One of the first things on a new parent's to-do list? Finding the perfect stroller. You’re going to be using it practically every day in all sorts of places, so it needs to be just right for your family.

To save you from spiraling into the never-ending abyss of stroller research, we've taken one for the team. After listening to thousands of Babylist parent reviews and clocking in serious stroll-time ourselves, we've crowned the Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 as the go-to stroller for most families. With its sweet spot of affordability and top-notch performance, this stroller is a breeze to push, effortlessly folds up, and conquers most terrains like a champ.

But we know stroller preferences can be as unique as your little one’s personality. That’s why we’ve also handpicked six other top contenders in niches like the best travel stroller, the most budget-friendly option, and the ultimate jogger. So buckle up—you're just a scroll away from finding your stroller soulmate!

 

The Best Strollers

• Best Overall: Best Over Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 Stroller
• Best Convertible: UPPAbaby Vista V2 Stroller
• Best Travel System: Chicco Corso LE Modular Travel System
• Best Affordable: Graco Modes Pramette Stroller 
• Best Stroller Car Seat Hybrid: Doona Infant Car Seat & Stroller
• Best Travel: Joolz Aer+ Lightweight Stroller
• Best Jogging: BOB Wayfinder Single Jogging Stroller

How We Chose the Best Strollers

Suspension and Maneuverability: Imagine gliding through the park without a bump in the road. A smooth, easy-to-steer stroller is a dream come true for both you and your baby. We made sure our top picks deliver a breezy stroll every time.

Ease of Use: No one has time for complicated contraptions. We've handpicked strollers that are straightforward and simple to use. We focused on foldability, size, and weight because, let's face it, those are make-or-break features for today’s busy parents. We listened to thousands of Babylist parents to ensure we got this right.

Features: Convenience is key! Our chosen strollers come with thoughtful extras like large canopies, ample storage, multiple recline options, and adjustable handlebars. These features make sure you and your little one enjoy maximum comfort on every outing.

Value: From budget-friendly options to premium picks, strollers can range from under $100 to over $1,000. We didn’t shy away from considering the price, aiming to provide choices that offer the best bang for your buck, no matter your budget.

 

Best Overall

Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 (Buy on Amazon)

Baby Jogger’s City Mini stroller has been the rockstar on our best-of list for years—a remarkable feat given all the stroller shakeups in the market over the past half-decade.

Choosing the ultimate stroller can be like picking the best pizza topping—everyone's got their tastes. But the City Mini GT2 just nails it. Whether you’re a city slicker or a suburban trailblazer, this stroller’s got your back. Praised by Babylist parents seeking high-end features under $500, it’s a harmonious blend of price and pizzazz. It won’t break the bank but offers premium perks that’ll make you feel like you’ve hit the stroller jackpot. Easy to push and steer? Check. All-terrain forever air rubber wheels and all-wheel suspension? Double check. A near-flat seat recline? You bet. And the fold! It’s a one-handed, under-five-seconds dream that’s so intuitive you’ll never, ever have to Google “How do I fold my City Mini GT2?” Seriously.

Plus, it’s a team player with a broad range of infant car seats, including favorites like Britax, Nuna, Chicco, Graco, and UPPAbaby, making it perfect for assembling a top-notch travel system.

So, what’s the catch? The slightly small basket and the one-way seat (it only faces forward, no peek-a-boo eye contact here). Also, heads up—Baby Jogger used to offer a simpler version called the City Mini (sans GT2), but they've retired it in favor of this upgraded model.

In a nutshell, the City Mini GT2 is a stellar all-rounder for parents wanting a little luxury without the luxury price tag.

