In short: For travel and flying, choose a lightweight stroller that folds small. When choosing, check the weight (lightweight strollers weigh from around 6 kg), the folded size, the weight limit and whether it has a lie-flat position for a younger child. When flying, always check the airline's rules on baggage size and weight.
Author: Eva Birsa, mum and co-founder of Evitas · Updated: 5 October 2026
What is a "travel" stroller?
A travel stroller is lightweight, easy to fold and compact when folded. The most common are lightweight umbrella strollers, but there are also compact strollers suitable from birth. When choosing, go by four criteria:
- Weight: a lighter stroller is easier to carry on stairs, at the airport and on public transport.
- Folded size: a smaller stroller is easier to fit in the boot, a wardrobe or the luggage hold on a plane. Some fold so small that the manufacturer describes them as suitable for hand luggage (e.g. Cybex Agis); always check your airline's rules.
- Child's age: on some models the seat is suitable from birth (with a lie-flat position), on others from about 6 months, when your child can sit steadily.
- Wheels and suspension: lightweight strollers usually have smaller wheels, so they suit the city and public transport better than long walks on uneven paths.
Examples of lightweight travel strollers
| Model | Weight | Folded (dimensions) | Age and weight limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cybex Melio Carbon | 5.9 kg (carbon fibre) | around 59 x 49 x 29 cm | From birth to about 3 years, up to 15 kg |
| Cybex Agis | 6.3 kg | 25 x 45 x 53 cm, suitable for hand luggage* | From about 6 months to 4 years, up to 22 kg |
| Joie Pact Pro | 6.3 kg | 66.1 x 47.1 x 24.3 cm | From birth to 22 kg (lie-flat backrest position); parents most often use it as an umbrella stroller from 6 months |
| KikkaBoo Cloe | 6.1 kg | 47 x 27 x 72 cm | From birth to 48 months or up to 22 kg |
| Joie Parcel LX Signature | 7.72 kg | 77.5 x 28.5 x 36 cm | From birth to 22 kg; a car seat can be mounted on the frame |
| KikkaBoo Eden | 7.8 kg | 34 x 47 x 74 cm | From birth to 22 kg; automatic folding |
* For the Cybex Agis, the manufacturer states it folds to a size suitable for hand luggage. Always check the size restrictions of your airline.
Besides these, also see our full range of lightweight umbrella strollers. If you are looking for a stroller without a carrycot for everyday walks, take a look at strollers without a carrycot.
Flying and travelling: what to check
- Airline rules: baggage size and weight differ between airlines. Check whether you can take the stroller to the aircraft door or whether you have to check it in as special baggage.
- Travel bag: a protective bag is useful when flying; for larger models, be sure to check with the manufacturer.
- Car seat on the frame: if you are travelling with a newborn, check whether the frame takes an infant carrier (car seats 40–87 cm) with adapters. That way you don't have to move your newborn between the airport, the car and the stroller.
- Weather and gear: for rain or cold, bring extra accessories (rain cover, sun canopy) and, if needed, a winter footmuff.
Frequently asked questions
From what age can a child sit in an umbrella stroller?
Umbrella strollers are usually meant for children who can already sit steadily, so roughly from about 6 months. Some lightweight strollers, such as the Cybex Melio Carbon, Joie Pact Pro and Joie Parcel LX, have a lie-flat seat and are suitable from birth.
Is a lightweight stroller suitable for everyday use?
Yes, for the city and short trips. For long walks on uneven paths, lightweight strollers have smaller wheels and are therefore less comfortable; in that case, consider a larger stroller with suspension.
Can I use a lightweight stroller with an infant car seat?
Some models (e.g. the Joie Pact Pro and Joie Parcel LX) allow you to mount an infant carrier on the frame with adapters. Check compatibility for your chosen model.
Which is better: an umbrella stroller or a compact stroller?
An umbrella stroller is the lightest and folds the smallest, but it suits children who can already sit. A compact stroller (e.g. the Joie Parcel LX, KikkaBoo Cloe, Cybex Melio Carbon) can be used from birth and lasts longer, but it is often somewhat heavier.
Summary
For travel, choose a lightweight stroller with the smallest possible folded size and check your child's age, the weight limit and the airline's rules. You will find the full overview in our guide to choosing a baby stroller, and the range under lightweight umbrella strollers.
The stroller information is taken from product descriptions and manufacturers' instructions. The content is for information only and does not replace the instructions for use.
