfortable ride with shade and privacy.
• ADDED FEATURES – For comfort and convenience, the Viaro boasts a padded push handle, parent and child trays with two cup holders and a large storage basket for baby essentials.

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What's in the box

• 2 Removable Cup Holders, Car Seat Base, Car Seat, Rear-Facing Infant Car Seat, Stroller Cover/Canopy, Stroller

From the manufacturer

For ultimate convenience, the Viaro has a sleek three-wheel design, lightweight aluminum frame, and one-hand quick fold.

The Viaro Travel System comes with the #1-rated Infant Car Seat, KeyFit 30.

Storage Basket

Large basket accommodates diaper bags, toys, snacks and other on-the-go essentials.

Includes detachable child tray with two cup holders and storage area.

Parent Tray

Padded handle and parent tray with two cup holders and storage area.

Travel-Friendly

Sleek 3-wheel design and lightweight frame simplify outings and getaways.

One-Hand Fold

Compact and free-standing quick fold for easy storage.

Accepts a Car Seat

Click-in attachment for all KeyFit and Fit2 infant car seats.

Viaro Travel System includes KeyFit 30 infant car seat.

Product Description

Lightweight & Maneuverable Stroller For ultimate convenience, the Viaro has a sleek three-wheel design, lightweight aluminum frame and one-hand quick fold. A pull-strap and button are conveniently tucked under the seat and easy to activate simultaneously for a compact, free-standing fold. The stroller is also easy to open. Comfortable for Little Riders For younger babies, the Viaro Travel System includes the KeyFit 30 infant car seat with click in attachment for an all-in-one stroller and car seat combo. For older babies and toddlers, Viaro includes a multi-position backrest, adjustable canopy, and detachable tray with two cup holders. Convenient for Parents Viaro has a padded push-handle, parent tray with two cup holders, and a large basket that is easily accessible from the front or back. A swiveling front wheel and suspension for maneuverability help maintain a smooth ride from surface to surface. Toe-tap rear brakes keep the stroller in place when parked. Top-Rated Infant Car Seat in America For a car seat with base and stroller combo, the Viaro is paired with the Chicco KeyFit 30 Infant Car Seat. The KeyFit 30 is engineered with a ReclineSureTM leveling foot and two RideRightTM bubble level-indicators to achieve and verify proper angle in the vehicle seat. The base is also equipped with premium LATCH connectors and a SuperCinch Force-Multiplying LATCH Tightener for a secure fit with a fraction of the effort! Includes Base For a streamlined baby travel system, the lightweight carrier clicks effortlessly into the included stay-in-car base and stroller with a reassuring audible click for the best in baby travel gear. The KeyFit 30 Infant Car Seat carrier includes removable head and body support to accommodate newborns as small as 4 pounds. A five-point harness with one-pull tightening helps keep baby secure, and the carrier shell is lined with EPS energy-absorbing foam for improved impact protection. An adjustable, removable canopy offers shade and privacy.

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Customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the quality, ease of installation, value, and fit of the stroller. They mention that it's a high quality system, well made, and easy to assemble and fold up. Some are happy with ease of folding, and the fit. Others however, are not happy with the cup holders, and usability. Opinions are mixed on weight.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers are satisfied with the quality of the stroller. They mention that it is a high quality system, well made, and sturdy. Some say that the strollers are easy to install and ensure correct placement.

"...Seat hooks in perfectly.No problems at all. Good Quality !" Read more

"This is our 2nd Chico key fit system. The seats are really good , easy to install and ensure correct placement...." Read more

"...My husband jokingly says its "rich" looking. It seems very sturdy and well made ...." Read more

"...for some but for us we use this almost everyday and so far it is holding up amazing .The car seat is easy to install and clean...." Read more

Customers find the installation of the stroller and car seat to be easy. They mention that everything clicks together super easy, the strollers and car seats are easy to snap in and take out, and the fold up is simple and quick. Customers also say that the wheels don't get stuck and that turning is made easy.