Pros:

• Super quick + compact fold
• 3-wheel design = easy to maneuver

• Rides smoothly on rough terrain like grass, dirt and gravel

Cons:

• Doesn’t maneuver well through sand or snow
• Small storage basket; large diaper bags and bulky items may not fit
• Seat only faces outward; no parent-facing option

Additional Specs

Stroller Weight	22 lbs
Age Range	6 mos up to 65 lbs; from birth with car seat

 

Parent Review

"This is literally the only stroller we've ever used, and our daughter is now 17 months old. We bought it when she was around 4 months. The setup couldn't have been simpler—just snapping on the wheels. We love its smooth steering, and the forever air tires are fantastic on nearly any surface. The stroller also folds up effortlessly. It’s incredibly useful that it reclines almost fully flat, which is perfect for nap times and quick diaper changes on the go. This stroller is built to last for years, as it can support a larger child, and our daughter is quite petite. We can’t recommend it highly enough as a daily-use stroller!" — mantam12

 

Best Convertible

UPPAbaby Vista V2 Stroller (Buy on Amazon)

Nearly 30% of the 6,000+ Babylist users in our Best Baby Products survey crowned the Vista V2 as their stroller MVP, calling its quality “unmatched.” Some even said it was the absolute best item on their entire baby registry. As a New York City mom who’s put this stroller through its paces multiple times a day for years, I wholeheartedly agree.

A Stroller That Grows with Your Family - The Vista V2 is all about adaptability, perfect for growing families. Right from birth, you can use the included bassinet for stroller naps or even overnight sleep. “A bassinet is a great option because it allows babies to move freely during their stroll,” says English. “I also adore bassinet strolls for newborns—they engage their visual and vestibular systems as they marvel at trees, clouds, or a hanging mobile. It's fantastic for their development.”

Prefer a car seat? No problem! Pair the Vista with UPPAbaby's own Mesa or Aria infant car seats, or other top-rated infant car seats with adapters. When your little one gets older, switch the bassinet for a front or rear-facing toddler seat. Adding another tiny human to the mix? The multi-directional Rumble Seat or the PiggyBack Ride-Along Board has you covered for the older sibling.

Performance That Shines - When it comes to performance, the Vista V2 hits it out of the park. Its suspension system can tackle pretty much anything—high curbs, bumpy sidewalks, and even off-road adventures. The telescoping handlebar is a godsend for parents and caregivers of different heights (I’m 5’10” and find it super comfy), and the full-recline seat along with the extendable canopy ensures top-notch comfort for your kiddo. Plus, the HUGE storage basket? Perfect for fitting a few days' worth of groceries after a walk to the store. 

The Fine Print - Yes, the Vista V2 is on the larger side, even when folded. It’s also a bit of an investment, and some parents find the inline design a bit challenging when pushing it loaded with two (or more) kids. (FYI, all inline strollers have this quirk, not just the Vista V2.)

A More Compact Option - If you’re a fan of UPPAbaby but want something a bit more compact and budget-friendly, check out the Cruz V2. It’s a single stroller with no double-stroller aspirations (though you can add a PiggyBack board for an older child to stand and ride along), but it boasts many of the Vista’s parent-loved features in a more streamlined package.

Pros:

• Stroller can fit up to 3 kids (with attachments; sold separately)
• All-wheel suspension + effortless steering and turning
• 30% of Babylist parents voted for this as their favorite stroller

Cons:

• Expensive
• Bulky fold
• Harder to push and steer with 2+ kids

Additional Specs

Stroller Weight	Frame + bassinet, 28.8 lbs; Frame + seat, 27 lbs
Age Range	Bassinet suitable from birth up to 20 lbs or until infant can push up on hands and knees; toddler seat from three months up to 50 lbs

 

Parent Review

"Absolutely thrilled with the option to include extra seats. Adore the size and how easily it moves. So pleased with the bassinet too. We purchased the stand and have used it in our bedroom for our three children. Now with our third child, the stroller still appears and functions like it's brand new—it's astonishing! Definitely a wise investment." — Clair S.

 

 

Best Travel System

Chicco Corso LE Modular Travel System (Buy on Amazon)

When it comes to travel systems (that’s your car seat + stroller combo, all in one), the price can swing anywhere from a few hundred bucks to well over a thousand. The Chicco Corso sits comfortably in the middle and packs a serious punch with its quality and features, making it our top pick among Chicco’s travel system lineup.

The Car Seat: KeyFit 35: The KeyFit 35 is a hit with parents everywhere—and for good reason. It's our top choice for the best infant car seat overall. Why? It’s a breeze to install, brimming with safety features, and suitable for babies of all shapes and sizes. Plus, it's perfect for extended rear-facing use, offering ample headroom and supporting up to 35 pounds.

