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- Best lightweight single stroller: Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller
- Best lightweight double stroller: Kolcraft Cloud Double Umbrella Stroller
- Best lightweight stroller for travel: Mountain Buggy Nano
- Best lightweight stroller with car seat: Graco Verb Click Connect Travel System
- Best lightweight stroller for toddlers: gb Pockit
- Best lightweight urban stroller Colugo The Compact Stroller
- Best lightweight reversible stroller: Summer 3DFlip Convenience Stroller
- Best lightweight compact stroller: Kolcraft Cloud Plus Stroller
- Best budget-friendly lightweight stroller: Jeep North Star Stroller
Weighing in at 24 pounds or less, lightweight strollers — or travel strollers — are designed with portability in mind, which makes them a great choice for parents who are on the go.
Lightweight strollers have all the compactness of an umbrella stroller, without totally compromising on amenities. Their simple designs are typically easy to fold so you carry them upstairs or stash them away in storage.
They’re ideal for public transportation or quick jaunts around a city. And while they’re not always as sturdy as a regular stroller, and may lack storage space and padding, their small size and light weight are worth it if you’re out and about.
Plus, lightweight strollers are usually easier to maneuver with one hand, which is certainly useful for those inevitable times when your hands are tied with a ringing phone, keys, and shopping bags.
A stroller is an investment, there’s no doubt about it. Think about who will be using the stroller — you may decide to buy a lightweight stroller as a second stroller option for times when someone else may be looking after your child.
Consider how often and how long you’ll use the stroller, along with your lifestyle, budget, and the features that are most important to you. Take into account where you’ll use it the most and the type of weather and terrain you’ll encounter. Research how easy it is to fold up, and if you can do it with one hand.
When it comes to features, consider details such as:
- added safety features — be sure to check for recalls and for the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) seal on the box
- weight (all of these are under 24 pounds, but most are under 15!)
- sun canopy
- car seat compatibility
- carrying straps
- wheels with suspension
- reclining options
- storage space
- stability
- ease of use
We’ve taken the time to get up to date on the best lightweight strollers available in a variety of categories. We’ve based our list on product research, best-seller lists, and all-important customer reviews.
Price guide
- $ = under $100
- $$ = $100–$200
- $$$ = over $200
Best lightweight single stroller
- Price: $
- Weight: 13 lbs.
- Age/weight range: 6 months to 50 lbs.
- Car seat compatible? no
The Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller is designed for parents who want a portable stroller that you can whip out, or stash away, at a moment’s notice. The seat reclines to four positions to give your little one options, while the canopy offers sun protection and privacy.
Worth noting: This stroller sits quite close to the ground, so your child’s feet may outgrow the footrest. Several parents mentioned that their child hooked their feet under the footrest, and a few even got their feet caught in the wheels — so this might not be the pick for taller kiddos.
Pros
- designed to fold and maneuver easily
- four recline positions
- carrying strap
Cons
- small canopy
- short 90-day warranty
- some customers complain of poor construction and cheap materials
Best lightweight double stroller
- Price: $$
- Weight: 23 lbs.
- Age/weight range: 40 lbs. per seat
- Car seat compatible? no
This option is worth considering for parents of a set of twins or young toddlers. The Kolcraft double stroller is lightweight by many standards, yet is equipped for two tots.
Parents say this stroller is a breeze to travel with, and its maneuverability allows you to cruise through doorways and city streets. Its three-tier canopy is complete with a peek-a-boo window, and it has extra storage space to boot.
Designed for the urbanite, this stroller has small wheels that aren’t suitable for bumpy or uneven terrain such as sand or gravel. A few parents complained that the seats don’t recline all the way, so keep this in mind if you envision peaceful naps for your kiddos.
Pros
- compact and lightweight
- large canopy provides shade
- plenty of storage
Cons
- seats do not recline flat
- too big for some car trunks
- small wheels may lack sturdiness
Best lightweight stroller for travel
- Price: $$$
- Weight: 13 lbs.
- Age/weight range: up to 44 lbs.
- Car seat compatible? yes
Compact and easy to pack, this stroller from Mountain Buggy comes with a travel bag and shoulder strap that’s designed for parents on the go. It also folds up small enough (12 x 22 x 20 inches) to bring as a carry-on for air travel.
With a fully reclining fabric sling seat, this stroller offers lying-down options for newborns (with an accompanying newborn cocoon). Parents rave that its durability will see your child through their toddler years and be ready for the next baby, should they come along.
Pros
- small enough to take on a plane
- designed to maneuver smoothly on uneven surfaces
- seat fully reclines
Cons
- folding requires two hands
- canopy lacks peekaboo window
- handle may be too low for taller individuals
Best lightweight stroller with car seat
- Price: $$$
- Weight: 19 lbs. (stroller only)
- Age/weight range: 1-month infant from 4-30 lbs. (car seat), child up to 50 lbs. (stroller)
- Car seat compatible? yes
If you’re in the market for a lightweight stroller that includes a car seat, the Graco Verb Click Connect Travel System might be worth checking out. According to the company, this stroller features added suspension to keep the ride smooth, and was designed with locking front-swivel wheels that help you steer as you navigate through crowds.
Parents say it’s a snap to fold, living up to the company claim of easy, one-hand folding — and it doesn’t take up a lot of space when you want to store it. Plus, getting a reliable stroller and car seat for under $150 is a pretty big deal.
Pros
- made for smooth maneuverability
- parents say it folds down and opens up easily
- quality construction
Cons
- heavy and bulky
- bottom basket is small and difficult to access
- minimal cushioning
Best lightweight stroller for toddlers
- Price: $$
- Weight: 9 1/2 lbs.
- Age/weight range: 6 months to 55 lbs.
