But I also know that finding the best travel stroller for your trip with a growing baby or toddler–or combination of little ones–can be a tricky business!

If you forego features in favor of a lighter load, will you regret it on your vacation? Can a compact stroller be too compact to keep a baby or toddler — or jet-lagged preschooler — happy on day trips far from home?

Let’s start with some important buying tips to consider as you compare the lightweight and compact strollers recommended below. I’ve also included links to additional recommended baby travel gear and posts with travel logistics advice below.

This post contains affiliate links to help fund this independent website at no cost to you.

What’s included in this post:

Important buying tips for travel strollers

My recommended travel strollers

Related recommended baby travel gear

Related travel logistics help posts

Airline-specific advice posts (inc. stroller rules)

Important travel stroller buying tips

As you shop for your best travel stroller possible, consider these important points:

• If your stroller doesn’t recline, will your child nap when you need her to at your final destination (a deal breaker for many)?
• If there’s not enough storage, will you end up juggling extra helpful items–or having to leave them behind?
• Will the stroller wheels be rugged enough for cobblestones or other terrain where you will travel?
• Will it take up too much room in the trunk or cargo space on family road trips?
• Will the stroller provide adequate sun protection if you’ll spend long periods outdoors–or will it allow for helpful additions to make shade or add a rain cover where and when you need it (see recommended stroller accessories here)?

Here are my recommendations for lightweight travel strollers listed in order of weight from the lightest to heaviest. To add shade coverage, weather or insect protection, comforts, or conveniences to your stroller, see my recommendations in Stroller Accessories.

And now, the best lightweight and compact strollers for travel … with more tips for flying with babies and toddlers linked below. RECOMMENDED STROLLERS ARE LISTED IN ORDER FROM LIGHTEST WEIGHT.

gb Pockit Compact Ultralight Stroller

Why Shelly Recommends it:

It’s the world’s most compactly folding lightweight travel stroller at 11.8″ x 7″ x 13.8″. If space is your paramount concern in your upcoming travels, this may be just the answer and I’d encourage you to take a closer look.

However, there’s not much more to boast about the entry-level GB Pockit model than that. The seat does not recline whatsoever for napping or jet-lagged children and, as you can see, the “sun visor” is almost nonexistent–how many times in your travels will the sun perfectly align with this wee little rectangle to make it of use?

However, if that’s a deal breaker, you can look to the gb Pockit+ All-City (below) for additional features in a similarly compact and lightweight package — and gives you the option to combine with an infant car seat as a travel system.

With the exception of height-adjustable handles that may be an added comfort for taller parents, and a shallow storage basket that can support up to 11 lbs. of gear, what you see is what you get. You can, however, also get the convenient Pockit stroller travel bag with shoulder strap (sold separately) — and even store it in the airplane overhead storage bin if desired.

For its price point, you may want to be sure to consider other options below that will give you more features. SPECS: The gb Pockit is for children 6 months up to 55 lbs. Unfolded dimensions: 28 in x 17.5 in x 39.8 in. Folds to 11.8″ x 7″ x 13.8″. Weighs 10.4 lbs.  See current deals online at:  Amazon and Albee Baby

The Clutch Ultra-Compact Travel Stroller

Why Shelly Recommends it:

If you think it looks a lot like “the world’s most compactly folding lightweight travel stroller” above, you’re right. So how does The Clutch stroller compare with the GB Pockit? Most noticeably, it weighs a little more (about 2 lbs.) and costs a little less (about $30 to $50 less than the basic Pockit).

And though it boasts the ability to fold in 2 seconds to the size of a grocery bag (15”L x 5.9”W x 19.7”H ), the Clutch still is not quite the record-breaking compact package of the Pockit. Nevertheless, both can be stored in most airplane overhead storage bins as hand baggage.

The Clutch, however, is only rated for children up to 50 lbs. and makes no claims about its storage basket (unlike the 11 lbs. supported by that of the GB Pockit, which supports kids up to 55 lbs.). Again, if a compactly folding, space-saving stroller is your highest concern for your travel stroller, these are both good options.

But if you need your child to nap on the go, be protected from sun / insects / weather in your travels, etc., make sure to consider our other recommendations.

SPECS: The Clutch stroller is for babies 6 months+ who can sit up to children 50 lbs. Unfolded dimensions: 29.5” L x 18.5” W x 39.8.1” H. Folds to 15”L x 5.9”W x 19.7”H. Weighs 11.7 lbs. See current deals online at: Amazon and Albee Baby

Diono Traverze Luggage-Style Travel Stroller

Why Shelly recommends it:

The Diono Traverze is built for comfort with multiple recline positions including a lay-flat position suitable for newborns (not many travel strollers have that!). Parents love the true one-handed fold, which is creates a self-standing  package compact enough to fit in the overhead bin of most airplanes.

And it comes with its own stroller travel case to keep it neat and tidy, whether you opt to store it in the cabin or check it at the gate.

