We started traveling when our son was eight weeks old (due to a family emergency), and we’ve been on the go since then. Over the years, we’ve gone through several strollers, so it was only right we write a buying guide on the best strollers for airplane travel.
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As we approach three years of traveling full-time with our toddler, we have accumulated a lot of knowledge over the years.
Over the last four years, we’ve had five strollers, so we thought we’d share the things to look for when looking for a baby stroller for air travel.
Related Post: Most Compact Strollers for Travel
Quick Picks: Our Favorite Strollers for Flying
- Best Overall Stroller for Airplane Travel – GB Pockit+ All Terrain
- Airplane Stroller for Toddlers – Ergobaby Metro+
- Best Double Stroller for Airplane Travel – Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller
- Budget-Friendly Option – Safety 1st Teeny Compact Stroller
- Luxury Travel Stroller – BabyZen YoYo2
Cabin-Size Stroller Comparison Table
Last update on 2025-02-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
4 Best Travel Strollers for Flying (That Fit in Overhead Compartment)
After a long flight with a toddler or baby, the last thing you want to do is wait for your stroller while trying to wrangle your toddler or hold your baby.
It can be even more frustrating when your stroller is not at the airplane but taken to baggage claim (Liberia Airport in Costa Rica), so you go through the airport holding your baby or slowly walking with your toddler.
The strollers in this section fit in the overhead compartment, so you can quickly get off the plane without waiting for your little one’s stroller.
Related Post: Best Travel Beds for Toddlers
CYBEX Libelle Stroller
The CYBEX Libelle Stroller is one of the most company travel strollers for babies and toddlers. This airplane travel stroller has everything you need from birth to toddler years.
If you are a family on the go, this stroller folds small enough to fit in an overhead compartment on airplanes. No more waiting for your stroller after getting off the plane, so you and your little one can be on your way.
You will love how lightweight this stroller is at only 13 lbs, making it the perfect stroller for flying with a baby, especially if you are flying alone.
The front wheel suspension system makes the ride as smooth as ever, so whether you are at the airport or on the streets of London, your little one can ride comfortably.
If you are used to a stroller with a curved handlebar, this will be an adjustment, but you can push this stroller with one hand.
Although the price is a little high, the weight capacity for this stroller is 55 lbs, so little ones as old as five or six can ride in this stroller.
A few things to note about this stroller are that it is only compatible with CYBEX infant car seats, there is a learning curve to fold and open the stroller, and the storage area is small, so don’t expect a large diaper bag to fit under the stroller.
Be careful hanging things from this stroller. Since it is lightweight, the stroller is not heavy enough to counter the weight on the back of the stroller.
Trust us, we tried to attach our son’s diaper bag to a model similar to this, and the stroller tipped backward.
Overall, if you are looking for the best travel stroller for flying, then the CYBEX Libelle Stroller is one of the better options.
Pros
- Very compact
- Large sun canopy
- Fits infant car seat
- High weight capacity
- Easy to open
Cons
- Pricey
- Learning curve (to fold)
- Small storage space
Related Post: 12 Tips for Traveling with Toddlers
GB Pockit+ All-Terrain
We recently purchased the GB Pockit+ All-Terrain to replace our Zoe Stroller, which our now four-year-old has outgrown.
We’ve been using it for two months in Costa Rica, so we have a full review coming soon, especially since we are heading to Europe in January, where we will put it to the test on cobblestone streets.
The GB Pockit is one of the original compact strollers for airplane travel. This stroller changed the industry by offering a lightweight and compact stroller for traveling families.
We love the all-terrain model because, in our opinion, it is one of the best travel strollers for flying. It has everything you need to fly with a baby.
This airplane travel stroller has eight wheels, making it easier to push on rough terrain or uneven streets. That’s why we think it’s one of the best strollers for airplane travel.
Unlike the original model, this version has a larger sun canopy, reclines, and better cushioning for a more comfortable ride. If your little one naps on the go, this is one of our favorite airplane strollers for travel.
This stroller maneuvers easier than other strollers, making it great for wheeling a suitcase while pushing your baby or toddler.
I will say from personal experience that this stroller can be hard to fold. Although it’s very compact, folding it is beyond annoying.
You can fold it with the wheels tucked in to be more compact or leave the back wheels extended, but if you plan on putting it in the overhead compartment on an airplane, tucking the wheels in is the best option.