"...Definitely easy to put together as I put this baby together while I was 34 weeks pregnant with a pretty big belly!..." Read more

"...and strollers and this was the best reviews for safety, easy installation and use ! So glad I bought this one." Read more

"This was a gift to my son an wife. They love how easy it is to use . folds up easily. Seat hooks in perfectly.No problems at all...." Read more

"...The stroller isn’t complicated to take out and put back away. Everything clicks together super easy. I highly recommend this set!" Read more

Customers find the stroller worth every cent and a good product for infants.

"100% Very good product for infants" Read more

"... Pretty decent for the price and my 2 month old baby seems to really enjoy it." Read more

"...Still a good stroller for the price . Car seat is great." Read more

"Like the item a lot, it was worth my money 💕💕💕💕..." Read more

Customers find the stroller easy to fold. They mention that the seat hooks in perfectly, and the canopy can be opened with one hand.

"...They love how easy it is to use. folds up easily . Seat hooks in perfectly.No problems at all. Good Quality!" Read more

"...I wish it had a window to see my baby but opening the canopy is easy enough ...." Read more

" Great stroller with one handed open and close ...." Read more

"...It turns so easy and fold up is simple and quick " Read more

Customers are satisfied with the fit of the stroller. For example, they mention that it fits together beautifully, the seat hooks in perfectly, and it folds up easily. That said, some say it's easy to install and ensure correct placement.

"...I love that it comes with the keyfit 30, and they fit together beautifully ...." Read more

"...They love how easy it is to use. folds up easily. Seat hooks in perfectly .No problems at all. Good Quality!" Read more

"...The seats are really good, easy to install and ensure correct placement . Easy to clean (which you will be doing!)..." Read more

Customers appreciate the smoothness of the stroller. They mention that it moves smoothly with the focused front wheels and 3 point base.

"...It moves smoothly with the focused front wheels/3 point base (as opposed to a four point base which was part of the reason we chose this model) and..." Read more

"A smooth ride . Carseat easily attaches. Easy to assemble. But the cup holders on the parent tray are way too small...." Read more

" Very smooth , I love it!..." Read more

Customers are mixed about the weight of the stroller. Some mention that it's light weight and easy to use, while others say that it is heavy and bulky.

"I’m so happy we picked this travel set. The car seat is light weight and super easy to use...." Read more

"...Also easy to drive with one hand. Car seat isn't as bulky as most and fits my (Honda accord) backseat without being cramped...." Read more

"...First of all the stroller is heavy ! I barely put to the trunk of my minivan...." Read more

"...2. Super light weight 3. Since it doesn’t lock in the folded position I can just “whip it out” of the back of my car...." Read more

Customers have negative opinions about the usability of the stroller. They say that the cup holders are too small, the parent tray is too long to fit perfectly, and the strollers takes up a lot of space in their trunk. Some customers also mention that the strollor is really huge and takes up space when folded.

"...The only downside is I feel that the hood on the car seat is pretty rigid to adjust but that will get easier over time and use, I believe...." Read more

"...when placing items in the front but it’s a slope so that space isn’t fully usable for holding larger items like if I wanted to push the diaper bag..." Read more

"...Fourth thing when you fold it it is really huge, takes a lot of space of your trunk . It doesn't go companct AT ALL...." Read more

"...to install the base, and my baby is 2 months old and almost doesn't fit the shoulder straps . Not a big baby either...." Read more

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The Best Car Seat Stroller Combos

Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we may earn a commission from our partners’ links. This content is created independently from TIME’s editorial staff. Learn more about it.

When I was shopping for a car seat for my first child, the most important feature, aside from safety, was functionality. I wanted to make sure this car seat was not only easy to install, and to use, but that it also could easily connect to the stroller that I planned on using on the regular. That’s why I decided to go with a car seat stroller combo, also known as a travel system. This convenient and versatile solution allows parents to combine their car seat and stroller into a single integrated system they can use on the go.

What to consider when buying a car seat stroller combo

There are so many car seat stroller combos on the market today, as they’re one of the most popular options for parents looking for convenience. Here are a few pointers that can help guide you with your purchase.