But what I think is super nifty about the Traverze is the built-in travel handle. Once folded and in its self-standing position, you can extend the one-handed luggage-style handle and roll it one-handed. Here’s how that looks (without the travel case):

For such a lightweight stroller, the Diono Traverze also offers decently sized and sturdy wheels, plus a storage basket with instant extension for those times when you need it (hello, souvenirs).

Pricing note: You’ll see a wide range in the pricing for the Traverze, with the primary MSRP at $249. Diono offers four “basic color” options for $50 less than that and a “luxe edition” for $50 more. Note that the “tailored rain cover,” which comes standard in the hide-away pocket of the other models is not included in the value model.

SPECS: The Diono Traverze is suitable from birth (in lay-flat position) to 45 lbs. Unfolded dimensions: 40.5″ H x 16.3″ W x 30″D. Folds to 23.6″ x 16.3″ x 9.3″. Weighs 12.3 lbs. See current deals online at:   Amazon and Albee Baby

Summer Infant 3D Lite Travel Stroller

Why Shelly recommends it:

* Budget pick! * At less than $100, this continues to be one of the best umbrella strollers around, not to mention one of the best values. The Summer Infant 3D Lite (3DLite) stroller is designed for a virtually lay-flat recline that’s hard to find in travel strollers that are this lightweight. Because of that it can be used from birth without the need of an infant car seat (like some other strollers).

The seat is nicely padded and the sun canopy has an additional “flip out” sun visor. Auto-lock folding and an attached shoulder carrying strap simplify travel as well. Parent conveniences also include a cup holder, back storage pocket, and extra large storage basket (max 10 lbs.). And the generous 6″ wheels will also help ensure smooth travels in many situations.

However, I don’t recommend its wheels for travel in cobblestone areas or rough terrain. The wheel durability of an umbrella stroller is generally something where you get what you pay for, and you’re saving money by not paying for it here. However, for light-duty use, the Summer Infant 3D Lite may be all you need for your next family vacation.

SPECS: The Summer Infant 3D Lite is suitable from birth to 50 lbs. Unfolded dimensions: 40.5″ x 10.2″ x 8.5″. Folds to 41″ x 10″ x 9″. Weighs 13 lbs.  See current deals online at:    Amazon.com and Albee Baby

CYBEX Libelle 2 Ultra-Compact Stroller

Why Shelly recommends it:

Meet another of the world’s most compactly folding strollers in the running, the Cybex Libelle 2, weighing in at just 13.7 lbs. While offering a truly-tiny and carry-on compliant size when folded, it also offers the comfort of an adjustable full leg rest and seat back, with a generously sized UPF 50+ sun canopy.

Why else might you like this lightweight Libelle baby stroller? It offers front wheel suspension, reclining seat, and an adjustable leg rest. Better yet, it’s INFANT CAR SEAT COMPATIBLE: car seat adapters are included so you can use the Libelle 2 from birth AND during travel with they Cybex Cloud G or Aton infant car seats (sold separately).

Note: Not a first choice for frequent use in cobblestone areas or uneven/rough surfaces because of those oh-so-tiny, single wheels.

SPECS: The CYBEX Libelle 2 is for babies 6 months up to 55 lbs., or from birth when used as a travel system with Cybex’s infant car seats. Folded dimensions: 28.7″ x 20.3″ x 40.9″. Folds to 7.6″ x 12.9″ x 18.9″. Weighs 13.7 lbs. See deals online at: Amazon and Albee Baby

Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Ultra Compact Stroller

Why Shelly recommends it:

The Baby Jogger City Tour 2 is popular as both a travel stroller and an every day stroller for home use. Some of its stand out features include: 

1. A near-full recline for infants and optimal napping for jet-lagged toddlers, 
2. A fully adjustable LARGE leg rest as in calf-support for bigger kids (goes all the way to the foot rest), and
3. 3. A generous sun canopy standard in such a small package.

The Baby Jogger City Tour 2 also includes a travel carry bag with shoulder strap, a detachable belly / bumper bar, and rain / weather shield without need of additional purchases.

Psst! This one’s also available as a double / twin stroller!

Suitable from 6 months up to 45 lbs, or from birth with attachable Baby Jogger infant car seat (sold separately). Folds to 6.8″ x 16.9″ x 21.6″. Weighs 14 lbs. Find deals online at: Amazon and Albee Baby

UPPAbaby G-Luxe Full-Service Travel Stroller

Why Shelly recommends it:

I’m a fan of all these things: The UPPAbaby G-Luxe has a near-full recline, adjustable leg rest, basket that takes up to 10 lbs, and ergonomic foam-grip handles with a height of 43″.

The G-Luxe has a sturdy but light aluminum frame and is self-standing when folded. It also features curb-ready 5.5″ wheels, and essential-for-travel shoulder carrying strap.

What’s more, the G-luxe offers a deep “pop out” canopy extension for shade (you can see it retracted up under the canopy here). And yes, there’s a removable (and reversible) cup holder to keep toddler hydration in ready reach.

