Sounds easy, but choosing the best lightweight stroller for travel isn’t a kids play. Mostly because there are plenty of crappy and useless strollers, to be used with dolls rather than kids. While the market offers dozens of options you can pick from, getting a good pram to zip around with your little one has become harder.
At some point, every parent has struggled with a too-bulky pushchair, from attempting to maneuver it through crowded places to trying to find a parking spot for it in a restaurant.
Children love a fun getaway, but this definitely shouldn’t mean a tough time for you. So if your current baby stroller weighs you done, maybe it’s time to get a new one.
When on the go - whether juggling errands around town or traveling with a baby or toddler - you need a great lightweight umbrella stroller (or non-umbrella) that’s durable and easy to transport.
It can make all the difference when you’re doing numerous short or long journeys and will offer you multiple features you’ll find in a full stroller without burdening you with extra weight.
Fortunately, we’ve made the grunt job for you and have compiled all the information into detailed product reviews and this comprehensive buying guide. In the end, there were 9 baby strollers that emerged on top.
They are the safest, sturdiest, easiest to use, most comfortable and lightest strollers - all of them with some pretty great features you’ll love.
If you're on the hunt for a compact, lightweight buggy you’ve come to the right place. To find out about all the models we’ve tested and which ones we think are the best, just read on!
Best Lightweight Stroller 2019 – Choosing the Right One for You
A full blown travel system stroller can be too cumbersome for certain situations (though we do have one too- the Chicco Bravo Travel System). While it does offer more features and comfort than small strollers, you just can't ignore the fact it’s heavy and bulky. Also, it can’t be taken on an airplane (or trains and buses), which means it needs to be checked in with the main baggage.
Umbrella strollers fall on the other side of the spectrum. They're super light and easy to fold, but most models are way too simple. Their small wheels are difficult to steer and they lack even basic features like a proper harness and storage area. Just because a stroller’s light on weight, doesn’t mean style, usability or practicality have to be trimmed down, too.
A perfect stroller should allow you to bring it along with you during your short trips, take as carry-on luggage when travelling, and give you an easy time when maneuvering through town, among other convenient factors. If this is the kind of handiness you’re looking for, a lightweight stroller is what you need to get.
But how do you know which is the best travel stroller for your child? There are some important factors you need to have in mind before diving into the purchase. Maneuverability, ease of use, and build quality -for example- are definitely a must have.
For lightweight models, this means placing a particular emphasis on how well these things fold up and store in tight spaces, such as on public transit or the overhead compartment of a plane.
Many people like this type of baby carriages as a backup, or something you take on trips to the park or the grocery store. But they are ideal if you don't need a full-sized model or just want a low-cost backup for travel and daily life.
Top 9 Best Lightweight Strollers & Umbrella Strollers Review
Now that we've got the basics covered, let’s get to the reason you’re here and talk about the well rounded ‘light strollers’. We’ve shared a brief summary of our in-depth research on the best lightweight strollers and best lightweight umbrella strollers and have compiled a list of detailed reviews for our nine favorites (available on Amazon).
Best Lightweight Strollers
Uppababy G Lite
With a maximum load weight of 55 lbs, a huge basket and a 5 point harness this lightweight stroller will be handy for years to come.
Summer Infant Lite
One of the best selling strollers of all times with a low price tag and a huge basket make it a great buy if you don't want to spend much.
GB Pockit Lightweight
This is the smallest folding stroller in the market today, ideal to keep things simple and practical. It is however one of the most expensive, but parents don't seem to mind as it's also one of the most sold.
Mountain Buggy Nano
An attached universal car seat adapter and a shoulder strap make it ideal for those on the go.
Maclaren Triumph
Maclaren strollers are among the most sold, and the triumph comes with a rain cover and a multi position back for nice and pleasant naps.
Joovy Newgroove
4 wheel suspension and a padded seat make it very comfortable, but also slightly heavier than competitors.
Ergobaby Travel System Ready 180
One of the few strollers that can switch from forward to backward facing it is also among the heaviest, but so sturdy and practical that will last through the toddler year.
Chicco Liteway
A solid stroller from a solid brand, it is slightly heavier than competitors but has a huge basket, many features and one of the lowest price tags.
Babyjogger City Tour
We love the one hand fold and extended hood of this stroller, which is also light and convenient. One of the better options.
GB Pockit Lightw eight Stroller
Product Details:
- Dimensions: 22.7 x 16.5 x 39.8 in
- Weight: 9.5 lbs.
- Maximum weight capacity: 55 lbs.
