When it comes to getting a ride for a baby, some parents want to go all out. They want the best wheels, the most comfortable seat, and the most safety features they could get from a stroller and often upgrade to one of the best double strollers or jogging strollers available when second or subsequent babies come along.

After all, a stroller will contain one of the most precious things on earth—your baby! But all of these amazing features usually come with a hefty price tag and the need to sacrifice space and convenience. Many strollers are bulky, hard to maneuver, and heavy. The last thing any parent needs is to struggle with a stroller!

This is especially true when traveling. Having the best lightweight stroller on hand is essential whether you’re going on a road trip or flying out. Luckily, it’s not that hard to find the right lightweight stroller for you and your child. There are many options out there that range from the simple umbrella stroller to the more versatile travel system.

No matter your budget, your child’s age, and your purpose, you can find the best lightweight stroller with this handy guide. Turn any holiday or vacation with the kids into a breeze with the help of a lightweight stroller that does the job without taking too much space or being too heavy.

Joggers are one of the most stylish ways you can bring your baby around town. But most joggers are big, bulky, and difficult to maneuver. They can also be hard for parents to handle alone and are meant to be used only for recreational jogs and walks. But they’re not the most useful when running errands around town or when traveling.

That is, until the 2016 edition of the Baby Jogger City Mini GT Stroller. This stroller has the style of a jogger but more functionality and ease of use. It’s got three all-terrain wheels that resist becoming flat and ensure a smooth ride over most surfaces. Whether you’re going over paths, trails, or sidewalks, your baby will have a comfortable ride in this stroller. Weighing only 22.5 pounds, this jogger is considerably lighter than others and can easily be carried by a parent on the go.

Despite its weight, it can hold up to 65 lbs in its plush padded seat. It can be transformed into a travel system as its car seat compatible and can also be fitted with various other accessories (sold separately) for your convenience. The basket that comes with this stroller isn’t the biggest and can be a bit tough to access because of its design.

It folds up easily so you can travel through airports with this without any trouble. The adjustable handles are great for parents of different heights as taller parents won’t have to hunch over to push this. The canopy is large and provides a lot of sun protection while the peek-a-boo windows can let you regularly check in on your baby.

Key Features
  • One-hand and quick-fold technology
  • All-terrain non-flat tires
  • Adjustable handlebars
Specifications
  • Jogger: Yes
  • Double: No
  • Number of Wheels: 3
  • Weight Limit: 65 lbs
  • Car Seat Compatible: Yes
  • Umbrella: No
  • Warranty: None
Pros
  • Can be transformed into a travel system with car seat
  • Good shock absorption
  • Easy to fold and unfold
Cons
  • No drink or cup holder
  • Doesn’t have the most storage space
  • Seat doesn’t go fully upright

Finding the best lightweight stroller that is also sturdy and well-made isn’t a challenge with the 3Dlite Convenience Stroller of Summer Infant. At just 13 pounds, this stroller is great for those who travel by air with their young children. It features a compact fold with a convenient carry strap so you can breeze through airport security and gate-checks. This stroller also has ample storage so you can bring around your and your baby’s things with no problems. Another unique thing about this lightweight umbrella stroller is that it has a cup holder that can fit a standard-sized bottle. This lightweight stroller has enough features that it makes a great everyday stroller as well as one for travel. The padded seat is comfortable and reclines into 4 positions. It’s great so your child can easily take a nap in this stroller while out and about. The adjustable canopy doesn’t look that big at first but it actually provides a lot of shade for your little one. Despite being lightweight and compact, this stroller is tall enough for 6-footer parents to push. Unfortunately, the seat isn’t that long. Tall children will be uncomfortable sitting in this stroller. But the stroller is sturdy and can hold up to 50 pounds. The wheels are also great for uneven surfaces and cobblestone streets so you can easily navigate unpaved areas while traveling. It’s easy to fold down once you get the hang of it, but it may require practice and two hands in the beginning. If you’re an on-the-go parent with a young child, this could be the best lightweight stroller for you.