What I’m not a fan of is the increase in weight this model has seen over time–about 5 lbs. since it first came to market. Nevertheless, it does pack a lot of features for the package. However, if you like these features, I encourage you to also consider its cousin, the Minu V2 that weighs just slightly more and provides even more features and conveniences.

Use it from 3 months up to 55 lbs. (compare with the Maclaren Triumph). Folds to 19.2”L x 12W x 41.7”H. Weighs 16 lbs.   Find deals on the UPPAbaby G-Luxe travel stroller online at:   Amazon.com  and AlbeeBaby.com

UPPAbaby Minu V2 Lightweight Stroller

Why Shelly recommends it:

The Minu V2 stroller offers a full host of features and conveniences you want in a lightweight, and very compactly folding stroller. But it offers additional options rarely seen with the lightest weigh, most compactly folding strollers (including use with a car seat, a bassinet, and a snack tray that attaches to the bumper bar – sold separately). Consider these advantages…

Sure, it reclines enough to be used for babies from 3 months up. But it can also be used from BIRTH with the Mesa car seat and/or UPPAbaby bassinet (both sold separately). Since you may want a car seat and/or bassinet while traveling with your baby anyway, that could be ideal. And if you have an older kid to tag along? Take advantage of the Piggy Back ride-on board that attaches to the back (sold separately).

Other great features about the Minu V2 are its built-in carry handle and shoulder strap, adjustable leg rest, all-wheel suspension, extendable sun canopy with UPF 50, and an easy-access storage basket that supports up to 20 lbs.

Use from 3 months up to 50 lbs. Folds to 12″ x 20.3″ x 23″. Weighs 16.9 lbs. Find the Minu V2 stroller online at: Amazon and AlbeeBaby.com

Ergobaby Metro+ Compact Folding Travel Stroller

Why Shelly recommends it:

The Ergobaby Metro + (plus) includes some very attractive bells and whistles in spite of its compact package–making it a great stroller for every day use in addition to travel. Tall parents will appreciate the height-adjustable handle (37″ – 41″ in height), while parents of newborns appreciate the lay-flat “newborn nest mode” where the adjustable footrest folds up to create a bassinet. And the Ergobaby Metro+ is also infant car seat compatible with a Graco or Chicco car seat adapter (sold separately).

More travel-friendly features? If your passenger will spend long hours in the stroller during your travels, you’ll both be glad for the #1-rated most cushy, ergonomic padding. Not to mention all-wheel spring suspension for a smooth ride, and plenty of room in the storage basket for your diaper bag and other necessities.

Other useful accessories include a support / bumper bar, parent cup or water bottle holder, rain shield / weather cover, foot muff bunting bag, aforementioned car seat adapters (see them all here).

Use from birth to 50 lbs. (48 months). Folds to a compact 10″ x 21″ x 17″ and fits in most airplane overhead bins as carry on luggage. Weighs 17 lbs. See deals for the Ergobaby Metro + online at: Amazon.com and Albee Baby

More recommended baby travel gear:

• Great Stroller Accessories for Travel
• Best Double and Twin Travel Strollers
• CARES children’s airplane harness review
• Best Car Seat Travel Bags and Carriers
• Travel Cribs, Baby Beds, Toddler Sleeping Solutions

Travel logistics (including strollers!)

• Flying with a Baby or Toddler Advice Index (Start here!)
• How to Travel with a Car Seat (Without Losing Your Mind)
• Seven Easy Ways to Get Your Car Seat Through the Airport
• Tips for taking the New York City Subway with a Stroller
• Seven Reasons You’ll Be Glad to Visit Pairs with a Stroller
• How to Plan Your Best Vacation with Baby
• Five things you should know before flying with car seat
• Five things you should know before flying with an airplane bassinet

 –> Return to Great Baby Travel Gear and Family Travel Products

Reader’s note: This page has been a continuously updated popular page on TravelswithBaby.com for more than a decade. It is periodically updated and revised. And it was not written by a robot or AI. Thanks for not scraping my content.

The post What’s the Best Travel Stroller for Your Trip? appeared first on Travels With Baby.

It isn’t always practical–or possible to bring along your child’s car seat or safety booster when traveling (see How to Travel with a Car Seat [Without Losing Your Mind] for loads of help on the topic!).

But there are safer alternatives than traveling without the car seat at all, whether by taxi or ride share, rental car, and/or by airplane.

I’ve used each of the following car seat alternatives myself in travels with my own three children, and encourage you to consider if they’re right for your trip.

Scroll down to read about each of the best car seat alternatives available. But first … be sure to pin this to your travel board for future reference and to help others find it!

This page contains affiliate links to help fund my independent website at no cost to you.

CARES Flight Harness for Airplane Seats

Why Shelly recommends it:

Turns the airplane seat belt into a 4-point harness for children over 1 year old and weighing 22 lbs. to 44 lbs. CARES (Child Aviation Restraint System) is ideal when children will be flying in their own airplane seats, but won’t need their own car seat at the destination.