The Stroller: High-End Features at a Mid-Range Price

The Corso stroller shines with features you'd usually find in more expensive models. It's a joy to push and steer, thanks to large, foam-filled tires and rear-wheel suspension. You'll love the modular seat with multiple recline options, an adjustable canopy and footrest, and the one-handed, self-standing fold. These thoughtful extras make strolling easy and comfortable for both you and your little one.

One standout feature? The seat can pop off completely, transforming the stroller into a lightweight frame when using the infant car seat alone. This is a game-changer, as many travel systems require attaching the infant seat over the toddler seat, adding bulk and making it tougher to manage. And while the handlebar on the Corso isn’t adjustable, it remains easy to push—even for tall parents like me!

Pros:

• Includes parent-favorite car seat
• Has several high-end features for mid-range price
• Rear suspension and rubber tires = smooth ride

Cons:

• Handlebar isn’t adjustable
• Storage basket only holds up to 10 lbs
• No snack tray available

Additional Specs

Stroller Weight	Stroller: 24.8 lbs; Infant car seat: 8.5 lbs
Age Range	Stroller: 6-60 mos or from birth with infant car seat, up to 50 lbs; Infant car seat: 4-35 lbs, up to 32”

 

Parent Review

"As a Child Passenger Safety Technician, I have complete faith in Chicco and their products. The KeyFit35's installation process is incredibly straightforward. The car seat itself is both comfortable and robust. I am also a big fan of this stroller! It folds easily with one hand and sports a sleek design. The flower-like wheels and leather handle give it a stunning look. The color is also gorgeous. I would recommend it to anyone." — O. Mabin

 

Best Affordable Stroller

Graco Modes Pramette Stroller (Buy on Amazon)

The Pramette, part of Graco’s Modes stroller collection, is like getting three strollers for the price of one—approximately $200 to be exact. It functions as an infant car seat carrier, an infant pramette (that’s stroller-speak for bassinet), and a toddler stroller. This means you can use it right out of the box from day one, which is why it’s our top pick among Graco’s many offerings.

New parents, take note: "Most babies are not ready for standard strollers until they’re at least six months old," explains parenting expert English. This is news to many first-timers! "It all depends on their core, trunk, and head control," she elaborates. The Pramette has you covered—the sides of the toddler seat fold down, and the seat itself flattens to create a newborn-friendly space. Hello, instant bassinet! This spares you the cost and storage hassles of buying a separate bassinet. Plus, the seat is modular, which is a major bonus at this price point. Other parent-friendly features include a one-handed fold and a handy cup and phone holder.

However, the Pramette does have a few trade-offs. It lacks the suspension of more expensive models, making for a slightly bumpier ride according to many parents and our own testing. It’s also not as nimble when making turns. Assembly can take a little time—usually around 30 minutes. And, the handlebar isn’t adjustable.

Pros:

• Includes parent-favorite car seat
• Has several high-end features for mid-range price
• Can use from birth (seat turns into a bassinet)

Cons:

• Handlebar isn’t adjustable
• Less suspension = a bumpier ride
• Takes time to assemble

Additional Specs

Stroller Weight	20.86 lbs
Age Range	Newborn up to 50 lbs

 

Parent Review

"I have a baby and a toddler, and I really appreciate how smoothly this stroller switches between my toddler and my infant. I use it frequently for neighborhood strolls and errands, and it’s great that it’s so easy to handle, even with my toddler on board. Its foldable design fits perfectly in the trunk of my small car, and I love how simple it is to fold. The large basket underneath is easily accessible and spacious enough to accommodate my bulky diaper bag with extra room. Since my storage space is limited, I truly value the fact that this stroller adapts from infant to toddler stages without the need for additional parts." — kelka

 

Best Stroller Car Seat Hybrid

Doona Infant Car Seat & Stroller (Buy on Amazon)

The Doona revolutionizes the way you travel with your baby, morphing from an infant car seat into a stroller at the click of a button. Need to hop in the car? No problem! The stroller legs and wheels conveniently fold under the car seat. This ultimate convenience is a game-changer for busy parents.