- Folded size: 11.8 x 7 x 13.8 inch
- Age range: 6 months up to 55 pounds (5 – 6 years approx.)
- Customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Features: sun canopy, sliding back panel with adjustable harness, lockable front swivel wheels, one-hand pushing, padded handlebars, rear wheel parking break, and sturdy aluminum frame.
This is the smallest folding stroller in the market! And that’s not just a manufacturer claim. Thanks to its exceptional and innovative folding design, The GB Pockit holds the 2014 Guinness World Record most compact stroller.
In only two easy steps the light umbrella stroller turns into a package small enough (11.8 x 7 x 13.8’’) to be placed in the overhead luggage compartment of airplanes or trains.
The Pockit can also fit in mommy’s bag so you could carry it effortlessly when your munchkin prefers to walk. According to many parents this is the best lightweight stroller for travel.
Don’t mistake this pushchair to be flimsy though. It's narrow and simple, yet somehow is able to hold kids up to 55 pounds in the seat plus 11 pounds of gear in the storage basket.
This lightweight umbrella stroller is unbeatable in terms of convenience, durability and comfort. Thus, it is the preferred choice for thousands of parents despite its high price tag.
Pros:
- It takes the travel-friendly system to a whole new level
- Innovative two-step folding
- Good fit and finish
- Light as feather, but sturdy and stable
- Great for growing children
Cons:
- The overhead canopy is rather small
- Seat doesn’t full recline for nap times
- Lack of storage pockets or trays
Summer Infant 3D Lite Con venience Stroller
Product Details:
- Dimensions: 40.5 x 10.2 x 8.5 inch
- Weight: 13 lbs.
- Maximum weight capacity: 50 lbs.
- Folded size: non-specified
- Age range: 6 mo. up to 50 lbs
- Customer rating: 4.4 out of 5 starts
Features: stylish aluminum frame, easy-to-recline seat, anti-shock front wheels, lockable rear wheels, 3-step folding, and adjustable canopy with pop-out sun visor
The Summer Infant 3DLite is one of the best-selling lightweight umbrella strollers of all time, coming in at only 13 pounds and with a really good build quality. Even with its light weight and sensible price tag (usually under $100) this is not a flimsy buggy at all, which is quite impressive for this kind of strollers.
The 3DLite is light enough to be pushed and carried effortlessly but strong enough to last a long time. Its seat stretches out with ease and comes with a 5-point safety harness and 4-position recline for added comfort. The adjustable canopy provides shade against sunlight and comes with a large pop-out sun visor.
But the best part of this baby umbrella stroller is the storage space. It has a large storage basket under the seat which can support up to 10 pounds of gear. Moreover it features a hook-n-loop pocket for smaller stuff (keys, phone, etc.) The caregiver also gets a cup-holder.
Considering this is a small stroller it offers a good amount of storage room.
Pros:
- Plenty of storage area
- Portable and convenient
- Great sun protection
- Fast and responsive after sales support
- Budget friendly, yet it’s well-equipped and durable
Cons:
- It isn’t infant car seat compatible
- Doesn’t fit in overhead compartments
- Doesn’t self-stand when folded
Mountain Buggy Nano S troller
Product Details:
- Dimensions: 33 x 22 x 39 inch
- Weight: 13 lbs.
- Maximum weight capacity: 44 lbs.
- Folded size: 21 x 12 x 20 inch
- Age range: from birth (with car seat or cocoon) up to 4 years
- Customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Features: on-board car seat adapter, carry bag and shoulder straps included, ultra slim line wheels, adjustable footrest, extendable sun canopy, outstanding curb pop, and rear wheel suspension.
The Mountain Buggy Nano is another great option for travelling and on-the-go parents who value ease and pure functionality. Weighing at just 13 pounds and with the ability to compact fold into its included travel bag, it easily fits into overhead luggage compartments. Plus, the shoulder straps allow for hands-free portability.
The Nano also provides dual functionality as it has an attached universal car seat adapter so you can start using it from infancy, and then perform as a super compact, urban stroller for years to come. The seat reclines for extra comfort, and its wheels are super slim to offer excellent maneuverability through airplane aisles and the narrowest of city doorways.
Additionally, it has a sun canopy as well as an overlay fabric that you can use to shield your child during the winter. Overall, if you're planning on doing some serious traveling with a baby, this is the way to go.
Pros:
- Compact and easy to transport
- Can be pushed one handed
- Sturdy and durable
- Car seat compatible
- Folds up small enough
Cons:
- No cup holder or basket near handle bars
- Can’t fold one handed
Product Details:
- Dimensions: 13 x 12 x 45 inch
- Weight: 15.2 lbs.