For example, the CARES harness may be perfect when you’ll be renting a car seat at your destination or using another car seat alternative for your ground transportation (see Worldwide Directory of Baby Gear Rentals).

For very light travels, consider pairing the CARES with the RideSafer Vest (see below on this page) for car seat alternatives in motor vehicles. CARES is FAA-approved for use during all phases of a flight, including taxiing, take-off, and landing.

First adjust the straps to fit around the airplane seat, then use the harness to secure your child to both the seat back and airplane seat belt. Please note that CARES is approved for use in aircraft, but not in automobiles.

If you’re bringing along your car seat, but don’t want to use it on the aircraft, I recommend you always gate-check your car seat rather than subject it to possible damage–which may or may not be visible–from the airport baggage system, or use one of the other car seat alternatives for your ground transportation.

CARES weighs only 1 lb. and packs into a 6″ stuff sack. Find out more:  Read the Travels with Baby feature review of CARES with more photos and tips. Buy the CARES harness at: Amazon.com

Baby B’Air Flight Safety Vest *

Why Shelly recommends it:

Turbulence is by far the leading cause of injuries in flight. And no one on board seems quite so vulnerable to injuries from turbulence than the little lightweight people riding as “lap children.” (Don’t miss the whole section on flying with babies and toddlers on laps on the Flying with a Baby or Toddler Ultimate Advice page!)

This handy little vest slips over your lap child and attaches to your safety belt with a loop, therefore securing babies and toddlers against unexpected bumps. Made of machine-washable, soft 100% cotton with fully adjustable side and crotch straps. Allows for shifting around as needed, even for breastfeeding.

The Baby B’air is permitted for use in-flight by the FAA as noted on its tag, though not for taxiing, take-off, or landing. It slips into the side of your diaper bag or carry on with ease.

Available in two sizes: Infant, recommended for newborns up to 8 months, and Toddler for up to 2 years. Buy the Baby B’Air at:   Amazon.com

* Of course there’s no safer position for a flying infant than in his car seat behind a 5-point harness (especially in the case of an unplanned landing). But I know that in the real world many parents will continue to fly with a lap child as long as it’s allowed, and even children flying with their car seats often need to spend some amount of time out of them (nursing, burping, etc.). In either of those cases, the Baby B’Air is far preferable to no restraint at all. – Shelly

The Ride Safer Travel Vest for Taxis, Uber, or Lyft

Why Shelly recommends it:

With the Ride Safer Vest your child can travel safely without a car seat or booster from 3 years and 30 lbs. Think of it as a “wearable belt-positioning booster seat” you can pack in the outside pocket of your carry-on.

After your flight, have your child put it on outside baggage claim while you wait in line for your taxi or Lyft. She can wear it like a normal vest, or add the optional crotch strap for the safety of a 5-point harness–something you won’t get from a regular booster, and the comfy removable head rest.

Like booster seats, however, it is not approved for use in aircraft (where there is no shoulder belt). A removable head rest offers extra comfort when desired. Weighs 2.5 lbs. without head rest or optional tether, under 5 lbs. with it.

The RideSafer 2 Delight Travel Vest meets or exceeds all crash test requirements and Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for harness restraints (FMVSS213) model.* Find out more: Read the Travels with Baby feature review of the RideSafer Vest for more details and photos.

Buy the RideSafer Travel Vest at:    Amazon.com

You might also like:

The post Best Car Seat Alternatives for Travel appeared first on Travels With Baby.

Thankfully, protecting and transporting car seats has never been easier than with the range of car seat travel bags and carriers available today.

Roll your car seat or wear it through the airport with these sturdy car seat carriers, carts, and commodious car seat bags. But first, pin it to your travel board for future reference and to help others find it!

For more help, be sure to visit the Travel with Car Seats and Road Trip Tips page. And don’t miss my helpful feature Seven Easy Ways to Get Your Car Seat Through The Airport.

Now see all my latest recommendations below…

This page contains affiliate links to help fund my independent website at no cost to you.

SCTEL Infant Car Seat Travel Bag

Why Shelly recommends it: Great protection and fits MANY brands of infant car seats.

This new and improved version of the SCTEL infant car seat travel bag fits MOST popular brands including the Doona car seat with built-in stroller! Yes, you can fit the folded Doona ON its car seat base in this carrying case–and check it all at the gate.

Other compatible seats include the Chicco Key Fit 35 with its anti-rebound bar base, Graco Extend2Fit, Graco 4Ever convertible car seat, Nuna Pipa car seats with bases, and Graco Snugfit 35 with anti-rebound base.

This wheeled car seat travel bag includes carrying handles, a name tag/luggage ID window and an exterior zippered pocket to stash last-minute things. It’s fully padded, water resistant, and folds to nearly flat when not in use.