I practiced at the gate a few times before getting on the airplane because we purchased the stroller a few days before leaving for La Fortuna, Costa Rica.
This stroller is lightweight, so you cannot hang anything heavy from the handlebars. That’s one of the things we loved about our Zoe Stroller.
The storage basket is small, which is expected when looking for the best stroller to fly with a baby or toddler.
So far, we like this airplane travel stroller. We’ll be sure to include everything in our full review after we get settled in Portugal.
Pros
- Very compact
- Easy to maneuver
- High weight capacity
- Double wheels
- Compatible with CYBEX car seats
Cons
- Difficult to fold
- Small sun canopy
Related Post: Our Baby Travel First-Aid Kit
Munchkin Sparrow Compact Stroller
The Munchkin Sparrow Compact Stroller is one of the newest airline-friendly strollers on the market. There aren’t many reviews, but I included it on our list of the best strollers for airplane travel because of its affordability.
The Munchkin Sparrow is the most affordable stroller for air travel on our list, making it the perfect option for budget-conscious families.
The high weight capacity (55 lbs.) ensures you get your money’s worth as your little one grows from a baby to a toddler.
If you live in a hot climate, you can use this stroller daily, as it has breathable mesh to keep your baby cool on hot summer days or for a nice walk along the beach.
Although this stroller isn’t one of the most well-known, it easily fits inside an airplane overhead compartment, making it the best value stroller for traveling by plane.
Unlike the other strollers on our list, this umbrella stroller for air travel includes a carrying bag. The bag protects your stroller, making it easy to load and unload on and off the airplane.
One of the downsides of this cabin-size stroller is the sun canopy. The sun canopy on this carry-on stroller is the smallest on our list.
If you are looking for an affordable alternative to the original GB Pockit, the Munchkin Sparrow stroller is perfect for your next flight.
Pros
- Very lightweight
- Breathable mesh
- Includes carrying bag
- High weight capacity
- Easy to fold
Cons
- Small sun canopy
- Short for taller parents
- Small storage basket
BabyZen YoYo2
The BabyZen YoYo2 is one of the most popular strollers for flying. We plan to purchase this stroller for our next little one in the next year or so.
This high-end compact airplane stroller has everything your little one needs to relax on the go. This bundle includes a shoulder strap and storage bag, making carrying it through an airport or on an airplane an easy task with a baby in tow.
Some features parents love about this airplane stroller are the padded handlebar, one-hand fold, tether strap, back pocket for additional storage, and trademarked suspension system.
Along with these features, the BabyZen Yoyo offers the ultimate comfort for babies and toddlers.
The canopy is treated with waterproofing, which allows your little one to stay dry during a downpour, which is essential if you are heading to Disney World with a toddler.
If you are looking for an airplane travel stroller that’ll last from birth to five years old, the BabyZen YoYo is a good investment for traveling families.
Even if you aren’t a frequent traveler, many parents use this as their everyday stroller for errands or to walk around the neighborhood.
I hope to purchase this stroller as our next airplane travel stroller for our next adventure as parents of two. We will keep you posted and write a review if we decide to get this high-end stroller.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Includes shoulder strap
- Additional storage pockets
- Easy fold and unfold
- Padded handlebar
- Waterproof canopy
- Additional accessories included
Cons
- Expensive
- Lower weight capacity
- Accessories are expensive to purchase
Related Post: Best Sit and Stand Strollers for Travel
Airport Stroller Comparison Table
Last update on 2025-02-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
4 Best Strollers for Flying with Toddlers
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Ergobaby Metro+
The Ergobaby Metro+ is our favorite traveling stroller for families with taller toddlers or preschoolers who refuse to walk long distances (like ours). The weight limit for this stroller is 50 lbs, so you’ll get more lifetime use for the price.
The Metro+ is one of the travel strollers that grows with your baby. Easily attach a compatible car seat to the stroller for babies under six months old and transition to the stroller for their toddler and preschool years.
The spring suspension system makes the ride less bumpy for those long walks or your next family trip to Europe, which is hell on strollers (thanks to the cobblestone, which is nice to look at but not functional).
There is mesh for additional airflow to keep your little one cool on those hot summer days or on your next trip to Disney World. Plus, there is an additional storage pocket in the back for small items.
For tall parents, the handlebar is adjustable, so no more hunching over to push your toddler through the airport. With an extension of over four inches, from 37 inches to as much as 41 inches, your back will love this compact travel stroller.