Safety features

Safety will always be a top priority when it comes to buying any kind of a car seat—and stroller for that matter. You want to make sure that the car seat meets or exceeds the safety standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) . It should be made out of energy-absorbing foam, include side-impact protection, and have a five-point harness system.

Compatibility

The car seat and stroller you purchase need to be compatible to work. Some car seat stroller combos are sold together as a single package, including both the car seat and the stroller, while others allow you to mix and match products, sometimes even between two different brands. Just check to make sure that whatever products you purchase do, in fact, work together.

Ease of use

Installation and functionality doesn’t come easy for most parents, so try to find a car seat stroller combo that comes with easy-to-follow instructions for putting the products together and installing the car seat safely in your vehicle. Also, make sure that the stroller works on whatever terrain you intend to walk on the most, whether it’s smooth pavement or rugged trails.

Car seat stroller combos can get expensive. In fact, like cribs , they’re one of the big-ticket baby gear items you’ll purchase in preparation for your baby. While you want to ensure that your car seat stroller combo has all the bells and whistles, you can find options in your budget.

Our top picks for best car seat stroller combo:

Best car seat stroller combo installation: britax b-free premium & b-safe gen2 flexfit+ travel system.

Britax B-Free Premium & B-Safe Gen2 FlexFit+ Travel System - Clean Comfort Black

Britax is well known for both their car seats and their strollers, so it’s no surprise they make a car seat stroller combo worth writing home about. The best thing about this product is how easy it is to put together and install the car seat into the car. It comes with a Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system so the car seat clicks right into place with ease. The stroller is easy to put together and fold up. The toddler seat reclines all the way back, which comes in handy for naps on the go. The bottom is roomy—enough to fit a diaper bag at least.

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 33 x 23 x 40 inches
• Cross-compatibility: Any Britax stroller
• Capacity limit: 55 pounds (stroller), 35 pounds (car seat)
• Adjustable handlebar height: Yes
• Weight: 40 pounds
• Color: Black
• FAA certified: N/A
• Price on publish: $562.49

What we like:

• Easy to assemble/function
• Sturdy and durable
• Recline and storage pockets

What we don’t like:

• No cup holder
• One front wheel

The bottom line:

If you’re okay with the fact that this stroller only has one front wheel, I think you’ll find it easy to use, install, and maneuver.

Get it here: Britax B-Free Premium & B-Safe Gen2 FlexFit+ Travel System

Best car seat stroller combo for travel: Nuna PIPA Urbn + TRVL System

Nuna PIPA Urbn + TRVL System

If you’re already a fan of Nuna, you know that their products are top notch. If you’re unfamiliar with the brand, it makes some of the safest, most durable, and high-quality car seats, travel strollers , double strollers , and more. Their travel system combo is super lightweight (the car seat is just seven pounds and the stroller is just 13.6 pounds) and it’s easy to maneuver thanks to progressive front- and rear-wheel suspension technology.

• Dimensions: 32.5 x 20.25 x 44 inches
• Cross-compatibility: Nuna Pipa
• Capacity limit: 50 pounds (stroller), 22 pounds (car seat)
• Weight: 23.6 pounds
• Color: Caviar, Lagoon, Hazelwood, Droplet Dot Taupe, Rainbow, Curated
• FAA certified: Yes
• Price on publish: $800 - $850 (depends on color)
• Luxury feel
• Lightweight
• Easy to fold
• GREENGUARD Gold certified
• Can’t use with other Nuna car seats

Nuna is a luxury brand, so it comes with a hefty price tag, but reviewers note you get what you pay for: high quality and solid construction.

Get it here: Nuna PIPA Urbn + TRVL System

Best car seat stroller combo for newborn: UPPAbaby® Cruz V2 + Mesa V2 Infant Travel System

UPPAbaby® Cruz V2 + Mesa V2 Infant Travel System

Despite its jaw-dropping price tag, this is one of the more popular car seat stroller combos on the market today. UPPAbaby creates quality products that are safe, intuitive for use and that come with a myriad of innovative features. This car seat clicks right onto the stroller, which also comes with a toddler seat that reclines and has a SPF 50 canopy. The storage basket underneath is on the larger side and the handlebar adjusts to your height.