It measures 25.79″ x 16.73′ x 21.06″ overall, and a more complete list of compatible car seats is included in the product details you’ll see in its listing. Find it online at: Amazon.com

Little Stork 3-in-1 Car Seat Backpack Carrier with Wheels

Why Shelly Recommends  it: Options!

The Little Stork 3-in-1 car seat carrier can be:

1. Rolled on 4 wheels like a wheelie suitcase (360 degree rotation), OR

2. Worn on your back with ergonomic backpack straps (plus waist and chest belts for extra support), OR

3. Strapped to your large rolling suitcase with its own tether strap.

The Little Stork is made from tough 900D poly nylon to be sturdy, stain, and rain-resistant. Plus it has a tough polycarbonate base with protective corners and three layers of padding throughout.

Extra conveniences include an inner zip pocket to keep extra items ready for arrival and a draw-string stuff sack for storing the bag when not in use. And it’s got room for extra jackets, blankets, or stuffies you won’t need till you get there.

The Little Stork 3-in-1 measures 19″ x 18″ x 29″ and fits most car seats from infant size through high-back boosters. Find it online at: Amazon.com

Britax Car Seat Travel Cart

Why Shelly recommends it: Wheel your child in his car seat right through the airport then stash this slim-folding cart in the overhead bin.

The Britax car seat travel cart works with all forward-facing and convertible Britax car seats and virtually all forward-facing and convertible car seats and boosters that have LATCH (see recommended travel car seats here).

Its sturdy steel alloy frame accommodates a total load of up to 100 lbs. (child + car seat) and has smooth rollerblade-type wheels. Parents of differing heights will also appreciate its telescoping handle with two height positions (up to 42″ H).

The Britax car seat travel cart measures 5.5″ x 13.5″ x 42″ in use with handle at full height and folds to 6″ x 13″ x 25″. Weighs 20 lbs. Find it online at: Amazon.com and Albee Baby

J.L. Childress Ultimate Padded Car Seat and High-Back Booster Travel Bag

Why Shelly recommends it: Backpack straps help keep hands free.

This padded car seat carrying case (which also works for high-back booster seats) not only protects your car seat when checked. It’s is also made to be worn as a backpack, leaving your hands free to…. roll suitcases, push a stroller, or present boarding passes and I.D.

Plus, this is one of the most universal car seat bags on the market, so chances are it will work for other car seats and safety boosters as time goes by. Use the JL Childress Car Seat Compatibility Guide to check if it will work for your car seat.

The J.L. Childress Ultimate Padded Car Seat Travel Bag fits most major car and belt-positioning booster seats and measures 20″W x 20″D x 30″H when open. It folds for storage down to 18″ x 11″ x 7″. Find it online at:    Amazon.com

GUCHO Rolling Luggage Car Seat Strap

Why Shelly recommends it: It’s so simple, it’s so affordable, it’s so smart. (And the price is right!) The GUCHO car seat strap attaches your child’s convertible or toddler car seat right to most rolling suitcases ranging from 20″ to 56″ sizes.

As long as your suitcase handle locks in place, you can push your child through the airport and up to the gate (and if not, you can roll her behind you). Note: You will need to detach the car seat from your carry-on bag — and your child from the car seat! — for screening at security. Find it online at:  Amazon.com

P.S. GUCHO also has a car seat travel cart with a multi-height adjustable handle and four smooth wheels that you might like, too! Though it’s not compatible with some car and booster seat models so see details.

Related Pages: 

You might also like:

The post Best Car Seat Travel Bags & Carriers appeared first on Travels With Baby.

Scroll down to browse truly travel-friendly travel beds, bassinets, and other clever products to help with your next family adventure. Note: Travel beds with the greatest longevity (from minimum age to maximum) are listed first.

But first, pin this to your travel board for future reference and to help others find it!

This page contains affiliate links to help fund this independent website at no cost to you.

Phil & Ted’s Traveller Full-Size Travel Crib

Why Shelly recommends it:

It only weighs 7 lbs.–compare that with other play yards! Add to that its terrific versatility and its hard to find a better travel bed. Use it from birth on up through three years (or more), indoors and out. Breathable mesh panels let you take this to the park and beach just as easily as Grandma’s house (where rubber feet will protect her floors).

The self-inflating air mattress works much like a Therm-a-Rest (or backpacker’s mattress), providing good insulation from the cold ground as well as padding from hard floors. An optional UV-protective cover fits over the top to offer protection outdoors (though you’ll have to throw a beach towel or something over the sides for sun protection now that they are 100% mesh (please let me know when you’ve finished thinking that one through, Phil&Ted).

The Traveler also has a zipping side panel to allow in and out access for playtime on the beach, and for older children who are ready to come and go on their own from their own travel bed. It stands 51″ x 24.8″ x 31″ when open, and folds to 24.8″ x 8.6″ square packed in its carrying case.  Find it online at:   Amazon.com

BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light

Why Shelly recommends it:

At 11 lbs. the Travel Crib Light weighs a little more than Phil & Ted’s full-size travel crib, costs around $100 more, and you probably won’t be able to use it as long (it also doesn’t offer the unzipped side self-access for older children).