Key Features
  • Weighs 13 pounds
  • Anti-shock front wheels
  • 3-step fold
Specifications
  • Jogger: No
  • Double: No
  • Number of Wheels: 4
  • Weight Limit: 50 lbs
  • Car Seat Compatible: No
  • Umbrella: No
  • Warranty: None
Pros
  • Comfortable padded seat that fully reclines
  • Good for air travel
  • Ample storage space
Cons
  • Can’t steer or fold with one hand
  • Not for tall children
  • Doesn’t stand when folded

If you’re looking for a no-nonsense lightweight stroller that’s not going to break the bank, then the Baby Trend Rocket Lightweight Stroller is a solid option.

This stroller is great for traveling as it weighs only 10 pounds and folds vertically into a very compact shape. It’s slim enough to fit in overhead compartments and car trunks without taking much space. It’s also easy to assemble and fold. This stroller comes with an organizer tray so you can store your valuables like a phone, keys, and other small items. It also features two cup holders so you can be hands-free while out with your child. However, the stroller can’t be maneuvered easily with just one hand. It’s also quite narrow, so bigger or older children might not be comfortable in the stroller’s seat.

Because of the narrow frame, you have to be careful not to trip on the stroller’s back wheels while walking. The canopy is quite small so it won’t be of much help when walking in the sun. This stroller is great as a cheaper travel stroller as it gets the job done. It’s appropriate for your toddler to take breaks in while you go around an amusement park or for short trips where you need to fold the stroller. The seat doesn’t recline so much so it’s not comfortable enough for your child to take naps in. But many toddlers seem to have no problem with this stroller and it can make a good companion on international trips and vacations.

Key Features
  • Comfort grip handles
  • Organizer tray with two cup holders
  • Compact fold
Specifications
  • Jogger: No
  • Double: No
  • Number of Wheels: 4
  • Weight Limit: 50 lbs
  • Car Seat Compatible: No
  • Umbrella: Yes
  • Warranty: None
Pros
  • Easy to assemble and use
  • Light and folds small
  • Moves smoothly
Cons
  • Quite narrow
  • Doesn’t recline a lot
  • Short frame

Many parents look for a lightweight stroller that will specifically be used when traveling with their child. If you’re only going to use a stroller a couple of times a year, you’d want something that is light enough that you don’t have to worry about it when touring around or doing a lot of walking. It also helps if the stroller you get isn’t too expensive so that you don’t stress out if it gets damaged while in transit.

Umbrella strollers are made for these particular reasons. They’re inexpensive, convenient, and super light. They’re not always the most comfortable of strollers but they’ll appease your tired child in a pinch. The Disney Baby Umbrella Stroller with Canopy is a great travel stroller option. It’s simple and folds into a slim and compact size so it won’t take up much room in a trunk, overhead compartment, or closet. This stroller is easy to carry and weighs only 10 pounds but can hold up to 40 pounds. The fun Winnie the Pooh design is also a plus for Pooh bear fans!

This basic stroller has a decent sized canopy so your baby is shielded from the sun’s rays. Because it is an umbrella stroller, there’s no way for the seat of this stroller to recline. It can be uncomfortable for children if used for long periods of time because they won’t be able to lay back much. It’s also pretty sturdy for a super lightweight stroller but it’s definitely not for everyday use, and there’s no space for storing baby bags or any other items. Tall parents also might find it hard to push this stroller as it’s a bit short.

Key Features
  • Simple and compact umbrella fold
  • 3-point safety harness
  • Super lightweight
Specifications
  • Jogger: No
  • Double: No
  • Number of Wheels: 4
  • Weight Limit: 40 lbs
  • Car Seat Compatible: No
  • Umbrella: Yes
  • Warranty: None
Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Compact
  • Design is fun and gender-neutral
Cons
  • Short and small frame
  • Not the sturdiest
  • Non-adjustable seat

Traveling with a baby can get pretty cumbersome. You’re lugging around the baby’s bag, toys, stroller, and car seat on top of running errands or doing some grocery shopping. One way to downsize how many items you’ll be bringing for your baby is to invest in a travel system like the Graco Verb Travel System Stroller.

