Are you planning a long vacation with your toddler? Will you travel by plane? Don't forget the essential element - the best stroller for airplane travel!
Want to know the best part?
In this article, you’ll find the answers to all your questions regarding the best stroller for airplanes and how to choose the right one based on your needs.
Table of Contents
- Flying With Kids & Strollers
- What Types of Travel Strollers Do You Need to Choose?
- Best Compact Travel Strollers for Air Travel Money Can Buy in 2022!
- #1. Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller - Best double stroller
- #2. Baby Jogger® City Tour™ 2 Ultra-Compact Travel Stroller - Best lightweight travel stroller
- #3. gb Pockit+ All-Terrain Ultra Compact Lightweight Travel Stroller - Best travel system
- #4. Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Baby Stroller - Best for ergonomic design
- #5. Summer 3Dmini Convenience Stroller - Best budget travel stroller
- #6. Mountain Buggy Nano V3 Stroller - Most maneuverable
- #7. Babyzen YOYO2 Stroller - Most practical stroller
- Choosing the Best Travel Strollers for Aircraft 2022: A Complete Buyer's Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I take a stroller with me on the plane?
- What kind of stroller can I take on a plane?
- What strollers are cabin approved?
- Can you take a Baby Jogger City Mini on a plane?
- Can I take a double stroller on a plane?
- Is an umbrella stroller allowed on a plane?
- Do airlines provide bassinets for infants?
- Is flying with a stroller free?
- What stroller folds the smallest?
- And, the Final Winner is…?
- The Bottom Line
Flying With Kids & Strollers
There are three options when traveling on a plane with a stroller:
You don't have to worry about possible issues (damage, dirt, loss) - your pram will be close to you. Nevertheless, the procedure is valuable when you want to keep your baby or toddler in the stroller while going through airport security.
The first and the third choice are especially valuable when you travel with your little ones at the airport. You can place them in the strollers or carrycots until it's time to board or gate check. This way, your children won't get lost at the airports.
What Types of Travel Strollers Do You Need to Choose?
Umbrella strollers have long been used by parents who love to travel. And this is backed up by good reasons. The umbrella stroller easily folds up small and fits into the airplane cabin. In addition, they are also lightweight for maximum maneuverability.
Nowadays, you can find the new generation of strollers/prams, the so-called pocket strollers. These pushchairs are unique as they offer a tri-fold to fit the overhead compartment. They are also durable and reliable to withstand external forces, pressure, and children when they are too nervous.
You can choose between the traditional umbrella or the newer pocket-stroller variant, depending on your preferences and needs.
Best Compact Travel Strollers for Air Travel Money Can Buy in 2022!
$$$ — Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller ~ 28 pounds - Best everyday stroller. It offers a smooth ride on specific terrains but is not so soft on bumpy areas. Excellent sun protection for all weather conditions.
$$ — Baby Jogger® City Tour™ 2 Ultra-Compact ~ 14 pounds - Best for active parents for smooth rides & maneuverability. Adjustable to fit newborns for longer naps. Ideal for a specific travel system. However, it lacks a cup holder.
$$ — gb Pockit+ All-Terrain ~ 12.3 pounds - Best compact fold to fit in the overhead bin. Excellent travel system for all travel types. Yet, it doesn't have a travel bag & is not easy to fold.
$$ — Ergobaby Metro+ Compact ~ 21.6 pounds - Best for a lightweight and sturdy design. Excellent for Chicco and Graco car seats. Still, the sun canopy is squeaky, and the stroller doesn't have a cup holder.
$ — Summer 3Dmini Convenience ~ 11 pounds - Best compact travel stroller fitting the overhead bin. Budget-friendly & ideal for frequent airport visits. Reclining positions for maximum comfort. Nonetheless, it is not car seat compatible.
$$ — Mountain Buggy Nano V3 ~ 13.2 pounds - Most convenient for all travel systems, thanks to the universal adapter. Durable and secure due to wheels and locks. Nevertheless, the stroller cannot fit all planes and the overhead bin. And you might find it challenging to fold.
$$$ — Babyzen YOYO2 ~ 12 pounds - Best for different errands and everyday activities. Comfortable and cozy for babies and toddlers. Compatible with multiple car seats. Anyhow, the stroller has folding and bag issues.