That said, the easy to assemble BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light is worth it to some parents for the 1-minute (or less) set-up time, space savings when folded and set-up, and eco-certified softer fabrics–every bit of which can be gently washed in the machine.

In theory, the BabyBjorn Travel Light can be used for newborns up to around 3 years old (older children may be happier with the longer mattress of the Phil & Ted or Peapod Plus, both of which they can freely come and go from when they’re ready). Measures 32” x 44” x 24” set up, and is 19″ X 24″ X 6″ packed in its travel case.  Find it online at:  Amazon.com

The Peapod Baby Bed for Travel

Why Shelly recommends it:

Helps create your “tent within a tent” safely on cold camping trips, and gives a clean, safe place for baby to snooze bug-free, whether indoors or out. Folds into its own carrying case at 16.5″ diameter and 3″ thick, then pops up when needed to 46″L x 28″W x 18″H.

The Peapod Plus weighs less than 3 lbs. Although this is recommended for  1 to 3 years, you may prefer the slightly larger Peapod Plus, which can be used on through the preschool years (see below).  Find it online at:  Amazon.com

The Peapod Plus Travel Bed

Why Shelly recommends it:

The Peapod Plus can be used from infancy well through preschool, and includes a lightweight sleeping bag. In addition to the UV mesh found in the smaller Peapod, the Plus also has roll-down nylon sides for added wind protection.

Other differences: The poles used in the Plus are thinner and more lightweight than the very heavy-duty ones used in the original above, keeping its weight down, but at the cost of some stability (if you have rowdy rompers in the house, you may prefer the original Peapod). Travels at 19″ diameter and 6.5″ thick in its carrying case. Unfolds to 52.5″ x 34″ x 25″.

Find it online at:     Amazon.com

Fold ‘n Go Infant Travel Bassinet

Why Shelly recommends it:

This portable folding infant bassinet sets up in 10 seconds (okay it took us 20 the first time, but…) and features a rigid steel frame with four-point Safe-T-Lock System, providing a sturdier alternative to some baby travel beds with soft sides. Mesh side panels also allow for better air circulation.

The Brica Fold N Go bassinet folds to 22″ at its widest point x 16″ x 2″ thick and weighs less than 3 lbs. Unfolds to 30.5″L x 22″W x 10″H with an included 29″ x 18″ foam mattress with cover. For newborns up to 3 months or 15 lbs., or when baby starts pushing up.  Find deals on the Brica Fold ‘n Go Infant Travel Bassinet online at:  Amazon.com

The Snuggle Nest by Baby Delight Folding Infant Travel Bed

Why Shelly recommends it:

The very popular Snuggle Nest has been improved with new safety features, including ventilation through breathable sidewalls and an optional 1.5″ incline wedge to help elevate baby’s head–very helpful should a little nose get stuffy during your travels.

This model of Snuggle Nest plays soft music or womb-like sounds and includes a convenient night light you’ll be glad to have when checking on baby in an unfamiliar hotel room. Cover can be removed and washed.

What I don’t like about this newer model is that the wrap-around bumper means it won’t last as longer for taller/longer babies, and the new “vented” side walls actually look less breathable than the earlier mesh used.

Still, for travel with a swaddled infant, this may be just what you need. Open dimensions are 17.5 x 6.5″ x 18″. Folds in half for travel. Weighs 3.5 lbs.   Find deals on the Snuggle Nest online at:   Amazon.com

First Years Close and Secure Folding Infant Travel Co-Sleeper

Why Shelly recommends it:

Baby travel beds with a built-in, battery-powered night light are few and far between. This co-sleeper also adds an extra measure of protection, buffering your baby from head to toe, making it a suitable sleeping spot for infants both in the “family bed” and out.

As mentioned, it features a built-in night light, which can be helpful for late-night checks, especially when staying in new and unfamiliar places. Machine washable cover and sheet included. Overall dimensions are 26″ x 16″ x 6″ (24″L within bumpers). Folds to 19″ x 17″ x 7 1/2″ with carrying handle.   Find it online at:   Amazon.com

Summer Infant Travel Bed with Toy Bar and Shoulder Strap

Why Shelly recommends it:

Great for the airport and possibly even on the airplane. It starts out folded into a travel bag with a shoulder strap and bottle pockets on each end. Then, when you need a clean, safe spot for baby to stretch out while you await your flight, just unfold this portable baby bed and the toy bar is already in place.

What’s that? There’s NOT a changing table in the lavatory on your flight? No problem. This will give you a clean, workable surface with no-roll sidewalls to use either on the airplane seat, floor, or–if the toilet design suits–in the lavatory over the closed lid. Oh, right! And when you get to the hotel, you’ll also have a handy baby travel bed.    Find it online at:   Amazon.com

The Shrunks Inflatable Portable Bed for Toddlers and Preschoolers

Why Shelly recommends it:

Great solution for occasional visits to Grandma’s house, car trips, and camping (but at 6 lbs. and still bulky when deflated, you probably don’t want to pack this portable bed on the plane).