This stroller comes with a rear-facing car seat that easily clicks onto the stroller. While the stroller itself is lightweight, you can definitely use this travel system while you have a younger baby and then keep it until they can fit in the stroller. The car seat can fit up to 30 pounds and can be completely covered with the canopy when snapped into the stroller. This stroller can easily be folded with one hand and even stands on its own. There’s no need to rest dirty wheels on a wall or in your closet with this stroller. Your baby is sure to get a smooth ride with this stroller that’s equipped with suspension and a locking front-swivel wheel.

This means you can easily maneuver this stroller with one hand without sacrificing safety and style. The stroller also comes with convenience features like the parent and child’s tray that has cup holders and a storage basket underneath the stroller. The basket is a bit smaller than others but it can hold a decent amount of items. Also, make sure to check if your car is compatible with this car seat as it doesn’t fit on all types of vehicles. You might have to buy an extra accessory to use it in your car.

Key Features
  • Rear-facing car seat
  • One-hand, self-standing fold
  • Suspension and locking front-swivel wheel
Specifications
  • Jogger: No
  • Double: No
  • Number of Wheels: 4
  • Weight Limit: Stroller: 50 lbs; Car seat: 30 lbs
  • Car Seat Compatible: Yes
  • Umbrella: No
  • Warranty: None
Pros
  • Comes with a rear-facing car seat that clicks into stroller
  • Can be pushed with one hand
  • Easy to maneuver and assemble
Cons
  • Car seat needs more neck and head support
  • Not the most sturdy
  • Storage basket is small

Some of the best and most expensive strollers can be bulky, difficult to use, and hard to bring around. Sometimes all you need when out and about with your child is a lightweight stroller that folds into a compact size and isn’t a pain to carry around when not in use. Enter the Jeep North Star Stroller, a lightweight stroller weighing in at 11.68 pounds. The padded seat can be rolled up to reveal a mesh backing so your child stays comfortable even during warmer days. The size of this stroller is Disney-approved so you can easily maneuver around the park and through gates and turnstiles. It features an extendable European-style canopy so your baby is safe from harmful UV rays. It also has a 3-point safety harness and a cup holder.

The storage basket of this stroller is spacious and can hold quite a lot, but the entire stroller can be folded down umbrella style to be slim and space-saving. The handles are long enough for taller parents to push this stroller comfortably. The seat doesn’t recline so it’s not appropriate for younger babies who need to nap often. But it’s great for children who like to sit up in their stroller. It’s also easy to travel in airports with this stroller as it can easily be folded up and stored for gate-checks. Find yourself in a crowded restaurant?

The Jeep North Star Stroller can be tucked away under your table until you’re ready to use it again. It’s great for both city-dwellers or city-visitors.

Key Features
  • Padded mesh seat and comfortable headrest
  • Suspension system and front-swivel wheels
  • Calf support and footrest
Specifications
  • Jogger: No
  • Double: No
  • Number of Wheels: 4
  • Weight Limit: 40 lbs
  • Car Seat Compatible: No
  • Umbrella: Yes
  • Warranty: None
Pros
  • Lightweight but sturdy
  • Easy to fold and assemble
  • Large visor and storage compartment
Cons
  • Doesn’t recline
  • Not one-handed fold
  • Not the easiest to maneuver

Did you know that double strollers aren’t just for parents with twins? With strollers like the JOOVY Twin Groove Ultralight Umbrella Stroller, you can fit two children of different ages in one stroller. This stroller can be used by newborns and children of up to 50 lbs.

One of the unique features of this lightweight umbrella stroller is that the seat reclines to a near-flat position. That means your baby can take a nap easily or even have their diaper changed in this stroller. However, because of the reclining design, this stroller doesn’t allow children to sit all the way up.