This nifty gadget is perfect for jet-setting families, those constantly in and out of the car (like suburban parents juggling multiple school runs, sports practices, and errand runs), or city dwellers who rely on rideshares or rental cars. Plus, if you’re a minimalist who loves cutting down on baby gear—especially during that chaotic first year—the Doona is right up your alley.

But, let's be real. The Doona isn't for everyone. Most munchkins outgrow it around their first birthday, meaning you'll have to shell out for a new stroller after just a year. There's also no storage basket, and the seat sits pretty low with no adjustable handlebar, which can be a bit awkward for our taller parents (yep, talking to you with the sky-high genes). It's a bit of an investment, especially considering its limited lifespan, and the suspension and steering aren’t quite as smooth as traditional strollers.

Pros:

• Infant car seat + stroller all in one = ultimate convenience
• Great for travel
• Lighter weight than most other strollers

Cons:

• Short usage life
• Low handlebar can be uncomfortable for taller parents
• No storage basket, snack tray or cup holder
• Harness needs to be adjusted manually

Additional Specs

Stroller Weight	14.3 lbs
Age Range	4-35 lbs, up to 32”

 

Parent Review

"I can’t get enough of this stroller/car seat duo... it's definitely worth every penny. Having an 11-year-old, I was taken by surprise when I found out I was expecting again after more than a decade. The one thing I dreaded from my first experience was the hassle of managing the car seat and stroller. Being petite, hauling that stuff around was a real pain. Then, one day, I stumbled upon the Doona online and thought, "Wow, this is a fantastic device," even though I wasn’t even thinking about having another baby at the time. But I never forgot its name!! I recommend it to everyone I meet, friends and strangers alike. Absolutely adore this car seat/stroller!" — Mama Kez

 

Best Travel

Joolz Aer+ Lightweight Stroller (Buy on Amazon)

Investing in a travel stroller can be a game-changer if you’re planning to fly or frequently hit the road with your family. Even if you're simply in need of a lightweight, easy-to-fold option to stow in your car or for those quick trips when a bulky stroller is just too much, a travel stroller is a solid choice. My top pick? The Joolz Aer. This compact powerhouse has been my trusty travel and trunk companion for nearly three years, and I find myself recommending it to everyone (whether they ask or not!).

What do I adore most about this stroller? The unbeatable push and its compact, easy-fold design. Maneuvering it feels just as smooth and effortless as handling many larger, pricier, and significantly heavier strollers. Credit goes to its four-wheel suspension system—a rarity among travel strollers. It glides effortlessly and can even tackle uneven surfaces like a pro, all while weighing in at a mere 13 pounds. Folding it down is a breeze—seriously, it takes about two seconds with just one hand. Plus, it’s so compact when folded, it fits in the overhead bin on most airlines or any other cozy space you can think of.

The storage basket might not be cavernous, but it’s perfectly sized for a small diaper bag or backpack. The near-flat recline option is fantastic for napping on the go. And here’s a big win for new parents: it’s newborn-friendly! It’s compatible with Nuna and Clek car seats (accessories sold separately) or a bassinet (also sold separately), so you can use it right from day one if needed.

In essence, the Joolz Aer is the travel stroller that ticks all the boxes for modern parents on the go. Whether you’re jet-setting or just zooming around town, this stroller makes life with little ones a whole lot easier—and stylish too!

Pros:

• Compact, one-handed fold and built-in carry strap
• 4-wheel suspension rides smoothly like a full-size stroller
• Compatible with top-rated car seats

Cons:

• Expensive, especially if used infrequently for travel
• Small storage basket
• Handlebar isn’t adjustable

Additional Specs

Stroller Weight	13.2 lbs
Age Range	6 mos up to 50 lbs; from birth with car seat or bassinet

 

Parent Review

"After extensive research, we opted for the Joolz for our inaugural family trip to Colorado. The stroller is quite simple to unfold (with a bit of practice) and offers excellent maneuverability despite its smaller wheels. It handled cobblestone and gravel paths just fine, and we loved using the Nuna Pipa car seat attachments to push when she was in her car seat. The bottom storage was perfect for our day trip essentials, and the canopy unzips to an ideal height to shield my child’s head. I HIGHLY recommend this if you're planning to travel by plane, and now it permanently resides in my trunk for quick errands around town!" — Erika L.