• Dimensions: 22.75 x 37.5 x 40 inches
• Cross-compatibility: MESA Infant Car Seat
• Capacity limit: 50 pounds (stroller), 35 pounds (car seat)
• Weight: 35.5 pounds
• Color: Jake, Greyson, Gregory
• Price on publish: $1,012.13 - 1,059.98 (depends on color)
• Easy to maneuver
• Grows with your family
• Not great on rough terrain

This is one of the more expensive car seat stroller combos on the market, but parents rave about all of its bells and whistles, and how easy it is to maneuver.

Get it here: UPPAbaby® Cruz V2 + Mesa V2 Infant Travel System

Best twin car seat stroller combo: Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Travel System

Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Travel System

For the price and convenience, this car seat stroller combo is a great option, especially for parents of multiples. It offers 23 configurations to accommodate one or two riders in both forward- or rear-facing modes. You can opt to lay the toddler seat flat, which can encourage your baby to nap, and the anti-rebound bar helps absorb instability to ensure a smooth ride.

• Dimensions: 26.5 x 39 x 39.25 inches
• Cross-compatibility: Litemax Infant Car Seat
• Weight: 30.9 pounds
• Color: Ayrshire Black, Sabino Gray
• FAA certified: No
• Price on publish: $479.99
• Convenient for multiples
• Offers 23 configurations
• Not FAA-certified
• Can feel bulky

At a reasonable price, this car seat stroller combo offers 23 configurations to accommodate families of all sizes.

Get it here: Evenflo Pivot Xpand Modular Travel System

Best luxury car seat stroller combo: Nuna PIPA™ Rx + MIXX™ Next Stroller Travel System

Nuna PIPA™ Rx + MIXX™ Next Stroller Travel System

If budget isn’t a top concern and you’re looking for a car seat stroller combo with a luxury feel, this is a great option. The Nuna PIPA™ Rx + MIXX™ Next Stroller is ultra lightweight, easy to put together, and can be used in four different modes: PIPA™ series infant car seat, bassinet , seat parent facing, or world facing. It folds with one hand and comes with a UPF 50+ canopy that’s water repellent and provides shade for your baby. These products are also both GREENGUARD Gold Certified.

• Dimensions: 23.75 x 32.75 x 45.5 inches
• Cross-compatibility: PIPA™ Rx seat
• Capacity limit: 50 pounds (stroller), 32 pounds (car seat)
• Weight: 35.9 pounds
• Color: Droplet Dot Taupe, Caviar Black, Granite Grey
• Price on publish: $1,200
• One-hand recline
• GREENGUARD Gold Certified
• Car seat can be tricky to install with LATCH system

If it’s within your budget, this luxury car seat stroller combo comes with all the features you’re looking for and it’s a safe, efficient choice.

Get it here: Nuna PIPA™ Rx + MIXX™ Next Stroller Travel System

Best affordable car seat stroller combo: Graco Modes Pramette Travel System

Graco modes™ pramette travel system stroller, ontario blue.

Most single car seats cost what this car seats stroller combo costs after all is said and done. This Graco travel system offers three functional positions, including a car seat on top, a bassinet on top, and a toddler seat on top (the bassinet converts to a toddler seat for down the line). The car seat is installed using a LATCH system for ultra durability and clicks right onto the base of the stroller with ease. Unfortunately you can’t adjust the handlebar and this product is not FAA-certified.

• Dimensions: 34.7 x 25.6 x 42.5 inches
• Cross-compatibility: Any Graco car seat
• Adjustable handlebar height: No
• Weight: 38.2 pounds
• Color: Ontario, Ellington
• Price on publish: $299.99
• Three configurations
• Comes with child’s tray, cup holders, parents cup, and large canopy
• Not as durable as others

For what you’d pay for a single car seat, you also get a stroller and a comprehensive travel system that works efficiently.

