Choosing a Fold Up Pushchair

Fold-up pushchairs are simple to transport on public transportation or to fit in the back of your car. They also tend to be very lightweight and compact which makes them ideal for plane travel.

This UPPAbaby model has one of the most appealing compact folds we've seen. However, it has some limitations, including a tiny canopy, and there is no storage.

Easy folding

Consider where and how you will use the pushchair shops before choosing one. If you're planning to travel with your baby on a plane A compact, light buggy is a great option as it can be tucked in the overhead luggage compartments, and is usually small enough to be carried on your shoulder when folded. It is recommended to choose buggy that folds easily using one hand while holding your child. It should also have a handle that is height-adjustable so that caregivers and parents with different heights are able to use it comfortably. If you're planning on walking with your baby, a swivel-lock wheel is essential for manoeuvring over uneven terrain. Look for features like the ability to recline deep enough for comfortable naps while on the move and an extended sun canopy.

Many pushchairs claim to be able to fold with one hand, but it's best to test this out before you buy to ensure it's possible while being able to hold your child. The UPPAbaby G-Luxe was reviewed highly by our test participants, due to its innovative mechanism that creates a compact package that is smaller than an umbrella. It also has a handy compartment for keys and phones and a one-touch seat recline that's ideal for children who like to nap on the move.

Some of the smallest fold-up pushchairs are made to be used from birth and offer a flat seat that can be sat on or the option of an additional carrycot, which means they're ideal for young babies who prefer to sleep throughout the daytime. If you intend to use your travel system from the start, a one-click attachment system for a car seat for infants is also essential.

The Cybex Libelle is the smallest and most lightweight of the bunch. It folds down even smaller than its YOYO2 counterpart the YOYO2, (only 4cm thicker) and is easy to carry with just 6kg. It is also very easy to use, with a one-hand fold, and the seat reclines to allow for naps for toddlers. This model is a great option for hikers, as it comes with a huge front swivel tire which can take on any terrain.

One-Handed Folding

It is always recommended to have a foldable pushchair, regardless of whether you're walking around or taking public transport or flying to a foreign country with your child. It's not ideal to fold a complex travel system while trying to manage the child and all their essentials, such as keys, shopping bags and other items. This is why one-handed strollers and pushchairs are the most sought-after option for parents.

As the name implies the pushchair that folds with one hand can be collapsed with just the push of a button or two. Certain models may require more effort, or two hands. However, the ease of this process makes them easy to use and put away. They are also lightweight, making it easier to carry or store in tight space.

An excellent example is the UPPAbaby G-Luxe. This model is among the easiest to fold with one hand in our roundup. It's as simple as pulling a lever on the chassis. It stands by itself when folded, too, which makes it ideal for storing in the corner of a cafe or in the foyer.

Another model that has simple, one-handed folding is the Bugaboo Bee. It is one of the first pushchairs that fold compactly. Despite being larger than other options it still features an easy to use, neat fold. It also has a number of fantastic features, including a deep reclining seat and an UPF50+ canopy that can be expanded to keep your child covered on hot days.

Some of these compact-fold pushchairs are not suitable for toddlers or older infants, but there are many models that can be used from birth. They come with a full or partial lie-flat seat, and could include the option of adding an infant car seat. MFM's Gemma has traveled with her son in a Babyzen YoYO - one of the very first buggys of its kind. It is still a popular. It's a little less compact than some other buggys but it's still very easy to maneuver. It can be incorporated into the allowance for cabin baggage of the majority of airlines.

Lightweight

A collapsible pushchair that folds down is typically very small and lightweight. This is especially true of umbrella-folding pushchairs, which typically weigh under 20 pounds. They are great for short walks on flat surfaces or pavements and for transporting between your car and other houses. They're also a good choice when you don't wish to purchase an all-terrain pushchair and are comfortable with your pushchair on flat surfaces.

Think about getting tyres that are air-filled If you intend to use your compact folding pushchair in uneven terrain, on sand, or on muddy surfaces. These tyres are heavier, but they provide better grip and traction. The extra weight does add to the overall pushchair size though it's crucial to be aware of that.

Many of the lightweight pushchairs are designed for older babies and toddlers who are able to sit up on their own, however many are now suitable from birth. Models like the Mamas & Papas Airo have an area that can be laid flat and can be used in conjunction with a car seat for infants or a carrycots (sold separately). Some compact-folding pushchairs are designed to be used with the stroller board to turn them into a double buggy. ideal for taking Grandma or Grandad along.

A lot of the top lightweight strollers are easy to use. Some pushchairs can be opened or closed by pressing a single button. Others have more complex mechanisms, but still take up little space. Some even have a strap on the wrist that lets you keep your grip on the pushchair even when it's folded. This can make a huge difference in how easy it is to maneuver.

While some lightweight pushchairs are very stripped down and uninspiring, the 3D Lite from Contours is a fantastic example of how a tiny stroller can be loaded with of features. It also has a large basket, plenty of padding and adjustable handlebars (for tall or short parents) and a massive canopy that protects. Plus, it's very lightweight and comes with a handy carry bag.

Compact

When selecting a stroller, you should consider the size of the stroller when folded. Some models are very compact to fold while others are larger, according to their overall dimensions and the features they have.

The compactness is essential for those who plan to travel with your pushchair. There are models that fold to the smallest size, and even into a pouch, so they can be easily stashed away in the back of a car, or taken on a plane as baggage in the cabin. This is a great option when you plan to travel frequently or live in a city area where you aren't able to carry a stroller that is larger all the time.

The best pushchairs have an easy, simple fold process. The Babyzen YOYO was the first of its kind and has since been imitated, but it still stands out due to its innovative design and superior performance.

The Babyzen YOYO has an impressively tiny fold and is only slightly larger than the average hand luggage allowances, making it ideal for travelling with. It can be carried to the gate and used between boarding and catching your flight.

The Mamas and Papas Airo is a compact pushchair that offers more space. The seat reclines fully and there's plenty of padding to make your child comfortable. It can be used as early as birth, with the addition of a carrycot or newborn cocoon pack (not included).

The Ergobaby Metro+ is another great option for a day-to-day lightweight stroller that folds into an extremely compact fold that can be positioned upright when it's not in use. However, it's not as easy to use as other models and can make a lot of noise when you adjust the canopy, which could wake up your baby.