 

Best Jogging

BOB Wayfinder Single Jogging Stroller (Buy on Amazon)

BOB strollers have remained a top pick among running parents for years. Enter the Wayfinder—a game-changer in the BOB lineup that hits the perfect balance between performance, style, and everyday usability. For active parents needing a versatile jogging stroller, the Wayfinder is a definite home run.

The Wayfinder boasts dual independent suspension and air-filled tires, ensuring a butter-smooth ride across any terrain you tackle (dirt paths, sandy roads, or bumpy city sidewalks). It checks all my must-have boxes for a jogging stroller: a swivel-locking front wheel, a hand brake, a wrist strap, an adjustable handlebar, and a spacious cargo basket. Plus, the high-end fabric and finishes, along with a generous canopy and fully reclining seat, make it a standout. It’s also compatible with a range of popular infant car seats when you add the right adapters.

What truly sets the Wayfinder apart, though, is its sleek, slimmed-down profile. While it’s definitely not pocket-sized, this stroller is narrower and more compact than many of its rivals. When folded (which is super easy, by the way), it’s just about 22 inches across. This makes it a breeze to store or toss in your trunk, unlike bulkier models. Although adjusting to its slimmer build took a bit of getting used to, especially if you're accustomed to a wider, lower jogger like I was, I quickly found my stride within a few runs. One thing to keep in mind: while the stroller can support up to 75 pounds, the height limit is 44 inches. So, there’s a good chance your little sprinter will outgrow the height limit well before hitting the weight cap.

Pros:

• Slimmer and more compact than many other joggers
• Quick, one-handed, self-standing fold
• Zip-top basket keeps things from falling out on the go

Cons:

• Tires need to be inflated at setup and could lose air pressure over time
• Narrower frame = slightly smaller basket size and narrower grip
• Compatible with fewer car seat brands than other BOB strollers

Additional Specs

Stroller Weight	31.1 lbs
Age Range	6 mos up to 75 lbs or 44”; from birth with car seat, but do not jog or walk fast with a child that does not have sufficient head and neck control, usually around 6 mos

 

Parent Review

"I absolutely adore this stroller! It truly lives up to its reputation as the ideal all-in-one option. When folks hear "jogging" stroller, they often envision a massive, bulky thing... but this couldn't be further from the truth. It glides effortlessly over all kinds of surfaces, whether I'm out for a jog on a rough trail or just taking a leisurely walk in the city. Remarkably compact, it fits right into the back of my older Toyota Highlander. The fabric is a breeze to clean, which is a huge plus! The under-seat compartment is quite spacious, making it perfect for extended trips or outings to amusement parks where you'll need plenty of room for the little one's essentials. My daughter has nodded off multiple times, enjoying the roomy and adjustable seat that's both comfortable and accommodating. Honestly, I could rave about this stroller endlessly, but I'll stop here for now!" — Cellia

 

Other Car Seats We Adore

Still on the hunt? Here are some other fabulous car seats we adore, including the ultimate in luxury, the perfect pick for twins, and more!

 

A More Affordable Convertible

If you’re dreaming of a luxury stroller but your budget says otherwise, meet the Mockingbird. Modern parents rave about it, calling it “the best bang for the buck,” “awesome,” and “very nice at half the price of other strollers.” This gem is loaded with high-end features like 22+ configurations, modular seats, a spill-resistant extendable canopy with ample sun coverage, and a built-in suspension system for a smooth ride. Plus, it has a one-handed, self-standing fold and an XL storage basket. And guess what? It comes with a lifetime warranty that we can’t stop loving.

 

Pros:

• Premium design, affordable price
• Expands to hold 2 kids
• Lifetime warranty

Cons:

• Maneuverability and suspension not as good as some higher-priced competitors
• Taller parents tend to kick the lower crossbar
• Fold takes practice

Additional Specs

Stroller Weight	20.86 lbs
Age Range	Newborn up to 50 lbs

 

Best Luxury Travel System

Meet your new BFF (Baby-Friendly Feature) on four wheels! This luxury car seat + stroller duo is top-tier. The Mixx stroller comes packed with all-wheel suspension, a reversible seat, ample storage, and clever features like magnetic buckles and a compact fold. The urbn car seat is next-gen with its baseless design, installing in your car within seconds thanks to the built-in rigid LATCH. Talk about foolproof – ensuring a safe and secure fit every single time.