The Joovy Kooper X2 double stroller is the ultimate travel stroller for all parents of two!
The double travel stroller is beneficial due to its multi-position recline. Kids can enjoy longer rides and choose the best posture to fit their bodies without pain and pressure. Besides, the mesh material won't create sweat, so they can fully relax for supreme comfort.
Your kids will have the best protection during summer, thanks to the sun canopy. The canopy is UPF 50+, protecting the kids from all angles. It also has pee-a-boo windows to supervise your children during the more extended strolls.
The Joovy Kooper is similar to the CMGT stroller, but the Kooper is better in many aspects. For instance, the Kooper is more compact than its opponent. You will transport and pack it more effortlessly.
The Joovy is also more accessible, thanks to its design. You can quickly reach all parts and adjust the stroller to your needs. Due to its lighter design, you can easily carry it around and manage it better when going on a trip.
With its bigger wheels, the stroller ensures easy rides, and it’s easy to push around. The handlebar has an ergonomic design, so you can push it with one hand and not get tired.
As the stroller folds inwards, the Kooper protects the inner fabric. In addition, it folds quickly with a one-hand fold and features a standing fold. The tray also folds, so you don’t have to remove it.
However, the Kooper is not an all-terrain stroller. It won’t move on bumpy areas smoothly like all-terrain strollers. But, it will serve you well on all flat and soft terrains. You can maneuver it to fit your needs.
- Easy to fold
- Comfortable
- Large storage basket
- Not for all areas
The Baby Jogger City Tour 2 is one of the best lightweight travel strollers you could ask for!
The lightweight, compact stroller is the second generation of the City Tour travel stroller. Being updated, the CT2 offers double layers of padded materials. It’s not as shallow a seat as the previous model did.
You'll love the CT2 since it's more practical than the competitors. The CT2 offers a one-hand fold compared to the Babyzen YOYO. The YOYO also doesn't have enough storage space.
The CT2 has a longer design than the UPPABaby MINU. If you have a baby, the compact stroller is more beneficial, as your baby can nap and elevate legs. The MINU model is shorter, without an adjustable leg rest.
The CT2 travel stroller has a travel bag to take it everywhere. If you're a frequent plane passenger, the compact size allows you to fit in the overhead bins and count it as your carry-on luggage.
Of course, you can permanently attach a Baby Jogger infant car seat via car seat adapters. But, you must obtain the adapters separately. The umbrella stroller comes only with a lightweight frame and a padded seat with a multi-position recline.
One of the biggest benefits is taking the travel stroller to Disney World. You can spend more than 12 hours strolling around, and your kids won't be tired. The compact travel stroller offers a smooth ride and even a one-hand push when you have full hands.
Being a compact stroller for traveling parents, pay attention to Alaska Airlines. Their new policies include slight changes regarding lightweight strollers. Examine the rules in advance. Otherwise, your compact stroller might fail as carry-on luggage to fit in the overhead compartment.
- Quick fold
- Comfortable
- Adjustable
- No cup holders
Another compact travel stroller is an ideal option for flying families due to its proportions and overall weight. The gb all-terrain lightweight stroller weighs less than the previous CT2 model. However, parents complain the gb is flimsy and not as sturdy as the CT2.
Although one of the best compact travel strollers, the gb still has a long way to improve. For instance, the pram has only a 3-point harness, whereas the competitors have 5-point harnesses. Your baby will be secure, but the thought of two more straps ensures you more.
The lightweight stroller offers a quick and compact fold but is not one hand. So, you will find it challenging to fold and adjust the pram, especially when holding a baby.
Parents overall like the gb, thanks to its compact size. You can place it in the overhead bins after you gate-check the pushchair. However, the travel stroller lacks a carry-on bag.
It's super hard to wear your baby into a baby carrier, get through the airport security quicker, or do gate checking. It's also challenging without a carry-on bag when you travel in smaller planes with a limited overhead compartment. The stroller will get dirty or even damaged.