Get it here: Graco Modes Pramette Travel System

Best lightweight car seat stroller combo: Bumbleride Era + Clek Liing Travel System

Bumbleride Era + Clek Liing Travel System - Black / Pitch Black

This luxury car seat stroller combo is lightweight, aerodynamic and as safe as it gets. It rolls smoothly over just about any terrain, from cracked city streets to tree-root-lined sidewalks in the suburbs. It’s made from PFAS-free fabric that’s flame retardant-free and the adjustable handlebar is designed with non-toxic, all-natural cork. I love how easy this stroller is to fold up and how it can stand up straight to save room wherever you store it.

• Dimensions: 43 x 24.5 x 40.5 inches
• Cross-compatibility: Clek Liing infant car seat
• Weight: 36 pounds
• Color: Black/Pitch Black, Sand/Pitch Black, Olive/Pitch Black, Maritime/Pitch Black,
• Price on publish: $1,278.99 - $1,358.99 (depends on color)
• All-terrain
• Customizable
• Eco fabric made from 100% recycled PET

Get it here: Bumbleride Era + Clek Liing Travel System

Best car seat stroller combo for city living: Doona All-in-One Infant Car Seat/Stroller

Doona All-in-One Infant Car Seat/Stroller

City living is no easy feat with a baby in tow, but the Doona All-in-One Infant Car Seat/Stroller makes the process of traveling amidst the hustle and bustle so much more manageable. This single item doubles as both a stroller and a car seat—the stroller folds right up into the car seat and becomes a single unit that you fasten safely into a vehicle. It’s easy to install and easy to transfer from car seat to stroller—simply press the button atop the seat, watch the wheels swing out, and you’re ready to stroll.

• Dimensions: 39 x 17.5 x 32.2 inches
• Cross-compatibility: Doona Infant Car Seat
• Capacity limit: 35 pounds
• Weight: 16.5 pounds
• Color: Blush Pink, Desert Green, Racing Green, Flame Red, Greyhound, Midnight Edition, Nitro Black, Racing Green, Royal Blue
• Price on publish: $550
• Folds into a car seat
• Difficult to maneuver

You can’t beat this product’s offerings for city living, including its safety features and accessibility.

Get it here: Doona All-in-One Infant Car Seat/Stroller

How to maintain and clean a car seat stroller combo

Maintaining and cleaning a car seat stroller combo can help ensure its safety, durability, and longevity. Be sure to read the car seat’s manufacturer’s manual, which usually has guidance on how to clean and maintain both the seat and the stroller. Regularly inspect the items for signs of wear, damage, or loose parts, as they can become compromised over time. Be sure to promptly clean spills and stains and remove fabric covers when necessary, many of which are machine washable.

Car seat installation options

When installing a car seat, there are several options available to ensure proper and secure installation. Here are some common car seat installation options.

Seat belt installation

Perhaps the most common method, the seat belt installation involves securing the car seat using the seat belt system that exists in your vehicle. Be sure to follow the car seat manufacturer's instructions so you use the appropriate securement to attach the car seat safely to your car. Check that the seat belt is locked in place according to your vehicle's instructions, either by using a locking retractor or locking clip.

LATCH installation

Many modern vehicles and car seats are now equipped with what’s known as the LATCH system. This consists of lower anchors and tether anchors built into the vehicle. To install a car seat using the LATCH system, locate the lower anchors in the vehicle seat and attach them to the car seat's lower anchor connectors. Tighten the straps to secure the car seat in place. If your car seat has a top tether strap, attach it to the tether anchor in the vehicle and tighten it to provide additional stability.

Vehicle installation systems

Some vehicles may have built-in car seat installation systems or features designed to facilitate easier and more secure installation. These systems may include proprietary connectors, guides, or indicators that help ensure proper positioning and alignment of the car seat. Check your vehicle's owner's manual for information about any specific car seat installation systems or features available.

Professional installation services

Not sure how to install the car seat? You can always seek out assistance from a certified child passenger safety technician (CPST)—trained professionals who can provide expert guidance and assistance with car seat installation. Your local fire or police department may offer this service and many car seat manufacturers offer free or low-cost car seat inspection and installation services conducted by CPSTs.