If your child prefers to sit up at almost 90 degrees so they can see ahead of them, this might not be the stroller for you. Your child might get tired from leaning forward to sit up while in this stroller. The JOOVY Twin Groove Ultralight Umbrella Stroller features 3 cup holders and ample storage baskets underneath. The baskets are not the biggest but they provide enough room to hold two baby’s worth of things. The large canopy provides a lot of sun protection and the whole stroller can be fitted with a ventilated, see-through rain cover. This umbrella stroller is not meant for surfaces that aren’t smooth, and can easily be tipped over if you run over uneven pavement or small potholes. Despite the name, it’s not the most lightweight of strollers and does require a bit of strength to carry it around. With the strap, you can make further journeys while carrying this slightly heavy stroller.

Key Features
  • Near-flat recline
  • UPF 50 canopy with peek-a-boo window
  • Auto-fold lock
Specifications
  • Jogger: No
  • Double: Yes
  • Number of Wheels: 6
  • Weight Limit: 100 lbs
  • Car Seat Compatible: No
  • Umbrella: Yes
  • Warranty: None
Pros
  • Can recline
  • Tall handles
  • Large sun shades
Cons
  • Not the most lightweight
  • Only for smooth pavements
  • Child can’t sit up straight in it

Strollers don’t have to bland and boring! Make them fun and more enjoyable for your child by getting a stroller with a fun design or print. With the Cosco Umbrella Stroller, you get both fun and function at a bargain. They have several monster-themed designs available depending on your or your child’s preference.

This lightweight stroller features a simple umbrella fold that doesn’t take up a ton of space. It’s super lightweight so you won’t have any problem toting this along on your travels or during short trips. The cute design is often enjoyed by both parents and their children. It has several safety features like a double foot brake and a three-point safety belt.

This is a great stroller for when you’re waiting at the doctor’s office and don’t always have a place to sit for your baby. However, this isn’t the easiest stroller to maneuver. The plastic wheels can be hard to push and turn especially on uneven surfaces. It’s also not that tall, so parents might have to hunch or bend to push this stroller. The canopy, while very cute, doesn’t provide a ton of sun protection so you will have to shield your baby in other ways, like with shades or a hat. It’s great for traveling on public transportation though as it folds up really small and is very light.

You won’t have any problems traveling on subways or buses with this stroller, and it folds open pretty easily. It’s not for long walks in theme parks or zoos, but it does the trick when you want convenience at a budget.

Key Features
  • Cute monster design
  • Super compact size
  • Lightweight
Specifications
  • Jogger: No
  • Double: No
  • Number of Wheels: 4
  • Weight Limit: 40 lbs
  • Car Seat Compatible: No
  • Umbrella: Yes
  • Warranty: None
Pros
  • Super lightweight
  • Cute design
  • Upright position doesn’t flip over
Cons
  • Hard to steer
  • Seat doesn’t recline
  • Handles are short

Some umbrella strollers can be too flimsy while other lightweight strollers can be difficult to fold and maneuver. If you’re looking for a lightweight stroller that’s got both the ease of using an umbrella stroller but the sturdiness of a regular stroller, then the Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Stroller might be the best choice for you.

This stroller features a one-hand, self-standing fold and weighs only 11.8 pounds. It’s Disney-approved so you can easily enter through the park’s turnstiles and hop on buses with this stroller. It comes with an extended canopy so your child is perfectly safe from the sun’s harsh UV rays. But you can still keep checking on your child thanks to the canopy’s peek-a-boo window panel.

The seat also slightly reclines so your child can get a bit more comfortable while in this stroller. It doesn’t recline all the way back, but some children were still able to take naps in this. It’s better for kids who like to sit up while in a stroller so they can see what’s going on around them or play with toys on the tray attachment on the front.

The basket underneath is roomy for large bags but it’s hard to access once the seat is reclined. The parent tray is convenient with two cup holders but they can be a bit shallow. It’s not the smoothest ride over uneven surfaces as it’s not a jogger but it does work for long days of travel or touring.

Key Features
  • Easy one-hand and self-standing fold
  • Extended canopy with peek-a-boo window
  • Reclining seat
Specifications
  • Jogger: No
  • Double: No
  • Number of Wheels: 4
  • Weight Limit: 50 lbs
  • Car Seat Compatible: No
  • Umbrella: No
  • Warranty: None
Pros
  • Self-standing fold can be done with one hand
  • Sturdy
  • Disney-approved size
Cons
  • Cup holders are small
  • Seat doesn’t recline that far
  • Can’t roll the stroller once it’s folded

Traveling light with a baby or young child in tow isn’t impossible with the help of modern strollers like the Pockit Lightweight Stroller.