However, a benefit is that you can create your specific travel system. The compact travel stroller uses a car seat adapter to attach a gb or a CYBEX infant car seat. Don't worry - the frame might only seem flimsy - it's not. You can adapt the seat to fit your babies.
The swivel wheels provide a smooth push and ride on all terrains. You can lock the reels by pressing the switch lock and making the pushchair more stable on bumpy roads.
And, your babies will have superior comfort, as the fully reclining seat offers limitless reclining options.
- Travel-friendly
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
- Folding issues
The Ergobaby Metro+ is another travel stroller suitable for all busy parents, especially those that travel often.
The Metro+ comes with a specific car seat adapter. You can attach Graco and Chicco car seats to create your travel system. However, the stroller doesn't support specific UPPABaby car seats.
Parents complain about the rain cover/sun canopy. You cannot open and close the sun canopy so quickly. The rain cover makes noise and creaks whenever you use it. But, it offers sun protection 50+, so you can use the canopy in all weather conditions.
The Metro+ is similar to the gb Pocket+ and has issues with folding the travel stroller. You must take off the support bar every time you close the pram. Not to mention that you obtain the bar separately.
The biggest issue might be that your child won't have enough comfort in the stroller seat. The pushchair bends. Children cannot sit upright and tend to slouch all the time.
The pram provides a compact fold. Once you manage to do so, it doesn't have all the features to be a perfect pram, as the CT2, for instance. But the stroller is definitely better than the VISTA - Metro+ takes less space.
The Ergo travel stroller is more compact in dimensions. It fits your trunk easily and won't take up too much space. The stroller also offers a huge storage basket, easily accessible for your diaper bag and other baby necessities.
Due to its compact size, the stroller will fit in the overhead bin. The compact fold allows you to count it as carry-on baggage during gate-checking. And, unlike the gb, the Metro+ comes with a storage bag, making it an ideal stroller for travel.
- Travel bag
- Storage basket
- Extendable sun canopy
- Rain cover issues
- Not compatible with specific car seats
Though the first generation of Summer umbrella strollers, the 3DMini travel stroller is a game-changer among the most compact travel strollers.
The pushchair is one of the market's most petite yet most practical compact trollers. You can place the pram in the overhead bin. The stroller will count as carry-on luggage for the easiest gate-checking.
The stroller is comfortable and compact for traveling parents and growing children. The handles are a good height, so there won't be kicking and fatigue. Besides, the carry strap will help you carry on and take the stroller throughout the airport.
You can adjust the shoulder strap to fit your kids. The travel stroller won't create additional pain and fatigue in their body. You can push the pram with one hand for a smooth ride and excellent maneuverability.
It might not be as easy to fold as the Graco TraveLite model. First, you must press the safety mechanism and disengage it to fold the pram. Then, the system automatically locks into the folded position and blocks with only one hand. But, the 3DMini offers excellent stability and security.
Though it has smaller wheels than the Graco TraveLite, the 3DMini is ideal for multiple terrains. The pram offers smooth rides and quick maneuverability. But, Graco is for bumpier rides which the Mini lacks.
Regarding the accessories, the Graco stroller uses a removable, easy-to-clean cup holder, which is not the case with the Summer pushchair. You will need time to remove and clean the holders, and they are clumsy.
However, the Summer 3DMini has a massive storage basket. You can place your valuables inside after landing. And, it's more compact and lighter to fit the overhead bin.
- Carry strap
- Extra shoulder strap
- Sun canopy
- Lightweight travel stroller
- Huge storage basket
- Not compatible with infant car seats
- Tricky folding
The Mountain Buggy Nano stroller is infant car seat compatible, so you can often hear parents saying they use it for their three or four kids.
It’s compact at 21.5 x 20 x11. 8 inches. It folds into the travel bag, and you can place the pushchair in the overhead bin. There's no need for a gate check or baggage check. However, the stroller might not fit a limited overhead bin of the smaller aircraft. The average size of the bin is 22 x 14 x 9 inches.
Thanks to its durable design, you can use the stroller weekly, even for more extended strolls. The travel stroller has enough space in the storage basket. You can put your diaper bag inside and never get tired.