- Maximum weight capacity: 55 lbs.
- Folded size: 13 x 10 x 42 inch
- Age range: 6 months up to 55 lbs.
- Customer rating: 4.1 out of 5 stars
Features: mesh sling seat, lightweight aluminum frame, shock-absorbing wheel system, multi panel knit canopy with extendable sunshade, 5 point harness, and removable cup-holder.
The UPPAbaby G-Lite earned higher than average scores for weight and folded size. This pushchair features an adjustable 5-point harness that ensures your baby’s safety at all times. It folds quickly and comes with a shoulder strap to make it easy for you to carry it while juggling around with your little one.
This stroller also has a large storage basket and an easy to reach storage pocket for your essentials. The huge canopy with an extendable sun visor offers maximum sun coverage to your child making it ideal for summer. Also, its incredible weight limit allows you to transport your growing baby through their toddler years.
Pros:
- Great sun protection
- Folds with ease
- Features 4 wheels suspension
- Comfortable for tall parents
- Stands on its own
- Lightweight and portable
Cons:
- Hard to push and turn
- Not convenient for napping
Baby Jogger City To ur Stroller
Product Details:
- Dimensions: 38.9 x 17.9 x 35.7 inch
- Weight: 14 lbs.
- Maximum weight capacity: 45 lbs.
- Folded size: 22 x 17.7 x 9 inch
- Age range: 6 months up to 45 lbs.
- Customer rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars
Features: one-hand quick folding system, multi position near flat recline, UV 50+ extendable sun canopy and peek a boo window, convenient under seat storage basket, and backpack style carry bag.
This fully featured unit is simply one of the best umbrella strollers currently available. At only 14 pounds, The Baby Jogger City Tour folds down small and meets carry-on requirements for many modes of transportation.
City Tour’s add-on accessories allow for easy customization so you’re equipped to keep on with your day, wherever it may lead you. It offers multiple seat positions and tilts back to an almost flat recline for your child’s comfort.
You need only one hand to fold it and it automatically locks closed. The included backpack-style carry bag guarantees you can take the stroller with you and makes it a great option for small-space city dwellers. It also comes with an extendable hood so will offer protection from the sun when you jet off to sunny places.
Pros:
- You can fold it one-handed
- Small and light enough to take as hand luggage
- Rain cover and UV protective canopy
- Convenient backpack-style carry bag
- Great travel companion
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Limited storage area
- Not suitable for newborns
- No infant car seat compatible
Product Details:
- Dimensions: 31 x 17.7 x 42 inch
- Weight: 11 lbs.
- Maximum weight capacity: 55 lbs.
- Folded size: non-specified
- Age range: from birth up to 55 pounds
- Customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Features: extendable waterproof/UPF 50+ hood with sun visor, peek-a-boo window, breathable mesh seat (removable and washable), all-wheel suspension, premium wind-resistant rain cover, high-tech aircraft grade aluminum frame and easily replaceable parts.
Maclaren’s strollers are some of the best in the world, and The Triumph, is definitely no exception. Features include a redesigned hood with custom-fit apron, streamlined wheels with one step brakes and an elevated seat on an aerodynamic frame.
This lightweight sporty and stylish buggy is perfect for quick errands. The Maclaren Triumph also offers a fully padded seat with built-in leg support cushion and best-in-class multi-position recline, ideal for naps on the go. It also comes with a UPF 50+ canopy and a wind resistant rain cover for use in different weather situations.
Pros:
- Super light (just 11 pounds)
- One hand compact fold with auto-lock
- Convenient carry strap
- Great sun and rain protection
- Nap-friendly
Cons:
- Awkward wheel lock placement
- No option for attaching a car seat
- Better for babies with good neck control
Product Details:
- Dimensions: 32 x 19.7 x 42.5 inch
- Weight: 15.7 lbs.
- Maximum weight capacity: 55 lbs.
- Folded size: 43.7 x 14 x 10 inch
- Age range: 0 months up to 55 pounds (4-5 years approx.)
- Customer rating: 4.1 out of 5 starts
Features: easy carry strap, UPF 50+ sun canopy, peek-a-boo window, 2 cup holders, zippered storage pocket, kids-accessible mesh pockets, lightweight aluminum frame, and compact standing fold.