Weighing at only 9.5 pounds, this stroller is the lightest one available in the market. It was awarded a Guinness World Record in 2014 for being the world’s most compact stroller. You can fold this stroller in two steps down to just 11.8 x 7 x 13.8 inches. This tiny stroller can fold down small enough to be a carry-on item in an airplane, making it the most convenient for traveling parents. Despite being very lightweight and incredibly compact, this stroller is still durable.

It can hold a child weighing up to 55 pounds plus hold a whopping 11 pounds in its storage basket underneath. It features an adjustable padded safety harness to fit your growing child. This stroller also reclines slightly so that your baby can nap comfortably in it. The reclining system can easily get worn as you just cinch a strap to keep the stroller upright.

After some time, the strap can slide back on its own. But seeing as it’s a travel stroller, this is a minor con that can easily be fixed with a carabiner. This stroller does well on uneven surfaces like cobblestone. Because of its small frame, it can be a bit difficult to walk behind. However, it’s easy to push with one hand so you can add more distance between your feet and the back wheels.

Key Features
  • World’s most compact stroller
  • One-hand pushing and steering
  • Can hold up to 55 lbs
Specifications
  • Jogger: No
  • Double: No
  • Number of Wheels: 4
  • Weight Limit: 55 lbs
  • Car Seat Compatible: No
  • Umbrella: No
  • Warranty: None
Pros
  • Super lightweight
  • Reclines
  • Works on uneven surfaces
Cons
  • Not the most sturdy
  • Can be hard to walk behind
  • Sunshade is useless

Choosing the right stroller can be a tough decision to make. There are so many factors to consider other than the size and price. You have to think about whether it’s right to get a travel system so you have a car seat that can snap into the stroller, a jogger for trail runs and hikes with your baby, or a lightweight stroller that’s perfect for travel. Here’s one thing to understand when it comes to getting a stroller: you will have to buy more than one. Strollers don’t last forever and there won’t be one that suits every single need. Strollers for newborn babies are different than those for kids older than 6 months. There are joggers, travel systems, and umbrella strollers all coming with different price tags and features. Which one is for you?

A basic stroller set-up for many families would be to have one stroller that you can use for everyday activities and another that you can bring around when traveling or going on vacation. Vacations or traveling with children means you will have a lot of stuff in tow, from bottles to diapers and beyond. Bringing around a heavy stroller is cumbersome and it might not even fit in a car full of luggage. The last thing you need when traveling with a child 6 months or older is to struggle with a bulky stroller. That’s why you need to get the best lightweight stroller for your needs.

Lightweight strollers are sometimes interchanged with umbrella strollers. Umbrella strollers are super lightweight and can be easily folded, like an umbrella (hence the name). They’re also usually cheaper and don’t have a lot of room or strength to store diaper bags and other baby needs. Umbrella strollers are also not for newborn babies; they’re more suited for children who can hold their head up independently.

Joggers are strollers with three wheels instead of four and are meant for going over rough terrain. They’re usually on the heavier side and can be difficult to fold. It’s rare that you’ll find a jogger that is lightweight because more weight is needed for a smooth ride. Many three-wheeled lightweight strollers are called joggers because they look like joggers, but they’re not actually meant for all-terrain jogs or long trail walks. Keep this in mind when on the hunt for the best lightweight stroller and you prefer the jogger look. Chances are a lightweight jogger will ride well over uneven surfaces and cobblestone, but it’s not suitable for actual jogs.

Is a lightweight stroller even good for your child? Many parents think that a lightweight stroller is light because they’re not sturdy or well-made. While there are strollers out there that basically just fabric slung like hammocks on wheels, more weight doesn’t always mean better quality. There are many lightweight strollers that are made of high-grade material, and you can pick what best fits your budget and needs in this handy guide.

Resources— Stroller Envy, Stroller Envy, Parents.com

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