Its compact design and swivel wheels make the Mountain Buggy Nano stroller maneuverable and adjustable for all parents. Your hands won't hurt from pushing, and you can quickly fold them when needed. Also, parking and security are advanced. Once you lock the wheels, the stroller won't move an inch.
However, compared with the CT2, the Nano V3 has specific design flaws. One such is verticality when folded. The V3 seems too big, even when folded for practical use.
The CT2 doesn't have to attach a strap to prevent opening the handlebar when folded. However, you must perform this second step on the Mountain Buggy Nano V3.
The sun canopy covers the handlebar when it collapses. It annoys you while pushing the pram. Also, there's no peek-a-boo window, so you cannot see your child. Instead, the Mountain Buggy Nano V3 uses a mesh window, visible only when you recline the seat. The CT2 was better in performance.
- Sun protection
- Travel bag
- For all infant car seats
- Not for all airplanes
At the end of the discussion, let's review the Babyzen YOYO2 travel stroller.
Similar to the CT2, you can fold it compact due to its design and place it in the overhead bin. The YOYO2 comes with a travel bag you can carry around and manage well while at the airport.
Interestingly, the YOYO2 offers more weight and height limits compared to the YOYO2 6+ model. However, for the same price, you will get additional 35 pounds of children's support. So, parents often choose the "simple" YOYO2 over the 6+ and similar models.
The stroller has all the features a good travel stroller should have. It still seems cheaper than the CT2, although the YOYO2 comes with a higher price tag. The overall design seems not so sturdy and durable, and it lacks the inner support the CT2 offers.
But, the YOYO2 is an excellent stroller for the subway, catching a cab, meeting with your friends, and other everyday errands. And the pram features the most advanced wheels, with shock-absorbing tires.
YOYO2 also surpasses the CT2 and similar compact strollers thanks to its movable handlebar. The pram suits all parents, and you can choose the best angle for your hands. The handlebar reclines to 145 degrees, and you can use only one hand to push it. No other stroller has this benefit.
Kids are also quite comfy due to the adjustable leg rest. Little ones can easily choose the best body positions and sleep during more prolonged or shooter strolls. Other than these, the pushchair is pretty much similar to its competitors.
Like other compact strollers, the YOYO2 has 50+ sun protection adjustable canopy and is compatible with different infant car seat models.
- Lightweight
- Good quality
- For traveling
- Travel bag issues
- Not easily foldable
Choosing the Best Travel Strollers for Aircraft 2022: A Complete Buyer's Guide
Is it easier for you to choose a stroller for aircraft now?
There’s a long way until we pick the best model, but it’s good to have the basics. That being said, here are other things to consider when flying with a stroller:
1. Stroller size
Examine all proportions - open and closed to see if the pram fits the plane's overhead compartment. The USA's standard domestic size for carry-on luggage is 22 x 14 x 9 inches.
Some airlines might differ by an inch or two, like Southwest Airlines with 24 x 16 x 10 inches.
International airlines' carry-on luggage sizes are the following:
- Air Canada: 21.7 x 15.7 x 9 inches
- KLM: 6 x 12 x 39 inches
- Lufthansa: 21.7 x 15.7 x 9 inches
With this in mind, here are the folded sizes of our top compact travel strollers:
2. Stroller weight
Whether you plan to take the stroller on the plane or gate-check it, the pram must be lightweight so you can manage with your baby in your hands. Optimally, your stroller shouldn’t overpass 15 pounds.
You can take the following:
3. Durability and sturdiness
Travel strollers shouldn't be flimsy but stable and reliable for tossing around cargo areas. Prams should also withstand all external forces and pressure while flying. Choosing aluminum and similar items is the best.
4. Following your baby's growth
Strollers must last to fit and support your baby from infancy to toddler years. Choose strollers with the highest weight capacity. Babyzen YOYO2 is an excellent option, with a maximum capacity of 75 pounds.
5. Storage
Huge storage baskets will keep your baby gear and belongings easily accessible. Travel strollers might not have much storage space, so it would be better to examine the dimensions before you pick your stroller.