- Car seat compatible? no
If you’re playing the long game, the gb Pockit can hold a child up to 55 pounds, plus 11 pounds of gear — meaning you can use it to hit the road from the time baby is 6 months old until they are around 5 years old.
Its collapsible design folds down with storage in mind, and it has a handle for carrying. The sun canopy was made to provide UV protection for those precious babes who love to have fun in the sun.
Note, however, that this version of the Pockit stroller doesn’t recline and the canopy is limited.
Pros
- lightest stroller on the list
- accommodates a wide weight and age range
- fits into airplane’s overhead compartment
Cons
- seat doesn’t recline
- small canopy
- handles are too low for taller people
Best lightweight urban stroller
- Price: $$$
- Weight: 16 lbs.
- Age/weight range: 6 months to 55 lbs.
- Car seat compatible? no
Available in a variety of color options, the The Compact Stroller from Colugo is another lightweight option designed to offer a one-hand fold. Made with the city-dweller in mind, the company says it was created to maneuver and ride smoothly over uneven surfaces. Parents love that it fits into the overhead compartment during flights and has a fully reclining seat.
The stroller comes with a carry bag and is equipped with an extended canopy for sun and rain protection. It also has storage space, a cup holder, and a removable washable lining.
Pros
- designed to fold with one hand
- variety of color options
- fits into airplane’s overhead compartment
Cons
- some users say the straps are tricky to use
- handles could be too low for taller people
Best lightweight reversible stroller
- Price: $$
- Weight: 14 lbs.
- Age/weight range: up to 25 lbs. (rear-facing), up to 50 lbs. (forward-facing)
- Car seat compatible? no
Offering a total of six different reclining positions (three rear, three forward-facing), the Summer 3DFlip Convenience Stroller is one of the most diverse in terms of sitting options. It features a reversible seat that allows you to change which direction your child is facing.
The 3DFlip is equipped with a small storage pocket, an adjustable canopy with a peek-a-boo window, and a cup holder for parents. A few folks noted that folding it open and closed takes some practice, but say that it’s manageable.
Pros
- multiple reclining positions
- made to maneuver on uneven surfaces
- reversible seat
Cons
- short 90-day warranty
- folding requires two hands
- some reviewers say it’s difficult to access the basket
Best lightweight compact stroller
- Price: $
- Weight: 12 lbs.
- Age/weight range: up to 50 lbs.
- Car seat compatible? no
For the jet-set family, this compact stroller was designed to pack a punch. The Kolcraft Cloud Plus includes a storage basket, a large canopy, and multiple drink holders.
Parents say it’s easy to fold up and stands on its own when folded, which is convenient when you’re managing luggage or multiple shopping bags. Several reviewers mentioned that they weren’t fans of the small cup holders, so if large drinks are your thing, you might consider buying your own attachable devices.
Pros
- parents say it’s easy to fold
- available in slate gray or fire red
- users say it stands on its own once folded
Cons
- small cup holders
- difficult to maneuver
- plastic wheels may break, squeak, and misalign
Best budget-friendly lightweight stroller
- Price: $
- Weight: 12 lbs
- Age/weight range: up to 40 lbs
- Car seat compatible? no
If you’re looking for a lightweight stroller that’s easy on your pocketbook, the Jeep North Star Stroller may be a good option. This stroller was designed to offer stability despite its light weight — and at least one parent found it was even suitable for going off-road, hiking huge hills, and traversing beaches.
Parents love the removable carry-all, storage basket, and adult cup holder. According to users, it’s also good for hot weather days, as the cushioned backs of the seat roll up to make a headrest and reveal a mesh backrest.
Pros
- large canopy
- high handles
- easy to maneuver on uneven terrain
Cons
- no shoulder straps
- seat is not adjustable
- small storage space
To select the best lightweight stroller for your needs, here are some factors to consider:
- Cost. Choose a lightweight stroller that’s within your budget. Think about how often you plan to use it and for how long. If you only plan to use it occasionally, go for a cheaper option. A more expensive, higher quality, model is probably worth the investment if you want to use it daily and for multiple children.
- Size. Pay attention to the size and weight of the stroller if you plan to pack it in a small closet or want to take it with you on an airplane or public transportation. Check out the age and weight ranges as well to make sure it’s a good fit for your needs.
- Quality. Select a high-quality lightweight stroller of solid construction with durable materials. It should offer easy foldability and maneuver smoothly across uneven terrain. It may have a canopy, reclining seat, and storage basket.
How do you travel with a stroller on a plane?
Most airlines allow you to check one stroller at the ticket counter as part of your checked luggage, free of cost. This is the best option for strollers too big to bring on the plane.
If you have a stroller small enough to meet the carry-on size and weight guidelines, you can check it at the gate. Some compact strollers will fit in the airplane’s overhead compartment.
Policies vary among airlines, so check out the baggage allowances before you fly.
What strollers lay completely flat?
Strollers for infants under 6 months typically lay completely flat. A stroller that fully reclines is the safest and most comfortable option for this age group since they aren’t strong enough to sit up or hold up their head.
Options include umbrella strollers, and car seat and stroller combinations (travel systems). Some jogger strollers lay flat, though babies must be at least 6 months old to ride in one.
What stroller is smallest?
Weighing in at 9 1/2 pounds, the gb Pockit is the smallest stroller on our list of top picks. This model folds up to 12 x 7 x 20 inches, making it easy to carry. It will even fit into larger bags and backpacks. You can purchase straps to convert it into a backpack.
Plenty of lightweight strollers are convenient for travel and easy to store between uses. Quality options are easy to fold and carry, yet provide enough sturdiness and durability to cover uneven terrain.
You can use this list to learn more about what the various strollers offer. Make your selection based upon which criteria or features are most important for your needs.