Choosing a Fold Up Pushchair

Fold-up pushchairs make it simple to get on and off public transport, or fit into the back of the car. They are also light and compact making them ideal for traveling by plane.

This UPPAbaby has one of the smallest folds we've seen. However, it has some limitations, including a small canopy and no storage.

Easy folding

When you're choosing a fold-up pushchair, it's important to think about where and how you're going to use it. When you are travelling with your child on an airplane or train, a lightweight and compact buggy is an ideal choice. It can fit into the overhead luggage compartments and is small enough to be carried on the shoulder. You should choose an infant stroller that can fold with one hand while holding your child. It should also include a handle that is height-adjustable so that parents and caregivers of different heights can to use it comfortably. If you're going to be hiking with baby, a swivel-lock wheel is essential for manoeuvring over uneven terrain. Other features worth a look include a recline that is deep for comfortable naps on the go and a canopy that can be extended which provides additional sun protection.

It is essential to test pushchairs prior to purchasing them to be sure that they can be folded with one hand while holding your child. Our testers found the UPPAbaby GLUXE to be particularly impressive thanks to its innovative mechanism that concertinas down to a slimmer, sleeker package than an umbrella. It also has a handy pocket for stashing keys and phone and an easy recline seat that's ideal for children who prefer to nap on the move.

Some of the most compact fold up pushchairs are designed to be used starting at birth and come with a flat seat that can be sat on or the option for an additional carrycot, so they're ideal for young babies who want to sleep throughout the daytime. If you're planning to use your travel system right from the beginning, a simple click attachment system for an infant Car Seat is a must.

The Cybex Libelle is the smallest and lightest of the group. It folds even smaller than its rival, the YOYO2, (only 4cm thicker) and is easy to carry at just 6kg. It is also easy to use, with a one-hand fold, and the seat reclines to allow for naps for toddlers. This model is a great choice for hikers, as it has a large front swivel tire that is able to handle any terrain.

One-Handed folding

It's always a good idea to have a foldable pushchair, whether you're out on a stroll or taking public transport or flying to a distant land with your baby. It can be difficult to manage a child keys, shopping bags, keys and other essentials of everyday life while attempting to fold a complex travel system isn't ideal and hence pushchairs with one hand strollers are usually the most popular choices for parents.

As the name suggests, a one-handed fold pushchair can be folded with the press of a button or two. Some models require a bit more effort, or even two hands, but the ease of the process means they are still a breeze to carry and stow away. They are also lightweight which makes them easier to carry around or store in small spaces.

One of the best examples is the UPPAbaby G-Luxe. It is one of the simplest one-handed folds that we have seen in our round up, with a quick and smooth operation that involves just pulling an incline at the base of the chassis. It stands by itself when folded, too, which makes it ideal to store in the corner of a cafe or in a foyer.

Another model that features simple, one-handed folding is the Bugaboo Bee. It's one of the first compact fold pushchairs, and despite being bigger than others it still features an elegant, simple to use fold. It also comes with a variety of fantastic features, including the deep reclining seat as well as an expandable UPF50+ canopy to keep your child covered during sunny days.

Some of these pushchairs are not suitable for toddlers or older infants, but there are a growing number of models that are designed to be used from the time of birth. These pushchairs have seats that can be fully or partially lie-flat and some come with a baby car seat. MFM editor Gemma has travelled extensively with her son in the Babyzen YOYO, which is one of the first buggys of this kind and is remains a popular choice. It's smaller than some other buggys however it's still a breeze to maneuver. It can be incorporated into the baggage allowances for cabin baggage on most airlines.

Lightweight

When a pushchair deals folds, it takes up a tiny space, and it's often extremely light. This is particularly true for umbrella-folded pushchairs that weigh less than 20 pounds. They are ideal for short walks on pavements and flat surfaces as well as for a simple way to get between your vehicle and homes of other people. They're also a good option when you don't wish to purchase an all-terrain buggy but are content with your pushchair on flat surfaces.

Think about getting tyres that are air-filled if you plan to use your compact folding pushchair in uneven terrain, on sand or on slippery surfaces. These are a bit heavier than standard tyres but they'll provide better grip and traction. It's important to note that the extra weight will add to the size of your pushchair walker.

Many lightweight pushchairs were designed for toddlers and older infants that can sit up independently however, more are suitable for babies from the age of. Models like the Mamas & Papas Airo have a lie-flat seating area and can be paired with a car seat for infants or an additional carrycots (sold separately). Some compact-fold pushchairs are designed to be used in conjunction with the stroller board to turn into a double buggy. ideal to take Grandma or Grandad along too.

Many of the best lightweight pushchairs are very simple to use. Some pushchairs can be opened or closed by pressing a single button. Others have more complex mechanisms, yet they take up little space. Some even come with a strap for your wrist that lets you keep the pushchair in place even when it's folded. This could make a significant difference to the ease of move.

While some lightweight pushchairs shop are quite basic and uninspiring, the 3D Lite from Contours is an excellent illustration of how a small stroller can be packed full of features. There's also a substantial basket, lots of padding and adjustable handlebars (for parents who are tall or short) and a massive canopy that protects. It's also very light and comes with a handy carry bag.

Compact

One of the most important aspects you will need to consider when selecting a pushchair is the size of the pushchair when folded. Certain pushchairs come with a compact fold, whereas others are bigger based on the overall dimensions and features.

It is also essential to be compact for those who plan to travel with your pushchair. There are models that fold down to the smallest size and can even be folded into a pouch, which means they can be easily tucked away in the boot of a car or taken on an airplane as baggage in the cabin. If you plan to travel frequently or in a city that can't use a large stroller, this is the perfect option for you.

The most desirable pushchairs are those with easy, hassle-free folding process that can be done with just one hand. The Babyzen YOYO was the first of its kind and has since been imitated, but it still stands out thanks to its clever details and superior functionality.

The Babyzen YOYO has an impressively compact fold and is slightly larger than most hand luggage allowances, making it perfect for travel. It can be carried to the airport and used in between boarding and catching your flight.

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

The Ergobaby Metro+ can also be used as a lightweight stroller for everyday use. It features a compact fold that can be placed upright when not in use. It's not as easy-to-use as other models, and it can create a lot more noise when you adjust its canopy. This could make your baby scream.