The JOOVY New Groove Ultralight Umbrella Stroller has a lot of things going for it. It’s well built and laden with convenient features. Its soft seat has a deep recline and a bassinet mode to accommodate newborns and children up to 55 lbs.
The manufacturer has added a second parent cup holder and upgraded the wheels making it easier than before to push and maneuver through narrow spaces. An improved 4-wheel suspension and adjustable footrest makes the ride more comfortable and smooth.
When not in use, the Groove Ultralight fold down easily and is able to stand on its own. It is great for travel weighing just 15 pounds and includes a carry strap that fits comfortably on your shoulder.
Pros:
- Newborn ready (in bassinet mode)
- Smart carry strap and light weight, makes it a portable breeze
- Comprehensive storage area for both child and caregiver
- Reflective material on all four sides to improve visibility at night
- Made of high quality, water resistant fabrics
Cons:
- Heavier than most other ultralight models
- Too expensive for some
Product Details:
- Dimensions: 24 x 28.3 x 6.7 inch
- Weight: 20 lbs.
- Maximum weight capacity: 50 lbs.
- Folded size: non-specified
- Age range: from birth (using the comfort cushion) up to 50 lbs.
- Customer rating: 3.6 out of 5 stars
Features: reversible and adjustable handlebar to use in outward or inward facing, one-hand folding system, x-large storage basket, extendable sun canopy, mesh sidewalls, tri-zone padded reclining seat, and 2-year warranty.
Probably better known for their high-end baby carriers, Ergobaby has produced this fantastic compact stroller that’s great for getting out and about around the city. Parents love joggers because of the smooth ride they offer, but there’s something to be said for a more ‘standard’ 4-wheel stroller.
Fortunately, the Ergobaby 180 gives you the best of both worlds as a true reversible pushchair. It has been designed with comfort and a smooth ride in mind. And your child can use it from infancy all the way through the toddler years.
With this amazing baby carriage you get a really good UPF 50+ sun canopy, good sized storage basket and an adjustable handlebar for a comfortable ride. They’ve also made it super easy to reverse the stroller from forward-facing to parent-facing, without all the fuss of moving the seat (and waking up your sleeping little one).
Pros:
- Car seat compatible
- Compact and high-quality
- Folds with ease
- Stand on its own when folded
- Provides ample coverage from the elements
- Large storage basket
- Travel system ready
Cons:
- Most add-ons accessories (car seat adapters, infant comfort cushion, snack tray and weather shield) sold separately.
- Lack of carry bag
Product Details:
- Dimensions: 35 x 19 x 40 inch
- Weight: 18.8 lbs.
- Maximum weight capacity: 40 lbs.
- Folded size: 46 x 10 x 11.75 inch
- Age range: 6 months up to 40 pounds
- Customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Features: adjustable/removable sun canopy with peek-a-boo window, 4-position backrest with easy one-hand adjustment, storage basket, parent cup holder for beverages, compact fold with automatic storage latch, rear-wheel suspension, front locking swivels, and toe-tap rear brakes for parking.
If you’re looking for a stroller that is well-designed, reliable, light, and feature-loaded nothing comes close to the Chicco Liteway. It weights a very manageable 18.8lbs and can hold a baby weighing 40 pounds or less.
The Liteway’s seating features a good amount of padding and also an adjustable footrest for extra support and comfort. The stroller has optional swivel front wheels and rear-wheel suspension for a smooth ride over various surfaces.
Storage is a bit of a problem with very light strollers but this is not the Liteway’s case – it has a smart storage basket with automatic latch and a cup-holder for the caregiver. Moreover, the adjustable canopy protects your baby from the sun while the peek-a-boo window enables you to keep a close watch.
Everything about this stroller is well thought-out – it keeps both kids and parents happy!
Pros:
- 5-point harness with padded shoulder pads keeps the child secure
- Travel-friendly
- Comprehensive storage area
- Excellent build quality and a cool, ergonomic design
- Sturdy and high-quality
- Reliable customer support
Cons:
- It is a bit expensive, but most parents state it is totally worth the price
Which One Sould You Buy?
While we've narrowed down all the lightweight stroller market to just 9 fantastic strollers, choosing one among these might also prove to be tricky. Thinking about specific uses for each, these are our top picks for each category:
- The Best Lightweight Stroller – Overall: Chicco Liteway
- The Ultimate Lightweight Stroller for Travel: GB Pockit
- The Best Lightweight Umbrella Stroller: Baby Jogger City Tour
- The Best Lightweight Stroller with Car Seat: Mountain Buggy Nano
- Best Budget-friendly option: Summer Infant 3D Lite
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