The air mattress insert is the same size as a standard crib mattress, and you can use it with your own crib/toddler bed sheet sets. (If your child is already pushing the limits of the toddler bed, take a look at the kid-size inflatable travel bed that fits a twin-size sheet.)

The inflated bumper with side rails allows you to tuck blankets deeply to help them stay put. Inflates in just 30 seconds using the included electric (plug in) pump. Phthalate-Safe, BpA-Safe and Lead-Safe.   Find it online at:    Amazon

The Shrunks Inflatable Portable Bed Rails

Why Shelly recommends it:

Make the most of extra beds where you find them by easily adding these portable bed safety bumpers to hotel beds, guest beds, cruise ship berths, and then some.

Inflate with the included foot pump and slip under the side of the bed’s fitted sheet to prevent roll-off. Deflated, these bed rails take up very little space in the suitcase and they weigh in at only 1.8 lbs for the pair. Phthalate-Safe, BpA-Safe and Lead-Safe.   Find it online at:   Amazon.com

You might also like:

• Best Lightweight Travel Strollers
• Checklist for Travel with Babies and Toddlers
• Best Car Seat Travel Bags and Carriers
• Travel Stroller Accessories
• Five Things You Might Not Think to Pack for Travel with Babies and Toddlers
• Return to Great Baby Travel Gear and Family Travel Products
• Seven Easy Ways to Get Your Car Seat Through the Airport

The post The Best Baby Travel Beds, Portable Cribs, and Bassinets appeared first on Travels With Baby.

Here are my recommendations for the best lightweight double and twin travel strollers. NOTE: Strollers are listed in order of weight from the lightest up to 28 lbs.

To add shade coverage, weather or insect protection, comforts, or conveniences to your stroller, see Stroller Accessories. Affiliate links help fund this independent website.

See also: Single Travel Strollers, Baby Travel Cribs, Stroller Accessories, all Baby Travel Gear

UPPAbaby G-Link Twin Travel Stroller

Why Shelly recommends it:

A lightweight twin stroller for travel without compromise that can be used for both children from birth on up to 50 lbs. each–with plenty of comfort for both. The seats recline independently and the youngest infants benefit from supportive head cushions and a snap-on mesh boot to help create a cozy space. For bigger babies and young toddlers, leg adjustable leg rests extend for support.

Independent sun canopies also extend down beyond the view here for extra UPF 50 sun protection. For parents, ergonomic foam grip handles and four sets of wheels instead the usual six on twin strollers make for easy steering and maneuverability, while the generously sized 5.75″ wheels make a smoother ride for all. Open, the UPPAbaby G-Link stroller measures 30”W x 29”L x 42”H. It folds to 18”W x 18”L x 41”H (free-standing when folded).  Weighs 24.5 lbs. including sun canopies, etc.

Find it online at: Amazon.com   and  Albee Baby

Joovy Twin Groove Ultralight Travel Stroller

Why Shelly recommends it:

It’s a less expensive alternative to the the Maclaren and UppaBaby twin strollers, and offers great features for the price. Plus the updated wheels of the newest model are improved (though if you travel over tough terrain such as cobblestones, the wheels of the Maclarens and UPPAbabys will probably better serve).

The Twin Groove accommodates infants from birth (no car seat required) with an almost-flat recline and adjustable leg rests than can be level with the seat (snap-on boot cover may be included with your model). The seats recline wherever you like in between flat and fully upright, independent of each other.

Its storage is a plus, as the Twin Groove has about the same under-seat basket storage as its twin travel competitors, and has additional zipping pouches–and mesh cup/bottle holders) on the backs of each seat. Peek-a-boo windows in the canopies can be covered with the same UPF 50 fabric when needed.

The Joovy Twin Groove will also fit through standard doorways and checkout, so long as you don’t have the parent cup holder attached (which extends to the side).  Use it with children from birth up to 50 lbs. in each seat. Measures 32” L x 30” W x 42.75” H open and folds to 41.75” L x 22” W x 16” H. Weighs 26 lbs. Find it online at: Amazon.com   and  Albee Baby

Baby Jogger City Mini Double Stroller

Why Shelly Recommends it:

Easy maneuvering (even through standard doorways) and a quick, compact fold. The newest City Mini has an even taller handlebar with curve, which makes it easier to ramp up and down curbs and eases long-stride pushing for the taller parent (not intended for actual jogging, however).

The rubber “forever” wheels with front-wheel suspension give you an advantage on rougher surfaces, but without the worry of going flat or need of carrying a pump during travel (great combination for twin travel strollers!). The City Mini double has independently reclining seats and can be used from birth with the additional car seat adapter or Baby Jogger Compact Pram (can use car seat or pram on either or both sides of the stroller). Folds to 29.75″ x 11.25″ x 31″. Weighs 28.6 lbs.