 

Pros:

• Stroller has excellent suspension + high-end features
• Includes baseless car seat

Cons:

• Expensive for a non-convertible stroller
• Car seat has low height limit

Additional Specs

Stroller Weight	Stroller: 28.3 lbs; infant car seat: 7 lbs
Age Range	Stroller: newborn to 50 lbs; infant car seat: 4-32 lbs, up to 32”

 

 

Best Stroller Wagon

Veer Cruiser City XL (Buy on Amazon)

Veer was one of the original stroller wagons on the scene—and we believe it’s still the best. Combining the practicality of a stroller with the whimsical charm of a wagon, Veer delivers the ultimate hybrid experience. Its oversized tires and front-wheel suspension ensure it can handle any adventure, whether you're trekking through rugged terrain, sandy beaches, or snowy paths. Plus, you can attach an infant car seat with adapters and customize it with a variety of fun accessories.

Pros:

• Works on all types of terrain
• Accepts infant car seat
• Lots of fun (and useful) accessories available to customize your ride

Cons:

• Pricey, especially after add-ons
• Bulky and heavy

Additional Specs

Stroller Weight	32.6 lbs
Age Range	55 lbs per seat (two seats total); Cargo-only or pet weight capacity: 250 lbs

 

Best City Stroller

Thule Shine Baby Stroller (Buy on Amazon)

City-friendly strollers offer all the bells and whistles of a full-size stroller but in a nifty, compact form. Perfect for urban living where space is as precious as nap time.

Our top pick? The Thule Shine. This gem packs full-size stroller features—a reversible, reclining seat with an adjustable leg rest, a massive canopy, a one-handed, self-standing fold, and all-wheel suspension—into a sleek and lightweight package. Weighing a tad over 20 pounds (nearly 10 pounds lighter than the UPPAbaby Vista V2), it’s tailor-made for city living. The compact design makes it a breeze to store in tight urban apartments and a joy to navigate through crowded streets and bustling stores. Talk about parenting made easier, one stroll at a time!

Pros:

• Full-size features, compact design
• Can use from birth with accessories
• One-handed, compact fold

Cons:

• Small storage basket

Additional Specs

Stroller Weight	21.6 lbs
Age Range	From birth with accessories, up to 48.5 lbs

 

Best Stroller for Twins

BUGABOO Donkey5 Mono Complete Stroller (Buy on Amazon)

Navigating the world of twin-friendly double strollers can feel like an Olympic sport. Many models are as bulky as a linebacker, tough to maneuver, and often refuse to accommodate two bassinets or car seats at once. Enter the Donkey - your new double stroller MVP.

This sleek beauty is designed to glide through most standard doorways without a hitch. It comfortably holds two bassinets, two car seats, and even two toddler seats simultaneously. With just three easy clicks, this stroller transforms from a single to a double, making it as versatile as your parenting schedule demands.

Even when fully loaded, the Donkey remains a breeze to push and steer. And thanks to its top-notch suspension system, your little ones can enjoy a ride that's as smooth as chocolate mousse.

Pros:

• Fits through most doorways
• Smooth ride + easy to steer
• Lots of configurations

Cons:

• Very expensive
• Fold takes practice
• Bulky when folded

Additional Specs

Stroller Weight	26.9 lbs in Mono configuration
Age Range	0 mos-4 yrs; Bassinet: birth until 20 lbs, stop using when baby can push up on hands and knees or rollover; Max child weight 50 lbs per seat

 

 

Best Umbrella Stroller

Summer Infant 3Dlite Convenience Stroller (Buy on Amazon)

Looking for a stroller that’s easy to lug around without sacrificing too many features? Enter the **Umbrella Stroller**. These gems fold into a sleek, vertical shape, making them a breeze to carry around. Perfect for travel or quick outings, they keep things light and convenient.