Safety guidelines for car seat stroller combos

Safety guidelines for car seat stroller combos are essential to ensure the safe transportation of your child. When using a car seat stroller combo, follow the key safety guidelines below as recommended by Gary Kirkilas , DO, a pediatrician and spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

Choose a safe car seat stroller combo

Be sure to do your research to confirm the car seat meets or exceeds safety standards set by regulatory agencies such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the AAP. For secure installation, key features to look for include a five-point harness system, side-impact protection, and compatibility with your vehicle's LATCH system.

Install the car seat correctly

Follow the car seat manufacturer's guidelines as well as your vehicle's owner's manual to ensure proper installation of the car seat in your vehicle. Use either the seat belt or the LATCH system to secure the car seat according to the manufacturer's specifications.

Check the harness fit

Dr. Kirkilas notes that the harness should be at or below your baby’s shoulders—right around their nipple line. It should be so snug that you can’t pinch any excess material at the shoulders.

Use stroller safely

Make sure the car seat is properly attached to the stroller—this is often confirmed with a click. Follow the stroller manufacturer's instructions and avoid overloading the stroller with heavy bags or items that can cause it to tip over.

Regularly inspect equipment

Every now and then, inspect both the car seat and the stroller for loose screws, frayed straps, or other issues that may affect safety. If anything looks damaged, discontinue use and contact the manufacturer.

Follow age and weight limits

Age, weight, and height limits are in place for a reason. Transition to a different car seat or stroller when your baby outgrows the size or weight limits specified by the manufacturer.

How we selected the best car seat stroller combo

I combed through hundreds of reviews to find the best car seat stroller combos in every category. Here’s what I looked for when it came to the chosen travel systems in this story.

Top-notch features

In addition to durability, ease of use, and convenience, I also looked for car seat stroller combos that have additional features like folding mechanism, maneuverability, large storage baskets, cup holders, and adjustability. If a stroller was compatible with multiple car seats, that was a big plus.

Expert advice

I reached out to Dr. Kirkilas, who was able to provide me with expert insight about what to look for in a car seat stroller combo.

Customer reviews

In addition to speaking to real parents to find out which worked best for them, I also combed through hundreds of reviews from other parents who have purchased and used the car seat stroller combos. I paid close attention to feedback about durability, ease of use, safety, and overall satisfaction.

Checked for recalls

Before featuring any car seat stroller combo, I checked to make sure there weren’t any recent recall alerts issued by the manufacturer.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Is it better to buy a car seat and stroller combo.

If you plan to be on the go often with your baby in tow, a car seat and stroller combo might be the best option, as it allows you to seamlessly transition your child from the car to the stroller without needing to transfer them between different seats or devices. Daniel Ganjian, MD, FAAP , board certified pediatrician at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California, explains that this option is more convenient, affordable, and might offer the most flexibility.

Can you mix and match strollers and car seats?

While it is possible to mix and match strollers and car seats, compatibility among different brands and models may vary. When mixing and matching, Dr. Ganjian recommends considering several factors to ensure a safe and secure fit, namely, that the two products are compatible, that you don’t have to purchase any adapters or accessories, any safety considerations that may be at play, as well as weight and size limits.

Is a parent-facing stroller worth it?

Whether you choose a parent- or front-facing stroller is really up to personal preference. While parent-facing strollers allow for close interaction and monitoring, they may limit your child's view of the surrounding environment, which may become an issue as your child gets into the toddler years and shows interest in the world around them. Some children may prefer facing forward to explore new sights and sounds. The cons of a parent-facing stroller, according to Dr. Ganjian, are they tend to offer less legroom for baby as they grow and they may not be ideal for bigger babies.

What car seat transitions into a stroller?

The Doona is great at transforming into a stroller, according to Dr. Ganjian, who used it for his own child. “The only problem is that it is heavier than a traditional car seat so you will need to use more strength,” he says. “It is not a good option for people who have a bad back.”

Why do you need a car seat adapter for strollers?

A car seat adapter for a stroller helps securely attach a compatible car seat to the stroller’s frame, creating a travel system that easily transitions between car and stroller, notes Dr. Ganjian.

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