Choosing a Fold Up Pushchair

Fold-up pushchairs make it easy to get on and off public transport, or can be tucked away in the back of cars. They also tend to be very lightweight and compact which makes them ideal for travel by plane.

This UPPAbaby model is one of the most eye-catching compact folds we've seen. However, it has some limitations, such as a tiny canopy and no storage.

Folding is easy

When selecting a fold-up pushchair, you need to consider how and where you'll use it. If you're traveling with your baby on a plane A compact, light buggy is a good option as it can be tucked into the overhead compartments for luggage and is usually small enough to be carried on the shoulder when unfolded. You should look for a buggy that folds easily with one hand while you hold your child. It must include a handle that is adjustable in height, so that caregivers and parents of different heights can to use it comfortably. A lock wheel that swivels is essential if you are planning to hike with your child. It will assist you to navigate through uneven terrain. Look for features like the ability to recline deep enough the baby to sleep comfortably when you're on the move and an extended sun canopy.

It is essential to test pushchairs before buying to make sure they can be folded using one hand while holding your child. The UPPAbaby G-Luxe was reviewed highly by our test participants, due to its innovative mechanism that concertinas into a package that is smaller than an umbrella. It also comes with a handy compartment for keys and phone and the ability to recline the seat with one touch, which is ideal for kids who like to nap while on the move.

Some of the smallest fold-up pushchairs are made to be used from birth, and include a flat seat that can be sat on or the option of an additional carrycot, so they're great for babies who prefer to sleep throughout the day. If you're planning to use your travel system from the beginning, a one-click attachment system for a car seat for infants is also an essential feature.

The tiniest of the group is the Cybex Libelle, is an outstanding option for jet-setting families because it folds smaller than the YOYO2 (only 4cm less) and weighs than 6kg, making it very easy to carry. It is also simple to use with a one-hand fold and the seat reclines to accommodate toddler napping. This model is also a good choice for hikers, as it has an oversized front swivel that can tackle any terrain.

One-Handed folding

It is always an ideal idea to have a foldable pushchair, regardless of whether you're going for a walk or taking public transport or flying to a foreign destination with your infant. It's not ideal to have to fold a complicated travel system while trying to manage a child as well as all of their essentials, such as keys, shopping bags, and other things. This is why pushchairs and strollers that can be folded one hand are the most preferred option for parents.

As the name implies it is a pushchair that folds one hand. can be folded with the press of one button or two. Some models may require more effort, or two hands. However, the convenience of this method makes them easy to maneuver and store. They are also light which makes them easier to transport or store in tight spaces.

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 only requires pulling a lever on the chassis. It stands up by itself when folded, too making it perfect for storing in the corner of a cafe or the foyer.

The Bugaboo Bee is another model that folds with one hand. It's one of the original compact-fold pushchairs, and despite being bigger than others, it still has an elegant, simple to use fold. It comes with a wide array of features, too with a recline that is deep and an UPF 50+ canopy that can be expanded that is designed to keep your baby covered on sunny days.

Some of these pushchairs are only designed for older babies and toddlers. However there are many options to use from the time of birth. They have a complete or partial lie-flat seat, and could include the option of incorporating an infant car seat. MFM editor Gemma has travelled extensively with her young son in the Babyzen YOYO, which is among the first buggys of this kind and still a firm favourite. It's not as compact than other buggy pushchair types however it's still a breeze to maneuver. It is able to fit in the cabin baggage allowance of many airlines.

Lightweight

When a pushchair folds, it takes up a tiny space, and is usually very light too. This is especially true for umbrella-folded pushchairs that weigh less than 20 pounds. They're ideal for short strolls on pavements and flat surfaces and for a quick transfer between your vehicle and the homes of others. They're also a great option for those who don't want to invest in a proper all-terrain buggy and are happy with your pushchair on flat surfaces.

If you're looking to use a compact fold-away pushchair on uneven ground or on sand or muddy surfaces, consider getting an air-filled tyre. These tyres are more heavy however they offer more grip and traction. It's important to remember that the weight added will increase the size of your pushchair.

A variety of lightweight pushchairs were created for toddlers and older infants that could sit up on their own However, there are more that are suitable from birth. This includes models like the Mamas & Papas Airo, with a lie-flat seat and the option of incorporating an additional carrycot (sold separately) or an infant car seat to create an entire travel system. Some compact-fold strollers can be converted into double buggys with the help of a stroller board. This is a great option for Grandma and Grandad.

A lot of the top lightweight strollers are simple to use. Some are open and closed at the touch of a button, while others have more intricate mechanisms, but they take up a small amount of space. Some have a strap on the wrist that allows you to your grip on the pushchair even when it's folded, and this can make a huge difference to how easy it is to move.

While some lightweight pushchairs are extremely basic and uninspiring, the 3D Lite from Contours is an excellent example of how a super-compact stroller can be loaded with of features. There's also a substantial basket, lots of padding and adjustable handlebars (for tall or short parents) and a massive protective canopy. It's also light and comes in a handy bag.

Compact

One of the main things you should be aware of when choosing the right pushchair is the size of the pushchair when folded. Certain cheap pushchairs for sale come with a compact fold, while others are more spacious based on the overall size and features.

The compactness of a pushchair could be an important factor if you intend to travel with it. Some models fold down to a small size, or even into a bag making them easy to store in the trunk of your car or to carry on a plane. This is a great option if you plan to travel often or live in a city area where you won't be able to use a larger stroller all the time.

The most desirable pushchairs are those that feature easy, hassle-free folding process that can be completed with just one hand. The Babyzen YOYO is the first in its class and has been a model of imitation since, but it still is unique due to its clever features and superior functionality.

The Babyzen YOYO is a small fold that is slightly larger than the size of most hand luggage allowances, making it perfect for travelling with. It can also be taken to the airport and used during the time between boarding and catching your flight.

If you are looking for a larger, compact pushchair, consider the Mamas and Papas Airo. It has a comfortable seat that reclines fully and provides plenty of padding to keep your child comfortable. It can be used at birth, if you want to, with the addition of a newborn cocoon pack or carrycot (not included).

The Ergobaby Metro+ can also be used as a light stroller for everyday use. It has a compact fold that can be set upright when not in use. However it's not as simple to operate as some other models and can produce quite a bit of noise when you adjust the canopy, which could wake up your baby.