Overall, it’s easy to see why this is our favorite stroller for traveling with toddlers, especially if your little one is under two years old.
Note: Belly bars are available separately for toddlers that like to jump out of their strollers. That was our son when he learned how to unclip himself.
Pros
- High weight limit
- Fits in overhead bin
- Deep recline
- Spring suspension system
- Rainshield (included)
- Adjustable handlebar
Cons
- Accessories are expensive
- Storage opening in front
Metro+ Accessories
Last update on 2025-02-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
GB Pockit+ All City
Pros
- Ultra compact
- Lightweight
- High weight capacity
Cons
- Expensive
- Small sun canopy
Related Post: 10 Best Sun Hats for Toddlers
Baby Jogger® City Tour
Pros
- One-step fold
Cons
Safety 1st Teeny
Pros
Cons
Related Post: Best Double Strollers for Travel
Double Strollers for Flying Comparison Table
Last update on 2025-02-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Best Double Strollers for Traveling on an Airplane
We always include a section for parents with multiple little ones. Many bloggers leave out double strollers, but we want to provide recommendations for everyone.
The best airplane travel strollers in this list are lightweight double strollers that make traveling with multiple little ones easier.
The airplane double strollers in this section are lightweight, easy to fold, easy to maneuver, and affordable.
Summer 3Dpac CS+
The Summer 3Dpac CS+ is the lightest double stroller on our list for flying with kids. Along with being lightweight, it is a very affordable option for families on a budget.
For parents of an infant and toddler, this double stroller is the best for airplane travel. Infant car seats are compatible without an adapter, so your baby and toddler can ride together.
What I love about this stroller is the extra storage. There is storage underneath the stroller, but there are additional storage pockets behind each seat, making it easy to get to anything you need.
Another feature that I love about this stroller is the single brake pedal. Locking both wheels is annoying, so the single brake is perfect for busy parents, especially at the airport.
Each seat holds up to 50 lbs, so little ones of different ages can use this stroller for trips to long walks or theme parks.
The sun canopy on this stroller is smaller than I’d like. It doesn’t provide adequate shade for little ones compared to the other strollers on our list.
Overall, this is one of the best double strollers for airplane travel with infants and toddlers.
Pros
- Affordable
- Car seat compatable
- Attached parent cupholder
- Additional storage pockets
- Large storage capacity
Cons
- Can be difficult to fold
- Short sun canopy
Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller
Although the Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller is a little pricey, parents love this compact double stroller for traveling with little ones.
If you are looking for a stroller that’ll last several years, this is the airplane stroller for you. Although it is larger than some of the other strollers on our list, it folds more compactly than other double strollers on the market.
There are so many features to love about this airplane travel stroller. Each seat holds up to 50 lb., making this stroller perfect for toddlers up to four years old.
The most popular features include the additional storage pockets, one-step brake, large sun canopy, wide seats, large wheels, and one-hand folding.
Unlike the other strollers on our list, this stroller can handle an astounding 22 lbs of storage. This is not only perfect for getting around the airport, but this can be your everyday stroller for errands or walks around the neighborhood.
Many parents rave about this stroller’s maneuverability, which is essential when traveling with little ones. Also, it takes up less room; you will have more space in your trunk or garage compared to other double strollers.
Overall, if you are looking for a stroller for the long haul, the Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller is the best stroller for flying with babies and toddlers.
Pros
- Additional storage pockets
- Water repellant canopies
- Car seat compatable
- Large sun canopy
- One-Step Linked Brake
- 2-Year Warranty Guarantee
Cons
- Expensive
Related Post: The Best Baby Carriers for Travel
Jeep Destination Ultralight
The Jeep Destination Ultralight Stroller is perfect for families flying with little ones under three years old. Each seat holds up to 40 lbs, so it can last your little ones from as young as six months to four years old, depending on your child’s weight.
The large wheels make it perfect for a family trip to Europe or a hike through rough terrain. The back wheels have spring suspension for a more comfortable ride.
Unlike some of the other airplane strollers on our list, the storage basket is large enough to fit everything you need to explore with your little ones.
If you have an active little one, the belly bar is perfect for keeping them safe on the move. They can easily swing out to put your baby in or take them out of the stroller.
For little ones that still need a nap, the footrest is adjustable for your toddler to get comfortable for naptime. Each seat reclines independently, so one kid can sleep while the other plays or rides along.
