Choosing a fold up pushchair (
published on Cafreeclassifieds)
Fold-up pushchairs are easy to carry on public transport or fit in the back of your car. They are also light and compact making them ideal to travel with planes.
This UPPAbaby has one of the smallest folds we've seen. It does have some limitations including a small canopy and no storage.
Ease of Folding
When you're choosing a fold-up pushchair, you need to think about where and how you're going to be using it. If you're planning to travel with baby by plane, a compact, lightweight buggy is a great choice as it can fit into the overhead compartments for luggage, and is usually small enough to be carried on your shoulder when unfolded. Find an easy-to-use fold that's simple to operate while holding your little one and a height-adjustable handle so parents and carers of various heights can comfortably use it. A lock that can swivel is essential if intend to hike with your child. It will assist you to navigate uneven terrain. Other useful features to consider include a recline that is deep for relaxing naps while on the move, and an extendable canopy that provides extra sun protection.
Many pushchairs claim to be able to fold in one hand, but it's best to test it prior to purchasing to make sure it really is possible while also being able to hold your child. Our testers found the UPPAbaby GLUXE to be particularly impressive, with its clever mechanism that combines to a slimmer, sleeker package than an umbrella. It has a pocket to keep phones and keys as well as a recliner seat which can be adjusted with a single touch.
Some of the smallest fold up pushchairs are designed to be used right from birth and offer a lie-flat seat or the option of an additional carrycot, so they're ideal for young babies who prefer to rest during the daytime. If you're planning to use your travel system from the start, a one-click attachment system for an infant car seat is a must.
The smallest of the bunch is the Cybex Libelle, is an outstanding option for jet-setting families because it folds smaller than the YOYO2 (only 4cm thinner) and weighs than 6kg, making it extremely easy to carry around. It's also super-easy to use, with a straightforward fold with one hand and a reclined seat that's perfect for toddler naps. This model is an excellent choice for hikers since it comes with a huge front swivel tire that can handle any terrain.
One-Handed folding
It is always a good idea to have a
folding pushchair, whether you are walking around, taking public transport, or flying to a different land with your baby. It's not a good idea to fold a complicated travel system and manage a child and all of their necessities, including shopping bags, keys, and other items. This is why pushchairs that are one-handed are the most sought-after option for parents.
As the name suggests the pushchair that folds with one hand can be folded down with the push of one or two buttons. Some models may require more effort, or two hands. However, the convenience of this method makes them easy to handle and to store. They are also lightweight and easy to transport or to store in small space.
The G-Luxe from UPPAbaby is a great illustration. This model is one of the easiest to fold using one hand in our roundup. It's as simple as pulling a lever on the chassis. It stands on its own when folded, too making it perfect for storing in the corner of a cafe or a foyer.
Another model that has an easy, one-handed fold is the Bugaboo Bee. This is one of the first compact fold pushchairs, and despite being larger than some other options it has an elegant, simple to use fold. It also has a number of great features, including the deep reclining seat as well as an expandable UPF50+ canopy to keep your child covered during sunny days.
Some of these compact-fold pushchairs are designed for toddlers or older children However, there are numerous models that can be used from the time of birth. These pushchairs have a seat that can be fully or partially lied-flat, and some even include an infant car seat. MFM's Gemma has traveled with her son in a Babyzen YoYO - one of the first strollers of its kind. It's still a favourite. It's a little less compact than some other buggys, but is still easy to maneuver. It fits in the cabin baggage allowance of the majority of airlines.
Lightweight
When a pushchair folds down it occupies a small space, and it's often extremely light. This is especially true of umbrella-fold pushchairs, which usually weigh less than 20 pounds. They are ideal for short walks on pavements and flat surfaces and for a quick transfer between your car and other people's houses. They're also a good choice if you do not need an all-terrain stroller and prefer to use your pushchair on flat surfaces.
If you want to use a compact fold-away pushchair when you're walking on sand or muddy surfaces, consider getting an air-filled tyre. These are a bit heavier than regular tyres however they'll provide better traction and grip. The extra weight adds to the overall size of the pushchair though it's crucial to be aware of that.
A variety of lightweight pushchairs were created for older toddlers and infants that can sit up independently however, more are suitable for babies from birth. Models like the Mamas & Papas Airo have a lie-flat seating area and can be paired with a car seat for infants or additional carrycots (sold separately). Some compact-fold strollers are able to be converted into double buggys with the help of a stroller board. This is great for Grandma and Grandad.
A majority of the best strollers that are lightweight are simple to use. Some can be opened or closed at the touch of a button, while others have more complex mechanisms, but they all require very little space. Some pushchairs come with wristbands that allow you to hold the pushchair even when folded. This makes it easier to move.
The 3D Lite stroller from Contours is an excellent example of a compact stroller packed with features. There's also a decently-sized basket, plenty of padding and adjustable handlebars (for parents who are tall or short), and a large canopy that protects. It's also extremely light and comes with a convenient bag.
Compact
One of the primary things you should take into consideration when choosing the right pushchair is how compact it will be when folded. Some pushchairs have a very compact fold, while others are larger depending on the overall size and features.
The compactness of a pushchair could be a factor to consider in the event that you are planning to travel with it. There are models that fold down to a very small size and even into a pouch, which means they can be easily tucked away in the back of a car or taken on a plane as baggage for cabin use. This is a great option for those who travel frequently or live in an urban area where you won't be able to use a larger stroller daily.
Some of the most desirable pushchairs are those with an easy, effortless folding process that can be completed using just one hand. The Babyzen YOYO was the first of its kind and has since been imitated, but it still stands out due to its clever details and superior functionality.
The Babyzen YOYO is a tiny fold and is only slightly larger than the average hand luggage allowances, which makes it perfect for travel. It can even be taken to the airport and used in between the boarding process and getting your flight.
For a more spacious and compact pushchair, look at the Mamas and Papas Airo. The seat reclines completely, and it has plenty of padding to make your child comfortable. It can be used as early as birth with a carrycot or newborn cocoon pack (not included).
The Ergobaby Metro+ can also be used as a light stroller for use in the everyday. It has a compact fold that can be set upright when not in use.