One of the best budget-friendly options out there is the **Summer 3D Lite**. Priced under a hundred bucks, it packs in a surprising number of features. The aluminum frame keeps it feather-light at around 13 pounds, and there's a handy built-in shoulder strap for effortless portability.

But wait, there's more! You’ll love the nearly flat seat recline for those impromptu nap times, a generously adjustable canopy to shield your little one from the sun, and an XL storage basket for all your parenting gear.

So, for those busy days when you’re constantly on the move, the Summer 3D Lite has got you covered—light on your hands and easy on your wallet!

 

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Affordable
• Near-flat seat recline

Cons:

• Small storage basket
• No suspension = bumpy ride
• Small canopy

Additional Specs

Stroller Weight	13 lbs
Age Range	6 mos up to 50 lbs

 

 

How We Chose Our Best Strollers

• We took a deep dive into Babylist’s Best Baby Products survey, gathering insights from 6,000 Babylist users who shared their favorite baby products and why they can't live without them.
• We tapped into the expertise of the Babylist editorial team, featuring me, Gear Editor Jen LaBracio. With over six years in the baby gear world and as a mom of two, I’ve penned hundreds of baby gear guides and put countless products, including strollers, through rigorous testing.
• We consulted with Courtney English, a Pediatric Occupational Therapist, to get the lowdown on stroller safety. Additionally, we chatted with Babylist Showroom Registry Consultants Tatyanna Hunter Jones and Pateel Markaradi. They're part of our expert team at the Beverly Hills showroom, where they field questions daily from savvy parents-to-be and help them craft the ultimate baby registry.
• We pored over customer reviews from hundreds of Babylist users and gathered anecdotes from parents on our Babylist staff about their firsthand experiences with these strollers.

 

Types of Strollers

Choosing the right stroller can feel like rocket science, but fear not! Here’s your friendly guide to navigate stroller-ville:

• All-Purpose Strollers: This is your go-to, everyday stroller. Perfect for those leisurely neighborhood walks or quick store runs, these strollers are the Swiss Army knives of the baby gear world.
• Travel Systems: Meet the dynamic duo – a stroller paired with an infant car seat. This combo lets you seamlessly move baby from car to stroller without disturbing their precious nap time. Buy them as a matching set or mix and match with adapters; just make sure they’re compatible.
• Lightweight Strollers: These featherweights are all about convenience! Ideal for parents constantly on the go, they’re easy to carry and perfect for public transit, stairs, and quick car trunk maneuvers. Sometimes called travel or compact strollers, they’re the minimalists of the stroller family.
• Double Strollers: If you’ve got twins or kids close in age, this is your lifesaver. Double strollers come in two styles: front-to-back (a.k.a. tandem or in-line) and side-by-side. Twice the fun, twice the convenience!
• Convertible Strollers: Not quite ready for a double but planning for the future? Convertible strollers switch from single to double mode. They’re like double strollers in disguise, available in both tandem and side-by-side setups.
• Jogging Strollers: For the active parents (or those who just appreciate a smooth ride), these strollers are built for speed and can handle rougher terrains with ease. You don’t have to be a marathon runner to enjoy their gliding capabilities.
• Stroller Frames: Think of these as the bare bones. These frames are ready to roll once you attach a compatible infant car seat, making them a super lightweight and streamlined option.

 

How to Pick the Perfect Stroller

Choosing the best stroller for your family can feel like a major decision. Here’s the scoop. "Some parents are on the hunt for a stroller that can morph into a bassinet or one where you can easily add a bassinet option," says Hunter Jones, who chats with parents-to-be every day as a Registry Consultant at Babylist’s LA showroom. "Others are all about those travel systems because they love the convenience of moving baby from stroller to car without missing a beat. And some parents are here for the unique colored strollers or canopies," she adds with a smile.

"Parents coming in are eager to compare the pros and cons of different brands and models," shares Markaradi, another Registry Consultant. "Ease of folding and lifting the stroller is a big deal for many. They’re also considering whether the stroller seat is newborn-ready."

So, how should you make your choice?