Find it online at:   Amazon     and  Albee Baby

Get More Help for Your Travels

The post Best Lightweight Double and Twin Travel Strollers appeared first on Travels With Baby.

But first, pin it to your travel board for future reference and to help others!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links to help fund this independent website at no cost to you. Two Bubble Bum boosters were provided to me for review purposes with no promise of a positive review. My opinions are always my own.

The Bubble Bum has been a great solution for us many times, and we’ve even loaned ours to friends for their travels. Read on to see for yourself if this inflatable safety booster may be just the thing to help ease your family’s travels.

If you’re like me, the first thing you may wonder upon hearing the words “inflatable safety booster” are, is any booster that’s “inflatable” actually safe for road use?

Safety? Check!

I was surprised to learn that, not only was the BubbleBum invented by a nationally certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, but the creators have had it tested and certified for BOTH U.S. and European safety standards–something most child safety seat manufacturers don’t bother with.

Even more surprising? The Bubble Bum even passed the European safety testing when DEFLATED. (What?!) To be clear, its certification reads:

“BubbleBum is crash test approved and meets and exceeds the EU ECE R44.04 and the US FMVSS 213 safety regulations. These entail both crash testing and materials testing.”

So, I’d say they’ve got safety covered with this one. But how does it play out during travel?

Traveling with our two BubbleBum boosters

Yes, it can be rolled up to fit in its own travel sack at about 12″ Long x 6″ Diameter. But for our purposes, it was perfect to leave our two Bubble Bums as flat as possible and instead pack them right inside our youngest child’s car seat carrying case.

We checked them all through to Hawaii for free in the car seat travel bag (car seats are checked free with most airlines, but suitcases, notsomuch — see Flying with a Baby or Toddler Best Tips Online for more hacks).

When we reached our rental car, and rain began to fall, the girls were able to sit inside the car and finish inflating their seats as it poured. Like Therm-a-rests and similar products, the Bubble Bum begins inflating as soon as you open the valve, but giving it the final taught breaths and sealing it off with a twist at the same time can be tricky.

Likewise, when deflating the BubbleBum, I found it necessary to use my knee to keep the rolled seat totally deflated while closing the valve to prevent it from re-inflating. This wasn’t a problem, however.

The one draw back we found was that it was very difficult for our girls to route the safety belts through the red clips each time they got back into the car, partly because one had a car seat on that side of her and partly because it just is a little tricky.

We got used to helping them with this, though it has been nice to no longer need to do that with their standard boosters! While there is an optional shoulder belt positioning clip that might be helpful with the younger children using this booster, we did not need it.

Click here to see the BubbleBum at Amazon – and thank you for supporting this site!

Other things to consider…

Thanks to the two Bubble Bums provided for our review, we had no problem fitting our three kids across the back seat of our rental car during our vacation. At only 13 inches wide, and weighing less than 2 lbs., it is also ideal for carpooling with extra children.

Better still, its packability makes it easy to send along to school with your child on days when someone else might pick up.

I would also like to mention, that with a thin layer of memory foam on top of the “bubble,” it’s also surprisingly comfy (yes, I had to try it myself!).

I think the BubbleBum folks should consider making a grown-up version for long-haul drivers and also the elderly who can use a little extra padding, and may no longer be the height considered safe for airbags (what, you weren’t expecting that in the Travels with Baby blog!?).

Click here to see the BubbleBum at Amazon – and thank you for supporting this site!

BubbleBum vs. the RideSafer travel vest

While the BubbleBum is a far more affordable option to the RideSafer travel vest for older / larger children at least 4 years and 40 lbs., I would note that it does not work for the 3-year-olds and smaller 4-year-olds, as the size small RideSafer travel vests do (recommended for 3 years and 33 lbs. and up).

Like the RideSafer travel vest, it can be used with shoulder-only safety belts. Though the RideSafer 2 (deluxe) also includes a safety tether so it may also be used with a lap-only safety belt when a tether anchor is available.

In select states with strict “elevated booster seat” requirements, the Bubble Bum meets this criteria for use in private vehicles. Unlike the RideSafer travel vest, which is not a seat and never expires, the Bubble Bum has a 4-year life.

Click here to see the BubbleBum at Amazon – and thank you for supporting this site!

You might also like:

How to Travel with a Car Seat (Without Losing Your Mind)

For more travel car seat, booster, and car seat alternatives, see Great Products & Gear. To browse all Pack This! features, click here.

Previous post: Ask Shelly – Best winter weekend getaway with a baby in Northern California?

Safe journeys,

Shelly Rivoli, author of the award-winning Travels with Baby and Take-Along Travels with Baby guidebooks

Twitter     Facebook     Travels with Baby on Facebook     Pinterest

Curious about this content? See my editorial content disclosure.

The post Review of the BubbleBum Inflatable Safety Booster for Travel appeared first on Travels With Baby.