Taking a trip with a newborn or a toddler for the first time will inevitably pose new travel challenges for you. Bringing a stroller along can help to make it easier and more enjoyable for you to travel with your little one in tow.
Depending on where your travels are taking you, your daily use stroller may not be the most suitable model to use while on your trip.
We’ve compiled a list of stroller features and travel factors that will help you to determine which type of stroller will be best suited for your travel plans.
Factors to Consider when Choosing a Stroller for Travel:
Stroller Weight
When choosing a stroller to use while traveling, be sure to keep the stroller’s weight in mind when selecting a specific model. While you may prefer a sturdy, heavy-duty stroller for daily use, your may find that it will be too heavy for traveling especially if you will need to carry the stroller at some point during the trip.
Stroller Space
While the storage space on your stroller may not be a top priority for your daily stroller use, you might decide that you’ll require more while traveling. To determine how much storage space you’ll need, consider what baby necessities you’ll need to carry with you and how long you’ll be away from your hotel room (or other accommodations). It is also a good idea to allow for extra space in case you decide to do some shopping during the day.
Travel Destination
Before purchasing a stroller for your trip, take into consideration what you will be doing while using your stroller and what types of terrain you are most likely to encounter. The possibility of bridges, public transportation use, stairways and uneven streets are all situations that may affect the performance of your stroller. Choosing a stroller type and model that can handle your trip destination landscape will make the trip more enjoyable for you and your children.
Travel Schedule
If your child will be in the stroller during his usual naptime while you site see, you should consider a travel stroller with a reclining seat so that he can sleep more comfortably. Additionally, if your child will be riding in the stroller for extended periods of time each day, a stroller seat with extra padding will prove to be much more comfortable for him then a sling seat in an umbrella stroller would be.
Transportation Method
If you will be traveling by plane, train or cruise ship, you should call prior to your trip to obtain information about traveling with a stroller. This will allow you to receive information on luggage restrictions and find out where your stroller will be stored while in transit to your destination. When your travel plans involve driving your personal vehicle, be sure that you’ll have plenty of room to store your stroller as well as your luggage.
Other Helpful Tips for Stroller Travel
Regardless of how you are traveling or where your destination is, there are a few stroller travel tips that can help to ensure that your trip goes smoothly.
- Be sure to label your stroller with your name and contact information.
- Bring a small stroller maintenance and repair kit along for the trip.
- Don't forget to pack stroller accessories that you may need while on the trip (like a sunshade).
If you need more guidance in choosing a stroller, take a look at our Stroller Buying Guide and article on Baby Stroller Types. Choosing the right stroller for your needs will ensure that traveling with your stroller is easy and stress-free.