Evaluate Your Lifestyle

"Just because one stroller worked for your sister or your BFF doesn’t mean it’s going to be your dream stroller," emphasizes Hunter Jones. Think about your lifestyle and daily routines to help you choose the right stroller. A city family who relies on public transportation daily will need something different than a suburban family who’s constantly hopping in and out of the car. Also, consider factors like stroller storage space, whether you have stairs leading up to your home, and if you'll be chiefly using your stroller for leisurely walks or heart-pumping jogs.

"Consider lifestyle and neighborhood," adds Markaradi. "For instance, some strollers are lightweight for quick city strolls, while others boast all-terrain features perfect for adventure seekers."

 

Consider the Features

Wondering if there's a stroller that’s perfect for your bundle of joy straight from day one? Got your heart set on a car seat brand that only pairs with specific strollers? Consider how essential features like smooth folding, lightweight design, a reversible seat, ample storage basket, and an adjustable handlebar are for you. Make sure you thoroughly evaluate all the features you need—or simply desire—before making your stroller selection.

 

Factor In Family Size

Planning for a brood of little ones close in age? You might want to skip the single stroller and dive straight into a convertible option from the get-go. It'll save you the hassle (and cash) of upgrading to a double stroller sooner than you think. "For first-time parents, my top tip is to decide whether you need a single stroller or one that can grow with your family," advises Markaradi.

 

Consider Safety

“A five-point harness is crucial to ensure your little one is secure in the stroller,” says English. Other safety features she recommends looking for include easy-to-operate brakes and a snug but comfy fit. “Your child should freely be able to move their arms and legs with good trunk control (no slouching). They should be able to hold their head up with their neck in a neutral position,” she advises.

If you’re planning on using an infant car seat with your stroller, don’t forget English’s golden rule: the two-hour limit. “Safety experts recommend keeping car seat use to no more than two hours in a 24-hour period,” she emphasizes. “Research indicates that when a baby is in a semi-upright position for too long, it can restrict airflow to their lungs, leading to breathing issues.” Prolonged periods in a car seat can also stress your baby's spine, notes English, and cut into their essential floor time—key for supporting your little one’s sensory and motor development.

 

Consider the Cost

Strollers can range from a hundred bucks to over a thousand dollars. The pricier models often come with fancy perks like all-wheel suspension, superior maneuverability, luxury fabrics, modular seating, or even the ability to convert to a double stroller. But don’t worry, there are plenty of high-quality, budget-friendly options out there too. There’s no right or wrong choice here—it’s all about what matters most to you.

For a thorough, step-by-step guide on choosing the perfect stroller, check out our How to Choose a Stroller guide.

 

FAQs

Can Your Baby Sleep in a Stroller?

Ah, the age-old question: can you let your little one snooze in their stroller? According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the safest snooze setup for babies is solo, on their backs, in a crib or bassinet with a firm surface and a fitted sheet—no extra bedding, please! If your baby dozes off in their stroller or car seat, it's best to transfer them to a safe sleep space like a crib or bassinet ASAP. But hey, if you're trying to keep those sweet dreams uninterrupted, you can minimize risks by removing hats and blankets and ensuring the stroller is well-ventilated. And remember, always keep an eye on them!

 

Stroller vs. Wagon: Which One Reigns Supreme?

Stuck between a stroller and a wagon? Meet the stroller wagon—a nifty hybrid that combines the best of both worlds. These modern marvels come with large wheels, robust suspension, and both push and pull features. Many even fold up nicely for easy transport.

Stroller wagons score big points for outdoor-loving families, accommodating multiple kiddos, and catering to older tots who aren't ready for marathon walks yet. On the flip side, they're often bulky, pricey, and not always infant-friendly. Plus, they can be a bit of a beast to maneuver compared to traditional strollers.

As with any baby gear choice, weigh the pros and cons against your family’s needs before deciding if a stroller or stroller wagon is your best bet. Happy strolling (or wagon-ing)!

 

What's the Best Stroller for Car Rides?

Not every stroller is made to easily hop in and out of your car trunk. If you’re planning on driving with your mini-me frequently, go for a stroller that boasts a one-handed quick fold, is lightweight, and has a compact design.