One of the few complaints about this stroller is the quality of the seatbelt straps. Other travel strollers have more comfortable material, which can get uncomfortable after long periods.
Overall, if you are looking for a travel stroller that can double as your everyday stroller for errands, the Jeep Destination Ultralight stroller is an affordable option.
Pros
- Includes stroller carrying strap
- Large wheels
- Maneuvers well
- Swing out belly bars
- Shock-absorbing suspension
Cons
- Lower weight capacity
- Nylon straps are uncomfortable
Related Post: 10 Countries in Europe to Visit with Toddlers
Mompush Lithe Double Stroller
The Mompush Lithe Double Stroller is an affordable double-stroller for the infrequent traveler. You can use this stroller on walks around the neighborhood, for errands, or to visit theme parks.
Although this brand isn’t a household name, it is one of the lightest functional double strollers on the market for airplane travel.
The all-wheel suspension system makes it a smooth ride for little ones, even on rough terrain, which makes it one of the better options for traveling in Europe.
There are a few cons with this stroller, like any other item. Although the Mompush Lithe Double Stroller is a great overall stroller for flying with little ones, it may not fit the needs of every family.
One of the most noticeable differences between this stroller and the other travel strollers on our list is the size of the seats. The seats on this stroller are more narrow compared to other travel strollers.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Affordable
- One-step fold
- Extra storage
- Includes rain shield
- All-wheel suspension system
Cons
- Small/narrow seats
- Upright position has awkward recline
How to Choose the Best Travel Strollers for Air Travel
We know how much of an investment a stroller can be, especially when you have multiple little ones.
There are a lot of things to consider when it comes to choosing the best airplane stroller.
We’ve gone through a few different strollers over the year while traveling, and here is everything we look for when finding the best stroller for plane travel.
There is no particular order, but we look at affordability, ease of folding, maneuverability, weight, size, and the available accessories.
Easy to Fold
As a mom that’s traveled to over 12 countries with a baby (and now toddler), one of the most annoying things about strollers is folding them.
I’ve watched grandparents, dads, aunts, and uncles struggle to fold strollers over the years, and I understand their frustration.
Traveling with a little one is stressful enough, so one of the most important things when looking for the best stroller for airplane travel is how easy it is to fold.
If you purchase a new stroller before traveling, I highly recommend practicing how to fold it at the gate before boarding the plane.
When we purchased the GB Pockit+ All-Terrain, I practiced at the gate for over 20 minutes to save myself the headache of trying to close it before boarding the plane.
Price
We all know kids are expensive, especially when they are young. Strollers can range from a hundred to over a thousand dollars, depending on your needs.
Our buying guides help parents find the best travel gear for their little ones at an affordable price. Of course, affordability depends on your situation, so we include items in all price ranges.
The best strollers for airplane travel are between $200-$350 if you are looking for an airplane-friendly stroller that will last a few years.
Maneuverability
When traveling with a stroller, you will encounter different terrain, especially if you plan on traveling throughout Europe.
The best travel strollers have durable wheels that can withstand cobblestone, cracked sidewalks, and uneven pavement.
You need an agile stroller that is easy to push, especially if you are walking through an airport with a suitcase.
Travel strollers are lighter than traditional strollers, making them easy to push with one hand if needed.
Weight
Lightweight strollers are perfect for traveling because they are easy to maneuver for airplanes, trains, taxis, etc.
Some airlines have policies for stroller weight. Lighter strollers mean less hassle and frustration when traveling with little ones.
I do not recommend a single stroller over 15 lbs or a double stroller over 30 lbs for flying with young children.
Size (Dimensions)
The size of your travel stroller is crucial if you plan on storing it in the overhead airplane compartment. The standard carry-on size in the US is 22”x14”x9”, with slight variations between airlines.
International airlines have slightly different standards, but the US guidelines are a decent standard to use when traveling.
Most airlines allow you to bring your stroller onboard the airplane if it meets the carry-on restrictions and is properly folded to no longer resemble a stroller.
Accessories
Unlike regular strollers, most travel strollers do not include additional accessories.
A few airline-friendly strollers on our list include a parent cup holder, carrying bag, or shoulder strap to make traveling with your little one easier.
Although this isn’t a deal breaker, it is nice to have a few extra things included when spending a few hundred dollars on a lightweight travel stroller.