Larger baskets generally come with regular strollers, but these units are not suitable for aircraft as they are too heavy.
6. Ease of use and foldability
Travel strollers must be practical and maneuverable for easy use. They should also be easy to fold/unfold per need. Always choose those models with a one-hand fold for the best practicality.
Look for models with all-terrain wheels and adjustable handlebars to slide smoothly while exploring new cities. There's no point in getting travel strollers you cannot quickly push and use on different terrains.
7. Safety
Of course, you want your kids to be safe in all strollers. Travel strollers come with different harness systems. It would be best to pick pushchairs with 5-point harness systems.
All models, except for the gb Pockit+ All-Terrain, meet this criterion. The gb has a three-point harness.
Pushchairs should also have brakes and locks on the wheels as additional support. They mustn't open while folded.
Pricing is always one of the crucial factors in choosing travel strollers. You must know your budget in advance to pick the appropriate model. It may not be your first purchase, but the second or third, depending on your needs (if you damaged one pram, if it’s your second stroller, etc.)
And, what if they get lost or harmed? Will you pay less or more then? Always calculate in advance all variables. You will avoid further complications and spend less money if something goes wrong.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take a stroller with me on the plane?
Yes, you can take a stroller with you on a plane. If the dimensions fit the airline's rules, you can put it in the overhead compartment. Otherwise, you will have to gate-check the pram and place it in the cargo area when it does not fit the bin.
What kind of stroller can I take on a plane?
You can take a fully collapsible, small umbrella stroller to fit the overhead compartment. It should not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches for multiple domestic airlines and flights. But, you should examine the international airlines' stroller policies & find all requirements for each airline.
You can also take double strollers, but they will go in the cargo areas & you will pick them up at the baggage carousel in the baggage hall. You must gate-check them.
What strollers are cabin approved?
The following travel strollers are cabin approved:
Can you take a Baby Jogger City Mini on a plane?
Yes, you can take the Baby Jogger City Mini on a plane. Due to its proportions, 44.88 x 21.21 x 43.5 inches, the pushchair fits the overhead bins.
Can I take a double stroller on a plane?
Yes, you can take a double stroller on a plane. You will gate-check it and get the tag to find it easier after landing. Then, you will leave it at the air bridge or gate before boarding, and gate agents will put the stroller in the cargo area.
Is an umbrella stroller allowed on a plane?
Yes, an umbrella stroller is allowed on a plane. You should always bring an umbrella stroller to fit the overhead bin. The dimensions should not exceed 6 x 12 x 39 inches (KLM) if space allows it.
Do airlines provide bassinets for infants?
Yes, they do provide infant bassinets. However, the number of bassinets is limited. You must read the policies in advance and pay if you have to book them beforehand. Bassinets are usually free if you don't have to reserve them, and there are enough baby capsules on the flight.
Is flying with a stroller free?
Yes, it is free since most airlines allow you to bring one stroller and one car seat free of charge. They will be placed with the rest of your luggage in addition to your normal baggage allowance.
What stroller folds the smallest?
The stroller that folds the smallest is the gb Pockit Air All Terrain. It's the world's most miniature folding pram, with the most diminutive folding proportions: 11.8 in x 7.1 in x 13.8 inches. Being so, you can place it in the overhead bin, under the seat, etc.
And, the Final Winner is…?
Drums, please! It was hard to pick, but the Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller is the best luxury travel stroller! It's an excellent unit for two kids or twins, and you can quickly check it at the gate and place it in the plane's cargo area.
You cannot create a travel system, as the stroller is not compatible with other seats. But, the overall quality and design will benefit you and your kids. So, don't miss it.
And, if you're looking for a single stroller, don't skip the Baby Jogger® City Tour™ 2. It has the best quality among competitors and extraordinary performance. Besides, it fits the overhead plane bin.
The Bottom Line
That's it, parents! This is the end of our flight! You can start revising a bit and pick the best solution for your traveling needs.
If you still need extra time, go slowly and then choose the best stroller for airplane travel. But, you can't go wrong as all strollers are the best out of the best and won't let you down.
